Uses
What is pipsissewa used for?
Pipsissewa is an herb. The parts that grow above the ground are used to make medicine. It is commonly used to treat:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Bladder stones
- Fluid retention
- Spasms
- Epilepsy
- Anxiety
- Cancer
Some people apply it directly to the skin for treating sores and blisters.
Pipsissewa may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How does it work?
There are not enough studies about how this herbal supplement works. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information. However, there are some studies showing pipsissewa might help reduce swelling. It has a drying (astringent) effect on the tissues, and kill germs that cause infections in the urinary tract.
Precautions & warnings
What should I know before using pipsissewa?
Consult with your doctor or pharmacist or herbalist, if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding. This is because, while you are expecting or feeding a baby, you should only take medicines on the recommendation of a doctor.
- You are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription.
- You have allergy with any substances of pipsissewa or other medications or other herbals.
- You have any other illnesses, disorders, or medical conditions.
- You have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
The regulations for an herbal supplement are less strict than the regulations for a drug. More studies are needed to determine its safety. The benefits of taking this herbal supplement must outweigh the risks before use. Consult with your herbalist or doctor for more information.
How safe is pipsissewa?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding:
There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking pipsissewa if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Side effects
What kind of side effects may I have from pipsissewa?
Pipsissewa seems safe for most people when used in food amounts.
Long-term use can cause side effects such as ringing in the ears, vomiting, confusion, and seizures.
There isn’t enough information to know whether it is safe to apply pipsissewa directly to the skin.
Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If you have any concerns about side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.
Interactions
What interactions may I have with pipsissewa?
This herbal supplement may interact with your current medications or medical conditions. Consult with your herbal healer or doctor before using.
Dosage
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your herbalist or doctor before using this medication.
What is the usual dose for pipsissewa?
Pipsissewa tea:
- Steeping 1 teaspoon of the dried crushed leaves in a cup of boiling water, wait until it becomes cold and then strain.
- 1-2 cups a day of the cold tea can be taken daily.
Decoction:
The recommended dose is 1-4 fluid ounces three times daily.
In addition, commercial pipsissewa tincture can be used, where the manufacture’s instruction should be followed.
The dose for this herbal supplement may be different for every patient. The dose that you take depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe. Please discuss with your herbalist or doctor for your appropriate dosage.
What form does pipsissewa come in?
This herbal supplement may be available in the following dosage forms:
- Tea
- Decoction
[embed-health-tool-bmi]
