Herbal Medicine 101, Lesson 7: Poke, a powerful medicinal herb that is also poisonous

judsoncarroll4

https://rumble.com/ve9mb7-lesson-7-poke-a-powerful-medicinal-herb-that-is-also-poisonous.html?mref=e72kh&mc=egssm

Torey

I'm glad you mentioned Phytolacca as a homeopathic remedy. It is considered a polycrest remedy (one of the most commonly used). Great throat, tonsillitis or mumps remedy, especially following getting cold and damp. Its one of the homeopathic remedies to consider for tetanus. A very safe way to get the medicinal effects from this plant without the cautions.

judsoncarroll4

https://community.thegrownetwork.com/discussion/comment/891245#Comment_891245

Someday, I need to learn more about homeopathy!

judsoncarroll4

Poke update, for @torey and others who may be interested.... I've been doing an experiment. I have been eating the root, raw in increasing amounts every other day since I did the video. I'm up to eating an ounce of fresh root, with no ill effects.

Torey

More updates as you proceed please, Judson. You are very brave. Like some of the old homeopathic provers!

Torey

I wonder if it has anything to do with the time of year that it is harvested. Or how old the plant is. Maybe the older roots have had more time to build up the constituents that cause gastrointestinal issues.

judsoncarroll4

https://community.thegrownetwork.com/discussion/comment/891610#Comment_891610

The root is around 3-4 years old, so probably about average age. I dug it up just before I did the video. I think they are usually dug in late fall because you can still see the above ground plant and its easier to identify. I think poke just probably isn't as toxic as people think.... but, I'm not ready to state that publicly!

Tave

My only experience with poke was not pleasant. I misunderstood salat for salad and thought I could eat it raw. I ended up calling the Poison Control Center; the lady laughed at me and said that the severe case of gastritis would pass. It was a serious cleanse.

judsoncarroll4

https://community.thegrownetwork.com/discussion/comment/891681#Comment_891681

I think one builds up a tolerance for poke over time. That is the only way I can explain why eating raw leaves doesn't bother me, but does make others sick.