August 26, 2002

CALTROP

Latin Name: Tribulus terrestris

Alternate Names: Tribulus, Goat's Head, Puncture Vine, Ci Ji Li (Chinese), Gokshura (Sanskrit), Devil's Thorn

Family: ZYGOPHYLLACEAE

Parts Used: Fruit.

Properties: Alterative, Analgesic, Anodyne, Antispasmodic, Aphrodisiac, Bone Tonic, Diuretic, Galactagogue, Hepato-tonic, Hypotensive, Kidney Tonic, Lithotriptic, Nervine, Parturient, Rejuvenative, Tonic.

Internal Uses: Bladder Stones, Blurry Vision, Cystitis, Diabetes, Dysmenorrhea, Edema, Frequent Urination, Gout, Headache, Hemorrhoids, High Cholesterol, Impotence, Infertility, Kidney Inflammation, Kidney Stones, Labor, Leukorrhea, Low Sperm-count, Lumbago, Painful Urination, Premature Ejaculation, Rheumatism, Sciatica, Spermatorrhea, Tinnitus, Uricosuria, Venereal Disease, Vertigo, Vitiligo

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

It helps headaches caused by hypertension. Caltrop is beneficial for urinary tract problems by cooling and soothing irritated membranes. It nourishes and strengthens the kidneys. It can increase sperm count in men. It is also useful in lowering fat levels in the blood and eliminating uric acid.

Topical Uses: Alopecia, Balding

Topical Applications: Oil is used on the scalp for alopecia and balding.

Energetics: Sweet, Bitter, Cool.

Chemical Constituents: Kaempferol, saponin, essential oil.

Contraindications: Use during pregnancy only when recommended by a competent health practitioner. Not for those with blood and chi deficiency. Avoid in dehydrated conditions.

Comments: Used in Ayurvedic medicine for mental clarity.

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), August 26, 2002

Answers

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), August 26, 2002.