It actually makes sense to discuss the mythology surrounding mandrake before getting into its medical uses. This led to the tomato being viewed with suspicion when it was first brought to Europe from South America -it was considered a strange relative of the mandrake and was used only as a decoration until the 18th century. Many of the European nightshades like mandrake are considerably more dangerous to consume than those from the Americas. This is an enormous plant family comprising around 2,500 members including such harmless dietary staples as tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers. The medieval “doctrine of signatures” stipulated that God gave plants a shape and appearance that reflected their medical applications.Īs stated above, mandrake roots belong to the nightshade, or Solanae family. The human shape as well as the deliriant effects have contributed to much of the mythology surrounding mandrake root. The root contains the majority of the hallucinogenic tropane alkaloids and is known for being large, round, and having twisting offshoots that many believe resemble a small human being. The berries have been referred to as “Satan’s berries” despite also apparently being considered a delicacy when cooked. The plant has large leaves and violet flowers that produce small, round berries. Mandrake Root grows primarily throughout the Middle East and the Mediterranean. Even in the best of circumstances, taking any of these substances can be dangerous and potentially lethal due to unpredictable levels of the alkaloids within and between each plant. Such visions are known to cause individuals to have entire conversations with friends, relatives, or deceased loved ones who aren’t actually there. Unlike ordinary hallucinations that produce auditory and visual distortions, a nightshade-afflicted individual will typically perceive hallucinations as real - which is why they are known as deliriants, rather than simply hallucinogens. Among nightshade plants, mandrake root deserves special mention because of its historical role, pop culture presence, and the fantastical mythology that surrounds it. Depending on the variety and dose of deliriant nightshades consumed, these compounds can inflict a “waking dream” state on the user.
All of these occult-sounding species contain varying levels of the tropane alkaloids atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine. Truffle Report has already discussed the link between witchcraft and deliriant nightshade plants like henbane, datura, and mandrake root.
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