How Was Mandrake Root Used in Folk Medicine?

Mandrake root has a long history in folk medicine, dating back to the Bible. Mandrake is a long brown root of the plant Atropa mandragora, also called Mandrake or Satan's apple. It is in the nightshade family, which is notoriously poisonous, but which also gives us common and cherished foods such as the potato, tomato, and eggplant.

Growing Mandrake from Seed

Mandrake is native to the Himalayas and the Mediterranean. Mandrake seeds can be propagated after being stored in cold temperatures for at least three weeks, then scarifying the seeds and planting in early spring.

Root and Leaves

Mandrake root grows below the surface of the ground. The oval leaves form from a rosette at ground level growing 2 to 16 inches long.

Doctrine of Signatures

The Doctrine of Signatures is a philosophy of medicinal plant use embraced until the 17th century, dictating that plants are used to treat problems based on the part of the human body the plant resembles. Since the mandrake root resembles a human body, it was considered useful for curing sterility and many other diseases.

Medicinal Uses

The fresh root and dried bark of the root was used as an emetic and purgative, meaning that it helped cleanse the bowels. The root, mixed with brandy, was purportedly used for rheumatism, and for helping with rest and pain relief. Patients undergoing surgery were said to chew on the root for anesthetic properties.

Warnings

The Mandrake plant is poisonous. Do not use or ingest any part of this plant.

American Mandrake

American Mandrake, Podophyllum peltatum, is not related to the medicinal Mandrake discussed here. However, both are said to be poisonous.

References

• Mandrake root folklore
• Mandrake