Digestive system - colon

Question 1

1. Agrimony

Answer 1

Agrimonia eupatoria
Rosaceae
Aerial parts

Actions:
Mild astringent, diuretic

Indications:
Diarrhoea in children, mucous colitis, grumbling appendicitis

Contraindications:
Excessive doses may interfere w blood pressure drugs & anticoagulants (theoretically)
Avoid excessive use (tannins) esp in pregnancy & lactation

Question 2

2. Rhubarb

Answer 2

Rheum palmatum
Polygonaceae
Rhizome, root

Actions:
Laxative, antipyretic, astringent, antiinflammatory

Indications:
Antidiarrhoeal (at low doses) - tannins
Laxative (high doses)
TCM - drains heat - constipation, abdo pain, jaundice

Contraindications:
Arthritis, kidney disease or urinary promblems
May exacerbate constipation (astringent) - avoid in obstruction, acute inflammatory intestinal disease, appendicitis, abdo pain of unknown origin
Pregnancy
Leaves toxic (oxalic acid)

Question 3

3. Cascara

Answer 3

Rhamnus purshiana
Rhamnaceae
Bark

Actions:
Laxative, mild purgative

Indications:
Constipation, flatulence, abdominal fullness, dyspepsia, loss of appetite, asthenia, coated tongue, itchy skin, GI conditions w hepatic involvement, headache from constipation, intestinal weakness

Contraindications:
Intestinal obstruction or inflammation, ulcerative colitis, appendicitis, abdo pain of unknown,
Children <12 yrs
Long term not recommended (stimulating laxatives max 2 wks)
Potentially reduce absorption of meds
Pregnancy & lactation

Question 4

4. Yellow dock

Answer 4

Rumex crispus
Polygonaceae
Root

Actions:
Mild laxative, cholagogue, depurative

Indications:
Chronic skin disorders
Constipation, bowel sluggishness, indigestion
Rheumatism

Contraindications:
None known
Caution in pregnancy (anthraquinone glycosides)

Question 5

5. senna

Answer 5

Cassia angustifolia
Leguminosae
Fruit (pod), leaf

Actions:
Cathartic

Indications:
Constipation, anal fissure, haemorrhoids, conditions which easy bowel evacuation w soft stools is desirable

Contraindications:
Intestinal obstruction or acute inflammation (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, abdo pain of unknown)
Children <12yrs
Avoid prolonged use (loss of K may potentiate cardicac glycosides & affect anti-arrhythmic meds)
Pregnancy & lactation