Side Effects of the Supplement Staphysagria

Staphysagria is a flowering plant that grows naturally in many places in the Northern Hemisphere and in the mountains of Africa’s tropical regions. As an herbal remedy, staphysagria has many purported uses and health benefits. However, clinical research has yet to confirm this. Additionally, this plant has the potential to become toxic to your body. As with any health supplement, you should speak to a medical professional prior to taking staphysagria.

A History of Uses for Staphysagria

Herbalists and natural doctors have recommended staphysagria to treat a myriad of health conditions over the centuries. The varied historical uses for this plant range from protecting stables from witches to treating scorpion bites. Staphysagria has a history of herbalists attempting to apply the plant’s toxic qualities to curative purposes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, staphysagria can be used as a homeopathic treatment for urinary infections 5.

Homeopathic Applications

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According to “Homoeopathic Pocket Companion,” homeopathic practitioners often recommend staphysagria to treat sties, asthma, lice and other parasites 4. Additionally, according to “Homeopathy Made Easy: A Self-Care Guide,” other herbalists and natural doctors have cited staphysagria as useful in treating behaviors such as sexual sins in adults and teenagers and crying fits in babies. While some of the purported uses of this plant may have a basis in science despite a lack of clinical evidence, many of the purported benefits lack any basis in science.

The Importance of Dosage

Each part of the staphysagria plant contains the toxic component alkaloid delphinine. This includes the leaves, stems and roots. As a result, any use of this plant in homeopathy will also result in the administration of this toxic substance to the individual receiving the remedy. Depending on the amount administered, side effects can include vomiting, coma and death. Death can occur a few hours after ingesting this plant and results from blockage of neuromuscular processes. Talk to your doctor about appropriate dosage before taking this supplement.

Sexual Side Effects

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According to “Homeopathic Guide for Travelers: Remedies for Health and Safety,” beyond the dangers associated with consuming a poisonous plant, you can also experience sexual side effects from consuming staphysagria 1. These include the loss of the ability to orgasm, loss of sex drive and the inability to achieve or maintain an erection.