From time immemorial, plants have been used in natural medicine to treat a variety of health conditions. Throughout human history, different peoples worldwide have always been concerned with curing diseases, and, long before the advent of writing, the man already used herbs for food and medicinal purposes. In this article, we will learn about the properties and benefits of American Mandrake Tea.

Meet the American Mandrake

The American mandrake, scientific name Podophyllum peltatum L., is a plant belonging to the Berberidaceae family, being also known by other names, such as wild lemon, Mayapple, Indian apple, and wild apple lemon, among others.

Originally from North America, this plant can reach up to 30 cm in height and 30 cm in width.

The species tends to develop better in soils with acidic or neutral pH, being located in total shade, with a lot of shade or just a little shade.

American Mandrake Properties and Benefits

The American mandrake’s medicinal properties are its stomach stimulating, sedative, purgative, cathartic, hepatic, tonic, and emetic action.

Due to its properties, this plant is indicated, in small doses, to treat cough, bronchitis, colic, hydrops, bellicosity, dyspepsia, liver, intestines, and skin diseases.

See also:  Benefits and properties of marupá tea.

Importantly, this plant has no relationship with the European mandrake, which belongs to the Solanaceae family.

How to prepare American mandrake tea

The used part of the American mandrake is its roots. The plant must be used carefully, only under medical prescription. To prepare tea, boil the plant’s roots in water, turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.

Contraindications and side effects

American mandrake is contraindicated for pregnant women and may cause genetic defects. The plant causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and inflammation of the stomach and intestines in high doses.

See also:  Use horsewhip tea for poor digestion.

The powdered root and resin of the American Mandrake can still cause skin and eye problems.

Consulting a specialist before starting any natural treatment is extremely important!