Ratanhia

Ratania(Krameria triandra) is a rather rare plant whose root is used as a medicine. Related plants (other Krameria species) are sometimes secretly added to Ratania preparations to stretch them. Ratania is used for swelling of the intestines and chest pain (angina). Ratania is sometimes used as a mouthwash or gargle for mild irritations of the mouth and throat, swollen gums, cracked tongue and pressure sores. Ratania is also applied to the skin for leg ulcers, swelling and itching caused by cold or damp weather.

How does Ratania work?

Ratnia contains high concentrations of tannins. Drying chemicals such as tannins can reduce inflammation by contracting tissue and pus.

How effective is Ratania?

There is not enough scientific data to say how effective Ratania is for inflammation of the bowel and chest pain (angina), applied to the skin for leg ulcers, or as a mouthwash or gargle for mild irritation of the mouth and throat. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of Ratania in these applications.

Safety and side effects

Ratania is potentially safe and harmless for most people when taken orally for less than two weeks. There is not enough information on whether long-term use or application to the skin is safe and harmless. Ratania may cause some side effects such as digestive problems. In rare cases, Ratania has caused allergic reactions in the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat.

Precautions and warnings

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

Ratania allergy: Ratania should not be used if you are allergic to Ratania.

Interactions

Care should be taken when combining Ratania with the following medications:

Medication taken orally

Ratania contains large amounts of tannins. Tannins absorb substances in the stomach and intestines. Taking Ratania in combination with oral medications can reduce the amount of active drug ingredients absorbed by the body and thus reduce the effectiveness of these medications. To prevent this interaction, Ratania should be taken at least one hour after oral medication.

Dosage

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

References

1. Scholz E, Rimpler R. Proanthocyanidins from Krameria triandra root. Planta Med 1989;55:379-84.