Meadowsweet (Spirea, Queen-of-the-Meadow)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Filipendula ulmaria
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Petals/flower
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Gallic acid
Methyl salicylate
Salicylic acid
Salicylic aldehyde
Tannic acid
Volatile oils (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Shrinks tissues. Prevents secretion of fluids.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced. Treats diarrhea. Reduces pain.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

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

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:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

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

Others:
None expected if you are under 45, not pregnant, basically healthy, take it for only a short time and do not exceed manufacturer's recommended dosage.

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

Generally regarded as safe when taken in appropriate
quantities for short periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS