Products
Preparations containing nasturtium are included in only a few medicinal products and are available as drops (e.g., CERES Tropaeolum majus mother tincture). In 2018, Angocin film-coated tablets were additionally approved in many countries (Germany since 1958), see under nasturtium herb powder horseradish root powder.
Stem plant
Nasturtium L. of the nasturtium family (Tropaeolaceae) is an annual, wide-creeping and sometimes climbing plant originally from Peru.
Medicinal drug
Capuchin cress herb is used as a medicinal herb, Tropaeoli herba. It consists of the dried, crushed or cut aerial parts of L. Extracts and tinctures, among others, are made from the drug.
Ingredients
The ingredients of the medicinal drug include the essential oil with its mustard oils (isothiocyanates), oxalic acid, polyphenols and vitamin C.
Effects
Preparations made from the herb or leaves of nasturtium are traditionally believed to have anti-infective properties. Many plants of the cruciferous family produce mustard oil glycosides (glucosinolates) as protection against frass. They are stored in the vacuole. Only when the cells are injured are the pungent tasting mustard oils (isothiocyanates) produced from them enzymatically. They are very reactive and toxic to many organisms because they react with proteins on the surface of pathogens so that they are damaged. Therefore, mustard oils are considered “natural” antibiotics.
Fields of application
Traditionally used to treat urinary tract infections and colds.
Dosage
According to the package leaflet. From CERES drops are taken 2 to 5 drops 2 to 4 times a day.
Contraindications
Isothiocyanates are toxic in higher concentrations. However, the dangerous levels are not reached with the natural herbal products. Mustard oils are pungent and not suitable for children and infants. Do not use in cases of gastric or intestinal ulcers or kidney disease. In case of prolonged discomfort, a health care professional should be consulted. Full precautions are available from the manufacturers.
Interactions
Benzyl isothiocyanates may decrease alcohol tolerance. Therefore, products containing nasturtium should not be taken with alcohol.
Adverse effects
Benzyl mustard oil may cause skin or mucous membrane irritation (gastrointestinal discomfort) in sensitive individuals, such as nausea, upper abdominal pressure, diarrhea, flatulence, and heartburn. To reduce these symptoms, preparations should be taken after meals with plenty of fluids.