Bistort (Snakeweed) |
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Basic Information
Biological name (genus and species):
Polygonum bistorta
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Various parts of the entire plant, frequently differing by
country and/or culture
Chemical this herb contains:
Tannins (See Glossary)
KNOWN EFFECTS
Precipitates proteins.
Shrinks tissues.
Prevents secretion of fluids.
Interferes with absorption of iron and other minerals.
UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS
Roots:
Are used for astringent gargle.
Treat unusual bleeding.
Cause vomiting.
Treat cavities in teeth.
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 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:
No contraindications if you are not pregnant and do not take
amounts larger than 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
Signs and symptoms: |
What to do: |
Bleeding from stomach |
Discontinue. Call doctor |
characterized by vomiting |
immediately. |
bright-red blood or |
material that looks like |
coffee grounds |
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Kidney damage characterized |
Seek emergency treatment. |
by blood in urine, decreased |
urine flow, swelling of hands |
and feet |
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Nausea |
Discontinue. Call doctor immediately. |
Vomiting |
Discontinue. Call doctor immediately. |
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