Water pepper: biological description
Water pepper (lat. Polygonum hydropiper) is a herbaceous plant belonging to the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae). The plant is common in the temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere and prefers humid places: the banks of rivers, lakes, swamps and damp meadows. Water pepper has an erect stem, reaching a height of 30-60 cm, with lanceolate leaves and small flowers of a green hue, collected in inflorescences-brushes. One of the characteristic features of the plant is its pungent, burning taste, which led to its name.
Pharmacological action
Water pepper liquid extract has a wide range of pharmacological properties. It is known for its hemostatic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antiseptic properties. The main active ingredient that water pepper extract contains is flavonoids, tannins and essential oils. These components help to reduce capillary permeability, increase blood clotting, which makes the extract useful for various bleeding, including postpartum and menstrual bleeding.
How to Take Water Pepper Extract
Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the use of water pepper extract requires special care and should only be done under medical supervision. The main reason for this is that the active substances contained in the extract can cause an increased tone of the uterus, which is especially undesirable in the early stages of pregnancy. This can lead to adverse outcomes, such as the threat of miscarriage or premature birth.
In addition, there is not enough data on the effect of the extract on breast milk and on the body of the newborn, so self-administration of the extract during this period is strongly discouraged. You should always consult a doctor who will evaluate the potential risks and benefits and decide on the necessity and safety of using this remedy.
Use in hepatic dysfunction
People with impaired liver function should also exercise caution when using water pepper extract. The liver plays a key role in the metabolism and detoxification of substances entering the body, and any additional stress can worsen the patient’s condition. The active components of the extract, such as flavonoids and tannins, can affect the enzymatic activity of the liver, which requires additional attention.
Before starting the use of water pepper herb, it is important to consult a doctor and carry out the necessary examinations in order to assess the functional state of the liver. The doctor will be able to determine how safe the use of this drug is and, if necessary, adjust the dosage or suggest alternative treatments.
Use in children
Water pepper extract in children aged 12 years and older is used with great caution. The child’s body is more sensitive to the effects of active substances, and the likelihood of side effects or allergic reactions in children is much higher. The use of the extract should be strictly regulated and carried out under the supervision of a pediatrician. The doctor will select the optimal dosage, taking into account the age, weight and general health of the child.
Unauthorized use of this remedy in children can lead to negative consequences, so any treatment should be agreed with a medical specialist. If adverse reactions or deterioration occur, the extract should be stopped immediately and medical attention should be sought.
Side effects and contraindications
Water pepper extract may cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and allergic reactions such as skin rashes, redness, and itching. It is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to the components of the drug in children under 12 years of age. Do not use with dairy products.
During pregnancy and lactation, use is permissible only under the supervision of a doctor. If the dose is exceeded, side effects increase. Due to the ethanol content, it is not recommended when driving. Before using water pepper extract, you should read the instructions for use.
Literature:
- Water-pepper (Persicaria hydropiper) http://www.wildflowerweb.co.uk/plant/1691/water-pepper#:~:text=In%20addition%20to%20its%20culinary,%2C%20skin%20conditions%2C%20and%20fever.
- Phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity of water pepper (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330555684_PHYTOCHEMICAL_PROFILE_AND_ANTIOXIDANT_ACTIVITY_OF_WATER_PEPPER_POLYGONUM_HYDROPIPER_L)
Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of PJSC Pharmaceutical Factory “VIOLA”
