Ranunculaceae

Names: Pulsatilla, Wind Flower, Meadow Anemone.

Habitat: Europe and parts of Russia, cultivated elsewhere.

Collection: The stalks should be gathered at the time of floweringwhich is in March or April..

Part Used: Aerial parts.

Constituents: * Lactones; protoanemonin, which dimerizes on drying toanemonin, ranunculin

* Triterpenoid saponins

* Miscellaneous; anemone camphor, tannins, volatile oil.

Actions: Nervine, anti-spasmodic, antibacterial.

Indications: Pasque Flower is an excellent relaxing nervine for use inproblems relating nervous tension and spasm in the reproductive system. It maybe used with safety in the relief of painful periods (dysmenorrhoea),ovarian pain and painful conditions of the testes. It may be usedto reduce tension reactions and headaches associated with them.It will help insomnia and general over-activity. The antibacterialactions give this herb a role in treating infections that affect the skin,especially boils. It is similarly useful in the treatment of respiratoryinfections and asthma. The oil or tincture will ease earache.

This remedy was far more widely used in the last century. To quote sectionsfrom the extensive monograph in King’s Dispensatory: “Pulsatillaforms an important remedy with the Eclectic physicians as well as withhomeopaths, who make extensive use of it. According to Dr. Scudder, its mostimportant use is to allay irritation of the nervous system in persons of feeblehealth, thus giving sleep and rest, preventing unnecessary expenditure of nerveforce, and, by this means, facilitating the action of tonics and restoratives.In feeble women and men who have become nervous from sedentary habits or mentalover-exertion, as well as in the nervousness and restlessness of masturbators,or persons addicted to the excessive use of tobacco, he has found it verycertain in its action. It is the remedy for nervous women, when there isdebility and faulty nutrition of the nerve centers. It is a remedy of wideapplicability, but more particularly for those conditions in which the mind isa prominent factor. A gloomy mentality, a state of nervedepression and unrest, a disposition to brood over real orimagined trouble a tendency to look on the dark side of life, sadness, mildrestlessness, and a state of mental unrest generally denominated in broad terms”nervousness,” are factors in the condition of the patient requiringPulsatilla. The whole countenance and movements of the body depictsadness, moroseness, despondency, and lack of tone. Hysteria of the mild andweeping form may be a symptom. The whole condition is one of nervousdepression, the nutrition of the nerve centers are at fault. Pulsatillamay be given to produce sleep, when there is great exhaustion. If theinsomnia is due to nervous exhaustion it is a prompt remedy togive rest, after which sleep obtains. Where sleep is disturbed by unpleasantdreams, and the patient awakens sad and languid, Pulsatilla should begiven. It has a large field in troubles incident to the reproductive organ ofboth sexes. As an emmenagogue, it serves a useful purpose in amenorrhoea innervous and anemic subjects, with chilliness a prominent symptom. Indysmenorrhoea, not due to mechanical causes, and with the above-namednervous symptoms, no remedy is more effective. Pulsatilla frequentlyproves a good remedy in ovaritis and ovaralgia with tensive,tearing pain. Sluggish, ineffectual, and weak labor-pains are sometimesremedied by this drug. It is frequently a remedy for pain, whendependent on or associated with debility,and sometimes when due to acuteinflammation. It is a leading remedy in epididymitis andorchitis, whether due to gonorrhoeal infection or to metastasis frommumps. It relieves the pains of orchialgia, and subdues mammaryswelling from the metastasis of mumps. It is especially valuable inrelieving urethral irritation and consequent spermatorroea andprostatorrhoea. It alleviates the nervous irritability accompanying orproduced by varicocoele. In gonorrhoea, particularly of the chronictype, Pulsatilla is of value when the urethral membrane is swollen. Manyunpleasant conditions of the urinary apparatus are relieved byPulsatilla, as frequent but ineffectual attempts at urination, thebladder giving a sensation as if bloated; dribbling of urine from movement, thedysuria of pregnancy, and in involuntary micturition from colds or fromnervous debility. It frequently proves a useful remedy in headache ofvarious types. It relieves the frontal headache from nasal catarrh, nervousheadache.

Pulsatilla should be remembered as a remedy to control the catarrhalsymptoms of the exanthemata; it also controls the irritabilityfrequently accompanying these disorders. In measles, it has done goodservice in checking the coryza and profuse lachrymation, as well as the dry,tight, painful cough, and when retrocession of the eruption has taken place, ithas reversed this unpleasant condition. It has been used to good advantage forthe relief of haemorrhoids. One of the earliest uses of this plant wasfor the relief of cataract, and opacity of the cornea, conditions inwhich the reputed value of Pulsatilla is very much overrated. It standsout prominently as a remedy for horadeolum or “stye.” It is also aprompt remedy when the conjunctiva is hyperemic and the vision weakened,especially after reading, or from sexual abuse or sexual excesses(!?!), and inprofuse lachrymation when in the wind.”

Combinations: For painful periods it will combine well with CrampBark. For skin conditions it combines with Echinacea. CAUTION: Do not usethe fresh plant!

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: a cup of boiling water onto l/2-lteaspoonful of the dried herb and leave to infuse for l0-l5 minutes. Thisshould be drunk three times a day or when needed. Tincture: l-2 ml 3 times aday.

Labiatae

Names: Common Thyme, Garden Thyme

Habitat: Thyme is indigenous to the Mediterranean region,
and cultivated widely..

Collection: The flowering branches should be collected
between June and August on a dry sunny day. The leaves are stripped
off the dried branches.

Part Used: Leaves and flowering tops.

Constituents:

• Volatile oil, of highly variable composition; the major constituent
  is thymol, with lesser amounts of carvacrol, with l, 8-cineole,
  borneol, geraniol, linalool, bornyl and linalyl acetate, thymol
  methyl etherand [[alpha]]-pinene.
  
• Flavonoids; apigenin, luteolin, thymonin, naringenin and others
  
• Miscellaneous; labiatic acid, caffeic acid, tannins etc.

Actions: Carminative, anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic,
expectorant, astringent, anthelmintic.

Indications: With its high content of volatile oil, Thyme
makes a good carminative for use in dyspepsia and sluggish
digestion. This oil is also a strongly antiseptic substance,
which explains many of Thyme’s uses. It can be used externally
as a lotion for infected wounds, but also internally for
respiratory and digestive infections. It may be use as a gargle in
laryngitis and tonsillitis, easing sore throats
and soothing irritable coughs. It is an excellent cough
remedy, producing expectoration and reducing unnecessary spasm.
It may be used in bronchitis, whooping cough and
asthma. As a gentle astringent it has found use in childhood
diarrhea and bed wetting.

Kings’ Dispensatory describes it thus: “Thyme is tonic,
carminative emmenagogue and anti-spasmodic. The cold infusion is
useful in dyspepsia, with weak and irritable stomach and
as a stimulating tonic in convalescence from exhausting
diseases. The warm infusion is beneficial in hysteria, dysmenorrhea,
flatulence, colic, headache, and to promote
perspiration. Occasionally the leaves have been used externally,
in fomentation. The oil is valuable as a local application to neuralgic
and rheumatic pains; and, internally, to fulfill any of the
indications for which the plant is used. Dose of the infusion,
from 1 to 3 fluid ounces; of the oil, from 2 to 10 drops on sugar,
or in emulsion. Thyme, skullcap and rue of each 2 ounces; peony
and black cohosh, of each, 1 ounce; macerated for 14 days in diluted
alcohol, and then filtered, forms a good preparation for nervous
and spasmodic diseases of children. It may be given in teaspoonful
doses to a child 3 years old, repeating it 3 or 4 times a day,
sweetening and diluting it, if desired. A strong infusion of the
Thymusserpyllus, slightly sweetened and mixed with gum
Arabic, is stated by M. Joset to be a valuable remedy for whooping-cough,
convulsive and catarrhal coughs and stridulous sore throat,
the favorable result occurring at the end of a very few days. It
may be taken ad libitum.”

Combinations: For asthmatic problems it will combine well
with Lobelia and Ephedra, adding its anti-microbial effect. For
whooping cough use it with Wild Cherry and Sundew.

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling
water onto 2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and let infuse for
l0 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: take
2-4ml of the tincture three times a day

Capsella bursa-pastoris

Cruciferae

Habitat: A common plant growing in many parts of the world.

Collection: The herb can be collected from February until
October.

Part Used: Aerial parts.

Constituents:

• Flavonoids; luteolin-7-rutinoside andquercitin-3-rutinoside

• Polypeptides of undetermined structure
  
• Plant acids; fumaric and bursic acids
  
• Bases; choline, acetylcholine, histamine, tyramine.
  

Actions: Astringent, diuretic, anti-inflammatory.

Indications: This easily recognized plant may be used
wherever a gently diuretic is called for, for instance in water
retention due to kidney problems. As an astringent it will prove
effective in the treatment of diarrhea, wounds,
nose bleeds, and other conditions. It has specific use
in the stimulation of the menstrual process whilst also being
of use in the reduction of excess flow.

Priest & Priest tell us that it is a “mild relaxing and gently stimulating to the kidneys and urinary tract: relieves
atonic and catarrhal conditions, and controls hemorrhages. Tonic
to the pelvic organs. Especially indicated when the urine is heavy
with phosphatic and `brick dust ‘sediments” They give the
following specific indications: vesico-renalirritations from
atonic states. Enuresis. Passive capillary hemorrhages,
functional menorrhagia, bleeding fibroid tumors,
metrorrhagia. Congestive leucorrhoea. Internal hemorrhage
of lungs and bowels, recurrent epistaxis. Hemorrhoids.

Ellingwood recommends it for the following pathologies: hæmaturia,
passive hemorrhage, chronic menorrhagia, intestinal
hemorrhage, gastric hemorrhage, atonic
dyspepsia, diarrhea, dysentary, bleeding
piles. Externally may be applied to bruised or strained
muscles, rheumatic joints.

Combinations: Combines well with Agrimony, Cranesbill
or Periwinkle

Preparations & Dosage: Infusion: pour a cup of boiling
water ontol-2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and leave to infuse
for l- minutes. If it is used for menstrual conditions, it should
be drunk every 2-3 hours during and just before the period. Otherwise
drink it three times a day. Tincture: take l-2ml of the tincture
three times a day.

Citations from the Medline database for the genus
Capsella

Shephard’s Purse Iurisson SM. [Vitamin content
in shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa pastoris (L.)Medic.)]

Farmatsiia (1976 Jul-Aug) 25 (4):66-7 Kuroda K
Akao M. Effect of Capsella bursa-pastoris on liver catalase activity
in rats fed3′-methyl-4-(dimethylamino) azobenzene.

Gann (1975 Aug) 66 (4):461-2 Kuroda K Akao M Kanisawa
M Miyaki K. Inhibitory effect of Capsella bursa-pastoris extract
on growth of Ehrlich solid tumor in mice.

Cancer Res (1976 Jun) 36(6): 1900-3 Kuroda K Akao
M Kanisawa M Miyaki K. Inhibitory effect of Capsella bursa-pastoris
on hepatocarcino-genesis induced by 3-methyl-4-(dimethylamino)
azobenzene in rats.

Gann (1974 Aug) 65(4): 317-21 Kuroda K Kaku T.
Pharmacological and chemical studies on the alcohol extract of
Capsellabursa-pastoris.

Life Sci (1969 Feb 1) 8(3): 151-5 Kuroda K Takagi
K. Physiologically active substance in Capsella bursa-pastoris.

Nature (1968 Nov 16) 220 (168): 707-8 Kuroda K
Takagi K. Studies on capsella bursa pastoris. I. General pharmacology
of ethanol extract of the herb.

Arch Int Pharmacodyn Ther (1969 Apr) 178 (2): 382-91
Kuroda K Takagi K. Studies on capsella bursa pastoris. II.
Diuretic, anti-inflammatory &anti-ulcer action of the herb.

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”.
  

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.

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

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.

What is a normal period? If you consult a gynecologic textbook,
you’ll learn that menstruation is bleeding and shedding of the endometrium of
the uterus that occurs at approximately monthly intervals from menarche to menopause. You will read that
the menarche, or onset of menopause, usually occurs between 11 and 14
years of age, and menopause generally

between age 45 and 55. The book may say that ovulation occurs on day 14
or 15 of the menstrual cycle (I ovulate on day 11). You will then read that any
uterine bleeding which differs markedly from a normal flow, either in
frequency, duration, amount, or discomfort is abnormal. But where, precisely,
do you draw the line between what is a healthy period and what is not?

The point that I wish to make here is that there is a wide range of normal
in the menstrual flow. When I studied ayurvedic medicine a few years ago with
Dr. Vasant Ladd, he always asked us, “What is normal for whom ?
Ayurvedic medicine body types each individual and their range of normal depends
on their specific constitution. Each woman has her own range of normalcy. In
some cases, even when a woman is in her optimal state of well-being, she
menstruates every 26 or 30 days. Some women ovulate twice a month. I use
homeopathy most often with my patients to treat the problems on menstruation.
After being given the correct homeopathic remedy, a woman’s cycle will
normalize to the greatest degree possible for her. After such therapy,
I often see a woman’s period changing, for example, from every five or six
weeks to every four or four and a half weeks. A woman’s period may last seven
to ten days when she comes to see me and, with treatment, will usually reduce
to five to seven. If a woman comes in complaining of spotting before or between
the menstrual periods, this will generally disappear, or at least diminish
considerably, when she is in a state of balance.

How much should my period hurt? The medical term for the pain or
discomfort of the menstrual period is “dysmenorrhea”. I consider a slight
amount of cramping or discomfort within the range of normal for a woman.
However, many of the woman I see experience extreme pain with the periods, some
to the point of being incapacitated for a day or two. This pain may be mild or
severe, constant or intermittent, dull or sharp, and may be accompanied by a
wide variety of symptoms including nausea, vomiting, dizziness, back pain,
weakness, confusion, and despair. Many women suffer from severe dysmenorrhea
from the time of menarche and may have tried a variety of over the counter and
prescription medications in order to find relief.

In my experience, the correct homeopathic remedy is likely to put an end
to dysmenorrhea, or at least hold it at bay in a very mild state. In many
cases, diagnostic procedures will reveal no significant cause for the pain. In
other women, however, the diagnosis will be endometriosis.

Endometriosis is defined as the growth of normal uterine tissue in locations
outside the uterine cavity. This tissue often invades, or pervades, the
abdominal cavity and may, in rare cases, even extend into the lungs. The
problem with endometriosis is not the quality of this tissue, but its location.
It generally results in scar tissue and may produce painful periods, sex, and
pelvic pain in general. The only way to conclusively test for endometriosis is
through a laparoscopy, where a small incision is made near the umbilicus, and
an instrument is inserted so that the entire pelvic cavity can be viewed from
the inside. The orthodox treatment for endometriosis is surgery, however the
condition often recurs. Women are also told that their endometriosis is likely
to resolve if they get pregnant, which they cannot and do not always choose to
do. I have seen considerable success using homeopathy to treat the symptoms of
endometriosis. Most women who have been successfully treated, however, do not
subject themselves to repeat laparoscopies in order to make sure the abnormal
tissue is gone.

How heavy should a normal period be? This is another situation
where we need to ask how heavy is a normal flow for whom? According to
Ayurvedic medicine, a woman who has a pre-dominance of Pitta (the fire element)
is more likely to tend towards a heavier menstrual flow. These women often have
blonde or red, but also brown, hair, a ruddy complexion, and often have
freckles, moles, or petichiae (red, broken blood vessels). They tend to be
warm-blooded and sometimes hot-tempered. They may also have diarrhea or loose
stool just before or at the onset of their periods.

Excessive menstrual bleeding, called “menorrhagia”, may range from a day
in which a woman needs to change her pad or tampon every couple of hours and
has a gushing, profuse flow of blood, to an extreme state where she needs to
use double protection, and change pads or tampons every half hour or hour. I
once saw a woman in her late forties who, for years, slept with a plastic sheet
on her bed during her period because she would soak part of the mattress! Her
excessive bleeding was remedied quite effectively with homeopathic treatment.
In my experience, herbs such as Geranium and Trillium can halt an excessive
menses quickly tem-porarily, but does not change the overall tendency as does
homeopathy. Since there is no standard homeopathic remedy for menorrhagia, I
cannot give you personal suggestions. I can say, though, that I have often
found such homeopathic remedies as Belladonna and Sabina, when they match the
woman’s specific symptoms, to stop bleeding in a matter of hours or a day.
Orthodox medicine is likely to prescribe birth control pills. I am very
suspicious of estrogen supplementation and strongly advise more natural
al-ternatives. Not only can the pill cause mood swings, headaches, yeast
infections, and a variety of other annoying symptoms, but can cause or
aggravate such estrogen-dependent conditions as fibrocystic breasts, uterine
fibroids, ovarian cysts, and uterine or breast cancer. I have one patient whose
18 year-old godchild died of a sudden aneurysm due to the pill.

If the excessive bleeding is longstanding, it is probably something which
needs to be treated on a constitutional level. If it develops quickly, it is
important to rule out such causes as uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, or
ovarian cysts. Your doctor will likely do a pelvic ultrasound and, if cancer is
suspected, a uterine biopsy. The same is true for spotting or bleeding between
the periods (metrorrhagia).

What is normal PMS? This is another tricky question. I think it
largely depends on how affected you are by your premenstrual symptoms. It is
one thing to feel kind of grouchy for a day or two once a month and another to
feel a strong impulse to kill or be violent. Being overly senti-mental
occasionally doesn’t put much of a dent in a woman’s life. However, if she
can’t hold her-self back from crying one or two weeks out of the month, it’s a
different story. Relationships have often been broken because of PMS and jobs
have evaporated. There are many natural therapies available ranging from diet,
vitamins and minerals to herbs, homeopathy, Chinese medicine, and many more. I
have rarely seen a woman who cannot find substantial relief from one or another
of these treatments.

Your menstrual cycle is a beautiful outpouring of your feminine nature
and spirit. Love and appreciate this aspect of your life as a symbol of the
overall flow and outpouring of your life.

Drs. Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman is a naturopathic and homeopathic
physician and cofounder of the Northwest Center for Homeopathic Medicine in
Edmonds, WA. She is coauthor of The Patient’s Guide to Homeopathic
Medicine and Beyond Ritalin: Homeopathic Treatment of ADD and Other
Behavioral and Learning Problems. She can be reached at (206)
774-5599.

]]> 14451 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/wild-yam-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=wild-yam-2 Wed, 06 Dec 2000 21:28:02 +0000 https://healthy.net/2000/12/06/wild-yam-2/ Dioscorea villosa

Part Used: Dried underground parts.

Constituents: Steroidal saponins, based on diosgenin:
dioscin, dioscorin, and others.

Actions: Anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic,
hepatic, cholagogue, diaphoretic.

Indications: This valuable herb was at one time the sole
source of the chemicals that were used as the raw materials for
contraceptive hormone manufacture. In herbal medicine Wild Yam
is a remedy that can be used to relieve intestinal colic,
to soothe diverticulitis, ease dysmenorrhoea and
ovarian and uterine pains. It is of great use in
the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, especially the acute phase
where there is intense inflammation.

Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put l-2 teaspoonfuls
of the herb in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer gently
for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: take 2-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.

There are two types of dysmenorrhea – primary and secondary. The primary form usually occurs in females who have just begun to menstruate. It may disappear or become less severe after a women reaches her mid-twenties or gives birth. (Childbirth stretches the uterus).

The cause of menstrual cramps is thought to be related to hormone-like substances called prostaglandins. These are chemicals that occur naturally in the body. Certain prostaglandins cause muscles in the uterus to go into spasms.

Dysmenorrhea occurs much less often in women who do not ovulate. For this reason, oral contraceptives reduce painful periods in 70-80% of women who take them. When the pill is stopped, women usually get the same level of pain they had before they took it.
Secondary dysmenorrhea refers to menstrual cramps that are due to other disorders of the reproductive system such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts and rarely, cancer. Having an intrauterine device (IUD), especially if you’ve never been pregnant, can also cause menstrual cramps, except with the Progestasert IUD. It releases a small amount of progesterone into the uterus which helps with cramps and lightens menstrual flow.

Have your menstrual periods been especially painful since having an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) inserted?
Do you have any signs of infection such as fever and foul smelling vaginal discharge or do you have black stools or blood in the stools?
Do you have a heavier than usual blood flow? For women who are still capable of bearing children, is your period late by one or more weeks?
Is the pain extreme or have you had pain-free periods for years, but are now having severe cramps?
Does cramping continue even after your period is over?

• Take over-the counter ibuprofen or naproxen sodium around the clock as directed to relieve pain and inhibit the release of prostaglandins. Acetaminophen will help with pain, but not with prostaglandins. Most over-the-counter menstrual discomfort products contain acetaminophen. Read labels.
  

  [Note: Do not give aspirin or any medication containing salicylates to anyone 19 years of age or younger, unless directed by a physician, due to its association with Reye’s Syndrome, a potentially fatal condition].
  

• Drink a hot cup of regular tea, chamomile or mint tea.
  
• Hold a heating pad or hot-water bottle on your abdomen or lower back.
  
• Take a warm bath.
  
• Gently massage your abdomen.
  
• Do mild exercises like stretching, yoga, walking or biking. Exercise may improve blood flow and reduce pelvic pain.
  
• Whenever possible, lie on your back, supporting your knees with a pillow.
  
• Unless you have reasons to avoid alcohol, have a glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage. Alcohol slows down uterine contractions.
  
• Get plenty of rest and avoid stressful situations as your period approaches.
  
• Consider using the birth control pill because it blocks the production of prostaglandins or the Progestasert IUD because its use lessens menstrual cramps.
  
• If you still feel pain after using self-care procedures, call your doctor.