White Atroctylodes (Atractylodes macrocephala) stabilizes the body's outer defenses, and stops sweating. This is especially useful for those with cold sweats associated with nervous tension or long illness. It is also purported to be good for those with heart disease. Atractylodes is used in the fight against cancer to halt the production of fibrin. Fribrin acts as a net on which tumors "string" new blood vessels. It stimulates the immune system to destroy circulating cancer cells. This can make it a good addition to chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer. It is generally used in formulas and almost never used alone.

Atractylodes should not be used when there is high fever, excessive urination, or dehydration, or after heatstroke. It interacts with Coumadin.

Excerpted with permission from Materia Medica by liz Johnson.

For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

(Health needs should always be considered before taking herbs, supplements, or medications. Talk to someone qualified in the use of these herbs before using as medicine.)