In traditional medicine the whole plant, but especially the root, is cholagogue, cytostatic and purgative. The plant contains podophyllin, which has an antimiotic effect (it interferes with cell division and can thus prevent the growth of cells). It is, therefore, a possible treatment for cancer, and has been used especially in the treatment of ovarian cancer.

Sinopodophyllum hexandrum is a synonym

Highly toxic if ingested or the skin is contaminated causing severe vomiting and brain damage. It is genotoxic.