While uncommon, sambong may cause allergic reactions, especially in people allergic to ragweed plants and other plants related to it. No trials have been conducted to study its safety and effectiveness when used by pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers.
Since it is a diuretic agent, you may suffer dehydration if you do not carefully replace your fluids.
How safe is sambong?
One of the best things about sambong is that it is generally safe to use. The DOH’s Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care even promotes the tablet form of powdered sambong leaves.
Special Precautions & Warnings
There is not enough data to prove that it is safe for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, so it is best to avoid it if you are with child. Also, be very careful if you are allergic to ragweed plants and their relatives. Always consult your physician before taking sambong – in tea or tablet form – if you have existing kidney conditions.
Side Effects & Interactions
What kind of side effects may I have from Sambong?
Fortunately, sambong has no known side effects. But sambong has been known to cause allergic reaction, particularly for those with sensitivity to ragweed plants and the like.
Other possible side effects are skin irritation and itching.
Sambong benefits definitely outweigh the risks.
What interactions may I have with Sambong?
Sambong also has no drug or food interactions. Still, it is best to talk to your physician if you are under a certain diet. The same thing should be done if you are taking other medications.
Dosage
What is the usual dose for sambong?
Sambong benefits can be harnessed in various ways. A gentle reminder: the dosages and applications listed below are meant to help and should not be prioritized over a physician’s advice.
Tablets
A commercially prepared medication, especially in tablet form, must always be taken according to the doctor’s advice. However, there are usual doses. If used as a diuretic agent, one should take 2 tablets 3 times a day.
One tablet typically contains 250mg of powdered sambong leaves. If it will be used to combat kidney stones, the ideal dose is 40-50 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. Divide the total into three equal doses.
Tea or Decoction
If you will consume sambong as a tea or decoction, boil the leaves and drink one glass 3 to 4 times daily. The same decoction can also be used in a sponge bath if you want to relieve fever. Additionally, you can drink the tea made from boiling sambong roots to decrease body temperature.
Poultice
For pains, like headache, crush the leaves and press them onto the affected area.
What form does sambong come in?
Based on your doctor’s advice and for whatever use, you may avail of sambong in the following forms:
- Fresh leaves and stalk
- Tablet
- Powder
- Paste/ poultice
Key Takeaways
A lot of studies and reviews have already proven various sambong benefits. It is safe to say that on a practical level, it is a handy herb that can help treat many common illnesses like cough and colds, diarrhea, and sore throat. Moreover, people with hypertension will surely benefit from the use of this plant.
Learn more about Herbals & Alternatives here.
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