Caprifoliaceae

Names: Stagbush, American Sloe.

Habitat: Eastern and Central USA.

Collection: The bark from the roots and the trunk is collected in the autumn. The shrubs should be dug out and the bark stripped from roots and trunk. The bark from branches should be collected in spring and summer. In both cases the bark should be dried in the shade.

Part Used: Dried bark of root, stem or trunk.

Constituents:

• Coumarins, including scopoletin

• Salicin

• l-Methyl-2, 3-dibutyl hemimellitate

• Miscellaneous; viburnin, plant acids, volatile oil, tannin.
  

Indications: Black Haw has a very similar use to Cramp Bark, to which it is closely related. It is a powerful relaxant of the uterus and is used for dysmenorrhoea, false labour pains as well as in threatened miscarriage. Its relaxant and sedative actions explain its power in reducing blood pressure in hypertension, which happens through are laxation of the peripheral blood vessels. It may be used as an anti-spasmodicin the treatment of asthma.

King’s describes this herb thus “That it has a decided affinity for the female reproductive organs is well established. Decoctions of the drug were formerly used as a gargle in apthae, as a wash in indolent ulcers, and in various ophthalmic disorders. By its astringency it has proved of value in diarrhoea and dysentery. It has been recommended in jaundice, but we have a better agent in Chionanthus. Palpitation of the heart is said to have been relieved by it. Its principal use at the present day is in disorders of the female organs of reproduction. As a uterine tonic it is unquestionably of great utility. In the hyperasthetic, or irritable condition of the uterus incident to highly nervous women, or as the result of overwork, it will be found an admirable agent. In dysmenorrhoea, with deficient menses, uterine colic, and in those cases where there are severe lumbar and bearing-down pains, it will prove an efficient drug. It is specifically indicated in cramp-like menstrual pains, pains decidedly expulsive and intermittent in character and in the various painful contractions of the pelvic muscles, so common to disorders of women. Uterine congestion and chronic uterine inflammation are often greatly relieved by Black Haw. It acts promptly in spasmodic dysmenorrhoea. especially with excessive flow. It is a good remedy for uterine hemorrhage attending the menopause. In amenorrhoea in pale, bloodless subjects, the menses are restored by it. Cramps of limbs attending pregnancy yield to both black haw and cramp bark. It is considered almost specific for cramp in the legs, not dependent on pregnancy, especially when occurring at night. The condition for which black haw is most valued is that of threatened abortion. It is the most prompt drug in the materia medica to check abortion, provided the membranes have not ruptured. In all cases of habitual abortion it should be given in small doses for a considerable length of time. The abundant testimony as to its value in this condition alone gives it a high place among drugs. By its quieting effects upon the irritable womb, women who have previously been unable to go to full term have been aided by this drug to pass through the pregnancy without mishaps which would otherwise have proven disastrous to both child and mother. It has been used to control postpartum hemorrhage, but is less effective than ergot and cinnamon. It assists in reducing the size of the womb in subinvolution of that organ. Viburnum is of some value innervous disorders, and has been advised in chorea, hysteria, hystero-epilepsy, petit mal, and paralysis agitans. It is of service only when these troubles are associated with menstrual wrongs. Viburnum opulus resembles this agent very closely in its effects, and may be used in the above-named conditions, for which the black haw is useful.

Specific Indications and Uses – Uterine irritability and hyperasthesia; threatened abortion; uterine colic; dysmenorrhoea with deficient menses; severe lumbar and bearing-down pains; cramp-like, expulsive menstrual pain; intermittent, painful contractions of the pelvic tissues; after-pains and false pains of pregnancy; obstinate hiccough.”

Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put 2 teaspoonfuls of the dried bark in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer for l0 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

Tincture: take 5-l0 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Liliaceae

Names: Starwort, Helonias Root.

Habitat: USA

Collection: The underground parts are unearthed in the autumn.

Part Used: Dried rhizome and root.

Constituents: Saponins; the glycosides chamaelirin and
helonin, basedon diosgenin.

Actions: Uterine tonic, diuretic, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue.

Indications: This herb, which comes to us via the North
American Indians, is one of the best tonics and strengtheners of
the reproductive system that we have. Though primarily used for
the female system, it can be equally beneficial for men. It is
known to contain precursors of the estrogens. However, it acts
in an amphoteric way to normalize function. The body may use this
herb to balance and tone and thus it will aid in apparently opposite situations.
Whilst being of help in all uterine problems, it is specifically useful
in delayed or absent menstruation. Where ovarian pain occurs,
False Unicorn Root may be safely used. It is also indicated to
prevent threatened miscarriage and ease vomiting associated
with pregnancy. However, large doses will cause nausea and vomiting.

King’s Dispensatory: “Chamaelirium is tonic,
diuretic, and vermifuge; in large doses, emetic, and, when fresh,
sialagogue. In doses of 10 or 15 grains of the powdered root, repeated
3 or 4 times a day, it has been found very beneficial in dyspepsia,
loss of appetite, and for the removal of worms. It is more
especially applicable in indigestion, dyspepia, and
mal-assimilation, where the trouble is reflex from, or associated
with wrongs of the female reproductive apparatus. It is said to
render the urine alkaline. It is reputed beneficial in colic,
and is valuable in atony of the generative organs. I have found this plant to possess a decidedly beneficial influence in cases
of sexual lassitude in both sexes, and of nocturnal emissions,
the result of excesses, especially in those instances where there
are symptoms of gastric derangement with impaired memory, mental
apathy, or indifference, and an enfeebled condition of the general
system, with weakness or dull pain in the renal, or lumbo-sacral
region. In diseases of the reproductive organs of females, and
especially of the uterus, it is one of our most valuable agents,
acting as a uterine tonic, and gradually removing abnormal conditions,
while at the same time it imparts tone and vigor to the reproductive
organs. Hence, it is much used in leucorrhoea, amenorrhoea,
dysmennorhoea, and to remove the tendency to repeated and
successive miscarriages. A particular phase removed by it
is the irritability and despondency that often attends uterine
troubles. In painful menstruation it has been found especially
adapted to those cases in which there is pelvic fullness, a sensation
as if the womb and rectum were distended with blood, and the aching,
bearing down organs feel as if they would fall out of the body.
Its action here is very decided when the smaller doses are employed.
It is considered useful by some for the relief of the vomiting
of pregnancy. Chamaelirium is a decided tonic to the
urinary tract and has exerted some benefit in diabetes insipidus. ”

Cook describes it thus,”The root of helonias
is a strong bitter, and one of the most distinctly stimulating
of all tonics. It acts very generally upon the system, including
in its range the salivary glands, respiratory organs stomach,
gall-ducts, uterus, and ovaries. It stimulates the salivary flow,
excites the fauces and respiratory passages, and promotes expectoration,
for which purposes it is useful in greatly depressed and atonic conditions
of the lungs, but should never be used in sensitive conditions.
But its most prominent and valuable action is upon the uterine
organs; where its carcely has an equal in atonic forms of prolapsus,
leucorrhea, passive hemorrhage and menorrhagia, and similar enfeebled
conditions. Though in no sense an astringent, its tonic influence
is peculiarly efficacious in arresting too excessive menstruation
and lochia, when associated with laxity and depression; and it
rarely fails to arrest a threatened abortion arising from
the same conditions. In these connections, it is one of the most
reliable tonics in the Materia Medica.”

Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put l-2 teaspoonfuls
of the root in a cup of water, bring to boiling and simmer gently
for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. For
threatened miscarriage it may be drunk copiously. Tincture: take 2-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Turneraceae

Names: Turnera aphrodisiaca

Habitat: Southern USA, Mexico and parts of sub-tropical America andAfrica.

Collection: The leaves and stems are gathered at the time off lowering.

Part Used: Dried leaves and stems.

Constituents:

• Volatile oil, containing thymol, x-copaene, [[beta]]-
  cadinene and calamene, l, 8-cineole,

  x– and [[beta]]-pinenes and calamenene

• Flavonoids such as 5-hydroxy-7, 3, 4-trimethoxyflavone

• The hydroquinone arbutin

• Miscellaneous; a cyanogenetic glycoside, a bitter substance of undetermined structure called damianin, resin, tannin.
  

Indications: Damiana is
an excellent strengthening remedy for the nervous system. It has an ancient reputation as an aphrodisiac. Whilst this mayor may not be true, it has a definite tonic action on the central nervous andthe hormonal system. As a useful anti-depressant, Damiana is considered to be aspecific in cases of anxiety and depression where there is a sexual factor. It may be used to strengthen the male sexual system.

Ellingwood describes this herb thus:
(please note that the language is that of Ellingwood, reflecting the time it was written) “A mild nerve tonic claimed to be valuable in the treatment of sexual impotence. Some of our physicians praise it highly for its influence in sexual neurasthenia, and it is said to correct frigidity in the female. It had long enjoyed a local reputation as a stimulant tonic of the sexual apparatus among the natives of Mexico, before it attracted the attention of the
profession. Besides its peculiar action on the sexual appetite and function, it is a general tonic, some what cathartic and is slightly cholagogue. The midwives and women of loose morals of western Mexico also attribute emmenagogue properties to it.

“Dr. Reid uses Damiana in all conditions where a general tonic is needed, especially if there be enfeeblement of the central nervous system. He esteems it most highly, prescribing it constantly for
this purpose. It is valuable in renal and cystic catarrh and in general irritation of the urinary passages, through its influence in soothing irritation of mucous membranes. This latter property renders it valuable in the treatment of respiratory disorders, especially those accompanied with profuse secretion.

“In terms of the action of this remedy in its influence upon the reproductive organs, Dr. Reid mentions dysmenorrhea, headache, at the menstrual
epoch, bad complexion, rough or discolored patches on the skin with acne, especially of asevere type, depending upon uterine irritation. Eruption resembling eczema, from insufficient menstruation. Dr. Watkins gives as its further indications, delayed or suppressed menstruation in young girls, irregularity at the beginning of menstruation, amenorrhoea in very young girls. It will certainly allay sensitiveness of the sympathetic nervous system to irritations
caused by disorders of the womb and ovaries. The remedy must be given in full doses, to accomplish these results. From 5 to 10 grains of the extract is necessary 3 or 4 times a day, and persisted in.”

Ellingwood gives these specific indications: sexual impotence, sexual neurasthenia, frigidity, renal catarrh, respiratory disorders, dysmenorrhoea, headache at the menstrual epoch,
bad complexion, delayed or suppressed menstruation, amenorrhoea.

Combinations: As a nerve tonic it is often used with Oats. Depending on the situation it combines well with Kola or Skullcap.

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto l teaspoonful of the dried leaves and let infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

Tincture: take l-2 ml of the tincture
three times a day.

To recognize amenorrhea it is necessary to know what would be considered
normal menstruation. The duration of a period is 28 +/- 3 days 65% of women, with a range of 18 to 40 days; once a menstrual pattern has been established the variation does not normally exceed 5 days. The average duration of flow is 5 +/- 2 days with a blood loss averaging 130 ml, usually heavier on the second day.

Amenorrhea can be of three broad types:

• Primary amenorrhoea where menstruation has never happened. Such
  a wide variation in normal onset times of periods occurs that applying this
  diagnosis is problematic. Usually primary amenorrhoea implies that menstruation
  has not started by the age of 16. With the safe and effective herbs available
  to the phytotherapist, treatment could start at the age of 15 if called
  for. However competent diagnosis is called for as there are a number of
  diverse cause to consider, including imperforate hymen, ovarian dysfunction
  or hormonal imbalance. Obviously the treatment will be dictated by the diagnoses
  cause.
  

• Secondary amenorrhoea when menstruation stops after at leastone period. This is a common occurrence with causes including pregnancy,
  stress, loss or gain of weight, menopause, breast-feeding, anaemia, excessive
  exercise, stopping contraceptive pill intake, some drugs, ovarian cysts
  or tumors etc.etc..
  

• Erratic or irregular menstruation. There may be 3 or 4
  periods in a year, or 3 close together followed by none for a few months.
  A similar range of cause is possible
  

Actions indicated for the processes behind this disease :

Emmenagogues are the classic treatment as they are triggers
for the menstrual process.

Hormonal Normalizers will help the body regulate the levels of the
various hormonal factors involved.

Uterine Tonics will contribute the nourishing, toning power they
have.

Other Actions will be indicated by the associated symptom picture
or case history. For example if anxiety and stress are an issue consider
appropriate nervines, or cramp is present anti-spasmodics.

System Support:

The reproductive system must be supported, but beyond this will become apparent
from the woman concerned.

Specific Remedies:

Most of the emmenagogues could be considered as specifics. However, care
should be taken with the stronger ones as they may be too stimulating and
cause cramping. Simple infusions can often solve this problem. Plants such
as Pennyroyal, Yarrow, Mugwort and other emmenagogues listed above can initiate
flow, but if not consider the following:

One possible prescription for amenorrhea associated with hormonal imbalance
:

Vitex agnus-castis 1 part

Caulophyllum thalictroides 2 parts

Artemisia vulgaris 2 parts as tincture 2 ml taken three times a day
until periods start

This supplies the following actions:

Emmenagogues (Artemisia vulgaris, Caulophyllum thalictroides,
Vitex agnus-castis)

Hormonal Normalizer (Vitex agnus-castis)

Uterine Tonic (Caulophyllum thalictroides)

One possible prescription for amenorrhea associated with stress :

Vitex agnus-castis 1 part

Cimicifuga racemosa 2 parts

Verbena officinalis 2 parts as tincture 2.5 ml taken three times
a day until periods start

This supplies the following actions :

Emmenagogues (Cimicifuga racemosa, Verbena officinalis,
Vitex agnus-castis)

Hormonal Normalizer (Vitex agnus-castis)

Uterine Tonic (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Nervine Relaxant (Cimicifuga racemosa, Verbena officinalis)

Broader Context of Treatment :

This will depend upon identifying causes. Thus, other therapeutic modalities
such as Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Acupuncture and so on, all have a potential
role.

Green, James. Herbs & Health Care for Males, Crossings
Press, Santa Cruz 1991

Koehler, Nan. Artemis Speaks, 1985

McIntyre, Anne. Herbs for Pregnancy and Childbirth, Sheldon Press,
London 1988

Parvati, Jeannine. Hygieia, a woman’s herbal, Freestone, 1978

Weed, Susun. Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Years, Ashton
Publishing, 1986

A number of excellent general guides to health and well-being for women
have been written. These are well worth referring to, especially for the
male herbalist! One I can recommended is:

Wilson, Josleen. Woman: Your Body, Your Health. Harcourt, Brace,
Jovanovich, 1990

This is an area of wonderful healing potential, but incredible semantic
confusion! It should come as no surprise that Nature is rich in plants that
nurture or address in some way the process of conception and birth. After
all, this creative process is the very keynote of life. However, there arises
an unfortunate 20th. century dilemma for the phytotherapist. Some of the
primary remedies for the female reproductive system used by the Eclectic,
Physio-Medicalist and Thomsonian herbalists of previous centuries are now
seriously endangered species. The most problematic (at the moment) are:

Chamaelirium luteum : False Unicorn Root

Cypripedium spp. : Ladies Slipper

Trillium spp. : Beth Root

It is one of the signs of the ecological holocaust that humanity has wrought
on our world that healing plants of this importance have become endangered
to the degree that they have. Whilst still occasionally abundant locally,
their ecological range has been dramatically diminished.

In the material that follows these plants are referred to, especially Chamaelirium,
because they offer such profound healing possibilities. However I would
caution against buying them unless they have been cultivated, which in the
case of Cypripedium is extremely difficult. Wildcrafting in this
case would be an ecological crime.

For more information about endangered plants and bioregional conservation
issues that relate to your area please consult local conservation groups
or Native Plant Societies. A good source of address for such groups is :

The National Wildflower Research Centers WildFlower handbook

Texas Monthly Press, Austin 1989

The Male Reproductive System

---

]]> 30342 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/horehound-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=horehound-2 Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:02 +0000 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/horehound-2/ Marrubium vulgare

Labiatae

Name: White Horehound

Habitat: Found growing wild throughout Europe, cultivated in Britain.

Collection: White Horehound is gathered whilst the herb is blossoming between June and September. It is dried in the shade at a temperature not greater than 35 degrees C.

Part Used: Dried leaves and flowering
tops.

Constituents:

• Marrubiin, a diterpene lactone, with premarrubiin

• Diterpene alcohols: marruciol, marrubenol, sclareol, peregrinin, dihydroperegrinin

• Volatile oil, containing [[alpha]]-pinene, sabinene, limonene, camphene, p-cymol, [[alpha]]-terpinolene

• Alkaloids; traces of betonicine and its isomer turicine

• Miscellaneous; choline, alkanes, phytosterols, tanins etc.
  

Actions:
Expectorant, anti-spasmodic, bitter, vulnerary, emmenagogue.

Indications: Horehound is a valuable plant in the treatment of bronchitis where there is a non-productive cough. It combines the action of relaxing the smooth muscles of the bronchus whilst promoting mucus production and thus expectoration. It is used with benefit in the treatment of whooping cough. The bitter action stimulates the flow and secretion
of bile from the gall-bladder, aiding digestion. Horehound is used externally to promote the healing of wounds.

Priest & Priest: “gently diffusive tonic expectorant: relieves hyperaemia, congestion, decreases discharge where secretion is too free.” They give the following indications: Colds, bronchitis, catarrh; asthma with moist expectoration, aphonia and dyspnoea
. Catarrhal dyspepsia.

King’s Dispensatory describes this valuable remedy in the following terms: “Horehound is a stimulant tonic, expectorant, and diuretic. Its stimulant action upon the laryngeal and bronchial mucous membranes is pronounced and it, undoubtedly, also influences the respiratory function. It is used in the form of a syrup, in coughs, colds, chroniccatarrh, asthma and all
pulmonary affections. The warm infusion will produce diaphoresis, and sometimes diuresis, and has been used with benefit in jaundice, asthma, hoarseness, amenorrhoea, and hysteria; the cold infusion is an excellent tonic in some forms of dyspepsia, acts as a vermifuge.”

Combinations: Depending upon the specific indications it combines well with Coltsfoot, Lobelia,
Elecampane, Wild Cherry Bark and Mullein

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto l/2 – l teaspoonful of the dried herb and leave to infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: l-2ml of the tincture 3 times a day.

]]> 30418 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/partridge-berry-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=partridge-berry-2 Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:02 +0000 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/partridge-berry-2/ Mitchella repens

Rubiaceae

Names: Squaw Vine.

Habitat: N. America.

Collection: Being an evergreen herb, it may be found all year round inthe forest and woodland habitat it likes. It is best collected in flowerbetween April and June.

Part Used: Aerial parts.

Constituents: * Saponins, mucilage. Largely unknown. Unspecifiedalkaloids, glycosides, tannins and mucilages have been reported.

Actions: Parturient, emmenagogue, diuretic, astringent, tonic.

Indications: Partridge Berry is among the best remedies for preparingthe uterus and whole body for child birth. For this purpose it should betaken for some weeks before the child is due, thus ensuring a safe andwonderful birth for both of you. It may also be used for the relief of painfulperiods. As an astringent it has been used in the treatment of colitis,especially if there is much mucus.

King’s Dispensatory says (note the 19th. language and impliedracism): Partridge Berry is parturient, diuretic, and astringent. Usedin dropsy, suppresion of urine and diarrhoea, in decoction. Itseems to have an especial affinity for the uterus, exerting a powerful tonicand alterative influence upon this organ, and has hence been found highlybeneficial in many uterine derangements, as in amenorrhoea some forms ofdysmenorrhoea, menorrhagia, chronic congestion of the uterus,enfeebled uterine nervous system, etc. It is said that the squaws drink adecoction of this plant for several weeks previous to their confinement, forthe purpose of rendering parturition safe and easy. Similar virtues have beenascribed to it by competent physicians of our time. The remedy is peculiarlyAmerican, not being noticed or used by foreign practitioners. Dose of a strongdecoction, from 2 to 4 fluid ounces, 2 or 3 times a day. The berries are apopular remedy for diarrhoea and dysuria. Used as follows,partridge berry is highly recommended as a cure for sore nipples: Take 2ounces of the herb, fresh if possible, and make a strong decoction with a pintof water, then strain, and add as much good cream as there is liquid of thedecoction. Boil the the whole down to the consistence of a soft salve, and whencool, anoint the nipple with it every time the child is removed from thebreast.

Cook: The greater portion of its power is expended upon the uterus,where its action is tonic and moderately antispasmodic; but it also influencesthe kidneys, testes, and the entire nervous system as connected with thegenerative organs. The chief value set upon it by most physicians is for itssoothing and strengthening influence upon the uterus in hysteria, leucorrhea,prolapsus, and rheumatic or neuralgic pains, and chronic painful menstruation.Its action in all these connections is of the most beneficial character; at thesame time that it steadily maintains a fair secretion of urine, and relievesaching of the back. It has been recommended in dropsy and gravel, but is onlysecondary in value. Used for several weeks before parturition, it allays theuterine crampings incident to the latter period of gestation, and sostrengthens this organ as to make an easy labor much more probable.

The attention of physicians has been so much fixed on the above uses ofMitchella, that its influence upon other portions of the system hasalmost been overlooked. For all forms of nervous feebleness and irritability ofa chronic character, it is an excellent agent; and it exerts a highly favorableinfluence over spermatorrhea. I have used it largely in the management of thismalady, especially in combination with the flowers of Althea,Celastrus, and Uva ursi, and commend it earnestly to the profession. Onthe mucous membranes it exerts a mild tonic influence, which slowly abatesexcessive mucous discharges, and has led most writers to pronounce it anastringent; but this action is wholly tonic, and may be used for catarrhal andleucorrheal discharges, as well as for chronic dysentery.

Combinations: As parturient to prepare for childbirth it may be usedwith Raspberry Leaves. For dysmenorrhoea it could be combined with Cramp Barkand Pasque Flower.

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto lteaspoonful of the herb and let infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunkthree times a day.

Tincture: take l-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

© David L. Hoffman, M.N.I.M.H.

]]> 30445 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/snake-root-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=snake-root-2 Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:02 +0000 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/snake-root-2/ Polygala senega

Aristolochiaceae

Names: Senega Snake Root

Habitat: USA

Collection:

Part Used: Rhizome.

Constituents:

• Triterpenoid saponins based on the aglyuconespresenegenin,
  senegenin, hydroxysenegin, polygalacic acid and senegenic acid.
  
• Phenolic acids; p-coumaric, ferulic, sinapic, p-methoxycinnamic.
  
• Polygalitol, a sorbitol derivative
  
• Miscellaneous; methyl salicylate, sterols, fats.

Actions: Expectorant, diaphoretic, sialogogue, emetic.

Indications: Snake Root comes to us from the Seneca nation
of Native Americans, who used it for a range of problems including
snake bites. It has excellent expectorant effects which may be
utilized in the treatment of bronchitic asthma, especially where
there is some difficulty with expectoration. It has a general power
of stimulating secretion, including saliva. It may be used as a
mouthwash and gargle in the treatment of pharyngitis and laryngitis.
If too much is taken it acts in a way that will irritate the lining
of the gut and cause vomiting.

A quote from Ellingwood will be highly suggestive of the
possibilities offered: ” The agent is indicated in typhoid
pneumonitis, capillary bronchitis, in aged and debilitated subjects,
chronic bronchitis with profuse secretion, in the declining stages
of pnuemonitis, bronchitis and croup, when the inflammatory condition
has passed off, chronic bronchitis with pain and soreness in the
chest and asthma. The agent is in use in the treatment of dropsy
from obstruction and glandular enlargement, also in rheumatism,
syphilis, squamous skin diseases and in amenorrhoea. In inflammation
of the eyelids and iritis it is beneficial. Snake Root has been
employed as a stimulating expectorant in chronic bronchitis, in
aged and debilitated subjects, where a stimulating medicine is
demanded and in the later stages of pneumonia and catarrhal inflammation.
In these cases, given in small doses, it improves secretion, removes
abnormal deposits and restores the strength. It is an energetic
stimulant to the mucous membranes of the air passages; and, when given
before the inflammation has subsided, aggravates the cough and
does harm. Given in small doses, it also acts as an alterative,
and may thus be given in dropsy from obstruction, in syphilis,
and in squamous skin diseases. In the treatment of chronic asthma
this is an efficient remedy.”

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling
water onto 1/2 teaspoonful of the dried root and leave to infuse
for 5-l0 minutes. Drink one cup three times a day. Tincture: take
1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

]]> 30469 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/blue-cohosh-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=blue-cohosh-2 Wed, 06 Dec 2000 13:28:02 +0000 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/blue-cohosh-2/ Caulophylum thalictroides

Berberidaceae

Names : Papoose Root, Squawroot

Habitat : USA

Collection : The roots and rhizome are collected in the autumn, as at the end of the growing season they are richest in natural chemicals.


Part Used : Root & Rhizome

Constituents :

• Alkaloids, including the lupin-type alkaloid scaulophylline (= methylcytisine), anagyrine, baptifoline; and magnoflorine

• Saponins known as “caulosaponin”.
  

Actions : Uterine tonic, emmenagogue, anti-spasmodic, anti-rheumatic, diuretic.

Indications : An excellent uterine tonic that may be used in any situation where there is a weakness or loss of tone. It may be used at any time during pregnancy if there is a threat of miscarriage.Similarly, because of its anti-spasmodic action, it will ease false labour pains and dysmenorrhoea. However, when labor does ensue, the use of Blue Cohosh just before birth will help ensure an easy delivery. In all these cases it is a safe herb to use. As an emmenagogue it can be used to bring on adelayed or suppressed menstruation whilst ensuring that the pain that sometimes accompanies it is relieved. Blue Cohosh may be used in cases where an anti-spasmodic is needed such as in colic, asthma ornervous coughs. It has a reputation for easing rheumatic pain.

Priest & Priest tell us that it is a “gently diffusive stimulating relaxant, uterine vaso-dilator and anti-spasmodic in all spastic and irritable states. Indicated for a tonic conditions and for deficient contractions in parturition. Cerebrospinal tropho restorative.” They give the following specific indications : metritis, endometriosis, ovaritis, dysmenorrhoea, urethritis, vaginitis, thrush, restlessness during pregnancy, menopausal pains anddiscomfort.

Ellingwood quotes Felter and Lloyd thus ” Uterine pain, with fullness, weight and pain in the legs; fullness of tissues as if congested; debility of the nervous system with impaired muscular power; spasmodic muscular pains, articular pain, rheumatic pains of asthenic plethora, epigastric &umbilical colicky pains, dull frontal headaches; as an oxytocic; to relieve false pains and uterine irritability; sexual debility with excitability; spasmodic uterine contractions, dysmenorrhoea, irregular menstruation.” In addition he recommends it for the following situations: chronic uterined isorders, amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, scarlet fever, to prolong gestation, to increase strength of contractions in labor, as a partus preparator, to prevent premature delivery, hysteria, ovarian irritation, bronchitis, pneumonitis & whooping cough.

King’s says that “as a powerful emmenagogue it promotes delivery, menstruation, and dropsical discharges, ” and that “it was employed by the Indians and their imitators for rheumatism, dropsy, colic, sore throat, cramp, hiccough, epilepsy, hysterics, inflammation of the uterus, etc. “King first employed Blue Cohosh for “its beneficial influence on abnormities of the mucous tissues, using it for aphthous stomatitis in decoction, alone or combined with Hydrastis. Blue Cohosh is reputed antispasmodic, emmenagogue, and parturifacient, besides being diuretic, diaphoretic, and expectorant. Its use as a parturient originated in the custom of the Indian squaws (note 19 th. usage, not mine! D.L.H.) of employing a decoction of the root for 2 or 3 weeks previous to labor to facilitate child-birth. There is no doubt but that Caulophyllum has a decided action upon the gravid uterus. During labor it relieves false pains and coordinates muscular contractions, at the same time increasing their power. Like Cimicifuga, it is a better oxytocic than ergot. Unlike the latter agent it stimulates normal contraction instead of inducing spasmodic uterine action. It is most valuable in those cases where delay is due to debility, fatigue, or lack of uterine nervous energy, and for deficient contractions where the tissues feel full, as if congested. As a partus praeparatorCaulophylum has enjoyed a well merited reputation. When used by delicate women, or those who experience prolonged and painful labors, for several weeks previous to confinement, it gives tone and vigor to all the parts engaged in the accouchement, facilitating its progress, and relieving much suffering. It is a good remedy for after pains, especially when spasmodic in character. Caulophylum acts as an antiabortive by relieving the irritation upon which the trouble depends. King states that for this purpose it is fully equal to Viburnum.

As a gynecian remedy it has been employed to relieve irritation of the reproductive organs as if dependent on congestion. It controls chronic inflammatory states of these organs and gives tone in cases of debility. In the sexual disorders of the female it is indicated by tenderness and pain in the uterus, in debilitated patients. It has been very successfully used in cases of
hysteria to overcome the attack, and to relieveovarian, or mammary pain, or irritation when accompanying that disorder. Chronic corporeal, or cervical endometritis, metritis, ovaritis, ovaralgia, uterine leucorrhoea, amenorrhcea, and dysmenorrhoea, are conditions in which it has been most successfully employed. It has an established reputation as a
remedy for rheumatism of the uterus, with nervous excitement, for uterinecramps attending menstruation, and for menorrhagia, depending on uterine subinvolution.

As an antispasmodic it has been employed in chorea and epilepsydue to diseased states of the sexual organs, but with varying results. It is better suited for spasmodic intestinal affections, flatulent andspasmodic colic, and
cramps. By lessening irritation it has been serviceable in cystitis, urethritis, chronic nephritis, and albuminuria. Spasmodic retention of urine is relieved by it. It is a good remedy for some cases of rheumatism, though not so valuable asCimicifuga.”

Cook say’s that “It is a moderate diffusive, stimulating and relaxing in about equal degrees, spending its main powers
upon the nervous system. These qualities make it one of the very best of antispasmodics, to relieve nervous feebleness with irritability, as in crampings of the bowels, twitching of the muscles in typhoid and parturient cases, hysteria, painful menstruation, colic, etc. Its efficacy in these cases is remarkable; and it is also a valuable adjunct to other suitable agents in the treatment of puerperal convulsions,
epilepsy, and chorea.It enjoys deserved reputation in neuralgic forms of rheumatism, especially that form which passes with some as chronic inflammation of the womb. It sustains the nervous system, but at the same time soothes it; and is of especial service in strengthening and relieving painful functional difficulties of the female generative organs.

It is one of the most valuable of all parturients, when the uterine action is
becoming weary; in which case it may be combined with the Composition Powder; or with Cypripedium and a very little Capsicum (or Bayberry)added when depression is considerable.

It promotes diuresis apparently by sustaining the pelvic nerves; and in the same way strengthens the uterus in leucorrhea and insufficient menstruation; yet can not properly be classed as either a diuretic o remmenagogue.
By the same kind of action, at is useful in weak kidneys, albuminous urine, chronic difficulties of the prostate, nervous restlessness during pregnancy, and previous to parturition to give tone and comfort to the uterus. For these several purposes, it is generally combined with other suitable agents, such as Aralia racemosa, Mitchella, uva ursi, Convalaria, Liriodendron, etc.”

Combinations : To strengthen the uterus
it may be used with False Unicorn, Motherwort and/or Yarrow. To increase its anti-spasmodic effects combine with Scullcap and/or Black Cohosh.

Preparations & Dosage : Decoction: put l teaspoonful of the dried root in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer for l0 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: take 0.5-2ml of the tincture three times a day.

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Citations from the
Medline database for the genus Caulophylum

Blue CohoshAnisimov MM Strigina LI Baranova SI Kul’ga AL Chetyrina NS [The antimicrobial activity of the triterpene glycosides of Caulophyllumrobustum maxim]

Antibiotiki (1972 Sep) 17(9):834-7Chandrasekhar K Sarma GH Proceedings: Observations on the effect of low and high doses ofCaulophyllum on the ovaries and the
consequential changes in the uterus and thyroid in rats.

J Reprod Fertil (1974 May) 38(1):236-7Chandrasekhar K Vishwanath CR Proceedings: Studies on the effect of Caulophyllum on implantation inrats.

J Reprod Fertil (1974 May) 38(1):245-6

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