> Supplement Index > Baneberry / Actaea spicata / Herb Christopher / Bugbane / Toadroot > Baneberry General Information Baneberry Uses & Scientific Evidence For Baneberry Dosage Information Baneberry Safety & Interaction Information - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Baneberry General Information Baneberry is a rare British plant belonging to the Buttercup family, but unlike other members of the species, it has berry-like fruit. There are two varieties of Baneberry. One is the American version which is white and sometimes called Doll’s eyes (Actaea pachypoda, or Actaea alba), and the other is the British variety which is red (Actaea rubra). Both varieties of Baneberry, especially the root, are pain-relieving, anti-rheumatic, astringent, antispasmodic, parasitic, and strongly purgative. Native Americans made tea from the root for the treatment of irregular periods, postpartum pains, and as a purgative after childbirth. They also used it to treat coughs and colds. Pillager Ojibwe and Pottawatomi women used root tea after childbirth to clear the system, and it was given to men for stomach problems. Early settlers sometimes used Baneberry root as a substitute for black cohosh in the treatment of ovarian pain, uterine tenderness, and amenorrhea. It was also used periodically in times of dire need as a substitute for digitalis. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Baneberry Uses & Scientific Evidence For Baneberry root tea is sometimes used as an appetite stimulant, but is also used to treat stomach pains, coughs, colds, menstrual irregularities, and postpartum pains. It works well in increasing milk flow in nursing women and is used as a purgative after childbirth. White Baneberry has been used as a remedy for snake-bite, especially rattlesnake bite. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Baneberry Dosage Information Both varieties of Baneberry are toxic and should be used with caution. It is best to consult with your physician regarding the use of this herb in the treatment of your condition. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - - - - Baneberry Safety & Interaction Information Baneberry contains the poison protoanemonin, and is a violent purgative, irritant, and emetic. Taking as few as two berries can cause severe cramps, headaches, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and/or dizziness. Severe protoanemonin poisoning can lead to paralysis of the respiratory system and cardiac arrest. It is important to use Baneberry only under the supervision of your physician. - - - - - - - - - - - - Back to Top - - - - - - - - - -