General Description
Chaparral (also known as creosote bush or greasewood) is a perennial
shrub abundant in the desert regions of Mexico and the southwest
United States. Growing from 1 to 3 meters in height, chaparral has
strong-scented, resinous leaves, consisting of two small olive-green
leaflets. The plant flowers in spring and winter, bearing small,
bright yellow blossoms. The fruit is a small spherical seed capsule
covered with fine white hairs. The leaves of the plant are used
medicinally.
Health Applications
- Antioxidant protection
- Immune system support
- Diabetes
- Wound healing (topical)
History and Traditional Use
Native Americans used chaparral for a wide variety of ailments,
including arthritis, cancer, venereal disease, tuberculosis, intestinal
cramps, rheumatism, and colds.1
Chemical Composition
Chaparral contains a number of phenolic components, including
lignans and flavonoids.2,3 The principal ingredient
is a lignan known as nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), which is
a powerful antioxidant.1
Contemporary Uses
In the 1970s, charparral gained popularity as an herbal cancer
remedy; however, there is no scientific evidence to support such
use. Some laboratory studies suggest that compounds found in chaparral
may have antiviral activity against human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV),4,5 but these effects have not been demonstrated
in human subjects. One study conducted on mice suggests chaparral
may help lower blood sugar levels in subjects with noninsulin-dependent
diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).6 In another study, chaparral
helped lower triglyceride levels in rats;7 however,
these effects have yet to be demonstrated in human subjects.
Dosage/Toxicity
Chaparral is usually prepared as a tea by steeping a teaspoon
of dried leaves in a cup of hot water for ten to fifteen minutes.
The tea is typically consumed three times per day. A number of
cases have been reported in which chaparral consumption has resulted
in damage to the liver, and even liver failure.8 Given
this risk, and the lack of evidence of any therapeutic benefit
for the plant in humans, some herbalists advise against the consumption
of chaparral altogether.1 |
