Three-leaved goldthread

At this time of year, I'm always on the lookout for early spring wildflowers, and a walk through the wetlands near the house turned up a pretty little newcomer. Three-leaved Goldthread, known to botanists as Coptis trifolia, is a small, white-petaled charmer with fine, golden roots that are said to yield a nice yellow natural dye. The plant itself is supposed to be rich in pharmaceutical possibilities, and according to The Modern Herbal, the classic reference by Mrs. M. Grieve, the bitter medication made from the plant, which is also known as "mouthroot," has a number of worthwhile uses. "In New England it is valued as a local application in thrush, for children," Mrs. Grieve writes. "It is stated to be good for dyspepsia, and combined with other drugs is regarded as helpful in combating the drink habit." I haven't put it to the test, but I think the herbalist missed one other use: It offers a great reason to explore the wetlands—and a cure for cabin fever.