Piper Methysticum
An herb is a plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor, or therapeutic properties. Herbal medicines are one type of dietary supplement. They are sold as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. People use herbal medicines to try to maintain or improve their health.
Many people believe that products labeled "natural" are always safe and good for them. This is not necessarily true. Herbal medicines do not have to go through the testing that drugs do. Some herbs, such as comfrey and ephedra, can cause serious harm. Some herbs can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
If you are thinking about using an herbal medicine, first get information on it from reliable sources. Make sure to tell your health care provider about any herbal medicines you are taking.
NIH: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
Felter's Materia Medica on Piper Methysticum
The root of Piper methysticum, Forster (Nat. Ord. Piperaceae). South Sea Islands. Dose, 5 to 60 grains. Common ......to the local anesthetic alpha-resin and the less active beta-resin. Preparation.Specific Medicine Piper Methysticum. Dose, 5 to 60 drops. Specific Indications.Irritation, inflammation, or debility......and indisposition to exertion; dizziness and despondency; neuralgia, idiopathic or reflex. Action.Piper Methysticum stimulates the salivary but not the cutaneous glands, and strongly excites the kid...1
Physician's Materia Medica on Piper Methysticum
The rhizome and roots of PIPER METHYSTICUM, Forster. Local anesthetic, intoxicant; exerts a specific influence over the mucous membrane of the respiratory and urinary tracts. Especially useful in gonorrhea and in spasmodic cystitis. 2
References
2) Nelson, Baker & Co., 1904, Physician's Handy Book of Materia Medica and Therapeustics, Detroit, Michigan.