Poke Root
Phytolacca decandra
“An antihepatotoxic and antiviral effect has been demonstrated for the fruit. The saponins have an emetic effect. An anti-edemic and immune-stimulating effect has been demonstrated for the root. The saponins have an emetic effect.”
- PDR for Herbal Medicines
“The phytolaccosides are potent anti-inflammatory agents in the rat paw oedema test, and a saponin extract has a comparable anti-exudative and antigranulomatous activity to that of hydrocortisone in mice. It had no effect on the adrenal gland but high doses caused thymolysis. Phytolaccosides B and E inhibited exudate formation after sponge pellet and carrageenan-induced oedema in rats, with anti-inflammatory and toxic effects less than those of aescin (see Horsechestnut). The proteins are antiviral; they inhibit the replication of the influenza and HSV-1 viruses and poliovirus. The lectins are mitogenic. Poke root has caused toxic, particularly gastrointestinal, symptoms when accidentally eaten by mistake for parsnip or horseradish, and as a freshly made herbal tea. No toxic effects have been observed from other types of products.”
- Potter’s
