(Myrica Cerifera)

 Bayberry:

Bayberry – All-American Fever Treatment:  

Warning: In large doses, bayberry root bark may cause stomach distress, nausea, and vomiting.  Those with chronic gastro-intestinal conditions, such as colitis, for example, should use it cautiously.

Bayberry changes the way the body uses sodium and potassium.  Those who must watch their sodium/potassium balance, do not have gastro-intestinal conditions, and have no history of stomach or colon cancer, bayberry root bark may be used cautiously in amounts typically recommended.

—Botanical name— Myrica Cerifera

—Chinese Botanical name— yangmei

This information clearly states that Bayberry does have benefit.

—Description — Colitis, Diarrhea, Dysentery, Fever, Astringent, Stimulant and intriguing possibilities. #

 Bayberry is used for colds, diarrhea, nausea, skin wounds, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. It is useful in diarrhoea, jaundice, scrofula, etc. Externally, the powdered bark is used as a stimulant to indolent ulcers, though in poultices it should be combined with elm. The decoction is good as a gargle and injection in chronic inflammation of the throat, leucorrhoea, uterine haemorrhage, etc. It is an excellent wash for the gums.

—Family —  Myricaceae; other members include myrtle. 

—Synonyms— AKA: Wax myrtle, candleberry, tallow shrub. 

—Parts Used— Root Bark.

—Constituents— Astringent tannins, Myricitrin

—Medicinal Action and Uses— Two Hundred years ago bayberry was widely used medicinally.  It's a shame it's been almost forgotten, because science has shown this Native American herb may have some real benefits in treating fever and diarrhea. #

         DIARRHEA – Bayberry root bark contains an antibiotic chemical (myricitrin), which may fight a broad range of bacteria and protozoa.  Myricitrin antibiotic action supports bayberry's traditional use against diarrhea and dysentery.  Bayberry also contains astringent tannins, which add to its value in treatment.

         FEVER – The antibiotic mycitrin also helps reduce fever, thus lending credence to bayberry's use among the Chocktaw Indians.

         INTRIGUING POSSIBILITY – Mycitrin promotes the flow of bile and might potentially be of value in liver and gallbladder ailments, but as yet no research demonstrates this.

—Nutrient Source—

—Side Effects or Negative Effects—

The high tannin content of bayberry makes the herb of questionable value for anyone with a history of cancer.  In various studies tannins show both pro- and anti-cancer actions.  Their cancer-promoting action has received more publicity, notably from a study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, which showed that tannins produce malignant tumors in laboratory animals.  But tannins have also been shown to have an anti-cancer effect against some animal tumors.

Tannin's effects on human cancer remain unclear.  Small quantities have never been implicated in human tumors, but Asians who drink large quantities of tea, which contains tannins, show unusually high rates of stomach cancer.  Adding milk neutralizes the tannins, which may be why the tea-loving British have a low rate of stomach cancer.  Those with a history of cancer, particularly stomach or colon cancer should exercise caution and not use this herb.  Others should drink no more than recommended amounts and for extra safety, add milk.

Other Side Effects – In large doses, bayberry root bark may cause stomach distress, nausea, and vomiting.  Those with chronic gastro-intestinal conditions, such as colitis, for example, should use it cautiously.

Bayberry changes the way the body uses sodium and potassium.  Those who must watch their sodium/potassium balance, do not have gastro-intestinal conditions, and have no history of stomach or colon cancer, bayberry root bark may be used cautiously in amounts typically recommended.

Bayberry should be used in medicinal amounts only in consultation with your doctor.  If bayberry causes minor discomforts such as nausea or vomiting, use less or stop using it.  Let your doctor know if you experience any unpleasant effects or if the symptoms for which the herb is being used do not improve significantly in two weeks..

—Deterrent—

—References— “The Healing Herbs – The Ultimate Guide to the Curative Power of Nature's Medicines” by – Michael Castleman

 Copyright 1991

 ISBN: 0-87857-934-6

 Page 69 – 71

Recipe:

Recipe:

Myrica Cerifera

Bayberry Drawing

Myrica Cerifera

Generated on June 24, 2007

Updated on October 31, 2008

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