Umckaloabo

Umckaloabo

Mechanism of Action:

• Polyphenols (e.g., catechin) and 7-hydroxy-coumarins (e.g., umckalin), the main constituents, have antimicrobial and immunomodulatory effects. Other constituents include polymeric proanthocyanidins, monomeric flavan-3-ols.

• phenolic acids, and gallic acid as well as small amounts of quercetin and sitosterol-glucoside. P. sidoides extract increased natural killer cell formation, tumor necrosis factor alpha, iNO, and interferon-beta release, and also dem-onstrated anti-adhesive effects. In addition, the extract improved peripheral blood phagocytes by enhancing oxidative burst and intracellular killing in vitro.

• Anti-HIV effects may occur through inhibiting the attachment of viral particles to target cells.

Dosage:

• For bronchitis: 30 drops (about 1.5 mL) three times daily or 10-30 mg tablets three times daily of a specific extract of Umckaloabo for 7 days. In children age 7-12 years, 20 drops of this extract three times daily. In children age 6 years or less, 10 drops of this extract three times daily. Some studies have not found the tablet formulation to work in children. For sore throat and swollen tonsils in children age 6-10 years: 20 drops of a specific extract of Umckaloabo three times daily (about 3 mL/day) for 7 days.

Evidence:

• Data from clinical trials suggest effectiveness against acute bronchitis and against rhinosinusitis. Meta-analyses suggest a significant decrease in bron-chitis symptoms with P. sidoides use and benefit in pediatric respiratory tract infections. An herbal preparation from P. sidoides root was found effective for moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Precautions:

• Allergic reactions. Gastrointestinal upset. Ear and labyrinth disorders. Exacerbation of respiratory symptoms, fever, exanthema, psychomotor unrest, and diarrhea in children have been reported.

Interactions:

• Due to its coumarin content, P. sidoides may increase the risk of bleeding. However, coadministration with warfarin did not change the blood coagulation values in animals. Clinical relevance has yet to be determined..