Black-purple berries and reddish-pink stems characterize the flowering shrub known as pokeroot (Phytolacca Americana). Although it grows all over the country, it is native to the southwestern and eastern parts of the United States. It is also found in Asia, Europe, and South America.
The plant is generally viewed as a nuisance weed. It can be found in the wild, along with urban and suburban areas. It is sometimes grown for culinary or decorative purposes.
Poke root has many names, including:
- hit the grass (or the flake)
- pokeberry
- ink berry
- American nightshade
- American Scoke
- pigeon
- red plant
- pocan
Historically, poke root is used in foods, medicines, and fabric dye and wine. But despite these traditional uses, the entire plant is toxic to people. It must be cooked in a specific way to be safe.
As a herbal remedy, poke root has shown some medicinal benefits in laboratory and animal studies. But human research is lacking, so there is no evidence that it can benefit people.
Let’s examine the uses and side effects of poke root as well as what the science has to say about it.
Can poke root treat breast cancer or its symptoms?
Scientists are studying the plant for potential anticancer properties. Anecdotally, it has been used to treat breast conditions, including breast cancer.
Specifically, researchers are examining a compound in pokeroot called pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP). PAP is cytotoxic to cells, meaning it causes cell death.
According to a 2003 study on lab animals, PAP might be cytotoxic to breast cancer cells. It might function by going after cells that have gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptors. Human breast cancer cells are among these cells.
Another laboratory study from 2004 found similar results. However, both studies are outdated and the results have not been replicated in humans.
There is also conflicting research. In a 2012 laboratory study, scientists failed to find that poke root could work against breast cancer.
New human research is needed to show whether poke root can help treat breast cancer or its symptoms.
Can the root treat mastitis?
Poke root is also occasionally used to treat mastitis and other inflammatory breast conditions.
Mastitis occurs when breast tissue becomes inflamed. Breastfeeding women are usually affected by the condition.
Poke root is said to have anti-inflammatory qualities, which may help. They say it’s due to the plant’s saponins, which are anti-inflammatory compounds found in the Phytolacca species.
However, a 1976 study is the only experiment that found this benefit, so the research is extremely outdated and more research is needed.
Possible benefits of poke root:
Other benefits of poke root have been found in cell or animal cultures. These medicinal benefits have not been seen in people. There is some evidence that poke root can help:
Colon cancer:
According to a 2014 study, poke root extract may act against colon cancer cells by altering gene expression. Another 2015 study found that poke root seeds have anticancer activity against human colon cancer cells.
Oral diseases:
Poke root may also have antibacterial properties. In a 2014 laboratory study, poke root extracts destroyed bacteria responsible for periodontal disease and tooth decay. Researchers have hypothesized that poke root works by inhibiting important enzymes in bacteria.
Unproven claims:
Most of the purported benefits of poke root are anecdotal. It has not been shown to help any of the following conditions:
- sore throat
- bone pain due to syphilis
- diphtheria
- tonsillitis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- skin rashes
- gastrointestinal disorders
- infections
- fibroids
- eczema
- acne
- bubbles
- enlarged thyroid
Is poke root poisonous?
Humans should avoid handling poke root plants in their whole. The most dangerous component is the berries.
Poke root is toxic to dogs and other animals as well. Make sure your pets stay away from the plant if you have any.
When applied topically or taken orally, poke root can have the following adverse effects in humans:
- nausea
- vomit
- stomach cramps
- diarrhea
- weakness
- vomit blood
- low blood pressure
- rapid heartbeat
High doses can lead to:
- muscle spasms
- difficult breathing
- bloody diarrhea
- convulsions
- severe nausea
In rare cases, high doses of poke root can lead to death.
If you are breastfeeding, avoid applying poke root products to your breasts. It is not safe for your baby to consume poke root.
Uses of Poke Root:
The root poke is used in several ways. It is available as:
1. Hit the root capsules:
Dried poke root can be crushed and taken in capsules.
Like all supplements, poke root capsules are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Always buy from a reputable retailer and talk to a doctor before taking these capsules.
2. Poke root tincture:
A poke root tincture is made by infusing alcohol with poke root. It is taken directly by mouth or mixed with a liquid, such as water.
Because tinctures contain alcohol, avoid them if you are pregnant. Talk to a doctor before trying a poke root tincture.
3. Poke root oil:
Poke root oil is a herbal oil infused with poke root. It can be made with various carrier oils, such as olive oil. It is applied topically.
4. Hit the ointment for the roots:
The herb is also used as an ointment, which is a medicated ointment applied to the skin. It is made by infusing beeswax and oils with poke root.
Poke root ointment is sometimes called poke root ointment.
5. Poke root tea:
Some people use poke root as a tea. This remedy is prepared by soaking the dried poke root in hot water for several minutes.
6. Poke hidden root:
Poke sallet, also called poke salat, is a traditional dish of the Southern United States. It is made by boiling the young leaves of the poke root, which is said to make it safe.
Where to buy Poke Root?
You can find poke root products at specialty retailers, such as:
- health food stores
- herbalist shops
- herb and spice retailers
Take Away:
Poke root is a traditional herbal remedy said to cure cancer, infections and inflammation, but the available research has only involved cell or animal cultures. The purported benefits have not been proven in humans.
Raw poke root is toxic to people. When eaten or applied topically, the plant can cause side effects such as severe nausea or diarrhea. It should not be ingested unless prepared correctly.
If you want to use poke root, be careful. Always purchase Poke Root products from a reputable retailer to ensure they are safe to use. Avoid weed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.