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HERBAL-MEDICAL CONTRAINDICATIONS by Michael Moore
Synergistic and iatrogenic potentials when certain herbs are used
concurrent with medical treatment or medical health care.
Copyright 1995 by Michael Moore. Use it, share it, just don't sell it
or change it in any way (unless you get my permission)
THE REASON FOR THIS LIST:
A list of side-effects written by a toxicologist or a pharmacognosist
will deal ONLY with potential problems that a particular constituent may
cause, and seldom treats a plant as a Gestalt.
They don't understand HERBS.
A list of side-effects written by most herbalists will deal with side
effects from over-dosage or adulteration, and will seldom consider the
implications for drug or procedural medicine.
They don't understand MEDICINE.
I feel fairly secure in both worlds, so this list of potential synergies
and contraindications is meant to honor BOTH approaches. I am talking
strictly to the working practitioner; these are PRACTICAL concerns, not
theoretical ones.
THE FOCUS OF THIS LIST:
My intent in this list is to wed both approaches:
A. What herbs may present overt drug reactions.
B. What herbs may present synergistic effects to
1. a person undergoing a particular metabolic stress
2. a person undergoing drug therapies
C. What herbs have side-effects BUT that are frequently
used without adequate warnings, marketed with an anti-
medical bias, or taken unwisely by those that feel NO
herb can be harmful because it is natural.
PHILOSOPHICAL CONSIDERATIONS:
If you are used to viewing biologically active agents as analogs to
drugs, you need to suspend those standards when dealing with most herb
preparations. Some of these plants CAN be reduced to the pharmacology
of specific constituents, and they are so noted. The majority of
potential reactions occur when an herb STIMULATES metabolic processes
that are already in an excited state. The usual models of drug toxicology
will fail to predict such reactions; these are NOT, strictly speaking,
drug reactions, but often predictable idiopathic synergies. Predictable,
that is, if you are willing to view most herbs as multi-systemic wholistic
medicines, offering a "profile" of effects that can help OR aggravate,
depending on the PERSON using them.
Herbs should be free of side effects within their therapeutic
window and when used by a person whose constitution is complimented,
not antagonized by the herbs. Whether or not you accept any value to
Botanical Medicine, this is Conventional Wisdom amongst herbalists.
Side effects from herbs are unwanted, both by herbalists wishing to
strengthen, not denigrate homeostasis, and by skeptics who doubt any
value to herbs except from placebo or accidental drug effects.
On the other hand, a careful evaluation of potential drug therapy
starts with the basic understanding that drugs HAVE side effects at the
proper dose, and the value must be weighed against the detriment. Most
possible problems I have listed will only occur in potentiated states,
and may be subtle enough to be ignored by Believers (Don't be so
defensive!), magnified totally out of proportion by Skeptics (Don't be
so judgmental!). We all tend to be too isolated in our peer groups,
always preaching to our particular choir.
Some physicians feel any self-treatment with biologically active
agents is dangerous. Many people consider this either professional
arrogance or the attempt to stifle competition. I have nearly always
observed the attitude to derive from a very real concern; a physician's
biochemical tools are drugs. By extension, docs may rightly presume that
any agent capable of promoting change probably has similar potential for
side effects. Carried to an irrational extreme, some medical folks
feel that anything WITHOUT potential side effects is quackery. This, of
course, leaves any alternative approach in a Catch-22 bind.
There is little intrinsic danger in using herbs, since few have the
potential for DRUG side effects. The side effects are usually
idiosyncratic or idiopathic, and not predictable by drug standards.
This brings me back to why I have assembled this list.
NOTES:
[1] Some of these plants are illegal, not from the pseudo-scientific
rationale of law-inforcement (except Cannabis and Lophophora) but for the
practical legality that THEY AREN'T SAFE. Nonetheless they still find
their way into personal use. I have developed the libertarian attitude
that permeated 19th and early 20th century pharmacy: "Let them take what
they want to...it's a Free Country. If they don't know any better, let's
thin the herd!". We, however, have a generation or two of people that
EXPECT a warning label on everything, and that have come to doubt common
sense. Of course many dangers in modern life do not warn by taste, smell
or appearance...radiation, pollution, etc. Given this, plant drugs like
Yohimbe and even Ma Huang should, in my opinion, not be available in the
same marketplace as Peppermint and Sarsaparilla. But they are.
[2] Some of these herbs are only encountered in "ethnic" use, but, with
most ethnic groups suffering diminished coherence of tradition, a Wise
Woman or folk herbalist may not be around to give appropriate advice.
[3] A few of these herbs are seldom encountered in the herb trade but
rather are wildcrafted and used inappropriately. Some of this may be MY
fault, since I write about the use of plants that are low-dosage
botanicals and presume that the reader has Common Sense...not always a
reality. Many of us distrust ANY authoritative limits...this anti-author-
itarianism may be encountered in the way some people use even sensible
herb books.
[4] Herbal Cure-Alls and thinly-veiled Phytopharmaceuticals are a growing
part of the health-food industry. In Europe they are usually dispensed
under medical supervision; they have no place in American Standard
Practice but instead have entered the alternative health marketplace as
"Herbs". They are more concentrated, more refined, have little of the
biochemical buffering or "fuzz" that whole plants offer, and are NOT
metabolic tonics but substances intended for specific subclinical
pathologies...Little Drugs if you will. Their use is intended for
conditions that have been medically diagnosed...not for self-treatment
based upon sometimes inaccurate self-diagnosis. It's one thing to take
aspirin for a headache or use a bitter to trigger improved upper digestive
function. It's another thing to take proven immunostimulant or anti-
oxidant substances (even if derived from plants) if based on "I get sick
a lot" or "I bet my liver needs cleansing".
Not only is this an entirely new realm of potential iatrogenesis, but
it has a corruptive influence by my way of thinking. It centralizes the
MARKETING of herbs into the hands of a few, but without offering guide-
lines for DIAGNOSIS. And it seduces folks from the sensible heart of
self-treatment...self-knowledge.
One-size-fits-all is not self-empowerment
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PREGNANCY
TERATOGENIC/MUTAGENIC
UTERINE VASOCONSTRICTORS
UTERINE VASODILATORS
CATHARTICS/SACRAL IRRITANTS
OXYTOCIN SYNERGISTS
OVERT DRUGS
MISCELLANEOUS WlERDNESS
MAY BE PRESENT IN MILK
NEUROENDOCRINE
SYMPATHOMIMETICS
PARASYMPATHOMIMETICS
ANTICHOLlNERGlC
VASOPRESSOMIMETlC
THYROID STlMULATlNG
THYROID DEPRESSING
ALDOSTERONE SYNERGISTS
FLAVIN-MAO-INHIBITING
METABOLIC
"ANABOLIC"
ANTICOAGULANTS/"BLOOD THINNING"
CYANOGENIC POTENTIAL
ALLERGIC/ATOPIC POTENTIAL
HYPO-HYPERGLYCEMIC (REACTIVE)
CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM
CARDIOGLYCOSIDE POTENTIATING
BRADYCARDIC/HYPOTENSIVE
TACHYCARDIC
HYPERTENSIVE POTENTIAL
PHARMACOKINETICS
HERBS THAT CAN ALTER LIVER METABOLlSM OF DRUGS
HERBS THAT CAN ALTER GI ABSORPTION
IMMUNOSTIMULANT HERBS THAT CAN RAISE WBC COUNT
HEPATIC
HERBS THAT CAN ALTER SGOT/SGPT READINGS
PYRROLIZIDINE ALKALOID HERBS
HERB-SPECIFIC PROBLEMS
WITH MISCONCEPTIONS
WITH HIDDEN or THRESHOLD EFFECTS
LACKING ANY SOCIALLY REDEEMING VALUE
INDEX OF COMMON NAMES
/////////////////////////////////
PREGNANCY ///////////////////////
/////////////////////////////////
Some of these herbs are relatively harmless, but considering the highly
reactive state of pregnancy, and the fact that fetal growth is a
template that can manifest pharmacokinetics VERY differently than for
an adult, they are mentioned. Others are obviously inappropriate
because of their neuroendocrine, autonomic or vascular implications.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: TERATOGENIC/MUTAGENIC
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PODOPHYLLUM. (American Mandrake)
BAPTISIA (Wild Indigo)...theoretically
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: UTERINE VASOCONSTRICTORS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ARCTOSTAPHYLOS (Uva Ursi, Manzanita, Coralillo) if use is continued for
more than 3-4 days
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang, Chinese Ephedra)
USTILAGO (Corn Smut) A feeble ergot analog
VINCA MAJOR (Periwinkle) Idiosyncratic vasoconstrictor
VISCUM ALBUM (European Mistletoe) May incorrectly be American Mistletoe
in commerce, a very vasoconstricting plant.
XANTHIUM (Cadillos, Cocklebur) More than 6-8 burrs a day can cause
potential placental separation
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: UTERINE VASODILATORS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACTEA RUBRA (A. arguta, Baneberry)
ALOE (Aloes Socrotine, etc.)
ANGELICA SINENSIS (Dong Quai, Tang Kwei)
APOCYNUM CANNABINUM (Dogbane, Canadian Hemp)
ARISTOLOCHIA SERPENTARIA (Virginia Snakeroot, Serpentaria)
ARISTOLOCHIA WATSONll (Indian Root, Raiz del Indio)
ARNICA (A. montana. A. cordifolia. A. latiflora. etc.)
ARTEMISIA ABSINTHIUM (Wormwood)
ARTEMISIA TRIDENTATA (Sagebrush)
ARTEMISIA VULGARIS (Mugwort. California Mugwort)
ASCLEPIAS ASPERULA (Inmortal, Antelope Horns)
ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA (Pleurisy Root)
BRYONIA (Bryony)
CACALIA DECOMPOSITA (Maturin. Maturique)
CHAMAELIRIUM (Helonias. Unicorn Root )
CHENOPODIUM (Epazote. Wormseed)
CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA (Black Cohosh)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe. Yohimbe)
CROCUS (True Saffron, "Azafran") Azafran is the usual name for Safflowers
DAUCUS CAROTA (Carrot, Wild Carrot) The seeds.
EUONYMUS (Wahoo, Burning Bush)
FOUQUIERIA SPLENDENS (Ocotillo)
GALEGA (Goat's Rue)
HEDEOMA (American Pennyroyal, Poleo Chino)
IRIS VERSICOLOR, I. MISSOURIENSIS (Blue Flag)
JUNIPERUS (Juniper. Sabina, Sabino Macho, "Cedar")
LILIUM TIGRINUM (Tiger Lily)
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote. Mescal Buttons)
PETROSELlNUM (Parsley)
PODOPHYLLUM (American Mandrake, May Apple)
POLYGALA SENEGA (Senega Snakeroot, Milkwort)
POLYMNIA UVEDALIA (Bearsfoot, Leafcup)
RUTA GRAVEOLENS (Rue, Ruda)
SANGUINARIA (Bloodroot)
SPIGELIA (Pink Root)
STILLINGIA SYLVATICA (Queen's Root)
TANACETUM (Tansy, Ponso, Tanse)
THUJA (Arbor Vitae, Flat, Red or Yellow Cedar)
TURNERA DIFFUSA (Damiana)
XANTHOXYLUM (Prickly Ash)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: CATHARTICS/SACRAL IRRITANTS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ALOE (Aloes Socrotine. etc.)
CASSIA MARlLANDICA (American Senna)
CHENOPODIUM (Epazote, Wormseed)
HELIOPSIS LONGIPES (Raiz del Oro, Chilcuan)
IRIS VERSICOLOR, I. MISSOURIENSIS (Blue Flag)
LEPTANDRA (Veronicastrum, Culver's Root)
PODOPHYLLUM (American Mandrake)
RHAMNUS CALIFORNICA (California Buckthorn)
RHAMNUS FRANGULA (Buckthorn)
RHAMNUS PURSHIANA (Cascara Sagrada)
RHEUM (Chinese or Turkey Rhubarb)
SENNA (Cassia angustifolia, Te de Sena )
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: OXYTOCIN SYNERGISTS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ASCLEPIAS ASPERULA (Inmortal, Antelope Horns)
CAPSELLA BURSA-PASTORIS (Shepherd's Purse, Bolsa de Pastor)
CAULOPHYLLUM (Blue Cohosh)
GOSSYPIUM (Cotton, Algodoncillo) Root Bark
LEONURUS CARDIACA (Motherwort)
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote, Mescal Buttons)
SCOPARIUS (Cytisus scoparius, Broom Tops)
USTILAGO (Corn Smut)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: OVERT DRUG PLANTS (and primary compounds)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM COLUMBIANUM (Aconite, Monkshood)
Aconitine
APOCYNUM CANNABINUM (Dogbane. Canadian Hemp)
Feeble digitaloid
CHENOPODIUM (Epazote, Wormseed)
CINCHONA (Peruvian Bark. Quinine Bark)
Quinines
CONVALLARIA (Lily of the Valley)
Feeble digitaloid
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe)
Yohimbine AND some reserpine relatives..an indole stew
DATURA (Jimson Weed. Toloache, Estramonio)
Atropine effects
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang, Chinese Ephedra)
Ephedrines
GARRYA (Silk Tassel, Cuauchichic, Quinine Bush)
Garryine, Cuauachichicine - anti-cholinergics
GELSEMIUM (Yellow Jasmine)
Gelsemine...an indole alkaloid and CNS irritant
HYOCYAMUS NIGER (Henbane)
Atropine effects
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote, Mescal Buttons)
NICOTIANA (Punche, Tobacco)
PEGANUM HARMALA (Syrian Rue)
Harmine (indole alkaloid, MAO inhibitor)
PILOCARPUS (Jaborandi)
Pilocarpine and other muscarinics
SCOPARIUS (Cytisus scoparius, Broom Tops)
Cytisine, sparteine (simultaneous Hypo-Hypertensives)
VERATRUM (Green, False or American Hellebore)
Cardiac depressant
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: MISCELLANEOUS WlERDNESS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM CARMICHAELI (CURED) (Fu-tse, Fo-tzu)
Peculiar adrenergic, wrong in TCM, and biologically too potent.
ACORUS CALAMUS (Calamus, Sweet Flag)
Mildly co-carcinogen (Eurasian strain), and may interfere with
normal PG inter-reactions
AESCULUS CALIFORNICA (California Buckeye) see below
--AESCULUS GLABRA (Ohio Buckeye) see below
--AESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM (Horse Chestnut)
All stimulate myenteric plexus, with unpredictable vascular effects.
AMYGDALIS PERSICA (Peach Tree)
Cyanogenic, unless prepared perfectly
ANEMONE HIRSUTISSIMA (Pulsatilla, Pasque Flower) anti-dopimergic
BAPTISIA (Wild Indigo Root) CAN mimic Scoparius
CORYDALIS AUREUS (Golden Smoke)
--DICENTRA CANADENSIS (Turkey Corn)
--DICENTRA FORMOSA (Bleeding Heart)
--ESCHSCHOLTZIA CALIFORNICA (California Poppy)
Above four have mixed protopines
GINKGO BlLOBA (Maidenhair Tree) Many subtle effects, unpredictable
GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (Licorice) Minerocorticosteroid effects
GUAIACUM OFFICINALE (Lignum Vitae, Guayacan)
Unpredictable vasodilation, feebly muscarinic
HELENIUM HOOPESll (Yerba del Lobo) Contains PAs; potential liver irritant
HYDRASTIS (Golden Seal) Mucosa stimulant, may age placenta
LARREA (Chaparral. Gobernadora, Hediondilla)
Quirky anti-oxidant, w/hemolytic potential
LOMATIUM DISSECTUM (Leptotaenia) Too bioactive to chance
MARRUBIUM (Horehound, Marrubio) Mildly hypertensive under some conditions
MENTHA ARVENSIS (Brook Mint, Poleo) Has some Pennyroyal constituents
OPLOPANAX HORRIDUM (Echinopanax, Devil's Club)
--PANAX GINSENG (Asian Ginseng)
--PANAX QUINQUEFOLIUM (American Ginseng)
Above three are anabolic/hypothalamic
PHYTOLACCA (Poke) Idiosyncratic, poorly documented muscarinic effects
PRUNUS (Wild Cherry, Choke Cherry) Cyanogenic when gathered incorrectly
PTYCHOPETALUM (Muirapuama. Raiz del Macho)
Idiosyncratic motor/sacral stimulant
SENECIO AUREUS (Life Root, Squaw Weed) May be unintentionally mixed with
toxic Senecios
SILYBUM MARIANUM (Milk Thistle) May inhibit hepatocytes in excess;
pregnancy may unpredictably alter therapeutic window
SOLANUM DULCAMARA (Bittersweet Twigs) Too bioactive to risk
SYMPHYTUM (Comfrey) Some hybrids in commerce contain root PAs
TRlBULUS (Puncture Vine, Goat's Head) Ayurvedic Medicine advises not to
use in pregnancy
VISCUM ALBUM (European Mistletoe) May be unintentionally adulterated with
American Mistletoe: even if correct, it is too bioactive
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PREGNANCY: MAY BE PRESENT IN MILK
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACORUS CALAMUS (Calamus. Sweet Flag)
AlLANTHUS ALTlSSIMA (Tree of Heaven)
ALLIUM SATIVUM (Garlic)
ALOE (Aloes Socrotine, etc.)
ARISTOLOCHIA SERPENTARIA (Virginia Snakeroot, Serpentaria)
ARISTOLOCHIA WATSONll (Indian Root, Raiz del Indio)
ARTEMISIA ABSINTHIUM (Wormwood, Agenjo)
ARTEMISIA TRIDENTATA (Sagebrush, Chamiso Hediondo)
ARTEMISIA VULGARIS (Mugwort, Altamisa)
CACALIA DECOMP0SITA (Maturin, Maturique)
CANNABIS SATIVA (Marijuana, Hemp)
CASSIA MARlLANDICA (American Senna, Te de Sena)
CHENOPODIUM (Epazote, Wormseed)
COMMIPHORA (Myrrh Gum, Mirra)
CONVALLARIA (Lily of the Valley)
DAUCUS CAROTA (Carrot, Wild Carrot) Seeds
DRACONTIUM (Symplocarpus, Skunk Cabbage)
FOUQUIERIA SPLENDENS (Ocotillo)
GALEGA (Goat's Rue)
GINKGO BILOBA (Maidenhair Tree)
JUNIPERUS (Juniper. Sabina, "Cedar")
LIGUSTICUM PORTERI (Osha, Chuchupate)
PlLOCARPUS (Jaborandi)
RHEUM (Chinese or Turkey Rhubarb)
SANGUINARIA (Bloodroot)
SENNA (Cassia angustifolia, Te de Sena )
RUTA GRAVEOLENS (Rue, Ruda)
TANACETUM (Tansy, Tanse, Ponso, "Altamisa")
THUJA (Arbor Vitae, Flat, Red or Yellow Cedar)
XANTHOXYLUM (Prickly Ash)
/////////////////////////////////
NEUROENDOCRINE //////////////////
/////////////////////////////////
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: SYMPATHOMIMETICS w/PRIMARY CONSTITUENT
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM CARMICHAELI (CURED) (Fu-tse, Fo-tzu) ???
ACORUS CALAMUS (Calamus. Sweet Flag) ASARONE
CAFFEA ARABICA (Coffee) CAFFEINE
COLA NITIDA (Kola Nut) CAFFEINE
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe. Yohimbe) YOHIMBINE
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang, Chinese Ephedra) EPHEDRINE
GELSEMIUM (Yellow Jasmine) GELSEMINE
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote, Mescal Buttons) MESCALINE
PEGANUM HARMALA (Syrian Rue) HARMINES
PAULLINIA (Guarana) CAFFEINE, HYPOXANTHINES
PTYCHOPETALUM (Muirapuama, Raiz del Macho) ???
SCOPARIUS (Cytisus scoparius, Broom Tops) CYTISINE, SPARTEINE, etc.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: PARASYMPATHOMIMETICS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
AESCULUS CALIFORNICA (California Buckeye)
AESCULUS GLABRA (Ohio Buckeye)
AESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM (Horse Chestnut)
ANEMONE HIRSUTISSIMA (Pulsatilla, Pasque Flower)
APOCYNUM CANNABINUM (Dogbane, Canadian Hemp)
ARNICA (A. montana, A. cordifolia. A. latiflora. etc.)
ASCLEPIAS ASPERULA (Inmortal, Antelope Horns)
ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA (Pleurisy Root)
BRYONIA (Bryony)
CACALIA DECOMPOSITA (Maturin, Maturique)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe)
EUONYMUS (Wahoo, Burning Bush)
IRIS VERSICOLOR, I. MISSOURIENSIS (Blue Flag)
LEPTANDRA (Veronicastrum, Culver's Root)
LOBELIA INFLATA (Lobelia, Indian Tobacco)
PHYTOLACCA (Poke)
PlLOCARPUS (Jaborandi)
PISCIDIA (Jamaica Dogwood, Jabin)
POLYGALA SENEGA (Senega Snakeroot, Milkwort)
SANGUINARIA (Bloodroot)
SOLANUM DULCAMARA (Bittersweet Twigs)
SPIGELIA (Pink Root)
VERATRUM (Green, False or American Hellebore)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: ANTICHOLlNERGlC
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
DATURA (Jimson Weed, Toloache, Estramonio)
GARRYA (Silk Tassel, Cuauchichic, Quinine Bush)
HYOCYAMUS NlGER (Henbane)
SOLANUM DULCAMARA (Bittersweet Twigs)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: VASOPRESSOMIMETlC
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe)
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote, Mescal Buttons)
TRIBULUS (Puncture Vine, Goat's Head)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: PITUITARY/HYPOTHALAMIC "POTENTIATING"
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CENTELLA ASIATICA (Hydrocotyle asiatica, Gotu Kola)
OPLOPANAX HORRIDUM (Echinopanax, Devil's Club)
PANAX GINSENG (Asian Ginseng)
PANAX QUINQUEFOLIUM (American Ginseng)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: THYROID STlMULATlNG
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM CARMICHAELI (CURED) (Fu-tse, Fo-tzu)
CENTELLA ASIATlCA (Hydrocotyle asiatica, Gotu Kola)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe)
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang, Chinese Ephedra)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: THYROID DEPRESSING
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CHLOROPHYLLIN (Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin, Chlorophyll "JJ")
LEONURUS CARDIACA (Motherwort)
LYCOPUS (Bugleweed)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: ALDOSTERONE SYNERGISTS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (Licorice)
MARRUBIUM (Horehound, Marrubio)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
NEUROENDOCRINE: FLAVIN-MAO-INHIBITING
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM CARMICHAELI (CURED) (Fu-tse, Fo-tzu)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe)
HYPERICUM (St. Johns Wort)
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote, Mescal Buttons)
PEGANUM HARMALA (Syrian Rue)
/////////////////////////////////
METABOLIC ///////////////////////
/////////////////////////////////
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
METABOLIC: "ANABOLIC"
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ANGELICA SINENSIS (Dong Quai, Tang Kwei)
OPLOPANAX HORRIDUM (Echinopanax. Devil's Club)
PANAX GINSENG (Asian Ginseng)
PANAX QUINQUEFOLIUM (American Ginseng)
PTYCHOPETALUM (Muirapuama, Raiz del Macho)
SMlLAX (Sarsaparilla)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
METABOLIC: ANTICOAGULANTS/"BLOOD THINNING"
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
BETULA (Birch)
CEANOTHUS (Red Root, New Jersey Tea)
CHRYSANTHEMUM PARTHENIUM (Feverfew)
GINKGO BILOBA (Maidenhair Tree)
LEUCANTHEMUM (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, Oxe-Eye Daisy)
MELILOTUS (Sweet Clover)
POPULUS TREMULIODES (Aspen)
SALIX (Willow)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
METABOLIC: CYANOGENIC POTENTIAL
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
AMYGDALIS PERSICA (Peach Tree)
PRUNUS (Wild Cherry, Choke Cherry)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
METABOLIC: ALLERGIC/ATOPIC POTENTIAL
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ALLIUM SATIVUM (Garlic)
ASAFETIDA (Ferula asafetida, Devil's Dung, Stinkasant)
ASPIDIUM (Dryopteris filix-mas, Male Fern)
CAFFEA ARABICA (Coffee)
LINUM (Flaxseed)
PANAX GINSENG (Asian Ginseng)
PROPOLlS (Beehive scrapings, gathered from trees)
SOLANUM DULCAMARA (Bittersweet Twigs)
YUCCA (Amole, Spanish Bayonet)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
METABOLIC: HYPO-HYPERGLYCEMIC (REACTIVE)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM CARMICHAEL (CURED) (Fu-tse. Fo-tzu)
BERBERIS (Barberry)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe)
HYDRASTIS (Golden Seal)
MAHONIA (Oregon Grape, Berberis aquifolium)
PEGANUM HARMALA (Syrian Rue)
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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM (CVS) /////
/////////////////////////////////
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CVS: CARDIOGLYCOSIDE POTENTIATING
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
APOCYNUM CANNABINUM (Dogbane, Canadian Hemp)
ASCLEPIAS ASPERULA (Inmortal, Antelope Horns)
ASPIDOSPERMA (Quebracho Bark)
CONVALLARIA (Lily of the Valley)
SCOPARIUS (Cytisus scoparius, Broom Tops)
VERATRUM (Green, False or American Hellebore)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CVS: BRADYCARDIC/HYPOTENSIVE
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM COLUMBIANUM (Aconite, Monkshood)
ACTEA RUBRA (Baneberry, Yerba del Peco)
ANEMONE HIRSUTISSIMA (Pulsatilla, Pasque Flower)
ARNICA (A. montana, A. cordifolia, A. latiflora. etc.)
ASCLEPIAS ASPERULA (Inmortal, Antelope Horns)
ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA (Pleurisy Root)
BRYONIA (Bryony)
CAPSELLA BURSA-PASTORIS (Shepherd's Purse)
CEREUS GRANDIFLORUS (Selenicereus, Peniocereus, Night-Blooming Cereus)
CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA (Macrotys, Black Cohosh)
CRATAEGUS (Hawthorn)
ESCHSCHOLTZIA CALIFORNICA (California Poppy)
GARRYA (Silk Tassel, Cuauchichic, Quinine Bush)
LOBELIA INFLATA (Lobelia, Indian Tobacco)
PILOCARPUS (Jaborandi)
PRUNUS (Wild Cherry, Choke Cherry)
VERATRUM (Green, False or American Hellebore)
VINCA MAJOR (Periwinkle)
VISCUM ALBUM (European Mistletoe)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CVS: TACHYCARDIC
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM CARMICHAEL (CURED) (Fu-tse. Fo-tzu)
COLA NITIDA (Kola Nut)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe. Yohimbe)
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang, Chinese Ephedra)
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote, Mescal Buttons)
NICOTIANA (Punche, Tobacco)
PANAX GINSENG (Cured or Red Chinese, Korean)
SCOPARIUS (Cytisus scoparius, Broom Tops)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CVS: HYPERTENSIVE POTENTIAL
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ACONITUM CARMICHAELI (CURED) (Fu-tse. Fo-tzu)
ASPIDOSPERMA (Quebracho Bark)
CINCHONA (Peruvian Bark, Quinine Bark)
COLA NITIDA (Kola Nut)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe. Yohimbe)
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang, Chinese Ephedra)
GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (Licorice)
HYDRASTIS (Golden Seal)
LOPHOPHORA (Peyote, Mescal Buttons)
NICOTIANA (Punche. Tobacco)
PTYCHOPETALUM (Muirapuama, Raiz del Macho)
SCOPARIUS (Cytisus scoparius, Broom Tops)
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PHARMACOKINETICS (PhKs)
/////////////////////////////////
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PhKs: HERBS THAT CAN ALTER LIVER METABOLlSM OF DRUGS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ARISTOLOCHIA SERPENTARIA (Virginia Snakeroot, Serpentaria)
ARISTOLOCHIA WATSONll (Indian Root, Raiz del Indio)
ARTEMISIA TRIDENTATA (Sagebrush)
BERBERIS VULGARIS (Common Barberry)
CEPHALANTHUS (Button Bush)
CHELIDONIUM (Greater Celandine)
CHELONE (Balmony,. Turtlehead)
CHIONANTHUS (Fringetree)
EUONYMUS (Wahoo, Burning Bush)
HYDRASTIS (Golden Seal)
IRIS VERSICOLOR, I. MISSOURIENSIS (Blue Flag)
LEPTANDRA (Veronicastrum, Culver's Root)
MAHONIA (Oregon Grape, Algerita)
PODOPHYLLUM. (American Mandrake)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PhKs: HERBS THAT CAN ALTER GI ABSORPTION
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
AESCULUS CALIFORNICA (California Buckeye)
AESCULUS GLABRA (Ohio Buckeye)
AESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM (Horse Chestnut)
ALOE (Aloes Socrotine, etc.)
ARCTOSTAPHYLOS (Uva Ursi, Manzanita, Bearberry)
CAPSICUM (Cayenne, African Bird Peppers)
CHLOROPHYLLIN (Sodium Copper Chlorophyllin, Chlorophyll "JJ")
EPHEDRA VIRIDIS (Mormon Tea, American Ephedra, Canutillo, Popotillo)
FRANGULA (Rhamnus frangula, Buckthorn)
MIRABILIS MULTIFLORUM (Maravilla)
PTELEA (Wafer Ash, Hop Tree)
RHAMNUS CALIFORNICA (California Buckthorn)
RHAMNUS FRANGULA (Buckthorn)
RHAMNUS PURSHIANA (Cascara Sagrada)
SENNA (Cassia angustifolia, Te de Sena )
YUCCA (Amole, Spanish Bayonet)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
PhKs: IMMUNOSTIMULANT HERBS THAT CAN RAISE WBC COUNT
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ARISTOLOCHIA SERPENTARIA (Virginia Snakeroot, Serpentaria )
ARISTOLOCHIA WATSONll (Indian Root, Raiz del Indio)
BAPTISIA (Wild Indigo Root)
COMMIPHORA (Myrrh Gum)
GUAIACUM OFFICINALE (Lignum Vitae, Guayacan)
POLYMNIA UVEDALIA (Bearsfoot, Leafcup)
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HEPATIC /////////////////////////
/////////////////////////////////
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
HEPATIC: HERBS THAT CAN ALTER SGOT/SGPT READINGS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ANAGALLIS (Scarlet Pimpernel)
EUONYMUS (Wahoo, Burning Bush)
LINARIA (Toad Flax. Butter-and-Eggs)
MAHONIA (Oregon Grape, Algerita)
SILYBUM MARIANUM (Milk Thistle)
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
HEPATIC: PYRROLIZIDINE ALKALOID HERBS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CACALIA DECOMPOSITA (Maturin, Maturique)
CNICUS BENEDICTUS (Blessed or Holy Thistle) (if adulterated)
CYNOGLOSSUM OFFICINALIS (Hound's Tongue)
HELENIUM HOOPESll (Yerba del Lobo, Orange Sneezeweed)
SENECIO AUREUS (Life Root, Squaw Weed) (if adulterated)
SYMPHYTUM (Comfrey) (certain hybrids)
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HERB-SPECIFIC PROBLEMS //////////
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<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
HERBS WITH MISCONCEPTIONS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ALETRIS FARINOSA (Star Grass, "True" Unicorn Root) Confused with Helonias
(Chamaelirium), an HCG agonist and reproductive stimulant. Aletris
is only a digestive stimulant
ANGELICA SINENSIS (Dong Quai, Tang Kwei) NOT a source of exogenous
estrogen, it instead increases utilization of ENDOGENOUS estrogens
ARNICA (A. montana. A. cordifolia, A. latiflora. etc.) Unsafe for internal
use, it can be confused with HETEROTHECA (Mexican Arnica)
CAPSICUM (Cayenne, African Bird Peppers) Not a tonic or immunostimulant,
it acts as a peripheral vasodilator, increasing blood supply to the
skin and mucosa. It is NOT appropriate for active inflammation.
CEREUS GRANDIFLORUS (Selenicereus, Peniocereus, Night-Blooming Cereus)
NOT a digitalis-like cardioactive, it moderates SA-AV depolarization
and lessens adrenergic or drug tachycardia. NOT for organic disease
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe) An especially pernicious herb
with simultaneous sympathetic AND parasympathetic actions. It will
mimic vasopressin and can irritate the kidneys; it increases pelvic
blood supply and can aggravate reproductive, GU, and descending colon
irritations; it can irritate arterial endothelium and contribute to
or cause vasculitis. Lousy for the prostate, it CAN trigger a few
and relatively useless erections, followed by rebound re-flaccidity.
DIOSCOREA VlLLOSA (Wild Yam) It has NO PROGESTERONE, or any other steroid
hormone. The first generation of synthetic steroids was made using
diosgenin (from MEXICAN Yam) and the Marker Degradation Method. By
the mid-1950's stigmasterol (a soy-derived lipoid) took its place,
and other methods are now used. It contains NO "precursors"...the
only true human steroid precursor is low-density cholesterol OR some
other steroid hormone. Wild Yam creams usually contain synthetic
Natural Progesterone.
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang, Chinese Ephedra) Although a useful and less
edgy source of ephedrine, it is almost totally used these days as an
"anorectic" or "safe" stimulant. Most people view CNS stimulants by
comparison with caffeine sources...a 3-4 hour buzz. Ephedrine
lasts 7-8 hours, is more adrenergic, and it is easy to overlap the
doses without being aware of the vascular and pulmonary stress. In
addition, with extended serum levels, tolerance to CNS effects can be
quick (although other effects stay somewhat level) and an individual
can quickly creep up in dosage. Dangerous in this context.
GINKGO BILOBA (Maidenhair Tree) A peripheral and cerebral vasodilator, it
helps those with impaired circulation. It is often sold, however, as
an aid to "intelligence" and is often used by students when cramming
for tests, etc. Under these misguided uses it causes many headaches
HETEROTHECA (Camphor Weed, Mexican Arnica) See ARNICA
HYPERICUM (St. John's Wort) Several preliminary tests implicated it as an
anti-viral for HIV. These were overturned in subsequent tests but
the reputation still lingers. It IS useful for helping some of the
CNS symptoms of AIDS, but because of it's antidepressant effects, NOT
because it is antiviral.
LARREA (Chaparral, Gobernadora, Creosote Bush) It should not be considered
as a liver irritant, despite several inexplicable cases. It IS an
hepatic depressant (excessive antioxidant activities) and CAN cause
hemolytic-type responses if it is used well above it's therapeutic
window.
LOBELIA INFLATA (Lobelia, Indian Tobacco) Fresh preparations of this herb
show broad, many-layered stimulus of adrenergic-suppressed parasympa-
thetic functions. Dry, but unheated Lobelia retains some of this
function. By the time it is used for tea ONLY the emetic alkaloids
are still intact, and it has little other value.
PHYTOLACCA (Poke) Although useful (with a skillful touch) in depressed
metabolism and edematous adipose tissues (the "Pillsbury Dough
Person" syndrome), it has NO fat-reducing effects, is easily toxic,
and it's reputation comes from being used for hypothyroid, goitrous
conditions 100 years ago...in the Goiter Belt.
SENECIO AUREUS (Life Root, Squaw Weed) This native Eastern United States
wildflower seems to be beneficial for functional hypoestrogenic
states, and has a reliable place, at least in herbal therapy. It is
also fairly unique as a Senecio: it is devoid of toxic pyrrolizidine
alkaloids. MOST of the herb on the market, however, is either S.
vulgaris or a similar Senecio. I don't know how the confusion came
about. They are not particularly similar in appearance, but many
otherwise reliable texts consider them interchangeable. In fact they
are VERY dissimilar in constituents. The OTHER Senecios are VERY
high in the toxic group. Know the plant or the picker, otherwise
avoid this remedy and stick with something like Dong Quai.
SILYBUM MARIANUM (Milk Thistle) There are HUNDREDS of reliable biologic
and medical studies that support this plant's seeds' value for
Amanita mushroom poisoning, lessening the toxicity of heavy metals
(if taken soon enough) and quickening CNS and hepatic regeneration in
solvent or alcohol detox. Like Ginkgo, however, you NEED a problem
to get benefit. Without an ongoing stress, using Silybum or it's
extracted silymarins on general principle can actually depress normal
liver function
VISCUM ALBUM (European Mistletoe) Without attempting to comment on the
European use (from the Rudolph Steiner hospitals) of Mistletoe (I
don't know enough), the fact is that the dried herb is SOMETIMES not
European but American Mistletoe (Phoradendron spp.), a VERY different
plant altogether (at least pharmacologically), with almost pernicious
vaso-constrictive effects.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
HERBS WITH HIDDEN or THRESHOLD EFFECTS
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
CANNABIS SATIVA (Marijuana. Hemp) It can be a strong estrogen-synergist,
shortening the estrus cycle in women, antagonizing testosterone in
men (or being synergistic with adipose estradiols)...bad for any
prostate condition.
DAUCUS CAROTA (Carrot, Wild Carrot) Sometimes used as a contraceptive, it
contains aromatics that, in large enough quantities, can exaggerate
uterine inflammation.
EQUISETUM ARVENSE (Horsetail) If growing in areas downstream of commercial
farming, inorganic nitrates are metabolized into abnormal nicotine-
like alkaloids.
HYDRASTIS (Golden Seal) A mucus-membrane stimulant, useful for congested
and subacute stages, it can CAUSE inflammation if not needed, can
prematurely age the placenta, and, since it is threatened in the wild
and cultivation is still marginal, its use is rarely moral.
VALERIANA (Valerian) The dried plant, used consistently for a period of
time, can induce "Valerianism", a state of emotional lability similar
to what was formerly encountered with bromide abuse. The condition
reverses quickly if the Valerian is stopped.
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
HERBS LACKING ANY SOCIALLY REDEEMING VALUE
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<
ARTEMISIA ABSINTHIUM (Wormwood)
CINCHONA (Peruvian Bark. Quinine Bark)
CORYNANTHE (Pausinystalia Johimbe, Yohimbe)
EPHEDRA VULGARIS (Ma Huang. Chinese Ephedra)
GALEGA (Goat's Rue)
RUTA GRAVEOLENS (Rue, Ruda)
TANACETUM (Tansy)
POST NOTE: These opinions are mine; they reflect my experiences with
these plants, as a merchant, wildcrafter, author and teacher. They are
not exhaustive, many are disagreed with by other herbalists, naturopaths
and those in pharmacy...I have enemies in ALL the camps.
Crudely put, there is no better method to "Brown Nose" a group of
medical professionals than by offering long lists of "Side Effects",
thereby confirming their worst fears about what herbs do. The major
medical journals (NEJofM and Lancet excluded) jerk the chains of readers
by offering ill-researched, anecdotal and slanderous "exposes" of herbs
and natural healing, using the shoddiest of peer-review procedures. Not
only are there frequent REAL mistakes (wrong botany, pharmacy, etc.), but
the normally fastidious standards of medical reporting are completely
ignored in many of these articles. It is as if the MEANS are unimportant,
as long as the RESULTS meet political-medical preconceptions.
Politics be damned; there are potential dangers mixing herbs and
medicine. Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, they often have little
relationship to those that could be expected from purely chemical causes.
I am trying to be practical and realistic. Although, as an herbalist, it
is obvious where my heart lies, I am making NO attempt to slant my list
towards either end of the Wholistic vs Medical dialectic.
I am concerned about the patients.
SOUTHWEST SCHOOL OF BOTANICAL MEDICINE
122 Tulane SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
(505) 255-9215
FAX (505) 268-0196
Internet: hrbmoore@rt66.com
Compuserve: 73744,1621
AOL: HrbMichael
Michael Moore, Director
Donna Chesner, Administrator