Brown root

Brownroot is a genus of plants whose members are used in the production of medicine. Brownroot is used as a diuretic to relieve water retention by increasing urine production. Sometimes brownroot is applied directly to the skin for skin problems such as eczema, itching, psoriasis, hemorrhoids, swelling and rashes. Some people use brownroot as a substitute for devil's claw, as these two plants contain similar chemicals.

How does brownroot work?

Brownroot may contain substances that can reduce inflammatory swelling.

How effective is brownroot?

There is not enough scientific data to assess the effectiveness of brownroot on eczema, itching, psoriasis, hemorrhoids, swollen skin and skin rashes. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of brownroot for these problems.

Safety and side effects

There is not enough information to say whether creeping brownroot is safe and harmless or what side effects it may have.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the use of brownroot during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid brownroot.

Diabetes: Brownroot could affect blood sugar control. For this reason, blood sugar levels should be carefully monitored if you suffer from diabetes and use brownroot.

Ventricular tachycardia: You should not use brownroot if you suffer from this condition.

Interactions

Caution should be exercised when combining brownroot with the following medications:

Lithium

Brownroot may have a dehydrating (diuretic) effect. Taking brownroot may interfere with the body's excretion of lithium, which could result in increased lithium levels and serious side effects. For this reason, it is important to consult your doctor before using brownroot if you are taking lithium. The lithium dosage may need to be adjusted.

Diuretics

Brownroot appears to act as a diuretic. Brownroot and diuretics may cause the body to excrete potassium along with the excreted water. Taking brownroot in combination with diuretics could reduce the potassium levels in the body too much.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of brownroot depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At this time, there is insufficient scientific data to determine appropriate dosage ranges for brownroot. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.