Liferoot (Golden Groundsel, Squaw Weed)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Senecio vulgaris, S. aureus
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Pyrrolizidine (has high potential for causing liver disorders,
including cancer)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Increases blood pressure. Stimulates uterine contractions.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats menstrual irregularities. Treats dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). Treats excessive menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). Helps relieve vaginal discharge. Causes overdue labor to begin.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Consult your doctor if you:
Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments. Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Breast-feeding:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take for only a short time.

Storage:
Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:
At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated slightly dangerous, particularly in children, persons over
55 and those who take larger than appropriate quantities for
extended periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS