Polygala is a branching type of herb native to the central and western United States. There are several varieties of polygala, but the most common are P. senega, P. sibirica and P. tenuifolia. It earned its nickname of "Seneca snakewood" in the 1700s, when Seneca Indians used it to treat snakebites in American settlers.
The plant is a perennial herb, and can reach a height of 18 inches, with oval-shaped green leaves and pale red, yellow or lavender flowers, depending on the species. The plant’s root varies in color from yellowish-gray to brownish-gray, and is usually twisted or spiraled, with a thick, gnarled crown. The root is used medicinally.
As mentioned, polygala was traditionally used by native Americans to treat snakebites and as an expectorant to treat cough and bronchitis. In traditional Chinese medicine, other varieties of polygala are used for a variety of purposes, including the promotion of sleep and calming the spirit. Polygala is considered a powerful tonic herb that can help develop the mind and aid in creative thinking.
The standard dosage of polygala is 1.5-3 grams of dried root, 1.5-3 grams of a fluid extract or 2.5-7.5 grams of a tincture. A polygala tea can also be made, with a maximum of three cups per day.
Fresh or dried polygala can be found at most herbal shops and Asian markets. Some stores also sell polygala extracts and tinctures.
Prolonged use of polygala may cause upset stomach and diarrhea; as such, it is contraindicated in patients who have ulcers or gastritis, and should not be used long-term. It also should not be used by women who are pregnant or lactating. As of this writing, there are no known drug interactions with polygala. As always, make sure to consult with a qualified health care provider before taking polygala or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.
References
Governor Gavin Newsom has retracted the proposed budget cuts to the Medi-Cal acupuncture program for low-income Californians for the 2024-2025 budget year. This decision marks a significant victory for health care providers and advocates who have long championed acupuncture as a vital component of comprehensive medical care.
There’s no doubt that many of your patients visit your practice because they are in pain. And there’s certainly no doubt that curcumin from turmeric (Curcuma longa) can be incredibly effective in stopping that pain, whether due to chronic conditions like arthritis or acute pain from intensive workouts. But your patients may also benefit from curcumin for other reasons.
| Digital Exclusive
Fair and appropriate wages in health care are typically based on economic evaluations. A simple literature review illuminates that acupuncture is missing economic evaluations; which implies you are either underpaid or overpaid. The complexity of services provided by most American acupuncturists, which they are trained and certified to provide, must be reimbursed fairly.
