Root: Syphilis.
Root and Fruit: Juice is purgative.
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Origins: Rich, low ground, old fields, and recently cleared areas and roadsides.
Uses: Young shoots, when properly prepared in spring, are edible. Consumption of the plant is dangerous because it becomes poisonous as it matures. Medically it is a slow emetic and a purgative, with some narcotic properties. The dried root is reported valuable in treating hemorrhoids. In Appalachia, pokeberry wine is thought to help alleviate rheumatism; and in some areas dried fruits are used as a poultice on sores.
Toxicity: it becomes poisonous as it matures
1) Robertt, A., et al.. Medicinal Plants of the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guyana)/Smithsonian NMNH. cited online: 17-08-2017
2) A guide to medicinal plants of Appalachia/ Krochmal, Arnold; Walter, Russel S.; Doughty, Richard M.: USA: U.S.D.A Forest Service:,1959