Herbal Medicine Reference

Synonyms:

Actions: Diaphoretic (f; HHB); Diuretic (f; HHB); Insecticide (f; HHB); Piscicide (f; HHB); Sternutator (f; HHB).

Indications: Amenorrhea (f; PH2); Arthrosis (f; HHB; PH2); Colic (f; PH2); Dermatosis (f; HHB); Diabetes (f; PH2); Edema (f; PH2); Fever (f; HHB); Gas (f; PH2); Gastrosis (f; HHB); Gout (f; HHB; PH2); Hepatosis (f; PH2); Inflammation (f; PH2); Mange (f; HHB); Pain (f; HHB); Pulmonosis (f; PH2); Rheumatism (f; HHB; PH2); Tuberculosis (f; PH2); VD (f; PH2); Water Retention (f; HHB).

Dosage:

Contraindications:

Synonyms: Asclepias gigantea L. C. procera, with very similar activities and indications (WO2). Both are called giant milkweed by USDA, but that common name is preferred for the namesake C. gigantea. Here I yield to the Herbal PDR (edition 2), which treats them separately. I have aggregated their chemicals in FNF, but reluctantly maintain them as separate accounts, as does PH2.

Actions: Alexeteric (f; KAB); Alterative (f; DEP; KAP); Analgesic (f; KAB); Antiinflammatory (f; KAB); Antispasmodic (f; DEP; KAP); Antitumor (1; PH2); Bitter (f; KAP); Cardiotonic (1; KAP; PH2); Depilatory (f; DEP; KAB); Diaphoretic (f; DEP; PH2; SUW); Digestive (f; KAB); Emetic (f; DEP; KAP; PH2; SUW); Expectorant (f; DEP; KAP; PH2; SUW); Gastrotonic (f; KAB); Laxative (f; KAP; SUW); Nervine (f; DEP); Proteolytic (f; KAB); Rubefacient (f; DEP); Stimulant (f; KAB); Stomachic (f; KAB; KAP); Tonic (f; DEP; KAP); Uterotonic (1; KAP); Vermifuge (f; KAB).

Indications: Anasarca (f; DEP; KAB; PH2); Anorexia (f; DEP); Aphtha (f; DEP); Arthrosis (f; DEP); Ascites (f; DEP; PH2); Asthma (f; DEP; KAB; SUW); Bite (f; KAB); Bronchosis (f; DEP; KAP); Cachexia (f; DEP); Cancer (1; PH2); Cancer, abdomen (f; JLH); Cancer, skin (1; PH2); Catarrh (f; DEP; KAB); Cold (f; SUW); Constipation (f; DEP; KAP; SUW); Convulsion (f; SEP; PH2); Cough (f; KAB; PH2; SUW); Cramp (f; DEP; KAP); Dermatosis (f; DEP; SUW); Diarrhea (f; SUW); Dropsy (f; DEP; KAB); Dysentery (f; DEP; KAP; PH2; SUW); Dyspepsia (f; PH2; SUW); Elephantiasis (f; DEP; SUW); Enterosis (f; KAB; PH2; SUW); Epididymosis (f; DEP); Epilepsy (f; DEP); Fever (f; DEP; KAB; PH2; SUW); Gonorrhea (f; DEP); Hemorrhoid (f; DEP); Hepatosis (f; DEP; KAB); Hysteria (f; DEP); Inflammation (f; KAB); Leprosy (f; DEP; PH2; SUW); Leukoderma (f; KAB); Malaria (f; DEP; KAB); Obesity (f; PH2); Pain (f; DEP; KAB); Paralysis (f; DEP; KAB); Pharyngosis (f; KAP; PH2); Phthisis (f; DEP); Rheumatism (f; DEP; SUW); Rhinosis (f; KAP; PH2); Ringworm (f; KAB); Scabies (f; KAB); Snakebite (f; DEP; KAB); Sore (f; JLH); Splenosis (f; DEP; KAB); Stomatosis (f; DEP); Swelling (f; DEP; JLH; KAB; SUW); Syphilis (f; PH2; SUW); Toothache (f; DEP; PH2); Tumor (1; PH2); VD (f; DEP; PH2); Vomiting (f; PH2; SUW); Wart (f; PH2); Worm (f; KAB; PH2; SUW); Wound (f; DEP; KAB).

Dosage: Not covered (AHP; KOM). “Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Dangerous plant. Very high doses may cause death, following bradycardia, convulsion, diarrhea, and vomiting (PH2). Perkins and Payne note convulsions, diarrhea, vomiting, slowed but stronger heartbeat, labored respiration, increased blood pressure, and possible death (CRC). Traditional use in India may cause severe bullous dermatosis, leading occasionally to hypertropic scars. Calotropine effective in vitro against epidermoid tissue cultures of the rhinopharynx (PH2).

Contraindications: Not covered (AHP; KOM). “Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Dangerous plant. Very high doses may cause death, following bradycardia, convulsion, diarrhea, and vomiting (PH2). Perkins and Payne note convulsions, diarrhea, vomiting, slowed but stronger heartbeat, labored respiration, increased blood pressure, and possible death (CRC). Traditional use in India may cause severe bullous dermatosis, leading occasionally to hypertropic scars. Calotropine effective in vitro against epidermoid tissue cultures of the rhinopharynx (PH2).

Synonyms: Amomum zingiber

Actions: Analgesic (1; FAY; PED; PNC; TRA; WAM); Antiaggregant (1; APA; FAY; MAB; PH2; SKY); Antialcoholic (1; MAB); Antiallergic (1; FAY; MAB); Antibacterial (1; APA; MAB; TRA); Anticarcinogenic (1; MAB); Anticathartic (1; MAB); Anticholinergic (f; MAB); Anticonvulsant (1; PNC); Antidepressant (1; DAA; MAB; WOI); Antidote, araceae (f; DAA); Antidote, mushroom (f; DAA); Antidote, seafood poisoning (f; DAD); Antiedemic (1; HH3; MAB; WHO); Antiemetic (3; KOM; PIP; WHO); Antiemmenagogue (f; APA); Antihistaminic (1; DAA; MAB; PNC); Antiinflammatory (2; FAY; MAB; TRA; WAM; WHO); Antileukotriene (1; PH2; WHO); Antilipidemic (1; PH2); Antimutagenic (1; MAB); Antinarcotic (1; DAA; WHO); Antinauseant (1; MAB; WAM); Antioxidant (1; AKT; DAA; MAB; PH2); Antiprostaglandin (1; AKT; MAB; PH2; WHO); Antipyretic (1; MAB; TRA); Antirhinoviral (1; MAB); Antisecretory (f; FAY); Antiseptic (1; MAB); Antiserotoninergic (1; MAB; WHO); Antispasmodic (1; BGB; KOM; MAB; PIP; PNC; TRA); Antithrombic (1; PH2); Antithromboxane (1; AKT; WHO); Antitussive (1; MAB; PNC); Antiulcer (1; MAB; VVG); Antiviral (1; APA; MAB; TRA; WAM); Anxiolytic (1; MAB); Aperitif (f; DAD; JFM; KAB); Aphrodisiac (f; DAD; KAB; MAD); Arrhythmigenic (1; APA); Astringent (1; PHR; PH2); Candidicide (1; TRA); Cardiotonic (1; MAB); Carminative (1; MAB; PED; PHR; PH2; PNC; SUW); Cholagogue (2; KOM; PIP; VVG); Choleretic (1; PH2; WHO); Circulostimulant (1; AKT; MAB); CNS Depressant (1; APA); COX-2 Inhibitor (1; COX; FNF); Cyclooxygenase Inhibitor (1; MAB; WHO); Diaphoretic (1; APA; CAN; FAY; MAB; MAD); Decongestant (f; RIN); Detoxicant (f; FAY); Digestive (1; AKT; APA; DAA; KAP; MAB; WAM); Emmenagogue (f; AAB; MAD); Expectorant (f; FAY; JFM; MAD; PH2); Fungicide (1; DAD; MAB; TRA); Gastroirritant (1; MAB); Gastroprotective (1; MAB); Gastrotonic (1; PH2); Hepatoprotective (1; MAB; PNC); Hypertensive (1; MAB); Hypocholesterolemic (1; MAB; PED; PNC); Hypoglycemic (1; DAA; MAB; PED); Hypotensive (1; APA; PNC); Immunostimulant (1; PH2);Lactagogue (f; FAY); Lipolytic (1; PH2); Lipoxygenase Inhibitor (1; MAB; WHO); Molluscicide (1; FAY; HH3); Mutagenic (1; MAB); Myorelaxant (PED); Nematicide (1; MAB); Ovicide (1; TRA); Parasiticide (1; MAB); Peristaltic (2; KOM; PIP; PH2); Positive Inotropic (2; KOM; MAB; PIP; PH2); Pressor (1; MAB); Proteolytic (1; DAA); Respirastimulant (f; DAA); Schistosomicide (1; HH3); Secretagogue (2; KOM; PIP); Sialagogue (2; APA; DAA; JFM; KAP; KOM; PH2); Sternutator (f; DAA; DAD); Stimulant (1; BGB; DAA; PED; SUW); Stomachic (f; MAD); Syncope (1; COX; FNF); Thermogenic (1; MAB); Thrombosis (1; PH2); Thromboxane-Synthetase Inhibitor (1; APA); Tonic (2; KOM; PH2); Vasomotor Stimulant (f; DAA); Vermifuge (1; DAA).

Indications: Adenopathy (f; KAB); Aging (f; WHO); Alcoholism (1; MAB); Allergy (1; FAY; MAB); Alopecia (f; DAA; DAD; FAY; WHO); Alzheimer’s (1; COX; FNF); Anemia (f; DAA); Anorexia (2; JFM; KAB; PHR; WHO); Anxiety (1; MAB); Arthrosis (1; COX; MAB; SKY); Ascites (f; KAB); Asthma (f; FAY; JFM; MAD); Atherosclerosis (f; SKY); Backache (1; WHO); Bacteria (1; APA; MAB; TRA); Bite (f; DAA; KAB); Bleeding (f; DAA); Blister (1; DAD; DAA; FAY); Boil (f; KAB); Borborygmus (f; BGB); Bronchosis (1; AAB; BGB; FAY); Bruise (f; DAA; DAD); Burn (1; APA; DAD; FAY; MAB); Cancer (1; MAB); Candida (1; TRA); Cardiopathy (1; APA; FAY); Cataract (f; WHO); Catarrh (2; DAD; TRA); Chemotherapy (1; MAB; SKY); Chest Cold (1; AAB); Childbirth (f; AAB); Cholera (f; DAA; DAD); Cold (2; AKT; APA; BGB; MAD; TRA; WHO); Colic (1; PNC; BGB; SUW; WHO); Congestion (f; DAA; DAD; RIN); Convulsion (1; PNC); Corneosis (f; DAA); Cough (1; APA; BGB; FAY; PNC); Cramp (1; APA; BGB; KOM; MAB; PIP; PNC; TRA; WAM); Dandruff (f; APA); Depression (1; APA; DAA; MAB; WOI); Diabetes (1; DAA); Diarrhea (2; AAB; BGB; DAA; TRA; WHO); Dizziness (2; JAD); Dropsy (f; DAA; DAD); Dysmenorrhea (1; AAB; APA; DAA; JFM; MAB); Dyspepsia (2; FAY; KOM; PIP; MAD; SUW; TRA; WAM); Dyspnea (f; BGB; PH2); Earache (f; APA); Edema (1; MAB); Elephantiasis (f; KAB); Enterosis (1; APA; FAY; MAD; PNC); Epigastrosis (f; BGB; MAD); Epistaxis (f; FAY); Escherichia (1; HH3); Fever (2; APA; CAN; FAY; MAB; MAD; TRA); Flu (2; APA; BGB; TRA; VVG; WHO); Fungus (1; DAD; MAB; TRA); Gas (1; AAB; APA; MAB; MAD; PED; PHR; PH2; PNC; SUW; VVG); Gastrosis (2; APA; FAY; MAD; PHR; TRA); Headache (1; APA; FAY; KAP; MAB; WAM); Head Cold (f; JFM; RIN); Hemorrhoid (f; KAB; MAD; WHO); Hepatosis (1; APA; MAD); High Blood Pressure (1; APA; PNC); High Cholesterol (1; MAB; PED; PNC); Hoarseness (f; JFM); Hyperemesis (2; AKT); Immunodepression (1; PH2); Impotence (1; APA; MAB); Infection (1; DAD; MAB; TRA); Infertility (f; MAD); Inflammation (2; FAY; MAB; TRA; SKY; WAM; WHO); Insomnia (f; WHO); Kawasaki Disease (1; MAB); Low Blood Pressure (1; MAB); Lumbago (1; PNC); Malaria (f; JFM; MAD); Marasmus (f; DAA; DAD); Migraine (1; APA; FAY; MAB; PH2; SKY; WHO); Morning Sickness (2; KOM; MAB; PIP; WHO); Motion Sickness (2; KOM; MAB; PIP; WHO); Myalgia (1; AAB; AKT; WAM; WHO); Mycosis (1; DAD; HH3; MAB; TRA); Nausea (2; BGB; DAA; FAY; TRA; WAM; WHO); Nephrosis (f; APA; DAA); Neuralgia (1; COX; FNF); Neurasthenia (f; MAD); Obesity (1; PH2); Opacity (f; JFM); Ophthalmia (f; JFM); Osteoarthrosis (1; AKT; COX); Pain (1; AKT; FAY; JBU; PED; PNC; TRA; WAM; WHO); Palpitation (f; FAY); Parasite (1; MAB; TRA); Pharyngosis (1; JFM; PH2; TRA); Postoperative Nausea (2; WHO); Pyrexia (f; PNC); Raynaud’s Syndrome (f; BGB); Rheumatism (1; FAY; MAB; MAD; PNC; SKY; WHO); Salmonella (1; HH3; TRA); Schistosomiasis (1; DAD; HH3; TRA); Seasickness (2; WHO); Snakebite (f; DAA; DAD); Sore Throat (1; APA); Splenosis (f; FAY); Staphylococcus (1; HH3; TRA); Stomachache (1; AAB; AKT; DAA; DAD); Stomatosis (f; MAD); Streptococcus (1; HH3); Stroke (1; APA); Swelling (1; FAY; HH3; MAB; WHO); Thirst (f; DAD); Thrombocytosis (1; MAB); Toothache (f; DAD; MAD; KAP; WHO); Trichomoniasis (1; DAA); Ulcer (1; APA; FAY; MAB; VVG); Vaginosis (1; DAA); Vertigo (1; MAB); Virus (1; APA; MAB; TRA; WAM); Vitiligo (f; FAY); Vomiting (3; KOM; PIP; WHO); Worm (f; DAA; DAD); Yeast (1; TRA).

Dosage: Class 2b, 2d (AHP).“Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Perhaps erring on the side of caution, Reichert cautions that ginger may raise the blood pressure, may amplify blood-thinning drug activities, and might be contraindicated in pregnancy. Contraindicated in childhood fevers and gallstones (WAM). Patients with gallstones should consult a practitioner before taking ginger (AHP). The Lawrence Review says overdoses may cause cardiac arrhythmias and CNS depression (LRNP, November 1991). Large doses (6 g or more) possibly gastroirritant, causing a significant increase in exfoliation of gastric surface epithelial cells in human volunteers (MAB). Due to ginger’s strong antiaggregant activity, experts recommend it not be used by people with blood clotting disorders. Many chemotherapy patients experience periods when their blood platelet counts drop dramatically. Doctors will warn patients to avoid aspirin when their platelet counts are low. They feel that patients should also avoid ginger when their platelet count drops, while continuing use of ginger for patients with normal platelet counts. Less conservatively, Commission E reports rhizome should not be used for vomiting in pregnancy (AEH). Lininger et al. (1998) adds heartburn as a rare side effect. “A doctor should be informed if ginger is used before surgery to counteract possible postanesthesia nausea” (SKY). Extracts (Ginger) — Fresh ginger juice reduces serum glucose levels in experimental animals (PED). Both fresh and dry rhizome suppress gastric contractions and reduce vomiting (PNC). Gingerols and shogaols are analgesic, antipyretic, antiprostaglandin, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, and hypotensive (PNC). As carminatives, the EOs, oleoresins, and proteolytic enzymes stimulate digestion, helping combat the effects of overeating, improper chewing, or excessive motion. They increase gastric motility and neutralize acids and toxins in the digestive tract (PED). Gingerol and 6-gingerol inhibit gastric ulceration in rats. I suspect there’s synergy at work in the antiulcer phytochemicals in ginger. 6-Gingesulfonic acid is less pungent but more potent against ulcers than 6-gingerol or 6-shogaol (MAB). Oral spray dried ginger (500 mg/kg) or combinations ginger and licorice extracts (1000 mg/kg), significantly prevented gastric mucosal damage induced by ethanol in rats. Pretreatment with these inhibited the reduction in the deep corpus mucin content caused by ethanol (MAB). As a powerful thromboxane-synthetase inhibitor and prostacyclin agonist, ginger has potential as an antidepressant, in alcohol withdrawal and the complications of liver damage, and in treating a side effect of alcoholism, impotence, in preventing aging penile vascular changes. LD50 ginger oil = >5000 mg/kg orl rat (MAB), LDlo ginger extract = >2300 mg/kg orl mouse, equivalent to 75,000 mg/kg ginger (MAB). Ginger extract equal to aspirin in antiedemic activity; 940 mg powdered ginger is more effective than 100 mg dimenhydrinate for kinetosis (motion sickness); ginger is equal to metoclopramide for postoperative nausea and vomiting (WHO). 8 Gingerol more potently inhibited the response to serotonin than the control drug, cocaine (MAB). Gingerols are more potent at inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis than indomethacin (MAB). Ginger extract inhibited swelling as actively as aspirin (MAB). Shogaol as antitussive as dihydrocodeine (TRA).

Contraindications: Class 2b, 2d (AHP).“Hazards and/or side effects not known for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Perhaps erring on the side of caution, Reichert cautions that ginger may raise the blood pressure, may amplify blood-thinning drug activities, and might be contraindicated in pregnancy. Contraindicated in childhood fevers and gallstones (WAM). Patients with gallstones should consult a practitioner before taking ginger (AHP). The Lawrence Review says overdoses may cause cardiac arrhythmias and CNS depression (LRNP, November 1991). Large doses (6 g or more) possibly gastroirritant, causing a significant increase in exfoliation of gastric surface epithelial cells in human volunteers (MAB). Due to ginger’s strong antiaggregant activity, experts recommend it not be used by people with blood clotting disorders. Many chemotherapy patients experience periods when their blood platelet counts drop dramatically. Doctors will warn patients to avoid aspirin when their platelet counts are low. They feel that patients should also avoid ginger when their platelet count drops, while continuing use of ginger for patients with normal platelet counts. Less conservatively, Commission E reports rhizome should not be used for vomiting in pregnancy (AEH). Lininger et al. (1998) adds heartburn as a rare side effect. “A doctor should be informed if ginger is used before surgery to counteract possible postanesthesia nausea” (SKY). Extracts (Ginger) — Fresh ginger juice reduces serum glucose levels in experimental animals (PED). Both fresh and dry rhizome suppress gastric contractions and reduce vomiting (PNC). Gingerols and shogaols are analgesic, antipyretic, antiprostaglandin, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, and hypotensive (PNC). As carminatives, the EOs, oleoresins, and proteolytic enzymes stimulate digestion, helping combat the effects of overeating, improper chewing, or excessive motion. They increase gastric motility and neutralize acids and toxins in the digestive tract (PED). Gingerol and 6-gingerol inhibit gastric ulceration in rats. I suspect there’s synergy at work in the antiulcer phytochemicals in ginger. 6-Gingesulfonic acid is less pungent but more potent against ulcers than 6-gingerol or 6-shogaol (MAB). Oral spray dried ginger (500 mg/kg) or combinations ginger and licorice extracts (1000 mg/kg), significantly prevented gastric mucosal damage induced by ethanol in rats. Pretreatment with these inhibited the reduction in the deep corpus mucin content caused by ethanol (MAB). As a powerful thromboxane-synthetase inhibitor and prostacyclin agonist, ginger has potential as an antidepressant, in alcohol withdrawal and the complications of liver damage, and in treating a side effect of alcoholism, impotence, in preventing aging penile vascular changes. LD50 ginger oil = >5000 mg/kg orl rat (MAB), LDlo ginger extract = >2300 mg/kg orl mouse, equivalent to 75,000 mg/kg ginger (MAB). Ginger extract equal to aspirin in antiedemic activity; 940 mg powdered ginger is more effective than 100 mg dimenhydrinate for kinetosis (motion sickness); ginger is equal to metoclopramide for postoperative nausea and vomiting (WHO). 8 Gingerol more potently inhibited the response to serotonin than the control drug, cocaine (MAB). Gingerols are more potent at inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis than indomethacin (MAB). Ginger extract inhibited swelling as actively as aspirin (MAB). Shogaol as antitussive as dihydrocodeine (TRA).

Synonyms: Iboza riparia (Hochst.) N. E. Br., Moschosma riparia Hochst.

Actions: Antibacterial (1; ZUL); Antiseptic (1; ZUL); Antispasmodic (1; ZUL); Fungicide (1; ZUL); Soporific (1; WBB); Stomachic (f; ZUL); Tranquilizer (f; ZUL); Trichomonicide (1; ZUL).

Indications: Ague (1; WBB); Bacteria (1; ZUL); Boil (f; ZUL); Cough (f; ZUL); Cramp (1; VVG; ZUL); Dengue (f; ZUL); Diarrhea (f; ZUL); Dropsy (f; VVG; ZUL); Fever (f; ZUL); Flu (f; VVG); Fungus (1; ZUL); Hemoptysis (f; ZUL); Infection (1; ZUL); Malaria (1; WBB); Mumps (f; ZUL); Mycosis (1; ZUL); Nervousness (f; ZUL); Sore Throat (1; VVG); Tuberculosis (1; ZUL); Vaginosis (1; ZUL).

Dosage: Leaf infusions may produce drowsiness and stop ague. Strong teas should not be taken for more than 4 days. Should not be administered to children. There are two cases of suspected human poisoning from intentional overdoses of hot water extracts. Severe toxic inflammatory reactions of mucous membranes, leading to necrosis and sloughing, and profuse salivation ensued. Anuria developed after 24 hours and was fatal in one case (ZUL).

Contraindications: Leaf infusions may produce drowsiness and stop ague. Strong teas should not be taken for more than 4 days. Should not be administered to children. There are two cases of suspected human poisoning from intentional overdoses of hot water extracts. Severe toxic inflammatory reactions of mucous membranes, leading to necrosis and sloughing, and profuse salivation ensued. Anuria developed after 24 hours and was fatal in one case (ZUL).

Synonyms:

Actions: Antiaggregant (2; BGB; KOM; MAB; PH2; SHT; WHO); Antiallergic (1; PNC); Antialzheimeran (2; COX; JAM); Antianaphylactic (1; PNC); Antiarrhythmic (1; MAB); Antiarthritic (1; COX; FNF); Antiasthmatic (1; AKT; PNC); Anticancer (1; COX; FNF); Anticapillary Fragility (1; BGB; PH2; WHO); Anticonvulsant (1; MAB); Antidementic (1; PH2); Antidepressant (1; AKT); Antiedemic (1; KOM; PHR; WHO); Antiinflammatory (1; PH2; WHO); Antiischemic (1; FT69:195; FNF; WHO); Antimastocytotic (1; MAB); Antioxidant (2; KOM; MAB; PH2; WAM); Antiseptic (1; MAB); Antispasmodic (f; PH2); Antitussive (f; DAA); Anxiogenic (1; MAB); Anxiolytic (1; MAB); Astringent (1; AKT); Bronchodilator (1; PH2; PNC); Cardioprotective (1; MAB); Cerebrostimulant (1; PNC; SHT; WAM); Cholinergic (1; KOM; SHT); Circulostimulant (1; MAB; PNC; SHT); Convulsant (1; MAB); Hypolipidemic (1; MAB); MAOI (1; MAB); Memorigenic (1; AKT; PAM; PH2; WAM); Neurogenic (f; SKY); Neuroprotective (2; KOM; MAB; SKY); Nootropic (1; BGB; MAB); Peripheral Stimulant (FT69:195); cGMP-Phosphodiesterase Inhibitor (1; WHO); Radioprotective (1; AKT); Thrombolytic (1; MAB); Vasodilator (1; APA; KOM; PED); Vasoprotective (1; BGB); Vermifuge (1; WHO).

Indications: Acrocyanosis (1; BGB; WHO); Allergy (1; MAB; PNC; WAM); Alopecia (1; MAB); Altitude Sickness (2; BGB; KOM; MAB; SHT; WAM; WHO); Alzheimer’s (2; COX; KOM; JAM; MAB; PH2; SHT); Anaphylaxis (1; PNC); Angina (f; FAY; PH2); Anxiety (1; MAB); Arrhythmia (1; MAB); Arthrosis (1; COX; FNF; WHO); Asthma (1; AKT; APA; CAN; FAY; MAB;PNC); Atherosclerosis (1; FAY; MAB; SKY); Bacteria (1; DAA); Blennorrhea (f; DAA); Bronchosis (1; APA; FAY; PED; WHO); Cancer (1; COX; DAA; FNF); Capillary Fragility (1; BGB; PH2; SHT; WHO); Cardiopathy (1; APA; MAB; SKY); Caries (f; FAY); Cellulite (1; HFH/JA/’99); Cerebral Insufficiency (2; KOM; PHR; SHT); Chilblain (f; FAY; WHO); Circulosis (1; PHR; SKY); Convulsion (1; MAB); Cough (f; APA; FAD; FAY); Cramp (f; PH2); Cystosis (f; DAA); Deafness (1; APA; MAB); Dementia (2; KOM; SHT; WHO); Depression (1; AKT; KOM; MAB; SKY); Dermatosis (f; FAD); Diabetes (f; SKY); Diarrhea (f; FAD); Dizziness (1; WHO); Dysentery (f; FAY); Dysmenorrhea (2; MAB); Dysuria (f; FAY); Edema (1; KOM; WHO); Emphysema (1; PED); Encephalosis (f; FAY); Enuresis (f; FAY); Fatigue (1; MAB); Filariasis (f; FAY); Freckle (f; FAD); Fungus (f; FAY); Glaucoma (1; AKT); Gonorrhea (f; DAA); Headache (1; KOM; FT69:195; PH2; WHO); Hearing Problem (1; CAN; FT69:195); High Cholesterol (f; FAY); Hypertonia (f; PH2); Impotence (1; APA; BGB; SKY); Inflammation (1; PH2; WHO); Intermittent Claudication (2; KOM; PHR; PH2; SHT; WHO); Ischemia (1; MAB; FNF; WHO); Leukorrhea (f; DAA); Maculosis (2; MAB; SHT); Mastocytosis (1; MAB); Migraine (1; MAB); Multiple Sclerosis (f; SKY); Mycosis (f; FAY); Neuralgia (1; APA); Nystagmus (1; PH2); Obesity (1; MAB); Ophthalmia (1; APA); Pain (1; APA); Parturition (1; WHO); PMS (1; AKT; MAB); Polydipsia (1; MAB); Polyuria (f; FAY; MAB); Post-Phlebitis Syndrome (1; WHO); Pulmonosis (f; FAY); Raynaud’s Syndrome (1; DAA; SKY); Retinosis (1; KOM; MAB; PHR; SHT); Rhinosis (f; DAA; WHO); Ringworm (f; FAY); Scabies (1; APA; FAY); Schizophrenia (1; AKT); Senile Dementia (2; FAY; KOM; SHT); Shock (1; MAB); Sore (1; APA; FAY); Spermatorrhea (f; FAY); Stroke (1; CAN; MAB; SKY); Strangury (f; FAY); Swelling (1; KOM; PHR; WHO); Thrombosis (1; MAB); Tinnitus (2; KOM; PH2; SHT; WHO); Tonsilosis (f; PH2); Tuberculosis (1; APA; DAA; FAY); Vaginosis (f; APA; FAY); Varicosis (1; APA); Vertigo (2; KOM; MAB; PH2; SHT); Worm (1; WHO).

Dosage: Class 2d. May potentiate MAOIs (AHP; WAM). “Hazards and/or side effects not recorded for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Though regarded by many as a poisonous plant, ginkgo, selling at $500 million a year in Europe, has not accumulated much data in the alarmists’ journals. According to LRNP (February 1994) and SHT, mild adverse effects include allergic dermatosis (0.09%), anxiety (0.07%), diarrhea (0.14%), GI upset (0.14%), headache (0.22%), insomnia, and nausea (0.34%). Schulz discounts the MAOI warnings saying there are “no known interactions with other drugs.” In my CRC Handbook of Nuts, I don’t discuss the leaves (extracts of which are sold as medicine). Fruits are allergenic (and disgustingly malodorous) and too many of the edible seeds can cause serious problems, even death. The seed toxin 4-O-methylpyridoxine is reportedly responsible for the gin-nan food poisoning, with convulsions, loss of consciousness, even lethality in 27% of Japanese cases, especially infants. Ginkgolic acid may act like urushiol of poison ivy fame. Bilobin and ginkgolic acid are similar to poison ivy’s allergen (LRNP, February 1988). German herb companies may be forced to document that their ginkgo products contain no more than 5 ppm ginkgolic acid. CAN cautions against gastric upset and headache (CAN). All that and Lininger et al. (1998) counter, “essentially devoid of any side effects. Mild headaches lasting for a day or two have been reported ... There are no known contraindications to the use of GBE by pregnant and lactating women” (SKY). Contraindicated for any person on coumadin or heparin; should not be taken by people with a clotting disorder, such as hemophilia or von Willdebrand’s Disease (O’Brien, 1998).

Contraindications: Class 2d. May potentiate MAOIs (AHP; WAM). “Hazards and/or side effects not recorded for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Though regarded by many as a poisonous plant, ginkgo, selling at $500 million a year in Europe, has not accumulated much data in the alarmists’ journals. According to LRNP (February 1994) and SHT, mild adverse effects include allergic dermatosis (0.09%), anxiety (0.07%), diarrhea (0.14%), GI upset (0.14%), headache (0.22%), insomnia, and nausea (0.34%). Schulz discounts the MAOI warnings saying there are “no known interactions with other drugs.” In my CRC Handbook of Nuts, I don’t discuss the leaves (extracts of which are sold as medicine). Fruits are allergenic (and disgustingly malodorous) and too many of the edible seeds can cause serious problems, even death. The seed toxin 4-O-methylpyridoxine is reportedly responsible for the gin-nan food poisoning, with convulsions, loss of consciousness, even lethality in 27% of Japanese cases, especially infants. Ginkgolic acid may act like urushiol of poison ivy fame. Bilobin and ginkgolic acid are similar to poison ivy’s allergen (LRNP, February 1988). German herb companies may be forced to document that their ginkgo products contain no more than 5 ppm ginkgolic acid. CAN cautions against gastric upset and headache (CAN). All that and Lininger et al. (1998) counter, “essentially devoid of any side effects. Mild headaches lasting for a day or two have been reported ... There are no known contraindications to the use of GBE by pregnant and lactating women” (SKY). Contraindicated for any person on coumadin or heparin; should not be taken by people with a clotting disorder, such as hemophilia or von Willdebrand’s Disease (O’Brien, 1998).

Synonyms: Panax schinseng

Actions: Adaptogen (1; KEB; MAB; SHT; WHO); Adrenergic (1; AKT); Alterative (f; CRC; DAA; PED); Analgesic (f; CRC; DAA); Antiaging (f; AKT; MAB); Antiaggregant (1; PH2; PNC); Antialcoholic (1; KEB; MAB; PH2); Antiarrhythmic (1; KEB; PH2); Anticancer (1; PH2); Anticatecholamine (1; PH2); Anticholinergic (1; KEB; PH2); Anticonvulsant (f; FAY); Antidepressant (1; BGB); Antidiuretic (f; KEB); Antifatigue (1; BGB; PNC; WHO); Antihepatomic (1; KEB); Antiinflammatory (1; KEB); Antiischemic (1; KEB); Antimitogenic (1; DAA); Antioxidant (1; BGB; PH2); Antiprolactin (1; WHO); Antiprostatic (1; KEB); Antipsychotic (f; FAY); Antiradiation (1; MAB; WHO); Antiseptic (f; CRC; DAA); Antithromboxane (1; PH2); Antitumor (1; BGB; KEB; WHO); Antiulcer (1; APA; FAY); Antiwrinkle (f; MAB); Antiviral (1; WHO); Anxiolytic (1; BGB; KEB); Aperitif (f; CRC; DAA); Aphrodisiac (1; APA; CRC; DAA); Apoptotic (1; PH2); Bitter (f; PED); Cardiotonic (1; AKT; APA; DAA; KEB; PED); Carminative (f; CRC; DAA); Caspase Stimulator (1; PH2); Chemopreventive (1; MAB); Circulostimulant (1; PED); CNS Sedative (1; FAY; KEB; PNC); CNS Stimulant (1; KEB; PNC); Corticotrophinogenic (1; PH2); Cytotoxic (1; PH2); Demulcent (f; CRC; DAA); Diuretic (f; CRC; DAA); Elevates HDL-Cholesterol (1; MAB); Emetic (f; CRC); Energizer (1; APA); Estrogenic (1; DAA; KEB; PNC); Ethanolytic (1; KEB); Expectorant (f; CRC; DAA); Fatigue (f; APA); Gonadotropic (1; CRC; KEB); Hemopoietic (1; KEB); Hepatoprotective (1; KEB; PH2; WHO); Hepatotonic (1; PED); Hyperglycemic (1; KEB); Hypertensive (1; PNC); Hypocholesterolemic (1; BGB; PH2); Hypoglycemic (1; DAA; KEB; PNC; WHO); Hypotriglyceridemic (1; BGB; PH2); Immunostimulant (1; APA; PED; MAB; PH2; WHO); Interferonigenic (1; KEB; PH2); Memorigenic (1; BGB; KEB); Mineralcorticoid (1; KEB); Mitogenic (1; DAA); Negative Chronotropic (1; PH2); Negative Inotropic (1; PH2); Nervine (f; CRC; PH2); Neurotonic (f; CRC; PH2); Nicotinic (1; PH2); NKC-Genic (1; PH2); NO-genic (1; BGB; PH2); Nootropic (1; KEB); Osteoprotective (1; MAB); Phagocytotic (1; KEB); Positive Inotropic (1; PH2); Radioprotective (1; BGB; FAY; HH2); Respirastimulant (f; FAY); Roborant (f; BGB); Secretagogue (1; APA); Sedative (f; APA; DAA); Serotonilytic (1; KEB); Sialagogue (f; CRC; DAA); Spermatogenic (1; KEB); Stimulant (f; CRC; PNC); Stomachic (f; CRC); Testosteronigenic (1; KEB); Thymoleptic (f; MB); Tonic (1; AKT; CRC; DAA; KOM; MAB; SHT); Tranquilizer (f; CRC; DAA); Ulcerogenic (1; FAY); Vasodilator (1; BGB).

Indications: Aging (1; CRC; DAA); Alcoholism (1; KEB; MAB; PH2); Amnesia (f; APA; CRC; DAA); Anemia (f; AKT; CRC; FAY); Angina (f; KEB); Anorexia (f; APA; BGB; DAA; PH2); Anxiety (1; BGB; KEB; MAB; PH2); Arrhythmia (1; DAA; KEB; PH2); Asthma (f; CRC; DAA; KEB; MAB); Atherosclerosis (f; CRC; DAA); Bleeding (f; CRC); Bite (f; CRC); Boil (f; CRC); Bruise (f; CRC); Cachexia (2; CRC; KOM; PH2; SHT); Cancer (1; APA; BGB; CRC; DAA; KEB; JLH; PH2; WHO); Cancer, breast (f; JLH); Cancer, lung (1; KEB); Cancer, stomach (f; JLH); Carcinoma (f; JLH); Cardiopathy (f; KEB); Chemotherapy (f; AKT); Cold (f; JAD); Colitis (f; APA); Convalescence (1; KOM; SHT; WHO); Convulsion (f; CRC; DAA; FAY; MAB); Cough (f; CRC; WHO); Debility (2; FAY; KOM; PH2; SHT; WHO); Depression (1; BGB; KEB); Diabetes (1; CRC; KEB; PH2; WHO); Divination (f; CRC); Dysentery (f; CRC; DAA); Dysmenorrhea (f; CRC; DAA); Dyspepsia (f; CRC; DAA; MAB); Dyspnea (f; DAA; KEB; MAB; WHO); Enterosis (f; CRC; DAA); Epilepsy (f; CRC; DAA); Epistaxis (f; CRC; DAA); Fatigue (2; AKT; CRC; DAA; KOM; PH2; SHT; WHO); Fear (f; CRC; DAA); Fever (f; CRC; DAA; WHO); Flu (f; PH2); Gas (f; CRC; DAA); Gastrosis (1; CRC; PH2; WHO); Gonadotrophy (f; DAA); Hangover (f; CRC; DAA); Headache (f; APA; DAA); Heart (f; CRC); Hemoptysis (f; DAA; PH2); Hepatoma (1; KEB; HH2); Hepatosis (2; WHO); High Blood Pressure (f; CRC; DAA); High Cholesterol (1; BGB; KEB; PH2); Hyperglycemia (f; CRC; DAA); Hypoglycemia (1; KEB); Hypothermia (f; WHO);IDDM (1; WHO); Immune Dysfunction (1; JAD); Immunodepression (1; APA; PED; MAB; PH2; WHO); Impotence (1; BGB; DAA; PH2; SHT; WHO); Infection (f; KEB); Infertility (1; BGB; KEB; MAB; PH2); Inflammation (1; KEB); Insomnia (1; APA; CRC; DAA; PH2); Leukopenia (1; KEB); Longevity (1; KEB); Low Blood Pressure (1; CRC; DAA; PNC); Malaria (f; CRC); Menopause (f; KEB); Menorrhagia (f; CRC); Mental Derangement (f; KEB); Morning Sickness (f; WHO); Nausea (f; CRC); Nephrosis (f; CRC); Nervousness (f; APA; CRC; DAA); Neuralgia (f; MAB); Neurasthenia (f; CRC; DAA); Neurosis (f; KEB; PH2; WHO); NIDDM (1; BGB; MAB; WHO); Obesity (1; PH2); Pain (f; CRC; DAA); Palpitation (f; CRC; DAA; KEB); Polyuria (f; CRC; DAA); Post-Menopause (f; BGB); Proctosis (f; CRC); Prolapse (f; KEB; MAB); Radiation Sickness (1; KEB); Respirosis (f; AKT); Rheumatism (f; APA; CRC; DAA; PH2; WHO); Senile Dementia (1; APA; KEB); Sheehan’s Syndrome (1; KEB); Shock (1; DAA; MAB); Slow Thinking (1; SHT); Sore (f; CRC; JLH); Spermatorrhea (f; CRC); Splenosis (f; BGB; CRC; DAA); Sting (f; CRC); Stress (2; KOM; MAB; PHR); Swelling (1; CRC; DAA; JLH); Thirst (f; CRC); Tuberculosis (f; WHO); Tumor (1; BGB; KEB; WHO); Ulcer (1; APA; FAY; WHO); Vertigo (f; CRC; DAA); Virus (1; PH2; WHO); Vomiting (f; PH2); Water Retention (f; CRC; DAA); Wrinkle (f; FAY; MAB). (Commission E approves as a tonic “for invigoration and fortification in times of fatigue and debility, for declining capacity for work and concentration, also during convalescence” (KOM); reading that reinforces my contention, in my ginseng book, that carrots could do a lot of the same thing at less than 1% of the price. I still feel that much of the literature on ginseng and soy comes from selective publications of sponsored research, making them look undeservedly better than carrot and black beans, for example.)

Dosage: Class 2d. Contraindicated for high blood pressure (AHP). The ginseng monograph published in 1991 says “none known” regarding contraindications, drug interactions, or side effects (KOM). Contraindicated in acute infections, asthma, and high blood pressure (KEB). High doses may aggravate or cause decreased sexual function, dysmenorrhea, euphoria, headaches, high blood pressure, insomnia, irritability, morning diarrhea, palpitations, skin eruptions, and tremors (KEB). The worst and most erroneous studies of ginseng were reported in JAMA, which accepted no corrections from the herbal industry, trying to get the reports straight. “Most commonly reported side effects of ginseng are nervousness and excitation, which usually diminish” (LRNP, September 1990). Foster (1996) reports GI distress, overstimulation, breast tenderness, dysmenorrhea. Though estrogenic side effects are reported in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women, “clinical studies have demonstrated that a standardized ginseng extract does not cause a change in male and female hormonal status” (WHO). Avoid if hypertensive or pregnant. Possible insomnia, mastalgia, vaginal bleeding, and insomnia. Contraindicated for patients with hyperkinesis, hysteria, mania, schizophrenia, or those who are nervous or tense. Not to be taken with stimulants, including coffee, antipsychotic drugs, or during treatment with hormones. Use cautiously in cardiopathy, diabetes, high blood pressure, hypotension, and with all steroid therapy. In Russia, it is even suggested that healthy people under age 40 should not take ginseng, but that middle-aged people can take small doses on a regular basis (CAN). Because of hormonal activity, its use in pregnancy and lactation is to be avoided (CAN). Caution with insulin, warfarin, phenylzine, and loop diuretics (PH2). “Three newborns were intoxicated after an intake of 0.3–0.6 g ginseng decoction; one died” (Oriental studies translated by AHP.). Blumenthal suggests it may potentiate MAOIs (MAB). Use should be restricted to 3 months (SHT). “It has been found to increase counts of total lymphocytes, T-Helper cells, and T4 and T8 subsets, and to improve NKC activity.” Positive as all this sounds, O’Brien cautions that headaches may result from chronic use. Do not take with digitalis (O’Brien, 1998). Extracts (Ginseng) — Ginsenosides stimulate insulin release and increase insulin receptors to exert a hypoglycemic response” (PH2). Root LD50 = 2000 mg/kg orl mouse (CAN); root LD50 = >5000 mg/kg orl mouse (CAN); LD50 (mixed saponins) = 500–900 mg/kg ipr mouse; 367 mg/kg ivn mouse; >5000 mg/kg orl mouse (HH2). CAN probably devotes more pages (pp.145–149) to the pharmacological effects of ginseng than the other herbs they treat more cursorily, “many of the pharmacological actions documented for ginseng directly oppose one another (hardly my usual synergy (JAD)) and this has been attributed to the actions of the individual ginsenosides. For example, ginsenoside Rb1 exhibits CNS-depressant, hypotensive and tranquilizing actions; while ginsenoside Rg1 exhibits CNS-stimulant, hypertensive, and antifatigue actions. These opposing actions are thought to explain the ‘adaptogenic’ reputation of ginseng, that is the ability to increase the overall resistance of the body to stress and to balance bodily functions.” PH2 states it even more narrowly, “A single ginsenoside may initiate multiple or opposing actions in the same tissue” (PH2). My speculation is even stronger. The homeostatic human body is able to selectively sequester needed compounds from the homeostatic plant and, to an extent, exclude the unneeded compounds. Thus the hypotensive human who coevolved with ginseng might selectively use the needed hypertensive ginsenoside, while the hypertensive human might adaptogenically sequester the hypotensive ginsenoside. Something for whatever ails you. Remember, this herb, like all herbs contains all the compounds essential for plant life, and many of those essential for human life. Carrots are considerably cheaper.

Contraindications: Class 2d. Contraindicated for high blood pressure (AHP). The ginseng monograph published in 1991 says “none known” regarding contraindications, drug interactions, or side effects (KOM). Contraindicated in acute infections, asthma, and high blood pressure (KEB). High doses may aggravate or cause decreased sexual function, dysmenorrhea, euphoria, headaches, high blood pressure, insomnia, irritability, morning diarrhea, palpitations, skin eruptions, and tremors (KEB). The worst and most erroneous studies of ginseng were reported in JAMA, which accepted no corrections from the herbal industry, trying to get the reports straight. “Most commonly reported side effects of ginseng are nervousness and excitation, which usually diminish” (LRNP, September 1990). Foster (1996) reports GI distress, overstimulation, breast tenderness, dysmenorrhea. Though estrogenic side effects are reported in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women, “clinical studies have demonstrated that a standardized ginseng extract does not cause a change in male and female hormonal status” (WHO). Avoid if hypertensive or pregnant. Possible insomnia, mastalgia, vaginal bleeding, and insomnia. Contraindicated for patients with hyperkinesis, hysteria, mania, schizophrenia, or those who are nervous or tense. Not to be taken with stimulants, including coffee, antipsychotic drugs, or during treatment with hormones. Use cautiously in cardiopathy, diabetes, high blood pressure, hypotension, and with all steroid therapy. In Russia, it is even suggested that healthy people under age 40 should not take ginseng, but that middle-aged people can take small doses on a regular basis (CAN). Because of hormonal activity, its use in pregnancy and lactation is to be avoided (CAN). Caution with insulin, warfarin, phenylzine, and loop diuretics (PH2). “Three newborns were intoxicated after an intake of 0.3–0.6 g ginseng decoction; one died” (Oriental studies translated by AHP.). Blumenthal suggests it may potentiate MAOIs (MAB). Use should be restricted to 3 months (SHT). “It has been found to increase counts of total lymphocytes, T-Helper cells, and T4 and T8 subsets, and to improve NKC activity.” Positive as all this sounds, O’Brien cautions that headaches may result from chronic use. Do not take with digitalis (O’Brien, 1998). Extracts (Ginseng) — Ginsenosides stimulate insulin release and increase insulin receptors to exert a hypoglycemic response” (PH2). Root LD50 = 2000 mg/kg orl mouse (CAN); root LD50 = >5000 mg/kg orl mouse (CAN); LD50 (mixed saponins) = 500–900 mg/kg ipr mouse; 367 mg/kg ivn mouse; >5000 mg/kg orl mouse (HH2). CAN probably devotes more pages (pp.145–149) to the pharmacological effects of ginseng than the other herbs they treat more cursorily, “many of the pharmacological actions documented for ginseng directly oppose one another (hardly my usual synergy (JAD)) and this has been attributed to the actions of the individual ginsenosides. For example, ginsenoside Rb1 exhibits CNS-depressant, hypotensive and tranquilizing actions; while ginsenoside Rg1 exhibits CNS-stimulant, hypertensive, and antifatigue actions. These opposing actions are thought to explain the ‘adaptogenic’ reputation of ginseng, that is the ability to increase the overall resistance of the body to stress and to balance bodily functions.” PH2 states it even more narrowly, “A single ginsenoside may initiate multiple or opposing actions in the same tissue” (PH2). My speculation is even stronger. The homeostatic human body is able to selectively sequester needed compounds from the homeostatic plant and, to an extent, exclude the unneeded compounds. Thus the hypotensive human who coevolved with ginseng might selectively use the needed hypertensive ginsenoside, while the hypertensive human might adaptogenically sequester the hypotensive ginsenoside. Something for whatever ails you. Remember, this herb, like all herbs contains all the compounds essential for plant life, and many of those essential for human life. Carrots are considerably cheaper.

Synonyms: Clinostylis speciosa Hochst., Gloriosa abyssinica A. Rich., G. homblei De Wild., G. hybrid, G. rothschildiana O’Brien, G. simplex auct., G. speciosa (Hochst.) Engl., G. virescens Lindl.

Actions: Abortifacient (1; CRC; WOI); Alexeteric (f; CRC); Alterative (f; CRC); Analgesic (f; CRC); Antibacterial (1; CRC; WOI); Antiseptic (1; WOI); Antispermatogenic (1; ZUL); Aphrodisiac (f; ZUL); Candidicide (f; CRC); Cholagogue (f; CRC; EFS); Emetic (1; WOI); Emmenagogue (f; EFS); Laxative (1; CRC; EFS; WOI); Mitogenic (f; CRC); Pediculicide (1; CRC; ZUL); Poison (1; CRC); Stomachic (1; CRC; WOI); Teratogenic (1; ZUL); Tonic (1; CRC; WOI); Vermifuge (1; CRC; WOI).

Indications: Acne (f; ZUL); Arthrosis (1; CRC; ZUL); Ascites (f; CRC); Bacteria (1; CRC; WOI); Bite (f; CRC); Bright’s Disease (1; CRC; ZUL); Bruise (f; CRC; ZUL); Cancer (f; CRC); Candida (f; CRC); Childbirth (1; CRC; WOI); Cholera (1; CRC; ZUL); Colic (1; CRC; WOI; ZUL); Constipation (1; CRC; EFS; WOI); Dermatosis (1; CRC; WOI; ZUL); Epistaxis (f; CRC); Erysipelas (f; CRC); Gonorrhea (f; CRC; WOI); Gout (1; WOI); Guinea Worm (f; CRC); Hemorrhoid (f; CRC; WOI); Impotence (f; CRC; ZUL); Infection (1; WOI); Infertility (f; ZUL); Leprosy (f; CRC; ZUL); Lice (1; WOI); Malaria (f; CRC; ZUL); Neuralgia (1; CRC; WOI); Pain (1; CRC; WOI); Parasite (1; CRC; WOI); Rheumatism (1; WOI); Scabies (f; CRC); Snakebite (f; CRC); Sore (f; CRC); Spermatorrhea (f; CRC); Splenosis (f; CRC); Sprain (f; CRC); Syphilis (f; CRC); Tumor (f; CRC); Typhus (1; CRC; ZUL); Ulcer (1; CRC; WOI); Worm (1; CRC; WOI); Wound (1; ZUL); Yeast (f; CRC).

Dosage: Colchicine can kill (ZUL). Human deaths recorded, mistaking the bulbs for onions. Symptoms include tingling and numbness of the lips, mucous membrane irritation, severe vomiting, diarrhea, colic, hypotension, convulsions, and respiratory failure (CRC; JAD).

Contraindications: Colchicine can kill (ZUL). Human deaths recorded, mistaking the bulbs for onions. Symptoms include tingling and numbness of the lips, mucous membrane irritation, severe vomiting, diarrhea, colic, hypotension, convulsions, and respiratory failure (CRC; JAD).

Synonyms:

Actions: Analgesic (f; DAA; FAY); Antiallergic (1; AEL); Antibacterial (1; FNF); Anticariogenic (1; LAF); Antiedemic (1; FNF); Antigingivitic (1; LAF); Anti-HIV (1; FNF); Antiinflammatory (1; AEL); Antimalarial (1; FNF); Antimutagenic (1; AEL); Antioxidant (1; AEL); Antipyretic (1; DAA); Antiseptic (1; FNF); Antitumor (1; AEL); Antiulcer (1; FNF); Antiviral (1; FNF); Cardiotonic (1; FAY; LAF); COX-2 Inhibitor (1; FNF); Diaphoretic (f; DAA); Diuretic (1; LAF); Hepatoprotective (1; AEL); Hypoglycemic (1; AEL); Hypolipemic (1; AEL); Immunomodulator (1; AEL); Pectoral (f; DAA); Phagocytotic (1; LAF); Radioprotective (f; FAY); Tonic (1; AEL); Uterotonic (1; LAF); Vulnerary (f; DAA).

Indications: Abscess (f; DAA); Allergy (1; AEL); Arthrosis (1; FNF); Backache (f; FAY); Bacteria (1; FNF); Cachexia (f; DAA); Cancer (1; AEL); Cardiopathy (1; LAF); Caries (1; LAF); Cold (f; DAA); Congestion (f; DAA); Constipation (f; FAY); Immunodepression (1; AEL); Diabetes (1; LAF); Dropsy (f; DAA); Dysuria (1; LAF); Edema (1; FNF); Fever (1; DAA); Gingivosis (1; LAF); Gray Hair (f; FAY); Headache (f; DAA); Hepatosis (1; DAA; FNF); HIV (1; FNF); Inflammation (1; AEL); Leukopenia (2; FAY; LAF); Malaria (1; FNF); Nephrosis (f; DAA); Obesity (1; AEL); Pain (f; DAA; FAY); Phthisis (f; DAA); Radiation (1; FAY); Swelling (1; DAA; FNF); Tinnitus (f; DAA; FAY); Tuberculosis (f; DAA); Tumor (1; AEL); Ulcer (1; FNF); Vertigo (f; DAA; FAY);Virus (1; FNF); Water Retention (1; LAF).

Dosage: Class 1 (fruit) (AHP, 1997). Not covered by Commission E (KOM; PHR). Toxicity considered very low (FAY). Extracts (Glossy Privet) — Brine, vinegar, white-wine, and yellow wine treated fruits were steamed and dried, and showed antilipoperoxidant activity 3.7 to 4.7 times stronger than raw nuzhenzi at 250 mg/ml. Clinical studies in U.S. and China suggest it helps raise white cell counts for leukopenia induced by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. “Use of the fruits to help enhance immune function following chemotherapy has real therapeutic potential for western medicine” (FAY).

Contraindications: Class 1 (fruit) (AHP, 1997). Not covered by Commission E (KOM; PHR). Toxicity considered very low (FAY). Extracts (Glossy Privet) — Brine, vinegar, white-wine, and yellow wine treated fruits were steamed and dried, and showed antilipoperoxidant activity 3.7 to 4.7 times stronger than raw nuzhenzi at 250 mg/ml. Clinical studies in U.S. and China suggest it helps raise white cell counts for leukopenia induced by chemotherapy and radiotherapy. “Use of the fruits to help enhance immune function following chemotherapy has real therapeutic potential for western medicine” (FAY).

Synonyms:

Actions: Alterative (f; KOM); Antiaggregant (f; PH2); Antidiabetic (1; BIS); Depurative (f; KOM); Diaphoretic (f; MAD); Diuretic (f; PH2; PNC); Hepatoprotective (f; KOM); Hypoglycemic (1; BIS; MAD; PH2); Lactagogue (f; KOM; MAB; MAD; PH2; PNC); Sedative (f; MAD); Vermifuge (f; PNC).

Indications: Diabetes (1; BIS; FNF; KOM; MAD); Diarrhea (f; KOM); Dysbiosis (f; KOM); Dyslactea (1; FNF); Dyspepsia (f; KOM); Enterosis (f; KOM); Epilepsy (f; KOM); Roemheld Syndrome (f; KOM); Fever (f; MAD); Insomnia (f; MAD); Nervousness (f; MAD); Water Retention (f; PH2; PNC); Worm (f; PNC).

Dosage: Not covered by AHP. “Hazards and/or side effects not recorded for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Not approved (KOM); Commission E rates it negatively as both inefficacious and toxic. Intoxication possible with high doses of the drug (BIS); most preparations with biguandine derivatives have been withdrawn from the market (BIS). Poisoning observed only in animals ingesting large quantities; sheep may exhibit paralysis, salivation, spasms, and finally death through asphyxiation (PHR). Since Goat’s Rue contains hypoglycemic compounds, it might interact with hypoglycemic medications (PH2), one way or another. But all plants probably contain hypoglycemic compounds. The chromium content might be high enough to explain some antidiabetic activity. Galegine and other synthetic guanidine derivatives reduce blood sugar. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts are hypoglycemic in rabbits, raising glycogen levels in liver and myocardium.

Contraindications: Not covered by AHP. “Hazards and/or side effects not recorded for proper therapeutic dosages” (PH2). Not approved (KOM); Commission E rates it negatively as both inefficacious and toxic. Intoxication possible with high doses of the drug (BIS); most preparations with biguandine derivatives have been withdrawn from the market (BIS). Poisoning observed only in animals ingesting large quantities; sheep may exhibit paralysis, salivation, spasms, and finally death through asphyxiation (PHR). Since Goat’s Rue contains hypoglycemic compounds, it might interact with hypoglycemic medications (PH2), one way or another. But all plants probably contain hypoglycemic compounds. The chromium content might be high enough to explain some antidiabetic activity. Galegine and other synthetic guanidine derivatives reduce blood sugar. Aqueous and alcoholic extracts are hypoglycemic in rabbits, raising glycogen levels in liver and myocardium.

Synonyms: Cytisus alschingeri Vis., C. laburnum L., Laburnum anagyroides var. alschingeri (Vis.) C. K. Schneid.

Actions: Cholagogue (f; EFS); Diuretic (f; CRC; HHB); Emetic (f; CRC; EFS; HHB); Laxative (f; EFS; HHB); Neurotonic (f; CRC; HHB); Pediculicide (1; PH2); Poison (f; CRC; USA); Tonic (f; CRC).

Indications: Asthma (f; CRC; EFS); Constipation (f; EFS; HHB); Cramp (f; CRC; HHB); Depression (f; CRC; HHB); Nausea (f; CRC); Pertussis (f; EFS); Vertigo (f; CRC; HHB); Water Retention (f; CRC; HHB).

Dosage: Not covered (AHP). Too dangerous for use, even as a topical pediculicide. 3–4 unripe fruits or 15–20 seed enough to kill an adult (PH2). Pub Med abstracts seemed more concerned with poisoning and lectins than with folk medicine.

Contraindications: Not covered (AHP). Too dangerous for use, even as a topical pediculicide. 3–4 unripe fruits or 15–20 seed enough to kill an adult (PH2). Pub Med abstracts seemed more concerned with poisoning and lectins than with folk medicine.