POKE

PHYTOLACA AMERICANA



Women’s Health Benefits

  • It’s great for stimulating the immune system and a wonderful lymphatic decongestant. It kicks the immune system into gear incredibly fast

  • Poke root has a very specific affinity for breast health

  • Widely used to dissolve lumps, cysts, tumors and fibrocystic conditions.

  • Wonderful for swelling, congestion and inflammation in the breast.

  • Resolves cysts, lumps and some in situ breast cancers, counters infections like mastitis 

  • Poke’s effects seems to be focused on the lymphatic and glandular tissues of the breasts, ovaries, throat and uterus where it reliably resolves cysts, growths, infections and swellings.

  • Great for swollen lymph glands

“In addition, it's very effective in treating genital herpes -- taking just a few drops when the tingling begins usually prevents the blister phase entirely and reduces the frequency of outbreaks.” Corina Wood

Mastitis + Clogged Milk Ducts

  • Here is a great article for mama’s who might be dealing with mastitis and/or clogged milk ducts.

Yearly Preventative Ritual

  • Women at high risk of developing breast cancer may wish to follow advice from TCM and use one drop to poke tincture daily from the beginning of May until mid-June yearly as a preventative.

Synergy

  • Works well with echinacea.

  • “Echinacea and poke root combine to counter breast infections quickly and dramatically.”Susun Weed.

Toxicity

  • It is important to note that you can overdo Poke. Taking too much can lead to gastrointestinal issues. Some people have greater sensitivity and toxic reactions so it’s important to be mindful of the dose. I currently take 15 drops daily no more than 5 times a week and have seen no adverse reactions. This dose is also from my herbalist, Krista Poulton.

  • This is also a great tincture to have on hand and to apply externally.

  • Poke root is generally used topically infused in an oil, such as castor. You can also combine the tincture with some castor oil apply to the affected area. Best to work with a qualified herbalist if you’re interested in taking the tincture.

Use

  • Poke root is generally used topically infused in an oil, such as castor.

  • Also used as a tincture. Best to work with a qualified herbalist if you’re interested in taking the tincture.

  • Author and herbalist Susun Weed recommends applying a generous amount (root) to the lump, covering it with a flannel cloth, and a hot water bottle.

  • When applied topically, great for reducing cysts, tumors, fibroadenomas. 

  • Can be used topically as poultice, salve, or infused in castor oil

Dose

  • Use for shorter periods. Rarely more than 10 months

  • Fresh Root tincture 1-20 drops daily (more potent than a dried root tincture) no more than five times a week.


Tip

  • I recommend finding a medical herbalist who can prepare an oil infusion if you’re unfamiliar with this process. This usually saves a lot of time as it’ll take several (around 6) weeks for the oil to be ready. If you’re based in Canada, contact Krista Poutlton for a custom poke tincture. 

Caution

  • Do not use during pregnancy


Shop