Bryony (Bryonia dioica syn. B. cretica subsp. dioica)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Cucurbitaceae
• Common Names: White Bryony, Red Bryony, English Mandrake, Wild Hops
• Parts Used: Root (dried, in very small doses)

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Description

Bryonia dioica is a perennial climbing vine native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is known for its powerful purgative, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory properties but must be used with extreme caution due to its toxicity. Historically, it was employed in very small doses for respiratory, digestive, and joint-related ailments.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European herbal medicine as a strong purgative and diuretic.
• Traditionally applied externally as a poultice for swollen joints and rheumatism.
• Employed as an expectorant for bronchitis and lung congestion.

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Constituents

• Cucurbitacins (bryonolic acid)
• Glycosides
• Resinous compounds
• Alkaloids
• Bitter principles

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Actions

• Purgative (strong laxative)
• Expectorant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Diuretic
• Analgesic (pain-relieving)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Joint and Musculoskeletal Pain:
Bryony root has been traditionally used externally for joint pain, arthritis, and gout relief.

2. Respiratory Conditions:
Historically employed to clear mucus and congestion in cases of severe bronchitis and respiratory infections.

3. Strong Laxative and Detoxifier:
Rarely used today, but previously included in formulations for extreme constipation and toxin elimination.

4. Traditional Poison Antidote:
Used in very small amounts as an antidote to certain poisonings in ancient herbal practices.

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Preparation and Dosage

Bryony is toxic and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified herbalist.

Poultice (External Use Only):

• Crushed root mixed with a carrier (e.g., flour, clay) applied externally for inflammation and joint pain. Remove after a short duration to prevent irritation.

Tincture (Highly Diluted):

• 1-5 drops in water, used sparingly under professional supervision.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Toxicity Warning: Large doses cause severe irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and potentially fatal poisoning.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Strictly contraindicated.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: Can cause severe irritation and should not be ingested without expert supervision.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Hot and dry; used to expel dampness and toxins.

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Combinations

• For Joint Pain (External Use): Combine with comfrey and arnica.
• For Respiratory Support: Traditionally combined with horehound and elecampane (rarely used today due to toxicity).
• For Detoxification (Historical Use Only): Combined with dandelion and burdock in old European formulations.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Root collected in autumn and dried carefully.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container, clearly labeled due to its toxicity.

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Modern Research

Studies focus on Bryonia dioica’s potent anti-inflammatory properties, but its toxicity limits its use in modern herbal medicine.

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Bryony remains a historical remedy used with extreme caution, primarily for external applications in joint pain and inflammation.