from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Bloodroot \Blood"root`\, n. (Bot.)
A plant ({Sanguinaria Canadensis}), with a red root and red
sap, and bearing a pretty, white flower in early spring; --
called also {puccoon}, {redroot}, {bloodwort}, {tetterwort},
{turmeric}, and {Indian paint}. It has acrid emetic
properties, and the rootstock is used as a stimulant
expectorant. See {Sanguinaria}.
[1913 Webster]
Note: In England the name is given to the tormentil, once
used as a remedy for dysentery.
[1913 Webster]