Integumentary system - Lymphatics

Question 1

1. Burdock

Answer 1

Articum lappa
Asteraceae
Root

Actions:
Depurative, mild diuretic, mild laxative

Indications:
skin disorders (eczema, pspriasis & other chronic skin disorders, boils)
Disorders requiring elimination from body (gout, rheumatism)

Contraindications:
None known

Question 2

Cleavers, clivers

Answer 2

Glaium aparine
Rubiaceae
Aerial parts

Actions:
Diuretic, depurative

Indications:
skin diseases (psoriasis, eczema)
Painful/difficult urination, cystitis, kidney stones
Enlarged or inflammed lymph nodes

Contraindications:
None known

Question 3

3. Pokeroot

Answer 3

Phytolacca americanum
Phytolaccaceae
Root

Actions:
Antiinflammatory, lymphatic, depurative, immune-enhancing

Indications:
skin conditions (as a depurative acting on lymphatic system)
Inflammatory conditions or infections (esp resp & repro)
Mastitis, mammary abcess, possibly uterine & breast cancers
Topical skin irritation, infection, infestation

Contraindications:
Pregnancy, lactation, lymphatic leukaemia, GI irritation
Use fresh plant tinctures w extreme caution (if at all)
Topically - only drued plant tinctures & avoid contact w eyes
Avoid concurrent use w immunosuppressants
Poisoning from overdose

Question 4

4. sarsparilla

Answer 4

smilax ornata
smilaceae
Root & rhizome

Actions:
Depurative, antirheumatic, antiinflammatory

Indications:
Psoriasis, chronic skin disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, general tonic

Contraindications:
None known
?lead to GI irritation & temporary kidney impairment
Absortption of coadministered substances increased (digitalis glycosides or bismuth)
Eliminationof other substances accelerated (eg hypnotics)

Question 5

5. Red clover

Answer 5

Trifolium pratense
Leguminosae
Flower

Actions:
Depurative, anti-tumour (traditional use)

Inditcations:
skin disorders (eczema, psoriasis & ulcers)
Resp conditions (esp w spasmodic cough - bronchitis)

Contraindications:
None known