Podophyllum

Podophyllum is a genus of perennial plants in the family Berberidaceae, described as a genus by Linnaeus in 1753. It is native to cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

Description

Podophyllum plants are herbaceous perennials that grow from a rhizome. They have one or two large, lobed leaves, up to 30 cm in diameter, which are held on long, fleshy stems. The flowers are white or pink and appear in spring, followed by a large, fleshy fruit.

Species

There are seven species in the genus Podophyllum. These include:

• Podophyllum peltatum – Eastern North America
• Podophyllum hexandrum – Himalayas
• Podophyllum pleianthum – China
• Podophyllum versipelle – China
• Podophyllum emodii – Himalayas
• Podophyllum aurantiocaule – China
• Podophyllum delavayi – China

Uses

Podophyllum has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The roots and rhizomes are used to produce podophyllin, a toxic resin that has been used to treat warts and other skin conditions. However, due to its toxicity, it is not recommended for internal use.

Toxicity

All parts of the plant are toxic and can cause severe irritation if ingested or applied to the skin. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

See also

• List of poisonous plants
• Berberidaceae

References

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