Horse Chestnut

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Aesculus hippocastanum
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Bark
Leaves
Seeds/nuts
Chemicals this herb contains:
Aesculin
Argyroscin
Capsuloescinic acid
Escin

KNOWN EFFECTS

Increases bleeding time (a laboratory test for blood clotting). Irritates mucous membrane.

Miscellaneous information:
There are more reliable, safer anti-coagulants approved by FDA. Eating even a few nuts can cause toxic symptoms.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Is used as anti-coagulant. 4% solution is used as sunscreen.

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 the 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.

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