Traditional Uses
Mode of Action
- Action is due partly to presence of
the alkaloids hydrastine, berberine, canadine, and berberastine
- Mobilizes antibody rich mucous to the
site of an infection
- May neutralize enterotoxins (poisons
in the gastrointestinal tract)
Drug Interactions
- Do not apply externally at the same
time as the acne medicine tretonin
- High doses may interfere with vitamin
B metabolism
- In studies with rats, berberine increased
the effects of barbiturates
Cautions
- Excessively high doses can produce nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea, cardiac depression and central nervous system paralysis
- Avoid during pregnancy and breast
feeding
- Do not take if suffering from high
blood pressure
- Do not take for more than 14 days
Recommended Dose
- 500-1000 mg
three times a day. (Dose may vary from brand to brand)
References
- Bergner, 1996; Chevallier, 1996; Lust, 1974; Murray, M., 1995; Newall, 1996;
Nutriceutica, 1998
|
