TRAGACANTH

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for TRAGACANTH overview.

Overview

Tragacanth (Astragalus gummifer) is a shrub that grows in areas of the Middle East. The sap-like material (resin) of the bark is used to make medicine.

Tragacanth contains chemicals that stimulate the bowel.

People use tragacanth for diarrhea, constipation, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse tragacanth with astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus). These are not the same plant.

Tragacanth is not a vitamin, but a natural gum derived from the sap of Astragalus plant. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine as a potent emulsifier and thickening agent in food products, cosmetics, and even in the production of traditional medicines like herbal pastilles and lozenges.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Tragacanth is commonly consumed in foods. It is possibly safe when used as medicine. But be sure to take it with plenty of water. It can block the throat and intestines if you don't drink enough fluid.

When applied to the skin: Tragacanth is likely safe when used as an ingredient in cosmetics.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

• Medications taken by mouth (Oral drugs) interacts with TRAGACANTH

  Tragacanth is a thick gel. Taking tragacanth at the same time as medications that you take by mouth can affect how much medication your body absorbs, and change the effects of your medication. To prevent this interaction, take tragacanth 30-60 minutes after taking medications by mouth.

Special Precautionsand Warnings

When taken by mouth: Tragacanth is commonly consumed in foods. It is possibly safe when used as medicine. But be sure to take it with plenty of water. It can block the throat and intestines if you don't drink enough fluid.

When applied to the skin: Tragacanth is likely safe when used as an ingredient in cosmetics.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if tragacanth is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and stick to food amounts.

Quillaia allergy: Tragacanth can cause breathing problems in people who are sensitive to quillaia bark.

Dosing

There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of tragacanth might be. 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 a healthcare professional before using.