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Chaparral is a thorny shrub growing to a height of six feet with small, finely divided leaves. It is found in large numbers in the deserts of the southwestern U.S. and Mexico. Chaparral refers broadly to any dense thicket of shrubs or dwarf trees. More specifically, in recent herbal literature it designates the leaflets of Larrea tridentata, a name considered by modern authors to be synonymous with Larrea divaricata and Larrea mexicana.
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Chaparral Historical Use
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Widely used by Native Americans, chaparral was taken as a decoction to treat stomach troubles and diarrhea. Young twigs were used for toothache. The leaves were applied as a poultice for respiratory problems and as a wash for skin problems. The plant was listed in the Pharmacopoeia of the United States from 1842 to 1942.
Long used by Native Americans, today, even the American medical establishment has come to take a close look at chaparral. The results are controversial. The sale of chaparral has recently been banned in the U.S. due to its potential toxic effect on the liver.
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Chaparral Remedy For
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Traditionally, chaparral has been thought to be a beneficial remedy for rheumatic problem, venereal Problem created due to harmful organisms, urinary Problem created due to harmful organisms, and certain types of Long standing problems, especially leukemia. Chaparral was also taken internally for skin afflictions such as acne and eczema, and applied as a lotion to sores, wounds, and rashes. It is said to possess analgesic, expectorant, emetic, increased urination, and anti-inflammatory properties. One of its more unusual applications is that of a hair tonic. Another is its purported property of "taking the residue of LSD out of the system…so you will have no recurrences of hallucinations." The herb is also said to fight off parasites.
Contraindications
- history of liver problem (speculative)16,150 such as hepatitis and cirrhosis150 due to its possible hepatotoxic effect in large doses (human case reports)3,6,16
- allergic hypersensitivity to the plant or its resin (human case reports)85,86
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Chaparral Active Constituents
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Chaparral contains about 12% resin and nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA). The latter is reportedly harmful to the lymph glands and the kidneys. NDGA, however, is a potent antioxidant, especially for fats and oils.
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Chaparral Typical Dosage
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Chaparral products are most commonly available in commercial form as capsules, extracts, tinctures, mouthwashes and liniments.
Capsules: 1 capsule up to three times daily.
Extract: Mix 10 to 30 drops in water or juice, taken up to three times daily.
Tincture: One teaspoon up to three times daily.
Mouthwash: Gargle up to three times daily.
Liniment: Apply as needed.
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Chaparral Side Effects
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Chaparral has wonderful healing properties - but because it is such a powerful herb, it should only be used under professional supervision. Begin use with low dosages of chaparral. Stop using the herb immediately if you develop swollen glands or difficulty in urination: consult your doctor to see why you have experienced these conditions.
Pregnant and nursing women should not use chaparral, and it should not be given to children under the age of two. If you have kidney or lymph problems, do not use chaparral.
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