Hellebore

From WikiMD's medical encyclopedia

Hellebore is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. The term "hellebore" is derived from the Greek words "elein" meaning to injure, and "bora" meaning food, referring to the plant's toxic properties. Hellebores are native to Europe and Asia, and are commonly known for their early blooming period, often in late winter or early spring.

Description

Hellebores are perennial plants with leathery leaves and large, bowl-shaped flowers. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, green, pink, and purple. The plants typically grow to a height of 12 to 15 inches, and are often used in gardening for their ornamental value.

Toxicity

All parts of the hellebore plant are toxic if ingested. The plant contains several types of toxic compounds, including glycosides and alkaloids. Symptoms of hellebore poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, ingestion can lead to cardiac arrest and death.

Medical Uses

Despite its toxicity, hellebore has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It was used by the ancient Greeks to treat mental disorders, and has also been used as a purgative. However, due to its toxic properties, hellebore is not commonly used in modern medicine.

Cultivation

Hellebores are hardy plants that can tolerate a range of conditions. They prefer shady locations and well-drained soil. Hellebores are often propagated by division in the spring or fall.

See Also

References


WHO Rod.svg
This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
PubMed
Wikipedia


Stub icon
   This article is a medical stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!

Hellebore

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Transform your life with W8MD's budget GLP-1 injections from $125.

W8mdlogo.png
W8MD weight loss doctors team

W8MD offers a medical weight loss program to lose weight in Philadelphia. Our physician-supervised medical weight loss provides:

NYC weight loss doctor appointments

Start your NYC weight loss journey today at our NYC medical weight loss and Philadelphia medical weight loss clinics.

Linkedin_Shiny_Icon Facebook_Shiny_Icon YouTube_icon_(2011-2013) Google plus


Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD