Bittersweet (European Bittersweet, Bitter Nightshade, Felonwood)

Basic Information

KNOWN EFFECTS

Depresses central nervous system.

Miscellaneous information:
Bittersweet is a potentially dangerous herb. Toxic amounts depress nervous system and cause drowsiness. Berries are poisonous.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats glandular problems of thyroid, pancreas, ovaries. Is used as a lymphatic medicine. Treats eczema (See Glossary). Kills pain. Treats arthritis. Is used as an aphrodisiac. Treats skin diseases.

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:
Dangers outweigh any possible benefits. Don't use.

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 Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS