DESCRIPTION
Phytolacca decandra is a plant with large leaves, clusters of purple berries, green unripe fruit and flowers. It grows up to 3 metres tall and is native to the United States. It has the common names of Poke Root and Poke Weed. Poke Root contains triterpenoid saponins, sterols, mitogens and antiviral proteins.
Poke Root is an antiinflammatory remedy with action on the lymphatics and respiratory system. Poke Root has been traditionally used for the treatment of inflammatory conditions of the upper respiratory tract (e.g. laryngitis, tonsillitis), lymphadenitis, mumps and chronic rheumatism. It has also been used topically for the treatment of skin and glandular disorders such as scabies, tinea, acne, mastitis and mammary abscess..
NOTES
- Poke Root is toxic in overdose and caution is required with dosage. Poke Root should be used only under the supervision of an expert qualified in the appropriate use of this substance. The recommended dosage should not be exceeded. - Poke Root should not be used in people who have lymphocytic leukaemia or gastrointestinal irritation. - Several case reports indicate that Poke Root may be contraindicated in people with cardiac conditions. - Poke Root should not be used by pregnant and breastfeeding women.
