Alum Root (American Sanicle)

Biological name (genus and species):
Heuchera
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Roots
Chemical this herb contains:
Tannins (See Glossary)

KNOWN EFFECTS

Shrinks tissues.

Prevents secretion of fluids.

Miscellaneous information:

Is used externally and internally by some tribes of North- American Indians for many disorders.

Is used as a douche.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Treats heart disease.

Prevents infection in injured skin.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:

Have liver or kidney disease.

Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Have any chronic disease of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis.

Consult your doctor if you:

Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments.

Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:

Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:

Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:

Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:

Toxic effects greatly outweigh any possible benefits. DON'T take this herb internally!

Storage:

Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:

At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Comparative-toxicity rating not available from standard
references. However, it is believed toxic effects greatly
outweigh any possible benefits.

For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms:	What to do:
Burning indigestion	Discontinue. Call doctor when
	convenient.
Edema (swelling of hands and	Discontinue. Call doctor when
feet)	convenient.
Jaundice (yellow eyes and skin)	Discontinue. Call doctor
	immediately.
Nausea	Discontinue. Call doctor
	immediately.
Vomiting	Discontinue. Call doctor
	immediately.