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| Peony Root (Paeona lactiflora) |
| Traditionally, peony has been used to treat anemia because of its ability to nourish and build blood. It has also been shown to inhibit many allergic and inflammatory reactions. Peony contains glycosides, which have an immunomodulating effect and are able to exert a down-regulating effect on B-lymphocyte proliferation and interleukin-1 production of macrophages. This herb has also been shown to inhibit the overexpression of certain aspects of the immune system in diseases such as rheumatic arthritis. Peony's unique immunomodulating effects are believed to be mediated through the pineal gland. 95 |
| Phyllanthus (Phyllanthus amarus and niruri) |
| Phyllanthus has been shown to be effective against hepatitis B and other liver disorders. An aqueous extract of the plant not only inhibited viral DNA polymerase in vitro but was also shown to possess in vivo antiviral activity against the hepatitis virus. It is useful as a preventive against liver carcinoma.96 |
| Pipsissewa (Chimaphila) |
| Pipsissewa is a good lymph and urinary tonic. Eli Jones considered it specifically useful for breast cancer in large-breasted women when the cancer also involved the lymph system. It was also used for prostate and bladder cancers. Pipsissewa contains arbutin, an effective urinary antiseptic that works against alkaline bacterial infections. It also contains the flavones quercetin and kaempferol. |
| Prickly Ash (Zanthoxylum) |
| A diaphoretic and alterative, prickly ash is used for xerostomia (dry mouth). It contains many complex alkaloids, coumarins, amides, and volatile oils. Chelerythrine, one of its many alkaloids, has displayed antimicrobial and antiviral activities. Fagaramide, another alkaloid contained in prickly ash, is a potent prostaglandin inhibitor. |
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