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Boldo
(Peumus boldus)
DESCRIPTION
A native shrub to Chile, Boldo has long been part of the folk
medicine tradition of the indigenous people.
HERBAL USES
Traditionally, Boldo has
been used by the Chileans as a liver tonic and as a treatment
for Gallstones.
SUGGESTED INTAKES
Part of the plant used:
LEAF.
Boldo has been used as an
infusion at a dose of 3 g per day. It has also been used as
an extract and a tincture. However, these forms are generally
not recommended due the herb’s high content of ascaridole
(1,2). The German Commission E suggests that only ascaridole-free
preparations be used internally (3).
SUPPLEMENTAL USES
Gastrointestinal
disorders:
Boldo has been approved by German Commission E to treat gastrointestinal
disorders. These include indigestion, Heartburn, and loss
of appetite. Boldo contains the substance boldine, which scientists
believe stimulates bile and diuretic action (4).
SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS
Long-term use (more than
three to four weeks) of boldo is not recommended. People with
kidney disease should avoid boldo, for it may cause kidney
irritation (5).
People who are pregnant,
nursing, have obstruction of the liver bile duct, or severe
liver disease should not take boldo (6).
INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS
Boldo may aggravate the
hyperglycaemic and hyperuricemic (excessive blood levels of
uric acid) effects of glucose elevating drugs. Use with antidiabetic
drugs may require dose adjustments.
REFERENCES
1. Newall CA, Anderson
LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care
Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:46-47.
2. Blumenthal, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs:
Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical
Council. Austin, TX. 1998.
3. Blumenthal, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs:
Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical
Council. Austin, TX. 1998.
4. Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler’s herbs of Choice: The
Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicines. New York: Haworth Press,
1999, 74-75.
5. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines:
A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical
Press, 1996:46-47.
6. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions.
Sandy, OR: Eclectic Publications, 1997, 26.
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