Back to Monographs
ingredients

Black hellebore (Helleborus niger, Helleborus nigra)

Background

  • Black hellebore (Helleborus niger, Helleborus nigra) is a perennial plant, native to Central and Southern Europe, Greece, and Asia Minor, and is cultivated largely in the United States as a garden plant. Black hellebore is not the same as false hellebore, American hellebore, white hellebore, or other Veratrum species.
  • Black hellebore is a poisonous plant that is toxic when taken in even small-to-moderate doses and should not be used without the supervision of a medical professional. It was formerly used for palsy, insanity, dropsy, and epilepsy but is seldom currently used for these or any other uses.

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to . Selected references are listed below.

Disclaimer: This tool is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions.