Medicinal Properties:
The root of the Turkmen mandrake is primarily used as an analgesic (pain reliever), antispasmodic (relieves spasms), and sedative. It is effective in treating spasms in the gastrointestinal tract, gallbladder, and urinary tract; reduces anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia; dilates pupils in ophthalmology; decreases salivary and other gland secretions; and helps prevent motion sickness during travel.
Botanical Name:
Scientific — Mandragora turcomanica Mizg.
Other names include: Turkmen Mandrake, Central Asian Ginseng, Mehrigiyoh, Man-root, Mandrake, Devil’s Apple, Love Apple, Luffah, Yabruh, Dudaim, Alraune.
What makes it unique?
1. Anthropomorphic root: The root often resembles a human figure, sometimes even with arms and legs — believed to have magical powers in ancient cultures.
2. Potent and toxic tropane alkaloids: Contains hyoscyamine, scopolamine, and atropine — powerful substances affecting the central nervous system.
3. Rich mythological background: Legends say the mandrake screams lethally when uprooted. It was widely used by shamans, healers, and alchemists.
4. Medical significance: Used in ancient times for anesthesia during surgery, as a painkiller, and as a sleep aid. Today, its purified compounds are used in modern medicine.
5. Rarity and conservation: Mandragora turcomanica is an endemic species, found only in specific regions, making it rare and in need of protection.
Raw Material: Root (Radix)
Active Compounds: Contains powerful tropane alkaloids — hyoscyamine, scopolamine, and atropine.
Medical relevance today:
Modern medicine uses its isolated and purified alkaloids in fields such as ophthalmology, anesthesiology, and neurology.
Traditional Uses:
• As an anesthetic and painkiller
• Sedative and sleep-inducing agent
• Antispasmodic
• Mystical and love potions in folklore
Usage Today:
Due to its extreme toxicity, direct use in folk medicine or at home is strictly prohibited. Only its purified alkaloids are used in pharmaceuticals — under medical supervision and in controlled doses.
Note:
Mandragora is highly poisonous. Improper use can lead to severe poisoning, hallucinations, coma, or even death. Only its processed substances are allowed in professional medical settings.
Author: R.Kh. Muydinov, PhD Candidate, Department of Medicinal Plants, Tashkent State Agrarian University
Social networks:
