Arctium lappa
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Properties
Alterative, Diaphoretic, Diuretic
Contains 27 - 40% inulin- a form of starch important in the
metabolism of carbohydrates. It is said to be one of the best
blood purifiers. When mixed with Sassafras and made into a
tea, it is said to release a strong oil soothing to the hypothalmus.
It also aids the pituitary gland in adjusting hormone balance. It
has been used as a very effective remedy for skin conditions,
including eczema, acne, and herpes.
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Body Parts Affected
blood, kidney, liver, pituitary, hypothalmus
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Vitamins and minerals
High in C, and Iron. Contains 12% protien, 70% carbohydrate,
A, E, B-complex, P, PABA, sulphor, silicon, copper, zinc.
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Butcher's Broom

Butcher's Broom - Ruscus aculeatus

Therapeutic profile: A flavonoid-rich blood thinning herb, used
to tone and strengthen vein structure. Primary uses: as an
anti-thrombosis agent in cases of phlebitis, and
arteriosclerosis; as a vaso-constrictor for the treatment of
varicose veins and hemorrhoids; Secondary uses; as a diuretic
herb in a formula for cellulite release, to relieve heavy feeling
in the legs.(Source:"How To Be Your Own Herbal Pharmacist"
by Linda Rector-Page N.D., Ph.D.)

Cayenne
Capsicum minimum
Solanaceae

Names : Capsicum, Chili or Chili Pepper, Hot Pepper, Tabasco Pepper.
Habitat : Tropical America and Africa and widely cultivated.
Collection : The fruit should be harvested when fully ripe and dried in the
shade.
Part Used : The fruit.

Constituents : o Capsaicin.
o Carotenoids; capsanthin, capsorubin, carotene.
o Steroidal saponins known as capsicidins, in seed and
root.

Actions : Stimulant, carminative, anti-catarrhal, sialagogue, rubefacient,
anti-microbial.
Indications : Cayenne is the most useful of the systemic stimulants. It
stimulates blood flow, strengthening the heart, arteries, capillaries and
nerves. A general tonic, it is also specific for both circulatory and
digestive system. It may be used in flatulent dyspepsia and colic. If there
is insufficient peripheral circulation, leading to cold hands and feet and
possibly chilblains, Cayenne may be used, also for debility and for
warding off colds. Externally it is used as a rubefacient in problems like
lumbago and rheumatic pains. As an ointment it helps unbroken
chilblains, as long as it is used in moderation! As a gargle in laryngitis it
combines well with Myrrh. This combination is also a good antiseptic
wash.

Kings Dispensatory describes it thus ~ Capsicum is a pure,
energetic, permanent stimulant, producing in large doses vomiting,
purging, pains in the stomach and bowels, heat and inflammation of the
stomach, giddiness, a species of intoxication and an enfeebled condition
of the nervous power. The infusion is much used in colds, catarrh,
hoarseness, etc. In atonic dyspepsia and catarrhal gastritis it stimulates the
nerves of the stomach, promotes the secretion of the digestive juices, and
assists peristaltic motion. As an internal remedy some have advanced the
theory that it is destroyed during digestion. Perhaps, when ingested with
food, this may be partially true, but, if so, how do we account for its
remarkable activity in sustaining the nervous system when given in
delirium tremens and the power it has in steadying the patient and
promoting sound sleep? That its effects are partly due to its stimulating
action upon the gastric membranes is unquestionable, but its entire effects
can not be due to this cause alone. The same may be said of its action in
congestive intermittent and remittent fevers. Some thought to attribute its
action in congestive chill to its effect upon the solar plexus. It forms an
excellent addition to quinine in intermittents, where there is a deficiency
of gastric susceptibility and it has been asserted that but 1/2 the quinine
will be needed when combined with Capsicum.

Capsicum meets the debility of young and old, but is particularly
useful in the elderly, when the body-heat is low, vitality depressed and
reaction sluggish. Tired, painful muscles, stiffened joints and relaxation of
any part are common conditions in the elderly that are, in a measure,
rectified by Capsicum. Homeopathists suggest its use in pneumonia when
abscesses threaten. Flatulence in dyspeptic states may be dispelled by
capsicum.
Externally, the infusion and tincture have been found valuable as a
stimulating gargle in the ulcerated throat of scarlatina; also as a
counter-irritant, as an application to indolent ulcers, in chronic ophthalmia
and in chronic or indolent ulceration of the cornea. If used early in
tonsillitis, with relaxation, it may abort the trouble, but if it does not, its
use should be discontinued until the active inflammation has subsided.
Hoarseness, from atony of the vocal cords, is relieved by it, and it is a
remedy for relaxed uvula. It enters into various tinctures and linaments.
The concentrated tincture of capsicum has been highly recommended in
the treatment of chilblains and toothache. In the former, a piece of sponge
of flannel must be saturated with it, and rubbed well over the seat of the
chilblain, until a strong tingling and electrical feeling is produced. This
application should be continued daily, until the disease is removed; relief
will be experienced on the very first application and frequently there will
be a total removal of the disease after the second or third application.
This, however, will depend upon the severity of the case.

Powdered Capsicum, sprinkled inside the stockings, was a favorite
prescription with Prof. Scudder for cold feet. This medicine possesses an
extraordinary power in removing congestion by its action upon the nerves
and circulation; if the skin is not broken.
Specific Indications and uses; - Marked depression and debility; atonic
dyspepsia of drunkards; delirium tremens; colic, with abdominal
distension; congestive chills; cold extremities, with blanched lips and
small, weak pulse; congestion, with capillary atony; tongue dry and harsh,
and buccal and salivary secretions scanty, in fevers; chronic
haemorrhoids, from relaxation.

Preparations & Dosage : Infusion ~ pour a cup of boiling water onto 1/2-1
teaspoonful of Cayenne and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. A
tablespoonful of this infusion should be mixed with hot water and drunk
when needed.
Tincture: take 0.25-1 ml of the tincture three times a day or when needed.Cascara Sagrada
Properties and Uses: Bitter tonic, purgative. Cascara sagrada bark is one of the best and
commonest plant laxatives.An extract of the bark is still prescribed and marketed under
various brand names. It encourages peristalsis by irritating the bowels, but it is also useful
for chronic constipation since it has a lasting tonic effect on relaxed bowels. Cascara sagrada
has also been used for gallstones and liver ailments and for chronic dyspepsia.
Preparation and Dosage: Bark must be at least a year old before being used.
Infusion: Steep 1 tsp. bark in 1 cup water for 1 hour. Take 1 to 2 cups a day, before meals
or on an empty stomach.
Tincture: Take 40 to 60 drops with water, morning and evening, as required.
Cayenne

CAYENNE PEPPERS; Capsicum Annum

Therapeutic profile: a highly aromatic, carotene-rich digestive
and heart tonic with anti-bacterial qualities, used as a central
system catalyst and circulatory stimulant in many formulation.
Primary uses: as a specific in heart muscle regulation, to
strengthen all parts of the circulatory system and to normalize
blood pressure; as a specific in digestive formulas to control
gas, flatulence and upset stomach; as a warming agent for
arthritic lower back and rheumatic pain; as a specific in
breaking up mucous congestion in colds, flu, bronchitis,
respiratory and cleansing formulas; to treat shock, and to
prevent the onset of shock,(as in a heart attack); Secondary
uses; as a hemostatic both externally and internally to stop
bleeding, and fight infection; externally, as an antiseptic wash;
or a stimulating compress; as a gargle to heal a sore
throat.(Source:"How To Be Your Own Herbal Pharmacist" by
Linda Rector-Page N.D., Ph.D.)

Cayenne also known as red pepper, is both an herb and a spice
obtained from the dried, ground fruit of various hot chili
peppers (capsicum frutescens) containing capsaicin, a
compound that reduces pain and inflammation, probably by
blocking the activity in the body of substance P, a compound
needed for transmitting pain impulses. Capsaicin is an
ingredient in some prescription skin creams. Drops of cayenne
concentrate are used to relieve toothache (though some will
find it unpleasantly hot) and as a liniment to soothe sore
muscles. Cayenne is also used topically to stop bleeding and is
taken internally to stimulate circulation or induce sweating to
break a fever. Some herbalists use it to treat colds and
infectious diarrhea. In the Far East it is a popular"crisis herb"
for its heating and stimulating effects on the kidneys, lungs,
stomach, and heart. It is also widely used as a spicy seasoning.
It is sold in the form of capsules, concentrated drops, and
tinctures.(Source: 1996 Natural Health Handbook from the
editors of "Natural Health")
Chamomile, German
Properties and Uses: Anodyne, antiphlogistic, antispasmodic, clamative, carminative,
diaphoretic, tonic. German chamomile tea is valuable in many nervous conditions, insomnia,
neuralgia, lumbago, rheumatic problems, and rashes. It also tends to reduce inflammation
and to facilitate bowel movement without acting as a purgative. Use it as a wash or compress
for skin problems and inflammations, including inflammation of mucous tissue. Keeping a
mouthful in the mouth for a time will temporarily relieve toothache. To help asthma in
children or to relieve the symptoms of a cold, try a vapor bath of the tea. German
chamomile can also be used as a relaxing, antispasmodic, anodyne bath additive. Use it for a
sitz bath to help hemorrhoids, or as a foot- and hand-bath for sweaty feet or hands. For
hemorrhoids and for wounds, the flowers are also made into a salve.
Preparation and Dosage:
Infusion: Use 2 tsp. dried (or fresh) flowers with 2 cup boiling water. Take a mouthful at a
time. Or add 2 tbsp. flowers to 2 cups cold water and heat to just short of boiling.
Bath Additive: Use 1 lb. flowers with 5 qt. cold water. Bring to boil, steep covered for 10
minutes. Strain and add to bathwater. A less effective way is to hang a linen bag containing
the flowers in the tub. Use proportionately smaller amounts for partial baths.

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Calm Down With Chamomile

CHAMOMILE is a classic calming herb, known and loved worldwide. Remember
Beatrix Potter's children's story "Tales of Peter Rabbit"? After Peter was
chased from Mr. MacGregor's garden, his mother put him to bed with a cup of
chamomile tea to quiet his fear. However, chamomile isn't limited to just
its nerve-soothing abilities -- it's also a boon to anyone suffering burns
to the skin, upset stomach or menstrual cramps. To this day, in Germany,
chamomile is sometimes referred to as Alles zutraut, which means "capable
of anything."

The word chamomile has its origins in the Greek kamai, meaning "on the
ground," and melon, meaning "apple." Indeed, chamomile does have an aroma
reminiscent of apples. Spaniards call chamomile manzanilla, which means
"little apple."

Two types of chamomile are available in this country -- Roman (Chamaemelum
nobile), also known as English chamomile, and German, also known as
Hungarian or Matricaria recutita. The German variety is most frequently
used because it's less expensive than Roman and more concentrated in
valuable chemical constituents. Most Roman chamomile is somewhat bitter and
is used primarily in potpourri rather than as a tea.

When you need an herb to calm you down, chamomile is an excellent choice.
(Please see your health care adviser before beginning any herbal therapy.)
This flowering plant is effective for nervousness, anxiety, stress and
insomnia. When taken before bed it may help prevent nightmares. Chamomile
also helps soothe the digestive tract. It's a carminative (expels gas),
helps quiet spasms and nervous stomach, and aids diverticulitis and
gastritis. As an ulcer treatment, it helps soothe cracks in the body's
tissue and mucosa. Used as a gargle, chamomile helps soothe sore throats
and sensitive gums. It's been employed as a steam bath for respiratory
distress, and the tea is often used as an eyewash. A sitz bath of chamomile
tea also helps relieve hemorrhoids. Chamomile helps ease joint pain
associated with arthritis. This gentle herb also has an antispasmodic
effect on the body's smooth muscles. If you want to give up coffee but
don't want a withdrawal headache, drink a cup of chamomile tea.

Chamomile is especially helpful to women and children. Chamomile tea can be
used as a douche or enema to calm irritated tissue. It eases menstrual
cramps as well as children's teething pains. When kids are cranky and
irritable, give them a warm chamomile bath by simply brewing a large pot of
tea and pouring the strained tea into the bathtub. This will also help
restless kids sleep.

When used as a topical remedy, chamomile soothes the skin. It's widely used
in Europe for treatment of complaints such as eczema and dry skin (Herbs,
Spices and Medicinal Plants, 1984, no. 1). A study conducted at The
Dermatological Clinic of Friedrich-Wilhelm University in Germany showed
chamomile was even more helpful in speeding skin healing time than
cortisone. Not only does chamomile help promote skin growth over a wound,
but it also can bring pain relief. Even after dermabrasion from the removal
of tattoos, chamomile exhibits wound-healing abilities (Hautkr, 1987, vol.
62).

Chamomile can help soothe burns, sunburn, bed sores, diaper rash and even
radiation burns. When added to the bath, it helps the skin feel soft. Many
cosmetic products available at your natural products store contain
chamomile to nourish dry skin and calm the sensitive area around the eyes.
Chamomile skin cream is superb to use in a cold, dry climate. This
versatile herb is often added to hair care products for blondes because it
produces a golden tint in the hair.

Energetically, chamomile is considered to be warm, slightly bitter and
moist. Researchers believe some of its healing properties may come from the
essential oil azulene, which is hypoallergenic and anti-inflammatory.
Researchers believe this oil may inhibit the release of histamine. Azulene
has been found effective against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and
Streptococcus. Chamomile also contains levomenol, which is especially
soothing to the skin. Also present in chamomile are coumarins and
flavonoids, both of which are antispasmodic, according to author Mark
Pedersen in his book Nutritional Herbology (Pedersen Publishing).

A Plant with Many Uses

German chamomile is a low-growing annual or perennial depending on the
climate. It has fine feathery leaves with a yellow daisylike flower. All
parts of the chamomile plant have therapeutic value, though it's primarily
the daisylike flowering heads that are collected. Chamomile is also
available in extract, capsules and as a homeopathic remedy. Some of the
world's major supplies of German chamomile come from Argentina, Egypt and
Eastern Europe.

Roman chamomile is a low-growing perennial with alternate multi-branched
leaves. Most of it is grown in England, where it's a popular plant along
garden paths because of its delightful fragrance. It's a resilient plant;
in fact, an old verse sings praises to its hardiness: "Like a chamomile
bed, the more it is trodden, the more it will spread." Both varieties of
this herb prefer a lot of sun and can be sown in the spring or fall. Some
bags of chamomile tea contain seeds. Just open a bag and plant the
contents.

More than a million cups of chamomile tea are ingested worldwide daily,
says Rob McCaleb, president of the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder,
Colo. Chamomile tea contains only 10 to 15 percent of all the constituents
that are actually present in the plant. The tea is best consumed over a
long period of time. Use 1/4 ounce of herb in a quart of water. Bring the
water to a boil. Remove it from the heat and add the herbs. Stir, cover and
allow the herbs to steep 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy. Keep your herbs
well-sealed when not in use to protect the valuable essential oils.

Chamomile is considered safe, effective and nonaddictive, although people
with sensitivities should use caution before consuming this herb. However,
only five cases of chamomile allergies have been reported since 1887, and
the identity of the offending plant was not confirmed. Some herbalists
consider it too relaxing to the uterus to consume often during pregnancy.
Doing so could cause miscarriage. If you're pregnant, don't ingest any herb
without consulting your physician.



Chasteberry: A Tonic For Menstrual Problems

THE HERB CHASTEBERRY (Vitex agnus castus) is among the most respected
remedies for women experiencing premenstrual, menstrual or menopausal
symptoms. In fact, this herb is now a major medicinal product in Europe,
where it's used to treat premenstrual herpes, acne and other female-related
disorders. It's also used as a sedative and antispasmodic. Consult with a
naturopathic physician before taking chasteberry or other herbal remedies.

Studies indicate chasteberry has far-reaching effects on the female
hormonal system. Researchers agree it stimulates the release of luteinizing
hormone (LH) and inhibits the release of follicle-stimulating hormone
(FSH). This increases the level of progesterone relative to estrogen. This
hormonal balancing act can help relieve symptoms of PMS and menstrual
disorders including abnormal menstrual periods.

In Germany, chasteberry has been approved for menstrual disorders due to
inadequate progesterone secretion, premenstrual syndrome, menopausal
complaints and inadequate lactation. European physicians have described
positive results with chasteberry in treating premenstrual water retention.
One clinical study found that premenstrual symptoms including anxiety,
nervous tension, insomnia or mood changes disappeared or were significantly
reduced in 60 percent of those taking chasteberry.

Traditionally, chasteberry has been used for increasing milk production
during breastfeeding. Two clinical studies show chasteberry could increase
milk production in lactating women with poor milk production.
Pharmacological studies with animals have also demonstrated increases in
lactation and enlargement of the mammary gland. No hazards to nursing
infants have been noted in these studies. Research has also identified
antimicrobial effects of the essential oil of chasteberry.

Menopause-Easing Properties

Because progesterone production decreases during menopause, chasteberry may
be effective in reducing some of the symptoms of this condition. Though
little research exists to confirm this, chasteberry has been reported to
reduce the incidence of hot flashes, limit fluid retention, prevent
excessive weight gain, and alleviate nervousness, anxiety or depression
associated with menopause. Chasteberry can be combined with other herbal
medicines that are helpful in correcting low estrogen levels.

You can buy chasteberry in extract form (dry or fluid), capsules and tea.
Because this herb works through the pituitary and hypothalamus and not
directly through hormonal action, it's slow acting. Results occur after one
or two cycles, but studies show a six-month treatment is necessary for
lasting improvement. Treatment should continue several weeks after effects
are noticed.

* Caution: Chasteberry is not advised during pregnancy or for children. If
you're pregnant, see a doctor before taking any herb.

Rob McCaleb is president of the Herb Research Foundation in Boulder, Colo.
For more information, call 800-748-2617.


Chaste Tree



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Chaste Tree (also known as Monk's Pepper, Indian Spice, Sage Tree, Hemp

Tree, Wild Pepper) has an interesting history. Pilgrims believed the tree

to have magical qualities and would carry its boughs to ward off robbers

and deter the bites of venomous creatures. Even earlier, Athenian women put

the leaves of the tree in their beds and monks ground up the seeds for

pepper, both actions being taken to ensure chastity.



Although these stories seem humorous, the tree has been shown to contribute

positively to the many challenges to women's health. The seeds and berries

contain hormone-like substances and, when used, are able to adjust the

production of female hormones. Modern research shows that the plant acts on

the hormone producing systems of the body by stimulating progesterone

production. Dr. Alan Stewart conducted a study in which subjects were given

capsules of dried agnus-castus. 60% of the group experienced a reduction or

elimination of PMS symptoms, including anxiety, nervous tension, insomnia,

and mood changes. Extracts from the Chaste Tree have also successfully been

used by treating gynecological conditions resulting from menopause, and

menstrual irregularities.



In Germany there has been extensive experimental research on how the chaste

tree berry (Vitex agnus-casus L.) feeds the glandular system, particularly

the pituitary gland. The tree grows in moist river banks in southern Europe

and in the Mediterranean region. The dried, ripe fruit is used. No safety

problems in its wise use are known.



[Nature Sunshine on-line ordering]

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For Educational Purposes Only

Sources:

Nature's Sunshine Products, Provo, Utah

Nature's Field as referenced:

Nutritional Herbology, Mark Pedersen

The Random House Book of Herbs, Roger Phillips and Nicky Fox

The Wild Rose Scientific Herbal, Terry Willard, Ph.D.

Weiner's Herbal (1990 Edition), Michael A. Weiner, M.S., M.A., Ph.D.

Quarterly Newsletter , Fall 1994, The American Herb Association Townsend

Leter for Doctors, July 1994

The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Herbalism, Malcom Stuart, Ed.

Herbs That Heal: Prescriptions for Herbal Healing, Michael A. Weiner, Ph.D.

and Janet Weiner

Handbook of Native American Herbs. Alma R. Hutchens

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D.

Chickweed

Chickweed Herb - Stellaria media

Useful in treating cuts, wounds, itching, and irritation,
particularly when the irritation is caused by eczema or
psoriasis. Internally helpful with rheumatism.(Source:
"Naturopathic Handbook of Herbal Formulas" by Herbal
Research Publications Inc.)

Reduces mucus build-up in the lungs. May effectively treat
asthma. Use for gastrointestinal disorders, constipation,
coughs, colds, rheumatism, scurvy, pleurisy, skin disease,
tumors, cancer, inflammation, and blood disorders. Use as a
vitamin C supplement.(Source: Prescription for Nutritional
Healing by James F. Balch,M.D. & Phyllis A. Balach, C.N.C.)

Chickweed (Stellaria media) has antipyretic, demulcent, and
alterative properties. It is used traditionally to treat fevers,
inflammation, bronchitis, pleurisy, coughs, colds, and
hoarseness. It can be applied externally as a poultice to treat
skin diseases. As a tea, it is effective in curbing cravings,
assisting digestion, and promoting weight reduction.(Source:
1996 Natural Health Handbook from the editors of "Natural
Health")
Cleavers Herb
Properties and Uses: Antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, vulnerary. The predominant uses
for cleavers are external, although the tea has been recommended for stomach and intestinal
catarrh and for irritations of the mucous membranes, including those of the urinary tract. The
juice of the fresh plant or a tea made from the dried plant is popular for skin problems.
Applying the crushed fresh leaves directly is also said to be helpful for skin problems and for
stopping bleeding.
Preparation and Dosage: Use the juice of the fresh plant or dry the plant immediately to keep
for later use.
Infusion: Steep 1 oz. dried herb in 1 pint warm (not boiling) water for 2 hours. Take 2 to 8
tbsp., three or four times a day.
Tincture: Take 20 to 30 drops in water, as required.
Damiana

Damiana Leaf; Turnera diffusa

Therapeutic profile: a mild aphrodisiac and tonic for the
central nervous and hormonal systems. Primary uses: as a
specific in a combination to treat frigidity in women and
impotence in men; as a body tonic and energizer; as part of an
anti-depressant; as part of a hormone balancing formula for
both sexes; secondary uses: as part of a formula to relieve
constipation and bloating.(Source:"How To Be Your Own
Herbal Pharmacist" by Linda Rector-Page N.D., Ph.D.)

Acts as a tonic on the central nervous system and the hormonal
system. Used in treating depression and anxiety, particularly
when influenced by sexual factors. Strengthens the male sexual
system.(Source: "Naturopathic Handbook of Herbal Formulas"
by Herbal Research Publications Inc.)
Dandelion

Dandelion Root; taraxacum officinale

Therapeutic profile: a source of natural potassium and
excellent liver cleansing and strengthening agent, with
soothing healing properties for the digestive system and bowel
inflammation. Primary uses: a specific for liver cleansing and
healing, including serious liver conditions such as hepatitis,
jaundice and cirrhosis; as part of a bowel cleansing and toning
formula; as part of combination to reduce high blood pressure
and its resultant water retention; secondary uses: an aid to
weight loss and reducing cholesterol through better liver
metabolic action.(Source:"How To Be Your Own Herbal
Pharmacist" by Linda Rector-Page N.D., Ph.D.)

Dandelion is an excellent, safe diuretic and liver tonic.
Dandelion is a valuable diuretic because it is rich in potassium,
a vital mineral often lost when the kidneys are stimulated by
drugs. It is useful in treating water retention due to heart
problems, inflammation and congestion of the liver and
gall-bladder, and congestive jaundice.(Source: "Naturopathic
Handbook of Herbal Formulas" by Herbal Research
Publications Inc.)

A mildly bitter herb that cleanses the bloodstream and liver
and increases the production of bile. Used as a diuretic.
Improves function of the pancreas, spleen, stomach, and
kidneys. Taken for anemia, gout, rheumatism, jaundice,
cirrhosis, hepatitis, abscesses, boils, cramps, fluid retention,
constipation, and breast tumors, May aid in the prevention of
breast cancer and age spots. Reduces serum cholesterol and
uric acid.(Source: Prescription for Nutritional Healing by
James F. Balch,M.D. & Phyllis A. Balach, C.N.C.)

Dandelion is a bitter but nutritious herb prepared from the
roots, leaves, and other parts of the well known weed
(Taraxacum officinale). It is also known (revealingly) as
piss-in-bed. Traditionally it has been used as a digestive tonic,
blood cleanser, mild diuretic and laxative, and weight loss aid.
The fresh leaves are high in nutrients including beta-carotene,
vitamin C and potassium. As an herb, dandelion is also taken
to relieve inflammation of the liver and gallbladder, congestive
jaundice, skin diseases, and PMS. It may be useful to lower
blood pressure, and prevent heart disease. Dandelion is safe
and nontoxic. It is sold as tablets, capsules, concentrated drops,
tinctures, and extracts.(Source: 1996 Natural Health Handbook
from the editors of "Natural Health")
Devils Claw


Harpagophytum procumbens
Pedaliaceae

Citations


Habitat : Indigenous to Southern and Eastern Africa.
Collection : This plant grows in Africa in very arid conditions.
The roots are collected at the end of the rainy season.
Part Used : Rhizome.

Constituents : o Iridoid glycosides, including harpagide,
harpagoside and procumbide
o Flavonoids, mainly kaempferol and luteolin glycosides
o Phenolic acids; chlorogenic and cinnamic acid
o A quinone, harpagoquinone
o Miscellaneous; triterpenes, oleanolic & ursolic acid
derivatives, esters, sugars.

Actions : Anti-inflammatory, anodyne, hepatic.
Indications : This valuable plant has been found effective in the treatment
of some cases of arthritis. This action appears to be due to the presence of
a glycoside called harpagoside that reduces inflammation in the joints.
Unfortunately Devils Claw is not always effective, but it is well worth
considering in cases of arthritis where there is inflammation and pain. This
plant also aids in liver and gall-bladder complaints.

Combinations : With Celery Seed, Bogbean or Meadowsweet in the
treatment of arthritis.
Preparations & Dosage : Decoction: put l/2 - l teaspoonful of the rhizome
into a cup of water, bring it to the boil and simmer for l0-l5 minutes. This
should be drunk three times a day. It should be continued for at least one
month. Tincture: take l-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

----

 

 

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From German Commission_E
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Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
Uses: The root of the devil's claw plant stimulates appetite, eases upset
stomach and indigestion, and is used in the treatment of degenerative
disorders of the locomotor systems. Devil's claw stimulates the
production of bile and has some anti-inflammatory and analgesic
properties, which makes devil's claw useful for some cases of rheumatoid
arthritis. Dosage (unless otherwise prescribed): For loss of appetite, take
to 1.5 grams of the root or equivalent preparations per day. For other
symptoms, take up to 4.5 grams of the drug or equivalent preparations per
day.
Contraindications: If you have gastric or duodenal ulcers or gallstones, do
not use devil's claw until you have consulted your health care practitioner.
Interactions with other drugs: None known.
Side effects: None known.
Devil's Claw

Devil's Claw Tuber; harpagopytum procumbens

Therapeutic profile: an anti inflammatory and blood cleansing
herb with prostaglandin promoting activity, specifically used
for joint pain relief. Primary uses: as a specific for
inflammation and pain of arthritic and rheumatic conditions;
secondary uses: to relieve inflammatory liver and gall bladder
problems.(Source:"How To Be Your Own Herbal Pharmacist"
by Linda Rector-Page N.D., Ph.D.)

Devil's Claw has anti inflammatory properties which may help
some cases of arthritis with inflammation and pain. Also acts
as a hepatic in treating liver and gallbladder problems.(Source:
"Naturopathic Handbook of Herbal Formulas" by Herbal
Research Publications Inc.)