American hellebore (Veratrum viride) is a poisonous plant native to swampy areas in North America. Traditionally, its extracts have been used as medicine.
American hellebore contains chemicals that are toxic and can cause serious heart-related side effects, including low blood pressure and abnormal heartbeat.
Despite serious safety concerns, people use American hellebore for high blood pressure, kidney problems, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Don't confuse American hellebore with European hellebore, white hellebore, or pheasant's eye. These are not the same.
Is It Effective?
There is interest in using American hellebore for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
When taken by mouth: American hellebore is likely unsafe. It contains chemicals that are toxic and can cause serious heart-related side effects, including abnormal heartbeat, low blood pressure, and death.
When applied to the skin: American hellebore is likely unsafe. It contains chemicals that are toxic. There isn't enough reliable information to know what the side effects might be.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: American hellebore is likely unsafe when taken by mouth or applied to the skin while pregnant or breast-feeding. Avoid use.
Heart disease: American hellebore could make heart disease worse by slowing the heart rate or causing abnormal heartbeat.
It is not known if American Hellebore interacts with any medicines. Before taking American Hellebore, talk with your healthcare professional if you take any medications.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
American hellebore contains chemicals that are toxic. There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of American hellebore might be. Speak with a healthcare provider before use.
American Veratrum, American White Hellebore, Bugbane, Devil's Bite, Earth Gall, Eléboro Americano, Eléboro Verde, False Hellebore, Faux Hellébore, Green Hellebore, Green Veratrum, Indian Poke, Itchweed, Tabac du Diable, Tickleweed, Varaire Vert, Vératre Vert, Veratro Verde, Veratrum eschscholtzii, Veratrum viride.
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