This mycotrophic herb is widespread in moist temperate or montane regions across the Northern Hemisphere, except in Europe. An initial molecular investigation has indicated that segregates may well be warranted (Neyland & Hennigan 2004). The species has some reputation for medicinal uses, particularly as an "anxiolytic", reducing anxiety or grief (e.g. Felter et al. 1898). However, there is little to no published analytical research on such uses.