Eastern hemlock
Eastern hemlock

Background

Eastern hemlock is a plant. The bark is used as medicine.

People use eastern hemlock for conditions such as digestive disorders, diarrhea, a disease caused by vitamin C-deficiency (scurvy), and diseases of the mouth and throat, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
When taken by mouth: There isn't enough reliable information to know if eastern hemlock is safe. However, eastern hemlock contains chemicals called tannins. Therefore, it might cause side effects such as stomach problems, damage to the kidney and liver, and increased risk of cancer.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if eastern hemlock is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Effectiveness

NatMed Pro rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate.
Likely effective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly effective Effectiveness definitions
Likely ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Insufficient evidence Effectiveness definitions
  • Diarrhea.
  • Digestive disorders.
  • Diseases of the mouth and throat.
  • Severe lack of vitamin C (scurvy).
  • Other conditions.
More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of eastern hemlock for these uses.

Dosing & administration

The appropriate dose of eastern hemlock depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for eastern hemlock. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

It is not known if Eastern Hemlock interacts with any medicines. Before taking Eastern Hemlock, talk with your healthcare professional if you take any medications.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Interactions with foods

There are no known interactions with foods.

Action

Eastern hemlock contains tannins. Astringent chemicals, such as tannins, can cause the mouth, throat, and digestive tract linings to shrink and form a protective surface coating.
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This monograph was last reviewed on 03/10/2024 10:00:00 and last updated on 16/10/2020 21:12:32. Monographs are reviewed and/or updated multiple times per month and at least once per year.
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