Phytolacca decandra
(Poke)

Therapeutic Actions:

• Alterative
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiviral-inhibits the replication of influenza, HSV-1, URI viruses and poliovirus
• Cathartic
• Mitogentic for T-cells or for both T-cells and B-cells (lectins, glycoproteins, Pa-1 to Pa-5)
• Stimulates B and T lymphocytes
• Stimulates elimination from tissue
• Stimulates production of interleukin 1 and tumor necrosis factor

Clinical Indications:

• Cancer prevention
• Endometriosis
• Fibrocystic breast disease
• Herpes simplex
• Mastitis
• Uterine fibroid
• Influenza
• Lymphadenopathy
• Mumps
• Parotitis
• Pharyngitis
• Tonsillitis
• Upper respiratory infections

Contraindications:

• Pregnancy

Drug/Nutrient Interaction:

• Limited data

Chemical Constituents:

• Alkaloid:
  
  Phytolaccine
• Formic acid
• Lectins, glycoproteins, Pa-1 to Pa-5
• Phytolaccic acid
• Resin
• Saponin
• Tannin
• Vitamin K

Toxicity:

• Limit use to short duration
• Symptoms of long term use or overdose happen slowly and may be difficult to recognize
• Symptoms include:
  
  Burning in mouth and stomach
  Decreased blood pressure
  GI disturbances
  Nausea , vomiting and diarrhea
  Slow heart and pulse
  If consumption is greater than 1/2 ounce of the berries or root or 10 berries in an infant, coma and death by respiratory paralysis

Copyright 1998 - 2008 by L. Vicky Crouse, ND and James S. Reiley, ND. All rights reserved (ISSN 1527-0661).