Mayapple is said to aid in liver complaints. As a cholagogue it has been used to stimulate the production and flow of bile (which also aids in the digestive process), and has a reputation for supporting liver function. Some say it has no equal when used for liver ailments and has been used in cases of jaundice, biliousness and for the removal of body obstructions. The eliminative properties of Mayapple (both in the bowel and liver) make it effective for a number of complaints marked by accumulation of waste products in the system (including arthritic and skin problems).<\/p>\n
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Mayapple is also considered a vermifuge, an agent that destroys and expels worms from the intestinal tract.<\/p>\n
Used externally, Mayapple is said to be effective in wart removal, especially helping venereal warts, and the root is also said to possess antiviral properties.<\/p>\n
There is a derivative in Mayapple called podophyllotoxin (the agent responsible for removing warts), and recent studies have shown some promising results for its use as a possible anticancer and antitumor substance, which may be used in treating human cancers. In tests, it has been found to stimulate the immune system while suppressing lymph cells and appears to be more toxic to leukemia cells than normal cells. Thus far it is too severe for the digestive tract for practical purposes, but a synthetic derivative is being used in Europe in chemotherapy (trademarked Vepeskfe) for lung and testicle cancers.<\/p>\n