NUTM 5109: Botanical and Phytonutrient Collection

Created by : Anastasia Borovikov

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)

F Boraginaceae

P Leaf, rhizome, and root 1, 2

C pyrrolizidine alkaloids mainly in the root; Mucilage, Allatoin. 2

A Astringent, connective tissue tonic (cell proliferant), demulcent, emolient and vulnerary 2, 3

I Orally for: Gastric irritation 2 in cases of gastritis, peptic ulcers, menorrhagia, diarrhea,
hematuria, cough, bronchitis, tuberculosis, cancer, angina, and pharyngitis. 1
Topically for: repairing connective tissue 2 in cases of venous leg ulcers, wound healing,
bruises, muscle soreness, sprains, back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis (RA),
tendinopathy, varicose veins, gout, boils, hemorrhoids, and fractures. It is also used as a
gargle for pharyngitis. 1

S Possibility of acute liver toxicity when taken orally in high doses, or topically for long periods
of time (over 6 weeks) due to presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids; possible interactions with
CYP3A4 inducing drugs such as carbamazepine (Tegretol), phenobarbital, phenytoin
(Dilantin), rifampin, rifabutin (Mycobutin), and others.1

Being a cell-prolifierant, caution must be taken when recommended to clients at a high

cancer-risk. 1, 2

References:
1 Comfrey - Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine
Database. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-
herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=295#background Accessed 2/20/2022

2 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. (2019). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. Professional Health Systems.

3 Symphytum. —Comfrey. King's American Dispensatory, 1898. Henriette’s Herbs.

https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/symphytum.html Accessed 2/20/2022
 Yellow Dock - Rumex crispus

Figure 1 from Gaia Garden Herbal Dispensary. https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/yellow-dock-root-

cut-sifted-dried-herb-bulk-rumex-crispus/

Traditional Use Historical Use

Chronic skin/glandular disorders 1 Scurvy, dysentery, 2 syphilis 3

Digestive disorders especially in liver/gallbladder
congestion 1
Obstructive jaundice 2
Psoriasis 2

Constituent Part of plant used

Anthraquinones Root 1
Tannins Fruit 2
Aperient 1
Oxalates 2
Nepodin2
 Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Topically in ointments and

creams

Orally as a decoction 2-6g/cup x2 daily1

Orally as a tincture 1-3mL of 1:5 in 25% alcohol1 60mL+/week

Mechanism of action:
The anthraquinones (2% to 4%) in yellow dock have a mild stimulant laxative effect. 2 It is not well
researched exactly how yellow dock stimulates bile production, but it may have to do with how it
stimulates digestion in general. Research suggests that yellow dock has antimalarial effects against
Plasmodium falciparum. The constituent nepodin is thought to inhibit a mitochondrial enzyme, NADH-
ubiquinone oxidoreductase. 2

Contraindications:

Pregnancy, history of galls stones 1

Medication interactions:
Digoxin, Diuretic herbs, and Warfarin

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety:

Nausea, vomiting, skin irritation, excessive diarrhea 2

AMA References:
1 Yellow Dock - Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine
Database. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-
herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=651 Accessed 2/27/2022
2 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. (2019). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. Professional Health Systems.
3 Cook. Rumex Crispus. Yellow dock, Curly dock. The Physiomedical Dispensatory. 1869. Henriette’s
Herbs. https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/cook/RUMEX_CRISPUS.htm Accessed 2/27/2022
 Oats - Avena sativa

Figure 2 from Gaia Garden Herbal Dispensary. https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/oat-seed-milky-

oatstraw-organic-dried-herb-bulk-avena-sativa-semen/

Traditional Use Historical Use

Nutritive 1 Nutritive3
Restorative for tissues, muscles, nerves, tendons Demulcent3
and bones 1 Anti-nausea3
Antioxidant 2 Nerve-tonic, stimulant, and antispasmodic3
Demulcent 1
Antispasmodic 1
Cardiotonic 1
Demulcent & Emollient 1
Nervine tonic 1

Constituent Part of plant used

Avenanthramide 2 Seed tops and stalks 1
Mucilage and starch 1
Triterpenoid saponins 1
Proteins 1
Indole alkaloids 1
Silicic Acid esters 1
 Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally Take freely 1 None reported

Topically

Mechanism of action:
inhibit monocyte adhesion to human aortic endothelial cells 2
inhibit release of proinflammatory compounds from macrophages 2
potent antioxidant 2
β-glucan lowers cholesterol 1, 2

Contraindications: Known gluten sensitivity or celiac disease 1

Medication interactions: None reported

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: Safe

AMA References:
1 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. (2019). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. Professional Health Systems.
2 Rasane P, Jha A, Sabikhi L, Kumar A, Unnikrishnan VS. Nutritional advantages of oats and opportunities
for its processing as value added foods - a review. J Food Sci Technol. 2015;52(2):662-675.
doi:10.1007/s13197-013-1072-1
3 Avena Sativa.—Common Oat. King's American Dispensatory, 1898. Henriette’s Herbs.
https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/avena.html Accessed on 2/27/22
 Glossy Privet – Ligustrum lucidum

Figure 3 Uploaded by Hyeok Jae Choi to Research gate. https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Ligustrum-

lucidum-W-T-Aiton-A-Habit-BeD-Stem-B-D-branchlet-C-perennial-part_fig3_340303584

Traditional Use Historical Use

Cardiotonic, antioxidant 2
For metabolic syndrome as a hypoglycemic, and GI ulcer tonic, ear infections 3
hypolipidemic 2

Constituent Part of plant used

Volatile oils and triterpenoids (Oleonolic acid, Leaves
oleanic, and ursolic acid) Flower
Phenylethanoid glycosides Fruit 1,2
Iridoid glycosides
 Flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin, kaempferol, and
rutin) 2

Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally as a decoction 1 tsp/cup x3/day 2 None reported for this method.

(flowers/leaves) It would require ingesting a lot
of liquid.

Orally as a tincture 3-5mL x3/day of (1:5 in 40%

alcohol) 100mL/week max 2

Orally as a dried herb 5-15 g x1/day 2

Mechanism of action: Triterpenoids lower cholesterol and serum glucose levels, relieving strain on
vessels. 2 Phenylethanoid glycosides has been shown to lower blood pressure and glucose as well.

Contraindications: Pregnancy/lactation, if known allergy to members of the Oleaceae family. 1

Medication interactions: Drugs containing lithium, as excretion levels may be reduced, causing build-up 1

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: Terpenoid glycosides are found in the berries and can be toxic if
consumed in large quantities (more than 5) 4

AMA References:
1 Glossy Privet - Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine
Database. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-
herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=741 Accessed 3/9/2022
2 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. Ligustrum lucidum (Privet). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. 2019 Professional
Health Systems.
3 Lloyd JU, Felter HW. Glossy Privet. King's American Dispensatory, 1898. Henriette’s Herbs.
https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/ligustrum.html Accessed on 03/07/22
4 Privet (Ligustrum). Queensand Government. https://www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/poisonous-
plant-privet-ligustrum/
 Lily of the Valley – Convallaria

Figure 4 from Spring hill nursery. https://www.springhillnursery.com/product/lily_of_the_valley

Traditional Use Historical Use

- Increases myocardial efficacy - Cardiac tonic 3
- Congestive heart failure with edema
- Mitral stenosis
- Hypertensive 2

Constituent Part of plant used

- cardioactive glycosides 2 - Aerial 2
- Saponins – convallarin and convallaric - Rhizome/root 3
acid
 Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally as dried herb (leaf) 150 mg x3/day2 As little as two leaves of the
plant can be a fatal dose in
young children and pets 4

Orally as infusion (leaf) 1 tsp/cup x3/day2

Orally as tincture (1:5 in 40% ethanol) .5-1.0 mL

x3/day 2

Mechanism of action: the glycosides inhibiting the sodium/potassium pump, increasing intracellular
calcium concentration in cardiac tissue, strengthening contraction. 2

Contraindications: caution in hypertension 2,

Medication interactions: Corticosteroids, digoxin, diuretic drugs, lithium 1

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: USE CAUTION! red fruits are highly poisonous, signs of toxicity
include nausea, vomiting, cardiac arrythmias, collapse of circulation and death 2

AMA References:
1 Lily-of-the-Valley- Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine
Database. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-
herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=289 Accessed 3/9/2022
2 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. Ligustrum lucidum (Privet). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. 2019 Professional
Health Systems.
3 Sayre LE. Convallaria.—(C. Flores and C. Radix, N. F.). Lily of the Valley. A Manual of Organic Materia
Medica. 1917. Henriette’s Herbs. https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/sayre/convallaria.html.
Accessed on 03/09/2022
4 Grant Bonnie L. Is Lily Of The Valley Poisonous : Understanding Lily Of The Valley Toxicity. Gardening
Know-how. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/lily-of-the-valley/lily-of-the-valley-
toxicity.htm Accessed on 03/13/2022
 Elderberry - Sambucus nigra

Figure 5 from Gaia Garden Herbal Dispensary. https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/elderberries-

whole-dried-herb-bulk-sambucus-nigra/

Traditional Use Historical Use

Cold and flu 2
Acute infections 2 Laxative, purgitative. 3
Allergy symptoms – rhinitis/asthma 2

Constituent Part of plant used

Anthocyanocides Flower 3
Sambucin Fruit 1,2
Tannins
Sterols
Mucilage2

Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally as an infusion (flowers) 1-2tbs/cup x3 daily2

Orally as a tincture 2-4 mL of 1:2 in 25% alcohol x3 80mL+/week

daily2
Mechanism of action: Tannins can increase cytokine production, which strengthens cell membranes
against virus invasion.2

Contraindications: Pregnancy/lactation 1

Medication interactions: May have additive effects with caffeine, chemotherapy, diuretics and laxatives;
may antagonize immunosuppressants.

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: Unripe, green elderberries, leaves, bark and roots of the pant
contain cyanogenic glycosides that can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, dizziness,
numbness, and stupor. Ingestion of large quantities may cause serious toxicity. Cooking eliminates the
toxin.1, 3

AMA References:
1 Elderberry - Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine
Database. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-
herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=434 Accessed 3/7/2022
2 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. (2019). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. Professional Health Systems.
3 Remington & Wood. Elder flowers. The US Dispensatory. 1918. Henriette’s Herbs.
https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/usdisp/sambucus.html Accessed 03/07/2022
 Calendula – Calendula officinalis

Figure 6 from Gaia Garden Herbal Dispensary. https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/calendula-flower-

organic-dried-herb-bulk-calendula-officinalis/

Traditional Use Historical Use

Anti-inflammatory 2 Stimulant, diaphoretic, diaper rash (chaffing in
Antimicrobial infants)2
Antispasmodic
Emmenagogue
Hemostatic
Lymphatic
Phytoestrogenic2

Constituent Part of plant used

Isorhamnetin & quercetin (flavonoids) 2 Flowers 2
Triterpenoid and steroidal saponins 2
Carotenoids
Bitter resin (calendulin & calendin)
mucilage
 Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally as infusion 1-4g/cup x3 day 1 None reported

Orally as tincture 1.5-4.5ml (1:2 in 60% alcohol) 30+ ml/week

x1 day;

Topically in creams and As needed None reported

ointments

Mechanism of action: Saponins decrease tissue swelling, increase capillary perfusion, and decrease
inflammation. Polysaccharides and volatile oils stimulate the immune system. 1

Contraindications: Known allergy to plants in the family Asteraceae; Pregnancy due to emmenagogue
properties 1

Medication interactions: None reported

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: Safe

AMA References:
1 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. (2019). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. Professional Health Systems.
2 Lloyd JU, Felter HW. Calendula. King's American Dispensatory, 1898. Henriette’s Herbs.
https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/calendula.html Accessed on 03/07/22
 Holy Basil – Ocimum tenuiflorum

Figure 7 from Gaia Garden - https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/holy-basil-dried-herb-bulk-ocimum-

tenuiflorum/

Traditional Use Historical Use

- Improving glycemic control in individuals
with diabetes 1 - Anti-aging 1
- Generalized anxiety disorder/Antistress 1
- Analgesic 1 - Bronchitis 2
- Anti-inflammatory 1 - Rheumatism 2
- Anti-cancer 1 - Pyrexia 2
- Antioxidant 1
- Antimicrobial 1
- Anticonvulsant 1
- Stimulant/dopamine-2 receptor agonist 1

Constituent Part of plant used

- Flavonoids: cirsilineol, cirsimaritin, - whole plant (for extract) 1
isothymusin, apigenin, orientin, and - leaves1
vicenin 1 - seeds 1
- Polyphenols: rosmarinic acid,
isothymonin 1
- triterpenoid (ursoloic acid)1
- essential oils: eugenol, methyl eugenol,
and caryophyllene 1
 Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally full plant extract 500 mg/ day1 for 60-90 days None reported for this method.
It would require ingesting a lot
of liquid.

Topically as leaf extract as a 10mL at 4% twice daily 1 none

mouthwash

Orally as infusion 500g/day in water 2 None reported

Orally as leaf juice 30mL/day 2 None reported

Mechanism of action: Eugenol is the major bioactive metabolite it has been suggested to act via dual
cellular mechanisms to lower blood glucose levels. These include competitively preventing the binding
of glucose to serum albumin and inhibiting the conversion of complex carbohydrate to glucose. 2

Contraindications: hypothyroidism, pregnancy 1

Medication interactions: Antidiabetic drugs (risk of hypoglycemia), Anticoagulant drugs (risk of excessive
bleeding, with seed oil only) 1

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: Safe, only reported adverse effect was occasional nausea when
250 mg capsule taken before meals twice daily 2

AMA References:
1 Holy Basil - Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine
Database. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-
herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=1101 accessed 03.20.2022
2 Jamshidi N, Cohen MM. The Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Tulsi in Humans: A Systematic Review of the
Literature. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2017;2017:9217567. doi:10.1155/2017/9217567
accessed on 03.20.2022
 Kava Kava – Piper Methysticum

Figure 8 from Gaia Garden. https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/kava-kava-root-cut-sifted-dried-herb-

bulk-piper-methysticum/

Traditional Use Historical Use

- Analgesic 1 - Numbing/local anesthetic (topical) 3
- Anti-inflammatory 1 - Bronchitis3
- Anti-microbial 1 - Rheumatism3
- Antispasmodic 1 - Gout3
- Anxiolytic 1 - Gonorrhea/gleet3
- Diuretic 1

Constituent Part of plant used

- Resinous kava lactones 1 - Rhizome 1
- Chalcones 1
- Flavonoids 1
- Piperidine alkaloids 1
 Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally as capsule of powdered 100-200mg/day 1 9g+ /day may cause liver

root toxicity1

Orally as decoction 30g/500mL water .5-1 cup

x3/day1

Orally as tincture (1:2 in 40% ethanol) 3-6 mL

x1/day 1

Mechanism of action: Regulates GABA through alterations to lipid membrane structure and sodium
channel function; potential noradrenaline and dopamine re-uptake inhibitor. 1

Contraindications: liver disease, elderly, Parkinson’s, severe anxiety/depression 1 pregnancy (potentially

affects uterine tone) 2

Medication interactions: CNS depressants (like alcohol), anti-psychotics, barbiturates, benzodiazepine,

levodopa, blood thinners 1

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: may cause drowsiness, or skin lesions 1, liver toxicity, tremors (due
to dopamine antagonism), urinary retention, shortness of breath/pulmonary hypertension. 2

AMA References:
1 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. Piper Methysticum (Kava Kava). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. 2019
Professional Health Systems.
2 Kava- Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine Database.
https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-herbs-
supplements/professional.aspx?productid=872 Accessed 3/20/2022
3 Felter HW, Lloyd JU. Piper Methysticum.—Kava-Kava. Kings American Dispensatory. 1898. Henriette’s
Herbs. https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/piper-meth.html. Accessed on 03/20/2022
 Siberian Ginseng – Eleutherococcus Senticosus

Figure 9 from Gaia Garden - https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/eleuthero-root-powder-siberian-

ginseng-dried-herb/
Traditional Use Historical Use
- Anti-inflammatory 1 - recovery from illness 3
- Adaptogen 2 - physical weakness 3
- Immunomodulator 2 - memory impairment 3
- Stimulant 2
- Hypoglycemic 2
Constituent Part of plant used
- Isofraxidin 1 - Root 1, 2
- Syringin 1
- Eleutherosides B and E 1

Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally as powdered root via 100mg capsule 2-3x day

capsule 1 (equivalent of ~2.24 mg of
eleutherosides) 1, 2

Orally via tincture 2 (1:2 in 40% alcohol) 2-8mL daily 60mL/week max
2
 Best when taken 6 wks on 2 wks
off 2

Mechanism of action: Research suggests that the active adaptogenic constituents of eleuthero act on
the hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, to decreases or normalizing of nitric oxide, making an
individual more physiologically resilient to the effects of stress. 1 It may also carry anxiolytic and
antioxidant properties. 1 This herb helps reduce arthritic inflammation and protects from cancers by
suppressing tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1, nitric oxide, and MMP-13 when
combined with Panax notoginseng and Rehmannia glutinosa, in a dose-dependent manner. 1 It has also
been shown to preserve naïve T cells, while clearing the system of activated T cells associated with
runaway inflammation. 1

Contraindications: Individuals with pre-existing heart conditions such as rheumatic heart disease or
atherosclerosis. Because of potential estrogenic effects eleuthero is not recommended for people with
hormone-sensitive types of cancer. 1

Medication interactions: anticoagulants (may cause bleeding), antidiabetic drugs (may have additive
hypoglycemic effect), digoxin (may increase serum levels and side effects), immunosuppressants. 1

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: generally safe and well tolerated, most common adverse effects
are diarrhea, dyspepsia, gastrointestinal upset, headache, nausea, and urticaria. 1 Tachycardia,
hypertension, headache, and pericardial pain have been reported in patients with pre-existing heart
conditions. 1

AMA References:
1 Eleuthero - Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicine Database. https://naturalmedicines-
therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-herbs-
supplements/professional.aspx?productid=985 accessed 03.20.2022
2 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. Eleutherococcus Senticosus (Siberian ginseng). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed.
2019 Professional Health Systems.
3 Todorova V, Ivanov K, Delattre C, Nalbantova V, Karcheva-Bahchevanska D, Ivanova S. Plant
Adaptogens-History and Future Perspectives. Nutrients. 2021;13(8):2861. Published 2021 Aug 20.
doi:10.3390/nu13082861
 Red Clover – Trifolium pratense

Figure 10 from Gaia Garden. https://www.gaiagarden.com/product/red-clover-herb-organic-dried-herb-

bulk-trifolium-pratense/

Traditional Use Historical Use

- Blood cleanser 2 - Whooping cough 3
- Expectorant 2 - spasmodic coughs 3
- Liver detox (which in turn helps with - ulcers 3
chronic skin conditions) 2 - cancer 3
- Female hormonal regulation (especially
for menopause symptoms) 2

Constituent Part of plant used

- Isoflavones (phytoestrogens, biochanin A, - Areal
and formononetin)1 - flower
- Flavonoids 1

Method of Delivery Adult Dose Toxic Dose

Orally as decoction or infusion 2-4g/cup of water x3 day

Orally as tincture (1:5 in 40%) 2-5 mL x3 day 100 mL weekly max

Mechanism of action: Red clover reduces inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandin E2, cyclooxygenase 2,
inducible nitric oxide synthase, and inflammatory cytokines. 1 Red clover phytoestrogen isoflavones
show preferential binding to estrogen receptor-beta, which is found in the vascular endothelium, brain,
bone, and heart. 1 Red clover has demonstrated estrogenic activity via the induction of alkaline
phosphatase activity and upregulation of progesterone receptor mRNA. In addition, red clover has
shown affinity for both mu- and delta-opioid receptors, which regulate temperature, mood, and
hormonal levels and actions. 1

Contraindications: Early pregnancy, estrogen-sensitive cancers (no conclusive evidence) 1

Medication interactions: Estrogen, methotrexate, tamoxifen

Adverse effects / Side effects / Safety: Very safe, exercise caution when using medicinal doses during
pregnancy or with hormone-sensitive cancers. Adverse effects include: myalgia, nausea, and vaginal
spotting 1

AMA References:
1 Red Clover - Professional Monograph. (n.d.). Natural Medicines—Professional. Natural Medicine
Database. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch-com.scnmlib.idm.oclc.org/databases/food,-
herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=308 Accessed 3/26/2022
2 Marciano, M, & Vizniak, N. Trifolium pratense (Red Clover). Botanical Medicine. 2nd Ed. 2019
Professional Health Systems.
3 Felter HW, Lloyd JU. Piper Trifolium – Red Clover. Kings American Dispensatory. 1898. Henriette’s
Herbs. https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/piper-meth.html. Accessed on 03/26/2022