Poke Root

Wild Crafted - USA

Also Known As - Phytolacca americana, Pokeroot, American Poke, Pokeweed, Inkberry, and Pigeon Berry.

Overview - Also known as pigeon berry and inkberry, poke root has a long history of usage. This perennial grows from 3 to 9 feet high. It grows black berries in clusters. The root is very large and easily cut or broken. It is indigenous to the United States, and often grows where the soil has been disturbed. The herb is known to be poisonous to horses, causing respiratory failure, and if a large enough dose in taken, in humans too -  exercise caution!

Medicinal Uses - Poke root is noted first and foremost for its effect on the Lymphatics. All glands are also benefited by its judicial use. It is very effective for the glandular conditions of the throat and sexual glands. It is specific for the mammary glands. It also acts on the skin. In large doses it can be poisonous or fatal. So it is an herb which although very wonderful in its medicinal applications must be used with common sense.

• The most active part is the root. I have used the whole plant for various purposes, but the root is the most active and important medicinal agent. Although the leaves are very useful as a poultice, whereas the root is to irritating and would definitely cause blistering. The root is sometimes used to burn off skin cancer. So one should be aware of the irritating nature of the root when applied to the skin. Of course it is sometimes used in this way as an escharotic to actually burn off the skin cancer. The leaves are used in poultice in cases of breast cancer to act more gently to help promote the suppuration of the tumor.  

Parts Used - Poke root is safe for herbal use. Poke leaf is not. Consumption of poke leaves can cause gastroenteritis with intense vomiting and frothy diarrhea.

Preparations - Usually used as a tincture in a dosage of one drop (that’s right, one drop) per day. Do not overdose. Most often found in topical applications like creams, ointments, and oils.

Precautions - To be used only under the supervision of an expert qualified in the appropriate use of this substance. Not to be used while pregnant. Not recommended for internal use. Not to be taken if you have severe liver or kidney disease. Do not apply to broken or abraded skin. Pregnant and nursing women should not take poke root. This herb is quite potent, so it should be taken only under the guidance of a skilled herbalist. If you suffer from lymphatic cancer, do not take this herb. Large doses may have narcotic effects and slow the heart rate and decrease blood pressure, so always use caution. Side effects may include prolonged vomiting, convulsions, muscle spasms and irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. If any of these effects manifest, stop using immediately.

Disclaimer - The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by United States Food and Drug Administration and are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem .You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem. Please educate yourself on the use of herbs. Mountain Maus’ Remedies and Such is not responsible for the use of these bulk herbs, herbal tinctures, massage oils, soaps or any other product sold and when purchasing then you agree not to hold Mountain Maus’ Remedies and Such or any of it's owners liable.

Please note:  We do not directly or indirectly dispense medical advise or prescribe the use of herbs. In the event you use the herbs without your doctor's approval, you are prescribing for yourself, which is your constitutional right, but we assume no responsibility. If you are pregnant or nursing a baby, have heart disease, epilepsy, high blood pressure or diabetes, seek the advice of a health professional before using herbal products.