Peganum harmala

Peganum harmala
Family:Peganum harmala; Abortifacient; Alterative; Aphrodisiac; Digestive; Diuretic; Emmenagogue; Galactogogue; Hallucinogenic; Narcotic; Ophthalmic; Parasiticide; Uterine tonic; Vermifuge.
Common name:Syrian rue
The fruit and seed are digestive diuretic hallucinogenic narcotic and uterine stimulant. They are taken internally in the treatment of stomach complaints urinary and sexual disorders epilepsy menstrual problems mental and nervous illnesses. The seed has also been used as an anthelmintic in order to rid the body of tapeworms. This remedy should be used with caution and preferably under the guidance of a qualified practitioner since excessive doses cause vomiting and hallucinations. The seeds contain the substance 'harmine' which is being used in research into mental disease encephalitis and inflammation of the brain. Small quantities stimulate the brain and are said to be therapeutic but in excess harmine depresses the central nervous system. A crude preparation of the seed is more effective than an extract because of the presence of related indoles.Consumption of the seed in quantity induces a sense of euphoria and releases inhibitions. It has been used in the past as a truth drug. The oil obtained from the seed is said to be aphrodisiac. The oil is also said to have galactogogue ophthalmic soporific and vermifuge properties. The seed is used externally in the treatment of haemorrhoids and baldness. The whole plant is said to be abortifacient aphrodisiac emmenagogue and galactogogue. A decoction of the leaves is used in the treatment of rheumatism. The root has been used as a parasiticide in order to kill body lice. It is also used internally in the treatment of rheumatism and nervous conditions.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 04:56 []