What is a mandrake in the bible?

In the Bible, mandrakes are mentioned in the book of Genesis chapter 30. When Rachel, who was barren, asked her sister Leah for some of the mandrakes her son had found in the field, Leah responded by asking if she had taken her husband and now wanted her son's mandrakes as well. This reference to mandrakes is thought to be related to their reputation as an aphrodisiac in ancient times.

Mandrakes, also known as "love apples," were believed to have magical and medicinal properties in ancient cultures. They were used in folk medicine and rituals, and were believed to have fertility-enhancing properties.

In modern times, mandrakes are still used in traditional medicine and are also featured in folklore and popular culture. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with forked roots that resemble human figures, and have been the subject of various myths and legends throughout history.