For the Tea Drinkers

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Today's one of those days where a good cup of your favorite tea on the couch, listening to the thunder, and watching the rain fall is absolute perfection! My personal favorites are teas like breathe easy, throat coat, or nighty night. These have the heavy flavor of licorice root, which I absolutely adore for its natural sweetness and its affinity for the mucous membranes to soothe. I also enjoy experimenting with making my own loose-leaf tea.

Have you ever really paid attention to the herbs in your teas? I wrote his paper for school, which takes a deep dive into some teas and things to look for when purchasing your favorite tea.

Topic: Herbal Detox

Written by Julie Howell

5/24/2023

*Note: This blog has been edited of the company/tea brand name.

I am a huge fan of teas, so I thought I would see what was available in relation to a detox. I did find a brand that has a DeTox tea. I thought I would complete this assignment on it.

What herbs are included? No Latin names were present on the label; they were added for this assignment.

Organic Indian Sarsaparilla Root/ (unsure of exact species)

Smilacaceae Family

therapeutic actions: Cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, diuretic, Analgesic effects, antiarthritic, anti-inflammatory,

contraindications: Not enough evidence if pregnant or breastfeeding. Interacts with digoxin and lithium. Interacts with cardiac glycosides. Caution with kidney disorders.

safe dose ranges: 1-4 grams of the dried root or one cup of the tea three times daily. The tea is prepared by simmering 1-4 grams of the dried root in boiling water for 5-10 minutes and then straining.

Organic Cinnamon Bark/ Cinnamomum ssp. (assumption of Cassia Bark)

Lauraceae Family

therapeutic actions: Scientific evidence uses: Allergic rhinitis, antibacterial, angina, antioxidant, T2D, oral yeast infection, eye disorders, H. Pylori infection, insect repellent, lung cancer, metabolic syndrome. Theory based or historical uses: GI pain, blood thinner, induce abortion, promote menstruation, antimicrobial, antibacterial, acne, pain relief, anesthetic, kills mites, expels worms, insect repellant, hyperthyroid, HIV/AIDS, inflammatory issues, kidney disorders, liver disease, toothache, respiratory tract infections, muscle aches, nausea, neuralgia, viral infections, wound healing, snake repellant, skin conditions.

contraindications: Allergies to Cinnamon or the Lauraceae family or Balsam of Peru. Pregnant or breastfeeding. May interfere with other antifungal drugs, antibiotics, may lower blood glucose, may interfere with other blood thinners, may interfere with antispasmodics, may lower heart rate, may interfere with liver drugs, may alter the immune system, and may interfere with other drugs that also alter the immune system.

safe dose ranges: Insufficient evidence but likely safe up to 6 weeks and up to 6 g daily for adults 18 and over. No recommended dose for children. Commercialized candy has been used for up to 1 week in oral yeast infections for HIV. Has been used up to 40 days for T2D from 1500 mg up to 6 g daily and has been used up to 4 weeks as 80 mg daily dose for H. pylori.

Organic Ginger Root/Zingiber officinale

Zingiberaceae Family

therapeutic actions: Science-based uses: Nausea and vomiting related to pregnancy, motion sickness, chemotherapy, and post-surgical. Osteoarthritis, Antiplatelet, shortening of labor, weight loss, and urinary disorders post stroke. Historical or theory based uses: antacid, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antiviral, asthma, blood thinner, Bronchitis, burn wound healing, antioxidant, blood circulation, alcohol withdraw, colds, colic, cancer, cholera, Gi such as diarrhea or digestive aid, cough suppressant, depression, diminished appetite, diuresis, dysentery, gas, energy, elevated cholesterol, flu, antifungal, gallbladder disease, hepatitis, high blood pressure, immune system disorders, kidney toxicity, low blood sugar, low blood pressure, insecticide, intestinal parasites, H. Pylori, leukemia, liver disease, liver toxicity, thrombosis, toothache, ulcers, SSRI med tapering, pain relief, and poisonous snakebites.

Contraindications: Ginger allergies or to the Zingiberaceae family or Balsam of Peru, Cautioned in pregnancy (differing views), May work against antacids, don’t take with other blood thinners, large dose ginger may enhance drugs with drowsiness warnings, may interfere with digoxin and beta blockers, may interfere with insulin, may interact with drugs that are filtered through the liver, may interfere with antinausea meds, arthritic meds, cholesterol or high blood pressure meds, may interfere with cancer drugs, weight loss drugs and caution with meds that weaken the immune system.

Safe dose ranges: Adult 18 and older: The maximum dose recommended is 4 g a day. Some suggestions are 1-5 g daily if divided into smaller doses. There are no child dosing recommendations.

Organic Licorice Root/Glycyrrhiza glabra

Fabaceae/Leguminosae family

therapeutic actions: science-based uses: Adrenal insufficiency, aplastic anemia, ulcers, canker sores, atopic dermatitis, dental hygiene, Familial Mediterranean fever, dyspepsia, Herpes simplex virus, high potassium form low aldosterone, HIV, hyperprolactinemia, thrombocytopenic purpura, inflammation, POS, reducing BMI, upper respiratory tract infections, viral hepatitis. Theory or historical based uses: allergies, antimicrobial, antioxidant, bad breath, blood disorders, breast cancer, bronchitis, diabetes, diuretic, high cholesterol, lung cancer, melanoma, UTI, lupus, weight loss, menopausal symptoms, colorectal cancer, burns, chronic fatigue, constipation, coronavirus, cough, cysts, depression, detox, diverticulitis, dysmenorrhea, laryngitis, MRSA, osteoarthritis, neuralgia, muscle cramps, liver protection, infertility, and postural hypotension.

contraindications: allergy to licorice or to Leguminosae (pea family). The Glycyrrhizic acid is mostly responsible for the reported side effects. DGL extract has had glycyrrhizic acid removed and is considered safe. Has effects on hormone levels and may cause electrolyte imbalances. Electrolyte imbalances can cause heart issues and seizures, as well as kidney tissue or muscle breakdown, may cause high blood pressure, and high doses may cause temporary vision troubles. Not recommended if pregnant or breastfeeding. Interferes with drug absorption and should be taken1 to 2 hours before or after drug administration. It interferes with digoxin due to possible low potassium, affects blood pressure and diuretic meds, increases side effects of corticosteroid drugs, reduces effects of birth control, may increase risk of bleeding, and interacts with blood thinners.

Safe dose ranges: adults 18 years and older: a 2% cream has been used up to 14 days, applied topically 5 times a day. Commercial preparation of 3.5 g has been used for BMI reduction. DGL extract 380 -1140 mg tabs have been taken 3 times daily before meals. Fluidextract (10-20%) has been used at 2-4 ml daily by mouth. Powdered root (4-9%) has been used in doses of 1-4 g daily by mouth, divided into 3-4 doses. No child dosing recommendations. 

Organic Burdock Root/Arctium lappa

Asteraceae/Compositae family

therapeutic actions: Scientific-based uses: Diabetes, Breast cancer. Historical or theory based uses: abscess, acne, anorexia, nervosa, aphrodisiac, arthritis, back pain, bacterial infections, bladder disorders, blood thinner, boils, cancer, canker sores, burns, colds, fever, antifungal, gout, hair loss, diuretic, headache, hemorrhoids, detox, dandruff, kidney stones, liver disease, measles, pain, pneumonia, HIV, skin disorders, hormonal effects, liver protection, psoriasis, respiratory effects, ringworm, scurvy, seborrhea, syphilis, UTI, warts, wound healing, skin moisturizer, tonsilitis and ulcers.

Contraindications: Allergies to burdock or the Asteraceae /composite family. Long term

use may cause head and neck cancers, has been noted to have diuretic effects in HIV patients, may lower blood glucose, may interact with diabetic meds, may cause inflammation. Few studies were found, and they cannot be considered safe during breastfeeding or pregnancy. Has been known to cause uterine stimulation. May interfere with other diuretics or diabetic meds, may increase risk of bleeding, use caution with other blood thinners, and may have a possible interaction with other antibiotics.

 Safe dose ranges: there are none listed for adults or children.

Organic Dandelion Root/Taraxacum officinale

Asteraceae/Compositae family

therapeutic actions: Scientific based uses: anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cancer, colitis, diabetes, diuretic, hepatitis B. Historical or theory-based uses: abscess, acne, age spots, AIDS, alcohol withdrawal, allergies, analgesia, anorexia, antibacterial, antifungal, arthritis, antioxidant, antiviral, anemia, prostate hypertrophy, bile flow stimulation, chronic fatigue, frequent urination, CHF, Clogged arteries, breast cancer, yeast infection, breast milk stimulation, breast inflammation, heart burn, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, increased sweating, HIV, hormonal abnormalities, PMS, osteoarthritis, psoriasis, coffee replacement, skin toner, smoking cessation, spleen problems, urinary tract inflammation, warts, weight loss, kidney stones/disease, laxative, leukemia, fertility, fever, brises, bronchitis, circulation, cardiovascular disorders, diarrhea, swelling, pregnancy support.

Contraindications: dandelion allergies or allergies to honey, chamomile, yarrow, feverfew, Chrysanthemums, or members of the Asteraceae /Compositae families. Doses above those normally found in foods are not recommended for pregnancy or breastfeeding. May reduce the absorption of the antibiotic Ciprofloxacin. May lower glucose levels, may increase the effects of other diuretics, may interfere with drugs that break down in the liver, interacts with analgesics, anti-inflammatories, cholesterol lowering drugs.

Safe dose ranges: Adults 18 years and older: 2-8 g of dried root in an infusion or decoction have been used. Doses of 4-8 ml of a 1:1 leaf fluid extract in 25% alcohol have been used. Doses of 1-2 tsp of a 1:15 root tincture in 45% alcohol have been used. No recommended dosage for children.

Organic Cardamom Pod/Elletteria cardamomum

Zingiberaceae family

therapeutic actions: No scientifically based uses. Theory or historical uses: allergic skin reactions, antacid, anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, antipyretic, antimutagenic, antiseptic, appetite stimulant, digestive aid, colds, bronchitis, cardiac conditions, asthma, breath freshener, GI disorders, immunostimulant, oral infections, intestinal spasm, IBS, laxative, liver and gallbladder, nausea, lung congestion, sedative, snake bites, UTI, sore throat, weight loss, stress, and TB.

Contraindications: allergy to Cardamom, allergic contact dermatitis with the seeds. May agitate gallstones, may increase the risk of bleeding. Lack of scientific evidence for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

safe dose ranges: adults 18 years and older: Insufficient evidence. No dosing recommendations for adults or children. May increase risk of bleeding with other blood thinners, may interfere with drugs filtered through the liver, and may interfere with or increase effects of antispasmodic drugs.

Organic Clove Bud/Syzgium aromaticum, syn., Eugenia aromatica

No family noted

therapeutic actions: Scientific evidence-based uses: Dental pain, fever reduction, mosquito repellent, premature ejaculation. Historical or theory-based uses: abdominal pain, kills mites, allergies, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, antihistamine, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, asthma, atherosclerosis, blood purifier, blood thinner, cavities, cancer, cough, cold, colic, diabetes, dyspepsia, diarrhea, blood pressure, Herpes simplex virus, insulin, gas, lice, oral and vaginal candidiasis, expectorant, gout, hernia, throat inflammation, ulcers, vasorelaxant, edema and pain.

Contraindications: allergies to clove or its oil, eugenol, or Balsam of Peru. Undiluted oil form in large doses may induce vomiting, sore throat, seizure, sedation, difficulty breathing, fluid in the lungs, vomiting of blood, blood disorders, kidney failure, liver damage, or failure. May cause an increase in bleeding, may cause contact dermatitis, and may lower blood glucose. not enough evidence to support its use if pregnant or breastfeeding. May increase bleeding risk with other blood thinners, caution with diabetes or diabetic meds, may react with antifungals, anti-inflammatories, antihistamines, and meds taken for cardiac conditions.

safe dose ranges: no evidence to support the recommended dose for adults or children. 

Organic Black pepper/ Piper nigrum

Piperaceae family

therapeutic actions: Scientific evidence-based uses: smoking cessation and stroke recovery related to swallowing. Historical or theory-based uses: allergic rhinitis, Alzheimer’s disease, antibacterial, antiinflammation, antioxidant, measles, obesity, pain, positive energy balance, diarrhea h. pylori and insecticidal.

Contraindications: allergies to black pepper, caution pepper use if taking cholinergic agonists, cyclosporin, digoxin, metabolized agents, phenytoin, propranolol, rifampicin, or theophylline. Use caution in GI disorders, may cause respiratory irritation and may be linked to nasopharyngeal or esophageal cancer. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. May interfere with other anti-inflammatory, antioxidant meds or medications with pain-relieving effects. Use cautiously with antileptic meds and beta-blockers. May increase the plasma concentration of rifampin.

safe dose ranges: not enough evidence for dosing. Has been used as a nasal inhalation for up to 1 minute daily for a month has been shown to help with swallowing during stroke recovery. No dosing for children. 

Organic Juniper Berry Extract/Juniperus communis

Cupressaceae family

 therapeutic actions: No scientifically based uses. Historical or theory-based uses: Abortifacient, analgesic, antirheumatic, arthritis, astringent, bladder infections, bladder stones, bloating, blood purification, cancer, constipation, colds, carminative, fumigant, heart burn, hypoglycemia, inflammation, disinfectant, kidney stones, kidney infections, snakebites, stimulate appetite, gas, eczema, cystitis, GI infection, urethritis, UTIS, wounds.

Contraindications: allergies to Juniper, kidney and skin damage if overdose, may cause hypotension, liver toxicity, increased risk of bleeding, not recommended if pregnant or breastfeeding, interacts with other blood thinners, lowers glucose levels.

safe dose ranges: Infusion of 2-3 g of dried berries in 150 ml of hot water taken 3-4 times daily. 20-50 mg of berry essential oil has been taken twice daily up to a maximum of 100 mg. No dosing for children.

Organic Yellow- Dock Root/Rumex crispus

Polygonaceae family

therapeutic actions: No scientifically based use noted. Historical or theory-based use: acne, anemia, antifungal, anorexia, arthritis, choleretic, blood purifier, cancer, candida infection, chronic fatigue, cold, constipation, cramps, detox, diarrhea, energy booster, inflammatory skin disorder, exhaustion, hepatitis, lymphatic disorders, PMS, skin condition, liver, high cholesterol, cramps, laxative.

Contraindications: allergies to yellow dock or ragweed; large quantities can cause liver and kidney poisoning. Caution in people with kidney or liver concerns, not recommended if pregnant or breastfeeding, has estrogenic effects, and may interfere with estrogenic meds.

Safe dose ranges: roots and seeds can be used daily for up to 12 months. Fresh root tincture: 10 to 60 drops (20 drops 3 times daily). Fresh root vinegar 1-2 tbsp or 30 mg. No more than 1 cup (250 mg) of dried seed tea per day.

Organic Clover leaf and flower/Trifolium pratense

Fabaceae/Leguminosae family

therapeutic actions: Science-based uses: cardiovascular (blood flow), Diabetes, high cholesterol, hormone replacement therapy, menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, prostate cancer, prostate enlargement. Historical or theory-based uses: acne, AIDS, antibacterial, antioxidant, antispasmodic, appetite suppressant, arthritis, asthma, blood purification, breast cancer prevention, bronchitis, burns, cancer, cancer prevention, canker sores, cardiovascular disease, chronic skin diseases, cognitive function, cough diuretic, eczema, endocrine responsive cancer, got, increasing HDL, ingestion, mastalgia, osteosarcoma, PMS, psoriasis, STDs, skins, ulcers, sore eyes, TB, whooping cough

contraindications: Allergies to red clover, may affect hormonal levels. Increase risk of bleeding, not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. May interfere with drugs filtered through the liver, may increase risk of bleeding with other blood thinners, may interfere with diabetic meds due to lowering blood glucose, and may block effects of estrogen meds.

Safe dose ranges: Adults 18 and older: 40 mg per day has been used for benign prostatic hypertrophy. 86 mg/day for 1 month has been studied for cardiovascular, 50 mg /day and 86 mg day for diabetes has been studied. 28-86 mg per day or 80 mg per day has been studied for cholesterol. 4-80 mg/day for hormone replacement has been studied. No child dosing.

Q&A

What is the primary therapeutic action(s) of the formula? It claims to support digestion and circulation to bring a healthy balance from within.

What additional nutrients are included (if any)? There were none listed

Are there any safety warnings? Are there additional safety warnings you would add to the product? If yes, explain why. Yes, the warning label reads “consult your healthcare provider before use if you are pregnant or nursing, taking any medication, or if you have a medical condition.” The warning exists because anyone could essentially buy this product and self-treat, not knowing that the herbs may interact with a medication or existing medical issue and potentially cause more issues.

Are the claims appropriate and compliant? All the listed ingredients have a gut health characteristic noted in our textbook. Some were blood cleansers, detoxification, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-viral, which all support gut health and the organs that filter out our bodies (Ulbricht, 2010). I could not find Indian Sarsaparilla Root in the text to identify its value, but did find Sarsaparilla in Natural Medicines (2022), which says that it can be used as a diuretic. Due to no Latin names used on the package, I am uncertain if it is considered the same species.

Is there a recommended protocol? Do you think the protocol is appropriate and safe? If not, what would be your recommended protocol for using this product? Explain why. There was no recommended dosing amount or times noted on the package. The ingredients listed were a proprietary blend, so there really is no way to tell the exact amount of which herb you are getting. It is a tea bag for 8 oz. of water, so not sure that a small amount would make a difference, but for someone who might drink a lot of tea, I would be concerned about large amounts of 1 herb and having an adverse reaction. Based on the average of dosing and timeline of dosing, I would not drink more than one cup of this tea per day, and I would not use it for long-term use; no more than 4 weeks.

Now that you have analyzed this product, do you think it was named appropriately? What other name could you give this product? I do think it was named appropriately. I feel about half of the herbs focus on detox or cleansing, and half focus on gut health. I feel this would provide a detox.

Family names were found from the Natural Medicine website. (2022)

Sarsaparilla information was retrieved from the Natural Medicines website. (2022)

All other herb information was retrieved from our textbook, Natural Standard: Herb & supplement guide (2010)

References

NatMed. (2022, 10 31). Natural Medicines. Retrieved from Therapeutic Research; TRC: https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=379

Ulbricht, C. E. (2010). Natural Standard: Herb & Supplement Guide. An evidence -Based Reference. Maryland: Mosby Inc., an Affiliate of Elsevier Inc.