A perennial herbaceous plant which can reach 90cm in height (36inches). Leaves- usually only one leaf which is divided into seven to fifteen leaflets on one side of two curving stems that are parallel to the ground; has basal leaves only. Flowers are irregular in shape, yellowish green; a very long slender spadix extends far from the top of the sheathed flower. Fruit is a cluster of bright red shiny berries.
The plant or leaves are chewed for the treatment of asthma. The dried and aged root was used in the treatment of female disorders. The roots are also used for pharyngitis with sore, raw throat, head feels heavy with shooting pains in ears and aching behind right ear; also for dry sore throat which is worse on swallowing; croupy, hoarse cough with sore throat; urge to pass urine which burns and smarts.