Colchicaceae Analgesic Autumn crocus

Colchicaceae Analgesic Autumn crocus
Family:Colchicaceae Analgesic; Antirheumatic; Cathartic; Emetic; Homeopathy.
Common name:Autumn crocus
Though known since at least the time of the ancient Greeks autumn crocus was considered too poisonous to use medicinally and it was not until research in the Eighteenth century that the plant was discovered to be of value in the treatment of gout. In modern herbalism it is still used to relieve the pain and inflammation of acute gout and rheumatism although frequent use has been known to encourage more frequent attacks of the complaint.Both the corm and the seeds are analgesic antirheumatic cathartic and emetic. They are used mainly in the treatment of gouty and rheumatic complaints usually accompanied with an alkaline diuretic. Leukaemia has been successfully treated with autumn crocus and the plant has also been used with some success to treat Bechet's syndrome a chronic disease marked by recurring ulcers and leukaemia. A very toxic plant it should not be prescribed for pregnant women or patients with kidney disease and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. See also the notes above on toxicity.The seeds are harvested in early summer the corms in mid to late summer when the plant has fully died down. They are dried for later use.The fresh bulb is used to make a homeopathic remedy. It is used in the treatment of nausea diarrhoea and rheumatism.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 02:22 []