Bulbus Iphigeniae
Source
The bulb of Iphigenia indica Kunth et Benth. family Liliaceae.
Characteristics
The
bulb appearing as ovate-conical, acute at the top and flattened at the
base, 1.0-1.5 cm in diameter of the wide area. Surface yellow-white and
smooth, with a longitudinal groove on the lateral side. Section white
and farinaceous. Sweet and bitter in taste, slightly cold in nature, toxic
and attributive to liver, lung and stomach channels.
Indication
Clear away heat and toxic material, soften the hard masses and disperse
the lumps: For skin infection, scrofula, snake bite etc. Recently, also
used for cancer of the breast, thyroid, skin, cervix, nasopharynx and
esophagus, and lymphosarcoma.
Pharmacological
Action
Colchicine, one of its active components, and its derivatives exert an
inhibiting effect on various kinds of sarcoma and parenchymatous liver
cancer in experimental animals. It serves as an inhibitor in the intermediate
stage of cellular mitosis.
Administration
Decoction:
2-3g.
Tablet (containing coichicine amide 2.5mg) : 5mg qid, total dosage 0.4-0.6g.
Ampoule (containing clochincine amide 10 mg): 10 mg IV for drips daily,
total dosage 0.2-0.3g.
Caution
This herb may cause nausea, vomiting, general pain, palpitation baldness,
etc. or even leukocytopenia, so the dosage should be limited.