Pumpkins and other squashes are native to North and Central America, but are now cultivated around the world. The seeds are primarily used in herbal medicine. The yellow blossoms of pumpkins are also used as a health remedy in some native traditions. The viscous oil extracted from pumpkin appears green in thin a layer and red in a thick layer. Pumpkin seed oil is believed to be a natural DHT blocker. The potency of this herbal remedy is still under scientific investigation. At present, no clinical study exists regarding its potency to block DHT or its effectiveness in treating baldness.

Pumpkin seed ingredients

Pumpkin seed oil is rich in iron, zinc essential fatty acids, amino acids, phytosterols, minerals and vitamins. Other constituents include delta-7-sterine, mucilaginous carbohydrates and minerals. Additionally, pumpkin seeds reportedly contain significant amounts of L-tryptophan.

Pumpkin seed dosage

Patients with BPH have used 160 mg of seed oil extracts standardized for fatty acid content, 3 times per day with meals. Between 5 – 10 grams of pumpkin seeds per day are recommended for kidney stone prevention. As a treatment for parasites, 200–400 grams can be ground down and taken with milk and honey, followed by castor oil two hours later. This treatment, however, should not be attempted without medical supervision.

Side effects of pumpkin oil

No significant side effects have been reported in taking pumpkin seeds, other than an occasional upset stomach. There is no reason to believe pumpkin seeds should be avoided during pregnancy or breast-feeding as they are commonly consumed as a food during these times without any indication of harm. To our knowledge, no significant drug interactions with pumpkin have been reported.

Health benefits of pumpkin

Use of pumpkin seeds for the treatment of intestinal infections led the United States Pharmacopoeia to list them as an official medicine for parasite elimination up until 1936. Native Americans also commonly used pumpkin seeds to treat a variety of kidney problems. Indeed, two clinical studies in Thailand have reported that eating pumpkin seeds as a snack can help prevent the most common type of kidney stone. Animal studies have shown that pumpkin seed extracts can improve the function of the bladder and urethra.

Pumpkin seed oil is most commonly used to treat irritable bowel syndrome. Some studies have also found pumpkin seeds can regulate cholesterol levels. Pumpkin seed oil, when used in combination with saw palmetto, has been found in two clinical trials to diminish the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

In herbal medicine pumpkin seeds can be used to treat urinary tract problems and gastritis, and to remove tapeworms and roundworms from the intestines. Curcurbitin is a compound in pumpkin seeds that has exhibited anti-parasitic activity in in-vitro studies. Clinical trials carried out in China and Russia have shown pumpkin seeds to be useful in treating tapeworm infestations. Pumpkin seed oil is commonly prescribed in German folk medicine as a remedy for parasitic infestations of the intestinal tract.

Nettle (Urtica dioica), also known as common nettle, stinging nettle and big string nettle, are a common weed native to Europe, Asia, North America and North Africa.  Nettles grow to a height of 2 to 4 meters and have pointed leaves and white to yellowish flowers. Nettles can deliver a powerful sting when the skin touches the hairs and bristles on the leaves and stems. They have been used as a folk treatment for centuries. Both the leaves and the root are incorporated in various remedies.

Nettles and hair growth

The root is often used in herbal medicines to relieve the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is therefore assumed that it could prevent the conversion of testosterone to DHT, but clinical studies have not yet been carried out to back this up. Applying an extract of nettles to the scalp is said to stimulate hair growth. A number of studies using cell cultures and animals have demonstrated that extracts of nettle root partially blocked the action of two enzymes (5-alpha-reductase and aromatase) involved in the body’s production of DHT and estrogen. However, nettle root extract was effective only at high concentrations. Although it remains uncertain as to whether or not nettles are really effective against baldness in man, nettles are frequently used as one of the active ingredients in many commercial hair loss remedies. It can be taken in pill or capsule form at doses of 50-100 mg per day. It is reputed to be more effective when combined with pygeum and saw palmetto.

See also: Are Herbal Hair Loss Remedies a Scam?

Types of nettle product

Nettle root, nettle leaf and whole herb (leaf, stem and root) products in tablets, capsules and tinctures are widely available at most health food stores at very reasonable prices. The root is more effective for treating BPH and hair loss, while the leaf is better for inflammation (including prostatitis), allergies and as a natural diuretic that can reduce hypertension.  Nettle is now an ingredient in many herbal formulas for prostate health and hair loss.

Nettle dosage

Both the root and the leaves are traditionally prepared as infusions. In herbal medicine, as a preventative of prostate problems or to maintain prostate health, half a cup of a root infusion taken 2-3 times weekly is recommended. 2-3 ml of a root tincture or 2-3 g of powdered root in capsules or tablets can be substituted if preferred. The traditional remedy for BPH is one-half cup of a root infusion taken 2-3 times daily for 30-90 days. 2-3 ml of a root tincture or 2-3 g in capsules or tablets 2-3 times daily can be substituted if desired. For allergies, inflammation, and hypertension one cup of a leaf infusion is taken twice daily. 3-4 g of leaf tablets/capsules twice daily can be taken as an alternative.

Side effects of nettle

Nettle has been demonstrated in animal studies to lower blood pressure and heart rate. Individuals with heart conditions should seek medical advice before taking nettle. Nettle has also been reported to have diuretic effects. Extended use of this plant may be contraindicated in various medical conditions where diuretics are not advised. Long-term use of any diuretic can cause electrolyte and mineral imbalances. Consult your medical practitioner if intending to use nettle for longer than 30 days.

Drug interactions with nettle

Nettle could magnify the effects of heart medications and diuretic drugs.

Health benefits of nettle

In herbal medicine nettles have been used as a diuretic, to fortify the blood, and to treat arthritis and rheumatism. Externally nettles are used to improve the condition of the hair, and are believed to be a remedy for oily hair and dandruff.

Nettles have been widely used by herbalists around the world for centuries. Bandages soaked in a leaf and stem infusion were used in early American medicine to stop the bleeding of wounds. In Brazilian herbal medicine the entire plant is used to treat excessive menstrual bleeding, diarrhea, diabetes, urinary disorders and respiratory problems including allergies. Topically, an infusion is used as a remedy for skin problems. In Peru nettle is used alleviate a variety of health problems such as muscular and arthritis pain, eczema, ulcers, asthma, diabetes, intestinal inflammation, nosebleeds and rheumatism. Externally it is used for inflammations, sciatica, wounds and head lice.

In Germany nettles are sold as an herbal treatment for prostate diseases and as a diuretic. In the United States the leaf is used as a diuretic, for arthritis, prostatitis, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure and allergic rhinitis. The root is recommended as a diuretic, for relief of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and other prostate problems, and as a natural remedy to treat or prevent baldness.

Compounds found in nettle

The compounds in nettle include: acetophenone, acetylcholine, agglutinins, alkaloids, astragalin, butyric acid, caffeic acids, carbonic acid, chlorogenic acid, chlorophyll, choline, coumaric acid, folacin, formic acid, friedelins, histamine, kaempherols, koproporphyrin, lectins, lecithin, lignans, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, neoolivil, palmitic acid, pantothenic acid, quercetin, quinic acid, scopoletin, secoisolariciresinol, serotonin, sitosterols, stigmasterol, succinic acid, terpenes, violaxanthin, and xanthophylls.

The stinging property of the nettle hairs is due to several plant chemicals including formic acid, histamine, serotonin and choline. In addition, nettle leaf is rich in minerals, chlorophyll, amino acids, lecithin, carotenoids, flavonoids, sterols, tannins and vitamins. Nettle root contains other chemicals such as scopoletin, sterols, fatty acids, polysaccharides and isolectins.

Several of nettle’s lectin compounds have demonstrated antiviral actions (against HIV and several common upper respiratory viruses). Other compounds (flavonoids in the leaves and a lectin in the root) have been documented with immune stimulant actions.

Research on nettles

Nettle’s long-standing use as an anti-inflammatory remedy for rheumatism and arthritis has been supported with clinical research. In several clinical studies nettle leaf extracts were reported to have anti-inflammatory actions as well as to be beneficial in relieving arthritis pain and inflammation. Research suggests that nettle’s anti-inflammatory properties are due to its ability to inhibit the production and actions of inflammation-producing immune cells in the body (cytokines, prostaglandins and leukotreines).

Another clinical study confirmed use of nettle in the treatment of allergies and rhinitis (a common inflammatory disorder causing sneezing, nasal congestion and discharge, and itchy skin).

Other studies on animals have found that water extracts of nettle lowered blood pressure, reduced heart rate, and had notable diuretic actions. More recently, research has focused on the use of nettle in the treatment of prostate inflammation (prostatitis) and benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). In more than 20 clinical studies nettle root (and nettle combined with other herbs) has demonstrated an improvement in clinical symptoms.

Some of the more recent research on BPH and nettles indicates that nettle can inhibit a number of hormone-related chemical processes in the body that are implicated in the development of BPH. In clinical research, nettle has demonstrated the ability to stop the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (by inhibiting an enzyme required for the conversion).

Androgen hormones can have powerful effects on scalp and body hair in both men and women. Hair loss has been linked to excessive dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels. While no clinical studies have been conducted yet on the use of nettle in treating DHT-related hair loss and male pattern balding, research does indicate that nettle root can prevent the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense), also known as the Field Horsetail or Common Horsetail, is one of the oldest known plants. It is a bushy perennial with a rhizomatous stem formation and is native to the northern hemisphere.

Treating hair loss with Horsetail

Horsetail has a high silica content and is believed to be beneficial in treating broken bones, osteoporosis, injuries and skin problems. Silica is important in helping to strengthen hair and nails. Along with other minerals and elements contained in Horsetail extracts (potassium, flavonoids, alkaloids, sterols, fatty acids, etc.), silica promotes healthy hair growth, and improves the quality and condition of the hair. In addition, Horsetail is believed to stimulate the circulation, assisting in nourishing and strengthening hair follicles. Due to these properties, Horsetail extract has become a common ingredient in many hair treatments.

If you want to apply this medicinal herb directly to your hair, you can add several drops of Horsetail extract to your shampoo and wash your hair  as normal. Extracts of this plant can be taken orally or in the form of supplement. Horsetail is also available as a herbal tea (such as Alvita Tea).

Therapeutic uses of Horsetail

Horsetail has traditionally been used in Europe as a diuretic for the treatment of edema. The plant is also occasionally used to treat osteoporosis, nephrolithiasis, urinary tract inflammation and wound healing (topical). These uses have largely been based on anecdotal, rather than scientific evidence. There is some scientific evidence supporting the use of Horsetail as a diuretic. One clinical trial found that horsetail was as effective as calcium in increasing bone density.

Side effects of Horsetail

Horsetail ingestion in large amounts could potentially cause thiamine deficiency, hypokalemia, or nicotine toxicity. Reported side effects include dermatitis.

There are few scientific studies or reports on side effects with Horsetail. The plant is frequently used in Germany and Canada, where it is traditionally considered to be safe when taken at the recommended doses. Studies suggest that horsetail does not change blood pressure.

High doses of horsetail may cause symptoms of nicotine overdose, including fever, cold hands and feet, abnormal heart rate, difficulty walking, muscle weakness, and weight loss. Smokers or people who use nicotine patches or nicotine gum should avoid Horsetail. Reports from animal studies indicate that high doses of Horsetail can cause increased frequency of bowel movements, increased urination, loss of potassium and muscle weakness.

Patients with kidney disorders should avoid horsetail. Studies on mice suggest that Horsetail may affect the kidneys, causing abnormalities in the control of water and potassium excretion. Low potassium levels can have negative effects on the heart. Patients who have heart rhythm disorders or are taking digoxin should also avoid Horsetail.

Horsetail contains an ingredient that destroys thiamine (vitamin B1), which could lead to deficiency of this vitamin with long-term use. Thiamine deficiency can cause permanent damage to the brain and nervous system. As a consequence, Horsetail is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding

People with allergies to nicotine should avoid horsetail. Rash has been reported in a patient taking horsetail with a known sensitivity to nicotine.

Horsetail drug interactions

The use of horsetail with certain diuretics such as furosemide (Lasix) may cause dehydration or enhance potassium deficiency. Some steroids and laxative drugs can also lower potassium levels and should not be combined with Horsetail. Patients with heart rhythm disorders who are taking Lanoxin or digitoxin may also experience potassium deficiency if combined with Horsetail. Because Horsetail can stimulate the central nervous system, caution should be used when combining it with stimulant drugs such as nicotine. Many tinctures contain high levels of alcohol, and may cause nausea or vomiting when taken with metronidazole (Flagyl) or disulfiram (Antabuse).

Interactions with Herbs and dietary supplements

Dehydration or electrolyte imbalances may potentially occur when horsetail is used in combination with herbs that increase urination. Dehydration or low potassium levels also may theoretically occur if Horsetail is used with laxatives. Horsetail may interact with stimulants, herbs and supplements with similar properties, such as licorice.

Horsetail dosage

Recommended doses for horsetail in adults are based on historical use. There are no reliable studies available in humans that show horsetail to be effective or safe at any specific dose. There is not enough scientific information to recommend the use of horsetail in children. Poisonings have been reported in children using horsetail stems as whistles.

Tablets/Capsules: From 300 mg capsules taken three times per day, up to 6 grams per day.
Tea: A maximum of 6 cups containing 1.5 grams of dried stem per cup.
Tincture (1:1 in 25% alcohol): 1 to 4 milliliters three times daily.

Ho Shou Wu (Polygonum multiflorum), is also known as Fo-ti, Fo-ti-teng, He Shou Wu, Chinese knotweed and Flowery knotweed. In North America and Europe, this herb may be known as Polygonium multiflorum or Radix poltgoni multiflori. Ho Shou Wu is a widely used Chinese herb and is a popular herbal remedy for gray hair and hair loss. Indeed the name SHOU-WU means “a head full of black hair” in Chinese.

According to Chinese traditional medical theory hair condition is an indication of the health of the body’s internal organs. Weaknesses in the kidney and liver tend to manifest as symptoms such as hair loss and premature gray hair. Such conditions can be corrected by replenishing the nutrients that are necessary to revitalize our kidneys and livers – at least that is what Chinese herbalists believe. Ho Shou Wu is usually taken orally as a dietary supplement. Long term used is recommended by most Chinese herbalists. More recently, topical lotions have been formulated containing extracts from the herb for treating hair loss.

Health benefits of Ho Shou Wu

In traditional Chinese medicine Ho Shou Wu has been used for thousands of years and is believed to:

• Treat premature graying of hair and hair loss
• Tonify the kidneys and liver
• Balance a fragile yin
• Treat weak bones
• Protect the skin against UVB damage

He Shou Wu is considered to be one of the most important of the Chinese herbal tonics. It is believed to restore vitality and virility by strengthening the liver, reproductive, urinary and circulatory systems.

The tuberous roots and the stems have antibacterial, anticholesterolemic, antispasmodic, astringent, cardiotonic, demulcent, depurative, hypoglycaemic, laxative, sedative and tonic properties.

The roots are taken internally in the treatment of menstrual and menopausal complaints, constipation in the elderly, swollen lymph glands and high cholesterol levels. They are very effective in reducing high cholesterol levels in the blood and increasing blood sugar levels. Applied topically the roots are used to treat ringworm, bleeding wounds and sores.

The leaves and roots tonify the liver and kidneys, fortify the blood, strengthen the muscles and prevent premature greying of the hair. The stem has deobstruent and sedative properties. It is taken internally in the treatment of insomnia and neurasthenia. Extracts of the plant have shown antipyretic, antitumour, hypoglycaemic and sedative activity.

Ho Shou Wu dosage

One of the most commonly found brands of Ho Shou Wu is Shou Wu Pian. It is manufactured by Shanghai Chinese Medicine Works in China. The dosage is 5 tablets three times daily. This is a very common dosage for Chinese herbs. Chinese herbs are usually very mild in nature. The herb has been taken by the Chinese for thousands of years and few side effects have been reported.

Each 4-bottle package can last 1-2 months. It is not necessary to take the supplement every day. If sore throat or light headache is experienced, the suggested dosage can be reduced by half.

Side effects of Ho Shou Wu

Excessive doses of Ho Shou Wu can cause sore throat, headache, skin rash and numbness of the extremities.

Although there is no specific mention of Ho Shou Wu, there have been reports that some members of this genus can cause photosensitivity in susceptible people. Many species also contain oxalic acid. Whilst not toxic, this substance can bind to minerals making them unavailable to the body and leading to mineral deficiency. Having said that, a number of common foods such as sorrel and rhubarb contain oxalic acid and the leaves of most members of this genus are nutritious and beneficial to eat in moderate quantities. Cooking the leaves will reduce their content of oxalic acid. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones or hyperacidity should take especial caution if including Ho Shou Wu in their diet since it can aggravate their condition.

Ho Shou Wu is considered a dietary supplement similar to vitamins and, as such, it is not regulated by the FDA.

Constituents of Ho Shou Wu

Ho Shou Wu contains stilbene glycosides similar to resveratrol but with superior antioxidant activity. Resveratrol has been suggested to extend lifespan by a variety of mechanisms. Anthraquinones, polydatin, 2, 3, 5, 4′-tetrahydroxy stilbene-2-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside, arbutin, and resveratrol are found in Ho Shou Wu. Anthraquinones in Ho Shou Wu include physcion, emodin, and questin. Other substances in the herb include chrysophanol, rhein, polygonimitin B and gallic acid.

Ho Shou Wu contains several derivatives of tetrahydroxystilbene that are antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds investigated for their effects on neurons. Ho Shou Wu also contains the laxative compound emodin and a number of derivatives of emodin; this accounts for a potential adverse effect of the herb in causing loose stools when consumed in quantity.

Scientific studies on Ho Shou Wu

Several published human clinical studies have supported the traditional uses of Ho Shou Wu. While results vary among studies and individuals, over 60% of people who had hair loss (alopecia) experienced hair regrowth within 3 months after taking He Shou Wu. In animal studies using an aging mouse model, He Shou Wu was demonstrated to lower total cholesterol and triglyceride, to reduce brain pathological changes and promote learning and memory (1,2,3, 4).

Potential rare liver reactions to Ho Shou Wu

Ho Shou Wu is known for being a safe herb with little toxicity, and one that is used for a prolonged time in some anti-aging formulas. However, the Medicines and Health Care Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK have issued an alert about potential adverse liver reactions to Ho Shou Wu. Reports on these adverse effects have been published (3,4,5,6).

There are many signs and symptoms of liver disease. These include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes), dark urine, nausea, vomiting, unusual tiredness, weakness, stomach or abdominal pain, and /or loss of appetite. If a liver disorder is diagnosed it is recommended that Ho Shou Wu should be discontinued.

Individuals who have previously experienced liver complaints or other serious health complaints are advised not to take Ho Shou Wu without speaking to a doctor first.

Ho Shou Wu cultivation details

Ho Shou Wu is a quickly spreading vine that will spread rapidly. There are delicate flowers that appear in the fall. The roots are harvested in the fall, preferably from plants 3 – 4 years old, and are dried for later use. The stems are harvested in late summer or early autumn and are also dried before use.

Ho Shou Wu can grow in ordinary garden soil but prefers a moisture retentive not too fertile soil in sun or part shade. This species can withstand temperatures to at least -15 0C. Seed should be sown in spring in a cold frame. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer if they have reached sufficient size. If not, over winter them in a cold frame and plant them out the following spring after the last expected frosts.

References

1. Chan YC et al. Polygonum multiflorum extracts improve cognitive performance in senescence accelerated mice. Am J Chin Med. 2003; 31:171-179.

2. Chan YC et al. Beneficial effects of different Polygonum multiflorum Thunb. extracts on memory and hippocampus morphology. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol. 2002; 48: 491-7.

3. Battinelli et al. New case of acute hepatitis following the consumption of Shou Wu Pian, a Chinese Herbal product derived from Polygonum multiflorum. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2004; 140: E589

4. But et al (1996) Hepatitis related to the Chinese medicine Shou Wu Pian manufactured from Polygonum multiflorum. Veterinary and Human Toxicology. 1996; 38: 208-282

5. Park et al. Acute hepatitis induced by Shou Wu Pian, a herbal product derived from Polygonum multiflorum. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. 2001; 16: 115-117

6. Panis et al. Recurrent toxic hepatitis in a Caucasian girl related to the use of Shou-Wu-Pian, a Chinese herbal preparation. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 2005; 41: 256-258.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis), also known as Dang gui, is used to stop hair loss and is claimed to be able to stimulate hair re-growth. Dong Quai contains phytoestrogens which inhibit the formation of DHT, a major cause of hair loss.

Dong quai is a perennial herb. The root of Dong quai has been used for thousands of years in the treatment of female health problems in Japan, China and Korea. The name Dong quai translates as “return to order” due to its apparent health restorative properties.

Health benefits of Dong quai

The root of Dong quai has analgesic, anticholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, emmenagogue, emollient, hepatic, laxative, sedative and peripheral vasodilator properties. It is commonly used as an alternative medicine to regulate the menstrual cycle, relieve period pain and also to ensure a healthy pregnancy and easy delivery.

Dong quai contains vitamin B12, vitamin E, biotin, ferulic acid, nicotinic acid, butylidenephalide, ligustilide, folinic acid, succinic acid, carotene, beta-sitosterol, sequiterpenes, and carvacrol. Dong quai’s pharmacologically active ingredients can be divided into two groups, the water-soluble, non-volatile group and the alcohol-soluble group containing essential oil. While the non-volatile ingredients are believed to stimulate the uterus, the alcohol-soluble group is believed to relax the uterus.

Dong quai is believed to: lower blood pressure; slow heart rate; reduce respiratory rate; dilate coronary vessels and increases coronary blood flow; reduce inflammation and headache; and treat infections and neuropathic (nerve) pain. Dong quai is primarily used to treat women’s ailments, such as pre-menstrual discomfort, menstrual problems, anemia, and symptoms related to menopause.

Although Dong quai has many historical and theoretical uses based on animal studies, there is little clinical evidence supporting the effects of Dong quai for any condition. Few clinical trials have been carried out, most of which have been either poorly designed or reported insignificant results.

Side effects of Dong quai

All members of Genus Angelica contain furocoumarins, which increase skin sensitivity to sunlight and may cause dermatitis. Although Dong quai is accepted as being safe as a food additive in the United States and Europe, its safety when administered at medicinal dose levels is unknown. There are no reliable long-term studies on the side effects of this herb. Most precautions are based on theory, laboratory research, tradition, or isolated case reports.

Components of Dong quai may increase the risk of bleeding due to anticoagulant and anti-platelet effects, although there are no reliable reports of clinically significant bleeding in humans. Caution is advised in patients with bleeding disorders or taking drugs that may increase the risk of bleeding. Dosing adjustments may be necessary. It is recommended that use of Dong quai be discontinued prior to surgical or major dental procedures.

It remains unclear if Dong quai has the same effects on the body as estrogens, blocks the activity of estrogens, or has no significant hormonal effects. It remains unclear if Dong quai is safe in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, or endometriosis. It is not known if Dong quai possesses the beneficial effects that estrogen is believed to have on bone mass, or the potential harmful effects such as increased risk of stroke or hormone-sensitive cancers.

Increased sun sensitivity with a risk of severe skin reactions (photosensitivity) may occur due to chemicals in Dong quai. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet light should be avoided while taking Dong quai.

Safrole, a volatile oil in Dong quai, may be carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Long-term use should therefore be avoided.

Dong quai has traditionally been associated with gastrointestinal symptoms (particularly with prolonged use), including laxative effects/diarrhea, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, burping, or bloating. Published literature is limited in this area.

Dong quai preparations may contain high levels of sucrose, and should be used cautiously by patients with diabetes or glucose intolerance.
Other side effects can include: headache, lightheadedness/dizziness, sedation/drowsiness, insomnia, irritability, fever, sweating, weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, blood pressure abnormalities, wheezing/asthma, hot flashes, worsening premenstrual symptoms, reduced menstrual flow, increased male breast size (gynecomastia), kidney problems (nephrosis), or skin rash.

The safety of Dong quai injected into the skin, muscles, or veins is not known and should be avoided.

People with known allergy/hypersensitivity to Angelica radix or members of the Aplaceae/Umbelliferae family (anise, caraway, carrot, celery, dill, parsley) should avoid Dong quai. Skin rash has been reported with the use of Dong quai, although it is not clear if this was an allergic response. An asthma response has occurred after breathing in Dong quai powder.

If you have a hemorrhagic disease or other bleeding disorder, excessive menses or severe flu do not take Dong quai. If you have gastrointestinal distress or low blood pressure, talk to your doctor before taking Dong quai .

Scientific studies have reported that certain ingredients contained in Dong quai act in a similar manner to the body’s natural hormone estrogen. If you have or are susceptible to hormonally related cancers, such as breast, ovarian and prostate, talk to your doctor before taking this Dong quai.

Dong quai dosage

Adults (18 years and older)

Dong quai is a component of numerous herbal combinations, and various doses have been used traditionally. Powdered/dried root/root slices, fluid extracts, tinctures, decoctions, dried leaf preparations are available to be taken by mouth. Topical preparations are available to be applied to the skin. Safety of intravenous use is not established, although it has been reported in research.

Decoctions: A daily intake of decoction from 3-15 grams of dried root is suggested.

Standardized extract: Take 200mg 2-3 times a day (standardization of Dong quai: the most current available medical and scientific literature indicates that this dietary supplement should be standardized to 0.8-1.1% of ligustilide per dose).

Dong quai dosage for children (younger than 18 years)

There is not enough scientific data to recommend Dong quai for use in children, and it is not recommended due to potential side effects.

Interactions of Dong quai with other medicines

Dong quai has been found to interact with the following medications:

• Anticoagulant medications
• Antiplatelet medications
• Antihypertensive medications
• Estrogen and estrogen-like medications
• Oral contraceptives

Dong quai may increase the risk of bleeding due to anticoagulant and anti-platelet effects, and may heighten the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) or naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve).

Laboratory studies suggest that Dong quai may increase the effects of drugs that affect heart rhythms, such as digoxin, beta-blockers (e.g. Lopressor, Toprol), calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine (Procardia) or other anti-arrhythmic drugs.

It remains unclear if Dong quai has the same effects on the body as estrogens, blocks the activity of estrogens, or has no significant hormonal effects. It is not known if taking Dong quai increases or decreases the effects of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy such as Premarin which contain estrogen, or on the anti-tumor effects of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) such as tamoxifen.

Dong quai should not be taken in combination with other drugs that cause photosensitivity, such as tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova), and some types of anti-depressants, cancer drugs, antibiotics, or anti-psychotic medications. Patients taking medications should consult their doctor or pharmacist before starting Dong quai.

Interactions with herbs and dietary supplements

In theory, due to its anticoagulant properties, Dong quai may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Dong quai should not be taken with products containing Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort) or capsaicin, which are also reported to cause photosensitivity.

Dong quai and pregnancy and breastfeeding

Taking Dong quai during pregnancy is not recommended due to possible hormonal and anticoagulant/anti-platelet effects of the herb. Animal research has reported effects on the uterus that include both stimulation and relaxation. There is a published report of miscarriage in a woman taking Dong quai, although it is not clear that Dong quai was the cause. Dong quai is traditionally viewed as increasing the risk of abortion. There is insufficient evidence regarding the safety of Dong quai during breastfeeding.

With its ability to regulate estrogen hormone levels, black cohosh has been found to be helpful in the treatment of hair loss in women. Black cohosh is a common ingredient in many hair loss remedies.

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), also known as Black Snakeroot, Bugbane, Bugwort, and Squawroot, is a perennial plant native to woodlands in the United States and Canada. Black cohosh can reach up to 8 feet in height, its feathery spikes of white Astilbe-like flowers blooming from June through July. Its root is almost black in color and thick and knotted. The root was used by Native Americans as a natural medicine for the treatment of many ailments that included rattlesnake bites, menopause and gynecological disorders, rheumatism, inflammation of painful joints, improving circulation and relieving pain.

What is black cohosh?

Black cohosh is considered as a food and not a drug by the Food and Drug Adminstration (FDA). The roots and rhizomes of the black cohosh plant are used in herbal remedies. Black cohosh supplements are available over the counter in pill, capsule, and tincture forms. Black cohosh contains vitamins A and B5, calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, lipids and resin.

How does black cohosh work?

Black cohosh comes from a family of plants well known for their ability to deaden pain, and it has analgesic properties. The root contains steroid-like compounds that are thought to play a key role in its anti-inflammatory action. These compounds are believed to act both locally (when applied topically) and systemically (when taken internally) to reduce inflammation.

Black cohosh has been found to contain chemicals that can affect the female reproductive tract, notably formononetin and cimicifugoside. Formononetin, an isoflavonoid, has been shown to stimulate the production of estrogen and to have anti-cancer activity. Formononetin has also been demonstrated to be a fungicide, improving or prevent symptoms associated with Candid albicans (thrush) infection.

Black Cohosh also has weak estrogenic effects which help reduce the number, severity and frequency of hot flushes and night sweats as well as inhibiting other symptoms such as insomnia, mood swings, nervousness, irritability, heart palpitations and headaches.

Another compound found in black cohosh, cimicifugin, has been found to reduce blood pressure. Cimicifugin has also been shown to boost the circulation.

Side effects of black cohosh

There are no reported side effects from black cohosh when taken at recommended doses. However, in large doses black cohosh can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, tremors, joint pain and headaches. The side effects of taking black cohosh extract over an extended period of time have not yet been determined.

Additionally the safety of black cohosh in relation to breast cancer, due to its estrogenic properties, has not yet been fully established. It is advisable that women with a family history of breast cancer consult a health practitioner prior to taking the herb. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid black cohosh since it has been associated with the stimulation of contractions and the induction of premature labor in some users.

Black cohosh dosage

Decoction: Boil 2 teaspoons of ground root in 1 pint of water. Take 2 to 3 tablespoons 6 times a day.
Fluid extract: Take from 5-30 drops in liquid daily.
Tincture: Doses range from 1-30 drops in a teaspoon of water.
Capsule: The recommended dosage is 1 capsule, taken 3 times daily.

Caution – excessive intake of black cohosh can cause nausea, vomiting and vertigo.

Remifemin

Most studies involving black cohosh have used an extract called Remifemin, which is standardized to contain 1 mg of terpene glycosides per 20 mg tablet. The most commonly used dosage of Remifemin is two 20 mg tablets taken twice daily.