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Boldo (Peumus boldus)

DESCRIPTION

A native shrub to Chile, Boldo has long been part of the folk medicine tradition of the indigenous people.

HERBAL USES

Traditionally, Boldo has been used by the Chileans as a liver tonic and as a treatment for Gallstones.

SUGGESTED INTAKES

Part of the plant used: LEAF.

Boldo has been used as an infusion at a dose of 3 g per day. It has also been used as an extract and a tincture. However, these forms are generally not recommended due the herb?s high content of ascaridole (1,2). The German Commission E suggests that only ascaridole-free preparations be used internally (3).

SUPPLEMENTAL USES

Gastrointestinal disorders:
Boldo has been approved by German Commission E to treat gastrointestinal disorders. These include indigestion, Heartburn, and loss of appetite. Boldo contains the substance boldine, which scientists believe stimulates bile and diuretic action (4).

SAFETY AND PRECAUTIONS

Long-term use (more than three to four weeks) of boldo is not recommended. People with kidney disease should avoid boldo, for it may cause kidney irritation (5).

People who are pregnant, nursing, have obstruction of the liver bile duct, or severe liver disease should not take boldo (6).

INTERACTIONS AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Boldo may aggravate the hyperglycaemic and hyperuricemic (excessive blood levels of uric acid) effects of glucose elevating drugs. Use with antidiabetic drugs may require dose adjustments.

REFERENCES

1. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:46-47.
2. Blumenthal, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council. Austin, TX. 1998.
3. Blumenthal, M (Ed.): The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council. Austin, TX. 1998.
4. Robbers JE, Tyler VE. Tyler?s herbs of Choice: The Therapeutic Use of Phytomedicines. New York: Haworth Press, 1999, 74-75.
5. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996:46-47.
6. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Publications, 1997, 26.