Common name: Bugleweed/Gypsywort
Family: Lamiaceae
Part used: Aerial
Constituents:
- Phenolic acid derivatives (caffeic, rosmarinic, chlorogenic, ellagic & luteolin)
- Volatile oil
- Bitter principle
- Manganese
Medicinal actions:
- Anti-hyperthyroid (anti-gonadotropic)
- Astringent
- Diuretic
- Nervine sedative
- Peripheral vasoconstrictor
Medicinal uses:
- Reduces the symptoms of hyperthyroidism including agitation, insomnia, palpitations, and weight loss.
- History of use in the treatment of Graves’ disease & toxic goiter characterized by diffuse hyperplasia of the thyroid gland
Pharmacology:
- Phenolic compounds may block TSH from binding to the thyroid and inhibit peripheral T4 conversion
- Inhibits iodine metabolism and thyroxine release from the thyroid gland
Pharmacy
- Tincture: (1:5, 40%), 5 ml TID; maximum weekly dose 100 ml
- Note: alcohol extract appears to be the most efficacious preparation as it maximizes the amount of phenolic compounds (constituents associated with the anti-thyroid activity)
Toxicity: None reported
Contraindications: Hypothyroidism
Interactions: None known.
Discussion
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