Bitter Root (Wild Ipecac, Spreading Dogbane, Rheumatism Weed)

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Apocynum androsaemifolium
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Bark
Petals/flower
Chemicals this herb contains:
Apocynein
Apocynin
Cymarin
Saponin (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Slows heartbeat. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced. Causes vomiting.

Miscellaneous information:
Bitter root has'marked effect on the heart. Prescribed, FDA- approved digitalis preparations are far superior in treating heart disorders, such as congestive heart failure and heartbeat irregularities. Many plants of varying potency and toxicity are called by this name. Be sure you know what you buy and take. You will need increased potassium if you take this herb. Take potassium supplement or eat more food high in potassium, such as apricots, citrus fruits, bananas.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats congestive heart failure. Treats palpitations. Treats gallstones. "Corrects" bile flow. Roots and rhizomes are used to make a medicinal preparation to restore normal tone to tissues or to stimulate appetite.

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:
Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:
Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:
Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:
Use only under medical supervision.

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

Rated slightly dangerous, particularly in children, persons
over 55 and those who take larger than appropriate quantities
for extended periods of time.
For symptoms of toxicity: See below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS