Lily-of-the-Valley

Basic Information

Biological name (genus and species):
Convallaria majalis
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Berries/fruits
Petals/flower
Roots
Chemicals this herb contains:
Convallamarin
Convallarin
Convallatoxin (highly toxic)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Increases efficiency of heart-muscle contraction. Helps body dispose of excess fluid by increasing amount of urine produced.

Miscellaneous information:
Although lily-of-the-valley has similar action to digitalis, there are safer, less-expensive, more-reliable products to use.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats congestive heart failure. Treats heartbeat irregularities. Improves circulation.

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. Have heart disease.

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 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