Euonymus atropurpureus

Euonymus atropurpureus
Family:Euonymus atropurpureus; Alterative; Cardiac; Cathartic; Cholagogue; Diuretic; Emetic; Expectorant; Hepatic; Tonic.
Common name:Wahoo
Wahoo was used in various ways by the North American Indians for example as an eye lotion as a poultice for facial sores and for gynaecological conditions. In current herbalism it is considered to be a gallbladder remedy with laxative and diuretic properties. The bark however is toxic and should only be used under professional supervision it should not be given to pregnant women or nursing mothers. The stem and root bark is alterative cardiac cathartic cholagogue diuretic expectorant hepatic laxative stimulant and tonic. The root bark is the part normally used though bark from the stems is sometimes employed as a substitute. In small doses it stimulates the appetite in larger doses it irritates the intestines. The bark is especially useful in the treatment of biliousness and liver disorders which follow or accompany fevers and for treating various skin disorders such as eczema which could arise from poor liver and gallbladder function. It is also used as a tea in the treatment of malaria liver congestion constipation etc. The powdered bark applied to the scalp was believed to eliminate dandruff. The bark and the root contain digitoxin and have a digitalis-like effect on the heart. They have been used in the treatment of heart conditions. The bark which has a sweetish taste is gathered in the autumn and can be dried for later use. A tea made from the roots is used in cases of uterine prolapse vomiting of blood painful urination and stomach-aches. The seed is emetic and strongly laxative.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 03:11 []