Boldo
is an evergreen shrub or small tree that is native to
Chile and is naturalized to the Mediterranean region of
Europe. The leaves are used
medicinally.
Boldo has been used in
connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern
for complete information):
Health Concerns
Indigestion and
heartburn
Historical
or traditional use (may or may not
be supported by scientific
studies)
Boldo
has a long history of use by the indigenous people of
Chile, as a liver tonic and in the treatment of
gallstones
Active constituents
Boldo
contains several types of primary constituents,
including volatile oils (for example, ascaridole,
eucalyptol), flavonoids, and alkaloids. Boldine, which
constitutes about one-fourth of the total number of
alkaloids present, is the major alkaloid. Scientists
believe that boldine is responsible for the plant’s
choloretic (bile stimulating) and diuretic actions. In
conjunction with other herbs, such as cascara, rhubarb,
and gentian, boldo has been reported to improve
appetite. Ascaridole, a compound found in the volatile
oil of the plant, has been used as an anti-parasitic
agent but is no longer recommended due its to toxic side
effects.
How much is usually
taken?
Tinctures that are free of ascaridoles
are sometimes recommended. People may take 1 ml of
tincture three times per day. Volatile oil of boldo is
not recommended due to its high ascaridole content. The dried leaf can be used as an infusion at
3 grams per day.
Are there any side effects or
interactions?
The
German Commission E monograph suggests that only an
ascaridole-free preparation should be used internally.
Boldo contains terpene-4-ol, an ingredient similar to
that found in juniper, and should be avoided by people
with kidney disease, as it could cause kidney
irritation. In addition, the herb
should not be taken during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
It should also be avoided by people who have obstruction
of the liver bile duct, or severe liver disease.There is one case report of liver damage occurring
in a person taking a laxative containing boldo. The herb
was suspected, though not proven, to be the cause. Excessive use of the herb over long time
periods (more than three to four weeks continuously) is
not
recommended.
