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MANDRAKE MANDRAGORA OFFICINARUM (= ATROPA MANDRAGORA) The root was formerly supposed to have the human form, but it really resembles a Carrot or a Parsnip. Also known as Satan's Apple, it has a large brown root, sometimes single, sometimes divided into three parts. The plant produces several large dark green leaves about a foot (30 cm) long and four or five inches (10 or 13 cm) broad with pointed ends and a foetid smell. The flowers are bell- shaped and about the height and size of a Primrose, and are followed by a fruit about the size of a small apple. Where to find it: A cultivated plant originally from the warmer parts of southern Europe. Flowering time: Mid to late summer. Astrology: It is governed by Mercury. Medicinal virtues: The fruit has been accounted poisonous, but without cause. The leaves are cooling and are used for ointments and other external applications. The fresh root operates very powerfully as an emetic and purgative, so that few constitutions can bear it. The bark of the dried root acts a rough emetic. Modern uses: The root is strongly purgative and emetic and not recommended for domestic use. The dried powdered leaves can be used as an ointment for irritating skin conditions by digesting in hot wax and straining. A tincture made from the fresh plant is used by homoeopaths. It should not be confused with English Mandrake (Bryonia dioica) or American Mandrake (Podophyllum peltatum) |