Respiratory: Coughs, (German Commission e) bronchial congestion/bronchitis, asthma, sore throat, tonsillitis, hoarseness, flu, emphysema

Cardiovascular: Phlebitis (vein inflammation sometimes due to a blood clot

Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, stomach ulcers

Musculoskeletal: Rheumatism, gout, swelling, inflammation

Skin: Insect bites, skin ulcers, burns

Cancer: Lung cancer (??))

Infectious Disease: TB

Other: Diaphoretic, diuretic

                                                     *   *   *

SIDE EFFECTS: Potential liver toxicity and liver cancer (likely if used should not be used long term), sun sensitivity. increased bruising and bleeding, lung damage.

CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Liver disease. Caution is needed when taking certain drugs that affect the CYP450 3A4 enzyme system, i.e., Tegretol and Dilantin. It may also interfere with heart, blood pressure, and blood-thinning medications.

FORMS: Tea, dried (leaves), cough syrup (made wirh strong tea and sugar)

Recommended Brands

No available recommended brands at this time.

Dosage

As directed on the product label.

Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Traditional herbal practices have used various liquid preparations made from the leaves or flowers of this plant. Modern commercial products vary widely in strength and formulation, and traditional amounts may not apply to current products.

The German Commission E has evaluated this herb and provides guidance on duration of use and safety considerations. Their specific dosing instructions are proprietary and cannot be reproduced here. Traditional guidance recommends limiting use to short periods each year and choosing products labeled as free of hepatotoxic compounds.

For detailed drug dosing and interaction information, refer to herbal dosing on the Epocrates website.

Traditional Use (General Information Only)

This herb has been used traditionally in liquid extracts and other preparations made from its leaves and flowers. Traditional uses vary widely and are based on historical practices rather than modern clinical evidence.

These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. You must investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.