Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Hellebore refers to several plants in the genera Helleborus and Veratrum, both of which have a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, though often with confusion surrounding their identification. In historical European herbalism, particularly in ancient Greek and Roman contexts, hellebore was sometimes utilized for its purgative and emetic properties and was believed to treat a variety of mental disturbances, including "melancholy" and "madness," states that might overlap with what is now termed nervousness or anxiety. The writings of Hippocrates and Dioscorides mention hellebore (likely Veratrum album or Helleborus niger) as a drastic remedy, but its use was fraught with risks due to its high toxicity.

Despite this traditional use, there is minimal scientific evidence that hellebore is effective or safe for treating nervousness. Modern research focuses mainly on the toxic properties of hellebore alkaloids, such as protoveratrine, which impact the nervous system in dangerous ways, including causing arrhythmias and neurological symptoms. Because of these risks, hellebore is not recommended in contemporary herbalism for nervousness or related conditions. Its historical use is acknowledged, but was largely abandoned as safer and more effective remedies became available.

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