Overview

Fumitory is a low shrub with gray pointed leaves, and from a distance the plant can have the wispy appearance of smoke. Because of this, it received the name "earth smoke." The parts of the plant that grow above the ground are used to make medicine.

People use fumitory for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), disorders affecting bile flow in the liver, skin disorders, to increase urine, and many others, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

How does it work ?

Fumitory contains a substance that may reduce spasms of the bile duct or gut.

Fumitory contains a substance that may reduce spasms of the bile duct or gut.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Ineffective for

Insufficient Evidence for

  • Disorders affecting bile flow in the liver.
  • Spasms of the intestines.
  • Skin conditions.
  • Eye irritation.
  • Heart problems.
  • Other conditions.
More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of fumitory for these uses.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Fumitory is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth in reasonable amounts, short-term. Up to 1500 mg per day of fumitory extract has been safely used for up to 18 weeks. But taking large amounts of fumitory by mouth is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. There is concern that high doses might cause trembling, convulsions, and death.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Fumitory is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken by mouth in reasonable amounts, short-term. Up to 1500 mg per day of fumitory extract has been safely used for up to 18 weeks. But taking large amounts of fumitory by mouth is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. There is concern that high doses might cause trembling, convulsions, and death. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if fumitory is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for FUMITORY overview.

Dosing

The appropriate dose of fumitory 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 fumitory. 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.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.