Fence beet
The poisonous fence beet (Bryonia dioica) is deeply rooted in the ground with a beet-shaped root. The angular stem can reach a height of 4 m.
With the help of tendrils it climbs up fences and other supports. Therefore, overgrowth of small trees and shrubs may occur.
The leaves have a 5-lobed shape. The flowers are white and the berries turn scarlet.
The fence beet is poisonous!
Fence beet
Image source: 34242737 – stock.adobe.com
Family and flowering
Fence beet belongs to the cucurbit family.
Flowering time: June to August, the fruits (red berries) form in autumn
Healing effect and application
Naturopathic use:
Fence beet is used in homeopathy as an injury and cold remedy, and as an asthma remedy in homeopathy.
Ingredients: (selection)
- Resin containing a mixture of various cucurbitacins; causes severe irritation on contact with the skin.
References:
Beiser, Rudi: Our edible wild plants. Kosmos Nature Guide 2018
Bühring, Ursel: Praxis-Lehrbuch der modernen Heilpflanzenkunde; Grundlagen – Anwendung – Therapie. Sonntag Publishing House Stuttgart 2005
Pahlow, M. Pharmacist: Medicinal Plants. Bechtermünz Publishing House Augsburg 2001
Schneider, Christine: Finding wild herbs. Ulmer Publishing House Stuttgart 2017
Recipe by Dr. Markus Strauß www.dr-strauss.net
