Uses & Effectiveness
Overview
Pipsissewa is an herb. The parts that grow above the ground are used to make medicine.
Pipsissewa is used for infections of the kidney, bladder, or urethra (urinary tract infections or UTIs), other bladder problems, skin sores, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support any of its uses.
In food and beverages, pipsissewa extracts are used as flavoring.
Pipsissewa, also known as Chimaphila umbellata, has been traditionally used by Native Americans for treating a wide range of health conditions, and it contains arbutin, a compound that acts as a natural diuretic and antiseptic.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: Pipsissewa is LIKELY SAFE for most people when used in food amounts. However, it is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used long-term. Long-term use can cause side effects such as ringing in the ears, vomiting, confusion, and seizures.
When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if pipsissewa is safe or what the side effects might be.
Interactions
We currently have no information for PIPSISSEWA overview.
Special Precautionsand Warnings
When taken by mouth: Pipsissewa is LIKELY SAFE for most people when used in food amounts. However, it is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when used long-term. Long-term use can cause side effects such as ringing in the ears, vomiting, confusion, and seizures.
When applied to the skin: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if pipsissewa is safe or what the side effects might be. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if pipsissewa is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Dosing
The appropriate dose of pipsissewa 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 pipsissewa. 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.
