A large, frost-hardy perennial, 90 cm-1.5 m (3-5 ft.) tall, with smooth, hollow, purplish stems and ovate to lance late leaves. It has racemes of white, sometimes pink-tinged flowers in late summer, followed by large drooping spikes of purple-black berries, which provide a dye to color ink.
History and traditions
A poisonous plant, once used by Native Americans as a purgative and powerful treatment for various complaints. They knew it as pocan, which is where the name pokeweed comes from. It was adopted by European settlers as a treatment for venereal disease, and for its painkilling and anti-inflammatory properties. In modern times, its complex chemical structure has attracted much scientific interest. It contains compounds that affect cell division and it is currently being investigated as a potential source of drugs to combat AIDS-related diseases and cancers.
Growth
Grow in rich, moist soil. Propagated by seed sown in spring or autumn or by division.
Parts used
Roots and fruits (berries) collected in autumn and dried for use in decoctions, tinctures and other medicinal preparations.
Uses
Medicinal
Pokeweed has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal properties and is destructive to many parasitic disease-causing organisms. It is also capable of stimulating the immune and lymphatic systems. Used for many disorders, including autoimmune diseases, skin diseases, bronchitis and arthritis, but is for qualified practitioners only. Despite its toxicity, the leaves of this plant are sometimes boiled as a vegetable, the water being discarded.
