Uses & Effectiveness
Overview
Umckaloabo (Pelargonium sidoides) is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It’s used as medicine by the native populations of South Africa.
Umckaloabo might work by killing bacteria or preventing bacteria from attaching to surfaces within the body.
People use umckaloabo for bronchitis, common cold, COPD, sore throat, asthma, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.
Umckaloabo is sometimes called geranium. Don’t confuse umckaloabo with rose geranium oil or spotted geranium. These are not the same.
Umcka is not a vitamin, but rather a natural plant extract derived from the root of the Pelargonium sidoides plant, known for its potential antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a popular remedy for cold and flu symptoms.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: A specific umckaloabo extract (EPs 7630, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals) is likely safe when used for up to 24 weeks. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if it is safe when taken for longer periods of time. Side effects might include stomach upset. Allergic reactions are also possible.
Interactions
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Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants) interacts with UMCKALOABO
Umckaloabo can increase the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking umckaloabo along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications.
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Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with UMCKALOABO
Umckaloabo might slow blood clotting. Taking umckaloabo along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
Moderate Interaction
Be cautious with this combination
Special Precautionsand Warnings
When taken by mouth: A specific umckaloabo extract (EPs 7630, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals) is likely safe when used for up to 24 weeks. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if it is safe when taken for longer periods of time. Side effects might include stomach upset. Allergic reactions are also possible.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if umckaloabo is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children: A specific umckaloabo extract (EPs 7630, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceuticals) is possibly safe when taken by mouth for up to one week. There isn’t enough reliable information to know if it is safe when taken for longer periods of time.
Diseases of the immune system such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or other conditions: Umckaloabo might cause the immune system to become more active. This could increase the symptoms of these diseases. If you have one of these conditions, it’s best to avoid using umckaloabo.
Surgery: Umckaloabo might slow blood clotting. It might increase the risk for bleeding during surgical procedures. Stop using umckaloabo at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Dosing
A specific umckaloabo root extract (EPs 7630, Dr. Willmar Schwabe Pharmaceutical) has most often been used by adults as 30-60 drops of solution (1.5-3 mL) taken by mouth three times daily for 7-10 days. It’s also available in tablets. In children, dosing depends on age. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.
