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Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatum)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Berberidaceae
  • Common Names: Mayapple, American Mandrake, Wild Lemon
  • Parts Used: Rhizome, Root (used with caution)

Description

Podophyllum peltatum, commonly known as Mayapple, is a woodland herb native to North America. Traditionally used by Native American tribes for its purgative, antiviral, and wart-removing properties, Mayapple contains podophyllotoxin, a potent compound with modern medical applications, particularly in cancer treatments and dermatology.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in Native American medicine as a powerful laxative and vermifuge.
  • Traditionally employed to remove warts and skin growths.
  • Historically used in small amounts for liver stimulation and digestive complaints.
  • Applied externally for fungal infections and skin ailments.

Constituents

  • Podophyllotoxin
  • Flavonoids
  • Lignans
  • Resinous compounds
  • Alkaloids

Actions

  • Purgative
  • Antiviral
  • Cytotoxic
  • Cholagogue (Stimulates bile flow)
  • Antifungal
  • Lymphatic stimulant

Medicinal Uses

1. Purgative and Digestive Stimulant:
Mayapple root was traditionally used as a strong laxative, though it is rarely used today due to its potency.

2. Antiviral and Wart Removal:
Podophyllotoxin is effective in treating warts, especially genital warts, and is used in modern medicine for this purpose.

3. Cytotoxic and Cancer Research:
Mayapple’s active compounds have been studied for their anticancer properties, particularly in chemotherapy drugs.

4. Liver and Gallbladder Support:
Small doses have historically been used to stimulate bile production and support liver detoxification.

5. Fungal and Skin Conditions:
Used topically for fungal infections, ringworm, and corns.

Preparation and Dosage

⚠️ Note: Podophyllum peltatum is a highly potent herb with toxic properties and should only be used under professional supervision.

Tincture:

  • Traditionally used in extremely small doses (1-2 drops), but modern use is limited due to toxicity concerns.

Poultice (Topical Use):

  • Powdered root applied externally for warts and skin growths (not for open wounds).

Decoction:

  • Rarely used internally due to its strong purgative action.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid entirely, as it is a known abortifacient and toxic.
  • Toxicity Risk: May cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and systemic toxicity if taken improperly.
  • Liver and Kidney Disorders: Not recommended for individuals with compromised liver or kidney function.
  • Drug Interactions: Can interact with chemotherapy drugs, antiviral medications, and immune-modulating treatments.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Strongly purgative and detoxifying; traditionally used with great caution.
  • Traditional Eclectic Medicine: Employed as a lymphatic and digestive stimulant in microdoses.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Comparable to herbs that clear toxic heat and resolve damp stagnation.

Combinations

  • For Wart Removal: Often combined with bloodroot and thuja for external application.
  • For Lymphatic Support: Combined with cleavers and red clover in historical uses.
  • For Liver Support: Used alongside dandelion and milk thistle (though rarely recommended today).

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Rhizomes are collected in autumn when plant energy is concentrated underground.
  • Drying: Air dry rhizomes in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried roots in airtight containers away from heat and moisture.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Podophyllum peltatum’s antiviral, cytotoxic, and purgative properties, reinforcing its historical applications while emphasizing its toxic potential.

Mayapple remains a highly potent herb with specialized uses, particularly in dermatology and cancer research. It should be handled with extreme caution and used only under expert guidance.