White Hellebore

(Veratrumalbum L., Liliaceae)

Also called: White Veratrum

Description: Perennial herb up to 1 m (3ft) high. Rhizome small, cylindrical, 3--5cm (1-tin) long, bearing numerous roots 2mm (0.07in) thick and about 20cm (8in) long. Leaves entire, broadly elliptical, up to 25cm (10in) long with alternate insertion and arranged in 3 ranks on the stem (distinction from yellow gentian, which it resembles). Flowers greenish-white, about 1cm (0.4in) wide, arranged in groups as a long panicle at the apex of the main axis or branches. Flowering: July and August.
Taste: unpleasantly bitter.

Parts Used: Dried rhizome and roots.

Habitat and Collection: Common in the mountains of central Europe, often abundant in humid upland meadows; not native to Britain. Collection preferably in autumn when the plants are dying down, or in spring as growth commences. The rhizomes and roots are washed, divided and dried either in the shade or in sunlight.

Constituents and Action: Several alkaloids, poisonous to man and to cattle, producing vomiting and fall in blood pressure. Large doses produce complex symptoms of intoxication with melancholia, diarrhoea, spasms, heart disturbances, etc. The powder is sternutatory, it is highly toxic to fleas and lice. The activity and toxicity of the leaves decrease markedly as they develop through the vegetative cycle.

Usage: Because of its toxicity, white hellebore should be used only on the prescription of a physician or veterinary surgeon. In veterinary medicine it is used to increase the appetite of cattle.