Wild Arum
Other Names : Arum maculatum, Snakeshead, adder's root, arum, wild arum, arum lily, lords-and-ladies, devils and angels, cows and bulls, cuckoo-pint, soldiers diddies, priest's pintle, Adam and Eve, bobbins, naked girls, naked boys, starch-root, wake robin, friar's cowl, sonsie-give-us-your-hand, jack in the pulpit, cheese and toast.
Special Precautions of Wild Arum
Arum maculatum is a poisonous plant and should be handled with care. Folklore often repeats tales of children who have died after eating the berries. The berries are the most toxic part of Arum maculatum and they can cause extreme discomfort if they are eaten. The juice from the berries will cause a burning sensation and medical advice should be sought if the berries are consumed.
Health benefits and Uses of Wild Arum
Arum maculatum has a long history of medical use. While these do not provide cancer natural cures, Arum maculatum can help alleviate a range of different symptoms. The berries are highly toxic and should be avoided. The large tuberous root, however, has long been believed to have medicinal powers. The root is full of starch and has been used in many ways. Some of the medicinal uses of Arum maculatum include:
- Alleviate symptoms of sore throats - Arum maculatum is reported to help alleviate the symptoms of sore throats. It is taken as a homeopathic remedy and the tincture helps to reduce swollen membranes.
- Diuretic and stimulant - the root at one time was used as a diuretic and stimulant. It has dramatic and unpredictable results and this has meant that it is rarely used in this way now without supervision from a trained professional.
- Topically applied - an ointment or tincture from the root has been used to help alleviate symptoms of rheumatism. It is applied to the skin, however given the extreme toxicity of the plant, this should be done with great care and professional advice sought first.
