Uses: Roots are diaphoretic, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant. The root is used against bronchitis, itch and for body aches, for asthma and to cure wounds while the seeds are used to treat a toothache. The berries are injurious to children but are often eaten by adults with impunity, especially when quite ripe as the poisonous principle is chiefly associated with all green parts. It is applied in medicine similarly to bittersweet but is more powerful and possesses greater narcotic properties. The leaves are placed in the cradles of infants to promote sleep. It is useful in cutaneous disorders. Their juice has been used for ringworm, gout, and earache and when mixed with vinegar is considered to be good for gargle and mouthwash. Half-ripe fruits are employed in the preparation of curries, chutneys, and preserves. A decoction of the root is prescribed as a tonic and also used in difficult parturition.