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Agrimonia eupatoria: Synonyms, Constituents, Herbal Use, Dosage, Parts Used

2011-06-17T09:36:00.000-07:00

Synonyms

Agrimonia

Constituents

Acids: Palmitic acid, salicylic acid, silicic acid and stearic acid.
Flavonoids: Apigenin, luteolin, luteolin–7–glucoside, quercetin, quercitrin, kaempferol and glycosides.
Tannins 3–21%.
Vitamins: Ascorbic acid (vitamin C), nicotinamide complex (about 100–300 µg/g leaf), thiamine (about 2 µg/g leaf) and vitamin K.
Bitter principle
Triterpenes (e.g. a-amyrin, ursolic acid, euscapic acid)
Phytosterols
Volatile oil 0.2%. Herbal Use

mild astringent
diuretic properties
diarrhoea in children
mucous colitis
grumbling appendicitis
urinary incontinence
cystitis
as a gargle for acute sore throat and chronic nasopharyngeal catarrh.

Dosage

Dried herb: 2–4 g by infusion three times daily.
Liquid extract: 1–3 mL (1 : 1 in 25% alcohol) three times daily.
Tincture: 1–4 mL (1 : 5 in 45% alcohol) three times daily.

Parts used

Herb

Reference

Bilia AR et al. Constituents and biological assay of Agrimonia eupatoria. Fitoterapia 1993; 64: 549–550.
Bisset NG, ed. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals (Wichtl M, ed., German edition). Stuttgart: Medpharm, 1994.
British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Keighley: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1983.
Carnat A et al. L’aigremoine: étude comparée d’Agrimonia eupatoria L. et Agrimonia procera Wallr. Plantes médicinales et phytothérapie 1991; 25: 202–211.
Duke JA. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton: CRC, 1985.
Fetrow CW, Avila JR. Professional’s Handbook of Complementary and Alternative Medicines. Springhouse: Springhouse Corporation, 1999.
Hoppe HA. Taschenbuch der Drogenkunde. Berlin: de Gruyter, 1981.
Wren RC. Potter’s New Cyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations (revised, Williamson EW, Evans FJ). Saffron Walden: Daniel, 1988.

Angelica archangelica: Synonyms, Constituents, Herbal Use, Dosage, Parts Used

2011-06-13T03:58:00.000-07:00

Synonyms

Archangelica officinalis Moench and Hoffm.

Constituents

Coumarins: Over 20 furanocoumarins, including angelicin, archangelicin, bergapten, isoimperatorin and xanthotoxin.
Volatile oils 0.35–1.3% in root and fruit.
Archangelenone (a flavonoid)
Palmitic acid

Caffeic and chlorogenic acids
Sugars (fructose, glucose, sucrose, umbelliferose).

Herbal Use

Angelica is stated to possess antispasmodic, diaphoretic, expectorant, bitter aromatic, carminative, diuretic and local anti–inflammatory properties. It has been used for respiratory catarrh, psychogenic asthma, flatulent dyspepsia, anorexia nervosa, rheumatic diseases, peripheral vascular disease, and specifically for pleurisy and bronchitis, applied as a compress, and for bronchitis associated with vascular deficiency. The German Commission E monograph states that angelica can be used for lack of appetite and dyspeptic complaints such as mild stomach cramps and flatulence.

Dosage

Dried leaf: 2–5 g by infusion three times daily.
Leaf liquid extract: 2–5 mL (1 : 1 in 25% alcohol) three times daily.
Leaf tincture: 2–5 mL (1 : 5 in 45% alcohol) three times daily.
Dried rhizome/root: Daily dose 4.5 g(G2) or 1–2 g by infusion three times daily.
Rhizome/root liquid extract: 0.5–2.0 mL (1 : 1 in 25% alcohol) three times daily.
Rhizome/root tincture: 0.5–2 mL (1 : 5 in 50% alcohol) three times daily.
Fruit: 1–2 g.

Parts used

Fruit
Leaf
Rhizome
Root

Reference

Bisset NG, ed. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals (Wichtl M, ed., German edition). Stuttgart: Medpharm, 1994.British Blumenthal M et al., eds. Herbal Medicine. Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin, Texas: American Botanical Council, 2000.
Czygan F-C. (Root of the holy ghost or Angelica root – Angelica archangelica). Z Phytother 1998; 19: 342–348.
Duke JA. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton: CRC, 1985.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal, 4th edn. New York: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Harmala P et al. A furanocoumarin from Angelica archangelica. Planta Med 1992; 58: 287–289.
Sun H, Jakupovic J. Further heraclenol derivatives from Angelica archangelica. Pharmazie 1986; 41: 888–889.
Holm Y et al. Enantiomeric composition of monoterpene hydrocarbons in n–hexane extracts of Angelica archangelica L. roots and seeds. Flavour Fragrance J 1997; 12: 397–400.
Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Keighley: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1983.
Leung AY. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York-Chichester: Wiley, 1980.
Mills SY. The Dictionary of Modern Herbalism. Wellingborough: Thorsons, 1985.
Simon JE et al. Herbs – An Indexed Bibliography, 1971–80. Oxford: Elsevier, 1984.
The Merck Index. An Encyclopedia of Chemicals, Drugs and Biologicals, 11th edn. Rahway, NJ: Merck, 1989.
Tisserand R, Balacs T. Essential Oil Safety. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 1995.
Wren RC. Potter’s New Cyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations (revised, Williamson EW, Evans FJ). Saffron Walden: Daniel, 1988.

Arnica montana, Arnica chamissonis: Synonyms, Constituents, Herbal Use, Dosage, Parts Used

2011-06-12T03:49:00.000-07:00

Synonyms

Arnica
Leopard’s Bane
Mountain Tobacco
Wolf’s Bane

Constituents

Alkaloids: Traces of non–toxic alkaloids tussilagine and isotussilagine.
Amines: Betaine, choline and trimethylamine.
Carbohydrates: Mucilage, polysaccharides including inulin.
Coumarins: Scopoletin and umbelliferone.

Flavonoids: Betuletol, eupafolin, flavonol glucuronides, hispidulin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, laciniatin, luteolin, patuletin, quercetin, spinacetin, tricin.
Terpenoids: Sesquiterpene lactones of the pseudoguaianolide–type, 0.2–0.8%.
Volatile oils Up to 1%, normally about 0.3%. Thymol and thymol derivatives.
Amino acid (2–pyrrolidine acetic)
Bitter principle (arnicin)
Caffeic acid,
Carotenoids
Fatty acids
Phytosterols
Polyacetylenes
Resin
Tannin (unspecified)

Herbal Use

Aniseed is stated to possess expectorant, antispasmodic, carminative and parasiticide properties. Traditionally, it has been used for bronchial catarrh, pertussis, spasmodic cough, flatulent colic; topically for pediculosis and scabies; its most specific use is for bronchitis, tracheitis with persistent cough, and as an aromatic adjuvant to prevent colic following the use of cathartics.
Aniseed has been used as an oestrogenic agent. It has been reputed to increase milk secretion, promote menstruation, facilitate birth, alleviate symptoms of the male climacteric and increase libido.

Dosage

Tincture of arnica flower: 2–4 mL for external application only.
Preparations: Ointments, creams, gels, compresses made with 5–25% v/v tinctures, 5–25% v/v fluid extracts, diluted tinctures or fluid extract (1 : 3–1 : 10), decoctions 2.0 g drug/100 mL water.

Parts used

Flower

Reference

Bisset NG, ed. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals (Wichtl M, ed., German edition). Stuttgart: Medpharm, 1994.
Duke JA. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton: CRC, 1985.
Leung AY. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York-Chichester: Wiley, 1980.
Leven W, Willuhn G. Spectrophotometric determination of sesquiterpenlactone (S1) in ‘Arnicae flos DAB 9’ with m–dinitrobenzene. Planta Med 1986; 52: 537–538.
Merfort I, Wendisch D. Flavonoidglycoside aus Arnica montana und Arnica chamissonis. Planta Med 1987; 53: 434–437.
Merfort I. Flavonol glycosides of Arnicae flos DAB 9. Planta Med 1986; 52: 427.
Merfort I, Wendisch D. Flavonolglucuronide aus den blüten von Arnica montana. Planta Med 1988; 54: 247–250.
Monographs on the Medicinal Uses of Plant Drugs, Fascicules 1 and 2 (1996), Fascicules 3, 4 and 5 (1997), Fascicule 6 (1999). Exeter: European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy.
Schmidt Th et al. First diterpenes from Arnica. Planta Med 1992; 58: A713.
Passreiter CM et al. Tussilagine and isotussilagine: two pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the genus Arnica. Planta Med 1992; 58: 556–557.
Passreiter CM. Co–occurrence of 2–pyrrolidine acetic acid with the pyrrolizidines tussilaginic acid and isotussilaginic acid and their 1–epimers in Arnica species and Tussilago farfara. Phytochem 1992; 31: 4135–4137.
Wren RC. Potter’s New Cyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations (revised, Williamson EW, Evans FJ). Saffron Walden: Daniel, 1988.

Medicago sativa: Synonyms, Constituents, Herbal Use, Dosage, Parts Used

2011-06-11T03:54:00.000-07:00

Synonyms

Lucerne
Medicago
Purple Medick

Constituents

Acids: Lauric acid, maleic acid, malic acid, malonic acid, myristic acid, oxalic acid, palmitic acid and quinic acid.
Alkaloids: Pyrrolidine–type (e.g. stachydrine, homostachydrine); pyridine–type (e.g. trigonelline) in the seeds only.

Amino acids: Arginine, asparagine (high concentration in seeds), cystine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and valine. The non–protein toxic amino acid canavanine is present in leaves (0.9–1.2 mg/g), stems (0.6–0.9 mg/g) and seeds (5–14 mg/g).
Coumarins: Medicagol.
Isoflavonoids: Coumestrol, biochanin A, daidzein, formononetin and genistein.
Saponins 2–3%.
Steroids: Campesterol, cycloartenol, ß-sitosterol (major component), a-spinasterol and stigmasterol.
Carbohydrates (e.g. arabinose, fructose, sucrose, xylose)
vitamins (A, B1, B6, B12, C, E, K)
Pectin methylesterase
Pigments (e.g. chlorophyll, xanthophyll, ß-carotene, anthocyanins)
Proteins
Minerals
Ttrace elements.

Herbal Use

Agrimony is stated to possess mild astringent and diuretic properties. It has been used for diarrhoea in children, mucous colitis, grumbling appendicitis, urinary incontinence, cystitis, and as a gargle for acute sore throat and chronic nasopharyngeal catarrh.

Dosage

Dried herb: 2–4 g by infusion three times daily.
Liquid extract: 1–3 mL (1 : 1 in 25% alcohol) three times daily.
Tincture: 1–4 mL (1 : 5 in 45% alcohol) three times daily.

Parts used

Herb

Reference

De Smet PAGM et al., eds. Adverse Effects of Herbal Drugs, vol 1. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 1992.
Duke JA. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton: CRC, 1985.
Leung AY. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York-Chichester: Wiley, 1980.
Wren RC. Potter’s New Cyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations (revised, Williamson EW, Evans FJ). Saffron Walden: Daniel, 1988.

Filipendula ulmaria: Synonyms, Constituents, Herbal Use, Dosage, Parts Used

2011-06-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

Synonyms

Dropwort
Filipendula
Meadowsweet
Queen of the Meadow
Spiraea ulmaria L.

Constituents

Flavonoids
Salicylates

Tannins
Volatile oils
Coumarin (trace)
Mucilage
Carbohydrates
Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)

Herbal Use

Meadowsweet is stated to possess stomachic, mild urinary antiseptic, antirheumatic, astringent and antacid properties.

Dosage

Dried herb: 4–6 g or by infusion three times daily.(G6 G7)
Liquid extract: 1.5–6.0 mL (1 : 1 in 25% alcohol) three times daily.(G6 G7)
Tincture: 2–4 mL (1 : 5 in 45% alcohol) three times daily

Parts used

Herb

Reference

Bisset NG, ed. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals (Wichtl M, ed., German edition). Stuttgart: Medpharm, 1994.
Bradley PR, ed. British Herbal Compendium, vol 1. Bournemouth: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1992.
British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Keighley: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1983.
British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, 1990, vol 1. Bournemouth: British Herbal Medicine Association, 1990.
Duke JA. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton: CRC, 1985.
Mabey R., ed. The Complete New Herbal. London: Elm Tree Books, 1988.
Wagner H et al. Plant Drug Analysis. Berlin: Springer-Verlag, 1983.
Wren RC. Potter’s New Cyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations (revised, Williamson EW, Evans FJ). Saffron Walden: Daniel, 1988.

Ginkgo biloba: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-06-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related substances

Adiantifolia
Bai guo ye
Fossil tree
Ginkgo folium
Ginkgo leaf
Ginkyo
Japanese silver apricot
Kew tree
Maidenhair tree

Salisburia
Salisburia adiantifolia
Yinhsing
Baiguo

Pharmacology
Leaf

Ginkgo increases cerebral and peripheral blood circulation.
Ginkgo reduces vascular permeability, causes vascular contraction, improves venous tone, inhibits phosphodiesterase type 4 (PDE4), relaxes vascular smooth muscle via a nitric oxide pathway and improves blood flow to the corpus cavernosum of the penis.
Ginkgo reduces platelet aggregation by competitively binding platelet activating factor (PAF) and by inhibiting the formation of platelet thromboxane A2.
The ginkgo flavonoids have antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties.
Partially due to its antioxidant activity, ginkgo inhibits the toxicity and cell death induced by beta-amyloid plaques in Alzheimer disease.
Ginkgo decreases systolic and diastolic blood pressure, increases fasting plasma insulin and C-peptide, decreases cortisol secretion and decreases the secretion of corticotropic releasing hormone (CRH).
Ginkgo may have cholinergic effects and may or may not have a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) effect in the central nervous system.
Ginkgo may reverse the decline in brain alpha-adrenoceptor activity that occurs with aging.
Ginkgo decreases phagocyte chemotaxis, decreases smooth muscle contraction, prevents degranulation of neutrophils, decreases free radical production, decreases damaging glycine production after brain injury and reduces excitatory amino acid receptor function.
Ginkgo may inhibit cytochrome P450 3A4, induce cytochrome P450 3A5 and mildly inhibit cytochrome P450 1A2 and 2D6.

Seed

Cyanogenic glycosides may have antibacterial and antifungal effects.

Drug interactions
Leaf

Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Fluoxetine
Buspirone
St John’s wort
Melatonin
Insulin
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Seizure threshold lowering drugs
Thiazide diuretics
Trazodone
Warfarin
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4, P450 3A5, P450 1A2 and P450 2D6 enzymes

Parts used

Leaf, seed

References

Amri H, OS, Boujrad N, Drieu K, Papadopoulos V. In vivo regulation of peripheraltype benzodiazepine receptor and glucocorticoid synthesis by Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761 and isolated ginkgolides. Endocrinology 1996; 137:5707–5718.
Bastianetto S, Ramassamy C, Dore S et al. The Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) protects hippocampal neurons against cell death induced by beta-amyloid. Eur J Neurosci 2000; 12:1882–1890.
Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000; 7:273–282.
Campos-Toimil M, Lugnier C, Droy-Lefaix MT, Takeda K. Inhibition of type 4 phosphodiesterase by rolipram and Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) decreases agonist-induced rises in internal calcium in human endothelial cells. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2000; 20:E34–E40.
Chen X, SS, Lee TJ. Extracts of Ginkgo biloba and ginsenosides exert cerebral vasorelaxation via a nitric oxide pathway. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 1997; 24:958–959.
Diamond BJ, Shiflett S, Feiwel N et al. Ginkgo biloba extract: mechanisms and clinical indications. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2000; 81:668–678.
Fowler JS, Wang GJ, Volkow ND et al. Evidence that gingko biloba extract does not inhibit M, AO, A and B in living human brain. Life Sci 2000; 66:PL 141–146.
Galluzzi S, Zanetti O, Binetti G, Trabucchi M, Frisoni GB. Coma in a patient with Alzheimer’s disease taking low dose trazodone and gingko biloba. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2000; 68:679–680.
Gardiner P, Wornham W. Recent review of complementary and alternative medicine used by adolescents. Curr Opin Pediatr 2000; 12:298–302.
Granger AS. Ginkgo biloba precipitating epileptic seizures. Age Ageing 2001; 30:523–525. Links 2001.
Gregory PJ. Seizure associated with Ginkgo biloba? Ann Intern Med 2001; 134:344.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kudolo G. Ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract significantly inhibits collagen-induced platelet aggregation and thromboxane A2 synthesis. Alt Ther 2001; 7:105.
Kudolo GB, Dorsey S, Blodgett J. Effect of the ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract on platelet aggregation and urinary prostanoid excretion in healthy and Type 2 diabetic subjects. Thromb Res 2002; 108:151–160.
Kudolo GB. The effect of 3-month ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract on pancreatic beta-cell function in response to glucose loading in normal glucose tolerant individuals.J Clin Pharmacol 2000; 40:647–654.
Le Bars PL, Katz M, Berman N et al. A placebo-controlled, double-blind, randomized trial of an extract of Ginkgo biloba for dementia. North American EGb Study Group. JAMA 1997; 278:1327–1332.
Logani S, Chen M, Tran T, Le T, Raffa RB. Actions of Ginkgo Biloba related to potential utility for the treatment of conditions involving cerebral hypoxia. Life Sci 2000; 67:1389–1396.
Marcilhac A, Dakine N, Bourhim N et al. Effect of chronic administration of Ginkgo biloba extract or Ginkgolide on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in the rat. Life Sci 1998; 62:2329–2340.
Matthews MJ. Association of Ginkgo biloba with intracerebral hemorrhage. Neurology 1998; 50:1933–1934.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Oken BS, Storzbach DM, Kaye JA. The efficacy of Ginkgo biloba on cognitive function in Alzheimer disease. Arch Neurol 1998; 55:1409–1415.
Paick JS, Lee JH. An experimental study of the effect of ginkgo biloba extract on the human and rabbit corpus cavernosum tissue. J Urol 1996; 156:1876–1880.
Porsolt RD, Roux S, Drieu K. Evaluation of a ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) in functional tests for monoamine oxidase inhibition. Arzneimittelforschung 2000; 50:232–235.
Ranchon I, Gorrand J, Cluzel J, Droy-Lefaix MT, Doly M. Functional protection of photoreceptors from light-induced damage by dimethylthiourea and Ginkgo biloba extrac. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 1999; 40:1191–1199.
Shaw D, LC, Kolev S, Murray V. Traditional remedies and food supplements. A 5-year toxicological study (1991–1995). Drug Saf 1997; 17:342–356.
Spinella M, Eaton L. Hypomania induced by herbal and pharmaceutical psychotropic medicines following mild traumatic brain injury. Brain Inj 2002; 16:359–367.
White HL, Scates P, Cooper BR. Extracts of Ginkgo biloba leaves inhibit monoamine oxidase. Life Sci 1996; 58:1315–1321.

Zingiber officinalis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-06-08T07:40:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

African ginger
Black ginger
Cochin ginger
Gingembre
Ginger root
Imber
Jamaica ginger
Jiang
Race ginger

Shoga
Zingiberis rhizome

Pharmacology

The constituent 6-gingerol is believed to be responsible for ginger’s antiemetic activity.
Most of ginger’s anti-emetic activity is localized to the gastrointestinal tract.
The constituent galanolactone acts primarily on 5-HT3 receptors in the ileum, which are the same receptors affected by some prescription anti-emetics.
Ginger’s anti-emetic activity may also involve the central nervous system, where the constituents 6-shogaol and galanolactone act on serotonin receptors.
Ginger does not affect gastrointestinal emptying time.
Ginger may inhibit cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways, thereby having anti-inflammatory activity.
Ginger may inhibit platelet thromboxane, thereby having anti-platelet activity.
The constituents 6-gingerol and shogaol have been shown to be mutagenic in bacterial cultures whereas zingerone has been shown to be anti-mutagenic and to offset the mutagenic effects of 6-gingerol and shogaol.
A study on rats reported that in utero exposure to ginger tea resulted in increased early embryo loss and in increased growth in surviving fetuses.
Ginger may have hypoglycemic, hypotensive or hypertensive, hypocholesterolemic, anthelmintic, and gastroprotective effects.
Via inhibition of thromboxane synthetase, it has been proposed that ginger may affect testosterone receptor binding in the fetus, thereby potentially affecting sex steroid differentiation of the fetal brain.

Drug interactions

Acid-inhibiting drugs
Anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs
Barbiturates
Blood pressure therapy
Cardiac drugs
Diabetic drugs

Parts used

Rhizome and root

References

Backon J. Ginger in preventing nausea and vomiting of pregnancy: a caveat due to its thromboxane synthetase activity and effect on testosterone binding. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1991; 42:163–164.
Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Heck AM, DeWitt BA, Lukes AL. Potential interactions between alternative therapies and warfarin. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2000; 57:1221–1227.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Lumb AB. Mechanism of antiemetic effect of ginger. Anaesthesia 1993; 48:1118.
Nagabhushan M, Amonkar AJ, Bhide SV. Mutagenicity of gingerol and shogaol and antimutagenicity of zingerone in Salmonella/microsome assay. Cancer Lett 1987; 36:221–233.
Nakamura H, Yamamoto T. Mutagen and anti-mutagen in ginger, Zingiber officinale. Mutat Res 1982; 103:119–126.
Nakamura H, Yamamoto T. The active part of the [6]-gingerol molecule in mutagenesis. Mutat Res 1983; 122:87–94.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Phillips S, Hutchinson S, Ruggier R. Zingiber officinale does not affect gastric emptying rate. A randomised, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. Anaesthesia 1993; 48:393–395.
Srivastava KC, Mustafa T. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and rheumatic disorders. Med Hypotheses 1989; 29:25–28.
Srivastava KC. Effect of onion and ginger consumption on platelet thromboxane production in humans. Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1989; 35:183–185.
Stewart JJ, Wood MJ, Wood CD, Mims ME. Effects of ginger on motion sickness susceptibility and gastric function. Pharmacology 1991; 42:111–120.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Wilkinson JM. Effect of ginger tea on the fetal development of Sprague-Dawley rats. Reprod Toxicol 2000; 14:507–512.

Crataegus oxycantha, C. cuneata, C. laevigata: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-06-07T07:36:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Aubepine
Blanca spino
Crataegi flos
Crataegi folium
Crataegi folium cum flore
Crataegi fructus
English hawthorn
Epine blanche, epine de mai
Haagdorn

Hagedorn
Harthorne
Haw
Hawthorn extract
Hawthorn flower
Hawthorne fruit
Hawthorn leaf
Hawthorne
Hedgethorn
May
Maybush
Maythorn
Mehlbeebaum
Meidorn
Nan shanzha
Oneseed hawthorn
Shazha
Weissdorn

Pharmacology

Hawthorn acts on the myocardium by increasing the force of contraction and by lengthening the refractory period.
Hawthorn has antiarrhythmic activity by prolonging refractory period of the action potential.
Hawthorn reduces peripheral vascular resistance and oxygen consumption, and increases nerve conductivity.
Hawthorn increases coronary blood flow, vasodilation, and has a positive inotropic effects by increasing calcium membrane permeability and inhibiting phosphodiesterase (which increases intracellular cyclic AMP).
Hawthorn reduces lipid levels.
Hawthorn has antibacterial properties.
Hawthorn has spasmolytic and analgesic effects.
Hawthorn may decrease uterine tone and motility.

Drug interactions

Cardiovascular drugs
Central nervous system depressants
Coronary vasodilators
Digoxin

Parts used

Leaf, fruit, and flower

References

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Johnson JA, Lalonde RL. Congestive heart failure. In: DiPiro JT, ed. Pharmacotherapy, 3rd ed. Stamford: Appleton and Lange, 1997.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Pittler MH, Schmidt K, Ernst E. Hawthorn extract for treating chronic heart failure: meta-analysis of randomized trials. Am J Med 2003; 114:665–674.
Upton R. Hawthorn leaf with flower: analytical, quality control, and therapeutic monograph. Santa Cruz, CA American Herbal Pharmacopoeia: 1999:1–29.
Zbinden S, Seiler C. [Phytotherapy in cardiovascular medicine]. Ther Umsch 2002; 59:301–306.

Mitchella repens: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-06-06T07:34:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Checkerberry
Deerberry
Hive vine
Noon kie oo nah yeah
One-berry
Partridgeberry
Running box
Squaw berry
Squawvine

Twinberry
Two-eyed berry
Winter clover

Pharmacology

No available information

Drug interactions

None documented

Part used

Above ground parts

References

Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.

Hydrastis canadensis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-06-05T06:51:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Eye balm
Eye root
Goldenroot
Goldsiegel
Ground raspberry
Hydrastis
Indian dye
Indian plant

Indian tumeric
Jaundice root
Orange root
Sceau d’or
Warnera
Wild curcuma
Yellow Indian paint
Yellow paint
Yellow puccoon
Yellow root

Pharmacology

Berberine was found to displace bilirubin bound to albumin in vitro. Berberine was found to be about 10 times superior to phenylbutazone, a
known potent displacer of bilirubin, and about 100 times superior to papaverine, a berberine-type alkaloid.
Hydrastine and berberine have been shown to have antibacterial activity.
Hydrastine and berberine have been shown to have amebicidal, anti-parasitic (trypanocidal) and anti-fungal activity.
Berberine and beta-hydrastine were shown to have anti-Helicobacter pylori activity in vitro.
Berberine derived from goldenseal has been shown to have anti-tubercular activity in vitro.
At low doses hydrastine may have a hypotensive effect and at higher doses hydrastine constricts peripheral blood vessels and may potentially cause a hypertensive effect.
In low doses, berberine may act as a cardiac and respiratory stimulant and in high doses it may act as a cardiac and respiratory depressant.
Berberine was shown to have anti-platelet activity.
Goldenseal was shown to increase immune function and berberine was shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Berberine was found to have antidiarrheal effects.
Berberine was found to inhibit parathyroid hormone-stimulated bone resorption, inhibit osteoclastic bone resorption, and prevent a decrease in bone mineral density of the lumbar vertebra.
Goldenseal may interfere with cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme.

Drug interactions

Acid-inhibiting drugs
Anti-hypertensive agents
Barbiturates
Anticoagulant drugs
Highly protein-bound drugs
Sedative drugs
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme

Parts used

Root, rhizome

References

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000; 7:273–282.
Chan E. Displacement of bilirubin from albumin by berberine. Biol Neonate 1993; 63:201–208.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Gentry EJ, Jampani HB, Keshavarz-Shokri A et al. Antitubercular natural products: berberine from the roots of commercial Hydrastis canadensis powder. Isolation of inactive 8-oxotetrahydrothalifendine, canadine, beta-hydrastine, and two new quinic acid esters, hycandinic acid esters-1 and -2. J Nat Prod 1998; 61:1187–1193.
Ghosh AK, Bhattacharyya FK, Ghosh DK. Leishmania donovani: amastigote inhibition and mode of action of berberine. Exp Parasitol 1985; 60:404–413.
Ghosh AK, Rakshit MM, Ghosh DK. Effect of berberine chloride on Leishmania donovani. Indian J Med Res 1983; 78:407–416.
Goel M, Singh UP, Jha RN, Pandey VB, Pandey MB. Individual and combined effect of ( / )-alpha-hydrastine and ( / )-beta-hydrastine on spore germination of some fungi. Folia Microbiol (Praha) 2003; 48:363–368.
Huang CG, Chu ZL, Wei SJ, Jiang H, Jiao BH. Effect of berberine on arachidonic acid metabolism in rabbit platelets and endothelial cells. Thromb Res 2002; 106:223–227.
Ivanovska N, Philipov S, Hristova M. Influence of berberine on T-cell mediated immunity. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 1999; 21:771–786.
Ivanovska N, Philipov S. Study on the anti-inflammatory action of Berberis vulgaris root extract, alkaloid fractions and pure alkaloids. Int J Immunopharmacol 1996; 18:553–561.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kupeli E, Kosar M, Yesilada E, Husnu K, Baser C. A comparative study on the antiinflammatory, antinociceptive and antipyretic effects of isoquinoline alkaloids from the roots of Turkish Berberis species. Life Sci 2002; 72:645–657.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Li H, Miyahara T, Tezuka Y et al. The effect of kampo formulae on bone resorption in vitro and in vivo. II. Detailed study of berberine. Biol Pharm Bull 1999; 22:391–396.
Mahady GB, Pendland SL, Stoia A, Chadwick LR. In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to isoquinoline alkaloids from Sanguinaria canadensis and Hydrastis canadensis. Phytother Res 2003; 17:217–221.
Mahajan VM, Sharma A, Rattan A. Antimycotic activity of berberine sulphate: an alkaloid from an Indian medicinal herb. Sabouraudia 1982; 20:79–81.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Rehman J, Dillow JM, Carter SM et al. Increased production of antigen-specific immunoglobulins G and M following in vivo treatment with the medicinal plants Echinacea angustifolia and Hydrastis canadensis. Immunol Lett 1999; 68:391–395.
Stermitz FR, Lorenz P, Tawara JN, Zenewicz LA, Lewis K. Synergy in a medicinal plant: antimicrobial action of berberine potentiated by 5 -methoxyhydnocarpin, a multidrug pump inhibitor. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2000; 97:1433–1437.
Stermitz FR, Tawara-Matsuda J, Lorenz P et al. 5 -Methoxyhydnocarpin-D and pheophorbide A: Berberis species components that potentiate berberine growth inhibition of resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Nat Prod 2000; 63:1146–1149.
Yesilada E, Kupeli E. Berberis crataegina DC. root exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic and febrifuge effects in mice and rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2002; 79:237–248.
Zhang MF, Shen YQ. [Antidiarrheal and anti-inflammatory effects of berberine]. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao 1989; 10:174–176.

Trigonella foenum-graecum, T. foenugraecum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-05-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related compounds

Alholva
Bird’s foot
Bockshornklee
Bockshornsame
Foenugraeci semen
Foenugreek
Greek clover
Greek hay
Greek hay seed

Hu lu ba
Methi
Trigonella

Pharmacology

Fenugreek slows glucose absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.
Fenugreek and its constituent trigonelline have hypoglycemic activity.
The constituent 4-hydroxyisoleucine may directly stimulate insulin.
In patients with type 2 diabetes, fenugreek has been shown to increase betacell secretion, improve insulin resistance, significantly decrease triglyceride levels and increase high-density lipoproteins.
Fenugreek seed consumption may decrease calcium oxalate deposition in the kidneys.
The constituent fenugreekine may have cardiotonic, hypoglycemic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, and anti-viral properties.

Drug interactions

Diabetic drugs
Corticosteroids
Hormone therapy
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Part used
Seeds

References

Ahsan SK,Tariq M, Ageel AM, al-Yahya MA, Shah AH. Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum and Ammi majus on calcium oxalate urolithiasis in rats. J Ethnopharmacol 1989; 26:249–254.
Bhardwaj PK, Dasgupta DJ, Prashar BS, Kaushal SS. Control of hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidaemia by plant product. J Assoc Physicians India 1994; 42:33–35.
Gupta A, Gupta R, Lal B. Effect of Trigonella foenum-graecum (fenugreek) seeds on glycaemic control and insulin resistance in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a double blind placebo controlled study. J Assoc Physicians India 2001; 49:1057–1061.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Madar Z, Abel R, Samish S, Arad J. Glucose-lowering effect of fenugreek in noninsulin dependent diabetics. Eur J Clin Nutr 1988; 42:51–54.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.and natural analogues on insulin secretion. Eur J Pharmacol 2000; 390:339–345.

Gentiana lutea: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-05-02T00:30:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related compounds

Bitter root
Bitterwort
Gall weed
Gentiana
Gentianae radix
Pale gentian
Stemless gentian
Yellow gentian
Wild gentian

Pharmacology

The bitter constituents, gentiamarin, gentiopicrin, amarogentin and swertiamarin, appear to increase saliva and digestive secretion.
Gentianine may have anti-inflammatory activity.
Gentisin and isogentisin have been shown to be mutagenic in bacterial studies.
Gentiopicrin is lethal to mosquito larvae.

Drug interactions

Antacids
H2 antagonists
Proton pump inhibitors

Part used
Root

References

Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.

Panax ginseng, P. schinseng: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-05-01T00:27:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related substances

Asian ginseng
Asiatic ginseng
Chinese ginseng
Ginseng
Ginseng asiatique
Ginseng radix
Ginseng root
Guigai
Hong shen
Japanese ginseng
Jen-shen
Jinsao
Jintsam
Insam
Korean ginseng
Korean panax ginseng
Korean red ginseng
Ninjin
Oriental ginseng
Panax ginseng
Radix ginseng rubra
Red ginseng
Ren shen
Renshen
Renxian
Sang
Seng
Sheng shai shen
White ginseng

Pharmacology

Ginseng is frequently used as a general tonic, adaptogen and restorative due to its anti-fatigue, immunologic, and hormonal qualities.
Ginsenosides increase serum cortisol levels, stimulate adrenal function, and, in women, increase dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate.
Ginsenoside Rb1 lowers blood pressure and acts as a central nervous system depressant.
Ginsenosides interfere with platelet aggregation and coagulation.
Ginsenosides have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Ginsenosides potentiate nerve growth factor and may have a neuroprotective effect through nicotinic activity.
Ginsenosides have anti-asthmatic effects through the relaxation of human bronchial smooth muscle by stimulating the release of nitrous oxide from airway epithelium.
P. ginseng has anti-tumor activity.The polyacetylenic constituent panaxydol seems to have anti-proliferative effects on various types of cancer cell.
P. ginseng has shown inhibitory activity on Helicobacter pylori.
P. ginseng promotes the growth of normal intestinal flora while inhibiting clostridial species.
P. ginseng may lower cholesterol and triglycerides.
P. ginseng may prevent insulin resistance and change gene expression in type 2 diabetes.
There is conflicting evidence on whether or not P. ginseng has estrogenic activity.
The protein isolate panaxagin may have anti-viral and anti-fungal activity where it appears to inhibit human immunodeficiency virus reverse transcriptase and ribosomal activity of some fungi.
P. ginseng may mildly inhibit cytochrome P450.
P. ginseng increases penile vibratory threshold and reduces the amplitude of penile somatosensory evoked potentials.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet agents
Anti-diabetic drugs
Anti-psychotic drugs
Caffeine
Furosemide
Immunosuppressants
Insulin
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Stimulant drugs
Warfarin (Coumadin)
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes

Part used
Root

References

Becker BN. Ginseng-induced diuretic resistance. JAMA 1996; 276:606–607.
Belogortseva NI, Yoon JY, Kim KH. Inhibition of Helicobacter pylori hemagglutination by polysaccharide fractions from roots of Panax ginseng. Planta Med 2000; 66:217–220.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Cheng TO. Ginseng-warfarin interaction. ACC Curr J Rev 2000; 9:84.
Eagon PK, Elm MS, Hunter DS et al. Medicinal herbs: modulation of estrogen action, Era of Hope Mtg, Dept Defense, Atlanta, GA, Jun 8–11, 2000. Breast Cancer Res Prog.
Greenspan EM. Ginseng and vaginal bleeding [letter]. JAMA 1983; 249:2018.
Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA. Clinical assessment of potential cytochrome P450-mediated herb-drug interactions. AAPS Annual Meeting & Expo, Indianapolis, IN, 29 Oct–2 Nov, 2000.
Hammond TG, Whitworth JA. Adverse reactions to ginseng [letter]. Med J Aust 1981; 1:492.
Hiai S, Yokoyama H, Oura H et al. Stimulation of pituitary-adrenocortical system by ginseng saponin. Endocrinol Jpn 1979; 26:661–665.
Hopkins MP, Androff L, Benninghoff AS. Ginseng face cream and unexplained vaginal bleeding. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1988; 159:1121–1122.
Janetzky K, Morreale AP. Probable interaction between warfarin and ginseng. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1997; 54:692–693.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Jones BD, Runikis AM. Interaction of ginseng with phenelzine. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1987; 7:201–202.
Kase Y, Saitoh K, Ishige A et al. Mechanisms by which Hange-shashin-to reduces prostaglandin E2 levels. Biol Pharm Bull 1998; 21:1277–1281.
Keum YS, Park KK, Lee JM et al. Antioxidant and anti-tumor promoting activities of the methanol extract of heat-processed ginseng. Cancer Lett 2000; 150:41–48.
Koren G, Randor S, Martin S, Danneman D. Maternal ginseng use associated with neonatal androgenization. JAMA 1990; 264:2866.
Lee YJ, Jin YR, Lim WC et al. Ginsenoside-Rb1 acts as a weak phytoestrogen in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Arch Pharm Res 2003; 26:58–63.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Lewis R, Wake G, Court G et al. Non-ginsenoside nicotinic activity in ginseng species. Phytother Res 1999; 13:59–64.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.
Moon J, Yu SJ, Kim HS, Sohn J. Induction of G cell cycle arrest and p27(KIP1) increase by panaxydol isolated from Panax ginseng. Biochem Pharmacol 2000; 59:1109–1116.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Ng TB, Wang H. Panaxagin, a new protein from Chinese ginseng possesses antifungal, anti-viral, translation-inhibiting and ribonuclease activities. Life Sci 2001; 68:739–749.
Palmer BV, Montgomery AC, Monteiro JC et al. Gin Seng and mastalgia [letter]. BMJ 1978; 1:1284.
Pan SJ, Ding Z, Ivy JL. Ginseng’s effects on glucose tolerance and mRNA profiles in a animal model of Type II diabetes. Alt Ther 2001; 7:S26.
Park HJ, Lee JH, Song YB, Park KH. Effects of dietary supplementation of lipophilic fraction from Panax ginseng on cGMP and cAMP in rat platelets and on blood coagulation. Biol Pharm Bull 1996; 19:1434–1439.
Punnonen R, Lukola A. Oestrogen-like effect of ginseng. Br Med J 1980; 281:1110.
Robbers JE, Speedie MK, Tyler VE. Pharmacognosy and Pharmacobiotechnology. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins, 1996.
Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE, Terry C. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician’s Guide to Herbal Medicine, 3rd ed. Berlin: Springer, 1998.
Shader RI, Greenblatt DJ. Phenylzine and the dream machine-ramblings and reflections. J Clin Psychopharmacol 1985; 5:65.
Shin HR, Kim JY, Yun TK et al. The cancer-preventive potential of Panax ginseng: a review of human and experimental evidence. Cancer Causes Control 2000; 11:565–576.
Sotaniemi EA, Haapakoski E, Rautio A. Ginseng therapy in non-insulin dependent diabetic patients. Diabetes Care 1993; 16:8–15 1995; 18:1373–1375.
Tamaoki J, Nakata J, Kawatani K. Ginsenoside-induced relaxation of human bronchial smooth muscle via release of nitric oxide. Br J Pharmacol 2000; 130:1859–1864.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Tode T, Kikuchi Y, Hirata J et al. Effect of Korean red ginseng on psychological functions in patients with severe climacteric syndromes. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 1999; 67:169–174.
Wiklund IK, Mattsson LA, Lindgren R et al. Effects of a standardized ginseng extract on quality of life and physiological parameters in symptomatic postmenopausal women: a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Int J Clin Pharmacol Res 1999; 19:89–99.
Zhu M, Chan KW, Ng LS et al. Possible influences of ginseng on the pharmacodynamics of warfarin in rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999; 51:175–180.

Aesculus hippocastanum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-30T00:27:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Buckeye
Chestnut
Escine
Hippocastani cortex
Hippocastani flos
Hippocastani folium
Hippocastani semen
Horse chestnut
Marron europeen
Spanish chestnut
Venastat
Venostat
Venostasin retard

Pharmacology

Unprocessed (raw) horsechestnut preparations
Esculin causes neural stimulation and increases antithrombin activity, thereby leading to increased bleeding time.
Esculin is a mucous membrane irritant.

HCSE

Escin, the active ingredient in horse chestnut seed extract has anti-exudative and vascular-tightening effects.
HCSE reduces vascular permeability, reduces the activity of lysosomal enzymes and inhibits the breakdown of glycoacalyx in the capillary walls.
HCSE contracts canine and human isolated saphenous veins in vitro, possibly due to preferential formation of the vasoconstrictive eicosanoid PGF2-a.
HCSE increases femoral venous pressure and flow, decreases the formation of edema, and suppresses plasma extravasation and leucocyte emigration into the pleural cavity.
HCSE has antioxidant effects.

Drug interactions

Hypoglycemic agents
Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet therapy

Parts containing toxins
Seeds, bark, leaves, pericarp of fruit twigs, and non-medicinal flowers

References

Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Brunner F, Hoffmann C, Schuller-Petrovic S. Responsiveness of human varicose saphenous veins to vasoactive agents. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2001; 51:219–224.
Guillaume M, Padioleau F. [Veinotonic effect, vascular protection, antiinflammatory and free radical scavenging properties of horse chestnut extract]. Arzneimittelforschung 1994; 44:25–35.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Longiave D, Omini C, Nicosia S et al. The mode of action of aescin on isolated veins: relationship with PGF2 alpha. T Pharmacol Res Commun 1978; 10:145–152.
Masaki H, Sakaki S, Atsumi T et al. Active-oxygen scavenging activity of plant extracts. Biol Pharm Bull 1995; 18:162–166.
Yoshikawa M, Murakami T, Yamahara J, Matsuda H. Bioactive saponins and glycosides. XII. Horse chestnut. Structures of escins IIIb, IV, V, and VI and isoescins Ia, Ib, and V, acylated polyhydroxyoleanene triterpene oligoglycosides, from the seeds of horse chestnut tree (Aesculus hippocastanum L., Hippocastanaceae). Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 1998; 46:1764–1769.

Silybum marianum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-22T06:28:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Holy thistle
Lady’s thistle
Legalon
Cardui mariae fructus
Cardui mariae herba
Marian thistle
Mariendistel
Mary thistle
Milk Thistle
Our Lady’s thistle
St Mary thistle
Silybin
Silybum
Silymarin

Pharmacology

Silybin, a milk thistle constituent, was shown to stimulate RNA polymerase A and DNA synthesis.This stimulation increases the synthesis of ribosome proteins, stimulates cell development and thereby increases the regenerative capacity of the liver.
Regular consumption of standardized preparations of milk thistle were shown to control the liver enzymes aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT).
Silymarin, the active constituent in milk thistle, may competitively bind some toxins and act as a free radical scavenger.
Silymarin may increase the hepatic contents of gluthathione (both oxidized and reduced).
Silymarin may increase the enzyme superoxidase dismutase (SOD).
Silymarin may regulate cell membrane permeability, inhibit the 5-lipoxygenase pathway, scavenge for reactive oxygen species (ROS) of the R-OH type and effect DNA-expression.
Silibinin, a constituent of milk thistle, was shown to significantly inhibit cell growth and DNA synthesis of different prostate, breast and cervical human carcinoma cells.
Silibinin treatment significantly decreased both intracellular and secreted forms of prostate specific antigen (PSA) and inhibited cell growth via a G1 arrest in cell cycle progression.
Milk thistle may affect cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) and P450 3A4 (CYP3A4).

Drug interactions

Estrogens
Glucuronidated drugs
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) and P450 3A4 (CYP3A4)

Part used
Seeds

References

Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Milk Thistle: Effects on Liver Disease and Cirrhosis and Clinical Adverse Effects. Rockville, MD: Summary, Evidence Report/Technology Assessment: Number 21, 2000. http://www.ahrq.gov/clinic/epcsums/milktsum.htm
Beckmann-Knopp S, Rietbrock S, Weyhenmeyer R et al. Inhibitory effects of silibinin on cytochrome P-450 enzymes in human liver microsomes. Pharmacol Toxicol 2000; 86:250–256.
Boon H, Smith M. The botanical pharmacy: the pharmacology of 47 common herbs. Kingston, ON: Quarry Health Books/CCNM, 1999:320.
Boon H, Smith M. The Pharmacology of 47 Common Herbs. Kingston: Quarry Health, 1999.
Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000; 7:273–282.
Buzzelli G, Moscarella S, Giusti A et al. A pilot study on the liver protective effect of silybin-phosphatidylcholine complex (IdB1016) in chronic active hepatitis. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol 1993; 31:456–460.
Dvorak Z, Kosina P, Walterova D et al. Primary cultures of human hepatocytes as a tool in cytotoxicity studies: cell protection against model toxins by flavonolignans obtained from Silybum marianum. Toxicol Lett 2003; 137:201–212.
Giannola C, Buogo F, Forestiere G et al. [A two-center study on the effects of silymarin in pregnant women and adult patients with so-called minor hepatic insufficiency]. Clin Ther 1985; 114:129–135.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kim DH, Jin YH, Park JB, Kobashi K. Silymarin and its components are inhibitors of beta-glucuronidase. Biol Pharm Bull 1994; 17:443–445.
Lang I, Nekam K, Deak G et al. Immunomodulatory and hepatoprotective effects of in vivo treatment with free radical scavengers. Ital J Gastroenterol 1990; 22:283–287.
Okawa M, Kinjo J, Nohara T, Ono M. DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging activity of flavonoids obtained from some medicinal plants. Biol Pharm Bull 2001; 24:1202–1205.
Ramadan LA, Roushdy HM, Abu Senna GM, Amin NE, El-Deshw OA. Radioprotective effect of silymarin against radiation induced hepatotoxicity. Pharmacol Res 2002; 45:447–454.
Saller R, Meier R, Brignoli R. The use of silymarin in the treatment of liver diseases. Drugs 2001; 61:2035–2063.
Venkataramanan R, Ramachandran V, Komoroski BJ et al. Milk thistle, a herbal supplement, decreases the activity of CYP3A4 and uridine diphosphoglucuronosyl transferase in human hepatocyte cultures. Drug Metab Dispos 2000; 28:1270–1273.
Zi X, Agarwal R. Silibinin decreases prostate-specific antigen with cell growth inhibition via G1 arrest, leading to differentiation of prostate carcinoma cells: implications for prostate cancer intervention. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1999; 96:7490–7495.

Herbal Supplements: Efficacy, Toxicity, Interactions with Western Drugs, and Effects on Clinical Laboratory Tests

2011-04-21T09:09:00.000-07:00

Herbal Supplements: Efficacy, Toxicity, Interactions with Western Drugs, and Effects on Clinical Laboratory Tests focuses on efficacy, toxicity, drug interactions, and abnormal clinical laboratory tests resulting from the use of herbal remedies. Although a few herbal remedies are safe and have efficacy (for example saw palmetto), many herbal remedies are toxic. This book guides in the interpretation of abnormal test results in otherwise healthy subjects due to use of herbal remedies. Chapters focus on interactions between herbals and pharmaceuticals, sources of contamination in herbal supplements, and analytical techniques used in the investigation of herbal remedies.

Contents

Section A: Introduction and Overview. Chapter 1 An Introduction to Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) (Catherine A. Hammett-Stabler).

Chapter 2 Relatively Safe herbal Remedies (Angela M. Ferguson and Uttam Garg).
Chapter 3 Risk of Toxicity Associated with Unregulated Herbal Products (Steven W. Cotton).
Section B: Effects of Herbal Remedies on Specific Organ Systems.
Chapter 4 Herbal Remedies with Immunomodulatory Effects (Jeffrey K. Actor).
Chapter 5 Kelp and Abnormal Thyroid Functions (Bruce Rosenweig).
Chapter 6 Herbal Medications and the Patient with Chronic Kidney Disease (Mariana S. Markell).
Chapter 7 Abnormal Liver Function Tests Due to the Use of Hepatotoxic Herbals (Amitava Dasgupta and Catherine A. Hammett-Stabler).
Chapter 8 Homeopathic Medicine: Principle, Efficacy and Toxicity (Amitava Dasgupta).
Chapter 9 Common Indian Ayurvedic Medicines and Interactions with Western Medicines (Amitava Dasgupta).
Chapter 10 Tradition and Prospective of Arab and Islamic Herbal Medicine (Bashar Saad and Omar Said).
Chapter 11 Licorice and Laboratory Tests (Salvador F. Sena).
Section C: Drug Interactions.
Chapter 12 Drug Interactions with St. John’s Wort (Matthew D. Krasowski and John L. Blau).
Chapter 13 Drug-Herb Interactions in Patients with HIV/AIDS (Natella Y. Rakhmanina and John N. van den Anker).
Chapter 14 Interactions between Fruit Juices and Therapeutic Drugs: Impact on Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (Amitava Dasgupta).
Chapter 15 Drug interactions with Ginseng and Ginkgo Biloba (Ashok Tholpady and Semyon Risin).
Chapter 16 Drug Interactions with Garlic and Ginger Supplements (Charbel Abou-Diwan and James Ritchie).
Section D: Contamination.
Chapter 17 Heavy Metal Toxicity and Herbal Remedies (Christine LH Snozek and Loralie J Langman).
Chapter 18 Contamination of Herbal Remedies with Western Drugs: Role of Clinical Laboratory (Uttam Garg and Angela M. Ferguson).
Chapter 19 Beyond Herbals: Common Plant Poisonings (Catherine A. Hammett-Stabler).
Section E: Analytical implications.
Chapter 20 Interferences of Herbal Remedies with Immunoassays for Therapeutic Drugs (Amitava Dasgupta).
Chapter 21 Role of Laboratory in Detecting Plant Poisoning (Ronald W. McLawhon).

About the Author

Amitava Dasgupta is a Professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of Texas Medical School at Houston and the director of clinical chemistry, toxicology, and point of care testing at the Memorial Hermann Hospital, the main teaching hospital of the medical school. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Clinical Chemistry and a prolific author and editor.
Catherine A. Hammett-Stabler is a Professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is also the Director of the Core Laboratory of the McLendon Clinical Laboratories, UNC Health Care. Dr. Hammett-Stabler has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and books.

Book Details

Hardcover: 488 pages
Publisher: Wiley; 1 edition (February 2, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0470433507
ISBN-13: 978-0470433508
Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.1 x 1.3 inches

List Price: $115.00

Ephedra vulgaris: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-20T15:22:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Cao mahuang
Chinese ephedra
Chinese joint-fir
Cao ma-huang
Desert herb
Ephedrae herba
E. sinensis
E. distachya
E. equisetina
E. shennungiana
E. gerardiana
E. intermedia
E. sinica
Herbal ecstasy
Indian jointfir
Joint fir
Mahuang
Ma huang
Ma-huang
Mahuanggen (ma huang root)
Mongolian ephedra
Muzei ma huang
Pakistani ephedra
Popotillo, sea grape
Shuang sui ma huang
Teamster’s tea
Yellow astringent
Yellow horse
Zhong mahuang

Pharmacology

Ephedrine decreases direct uterine arterial vasoconstriction during pregnancy by increasing the release of an endogenous vasodilator (nitrous oxide), either from the vascular endothelium or the vessel wall.
Ephedrine can stimulate uterine contractions, and theoretically, can be catabolized to mutagenic nitrosamines.
The sympathomimetics ephedrine and pseudoephedrine can directly and indirectly stimulate the sympathetic nervous system.
Ephedra alkaloids have been linked to myocarditis, myocardial infarction, coronary artery vasoconstriction, cardiac arrhythmia, cerebral hemorrhage, cerebral vasculitis, and ischemic stroke.
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine can increase systolic and diastolic blood pressure, heart rate and cardiac contractility, and cause peripheral vasoconstriction, bronchodilation and central nervous system stimulation.
Ephedrine causes thermogenesis and modest weight loss, possibly by stimulating norepinephrine release.
Ephedrine appears to have anti-tussive, bacteriostatic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ephedrine may exacerbate urinary retention, but can also have diuretic effects.
Ephedrine relaxes the smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal and urinary tract.
Ephedrine causes catecholamine release and increases central nervous system stimulation, which may lead to better anaerobic exercise performance.

Drug interactions

Caffeine
Dexamethasone (Decadron)
Diabetic drugs
Ergotamine
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Oxytocin
QT-interval prolonging drugs
Reserpine
Theophylline
Urinary acidifiers
Urinary alkalinizers

Parts used
Stems, twigs; root and fruits (lesser extent)

References

Bell DG, Jacobs I, Ellerington K. Effect of caffeine and ephedrine ingestion on anaerobic exercise performance. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2001; 33:1399–1403.
Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Dulloo AG. Herbal simulation of ephedrine and caffeine in treatment of obesity. Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord 2002; 26:590–592.
Haller CA, Benowitz NL. Adverse cardiovascular and central nervous system events associated with dietary supplements containing ephedra alkaloids. N Engl J Med 2000; 343:1833–1838.
Haller CA, Jacob P, Benowitz NL. Pharmacology of ephedra alkaloids and caffeine after single-dose dietary supplement use. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2002; 71:421–432.
Horton TJ, Geissler CA. Aspirin potentiates the effect of ephedrine on the thermogenic response to a meal in obese but not lean women. Int J Obes 1991; 15:359–366.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Li P, Tong C, Eisenach JC. Pregnancy and ephedrine increase the release of nitric oxide in ovine uterine arteries. Anesth Analg 1996; 82:288–293.
Martindale W. Martindale: The Extra Pharmacopoeia. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982.
McBride BF, Karapanos AK, Krudysz A et al. Electrocardiographic and hemodynamic effects of a multicomponent dietary supplement containing ephedra and caffeine: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2004; 291:216–221.
McKevoy GK. AHFS drug information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. New York, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE, Terry C. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician’s Guide to Herbal Medicine. Berlin: Springer, 1998.
White LM, Gardner SF, Gurley BJ et al. Pharmacokinetics and cardiovascular effects of ma-huang (Ephedra sinica) in normotensive adults. J Clin Pharmacol 1997; 37:116–122.

Chamaelirium luteum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-19T07:41:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Blazing star
Fairywand
False unicorn
Helonias
Starwort

Pharmacology
False unicorn is reported to have anthelmintic, diuretic, uterine stimulant and menstruation stimulant activity.

Drug interactions
None reported.
Parts used
Root and rhizome

References

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed.Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.

Juniperus communis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Common juniper berry
Enebro
Geniévre
Ginepro
Juniperi fructus
Wacholderbeeren
Zimbro

Pharmacology

Animal studies have found that juniper oil did not induce changes in function or morphology of the kidneys and was reported as non-toxic.
The diuretic action of juniper is attributed to the terpinen-4-ol portion which is purported to stimulate glomerular filtration.
The volatile monoterpenes are irritants to the urinary mucosa.
Studies have identified isocupressic acid as the primary abortifacient compound in juniper.In vitro and in vivo studies have shown isocupressic acid is rapidly metabolized to agathic acid, dihydroagathic acid, and tetrahydroagathic acid.
Juniper demonstrated hypoglycemic activity in both rats and mice.
Juniper was shown to have antifungal, antiviral (against herpes simplex virus 1) and anti-inflammatory properties.
Oral administration of an extract of juniper berries was seen to decrease experimentally induced foot edema in rats.
Juniper oil was found to inhibit the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. avium.

Drug interactions

Anti-diabetic drugs
Diuretics

Parts used
Berries and oil

References

Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Filipowicz N, Kaminski M, Kurlenda J, Asztemborska M, Ochocka JR. Antibacterial and antifungal activity of juniper berry oil and its selected components. Phytother Res 2003; 17:227–231.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Jimenez-Arellanes A, Meckes M, Ramirez R, Torres J, Luna-Herrera J. Activity against multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Mexican plants used to treat respiratory diseases. Phytother Res 2003; 17:903–908.
Lee ST, Gardner DR, Garrosian M et al. Development of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for isocupressic acid and serum metabolites of isocupressic acid. J Agric Food Chem 2003; 51:3228–3233.
Mascolo N, Autore G, Capasso G et al. Biological screening of Italian medicinal plants for anti-inflammatory activity. Phytother Res 1987; 1:28–31.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. New York, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Sanchez de Medina F, Gamez M, Jimenez I et al. Hypoglycemic activity of juniper ‘berries’. Planta Medica 1994; 60:197–200.
Schilcher H, Leuschner F. [The potential nephrotoxic effects of essential juniper oil]. Arzneimittelforschung 1997; 47:855–858.
Swanston-Flatt S, Day C, Bailey C, Flatt P. Traditional plant treatments for diabetes. Studies in normal and streptozotocin mice. Diabetologia 1990; 33:462–464.
Tyler VE. Herbs of choice. Binghamton, NY: Pharmaceutical Products Press, 1994.

Commiphora mukul: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Guggal
Guggul gum resin
Guggulipid
Guggulipids
Guggulu
Guggulsterone
Guggulsterones
Gum guggal
Gum gugglu
Gum guggulu
Indian bdellium-tree
Mukul myrrh
Mukul myrrh tree

Pharmacology

Guggul extract, also known as guggulipid (usually standardized to 2.5% guggulsterones), is an ethyl acetate extract of the gum resin that contains both Z- and E-guggulsterones.
Guggulsterones inhibit the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver and appear to have an antioxidant effect on lipids.
Guggul may lower lipoprotein (a) and C-reactive protein.
Guggul is an antagonist ligand for farnesoid X receptor (FXR) where it decreases expression of bile acid-activated genes.
Guggulsterones may have thyroid-stimulating activity where they increase the conversion of T4 to T3.
Guggul may have a protective effect against drug-induced myocardial necrosis.
In acne, guggulipid may reduce secretion of sebum and inhibit bacterial metabolism of triglycerides.
Guggul may have anti-inflammatory activity.
Guggul may have anti-platelet and anti-coagulant activity.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Diltiazem
Propranolol
Thyroid drugs

Parts used

Gum resin

References

Antonio J, Colker CM, Torina GC et al. Effects of a standardized guggulsterone phosphate supplement on body composition in overweight adults: a pilot study. Curr Ther Res 1999; 60:220–227.
Cui J, Huang L, Zhao A et al. Guggulsterone is a farnesoid receptor antagonist in coactivator association assays but acts to enhance transcription of bile salt export pump. J Biol Chem 2003; 278:10214–10220. Epub 2003 Jan 13.
Dalvi SS, Nayak VK, Pohujani SM et al. Effect of gugulipid on bioavailability of diltiazem and propranolol. J Assoc Physicians India 1994; 42:454–455.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kaul S, Kapoor NK. Cardiac sarcolemma enzymes and liver microsomal cytochrome P450 in isoproterenol treated rats. Indian J Med Res 1989; 90:62–68.
Mester L, Mester M, Nityanand S. Inhibition of platelet aggregation by ‘guggulu’ steroids. Planta Med 1979; 37:367–369.
Panda S, Kar A. Gugulu (Commiphora mukul) induces triiodothyronine production: possible involvement of lipid peroxidation. Life Sci 1999; 65:PL137–141.
Singh BB, Mishra L, Aquilina N, Kohlbeck F. Usefulness of guggul (Commiphora mukul) for osteoarthritis of the knee: an experimental case study. Altern Ther Health Med 2001; 7:112–114.
Singh RB, Niaz MA, Ghosh S. Hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects of Commiphora mukul as an adjunct to dietary therapy in patients with hypercholesterolemia. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 1994; 8:659–664.
Szapary PO, Wolfe ML, Bloedon LT et al. Guggulipid for treatment of hypercholesterolemia: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 2003; 290:765–772.
Thappa DM, Dogra J. Nodulocystic acne: oral gugulipid versus tetracycline. J Dermatol 1994; 21:729–731.
Tripathi YB, Tripathi P, Malhotra OP, Tripathi SN. Thyroid stimulatory action of (Z)-guggulsterone: mechanism of action. Planta Med 1988; 54:271–277.

Allium sativum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-16T09:55:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Aged garlic extract
Ail
Ajo
Allii aativi bulbus
Allium
Camphor of the poor
Clove garlic
Garlic clove
Nectar of the gods
Poor man’s treacle
Rust treacle
Stinking rose

Pharmacology

Garlic has lipid-lowering effects through inhibition of the cholesterolgenic enzymes 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl (HMG)-CoA reductase and acetyl-CoA synthetase, through increased loss of bile salts in feces, and through mobilization of tissue lipids into circulation.
Garlic has anti-atherogenic action in vitro and in vivo where it inhibited the proliferative activity of atherosclerotic plaques in the human aorta, reduced cholesterol accumulation in blood serum, and made low-density lipoprotein significantly more resistant to oxidation than that isolated from subjects receiving no garlic supplements.
Garlic inhibits platelet aggregation in healthy individuals and patients with cardiovascular disease, and inhibits platelet adhesion to collagen, fibrinogen, and von Willebrand factor.
Garlic increased fibrinolytic activity during long-term use in chronic infarction as well as during the critical acute post-infarction period.
Garlic has anti-platelet activity.
Garlic was found to reduce arterial blood pressure by causing membrane hyperpolarization and subsequent vasodilation through its action on potassium (calcium) ion channels in the membrane of vascular smooth muscle cells.
Garlic oil reduced blood sugar levels in men and increased blood sugar levels in women.
Garlic detoxifies chemical carcinogens, prevents carcinogenesis, and directly inhibits the growth of cancer cells.
Garlic stimulates the immune system by stimulating macrophage activity, natural killer cells, and lymphokine-activated killer cells, and by increasing the production of interleukin-2, tumor necrosis factor and interferon-c.
Garlic protects against the suppression of immunity by chemotherapy and ultraviolet radiation through the stimulation of macrophages and lymphocytes.
Garlic oil was found to reduce the activity of cytochrome P450 CYP2E1.
Garlic was shown to significantly increase maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) and endurance performance time of endurance athletes.
Garlic, with V. thapsus, C. flores, and H. perforatum, was an effective anesthetic during acute otitis media ear pain.
Garlic has in vitro activity against H. pylori.
Garlic has anti-mycotic, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial activity.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Anti-glycemic drugs
Highly active anti-retroviral therapy (HAART) drugs
Oral contraceptives
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 CYP2E1 enzyme

Part used

Bulb

References

Bordia A, Verma SK, Srivastava KC. Effect of garlic (Allium sativum) on blood lipids, blood sugar, fibrinogen and fibrinolytic activity in patients with coronary artery disease. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1998; 58:257–263.
Bordia AK, Joshi HK, Sanadhya YK, Bhu N. Effect of essential oil of garlic on serum fibrinolytic activity in patients with coronary artery disease. Atherosclerosis 1977; 28:155–159.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Davis LE, Shen J, Royer RE. In vitro synergism of concentrated allium sativum extract and amphotericin B against cryptococcus neoformans. Planta Med 1994; 60:546–549.
Dorant E, van den Brandt PA, Goldbohm RA. Allium vegetable consumption, garlic supplement intake, and female breast carcinoma incidence. Breast Cancer Res Treat 1995; 33:163–170.
Gupta N, Porter TD. Garlic and garlic-derived compounds inhibit human squalene monooxygenase. J Nutr 2001; 131:1662–1667.
Gurley BJ, Gardner SF, Hubbard MA et al. Cytochrome P450 phenotypic ratios for predicting herb–drug interactions in humans. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2002; 72:276–287.
Ince DI, Sonmez GT, Ince ML. Effects garlic on aerobic performance. Turkish J Med Sci 2000; 30:557–561.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Jonkers D, van den Broek E, van Dooren I et al. Antibacterial effect of garlic and omeprazole on Helicobacter pylori. J Antimicrob Chemother 1999; 43:837–839.
Kiesewetter H, Jung F, Jung EM et al. Effect of garlic on platelet aggregation in patients with increased risk of juvenile ischaemic attack. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1993; 45:333–336.
Kiesewetter H, Jung F, Pindur G et al. Effect of garlic on thrombocyte aggregation, microcirculation, and other risk factors. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol 1991; 29:151–155.
Lamm DL, Riggs DR. The potential application of Allium sativum (garlic) for the treatment of bladder cancer. Urol Clin North Am 2000; 27:157–162.
Ledezma E, Lopez JC, Marin P et al. Ajoene in the topical short-term treatment of tinea cruris and tinea corporis in humans. Randomized comparative study with terbinafine. Arzneimittelforschung 1999; 49:544–547.
Ledezma E, Marcano K, Jorquera A et al. Efficacy of ajoene in the treatment of tinea pedis: a double-blind and comparative study with terbinafine. J Am Acad Dermatol 2000; 43:829–832.
McNulty CA, Wilson MP, Havinga W et al. A pilot study to determine the effectiveness of garlic oil capsules in the treatment of dyspeptic patients with Helicobacter pylori. Helicobacter 2001; 6:249–253.
Munday JS, James KA, Fray LM, Kirkwood SW, Thompson KG. Daily supplementation with aged garlic extract, but not raw garlic, protects low density lipoprotein against in vitro oxidation. Atherosclerosis 1999; 143:399–404.
Naganawa R, Iwata N, Ishikawa K et al. Inhibition of microbial growth by ajoene, a sulfur-containing compound derived from garlic. Appl Environ Microbiol 1996; 62:4238–4242.
Orekhov AN, Tertov VV, Sobenin IA, Pivovarova EM. Direct anti-atherosclerosisrelated effects of garlic. Ann Med 1995; 27:63–65.
Pai ST, Platt MW. Antifungal effects of Allium sativum (garlic) extract against the Aspergillus species involved in otomycosis. Lett Appl Microbiol 1995; 20:14–18.
Piscitelli SC, Burstein AH, Welden N, Gallicano KD, Falloon J. The effect of garlic supplements on the pharmacokinetics of saquinavir. Clin Infect Dis 2002; 34:234–238.
Qureshi AA, Abuirmeileh N, Din ZZ, Elson CE, Burger WC. Inhibition of cholesterol and fatty acid biosynthesis in liver enzymes and chicken hepatocytes by polar fractions of garlic. Lipids 1983; 18:343–348.
Qureshi AA, Crenshaw TD, Abuirmeileh N, Peterson DM, Elson CE. Influence of minor plant constituents on porcine hepatic lipid metabolism. Impact on serum lipids. Atherosclerosis 1987; 64:109–115.
Qureshi AA, Din ZZ, Abuirmeileh N et al. Suppression of avian hepatic lipid metabolism by solvent extracts of garlic: impact on serum lipids. J Nutr 1983; 113:1746–1755.
Rich GE. Garlic an antibiotic? Med J Aust 1982; 1:60.
Sandhu DK, Warraich MK, Singh S. Sensitivity of yeasts isolated from cases of vaginitis to aqueous extracts of garlic. Mykosen 1980; 23:691–698.
Steiner M, Li W. Aged garlic extract, a modulator of cardiovascular risk factors: a dose-finding study on the effects of AGE on platelet functions. J Nutr 2001; 131:980S–984S.
Steiner M, Lin RS. Changes in platelet function and susceptibility of lipoproteins to oxidation associated with administration of aged garlic extract. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 1998; 31:904–908.
Zhang XH, Lowe D, Giles P et al. Gender may affect the action of garlic oil on plasma cholesterol and glucose levels of normal subjects. J Nutr 2001; 131: 1471–1478.

Berberis aquifolium: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-15T10:46:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Blue barberry
Creeping barberry
Holly barberry
Holly-leaved berberis
Holly mahonia
Mountain-grape
Oregon barberry
Oregon grape-holly
Scraperoot
Trailing mahonia
Water-holly

Pharmacology

Berberine was found to displace bilirubin bound to albumin in vitro. Berberine was found to be about 10 times superior to phenylbutazone, a known potent displacer of bilirubin, and about 100 times superior to papaverine, a berberine-type alkaloid.
The constituents berberine and oxyacanthine have been shown to have antibacterial activity.
Berberine has been shown to have amebicidal, anti-parasitic (trypanocidal) and anti-fungal activity.
Berberine and b-hydrastine were shown to have anti-Helicobacter pylori activity in vitro.
In low doses, berberine may act as a cardiac and respiratory stimulant, whereas in high doses it may act as a cardiac and respiratory depressant.
Berberine was shown to have anti-platelet activity.
Berberine,oxyacanthine,andbarbaminewereshowntohaveanti-inflammatory effects.
Berberine was found to have antidiarrheal effects.
Berberine was found to inhibit parathyroid hormone-stimulated bone resorption, inhibit osteoclastic bone resorption and prevent a decrease in bone mineral density of the lumbar vertebrae.

Drug interactions

Anticoagulant drugs
Highly protein-bound drugs

Parts used

Root and rhizome

References

Abel G. [Chromosome-damaging effect of beta-asaron on human lymphocytes]. Planta Med 1987; 53:251–253.
Chan E. Displacement of bilirubin from albumin by berberine. Biol Neonate 1993; 63:201–208.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Ghosh AK, Bhattacharyya FK, Ghosh DK. Leishmania donovani: amastigote inhibition and mode of action of berberine. Exp Parasitol 1985; 60:404–413.
Ghosh AK, Rakshit MM, Ghosh DK. Effect of berberine chloride on Leishmania donovani. Indian J Med Res 1983; 78:407–416.
Huang CG, Chu ZL, Wei SJ, Jiang H, Jiao BH. Effect of berberine on arachidonic acid metabolism in rabbit platelets and endothelial cells. Thromb Res 2002; 106:223–227.
Ivanovska N, Philipov S, Hristova M. Influence of berberine on T-cell mediated immunity. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 1999; 21:771–786.
Ivanovska N, Philipov S. Study on the anti-inflammatory action of Berberis vulgaris root extract, alkaloid fractions and pure alkaloids. Int J Immunopharmacol 1996; 18:553–561.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kupeli E, Kosar M, Yesilada E, Husnu K, Baser C. A comparative study on the antiinflammatory, antinociceptive and antipyretic effects of isoquinoline alkaloids from the roots of Turkish Berberis species. Life Sci 2002; 72:645–657.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Li H, Miyahara T, Tezuka Y et al. The effect of kampo formulae on bone resorption in vitro and in vivo. II. Detailed study of berberine. Biol Pharm Bull 1999; 22:391–396.
Mahady GB, Pendland SL, Stoia A, Chadwick LR. In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to isoquinoline alkaloids from Sanguinaria canadensis and Hydrastis canadensis. Phytother Res 2003; 17:217–221.
Mahajan VM, Sharma A, Rattan A. Antimycotic activity of berberine sulphate: an alkaloid from an Indian medicinal herb. Sabouraudia 1982; 20:79–81.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.
Stermitz FR, Lorenz P, Tawara JN, Zenewicz LA, Lewis K. Synergy in a medicinal plant: antimicrobial action of berberine potentiated by 5 -methoxyhydnocarpin, a multidrug pump inhibitor. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2000; 97:1433–1437.
Stermitz FR, Tawara-Matsuda J, Lorenz P et al. 5 -Methoxyhydnocarpin-D and pheophorbide A: Berberis species components that potentiate berberine growth inhibition of resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Nat Prod 2000; 63:1146–1149.
Yesilada E, Kupeli E. Berberis crataegina DC. root exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic and febrifuge effects in mice and rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2002; 79:237–248.
Zhang MF, Shen YQ. [Antidiarrheal and anti-inflammatory effects of berberine]. Zhongguo Yao Li Xue Bao 1989; 10:174–176.

Passiflora incarnata: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-14T10:49:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Apricot vine
Corona de cristo
Fleischfarbige
Fleur de la passion
Flor de passion
Madre selva
Maracuja
Maypop
Maypop passion flower
Passiflora
Passiflorae herba
Passiflore
Passiflorina
Passionflower
Passion vine
Passionaria
Passionblume
Passionflower herb
Passionsblumenkraut
Purple passion flower
Water lemon
Wild passion flower

Pharmacology

Passion flower has been shown to have sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, anodyne and anti-spasmodic effects.
The alkaloid constituents have central nervous system stimulant activity via a monoamine oxidase mechanism.
The constituent apigenin binds to central benzodiazepine receptors, thereby causing anxiolytic effects without impairing memory or motor skills.
Passion flower may reduce amphetamine-induced hypermotility, aggressiveness, and restlessness, and may raise the pain threshold.
Passion flower may have anti-bacterial and antifungal activity.
The constituents harman and harmine are genotoxic and mutagenic, where harmine was found to be more cytotoxic than harman.

Drug interactions

Barbiturates
Central nervous system depressants
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Parts used

Above ground parts

References

Boeira JM, da Silva J, EB, Henriques JA. Genotoxic effects of the alkaloids harman and harmine assessed by comet assay and chromosome aberration test in mammalian cells in vitro. Pharmacol Toxicol 2001; 89:287–294.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Dhawan K, Kumar S, Sharma A. Anti-anxiety studies on extracts of Passiflora incarnata Linneaus. J Ethnopharmacol 2001; 78:165–170.
Dhawan K, Kumar S, Sharma A. Anxiolytic activity of aerial and underground parts of Passiflora incarnata. Fitoterapia 2001; 72:922–926.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed.Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs. Exeter, UK: European Scientific Co-op Phytother, 1997.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Rommelspacher H, May T, Salewski B. (1-methyl-beta-carboline) is a natural inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type A in rats. Eur J Pharmacol 1994; 252:51–59.
Salgueiro JB, Ardenghi P, Dias M et al. Anxiolytic natural and synthetic flavonoid ligands of the central benzodiazepine receptor have no effect on memory tasks in rats. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 1997; 58:887–891.

Linum usitatissimum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-13T15:33:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Flax seed
Graine de lin
Leinsamen
Lini semen
Linseed
Lint bells
Linum
Phytoestrogen
Winterlien

Pharmacology
Flax seed

Flaxseed is a bulk-forming fiber that stimulates intestinal peristalsis, thereby producing a laxative effect.
Flaxseed supplementation significantly increases n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in plasma and erythrocytes.
Since flaxseed reduces platelet aggregation and serum cholesterol, flaxseed thereby reduces the risk of atherosclerosis.
Flaxseed may have hypoglycemic activity and lower insulin levels in postmenopausal women.
Flaxseed is an abundant indirect food source of lignans, where lignans may have estrogenic and anti-estrogenic effects.
The lignans in flaxseed inhibit the growth of hormone-dependent breast cancer cells, inhibit mammary tumor growth in vitro, decrease cellular proliferation in mammary glands, increase mammary gland differentiation and reduce endogenous estrogen binding to estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells.
ALA was shown to reduce the growth of established tumors and have an anti-inflammatory effect.
The enzyme linamarase releases cyanide from linamarin, but linamarase is deactivated in normal gastric acid.
Grinding the seeds into a fine powder makes the cyanogenic glycosides more liable to hydrolysis and enhances the absorption of cyanide.

Oil

Flaxseed oil is among the best sources of ALA.
ALA raises serum n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, including EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Flaxseed oil may lower triglyceride levels, increase systemic arterial elasticity and protect against ischemic stroke and lacunar infarction.
Flaxseed oil may decrease platelet aggregation.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Anti-diabetic drugs
Oral drugs

Parts used
Seed and oil

References

Adlercreutz H, Fotsis T, Bannwart C et al. Determination of urinary lignans and phytoestrogen metabolites, potential antiestrogens and anticarcinogens, in urine of women on various habitual diets. J Steroid Biochem 1986; 25:791–797.
Adlercreutz H. Diet, breast cancer, and sex hormone metabolism. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1990; 595:281–290.
Allman MA, Pena MM, Pang D. Supplementation with flaxseed oil versus sunflower seed oil in healthy young men consuming a low fat diet: effects on platelet composition and function. Eur J Clin Nutr 1995; 49:169–178.
Bierenbaum ML, Reichstein R, Watkins TR. Reducing atherogenic risk in hyperlipemic humans with flaxseed supplementation: a preliminary report. J Am Coll Nutr 1993; 12:501–504.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Cunnane SC, Ganguli S, Menard C et al. High alpha-linolenic acid flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum): some nutritional properties in humans. Br J Nutr 1993; 69:443–453.
Cunnane SC, Hamadeh MJ, Liede AC et al. Nutritional attributes of traditional flaxseed in healthy young adults. Am J Clin Nutr 1995; 61:62–68.
Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998.
Iso H, Sato S, Umemura U et al. Linoleic acid, other fatty acids, and the risk of stroke. Stroke 2002; 33:2086–2093.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Jenkins DJ, Kendall CWC, Vidgen E et al. Health aspects of partially defatted flaxseed, including effects on serum lipids, oxidative measures, and ex vivo androgen and progestin activity: a controlled, crossover trial. Am J Clin Nutr 1999; 69:395–402.
Kilkkinen A, Stumpf K, Pietinen P et al. Determinants of serum enterolactone concentration. Am J Clin Nutr 2001; 73:1094–1100.
Lampe JW, Martini MC, Kurzer MS et al. Urinary lignan and isoflavonoid excretion in premenopausal women consuming flaxseed powder. Am J Clin Nutr 1994; 60:122–128.
Lemay A, Dodin S, Kadri N et al. Flaxseed dietary supplement versus hormone replacement therapy in hypercholesterolemic menopausal women. Obstet Gynecol 2002; 100:495–504.
Mousavi Y, Adlercreutz H. Enterolactone and estradiol inhibit each other’s proliferative effect on MCF-7 breast cancer cells in culture. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1992; 41:615–619.
Nestel PJ, Pomeroy SE, Sasahara T et al. Arterial compliance in obese subjects is improved with dietary plant n-3 fatty acid from flaxseed oil despite increased LDL oxidizability. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 1997; 17:1163–1170.
Nordstrom DC, Honkanen VE, Nasu Y et al. Alpha-linolenic acid in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. A double-blind, placebo-controlled and randomized study: flaxseed vs. safflower seed. Rheumatol Int 1995; 14:231–234.
Prasad K, Mantha SV, Muir AD, Westcott ND. Reduction of hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis by CDC-flaxseed with very low alpha-linolenic acid. Atherosclerosis 1998; 136:367–375.
Prasad K. Dietary flax seed in prevention of hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis 1997; 132:69–76.
Rickard SE, Yuan YV, Thompson LU. Plasma insulin-like growth factor I levels in rats are reduced by dietary supplementation of flaxseed or its lignan secoisolariciresinol diglycoside. Cancer Lett 2000; 161:47–55.
Rose DP. Dietary fiber and breast cancer. Nutr Cancer 1990; 13:1–8.
Serraino M, Thompson LU. The effect of flaxseed supplementation on the initiation and promotional stages of mammary tumorigenesis. Nutr Cancer 1992; 17:153–159.
Serraino M, Thompson LU. The effect of flaxseed supplementation on early risk markers for mammary carcinogenesis. Cancer Lett 1991; 60:135–142.
Singer P, Wirth M, Berger I. A possible contribution of decrease in free fatty acids to low serum triglyceride levels after diets supplemented with n-6 and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Atherosclerosis 1990; 83:167–175.
Sung MK, Lautens M, Thompson LU. Mammalian lignans inhibit the growth of estrogen-independent human colon tumor cells. Anticancer Res 1998; 18:1405–1408.
Tan KP, Chen J, Ward WE, Thompson LU. Mammary gland morphogenesis is enhanced by exposure to flaxseed or its major lignan during suckling in rats. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2004; 229:147–157.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Thompson LU, Rickard SE, Cheung F et al. Variability in anticancer lignan levels in flaxseed. Nutr Cancer 1997; 27:26–30.
Thompson LU, Rickard SE, Orcheson LJ, Seidl MM. Flaxseed and its lignan and oil components reduce mammary tumor growth at a late stage of carcinogenesis. Carcinogenesis 1996; 17:1373–1376.
Wang C, Makela T, Hase T et al. Lignans and flavonoids inhibit aromatase enzyme in human preadipocytes. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1994; 50:205–212.

Hedeoma pulegioides, Mentha pulegium: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-12T09:43:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

American pennyroyal
European pennyroyal
Lurk-in-the-ditch
Mosquito plant
Penny royal
Piliolerial
Pudding grass
Pulegium
Run-by-the-ground
Squaw balm
Squawmint
Stinking balm
Tickweed

Pharmacology

The volatile oil pulegone and its metabolites, menthofuran and methofuran’s metabolites, may cause hepatotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and bronchiolar epithelial cell destruction.
Metabolites of pulegone deplete hepatic glutathione levels. This leads to metabolite accumulation and direct cellular damage similar to acetaminophen (paracetamol) toxicity.
Pulegone is isomerized to isopulegone, which can be toxic to the lungs and liver.
Excretion of the essential oil irritates the kidneys and the bladder, and reflexively excites uterine contractions.

Drug interactions

Acetominophen
Antihistamines
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes
Oral hypoglycemic drugs
Hepatotoxic drugs

Parts used

aerial parts
oil

References

Anderson IB, Mullen WH, Meeker JE et al. Pennyroyal toxicity: measurement of toxic metabolite levels in two cases and review of the literature. Ann Intern Med 1996; 124:726–734.
Bakerink JA, Gospe SMJ, Dimand RJ, Eldridge MW. Multiple organ failure after ingestion of pennyroyal oil from herbal tea in two infants. Pediatrics 1996; 98:944–947.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Gordon WP, Huitric AC, Seth CL et al. The metabolism of the abortifacient terpene, (R)-( )-pulegone, to a proximate toxin, menthofuran. Drug Metab Dispos 1987; 15:589–594.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Khojasteh-Bakht SC, Koenigs LL, Peter RM et al. (R)-( )-Menthofuran is a potent, mechanism-based inactivator of human liver cytochrome P450 2A6. Drug Metab Dispos 1998; 26:701–704.
Lieh-Lai MW, Sarnaik AP, Newton JF et al. Metabolism and pharmacokinetics of acetaminophen in a severely poisoned young child. J Pediatr 1984; 105:125–128.
Madyastha P, Moorthy B, Vaidyanathan CS et al. In vivo and in vitro destruction of rat liver cytochrome P-450 by a monoterpene ketone, pulegone. Biochem Biophys Res Comm 1985; 128:921–927.
MICROMEDEX. Micromedex Healthcare Series. Englewood, CO: MICROMED EX.
Molck AM, Poulsen M, Tindgard LS et al. Lack of histological cerebellar changes in Wistar rats given pulegone for 28 days. Comparison of immersion and perfusion tissue fixation. Toxicol Lett 1998; 95:117–122.
Ortiz de Urbina AV, Martin ML, Montero MJ et al. Antihistaminic activity of pulegone on the guinea-pig ileum. J Pharm Pharmacol 1990; 42:295–296.
Rumack BH. Acetaminophen overdose in young children. Treatment and effects of alcohol and other additional ingestants in 417 cases. Am J Dis Child 1984; 138:428–433.
Sullivan JBJ, Rumack BH, Thomas HJ et al. Pennyroyal oil poisoning and hepatotoxicity. JAMA 1979; 242:2873–2874.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Thomassen D, Pearson PG, Slattery JT et al. Partial characterization of biliary metabolites of pulegone by tandem mass spectrometry. Detection of glucuronide, glutathione, and glutathionyl glucuronide conjugates. Drug Metab Dispos 1991; 19:997–1003.
Thomassen D, Slattery JT, Nelson SD. Menthofuran-dependent and independent aspects of pulegone hepatotoxicity: roles of glutathione. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1990; 253:567–572.
www.naturalstandard.com. American Pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegioides L.), European Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium L.) Natural Standard Monograph, 2003.

Herbs for Hepatitis C and the Liver (A Storey Medicinal Herb Guide)

2011-04-11T04:57:00.000-07:00

An insightful overview of the impending Hepatitis C epidemic, its causes, the most recent research, and an in-depth, detailed look at the botanical medicines that show promising results for restoring liver function. Includes formulas for using herbs to strengthen the liver and combat disease.

More than 500 million people worldwide carry the deadly hepatitis C virus (HCV), and hepatitis C poses a public health crisis far greater than the AIDS epidemic. This deadly disease, which can go undetected for years, eventually attacks the liver, causing cirrhosis, cancer, and even liver failure. Conventional medical treatments for hepatitis C have limited effectiveness. In Herbs for Hepatitis C and the Liver, Stephen Buhner examines the most recent research on how hepatitis C affects the body. He offers important information, practical guidance, and hope.

Book Features

Clear descriptions of the common medical tests and treatments for hepatitis C -- what they mean and how effective they are.
A guide to knowing and using the top herbal medicines that work to protect the liver and strengthen the immune system.
A protocol for cleansing and strengthening the body with a combination of diet, herbs, and lifestyle changes.

Stephen Harrod Buhner comes from a long line of medical practitioners and healers. His grandfather was president of the Kentucky Medical Association and his great-uncle was Surgeon General of the United States. Stephen has added to this family heritage by becoming a respected figure in herbal medicine. He is a sought-after lecturer and educator, as well as an award-winning author. And like his relatives, Stephen has pursued an active role in his field, having served as president of the Colorado Association for Healing Practitioners and as a lobbyist on herbal and holistic medicines and education in the Colorado legislature.

Contents
1 Hepatitis C: The Silent Epidemic
2 Hepatitis C, the Liver, and the Immune System
3 Botanical Medicines for Hepatitis C and the Liver
4 Botanical Support for the Immune System
5 Nutritional Supplements for Hepatitis C
6 Changing Your Diet: Giving Your Liver a Break
7 The Complete HCV Protocol
Epilogue: Aggressive Symbionts: The Specter of Emerging Viruses
Appendix 1: Tests for Hepatitis C and What They Mean
Appendix 2: Making and Using Herbal Medicines for Hepatitis and the Liver
Resources
Suggested Reading
Glossary
Selected Bibliography
IndeX

Product Details

Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing; 1st edition (July 1, 2000)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1580172555
ISBN-13: 978-1580172554
Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 0.5 inches

List Price: $12.95

Tanacetum parthenium: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Altamisa
Bachelor’s buttons
Featerfoiul
Featherfew
Featherfoil
Fever few
Flirtwort midsummer daisy
Santa maria
Tanaceti parthenii

Pharmacology

The constituent parthenolide was widely believed to be the active constituent in feverfew.19,20 It is now believed that other constituents are necessary in the prevention and treatment of migraines.
Feverfew may inhibit platelet aggregation and inhibit serotonin release from platelets and leukocytes.
Feverfew appears to block prostaglandin synthesis by inhibiting phospholipase, thereby preventing the release of arachidonic acid.
Feverfew may inhibit inflammation and pain transmission, and have an analgesic effect.
Feverfew leaves and parthenolide may cause irreversible inhibition of vascular muscle contraction.
The melatonin in feverfew may contribute to its pharmacological effect where migraines have been associated with decreased melatonin secretion.
Fresh or dried leaves contain significantly more melatonin than commercially prepared standardized feverfew tablets.
Feverfew has a cytostatic effect on tumor cell growth.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

Part used

Leaf

References

Awang DV. Parthenocide: demise of a facile theory of feverfew activity. J Herbs Spices Med Plants 1998; 5:95–98.
Awang DVC. Prescribing therapeutic feverfew [Tancetum pathrnium (L.) Schultz Bip., syn. Chrysanthemumparthenium (L.) Bernh.]. Int Med 1998; 1:11–13.
Barsby R, Salan U, Knight DW, Hoult JR. Irreversible inhibition of vascular reactivity by feverfew. Lancet 1991; 338:1015.
Barsby RW, Salan U, Knight DW, Hoult JR. Feverfew extracts and parthenolide irreversibly inhibit vascular responses of the rabbit aorta. J Pharm Pharmacol 1992; 44:737–740.
Biggs MJ, Johnson ES, Persaud NP, Ratcliffe DM. Platelet aggregation in patients using feverfew for migraine. Lancet 1982; 2:776.
Brun J, Claustrat B, Saddier P, Chazot G. Nocturnal melatonin excretion is decreased in patients with migraine without aura attacks associated with menses. Cephalalgia 1995; 15:136–139.
Collier HO, Butt NM, McDonald-Gibson WJ, Saeed SA. Extract of feverfew inhibits prostaglandin biosynthesis. Lancet 1980; 2:922–923.
de Weerdt GJ, Bootsman HPR, Hendriks H. Herbal medicines in migraine prevention. Randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of a feverfew preparation. Phytomedicine 1996; 3:225–230.
Groenewegen WA, Heptinstall S. A comparison of the effects of an extract of feverfew and parthenolide, a component of feverfew, on human platelet activity in-vitro. J Pharm Pharmacol 1990; 42:553–557.
Heptinstall S, Groenewegen WA, Spangenberg P, Loesche W. Extracts of feverfew may inhibit platelet behaviour via neutralization of sulphydryl groups. J Pharm Pharmacol 1987; 39:459–465.
Heptinstall S, Groenewegen WA, Spangenberg P, Losche W. Inhibition of platelet behaviour by feverfew: a mechanism of action involving sulphydryl groups. Folia Haematol Int Mag Klin Morphol Blutforsch 1988; 115:447–449.
Heptinstall S, White A, Williamson L, Mitchell JR. Extracts of feverfew inhibit granule secretion in blood platelets and polymorphonuclear leucocytes. Lancet 1985; 1:1071–1074.
Jain NK, Kulkarni SK. Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of Tanacetum parthenium L. extract in mice and rats. J Ethnopharmacol 1999; 68:251–259.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Makheja AN, Bailey JM. A platelet phospholipase inhibitor from the medicinal herb feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium). Prostaglandins Leukot Med 1982; 8:653–660.
Makheja AN, Bailey JM. The active principle in feverfew. Lancet 1981; 2:1054.
Miller LG. Herbal medicinals: selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug–herb interactions. Arch Intern Med 1998; 158:2200–2211.
Murch SJ, Simmons CB, Saxena PK. Melatonin in feverfew and other medicinal plants. Lancet 1997; 350:1598–1599.
Pittler MH, Vogler BK, Ernst E. Feverfew for preventing migraine. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2000; 3:CD002286.
Pugh WJ, Sambo K. Prostaglandin synthetase inhibitors in feverfew. J Pharm Pharmacol 1988; 40:743–745.
Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. New York, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Ross JJ, Arnason JT, Birnboim HC. Low concentrations of the feverfew component parthenolide inhibit in vitro growth of tumor lines in a cytostatic fashion. Planta Med 1999; 65:126–129.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Williams CA, Hoult JR, Harborne JB et al. A biologically active lipophilic flavonol from Tanacetum parthenium. Phytochemistry 1995; 38:267–270.

Foeniculum vulgare: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-09T04:18:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Bitter fennel
Carosella
Common fennel
Fennel
Finnochio
Florence fennel
Garden fennel
Large fennel
Phytoestrogen
Sweet fennel
Wild fennel

Pharmacology

Anethole has estrogenic activity and may deplete liver glutathione.
Anethole and fenchone reduce upper respiratory tract secretions.
Anethole may be insecticidal and toxic.
Aqueous fennel extract might increase mucociliary activity.
Fennel seed can promote gastrointestinal motility, and in higher concentrations, can act as an anti-spasmodic.
Fennel may be allergenic.
Estragole is a procarcinogen that is not directly hepatotoxic or hepatocarcinogenic as it requires activation by liver enzymes to reach full toxicity.

Drug interactions

Ciprofloxacin (Cipro)

Parts used

Seed
Oil

References

Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Garcia-Gonzalez JJ, Bartolome-Zavala B, Fernandez-Melendez S et al. Occupational rhinoconjunctivitis and food allergy because of aniseed sensitization. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2002; 88:518–522.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.
Zhu M, Wong PY, Li RC. Effect of oral administration of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) on ciprofloxacin absorption and disposition in the rat. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999; 51:1391–1396.

Turnera aphrodisiaca: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-08T03:12:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Damiana aphrodisiaca
Damiana herb
Damiana leaf
Herba de la pastora
Mexican damiana
Mizibcoc
Old woman’s broom
Rosemary
Turnerae diffusae folium
Turnerae diffusae herba

Pharmacology

Damiana contains high levels of phyto-progestins, which may increase the progestin activity of saliva.
Progesterone-binding herbs, such as damiana, were shown to have neutral or antagonist effects on breast cancer cell lines.
Damiana extracts are reported to have central nervous system depressant activity.
Damiana was shown not to have hypoglycemic effects.
Arbutin may have anti-bacterial properties.

Drug interactions

Diabetic drugs (when using non-water extract or whole herb).

Parts used

Leaf
Stem

References

Alarcon-Aguilar FJ, Roman-Ramos R, Flores-Saenz JL, Aguirre-Garcia F. Investigation on the hypoglycaemic effects of extracts of four Mexican medicinal plants in normal and alloxan-diabetic mice. Phytother Res 2002; 16:383–386.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Zava DT, Dollbaum CM, Blen M. Estrogen and progestin bioactivity of foods, herbs, and spices. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 1998; 217:369–378.

Glycyrrhiza glabra: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-07T15:30:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Alcacuz
Alcazuz
Chinese licorice
Gan cao
Gan zao
Glycyrrhiza
G. glabra typica
G. glabra violacea
Isoflavone
Isoflavones
Jethi-madh
Mulhathi
Lakritze
Licorice root
Liquiritiae radix
Liquirizia
Liquorice
Orozuz
Phytoestrogen
Reglisse
Regliz
Russian licorice
Spanish licorice
Subholz
Sweet root
Yashtimadhu
Yashti-madhu
Yashti-madhuka

Pharmacology

Glycyrrhizin contributes to the mineralocorticoid effects of licorice, such as hypertension and hypokalemia, by binding directly to mineralocorticoid receptors and by decreasing the conversion of active cortisol to inactive cortisone.
The constituents glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhetinic acid inhibit the enzyme 11-b-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, which is located in the aldosterone receptor cells of the cortical collecting duct.
Licorice blocks the metabolism of prostaglandins E and F2 a, which may have a preventive effect on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug-induced damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa.
Licorice appears to have anti-estrogenic and estrogenic activity, where the constituent glabridin has estrogenic activity at low concentrations and anti-estrogenic activity at high concentrations.
Licorice does not appear to stimulate the growth of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells.
Intravenous preparations of glycyrrhizin and glycyrrhizic acid were shown to have activity against hepatitis B and C in humans.
Licorice may decrease testosterone production in young healthy men.
Licorice may reduce body fat but the accompanying fluid retention offsets any change in body weight.

Drug interactions

Anti-hypertensive drugs
Corticosteroids
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 3A4 and P450 2B6
Digoxin
Potassium-depleting diuretic drugs
Estrogens
Ethacrynic acid
Furosemide
Insulin

Part used
Root

References

Abe Y, Ueda T, Kato T, Kohli Y. [Effectiveness of interferon, glycyrrhizin combination therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C]. Nippon Rinsho 1994; 52: 1817–1822.
Acharya SK, Dasarathy S, Tandon A, Joshi YK, Tandon BN. A preliminary open trial on interferon stimulator (SNMC) derived from Glycyrrhiza glabra in the treatment of subacute hepatic failure. Indian J Med Res 1993; 98:69–74.
Amato P, Christophe S, Mellon PL. Estrogenic activity of herbs commonly used as remedies for menopausal symptoms. Menopause 2002; 9:145–150.
Armanini D, Bonanni G, Palermo M et al. Reduction of serum testosterone in men by licorice. N Engl J Med 1999; 341:1158.
Armanini D, De Palo CB, Mattarello MJ et al. Effect of licorice on reduction of body fat mass in healthy subjects. J Endocrinol Invest 2003; 26:646–650.
Armanini D, Lewicka S, Pratesi C et al. Further studies on the mechanism of the mineralocorticoid action of licorice in humans. J Endocrinol Invest 1996; 19:624–629.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000; 7:273–282.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Hussain RM. The sweet cake that reaches parts other cakes can’t! Postgrad Med J 2003; 79:115–116.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed.Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kent UM, Aviram M, Rosenblat M, Hollenberg PF. The licorice root derived isoflavan glabridin inhibits the activities of human cytochrome P450S 3A4, 2B6, and 2C9. Drug Metab Dispos 2002; 30:709–715.
Krahenbuhl S, Hasler F, Frey BM et al. Kinetics and dynamics of orally administered 18 beta-glycyrrhetinic acid in humans. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1994; 78:581–585.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Sigurjonsdottir HA, Franzson L, Manhem K et al. Liquorice-induced rise in blood pressure: a linear dose-response relationship. J Hum Hypertens 2001; 15:549–552.
Sigurjonsdottir HA, Manhem K, Wallerstedt S. Liquorice-induced hypertension – a linear, dose-response relationship. 82nd Annual Meeting of the Endocrine Society, Toronto, 21–24 June 2000.
Tamir S, Eizenberg M, Somjen D et al. Estrogenic and antiproliferative properties of glabridin from licorice in human breast cancer cells. Cancer Res 2000; 60:5704–5709.
Tewari SN, Wilson AK. Deglycyrrhizinated liquorice in duodenal ulcer. Practitioner 1973; 210:820–823.
Turpie AG, Runcie J, Thomson TJ. Clinical trial of deglydyrrhizinized liquorice in gastric ulcer. Gut 1969; 10:299–302.
van Marle J, Aarsen PN, Lind A, van Weeren-Kramer J. Deglycyrrhizinised liquorice (DGL) and the renewal of rat stomach epithelium. Eur J Pharmacol 1981; 72:219–225.
Yoshida S, Takayama Y. Licorice-induced hypokalemia as a treatable cause of dropped head syndrome. Clin Neurol Neurosurg 2003; 105:286–287.
Zhang XH, Lowe D, Giles P et al. Gender may affect the action of garlic oil on plasma cholesterol and glucose levels of normal subjects. J Nutr 2001; 131:1471–1478.
Zhang YD, Lorenzo B, Reidenberg MM. Inhibition of 11 beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase obtained from guinea pig kidney by furosemide, naringenin and some other compounds. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1994; 49:81–85.

Echinacea angustifolia, E. pallida, E. purpurea: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-06T15:52:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

American cone flower
Black Sampson
Black Susan
Brauneria angustifolia
B.pallida
Comb flower
Coneflower
Echinaceawurzel
Hedgehog
Igelkopfwurzel
Indian head
Kansas snakeroot
Narrow-leaved purple cone flower
Pale coneflower
Purple cone flower
Purpursonnenhutkraut
Purpursonnenhutwurzel
Racine d’echininacea
Red sunflower
Rock-up-hat
Roter sonnenhut
Schmallblaettrige kegelblumenwurzel
Schmallblaettriger sonnenhut
Scurvy root
Snakeroot
Sonnenhutwurzel

Pharmacology

The immunostimulatory effects of echinacea have not been attributed to any single compound.
Echinacea increases the proliferation of phagocytes in spleen and bone marrow, stimulates monocytes to produce cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor), increases the number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), activates macrophages, and promotes the adherence of PMN to endothelial cells.
Echinacea was shown to inhibit hyaluronidase production in vitro and in vivo.
Echinacea has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Echinacea was shown to inhibit the influenza virus and the herpes simplex virus (I and II).
Topically, echinacea has anti-inflammatory properties where it inhibits edema.
Echinacea may interfere with cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme.

Drug interactions

Immunosuppressant drugs
Drugs metabolized by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme30

Parts used
Roots, stems, and leaves

References

Bauer R, Wagner H. Echinacea species as potential immunostimulatory drugs. Econ Med Plant Res 1991; 5:253–321.
Boon H, Smith M. The Botanical Pharmacy: The Pharmacology of 47 Common Herbs. Kingston, ON: Quarry Health Books/CCNM, 1999:320.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000; 7:273–282.
Burger RA, Torres AR, Warren R, Caldwell VD, Hughes BG. Echinacea-induced cytokine production by human macrophages. Int J Immunopharmacol 1997; 19:371–379.
Busing KH. Inhibition of hyaluronidase by Echinacin. Arzneimittelforschung 1952; 2:467–472.
Chavez ML, Chavez PI. Echinacea. Hosp Pharm 1998; 33:180–188.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Korting GW, Born W. Beeinflusseng des trypanociden salvason-effekts durch hyaluronidase und einen hyaluronidase-inhibitor (Echinacin). Arzneimittelforschung 1954; 4:424–426.
Mose JR. Effect of echinacin on phagocytosis and natural killer cells. Medizinische Welt 1983; 34:1463–1467.
Roesler J, Steinmuller C, Kiderlen A et al. Application of purified polysaccharides from cell cultures of the plant Echinacea purpurea to mice mediates protection against systemic infections with Listeria monocytogenes and Candida albicans. Int J Immunopharmacol 1991; 13:27–37.
Steinmuller C, Roesler J, Grottrup E, Franke G, Wagner H, Lohmann-Matthes ML.Polysaccharides isolated from plant cell cultures of Echinacea purpurea enhance the resistance of immunosuppressed mice against systemic infections with Candida albicans and Listeria monocytogenes. Int J Immunopharmacol 1993; 15:605–614.
Stimpel M, Proksch A, Wagner H, Lohmann-Matthes ML. Macrophage activation and induction of macrophage cytotoxicity by purified polysaccharide fractions from the plant Echinacea purpurea. Infect Immun 1984; 46:845–849.
Thompson KD. Antiviral activity of Viracea against acyclovir susceptible and acyclovir resistant strains of herpes simplex virus. Antiviral Res 1998; 39:55–61.
Tragni E, Tubaro A, Melis S, Galli CL. Evidence from two classical irritation tests for an anti-inflammatory action of a natural extract, echinacea B. Food Chem Toxicol 1985; 23:317–319.
Tubaro A, Tragni E, Del Negro P et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of a polysaccharide fraction of Echinacea angustifolia. J Pharm Pharmacol 1987; 39:567–569.
Wacker A, W. [Virus-inhibition by echinacea purpurea (author’s transl)]. Planta Med 1978; 33:89–102.

Digitalis lanata, D. purpurea: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-05T15:18:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Dead man’s bells
Fairy cap
Fairy finger
Foxglove
Lady’s thimble
Lion’s mouth
Purple foxglove
Scotch mercury
Throatwort
Witch’s bells
Wolly foxglove

Pharmacology

Cardiac glycosides in digitalis increase cardiac contractility, decrease heart rate and reduce atrioventricular node conduction.
Digitalis increases cardiac output.
Digitalis relieves pulmonary congestion and peripheral edema.

Drug interactions

Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Potassium-depleting diuretics, quinine
Stimulant laxatives
Tetracyclines and macrolide antibiotics (erythromycin-like drugs)

Parts used

leaves
seeds
flowers

References

Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Burnham TH. Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO, updated monthly.
Ellenhorn MJ, Schonwald S, Ordog G, Wasserberger J. Ellenhorn’s Medical Toxicology: Diagnoses and Treatment of Human Poisoning. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins, 1997.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.

Taraxacum officinale: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-04T15:49:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Blowball
Cankerwort
Common dandelion
Dandelion herb
Dandelion root
Lion’s tooth
Pissenlit, priest’s crown
Swine snout
T. herba
Taraxacum
Wild endive

Pharmacology

The bitter constituents in dandelion root increase bile flow.
Dandelion was shown to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dandelion may have some hypoglycemic activity.
The constituent taraxacin (eudesmanolides) is an appetite stimulant.
Dandelion may have a mild laxative effect.
Dandelion has been shown to have anti-tumor activity in vitro.

Drug interactions

Antacids
Anti-diabetic drugs
H2-blockers
Lithium
Potassium-sparing diuretics
Proton pump inhibitors

Part used
Whole plant

References

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies, 3rd ed. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1993.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE, Terry C. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician’s Guide to Herbal Medicine, 3rd ed. Berlin: Springer, 1998.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.

Petroselinum crispum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Common parsley
Garden parsley
Hamburg parsley
Persely
Persil
Petersylinge
Petroselini herba
Petrosilini radix
P. sativum
Rock parsley

Pharmacology
Leaf and root

Parsley has been reported as having anti-flatulent, antispasmodic, antirheumatic, expectorant, antimicrobial and aquaretic (increased urine volume without sodium loss) effects.
Parsley irritates the kidney epithelium, which increases renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate and consequently increases urine output.
The constituent apiole may stimulate menstrual flow and smooth muscle contractibility in the bladder and intestines.
The constituents apiole and myristicin may have aquaretic and uterine stimulant effects.

Seed

Parsley seed may stimulate appetite and improve digestion due to its volatile oil content.
The volatile oil from the seed has mild aquaretic and laxative properties.
Parsley seed causes a laxative effect by inhibiting the Na–K pump and by stimulating the NaKCl2 transporter.
Parsley seed oil may stimulate hepatic regeneration.

Drug interactions
Leaf and root

Anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs
Aspirin
Diuretics
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Seed

Diuretics
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Parts used
Leaf, root, and seed

References

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Eberhard P, Gall HM, Muller I, Moller R. Dramatic augmentation of a food allergy by acetylsalicylic acid. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2000; 105:844.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies, 3rd ed. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1993.
Gruenwald J et al. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kreydiyyeh SI, Usta J, Kaouk I et al. The mechanism underlying the laxative properties of parsley extract. Phytomedicine 2001; 8:382–388.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. New York, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.

Melissa officinalis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-02T15:16:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Balm
Cure-all
Dropsy plant
Honey plant
Lemon Balm
Melissa
Melissae folium
Melissenblatt
Sweet balm
Sweet mary

Pharmacology

Lemon balm induces a calming effect and reduces alertness.
In vitro lemon balm extracts have cholinergic binding properties and may effectively ameliorate the cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer disease.
Lemon balm may have nicotinic and muscarinic binding properties.
The terpenes in the essential oil of lemon balm are rapidly absorbed through the lungs and cross the blood–brain barrier, and may have cholinergic activity or act on c-aminobutyric acid receptor.
Lemon balm was shown to have anti-herpes simplex 1 activity and antiviral effects.
Lemon balm was shown to have anti-human immunodeficiency virus-1 activity.
Rosmarinic acid may have anti-thyroid effects.
Rosmarinic acid may have anti-inflammatory activity through its inhibitory effects on complement C3-convertase.
Lemon balm was shown to have protective effects against enzyme-dependent and -independent lipid peroxidation.

Drug interactions

Barbiturates
Sedative drugs
Thyroid hormone

Parts used

Leaf
Oil

References

Burns A, Byrne J, Ballard C, Holmes C. Sensory stimulation in dementia. BMJ 2002; 325:1312–1313.
Dimitrova Z, Dimov B, Manolova N et al. Antiherpes effect of Melissa officinalis L. extracts. Acta Microbiol Bulg 1993; 29:65–72.
Dr. Duke’s Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases. www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/duke/farmacy.2pl
Englberger W, Hadding U, Etschenberg E et al. Rosmarinic acid: a new inhibitor of complement C3-convertase with anti-inflammatory activity. Int J Immunopharmacol 1988; 10:729–737.
Hohmann J, Zupko I, Redei D et al. Protective effects of the aerial parts of Salvia officinalis, Melissa officinalis and Lavandula angustifolia and their constituents against enzyme-dependent and enzyme-independent lipid peroxidation. Planta Med 1999; 65:576–578.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kennedy DO, Scholey AB, Tildesley NT et al. Modulation of mood and cognitive performance following acute administration of Melissa officinalis (lemon balm). Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2002; 72:953–964.
Kucera LS, Herrmann E Jr. Antiviral substances in plants of the mint family (labiatae). I. Tannin of Melissa officinalis. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 1967; 124:865–869.
May G, Willuhn G. [Antiviral effect of aqueous plant extracts in tissue culture]. Arzneimittelforschung 1978; 28:1–7.
Yamasaki K, Nakano M, Kawahata T et al. Anti-HIV-1 activity of herbs in Labiatae. Biol Pharm Bull 1998; 21:829–833.

Calendula officinalis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-04-01T15:15:00.001-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Garden marigold
gold-bloom
holligold
marigold
marybud
pot marigold

Pharmacology

Calendula has anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous properties, and the faridol esters are believed to have the most pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
Topically, the triterpene and flavonoid constituents were shown to have antiinflammatory activity in vivo.
Topically, calendula increases physiologic regeneration and epitheliliazation of surgical wounds.
Calendula may have immune-stimulating activity in vitro.
Calendula has anti-bacterial and anti-viral activity.
Calendula has anti-mutagenic properties.

Drug interactions

Barbiturates
Drugs with sedative properties

Part used

Flowers

References

Akihisa T, Yasukawa K, Oinuma H et al. Triterpene alcohols from the flowers of compositae and their anti-inflammatory effects. Phytochemistry 1996; 43: 1255–1260.
Bezakova L, Masterova I, Paulikova I, Psenak M. Inhibitory activity of isorhamnetin glycosides from Calendula officinalis L. on the activity of lipoxygenase. Pharmazie 1996; 51:126–127.
Boucaud-Maitre Y, Algernon O, Raynaud J. Cytotoxic and antitumoral activity of Calendula officinalis extracts. Pharmazie 1988; 43:220–221.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.11
Della Loggia R, Tubaro A, Sosa S et al. The role of triterpenoids in the topical antiinflammatory activity of Calendula officinalis flowers. Planta Med 1994; 60:516–520.
Dumenil G, Chemli R, Balansard C, Guiraud H, Lallemand M. [Evaluation of antibacterial properties of marigold flowers (Calendula officinalis L.) and mother homeopathic tinctures of C. officinalis L. and C. arvensis L]. Ann Pharm Fr 1980; 38:493–499.
Elias R, De Meo M V-OE, Laget M, Balansard G, Dumenil G. Antimutagenic activity of some saponins isolated from Calendula officinalis L., C. arvensis L. and Hedera helix L. Mutagenesis 1990; 5:327–331.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Wagner H, Proksch A, Riess-Maurer I et al. [Immunostimulating action of polysaccharides (heteroglycans) from higher plants]. Arzneimittelforschung 1985; 35:1069–1075.
Zitterl-Eglseer K, Sosa S, Jurenitsch J et al. Anti-oedematous activities of the main triterpendiol esters of marigold (Calendula officinalis L). J Ethnopharmacol 1997; 57:139–144.

Camellia sinensis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

C. thea
C. theifera
Chinese tea
EGCG
Japanese tea
Tea
Tea green
Thea sinensis
T. boeha
T. viridis

Pharmacology

ECG appears to induce apoptosis in cancer cells by reactive oxygen species formation and mitochondrial depolarization.
EGCG may have anti-angiogenic activity by preventing new blood vessel growth in tumors and may inhibit tumor cell proliferation.
The catechins may reduce lipoprotein oxidation and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle that occurs with high concentrations of low-density lipoproteins.
Topically, EGCG and epicatechin-3-gallate may protect against UVA and UVB sunburn.
EGCG may prevent oxidation and apoptosis of neurons, which may protect people from developing Alzheimer disease.
Green tea is an antioxidant, thereby reduces oxidative DNA damage, lipid peroxidation and free radical generation.
Green tea may reduce mutagenic activity in smokers.
The tannins may have anti-diarrheal properties.
The polyphenols increase levels of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, and reduce levels of Enterobacteriaceae.
Through caffeine preventing adenosine’s inhibition of dopaminergic transmission, green tea may reduce the clinical expression of parkinsonism.
Green tea may have antiplatelet activity.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant.
Caffeine increases blood pressure, heart rate and heart contractility.
Caffeine improves cognitive performance.
Caffeine stimulates gastric acid secretion.
Caffeine is a diuretic.

Drug interactions

Adenosine (Adenocard)
Anti-coagulant, anti-platelet agents
Anti-psychotic drugs
Aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines
b-Adrenergic agonists
Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Clozapine (Clozaril)
Disulfiram (Antabuse)
Ephedrine
Ergotamine (Ergomar)
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Mexiletine (Mexitil)
Oral contraceptives
Phenylpropanolamine (Propagest, Rhindecon)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Quinolones
Theophylline (Theo-Dur)
Verapamil (Calan, Isoptin)
Warfarin (Coumadin)

Parts used

Leaf bud
leaf
stem

References

Ali M, Afzal M. A potent inhibitor of thrombin stimulated platelet thromboxane formation from unprocessed tea. Prostaglandins Leukot Med 1987; 27:9–13.
Ardlie NG, Glew G, Schultz BG, Schwartz CJ. Inhibition and reversal of platelet aggregation by methyl xanthines. Thromb Diath Haemorrh 1967; 18:670–673.
Booth SL, Madabushi HT, Davidson KW et al. Tea and coffee brews are not dietary sources of vitamin K-1 (phylloquinone). J Am Diet Assoc 1995; 95:82–83.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Bushman JL. Green tea and cancer in humans: a review of the literature. Nutr Cancer 1998; 31:151–159.
Cao Y, Cao R. Angiogenesis inhibited by drinking tea. Nature 1999; 398:381.
Carbo M, Segura J, De la Torre R et al. Effect of quinolones on caffeine disposition. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1989; 45:234–240.
Choi YT, Jung CH, Lee SR et al. The green tea polyphenol ( )-epigallocatechin gallate attenuates beta-amyloid-induced neurotoxicity in cultured hippocampal neurons. Life Sci 2001; 70:603–614.
Chung LY, Cheung TC, Kong SK et al. Induction of apoptosis by green tea catechins in human prostate cancer DU145 cells. Life Sci 2001; 68:1207–1214.
Durlach PJ. The effects of a low dose of caffeine on cognitive performance. Psychopharmacoloy 1998; 140:116–119.
Garbisa S, Biggin S, Cavallarin N et al. Tumor invasion: molecular shears blunted by green tea. Nat Med 1999; 5:1216.
Graham HN. Green tea composition, consumption, and polyphenol chemistry. Prev Med 1992; 21:334–350.
Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998.
Hagg S, Spigset O, Mjorndal T, Dahlqvist R. Effect of caffeine on clozapine pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2000; 49:59–63.
Harder S, Fuhr U, Staib AH, Wolff T. Ciprofloxacin-caffeine: a drug interaction established using in vivo and in vitro investigations. Am J Med 1989; 87:89S–91S.
Healy DP, Polk RE, Kanawati L et al. Interaction between oral ciprofloxacin and caffeine in normal volunteers. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1989; 33:474–478.
Hodgson JM, Puddey IB, Burke V et al. Effects on blood pressure of drinking green and black tea. J Hypertens 1999; 17:457–463.
Jefferson JW. Lithium tremor and caffeine intake: two cases of drinking less and shaking more. J Clin Psychiatry 1988; 49:72–73.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Joeres R, Klinker H, Heusler H et al. Influence of mexiletine on caffeine elimination. Pharmacol Ther 1987; 33:163–169.
Klaunig JE, Xu Y, Han C et al. The effect of tea consumption on oxidative stress in smokers and nonsmokers. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 1999; 220:249–254.
Kulhanek F, Linde OK, Meisenberg G. Precipitation of antipsychotic drugs in interaction with coffee or tea. Lancet 1979; ii:1130.
L’Allemain G. [Multiple actions of EGCG, the main component of green tea]. Bull Cancer 1999; 86:721–724.
Lasswell WLJ, Weber SS, Wilkins JM. In vitro interaction of neuroleptics and tricylic antidepressants with coffee, tea, and gallotannic acid. J Pharm Sci 1984; 73:1056–1058.
Lee IP, Kim YH, Kang MH et al. Chemopreventive effect of green tea (Camellia sinensis) against cigarette smoke induced mutations in humans. J Cell Biochem Suppl 1997; 27:68–75.
Leenen R, Roodenburg AJ, Tijburg LB et al. A single dose of tea with or without milk increases plasma antioxidant activity in humans. Eur J Clin Nutr 2000; 54:87–92.
Leung LK, Su Y, Chen R et al. Theaflavins in black tea and catechins in green tea are equally effective antioxidants. J Nutr 2001; 131:2248–2251.
Locher R, Emmanuele L, Suter PM et al. Green tea polyphenols inhibit human vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation stimulated by native low-density lipoprotein. Eur J Pharmacol 2002; 434:1–7.
Lou FQ, Zhang MF, Zhang XG et al. A study on tea-pigment in prevention of atherosclerosis. Chin Med J (Engl) 1989; 102:579–583.
McKevoy GK. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
Mester R, Toren P, Mizrachi I et al. Caffeine withdrawal increases lithium blood levels. Biol Psychiatry 1995; 37:348–350.
MICROMEDEX. Micromedex Healthcare Series. Englewood, CO: MICROMED EX.
Nemecz G. Green tea. US Pharmacist 2000:67–70.
Nurminen ML, Niittynen L, Korpela R, Vapaatalo H. Coffee, caffeine and blood pressure: a critical review. Eur J Clin Nutr 2000; 54:234–238.
Pisters KM, Newman RA, Coldman B et al. Phase I trial of oral green tea extract in adult patients with solid tumors. J Clin Oncol 2001; 19:1830–1838.
Ross GW, Abbott RD, Petrovitch H et al. Association of coffee and caffeine intake with the risk of parkinson disease. JAMA 2000; 283:2674–9.
Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE, Terry C. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician’s Guide to Herbal Medicine, 3rd ed. Berlin: Springer, 1998.
Sklar S et al. Drug therapy screening system. Indianapolis, IN: First Data Bank:99.
Taylor JR, Wilt VM. Probable antagonism of warfarin by green tea. Ann Pharmacother 1999; 33:426–428.
Tyler VE. Herbs of Choice. Binghamton, NY: Pharmaceutical Products Press, 1994.
Weisburger JH. Tea and health: the underlying mechanisms. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 1999; 220:271–275.

Dioscorea villosa: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-22T07:33:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Atlantic yam
Barbasco
China root
Colic root
Devil’s bones
Dioscorea
Dioscoreae
Mexican yam
Natural DHEA
Phytoestrogen
Rheumatism root
Wild Mexican yam
Yam
Yuma

Pharmacology

Diosgenin is a steroid precursor that was used in the first pharmaceutical manufacture of oral contraceptives, topical hormones, systemic corticosteroids, androgens, estrogens, progesterone, and other sex hormones.
The chemical conversion of diosgenin into estrogen, progesterone, or any other steroidal compound has not been demonstrated in the human body.
Topical application of wild yam has not been shown to affect serum levels of follicule-stimulating hormone, estradiol, or progesterone.
Oral administration of wild yam did not increase serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels.
Wild yam has been shown to enhance estradiol binding to estrogen receptors and to induce transcription activity in estrogen-responsive cells.
Diosgenin may stimulate the growth of mammary tissue.
The saponins, namely dioscin, are gastrointestinal irritants.

Drug interactions

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Hormone replacement therapy/oral contraceptives
insulin/oral hypoglycemic agents
Fibric acid derivatives
Cholesterol-lowering agents

Parts used

Root
Rhizome

References

Aradhana, Rao AR, Kale RK. Diosgenin – a growth stimulator of mammary gland of ovariectomized mouse. Indian J Exp Biol 1992; 30:367–370.
Araghiniknam M, Chung S, Nelson-White T, Eskelson C, Watson RR. Antioxidant activity of dioscorea and dehydroepian drosterone (DHEA) in older humans. Life Sci 1996; 59:147–157.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Cayen MN, Dvornik D. Effect of diosgenin on lipid metabolism in rats. J Lipid Res 1979; 20:162–174.
Cayen MN, Ferdinandi ES, Greselin E, Dvornik D. Studies on the disposition of diosgenin in rats, dogs, monkeys and man. Atherosclerosis 1979; 33:71–87.
Chevalier A. The Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. London: Reader’s Digest, 1996.
Dollbaum C. Lab analyses of salivary DHEA and progesterone following ingestion of yam-containing products. Townsend Newsletter for Doctors 1996; 159:104.
Eagon PK, Elm MS, Hunter DS et al. Medicinal herbs: modulation of estrogen action. Breast Cancer Reseach Program, Era of Hope Meeting, Department of Defense, Atlanta, GA, 8–11 June 2000.
Evans W. Trease and Evans’ pharmacognosy, 13th ed. London: Bailliere Tindall, 1989.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Iwu MM, Okunji CO, Ohiaeri GO et al. Hypoglycaemic activity of dioscoretine from tubers of Dioscorea dumetorum in normal and alloxan diabetic rabbits. Planta Med 1990; 56:264–267.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Juarez-Oropeza MA, Diaz-Zagoya JC, Rabinowitz JL. In vivo and in vitro studies of hypocholesterolemic effects of diosgenin in rats. Int J Biochem 1987; 19:679–683.
Komesaroff PA, Black CV, Cable V et al. Effects of wild yam extract on menopausal symptoms, lipids and sex hormones in healthy menopausal women. Climacteric 2001; 4:144–150.
Nervi F, Bronfman M, Allalon W et al. Regulation of biliary cholesterol secretion in the rat. Role of hepatic cholesterol esterification. J Clin Invest 1984; 74:2226–2237.
Nervi F, Marinovic I, Rigotti A et al. Regulation of biliary cholesterol secretion. Functional relationship between the canalicular and sinusoidal cholesterol secretory pathways in the rat. J Clin Invest 1988; 82:1818–1825.
Odumosu A. How vitamin C, clofibrate and diosgenin control cholesterol metabolism in male guinea-pigs. Int J Vitam Nutr Res Suppl 1982; 23:187–195.
Smolinske SC. Dietary supplement-drug interactions. J Am Med Womens Assoc 1999; 54:191–192, 195.
Uchida K, Takase H, Nomura Y et al. Changes in biliary and fecal bile acids in mice after treatments with diosgenin and beta-sitosterol. J Lipid Res 1984; 25:236–245.
Ulloa N, Nervi F. Mechanism and kinetic characteristics of the uncoupling by plant steroids of biliary cholesterol from bile salt output. Biochim Biophys Acta 1985; 837:181–189.
www.naturalstandard.com. Wild Yam (Dioscoreaceae) Natural Standard Monograph, 2003.
Yamada T, Hoshino M, Hayakawa T et al. Dietary diosgenin attenuates subacute intestinal inflammation associated with indomethacin in rats. Am J Physiol 1997; 273:G355–364.
Zagoya JCD, Laguna J, Guzman-Garcia J. Studies on the regulation of cholesterol metabolism by the use of structural analogue, diosgenin. Biochem Pharmacol 1971; 20:3471–3480.
Zakharov VN. [Hypolipemic effect of diosponine in ischemic heart disease depending on the type of hyperlipoproteinemia]. Kardiologiia 1977; 17:136–137.

Angelica sinensis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Chinese angelica
Dang gui
Danggui
Dong qua
Dong quai
Ligustilides
Phytoestrogen
Tan kue bai zhi
Tang kuei

Pharmacology

Dong quai has anti-inflammatory effects where it lowered plasma prostaglandin F2a (PGF2 a) and menstrual blood PGF2 a in patients with dysmenorrhea.
Dong quai was found to stimulate the growth of human breast cancer cell lines independently of estrogenic activity.
The coumarin constituent bergapten is believed to be carcinogenic.
The coumarin constituent osthol has a stimulant effect on the central nervous system.
Dong quai appears to potentiate the effect of warfarin and thereby increase prothrombin time.
Intravenous administration of dong quai decreased serum gastrin levels of inferior vena cava, hepatic and peripheral veins in patients with liver cirrhosis
Dong quai has an analgesic and anti-septic effect in abdominal pain.
Dong quai administered with nifedipine was shown to decrease mean pulmonary arterial pressure and increase cardiac output and PaO2 in COPD.
In combination with ginseng and astragalus, dong quai was found to improve many symptoms of coronary artery disease.
The coumarins psoralen and bergapten are photosensitizing and may cause photodermatitis.

Drugs interactions

Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Warfarin

Part used

Root

References

Amato P, Christophe S, Mellon PL. Estrogenic activity of herbs commonly used as remedies for menopausal symptoms. Menopause 2002; 9:145–150.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Chan K, Lo AC, Yeung JH, Woo KS. The effects of Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza) on warfarin pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of warfarin enantiomers in rats. J Pharm Pharmacol 1995; 47:402–406.
Huang ZP, Liang KH. [Effect of radix Angelicae sinensis on serum gastrin levels in patients with cirrhosis]. Zhonghua Nei Ke Za Zhi 1994; 33:373–375.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Liao JZ, Chen JJ, Wu ZM et al. Clinical and experimental studies of coronary heart disease treated with yi-qi huo-xue injection. J Tradit Chin Med 1989; 9:193–198.
Lo AC, Chan K, Yeung JH, Woo KS. Danggui (Angelica sinensis) affects the pharmacodynamics but not the pharmacokinetics of warfarin in rabbits. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet 1995; 20:55–60.
Page RLN, Lawrence JD. Potentiation of warfarin by dong quai. Pharmacotherapy 1999; 19:870–876.
Smolinske SC. Dietary supplement–drug interactions. J Am Med Womens Assoc 1999; 54:191–192, 195.
Xie C. [Effects of danggui shaoyao powder on blood rheological indexes and prostaglandin F2 alpha in dysmenorrhea patients]. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1990;10:410–412, 389.
Xu JY, Li BX, Cheng SY. [Short-term effects of Angelica sinensis and nifedipine on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients with pulmonary hypertension]. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1992; 12:716–718, 707.

Valeriana officinalis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-20T22:49:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Amantilla
All-heal
Baldrian
Baldrianwurzel
Belgium valerian
Common valerian
Fragrant valerian
Garden heliotrope
Garden valerian
Indian valerian
Mexican valerian
Pacific valerian
Valerian
Valeriana
Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana rhizome
Valerianae radix
Valeriane

Pharmacology

Valerian has sedative, anxiolytic, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, hypotensive and antispasmodic effects.
The valepotriate constituents were shown to decrease benzodiazepine withdrawal and to bind dopamine receptors.
The constitiuents valerenic acid and kessyl glycol were shown to cause sedation in animals.
Valerenic acid may inhibit the enzyme system responsible for the catabolism of GABA, thereby increasing GABA concentrations and decreasing central nervous system activity.
The lignans and GABA constituents in valerian may contribute to its sedative effect.
Valerian does not appear to cause adverse effects with respect to reaction time, alertness, and concentration the morning after intake.
In healthy elderly people, valerian does not appear to affect psychomotor performance.
Valerian may affect the cytochrome P450 CYP3A4 enzyme.

Drug interactions

Alcohol
Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome CYP3A4
Sedative drugs

Part used

Root

References

Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000; 7:273–282.
Cropley M, Cave Z, Ellis J, Middleton RW. Effect of kava and valerian on human physiological and psychological responses to mental stress assessed under laboratory conditions. Phytother Res 2002; 16:23–27.
Glass JR, Sproule BA, Herrmann N et al. Acute pharmacological effects of temazepam, diphenhydramine, and valerian in healthy elderly subjects. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2003; 23:260–268.
Hadley S, Petry JJ. Valerian. Am Fam Physician 2003; 67:1755–1758.
Houghton PJ. The scientific basis for the reputed activity of Valerian. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999; 51:505–512.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Klepser TB, Klepser ME. Unsafe and potentially safe herbal therapies. Am J Health Syst Pharm 1999; 56:125–138.
Kuhlmann J, Berger W, Podzuweit H, Schmidt U. The influence of valerian treatment on ‘reaction time, alertness and concentration’ in volunteers. Pharmacopsychiatry 1999; 32:235–241.
Plushner SL. Valerian: Valerian officinalis. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2000; 57:333–335.

Cassia acutifolia: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Alexandrian senna
Alexandrinische senna
Casse
C. angustifolia
C. senna
C. lanceolata
Indian senna
Khartoum senna
Sena alejandrina
Séné d’Egypte
Senna
Sennae folium
Sennae fructus
Sennae fructus acutifoliae
Sennae fructus angustifolia
Tinnevelly senna
True senna

Pharmacology

Senna leaf and fruit are stimulant laxatives, where the leaf is a stronger cathartic than the fruit.
The cathartic action is limited primarily to the colon.
Sennosides irritate the lining of the large intestine, causing contraction.
Sennosides A and B appear to induce fluid secretion in the colon.
Prostaglandins may be involved in the laxative effect.
Anthroquinones produce a laxative effect 8–12 hours after administration, though sometimes up to 24 hours can be required.
Anthroquinone laxative use is not associated with an increased risk of developing colorectal ademoma or carcinoma.

Drug interactions

Cardiac glycoside drugs

Parts used

Leaf
Fruit

References

Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Covington TR, ed. Handbook of Nonprescription Drugs. Washington, DC: Amercian Pharmaceutical Association, 1996.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Nusko G, Schneider B, Schneider I et al. Anthranoid laxative use is not a risk factor for colorectal neoplasia: results of a prospective case control study. Gut 2000; 46:651–655.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.

Rubus idaeus: : synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Raspberry
Red raspberry
Rubi idaei folium
Rubus
Framboise

Pharmacology
Leaf

Raspberry leaf may decrease contraction of tonic tissues and increase contraction of relaxed tissues.
In animals, raspberry leaf extract was shown to relax smooth muscle.

Fruit

Raspberry fruit is an antioxidant.
Extracts of raspberry fruit were found to significantly inhibit mutagenesis on cervical and breast cancer cell lines by both direct-acting and metabolically activated carcinogens.
Raspberry cordial and juice were found to have anti-bacterial activity in vitro.

Drug interactions

Metformin

Part used

Leaf

References

Bamford DS, Percival RC, Tothill AU. Raspberry leaf tea: a new aspect to an old problem. Br J Pharmacol 1970; 40:161P .
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kahkonen MP, Hopia AI, Heinonen M. Berry phenolics and their antioxidant activity. J Agric Food Chem 2001; 49:4076–4082.
McFarlin BL, Gibson MH, O’Rear J, Harman P. A national survey of herbal preparation use by nurse-midwives for labor stimulation. Review of the literature and recommendations for practice. J Nurse Midwifery 1999; 44:205–216.
Rojas-Vera J, Patel AV, Dacke C. Relaxant activity of raspberry (Rubus idaeus) leaf extract in guinea-pig ileum in vitro. Phytother Res 2002; 16:665–668.
Ryan T, Wilkinson JM, Cavanagh H. Antibacterial activity of raspberry cordial in vitro. Res Vet Sci 2001; 71:155–159.
Wedge DE, Meepagala KM, Magee JB et al. Anticarcinogenic activity of strawberry, blueberry, and raspberry extracts to breast and cervical cancer cells. J Med Food 2001; 4:49–51.

Oenothera biennis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-17T07:37:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

EPO
Fever plant
Huile d’onagre
King’s cureall
Night willow-herb
Primrose
Scabish
Sun drop

Pharmacology

EOP has anti-inflammatory activity where it blocks the transformation of arachidonic acid to leukotrienes, increases the production of 1-series prostaglandins and acts as a competitive inhibitor of 2-series prostaglandins and 4-series leukotrienes.
EPO may help women with PMS who have lower levels of GLA, possibly due to a defect in the conversion of linoleic acid to GLA.
EPO may help children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder who have lower levels of GLA.
EPO may lower levels of plasma lipids and inhibit platelet aggregation.
EPO may improve neuronal blood supply and possibly prevent diabetic neuropathy.
EPO was found to reverse epidermal hyperproliferation in guinea pigs.

Drug interactions

Anesthesia
Anti-convulsant/anti-seizure drugs
Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Phenothiazines

Part used

Seed

References

Aman MG, Mitchell EA, Turbott SH. The effects of essential fatty acid supplementation by Efamol in hyperactive children. J Abnorm Child Psychol 1987; 15:75–90.
Belch JJ, Hill A. Evening primrose oil and borage oil in rheumatologic conditions. Am J Clin Nutr 2000; 71:352S–356S.
Chung S, Kong S, Seong K, Cho Y. Gamma-linolenic acid in borage oil reverses epidermal hyperproliferation in guinea pigs. J Nutr 2002; 132;3090–3097.
Guivernau M, Meza N, Barja P, Roman O. Clinical and experimental study on the long-term effect of dietary gamma-linolenic acid on plasma lipids, platelet aggregation, thromboxane formation, and prostacyclin production. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1994; 51:311–316.
Hardy ML. Herbs of special interest to women. J Am Pharm Assoc (Wash) 2000; 40:234–242.
Head RJ, McLennan PL, Raederstorff D et al. Prevention of nerve conduction deficit in diabetic rats by polyunsaturated fatty acids. Am J Clin Nutr 2000; 71:386S–392S.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Miller LG. Herbal medicines: selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug–herb interactions. Arch Intern Med 1998; 158:2200–2211.
Shaw D, Leon C, Kolev S, Murray V. Traditional remedies and food supplements. A 5-year toxicological study (1991–1995). Drug Saf 1997; 17:342–356.

Claviceps purpurea: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-16T07:33:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Cockspur rye
Hornseed
Mother of rye
Rye Ergot
Secale cornutum
Smut rye
Spurred rye

Pharmacology

Through a-adrenergic blocking and antagonism of 5-hydroxytryptamine, rye ergot stimulates smooth muscles and post-ganglionic synapses of the sympathetic nerves to the uterus, bladder, heart, blood vessels, and iris.
Ergot alkaloids produce vasoconstriction and myometrial stimulation.
The ergot alkaloids and derivatives have central, neurohumoral and peripheral effects.
The ergot alkaloids and derivatives bind to noradrenaline, serotonin, or dopamine receptor.
The ergot alkaloids are serotonin agonists.Dihydroergotamine binds to serotonin receptors in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, which is the site of neuropathological changes in convulsive ergotism.

Drug interactions

Ergot alkaloids
Sympathomimetics

Parts used

Dried sclerotium grown on Secale (rye) kernels

References

Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Eadie MJ. Convulsive ergotism: epidemics of the serotonin syndrome? Lancet Neurol 2003; 2:429–434.
Ellenhorn MJ, Schonwald S, Ordog G, Wasserberger J. Ellenhorn’s Medical Toxicology: Diagnoses and Treatment of Human Poisoning, 2nd ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams & Wilkins, 1997.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Mantegani S, Brambilla E, Varasi M. Ergoline derivatives: receptor affinity and selectivity. Farmaco 1999; 54:288–296.

Achillea millefolium: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Achilee
Achillea
Acuilee
Band man’s plaything
Bauchweh
Birangasifa
Bloodwort
Carpenter’s weed
Civan percemi
Common yarrow
Devil’s nettle
Devil’s plaything
Erba da cartentieri
Erba da falegname
Gemeine schafgarbe
Green arrow
Herbe aux charpentiers
Katzenkrat
Milefolio, milfoil
Millefeuille
Millefolii flos
Millefolii herba
Millefolium
Millegoglie
Noble yarrow
Nosebleed
Old man’s pepper
Roga mari
Sanguinary
Soldier’s wound wort
Staunchweed
Tausendaugbram
Thousand-leaf
Wound wort

Pharmacology

In diabetic mice and rats, yarrow was shown to have marked hypoglycemic and glycogen-sparing properties.
The polyunsaturated alkamides from Achillea species were shown to have anti-inflammatory activity where they inhibited cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase assays in vitro.
The sesquiterpenoids constituents achimillic acids A, B, and C from yarrow were shown to have anti-tumor activity against mouse P-388 leukemia cells in vivo.
The volatile oil of yarrow was reported to have a depressant activity on the central nervous system.
The alkaloid constituent achilleine was found to decrease blood clotting time in rabbits.
Yarrow showed some evidence of diuretic activity.
Yarrow has moderate anti-bacterial activity.
Persons allergic to the Asteraceae family may exhibit allergic reactions, such as contact dermatitis, when exposed to yarrow. Alpha-peroxyachifolid was identified as the contact allergen in yarrow.
Yarrow alkaloids were reported to have hypotensive properties.

Drug interactions

Antacids
Anticoagulants and antiplatelets
Barbiturates
Hypertensive or hypotensive therapy
Proton pump inhibitors

Part containing toxins

Flower head

References

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 3rd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Goldberg AS, Mueller EC, Eigen E, Desalva SJ. Isolation of the anti-inflammatory principles from Achillea millefolium (Compositae). J Pharm Sci 1969; 58:938–941.
Hausen BM, Breuer J, Weglewski J, Rucker G. alpha-Peroxyachifolid and other new sensitizing sesquiterpene lactones from yarrow (Achillea millefolium L., Compositae). Contact Dermatitis 1991; 24:274–280.
Hausen BM. A 6-year experience with compositae mix. Am J Contact Dermat 1996; 7:94–99.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Miller FM, Chow LM. Alkaloids of Achillea millefolium L. Isolation and characterization of Achilleine. J Am Chem Soc 1954; 76:1353–1354.
Molokovskii DS, Davydov VV, Tiulenev VV. [The action of adaptogenic plant preparations in experimental alloxan diabetes]. Probl Endokrinol (Mosk) 1989; 35:82–87.
Moskalenko SA. Preliminary screening of far-Eastern ethno-medicinal plants for antibacterial activity. J Ethnopharmacol 1986; 15:231–259.
Muller-Jakic B, Breu W, Probstle A et al. In vitro inhibition of cyclooxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase by alkamides from Echinacea and Achillea species. Planta Med 1994; 60:37–40.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Paulsen E, Andersen KE, Hausen BM. Compositae dermatitis in a Danish dermatology department in one year (I). Results of routine patch testing with the sesquiterpene lactone mix supplemented with aimed patch testing with extracts and sesquiterpene lactones of Compositae plants. Contact Dermatitis 1993; 29:6–10.
Rucker G, Neugebauer M, Kiefer A. [Quantitative determination of alphaperoxyachifolide in yarrow by HPLC with amperometric detection]. Pharmazie 1994; 49:167–169.
Tozyo T, Yoshimura Y, Sakurai K et al. Novel antitumor sesquiterpenoids in Achillea millefolium. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 1994; 42:1096–1100.

Hypericum perforatum: : synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-14T07:30:00.001-07:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Amber
Amber touch-and-heal
Demon chaser
Fuga daemonum
Goatweed
Hardhay
Hypereikon
Hyperici herba
Hypericum
Johns wort
Klamath weed
Millepertuis
Rosin rose
Saint Johns wort
Saint John’s wort
Saynt Johannes wort
SJW
St Johns wort
St John’s wort
Tipton weed

Pharmacology

St John’s wort effects on serotonin may be primarily responsible for its anti-depressant activity.
Extracts of St John’s wort inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in vitro.
Hyperforin and adhyperforin were shown to modulate the effects of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, and to act as serotonergic 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)3 and 5-HT4 receptor antagonists.
Hypericin inhibits in vitro almost irreversibly both type A and B monoamine oxidase in rat brain mitochondria.
St John’s wort induces some of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes and may interfere with drug metabolism.
Topical application of St John’s wort inhibits the proliferation of T lymphocytes in inflammatory skin disorders.
St John’s wort has anti-bacterial activity.
In human and animal cancer cells, hyperforin inhibited tumor cell growth by induction of apoptosis.

Drug interactions

5-HT1 agonists
Alprozolam
Aminolaevulinic acid
Amitriptyline
Analagesics with serotonergic activity
Antidepressants
Barbituates
Carbamazepine
Cyclosporine
Digoxin
Dextromethorphan
Fenfluramine
Fexofenadine
Irinotecan
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Mycophenolate mofetil
Narcotics
Nelazodone
Nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors
Nortriptyline
Oral contraceptives
Paroxetine
Phenobarbital
Phenprocoumon
Phenytoin
Photosensitizing drugs
Protease inhibitors
Reserpine
Sertraline
Simvastatin
Tacrolimus
Theophylline
Warfarin
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes

Parts used

Whole plant

References

Abul-Ezz SR, Barone GW, Gurley BJ et al. Effect of herbal supplements on cyclosporine blood levels and associated acute rejection. American Society of Nephrology Annual Meeting, Toronto, 13–16 October 2000.
Barone GW, Gurley BJ, Ketel BL et al. Drug interaction between St. John’s wort and cyclosporin. Ann Pharmacother 2000; 34:1013–1016.
Bauer S, Stormer E, Johne A et al. Alterations in cyclosporin A pharmacokinetics and metabolism during treatment with St John’s wort in renal transplant patients. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2003; 55:203–211.
Beckman SE, Sommi RW, Switzer J. Consumer use of St. John’s wort: a survey of effectiveness, safety, and tolerability. Pharmacotherapy 2000; 20:568–574.
Breidenbach T, Hoffmann MW, Becker T et al. Drug interaction of St John’s wort with ciclosporin. Lancet 2000; 355:1912.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Burstein AH, Horton RL, Dunn T et al. Lack of effect of St John’s Wort on carbamazepine pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2000; 68:605–612.
Calapai G, Crupi A, Firenzuoli F et al. Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine involvement in the antidepressant action of hypericum perforatum. Pharmacopsychiatry 2001; 34:45–49.
Chatterjee SS, Noldner M, Koch E, Erdelmeier C. Antidepressant activity of hypericum perforatum and hyperforin: the neglected possibility. Pharmacopsychiatry 1998; 31(Suppl 1):7–15.
Cheng TO. St. John’s wort interaction with digoxin [letter]. Arch Intern Med 2000; 160:2548.
de Maat M, Hoetelmans R, Mathot R et al. Drug interaction between St. John’s wort and nevirapine. AIDS 2001; 15:420–421.
Durr D, Stieger B, Kullak-Ublick GA et al. St. John’s Wort induces intestinal P-glycoprotein/MDR1 and intestinal and hepatic CYP3A4. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2000; 68:598–604.
Ernst E. St. John’s Wort supplements endanger the success of organ transplantation. Arch Surg 2002; 137:316–319.
Gordon JB. SSRIs and St. John’s Wort: possible toxicity? Am Fam Physician 1998; 57:950–953.
Gorski JC, Hamman MA, Wang Z et al. The effect of St. John’s wort on the efficacy of oral contraceptives. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2001; 71:P.25.
Groning R, Breitkreutz J, Muller RS. Physico-chemical interactions between extracts of Hypericum perforatum L. and drugs. Eur J Pharm Biopharm 2003; 56:231–236.
Gurley BJ, Barone GW. Herb-drug interaction involving St. John’s wort and cyclosporine. AAPS Annual Meeting and Expo, Indianapolis, IN, 29 Oct–2 Nov 2000. Vol. presentation #3443.
Henderson L, Yue QY, Bergquist C et al. St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum): drug interactions and clinical outcomes. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2002; 54:349–356.
Hennessy M, Kelleher D, Spiers JP et al. St Johns wort increases expression of P-glycoprotein: implications for drug interactions. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2002; 53:75–82.
Hussain MD, Teixeira MG. Saint John’s wort and analgesia: effect of Saint John’s wort on morphine induced analgesia. AAPS Annual Meeting and Expo, Indianapolis, IN, 29 Oct–2 Nov 2000. Vol. presentation #3453.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed.Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Jensen AG, Hansen SH, Nielsen E. Adhyperforin as a contributor to the effect of Hypericum perforatum L. in biochemical models of antidepressant activity. Life Sci 2001; 68:1593–1605.
Johne A, Brockmoller J, Bauer S et al. Pharmacokinetic interaction of digoxin with an herbal extract from St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum). Clin Pharmacol Ther 1999; 66:338–345.
Karliova M, Treichel U, Malago M et al. Interaction of Hypericum perforatum (SJW) with cyclosporin A metabolism in a patient after liver transplantation. J Hepatol 2000; 33:853–855.
Kleber E, Obry T, Hippeli S et al. Biochemical activities of extracts from Hypericum perforatum. Arzneimittelforschung 1999; 49:106–109.
Ladner DP, Klein SD, Steiner RA, Walt H. Synergistic toxicity of deltaaminolaevulinic acid-induced protoporphyrin IX used for photodiagnosis and hypericum extract, a herbal antidepressant. Br J Dermatol 2001; 144:916–918.
Lantz MS, Buchalter E, Giambanco V. St. John’s wort and antidepressant drug interactions in the elderly. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol 1999; 12:7–10.
Mai I, Bauer S, Krueger H et al. Wechselwirkungen von Johaniskraut mit tacrolismus bei nierentransplantierten patienten. Symposium Phytopharmaka VII, Berlin, October 2001. Forschung und Klinische Anwendung. 83. Nebel A, Schneider BJ, Baker RA et al. Potential metabolic interaction between St. John’s wort and theophylline. Ann Pharmacother 1999; 33:502.
Mai I, Kruger H, Budde K et al. Hazardous pharmacokinetic interaction of Saint John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) with the immunosuppressant cyclosporin. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther 2000; 38:500–502.
Mai I, Stormer E, Bauer S et al. Impact of St John’s wort treatment on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus and mycophenolic acid in renal transplant patients. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2003; 18:819–822.
Mandelbaum A, Pertzborn F, Martin-Facklam M, Wiesel M. Unexplained decrease of cyclosporin trough levels in a compliant renal transplant patient. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2000; 15:1473–1474.
Markowitz JS, Donovan JL, DeVane CL et al. Effect of St. John’s wort on drug metabolism by induction of cytochrome P450 3A4 enzyme. JAMA 2003; 290:1500–1504.
Mathijssen RH, Verweij J, de Bruijn P et al. Effects of St. John’s wort on irinotecan metabolism. J Natl Cancer Inst 2002; 94:1247–1249.
Mathijssen RHJ, Verweij J, De Bruijn P et al. Modulation of irinotecan (CPT-11) metabolism by St. John’s wort in cancer patients. American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting, San Francisco, April 2002. Vol. Abstract 2443.
Miller LG. Herbal medicinals: selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug-herb interactions. Arch Intern Med 1998; 158:2200–2211.
Moschella C, Jaber BL. Interaction between cyclosporine and Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort) after organ transplantation. Am J Kidney Dis 2001; 38:1105–1107.
Muller WE, Singer A, Wonnemann M, Hafner U et al. Hyperforin represents the neurotransmitter reuptake inhibiting constituent of hypericum extract. Pharmacopsychiatry 1998; 31:16–21.
Piscitelli SC, Burstein AH, Chaitt D et al. Indinavir concentrations and St. John’s wort. Lancet 2000; 355:547–548.
Roby CA, Anderson GD, Kantor E et al. St. John’s wort: effect on CYP3A4 activity. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2000; 67:451–457.
Roots I, Johne A, Schmider J, Brockmoller J et al. Interaction of a herbal extract from St. John’s wort with amitriptyline and its metabolites. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2000; 67:159.
Ruschitzka F, Meier PJ, Turina M et al. Acute heart transplant rejection due to Saint John’s wort. Lancet 2000; 355:548–549.
Schempp CM, Kirkin V, Simon-Haarhaus B et al. Inhibition of tumour cell growth by hyperforin, a novel anticancer drug from St. John’s wort that acts by induction of apoptosis. Oncogene 2002; 21:1242–1250.
Schempp CM, Pelz K, Wittmer A, Schopf E, Simon JC. Antibacterial activity of hyperforin from St John’s wort, against multiresistant Staphylococcus aureus and gram-positive bacteria. Lancet 1999; 353(9170):2129.
Schempp CM, Winghofer B, Ludtke R et al. Topical application of St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum L.) and of its metabolite hyperforin inhibits the allostimulatory capacity of epidermal cells. Br J Dermatol 2000; 142:979–984.
Schulz V. Incidence and clinical relevance of the interactions and side effects of Hypericum preparations. Phytomedicine 2001; 8:152–160.
Schwarz UI, Buschel B, Kirch W. Unwanted pregnancy on self-medication with St John’s wort despite hormonal contraception. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2003; 55:112–113.
Singer A, Wonnemann M, Muller WE. Hyperforin, a major antidepressant constituent of St. John’s wort, inhibits serotonin uptake by elevating free intracellular Na 11. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 1999; 290:1363–1368.
Singhal AB, Caviness VS, Begleiter AF et al. Cerebral vasoconstriction and stroke after use of serotonergic drugs. Neurology 2002; 58:130–133.
Sugimoto K, Ohmori M, Tsuruoka S. Different effects of St John’s wort on the pharmacokinetics of simvastatin and pravastatin. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2001; 70:518–524.
Suzuki O, Katsumata Y, Oya M, Bladt S, Wagner H. Inhibition of monoamine oxidase by hypericin. Planta Med 1984; 50:272–274.
Upton R. St. John’s wort, Hypericum perforatum: quality control, analytical and therapeutic monograph. American Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Santa Cruz, CA, 1997:1–32.
Wang Z, Gorski JC, Hamman MA et al. The effects of St. John’s wort (Hyericum perforatum) on human cytochrome P450 activity. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2001; 70:317–326.
Wang Z, Hamman MA, Huang SM et al. Effect of St. John’s wort on the pharmacokinetics of fexofenadine. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2002; 71:414–420.
Yue QY, Bergquist C, Gerden B. Safety of St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum). Lancet 2000; 355:576–577.

Curcuma longa: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-11T22:44:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Curcuma
C. aromatica
Curcumae longae rhizoma
curcumin
Indian saffron
Tumeric
Turmeric root

Pharmacology

In clinical trials, curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory agent where its action is reported to be comparable to phenylbutazone.
In vitro, curcumin was shown to inhibit interleukin (IL)-8, MIP-1a, MCP-1, IL-1b, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) a, 5-lipoxygenase activity, cyclooxygenase activity and 5-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) formation, leukotriene formation and platelet aggregation, and to increase the breakdown of fibrin.
Curcumin was shown to significantly decrease the level of serum lipid peroxides (33%), increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (29%) and decrease total serum cholesterol, thereby having a preventive effect on arterial disease.
Turmeric increases bile secretion and bile flow, and induces contraction of the human gallbladder (cholagogue).
Turmeric has significant anti-oxidant activity and may protect DNA against free radical damage.
Turmeric may significantly increase gastric wall mucus and restore the nonprotein sulfhydryl (NP-SH) content in the stomach.
Curcumin and turmeric were shown to inhibit human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1, HIV-2, and HIV-integrase.
Curcumin was shown to have anti-mutagen activity, anti-carcinogen activity, chemopreventive activity in colon carcinogenesis, reduce urinary excretion of mutagens in smokers, and inhibit and/or induce apoptosis in prostate cancer cells, skin and gastric tumors, colonic epithelial cell dysplasia, and others.
Curcumin is a potent inhibitor of cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1/1A2, a less potent inhibitor of CYP 2B1/2B2, and a weak inhibitor of CYP 2E1.
Turmeric may decrease hepatocyte glutathione levels and curcumin appears to induce glutathione-S-transferase activity in mice.

Drug interactions

Anti-platelet drugs
Reserpine and indometacin
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A1/1A2, CYP 2B1/2B2, and CYP 2E1 enzymes.

Part used

Rhizome

References

Abe Y, Hashimoto S, Horie T. Curcumin inhibition of inflammatory cytokine production by human peripheral blood monocytes and alveolar macrophages. Pharmacol Res 1999; 39:41–47.
Ammon HP, Safayhi H, Mack T, Sabieraj J. Mechanism of antiinflammatory actions of curcumine and boswellic acids. J Ethnopharmacol 1993; 38:113–119.
Azuine MA, Bhide SV. Chemopreventive effect of turmeric against stomach and skin tumors induced by chemical carcinogens in Swiss mice. Nutr Cancer 1992; 17:77–83.
Barthelemy S, Vergnes L, Moynier M et al. Curcumin and curcumin derivatives inhibit Tat-mediated transactivation of type 1 human immunodeficiency virus long terminal repeat. Res Virol 1998; 149:43–52.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Chan MM. Inhibition of tumor necrosis factor by curcumin, a phytochemical. Biochem Pharmacol 1995; 49:1551–1556.
Dorai T, Cao YC, Dorai B, Buttyan R, Katz AE. Therapeutic potential of curcumin in human prostate cancer. III. Curcumin inhibits proliferation, induces apoptosis, and inhibits angiogenesis of LNCaP prostate cancer cells in vivo. Prostate 2001; 47:293–303.
Flynn DL, Rafferty MF, Boctor AM. Inhibition of 5-hydroxy-eicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) formation in intact human neutrophils by naturally-occurring diarylheptanoids: inhibitory activities of curcuminoids and yakuchinones. Prostaglandins Leukot Med 1986; 22:357–360.
Huang MT, Deschner EE, Newmark H et al. Effect of dietary curcumin and ascorbyl palmitate on azoxymethanol-induced colonic epithelial cell proliferation and focal areas of dysplasia. Cancer Lett 1992; 64:117–121.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kawamori T, Lubet R, Steele V et al. Chemopreventive effect of curcumin, a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, during the promotion/progression stages of colon cancer. Cancer Res 1999; 59:597–601.
Mathews S, Rao MNA. Interaction of curcumin with glutathione. Int J Pharmaceut 1991; 76:257–259.
Mazumder A, Raghavan K, Weinstein J, Kohn KW, Pommier Y. Inhibition of human immunodeficiency virus type-1 integrase by curcumin. Biochem Pharmacol 1995; 49:1165–1170.
Mukhopadhyay A, Basu N, Ghatak N, Gujral P. Anti-inflammatory and irritant activities of curcumin analogues in rats. Agents Actions 1982; 12:508–515.
Murray MT. The Healing Power of Herbs. Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing, 1992.
Oetari S, Sudibyo M, Commandeur JN, Samhoedi R, Vermeulen NP. Effects of curcumin on cytochrome P450 and glutathione S-transferase activities in rat liver. Biochem Pharmacol 1996; 51:39–45.
Osawa T, Sugiyama Y, Inayoshi M, Kawakishi S. Antioxidative activity of tetrahydrocurcuminoids. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 1995; 59:1609–1612.
Polasa K, Raghuram TC, Krishna T, Krishnaswamy K. Effect of turmeric on urinary mutagens in smokers. Mutagenesis 1992; 7:107–109.
Rafatullah S, Tariq M Al-Yahya M, Mossa JS, Ageel AM. Evaluation of turmeric (Curcuma longa) for gastric and duodenal antiulcer activity in rats. J Ethnopharmacol 1990; 29:25–34.
Ramprassad C, Sirsi RC. Curcuma longa and bile secretion: quantitative changes in the bile constituents induced by sodium curcuminate. J Sci Ind Res 1957; 16C:108–110.
Rasyid A, Lelo A. The effect of curcumin and placebo on human gall-bladder function: an ultrasound study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 1999; 13:245–249.
Satoskar RR, Shah SJ, Shenoy S. Evaluation of anti-inflammatory property of curcumin (diferuloyl methane) in patients with postoperative inflammation. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol 1986; 24:651–654.
Selvam R, Subramaniam L, Gayathri R, Angayarkanni N. The anti-oxidant activity of turmeric (Curcuma longa). J Ethnopharmacol 1995; 47:59–67.
Soni KB, Kuttan R. Effect of oral curcumin administration on serum peroxides and cholesterol levels in human volunteers. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol 1992; 36:273–275.
Srimal RC, Dhawan BN. Pharmacology of diferuloyl methane (curcumin), a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agent. J Pharm Pharmacol 1973; 25:447–452.
Srivastava R, Srimal RC. Modification of certain inflammation-induced biochemical changes by curcumin. Indian J Med Res 1985; 81:215–223.
Subramanian M, Sreejayan RM, Devasagayam TP, Singh BB. Diminution of singlet oxygen-induced DNA damage by curcumin and related antioxidants. Mutat Res 1994; 311:249–255.
Sui Z, Salto R, Li J, Craik C, Ortiz de Montellano PR. Inhibition of the HIV-1 and HIV-2 proteases by curcumin and curcumin boron complexes. Bioorg Med Chem 1993; 1:415–422.
Susan M, Rao MN. Induction of glutathione S-transferase activity by curcumin in mice. Arzneimittelforschung 1992; 42:962–964.

Mentha piperita: : synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-10T22:41:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Aetheroleum
Brandy mint
Lamb mint
Menthae piperitae folium
Menthae piperitae
Menthe poivree
Peppermint

Pharmacology
Leaf

Peppermint leaf has antispasmodic, antiflatulent, and bile stimulation activity.

Oil

The constituent menthol has direct antispasmodic activity on the smooth muscle of the digestive tract through calcium antagonist activity.
Peppermint oil increases salivation, which increases the swallowing reflex and suppresses the cough reflex.
Peppermint oil reduces bronchial secretions and has nasal decongestant activity.
Peppermint oil decreases gas and flatulence by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, thereby equalizing the intraluminal pressures between the stomach and esophagus.
Peppermint oil has antimicrobial and antiviral activity in vitro.
Peppermint oil may inhibit cytochrome P4503A.
The volatile oil azulene has anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer activity.
Topically, peppermint oil is a counterirritant.

Drug interactions
Leaf

Felodipine
Simvastatin
Cyclosporine
5-Fluorouracil
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P4503A4

Oil

Antacids
Cyclosporine
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P4503A4
H2-blockers
Proton pump inhibitors

Parts used

Leaf
Oil

References

Beesley A, Hardcastle J, Hardcastle PT, Taylor CJ. Influence of peppermint oil on absorptive and secretory processes in rat small intestine. Gut 1996; 39:214–219.
Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
Dresser GK, Wacher V, WS, Wong HT, Bailey DG. Evaluation of peppermint oil and ascorbyl palmitate as inhibitors of cytochrome P450 3A4 activity in vitro and in vivo. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2002; 72:247–255.
Foster S. Peppermint, Menta piperita, botanical series #306. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council, 1990.
Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
May B, Kohler S, Schneider B. Efficacy and tolerability of a fixed combination of peppermint oil and caraway oil in patients suffering from functional dyspepsia. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2000; 14:1671–1677.
Monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs. Exeter, UK: European Scientific Co-op Phytother, 1997.
Pizzorno JE, Murray MT. Textbook of Natural Medicine, 2nd ed. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 1999.
Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. New York, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE, Terry C. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician’s Guide to Herbal Medicine, 3rd ed. Berlin: Springer, 1998.
Tyler VE. Herbs of Choice. Binghamton, NY: Pharmaceutical Products Press, 1994.
Wacher VJ, Wong S, Wong HT. Peppermint oil enhances cyclosporine oral bioavailability in rats: comparison with D-alpha-tocopheryl poly(ethylene glycol 1000) succinate (TPGS) and ketoconazole. J Pharm Sci 2002; 91:77–90.
www.naturalstandard.com. Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), 2003.

Vaccinium macrocarpon: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-09T22:41:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

American cranberry
Arandano Americano
Arandano trepador
Cranberries
European cranberry
Grosse moosbeere
Kranbeere
Large cranberry
Moosebeere
Mossberry
Ronce d’Amerique
Small cranberry
Trailing swamp cranberry
Tsuru-kokemomo
Vaccinium macrocarpon
V. oxycoccos

Pharmacology

The proanthocyanidins in cranberry interfere with bacterial adherence to the urinary tract epithelial cells.
In the case of Escherichia coli, the cause of most urinary tract infections, proanthocyanidins were shown to wrap around these bacteria and prevent their adherence to the urinary tract wall.
Cranberry juice cocktail was shown to inhibit adherence in 77 clinical isolates of E. coli obtained from patients with diagnosed urinary tract infections and anti-adherence activity against Gram-negative rods.
The fructose in cranberries was shown to contribute to the anti-bacterial activity of cranberry.
Cranberry does not appear to have the ability to dislodge bacteria that have already adhered to the urinary tract epithelial cells.
Cranberry juice was shown to have anti-bacterial activity against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Proteus mirabilis.7,24,29
Cranberry was shown to have anti-viral action against the poliovirus type 1.
Cranberry may prevent the adherence of Helicobacter pylori in the stomach.
Cranberry may prevent adhesion of plaque bacteria that cause periodontal disease.
Cranberry may have anti-oxidant and anti-carcinogenic activity.

Drug interactions

Warfarin
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450

Part used

Fruit

References

Ahuja S, Kaack B, Roberts J. Loss of fimbrial adhesion with the addition of Vaccinum macrocarpon to the growth medium of P-fimbriated Escherichia coli. J Urol 1998;159:559–562.
Anon. Possible interaction between warfarin and cranberry juice. Curr Probl Pharmacovigilance 2003; 29:8.
Avorn J. The effect of cranberry juice on the presence of bacteria and white blood cells in the urine of elderly women. What is the role of bacterial adhesion? Adv Exp Med Biol 1996; 408:185–186.
Bomser J, Madhavi DL, Singletary K, Smith MA. In vitro anticancer activity of fruit extracts from Vaccinium species. Planta Med 1996; 62:212–216.
Burger O, Ofek I, Tabak M et al. A high molecular mass constituent of cranberry juice inhibits helicobacter pylori adhesion to human gastric mucus. FEMS Immunol Med Microbiol 2000; 29:295–301.
Fleet JC. New support for a folk remedy: cranberry juice reduces bacteriuria and pyuria in elderly women. Nutr Rev 1994; 52:168–170.
Foo LY, Lu Y, Howell AB, Vorsa N. The structure of cranberry proanthocyanidins which inhibit adherence of uropathogenic P-fimbriated Escherichia coli in vitro. Phytochemistry 2000; 54:173–181.
Habash MB, Van der Mei HC, Busscher HJ, Reid G. The effect of water, ascorbic acid, and cranberry derived supplementation on human urine and uropathogen adhesion to silicone rubber. Can J Microbiol 1999; 45:691–694.
Harkins K. What’s the use of cranberry juice? Age Ageing 2000; 29:9–12.
Hodek P, Trefil P, Stiborova M. Flavonoids-potent and versatile biologically active compounds interacting with cytochromes P450. Chem Biol Interact 2002; 139:1–21.
Howell AB, Vorsa N, Foo LY et al. Inhibition of the adherence of P-fimbriated Escherichia coli to uroepithelial-cell surfaces by proanthocyanidin extracts from cranberries (letter). N Engl J Med 1998; 339:1085–1086.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kinney AB, Blount M. Effect of cranberry juice on urinary pH. Nurs Res 1979;28:287–290.
Konowalchuk J, Speirs JI. Antiviral effect of commercial juices and beverages. Appl Environ Microbiol 1978; 35:1219–1220.
Lee YL, Owens J, Thrupp L, Cesario TC. Does cranberry juice have antibacterial activity? JAMA 2000; 283:1691.
Lowe FC, Fagelman E. Cranberry juice and urinary tract infections: what is the evidence? Urology 2001; 57:407–413.
Ofek I, Goldhar J, Zafriri D et al. Anti-Escherichia coli adhesin activity of cranberry and blueberry juices. N Engl J Med 1991; 324:1599.
Pedersen CB, Kyle J, Jenkinson AM et al. Effects of blueberry and cranberry juice consumption on the plasma antioxidant capacity of healthy female volunteers. Eur J Clin Nutr 2000; 54:405–408.
Schmidt DR, Sobota AE. An examination of the anti-adherence activity of cranberry juice on urinary and nonurinary bacterial isolates. Microbios 1988; 55:173–181.
Sobota AE. Inhibition of bacterial adherence by cranberry juice: potential use for the treatment of urinary tract infections. J Urol 1984; 131:1013–1016.
Weiss EI, Lev-Dor R, Kashamn Y et al. Inhibiting interspecies coaggregation of plaque bacteria with a cranberry juice constituent. JADA 1998; 129:1719–1723.

Calendula officinalis : synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-03-01T02:11:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related substances

Garden marigold
gold-bloom
holligold
marigold
marybud
pot marigold

Pharmacology

Calendula has anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous properties, and the faridol esters are believed to have the most pronounced anti-inflammatory effect.
Topically, the triterpene and flavonoid constituents were shown to have antiinflammatory activity in vivo.
Topically, calendula increases physiologic regeneration and epitheliliazation of surgical wounds.
Calendula may have immune-stimulating activity in vitro.
Calendula has anti-bacterial and anti-viral activity.
Calendula has anti-mutagenic properties.

Drug interactions

Barbiturates
Drugs with sedative properties

Part used

Flowers

References

Akihisa T, Yasukawa K, Oinuma H et al. Triterpene alcohols from the flowers of compositae and their anti-inflammatory effects. Phytochemistry 1996; 43: 1255–1260.
Bezakova L, Masterova I, Paulikova I, Psenak M. Inhibitory activity of isorhamnetin glycosides from Calendula officinalis L. on the activity of lipoxygenase. Pharmazie 1996; 51:126–127.
Boucaud-Maitre Y, Algernon O, Raynaud J. Cytotoxic and antitumoral activity of Calendula officinalis extracts. Pharmazie 1988; 43:220–221.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.11
Della Loggia R, Tubaro A, Sosa S et al. The role of triterpenoids in the topical antiinflammatory activity of Calendula officinalis flowers. Planta Med 1994; 60:516–520.
Dumenil G, Chemli R, Balansard C, Guiraud H, Lallemand M. [Evaluation of antibacterial properties of marigold flowers (Calendula officinalis L.) and mother homeopathic tinctures of C. officinalis L. and C. arvensis L]. Ann Pharm Fr 1980; 38:493–499.
Elias R, De Meo M V-OE, Laget M, Balansard G, Dumenil G. Antimutagenic activity of some saponins isolated from Calendula officinalis L., C. arvensis L. and Hedera helix L. Mutagenesis 1990; 5:327–331.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Wagner H, Proksch A, Riess-Maurer I et al. [Immunostimulating action of polysaccharides (heteroglycans) from higher plants]. Arzneimittelforschung 1985; 35:1069–1075.
Zitterl-Eglseer K, Sosa S, Jurenitsch J et al. Anti-oedematous activities of the main triterpendiol esters of marigold (Calendula officinalis L). J Ethnopharmacol 1997; 57:139–144.

Acorus calamus: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-28T02:04:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related substances

Cinnamon sedge
Gladdon
Grass myrtle
Myrtle flag
Myrtle sedge
Sweet cane
Sweet cinnamon
Sweet flag
Sweet grass
Sweet myrtle
Sweet root
Sweet rush
Sweet sedge

Pharmacology

b-Asarone is potentially hepatocarcinogenic. Once b-asarone has undergone metabolic 1'-hydroxylation in the liver, its carcinogenic potency is low and its major metabolite (2,4,5-trimethoxycinnamic acid) was not reported as carcinogenic.
Calamus oil inhibits monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity and stimulates Dand L-amino oxidase.
b-Asarone has anti-spasmodic activity in vitro in the tracheal, intestinal, uterine, bronchial and vascular smooth muscle.
Calamus has a sedative effect and potentiates the barbiturate effect (increased sleeping time, reduction in body temperature).
a-Asarone decreases low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides and increases high-density lipoproteins.
a-Asarone is non-mutagenic in mice.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulant drugs
MOA inhibitor drugs
Sedative/barbiturate drugs

Part containing toxins

Rhizome

References

Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Chamorro G, Salazar M, Salazar S, Mendoza T. [Pharmacology and toxicology of Guatteria gaumeri and alpha-asarone]. Rev Invest Clin 1993; 45:597–604.
Chamorro G, Salazar M, Tamariz J, Diaz F, Labarrios F. Dominant lethal study of alpha-asarone in male and female mice after sub-chronic treatment. Phytother Res 1999; 13:308–311.
Hasheminejad G, Caldwell J. Genotoxicity of the alkenylbenzenes alpha- and betaasarone, myristicin and elimicin as determined by the UDS assay in cultured rat hepatocytes. Food Chem Toxicol 1994; 32:223–231.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Keller K, Odenthal KP, Leng-Peschlow E. [Spasmolytic effect of isoasaron free calamus]. Planta Med 1985:6–9.
Labarrios F, Garduno L, Vidal MR et al. Synthesis and hypolipidaemic evaluation of a series of alpha-asarone analogues related to clofibrate in mice. J Pharm Pharmacol 1999; 51:1–7.
Luo G, Qato MK, Guenthner TM. Hydrolysis of the 2 ,3 -allylic epoxides of allylbenzene, estragole, eugenol, and safrole by both microsomal and cytosolic epoxide hydrolases. Drug Metab Dispos 1992; 20:440–445.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Rubio-Poo C, Lemini C, Garcia-Mondragon J et al. The anticoagulant effect of beta-asarone in the mouse and the rat. Proc West Pharmacol Soc 1991; 34:107–112.
Wichtl M, Czygan FC, Frohne D et al. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. Stuttgart, DE: Medpharm-CRC Press, 1994:566.

Borago officinalis: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-27T02:01:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Borage oil
Bugloss
Burage
Burrage
Huile de bourrache
Starflower

Pharmacology

Diets rich in borage oil were shown to reduce systolic blood pressure, lower aldosterone, increase plasma renin and inhibit adrenal responsiveness to angiotensin II.
Borage oil alters stress reactivity in humans by attenuating blood pressure and heart rate responses to stress, increasing skin temperature, improving task performance, and augment the arterial baroreflex control of vascular resistance.
The borage oil constituent GLA increases prostaglandin E levels and reduces T cell proliferation in vivo.
Borage oil reverses epidermal hyperproliferation.
GLA supplementation was shown to decrease plasma triglyceride, increase high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and significantly decrease total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.
GLA supplementation was shown to decrease platelet aggregation and increase bleeding time by 40%.
Borage oil supplementation does not improve insulin sensitivity in vivo.

Drug interactions

Anesthesia
Anti-convulsant/anti-seizure drugs
Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Phenothiazines

Parts used

Seed
Leaves

References

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Engler MM, Schambelan M, Engler MB, Ball DL, Goodfriend TL. Effects of dietary gamma-linolenic acid on blood pressure and adrenal angiotensin receptors in hypertensive rats. Proc Soc Exp Biol Med 1998; 218:234–237.
Guivernau M, Meza N, Barja P, Roman O. Clinical and experimental study on the long-term effect of dietary gamma-linolenic acid on plasma lipids, platelet aggregation,thromboxane formation, and prostacyclin production. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1994; 51:311–316.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton,CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kast RE. Borage oil reduction of rheumatoid arthritis activity may be mediated by increased cAMP that suppresses tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Int Immunopharmacol 2001; 1:2197–2199.
Leventhal LJ, Boyce EG, Zurier RB. Treatment of rheumatoid arthritis with gammalinolenic acid. Ann Intern Med 1993; 119:867–873.
Miller LG. Herbal medicinals: selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug–herb interactions. Arch Intern Med 1998; 158:2200–2211.
Mills DE, Mah M, Ward RP, Morris BL, Floras JS. Alteration of baroreflex control of forearm vascular resistance by dietary fatty acids. Am J Physiol 1990; 259:R1164–71.
Mills DE, Prkachin KM, Harvey KA, Ward RP. Dietary fatty acid supplementation alters stress reactivity and performance in man. J Hum Hypertens 1989; 3:111–116.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Rosenstein ED, Kushner LJ, Kramer N, Kazandjian G. Pilot study of dietary fatty acid supplementation in the treatment of adult periodontitis. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2003; 68:213–218.
Rossetti RG, Seiler CM, DeLuca P, Laposata M, Zurier RB. Oral administration of unsaturated fatty acids: effects on human peripheral blood T lymphocyte proliferation. J Leukoc Biol 1997; 62:438–443.
Shaw D, Leon C, Kolev S, Murray V. Traditional remedies and food supplements. A 5-year toxicological study (1991–1995). Drug Saf 1997; 17:342–356.
Simoncikova P, Wein S, Gasperikova D et al. Comparison of the extrapancreatic action of gamma-linolenic acid and n-3 PUFAs in the high fat diet-induced insulin resistance. Endocr Regul 2002; 36:143–149.

Caulophyllum thalictroides: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-26T01:57:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Blue cohosh
Blue ginseng
Caulophyllum
Papoose root
Squaw root
Yellow ginseng

Pharmacology

Blue cohosh extract was shown to enhance estradiol binding to estrogen receptors and to increase estradiol-induced transcription activity in estrogenresponsive cells.
Blue cohosh was shown to decrease luteinizing hormone levels and to increase serum ceruloplasmin oxidase activity, which are measures of estrogenic activity in the liver.

Drug interactions

Anti-diabetic drugs
Cardiovascular drugs
Nicotine

Parts used

Rhizome and root

References

Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton,CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Jones TK, Lawson B. Profound neonatal congestive heart failure caused by maternal consumption of blue cohosh herbal medication. J Pediatr 1998; 132(3 Pt 1):550–552.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Rao RB, Hoffman R. Nicotinic toxicity from tincture of blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) used as an abortifacient. Vet Hum Toxicol 2002; 44:221–222.

Eleutherococcus senticosus: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-25T14:59:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Ci wu jia
Ciwujia
Devil’s bush
Devil’s shrub
Eleuthera
Eleuthero
Eleuthero ginseng
Eleutherococ
Eleutherococc
Eleutherococci radix
Eleutherococcus Ginseng
Phytoestrogen
Prickly eleutherococc
Russian root
Shigoka
Siberian Ginseng
Thorny bearer of free berries
Touch-me-not
Untouchable
Ussuri
Ussurian thorny pepperbrush
Wild pepper
Wu jia pi
Wu-jia

Pharmacology

Siberian ginseng inhibits the alarm reaction to stress and decreases the activation of the adrenal cortex.
Siberian ginseng has anti-viral activity, where it inhibits human rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza A virus.
Siberian ginseng increases lymphocyte count, particularly T lymphocytes, and increases phagocyte activity.
Several constituents of Siberian ginseng have antioxidant and possible anticancer effects, particularly on leukemia cells.
The constituent coniferyl aldehyde protects DNA against breakage caused by ultraviolet light.
The constituent protocatechuic acid may inhibit platelet aggregation.
Siberian ginseng eleutheroside G and saponins may have hypoglycemic activity.
Siberian ginseng may have anti-tubercular activity.
Intravenous Siberian ginseng may reduce myocardial infarct size.
Siberian ginseng may inhibit cytochrome P450 CYP1A2 and CYP2C9 enzymes.25,26 It does not appear to inhibit drug metabolism by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 enzymes in humans.

Drug interactions

Alcohol (ethanol)
Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Anti-diabetic drugs
Central nervous system depressants
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) and P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) enzymes
Digoxin (Lanoxin)

Parts used

Root, rhizome

References

Awang DVC. Siberian ginseng toxicity may be case of mistaken identity. CMAJ 1996; 155:1237.
Bohn B, Nebe CT, Birr C. Low-cytometric studies with Eleuthrococcus senticosus extract as an immunomodulatory agent. Arzneimittelforschung 1987; 37:1193–1196.
Brekhman II, Kirillox OI. Effect of eleutherococcus on alarm-phase of stress. Life Sci 1969; 8:113–121.
Davydov M, Krikorian AD. Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim. (Araliaceae) as an adaptogen: a closer look. J Ethnopharmacol 2000; 72:345–393.
Donovan JL, DeVane CL, Chavin KD et al. Siberian Ginseng (Eleutheroccus senticosus) effects on CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 activity in normal volunteers. Drug Metab Dispos 2003; 31:519–522.
Glatthaar-Saalmuller B, Sacher F, Esperester A. Antiviral activity of an extract derived from roots of Eleutherococcus senticosus. Antiviral Res 2001; 50:223–228.
Hacker B, Medon PJ. Cytotoxic effects of Eleutherococcus senticosus aqueous extracts in combination with N6-(delta 2-isopentenyl)-adenosine and 1-beta-Darabinofuranosylcytosine against L1210 leukemia cells. J Pharm Sci 1984; 73:270–272.
Harkey MR, Henderson GL, Zhou L et al. Effects of Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) on c-DNA-expressed P450 drug metabolizing enzymes. Alt Ther 2001; 7:S14.
Hikino H, Takahashi M, Otake K, Konno C. Isolation and hypoglycemic activity of eleutherans A, B, C, D, E, F, and G: glycans of Eleutherococcus senticosus roots. J Nat Prod 1986; 49:293–297.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Koren G, Randor S, Martin S, Danneman D. Maternal ginseng use associated with neonatal androgenization. JAMA 1990; 264:2866.
Medon PJ, Ferguson PW, Watson CF. Effects of Eleutherococcus senticosus extracts on hexobarbital metabolism in vivo and in vitro. J Ethnopharmacol 1984; 10:235–241.
Shen ML, Zhai SK, Chen HL. Immunomopharmacological effects of polysaccharides from Acanthopanax senticosus on experimental animals. Int J Immunopharmacol 1991; 13:549–554.
Sui DY, Lu ZZ, Li SH, Cai Y. [Hypoglycemic effect of saponin isolated from leaves of Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr. et Maxin.) Harms]. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 1994; 19:683–685, 703.
Sui DY, Lu ZZ, Ma LN, Fan ZG. [Effects of the leaves of Acanthopanax senticosus (Rupr. et Maxim.) Harms. On myocardial infarct size in acute ischemic dogs]. Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi 1994; 19:746–747, 764.
Szolomicki S, Samochowiec L, Wojcicki J, Drozdzik M. The influence of active components of Eleutherococcus senticosus on cellular defense and physical fitness in man. Phytother Res 2000; 14:30–35.
Yun-Choi HS, Kim JH, Lee JR. Potential inhibitors of platelet aggregation from plant sources, III. J Nat Prod 1987; 50:1059–1064.

Trifolium pratense: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-24T14:54:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Beebread
Clovone
Cow clover
Daidzein
Genistein
Isoflavone
Isoflavones
Meadow clover
Phytoestrogen
Phytoestrogens
Purple clover
Trefoil
Trifolium
Wild clover

Pharmacology

The phytoestrogens biochanin A and formononetin, and other isoflavones are metabolized to the isoflavones genistein and daidzein, respectively, when ingested.
Red clover has estrogenic and anti-estrogenic properties.
Isoflavones have a higher affinity for b-estrogen receptors (heart, vasculature, bone, and bladder) than a-estrogen receptors.
Red clover may prevent osteoporosis due to its weak estrogenic activity and to the osteoclast inhibitory activity of its metabolite genistein.
Red clovers improves systemic arterial compliance, thereby preventing cardiovascular disease.
Red clover increases bile acid excretion and up-regulates low-density lipoprotein receptors.
Red clover may have anti-carcinogenic activity, particularly in reducing the risk of endometrial cancer, due to estrogenic and anti-estrogenic activity.
Red clover may have anti-coagulant effects.
Red clover may interfere with the cytochrome P450 CYP3A4 enzyme.

Drug interactions

Anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs
Estrogen or oral contraceptives
Tomoxifen
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 CYP3A4

Part used

Flower top

References

Anon. Phytoestrogens. Med Letter 2000; 42:17–18.
Anon. The role of isoflavones in menopausal health: consensus opinion of the North American Menopause Society. Menopause 2000; 7:215–229.
Anthony MS. Soy and cardiovascular disease: Cholesterol lowering and beyond. J Nutr 2000; 130:662S–663S.
Atkinson C, Compston JE, Robins SP, Bingham SA. The effects of isoflavone phytoestrogens on bone; preliminary results from a large randomized, controlled trial, 82nd Annual Meeting of the Endocrine Society, Toronto, 21–24 June 2000.
Baird DD, Umbach DM, Lansdell L et al. Dietary intervention study to assess estrogenicity of dietary soy among postmenopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1995; 80:1685–1690.
Barnes S, Kim H, Darley-Usmar V et al. Beyond ERalpha and ERbeta: estrogen receptor binding is only part of the isoflavone story. J Nutr 2000; 130:656S–657S.
Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Arnason JT. An in vitro evaluation of human cytochrome P450 3A4 inhibition by selected commercial herbal extracts and tinctures. Phytomedicine 2000; 7:273–282.
Cassady JM, Zennie TM, Chae YH et al. Use of a mammalian cell culture benzo(a)pyrene metabolism assay for the detection of potential anticarcinogens from natural products: inhibition of metabolism by biochanin A, an isoflavone from Trifolium pratense L. Cancer Res 1988; 48:6257–6261.
Duncan AM, Underhill KE, Xu X et al. Modest hormonal effects of soy isoflavones in postmenopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999; 84:3479–3484.
Ginsburg J, Prelevic GM. Lack of significant hormonal effects and controlled trials of phyto-oestrogens. Lancet 2000; 355:163–164.
Hargreaves DF, Potten CS, Harding C et al. Two-week dietary soy supplementation has an estrogenic effect on normal premenopausal breast. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999; 84:4017–4024.
Hodgson JM, Puddey IB, Beilin LJ et al. Supplementation with isoflavonoid phytoestrogens does not alter serum lipid concentrations: a randomized controlled trial in humans. J Nutr 1998; 128:728–732.
Horn-Ross PL, John EM, Canchola AJ et al. Phytoestrogen intake and endometrial cancer risk. J Natl Cancer Inst 2003; 95:1158–1164.
Howes JB, Sullivan D, Lai N et al. The effects of dietary supplementation with isoflavones from red clover on the lipoprotein profiles of postmenopausal women with mild to moderate hypercholesterolemia. Atherosclerosis 2000; 152:143–147.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kurzer MS, Xu X. Dietary phytoestrogens. Annu Rev Nutr 1997; 17:353–381.
Le Bail JC, Champavier Y, Chulia AJ, Habrioux G. Effects of phytoestrogens on aromatase, 3beta and 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activities and human breast cancer cells. Life Sci 2000; 66:1281–1291.
Lissin LW, Cooke JP. Phytoestrogens and cardiovascular health. J Am Coll Cardiol 2000; 35:1403–1410.
Nelsen J, Barrette E, Tsouronix C et al. Red clover (Trifolium pratense) monograph: a clinical decision support tool. J Herb Pharmacother 2002; 2:49–72.
Nestel PJ, Pomeroy S, Kay S et al. Isoflavones from red clover improve systemic arterial compliance but not plasma lipids in menopausal women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1999; 84:895–898.
Puschner B, Galey FD, Holstege DM et al. Sweet clover poisoning in dairy cattle in California. J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:857–859.
Setchell KD, Cassidy A. Dietary isoflavones: biological effects and relevance to human health. J Nutr 1999; 129:758S–767S.
Setchell KD. Absorption and metabolism of soy isoflavones: from food to dietary supplements and adults to infants. J Nutr 2000; 130:654S–655S.
This P, De La Rochefordiere A, Clough K et al. Phytoestrogens after breast cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer 2001; 8:129–134.
Umland EM, Cauffield JS, Kirk JK et al. Phytoestrogens as therapeutic alternatives to traditional hormone replacement in postmenopausal women. Pharmacotherapy 2000; 20:981–990.
Vincent A, Fitzpatrick LA. Soy isoflavones: are they useful in menopause? Mayo Clin Proc 2000; 75:1174–1184.
Yanagihara K, Ito A, Toge T, Numoto M. Antiproliferative effects of isoflavones on human cancer cell lines established from the gastrointestinal tract. Cancer Res 1993; 53:5815–5821.
Zand RS, Jenkins DJ, Diamandis EP. Steroid hormone activity of flavonoids and related compounds. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2000; 62:35–49.

Urtica dioica, U. urens: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-23T14:49:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Common nettle
Dwarf nettle
Great stinging nettle
Nettle
Nettles
Ortie
Small nettle
Urtica
Urticae herba et folium

Pharmacology - Above ground parts

Stinging nettle leaf has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, local anesthetic, hemostatic, antibacterial, antiviral, and hyperglycemic effects.
Stinging nettle contains the uterotropic constituent 5-hydroxytryptamine.
The constituent quercetin decreases histamine release from basophils and mast cells.
The leaf has been shown to have diuretic properties where it increases urine output and to slightly decrease systolic blood pressure and body weight in people with venous insufficiency.
Stinging nettle may inhibit adrenergic stimulation, tumor necrosis factor, and platelet activation factor.
Stinging nettle lowers body temperature and may act as a central nervous system depressant.
Stinging nettle may have anti-seizure activity.
Stinging nettle may decrease blood pressure and heart rate.
Stinging nettle contains a large amount of vitamin C and carotene.

Pharmacology - Root

Stinging nettle root has immunomodulating and weak anti-inflammatory properties.
Root extracts have been shown to decrease binding capacity of sex hormonebinding globulin and to suppress prostatic cell metabolism.
Root extracts have been shown to increase urine output, decreased nocturia, and decreased urinary frequency.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulants
Anti-diabetic drugs
Anti-hypertensive agents
Central nervous system depressants

Parts used

above ground parts
leaf

References

Anon. Quercetin. Alt Med Rev 1998; 3:140–143.
Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A et al. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Boston, MA: American Botanical Council, 1998.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies, 3rd ed. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1993.
Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, 1998.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs. Exeter, UK: European Scientific Co-op Phytother, 1997.
Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-care Professionals. London, UK: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:296.
Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE, Terry C. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician’s Guide to Herbal Medicine, 3rd ed. Berlin: Springer, 1998.
The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999.
Wichtl M, Czygan FC, Frohne D et al. Herbal drugs and phytopharmaceuticals. Stuttgart, DE: Medpharm-CRC Press, 1994:566.

Aletris farinosa: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-22T02:46:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Ague grass
ague root
aloerot
colic root
crow corn
devil’s-bit, stargrass
starwort
true-unicorn root
unicorn root
whitetube stargrass

Pharmacology

Aletris was found to be estrogenic.
Diosgenin is one of the starting hormones use in the manufacture of steroid hormones.
Aletris may increase stomach acid secretion.
Aletris is an irritant to the gastrointestinal tract.

Drug interactions

Oxytocin drugs
Acid-inhibiting drugs

Parts used

Root

References

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 3rd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.

Aconitum napellus: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-21T15:03:00.000-08:00

Synonyms and common names

Wolfsbane
Aconiti tuber
Autumn monkshood
Blue monkshood root
Chuan-wu
Monkshood tuber
Friar’s cap
Monkshood
Mousebane
Aconite

Pharmacology

Monkshood alkaloids have anti-nociceptive effects and can be useful analgesics.
Monkshood alkaloids have muscarinic effects where they stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, causing bradycardia and hypotension.
The constituent lappaconitine is an antagonist of both sodium and calcium channels, thereby causing anti-arrhythmia and bradycardia-like effects.

Part used

Whole herb

References

Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Gutser UT, Friese J, Heubach JF et al. Mode of antinociceptive and toxic action of alkaloids of Aconitum spec. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 1998; 357:39–48.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed.Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.

Piper methysticum: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-21T14:49:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related compounds

Ava
Ava pepper
Ava root
Awa
Gea
Gi
Intoxicating long pepper
Intoxicating pepper
Kao

Kava kava
Kava-kava
Kava-kava root
Kava pepper
Kava root
Kavain
Kavapipar
Kawa
Kawa kawa
Kawa-kawa
Kawa pepper
Kawapfeffer
Kew
Long pepper
Maori kava
Malohu
Maluk
Meruk
Milik
Rauschpfeffer
Rhizome di kava-kava
Sakau
Tonga
Wurzelstock
Yagona
Yangona
Yaqona
Yongona

Pharmacology

People consuming kava have reported feeling more sociable, tranquil, and generally happy.
Kava’s sedative effects may result from an increase in the number of caminobutyric acid binding sites.
Kava’s sedative effects may also result from dopamine antagonism, particularly by the vangonin constituent.
The kavapyrones methycystine and kavain may inhibit the uptake of noradrenaline, thereby contributing to the psychotropic actions of kava.
Kava has not been shown to affect benzodiazepine receptors.
Kava may affect the limbic system.
Kava appears to produce motor sedation without affecting respiratory processes.
Kava may cause muscle paralysis and numb the mouth through a mechanism similar to local anesthetics such as cocaine.
The kavapyrones desmethoxyyangonin and methysticin appear to competitively inhibit monoamine oxidase B.
Kava may inhibit enzymes in the cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 pathways.
The kavapyrone kavain inhibits cyclooxygenase and decreases the synthesis of thromboxane A2, thereby decreasing platelet aggregation.
Kava may affect the following cytochrome P450 enzymes: P450 2C19 (CYP2C19), P450 1A2 (CYP1A2), P450 2C9 (CYP2C9), P450 2D6 (CYP2D6), and P450 3A4 (CYP3A4).

Drug interactions

Alprazolam
Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Central nervous system depressants
Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19), P450 1A2 (CYP1A2), P450 2C9 (CYP2C9), P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) and P450 3A4 (CYP3A4)
Hepatotoxic drugs
Levodopa (Larodopa, Dopar)
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors

Parts used

rhizome
root
stem

References

Almeida JC, Grimsley EW. Coma from the health food store: interaction between kava and alprazolam. Ann Intern Med 1996; 125:940–941.
Baum SS, Hill R, Rommelspacher H. Effect of kava extract and individual kavapyrones on neurotransmitter levels in the nucleus accumbens of rats. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 1998; 22:1105–1120.
Bilia AR, Gallori S, Vincieri FF. Kava-kava and anxiety: growing knowledge about the efficacy and safety. Life Sci 2002; 70:2581–2597.
Boonen G, Pramanik A, Rigler R, Haberlein H. Evidence for specific interactions between kavain and human cortical neurons monitored by fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. Planta Med 2000; 66:7–10.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Davies LP, Drew CA, Duffield P et al. Kava pyrones and resin: studies on GABA-A, GABA-B, and benzodiazepine binding sites in rodent brain. Pharmacol Toxicol 1992; 71:120–126.
Escher M, Desmeules J, Giostra E, Mentha G. Drug points: hepatitis associated with kava, a herbal remedy for anxiety. BMJ 2001; 322:139.
Fetrow CW, Avala JR. Professional’s Handbook of Complementary and Alternative Medicines: Springhouse Corporation, 1999.
Gleitz J, Beile A, Wilkens P et al. Antithrombotic action of the kava pyrone ( )- kavain prepared from Piper methysticum on human platelets. Planta Med 1997; 63:27–30.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Jussofie A, Schmiz A, Hiemke C. Kavapyrone enriched extract from Piper methysticum as modulator of the GABA binding site in different regions of rat brain. Psychopharmacology 1994; 116:469–474.
Lehmann E, Kinzler E, Friedemann J. Efficacy of a special Kava extract (Piper methysticum) in patients with states of anxiety, tension and excitedness of nonmental origin: a double-blind placebo-controlled study of four weeks treatment. Phytomedicine 1996; 3:113–119.
Mathews JM, Etheridge AS, Black SR. Inhibition of human cytochrome P450 activities by kava extract and kavalactones. Drug Metab Dispos 2002; 30:1153–1157.
Meseguer E, Taboada R, Sanchez V et al. Life-threatening parkinsonism induced by kava-kava. Mov Disord 2002; 17:195–196.
Munte TF, Heinze HJ, Matzke M, Steitz J. Effects of oxazepam and an extract of kava roots (Piper methysticum) on event-related potentials in a word recognition task. Neuropsychobiology 1993; 27:46–53.
Pierce A. The American Pharmaceutical Association Practical Guide to Natural Medicines. New York, NY: The Stonesong Press, 1999:19.
Pittler MH, Ernst E. Efficacy of kava extract for treating anxiety: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Psychopharmacol 2000; 20:84–89.
Pizzorno JE, Murray MT. Textbook of Natural Medicine, 2nd ed. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 1999.
Russmann S, Lauterberg BH, Hebling A. Kava hepatotoxicity [letter]. Ann Intern Med 2001; 135:68.
Schelosky L, Raffaup C, Jendroska K, Poewe W. Kava and dopamine antagonism. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 1995; 58:639–640.
Seitz U, Schule A, Gleitz J. [3H]-monoamine uptake inhibititon properties of kava pyrones. Planta Med 1997; 63:548–549.
Singh YN. Effects of kava on neuromuscular transmission and muscle contractility. J Ethnopharmacol 1983; 7:267–276.
Uebelhack R, Franke L, Schewe HJ. Inhibition of platelet MAO-B by kava pyroneenriched extract from Piper methysticum Forster (kava-kava). Pharmacopsychiatry 1998; 31:187–192.
Wu D, Yu L, Nair MG et al. Cyclooxygenase enzyme inhibitory compounds with antioxidant activities from Piper methysticum (kava kava) roots. Phytomedicine 2002; 9:41–47.

Coffea arabica, C. canephora, C. robusta, C. liberica: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-17T03:05:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related substances

Cafe
caffea
espresso
java
mocha

Pharmacology

Caffeine is a powerful stimulant of the central nervous system, respiration, and skeletal muscles.
Caffeine causes cardiac stimulation, coronary dilation, smooth muscle relaxation, increases blood pressure, increases heart rate and contractility, and diuresis.
Coffee stimulates gastric secretions.
Caffeine crosses the human placenta where fetal blood and tissue levels are similar to maternal concentrations.
Chlorogenic acid, a constituent in coffee, is reported to have stimulant, diuretic, choleretic properties and allergenic properties.
Chlorogenic acid may raise homocysteine levels.
Cafestol, a diterpene in unfiltered coffee, was shown to raise plasma triacylglycerol levels in humans.
Caffeine has anti-platelet activity.

Drug interactions

Acetaminophen (paracetamol)
Alendronate
Anti-coagulant/anti-platelet drugs
Anti-diabetic drugs
Aspirin
Benzodiazepines
BetaAdrenergic agonists
Cimetidine
Clozapine
Central nervous system stimulants
Disulfiram
Ephedrine
Ergotamine
Estrogen
Lithium
Mexiletine
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Oral contraceptives
Phenylpropanolamine
Quinolones
Riluzole
Terbinafine
Theophylline
Verapamil

Part used

Dried ripe seed

Reference

Ajarem JS, Ahmand M. Teratopharmacological and behavioral effects of coffee in mice. Acta Physiol Pharmacol Bulg 1996; 22:51–61.
Ali M, Afzal M. A potent inhibitor of thrombin stimulated platelet thromboxane formation from unprocessed tea. Prostaglandins Leukot Med 1987; 27:9–13.
Ardlie NG, Glew G, Schultz BG, Schwartz CJ. Inhibition and reversal of platelet aggregation by methyl xanthines. Thromb Diath Haemorrh 1967; 18:670–673.
Briggs GB, Freeman RK, Yaffe SJ. Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation. 5th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 1998.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Carbo M, Segura J, De la Torre R et al. Effect of quinolones on caffeine disposition. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1989; 45:234–240.
de Roos B, Caslake MJ, Stalenhoef A et al. The coffee diterpene cafestol increases plasma triacylglycerol by increasing the production rate of large VLDL apolipoprotein B in healthy normolipidemic subjects. Am J Clin Nutr 2001; 73:45–52.
DiPiro JT, Talbert RL, Yee GC et al. Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach, 4th ed. Stamford, CT: Appleton & Lange, 1999.
Hagg S, Spigset O, Mjorndal T, Dahlqvist R. Effect of caffeine on clozapine pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2000; 49:59–63.
Harder S, Fuhr U, Staib AH, Wolff T. Ciprofloxacin-caffeine: a drug interaction established using in vivo and in vitro investigations. Am J Med 1989; 87:89S–91S.
Healy DP, Polk RE, Kanawati L et al. Interaction between oral ciprofloxacin and caffeine in normal volunteers. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 1989; 33:474–478.
Jefferson JW. Lithium tremor and caffeine intake: two cases of drinking less and shaking more. J Clin Psychiatry 1988; 49:72–73.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Klag MJ, Wang NY, Meoni L et al. Coffee intake and risk of hypertension: the Johns Hopkins precursors study. Arch Intern Med 2002; 162:657–662.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Martindale: The Extra Pharmacopoeia. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1982.
McKevoy GK. AHFS Drug Information. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, 1998.
Mester R, Toren P, Mizrachi I et al. Caffeine withdrawal increases lithium blood levels. Biol Psychiatry 1995; 37:348–350.
MICROMEDEX. Micromedex Healthcare Series. Englewood, CO: MICROMED EX.
Morton JF. Major Medicinal Plants: Botany, Culture, and Uses. Springfield, IL: Thomas, 1981.
Olthof MR, Hollman PC, Zock P, Katan MB. Consumption of high doses of chlorogenic acid, present in coffee, or of black tea increases plasma total homocysteine concentrations in humans. Am J Clin Nutr 2001; 73:532–538.
Pollock BG, Wylie M, Stack JA et al. Inhibition of caffeine metabolism by estrogen replacement therapy in postmenopausal women. J Clin Pharmacol 1999; 39:936–940.
Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicinals. New York, NY: The Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Schulz V, Hansel R, Tyler VE, Terry C. Rational Phytotherapy: A Physician’s Guide to Herbal Medicine, 3rd ed. Berlin: Springer, 1998.
Sklar S et al. Drug therapy screening system. Indianapolis, IN: First Data Bank:99.

Cimicifuga racemosa: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-15T02:35:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

Baneberry
black snakeroot
bugbane
bugwort
cimicifuga
macrotys
phytoestrogen
rattle root
rattle snakeroot
rattle top
rattlesnake root
rattleweed
snakeroot
squaw root
squawroot

Pharmacology

In some studies, black cohosh constituents bind to estrogen receptors in vitro or have an estrogenic effect. In other studies, black cohosh estrogenic or estrogen receptor-binding effects were not found.
Black cohosh antagonizes the proliferation of cells induced by estradiol in vitro, thereby having anti-estrogenic acitivity.
Black cohosh decreases luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, but has no effect on follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) levels.
Black cohosh inhibits the growth of human breast cancer cells in vitro.
Black cohosh has anti-inflammatory effects where the constituents caffeic acid, fukinolic acid and cimicifugic acids (A, B, E, F) were found to inhibit neutrophil elastase activity in vitro.
Black cohosh possesses a central activity instead of a hormonal effect.

Drug interactions

Docetaxel
Doxorubicin

Parts used

Roots, rhizome

Reference:

Bodinet C, Freudenstein J. Influence of Cimicifuga racemosa on the proliferation of estrogen receptor-positive human breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2002; 76:1–10.
Borrelli F, Izzo A, Ernst E. Pharmacological effects of Cimicifuga racemosa. Life Sci 2003; 73:1215–1229.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Dixon-Shanies D, Shaikh N. Growth inhibition of human breast cancer cells by herbs and phytoestrogens. Oncol Rep 1999; 6:1383–1387.
Duker EM, Kopanski L, Jarry H, Wuttke W. Effects of extracts from Cimicifuga racemosa on gonadotropin release in menopausal women and ovariectomized rats. Planta Med 1991; 57:420–424.
Einer-Jensen N, Zhao J, Andersen KP, Kristoffersen K. Cimicifuga and Melbrosia lack oestrogenic effects in mice and rats. Maturitas 1996; 25:149–153.
Jarry H, Harnischfeger G, Duker E. [The endocrine effects of constituents of Cimicifuga racemosa. 2. In vitro binding of constituents to estrogen receptors]. Planta Med 1985; 4:316–4319.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2004:1530.
Kruse SO, Lohning A, Pauli GF, Winterhoff H, Nahrstedt A. Fukiic and piscidic acid esters from the rhizome of Cimicifuga racemosa and the in vitro estrogenic activity of fukinolic acid. Planta Med 1999; 65:763–764.
Liu J, Burdette J, Xu H et al. Evaluation of estrogenic activity of plant extracts for the potential treatment of menopausal symptoms. J Agric Food Chem 2001; 49:2472–2479.
Liu Z, YZ, Zhu M, Huo J. [Estrogenicity of black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) and its effect on estrogen receptor level in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells]. Wei Sheng Yan Jiu 2001; 30:77–80.
Loser B, Kruse S, Melzig MF, Nahrstedt A. Inhibition of neutrophil elastase activity by cinnamic acid derivatives from Cimicifuga racemosa. Planta Med 2000; 66:751–753.
Zierau O, Bodinet C, Kolba S, Wulf M, Vollmer G. Anti-estrogenic activities of Cimicifuga racemosa extracts. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2002; 80:125–130.

Vitex agnus-castus: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-14T02:54:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/ common names/ related compounds

Agnolyt
agnus castus
agnus-castus
chaste berry
chaste tree
chaste tree berry
chastetree
gattilier
hemp tree
monk’s pepper
vitex
Vitex agnus castus

Pharmacology

Chastetree may have estrogenic and progesterone activity.
Chastetree selectively binds to b-estrogen receptors (heart, vasculature, bone and bladder).
Chastetree may affect dopamine, acetylcholine, and opioid receptors.
In high doses, chastetree has agonist effects on pituitary dopamine (D2) receptors.
In women with hyperprolactinemia, chastetree appears to suppress prolactin release and normalize luteal phase defects in the menstrual cycle.
In men, lower doses of chastetree increase prolaction release while higher doses suppress prolaction release; chastetree does not appear to affect testosterone levels.
Chastetree may inhibit the growth of breast, ovarian, cervical, gastric, colon, and lung cancer cells.
Chasetree essential oils have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.

Drug interactions

Anti-psychotic drugs
Dopamine agonists
Oral contraceptives
Hormone replacement therapy

Part used

Fruit

Reference

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 3rd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2001:432.
Dixon-Shanies D, Shaikh N. Growth inhibition of human breast cancer cells by herbs and phytoestrogens. Oncol Rep 1999; 6:1383–1387.
Jarry H, Leonhardt S, Gorkow C, Wuttke W. In vitro prolactin but not LH and FSH release is inhibited by compounds in extracts of Agnus Castus: direct evidence for a dopaminergic principle by the dopamine receptor assay. Exp Clin Endocrinol 1994; 192:448–454.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Liu J, Burdette JE, Xu H et al. Evaluation of estrogenic activity of plant extracts for the potential treatment of menopausal symptoms. J Agric Food Chem 2001; 49:2472–2479.
Merz P, Gorkow C, Schroder A et al. The effects of a special Agnus castus extract (BP1095el) on prolactin secretion in healthy male subjects. Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes 1996; 104:447–453.
Milewicz A, Gejdel E, Sworen H et al. Vitex agnus castus extract in the treatment of luteal phase defects due to latent hyperprolactinemia. Results of a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind study. Arzneimittelforschung 1993; 43:752–756.
Mills S, Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine. London: Churchill Livingstone, 2000.
Ohyama K, Akaike T, Hirobe C, Yamakawa T. Cytotoxicity and apoptotic inducibility of Vitex agnus-castus fruit extract in cultured human normal and cancer cells and effect on growth. Biol Pharm Bull 2003; 26:10–18.
Wuttke W. Dopaminergic action of extracts of Agnus Castus. Forschende Komplementarmedizen 1996; 3:329–330.
Wuttke W, Jarry H, Christoffel V, Spengler B, Seidlova-Wuttke D. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus) – pharmacology and clinical indications. Phytomedicine 2003; 10:348–357.

Berberis vulgaris: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-13T02:23:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances,

European barberry
pepperidge
sow berry
jaundice berry
berberry
berbis
common barberry
epine-vinette
espino cambrón
pipperidge
piprage
sauerdorn
vinettier
agracejo
Berberidis cortex
B. fructus
B. radicis cortex
B. radix
berberitze

Pharmacology

Berberine was found to displace bilirubin bound to albumin in vitro. Berberine was found to be about 10 times superior to phenylbutazone, a known potent displacer of bilirubin, and about 100 times superior to papaverine, a berberine-type alkaloid.
The constituents berberine and oxyacanthine have been shown to have antibacterial activity.
Berberine has been shown to have amebicidal, anti-parasitic (trypanocidal) and anti-fungal activity.
Berberine and b-hydrastine were shown to have anti-Helicobacter pylori activity in vitro.
In low doses, berberine may act as a cardiac and respiratory stimulant, whereas in high doses it may act as a cardiac and respiratory depressant.
Berberine was shown to have anti-platelet activity.
Berberine, oxyacanthine, and barbamine were shown to have anti-inflammatory effects.
Berberine was found to have an anti-diarrheal effects.
Berberine was found to inhibit parathyroid hormone-stimulated bone resorption, inhibit osteoclastic bone resorption and prevent a decrease in bone mineral density of the lumbar vertebra.

Drug interactions

Anti-coagulant drugs
Highly protein-bound drugs

Parts used

Root

Reference

Abel G. [Chromosome-damaging effect of beta-asaron on human lymphocytes]. Planta Med 1987; 53:251–253.
Brinker F. The Toxicology of Botanical Medicines. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 2000:296.
Chan E. Displacement of bilirubin from albumin by berberine. Biol Neonate 1993; 63:201–208.
Foster S, Tyler VE. Tyler’s Honest Herbal. Binghamton, NY: Haworth Herbal Press, 1999.
Ghosh AK, Bhattacharyya FK, Ghosh DK. Leishmania donovani: amastigote inhibition and mode of action of berberine. Exp Parasitol 1985; 60:404–413.
Ghosh AK, Rakshit MM, Ghosh DK. Effect of berberine chloride on Leishmania donovani. Indian J Med Res 1983; 78:407–416.
Huang CG, Chu ZL, Wei SJ, Jiang H, Jiao BH. Effect of berberine on arachidonic acid metabolism in rabbit platelets and endothelial cells. Thromb Res 2002; 106:223–227.
Ivanovska N, Philipov S. Study on the anti-inflammatory action of Berberis vulgaris root extract, alkaloid fractions and pure alkaloids. Int J Immunopharmacol 1996; 18:553–561.
Ivanovska N, Philipov S, Hristova M. Influence of berberine on T-cell mediated immunity. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 1999; 21:771–786.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Kupeli E, Kosar M, Yesilada E, Husnu K, Baser C. A comparative study on the antiinflammatory, anti-nociceptive and anti-pyretic effects of isoquinoline alkaloids from the roots of Turkish Berberis species. Life Sci 2002; 72:645–657.
Leung AY, Foster S. Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients Used in Food, Drugs and Cosmetics, 2nd ed. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons, 1996:649.
Li H, Miyahara T, Tezuka Y et al. The effect of kampo formulae on bone resorption in vitro and in vivo. II. Detailed study of berberine. Biol Pharm Bull 1999; 22:391–396.
Mahady GB, Pendland SL, Stoia A, Chadwick LR. In vitro susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to isoquinoline alkaloids from Sanguinaria canadensis and Hydrastis canadensis. Phytother Res 2003; 17:217–221.
Mahajan VM, Sharma A, Rattan A. Anti-mycotic activity of berberine sulphate: an alkaloid from an Indian medicinal herb. Sabouraudia 1982; 20:79–81.
McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A. American Herbal Products Association’s Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, 1997:231.
Stermitz FR, Lorenz P, Tawara JN, Zenewicz LA, Lewis K. Synergy in a medicinal plant: anti-microbial action of berberine potentiated by 5'-methoxyhydnocarpin, a multidrug pump inhibitor. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 2000; 97:1433–1437.
Stermitz FR, Tawara-Matsuda J, Lorenz P et al. 5 -Methoxyhydnocarpin-D and pheophorbide A: Berberis species components that potentiate berberine growth inhibition of resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Nat Prod 2000; 63:1146–1149.
Yesilada E, Kupeli E. Berberis crataegina DC. root exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic and febrifuge effects in mice and rats. J Ethnopharmacol 2002; 79:237–248.

Astragalus membranaceus: synonyms, pharmacology, drug interactions, parts used

2011-02-12T02:01:00.000-08:00

Synonyms/common names/related substances

astragali
beg kei
bei qi
buck qi
huang qi
hwanggi
membranous milk vetch
milk vetch
Mongolian milk
ogi

Pharmacology

Astragalus is an antioxidant where it inhibits free radical production, increases superoxide dismutase, and decreases lipid peroxidation.
Astragalus acts as an immune stimulant by increasing the effects of interferon, by increasing antibody levels of IgA and IgG in nasal secretions, by improving the response of mononuclear cells and by stimulating lymphocyte production.
Astragalus may restore or improve immune function in cases of immune deficiency.
Lower doses appear to stimulate the immune system, while doses in excess of 28 g/day may suppress immunity.
Astragalus may increase proliferation and differentiation of bone marrow stem cells and progenitor cells when administered intravenously.
Astragalus decreases liver enzymes serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase and alanine aminotransferase.
Astragalus causes vasodilation and increases cardiac output.
Astragalus has anti-bacterial activity.

Drug interactions

Cyclophosphamide.
Immunosuppressants.

Parts used

Root

Reference:

Batey RG, Bensoussan A, Fan YY, Bollipo S, Hossain MA. Preliminary report of a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial of a Chinese herbal medicine preparation CH-100 in the treatment of chronic hepatitis C. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 1998; 13:244–247.
Chu DT, Wong WL, Mavligit GM. Immunotherapy with Chinese medicinal herbs. II. Reversal of cyclophosphamide-induced immune suppression by administration of fractionated Astragalus membranaceus in vivo. J Clin Lab Immunol 1988; 25:125–129.
Fu QL. [Experimental study on yiqi-huoxue therapy of liver fibrosis]. Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1992; 12:228–229, 198.
Jellin JM, Batz F, Hitchens K. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 3rd ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty, 2002:1530.
Sun Y, Hersh EM, Talpaz M et al. Immune restoration and/or augmentation of local graft versus host reaction by traditional Chinese medicinal herbs. Cancer 1983; 52:70–73.
Upton R. Astragalus Root: Analytical, quality control, and therapeutic monograph. Santa Cruz, CA: American Herbal Pharmacopoeia, 1999:1–25.

Herbal Products - Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology 2nd Edition

2010-12-30T07:36:00.000-08:00

The aim of Herbal Products - Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology 2nd Edition is to present, in both comprehensive and summative formats, objective information on herbal supplements from the most reliable sources, with an emphasis on information not readily available elsewhere (i.e., detailed descriptions of case reports of adverse effects, pharmacokinetics, interactions, etc.). It is not designed to be a “prescribers handbook;” the intended audience is both forensic and health care professionals, particularly researchers and clinicians interested in more detailed or context-oriented clinical information than is available in most “herbal” or “natural product” references.
Although information about dietary supplements is widely available on the Internet, it is usually provided by product distributors, and is designed to sell products rather than to provide objective information about product efficacy and toxicity. Even reviews of dietary supplements in journals, newsletters, books, and electronic databases can be biased or incorrect. In compiling information to be included in Herbal Products: Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Second Edition, emphasis was placed on the use of original studies published in reputable, peer-reviewed journals. Older studies, as well as more current literature, were utilized for completeness, with an emphasis on newer literature and double-blind, controlled trials. Where appropriate, information was obtained.
from meta-analyses, systematic reviews, or other high-quality reviews, such as those authored by recognized experts. Case reports of adverse effects and interactions, although anecdotal in nature, were used to identify and describe uncommon but potentially serious adverse events that may not have been noted in controlled studies because of small sample size or short duration.
Each of the chapters in this volume includes an Introduction, which contains a review of the product’s history and a description of the plant. This is followed by sections on Commonly Promoted Uses, Sources and Chemical Composition, and descriptions of Products Available, which is kept general because of the myriad and ever-changing products on the market. Product quality is also discussed in this section. The Pharmacological/Toxicological Effects section focuses on in vitro data and animal studies chosen to provide an explanation for the herb’s mechanism of action, clinical effects in humans, and rationale for clinical studies. It should be noted that because of the nature of herbal supplement claims (see Regulatory Status section), some promoted product uses might not have been studied in humans; conversely, known pharmacological and therapeutic effects might not be promoted commercially as a result of limitations in the ability of manufacturers to make “health claims” related to known pharmacological effects of various herbs. As a result, there is generally a mismatch among the nature of the information presented in the Commonly Promoted Uses and Pharmacological/Toxicological Effects sections. However, emphasis is placed on inclusion of basic science data and clinical studies that relate to the promoted uses.
The Pharmacokinetics section of each chapter covers absorption, tissue distribution, elimination, and body fluid concentrations. Such pharmacokinetic information is usually not included in other sources and may be useful in forensic investigations or in the clinical setting regarding use of the product in patients with renal or hepatic insufficiency. A section on Adverse Effects and Toxicity follows and includes detailed information on case reports of adverse reactions to the herb. The Interactions section includes discussions of interactions between the supplement and drugs or foods. The Reproduction section follows and is generally limited because of lack of information. Each chapter ends with a discussion of Regulatory Status of the product. The amount of information included in each of these sections varies according to availability.
Adverse reactions to herbals appear uncommon compared with those attributed to prescription drugs. This may be a function of health care and forensic professionals’ unfamiliarity with the products’ pharmacology and toxicology or assumption that the products are “natural” and therefore safe. Thus, an adverse reaction may go unrecognized or be attributed to a prescription medication.
It is hoped that the information in Herbal Products: Toxicology and Clinical Pharmacology, Second Edition will be used to solve clinical or forensic problems involving dietary supplements, promote dialogue between health care professionals and patients, and stimulate intellectual curiosity about these products, fostering further research into their therapeutic and adverse effects.

Product Details

Paperback: 290 pages
Publisher: Humana Press; 2nd edition (November 19, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1617374865
ISBN-13: 978-1617374869
Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.3 x 0.7 inches

The Consultation in Phytotherapy: The Herbal Practitioner's Approach to the Patient

2010-12-15T01:01:00.000-08:00

The Consultation in Phytotherapy considers the means by which the herbal practitioner can seek to appreciate the patient's predicament. Written for both herbal medicine students and practitioners, the book takes a radical approach, challenging readers to reflect on the nature, scope and methods of the consultation in herbal practice. The author asserts that the effective consultation represents a therapeutic act in and of itself, and proposes strategies for maximising and realising this therapeutic potential. The book provides both a complement to, and a critique of, mainstream texts on clinical diagnosis and case management. It contrasts the herbal consultation with that occurring in conventional medicine and offers rationales, arguments and tools aimed at developing an enhanced capacity to achieve profound results in the herbal clinical encounter.

About the Author
Peter Conway is a practising medical herbalist and has been involved in developing and teaching on several BSc and MSc courses in herbal medicine. He is the President of the College of Practitioners of Phytotherapy and a Director of the European Herbal and Traditional medicine Practitioners Association. Peter helped draft the National Professional Standards for Herbal Medicine and sat on the Department of Health Steering Group on the Statutory Regulation of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine.

Product Details

Hardcover: 424 pages
Publisher: Churchill Livingstone; 1 edition (September 24, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0443074925
ISBN-13: 978-0443074929
Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6 x 0.9 inches

Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine

2010-12-10T00:58:00.000-08:00

Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine provides a detailed, practical and, where possible, research-based rationale for the use of herbal treatments in a wide variety of clinical conditions and problems. Through the filter of current scientific literature, the authors have reevaluated traditional use of herbal remedies and present realistic guidelines for modern practice. A uniquely authoritative guide to applying herbal medicines as serious options for the treatment of some of the most troublesome conditions seen today.

Book Features

A clear description of the principles and foundations for the practice of phytotherapy.
In-depth and detailed profiles of over 45 herbs, reviewing pharmacology, research, and traditional use.
Therapeutics for actual disease states, supported by case histories.
Coverage of challenging issues such as dosage, safety, and drug-herb interactions.

Product Details

Hardcover: 648 pages
Publisher: Churchill Livingstone; 1 edition (November 15, 1999)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0443060169
ISBN-13: 978-0443060168
Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 7.3 x 1.5 inches

Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions 3rd Edition

2010-12-05T00:56:00.000-08:00

Reader given deeper understanding of levels of herb/drug interactions through unique data categorizations of source material now expanded to include 1099 references. First reference of this scope to include herb influences on enzymes involved in pharmaceutical metabolism. Information expanded to include 249 most commonly used herbs. New appendix on herbs having significant potential for serious adverse effects. Expanded plant lists in appendices with specific reference citations to identify scientific evidence to precisely document effects. Easy to use index. Consistent use of standardized common names. An addendum highlighting complementary interactions of herbs and drugs. Free on-line updates.

About the Author

A graduate of the National College of Naturopathic Medicine with degrees from Kansas Newman College and the University of Kansas, Dr. Francis J. Brinker is known for his research of historic, scientific and medical publications, his knowledge of the American Eclectic medical era, his authorship of articles and books on botanical medicine. As an instructor he serves as botanical medicine preceptor and content provider for the Program in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine.

Product Details

Paperback: 440 pages
Publisher: Eclectic Medical Publications; 3 Revised edition (August 20, 2001)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1888483113
ISBN-13: 978-1888483116
Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.5 x 1 inches

Herb-Drug Interactions in Oncology, 2nd edition

2010-12-03T00:53:00.000-08:00

Herb-Drug Interactions in Oncology 2nd edition provides science-based information for the medical community about herbal remedies, other dietary supplements, and non-mainstream products promoted as cancer treatments. Each herb or remedy description is accompanied by information as to its origin, most common uses, benefits, and risks/dangers. The book provides detailed information on over 250 remedies and describes their constituents, mechanisms of action, adverse reactions, pharmacokinetics, and contraindications. Information on each herb or other remedy was developed through careful and critical reviews of research conducted by experts in pharmacy, botanicals, and complementary therapies. Each herb or product is described in terms of the following sections: common name, scientific name, key words, clinical summary, herbal constituents, warnings, mechanisms of action, usage, adverse reactions, drug interactions, dosage, literature summary and critique, and notes. This book has the look and feel of a fine field guide to medicinal plants, thanks to the beautiful drawings by Angela Donato, and it will be of interest to a wide audience beyond the medical specialists, including cancer patients.

About the Author

Barrie R. Cassileth, PhD Chief, Integrative Medicine Service Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center New York, New York K. Simon Yeung, MBA, PharmD, LAc Clinical Coordinator & Research Pharmacist Integrative Medicine Service Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center New York, New York Jyothirmai Gubili, MS Assistant Editor Integrative Medicine Service Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center New York, New York.

Product Details

Paperback: 787 pages
Publisher: pmph usa; 2 edition (January 31, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1607950413
ISBN-13: 978-1607950417
Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 1.1 inches

Citrus Oils: Composition, Advanced Analytical Techniques, Contaminants, and Biological Activity

2010-11-30T11:37:00.000-08:00

World production of citrus fruits is still growing. At present, about 30 percent of that yield is devoted to industrial production, mostly on those essential oils and juices used in foods, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Covering research reported in the literature over the past ten years, this book presents the most current research available on the analysis, composition, and biological activity of citrus products, as well as concerns with adulteration and contaminants. The research group currently coordinated by the editors at the University of Messina has been investigating citrus essential oils since the 80s and is known worldwide for its development of chromatographic investigation methods.

Product Details

Hardcover: 586 pages
Publisher: CRC Press; 1 edition (November 2, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1439800286
ISBN-13: 978-1439800287
Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 7 x 1.3 inches

Creating an Herbal Bodycare Business (Making a Living Naturally Series)

2010-11-27T05:41:00.000-08:00

Sandy Maine turned her love of soapmaking into a $1 million business. Now she shares her business-building philosophy so others can make their dreams a reality. This inspiring book offers profiles of successful entrepreneurs in many areas, including aromatherapy and herbal bodycare, plus advice for marketing a product, employing others, and much more.
Rethinking Business for the New Millennium.Yes, you can build your own profitable business that gives you the freedom to express your creativity and drive as well as social and economic responsibility. In Creating an Herbal Bodycare Business, Sandy Maine shares her experience and philosophy of building a successful company, as well as stories from other business owners who work with their hands and minds to enrich the health and well-being of others.
You'll find in-depth profiles of responsible business owners in earth-friendly enterprises such as:

Aromatherapy
Massage
Hemp products
Education and conferencing
Natural skincare, bath, and cosmetic products

Product Details

Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC (January 3, 1999)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1580170943
ISBN-13: 978-1580170949
Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.5 inches

Organic Body Care Recipes: 175 Homeade Herbal Formulas for Glowing Skin & a Vibrant Self

2010-11-26T05:40:00.000-08:00

Radiantly healthy skin, hair, feet, hands, eyes, and nails. Commercial beauty products make this promise every day and live up to it with varying degrees of success. Stephanie Tourles offers a better solution to everyone frustrated with the endless cycle of expensive, synthetic, famous-name cosmetics that often fall short of expectations. Take control of beauty treatments with homemade products that use safe, nourishing ingredients to pamper the body and soothe the senses.
Tourles, a licensed esthetician, herbalist, and aromatherapist, has developed 175 recipes that are fun, simple, and immensely satisfying to make in home kitchens. Her natural beauty treatments deliver the results promised by department store brands — skin, hair, and nails that glow with vitality and inner wellness. Lotions, scrubs, toners, balms, and masks polish and balance the skin, soothe current problems, and prevent future ones. Shampoos, rinses, and conditioners tone the scalp, boost highlights, and leave hair soft and shiny. The book's whole-body coverage also includes recipes for hand and footcare, nail treatments, shaving cream, and even popular spa treatments such as microdermabrasion exfoliants, detox and cellulite soaks, ayurvedic oils, and herbal cold salves. Most important, there is never any doubt about the purity of these ingredients!
Each formula is clearly presented in recipe style, with notes on prep time, storage, and uses. Many products can be customized according to personal needs, whim, or mood, and they all use readily available, natural ingredients. Organic Body Care Recipes is a natural treasure for every body.

About the Author

Stephanie Tourles is a licensed holistic esthetician in both Massachusetts and Maine, with over 20 years experience. Trained in western-style herbalism, she specializes in the use of herbs as they pertain to skin, hair, nail, and foot care and regularly creates herbal cosmetics and treatments for her clients and friends. She is also a certified aromatherapist, with extensive training in the nutritional sciences, and is the author of several books on natural body care including The Herbal Body Book, Naturally Healthy Skin, and Natural Foot Care. Stephanie resides in Orland, Maine with her husband and pets, and spends her spare time hiking, organic gardening, and cooking.

Product Details

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Storey Publishing, LLC; 1 edition (May 30, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1580176763
ISBN-13: 978-1580176767
Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 7.9 x 1 inches

Herb, Nutrient, and Drug Interactions: Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Strategies

2010-11-21T06:39:00.001-08:00

Presenting detailed, evidence-based coverage of the most commonly encountered therapeutic agents in modern clinical practice, this resource is designed to help you safely and effectively integrate herbal, nutrient, and drug therapy for your patients or clients. Combining pharmaceuticals with herbs or supplements may complement or interfere with a drug's therapeutic action or may increase adverse effects. Additionally, drug-induced depletion of nutrients can occur. Comprehensive clinical data, quick-reference features, and the insight and expertise of trusted authorities help you gain a confident understanding of how herbal remedies and nutritional supplements interact with pharmaceuticals and develop safe, individualized treatment strategies for your patients.

Book Features:

More than 60 comprehensive monographs of herb-drug and nutrient-drug interactions cover the most commonly used herbs and nutrients in health-related practice and help you coordinate safe, reliable therapy.
Each herb and nutrient monograph features summary tables and concise, practical suggestions that provide quick and easy reference and complement the systematic review and in-depth analysis.
References included on the bound-in CD provide high-quality, evidence-based support.
Unique icons throughout the text differentiate interactions, evidence, and clinical significance.
Up-to-date information keeps you current with the latest developments in pharmacology, nutrition, phytotherapy, biochemistry, genomics, oncology, hematology, naturopathic medicine, Chinese medicine, and other fields.
A diverse team of authoritative experts lends valuable, trans-disciplinary insight.

Product Details

Paperback: 960 pages
Publisher: Mosby (December 6, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0323029647
ISBN-13: 978-0323029643
Product Dimensions: 10.8 x 8.5 x 1.5 inches

American Herbal Pharmacopoeia: Botanical Pharmacognosy - Microscopic Characterization of Botanical Medicines

2010-11-18T16:07:00.000-08:00

Compiled by the American Herbal Pharmacopoeia®, this volume addresses the lack of authoritative microscopic descriptions of those medicinal plant species currently in trade. It includes an atlas providing detailed text and graphic descriptions of more than 140 medicinal plant species and their adulterants. Designed to meet the needs of the herbal products industry, regulatory agencies, and academic researchers, the book covers plant anatomy at a level appropriate for the pharmacognostic analysis of plant tissues, provides extensive coverage of the history and importance of botanical microscopy, and gives instruction on how to set up a microscopy lab and prepare, view, and archive whole and powdered plant parts for microscopic analysis.
The botanicals covered represent 90 percent of the dollar value of botanical sales in the United States The focus is on those species that are in high use, and those that are commonly adulterated or potentially. It also covers a number of popular Asian botanicals, providing the first English language description for many of these.

About the Author

American Herbal Pharmacopoeia, Scotts Valley, California, USA BIO-Logic, Inc., Montrose, CO, USA London University, UK, (retired) University of Reading, UK.

Product Details

Hardcover: 800 pages
Publisher: CRC Press; 1 edition (February 7, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1420073265
ISBN-13: 978-1420073263

The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants

2008-11-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants by Matthew Wood encompasses all of the major—and many of the secondary—herbs of traditional and modern Western herbalism. Author Wood describes characteristic symptoms and conditions in which each plant has proved useful in the clinic, often illustrated with appropriate case histories. In addition, he takes a historical view based on his extensive study of ancient and traditional herbal literature.
Written in an easy, engaging, non-technical style, The Earthwise Herbal offers insight into the “logic” of the plant: how it works, in what areas of the body it works, how it has been used in the past, what its pharmacological constituents indicate about its use, and how all these different factors hang together to produce a portrait of the plant as a whole entity. Ideal for beginners, serious students, or advanced practitioners, The Earthwise Herbal is also useful for homeopaths and flower essence practitioners as it bridges these fields in its treatment of herbal medicines.

About the Author
Matthew Wood, a practicing herbalist for over twenty-five years, lives on an herb farm thirty minutes west of downtown Minneapolis. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota and holds a Master of Science degree in Herbal Medicine from the Scottish School of Herbal Medicine, accredited by the University of Wales. Wood is the author of four previous books (all published by North Atlantic Books) and a registered herbalist, or professional member, of the American Herbalists Guild, the only self-regulating body of practicing herbalists in the United States. He is also a regular contributor to the Journal of the American Herbalists Guild.

Book Details

Paperback: 592 pages
Publisher: North Atlantic Books (June 3, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1556436920
ISBN-13: 9781556436925
Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.8 x 1.7 inches
List Price: $32.95
Price: $21.75
You Save: $11.20 (34%)

The Herbal Kitchen: Cooking with Fragrance & Flavor

2008-11-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

The Herbal Kitchen: Cooking with Fragrance & Flavor by Jerry Traunfeld presents simple dishes using herbs straight from the market, windowsill, or garden.
Until recently, the fresh herbs available in supermarkets were limited to parsley and maybe dill. Today, thyme, rosemary, basil, cilantro, mint, and sage are among the many fresh herbs as close as the produce section or the farmer's market. Not to mention marjoram, lovage, tarragon, lavender, shiso, and so many others.
Jerry shows you how to incorporate these fresh herbs into your everyday home meals. So whether preparing a workday supper for the family, a special dinner for two or four, or a feast for a table of guests, using fresh herbs in your cooking will result in fresh and vibrant food.
The Herbal Kitchen includes some recipes that are home variations of the innovative dishes Jerry prepares at the Herbfarm, while others are fresh takes on familiar classics such as Herb Garden Lasagna or Shrimp in Garlic-Sage Butter. All are uncomplicated and prep time is minimal -- with the emphasis on spontaneity and the unmistakable flavors of fresh herbs.
Start off with Asparagus and Lemon Thyme Soup, Spicy Verbena Meatballs, or Rye-Thyme Cheese Straws before moving on to Cinnamon Basil Chicken, Side of Salmon Slow-Roasted in Dill, and Root Ribbons with Sage. Delectable desserts include Warm Lavender Almond Cakes, Rhubarb Mint Cobbler, and a sinful Chocolate Peppermint Tart.
Once you're hooked on cooking with fresh herbs, you'll want to grow them yourself. The Herbal Kitchen is filled with important tips for growing, harvesting, and handling each of the herbs used in the recipes. Valuable information on the varieties of each herb is also highlighted, such as how to tell the difference between Greek oregano and Italian oregano, why you always want to choose bay laurel over California bay, and what type of lavender is best for cooking.
Filled with stunning photos of the herbs, the techniques for handling them, and the finished dishes, Jerry's definitive guide is sure to be a classic, reached for again and again.

About the Author
Since 1990 Jerry Traunfeld has headed the kitchen at The Herbfarm Restaurant, where he creates herb-inspired Northwest menus each week. Since he took over the stoves, the restaurant has garnered unanimous national acclaim as a premier dining destination. In 2000, Jerry won the James Beard Award for Best American Chef in the Northwest and Hawaii. His first book, The Herbfarm Cookbook, won the 2000 IACP award for best cookbook by a restaurant or chef. Jerry lives in Seattle with his partner, Stephen, and their two Shiba dogs.

Book Details

Hardcover: 272 pages
Publisher: William Morrow Cookbooks (November 1, 2005)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060599766
ISBN-13: 9780060599768
Product Dimensions: 10.1 x 8.1 x 0.7 inches
List Price: $34.95
Price: $23.07
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Medicinal Plants of North America: A Field Guide (Falcon Guides)

2008-11-02T15:42:00.000-08:00

Medicinal Plants of North America: A Field Guide (Falcon Guides) by Jim Meuninck provides a comprehensive look at plants noted for enhancing health and preventing disease. Featuring more than 120 color photographs, the book presents plant descriptions, clear identification, practical information on where they are found, interesting facts, and colorful author commentary about familiar plants as well as those that are less common and more difficult to identify.
Learn how to recognize medicinal plants, discover how each plant affects the human body, and find out which plants promote good health or provide relief for particular ailments. This easy to understand and portable guide is a must-have reference for anyone interested in medicinal plants, their uses, and their habitats.

Look inside to find:

Traditional and modern uses.
Recipes and gardening tips.
Wildlife and veterinary uses.
The top-eleven garden herbs.
Precautions and toxicity.
Web site resources.

About the Author
Jim Meuninck is a biologist and counselor who, for more than thirty years, has studied the use of wild plants as food and medicine in North America, Europe, Central America, Japan, and China. Jim is president of Media Methods, Inc., a publishing company specializing in ethnobotanical media. He lives on the shores of Eagle Lake, in Edwardsburg, Michigan.

Book Details

Paperback: 176 pages
Publisher: Falcon; 1st edition (April 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0762742984
ISBN-13: 9780762742981
Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.6 inches
List Price: $16.95
Price: $13.56
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Llewellyn's 2009 Herbal Almanac

2008-11-01T15:53:00.000-07:00

Llewellyn's 2009 Herbal Almanac helps you: Add a splash of colour to your wardrobe; spice up everyday meals; and, try beauty techniques that worked for the ancient Egyptians. There are hundreds of ways to get the most from nature's most versatile plants inside "Llewellyn's 2009 Herbal Almanac". Featuring over three dozen articles, this treasury of innovative herbal ideas spans six categories: gardening, cooking, crafts, health, beauty, and myth/lore. In this edition, you'll discover herbal remedies and tips for skin care, nursing mothers, colon health, pets, and travellers. It also features fresh ways to control garden pests, craft with kids, use pesto, cook with herbs of all kinds, stay beautiful the vegan way, and much more!

About the Author
Llewellyn Publications has grown and expanded into new areas of personal growth and transformation since it began as the Portland School of Astrology in 1901. Along with the strong line of astrology books the company was founded upon, Llewellyn publishes books on everything from alternative health and healing, Wicca and Paganism, to metaphysics and the paranormal-and since 1994 has published a growing list of Spanish-language titles.
Llewellyn has long been know as one of America's leading publishers of New Age books, producing a wide variety of valuable tools for transformation of the mind, body and spirit. Reach for the Moon-and discover that self-help and spiritual growth is what Llewellyn is all about.

Book Details

Paperback: 312 pages
Publisher: Llewellyn Publications; 2009 edition (August 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0738707236
ISBN-13: 9780738707235
Product Dimensions: 7.8 x 5.2 x 0.9 inches
List Price: $8.99

Wild Carrot: Herbal Clinical Value

2008-08-02T20:03:00.000-07:00

Phytochemical studies documented for wild carrot concentrate on the composition of the volatile oil obtained from both the fresh and dried fruits (seeds). The composition of the oil varies between different cultivars. Animal studies have documented a variety of pharmacological actions including CNS-depressant, spasmodic and antispasmodic, hypotensive and cardiac–depressant activities. However, the majority of these actions were observed in in vitro preparations. The principal traditional use of wild carrot is as a diuretic. This activity has not been documented in animal studies, but the seed oil of wild carrot does contain terpinen–4–ol, the diuretic principle documented for juniper. Toxicity data only refer to the oil and indicate low toxicity. However, in view of the documented mild oestrogenic activity and potential for internal irritation by the oil, excessive ingestion should be avoided.

Species (Family)
Daucus carota L. subsp. carota (Umbelliferae).

Synonym(s)
Daucus, Queen Anne’s Lace.

Part(s) Used
Herb.

Food Use
Wild carrot should not be confused with the common cultivated carrot, D. carota L. subsp. sativus (Hoffm.), which has the familiar fleshy orange–red edible root. Wild carrot has an inedible tough whitish root. Wild carrot is listed by the Council of Europe as a natural source of food flavouring (category N1, N3). Category N1 indicates that for the roots there are no restrictions on use, whereas category N3 indicates that there is insufficient information available for an adequate assessment of potential toxicity.

Herbal Use
Wild carrot is stated to possess diuretic, antilithic, and carminative properties. Traditionally, it has been used for urinary calculus, lithuria, cystitis, gout, and specifically for urinary gravel or calculus.

Oriental Foods and Herbs: Chemistry and Health Benefits

2008-08-02T07:21:00.000-07:00

Oriental Foods and Herbs: Chemistry and Health Benefits by Chi-Tang Ho and Jen-Kun Lin discusses the modern chemical research on Oriental functional foods and herbal products. Emphasis is placed on the application of modern scientific technology to assure the efficacy and safety of functional foods and nutraceutical supplements.

About the Author
Jen-Kun Lin is at National Taiwan University.

Book Details

Hardcover: 360 pages
Publisher: An American Chemical Society Publication (September 4, 2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0841238413
ISBN-13: 9780841238411
Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6 x 0.9 inches
List Price: $175.45

Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients: Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics 2nd edition

2008-08-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients: Used in Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics 2nd edition by Albert Y. Leung and Steven Foster stands as the most authoritative reference for natural ingredients in commercial use. This new edition addresses the increased interest in natural ingredients over the past decade, especially in health foods-a category that includes food products, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal teas.
The Encyclopedia encompasses approximately 500 of the most commonly used ingredients, and covers the identification, processing, preparation, and manner of use for each. Following the current demand for products that alleviate stress and other lifestyle-related conditions, this volume emphasizes the drugs and herbal formulations created for those purposes.
Expanded to twice the size of its predecessor, the Second Edition updates all the original entries of the first edition, and incorporates many new entries, classifications, references, and a new category, Health Foods/Herbal Teas.
The inclusion of a new classification on Chinese medicinal herbs is particularly innovative, offering information that appears here for the first time in English. This classification draws on both classical and modern Chinese medicine and reflects the growing popularity of Chinese herbs in this country and in the rest of the world.
This Second Edition of the Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients will be welcomed by chemists, botanists, and product developers in the cosmetic, food, and drug industries, as well as consumers who need an authoritative, up-to-date source of information on this important field.
This greatly expanded and revised edition of the Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients is the only single-source reference devoted to the approximately 500 naturally derived ingredients currently included in a wide range of cosmetics, food items, and drugs. Major features of the Second Edition include:

Accurate information based on reliable research methods.
In-depth coverage of each ingredient, including general description, chemical composition, uses and commercial preparations, and synonyms, as well as regulatory status and references.
A new category, Health Foods/Herbal Teas, reflecting the latest information on these increasingly popular subjects.
An easily accessible alphabetical presentation of the entries according to common names, and cross-referenced to scientific names in the index.
Glossary of the most commonly encountered terms used in the botanical industry.
A carefully selected general reference list.

From The publisher: John Wiley & Sons
A practical, up-to-date reference containing over 300 commonly used natural food, drug and cosmetic ingredients used commercially in the U.S. Extracts of botanicals and isolated chemical compounds are listed alphabetically according to common name and each entry is cross-referenced to its scientific term in the index. Information includes source, habitat, parts utilized, preparation, physical and chemical description, biological activity and regulatory status. This edition features new material on Chinese natural products, gathered from dozens of major Chinese classical and modern works as well as 50+ Chinese journals on traditional and herbal medicine.

About the Author
ALBERT Y. LEUNG is a consultant in natural products and president of AYSL Corporation and Earth Power, Inc., companies that specialize in botanical extraction technology and Chinese herbal ingredients. He is the author of Chinese Healing Foods and Herbs and Better Health with (Mostly) Chinese Herbs and Foods, and creator of PHYTOMED, a computer database on herbs developed under contract with the National Cancer Institute.
STEVEN FOSTER is a medicinal and aromatic plant consultant based in Fayetteville, Arkansas. He is the author of several books, including chief author of A Field Guide to Medicinal Plants and Herbs: Of Eastern and Central North America and A Field Guide to Venomous Animals and Poisonous Plants: North America North of Mexico. He is also the Special Publications Editor of the American Botanical Council and Associate Editor of HerbalGram.

Book Details

Paperback: 688 pages
Publisher: Wiley-Interscience; 2 edition (August 14, 2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0471471283
ISBN-13: 9780471471288
Product Dimensions: 10 x 6.8 x 1.2 inches
List Price: $190.95

Valerian: Herbal Clinical Value

2008-08-01T19:57:00.000-07:00

The traditional use of valerian as a mild sedative and hypnotic has been supported by actions documented in studies involving both animals and humans.
The sedative activity of valerian has been attributed to both the volatile oil and iridoid valepotriate fractions, but it is still unclear whether other constituents in valerian represent the active components. The valepotriate compounds are highly unstable and, therefore, are unlikely to be present in significant concentrations in finished products and probably degrade when taken orally. In view of this, the clinical significance of both the sedative and cytotoxic/mutagenic activities of valepotriates documented in vitro is unclear.
The acute toxicity of valerian is considered to be very low. There are isolated reports of adverse effects, mainly hepatotoxic reactions, associated with the use of single–ingredient and combination valerian-containing products. However, causal relationships for these reports could not be established as the cases involved other factors which could have been responsible for the observed effects. Some studies have compared valerian with certain benzodiazepines; the data available appear to suggest that valerian may have a more favourable tolerability profile, particularly in view of its apparent lack of ‘hangover’ effects. The safety of valerian in comparison with benzodiazepines requires further investigation and documentation.

Species (Family)
Valeriana officinalis L.s.l. (Valerianaceae).

Synonym(s)
All-Heal, Belgian Valerian, Common Valerian, Fragrant Valerian, Garden Valerian.

Part(s) Used
Rhizome, root.

Food Use
Valerian is not generally used as a food. Valerian is listed by the Council of Europe as a natural source of food flavouring.

Herbal Use
Valerian is stated to possess sedative, mild anodyne, hypnotic, antispasmodic, carminative and hypotensive properties. Traditionally, it has been used for hysterical states, excitability, insomnia, hypochondriasis, migraine, cramp, intestinal colic, rheumatic pains, dysmenorrhoea, and specifically for conditions presenting nervous excitability. Modern interest in valerian is focused on its use as a sedative and hypnotic.
A core Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) proposed by the European Medicines Evaluation Agency Herbal Medicinal Product Working Group (EMEA HMPWG) states the following indications: the relief of temporary mild nervous tension and temporary difficulty in falling asleep.

Pharmacological Actions
It remains unclear precisely which of the constituents of valerian are responsible for its sedative properties. Attention had focused on the volatile oil, and then the valepotriates and their degradation products, as the constituents responsible. However, it appeared that the effects of the volatile oil could not account for the whole action of the drug, and the valepotriates, which degrade rapidly, are unlikely to be present in finished products in significant concentrations. Current thinking is that the overall effect of valerian is due to several different groups of constituents and their varying mechanisms of action. Therefore, the activity of different valerian preparations will depend on their content and concentrations of several types of constituent. One mechanism of action is likely to involve increased concentrations of the inhibitory transmitter GABA in the brain. Increased concentrations of GABA are associated with a decrease in CNS activity and this action may, therefore, be involved in the reported sedative activity.

Botanical Dietary Supplements:: Quality, Safety and Efficacy

2008-07-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

Botanical Dietary Supplements:: Quality, Safety and Efficacy by Gail B. Mahady and Harry H.S. Fong provides reviews and details of the quality, safety and efficacy for some of the top-selling botanicals worldwide, including black cohosh, chamomile, comfrey, echinacea, garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, kava, milk thistle, St John's wort and valerian. The work was written based on a systematic review of the scientific literature from 1975-2000.;Each review includes a brief introduction, a section on quality including a definition of the crude drug, geographical distribution, and a listing of the major chemical constituents. The safety and efficacy sections summarize the medical uses, pharmacology, contraindications, warnings, precautions, adverse reactions, dose and dosage forms. The safety and efficacy sections were written for a busy health-care professional, and should enable one to ascertain which clinical uses are supported by clinical data, without having to read through all the pharmacology. Each chapter is fully referenced, enabling the reader to access further information when necessary.

Book Details

Hardcover: 280 pages
Publisher: CRC; 1 edition (June 1, 2001)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9026518552
ISBN-13: 9789026518553
Product Dimensions: 9.4 x 6.8 x 0.8 inches
List Price: $149.95

Botanical Medicines: The Desk Reference for Major Herbal Supplements

2008-07-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

Botanical Medicines: The Desk Reference for Major Herbal Supplements by Dennis J. McKenna, Kenneth Jones and Kerry Hughes is a compendium of detailed scientific research on 34 of the most popular dietary supplements used in North America and Europe. Its coverage of pharmacological studies on the main medicinal plants used in clinical practice and sold in pharmacies in the Western world is more extensive than any other publication of monographic reviews available. The way Botanical Medicines: The Desk Reference for Major Herbal Supplements, Second Edition. is organized (standardized topic formats are used in each monograph) makes it easy for you to locate relevant information quickly and to compare corresponding sections between different entries.
This book is an invaluable tool for pharmacists, physicians, and other health care professionals who need detailed, scientifically accurate information on appropriate use, safety, dosages, and similar issues related to botanical dietary supplements.
This extensively referenced volume includes appendixes with information on the major provisions of DSHEA (the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994) and on the criteria and procedures for assessing the quality of botanical products.
Each entry in Botanical Medicines: The Desk Reference for Major Herbal Supplements, Second Edition. covers botanical data (classification and nomenclature, common names, geographic occurrence, and botanical characteristics), plus:

history and traditional uses.
chemistry.
therapeutic applications.
pre-clinical studies.
clinical studies.
recommended dosages.
safety profiles (including toxicology).
side effects and contraindications.
drug interactions and special precautions.
safety recommendations during pregnancy and lactation.

Book Details

Hardcover: 1138 pages
Publisher: Routledge; 1 edition (July 15, 2002)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0789012650
ISBN-13: 9780789012654
Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6.2 x 2.3 inches
List Price: $169.95
Price: $129.16
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WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants

2008-07-19T20:48:00.000-07:00

Volume 2 of the WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants provides an additional collection of 30 monographs covering the quality control and traditional and clinical uses of selected medicinal plants approved by 120 experts in more than 50 countries.The monographs are intended to promote international harmonization in the quality control and use of herbal medicines and to serve as models for the development of national formularies. They are a comprehensive scientific reference for drug regulatory authorities, physicians, traditional practitioners, pharmacists, manufacturers and research scientists.
Plants covered in volume 2 Radix Althaeae. Herba Andrographidis. Radix Angelicae Sinensis. Flos Calendulae. Flos Caryophylli. Rhizoma Cimicifugae. Folium cum Flore Crataegi. Radix Eleutherococci. Aetheroleum Eucalypti. Folium Eucalypti. Cortex Frangulae. Folium et Cortex Hamamelidis. Semen Hippocastani. Herba Hyperici. Aetheroleum Melaleucae. Folium Melissae. Aetheroleum Menthae Piperitae. Folium Menthae Piperitae. Folium Ocimi sancti. Oleum Oenotherae Biennis. Rhizoma Piperis Methystici. Cortex Pruni Africaniae. Cortex Rhamni Purshianiae. Flos Sambuci. Radix senegae. Fructus serenoae Repentis. Fructus silybi Mariae. Herba Tanaceti Parthenii. Radix Urticae. Folium Uvae Ursi.

Book Details

Paperback: 357 pages
Publisher: World Health Organization (December 2001)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9241545372
ISBN-13: 9789241545372
Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.3 x 0.8 inches
List Price: $90.00

Cinnamon and Cassia: The Genus Cinnamomum (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants--Industrial Profiles)

2008-07-18T09:38:00.000-07:00

Cinnamon and Cassia: The Genus Cinnamomum (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants--Industrial Profiles) by P. N. Ravindran, K Nirmal-Babu and M Shylaja explores in detail Srilankan cinnamon, Chinese cassia, Indonesian cassia, Indian cassia, camphor, and also the important related and useful spices of Cinnamomum. The introductory chapter depicts the history of these spices, followed by a detailed analysis of botany and crop improvement that examines taxonomy, morphology, embryology, reproduction, and propagation. A chapter on chemistry details the unique composition of cinnamon and cassia; it precedes an explanation of crop management, harvesting, and processing of Srilankan cinnamon.
This book points out that Vietnamese and Chinese cassia are the same, with differences only in harvesting and processing. It also includes chapters on Indian and Indonesian varieties of cassia, along with overviews of the camphor tree, and coverage of cinnamon and cassia pharmacology, toxicology, end uses, economics, and marketing. The volume concludes with an informative chapter on other economically useful species of Cinnamomum. Written by a panel of experts from throughout Asia, this volume is the only comprehensive monograph on these spices, benefiting those engaged in study, cultivation, marketing, processing, and product development.

Book Details

Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: CRC (December 29, 2003)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 041531755X
ISBN-13: 9780415317559
Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 7.2 x 1 inches
List Price: $129.95
Price: $58.48
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Cardamom: The genus Elettaria (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants - Industrial Profiles)

2008-07-18T09:36:00.000-07:00

Cardamom: The genus Elettaria (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants - Industrial Profiles) by P. N. Ravindran and K.J. Madhusoodanan contains sixteen chapters, fourteen on cardamom and one each on large cardamom and false cardamoms. All aspects of the cardamom crop have been covered, and each chapter is written by experts in their respective fields. Cardamom: The genus Elettaria is both a textbook and reference work for scientists and students of horticulture, plantation crops, botany and related fields, and will go on to serve as the main reference volume on cardamom for many years to come. Contributors India, A.K. Biswas, ICRI Regional Station, Sikkim, India, S.S. Chandrasekar, ICRI Regional Research Station, Karnataka, India C.K. George, Peermade Development Society, Kerala, India B. Gopakumar, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Gangtok, India Joseph Thomas, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India V.S. Korikanthimath, IISR Cardamom Research Center, Karnataka, India V. Krishnakumar, Indian Cardamom Research Institute Kerala, India N. Krishanmurthy, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Karnataka State, India K.J. Madhusoodhanan, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India S.N. Potty, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India K. Pradip Kumar, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India V.V. Radhakrishnan, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India P. Rajeev, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kerala, India P N Ravindran, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kerala, India S.R. Sampathu, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Karnataka State, India M. Shylaja, Providence Women's College, Kerala, India R. Suseela Bhai, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India S.Varadarsan, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India M.N. Venugopal, IISR Cardamom Research Center, Karnataka, India K.K. Vijayan, Calicut University, Kerala, India, M.S. Madan, Indian Cardamom Research Institute, Kerala, India, T. John Zachariah, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kerala, India.

Book Info
Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, Kerala, India. Text provides information on cardamom and false cardamom. Topics include botany, cultivation, and horticulture. For students and researchers.

About the Author
P.N. Ravindran is with the ndian Institute of Spices Research in India, and K.J. Madhusoodanan with the Indian Cardamom Research Institutue in India.

Book Details

Hardcover: 392 pages
Publisher: CRC; 1 edition (October 3, 2002)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0415284937
ISBN-13: 9780415284936
Product Dimensions: 10.1 x 6.9 x 0.9 inches
List Price: $129.95

Health Effects of Tea and its Catechins

2008-07-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

Health Effects of Tea and its Catechins by Yukiaki Kuroda and Yukihiko Hara is a comprehensive overview of the historical use of green tea and a description of its beneficial effects against certain diseases such as cancer, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, arteriosclerosis, and various forms of senile dementia. It reviews scientific and clinical data, including in vitro and in vivo animal experiments and epidemiologic and clinical experiments on human subjects. It includes the most recent findings on the ability of tea components to inhibit bacteria and influenza and HIV viruses.

Product Details

Hardcover: 118 pages
Publisher: Springer; 1 edition (September 21, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 030648207X
ISBN-13: 9780306482076
Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 6.3 x 0.6 inches
List Price: $89.95
Price: $72.00
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The Ultimate Tea Diet: How Tea Can Boost Your Metabolism, Shrink Your Appetite, and Kick-Start Remarkable Weight Loss

2008-07-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

The Ultimate Tea Diet: How Tea Can Boost Your Metabolism, Shrink Your Appetite, and Kick-Start Remarkable Weight Loss by Mark Ukra and Sharyn Kolberg harnesses tea's incredible weight-loss potential in a straightforward plan for losing weight in a safe and healthy way. Simply find a tea you love, drink it all day, follow an easy food plan, and see the pounds fall off.
Tea's ability to encourage weight loss comes from the synergy of its three main ingredients: caffeine to stimulate, L-theanine to neutralize the harmful side effects of caffeine and act as an appetite suppressant, and EGCG, which causes you to burn fat faster and more efficiently. In other words, tea reduces your appetite and stimulates your metabolism.
Don't worry--you won't go hungry on the Ultimate Tea Diet. The food plan includes tasty tea-based meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as tempting choices for midday snacks and sweet treats. All are made deliciously with tea so not only is your food incredibly flavorful, but you're also getting the health and weight-loss benefits in every single bite you enjoy.
Drinking tea--and maintaining a conscientious focus on good health--can easily become a way of life. Slim down to a leaner, more energetic, and healthier you with the Ultimate Tea Diet.

About the Author
Mark "Dr. Tea" Ukra is prominently featured as a tea expert, historian, and representative of the contemporary movement of tea. Dr. Tea and his wife, Julie, and daughter, Lucky, live in Los Angeles, where they own dr. tea's and are constantly spreading the good word about tea.

Product Details

Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Collins Living (December 26, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061441759
ISBN-13: 9780061441752
Product Dimensions: 14 x 9.2 x 1.3 inches
List Price: $24.95
Price: $16.47
You Save: $8.48 (34%)

Coffea cruda syn. C. arabica as Homeopathic Remedy

2008-07-13T09:38:00.000-07:00

Coffee’s main active constituent, caffeine, has been used medicinally as an analgesic, a diuretic, a digestive tonic, and a stimulant to the nervous system. Modern medicine combines caffeine with conventional analgesics such as aspirin to make over-the-counter painkillers. However, coffee has long had a reputation for being simultaneously helpful and harmful: excessive consumption upsets the digestion, drains the body of calcium, and can cause nervousness.

Remedy Profile of Coffea
Drinking too much coffee produces symptoms that are very similar to those treated by Coffea. Homeopaths often prescribe it for those with overactive minds and thoughts that race uncontrollably. This is generally accompanied by restlessness and nervousness.
Coffea is also useful for those who experience overly excited or ecstatic states, perhaps precipitated by narcotics, a series of events, or a sudden shock, such as very good or very bad news. Such states can frequently trigger excessive exhilaration or despair, with an inability to calm down and insomnia or headaches. The nerves are taut, and the senses may be so acute that fresh air, noises, smells, and tastes seem unbearable. Hypersensitivity to pain, to the point where pain causes intense despair, is not unusual. Coffea may also help insomnia, palpitations, overexcitement, and flushing during the menopause.

Origin of Coffea
Native to Ethiopia, but now grown in tropical areas worldwide. South America and African countries such as Kenya and Tanzania supply the bulk of the world’s crop.

Background of Coffea
Originally an African stimulant and drink that spread to Arabia and was used by Muslims to stay awake in all-night prayer. In England, the Church linked it with the devil.

Preparation of Coffea
Ripe, unroasted coffee beans are macerated in alcohol for at least five days before being filtered. The resulting liquid is then repeatedly diluted and succussed.

Common Names of Coffea
Coffee, Arabian coffee.

Some Suppliers of Homeopathic Remedies in United States

2008-07-12T10:39:00.000-07:00

Weleda, Inc.
1 Closter Road, P .O. Box 675
Palisades, NY 10964
(800) 241-1030
http://usa.weleda.com

BHI/Heel
Albuquerque, NM
http://HeelUSA.com

All Natural Health
Seaford Plaza 3830 Sunrise Highway
Seaford, NY 11783
(866) 785-1462
http://www.allnaturalusa.com

Nature’s Way Products
1375 Mountain Springs Parkway
Springville, UT 84663
(801) 489-1500
http://www.naturesway.com