Scurvy root

Echinacea species (coneflower, black Sampson hedgehog, Indian head, snakeroot, red sunflower, scurvy root) have become increasingly popular, particularly for the prophylaxis and treatment and prevention of cold and flu symptoms. However, the claimed efficacy of Echinacea in the common cold has not been confirmed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (20) or a systematic review (21). Echinacea is claimed to have antiseptic and antiviral properties and is under investigation for its immunostimulant action. The active ingredients are glycosides (echinacoside), polysaccharides, alkamides, and flavonoids. 

Echinacea angustifolia DC, E. purpurea (L.) Moench, E. pallida (Nutt.) Britton, American cone flower, black susans, comb flower, hedgehog, Indian head, Kansas snakeroot, narrow-leaved purple cone flower, purple cone flower, scurvy root, snake root (Anonymous, 1996)... 

The use of pine bark extracts has its roots in ancient traditional medicine in different countries of the world. In general, the utilization of Pycnogenol in the past was considered suitable for many of those conditions where vitamin C deficiency is now known to be involved, such as scurvy, skin disorders, and wound heating. Ttiis utilization anticipated the understanding of the complex nature of the interaction between different antioxidants and the important role that polyphenols may play in the recycling and interplay with other antioxidants and, finally, in human health and disease. 

IVaditional use An infusion of the berries is used to treat urogenital diseases. A decoction of the berries is drunk to treat kidneys and bladder illnesses, kidney stones, liver diseases, rheumatism, scurvy, jaundice, and to improve choleretic action. The berries are eaten to treat stomach ulcers and to improve appetite. A decoction of the roots is used for stomach ulcers, bronchitis, tuberculosis, kidney stones, and skin illnesses. A tincture of the bark and roots is drunk to treat arthritis. A decoction of the bark is used to raise the libido. The cones and green branches are also used in baths to treat rheumatism (Makhlayuk 1992). 

Traditional use A decoction of the petals, leaves, branches and roots is used to treat rheumatism, radiculitis, and stomach and heart ailments (Poludenny and Zhuravlev 2000). Decoction or tea of the fruits is used to treat scurvy, common colds, and as a diuretic. A decoction of the roots is used to treat liver and gastrointestinal tract diseases (Khalmatov et al. 1984 Khodzhimatov 1989). A decoction and infusion of the fruits is taken as an astringent (particularly for regular and bloody diarrhea), to treat fevers, intestinal infections, as a hemostatic for uterine bleeding, to improve the metabolism, and as a mouth wash for gum disease. The seeds are used as a diuretic and to treat kidney diseases. The powdered leaves are used to treat wounds and skin ulcers (Khalmatov et al. 1984). 

Traditional use Fruits are widely used as a tonic, choleretic, and as a remedy for scurvy. An infusion of the fruits with honey is used to treat upper respiratory colds and coughs. A decoction of the roots is drunk to treat diarrhea. A decoction of the leaves is taken to treat dysentery and as a diuretic (Khodzhimatov 1989). The hips from this and related species are used to prevent scurvy and avitaminosis, to treat arteriosclerosis, cholecystitis, hepatitis, and gastrointestinal diseases, particularly with reduced bile production (Altimishev 1991). Oil of rose is used externally to treat cracked and injured nipples of breast feeding women, bedsores, trophic ulcers of the shins, and dermatosis (Muravyova 1978). The fruits are used to treat lung tuberculosis, diphtheria, scarlet fever, flu, and sore throat (Zakordonets 1953). 

IVaditional use This plant has been used for treatment of multiple diseases such as scabies and scurvy, and as an astringent for diarrhea. A decoction of roots and leaves is used to treat skin disorders (fungal skin diseases and rashes), ulcers, and wounds (Seredin and Sokolov 1969 Khalmatov et al. 1984). 

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