May apple

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May apple

May apple (pronounced: /meɪ æpəl/), also known as Podophyllum peltatum, is a perennial plant native to the forests of North America. The plant is known for its distinctive umbrella-like leaves and small, apple-like fruit.

Etymology

The term "May apple" is derived from the plant's apple-like fruit that ripens in early May. The scientific name, Podophyllum peltatum, is derived from the Greek words 'podos' meaning foot, 'phyllon' meaning leaf, and 'peltatum' referring to the shield-like shape of the leaves.

Description

The May apple plant typically grows to a height of 30-40 cm. It has large, lobed leaves that are shaped like an umbrella. The plant produces a single, white flower in the late spring, which develops into a small, yellow-green fruit. The fruit is edible when fully ripe, but the rest of the plant, including the unripe fruit, is toxic if ingested.

Medical Uses

The May apple plant has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant's roots and rhizomes are rich in podophyllotoxin, a toxic compound that has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including warts, skin lesions, and certain types of cancer. However, due to the plant's toxicity, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

Related Terms

  • Podophyllum: A genus of perennial plants in the family Berberidaceae, which includes the May apple.
  • Podophyllotoxin: A toxic compound found in the roots and rhizomes of the May apple plant.
  • Berberidaceae: A family of flowering plants that includes the May apple.

External links

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