Ceanothus americanus                          Common name: Red root, New Jersey Tea

Family: Rhamnaceae

Part used: Root

Constituents: Cyclic peptide alkaloids, Triterpenes (ceanothusic acid, ceanothenic acid, tannin (10%), resin, bitter component and gum

Actions: Hepatoprotective, hepatorestorative, lymphatic, astringent, antispasmodic, expectorant, mild antiseptic

Medical uses: For use in liver conditions such as fatty liver, and hepatitis. Also a hepatic ideal in cases of splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy (especially pelvic).

Pharmacy: Decoction: 1 tsp/cup, 1 cup TID. Tincture: (1:5, 45%), 2-3 ml TID.

Contraindications: Constipation, iron deficiency and malnutrition (due to tannins).

Toxicity: None known.

Interactions: Tannin rich herbs may reduce the absorption of alkaloids and other basic drugs through precipitation.