Poke Root

Species Name: Phytolacca Americana.

Also known as: Inkberry, Pocan, Pokeweed, Grubroot, Phytolacca Decandra, American nightshade, Bear’s grape, Cancer root, Jalap, Skoke, Crowberry.

Poke Root grows all over America and flourishes in damp places. It also grows well in woods and around hedges.

It does best in the southern parts of the United States. The dried root and berries are used as herbal remedies.

The main ingredients found in this herb are alkaloid, triterpenoid, resins, saponins and phytolacic acid.

What is Poke Root: Poke Root is very common in the Mediterranean countries and native in North America. This herb can grow as tall as three meters high and the root is different from most herbs because it is very large with uneven branches.

The stems on this herb are straight and branch out around the top. Many times they have a reddish color to them and short light green leaves. It has a white greenish color flower with black or dark purple colored berries that peak in the autumn months.

The seeds of this herb are poisonous if eaten so you don’t want to consume them, although you can eat the berries. The root of this herb is very hard, wrinkled and a gray color. It has a harsh and mild sweet taste.

This herb should only be gathered in cool weather between October and November. Be sure and clean the root good before slicing to dry out.

Home remedies using Poke Root:

Benefits of Poke Root:

Poke root can be used to help stimulate the metabolism which is great for anyone trying to lose weight. It can also be beneficial as a detoxification agent.

It is sometimes used in chronic rheumatism and regular conjunctivitis. Other benefits include using as an ointment for psoriasis, sycosis, favus and similar skin conditions.

It is particularly used for treatment of the lymphatic system and as an overall cleansing program. In the past it has even been used for certain types of cancer and is well-known for helping to boost the immune system. Poke root can also produce narcotic properties.

Uses of Poke Root:

  • Increasing metabolism
  • Sycosis
  • Psoriasis
  • Cleansing agent
  • Boost immune system
  • Purgative
  • Ointment
  • Drops

Side Effects of Poke Root:

If you take an overdose of poke root the side effects include purging, throwing up, prostration, convulsions and sometimes even death.

It is not suggested that you use this herb as an emetic because for it to work you have to reach dangerous levels.