Geranium robertianum, commonly known as herb Robert, can be used medicinally to treat various afflictions. Its astringent properties make it an effective remedy for nosebleeds, diarrhea, excessive mucus, and menorrhagia, or excessive menstrual flow. The healing constituents of this herb, which grows in North America and Europe, are found in the stems, leaves, and roots which have a wide range of healing properties due to its astringent, antibiotic, antiseptic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory agents.
Its antibiotic and antiviral properties make geranium robertianum an effective wash and poultice for wounds. A poultice of boiled leaves applied directly to the skin can reduce inflammation in wounds and ease bruising. Herb Robert can also be used this way to treat eczema, acne, inflammation under fingernails and toenails, and other skin conditions.
Geranium robertianum is a good source of germanium, an essential mineral needed for the transport of oxygen to the cells. Germanium also promotes electrical activity within the cells, provides energy, and strengthens the immune system. This mineral helps provide the antioxidant properties that help make the herb such an effective healing remedy. Geranium robertianum also contains other vital minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus, in addition to vitamins A, B, and C. It also contains the tannins believed to be responsible for the astringent action and ability of the herb to soothe toothaches, sore throats, and mouth ulcers.
The strong nutritional content and powerful antioxidant action has made geranium robertianum a popular tonic. Drinking an elixir can help relieve the symptoms of many afflictions. There have been reports that geranium robertianum can help people who are suffering from chronic fatigue.
Drinking tea made from the boiled leaves of geranium robertianum can soothe gastrointestinal disorders including inflammation and peptic ulcers. The tea has also been used as a remedy for such diverse conditions as typhoid, tuberculosis, boils, malaria, and infections of the urinary tract. A dilution of the tea can be used as an eye wash to reduce inflammation of the eye.
The ability of geranium robertianum to increase the amount of oxygen in the cells has caused some to use it as a folk remedy for cancer. Since cancer cannot thrive in an oxygen-rich environment, it is believed that herb Robert can decrease the amount of cancer cells and shrink tumors. Although there have been reports of this herb being beneficial for cancer patients, so far no studies have proven this conclusively, and the only reports have been anecdotal.