Plant Constituents Actions Indications Pharmacology/Toxicity

Fever with moist skin (can be dry), strong pulse, flushed Dec BP and HR with long term use
Short painful cough/hack that lasts for weeks Fresh plant more potent than dry
Diaphoretic
#1 herb for PLEURISY Galitoxin can irritate mucous mem
Glucosides (asclepidine, Expectorant (cathartic with
Asclepias tuberosa Patchy infiltrates or linear pattern on radiograph V high doses --> resp paralysis
asclepione) higher dose)
(Pleurisy root) <motion (as clip to chair) OD: N/V, GI upset, D, anorexia, death
Resins (galitoxin) Anti-tussive
Inflammation of serious membranes of thoracic cavity Tx: Emesis, gastric lavage, cathartics, hydration and
PNS stimulator
Usually unilateral electrolyte replacement
Wants to hold chest CI: preg. uterine stimulant.
Aids expectoration and improves expansion of lungs (lung pump!)
Dyspnea, pale face, cyanotic lips, anxious, soft small irregular Alkaloids: inc depth and rate of respiration - use only for
Expectorant
Aspidosperma quebracho Alkaloids (aspidosamine, compressible pulse, palpitations with cough short term
Anti-tussive
(Quebracho = breaking the quebrachine) Chronic heart and lung disease Resinous alkaloids: antimicrobial and aids expectoration,
Anti-periodic
axe) Tannins Cardiac asthma, emphysema (tripod position) leads to mucosal irritation
Anti-microbial
Hemoptysis with TB Tannins: inc HR and BP
Low vitality

What a SPAZZ - laryngeal/bronchial/arterial spasm

Expectorant Dry irritating, persistant cough (spasmodic, explosive, expulsive)
Inc heart rate and elasticity
Glycosides (napthoquinone) Sedative (cough) Dryness worse at night
Drosera rotundifolia Glycosides appear to work on microbes that cause
Essential oils (small amount) Anti-spasmodic Patient hoarse, children anxious
(Sundew) periodontal disease
Flavonoids Anti-tussive Cough assoc with measles, whooping cough, TB, bronchitis, dry
Immune System - Cough

High doses darken urine

Spasmolytic asthma
Arteriosclerosis, angina, chest pain

Used for weight loss (appetite supression)

Max dose in canada is 24mg/day
Relaxes bronchi smooth muscles and vasoconstricts skin
Used in TCM to treat asthma for > 5000 years
Arial Parts: Diaphoretic and ab viscera
Acute asthma, allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, emphysema (helps break
Arial: Alkaloids (ephedrine- Stimulant Increases BP, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-pyretic
up spasms)
diuretic) Astringent Dilates pupils
Ephedra sinica Spasmodic conditions of the bronchi
Phytosterols Decongestant OD: N/V, sweat, vertigo, tremors, insomnia, palpitations,
(Ma Huang) Stimulates SNS
Root: ephedrine, tannin, Expectorant convulsions, hypertensive crisis
Root used for sweat and diarrhea
saponin, flavone, oil Diuretic Tx: emesis, GI lavage, charcoal. Palpitations: B-blocker,
Root: Diaphoretic siezures: diazepam, V tach: Lidocaine, HT crisis:
Phentolamin or Nitroprusside
CI: MAO inhibitor (can lead to HT crisis). Yin deficiency,
anorexia, insomnia, preg, lactation, suicidal disposition

Eczema’s such as poison oak and ivy, dry irritated tissues such
as dermatitis - resins decrease pruritis and dec spread of irritation
Expectorant
Chronic cough with abundant secretions – throat may be dry, but
Eriodictyon californicum Resins Sialogogue and Carminative
lungs are wet, pneumonia, phthisis (difficult to expectorate, sputum Essential oil - eriodictyol - irritates mucous membranes
(Yerba Santa) Flavonoids (eriodictyol) (aids in digestion)
is deep)
Bitter tonic
Anorexia, impaired digestion, emanciation
Soothes dry, irritating persistent cough

Expectorant Cold extremities with cold perspiration, perspiration during chills Bug repellant
Anti-periodic Sense of weight and coldness in intestines Inhibits mast cell degranulation and cyt p450
Volatile oils (eucalyptol) Anti-septic/disinfectant Yellow mucopurulent discharges OD: dec BP, cold, pale, gastroenteritis, death
Eucalyptus globules
Flavonoids (quercitin) Anti-bacterial Wet asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, mycoplasma, malaria, Gleet Tx: nux-vomica (causing emesis), beladonna (slows
Rubifacient Externally for aching joints, sprains, congestion. Lymph congestion peristalsis), monitor 24 hr creatinine
Febrifuge and bruises. CI: hypotension, inflamed KI or GI tract
Flu with deep muscle and bone pain along the rib cage; feels bones
are broken - bone pain due to influenza
Essential oil (tremerol) SOB and hard full pulse (like a bone)
Febrifuge Polysacc are immune stimulatory (inc phagocytosis)
Flavonoids (quercitin, Cough with measles, asthma, hoarseness, common cold
Emetic (high doses) Essential oil tremerol - drying dec concentration
Eupatorium perfoliatum eupatorin) Persistent embarrassed cough, chest pain and dyspnea, severe or
Anti-periodic OD: N/V, anorexia, thirst, constipation, muscle tremors,
(boneset) Terpenoids (sesquiterpene periodic fever, muscle spasm, swollen, moist skin
Stomachic (bitter) rapid shallow resp, coma, death
lactones) Turbid urine, inc frequency
Bacteriostatic Tx: GI lavage, saline cathartic, electrolytes
Bitter glucosides Alcoholism (to stimulate digestion)
Intermittent headache (digestion related), GI/musc spasm
Tertiary syph - bone pain

Page 1 of 33
 Amino acids Lead colic Ursolic acid: anti-viral (good for EBV), inhibits tumors
Flavonoids Headache with cough Essential oil irritates mucus mem in high doses
Glechoma hederaceae Expectorant
Steroids Deep lung cough with pectoral pain Tx: flush with water
(Creeping Charlie) GI and Mental Stimulant
Terpenoids (ursolic acid) Dry asthma with cough CI: essential oil: GI and oral ulcers, sensitive skin, dermatitis
Volatile oils Hypochondrial pain and distension

Expectorant
Phlegm can be heard but cannot be coughed out
Anti-spasmodic Dec HR - do not use in bradycardic patients
Resin (grendolin) Non-productive/dry cough
Sialagogue Se and Mg overdose
Grindelia robusta Alkaloids (grendaline) Cough with cyanosis, dyspnea, arrhythmias
Respiratory stimulant Caution with chronic renal disease (resins)
(Gum plant) EO (barenol, pinene) Asthma, walking pneumonia
Diuretic
High in selenium External for skin ulcers, burns, rashes, herpes zoster, poison
Vulnerary
oak
Cardiac tonic
Immune System - Cough

Glycosides (diosmine) GI catarrh where mucous --> congestion and poor digestion
Carminative
Volatile oils (limonen, B- Sore throat assoc with cold and flu - gargle Muscle relaxant for Gi spasms (IBS)
Hyssopus officinalis Dypeptic
pinene - both monoterpenes) Tea for bronchitis and wet asthma Caution with GI bleeding and spongy KI due to volatile
(Hyssop) Vulnerary
Resins External for bruises, trauma, ulcers - not as good as Grindelia. oils
Expectorant (weak)
Tannins Soothing for eczema and psoriasis.

Chronic wet cough (especially in elderly) with substernal pain,

influenza, wet humid asthma, profuse secretions
Volatile oils (sesquiterpene
Teasing, persistent wet cough Immunostimulant
lactones, helenin, inula)
Inula helenium Anti-tussive Female with thick catarrhal leukorrhea (douche) Sesqiterpene lactones - inh many cell lines (e.g. M.
CHO
(elecampagne) Mild diaphoretic Anorexia & sluggish liver (hepatic torpor) tuberculae)
Terpenoids
Ab atonia, relief by flatus, dyspepsia, weak digestive process Volatile oils irritate mucous membranes
Vermifuge

Sensation of suffocation, feeling of heaviness (like someone is

sitting on chest - angina/neuralgia), short laboured breathing Increases resistance to diptheria
Expectorant
(dyspnea); bronchial mucous; tachycardia Alkaloids - lower doses stim nicotinic receptors, in higher
Emetic (only large doses)
Rigid os & rheumatism doses they supress - (Stimulant to PNS in low doses and
Alkaloids (piperidine - Sialigogue
Lobelia inflata Acute asthma SNS in high doses)
toxicity) Stimulant - SNS and PNS
(Indian tobacco) Smoker’s cough - decreases nicotine cravings; croup, OD: esophageal burning, N/V, stupor, tremor, pinpoint
Bitter glycosides (lobelacrin) Dec CO2 threshold to inc resp
pneumonia, bronchitis (spasm) pupils, rapid pulse, sinus arrhythmia, death
Cathartic
Hypertension d/t over-stimulation Tx: GI lavage, emesis
Diuretic
Smooth muscle spasm CI: Heart problems, pregnancy

Chronic larynx and bronchial mucous mem irritation

Stimulant Cough and cold with chronic catarrh, generally chilly Volatile oils used for IBS
Diterpenes (marrubin) Tonic Asthma with copious amounts of mucous that is hard to expectorate Marubin - expectorant and inc bile flow
Marrubium vulgare
Essential oils Expectorant - can hear but non-productive Anti-diabetic and anti-hypertensive
(Hoarhound)
Vitamin C Diuretic and purgative and high Dyspepsia Caution: high doses diuretic, v high doses purgative.
doses Laryngitis, hoarseness, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, smoker's CI preg: may stim uterus
cough with catarrh
Fever with URTI (common cold, sinusitis, hay fever, laryngitis)
Bronchial catarrh assoc with poor digestion
Resin/oleoresin (salicin) Expectorant Caullophyloid: anti-coagulant
Deep hoarse voice
Populus balsamifera Mucilage Anti-pyretic Salicin only activated if right microflora is present, action via
Rheumatism (topical resins), ulcerations (EO probably
(Balm of gilead) Volatile oil Anti-rheumatic COX-1 inhibition
antimicrobial)
Caullophylloid Bitter tonic CI: allergy to poplar pollen, salicylates
Nephritis

Chronic persistant irritating cough, chronic smoker Prunasin aids with digestion
Bronchitis, whooping cough Prunasin can be made into cyanide
Prunasin (source of cyanide) Anti-tussive Expectorant for profuse mucopurulent discharge OD: difficult respiration, spasms, stupor, vocal cord
Prunus serotina
Organic acids Mild sedative (specific to Heart pain due to coughing (palpitations, weak pulse, poor paralysis, twitching, convulsions, coma, death
(Wild black cherry)
Tannins, resins, VO respiratory tract) circulation) Tx: IV diazepam (seizures), GI lavage, B12 counteracts
Dyspnea, anorexia (due to bitters) cyanide
External for wounds, ulcers, opthalmias CI: preg - cyanide is teratogenic
Historically for fevers due to Yersinia pestis Sesquiterpines - inti-inflammatory (inh lipoxygenase, down
Smooth muscle spasm regulates LT synthesis)
Sesquiterpenes (petasin) Anti-spasmodic (asthma,
Petasites hybridus Smasmotic cough - asthma, whooping cough Migraine prophylaxis
Flavonoids cough, migraine, urinary tract)
(Butterburr) Poor digestion with colic, obstructed bile flow Prevents SI ulcers, dec seasonal rhinitis
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids Cholagogue
Obstructed urinary flow (especially from Gleet) Pyrrolizidine alkaloids: unsaturated are hepatotoxic and
Menstrual colic carcinogenic. No studies on saturated.
Page 2 of 33
ough
 Tickling, dry, irritated throat & cough
Burning in air passages on inspiration, anxious
Expectorant
Immune System - Cough

Red, irritated mucosa; cold extremities Isoquinoline alkaloids can cause gastric irritation, contact
Cholegogue
Stomach queasy and uneasy with nausea dermatitis
Sialogogue
Isoquinoline alkaloids - Ulcerous skin lesions (eschariotic) OD: N/V/D, irregular pulse, cold extremeties, dilated pupils,
Sanguinaria canadensis Emmenagogue
berberine, sanguinarine Amenorrhea (anemic and chilly, prone to headaches); vicarious glaucoma, severe HA, inc thirst, vertigo, shock, coma, death
(Bloodroot) Eschariotic
Organic acids (citric, malic) menses Tx: Charcoal and GI lavage, demulcent
Emetic (at high doses)
Hepatitis A (small doses) CI: preg, breast feeding
Haemostatic
Topical: Cervical dysplasia, anti-fungal (warts, scabies, ringworm) Cautions: acute angle glaucoma
Nervine
Snuff: Nasal polyps

Cold infusion: Dyspepsia with weak irritated stomach, food

Anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, antioxidant
sensitivity, poor appetitie, IBS
Carminative Mosquito prophylaxis
Warm infusion: flatulence, HA, diaphoretic
Spasmolytic Volatile oil thymol - mucosal irritant
Resins Tincture: Smasmolytic, sore throat, whooping cough
Thymus vulgaris Anti-tussive OD: N/V, heat in stomach, perspiration then chill, stupor,
Tannins Oil inhalation: asthma, lung cancer, bronchial diseae, diptheria
(Thyme) Expectorant death
Volatile oils - thymol Topical: Antiseptic, anti-microbial. Putrid pus, neuralgia, reumatic
Anti-bacterial, Anti-fungal Tx: flush with water, GI lavage
pain, dry cough
Vasodilator CI: pregnancy (b/c spasmolytic)
Encapsulated: anti-candida
Caution: dilute essential oils
Fomentation: directly on chest for cough, to warm and vasodilate

Allergic rhinitis and asthma

Alkaloids toxic to some cell lines
Tylophora asthmatica Alkaloids (tylophorine) Emetic (large doses) Asthma - chew and swallow leaf (1/day)
Anti-fungal and anti-bacterial
(Indian ipecac) Steroid Expectorant
Strong stimulation on adrenal glands - can produce cortisol
Chewing leaf can cause nausea - this is good!

Irritated mucosal membranes with cough (all types)

Spasmodic respiratory conditions: laryngitis, pharyngitis, whooping
Pyrolizidine alkaloids
cough, asthma
Triterpenoids, Volatile oils,
Tussilago farfara Anti-tussive GI catarrh, stimulates digestion because of bitters Stronger anti-tussive than expectorant. Anti-pyretic in animal
Bitter glucosides, Tannins,
(Coltsfoot) Expectorant Silicosis, chronic emphysema, scrofula studies.
Mucilage, Flavonoids,
HA with nasal obstruction and sinusitis. Vertigo from nasal
Organic acids
obstruction
Scoliosis related to pott's disease in TB
Internal: nervous bronchial irritation with dry hoarse cough,
Demulcent hoarseness, < lying. Substitute for tobacco, for sore throats,
Bio-flavonoids (hesperidin,
Anti-tussive asthma. Irritated GU, cancer of the GU systems
Verbascum thapus verbaside, accubin) Smoking in excess amounts with Datura stramonium and
Expectorant External: anodyne for otitis, rheumatic joints, ulcers, tumors,
(Mullein) Essential oils, Saponins, KNO3 may cause vertigo
GU sedative, anodyne tonsilitis, sore throat, mumps
Mucilage (leaf), resin
Diuretic (weak action) Flowers (steeped in oil): for otitis and asthma
Tea: for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, lung CA
Influenza with perspiration, cold Burning in the mouth and throat if overused
Respiratory congestion, coughs OD of straight alkaloids: stumbling, sleepiness, dilated
Alkaloids (duboisine/ Diaphoretic
Symplocarpus foetidus Wet asthma pupils
hyocyanine) Expectorant
Immune System - Cough

(Skunk cabbage) Substitue for atropine in glaucoma or fundal disease OD of entire botanical: slurred speech, dilated pupils
Gums, resins, tannic acid Anti-spasmodic
Eclectics: antidote to mushroom poison (antagonizes muscarinic (impaired vision), loss of motor control, tired, loss of
action on heart) sphincter control, inc then dec in temperature, seizure
Smoker's cough, sharp pain on coughing
Aching pectorals < deep breathing/exertion/fever
Mucilage
Anti-tussive HA with sinusitis or hayfever, sneezing/ corrhyza with hayfever
Pulmonaria offcinalis Silicic acid, silicon
Expectorant Pleurisy, acute bronchitis
(Lungwort, Sticta) Minerals (K, Mg, Ca)
Anti-rheumatic External: Mild burns and traumas, swelling, bruises,
Saponins, Tannins
haemorrhoids, elarged lymph nodes and thyroid

Page 3 of 33
Immune S
Cough with pain in shoulders, extrinsic repiratory muscles - pain to
occiput - rheumatism
Soft, wiry pulse
Muscular pain. Pains < deep breath (soreness as if bruised)
Sticta pulmonaria Chills, fever, night sweats of TB
Stictic acid
(Lungwort) Cough: raspy, wheezing, dry, persistant, especially July-Aug,
hayfever, summer influenza
Bronchitis, laryngitis, whooping cough, croup, catarrhal asthma
La grippe - hot watery mucus, thick, yellow green, bloody

Internally: Uterine hemorrhage and profuse flow; pale with cold

Dilates blood vessels: inc circulation, acts as diaphoretic
extremities. Menorrhagia and post-partum hemorrhage
Anti-microbial and anti-pyretic.
Astringent GI UPSET
Cinnamyl acetic aldehyde Analgesic for spasmodic pain in smooth muscle
Anti-spasmodic Hemoptysis
Cinnamomum cassia and ester, eugenol Internal toxicity: N/V, KI damage, coma
Carminative URTI: patient looks pale, cold, chilly and has trouble shaking
(Cinnamon) Tannins, Lignans, fiber, Tx: emesis, GI lavage, charcoal, monitor KI and LIV
Anti-microbial infections
starch enzymes.
Anti-diabetic Externally: fungal infections, over spine for coughs, over abdomen
External toxicity: redness, burning, dermatitis. Treat with
for babies with restless colic. Children for sleeping.
Immune System - Infection

water.

Excess mucous or discharge - gleet, respiratory catarrh

Laryngitis, wet asthma, bronchitis, pharyngitis - conditions with Anti-inflamm, anti-pyretic, anti-fungal, antitussive,
Resins (commiphoic acid) profuse secretions. Mucous difficult to expectorate. expectorant
Expectorant
Gum Leukorrhea or amenorrhea - dragging sensation in pelvis Schistomosiasis - eradication
Commiphora myrrh Anti-septic
Essential oil and bitter Dyspepsia with pale tongue and halitosis Non-irritating, non-sensitizing, non-phototoxic
(Myrrh) Historically for vermifuge and
(cresol) Apthous stomatitis, ulcerated throat and tonsils, gingivitis and CI: documented hypoglycemic effects, so may interfere
gangrenous ulcers
Organic acids spongy gums with anti-diabetic therapy
External: gangrene ulcers, stomatitis, inflamed mucosa Caution on preg due to emmenagogue properties

Comparable to vit E in rats

Saponins cytotoxic in some CA lines, may benefit B-amyloid
Alkaloids, tannins, iridoid Used in TCM - root is bitter, pungent & warming protein (Alzheimer's)
Dipsacus spp. glycosides, saponins, organiz Used to treat infections, especially lyme disease (Borrelia) Organic acids prevent atherosclerosis
acids, polysaccharides Muscle and tendon symptoms Polysaccharides are immune modulating: stimulate
phagocytes and lymphocytes
Terminates pregnancies
Profuse mucous discharge with poor circulation -
hypersecretion
Apthous stomatitis with halitosis, ulcers, foul stools
Myricitin has choleretic, bacteriocidal and spermatocidal
Dysentry, mucoenteritis, measles, typhoid, scarlet fever, malaria,
Flavonoids (mytricitrin) activity
Expectorant jaundice
Myrica cerifera Tannins, terpenoids Myricadiol has mineralcorticoid activity
Sialogogue Stimulates digestion if taken before meals
(Bayberry) (myticadiol), gum, resin, CI: large doses may interfere with existing hypertensive,
Astringent Stimulates blood production, nutrition in very weak (slow pulse,
starch hypotensive or steroid therapy
low temp, yellow tonge)
CI: preg (mineralcorticoid and carcinogenic)
Externally: for spongy, flabby, bleeding gums. Gargle for sore
throat or scarletina. Vaginal douche for muco-leukorrhea,
excess bleeding
Arabinogalactan: long
Chronic non-responding GU infections
branched polysacc of
Larix occidentalis Chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, rhinitis, URTIs Anti-inflamm, anti-allergic, anti-complement
glactose and arabinose Immune stimulant
(Larch) Purpura hemorrhage, passive hemorrhage Inc NK cell cytotixicity, inc phagocytosis
Trace of uronic acid
Chronic antibiotic use in children, otitis media
Tannins
Fresh leaf: refrigerant, diuretic (eaten in salad) OD: N/V/D, mucosal irritation, renal damage
Infusion: fevers and inflammation Tx: induce emesis and then give milk or water to dilute,
Rumex acetosa Oxalic acid (binds iron-fatal)
Roasted leaf: wrapped around tumors, wens, boils to induce charcoal
(Green sorrel) Anthroquinones
suppuration IV Ca gluconate for tetany and hypocalcemia, maintain
Immune System - Infection

Fresh juice: cutaneous tumors or injected into tumors fluids while monitoring BUN, Ca, 24hr creatinine
Used for treponema infections, scrofula and CA
Rumex acetosella
Patients with difficulty urinating (destructive tissue process)

Page 4 of 33
Immune System - Infection
Dry, irritated, red mucous membrances
Skin lesions that appear red moist and irritated
Alterative Blood dyscrasia (leukemia) with weakness
Alkaloids (stillingine) Toxicity due to sylvacrol (alcohol)
Stillingia sylvatica Cathartic Paroxysmal, hoarse, croupy cough, irritating, cough of cold
Alcohol (sylvacrol) OD: GI burning, D/N/V, tachycardia, muscular weakness
(Queen's root) Cholagogue winter
Gum, starch, oil and prostration
Astringent Anti-syphilitic (tertiary) - cachexia of tertiary syphilis
Weak pale sick children with anemia, anoreia, GI and LIV atony,
otitis, debility and weakness
Historical use: daily as tea to ward off disease and "give life"; bone
Alkaloids inc Ig's in cancer patients
pain and wound healing; KI cleanser; recovery post childbirth;
Anti mutagenic, appears to need ST acid for effect
gonorrhea; dysentry; female urinary tract cancer
Uncaria tomentosa/ Rynchophylline decreases BP, HR, cholesterol,
Alkaloids (rynchophylline, Infections
guainensis Immunostimulant vasodilates heart and central and peripheral BV's (inhibitis
hisutine) Female urinary tract cancer; leukemia
(Cat's claw) SNS)
PMS
Hisutine is a diuretic, decreases bladder contractions
HIV/AIDS
Arthritis, bursitis, rhematism
Historically for disinfectant for cuts, infections, fungus, impetigo
Bitter
Usnea barbata Organic acids (usnic acid, Anti-viral: use for patients refractory to Echinacea spp. Usnic acid inhibits gram + bacteria. Antidotes tetanus and
Anti-microbial: anti-bacterial,
(Old Man's Beard) barbatic acid) Rheumatoid arthritis: jts that are < from Echniacea spp diptheria toxins. Smooth muscle relaxant.
anti-fungal
Douche intravaginally for Trichomonas vaginalis
Native Americans used this for fever, GI colic and spasm, and as a
Diaphoretic
Iridoid glycosides hemostatic. Epilepsy. Glycosides are toxic, have an analgesic effect
Diuretic
(verbenanine) Fever and HA associated with cold or flu Verbanine: inc milk flow in lactation. Inhibits SNS
Verbena hastata Expectorant
Essential oil (limonene) Throat and lung congestion, with spasm nerves of heart, blood vessels, intestines, salivary glands.
(Blue vervain) Anti-periodic
Flavonoids (luteolin, Liver dysfunction, worms, jaundice Promotes blood coagulation. Inc urinary output in
Emmenagogue
scutellarin) Irregular menses with dysmenorrhea Schistosomiasis.
Galactogogue
Topically: leaves in rheumatism, wound healing, ulcers

Historically: as tea for splenitis, anemia, dysentry.

GI and LIV disorders with englarged spleen and possible GI
Organic Acids (ceonothic) bleeding: more chronic congestion/inflammation like malaria,
Alterative
Ceanothus americanus Alkaloids (integerrin) thalasemia, sickle cell anemia, mono, TB, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma Ceanothic acids inhibit bacteria that cause gingivitis
Astringent
(New Jersey Tea) Flavonoids Ciprofloxatine cased hepatosplenomegaly Useful for treatment of infections, cancer with splenomegaly
Hemostatic
Tannins Spleen hypertrophy with sallow, doughy skin and expressionless
face
Cough, bronchitis, dry cough, weak lungs

Historical: treat ulcers and nodular growths of the skin and

mucous membranes (on or under the skin)
Organic acid Lymphatic system tonic - lymphadenitis anywhere in the body
Immune System - Lymphatic System

Refrigerant
Galium aparine Iridoid glucosides Exanthem diseases (rubella, rubeola, varicella, roseola, fifth's) Decreases BP without decreasing HR
Diuretic
(Cleavers) (asperuloside) Treatment of UTI's associated with pain (anuria caused by stones, Anti-cancer for leukemia
Anti-nodular
Tannins KI and BL inflammation, gonorrhea)
External: psoriasis, eczema, lichen planus. Cancer nodules or
scrofula.
Historical use: secondary syphilis
Thyroid or Lymphatic enlargement More effective/stronger than taraxacum for Liv cleansing
GI/endocrine: bilious HA or fever with nausea <motion, vomiting, Toxicity - oleoresin (iricin).
and indigestion <fatty food. HA starts in occiput --> eyes and Topically: contact irritant. Tx: soap and water.
Oleoresins (iresin, iridin) Lymphatic alterative
forehead. Hepatitis with constipation, steatorrhea, jaundice. Acute Internally: increase salivation in very high doses (known as
Iris versicolor Organic acid (salicylic acid) Cholegogue
diarrhea/dysentry. Chronic pancreatitis especially with vegetable Hg). Tx: decrease dose.
(Blue flag) alpha-phytosterol, volatile oil, Laxative (with fresh root and/ or
splenomegaly: blanched or pale skin (anemia), dropsy (due to OD: Oral/GI/esophageal burning, N/V/D with heat in
gum, tannins higher doses)
stones and excessive alcohol consumption) rectum, GI colic, HA.
Reproductive system: uterine hypertrophy and enlarged ovary. Tx: flush with saline cathartic, emesis, GI lavage, monitor
Leukorrhea. Ulceration of cervical os (HPV). Spermatorrhea. hydration and electrolytes
Skin: greasy and oily. Eczema, acne, psoriasis, pigmentation

Page 5 of 33
Immu
Purgative: enhances peristalsis, may produce gastric pain
and severe diarrhea in large doses
Historical use: diptheria
Convulsive: increases resp and BP, after longer use
Saponins (phytolaccagenin) Hard, indurated, painful, glandular swellings (orchitis due to
Lymphatic respiration and HR decrease
Lectins mumps, mastitis, diptheria)
Phytolacca americana Anti-viral Diuretic: increase blood flow to KI
Formic acid, tannins, Oral: pale mucosa, ulcerations, cough, sore throat, SOB,
(Poke root) Emetic <10 berries fatal in thildren. <2g root.
phytolaccotoxin diptheria, difficult respiration due to extent of illnees
Purgative, Laxative OD: N/V tingling throughout body, hypotension, resp failure,
Alkaloid (phytolaccine) External: conjunctivitis, mastitis, lymphadenopathy, ulcers/
plasmocytosis, death
hemorrhoids, blisters
Tx: emesis, GI lavage, monitor vitals, diazepam if
convulsing
Deep colicky lumbar pain with unseasy sensation from KI and
hips to umbilicus and genitals (tip of urethra)
Chronic GB problems with low ST acid
Urinary atony and decreased KI fxn leading to dropsy, dribbling
GU System

Volatile oils
Genitourinary tonic with cough May cause photosensitivity and hypoglycemia
Agrimonia eupatoria Bitters
Astringent Cyctitis, incontinence, gonorrhea, catarrhal discharge Hypotensive in high doses
(Agrimony) Tannins
Bitter Urine has a muddy smell and look Hypertensive in low doses
Coumarin (agrimol)
UTI with dropsy
Chronic mucous discharge: leukorrhea, icterus/itchy skin, TB
HA on side of head
External: throat, mouth, tongue ulcers (gargle)
Frequent dysuria (irritable bladder) - pain extends to the back
Chronic cystitis, incipient nephritis (early stages)
Saponins (laevulose, triticin)
Weak diuretic Discharge with urination, gonorrhea
Agropyron repens Organic acid (malic acid,
Anti-irritant Enlarged prostate, chronic prostatitis - often with hematuria Non-toxic
(Couch grass) silicic acid)
Prostatic herb and Tonic Gravel/sediment in urine
B carotene
Gout, rheumatism, joint pain
Europe: spring tonic to get KI working after long winter
Historical use: anuria
Anuria, urethral and cystic irriation, burning, stinging pain with
constant desire to urinate and little urine produced
Ascites, post-scarlatina ascites
Ovarian congestion, cyst with menorrhagia, amenorrhea, edema of
Urethral sedative external genitalia
Apis mellifica Anaphylaxis in acutely allergic individuals, may develop from
Anti-histamine Swollen sore throat with edema, diff swallowing
(Honey Bee) repeated exposures.
Diuretic Urticaria, hives, injury with swelling
Injuries producing swelling/stinging/burning pains
Rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis - Apitherapy - allow a bee to
sting one joint, increase by one bee eact visit
Especially useful in autoimmune conditions
Angina, dropsy
Chronic urinary bladder irritation with a lot of pain, tenesmus,
catarrh, cystitis Increase anti-inflamm effect of prednisolone
Blood, mucus discharge from GU tract (gonorrhea/leukorrhea) Inhibits cell maturation of B lymphocytes
Genitourinary System

Glycosides: arbutin Genitourinary sedative

Weight, dragging or heaviness in loins/urinary tract/ perineal Arbutin and methylarbutin undergo enzymatic reaction in
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi Flavonoid: quercitin Renal anti-septic
area, enlarged prostate alkaline environment
(Bearberry) Resins, Tannins, gallic and Not a diuretic
Sensation UB has lost muscle tone, sensation of a presence in Avoid long term use to tannins
ellagic acids
prostate region Symptoms of long term use: GI irritation
GI infection: H. pylori CI: pregnancy (oxytocic)
Alkaline urine
Chronic inflammation of UB and urethral mucus membranes,
Volatile oils (diosphenol, cystitis
Volatile oil diosphenol: may darken urine with brownish
pulegone) Urethral irritation with copious mucopurulent discharge (gleet)
Renal anti-septic precipitate, may cause change in urine odor
Barosma betulina Glycoside (diasmon) Uric acid crystals
Diuretic (weak action) OD: Gastroenteritis, strangury/spasm
(Buchu) Bioflavonoid (similar to Acid urine, constant urgency but no relief with micturation
Carminative Volatile oil - pulegone: uterine stimulation and mucosal
hesperidin) Prostate incontinence
irritation in mice, therefore caution in pregnancy
Ethone, mucilage, Mn For some people their urine will turn brown and may develop a
new odor

Page 6 of 33
 Irritation in the GU tract
Glycoside (arbutin) Alkaline urine
Arbutin: undergoes enzymatic reaction in alkaline
Organic acids (ursolic Catarrh of the bladder with offensive urine, mucus in urine,
Chimaphila umbellate Genitourinary anti-septic environment (kidneys) to become hydroquinone and glucose
acid) mucupurulent urine, hematuria, burning dysuria
(Pipsissewa) Kidney tonic Contact dermatitis from volatile oils in fresh plant
Methyl salicylate Chronic protatic irritation, prostatitis with discharge, gonorrhea
leaves
Tannin Scrofula associated with inguinal lymphadenopathy, with
prostatic/urinary tract symptoms
Thiaminase: causes B1 deficiency - caution for long
Internal: Dropsy and supression of urination with dysuria, irritation
term use
of UB. Dropsy of legs, <after menopause. Hematauria due to
Aconitic acid (highest in fresh plant)
gravel/stones. Nocturnal enuresis, chronic UTIs, gleet, Connective
Saponins Chronic deficiency: Beri-beri (wet is CHF, edema. Dry is
tissue weakness (hair, nails); tendon and ligament problems
Equisetum arvense Silica Diuretic neurological)
External: Sitz bath for female pelvis spasm, muscle tone
(Horsetail) Aconitic/equisetic acid, Astringent Tx: GI lavage, emesis, charcoal
changes in pelvis (PMS). Chilbains (frostbie with tingling, burning,
salicilic acid, mucilage CI: hypertension, CV conditions because it may
irritation, itching, chapping, damp cold exposure). Arthritis (RA/OA),
increase potassium excretion, in vitro it has increased
limb fracture. Weak tendons and ligaments, flat arches, eczema,
platelet coagulation
neruodermatitis. Post thrombotic swelling.
Caution CV drugs
Dissolves renal calculi
Edema/dropsy from renal insufficiency, post scarlatina dropsy
Dysuria with frequency, pain and weight from thighs to bladder,
Eupatorium purpureum Oleoresins (euparin, Diuretic milky urine, mucus urine
Euparin: diuretic, anti-lithic
(Gravel root) eupurpurin) Anti-lithic Hematuria from prostatitis
Incontinence from BL irritation in children and in pregnancy
Gout, rhematism
Chronic cough, chronic catarrh, asthma, whooping cough
Aids in the passage of stones
Pain of passing kidney calculus/gravel Does not dissolve stones but eases the irritation they cause
Glucoside (hydrangin)
Acute nephritis on passing
Hydrangea arborescens Acids (sulphuric, phosphoric) Renal sedative
Chronic gleet OD: vertigo, oppression of chest
(Seven barks) Saponins Litholithic
Urethral mucus irritation, especially in post menopausal females Tx: Decrease dose or stop use altogether, can also give
Mucilage
Hepatic pain or irritation white salts or crystals
Irritated bronchi (soothes mucous membranes)

Renal atonia with catarrh/mucus - increases GFR Volatile oils (thujone)

Diuretic Irritation of UB due to gleet, cystitis, pyelonephritis Acute symptoms: catharsis
Volatile oils (pinene,
Bacteriostatic Gout, arthritis with many neurological, muscle, and tendon sx Chronic symptoms: Albuminuria, nephrosis with
Juniperus communis cadinene, camphene)
Anti-septic Dropsy post scarlatina hematuria, oliguria, personality changes, convulsions
(Juniper) Sesquiterpene lactones
Other: urinary sedative, digestive Ascites in chilren Tx: Discontinue use, fluids, monitor electrolytes
(thujone)
aid (due to bitter) Gargle for cough, sore throat, colds; a gentle expectorant CI: pregnancy, lactation
Genitourinary System

Cutting pain Caution with weak kidneys

Dropsy, post-scarlatina dropsy

Oil antimicrobial for UTIs and may stimulate hepatic
Anuria, urinary retention
regenration
Diuretic Gonorrhea
Parsley oil Apiol: causes spasms in SI
Carminitive Diuretic for obesity, edema, dropsy, inc BP, night sweats from
Petroselinum sativum Volatile oil (apiol) OD: sense of body heat, vertigo, headache, tinnitus, visual
Nutrient vitamin A, C: Ca, Fe consumption, TB
(Parsley) Fatty oil change, scintillation (light flashes), N/V/D, urticaria, swollen
Emmenagogue (high doses) Amenorrhea due to ovarian inactivity, secondary amenorrhea
Vit A, C, Ca, Iron liver with icterus
Anti-microbial Carminative for gas/colic
Tx: discontinue use, GI lavage, monitor fluids
External for lice, insect bites/stings, englarged glands: lymph,
CI: preg (causes spasms), duodenal ulcers and crohns
thyroid, breasts
Difficult, scanty dark urine due to acute/chronic nephritis
Albuminuria, anuria, urinary obstruction: increases KI function
therefore decreases albumin output (does not dilute it; may be due
"Goldenrod rust" - coleosporin solidagenesis - avoid if
Volatile oil (pinene, Diuretic to flavonoids)
dark mold spots on leaves - can cause abortion,
Solidago odora candinene) Renal tonic Anuria/oligura in hemorrhagic nephritis
emanciate, or kill animals
(Goldenrod) Saponins Carminitive Flatulence, vomiting, due to stomach cramps/nausea
Volatile oils toxic in large doses
Flavonoids Expectorant Convalescence after cholera, dysentry, diarrhea (aids in gastric
Tx: cease or avoid use
function)
Respiratory expectorant for bronchitis and catarrh
Amenorrhea

Page 7 of 33
 Urinary incontinence, senile dribbling
Enuresis in children due to infection or irritation
Alpha-thujone (volatile oil) - irritant to CNS, HT stimulant
Volatile oils (thujone, alpha- GU catarrh, gonorrhea
OD: GI irritant, convulsions (cerebral lesions), hypotension,
thujone, pinene) Diuretic Chronic prostatitis
Thuja occidentalis coma, death
Prinipicrin (bitter glycoside GU anti-septic Fever, cough, bronchitis (aids expectoration)
(Yellow cedar) Tx: emesis, GI lavage, cathartic, monitor heart, establish
similar to quercetin) Emmenagogue External for: anal fissures, anal/rectal prolapse, warts,
respiration, seizures (IV diazepam)
Tannins condylomata, syphilic chancre, leukorrhea, gonorrhea, trachoma,
CI: pregnancy (abortifacient)
gangrene, ulcers, bed sores, malignant growth, Bronchitis,
diptheria, coup
Irritations of GU mucus membranes
Chronic cystitis, renal catarrh and mucus in urine
Essential oils (cineol, cymol,
Respiratory system: mucus, hypersecretion with cough from
pinene)
Turnera aphrodisiaca irritation
Arbutin Urinary nervine
(Damiana) Impotence or frigidity associated with sexual nervousness,
Hydrocyanic glycoside
anxiety, depression, neurosis, excess sex or age
Bitters, tannins, resins
Irritation and burning in urinary tract or in colds and coughs when
the person has lots of mucus; as if drowing in the mucus

Uterine hemorrhage Formic acid: causes stinging and raised red irritation of the
Anti-hemorrhagic Poor milk production skin. Tx: avoid contact, water
Urtica urens
Formic acid Astringent Painful burning with cystitis CI: pregnancy - uterine contraction
(Dwarf stinging nettle)
Galactogogue Nettle juice: increases urine excretion Caution with diuretic meds so as not to exacerbate diuresis
Myocardial insufficiency to decrease load on heart Anti-dote: rumex spp, platago major

Excess mucous discharge: chronic cystitis, diarrhea/dysentry,

Genitourinary System

Symptom relief for BPH. Inhibits SHBG, inhibits prostate cell

gastric secretions with emesis/eructations, colonic mucous
metabolism and growth
discharge. Infant cholera.
Anti-inflammatory: decreses number of cytokines,
Astringent BPH (nocturia, dysuria, urinary retention - root preferred)
decreases acute phase proteins, asthma
Galactagogue Nutritive: anemia, recovery from chronic illness
Urtica dioica Formic acid (and lots of other Better than placebo for allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
Diuretic Decreased capillary fragility
(Stinging nettle) stuff!) MI, decreases BP, CNS depressant in high doses
Rubefacient Gout and rheumatism
Toxicity: contact dermatitis from formic acid. Tx: avoid
Counter-irritant (fresh herb) Deficient lactation in nursing mothers
contact and flush with water. Rumex spp to antidote and
Post traumatic swellings
cool skin.
External: rubifacient for eczema, neuraliga and rhematic pain:
Caution in preg.
lumbago, sciatica, tendonitis, sprain. Warts. Alopecia.

Dysuria - burning and cutting at close of urination

Inhibits E. coli from adhering to urinary tract cells -
Bitter glucosides (oxyoccin - Nagging tenderness in bladder and urethra; chronic cystitis
fructose inhibits adhesion and slows replication; lectins may
similar to arbutin) Urinary anti-septic Cloudy and bloody urine (+ leukocytes, nitrates)
Vaccinium macrocarpon attach to bacterial wall and cause lysis; proanthrocyanidins
Organic acids Anti-inflammatory Post menopausal women
(Cranberry) are antiox and maybe anti-carcinogenic
Anthrocyanins Prophylactic Gargles for tonsilitis, sore throat, scarlatina
Some efficacy in bladder CA
Fructose Topical: poultice for boils on nose, acne, and resistant
Non toxic
ulcerations, swollen cervical glands, malg ulcers, erisipelas

UT inflammation/irritation (UB/urethral tract), Chronic cystitis, Slight diuretic effect caused by NaCl secretion: may
Diuretic anura, gonorrhea. Bladder symptoms in children effect BP (hypotensive due to diuresis)
Zea mays Volatile oils
GU sedative (for spasm and Renal calculi, gravel, phosphate and uric acid crystals Decrease blood glucose - rabbits
(Corn silk) Organic acids, sugars, gums
irritation) Dropsy of KI or HT origin, tonic to circulatory system (heart and Increase secretion of bile
peripheral blood vessels) Increased platelet counts and PT

Page 8 of 33
 Plant Constituents Actions Indications Pharmacology/Toxicity

Atonia in tissue with lots of discharge

Water extracts: anti-inflammatory
Passive haemorrhage: hematuria, anal and uterine haemorrhoids
Volatile oils (trace of thujone) Alkaloids: hypotensive, antipyretic, antibacterial
Urinary irritation: painful cystitis
Lactones (achillin, milefin) Hemostatics Sesquiterpines: used in leukemia models
Achillea millefolium Menorrhagia with uterine spasm/pelvic pain
Bioflavinoids Stomachic (gastric bitter) Thujone is toxic: GI irritant and CNS stimulant. Acts as emmenagogue, abortifacent. May be lost
(Yarrow) Bitter: stomach, liver dysfunction, poor digestion
Bitters Anti-inflammatory in drying process. Other sx: convulsions.
URTI with fever.
Alkaloids Caution: when combining with H2 anatagonist, proton pump inhibitors because it inc HCl
External as a poutice for bleeding, trauma, leukorrhea
production. Anti-coagulant therapy, pregnancy.
Prostate bleeding, esp. post TURP

Historically used for post-partum hemorrhage

Passive haemorrhage, menorrhagia, metrorrhagia
Volatile oils Haemorrhage due to uterine myomas
Contraction in non-intact uterus and intestines
Capsella bursa- Choline like constituence Diuretic Frequent/chronic colourless vaginal leukorrhea
Bursic acid: hemostatic only with increased concentrations
pastoris Diosmin, Bioflavonoids, Astringent Diarrhea and dysentry associated with bleeding haemorrhoids
Alcohol extracts given IV temporarly decrease BP
(Sheppard's purse) Organic acids Anti-hemorrhagic Hematuria or urinary tract bleeding; pain assoc with renal stones
CI: pregnancy: emmenagogue and uterine stimulant properties
Related to brassica family Works best with alkaline urine
Externally: bruises, traumas and rheumatic joints
Controls bleeding

Delayed labour: feeble circulation with signs of edema in both feet and face;
weakness and coldness Ergotamine used as a drug for migraine headaches (with caffeine)
Weak uterine contractions, no dilation of the os Alkaloids: cause contractions, especially in uterus
Alkaloids (ergotamine)
Used in final stages of pregnancy, low doses in false labour pains with Acute OD: HA. N/V/D, dec temp, edema of head and extremities, miscarriage, muscular twitching,
Ergotic/ergotinic acid,
sensation of weight in pelvis convulsions, coma, death from respiratory and/or cardia paralysis
sclerotic
Claviceps purpurea Hemostatic Active haemorrhage; post-partum haemorrhage (DO NOT administer if Chronic OD: develop gangrenous conditions, tingling, altered circulation, reddened or cyanotic
(Rye ergot) Motor excitant anything remains in the uterus) extremities, sanguinous fluits from vesicles/ulcers, tissue sloughs, cataracts
Clavicititaceae family
Congestive headache with sense of venous fullness in head, vertigo, Chronic low dose: spasms, tremor, vertigo with convulsions, tinnitus, photophobia, HA, V/D, both
Grows on rye, wheat,
tinnitus, hemiplegia mental and physical depression
barley
Chronic mania and epileptic mania Tx: GI lavage or saline cathartic - may need heat and O2
Feeble circulation with dilated pupils, palor and cold to touch CI: early preg and 1st and 2nd stages of labor but ok after placenta has been delivered
Hypotensive conditions: orthostatic hypotension, sclerosis

Capillary bleeding from various organs

Watery diarrhea: gushing/sudden, cholera
Epistaxis (leaves snuffed)
Passive haemorrhage: hematuria, hemoptosis, hematemesis,
Erigeron canadense Essential oils Astringent
meno/metrorrhagia Volatile oil is oxytocic: CI pregnancy.
(Canadian fleabane) Tannic and gallic acid Hemostatic
Hyperurination associated with DM - acts on kidneys (KM, albuminuria,
inflammation of UB/uretrha, gonorrhea)
Hemostatic Herbs

External: oil for hemorrhoids, small bleeding wounds, boils. Gargled for sore
throat. Topical for tympanitis.

Relaxed mucosal tissues with profuse discharge

Salivation from use of mercury
Galic acid Chronic mucusy diarrhea, D with constant urge to defecate; used for
Calcium oxalate dysentry as a milk infusion Robert's formula was to treat gastric ulcer bleed: Geranium, echinacea, hydrastis, althea.
Geranium maculatum Starches, sugars, pectin, Astringent Passive haemorrhage, epistaxis, bleeding from wounds Powdered and put in capsules. Patient took 2. Bastyr added baptisia. If in stomach he added
(Geranium) gum Hemostatic Particularly effective for gastric ulcers and GI bleeding powdered powedered stomach or in intestine, powdered duodenum. Hybiscus esculentus was also
Bioflavinoid quercitin Gargled for apthous ulcers or apthous stomatitis considered (ochra)
Phlobaphenetannin Leukorrhea and gleet
Hematuria and menorrhagie, bleeding haemorrhoids
Sore throat, swollen tonsils, ulcerated gums

Relaxed mucosal tissues with unhealthy discharge, chronic mucous.

Diarrhea with mucus, D with periodic fevers
Tannins Haemorrhoids
Hemostatic
Quercus alba Phlobatannin --> External: gargle for chronic cough, sore throat, tonsilitis. Leukorrhea
Anti-septic
(White/red oak) phlobaphene (douche). Apply to weeping eczema, leg ulcers. Compress for varicose
Astringent
Gallic acid veins or broken capillary bed, bleedin traumas. Rinse or wash for burns.
Compress for eye inflammation.
Note: make sure discharge is not part of the healing process.

Passive uterine haemorrhage, both meno and metrorrhagia, often due to

uterine myomas
Glycosides (trillin, trillarin) Hemostatic Hemoptosis, hematuria, epistaxis
Trillium pendulatum
Tannins Nervine Leukorrhea
(Trillium)
Starches Anti-spasmodic Diarrhea and dysentry (use boiled root)
Ulcers, tumors, swellings (boiled leaf in lard)
Poultice for bubos, insect bites, gangrene, anthrax
 Post-partum hemorrhage with prolonged lochial discharge
Late pregnancy with false labour pains or other unpleasant pelvic
sensations, "twinges" in the pelvic region
Hemostatic
Passive hemorrhage from lungs or bowels
Alkaloid (ustilagine) Oxytocic OD: produces tonic convulsions, causing death by tetanus or exhaustion. Loose heair, hooves,
Ustilago segetum Improves cerebral blood circulation: imparted crebral circ with vertigo, HA in
Fixed oils (not volatile) Cerebralspinal stimulant - like teeth. Abortion.
(Corn smut) vertex and disordered vision
Rexins, wax, organic acids Claviceps (claviceps more CI: pregnancy
Weak capillary and venous circulation
useful)
Prolapsed, boddy, flabby uterus
Dys/meno/metrorrhagia
Weak uterine contractions but used primarily after delivery

Historically - Hemorrhoids due to dysentery/diarrhea. Aescin: Prevents alterations in vein wall, and inhibits adherence of (PMNs) to the wall of the vein
Vascular engorgement: Leads to dull aching pain, throbbing sensation in Varicose veins: ↓ capillary permeability
veins (not Chronic venous insufficiency: equal to compression therapy
arteries); general feeling of fullness & malaise Europe: Use IV for post-operative tissue swelling – especially concussions (and other edema
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI): Varicose veins (these people will tell associated with trauma)
you their legs ache and/or are very tired Toxicity - Fairly safe long term- 1 case of liver damage reported with IV
Glycoside lactones (aesculin) Vascular congestion (hemorrhoids; class II or III) in the rectum: Large, Aesculin: Mucous irritant, ↑ anti-thrombin activity ↑ bleeding time, nerve stimulation
Aesculus Astringent
Saponins (aescin = escin) purple, don’t bleed, sense of fullness in rectum (patient feels like they Toxic/Fatal: A few nuts can cause severe symptoms and have been reported to be fatal to children.
hippocastanum Vasoconstrictive
Rutin and hesperidin for have to have a bowel movement); hemorrhoids from D Seed coat is neutralized by roasting
(Horse Chestnut) Expectorant (weak action)
vascular fragility Vascular wall fragility: Leading to edema or exudate; leg swelling OD: Nausea, vomiting/emesis, diarrhea, vertigo, incoordination, paralysis, increased core
Visceral neuralgia temperature (fever), visual changes (strabismus & amblyopia), opisthotonus (rigid supine arch;
Edema of the urethral mucosa (varicosity of urethra) uncommon), stupor, elevated state, coma, death from respiratory failure/paralysis, possible elation
Hepatic aching (aching pains over the liver) Tx: Charcoal, emesis, gastrointestinal lavage, monitor fluids &
External:Ointment, gel or oil: Apply morning and evening to varicose veins electrolytes, oxygen
or hemorrhoids; Contact dermatitis from contact with seed or husk of seed (Tx: Flush
also useful externally for painful night leg cramps with water and drink lots of water)

Gastric ulcerations, indigestion Terpenoids, Volatile/Essential Oil’s and Flavonoids: Anti-inflammatory

Hepatic congestion Glycosides: Inhibit lipoxygenase activity (therefore anti-oxidant)
External/Topical: Polysaccharides: Immunostimulant
Gargle for gingivitis, stomatitis, oral ulcers Anti-viral and anti-bacterial effects
Flavonoids
Skin traumas: Cuts, scrapes, scalds, burns, acne, perineal lacerations during Animal studies: Reduces edema and inflammation and increases regeneration &
Terpenoids
delivery epithelialization of animals with surgical wounds
Carotenoid pigments (beta-
Skin disease: Ulcer, abscess, vaginitis, cervicitis, cervical erosion, diaper Clinically compared to indomethacin (NSAID): Equally effective antiinflammatory action (without
Calendula officinalis carotene, lycopene) Vulnerary
rash gastrointestinal side effects)
(Marigold) Bitters resins Anti-septic
Skin conditions: Psoriasis, eczema, pruritis Toxicity
Polysaccharides
In nostril for irritated nasal mucosa Fairly non-toxic but one reported case of anaphylaxis
(arabinogalactans)
Gonococcal leucorrhea (as a douche or rinse): via catherization Sx: Irritated skin, red, burning
Saponins
Conjunctivitis (pinkeye): Eyewash, poultice, compress of fresh flowers 35 yo female - cervical dysplasia - can substitute Hamamelis virginiana in this case
Suppurative conditions with a lot of purulent discharge 75 yo male after scratch to arm
Varicose veins Tx: Rinse with water and cease use
In eschariotic protocol for HPV - soothing afterwards Caution with individuals that are allergic to other plants in the Asteraceae family
Integumentary Herbs
Integumentary Herbs

Sense of constriction in larynx, anus, sense of weight (with or without

heat), venous engorgement (a.k.a. hemorrhoids)
Hemorrhoids from constipation; as if foreign body is lodged in the rectal vault
Spasms & contractions in rectum & peritoneum
Hemorrhoids are bluish (veins are blue)
Chronic/Acute laryngitis, pharyngitis: Larynx walls are relaxed with dark
Volatile oils (caryophyllene,
discoloration of the pharyngeal wall, feeble capillary circulations; clergyman’s
germacrene D, limonene, α
throat (from overuse of voice)
and β-pinene)
Chronic bronchitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, chronic phthisis with irritating
o The volatile oils have
cough
Collinsonia canadensis vasodilatory, warming, and Mucous astringent Generally a safe herb
Follicular tonsillitis: Pus exuding from the folds (pus can be any color
(Stone root, horse anti-microbial effects Stomachic OD (excess amounts): Gastrointestinal irritation, colic, painful micturation, nausea, vertigo
and there is often a foul halitosis) - QUINSY
balm) o The volatile oils are also Circulatory tonic CI: Pregnancy, especially in the 3rd trimester
Varicosities of the legs; varicosities of vaginal wall and extremities
released into the air giving
(commonly during pregnancy)
the plant its aroma
Heart tonic: Heart affected by chronic fevers (i.e. rheumatic fevers,
Organic acids, Mucilage,
rheumatic inflammation), overstrain – strengthens heart and improves
Resins, Tannin, Saponins
circulation
Stomachic for feeble circulation, poor muscle tone, gastritis and catarrh:
Improves apetite, digestion & assimilation
External: Sitz bath/injection for piles (hemorrhoids)
Green leaves applied to poison ivy, poison oak, vesicular dermatitis
Injected into vagina for vaginal varicosities
 Ecclectic use: herpetic iritis - use opthalmic solution
Opthalmias: Catarrhal with redness, swelling and visual disturbances
Acute inflammations: Conjunctivitis, blepharitis, inflammation of blood
vessels
Profuse lacrimal discharge with pus or water mucus Caffeic acid: Bacteriostatic
Discharges from eye and nose are acrid with heat and pain in frontal Iridoid glycosides: Purgative in high doses
sinuses Tannins: Astringent properties
Iridoid glycosides (acubin)
Eye trauma (bruise), Eye fatigue, Risk of corneal ulcer (herpes iritis) There is controversial research on its effectiveness with cataracts (internal and/or external use);
Euphrasia officinalis Volatile oil (caffeic acid) Mucosal constrictor
Fluent corrhyza’s: Profuse watery discharge, hoarseness, earache, cough, Acetyl-O-carnosine can also be used for cataracts topically because they permeate through the
(Eyebright) Mannit, Sugar, Tannins, Vasoconstrictor
headache cornea into the intra-ocular space acting as an anti-oxidant and causing tissue regeneration
Bitter
Bronchitis Very safe
Gastric catarrh: 1 cup of infusion on empty stomach on rising and at bed OD (one case): Mental confusion, severe headache, lachrimation, sneezing, nausea,
time insomnia, polyuria, sweating
External: Eye conditions with fluent corrhyza; catarrhal ophthalmia with lots
of discharge
Hordeolum’s (Stye’s), Gargle for throat & oral irritations; use decoction for
inflammations of oral and throat mucosa

Ecclectic use: Post partum uterine hemorrhage - 1 tsp q 10min (ustilgo

more effective)
Historical use: Soak a towel and give to teething infants to chew on
(Syzygium aromaticum oil is another option for its anodyne effect)
Hemorrhoids, Passive hemorrhage (non traumatic): Hematemesis,
hemoptysis
Phthisis; Severe diarrhea/dysentery with lots of mucous & pale complexion,
relaxed (boggy) tissue
Varicose veins: Reddish color behind or underneath with relaxed feel to
veins
Safrole: Carcinogenic in high doses but only present in low doses in H. virginiana
Enlarged cervix: Mucousy leukorrhea or discharge where there is prolapse or
Tannins: Precipitate proteins, tighten superficial cells (useful for edematous or leaking capillaries,
Tannins (hamamelitannin - bleeding
reduces inflammation & edema, shrinks the colloidal structures causing capillary constriction); high
10-12%) Uterine hemorrhage: irritation of the urethral mucosa; irritating cystitis;
doses of tannins have been shown to increase risk of esophageal, nasal and liver cancers (i.e. tea
Dextrose Astringent mucous urination; post partum hemorrhage
Hamamelis virginiana drinkers but would need 15-20 cups of tea/day)
Wax (phytosterin)15 Anti-inflammatory Bleeding from the eye (optic hemorrhage)
(Witch Hazel) Witch hazel water produced by distillation has little tannins left – they add isopropyl alcohol for the
Flavonoids Hemostatic External: Best as a cold/cool compress
astringent property
Choline Vaginal douche for leukorrhea & hemorrhage
Sx: Red, irritated skin, contact dermatitis
Volatile oils (safrole) Hemorrhoids: Cream, sitz bath or retention enema, suppository (can add
Tx: Rinse avoid use
Vitamin A and E), better to use topically for hemorrhoids after each bowel
Prevention: 3 days on, 4 days off over 3-4 weeks37
movement or before bed.
Conjunctivitis, Tonsillitis, diptheria (gargle); nasal/sinus wash, Sore throat
Compress over sore abdominal muscles after childbirth
Topical: Burns, cuts, scrapes, abrasions, insect bites, itchy skin, sunburn,
irritated skin after shaving
Compress: Sore muscles, bruises, cold, flu
Irritated skin: Sun, shaving, over dilated capillaries on back of hand
Substitute for people sensitive to Calendula officinalis
Can also use in between nursing to “toughen up nipples”; mastitis
Teething: Have infant chew on towel soaked in Hamamelis to numb gums
Integumentary Herbs

Internal: Flatulence with gastric debility: Foods sits in the stomach and does S. plebeia & S. officinale: Anti-asthmatic effect, decrease histamine production in guinea pigs with
not digest induced asthma
Volatile oils - 2.5% (Thujone
Poor digestion and anorexia S. miltiorrhizae: Hypotensive effect, dilates peripheral blood vessels.
- up to ½ of volatile oils,
Very cold extremities; easily chilled – infusion helps to warm patient up S. plebeian, S. miltiorrhizae, S. officinalis: Inhibition of Staphylococcus spp., E. coli, Proteus, B.
salvene, pinene, camphor,
Sore throats, ulceration or inflammation of the throat dysentery, B. Typhi
cineol, borneol)
Salvia officinalis Astringent Peritonsillar abscess; tonsillar catarrh (gargle q 1-2 h) S. miltiorrhizae: Inhibition of M. tuberculosis reproduction
Salvene esthers (similar to
(Garden/Red sage) Anti-bacterial Stomatitis, gingivitis All species have fungostatic and virustatic properties
volatile oils)
Cystitis where patient is weak and chilly ↓ Alzheimer’s disease symptoms
Tannins
Post-lactation: To dry up milk production Toxicity OD (from Sage oil): Dry mouth, irritated mucosa, estlessness, tremor, tachycardia,
Beta-carotene
External: Gargle (q1-2h in acute stage) for laryngitis, pharyngitis, stomatitis, convulsions, Kidney damage Tx: Gastrointestinal lavage
Bitters
gingivitis, glossitis tonsillar catarhh. CI Pregnancy (potential emmenagogue): May ↓ milk production (thujone)
Fresh crushed leaf on warts q 12 h Cautions Thujone: Possible teratogenic properties and reduces milk supply
 S. canadensis Flower (Internal):
Nasal catarrh or obstruction, sinusitis, nasal obstruction in infants & children
Skin: Edematous, full, flabby, pitting; discharge of serum from skin and
mucous membranes, post scarlatina dropsy
Skin ulcers: Soft with soft edges, skin deterioration, mucous (diabetic S. nigra: Increases bronchial mucous secretions, soothing to mucous membranes, diuretic, anti-
or associated varicose veins) inflammatory, anti-viral
Colds, flus and chills: Warming infusion to bring perspiration, Scrofula S. formosana: Hepatoprotective effects (animal studies)
Throughout plant:
Flower (External): Rinse skin, burn, scalds, eczema, ulcer with soft edge; Toxicity S. canadensis:
• Volatile oils
rheumatism Edematous skin with serum discharge, Can be extracted in lard, Sambunigrin (cyanogenic glycoside): Found throughout plant (greater amounts in the bark),
• Quercitin Flower: Diaphoretic,
olive oils, for burns destroyed with heating
Sambucus canadensis • Rutin astringent
Berry: Rheumatism, especially wtih sciatica and other neuralgias OD: Headache, nausea, vomiting, vertigo, gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, tachycardia,
(Elderberry) • Tannic acid Berry: Anti-rheumatic
Used to stimulate appetite convulsions
• Mucilage Bark: Purgative
Made into wine, 1 oz of berry juice can be purgative Tx: Gastrointestinal lavage then charcoal, IV diazepam for convulsions
In the berries, inner bard and
Inner bark: Cathartic effects with doses of 15-30 ml of fresh juice; emetic in S. ebulus: Root:
leaf: cyanogenic glycoside
large doses Contains slightly different cyanogenic gycosides than S. canadensis
S. nigra: Internal: OD: Vomiting, bloody diarrhea, headache, dizziness, unconsciousness, death
Bark: Constipation, helps with anuria or poor urinary output Fruit: Raw plant: Nausea (no side effects when cooked; ripe fruit OK too)
Flowers: Induce sweat during fevers
External: Flowers: Rinse for burns, scalds, eczema, ulcerations with soft
edges, compress for rheumatism, compress for 1st and 2nd degree burns (in
lard or olive oil)

Sarrecind and platyphylline: Reduces gastrointestinal ulcerations & hypermobility decreases spasm
and irritation
Allantoin: Binds cornified layers together, moistens & prevents drying; positive effect on keratin by
helping skin and keratin to hold water
Heavily used in WW1 for wounds infested by maggots: Healing is due to Increases epithelial growth of skin (burns and ulcers)
allantoin secretion Increases leukocyte infiltration, reduces necrotic tissue
Leaf: Mucilage, Tannins,
Internal, Root: Increases granulation tissue in wounds
Allantoin
Dysentery or diarrhea, often bloody, Uterine, bowel, kidney bleeding Reduces inflammation in wounds (animal trauma studies)
Unsaturated pyrolizidine
Cough with hemoptysis or with pulmonary exudate of mucous & blood (TB, Rosmarinic acid: Anti-inflammatory, inhibits microvascular pulmonary injury
alkaloids/UPA’s (symhytine,
pneumonia - cough is persistent and difficult to stop) Ankle sprain, Psoriasis: Increases peeling of lesions without exasperating symptoms when applied
echimidine)
Root and/or leaf: Gastrointestinal ulcers especially in the stomach topically, Leg ulcers, Molluscum contagiosum (also responds to dec dairy in diet), Burns and scalds,
Rosmarinic acid
External, Fresh leaf: Parasitic eczema of hands and feet (with cracks), HPV of the hand, Pyoderma or boils, Epicondylitis:
Symphytum officinale Root - Includes all of the Vulnerary
Poultice or compress on leg ulcers (decubitus and diabetic - only when there Reduced inflammation when used topically as a salve
(Comfrey) constituents in the leaf plus Demulcent
is still healthy pink granulation tissue present; if gangrenous or necrotic Toxicity In Canada, not approved for internal use
the following: Inulin UPA's
tissue is present, it is necessary to use a debriding herb like Sanguinaria Symphtine, echimidine (UPA’s): Limit UPA intake to 100 mcg/year, for a maximum of 4-6 weeks per
(asparagine), >10 times the
canadensis first) year (some references suggest limiting UPA use to 10-100 цg/day)
UPA’s of the leaf, Saturated
Bruises, sprains, wounds, trauma – especially with suppuration or infection, Chronic exposure to UPA’s: Veno-occlusive disease leading to liver damage
pyrolizidine alkaloids
thrombophlebitis Fresh leaf for ulcers: Toxicity is less of a concern when used topically (if internal limit to 2-3 weeks)
(sarrecind, platyphylline,
Compress for mastitis or trauma to breast Animals: Leaf was 0.8% of their diet or root - 1% of their diet, animals developed hepatocellular
osmarinic acid)
Topically for fractures or osteomyelitis adenomas after 9-12 months (due to UPA’s)
Infusion of leaf: Gargle for gingivitis or pharyngitis Saturated PA’s are considered to be safe (Tussilago farfara, Inula helenium, Senecio spp.,
Echinacea purpurea)
Fatal dose: 40 mcg/kg/day for 2 years in humans (equivalent to 2 leaves/day for 2 years)
OD sx: Dull, dragging sensation on right side of abdomen; distension; hepatomegally; decreased
urinary output; elevated AST, ALT, GGT
Integumentary Herbs
 The focus of research on this herb is with respect to its estrogenic activity: Shown to affect plasma
estrogen and as a result is often discouraged with estrogen positive breast cancers, however recently
it has been shown to be safe for estrogen positive breast cancers
Isoflavones: Improve the systemic symptoms of menopause (hot flashes, etc.) without altering
Spasmodic coughs: Bronchitis, measles, laryngitis, TB, pertussis, asthma,
plasma estrogen levels
whooping cough
Integumentary Herbs

Promensil is a product made from the isoflavones isolated from T. pretense used to manage the side
Internal: Dry cough, often explosive (internally or as a gargle)
Phenolic glycosides (trifoliin) effects of menopause
Ulcerations, especially of the tibia
Flavonoids Biochanin A (isoflavone): Anti-carcinogenic activity in mice
Cancerous and apthous ulcers
Coumarin Anti-bacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Burns or ulcerations with jagged edge & poor healing; consider for someone
Resin Anti-spasmodic Coumarins: Anti-coagulant activity (in vitro) however, most coumarins when studied in-vivo (taken
Trifolium pratense with poor skin condition
Fat Anti-tussive orally) have very little anti-coagulant effect (compared to in vitro)
(Red clover) Carcinomatous cachexia, cancer with Larrea tridentata
Tannin Anti-tumor CI: Coumarins: Caution with individuals with bleeding disorders, pre-surgery or pre-labor and in those
Acne or other skin eruptions (unhealthy skin)
Isoflavoness (genistein, already taking heparin, coumarin, warfarin, ASA, fish oil or vitamin E
TB or inflammatory lung conditions
daidzein, biochanin, Most plant coumarins do not cause bleeding in-vivo, as they do in-vitro but it is best not to combine
Gout, arthritis40
formononetin) them with other anti-coagulant therapy.
External: Eczema, psoriasis – itchy, sore, inflamed skin
Minor estrogenic activity: Don’t use T. pretense with individuals with breast cancer or with
Cancerous growths
endometrial proliferative conditions
Sore eyes – compress from infusion
Cautions: Bleeding disorder, heparin therapy, presurgery, prelabor (coumarins), Anti-coagulant drugs
(coumarins)
Estrogenic activity: Breast cancer, endometrial proliferative disease
Skin rash may occur from topical use.

Anthocyanidins: Enters the cell wall of bacteria and slows the growth and reproduction
∴bacteriostatic
Leaf: Acute or chronic dysentery/summer diarrhea: Due to ingestion of bad
Reduces vascular permeability and redistributes microvascular blood flow in the back of the eye
water
especially in the retina (anastamosis formation) and aids in the formation of interstitial fluids providing
Mouth or throat ulcers, apthous ulcers: Gargle, take internally
a cushion in the back of the eye - changes in circulation
Cystitis with urgency and anuria or oliguria (better efficacy in alkaline pH)
Anti-oxidant, ↓ Diabetic retinopathy and neuropathy
Leaf: Flavones. Hydroqinine, Diabetes mellitus (glucose in urine, hyperglycemia): As a tea tid or as a
Dysmenorrhea, PMS: Reduces pelvic pain (spasms), reduces nausea, beneficial for breast
Tannic acid tincture
tenderness, and headache
Berry: Ascorbic acid Fresh berry: Constipation (Europe: puree with milk & sugar), Scurvy, Early
Single best herb to use for dry macular degeneration with slow leakage of blood and
Tannic acid, quinnic acid Hypoglycemic myopia
occasionally floaters in the patients vision
Glycoside (myrtillin) Anti-diarrhea Retinopathies due to hypertension or diabetes, especially age-related (dry)
Vaccinium myrtillus Dry macular degeneration has micro-bleeding as compared with wet macular degeneration which
Anthocyanidin pigments Laxative macular degeneration
(Bilberry/Blueberry) has frank bleeding at the back of the eye leading to blindness
(found mostly in the skin but Nutrient Night vision deficiencies
Wet macular degeneration: Green filter on ophthalmoscope shows bleeding, this is a medical
also in the pulp of the berry - Astringent Dried berry: Diarrhea in infants and adults, Sig.: 1 tbs q few hour; also take
emergency; without laser repair as soon as possible, patient may go blind
gives the berry its blue color; for acute emesis
Decrease LDL oxidation (due to anthocyanidins in combination with other components)
protects berry from sunlight) Stomatitis, gingivitis, chronic pharyngitis, glossitis, peridontitis, smoker’s
NOTE: Prunus domestica (prunes) have greater anthocyanidin content (about 5x the amount).
Other flavonoids cough: Infusion from the dried berry, gargle or consume internally
Dark cherries, dark grapes and blackberries also some anthocyanidin content
Degenerative retinal disease, atherosclerosis
Hydroquinone: Anti-septic properties in the kidney but long term use may cause kidney damage
Juice (succus of the fruit): Anti-diarrhea agent for summer
Myrtillin: Has insulin-like effect but is weaker than insulin
diarrhea/dysentery: In Europe V. myrtillus is mixed with Quark to make the
Shown to reduce blood glucose in de-pancreatized dogs (have no insulin), < toxic, can last days
anti-diarrhoeic
Toxicity: Not considered toxic but LT use of the leaf may cause KIdamage due to hydroquinones
LD50: >720 mg/kg (rat, mice over 6 months)

Active components (disulphides) give the tearing properties of onions

When heated, active components that we know about are destroyed; caramelized onions have no
more active components
ADPS: ↑ ½ life of insulin (due to competition at degradation sites), ↑ insulin secretion, ↑ hepatic
metabolism of glucose
Mostly used as a food
Inhibit bacterial reproduction (Staphylococcus spp.)
Internal: Can be roasted (slightly warmed)
Reduces platelet aggregation, Antioxidant for LDL cholesterol
Urinary infections: Urgency, pus, hematuria, stones
↓ leukotrienes (due to inhibition of cyclocxygenase & lipoxygenase)
Disulphides (allyl Elevated cholesterol & platelet aggregation
In vitro: Cytotoxic to tumors; benefits cancerous lymphadenopathy; rate of tumor implantation in rats
propyldisulphide Elevated BP (better than Allium sativum oil)
reduced
propanethials oxide (ADPS), Hypoglycemic Inhibits cyclooxygenase & lipoxygenase therefore useful in inflammatory
A. ascalonicam: Beneficial for leukemia in mice (shallots)
Allium cepa s-methyl cysteine sulfoxide) Anti-microbials (bacteria, conditions
Toxicity Disulfides (30-60 mc), allyl alcohol:
(onion) Phenolic acids (caffeic, fungi) Elevated blood glucose in type 2 DM: ADPS competes with insulin for
OD sxs: Gastroenteritis, leucocytosis, goitrogenic Tx: GI lavage, charcoal, cathartic
sinapic, p-coumaric) Carminitive degradation sites in liver
External sxs: Contact dermatitis, Tx: Wash with soap and water
Flavonoids (quercetin) Asthma, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis
CI: Hypothyroidism: Disulphides/allyl alcohols: Reduce iodine uptake by thyroid (goiterogenic); if you
Sterols, saponins, pectin, oils External: Applied topically to skin for sore throats
eat lots of raw onions, need to take onion holidays otherwise
Tumors & lymphadenopathy
may interfere with iodine intake; cooked onions don’t have the goitrogenic effect
Topical: Otitis (diced, soaked in olive oil; lightly roasted), onion oil topically
Neurodepressive therefore could cause or aggrevate depression
for infection
Garlic and onions are one of the top 5 sensitivities in individuals with GB problems and nursing
mothers with colicky babies (along with Coffea spp., Brassica family and legumes (Fabaceae
family))
Cautions: Preg: Animal studies have shown A. cepa to be uterine stimulant; no human studies
Caution with use in bleeding disorders as A. cepa can ↑ clotting time
Cardiovascular Herbs
Cardiovascular Herbs

Kyolic: Japanese extract studied for its use as an anti-microbial in infections

Kwai: German extract with high allicin content studied for its use in cardiovascular disease
Infection: Antibacterial: Staph spp. associated with dysentery & pneumonia
Antifungal: Oral candidiasis, Antiprotozoal: Trichomonas vaginalis, GI parasites
Upper respiratory tract infections
Upper respiratory infections: Cough, catarrh, pertussis, otitis media, Cardiovascular: Prophylactic effect against cardiovascular disease (arteriosclerosis, elevated
hoarseness cholesterol, elevated lipids, mild-moderate hypertension (↑ aortic artery muscle tone): Reduces
Intestinal parasites: Worms cholesterol, lipids, elevates HDL
Disulphide compounds Candidiasis: Antifungal, enhances the growth of Lactobacillus, Acidophilus Shown to improve coronary & aortic elasticity in post menopausal women
(Allicin (via allinase) Intermittent claudication Intermittent claudication (platelet inhibition & lipoxygenase): ↑ blood flow via IL-6
Anti-microbial
Allium sativum alliin, diallyl disulphide) Hypercholesterolemia, hyperlipidemia Cancer: Toxic to various cancer cells lines (hamsters)
Hypotensive
(Garlic) CHO, Lipids, Mucilage, Mild to moderate hypertension Garlic can ↓ toxicity of adriamycin in rats.
Hypolipidemic
Albumin A. cepa is better than A. sativum for mild hypertension and A. sativum is Toxicity Disulphides & iodine: Disulphides and allyl alcohols ↓ uptakes by thyroid at 30-60 mcl of
Vitamins A, B, C, E better than A. cepa for moderate hypertension. A. sativum has greater purified constituent
vasodilatory effects. clove of A. sativum is proportional to 1 bulb of A. cepa. Sx of OD: Goitrogenic, leucocytosis, gastroenteritis (may cause burning diarrhea), elevated clotting
DM, Syndrome X, NIDDM, IDDM time
External: Pneumonia (poultice), Otitis (ear oil) Tx of OD: Water, avoid use, gastric lavage, charcoal
External Sx of Contact: Contact dermatitis Tx of External Sx of Contact: Water, mild soap
Cautions: Pregnancy & uterine stimulation in animals, Emmenagogue, May cause infant colic in
lactating mothers ingesting garlic
Caution in bleeding disorders as may ↑ clotting time; caution with anticoagulant drugs
(i.e. warfarin) because of potentiation

Hypotensive especially in renal hypertension and post menopausal women with

Hypotensive palpitations (but has no direct effect on the kidneys) - animals
Slows heart rate Tachycardia with nervousness
Flavonoids (rutin, d-catechin) Very useful for calming a patient when used before bed
Apocynum venetum Chronotropic (+ive effect on Clears fluid helps heart function/pump more effectively
Cardiac glycoside Difficult sleeping from anxiety
(Luobuma) heart rate ∴ ↑ or ↓ depending Appears to have systemic activity, relaxes the arteries
(strophanthidin, cymarin) Mild (NOT moderate) hypertension
on where you are starting Cynarin: Shown to have therapeutic effect in cardiac insufficiency (CHF) as an
from), inotropic isolated constituent in animals
Toxicity: Pretty safe but takes a while to have effect

Digestive stimulant that increases salivation and is protective to GI tract, some studies even show
this effect with ulcers but use on an individual basis.
Pepper juice as scurvy treatment in 1864 by Dr. Nikolic-Miskovicev, Army for
Lowered cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL:HDL ratio, may decrease absorption of lipids (rabbits) - ↓
military; due to ascorbic acid content discovered in 1928
LDL oxidation, due to β-carotene, capsanthin, capsorubin
Depression & debility of function
Prevents increased liver cholesterol by enhancing fecal excretion via bile (rats)
Atonic dyspepsia in alcoholics
Decreases platelet aggregation
Phenolics/capsaicinoids - Delirium tremens (withdrawal)
Reduces thromboxane B2 formation
1.5% (Capsaicin - hydro, Colic with abdominal distension & flatulence
Reduces erythrocyte hemolysis, perhaps via interference with activation of phospholipase A2
norhydro, homodihydro Congestion of sinuses with chills
Increases production of substance P which dilates arteries and reduces blood pressure, then ↓
forms, homo) General chilliness of the elderly: Blanched lips, chills, cold extremities, small
substance P ↓ pain transmission
Organic acids (cinnamic, Circulatory and vasomotor week pulse
Stimulates production of collagenase as an anti-inflammatory (OA, RA)
Capsicum frutescens coumaric, protocatechuic, stimulant Capillary atony; chronic hemorrhoids due to circulatory atony
Protect stomach mucosa by decreasing muscular contraction and increasing mucus production,
(Cayenne) caffeic) Rubifacient/counterirritant Tongue dry, scanty salivation in fever
Effective against H. pylori
Ascorbic acid, Ca, P, Fe, K, Gastric stimulant Stimulant addition to many formulas
5 g fresh cayenne: ↑ metabolic rate, ↓ glucose within 30 minutes of ingestion
B1, B2, B3, β-carotene External: Cold feet (sprinkle in socks!)
Low back pain: decreased pain in 42% in 67% vs. 31% in 49% placebo
Capsanthin, capsorubin Toothache, dental caries (1-2 gtt on cotton)
Toxicity: Capsaicin: Internal use, Action: Mucous irritant
(carotenoid - red color) OA, RA (if pain responds to heat), neuralgia’s, rheumatism (cream for
Sx: Salivation, perspiration, gastric flow, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, purging, pain and burning in
Saponin (capsicidin) stiffness)
stomach and bowels, vertigo, decreased urination
Diabetic & post-herpetic neuralgia’s (via a ↓ in substance P)
Tx: GI lavage, avoid use, Capsaicin: External use
Psoriasis (improves circulation)
Sx: Contact dermatitis, blistering is rare, Tx: Rinse with water, avoid use
Chronic laryngitis
CI Pregnancy due to GI upset (reflux and irritation) and leaf and stem act as uterine stimulants
Cream for migraines (nasal mucosa) – depletes substance P
Cautions 1st generation ACE inhibitors because C. frutescens may exasperate the persistent dry
cough side effect of ACE inhibitors
Cardiovascular Herbs
 Elevated LDL
Hyperlipidemia
Inflammation: OA
Nodulocystic acne
Other info: Avena sativa can be used for maintenance once cholesterol
levels have been lowered ↑ up to 87% hepatic binding sites for LDL
The active part in the fiber is the β-glucan and it complexes with the Inhibits cholesterol synthesis in LV
cholesterol ↑ fecal excretion of bile acids, cholesterol
helping it to be excreted Hyperlipidemia IIb (familial combined hyperlipidemia), IV (familial prebetalipoproteinemia, familial
May not be effective for familial hyperlipidemia - does not ↑ hepatic binding combined hyperlipidemia): ↓ cholesterol 17-27%, ↓Tg 22-30% (does not work in all patients - more
Cardiovascular Herbs

sites; it binds bile acids and is better method (long term) lower cholesterol likely to work in Ayurvedic pictures that include coolness and dampness) - If Tg are elevated, ensure
Commiphora mukul
than with Commyphora mukul the reading was fasting
(Indian Bdellium, Guggolestrones E, Z Anti-cholesterol
Dose: At least 3 heaping tablespoons/day Does not appear to affect HDL in a negative fashion
Guggul lipid)
Commiphora myrrha: ↓ pain of OA in knee after 1 month
Body converts sugars and simple CHOs into Tg Guggul and phosphate and hyroxycitric acid and tyrosine and exercise: Modest
Even one glass of OJ can significantly ↑ Tg readings (Tg test is a 12-14hr weight loss
fasting test) Toxicity GI discomfort in some individuals
HIV/AIDS drugs can ↑ Tg by causing dyslipidemia (↑ obesity in some body Contraindications Inflammatory bowel disease
areas and ↓ in other areas) Cautions With propanolol, diltiazem: Single dose ↓ bioavailability of drugs
Most C. mukul is quite dilutes and is ∴ not high quality
Needs to taste resinous and sticky in order for it to be effective
Does not have effect for everyone
Does not appear to adversely affect HDL and most anti-cholesterol drugs
lower HDL

Cardiac arrhythmia of mechanical cause often with mitral insufficiency,

with palpitations
o Electrolyte (Na/K/Ca/Mg) imbalance leads to poor conduction which often
leads to cardiac arrhythmias -you may see pooling, stasis, ↓ blood flow to the
brain and periphery
o Drug of choice for arrhythmia: Amiodarone (class 2 anti-arrhythmic) - Works only on the heart (digitalis works on vagus nerve as well)
Blocks Na channels at rapid paching frequencies. Anti-sympathetic, Action is rapid without accumulation due to rapid elimination
lengthens cardiac action potential, blocks potassium channels. 75% of + inotropic, - chronotropic, - dronotropic (conduction), + bathmotropic (excitability)
Glycosides (convallatoxin)
patients have side effects at normal dose: Pulmonary fibrosis, aggravated Can dec L ventricular pressure as well as pathologically elevated venous pressure
Convallatoxin is 10%
arrhythmia, cirrhotic hepatitis, hypo/hyperthyroidism (hyper- is more rare), Diuretic, natriuretic, dese-dependent vasoconstrictive (animals)
absorbed and 50% action
corneal micro-deposits (in all Amiodarone patients after 6 mths). Cardiac glycosides: inc heart muscle contraction, noncumulative and rapid acting, dangerous
lost in 24 hours therefore
Cardiac Interactions: Cardiac glycosides (Cinchona --> ↑ quinidine), B6 - 25mg (↑ if heart rate is too high
Convallaria majalis less
Digitalis substitute neurotixicity) Non toxic because fast excretion
(Lily of the valley) likely to get side effects with
Diruetic Weak/feeble circulation, low arterial tension, dyspnea Toxic dose: 0.1 g = 12 digitalis units of potency
this herb and easier to
Feeble, rapid pulse with capillary obstruction OD: Oral and GI irritation, D/V, diuresis, arrythmia, hypertension, restlessness, trembling, confusion,
control the dose
Bradycardia - especially in patients sensitive to Digitalis spp. generalized weakness, depression, circulatory collapse, death
> 40 glycosides have been
Senile/elderly heart with weak heart and reasonable function at rest or when Tx: emesis, GI lavage, cathartic, atropine, monitor K+, glucose, insulin
identified, 8 flavonoids
not CI: digitalis spp. and caution with outher cardiac glycosides
stressed Cautions: berries and flowers are attractive to children. Calcium; glucocorticoids, diuretic
Cardiac dropsy from mild to medium heart failure (not for severe CHF) (anthroquinnone glycosides); quinine; tetracycline, macrolide antibiotics
Cardiac asthma (shortness of breath and cough due to heart)
Arteriosclerosis due to high flavonoid content, angina from arteriosclerosis,
arterial
hypertension, Arterial hypotension
Heart irritation from poor digestion, anorexia
 Historically used to prevent or treat complications and hypertension of CAD Noncumulative
Cardiac weakness with valvular murmurs, sighing respiration, dyspnea with Stabilizes collagen, prevents collagen destruction during inflammation by: cross linking fibers,
cardiac pain, especially with depression preventing free radical damage, prevents inflammatory compounds like histamine, PG, LTs,
Mitral regurgitation decreased atheroclerotic plaque formation
Rapid, feeble heart, deterioration or degeneration of the heart from age inc LDL binding in LIV, inc bile secretion, dec synthesis of Chol, dec GSH depletion
Anemia with heart irregularity Equal to ACE inhibitor in NY Heart Assoc metal analysis
Flavonoids (quercitin)
Cardiac hypertrophy Flavonoids: vasodilatory of coronary arteries - inc blood flow to heart. Inotropic agen: increases
Proanthycyanidins
Cratagus oxycanthus Cardiac tonic Heart strain from over exertion, poor coronary artery circulation contractility of the heart
Phosphatigyl choline
(Hawthorn) Nutritive (for the heart) Arrhythmia, especially extrasystole, paroxysmal tachycardia, other Mild diuretic - dec BP. Dec formation of angiotensin II.
liposomes
tachycardia (an IV bolus can stop such an attack) Less effective than digitalis but works synergistically with it. Can use cratagus to wean people off
Ascorbic acid, B1, K, Ca, Mg
Prevent or treat complications and hypertension of coronary artery disease digitalis.
Myocardium weakness after infection such as pneumonia, influenza, Dec acne when used topically
diphtheria, scarlet fever, etc… (TCM - Phlegm disturbs shen) "Safe"
Myocardium insufficiency requiring Digitalis spp. or Strophanthus kombe Not CI in angina like Digitalis because not nearly as strong.
Bradycardia of the elderly (preventative treatment for hypertension) If on Digitalis use 1/2 dose
Anti-oxidant: Protects the heart (pneumonia, flu, scarlet fever) Caution with B-blockers

Internal: Weak, rapid weak irregular heart with slightest excitement,

hypotension, poor compensation, tachycardia arrhythmia, tachycardiac heart
failure Cardiac glycosides compete with K+ for receptor sites of the a-subunit in the Na/K ATPase site in
Digitalis ↑ force of contraction, slow heart rate and ↓ conduction in cardiac (striated) muscle --> inhibits Na/K exchange
auriculoventricular bundle + inotropic, + chronotropic, + dronotropic
Dusky with dyspnea Increases circulation in the body --> inc excretion (diuretic)
Cough, jugular fullness Cardiac glycoside sensitivity varies person to person: This is due to the fact that 20%
Edema with scanty dark urine of the population does not have the proper gut flora to convert the cardiac glycosides
Cerebral arteriosclerosis (no sign of heart failure) to the active format. You can try to support these individuals with probiotics but there is not enough
Cardiac glycosides found
External: Moist compress for wound healing, indolent wounds with dirt still research to show that this will ↑ the effectiveness
Digitalis throught entire plant
Cardiac stimulant present, chronic ulcers Need to ensure patient is on inc K+ diet
purpurea/Digitalis (purpurea t1/2=7 days.
Diuretic Clinical use: Inc Ca will make you more sensitive to cardiac glycosides (so will dec Mg)
lunata Risky, use for rapid action;
Emetic (with high doses) The faster the heart rate the greater the digitalis requirement Monitor electrolytes and keep patient hydrated
(Foxglove) lanata t1/2=37 hours -->
Use smaller doses with bradycardia as this heart is most sensitive to Digitalis Sx: anorexia, N/V/D, cardiac flutter, bradycardia, premature beat, fibrillation, tachycardia, visual
safer, drug form)
spp. Bradycardia: Seen with extreme CHF where the heart muscle is weak disturbance, HA, stupor, objects appearing yellow or green, hypotension, gynecomastia
and ECG: heart block, depressed ST segment (indicating MI), lengthened P-R (indicating heart block)
has ↓ ability to respond Lab: elevated serum K+ in acute toxicity, lowered in chronic use
Not for angina: Digitalis spp. ↑ heart action and oxygen demand, something Tx: Stop immediately, external heat, atropine, O2 under pressure
arteriosclerosic coronary arteries cannot provide CI: partial heart block, sinus arrhythmia, or bradycardia, compensatory hypertropic, aortic stenosis,
Cardiovascular Herbs

Serious heart failure is the best use, tachycardia with heart failure heart muscle degeneration, aneurysm, angina
Use the smallest dose possible for 2-3 days Look at notes for interactions
Not for long term use except in rare cases
Larger dose required in thyrotoxicosis

Relaxes smooth muscles around blood vessels

In paralysis increases muscle tone; in spasm has a relaxant effect
Reduced cerebral vascular circulation, poor memory, cerebral Rapid absorption and accumulation in thyroid, adrenal, CNS
arteriosclerosis, Vascular free radical scavenging
vertigo from poor circulation, emotionally labile Tinnitus: best for postural, occlusion tinnitis
Flavone glycosides Alzheimer’s disease - G. biloba will only help your memory if you have Memory: inhibits cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (like caffeine), increasing neuronal activity,
Angio-activator
Bioglavonoids cerebral vascular insufficiency (i.e. Gingko biloba will not benefit Alzheimer’s increasing memory. Normalizes Ach and serotonin R. Inc NT levels: dopamine and NE. May aid in
Vasodilator (medium and
Gingko biloba Lactones disease due to heavy metal toxicity). Small doses of LI carbonate (2-3 regrowth of damaged neurons in CNS.
small arteries)
Diterpenes mg/day) might be beneficial, rubidium, B12/folic acid, vitamin D status Lipid metabolism: inhibits platelet activating factor decreasing platelet aggregation. Inhibits
Bronchodilator
Sesquiterpenes (bilobalides) Tire easily in the elderly cyclooxygenase and lipooxygenase --> dec PG and LT.
Intermittent claudication, Raynaud’s syndrome Bronchodilatory,
Vascular spasm, diabetic angiopathy, phlebitis Fruit, pulp and seed are toxic: Sx: severe allergic reaction, erythema, edema, vesicles, itching, rectal
Varicosities, post-thrombosis, leg ulcers, hemorrhoids burning, tenesmus, Gin-Nan syndrome. Tx: GI lavage.
Caution: HA may occur on commencing use. 5-10 reports of intracranial bleeding. Caution in people
taking blood thinners.
 Paracelsus created a formula “elixir for long life” based on the dried leaves, Milder thatn Digitalis spp.
well tolerated as lower dose cardiac glycoside in leaf than rhizome Saponins can irritate GI tract
Weak heart, hypotension, tachycardia, cardiac dropsy (increases heart Helloborin - purgative; Helleborein - narcotic; whole plant is toxic
Alkaloids (helleborin) -
contraction - +ive inotropic, slows pulse, increases arterial tension) Sx: GI irritation, nausea, vomit, diarrhea, exhaustion, delirium, rapid pulse, numb oral tissue, death
uterine tonics Circulatory stimulant
Helleborus niger Renal atony from cardiac and respiratory failure
Cardiac steroidal glycosides Cathartic
(Christmas Rose) Jelly-like stool Tx: GI lavage, emesis, tannin, stimulants and diuretics (tea, coffee)
(hellebrin) Emmenagogue
Amenorrhea with hot flashes, burning of thighs and buttocks and sensitive Papaver spp. quiets bowels, saline cathartic
Glycosides (veratrine)
pelvic External sx: Skin irritation
tissue Tx: Wash skin twice with soap and water
Very mild CHF (very early stages) - commonly used in Europe Caution in pregnancy due to emmenagogue action

Amenorrhea from cold, bearing down or pelvic and lumbar uneasiness or

pain
Alkaloids (stachydrine, Suppressed lochia Hypotensive
leonurine (ornithine derived Nervous, irritable, delirium tremens, typhoid with nervous excitability Sedative
alkaloid) Hypotensive Nervous debility or unrest, e.g. at menopause Antispasmodic: Uterus, blood vessels
Leonurus cardiaca
Cardiac glycosides (cardiac Diuretic Hyperthryoidism Inhibit myocardial cell firing
(Motherwort)
tonic activity) Anti-spasmodic Cardiac autonomic imbalance (sedative effect similar to Valerian spp.) Improve mesenteric circulation
Volatile oils Palpitations (i.e. with anxiety), reduced coronary perfusion (mitigates spasm Increase coronary perfusionMowrey. 1986. Scientific validation of herbal med
Citric, mallic, tartaric acids of Toxicity >3 grams may cause GI upset, diarrhea, uterine bleeding (1 case)
coronary artery)
This herb can be calming but it takes a long time (up to several months)

T ½ = 2.5 days; duration = 2-5 days

Historical: cows eating hay with Melilotus were dying of edema and internal Topical use: ↓ inflammation, ↑ venous reflex response, ↑ flow of lymph (rats) in inflamed
hemorrhage. Then warfarin was introduced as a rat poison (inhibits vitamin K paw
clotting factors 30-50% II, VII, IX, X). Now: warfarin and coumadin are Sx: Large swellings, pitting edema, reduced blood prothrombin levels, death by
based on it! hemorrhage
Internal: Idiopathic, atonic headaches, headache from painful stomach Tx: Cease use, vitamin K, oxalic and malic acid as an antidote in dogs
Coumarin (orthocoumaric Long standing neuralgia associated with debility - neuralgic headache CI: Anti-coagulant therapy
acid --> free coumarin (with Neuralgias during cold or flu; Ovarian neuralgia (usually due to cysts) PT and INR should be monitored when taking Melilotus officinalis along with liver
Anti-thrombotic
drying), hydrocoumaric acid, Dysmenorrhea with lamness, soreness or sciatica enzymes.
Melilotus officinalis Anti-coagulant (only if
dicoumarol (anti-coagulant Areas of pain are sore to touch, <cold and tender30 Anti-coagulant therapy:
(Sweet/Yellow Clover) fermented; non-fermented =
with drying) Painful colic with diarrhea, colic with diarrhea and flatulence The standard is Heparin, a sulfated mucopolysaccharide (which comes from the intestines of pigs)
analgesic activity)
Volatile oils Painful varicose veins, venous insufficiency (improves venous insufficiency Tobacco speeds up the elimination of heparin - other inhibitors include Ribes nigrum
Flavones due to anti-coagulant activity) Interacts with Brassica spp.: 400 g/day of brussel spouts for 2 weeks inhibited the
Thrombophlebitis (due to anti-thrombotic activity), hemorrhoids anti-coagulant activity
Lymphedema (congested lymph) Camellia sinensis: Decreases anti-coagulant activity at doses of 0.5-1.0 gallon
External: Varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, Lymphoedema, Neuralgic pains Allium sativum: INR doubled, increased fibrinolysis and decreased platelet aggregation
IV: Phlebitis, Chronic thrombophlebitis, Varicose veins, dec pain ↑ healing Gingko biloba: 2 months of use at doses of 120, 240 and 480 mg/day - intra-cerebral hemorrhage
rate CoQ10: 100 mg and Gingko biloba and coumadin - no significant changes in INR
Hypericum perforatum: INR was ↓ therefore the effect of M. officinalis was also ↓
ardiovascular Herbs
 Historically used in Mediterannean for weak babies --> increased vitality
Oil from fruit: Constipation with rectal fissures, ulcers - inject rectally
GI irritations, convulsion from GI irritation, wrong substance swallowed (take
several tablespoons orally or warm and inject rectally)
Leaf: Elevates phagocytosis, Bitter (olenolic acid)
Appendicitis: Take q few hours and keep the abdomen warm
↑ coronary blood flow, ↓ arrhythmia, ↓ GI spasm
Cholelithiasis: 25-50 mL and 8 oz grapefruit juice for 3 nights, repeat in 3
Bactericidal, Virucidal by altering amino acid production
Fruit: weeks or
Olive leaf extract: Calcium elenolate (elenoic acid): Active ingredient that kills viruses (e.g.
Fatty oils (75% linoleic acid, 180-360 mL tid-qid
Coxsackie, herpes, Newcastle, polio, parainfluenza 3); also has bacteriostatic effect (Staphylococcus
palmitic acid, stearic acid, o Causes spasm of gall bladder to release stones, useful for sludge not large
aureus, Bacillus cereus)
arachidic acids) stones. Stones that are released are saponification of olive oil (if they
Nutrient Oleuropein: Inhibits LDL oxidation and prevents loss of vitamin E; anti-oxidant free
Phytosterin dissolve at
Olea europaea Laxative radical scavenger
Bitter, lecithin room temperature)
(Olive) Emollient Toxicity Oil from fruit: Irritating to conjunctiva
Leaf: Dysentery: Inject rectally or take orally
Demulcent Olive leaf extract: Extract is non-toxic in studies at doses “several hundred times the recommended
Glycoside (oleoside) Poisoning from caustic substances, alkali substances: Take orally (several
dose”
Bitter glucoside (oleuropein) tablespoons) to coat and protect the esophagus and stomach
Side effects: Herxheimer’s reaction (due to die off that can occur), cease use until
Monoterpenes (calcium Topically for dry skin, cradle cap, bruises, sprains - apply as a warm
improved and then resume dose
elenolate) compress and keep warm
Slight headache from detoxification
Heart disease risk: ↓ atherosclerosis, ↓ cholesterol, cardioprotective, ↑ HDL,
Contraindications Oil from fruit: Gall stones (pharmacists)
increases coronary artery blood flow, ↓ coronary artery spasm
Cardiovascular Herbs

Cautions Olive leaf extract: GI irritant ∴ take after meals

Preventative for breast cancer (studies of ↓ incidence with ↑ olive oil intake)
Leaf: HyperT (labile or moderate) - moderate effect in rats, exc in cats
Olive leaf extract: Malarial fever, chills, D, severe viral infx
with chills/fever

Historically used for snake bites, insect bites, fear, agitated psychosis,
insomnia, Slows HR, anti-arrhythmic (mild). Has the potential to induce euphoria
Indole alkaloids (>50
schizophrenia, vasospasm attacks, fever, abdominal pain, sedative Depletes catecholamines and serotonin stores--> dec BP (but may lead to inc migraines)
alkaloids identified, reserpine
Gandhi took the tea at night if overstimulated by lecture or heated discussion Sedation - dec amine stores in CNS. CI if patient is depressed
- best known)
Hypertension: Adequate reduction in ~40% of mild and 30% of medium- T1/2=11.5-16 days! All alkaliods excreted in urine but independent of KI function. If combined with
Anti-hypertensive alkaloids
severe cardiac glycosides, dec dose by 1/2.
(alseroxylone, corganthine,
hypertension (not for severe hypertension) Sx of Toxicity: Bradycardia, hypotension, contracted pupils, ↑ GI peristalsis (diarrhea, ↑ GI
voxinil, rescinamine)
Main indication: Stress and anxiety related hypertension - Acts on secretions – ulcers/hemorrhage, flushing, hypothermia after tachycardia, vertigo, stupor, tremor,
Anti-arrhythmic alkaloids
diencephelon autonomic centers coma
Rauvolfia serpentina (ajmaline) Anti-arrhythmic
Head congestion, headache, vertigo, Restlessness, Fever Sx from overdose can persist for 3 hr to 7 days
(Snake root) The whole plant is fairly safe Anti-hypertensive
Abdominal pain, Anxiety, fear, agitated psychosis (may allow you to handle Tx of Toxicity: Emesis, GI lavage
and effect due to the
stressful situations better) If patient develops Parkinson-like symptoms or hyper GI symptoms: Atropine (alkaloid extracted from
combination of different
Acute or severe schizophrenia (use higher doses) Atropa belladonna with a parasympathetic action dilate pupils and stop neuromuscular spasm).
alkaloids therefore there is a
Insomnia, vasospasm attacks Keep patient warm (for hypothermia) and maintain fluids (for hypotension)
greater tolerance for the
Sedative: Calming to help ppl sleep at night CI: depression, peptic ulcer, Parkinson's, pregnancy (teratogen, abortifacient), avoid with Digitalis
whole plant than for the
Cardiac oppression (does not ↓ coronary circulation)41 because digitalis decreases HR
individual
Dr. Paul Saunders reserves Rauvolfia for patients who have severe Cautions: There is a tendency to dizziness when taking Rauvolfia serpentina because there is ↓
alkaloids (e.g. reserpine)
hypertension and their medical doctor has given them 6 weeks to get their blood flow to the brain on rising.
blood pressure under control on their own before putting them on medication

Internal: Uterine hemorrhage (not as strong as Claviceps spp.), profuse

lochial discharge
Cardiac arrhythmia, especially with congestive heart failure and paroxysmal
atrial
Alkaloids: Small doses stimulate the heart, large doses suppress cardiac contractility
tachycardia: Slows accelerated stimuli in atrium - Arrhythmia with
and paralyse respiratory centres
menopause
Therapeutic dose: 5-15 grains, sparteine sulphate 1/20 - ½ grain
Quinolizidine alkaloids Reduces irritability in heart conduction system; regulates heart action and
Toxic dose: ??
(sparteine to 1.5%) improves venous return
Sarothamnus Hemostatic Precaution: No more than 1/16 grain sparteine sulphate for initial dose
Glycosides (tyramine, Has a little vasoconstrictive activity (oxytyramine, hydroxytyramine) - may
scoparius Anti-arrhythmic Sxs of toxicity: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, trembling, muscular
scoparoside) have some blood pressure effect similar to quinine, quinidine but much less
(Irish/Scotch Broom) Oxytocic incoordination, vertigo, blurred vision, heavy limbs, cardiac arrhythmia, decreased pulse
Yellow flavone, tannin, bitter, dangerous
(two conditions for which this herb is indicated), tonic and clonic convulsions, paralysis of
essential oil Dropsy with myocarditis, lung disease, thorax dropsy: Increases urine flow
motor and respiratory centers, death by asphyxia
(acts as a diuretic)
Tx of toxicity: Emesis, GI lavage, activated charcoal, cathartic, CPR
Post infectious myocarditis with arrhythmia, Atrial and ventricular fibrillation
CI: Pregnancy: Oxytocic
(mild)
Extrasystole with long term use
Topical: Sore muscles, abscess, swelling
Rince to lighten, brighten hair (to yellow-blond)
 Pos inotropic, -ive chronotropic (↑ contractility but does not ↑ heart rate)
Poor GI absorption∴ < potent than Digitalis spp.
Chronic cough with tenacious expectorant
↓ left ventricular pressure (diastolic), ↓ venous pressure, Expectorant at low doses
Dropsy, generally asthenic (weak or debilitated)
Glycosides: Bufadienolides NY Heart Association Stages I, II, III (i.e. physical activity fatigue)
Mild to medium heart failure (New York Heart Association 1, 2, 3) – activity
(scillaren A (2/3), scillaren B Sxs of toxicity: 2nd and 3rd degree heart block, hot dry skin with elevated pulse, fever, GI irritant,
loss is
Scilla maritima (1/3) - look and act very Heart stimulant nausea, emesis, GI cramps (gastritis, diarrhea), hematuria, anuria, arrhythmia, stupor, paralysis,
25%/day, effective orally
(Swuill, Sea Onion) similar Diuretic death 10-24 hours
Heart failure with kidney failure (anuria) – not accumulated in renal impaired
to cardiac glycosides), Tx of toxicity: Emesis, lavage, monitor K+, ECG
Better than Digitalis on elevated peripheral arterial tension with Crataegus
proscillaridin CI: Renal failure, renal inflammation (some authors disagree about the inflammation and renal
oxycanthus, Valeriana spp.
failure), pregnancy, lactation, hypertension, 2nd or 3rd degree AV block (also a sign of overdose),
Prefered to Digitalis for its action on peripheral vessels
ventricular tachycardia, aneurysm, GI ulcer (irritable)
Can potentiate Digitalis spp. for diuresis

Internal: Impaired heart function, rapid pulse with edema

Mitral regurgitation, Hypertrophy (enlargement of heart) ↓ pulse/heart frequent, dilate peripheral vessels
Angina, palpitations, chest pain, cardiac dyspnea, arrhythmia, tobacco heart ↑ renal discharge/output
Phenylethyl amine alkaloids
(tobacco heart and/or arrhythmia), dz associated with heart including Tyramine: Strengthens heart muscle contraction
(hordenine (cactine))
rheumatism Tyramine and MAOIs: Used historically to treat depression, fell out of favor
Nonsteroidal cardioactive
Prostatitis because of lack of expressions, too many side effects, too many (i.e. food)
amines (betacyanin,
Selenicereus Kidney congestion, Dropsy restrictions
isorhamnetine glucoside, Sympathetic stimulant to
grandiflorus Dysmenorrhea, menopause Stimulates spinal cord neurons
narcissin, rutin, cacticine, heart and kidney
(Night-blooming Bronchitis Non-cumulative (compare with cardiac glycosides which are cumulative
kaempferitrin, grandiflorine, Diuretic
Cereus) Goiter Sxs of Toxicity: Tachycardia, arrhythmia, cardiospasm, confusion, throbbing headache, vertigo,
isorhamnetine-rutinoside)
Tinnitus amblyopia, GI upset, contriction in chest, melancholy, carditis, pericarditis, heart failure
Mucilage
Mental depression Cautions: Hordenine (acts like cardiac glycosides but are safer than plants with cardiac glycosides):
Tyramine (cardio amine -
Hypochondria Sympathetic stimulant to heart plexus and circular myocardial fibers (positive inotropic activity)
non cumulative)
Fear of death (** not uncommon in cardiac patients) MAOI due to tyramine (found also in cheese, red wine, chocolate, yogurt, other
Nervousness associated with heart headache of the vertex fermented foods, beer, sauerkraut, pickles, preserved meats, etc…)
Topical: Rheumatism (flowers)

Orally: Broken down quickly therefore can be given frequently.

Cardiovascular Herbs

IV: Rapid onset, altered pulse within minutes of delivery, done in Europe and Africa
Orally: Weak heart from muscular debility
Mechanism: Myogenic cardiac stimulant with rapid action (5-10 minutes) and rapid peak (30-120
Cardiac insufficiency
minutes)
Arteriosclerosis
Steroidal glycosides: Sx of Toxicity: GI irritant with emesis, diarrhea, weak muscles then twitching, rigor mortis (visual
Cardiotonic and sedative
Strophanthin-k (S.k): Milder color changes) of heart and body, brief rapid systole with elevated MBP, cessation of HT and LU -->
Rapid pulse, hypertension from weak heart muscle (not cumulative)
than strophanthin G Cardiac stimulant death
Strophanthus kombe Pre-cordial pain (angina), cardiac dyspnea, shortness of breath
Strophanthin-g Diuretic Tx of Toxicity: Emetics, epsom salt purge (giving Epsom salts (mg-sulph) until person vomits;
Mitral regurgitation, mitral stenosis
(S.g/ouabain): Milder than drinking copious amounts of salty water will have a laxative effect too), CPR, atropine 0.6 mg IV for
IV: Dyspnea of cardiac origin
Digitalis spp. bradycardia, monitor K+, phenytoin for heart block or electric pacemaker
Leaves heart sooner than Digitalis ∴ less cumulative toxicity
CI: Pregnancy (because uterine stimulant in animals), myocardial degeneration, valve lesions,
Acute heart failure from infection, scarlet fever
arteriosclerosis (relative CI because with ↑ arterisclerosis the heart cannot respond to ↑ demands),
Cardiac insufficiency and associated angina
atheromas, aneurism (because cardiac glycosides ↑ contractive force that will put more pressure on
the heart), K+ depleting herbs (similar to Digitalis spp.), drugs, foods, etc…

Volatile oils (citral,

Restlessness, migraines, nervous headache, nervous tension, hysteria
citronellal, citronellol, Helps recover after influenza. Anti-fungal.
Diaphoretic for infection, cold, influenza: May or may not develop sweat
eugenol, limonene) P-coumaric and flavonoids --> antispasm (may explain effect on blood pressure). VO: sedative, anti-
Cold with catarrh, with fever or chills
Tilia cordata/europa Mucilage (kaempferol) Diaphoretic spasmodic. Terpenoids: diuretic
Hypertension from arteriosclerosis, nervous tension, palpitations with
(Linden flowers) Tannin Arteriosclerotic hypertension Tilia europa/platyphllos: Approved in USA to flavor alcoholic beverages
nervousness
Hesperidin (flavnoid - Sx of Toxicty: Urticaria (on skin)
External: Bath or enema for nervous conditions, hypertension, rheumatism,
quercitin) Tx of Toxicity: Water and soap
itchy skin, eczema
Saponin, sugars
 V. viride: alkaloids inhibit Na ion channels esp those that regulate cardiac activity --> less Bp,
Used historically in witch craft, as arrow tip poison, inseticide.
bradycardia
V. album: Cholera: Gushing watery bowel discharge with abdominal
V. album: Protoveratrine A, B act as sensory nerve irritants. Inhibit activation of Na channels.
cramping, cold face, sunken eyes (dehydration assoc with cholera), body
Toxic: most potent in the spring, but seldom fatal as rapid vomiting ensues and poor absorption
covered with perspiration
Steroid alkaloids through GI irritation. Mechanism: afferent sympathetic stimulant; vagus reflex slows heart, lowers BP,
Gout, Hypertension
(protoveratrive A and B) dilates arterioles, large dose elevates BP by direct vasomotor center effect
Circulatory depressant Topical: Insecticide
Veratrum album Glycoside alkaloids Sxs of Toxicity: Oral burning, GI burning, severe emesis, diarrhea, weakness, mydriasis,
Anti-spasmodic V. viride: Rapid full pulse, bounding pulse, wiry
(White Hellebore) (veratrine, veratridine, pulse, <30, BP <50 systole (hypotensive), then rapid pulse, BP >200 systole, spasm,
Hypotensive Flushed skin, blood shot eyes
veratramine, veratrasive, sleepy, prostration, convulsion, A-V block, coma, deathly asphyxia rare - Chronic use causes
Hypertension
veratrin) tolerance to hypotensive effect
Fever, inflammation
Tx of Toxicity: Emesis, lavage, strong coffee, fresh air, keep warm, Atropine to ↓ BP and ↓
Convulsions, cerebral hyperemia
bradycardia, sympatholytics for elevated BP, IV diazepam for seizures
Occasionally eaten by cattle drinking milk from these cows cause milk
CI: Pregnancy - teratogenic (specifically V. californicum, V. eschscholtizii), lactation,
sickness (fever and prostration)
conception, absorbed through skin, GI irritation

Historically used as an anti-hemorrhagic treatment, especially in

Entire plant contains alkaloids (leaf, root, twigs - very potent):
menorrhagia (likely due to tannins)
Vincamine: Hypotensive
Headache, vertigo (due to hypotensive effect), restlessness, hypertension
Vinpocetine (brand name Intellectol) is a drug derived from (in a semisynthetic format) vincamine and
headache
used for Alzheimer’s disease Post stroke: Increases cerebral circulation and oxygen deliver (Gingko
Poor memory, behavior and emotional disorders (aggression, confusion,
biloba - vasodilates and ↑ perfusion). Leukocytopenia, Lymphocytopenia. ↓ α-1, α-2, γ-globulin levels
restlessness, irritable)
due to immune suppression
Circulatory stimulant Cerebral arteriosclerosis, post stroke: ↑ cerebral circulation, ↑ cerebral
Vinca major/minor Indole alkaloids (vincamine, Vincristine: Cytotoxic chemotherapy drug - Vincristine and vinblastine are found mostly in
(increases blood flow to the oxygen
(Greater/lessor cinblastine) Madagascar periwinkle(Catharanthus roseus) and are used in chemotherapy as they block mitosis
brain) Defective hearing of CNS origin
periwinkle) Tannins (not found in V. major or minor spp.)
Hypotensive Visual disturbances due to alterations in blood flow to retina (related to
Toxicity Mechanism: Produces granulocytopenia, bone marrow suppression (leukemias, Hodgkins),
hypertension)
blocks metaphase mitosis (vincristine, vinblastine)
Cytostatic: Hodgkins disease, leukemia, solid tumors, blocks metaphase in
Sxs of Toxicity: Drowsy, blurred vision, dry mouth, nausea, ataxia, psychosis, convulsions, alopecia,
mitosis - Higher doses lead to alteration in rapid cell division --> loss of
↓ blood pressure, death
achilles tendon reflex, paresthesia (will return but takes months)
Tx of Toxicity: GI lavage, emesis, charcoal, monitor CNS and Liv enzymes, IV diazepam
Note: Vinca major/minor has no effect with cancer. Madascar periwinkle is
CI: pregnancy (teratogen because its effect on rapidly dividng cells). V. eracta is abortifacient.
the only species that has effect with cancer.

Kissing under the mistletoe!!

Headache, vertigo, decreased energy, irritability from elevated blood
Fatal: 1-2 berries in child (white berries are extremely poisonous)
pressure
Sxs of Toxicity: Emesis, bloody diarrhea, convulsions, mydriasis, CV collapse, coma, death in 10 hr,
Moderate to mildly severe hypertension (160/100)
post injestion
Well tolerated long term but generally used to get hypertension down and
Tx of Toxicity: Emesis, GI lavage, fluids and electrolytes, monitor for ↑ K+, monitor EKG or heart
Cardiovascular Herbs

Cardioactive polypeptide transfer to another herb (i.e. Veratrum spp., Rauvolfia serpentina)
block and collapse
CHO (β-phenylamines, Flushed face, congestive headache
Caution with MAOIs because of tyramine content and caution in pregnancy because tyramine is a
choline, tyramine, viscotoxin) Hypotensive Epilepsy, hysteria, nervousness – unable to lie down due to heart symptoms
Viscum album uterine stimulant
Oleanolic acids Cerebral circulatory stimulant Tearing, neuralgic or rheumatic pains
(Mistletoe) Caution with Migraine headache
Histamine Tumor inhibition (injection) Weak, irregular heart with hypertrophy, shortness of breath, valvular
Iscador toxicity: derivative of V. album used in treatment of cancer - from apple, pine, oak & elm
Alkaloid (content varies with insufficiency
CI: Fever, intracranial, intraspinal tumor - increased risk of ↑ pressure, pregnancy, known allergy
host tree) Nervous tachycardia
Sxs of Toxicity (IV): Fever, chills, headache, angina
Tumor inhibition due to special protein or lectin – not cytotoxic; Iscador
Effect: Red, swelling up to 5 mm, fever to 38°C
shown good in clinical trial given IV SC Does not need to be injected near
Induction: Start at 0.01 mg (or lower) and gradually increase dose
tumor, can be injected in abdomen like insulin (sub Q). Injections appear to
Progression: Inject q2d for 14 injections, rest 2 weeks, ↑ dose [] with each series
be safe in pregnancy and lactation/ Cancers include mainly difficult to treat
cancers: Ovarian cancer, leiomas
 Bark: Nervous atony and despondent bleeding
Sluggish circulation: ↑ heart output, slow pulse ( ↑ pulse and cardiac output
slightly), mild diuretic
Intermittent claudication, Raynaud’s
Capillary engorgement in infected tissue (especially in legs) X. clava-hervulis:
Isoquinoline alkaloids
Dried root, bark: Tympanic GI with low gastric secretions, bowel spasm, gastric catarrh Nitidin: ↓ blood pressure, anti-leukemia effect, lowers liver enzymes
(chelerythrine, magnoflorine)
Anti-spasmodic Uterine cramps, neuralgia, dysmenorrhea with neuralgia (commonly due to Chelerythrine: Affects GM+ bacteria, potentiates barbituates
Benzo. alkaloids (nitidin,
Xanthoxylum Heart stimulant ovarian cysts) Asarinin: Anti-TB
lauriflorine, asarinin
americanum Sialogogue Dry oral mucosa (moistens and helps with expectoration) Alkaloids in general: Neuromuscular block (death in fish, cattle & chickens)
Bioflavonoids (diosmin,
(Prickly ash) Berry: Excess mucus and sputum, increases GI secretion without irritating stomach Relative CI: Acute GI inflammation or ulceration (increases HCl production); effect on GI tract is due
hesperidin)
Carminative Chronic rheumatism and sluggishness, ↓ peripheral circulation (increases to volatile oils and resins
Avicannin
Mucous peripheral blood flow to musculoskeletal system) Potential CI: Pregnancy
Coumarin
Toothache Caution with liver disease --> monitor liver enzymes
Berry: Main indication: Sluggish circulation (with capillary engorgement) with
chronic rheumatism
Painful bowels, Cramps, Circulatory stimulant
Pulse: Slow and weak; weak heart, Capillary engorgement

Decoction increased heart circulation

Analgesic
Oral doses reduces inflammation – antiphlogistic
Internal uses:
Stimulates adrenal-pituitary axis: reduces ascorbic acid in adrenal glands, increases 17-ketosteroid
Small frequent pulse
excretion in urine
Fever or chills – temperature elevated or depressed, not for sepsis but for
Low dose stimulates CNS, peripheral motor system general awareness, pulse rate
early
Large doses: paralyzes, reduces heart contraction → arrhythmia → cardiac arrest
fever, skin hot and dry
Aconitine Alkaloids stimulate and then depress the heart, skeletal muscles, CNS, and peripheral nerves; mind
CNS Herbs

Sensory and motor Early fever with or without restlessness: scarletina, measles use with Atropa
Benzaconine is clear during poisoning
depressant belladonna
Aconitum napellus Tropane alkaloids Toxic: 10 gtt, Fatal: 5mL tincture, 1g plant, 2 mg aconitine
Sedative Heart dilation, poor vessel tone: increased power of the heart contraction
(benzoylaconine) Sxs of OD: numb mouth, throat and hands; dizzy, restlessness, loss of speech control, headache,
Anti-pyretic and
Gum, sugar pinpoint pupils, arrhythmia, chest pains, ventricular fibrillation in 1-6 hr, sweat and hypothermia,
vessel tone
anxiety, diarrhea, convulsion, death from respiratory/cardiac paralysis within 4-5 hrs of overdose
Neuralgia: trigeminal, intercostals, facial
Labs: ECG suggests MI due to T-wave depression
Arthritic or gout pains especially with neuralgia, with Colchicum autumnale
Tx of OD: Activated charcoal to absorb then GI lavage or emetic and cathartic, CPR, O2, recumbent
External Uses
with head below feet, stimulants (coffee, Strychnos nuxvomica), digitalis for the heart, atropine for
Topical ointment over neuralgia – use small quantity
slow heart
CI:Pregnancy, lactation

Historical Use: Part of European sorcery in Middle Ages, Topically used to

make unconscious for surgery, Atropine is mydriatic for ophthamology
Smooth muscle relaxant – throughout body (lungs, GI)
Dull expressionless face, dilated or immobile pupils, drowsy without sleep,
Increases effect of anti-cholinergics, anti-histamines, phenothiazines, quinidine & tri-cyclic anti-
dusky or red-blue face and extremities, sluggish soft circulation
depressants
Involuntary muscle spasm, cold, slow respiration
Can be used to counteract side effects of opium (constipation)
GI spasm, acute-chronic entercolitis, biliary dyskinesia (gallstones), gastritis,
Atropine (dl-hyoscyamine), L- Alkaloids
ulcers, hyperacidity, chronic constipation, mucous colitis, spasm,
scopalomine (tropane Competitive antagonist to acetylcholine at peripheral nerves
fermentative dyspepsia, lead pipe colon, colic, rectal spasm, pain, spastic
alkaloid) (0.6%) o Scopolamine is a CNS depressant
Antispasmodic constipation
(Atropine is converted to L- o Atropine is a CNS stimulant but in large doses has the reverse action
Parasympathetic depressant Sore throat, red, raw, swollen, < swallowing, dryness, with or without fever –
hyoscyamine by an enzyme Tx dose: 0.03% atropine; 1-15gtt of Φ (up to 2mg hyooscyamine)
Atropa belladonna Vasocontrictor quincy, tonsillitis with Aconite
when the plant is dry, Fatal: 3 berries in children; 10mg alkaloid (adults)
Smooth muscle inhibitor Stimulant in typhoid fever
therefore the plant is more Precaution: Only use acutely in children, avoid long term use in large doses
Bronchodilator Pneumonia: sustains respiration
active when dry) Sxs of OD: Dry mouth, hot skin, mydriasis, ↑ respiration, fever, ↑ pulse, ↑ BP, incoordination,
Congestion: throbbing headache, drowsy
Starch, sugar, mucilage disoriented, dysphagia, restless, hallucination, psychosis, convulsions;
Cerebral congestion, dullness, coma, dizzy, drowsy, threatened apoplexy
Ca, Mg, K+, CO3 Later: ↓ temperature, stupor, circulatory collapse, ↓ BP, coma, death from respiratory paralysis,
Fever of measles, chickenpox, scarlet fever
hyperreflexia, positive Babinski reflex
Parkinsonism, encephalitis, tremors: for abnormal increase in motor
Tx of OD: IV physostigmine 2mg; antacids ↓ absorption, keep warm and moving
functions
CIs: Narrow-angle glaucoma, Tachycardia, Prostate cancer with urinary retention, Lung edema, GI
1918 flu epidemics
stenosis, Megacolon
Pain of acute cystitis, enuresis in children, poor perineal circulation, much
urine
CNS Herbs
 Nervous exhaustion, debility
CNS Herbs

Cardiac weakness from nervous depression, debility

Relapsing cardiac rheumatism
Nervous headache from overwork, depression
Nervous debility from convalescence
Opium, morphine withdrawal
Starch 59%
Nicotine withdrawal
Saccharo-mucilaginous 11%
Spermatorrhea from debility, long disease
Albumen 4%
Spasm of the neck of the bladder
Fiber and moisture 24% May antagonize analgesia of morphine, hypertension of nicotine
Habitual constipation – as a gruel
Avenin-nitrogenous Nutritive Nervine β-glucan (oat gum) (↑ food viscocity, peak post-prandial glucose, ↑ stool weight and stool fat
Avena sativa Nutritive gruel – 30 g in 2 L water, boil down to 1 L, then season
compound soluble in EtOH3 Mild sedative excretion →↑ bile exretion, ↓ blood lipids)
Nutritive gruel: salted, seasoned, with fruit pulp (prunes, raisins) for
Gramine (indole alkaloid)
convalescence from acute disease, puerperal state, chronic disease
Oat straw has pectin and
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and irritable stomach: make
silica41
oatmeal into a cake with water, bake until browned, then pulverize and make
into coffee or infusion
External: Anodyne for irritated skin, eczema: soak rolled oats in cold water,
squeeze and strain through stocking, add to bath water (ie. Aveeno), or
apply to skin
Inflammed skin, seborrhea
Soothing foot bath

Internal: Nervous insomnia, nervousness, disturbed emotions → poor

Tranquilizing and sedative on rats, mice; may increase serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol
memory, epilepsy
Water extract of the bud is anti-bacterial
Infections: Sore throat, tonsillitis, cystitis, measles, hepatitis, venereal
Triterpenoid saponins Asiaticoside effective on dermal ulcers, obstinate wounds, dermal tuberculosis, leprosy (large doses)
disease
(asiaticoside, brahmoside) Asiaticoside increases serum glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol; decreases urea nitrogen, acid
Nervine Leprosy, eczema, scrofula, ulcers, secondary syphilis, rheumatism
Centalla asiatica Brahmic acid, centelose, phosphatase; increase vital capacity
Anti-pyretic Venous insuffiency
carotenoids, madecassoside Sxs of OD: Headache, dizziness, increased blood pressure, bloody stools, itching skin,
Calms the mind for medication, yoga (Ayurvedic)
photosensitivity
Type O blood
Tx of OD: GI lavage
External: Inflammed skin, ulcers, psoriasis, scleroderma
External: Contact dermatitis
Snake bite poultice

General: Antimicrobial: Gram+, fungi, dermatophytes, some Gram – as well

Inhibits inflammation and fevers
o Equal or better than ASA by inhibiting PG and AA
Pyrethrotoxic acid - a cardiac depressant
Sesquiterpene lactones
Migraines: Reduces secretion of inflammatory particles from WBC’s and platelets; release of
(0.6-0.7% parthenolide,
serotonin from platelets may cause headache and is inhibited
artermarin, chrysanthemonin Internal:
Migraine relief is associated with the release of serotonin from platelets that cause vasoconstriction
Pyrethrin Digestive problems: increase appetite, increase secretions, increase
Inhibits blood vessel motor control: dilation, hypotension; therefore use for vasoconstrictive
Used as an organic digestion
headache, fever, rheumatoid arthritis
pesticide; white powder; has Cold, flu, fever
Reduces the number, severity, and vomiting symptoms
been around for a long time; Migraine headache, especially with internal heat
Does not reduce the duration of attack – once they have a headache, it will progress; does not treat
used on gardens b/c acts on Carminitive o Long term use 50mg qd for prophylactically
the migraine once started
insects), pyrethrotoxic acid Febrifuge o Have to take 4-6 weeks before effect is noticed 0.1-0.2 (125-150
Chrysanthemum Inhibits B12-binding proteins from PMN’s leukocytes. Due to its effects on PMNs, it may also be
Volatile oils (Essential oils Anti-pyretic mg/day see results within 4-6 weeks) and after 6 months can drop
parthenium beneficial for rheumatoid arthritis and fevers
of camphor, terpene, Antiseptic down to 50 mg/day and this will be the maintenance dose
Inhibits platelet aggregation; inhibits activation of protein kinase C; ↓ production of HETE
borneol) Insecticide History of use for rheumatoid arthritis (long term use – 50 mg qd may reduce
Inhibits IL-1 in synovial cells
Bioflavonoids RA), irregular menstruation
In rabbits with damage to aorta: reduces the damage to aorta from re-perfusion injury after ischemia
(eudesmanolides, External:
Sxs of overdose: Oral ulceration (chewed leaf), GI pain/upset, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
guacanolides) Topical antiseptic, anodyne for toothache (chewing on the leaf or flower
Post-feverfew syndrome: This will occur in people who have been taken feverfew for extended
If there are parthenolides, head)
periods of time and then stop for what ever reason.
then only little Pyrethrin: natural insecticide used by organic gardeners
Symptoms include: Nervousness, tension, tension HA insomnia w great tiredness, joint pain
eudesmanolides and vice
Topically: Dermatitis
versa
Contraindications: Pregnancy: high doses cause uterine contractions in cows ,May
antagonize analgesia of morphine, hypertension of nicotine, Asteraceae pollen allergy
Cautions:May have blood thinning effect ∴ caution with coumadin or warfarin
CNS Herbs
 Rapidly & completely absorbed from GI – enhanced by grapefruit juice -->increases caffeine
absorption, metabolized by CYP1A2
Crosses BBB & elevates brain serotonin, Increases catecholamine levels which leveled after 7days
of 250mg oral caffeine
500 mg activates adrenal/pituitary axis, ↑ β-endorphin secretion, cortisol & ACTH
500 mg IV ↓ growth hormone secretion, ↑ secretion of Ca & Mg
CNS Herbs

Enhances norepinephrine synthesis & turnover at nerve terminals

Crosses into breast milk and is common cause of infant insomnia & restlessness; Along with onion
and garlic, 3 most common causes of infant colic in breast fed infants
Enters pregnant uterus – human fetus liver requires 24-36 hrs to metabolize 1 cup of coffee drank by
its mother leads to agitation of fetus
Caffeine:purine alkaloid Insomnia study: with one cup of coffee/day rate of breakdown of coffee was significantly slower
Trigonelline, FA Oil Internal: than those who don’t have insomnia (18+ hours)
Volatile oil (caffeol) Constipation: stimulates peristalsis because it is an irritant, and a bitter; o >450 mL coffee/day in 22 pregnant women - ↓ infant hemoglobin, hematocrit
Citric acid, caffeotannic acid, stimulates liver function o Fast Metabolizers: coffee is metabolized in 8-10 hours
caffeic acid Dyspepia, poor biliary flow, weak peristalsis, gastric atony o Slow Metabolizers: coffee is metabolized in 13-17 hours
CHO, Protein Sense of heaviness or fullness after eating Enhances lipolysis, gluconeogenesis; causes the liver to dump glucose; bigger effect in women
Palmitic, acetic & carbonic Headache with cerebral hyperemia or congestion: sometimes found in than in men), metabolic rate, cardiac rate, mental alertness
acids headache medication along with analgesics Chronic use leads to tolerance, habituation; Dependence – occurs at 500 mg caffeine/day
When roasted, releases Drowsiness or stupor assoc. with poisoning (antidote) Relaxes pyloric & anal sphincter after a meal when full enhances emptying relief
caffeol, furfurol, valerianic Sense of exhaustion Excretion: 300 mg caffeine: <1% is excreted unchanged;
acid, phenol, pyridine Antidote to morphine, opium, alcohol related delirium tremens, strychnine Demethylation occurs in liver – slower in patient with cirrhosis & hepatitis
Caffeine contents: Decaf: 5- and opium poisoning Coffee is highly correlated w fibrocystic breasts; de-caffeinated studies also show fibrocystic breast
Cerebro-spinal stimulant problem
10 mg, Instant: 100 mg, Cardiac dropsy & feeble circulation
Coffea arabica Diuretic Toxicity: Solubility and absorption increased by citric acid, sodium benzoate, bromides, and
perked: (6-8 oz cup) 150 mg, Cardiac failure: 5g q2h
Stomatic salicylates; 150 mg percolated, 100 mg instant, 8mg decaffeinated caffeine
“No-doze/wake-up’s” 100- Typhoid fever, pneumonia, flu (La Grippe) where there is ↓ cardiac output
300mg, Shot of espresso: 40 that leads to dropsy – given to stimulate heart function for recovery
mg, Tea: higher than coffee Retarded urination & renal torpur
but contains l-theonine-- o Historically more effective when combined with wine to enhance the effect
>relaxant so counteracts the Room deodorizer: used as a bean or as charcoal
jittery effect Syrup for whooping cough, hiccup, spasmodic asthma
Decaffination: Caffeine can Gout, urinary gravel, post-partum hemorrhage, metrorrhagia
be extracted by 2 methods Un-roasted, green bean (or berry) to relax, stupefy Sxs of overdose: Strong doses are CNS, HT & KI stimulants, can induce headache, agitation, gastric
water-processed or using External: Carbon form: ulcerated mucosa, gangrenous ulcers, foul ulcers, distress, acid stomach, gastric ulceration
propylene glycol or methyl diarrhea; festering wound, inflammation of oral mucosa Long term use causes diarrhea, elevated pulse, blood pressure and respiration rate, frequent
chloride; cand get OD if you Coffee retention enema: enhances peristalsis, bile release urination, nervousness, palpitations
work in these factories Headache and insomnia occur commonly from withdrawal
↓ iron absorption > 450 ml coffee/day in 22 pregnant women → decreased infant hemoglobin,
hematocrit
Drugs to avoid: Ephedrine/ephedra, MAOI ↓ adenosine, ↓ clozapine, ↓ phenobarbitol, ↓
benzodiazepines, ↓beta-blocker propanalol and metoprolol, phenylpropanolomine, ↓lithium, ↓
phenothiaziune, ↑ ASA
Contraindications:Acute nephritis, fibrocystic breast disease, uterine fibroids, prostatitis, BPH
(exacerbates), gallstones, hyperthyroidism, seizure, high blood pressure, glaucoma, panic disorders,
GI ulcers, menopausal hot flashes, insomnia, >300 mg caffeine in pregnancy
Avoid use with ephedrine/Ephedra, MAOI
Government: Do not exceed 300 mg caffeine/day during pregnancy, Cautions: Arrhythmias

Nervous insomnia, nervous irritability, neuralgia, delirium from atony without

organic disease
Glycoside, quinones
Hysteria, chorea, nervous headache, wakefulness, prostration from low- External: Skin contact with leaves can cause dermatitis in some individuals
Volatile oil and acids
Nervine grade fever, epilepsy, nervousness, hypochondria, mental depression due to Tx: Wash with soap and water
Cyripedum pubescens Organic acids (gallic acid,
Nerve stimulant poor digestion in females Sx of OD: Hallucinations, giddy, restless headache (only with large doses)
(Lady's Slipper) tannic acid)
Anti-spasmodic Mood changes leading to depression (peri-menstruation or peri-menopause) Tx for overdose: Avoidance, no long term effect on GABA receptors; no need for
Ca, K, Mg
Irregular menses with despondency, dementia at menopause, depression hospitalization
Oleoresin (cypripedin)
from sexual abuse
Joint pains from scarlet fever
 Internal: Furiously delirious, enraged (violent) delirium tremens with tendency
to injure or destroy
Epilepsy with or followed by mania, cerebral irritation
Opium addiction Toxicity: Tropane alkaloids
Face congested, red, bloated o Action: Anti-cholinergic by inhibition of acetylcholine at neuroceptor sites
Loquacious, restless, fearful, sexual irritation o Toxic: 5 grains powder (300 mg)
Spasmodic cough, asthma, dyspnea of non-cardiac cause o Fatal: 4-5 gm leaf in children, 15-100 g leaf adult, 15-25 g seed (~100 mg
Smoked for asthma (gharbhah) historically: Datura leaf with Pimpinella atropine)
anisum seed and KNO3; mix and smoke with inhalation Sxs: Nausea, thirst, mydriasis, impaired vision (CI in glaucoma), dry mucosa, vertigo, rapid weak
Datura stramonium Tropane alkaloids (daturine, Smoke Datura leaf with Salvia officinalis in pipe until slight nausea develops pulse, anuria (due to hyperspasm , CI in BPH), hallucination, delirium with laughter, loquacity,
Sedative
(Jimson Weed, atropine, hyoscine) Whooping cough with epistaxis, hemoptysis; pertussis violence, coma, circulatory collapse and coma
Anti-spasmodic
Thorn-apple) Malic acid External: Poultice made of fresh leaves bruised, or dried leaves soaked in Lab: Elevated liver enzymes, alters prothrombin time
hot water Tx: Emesis or GI lavage, physostigmine (for eye sx - 0.5-2 mg IV prn), CPR, warm, catheterize to
Fresh leaves and tops are covered with boiling mutton tallow and kept just prevent reabsorption, arrhythmia – propanolol, convulsions (give IV diazepam); if allergic reaction
below boiling for 2 hours, strain through a flannel give benedryl (anti-histamine)
Apply to hemorrhoids, pruritus ani, peritonitis, pleurisy Contraindications Glaucoma, pregnancy (absolute CI), anti-cholinergic drugs, tricyclic anti-
Perineum for painful bladder conditions, enlarged prostate needing depressants
catheterization, spasmodic urethral stricture Cautions Tachycardia, arrhythmia, BPH, pyloric stenosis
Painful ulcers, acute opthalmia (caution re: mydriasis), orchitis, partitis,
glandular induration, swollen breasts, vulvar inflammation, inflammation
rheumatism

Hyperemia, fever, heat, nervous unrest, irritable, insomnia leading to

exhaustion
Alkaloids, stimulate then depress neural function, especially in medulla
Pain over the whole head (significant headache)
oblongata and spinal ganglia, also have analgesic effect
Convulsions
CNS Herbs

Toxic: Tasting flower nectar, eating honey from flowers, 0.5 g/child, 2-3 g/adult
Bight eyes with miosis
Sx of overdose: Prostration, lax muscles, visual disturbances (diplopia, ptosis; visual disturbances
Arterial throbbing with ↑ sensibility to light and noise
can persist up to a couple of weeks), slowed respiration, hypotension, hypothermia, ↓ pulse
Indole alkaloids (Gelsemine, Migraine headache (does not necessarily have to be a migraine but a
o Slowed rate and force of contraction, drowsy, loss of sensations,
gelsemicine, gelsemoidine, headache
Stimulates then depresses death from respiratory and cardiac paralysis
Gelsemium gelsidine, gelseverine, with severe/significant debility)
neural function o In non-fatal doses visual disturbances may last for several days
sempervirens sempervirine) Extrasystoles, functional heart disease, depresses excessive reactivity in
Antispasmodic Tx of overdose: GI lavage, strong tea or coffee, oxygen and artificial respiration when needed,
(Yellow Jasmine) B-methyl aesculetin, vascular system
Cardiosedative atropine 2 mg SC q 4 hr, seizures IV diazepam
Pentatriacontane, Mono- Neuralgic pains (Aconitum napellus is better): Trigeminal neuralgia
Strychnos nux vomica q2h8
methyl ether or emodin Severe fever, chilliness (see homeopathic picture) when moving body, ok if
External toxicity: Contact dermatitis
they are sitting still
Tx: Rinse with cold water
Nervousness hysteria
CI: Hypotension, myasthenia gravis, pregnancy (uterine stimulant in animals), respiratory or cardiac
Reduced sympathetic and parasympathic irritation
disease/deficiency, weak vital force
Severe dysmenorrhea
May potentiate aspirin, phenacetin
Rigid os (delivery), rigid dry os (delivery)
Asthma

Lupulinum (historically used): Delirium tremens, Nervous insomnia,

anxiety, worry, Dyspepsia with restlessness, tendency to brood, fermentation
and acid eructations after food, Genitourinary irritations, bladder irritations,
Sexual neuroses (spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation), chordee,
Dysmenorrhea (1:1 with Matricaria, 30-60 gtt q 3-4 hours), Debilitating
headache with cerebral hyperemia
Delerium tremens with restlessness, sleeplessness (with nervousness and
1-3% volatile oil restlessness)
Resin Restless leg syndrome
Bitter principle (lupamric acid Dyspepsia with eructations, restlessness and brooding In vitro antispasmodic activity on the uterus
(humulone) and lupulinic acid Sedative nervine Nervous stomach, Nervous irritation, anxiety, exhaustion, excitable; N HA Cautions In susceptible individuals the odor (Humulus, Lupulinum) can produce a sick
Humulus lupulus (lupulone) which convert to Digestive bitter Genitourinary irritation, bladder irritation headache with nausea, prostration
(Hops) isovaleric acid on storage) Cholagogue Sleep aid: To get into REM sleep without leaving a feeling foggy or hung Caution: Barbiturates, alcohol; Humulus lupulus has estrogenic tendency
Picric acid, tannin, choline, Mild laxative over sensation the next morning Allergy: Fresh plant, plant dust
asparagines Sexual neuroses – spermatorrhea, premature ejaculation (estrogen effect; Contraindications: Depression: Sedative effect may accentuate symptoms, Pregnancy
Essential oil (β-humulene, many contain anti-androgens), chordee (aka peyronies use 2-3x normal)
caryophyllene) ↑ lactation, milk let down: estrogenic and relaxing effects of beer
External: Fomentation – alone or with Eupatorium perforliatum or bitter
herbs for pneumonia, pleurisy gastritis, enteritis applied to painful area,
swellings, tumor
Ointment – boil 2 parts Datura leaf, 1 part Humulus strobiles in oil
(Olive, lard, mutton tallow) for eczema, ulcers, painful swellings
Pillow stuffed with Humulus catkin (or strobilaceous fruit of the hop)
for insomia
 Internal: Nervous irritability, unrest, insomnia, mydriasis, flushed face
Delirium, muttering, singing, loquacity, amusing hallucinations, illusions <
fevers Cautions • Anti-histamines, tricyclic anti-depressants, narrow angle glaucoma, megacolon
Spasm: Renal, uterine, urethra, hepatic, colic, asthma, gout, rheumatism, Toxicity: Tropane alkaloids:
chronic cough Action: Parasympatholytic by acting as a competitive antagonist (relaxes GI muscles) with
Cough: Short, dry, explosive, <lying, choking acetycholine at nerve endings, anticholinergic and parasympathetic effect, strongest on iris, secretory
Scopolamine (hyoscyamine) Sedative
Pneumonia: Cough, fever, delirium glands, CNS but little on blood vessels
Hypscyamus niger Tropane alkaloid (butyrin) Hypnotic
Pain: Herpes zoster, liver, kidney, urinary bladder, urethra, ovaries, Sx of toxicity: Acute: dryness, nausea, rapid pulse and tachycardia, vertigo, mydriasis, spasm,
(Henbane) Glucoside (hyospicrin) Mydriatic
incontinence delirium, hallucinations, coma, salivation, death by asphyxiation
Starch, gum, oil Anti-spasmodic
Epilepsy, chorea, senile tremor, insanity, mania, nymphomania after Chronic: macular rash, dry, itching
childbirth (delirium), puerperal/lochia mania Tx: GI lavage, KMNO4, pilocarpine HCl, caffeine, physostigmaine IV 0.5-2.0 mg, propanolol for
Morphine addiction (due to delirium tremens) tachycardia-arrhythmia, IV diazepam for convulsions
External: Fresh leaves bruised or in linseed oil: scar tissue Contraindications: Exhaustion, depression, feeble pulse
Hemorrhoids, cancer, eyes, and glandular swelling pains; begin with small
doses

Anti-bacterial
Dose dependent inhibition of reuptake for NE and serotonin at presynaptic axon membrane (not due
to hypericin or hyperforin alone). May have reserpine-like effect (deplete storage vesicles)
Internal: Spinal injury, shock, concussion
Hyperforin – may ↑ serotonin, lower cortisol, act on GABA receptors
Lacerations, puncture wound with excruciating pain
Hypericin, pseudohypericin, hyperforin are not stable in light or clear capsule, > in orange, red, white,
Throbbing body without fever
or amber capsule
Climacteric depression with anxiety and restlessness
Volatile oils with mono and Hyperforin not stable with slightest heat
Mild to moderate depression (up to 4-6 weeks for effect); less effect in
sesquiterpenes Suppresses inflammation, leukocyte infiltration of wounds
severe depression, Neurotic depression
Dianthrone derivatives: Interactions Research: Any drug that works at/via CYP 450 3A4 may be affected/interact with
Alterative Frequent bed-wetting in older children, adult
Hypericum perforatum hypericin, hyperforin, Hypericum. Hypericum may work at GABA A and B receptors, therefore may effect same
Anti-depressant External: Oil for pain of gastric ulcer, gastritis – effect my be due to flavonoid
(St. John's Wort) pseudohypericin target as benzodiazepines. Hypericum has been used to wean patients off of MAOIs, but Hypericum
Vulnerary content
Flavonols: quercitin, rutin, may also have an SSRI effect
Inflamed colon – retention enema of warmed oil
catechin Hypericin – phototoxic, during use humans and animals should avoid bright sun, common in animals
Inflamed hemorrhoids
Xanthones, coumarins (dermatitis, hair loss), humans only at high doses (0.5-8 mg hypericin extract/day)
Combined with linseed oil in psoriasis, oil for tattoo trauma, burns, myalgia:
Doses of 0.5-8 mg to HIV males over 12 weeks caused mild diarrhea,
Soothes skin, pain relief
indigestion, itchy rash, fatigue, depression, reversible elevated hepatic
Varicose veins prone to leg ulcers:soothing, pain relief; DOES NOT CURE
transminases; 2.0 mg qd considered safe (may be related to anti-retroviral use; see interactions
Cleans cuts, wounds; traumatic bruise/injury
below)
Interactions: BCP, digitalis, anti-retroviral (Indinavir is the most common antiretroviral drug
CNS Herbs

that is most strongly affected), cyclosporine

Insomnia from mental overwork

Used a lot in children: Restlessness / excitability, anxious, insomnia
Cough in restless children
Lactucic acid (bitterness)
Dysmenorrhea / cramping – esp. younger females Lactucarium:
Lactucin, lactuco-picrin,
Sedative Muscular / joint pain Sx of toxicity: When injected into dog intravenously induces sleep, coma,
Lactuca virosa lacytuycone
Anodyne Chronic cough associated with TB, emphysema, pertussis – as a syrup (not death
(Lettuce) Alkaloids, traces of mydriatic
Anti-spasmodic for No reports in humans
alkaloid
severe acute cough) Generally safe herb for long-term use
Gum, sugar/CHO, KNO3
Substitute for opium & codeine but no equal to them nor
addictive(considerable
use in WWII when codeine was not available)
 Internal:
Nervous, irritable of sensory & motor nerves, nervous tension,
Restless, irritable, impatient, discontent, peevish
Azulenes are anti-inflammatory & anti-allergic – cause cortisol release by acting on pituitary-adrenal
Dentition, susceptibility to pain – earache, rheumatism, nose, eye, neuralgia
axis prevents histamine release
– where apprehension is out of proportion to actual pain
α-bisabolol: anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory; decreases stomach ulcer healing time and prevents
Azulenes (chamazulene, Children are only appeased when they are carried
their formation from ASA, alcohol and stress; equal to papaverine
prochamazulene) Summer diarrhea from GI irritation: stools fetid, excoriate anus, watery,
Coumarins and flavonoids: relaxes smooth muscle affecting acetylcholine, bradykinin
Volatile oils (α-bisabolol, green, slimy “like chopped eggs & greens”
Polysacharides – stimulate B-lymphocyte and macrophage activity
spiroether) Congested liver or right hypochondrial pains
Topical: ↓ skin inflammation > hydrocortisone 0.25%, > bufexamac 5% over 3-4 weeks
Flavonoids (apigenin, Sore, swollen breast in infants & adults
Reduces time for topical wounds to heal compared to placebo
Matricaria chamomilla quercitin, luteolin) Nervine Flatulence, colic with distension, gastrointestinal ulcers – especially with
Increased healing of tattoo wounds when used topically.
(German Chamomile) Coumarins (umbelliferone, Stomachic nerve pain involved
Study: Combined w/ apple pectin for diarrhea in children better than placebo & less anxiety in rats
herniarin) Anuria or poor urinary output (relaxation effect)
Anti-micorbial to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium complex, polio virus, HSV-1
Polysaccharides Amenorrhea (secondary) w/ weight or heaviness in uterus, bloated abdomen
Anti-fungal
Tannin and irritable sudden temper during menopause
Apigenin – active at benzodiazapine receptor sites
Organic acids (anthemic Severe dysmenorrhea, labour-like pain, pain of passing clots
Relaxes smooth muscles, including uterus
acid, malic acid, anthemidin) External: Infusion as a wash for leukorrhea, mammary abscess, mastitis,
Cautions:Volatile oils: α-bisabolol in high doses causes vomiting (Tx: cease use)
ulcerating bubo, leg ulcers, catarrhal conjunctivitis, skin irritation, relief for
Allergic dermatitis may occur but often due to Anthemis cotula mixed in with Matricaria
eczema
CI:Anticoagulant, benzodiazepines, alcohol, sedative drugs due to their additive effect
Mouthwash for stomatitis, mucosal infection.
Inhaled: Essential oil or strong infusion – fumes inhaled to treat respiratory
infections or inflammation

Internal:
Nervous stomach associated with anxiety and depression; relieves spasm,
colic, dyspepsia, stomach sedative, GI sedative
Tannins (labiatic acid)
Combines well with Mentha X piperita for IBS (1:1)
Volatile oils of terpene Limbic sedative
Melissa officinalis Dyspepsia, from anxiety, depression
aldehydes (citral, citronella, Anti-spasmodic
(Lemon Balm) Insomnia from nervous stomach, flatulence, vegetative dystonia
geraniol, linalool) Carminative
Herbal tranquilizer – autonomic nervous problems; acts on limbic system
Gum
Cardiac problems associated with nervousness & depression (tachycardia,
palpitations, reactive heart)
External: Cream & bath helps for skin irritations

Internal:
Nervousness with insomnia, headache, or cold with upset stomach
Volative oils: citronellol, Animal study where mice were given catnip oil and hexobarbitol: Cats first
Leaves can be rolled and smoked for colds with spastic respiratory coughs
geraniol, citrol; Organic acid: become stimulated, and secondarily euphoric and relaxed.
i.e.
nepetalic acid Sedative Excellent mosquito repellent, one of the best except it will attract all types of cats
bronchitis
Nepeta cataria Cis-trans-nepetelactone Carminative including big ones like mountain lions, etc.
Respiratory problems with associated nervousness
(Cat nip) (compound that affects cats Anti-spasmodic Toxicity: Emmenagogue
Leaf can produce “happy intoxication”
– similar to valpotriates in Diaphoretic Irritating to mucous membranes
Delayed menstruation
Valerian) Side effects: Headache, malaise – from tea, smoked
External:
Bitter, tannin Hexobarbitol with catnip oil - increases sleep time in mice
Hemorrhoids (crushed leaves applied directly or sitz bath from leaves)
Poultice for swelling – bruises or other injuries
CNS Herbs
 Morphine, narcotine, codeine – sedative, analgesic
Anti-tussive: lower excitation of CNS and inhibits cough reflex
Internal:
Anti-diarrhea: inhibits GI peristalsis to prevent diarrhea
Depression – difficult, persistent hypochondriac (only in low doses,
Toxicity: Alkaloids lower CNS excitation, inhibit cough reflex, inhibits peristalsis
contraindicated in higher doses (i.e. morphine) because it may aggravate)
Therapeutic: Codeine 15-60 mg
Lots of melancholy & feelings of guilt with depression, menopausal
CNS Herbs

Toxic (codeine): 1 mg/kg children

depression
Fatal (codeine): 5 mg/kg children, 7-14 mg/kg adults
Mood change in the elderly (caused by arteriosclerosis in the brain) – ill
Side effect: CONSTIPATION
tempered & irritability that is out of character for the individual
Alkaloids (>20 - narcotine, Tx: Rheum spp., Cassia spp., Rhamnus spp. with bulking agents(Avena sativum, psyllium) & lots of
Stomach cancer with nausea and vomit
morphine, codeine, water
Painful fever, spasm and inflammation, soft pulse, moist skin, pale face,
rhoeadine, narcerine, To treat opium addiction: Valeriana (to help to withdraw)
dilated pupils, expressionless face – typhoid fever, asthma, cholera, passage
Papaver somniferum thebaine, Sedative Morphine – possible side effects include: Whole body itchy rash; hallucinations;
of renal or biliary calculi with Ipecac
(Opium Poppy) papaverine) Nervine depression
Increased chronic discharges – nasal mucous, oral salivation, uterine
Sulphuric acid, meconic acid Overdose sxs: Constipation (nerve plexus ceases to function), pinpoint pupils,
hemorrhage, other hemorrhage
Erythritol, myoinositol; D- pale /clammy skin, prostration, cyanosis, shallow irregular breathing,
Chronic cough, incessant cough
mannoheptulose bradycardia, hypotension, hypothermia, shock or coma, (hallucinations if
Antidote to Atropine, Atropa, Physostigma, Datura, and strychnine
conscious), pupils dilate, severe sweat, then death (respiratory shut-down)
Addiction can be treated with Valeriana
Tx of overdose: Maintain respiration, CPR, GI lavage, KMnO4, stimulants,
Constipating effect can be treated with Rheum palmatum
catheterization (to prevent reabsorption of the metabolites), heart stimulants,
Severe spastic pain
keep them awake & moving
Severe diarrhea, dysentery
CI: Acute pancreatitis, biliary colic
External: Linament, ointment & plaster: very painful inflammation
Depression, in higher doses
Pain, inflammation, erysipelatous inflammation, eye inflammation
Cautions: Decreased respiratory reserve, pregnancy, lactation

Internal:
May bind benzodiazepine receptors (apigenin)
Spasmodic disorders: worms in children; chorea, especially in girls
Decreases amphetamine induced hypermotility, aggressiveness, restlessness
approaching first menstruation
Alkaloids (passiflorine, Increase pain threshold
Restlessness, wakefulness from exhaustion or debility from nervous
harmitol, harmine, harman, Alkaloids may act via monoamineoxidase mechanism
excitement
harmaline, harmin) Passicol – antibacterial, antifungal
Insomnia from worry, infants, elderly, mental overwork, fever
Cyanogenic glycoside, Decreased dyspnea in New York Heart Association II cardiac insufficiency with
Nervous from menstrual disturbances, prolonged illness
Passiflora incarnata / passicol Nervine Crataegus spp.
Sleep induced is peaceful, patient awakes quiet and refreshed
coerulea Flavonoids (vitexin, Sedative Decreases anxiety
Convulsive movements, tetanus
(Passion Flower) isovitexin, vitexin 4-0- Anti-spasmodic Anticonvulsant (animal)
At the first warning of an epileptic attack
rhansmoside, rutin, Toxicity: Harmaline has marked CNS effects - 200 mg is considered toxic
Nervous headache, headache of debility or cerebral fullness
quercetin, Some sources suggest herb is non-toxic
Palpitations from excitement, shock, nervousness
apigenin) Sxs of overdose: Convulsion, motor paralysis, CNS depression, hypothermia, hypotension,
Nervous tachycardia
Calcium oxalate bradycardia, ↓ myocardial strength, ↓ respiration
Spasmodic asthma
CI:Pregnancy, uterine stimulant (harmane, harmaline)
Usually not strong enough on its own, works well with other nerviness
Cautions:SSRIs, MAOIs, tyramine containing foods and may potentiate barbiturates, sedatives
External: Soothing bath, hemorrhoids, burns, inflammation

Acts on reticular formation in brain stem

Anesthetic on bladder mucosa, specifically for irritating cystitis
Eliminated by the kidneys
Study: compared to benzodiazepines/oxazepam - no side-effects, improved memory and recognition
rates, no drowsiness, “safe to operate machinery
Antagonist to strychnine and tetanus poisoning; Anticonvulsant; Dopamine antagonist
Organic acids (benzoic, cinnamic acid) have a local anesthetic effect; Antifungal effects
Internal 8 week study: Showed a decrease in anxiety and phobias; with no dependency, no withdrawl
Neuralgia, especially facial, trigeminal neuralgia, toothache, earache, eye symptoms
neuralgia Inhibits platelet monoamine oxidase beta (kavapyrones); Anti-thrombotic (kavain)
Anxiety, despondency Animal study: induced brain ischemia, animals had less brain damage w/ kava
Kavalactones (kava pyrones Anorexia, GI cattarrh kava than those without it (protects brain during ischemia) may be good for high risk stroke patient
- kavaine, dihydrokavine, Vertigo, despondent, anxious, insomnia Cases in literature: southern Germany & Switzerland – all had history alcohol use & some sort of liver
methysticin, Urinary catarrh due to gonorrhea, edema with scanty micturition, cystitis of disease some of them needed a transplant (may have been taking higher than normal doses; may
Skeletal muscle relaxant
Piper methysticum dihydromethysticin, the bladder neck, neurogenic bladder have been a special extract; could have been a bad batch)
Anti-spasmodic
(Kava kava) yangonin) Renal colic; swelling of the prostate due to prostatitis 20-30 cases of Hepatoxicity (might be as high as 100), however few of the studies indicate dose
Sedative
Yangonoic acid, cinnamic Bronchitis (relieves cough) of Kava, other drugs being used, length of use, alcohol or other illicit drug use. Root leaves and
acid, yangano, benzoic acid Gout, rheumatic pains shoots were also being used in some preparations and alcohol and acetone were used to extract
Starch (49%) External constituents. Acetone is hepatotoxic. Some people are genetically predestined to have hepatic
Leprosy (rinse or paste over skin) failure.
Otitis type pain Looking at regulating it for use again in the U.K., Germany
Abscesses or other skin problems 3 recent trials have demonstrated clinical efficacy - highly effective at relieving anxiety w/ no side
Vaginal douche (for infections) effects and at treatment dosage not addictive.
Toxicity:Dihydromethysticin:Causes exfoliative dermatitis, ulcers (external, internal),
inflammation of the eyes
Treatment: Discontinue use, wash with soap and water
Resins: Can accumulate in spinal column, liver, kidney. Generally considered safe until recently
Signs of overdose: Vomiting, unconscious (infusion)
Caution: Kavalactones enter breast milk. May potentiate alprazolam, EtOH, benzodiazepenes
 Insomnia from neuralgia, nervous tension
Rotenones: toxic to insects (neurotoxin)
Nervous unrest, hysterical insomnia, delirium tremens
Glycosides (piscidin) Animal studies: rontenone in high doses is carcinogenic
Pain: Toothache, burns, scalds, hemorrhoids, oral abscess, neuralgia,
Isoflavonoids (ichythynone, Piscidin affects the CNS
sciatica, eyeball neuralgia (if Papaver somniferum not tolerated),
sumatrol) Sedative Not considered dangerous by Oregon poison control
CNS Herbs

Piscidia erythrina suprarorbital neuralgia, otitis pain

Rotenones (lisetin, Analgesic Sxs of overdose: decreased sensation, salivation, sweating, hyporeflexia, bradycardia, mydriasis,
(Jamaican Dogwood) Headache: migraine headache, especially with neuralgias; reduces pain but
piscerythrone, piscidone) Anodyne weakness, reduced respiration and volume, dyspnea, paralysis, death from respiratory failure
is not prophylactic
Resin, fat, wax, calcium Treatment: establish respiration, emesis or GI lavage, charcoal, cathartic fluids for hypotension,
Spasm: dysmenorrhea, false labor pains or threatened abortion with
oxalate convulsion-IV diazepam.
Viburnum spp.
Caution May potentiate sleep aids
Reflex cough, chronic bronchitis, cough of consumption

Nervous restlessness, imagines impending disease or danger

Gloomy and depressed; weepy
Mind tends to wander; wandering can cause it to become unsettled,
hysterical or anxious
Unpleasant dreams
Pulse: weak soft, except when discharging
Amenorrhea from uterine atony, nervous shock, anemia or from getting
chilled
Leukorrhea tends to be thick, yellowish-white and bland
Urine: clear and copious; dysuria during pregnancy; increased micturition
during cold. Nervousness during cold
Epididymitis and orchitis (mumps, gonorrhea), spermatorrhea and
prostatorrhea; varicoceles Alkaloids are mucous irritants, toxicity reduced with drying
Improves sexual function and reduces morbid sexual excitement (ie. nervous CNS stimulation, then paralysis
Saponin sexual excitement) Irritates the kidney and urinary tract in high doses
Nervine
Pulsatilla vulgaris Alkaloids (Anemonin → Headache: menstrual, nasal catarrh + nervousness, biliousness, chilliness, Sxs of overdose: Burning in mouth & throat, salivation, nausea and vomiting, colic, bloody diarrhea,
Sedative
(Pulsatilla) protoanemonin (also known nausea cardiac arrhythmia, SOB, lose control of sensory & motor functions; convulsions
Emmenagogue
as ranunculin) Upper respiratory tract infections: thick mucous, yellow and bland Treatment of overdose: Emesis/lavage, charcoal; demulcents such as Ulmus spp., Althea spp.
Asthma in pregnancy with profuse mucous, or suppressed menses Sxs externally: Dermatitis with vesiculation
Coryza or lacrimation from measles or cough of measles Tx: Water and soap
Constipation in hysterical females (anxious), with dyspepsia, indigestion, and
greasy taste; constipation alternating with diarrhea
Prone to indigestion; greasy/fatty taste in the mouth (bitter qualities so works
for indigestion).
IBS: Alternating constipation & diarrhea
Ear aches or otitis from cold-wet wind otitis produces a thick, yellow, bland
discharge
Cataracts, iritis, glaucoma, hordeolum/stye; Lacrimation in the wind
Eye discharges (eye gum on waking) thick, yellow, bland; use in
dilute form as a topical eyewash
Rheumatism; > cold, < warmth; pains move about & change location
Toothache with abscess, yellow pus

Nervousness - from illness; mental or physical exhaustion

Teething in children (trouble sleeping, anxious) good substitute for
chamomile but not as pleasant. S. baicalensis:
Delerium tremens (infusion at dinner, bed time), can with Piscidia Less of a nervine than S. lateriflora
Seizure remedy for petit and grand mal, Chorea or other tremors, neuralgia Inhibits antibody release, therefore preventing allergy, asthma or dermatitis reactions
Insomnia, restless-type – can’t get to sleep – more from mental exhaustion, Increase bile secretion in rabbits and dogs
overwork Induces diuresis in animals
Volatile oil
Heart disease assocociated wtih nervousness, Irregular arrhythmias or IV or IM to cats, dogs and rats to reduce BP (by causing vasodilation)
Tannin
Nervine tonic intermittent pulses Anti-fungal, Anti-bacterial
Scutellaria lateriflora Gum sugar
Anti-spasmodic Muscular fasciculations (e.g. Eye twitches - striated muscles) – especially Inhibits mouse cerebrum and cortex (therefore decreases cerebral function) and has relaxing/calming
(Skullcap) Bitter
Anti-convulsant when nervous; may have difficulty controlling even major muscles in affect
Flavonoid (scutellarin
exhausted state Lowers fever in rabbits induced with fever – not seen in other animal models
crystals)
Female remedy: Uterine problems due to nervousness or excitability + Has anti-inflammatory effect and therefore potential benefits for inflammatory types of cancer
muscular spasm Seizure induced in rats with lithium and pilocarpine were controled with Scutellaria lateriflora, Datura,
Insomnia Gelsemium
Circulatory problems (stroke, emboli, thrombi), used for paralysis or Toxicity Scutellarin: Giddy, stupor, limb twitching, seizure, intermittent pulse
insomnia associated with stroke. Overdose: Tremors; causes liver toxicity due to be adulteration with other plants.
o May not rectify a stroke as Gingko biloba
Exhaustion associated with chronic disease (severe influenza or pneumonia)
 Valepotriates may inhibit thymidine synthesis in DNA, cancer cultures
↑ GABA - ↓ CNS activity – valerenic acid inhibits enzymes that breaks down GABA
Vasodilation of smooth muscle - ↓ BP: Isovaltrate, valtrate, valeranone
Insomnia - ↓ wakefulness, AM awakening without hangover (an adv over benzodiazepines).
Volatile oil (iso-valerianic Internal:
benzodiazepine withdrawal
acid, borneol) Despondent
If pt is on 1 mg/day of lorazepam wean to ½ to ¼ over several weeks (expect some rebound
Isovaltrate, valtrate, vale- Mental depression, hypochondria, especially if cold
insomnia in the process)
potriates, valeranone Irritable, pain, nervous excitement
Improved mood after 2-4 weeks, improved sleep in ~<2 weeks
assumed to have effect Depression with nervousness
A fairly safe herb:
Organic acids (Malic acid Insomnia from nervousness; Insomnia from grief or lossPRS; Insomnia with
Need to give the herb 1-2 weeks duration of use to see if effect occurs
combined with Mg to ↑ depression
Valeriana officinalis Sedative Caution: Can prolong thiopental, phenobarbital, induced sleep with alcohol, sedative drugs
absorption (useful in o Insomnia is the indication with the most clinical studies
(Valerian) Anodyne Binds central GABA-A receptors along with benzadiazepine, and barbiturate
fibromyalgia - Mg malate)) Nervous headache – hemicranium
Inhibits breakdown of GABA (therefore more GABA survives; same action as benzodiazepines but
Starch, gum resin, tannin Decreased cerebral circulation
less side effects)
iridoid Epilepsy, spasmodic movements
Sx: Headache, vertigo, altered vision, restlessness, agitation, insomnia, nausea, motility and reflex
Monoterpenes – similar Nervous palpitations
excitability, central paralysis (at ~20x normal dose)
compounds to Napeta Elevated BP (has never been tested)
CNS Herbs

Note: With some people this does not induce sleep and they get wired (too much liver heat -
caterius which cause cat External:
occurs about 5% of cases)
ecstacy Add to bath for sleeplessness
Sedative mechanism unknown – not volatile oil or valpotriates
Avoid use with alcohol (may potentiate) – may potentiate anesthetics, thiopental, phenobarbital
Caution with centrally acting drugs i.e. benzodiazepines, barbiturates, epileptic drugs (dilantin; side
effect of long term dilantin use is osteopenia, osteoporosis irrespective of sex)

Anti-fungal stomachic
Similar to S. nux vomica but milder in action - More energetic than S. nux
Alkaloids, acid, glycoside: CNS stimulation by selective block of motor inhibitors at postsynaptic
vomica
membrane in ventral horns of spinal column,
Atony, nervous debility
Rapidly absorbed in GI tract (high % absorption), metabolized in 24 hours by the liver, excreted in
Amenorrhea, chlorosis (anemia)
urine;
Dysmenorrhea with colic pains and heaviness in uterus, ovaries, pains in
Strychnine (indole alkaloid): Accumulates with chronic use, causing liver damage
lumbar (used acutely or day before onset of pain)
Brucine: 1/20th the potency of strychnine (similar effects)
Right hypochondrium pains
Fatal: Strychnine 30-90 mg (adult), 15 mg (child)/ 30-50 mg bean ~ 5 mg strychnine
Menopause with coldness of extremities
Sx: Prodrome (sense of doom), muscle cramps and spasm, stiffness, agitation, extreme convulsions
Indole alkaloids (strychnine Brain anemia with hysterical, choreic, epileptoid, melancholic
in 15-60 minutes (5 minutes if inhaled), lactic academia, spasm, opisthotonos, depressed respiration,
Strychnos ignatia (2-3%), brucine (1-1.5%)) Neuromuscular stimulant hypochondriacal behavior from nervousness, muscular debility, facial
death d/t hypoxia; ↑ SGOT, LDH, CPK, leukocytosis
(Ignatia) Tannic acid (igasuric acid) Tonic twitching
Tx: Immediate emesis or lavage but not if tetany has begun; keep quiet, recumbent, protected from
Glycosides (loganin) Disposition to grieve, nervous depression
draft in dark room; diluted KmnO4 or I, charcoal or tannin then remove from stomach; monitor arterial
Atonic dyspepsia, chronic catarrh of ST
blood gases, IV NaHCO3 for acidemia, IV diazepam for seizure, curare (found in frogs, some plants
Sick congestive h/a
and helps to completely sedate the patient with respect to to muscular
Sexual coldness – impotence in male, sterility or frigidity in female
movement or to paralyze heart function in certain surgeries) for refractory convulsions,
Visual atonia, sensation of dust in the eye, eyelid twitching
mechanical ventilation
Tinnitus (also indication for selenicereus grandiflorus, gingko biloba) and
Patient has to be kept quiet because stimulation (i.e. talking, light, touching them) exacerbates
impaired hearing from atony
the poisoning
Epilepsy
CI: Strychnine accumulates in the liver, spinal cord but not in the CSF therefore CI with
Anti-fungal
hepatitis where there would be difficulties with metabolism. Pregnancy

Nausea, vomiting from GI irritability, nervous stomach, anorexia

Congested liver, spleen, portal circulation – right hypochondrial pain to side
CNS stimulant (strychnine) in small doses; excites CNS, ↑ blood circulation, ↑
Stomachic or
respiration, LBP (in India), male stimulant (to improve erectile dysfunction) key =
Indole alkaloids: strychnine, Synergist shoulder, yellow face, eyes, tongue coating; liver/gallbladder problems
dose (in India)
Strychnos nux vomica brucine, vomicine Stimulant (for nervous radiation to right shoulder
Brucine is weaker
(Nux vomica) Glycosides: loganine exhaustion and atonic states Bilious intermittent fever, bilious headache with nausea, umbilical pain,
Small amounts cause tetany of all body muscles
Caffeotannic acid leading stimulant for the NS forehead
Aqueus extract – anti fungal
- as a nerve tonic) pain – dysentery
Bitter stomachic – increased peristalsis
Constipation, diarrhea, menstrual colic – from atony, liver or or functional GI
peristalsis paralysis – pain (not a nerve tonic for children, elderly)
 Bone marrow model: Does not ↑ inflammatory cytokines
o IL-12, TNFα, IL-1β were the cytokines studied
o Laccase (enzyme) is inhibited above 40°C; inhibited above pH 3-7 (therefore needs acidic
environment)
o Also inhibited by NaCl
Lewis lung carcinoma mouse model: 2 separate extracts A1 (sodium pyroglutamate) and A2 were
studied
o Used multiple doses (30, 100, 300mg/kg) and the A1 extract proved to be more effective than the
A2 extract at ↓ tumor metastasis, tumor growth and for its anti-angiogenic effect
Erchlich tumor mouse model: ↑ NK activity
o Different types of extractions were tested (none of which were water) and hexane extract was the
most effective followed by methanol (from wood alcohol - poisonous to humans)
Beta-glucans
Chinese hamster lung model (V79): Demonstrated that it was not genotoxic
Laccase (enzyme) to help Eaten as a regular part of the diet but also eaten for medicinal purposes
Agaricus blazei o Above 60°C - extractions were not affected and were still effective against mutagenicity
digest wood Anti-cancer Anti-cancer
(Sun Mushroom) o Usually boiled and/or simmered
Sodium-pyroglutamate Therapeutic dose: >1g/day
Mouse model: Inoculated with Hepatitis B - some were given Agaricus blazei and some were not
Benzaldehyde
o In the mice that got Agaricus blazei, there was an Ab and T-cell response to the hepatitis B Male
Wistar Mouse - treated with diethyl nitrosamine (DEN) at 200 mg/kg to assess liver function using
glutathione-s-transferase as a marker
o At a dose of 11.5 mg/mL (the highest dose given), there was significant reduction in liver damage
and
↑ levels of glutathione function
Sarcoma 180: ↓ growth and metastasis in the mice that received this mushroom
Human study: 100 females with cervical, ovarian or endometrial cancer
o Agaricus blazei group: ↑ NK activity, no significant effect on lymphokine or monocyte activity,
significant ↓ in side effects of chemotherapy (better appetite, less alopecia, greater energy or
strength,
less emotional lability)
Medicinal Mushrooms

Lumbago Inhibits Sarcoma 180 in mice – 100%;

Knee pain Inhibits Erlich ascites (mouse tumor model that produces abdominal ascites) - 90%
Boletus edulis Polysaccharides A, B
Limb numbness Polysaccharide A (glucan), B (glucogalactammannan) – inhibit inflammatory mediators
(King bolete) 8 amino acids
Muscle tetany Increased peripheral eosinophils, neutrophils at 10, 25 mg/kg in rats
9 g tid, in soup, stew, stir fry (water extraction) Decreased lymphocytes in pleural fluid in lung carcinoma

PSK Inhibits sarcoma 180, ↑ liver function, normal spleen in irradiated mice, ↑
phagocytosis of macrophages
↑ NK against lethal CMV, prolong anti-bacterial anti-biotic effects
Anti-tumor to animals with adenosarcoma, fibrosarcoma, plasma cytoma, melanoma, sarcoma,
breast, lung, colon cancer
Injection into tumors (in animal models) ↓ metastasis
Increased therapeutic effect if used with radiation, chemotherapy
Stop HIV binding to lymphocytes, ↑ interferon in viral infections
Humans: 25% of Japan anti-cancer expenditures (1987)
Beta-sitosterol 3 g/day - ↑ INF, free radical scavenger; > with chemotherapy agents than alone
Triterpenoid (ergosta 7, 22 > with radiation for cervical cancer stage III (3-6 g/day): ↑ lifespan, 36% had no cancer cells after
dien 3B – ol (sterol), ergost – Mexico - impetigo, ringworm treatment
Coriolus versicolor/ 7-en-3-β-ol, ergosterol) Benefits (PSK): Glomerulonephritis, sarcoidosis, idiopathic nephritic Therefore cancer deaths – 21% with PSK, 52% without PSK
Trametes versicolor Polysaccharide (PSK syndrome, SLE, PSP: Oral, IP injection: ↑ T cell #, ↑ interferon, ↑ IL-2, ↓ thymus atrophy in mice with tumors and ↑ IgG
(Turkey tail) (Krestin with β-1,4 glucan), RA, sclerosis, Bechet’s disease (can also give Lactobacillus acidophilus, L-glutamine to ↑ IgG)
PSP (polysaccharide – PSK: ↓ cholesterol, ↓ LDL 3 g/day orally with radiation and chemotherapy in esophagus, stomach, lung: ↓ side effects of
peptide), tiredness, weakness, dry mouth and throat
coriolan) Individuals gained weight (not weight loss as in controls) also ↑ T cell, NK cell activity, IL-2 vs.
controls↑ 1 year survival by 11% (↑ T cell, NK cell, complement C3)
Breast CA: Stabilized and prevented ↓ WBC with 4’ epidoxorubicin, cyclophosphamide
Ergosterols: Control tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), cytotoxic to hepatoma
Toxicity LD50 of PSP = 10 mg/kg (mice)
Negative on Ames and chromosome distortion tests (Ames test is a test to determine if a
substance causes DNA mutations)
Cautions May ↓ acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity
Aside: Canadians are #1 in the world for the following drugs: Codeine, NSAIDS (per
capita) and our level of side effects from NSAIDS are among the highest in the world.
 C. sinensis:
↑ erythroid in mice bone marrow during chemotherapy (cyclophosphamide, harringtonine)
↓ bone marrow suppression in mice undergoing chemotherapy (↓ RBC and ↓ WBC were the main
values used to assess bone marrow suppression)
C. ophioglossides: C. ophioglossoides:
Ideally this fungi would be standard with all treatments with these chemotherapy drugs, however it is
Ophiocordin (antibiotic) Stimulate blood circulation
very expensive
Polysaccharides (CO-N, SN- Regulates menstruation
↑ phagocytes, macrophages, ↑ mice lifespan with lymphoma
C, CO-1) - anti-tumor activity C. sinensis:
4 g/kg immunosuppressive = cyclosporine A in mice: Caused 80% survival 60 days following Ehrlich
C. sinensis: Anti-asthma (relaxes smooth muscles)
ascites carcinoma of mice
Cordyceps sinensis Unsaturated fatty acids Anti-cancer
Sedative: Glutamine, tyrosine, l-tryptophan
(Caterpillar fungus) (82%) Potentiates epinephrine
Inhibit monoamine oxidase from brain
Oleic acid (31%) Excessive tiredness
↑ platelet formation
Linoleic fatty acids (68%) Persistent cough (↓ excess phlegm)
Humans: 64% improvement in sexual hypofunctioning
Amino acids Impotence, debility, seminal emissions with weak knees
↑ 17-hydroxycorticosteroid, ↑ 17-ketosteroids (adrenal function)
Adenosine, adenine, uracil, Anemia (builds bone marrow)
↓ cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, VLDL, ↑ HDL
uridine Hemostatic in phthisis
Arrhythmia: 77% improvement (0.25 g tid for 3 weeks)
Chronic renal failure: 54% at 3-5 g/day ; ↑ renal function, ↑ immune function
Tinnitus due to fluid in the ear: 34% cured, 39% saw improvement
Toxicity LD50 = 27 g/kg IP (intraperitoneal) in mice

Sterols/Fats (Linolenic acid, Internally:

arachidonic acid, ergosterol, Bladder problems (UTI)
Fomes fomentarius fungisterol, isoergosterone, Digestive stasis (to increase absorption)
Anti-hemorrhagic
(Polyporus ergosta) Esophageal (high rate of recurrence in 1st year), gastric, and uterine cancer Slowed sarcoma 180 growth in mice by 80%
Anti-cancer
fomentarius) Lignins Topically:
Polysaccharides (not well Rheumatism: Grind up and place on skin over affected area(s)
characterized) Hemostatic (ground up with spider webs to stop bleeding)

Agaricic acid, agaricinic acid,

ricinolic, e-buricolic acid, Greeks/Romans: Used as a poison antidote (Pliny) with vinegar and ginger Inhibits sarcoma 180 by 80% in mice
accinic acid, malic acid Bitter tonic for bronchial asthma Laxative effect (agaricinic acid)
Fomitopsis officinalis
Ergosterol (sterol) Anti-fever (malaria, TB) TB night sweats Purgative (agaric acid)
(Quinine cork, Agaric)
Wax Anhidrotic (decreases sweat) Toxicity: Bowel irritation (laxative, purgative)
Medicinal Mushrooms

Gum Malarial fever (1/2 oz - 4 drachm φ, 2 doses 3 hr apart) Large amounts: Skeletal muscle weakness, CNS depression (animals)
CHO

Adenosine: Inhibit platelet aggregation

Triterpenes: Anti-allergenic, especially Ganoderan C
Ganoderan B, D: Antihypertensive
Oleic acid: Inhibits histamine release-decreases allergy and inflammation
β-D glucan: Anti-sarcoma 180
Whole reshi extract: Decreased blood pressure, greater than captopril (25 mg tid), nimodipine (20 mg
Triterpenes (ganodermic tid), reshi 55 mg tid for 4 weeks
acids, ganoderic acids) Hepatitis ↓ platelet aggregation to 17% (healthy), 31% (atherosclerotic) at 1 g tid
Polysaccharides (ganoderan Hypertension 1 g tid for 4 months, ↓ LDL in 68%, ↓ arrhythmia in 60%, ↓ insomnia in 78%, ↓ angina
Ganoderma lucidum
A, B, C, β-D-glucans, D-6 Insomnia ↓ NK (mice), ↑ IL-1, ↑ IL-2
(Reishi)
glucans) Gastric ulcer Does not effect B monoamine oxidase
Fatty Acids (oleic acid) Protect against ionizing radiation if given before or after
Adenosine Increased WBC, hematoglobin in mice periphery, Chronic bronchitis: 60%
↓ high altitude sickness: ↑ O2 in blood at 4-5000 m, begin 10-14 days before climb
Myotonia dystrophica: ↓ muscular atrophy of face, head, neck, larynx & endocrine glands
↑ mice (B6C3F1) survival to radiation, significant ↑ in survival at 5% of diet
Toxicity Oral use for 3-6 months: Dry mucosa, itchy skin, upset stomach, bloody diarrhea
Diarrhea in cancer patients at 9 g/d; > with vitamin C at 6-12 g/day
Allergy to spores

Rats: Decreased blood pressure without changing cholesterol, effect is rapid, short lived, and dose-
dependent
NIDDM: Decreased glucose
Increased water in stool ~ 120%
Mice: Increased NK, cytoxic T-cells, 86% tumor growth inhibition in tumor bearing mice
Polysaccharides (β-1,3
Fraction D: ↑ IL-1, ↑ delayed type hypersensitivity reaction
glucan, β-1,6 glucan, β,D- Cancer prevention
Anti-tumor in mice with implanted tumors, slowed metastasis of existing cancer
glucan, α glucan) Support during chemotherapy
Grifolia frondosa Inhibit sarcoma 180 by 90% with treatment on day of innoculation
Grifolan, grifolin-LE, LELFD, Diabetes
(Maitake) Inhibit tumor growth rate 43%: Breast, prostate, liver
grifolan NMF-5N Hypertension
Humans: Anti-cancer effect in lung, stomach, hepatocellular, leukemia, breast, prostate, liver (China)
N-acetylgalactasamine- Food: Soups
over 3 months
specific lectin
Beneficial in karposi sarcoma and AIDS
Decreased blood pressure (systolic 7% & diastolic 9%) 1500 mg bid
Chronic hepatitis B: 72% recovered vs. 57% placebo
44% vs. 13% (placebo) converted from hepatitis B positive to hepatitis B neg
Toxicity None known
 Increased stamina, circulation
Diabetes, arthritis, colds, preserve health

Pharmacology started:
LEM: Slowed rate liver cancer progression, ↑ antibodies to hepatitis B
Mice: Lentinan: Inc T-helper cells after 1 month, to normal T-helper after 8
Other: Polysaccharides: ↑ phagocytoxic activity
week without lentinan (mice)
10% of diet ↓ sarcoma 180, MM-46 by 40%, not B-16 melanoma, Lewis lung
Lentinan effects serotonin, 5-HT, histamine, catecholamines; synergistic with
JLS (polysaccharides) blocks release of herpes simplex I in animals
IL-2 in cancer
EP3, EPS4 (polysaccharides): Antiviral Herpes I, II; equine encephalitis,
Ergosterol ( vitamin D in Used with cyclophosphamide (chemotherapeutic drug) to increase survival
polio, measles, mumps, HIV
sunlight) time, e.g. stomach cancer, ↑ cytotoxic T cells in spleen (Japan)
Eritadenine: 0.005% of rat diet ↓ cholesterol 25% in 1 week
LEM (lentinula mycelium ↑ complement C3 C3a + C3b macrophage activation; ↑ tumor specific
Eyrosinose: ↓ blood pressure, Inc lipids in liver and thus dec lipid in circulation
extract) antigen; ↑ complement C3, ceruloplasmin, NK, T-helper, IL-1a, IL-1b, TNF-α;
Humans: Lentinan: Increased survival time in stomach cancer
Polysaccharides (lentinan, 11 ↑ Ig, peripheral interferon, IL-6, produce cytokines to ↑ PMN bacteriocidal
Lentinan with chemo > chemo alone or lentinan alone in patients with stomach cancer; best protocol
Lentinus edodes other identified effect
- lentinan then chemotherapy
(Shitake) polysaccharides) Lentinan: Action ↓ by thyroxin, hydrocortisone
Lentinan: Injected in malignant peritoneal effusion, 80% of lesions responded
Minerals Lentinan is used in Japan for run down, cancer prone, elderly, low NK cell
LEM: Hepatitis B: LEM helped 25% seroconvert, drug R TB
Lignin (~CFS)
Animal: Antibacterial: Antifungal:
Eritadenine, peptidomannan, Lentinen IM produces improvement in patients with drug resistant M.
Toxicity: Shitake dermatitis, Antibodies to spores, among those who work in grow operations, Chronic
bisdisulfide tuberculosis; wards off toxic shock from bacterial endotoxins
Medicinal Mushrooms

use may ↓ coagulation

Adenine, choline Improved SGPT, SGOT (AST, ALT) in mice with toxic hepatitis
LEM at 50 mg/day IV for 1 week: Diarrhea which disappeared within days as adapted to dose
LEM > lentinan for viruses, Lentinan in mice: Mice vesicular stomatitis virus,
LEM: Nausea, vomiting, heavy chest, face flushing, heavy head, ↑ blood pressure
adenovirus type 12, gave complete protection from LD75 dose of virulent
LD50 > 100 mg/kg mice, rat, dog, monkey
influenza
No problems of infertility in men; normal litters in animals
virus, prolonged survival at LD 100 viral dose given IV, IL-6 before it induced
CI: Lentinan: Action ↓ by thyroxin, hydrocortisone
by virus
Inhibit HIV cell infection, potentiates AZT

Polysaccharides, glycoproteins increase interferon induction, ↑ IL-2

Increased phagocytosis, ↑ macrophage #
Polysaccharides (A, B, C) During radiation increased NK activity, cell mediated cytotoxicity
Sterol (ergosterol, erosta 5, Polysaccharides BI-BV anti-tumor against HeLa cervical cancer cells
7 dien 3); Polysaccharides A, B, C: Anti-tumor in mice, ↑ survival time
Decreased cholesterol
Fatty Acids (undecanoic ↑ SOD of liver, brain, inhibiting monoamine oxidase B
Tramella fuciformis Preventive for arteriosclerosis, atherosclerosis, clotting tendency
acid, lauric acid, tridecenoic Immune support ↓ LDL in rats fed butter, sugar, egg yolk that were 30% > than other rats
(Snow fungus) Chronic infections: Respiratory, to increase immune function
acid, myristic acid, Polysaccharides A, B: Treatment for leukopenia in cancer patients caused by chemotherapy or
Augment immunity during chemotherapy, radiation
pentadecanoic acid, palmitic, radiation
stearic, oleic & linoleic acid) ↑ macrophage phagocytosis: ↑ resistance to bronchitis in humans
Phosphatidylcholine, glycerol 45 patients with chronic hepatitis, 1 g/day for 3 months, 32 of 45 had ↓ in hepatitis symptoms
10 patients who were HBsAg + converted to HBsAgo 13 patients had ↓ in HBsAg + levels
14 patients became free of HBs symptoms