Pipsissewa
Botanical Description & Habitat
Chimaphila umbellata
Family
Pyrolaceae
Common Names
| Umbellate wintergreen | Bitter wintergreen |
| Ground holly | King's cure |
| Prince's pine |
Habitat
The dry wood of northern temperate zones around the globe.
Medicinal Parts
The plant
Historical Properties & Uses
As herbal diuretics go, pipsissewa has one of the very best reputations; it is said to be effective without irritating side effects. This gentle action reportedly makes it ideal for prolonged use when, for example, one wants to dissolve bladder stones. Pipsissewa is also used as an astringent and diaphoretic. Externally, it is used as a wash for sores, blisters and infections of all kinds.
Method of Action
Pipsissewa is an Excellent Diuretic
Pipsissewa contains isohomoarbutin, arbutin, chimapiline, ursolic acid, tannic acid and salicylic acid methyl ester. The arbutin is responsible for the mild and effective diuretic and urinary disinfectant qualities of pipsissewa. Arbutin has been standardized in certain uva ursi products for this exact application.
Homeopathic preparations of pipsissewa are used to treat prostatitis, benign prostatic hypertrophy and other prostate gland ailments.
Drug Interactions & Precautions
Known Interactions
Pipsissewa, insofar as its diuretic action increases the renal excretion of sodium and chloride, may potentiate the hyperglycemic and hyperuremic effects of glucose elevating agents.
The effects of dopamine and diuretic agents are additive. Diuretics may potentiate the action of antihypertensive drugs, ganglionic or peripheral adrenergic blocking drugs, tubocurarine and norepinephrine.
Possible Interactions
In conjunction with ACTH or corticosteroids, this diuretic is more prone to produce hypokalemia. Use of diuretics may require dosage adjustments of antidiabetic drugs. The diuretic action of pipsissewa may reduce renal clearance of lithium.
An initial dose of captopril (an antihypertensive) may cause a severe drop in blood pressure within three hours if also using a strong diuretic. The topical application of this astringent herb in conjunction with the acne product tretinoin (retinoic acid, vitamin A acid) may adversely affect the skin.
1. The tannin in this herb may potentiate the antibiotic activity of echinacea.
2. The tannin in a tea made from this herb may be inactivated by the addition of milk or cream.
Comments
Prolonged use of this diuretic may affect certain lab test results such as electrolytes, especially potassium and sodium, bun, uric acid, glucose, and pbi.
Strong diuretics such as this in conjunction with indomethacin may produce natriuretic effects.
Safety Factors & Toxicity
No toxicity data is available, but the herb is generally regarded as safe in therapeutic dosages. In large amounts, the astringent quality could irritate the gastrointestinal tract. External application of the plant has caused dermatitis in sensitive persons.
Preparation & Administration
Tea
steep 1 tsp leaves (or plant) in 1/2 cup water. Take over course of 1day, a mouthful at a time, unsweetened.
Tincture
use 2-15 drops, as needed
Note: This Herbal Preparation information is a summary of data from books and articles by various authors. It is not intended to replace the advice or attention of health care professionals.
References
Braun, H. & Frohne, D. Heilplanzen-Lexikon Fuer Aerzte und Apotheker. Gustav Fisher Verlag, Stuttgart, New York, 1987.
British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, British Herbal Medicine Association, 1983.
Mowrey, Daniel B., Ph.D. Exper. Psych., Brigham Young University. Director of Nebo Institute of Herbal Sciences. Director of Behavior Change Agent Training Institute. Director of Research, Nova Corp.
Osol, A. & G. Farrer. The Dispensatory of the United States of America, 25th ed., Philadelphia, J.P. Lippincott Co. 1975.
Spoerke, D.G. Herbal Medicines, manuscript written as Director of the Intermountain Regional Poison Control Center.
Multimedia
Chimaphila umbellata
© Southwest School of Botanical Medicine
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