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• Effects: Externally, acts as a bronchial secretolytic and increases blood flow (hyperemia). Internally,
it is a respiratory analeptic (stimulant) and bronchospasmolytic, though this effect only occurs at toxic
dosages.

• Indications (Commission E): Arrhythmia, Cough/bronchitis, Hypotension, Nervous heart
complaints, Rheumatism.

• Unproven Uses: Folk medicine uses include muscular rheumatism and digestive complaints.
• Contraindications: Do not use during pregnancy. Camphor salves should not be administered to

infants.

Soybean (Glycine soja)

• Habitat: Indigenous to East Asia.
• Chemical composition: Phospholipids (45-60%), Fatty oil (30-35%), Steroids.
• Effects: Phospholipids extracted from soya lecithin demonstrated lipid-reducing properties in animal

and clinical trials.
• Indications (Commission E): Raised levels of cholesterol.
• Unproven Uses: Used for less severe hypercholesterolemia, liver/gallbladder complaints, anemia, and

poor concentration.

Horse Chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum)

• Habitat/Names: Indigenous to the mountains of Greece, Bulgaria, and the Himalayas. Also known as
Buckeye.

• Chemical composition: Triterpene saponins, Hydroxycoumarins, Flavonoids, Tannins.
• Effects: The main active principles for the anti-exudative (anti-swelling) effect and improvement of

venous tone are hydroxycoumarins (aesculin and fraxin). However, clinical data supporting this
efficacy is lacking.
• Indications (Commission E): Venous conditions (chronic venous insufficiency).
• Unproven Uses: Eczema, varicose veins, leg pains, phlebitis, hemorrhoids. Leaves are used in folk
medicine for cough, arthritis, and rheumatism.
• Precautions/Interactions: The leaf has a coumarin component and may interact with warfarin,
salicylates, or other anticoagulants.

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