This site says that the berry isn't posionous, but the seed in it is. It advises to take 1 to 2 dried berries in the morning for arthritis, but don't chew it, so the toxic seeds pass.
I...dunno about this...
http://www.project-aware.org/Managing/Alt/aching.shtml
CAUTION: Poke root and poke berry seeds are highly toxic, and must be used in extremely low doses, preferably under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. Susun Weed suggests these have been found especially helpful for rheumatoid arthritis… "Use tincture of poke root (do not use dried poke root) or devil’s club at 1-4 drops daily. Or 1-2 dried poke berries each morning (swallow without chewing so that the toxic seeds will pass through)."
and this site:
http://www.warnerherbs.com/Uses.htm
says...
POKE BERRIES - Rub on (skin eruptions/ cancerous skin ulcers)and (Internal for cancer) arthritis.
this site tells a ton about poke:
http://www.herbnet.com/Herb%20Uses_OPQ.htm
So.. there you have it!
Posted by juel at November 4, 2005 12:11 AM