Latin Name: Mandragora officinarum
Herb Class/Action: Mandrake is classified as a hypnotic, analgesic, narcotic, and emetic herb.
Parts of Plant Used: The root of the mandrake plant is primarily used for its medicinal properties, although the leaves and fruits may also have therapeutic uses.
Flavors: Mandrake has a bitter and acrid taste with narcotic and unpleasant undertones.
Energetics: Mandrake is energetically warming and drying.
Medicinal Properties:
- Hypnotic and Sedative: Mandrake has a long history of use as a hypnotic and sedative herb, valued for its ability to induce sleep and alleviate pain. It is used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and nervous disorders, as well as to relieve pain associated with conditions such as rheumatism and neuralgia.
- Analgesic: Mandrake contains alkaloids such as hyoscyamine and scopolamine, which have analgesic properties that can help alleviate pain and discomfort. It has been used topically as a poultice or liniment to relieve joint and muscle pain.
- Emetic: Mandrake has emetic properties, meaning it can induce vomiting when ingested in large doses. It has been used historically as a purgative to cleanse the body of toxins or expel ingested poisons.
In the Garden: Mandrake is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region and southwestern Asia. It prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil and full sun to partial shade. Mandrake produces low-growing rosettes of dark green, glossy leaves and clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that develop into yellow or orange berries. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in herb gardens or cultivated for its medicinal roots.
Culinary Uses: Mandrake is not used for culinary purposes due to its toxic and narcotic properties. Ingesting mandrake roots or other plant parts can cause severe poisoning and adverse effects.
Precautions: Mandrake is a highly toxic plant and should not be used internally without expert supervision and guidance from a qualified herbalist or healthcare professional. Ingesting mandrake roots can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, hallucinations, convulsions, and respiratory failure. Contact with mandrake sap or handling the plant can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with certain medical conditions should avoid mandrake altogether due to its potential for severe toxicity.
