Despite serious safety concerns, people use white hellebore in homeopathic products, but there is no good scientific evidence to support any use.
Don't confuse white hellebore with American hellebore, black hellebore, or pheasant's eye. These are not the same.
Uses & Effectiveness
We currently have no information for WHITE HELLEBORE overview.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: White hellebore is likely unsafe. All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause vomiting, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, blindness, loss of consciousness, paralysis, seizures, and death.
When applied to the skin: White hellebore is likely unsafe. The poisonous chemicals in white hellebore can be absorbed through the skin.
Special Precautions and Warnings
When taken by mouth: White hellebore is likely unsafe. All parts of the plant are poisonous and can cause vomiting, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, blindness, loss of consciousness, paralysis, seizures, and death.
When applied to the skin: White hellebore is likely unsafe. The poisonous chemicals in white hellebore can be absorbed through the skin.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: White hellebore is likely unsafe when taken by mouth or applied to the skin while pregnant or breast-feeding. In addition to being poisonous, white hellebore might also cause birth defects. Avoid use.
Interactions
We currently have no information for WHITE HELLEBORE overview.
Dosing
All parts of the white hellebore plant are considered poisonous. Speak with a healthcare provider before using any products containing white hellebore.
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Grobosch T, Binscheck T, Martens F, Lampe D. Accidental intoxication with Veratrum album. J Anal Toxicol. 2008;32(9):768-73. View abstract.
Jaspersen-Schib R, Theus L, Guirguis-Oeschger M, et al. [Serious plant poisonings in Switzerland 1966-1994. Case analysis from the Swiss Toxicology Information Center]. Schweiz Med Wochenschr 1996;126:1085-98. View abstract.
Melnik EV, Belova MV, Potskhveriya MM, Simonova AY, Tyurin IA, Ramenskaya GV. Veratrum alkaloid determination in four cases of Veratrum aqua poisonings. J Anal Toxicol 2022;46(1):e42-e47. View abstract.
Rauber-Lüthy C, Halbsguth U, Kupferschmidt H, et al. Low-dose exposure to Veratrum album in children causes mild effects--a case series. Clin Toxicol (Phila). 2010;48(3):234-7. View abstract.
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.