Why Proper Plant Identification is Critical
Poke is NOT Elderberry.
Yes, their berries both have deep, rich color, but the plants don’t even remotely resemble each other.
They are NEVER to be confused. While Poke is medicinal, using any part of the plant, be it the berries (toxic seeds removed), young leaves, or root, should be done with extreme care and caution.
Poke is a potent lymphatic cleanser that facilitates the removal of catabolic waste. Poke is also a low-dose herb - too much can cause nausea, vomiting, oral and gastric irritation, cramps, drowsiness, weakness, sweating, convulsions, reduced blood pressure and pulse, and slow respiration potentially to the point of death. Nature doesn’t play!
We need this potent medicine and more importantly, we need education, skill, to be attuned to the plant realm, responsibility, accountability, integrity, and wisdom when using it.
Poke is for seasoned herbalists, not hobbyists, not bloggers, nor internet-herb-lovers. I really hope this person who’s selling Poke as Elderberry on Etsy hasn’t hurt anyone.
If you want to do this work, learn from someone who’s doing the work. #lawdhavemercy
✦
✦
✦
@iwillaremedy
IwillaRemedy.com
http://bit.ly/TeachMeHow2Heal
Leave a comment
Comments will be approved before showing up.
Also in Iwilla Remedy Herbalism & Spirituality Blog
Holistic Help for Endometriosis Workshop
Struggling with endometriosis? You’re not alone. Join this empowering workshop to learn holistic strategies that support your body, ease pain, and promote healing. Discover how to balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and use herbs, nutrition, and lifestyle practices to reclaim your quality of life. You’ll also gain tools for self-advocacy and navigating medical care. It’s time to work with your body—not against it.
Herbal Business Finances? Do THIS!
Simple, stress-free financial systems to help you manage your bills, track cash flow, and take control of your herbal business—all for FREE!
Everything you need to know about the Herbalism Conference
The 2025 Virtual Herbalism Conference is happening February 16-21, and I’d love for you to join me! This event is entirely FREE and brings together 30+ of the world’s leading herbalists, educators, and visionaries to celebrate connections – connections to plants, to one another, and to the practices that nourish us all.