Helleborus niger Black hellebore (Ranunculaceae) Evergreen perennial

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Helleborus niger
Black hellebore
Evergreen perennial
(1 Page of 5)

The Helleborus niger plant species is found in S.E. and C. Europe. It is a member of the Ranunculaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Black hellebore.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Helleborus niger
Common Name:  Black hellebore
Family:  Ranunculaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  All parts of the plant are poisonous[9, 10, 65], this poison can possibly be absorbed through the skin[76]. The fresh root can be a violent irritant to sensitive skin[244].

Mature Height:  0.3   Mature Width:  0.3

Habitat:  Woods and thickets, mainly in mountains, on calcareous soils[50, 187]. Sometimes also found in grassland[187].

Medicinal Information: Black hellebore is a very poisonous plant that is toxic when taken in al but the smallest doses. As such it should not be taken except under professional supervision. The plant contains cardiac glycosides which have a similar action to the foxglove (Digitalis spp) and it has been used as a heart stimulant for the elderly, though this treatment is no longer recommended[254]. The root is anthelmintic, cardiac, cathartic, diuretic, emetic, emmenagogue, irritant, violently narcotic and a drastic purgative[4, 9, 21, 46, 240]. It is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[4]. It has been used in the treatment of dropsy, amenorrhoea, nervous disorders and hysteria, but it is very poisonous and great care must be taken over the dosage[4]. The root is also applied externally as a local irritant[4], but even this should be done with care, see notes above on toxicity. A homeopathic remedy is made from the roots[9]. It is used in the treatment of headaches, psychic disorders, enteritis and spasms[9].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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