Chaparral Herb Profile
Also known as
Larrea tridentata, Creosote Bush, Stinkweed, Greasewood, Chaparro Gobernadora, and Hediondilla.
Introduction
Now found throughout the Southwestern US, chaparral actually originated in Argentina several thousand years ago. The stems and leaves of the bush are covered with a sticky resin that screens leaves against ultraviolet radiation, reduces water loss, and poisons or repels most herbivores. This resin is used in herbal medicine and to protect wood from insects. It received its name "creosote bush" due to the smell that comes from it when it rains. It’s extremely bitter taste keeps it safe from animals that would otherwise graze upon it. It is also regarded as one of the most adaptable desert plants in the world; it was one of the first to grow back in Yucca Flats after the 1962 nuclear bomb tests done there.
Constituents
Alpha-pinene, amino acids, beta-pinene, cobalt, gossypetin, limonene, nordihydroguaiaretic acid or NDGA, zinc.
Parts Used
Above-ground parts of the plant.
Typical Preparations
Tinctures used to make creams and lotions for external use. Sometimes used internally as a tea in alternative cancer treatments. Seldom found encapsulated or as an extract.
Summary
Chaparral contains lignans that are very similar to estrogen, giving it an effect on the skin similar to that of soy taken internally. Applied to the skin, chaparral can have a remarkable healing effect on eczema, herpes, cold sores, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis. Internal use is not recommended.
Precautions
Chaparral was once banned by the American Herbal Products Association when it was thought the herb could have caused hepatitis, but the ban was lifted when no association between the herb and the reported cases of hepatitis could be confirmed. Its long term use is not recommended and excessive use may result in stomach upset. Special Warning: SEEK ADVICE FROM A HEALTH PRACTITIONER BEFORE USE IF YOU HAVE/MAY HAVE HAD KIDNEY OR LIVER DISEASE. DISCONTINUE USE IF NAUSEA, FEVER, FATIGUE OR JAUNDICE (DARK URINE, YELLOW DISCOLORATION OF EYES) SHOULD OCCUR:
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
