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Herbs & Supplements
Astragalus gummifera
Scientific Name: Tragacanth
Other Names: Goat's Thorn, Green Dragon, Hog Gum
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Uses
Historically, tragacanth has been taken by mouth to treat digestive complaints and coughing. Most commonly, it been used in small amounts for a laxative because it contains two types of fiber that both swell up as they are exposed to fluids in the stomach and intestines. One type, soluble fiber, makes a thick, slippery liquid; the other type, insoluble fiber, forms a soft mass. Together, they help to relieve constipation by passing stomach contents through the gastrointestinal (GI) system faster and by triggering intestinal muscle contractions, which assist in expelling intestinal contents. Although apparently contradictory, in larger doses, tragacanth's ability to absorb excess water and add bulk to GI contents may be moderately effective for treating diarrhea. In the past, tragacanth was added to cough syrups and lozenges because of its soothing effect on irritated mouth and throat tissue. Tragacanth may still be used for its GI and respiratory effects in many parts of the world; but in the United States, more effective products have replaced tragacanth for these uses.
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Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.
In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.
This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.
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