William Schwabe
Holarrhena antidysenterica belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is an old Indian medicine, known by the common name “Kurchi”.
The matured Kurchi bark contains about 4.5% alkaloids of which “Kurchicine” and “Conesimine” have been studied extensively.
A homoeopathic tincture is made from the dried bark. It has come to be known as a very powerful curative agent in cases of acute or chronic dysentery and fever. It is mainly useful as antiamoebicide. Apart from antidysenteric properties, the extract of this plant exerts its antihyperglycemic effect by retarding the carbohydrate absorption from intestine through the inhibition in α-glucosidase activity and therefore resists postprandial hyperglycemia.
Many studies have established its therapeutic action in digestive disorders. Its stimulant and relaxant activities are mediated possibly through activation of histamine receptors and Ca (++) channel blockers, respectively. This study suggests its traditional use in other gastrointestinal disorders like constipation, colic and diarrhoea. stop bleeding in bleeding piles. irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Indications: Acute or chronic colitis, diarrhoea and dysentery. Useful in other symptoms like colic, bleeding per rectum, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and related problems.
Complementary medicines: Alpha-DP, Biocombination 08 and 09, Nux vomica 3x, Carbo vegetabilis 3x.
Dosage: 1 X Unless otherwise prescribed, 1-2 tablets 2-3 times a day. Reduce the dose as symptoms improve. Appropriate diet regimen and oral rehydration salts are recommended to complement this therapy. If complaints are not relieved, consult a specialist.
Side effects: Large doses may depress the blood pressure.
Contraindications and interactions: No contra-indications and interactions with other drugs for the use of Schwabe’s Holarrhena antidysenterica 1x are known.