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Small sorrel

Lesser sorrel, also known as dwarf sorrel and small sorrel, as well as by its Latin name Rumex acetosella, is a plant whose parts growing above ground are used to make medicine. Sorrel is used to reduce sudden onset and persistent pain and swelling of the nasal passages and respiratory tract, to treat bacterial infections in combination with conventional medicines and to increase urine flow. Sorrel is also an ingredient in the herbal cancer treatment Essiac. In combination with gentian root, elderflower, verbena and cowslip, little sorrel is used orally to maintain healthy sinuses and to treat sinusitis.

How does little sorrel work?

Sorrel contains tannins, which have a drying effect and reduce mucus.

How effective is small sorrel?

Sorrel, in combination with gentian root, elderflower, verbena and cowslip, may be effective when used to treat sinusitis. There is not enough scientific data to make a statement about the effectiveness of little sorrel for water retention and infections. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of small sorrel in these applications.

Safety and side effects

Smallsorrel appears to be safe and safe for most people when used in small amounts as part of a combination product containing gentian root, elderflower, verbena and cowslip (Sinupret). There is not enough information on whether lesser sorrel is safe in medicinal quantities or on its own. The combination product mentioned can cause stomach upset and occasionally an allergic rash. When taken in large quantities, sorrel can increase the risk of developing kidney stones. There is also a report of a death after consuming 500 grams of lesser sorrel.

Precautions and warnings:

Pregnancy and lactation: not enough is known about the use of small sorrel during pregnancy and lactation. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women should refrain from using it.

Children: Sorrel may not be safe for children if consumed in large quantities. It contains oxalic acid. There are concerns because a four-year-old child died after eating rhubarb leaves, which also contain oxalic acid.

Diseases of the kidneys: Large amounts of small sorrel could increase the risk of kidney stones. You should not use small sorrel without medical advice if you have suffered from kidney stones in the past.

Interactions

At this time, there is no information on interactions of small sorrel with medications or supplements.

Dosage

The following dosages have been investigated in scientific studies:

Oral

  • For infections of the paranasal sinuses: A specific combination product containing 36 mg little sorrel, 12 mg gentian root and 36 mg each of elderflower, verbena and cowslip, three times daily.

References

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