Traditional Uses

• Stomach and intestinal disorders
• High blood cholesterol
• Topically for arthritis, peripheral neuropathy and post-shingles pain

Mode of Action

• Reduces blood cholesterol levels and decreases blood clots by reducing serum triglycerides, lowering plasma cholesterol and decreasing the production of cholesterol in the liver
• Reduces platelet aggregation (clumping of certain blood cells)
• Protects against drug and acid induced ulcers by stimulating areas of the intestinal mucosa
• Antioxidant effects due to carotenoids, vitamins C and E
• Acts topically to reduce pain by inhibiting substance which is connected with the transmission and sensation of pain

Drug Interactions

• May interfere with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), a class of antidepressants
• May affect antihypertensive (high blood pressure) therapy

Cautions

• Do not take if suffering from acid indigestion or peptic ulcer
• Excessive amounts may cause mucous membrane irritation
• Use cautiously if suffering from asthma as it may cause bronchoconstriction

Recommended Dose

• 450 mg three times a day. (Dose may vary from brand to brand)

References

• Bisset, 1994; Brinker, 1997; Chevallier, 1996; Hoffman, 1990; Newall, 1996; Tyler, 1993; Tyler, 1994; Weiss, 1988; Wild, 1994