Milkwort

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Polygala vulgaris, P. senega
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Chemical this herb contains:
Saponins (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Causes increased secretions from bronchial tubes. Irritates intestinal tract. Decreases thickness and increases fluidity of mucus from lungs and bronchial tubes. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced. Increases perspiration.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats croup. Treats arthritis. Treats hives. Treats gout. Treats pleurisy. Treats constipation. Increases milk production in lactating women.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:
Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future. Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis.

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 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

Comparative-toxicity rating not available from standard
references.
For symptoms of toxicity: See ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE
EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS