The mandrake is a legendary plant. In many myths and films it is used as an ingredient in magic potions. But it is highly poisonous. Therefore, you should not eat the mandrake.
Why shouldn't you eat mandrake?
Alraune is dangerous due to its high concentration of toxic ingredients such as atropine, hyoscyamine and scopolamine. Consumption can cause pupil dilation, increased pulse rate, respiratory paralysis and ultimately fatal poisoning.
Why shouldn't you eat the mandrake?
All parts of the mandrake contain a high concentration ofpoisonous ingredients These ingredients are sometimes used to make medicine. This is also why the mandrake is sometimes planted. It also enjoys a certain reputation among connoisseurs as a medicinal plant. However, incorrect use can quickly become fatal. Under no circumstances should you simply eat the mandrake. The following toxins are contained in the plant:
- Atropine
- Hyoscyamine
- Scopolamine
What symptoms appear after eating mandrake?
The ingredients of the mandrake cause symptoms such aspupillary dilationas well aspulse accelerationand can go as far asrespiratory paralysislead. Accordingly, this plant is not to be trifled with. Since mandrake affects the brain and nerve pathways, it was also used in some societies to expand consciousness. However, due to the high concentration of harmful substances, when mandrake is eaten, too strong a dose of these substances is quickly absorbed.
Which mandrakes are used as food and where?
TheTurkmen Mandrakeis used as food in the north ofIran. However, in this case, people only eat certain parts of the plant and limit themselves to the use of Turkmen mandrake. Overall, this usage is not particularly widespread in Iran either.
Tip
Known from the Harry Potter film series
The ancient magical plant has achieved a certain level of popularity through the film adaptation of the Harry Potter book series. Here, magic students at Hogwarts work with animated mandrakes. Also because of the film, some people are now planting mandrakes again or raising them from seeds.
