Crown Vetch & Cancer Treatment
Crown vetch is in the legume family. It is perennial and it forms thick vegetation. It has pink and white small flowers in early summer. This plant was introduced into the United States for erosion control. It is now considered an invasive plant. There are several medicinal claims for crown vetch such as folk medicine treatment of prostrate disorders and as a diuretic heart tonic.
-
Warning
-
Crown vetch is considered toxic. Crown vetch does have consideration for medicinal purposes. According to Botanical online, the plant is used as a diuretic for fluid retention due to prostrate problems. It is also used for cardiac weakness.
The flowers or fruit are considered toxic and severe symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, a slow pulse rate and even death can occur. Crown vetch should not be used for medical purposes except under strict supervision from a trained medical practitioner. Crown vetch does not appear to be a good candidate for cancer treatment.
Milk Vetch
-
Although crown vetch is often considered toxic, milk vetch is considered a valid alternative treatment for cancer. Also called Astragalus, this plant has been commonly used in Chinese medicine for thousands of years. The plant has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and diuretic benefits.
Milk vetch strengthens the immune system as well as boosting the metabolism and digestion. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, "Astragaus is an adaptoge, meaning it helps protect the body against various stresses, including physical, mental, or emotional stress." Typically, the roots are used to make a tea for consumption or even used in food preparations.
-
Birdfoot Deer-vetch
-
Birdfoot Deer-vetch is another plant in the vetch family. The flowers are antispasmodic and considered a sedative for the heart. The plant is also used as a local anti-inflammatory on inflamed skin. However, birdfoot deer-vetch is considered poisonous and can lead to respiratory failure and death.
Potential
-
Using milk vetch or Astragalus is considered a safe and affective cancer treatment by alternative medical practitioners. Many health food companies now sell Astragalus either alone or in health formulas. The plant can also be purchased dried for your own preparations. It is typically referred to as Astragalus and not milk vetch.
Significance
-
Avoid other plants in the vetch family like crown vetch and research the benefits of Astragalus when considering alternative or complimentary cancer treatments. As ancient Chinese writings stated, this plant may be, 'the super tonic' and is considered one of China's most important herbal medicines.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Powi) (Per Ola Wiberg Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Zach Klein
