Guest guest Posted November 2, 2000 Report Share Posted November 2, 2000 MAYAPPLE Podophyllum peltatum (Berberidaceae) Podophyllums contain lignans, the most important of these being podophyllotoxin, and a resin known as podophyllin. These substances yield potent anti tumor drugs, such as etoposide. It is found throughout the plant, including the seeds and unripe fruit, but it is especially concentrated in the rhizome. ***Please read the following!***The FDA has studied the health effects of this agent and calls it "an unsafe laxative," citing powers that go far beyond the digestive system. The plant-based resin has been found to affect cellular growth and is blamed for deformities in the children of mothers who took laxatives or dieting tablets containing it. Podophyllin is an unsafe herb...fatalities have resulted from overdoses. It has been used to abort pregnancies, and American Indians once ingested the young shoots in order to commit suicide. Even handling the fresh or dried rhizome or the podophyllin powder is extremely hazardous, as the poison is absorbed through the skin. The eyes are especially sensitive. NOT given to pregnant women. ***This herb is subject to legal restrictions in most countries!*** All that being said, the mayapple is a simple but lovely perennial hardy to zone 4. It likes partial shade and humus, rich moist soil! The annual reappearance of the mayapple's umbrella like flowers which form a luxuriant ground cove in moist woods, is a sure sign of spring. It is native to North America from Quebec south to Florida and Texas. Willow Rose in Redlands, California "The hardest thing to learn in life is which bridge to cross and which to burn." - David Russell Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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