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PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES - TOXICOLOGY - DRUG INTERACTIONS

Polygonum multiflorum (Fleece Flower)

Caulis Polygoni Multiflori is beneficial in sleeping disorders such as insomnia, difficulty falling
asleep or staying asleep (Chen & Chen, 2004). In an animal model study, the sedative effect of
Caulis Polygoni Multiflori decoction (20 g/kg) was found to be comparable to diazepam [5 mg/
kg] (Yang et al., 1990). In traditional Chinese medicine Caulis Polygoni Multiflori is combined
with Semen Ziziphi, Flos Albiziae, and Semen Platycladi to calm the Shen (Spirit). The term
‘Shen’ refers to the entire presentation of a being, including energy levels, the state of consciousness,
and ability to think and reason (Chen & Chen, 2004).

Toxicity for Caulis Polygoni Multiflori has not been documented in dogs and cats when administered orally in
therapeutic doses. No fatalities were reported when Caulis Polygoni Multiflori was given to mice at doses up to
TOXICOLOGY 1,000 g/kg of body weight. Intraperitoneal LD for Caulis Polygoni Multiflori is 169.4 g/kg of body weight in
50
mice (Chen & Chen, 2004).

Equivalent toxic dose in 20 kg dog: 3,388 g IP of Caulis Polygoni Multiflori.
Equivalent toxic dose in 5 kg cat: 847 g IP of Caulis Polygoni Multiflori.

DRUG Validated interactions studies do not exist for Caulis Polygoni Multiflori preparations. Clinical
INTERACTIONS interactions with other drugs have not been reported. However, concomitant use of
Polygonum multiflorum with anti-diabetic agents might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
Dosing adjustments for insulin or oral hypoglycaemic agents may be necessary. Theoretically,
concomitant use of Polygonum multiflorum with other laxatives can increase the risk of fluid and
electrolyte depletion (Brinker, 1998).

Platycladus orientalis (Chinese Arborvitae)

Semen Platycladi functions as a calmative. In traditional Chinese medicine, Semen Platycladi
is used in insomnia, anxiety, palpitations, and forgetfulness caused by excessive worrying. In
animal model experimental studies, Cacumen Platycladi decoction showed sedative action
on the central nervous system as it prolonged phenobarbital-induced sleeping time, decreased
motor activities, and prevented caffeine-induced seizures (Chen & Chen, 2004). The effects of
Semen Platycladi are reinforced when combined with Semen Ziziphi Spinosae (Xie & Preast,
2010).

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