Regarded as one of the most important plants native to the Americas for a time, the Poke root was widely used in ages past for a myriad of purposes. Its purple buries were long used as a dye, creating a rich purple color for fabrics and even in wines, though vintners eventually stopped using it as the berry spoiled the taste of the wine. The young shoots were also used, boiled and cooked and frequently compared to other greens, like asparagus. Folklore also suggests that it is a powerful stimulate to the immune system and the metabolism.
Some modern study seems to back this lore up, with it being used as an herbal treatment for some varieties of cancer and other immune diseases. This is due to the fact that Poke root seems to be able to stimulate the lymphatic system and help maintain its health; a basic aim of most cancer treatments. Herbalists have also been known to use it in treating rheumatism and as part of an ointment for skin diseases. Unfortunately, Poke root is also known for having side-effects similar to narcotics. In large doses it is said to inhibit mental clarity, and instill feelings of spaciness, and not quite being yourself or otherwise feeling out-of-body. Large doses can also result in nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
This is a 1 lb packet of cut Poke Root.
|