common names:

planting:     perennial (tree)

traditional uses:  stimulant, diarrhea, jaundice, wound healing, and to induce vomiting.

parts used:  root bark

preparations:   capsules, liquid, tea, extracts

taste:  bitter

precautions:   Do not use if you have colitis, hypertension, congestive heart failure, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding.  Milk should be added to the liquid preparations (i.e. tea) to neutralize the tannins, which are responsible for some of the side effects.

side effects:  allergic reaction, nasal allergies, stomach discomfort, vomiting, nausea, cancer, liver damage,  weight gain, water retention, hypertension, and promotes electrolyte imbalance.

drug interactions:  not known

scientific studies:  Most studies show that the risks outweigh the benefits.  The high tannin content can lead to stomach distress and liver damage.

dosage:  Decoction: one teaspoonful of powdered root bark in a pint of water.  Boil for 10 minutes or longer.  Maximum 2 cups per day.  ***Note***  this is a traditional dosage - this herb is NOT recommended for ingestion!!