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This is regarded as one of the most important of indigenous American plants and one of the most striking in appearance. The root is large and fleshy with a hollow stem The Delaware Indians took it as a heart stimulant and in Virginia it was regarded as a strong purgative. Arriving in Europe in the 19th century it is used as a lymphatic cleanser, particularly in glandular fever and tonsillitis, the dried root can also be helpful for mastitis. Externally, it can be used for skin infections such as scabies and ringworm. The berries are milder in action than the root and in the past they were used for skin complaints and rheumatism. Constituents Saponins, Phytolaccic acid, formic acid, tannins, alkaloids, bitter principle Character Chinese herbal medicine regards it as pungent, drying and slightly cold Action It traditionally acts as an anti-rheumatic, stimulant, anti-catarrhal, purging action, anti-parasitic, immune stimulant, lymphatic stimulant and mild analgesic Application Dried root Tincture This is traditionally used for acute lymphatic congestion and infection – including mastitis, tonsillitis, glandular fever (a maximum dose of 1ml (20 drops)). It can be combined with wild indigo, purple coneflower (echinacea) or cleavers and can be useful for rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatism. Poultice This can be applied to inflamed joints, varicose ulcers and haemorrhoids Lotion The diluted tincture in water can be used to disperse lymphatic swellings Powder This is traditionally taken internally in small doses (50-250mg) for lymphatic disorders. Cautions All parts of the fresh plant are toxic and can cause vomiting. In large doses, the dried root is an extremely violent emetic. Avoid using in pregnancy, as it can cause foetal abnormalities
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