In folklore, the Mandrake root (Mandragora officinarum) was believed to scream when pulled from the ground, killing anyone who heard it. The root’s shape, resembling a human figure, added to its eerie reputation in witchcraft.
The Mandrake has long been associated with mythology and magic, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. To avoid dying when harvesting Mandrake, it is said that diggers would tie a dog to the plant to pull it up while they covered their ears. Despite its sinister reputation, mandrake was also used in traditional medicine as a sedative and pain reliever, with potent and toxic (if dosed improperly) alkaloids.
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Plant Fact: Has a Reputation for Screaming when Pulled from The Ground!
