Medicinal Plants : Polygala senega

Name

Snake Root

Biological Name

Polygala senega
Aristolochiaceae

Other Names

Snake Root, Senega Snake Root

Parts Used

Rhizome

Active Compounds

Triterpenoid saponins based on the aglyucones presenegenin, senegenin, hydroxysenegin, polygalacic acid and senegenic acid.

Phenolic acids; p-coumaric, ferulic, sinapic, p-methoxycinnamic

Polygalitol, a sorbitol derivative

Miscellane ous; methyl salicylate, sterols, fats

Remedies For

Expectorant, diaphoretic, sialogogue, emetic.

Snake Root is used by Seneca Indians for a range of problems including snake bites. It has excellent expectorant effects which may be utilized in the treatment of bronchitic asthma, especially where there is some difficulty with expectoration. It has a general power of stimulating secretion, including saliva. Used as a mouthwash and gargle in the treatment of pharyngitis and laryngitis.

Caution: Excessive use will irritate the lining of the gut and cause vomiting.

Dosage

Infusion: Pour a cup of boiling water onto 1/2 teaspoonful of the dried root and leave to infuse for 5-10 minutes. Drink one cup three times a day.

Tincture: take 1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety

Caution: Excessive use will irritate the lining of the gut and cause vomiting.

No other information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.