Mandrake (mandragora in tagalog)

(American) – (Podophyllum peltatum) Part used: Root. Properties: Cholagogue, hepatic, laxative, alternative, emetic, stimulant. What it affects: Liver, gallbladder, intestines and skin.

Preparation and amount: Decoction: Simmer 5-15 min. Take 1 Tbsp. (cold) 2 times daily. Tincture: Take 1 -10 drops 2 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/4 – 1/2 tsp. 2 times daily. Powder: Take 1-3 #0 capsules 2 times daily.

Purposes: Internally, mandrake is a powerful glandular stimulant and should be taken in small amounts. It is used for lymphatic problems, all skin diseases, liver diseases, and obstructions of the liver and gallbladder (gallstones and jaundice), as well as digestive problems. It is best taken in small doses in combination with ginger, licorice, or Oregon grape root. American Indians used it as a cathartic. It is said to eliminate poisoning from mercury ingestion.

Externally, the concentrated tincture (by gently cooking it down) is directly applied to warts, to rapidly remove them. But it must only be put on the wart and not on the surrounding skin. Indians used the crushed rootstock on warts, but doing so could produce dermatitis. A diluted solution is applied to skin diseases.

Note: European mandrake (Mandragora officinarum) is a different herb, with different properties.

Warning: Only take mandrake in small doses. Large doses, even applied externally, produces nausea, vomiting, and inflammation of the intestines and the stomach lining. An overdose could be fatal. Taking it during pregnancy could cause birth defects. Placing it undiluted on the skin may cause dermatitis.