Botanical Actions And Constituents Flashcards
Mucilage is the constituent what are the actions?
Constituent: Mucilage- A group of polysaccharides that form a gel-like consistency when combined with water.
Actions:
1. Demulcent: Soothes and protects irritated or inflamed internal tissues by forming a protective coating over mucous membranes.
2. Emollient: Softens, soothes, and protects the skin, often used for burns, irritation, and inflammation.
3. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, especially in mucous membranes.
4. Vulnerary: Assists in wound healing by promoting tissue granulation and forming a protective barrier over wounds.
5. Bulking laxative: Increases stool bulk by pulling water into the colon, stimulating natural evacuation.
6. Soothing expectorant: Helps expel mucus from the respiratory tract and relieves irritation in the lungs.
7. Anti-spasmodic: Relieves spasms in the digestive and respiratory tracts.
Marshmallow – Marshmallow (Althea officinalis), Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulvus), Plantain (Plantago lanceolata), Aloe gel (Aloe vera), Chia seeds (Salvia hispanica), Flax seeds (Linum usitatissimum), Psyllium (Plantago psyllium)
Key Actions Explained:
Demulcents: Protect inflamed internal tissues by forming a soothing film over membranes. Herbs such as marshmallow and slippery elm are great for digestive, respiratory, and genitourinary tract irritation.
Emollients: Soothe and protect the skin, providing relief from irritation, burns, and inflammation. Examples include aloe gel and comfrey.
Vulnerary: Aids in wound healing and tissue regeneration. Herbs like comfrey and calendula are commonly used for this purpose.
Bulking laxatives: Mucilaginous herbs, such as psyllium and flax seeds, bulk stool by absorbing water and help stimulate bowel movements.
Soothing expectorants: Help to expel mucus from the lungs while also soothing irritated lung tissue, as seen with herbs like mullein and plantain.
Tannins is the constituent what are the actions?
Astringent is the Key Actions of Tannins:
1. Binding, Tightening, and Drying Effect:
Astringents work by causing the tissues to contract, which can help tighten and dry out areas where there is excess fluid or secretions.
- Reduce Secretions and Diarrhea:
This toning and tightening action helps reduce excessive secretions (like mucus) and can also help control diarrhea by toning the digestive tract. - Reduce Mucous Membrane Irritation, Inflammation, and Swelling:
Astringents help soothe irritated mucous membranes and can reduce inflammation and swelling in affected areas. - Improve Mucous Membrane Integrity:
By improving the tone and health of mucous membranes, astringents help form a better barrier against infectious agents (antimicrobial effect). - Speed Wound Healing:
Astringents are also known to promote wound healing (vulnerary effect), helping the body heal faster after injury.
Herbal Examples:
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)
Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana)
Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)
These herbs contain tannins, the chemical compounds responsible for the astringent action. Tannins bind proteins in the tissues, causing them to contract.
Safety Concerns:
The tannins in astringents can have side effects and may not be suitable for everyone:
- Constipation:
Astringents can worsen constipation because they have a drying effect, which may reduce bowel movements. - Iron Deficiency and Malnutrition:
Tannins can interfere with the absorption of iron and other nutrients, which is why people with malnutrition or iron deficiency should be cautious with them. - Interactions with Medications:
Tannins can bind to certain medications, reducing their effectiveness, so care must be taken when using these herbs alongside pharmaceutical drugs. - Topical Use of Tannins:
Herbs rich in hydrolysable tannins (like Witch Hazel) should be used topically (on the skin) rather than ingested because they can have hepatotoxic effects (potential liver damage). This is especially true for other tannin-rich plants like horse chestnut and bearberry.
Safety Concerns: * Tannins may be inappropriate in the following conditions:
* Constipation
* Iron deficiency and malnutrition
* Tannins should not be taken with other medications or supplements
* Herbs rich in hydrolysable tannins (Witch Hazel) should be reserved for topical use due to hepatotoxic effects (also horse Chesnut and bearberry)
Salicylates is the constituent what are the actions?
Constituent - Salicylates– A group of simple phenolics with salicin, methyl salicylate and salicylic acid. Ease pain and reduce inflammation. .
Actions:
1. Anti-inflammatory: Helps modulate the body’s inflammatory response by balancing cytokines, interleukins, prostaglandins, and leukotrienes.
2. Analgesic: Reduces pain by lessening neural sensitivity and pain signals within the nervous system.
3. Anti-pyretic / Febrifuge: Reduces fever when necessary.
4. Anti-septic: Protects against infection.
Herbal Examples: Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), White Willow (Salix alba), Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus)
Key Actions Explained:
1. Anti-inflammatory: Salicylates modulate inflammation rather than fully suppress it, allowing the body’s own chemical mediators like cytokines and prostaglandins to function appropriately.
2. Analgesic: Pain relief is achieved by inhibiting sodium-dependent channels that transmit pain signals, reducing their ability to propagate. Some herbs, such as cramp bark and white willow, also work by depleting Substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain perception. Herbs with salicylates, alkaloids, and resins are often used for this purpose.
Herbal Examples: Cayenne (Capsicum spp.), California Poppy (Eschscholzia californica), Cramp Bark, and White Willow.
3. Anti-pyretic / Febrifuge: These herbs help control or reduce fevers, although fever is a natural healing response and should only be treated if it gets too high.Herbal Examples: * Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) * Peppermint (Mentha piperita) * White Willow (Salix alba)
4. Anti-septic: Inhibiting Growth: Some anti-septic herbs contain compounds that create an environment where microorganisms cannot thrive.
Direct Action on Microorganisms: Anti-septic compounds can break down the cell walls or disrupt the metabolism of bacteria, fungi, or viruses, leading to their death.
Preventing Infection: By stopping or slowing microbial growth, anti-septic agents reduce the risk of infection, especially in situations where the body’s natural defenses are compromised, such as with open wounds. Herbal examples: Meadowsweet and White Willow
Safety Concerns:
1. High doses of salicylates can be ototoxic (harmful to the ears) and may lead to hearing loss, especially in zinc-deficient individuals.
2. Toxic overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, lethargy, tinnitus, and dizziness, a condition known as salicylism.
3. Avoid in individuals with salicylate allergies, as it can lead to adverse reactions
Actions: * Anti-inflammatory * Analgesic * Anti-pyretic / Febrifuge * Anti-septic Meadowsweet – Filipendula ulmaria White Willow – Salix alba Cramp bark – Viburnum opulus
Anti-inflammatory * Help the body modulate inflammation (not suppress or promote) * Support and balances our own chemical mediators responsible for inflammation – cytokines, interleukins, prostaglandins, leukotriene, etc
Bitters
Constituents & Actions - Common to all is the Stimulating digestive enzymes, bile, and gastric acids via parasympathetic nervous system. A number of constituents brought together by their bitter taste.
Bitter Action: * Hepatic * Alterative * Stimulates appetite * Aids liver in detoxification * Regulates blood sugars * Stimulates Parasympathetic Nervous System * Mild laxative * Stimulates release of digestive enzymes, acid and bile
Hepatics – cholagogues & choleretics * Cholagogues stimulate the flow of bile from the liver and gallbladder * Choleretics increase the volume of bile produced by the liver * Aid in the digestion of food and break-down of dietary fats * Supports healthy liver cells
* Hepatoprotective – Turmeric
* Hepatotrophorestorative – Milk thistle (meaning hepatoprotective and hepatorestorative)
* Herbal examples: * Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) * Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) * Turmeric (Curcuma longa) * Dandelion root (Taraxicum radix)
Alteratives * Gradually restore proper nutrition, elimination & metabolic function of the body * Blood cleansers / purifiers / detoxifiers * Action on the lymphatic, gastrointestinal, urinary and skin systems * Improve the body’s metabolism of nutrients, elimination of waste and contain macro/micro/phytonutrients
Herbal examples:
a) Burdock (Arctium lappa): Known for detoxifying properties.
b) Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus): Helps with metabolism and elimination.
c) Cleavers (Gallium aparine): Supports lymphatic system cleansing.
d) Dandelion root (Taraxicum off radix): Liver tonic and blood cleanser.
e) Stinging Nettle tops (Urtica dioica folia): General detoxifier and supports metabolic function.
f) Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Known for purifying the blood and supporting detoxification.
* Safety Concerns: * Use caution with strong bitters or avoid use with:
1. Active inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis): Bitters could aggravate inflammation in the digestive tract.
2. Diarrhea: Strong bitters may worsen this condition by increasing digestive fluid release.
3. Pregnancy: Some bitters can stimulate uterine contractions or may not be safe for pregnant women.
4. Kidney stones: Bitters might have diuretic properties, which could exacerbate kidney stones.
5. Acute gallbladder disease: Stimulating bile flow could worsen certain gallbladder conditions.
6. Reflux or hiatal hernia: Bitters can increase stomach acid production, which could aggravate these conditions
Flavonoids is the constituent what are the actions?
Biological Response Modifiers”. Made up of a carbon skeleton with 2 substituted benzene rings. Mostly found in leaves, fruits and flowers. They often give plants their bright colors (yellow, red, blue) and play a role in protecting the plant.
Actions: All are Anti-oxidant and Anti-inflammatory, some are Vascular tonic * Connect tissue tonic * Liver-protective * Anti-allergic * Anti-viral * Anti-cancer * * Anti-spasmodic *
- Anti-oxidant * Redox (oxidation-reduction) regulators – transfer of electrons * Reduce oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species * Inhibits the reduction of dehydroascorbic acid via glutathione by acting as H+ donors allowing resonance stabilization allowing damaging molecules to be unreactive * Slows the aging of cells * Herbal Examples * Colorful fruits and veggies * Turmeric (Curcuma longa) * Hawthorn (Crataegus sp) * Green tea * Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Antispasmodics / Spasmolytics: * Prevent or ease spasms or cramping within the musculature (smooth and skeletal muscles) * Also nervine relaxants and carminatives
* Salicylates, alkaloids and volatile oils also have this action * Herbal examples: * Hops (Humulus lupulus) * Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) * Peppermint (Mentha piperita) * Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) * Ginger (Zingiber off)
Circulatory Tonic is an Action
A circulatory tonic is a substance or treatment that improves the overall functioning and efficiency of the entire circulatory system—this includes the heart, blood vessels (arteries, veins, capillaries), and the blood flow throughout the body.
Function: It supports healthy blood circulation, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients are efficiently delivered to tissues while waste products are removed. Circulatory tonics generally help to regulate blood flow, heart function, and circulation in both large and small blood vessels.
Examples:
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.): Supports heart function, strengthens the heart muscle, and enhances circulation.
Ginkgo biloba: Improves peripheral circulation and supports overall blood flow, especially to the brain.
Vascular Tonic is an Action
Definition: A vascular tonic, on the other hand, specifically targets the blood vessels—arteries, veins, and capillaries. It aims to strengthen and tone the blood vessel walls, improve elasticity, and enhance their overall health.
Function: Vascular tonics primarily focus on maintaining or restoring the integrity of blood vessels, preventing issues like varicose veins, vascular fragility (e.g., bruising easily), or poor venous return (e.g., edema or swelling). They help to improve vascular tone, ensuring that the vessels can dilate and contract effectively, which supports healthy blood pressure and flow.
Examples:
Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum): Used to strengthen veins and reduce symptoms of venous insufficiency like varicose veins and hemorrhoids.
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica): Known to support connective tissue repair and strengthen blood vessels, improving circulation in peripheral tissues.
Volatile Oils is the constituent what are the actions?
Volatile oils, found in aromatic herbs, are complex mixtures containing over 100 compounds. These oils exert various therapeutic actions and are beneficial to several body systems including the skin, nervous, respiratory, digestive, and circulatory systems.
Hint to know what is a volatile oil skip to actions if you don’t need this:
1. Aromatic Scent: Volatile oils give off a distinct, strong smell. Many herbs with volatile oils are commonly used in aromatherapy (e.g., peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender).
2. Presence in Aromatic Herbs and Spices: Culinary herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, basil, and cinnamon are rich in volatile oils. If a plant is used as a spice, it’s likely to have volatile oils.
3. Essential Oils: If a plant can be distilled to make an essential oil, it contains volatile oils. These are compounds that evaporate readily and contribute to a plant’s scent.
4. Oily Feel: Volatile oils are not exactly greasy, but when rubbed between your fingers (from fresh plant material), they may leave a slight residue and give a warming sensation (e.g., eucalyptus).
5. Cooling or Warming Sensations: Many volatile oils either have a cooling effect (like peppermint) or warming effect (like cinnamon or ginger) on the skin due to their chemical nature.
6. Lipophilic (Oil-Soluble): Volatile oils dissolve in fats or oils but not in water. This is why they can be extracted via distillation or by using alcohol or oils as solvents.
Actions of Volatile Oils:
1. Carminatives: These help promote and ease digestive function by soothing the gut wall, easing cramping, and aiding in gas removal. Examples include Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), Chamomile (Matricaria recutita), and Peppermint (Mentha piperita).
2. Rubefacients: Volatile oils can dilate blood vessels and mildly stimulate tissue contact, improving blood and lymphatic flow to cleanse and nourish tissue. Herbal examples are Mustard seed (Brassica alba/niger), Cayenne (Capsicum spp.), and Castor Oil (Ricinis communis).
3. Nervines: Beneficial to the nervous system, they can act as relaxants, stimulants, or tonics:
a) Nervince Relaxants such as Lavender (Lavendula officinalis) and Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) ease tension.
b) Nervine Stimulants like Peppermint and Orange EO help alleviate mental fatigue.
c) Nervine Tonics such as Oat tops (Avena sativa) and St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) strengthen the nervous system.
Immune Stimulants / Antimicrobials: These oils fight pathogens and boost the immune system, especially useful at the onset of colds or flu. Herbal Examples:
* Tea Tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
* Oil of Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
* Echinacea (Echinacea spp)
* Old Man’s Beard (Usnea spp)
- Anti-inflammatory: Volatile oils also reduce inflammation across various body systems.
Safety Concerns:
Volatile oils are generally safe but should be used cautiously. Internal use can stimulate the heart to contract, increase bodily secretions (salivation, perspiration), and stimulate digestion (peristalsis). Essential oils are particularly potent and should not be taken internally without professional guidance, especially during pregnancy. Topically, some oils may be caustic to skin (can burn tissue; skin irritation)
More information on how Carminatives work:
1. Relaxing Smooth Muscle:
Carminative herbs reduce cramping, spasms, and tension in the smooth muscle of the intestines. When the digestive system experiences discomfort, like bloating or cramping, it is often due to spasms in these muscles. Volatile oils in carminative herbs act as mild muscle relaxants, calming these contractions. This action can prevent or relieve painful spasms, easing discomfort and promoting smoother passage of gas or food through the intestines.
- Regulating Peristalsis:
Peristalsis is the wave-like motion of the smooth muscle that moves food through the digestive tract. Carminative herbs help regulate this motion. When the smooth muscle is overactive (as in diarrhea or cramping), carminatives can calm it down. Conversely, if the muscles are underactive (as in constipation), these herbs can gently stimulate the intestines to restore balanced movement. - Easing Gas and Bloating:
Gas trapped in the intestines can cause pressure and discomfort, often leading to spasms in the smooth muscle. Carminative herbs help by relaxing the muscle and allowing gas to move freely and be expelled, reducing bloating and pain. - Interaction with Nervous System:
Some volatile oils, particularly in carminative herbs, interact with the enteric nervous system (the “second brain” of the gut). This helps modulate the signals controlling smooth muscle contraction, reducing excessive or disordered movements that lead to discomfort. - Balancing Smooth Muscle Tone:
Volatile oils, through their gentle actions, allow the digestive system to respond according to the body’s needs, either by calming or gently stimulating smooth muscle tone. For example, peppermint oil relaxes smooth muscle to ease spasms, while ginger may enhance peristalsis when digestion is sluggish.
Example:
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) contains menthol, a key volatile oil that is known to relax the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract. This is why peppermint is often recommended for relief from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), where smooth muscle spasms contribute to symptoms of cramping and discomfort.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is another classic carminative, known to both relax spasms and gently stimulate peristalsis, easing digestion and relieving gas.
Saponins is the constituent what are the actions?
Saponins -soap like are naturally occurring compounds that exhibit a “soap-like” quality, meaning they can create a foam when mixed with water. These compounds are composed of a fat-soluble steroid or triterpene base (lipophilic) combined with a water-soluble sugar molecule (hydrophilic), which gives them their unique properties.
Commonly found in roots/bark but also on stem/leaves/seeds and even flowers etc.
Actions:
1. Immunomodulator: Saponins help modulate the immune system, supporting a balanced response rather than over-stimulation or suppression.
2. Diuretic: Promotes the excretion of excess fluid from the body through urination.
3. Stimulating Expectorant: Helps to expel mucus from the respiratory tract, particularly useful in treating chest congestion.
4. Anti-catarrhal: Clears excess mucus from the respiratory system, aiding in conditions like sinus congestion or bronchitis.
5. Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation throughout the body, including the respiratory and digestive systems.
6. Anti-spasmodic: Relieves muscle spasms, particularly in the gastrointestinal or respiratory tracts.
7. Aphrodisiac: Increases sexual desire and performance.
Anti-oxidant: Neutralizes harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
8.Emmenagogue: Stimulates blood flow in the pelvic area and uterus, often helping to induce menstruation.
9.Cardiac Stimulant: Can have an effect on heart rate and strength of contraction.
10.Hormone Modulating: Saponins can mimic or influence endogenous hormones (like corticosteroids or estrogen).
11.Hepatoprotective: Protects the liver, particularly by supporting Kupffer cells (the macrophages in the liver that detoxify substances).
12.Adaptogen: Helps the body adapt to stress, often by sparing cortisol, the stress hormone.
Stimulating Expectorant
* Activates the muco-ciliary escalator, a defense mechanism in the respiratory tract.
* Cause mild irritation to mucous membranes, prompting the respiratory system to expel thick or copious mucus from the lungs.
* Effective in helping alleviate congestive lung disorders such as bronchitis.
Herbal Examples: Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)
Immunomodulators / Deep Immune Tonics:
* Saponins & polysaccharides have this action help modulate the immune system by:
* Enhancing immune responsiveness and helping with chronic or recurrent diseases.
* Nourishing and strengthening immune cells like T-suppressor cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, white blood cells, and antibodies.
* Often considered adaptogenic, helping with convalescence (recovery from illness).
Herbal Examples:
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
Medicinal mushrooms: Reishi, Shiitake, Chaga
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)
Anti-Catarrhals (Catarrhal - inflammation of the mucous membranes in 1 of the airways or cavities of the body)
* Sapnins, volatile oils and tannins have this action
* Thin and remove excess mucus from the body (usually the ear, nose, sinuses, and throat).
* Great for treating nasal and sinus congestion.
Herbal Examples:
Elderberry & Flower (Sambucus nigra)
Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)
Wild Indigo (Baptisia tinctoria)
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
Adaptogenic Actions
* Regulate adrenal function.
* Help Build resilience to stress.
* Improve energy and stamina.
* Some saponins are trophorestorative (tropho- nourishment/feeding), meaning they help regenerate or nourish adrenal tissue, improving long-term adrenal health.
Herbal Examples:
Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)
Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Ginsengs
Safety Concerns:
Saponins can irritate mucous membranes, leading to symptoms like swelling, sneezing, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting and urticaria (commonly known as hives, which is characterized by red, swollen, and itchy welts or patches on the skin often triggered by allergic reactions, or substances the body considers harmful)
Some saponins have hemolytic properties when introduced directly into the bloodstream (e.g., through intravenous or intramuscular injection), meaning they can break down red blood cells.
Alkaloids is the constituent what are the actions?
Mixed group of constituents containing nitrogen-bearing molecule. Most commonly found in flowering plants …nervine stimulants/relaxants, antimicrobials
Safety Concerns:
* All alkaloids have the potential to be toxic
* * Must adhere to maximum weekly and daily doses with plants containing high levels of alkaloids
* Contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation - some are teratogenic causing issues in the early stages fetal organ development.
* Uterine stimulation: Some alkaloids can cause uterine contractions, leading to an increased risk of miscarriage or premature labor.
* Hormonal interference: Alkaloids may mimic or disrupt the body
**Early signs of toxicity: **
* Dry mouth and eyes: Reduced saliva and tear production.
* Pupil dilation: Enlarged pupils, often a sign of overstimulation.
* Heart palpitation: Rapid or irregular heartbeats.
Rapid or shallow breathing: Respiratory distress or over-stimulation of the nervous system.
* Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea: Gastrointestinal distress from irritation or toxicity.
* Delirium and confusion: Mental disorientation and altered cognitive states.
Herbal Examples:
Belladonna (Atropa belladonna)
Ephedra (Ephedra sinica)
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
Poppy (Papaver somniferum)
Yohimbe (Pausinystalia johimbe)
Kava (Piper methysticum)
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)
Coffee (Coffea arabica)
Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum)
Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium)
Anthraquinones is the constituent what are the actions?
Largest subgroup of Quinones: Quinones are a broad group of compounds found in various plants, and anthraquinones are the most prominent subgroup.
Yellow-brown pigments: Typically appear as glycosides (sugar-bound forms) in plants, often responsible for their distinctive coloration. They act locally in the intestines,
Actions:
* Major constituent responsible for stimulant laxative effects (dose & bowel flora dependent)
* Mostly a local action with little absorption * Increased peristalsis and inhibition of water and electrolyte Examples:
* Cascara (Rhamnus purshiana) * Senna (Cassia angustifolia) * Aloe latex (Aloe barbadensis) * Turkey Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum)
Stimulant laxative effects: Anthraquinones are known for their laxative properties. They increase peristalsis (intestinal contractions that move food) and inhibit water and electrolyte resorption in the intestinal mucosa.
Dose & bowel flora dependent: The effects can vary based on the dosage and the individual’s gut bacteria.
Delayed action: The effects usually start 6 to 8 hours after ingestion.
Herbal Examples:
Cascara (Rhamnus purshiana): Known for its use in constipation relief.
Senna (Cassia angustifolia): Commonly used in herbal laxatives, available over-the-counter.
Aloe latex (Aloe barbadensis): The latex (not the gel) of aloe is rich in anthraquinones, giving it strong laxative properties.
Turkey Rhubarb (Rheum palmatum): A traditional laxative herb.
Harmless side effects:
May cause reddish discoloration of urine or feces, which is benign but could alarm users
Safety Concerns:
Adverse Effects:
Acute intestinal pain & cramping: Common with improper or excessive use of anthraquinone laxatives.
Long-term use: Can lead to dependence, electrolyte imbalances like hypokalemia (low potassium), dehydration, and peroxidation of lipids in the enteric mucosa, damaging the gut lining.
Interference with medication absorption: The use of anthraquinones can affect how medications are absorbed.
Contraindications:
1. Pregnancy: Absolute contraindication due to potential uterine stimulation and risk to the fetus.
2. Acute IBS/IBD, bowel obstructions, spastic colon, or abdominal pain of unknown origin: These conditions could be worsened by anthraquinone use.
3. Children under 12: Safety concerns due to stronger effects on the younger digestive system.
Summary:
Anthraquinones, found in herbs like Senna and Cascara, are potent stimulant laxatives that should be used with caution. They act locally in the intestines, primarily affecting water and electrolyte absorption and increasing bowel movements. Long-term use or high doses can result in adverse effects, such as dependency and electrolyte imbalances, and they are absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy.
Coumarins is the constituent what are the actions?
Safety Concerns: * Anticoagulant? * Coumarins are NOT coumadin (aka. warfarin)
* Transformation to the natural anticoagulant dicoumarol occurs by a number of species of fungi. Anticoagulant effect only occurs after fermentation.
* Photosensitivity * Furano & pyrocoumarins are activated by UV light, which can lead to photosensitivity rashes in some people.
Coumarins often occur in glycosidic form, meaning they are bound to a sugar molecule within the plant.
Vanilla-like odor: Simple coumarins often have a distinctive vanilla-like smell, which can make it easier to identify them.
Derivatives; There are multiple types of coumarins, including:
Hydroxycoumarins
Furanocoumarins
Pyranocoumarins
These derivatives are found in many plant species and can have a wide variety of actions depending on the specific type.
Actions:
1. Anti-inflammatory: Coumarins can help reduce inflammation in the body, making them useful for conditions involving swelling or irritation.
2. Antimicrobial: Some coumarins have the ability to combat bacteria and other microbes.
3. Antispasmodic: These compounds can help relax muscles, particularly smooth muscles, which can ease spasms and cramps.
4. Edema-modifiers: They act as lymphatic and vascular tonics, improving the function of the lymphatic system and blood vessels to reduce fluid retention (edema).
Herbal Examples:
a) Horsechestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum): Known for its vascular tonic and anti-edema properties, often used to treat varicose veins and swelling.
b) Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Contains coumarins with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, often used for skin conditions and lymphatic support.
Safety Concerns:
Anticoagulant?:
Coumarins are NOT coumadin (warfarin): While the name is similar, the compounds differ significantly. Warfarin (Coumadin) is a synthetic anticoagulant, whereas naturally occurring coumarins don’t have the same effect unless transformed.
Dicoumarol formation: Some species of fungi can ferment coumarins into dicoumarol, a natural anticoagulant. This conversion occurs after fermentation, so the anticoagulant effect only takes place under specific conditions.
Photosensitivity:
Furano & pyranocoumarins: These types of coumarins are activated by UV light, which can lead to photosensitivity rashes in some individuals. This is particularly important to consider for people who are exposed to the sun regularly, as they may be more prone to skin reactions when taking plants containing these coumarins.
Summary:
Coumarins, such as those found in Horsechestnut and Red Clover, offer various therapeutic actions, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic effects, and they improve lymphatic and vascular health. However, there are safety concerns regarding their potential transformation into anticoagulants through fungal fermentation and their ability to cause photosensitivity. Despite being related to warfarin in name, coumarins found in plants do not typically have the same anticoagulant effects unless specifically fermented into dicoumarol.
Yes Vanilla has these properties as well https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13596-020-00531-w
Lignans is the constituent what are the actions?
Lignans are polyphenolic compounds often found in indigestible plant fibers. They are primarily metabolized by intestinal microbiota, meaning that they can be broken down by the beneficial bacteria in our gut, contributing to various health benefits.
Actions of Lignans:
1. Phytoestrogenic: Lignans can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially influencing hormone-related functions and health.
2. Antioxidant: They possess properties that help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can contribute to various diseases.
3. Reduce Cholesterol: Lignans may help lower cholesterol levels, promoting cardiovascular health.
4. Nephro & Hepatoprotective: They offer protective benefits to the kidneys (nephro) and the liver (hepato), aiding in the maintenance of these vital organs.
Herbal Examples:
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum): Known for its liver-protective effects, it contains silymarin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis): Used in traditional medicine for its adaptogenic properties, it supports liver function and has antioxidant effects.
Flax Seeds (Linum usitatissimum): A rich source of lignans, flax seeds also provide omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber.
Summary
Lignans are significant due to their health benefits, particularly in hormonal regulation, oxidative stress reduction, cholesterol management, and organ protection. They are commonly found in certain herbs and seeds that are integral to traditional and modern herbal medicine.
