Phytolacca americana

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Phytolacca americana, also known as American pokeweed, is a large semi-woody herbaceous perennial plant native to eastern North America. It is a member of the Phytolaccaceae family and is known for its distinctive purple berries and large, vibrant green leaves.

Description[edit | edit source]

Phytolacca americana can grow up to 10 feet in height with large, simple leaves. The plant produces clusters of white flowers in the summer, which mature into dark purple berries in the fall. The berries are a favorite food source for many species of birds, which help to disperse the plant's seeds.

Distribution and Habitat[edit | edit source]

Phytolacca americana is native to the eastern United States but has spread to other parts of North America and even to Europe and Asia. It is commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and forest edges.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The young leaves and shoots of Phytolacca americana were traditionally used by Native Americans and early settlers as a food source, although they must be cooked thoroughly to remove toxic components. The plant has also been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, although its use is not recommended due to its toxicity.

Toxicity[edit | edit source]

All parts of the Phytolacca americana plant, especially the roots, seeds, and mature leaves, are toxic to humans and many animals due to the presence of phytolaccatoxin and phytolaccigenin. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, respiratory paralysis and death.

Cultivation[edit | edit source]

Phytolacca americana is not commonly cultivated due to its toxicity, but it can be grown as an ornamental plant for its large leaves and attractive berries. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Template:Flora-stub

Resources[edit source]

Latest articles - Phytolacca americana

PubMed
Clinical trials
UpToDate

AI tools[edit source]

Generative AI tools and links to learn more on Phytolacca americana: ChatGPT - Bing Chat - Google Gemini. (caution advised).


Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Admin, Prab R. Tumpati, MD