Poke root (Phytolacca americana) is a traditional herbal remedy used for swollen glands, skin conditions, and joint pain. However, poke root is highly toxic and can cause severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, low blood pressure, and death if swallowed. Medical experts strongly advise against internal use. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]