What is a mandrake in biblical times?

The mandrake, Mandragora officinalis, is a strange plant mentioned only in Genesis 30:14 and Song of Songs 7:13 although it is a common plant in many parts of Israel. The plant consists of several large, wrinkled, dark green leaves that lie flat upon the ground forming a rosette.

Why is the mandrake dangerous?

The alkaloids make the plant, in particular the root and leaves, poisonous, via anticholinergic, hallucinogenic, and hypnotic effects. Anticholinergic properties can lead to asphyxiation. Accidental poisoning is not uncommon. Ingesting mandrake root is likely to have other adverse effects such as vomiting and diarrhea.

What do Mandrakes represent?

The Greeks also used it as an aphrodisiac, steeping the root in wine or vinegar—mandrake is known as the “love-apple of the ancients,” and is associated with the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite. Similarly, the ancient Hebrews believed the mandrake could be used to induce conception.

Is mandrake illegal in the US?

Mandrake is uncontrolled in the United States. This means all parts of the plant and its extracts are legal to cultivate, buy, possess, and distribute (sell, trade or give) without a license or prescription. If sold as a supplement, sales must conform to U.S. supplement laws.

How does mandrake kill you?

Legend aside, the mandrake plant, Mandragora officinarum, a member of the Solanaceae family, is indeed poisonous. The alkaloids make the plant, in particular the root and leaves, poisonous, via anticholinergic, hallucinogenic, and hypnotic effects. Anticholinergic properties can lead to asphyxiation.

What is mandrake used for today?

The root and leaves are used to make medicine. People take European mandrake root for treating stomach ulcers, colic, constipation, asthma, hay fever, convulsions, arthritis-like pain (rheumatism), and whooping cough.

Why are mandrakes important?

Mandrake is mentioned in the Bible (Gen. 30:14-16) and its Biblical use is generally attributed to its supposed fertility power. It seems that the Scripture clearly connects the fragrance of mandrake with sexuality, which is the only known account of direct link between odor and human sexual response.

Can mandrake kill you?

Even though it was often administered prior to anesthesia, it is no longer considered safe to do so. Mandrake toxicity is high enough that it could get a novice or even expert user killed or in the hospital for an extended stay.

What part of the mandrake is fatal?

A Mandrake, also known as Mandragora, is a magical and sentient plant which has a root that looks like a human (like a baby when the plant is young, but maturing as the plant grows). When matured, its cry can be fatal to any person who hears it.

What does the Bible say about a Mandrake?

Mandrakes. (Heb. dudraim ) are mentioned in ( Genesis 30:14 Genesis 30:16 ) and in Song 7:13 The mandrake, Atropa mandragora , is closely allied to the well-known deadly nightshade, A. bellndonna , and to the tomato, and belongs to the order Solanaceae , or potato family. It grows in Palestine and Mesopotamia.

Where does the root of a Mandrake come from?

The flowers of a mandrake plant. A mandrake is the root of a plant, historically derived either from plants of the genus Mandragora found in the Mediterranean region, or from other species, such as Bryonia alba, the English mandrake, which have similar properties.

Why are mandrakes called Love Apples in the Bible?

man’-draks (dudha’im; mandragoras ( Genesis 30:14; Song of Solomon 7:13 ); the marginal reading “love apples” is due to the supposed connection of dudha’im with dodhim, “love”): Mandrakes are the fruit of the Mandragora officinarum, a member of the Solanaceae or potato order, closely allied to the Atropa belladonna.

Where are mandrakes mentioned in the song of Solomon?

There are many references to mandrakes in folklore and superstitions in various cultures. The mention of mandrakes in the Song of Solomon is part of a romantic encounter between Solomon and his new wife. Mandrakes were around them in the countryside, along with grapes, pomegranates, and “every delicacy” (Song of Solomon 7:13).

What is Mandrake good for?

Mandrake root has various medicinal uses. Its leaves have cooling properties, and are often used for external, topical application. They are often used as an ingredient in ointments. Their leaves can be boiled in milk, and serve as a poultice to help soothe ulcers.

Are mandrakes real?

Mandragora officinarum is a real plant with a mythical past. Known more commonly as mandrake, the lore generally refers to the roots.

What is a Mandrake Genesis 30?

Mandrake. The mandrake, Mandragora officinalis, is a strange plant mentioned only in Genesis 30:14 and Song of Songs 7:13 although it is a common plant in many parts of Israel. Mandrake is a member of the nightshade family that includes some of the most poisonous plants such as nightshade, jimsonweed, tobacco and, paradoxically,…

What are Mandrake plants?

Mandrake, (genus Mandragora ), genus of six species of hallucinogenic plants in the nightshade family (Solanaceae) native to the Mediterranean region and the Himalayas .