Coptis ~ Coptis trifolia

Coptis

Latin name: Coptis trifolia

Family: Ranunculaceae

Part used: dried root

Habitat: coniferous forests, swamps, bogs; Himalayan regions ofIndia

Main constituents: berberine

Energetics: bitter, very cold

Main herbal actions: antibacterial, antipyretic, bitter tonic

Minor herbal actions: alterative

Main medicinal uses: bacterial infection, eye sores, indigestion, thrush, sore throat (gargle), inflammation of the stomach, jaundice

Minor medicinal uses: chronic gall bladder inflammation, dyspepsia, ulcers, vaginal infections

Preparations: infusion: 15g/oz water 2-4 drachms tid-qid; tincture: 1 drachm qd; paste, eye salve, pwd

Contraindications: nausea or vomiting caused by a stomach hypoactivity or diarrhea due to spleen or kidney deficiency; long-term use

Toxicity: none known

Sources: http://www.rook.org/earl/bwca/nature/herbs/coptis.html; http://www.ibiblio.org/herbmed/eclectic/cook/COPTIS_TRIFOLIA.htm