Poke (Pokeweed, Scoke) |
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Basic Information
Biological name (genus and species):
Phytolacca americana
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Leaves
Roots
Seeds
Chemicals this herb contains:
Asparagine
Mitogen
Phytolaccigenin
Resin (See Glossary)
Saponin (See Glossary)
KNOWN EFFECTS
Stimulates and irritates gastrointestinal tract.
Miscellaneous information:
All parts of native plants are poisonous. Don't take it.
Children are especially vulnerable to toxic effects.
Leaves are boiled and eaten as flavoring in some areas,
particularly the southern United States. Used this way,
pokeberry may be toxic. Don't use!
UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS
Treats chronic arthritis.
Treats constipation.
WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in
the near future.
Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as
stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux
esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis,
diverticulosis, diverticulitis.
Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in
2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments.
Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives,
cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino
acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription
drugs.
Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.
Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.
Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal
preparation is hazardous.
Others:
Handling roots may cause skin abrasions.
Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from
children.
Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.
TOXICITY
Comparative-toxicity rating not available from standard
references.
For symptoms of toxicity: See ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE
EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS section below.
ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS
| Signs and symptoms: |
What to do: |
| Decreased heart rate |
Seek emergency treatment. |
| Diarrhea |
Discontinue. Call doctor immediately. |
| Nausea |
Discontinue. Call doctor immediately. |
| Skin eruptions |
Discontinue. Call doctor when |
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convenient. |
| Vomiting |
Discontinue. Call doctor immediately. |
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