Organic Poke Root (Phytolacca americana) – Pokebush, Pokeberry, Poke Sallet – Dried Herb

Organic Poke Root (Phytolacca americana) – Dried Herb | Clinical Series

Known by many names — Pokeweed, Pokebush, Pokeberry, Poke Sallet — Phytolacca americana is one of the most potent and historically significant herbs in the Western botanical tradition. A tall, striking perennial native to North America, its root has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples and early American herbalists for lymphatic cleansing, immune modulation, and deep tissue support.

This is a powerful, specialist herb. It is offered strictly for use by qualified herbalists, healthcare practitioners, and experienced botanical researchers.

⚠️ Important Safety Notice: Poke Root (Phytolacca americana) contains toxic compounds including phytolaccatoxin and phytolaccigenin. All parts of the plant — root, berries, and leaves — are potentially toxic if used incorrectly. This product must only be used under the supervision of a qualified herbal practitioner. It is not suitable for self-prescription. See full precautions below.

Traditional Uses

• Lymphatic System Support – One of the most historically used herbs for stimulating and decongesting the lymphatic system, including swollen lymph nodes and lymphadenopathy.
• Immune Modulation – Used in traditional Western herbalism for tonsillitis, glandular fever, and infections associated with lymphatic involvement.
• Anti-Inflammatory Applications – Historically applied in formulations for arthritis, rheumatism, and musculoskeletal inflammation.
• Topical Use – Traditional poultices for skin conditions including boils, abscesses, and inflammatory skin disorders.
• Antiviral & Antimicrobial – Used in folk medicine for viral and microbial infections, particularly where glandular involvement is present.

Benefits – Clinical & Research Context

• Pokeweed Mitogen (PWM): Phytolacca americana contains pokeweed mitogen, a lectin extensively used in immunological research as a B- and T-cell mitogen. Studies published in The Journal of Immunology have documented its potent immune-stimulating activity at sub-therapeutic concentrations.
• Antiviral Proteins: The plant contains Pokeweed Antiviral Protein (PAP), a ribosome-inactivating protein (RIP) that has been studied for antiviral properties, including research published in Antiviral Research (Aron & Irvin, 1980) and more recent immunotoxin studies.
• Anti-inflammatory Compounds: Phytolaccagenin and related triterpenoid saponins have demonstrated inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines in preclinical studies (Journal of Ethnopharmacology).
• Lymphagogue Activity: Traditional use as a lymphagogue is supported by eclectic and physiomedicalist herbalist literature (Felter & Lloyd, King's American Dispensatory, 1898), with modern herbalists including David Hoffman and Matthew Wood referencing its role in lymphatic medicine.

Note: Research cited relates to isolated compounds and preclinical models. Clinical use in humans must be guided by a qualified practitioner. This product is not intended to treat or cure any disease.

Precautions & Safety

• Toxic plant: Poke Root is toxic and should never be used without professional guidance. Overdose can cause severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, hypotension, tachycardia, respiratory depression, and in extreme cases, fatality.
• Not for self-prescription: For use by or under the direct supervision of a qualified herbal practitioner only.
• Contraindicated in: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, and individuals with gastrointestinal, renal, or cardiovascular conditions.
• Drug interactions: May interact with immunosuppressants and other medications. Professional review required.
• Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Format: Dried Root  |  Available in: 50g, 100g  |  Botanical Name: Phytolacca americana  |  Also known as: Pokeweed, Pokebush, Pokeberry, Poke Sallet  |  Origin: Organic

This product is sold for educational, research, and professional herbal practice purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.