Mandrake Root  (American)

Botanical: Podophyllum peltatum (American)*
Family: Berberidaceae (barberry)

Other common names:  American Mandrake, Mayapple, Raccoon Berry, Wild Lemon, Indian Apple, Duck's Foot, Hog Apple, Umbrella Plant, Ground Lemon

* Not to be confused with European Mandrake, an entirely different plant of the poisonous

nightshade family.

American Mandrake Root, not to be confused with its poisonous European namesake, is native to the New World and has been used for centuries by Native Americans to treat constipation, rheumatism and liver disorders.  Mandrake Root is also considered an effective topical treatment for wart removal. Recently, it has shown promise in tests to determine its effectiveness in combating leukemia.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Mandrake Root is native to northeastern North America and has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. American Mandrake is sometimes referred to as umbrella plant, because it looks like a closed umbrella when it first appears each Spring.  The plant grows to about a foot in height and then spreads out.  Mandrake produces a fruit, but it is rather unsavory, and the plant grows rapidly in groups and can overrun weaker plants.  Mandrake Root consists of the dried rhizome and connected roots of Podophyllum peltatum.  The root contains at least four percent resin with podophyllotoxin.  Mandrake Root is often used as a topical treatment for warts, and when applying to warts, use only on the tissue needed, or it can damage surrounding tissue.  Mandrake Root was used by Native Americans as a laxative and to remove intestinal parasites.  The root was also used as a tonic for liver, lung, and stomach ailments.  A decoction was made by boiling the roots in water and was used to treat rheumatism.  In more recent times, Mandrake Root has been investigated for its positive effects on leukemia.

Recommended Dosage:
Take one (1) capsule, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Pregnant and nursing women should never use American Mandrake Root.  It is an extremely potent herb and should be used with great caution (it is always advisable to use it in consultation with a physician), and it is subject to restrictions in many countries.  It should never be taken in large amounts, as an overdose would likely be fatal.  It is considered unsafe as a food by the USFDA. Stop taking Mandrake if you experience shortness of breath, muscle weakness, low blood pressure and fast heart rate. This may be a sign of poisoning. See your doctor right away if you have confusion, dizziness, hallucinations, shaking, ataxia (problems with walking) or loss of consciousness.

Capsule Information:
Our American Mandrake Root supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.