As a medicinal, woodsorrel has been used topically to cool skin, soothe the stomach, as a diuretic, and astringent. The plant is also useful in treating scurvy, fever, urinary tract infections, sore throats, nausea, and mouth sores.
It supposedly helps cleanse the blood, and some believe it can help in cancer cases.
Woodsorrel also can be used as a flavouring in soups, stews, salads, and more. The plant contains oxalic acid, which can be toxic in high quantities but beneficial in smaller doses. The seed pods are also edible and may be ground as a spice and added to recipes.