-IBIS-1.5.0-
rx
herb
Myrica cerifera (Wax Myrtle, Bayberry)
botanicals
definition
botanical name(s): Myrica cerifera
synonyms: wax myrtle, bayberry, candleberry, tallow shrub, vegetable
tallow, waxberry
part(s) used: bark
qualities:
affinities:
actions: stimulant, astringent, diaphoretic
dosage:
» powder: 1 - 4 g.
» tincture: 2 - 4 ml.
therapy:
» internal: coughs, colds
» external: as poultice for sores and ulcers
AHPA Botanical Safety Rating: 1
toxicity: 1
» contraindicated in severe inflammation of an acute nature on mucosa such as in the gastrointestinal tract due to its local stimulant properties (Brinker, Felter and Lloyd)
» studies performed of extracts obtained from the tannin-rich bark have suggested that Myrica cerifera bears a co-carcinogen (Keeler and Tu, p. 265)
» wax may induce irritation and sensitization (Duke, pp. 317-318)
constituents: triterpenes, flavonoids, tannins, phenols, resins and gums
footnotes
Brinker F. 1989. To Health With Herbs (from Eclectic Dispensatory of Botanical Therapeutics. vol. I, Alstat E (comp.)), Portland, Oregon: Eclectic Medical Publications.
Duke, J.A. 1985. C.R.C. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs. Boca Raton, FL: The C.R.C. Press.
Felter, H. W., and Lloyd, J. U. 1983. King's American Dispensatory, Vols. I and II. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.
Keeler, R.F., and Tu, A.T. 1983. Handbook of Natural Toxins. New York: Marcel Dekker, Inc.