Sarothamnus scoparius (Scotch Broom)

Family: Fabaceae

Part Used: Leaf and Flora

Active Constituents:

Cardiac alkaloids – genistein, sarothamnin, sparteine, Oxytyramine

Medicinal actions:

Anti-arrhythmic, cardiotonic, diuretic, hypertensive, narcotic

Medicinal Uses:

1.grow in the northwest, sunny yellow flowers opportunistic plant

2.antiarrhythmic, stabilize conductivity of the cardiac muscle.

3.treat atrial fibrillation combined w/ minerals. To keep it from reoccurring.

4.cardiotonic herb, has flavanoid to strengthen the cellular structure

5.good her to use when making cardiac formula

6.takes time to have its affect (after taken for a couple of weaks)

7.slow ectopic deregulatio

8.peripheral vasocostricture thus reduce dependent edema.

9.mild diuretic since it is also a peripheral vasoconstriture

10.tironin could increase hypertension make sure pt. Not sensitive to tyronine

11.secondary effect on contractility

12.Sarothamnus has alkaloids, not cardiac glycosides. The alkaloids have an effect on conductivity, not on contractility. It is indicated for use with cardiac arrhythmia, fibrillation of both the atria and ventricles and with extrasystole. The alkaloids slow ectopic atrial depolarization and regulate conduction of cardiac muscle. The herb may take time to regulate extra systole, but the effect of action is sustained. You need to continue treatment for an extended period of time to create permanent change. Paroxysmal tachycardia will not respond to Sarothamnus.

13.Due primarily to the oxytyramine, Sarothamnus is a peripheral vasoconstrictor. It optimizes venous return to the heart and can help reduce peripheral edema. Its mild diuretic action is due to the increase in blood pressure and increased circulation. It is indicated for use with low blood pressure and weak heart. Be cautious when hypertension is present. Sarothamnus can exacerbate.

14.Sarothamnus can stimulate uterine contractions so is contraindicated during pregnancy. It is useful when treating post-partum hemorrhage.

Toxicity:

Higher doses can lead to hypertension, impaired vision, nausea, vomiting, and hyperhydrosis

Pharmacy:

Tincture (1:5): 5 drops to 20 drops TID or 0.5 to 2.0 ml TID