Native to the American continent, pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) was valued by native American healers as a blood purifier, fever reducer, and pain killer. Today, herbalists respectfully administer this potentially poisonous herb with the same care as their predecessors. A perennial member of the Phytolaccaceae family, pokeweed grows in moist soils in woodlands and waste areas from Maine to Texas. Its green, hollow stem becomes thick and purplish as it matures, and can reach a height of four to twelve feet. Oblong leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers grow from the stem; purple berries later replace the flowers. The leaves, berries (without the poisonous seeds), and large fleshy root are used medicinally.
Pokeweed’s anodyne and cathartic properties have been known for centuries. Herbalists disagree, however, as to the best method for administering this herb, which can be highly toxic in large doses. Susan Weed advises against internal use of the dried root; she recommends preparing tinctures form the fresh root only. John Lust writes that only the dried root – never the fresh root – should be taken. Its use as an emetic is discouraged because of its slow action and narcotic properties. An overdose of pokeweed can cause serious symptoms such as vomiting, purging, prostration, convulsions, and even death. The best advice is to consult a trained herbalist for advice on preparation and use of pokeweed.
Women suffering from uterine fibroids or endometriosis can benefit from pokeweed’s healing properties. Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, particularly breast pain, can also be alleviated. Poke root can be infused in oil and used as a belly rub, or taken internally as a tincture in very low dosages. Start with one or two drops of fresh root tincture in water once a day. The dosage of tincture can be gradually increased, but should never exceed ten drops per day.
Pokeweed is especially known as an effective treatment for pain and swelling from rheumatoid arthritis. Joint pain and leg cramps can be treated with one to four drops of fresh poke root tincture daily. As an alternative, one or two dried berries can be swallowed whole, so that the poisonous seeds will not be digested. Berry-infused spirits have been prescribed for “chronic rheumatism” for decades. Pokeweed’s anodyne properties can aid headache sufferers as well, with the same small dosage of root tincture.
Interstitial cystitis is a painful condition resulting from chronic inflammation of the space between the bladder and muscle. One or two drops of fresh poke root tincture can relieve a woman’s cyclical pain from this condition. An application of extract can also relieve hemorrhoid pain.
Cancer root, another common name for pokeweed, refers to the herb’s reputation as a cancer fighter. Maude Grieves wrote of the external application of root tincture for the treatment of uterine cancer, and its internal use as a treatment for breast cancer. Scientists have recently discovered a potentially cancer-fighting mitogenic substance in pokeweed.
Approach the use of pokeweed with caution and respect. When considering its use, consult a trained, reputable herbalist. Throughout history, practitioners have administered pokeweed remedies in very small amounts, and have remained mindful of its potentially toxic effects. With proper use, this plant is a valuable, welcome healer.
Sources:
Grieve, Maude, “A Modern Herbal,” Mineola, NY: Dover Publications, 1971, 1982 (from original 1931 Harcourt, Brace & Company).
Lust, John, “The Herb Book,” New York, NY: Benedict Lust Publications, 2001 (from 1974).
Silverman, Maida. “A City Herbal: Lore, Legends, and Uses of Common Weeds, Woodstock, NY: Ash Tree Publishing, 1997 (orig. 1977)
Weed, Susun S., “New Menopausal Years the Wise Woman Way,” Woodstock, NY: Ash Tree Publishing, 2002.