False Unicorn

Last Editorial Review: 6/11/2021
Other Name(s):

Alétris, Blazing Star, Chamaelire Doré, Chamaelirium luteum, Chamaelirium carolianum, Fairywand, Fausse Licorne, Helonias, Helonias dioica, Helonias lutea, Plante Étoilée, Starwort, Unicornio Falso, Veratrum luteum.

Overview

False unicorn is an herb. The underground stem (rhizome) and root are used to make medicine.

Women use false unicorn for treating ovarian cysts, menstrual problems, menopausal symptoms, vomiting from pregnancy, and infertility. Some women take it to normalize hormones after discontinuing birth control pills.

False unicorn is also used to treat digestive problems and to relieve water retention by increasing urine flow. Some people also use it to rid the intestines of worms.

How does it work?

False unicorn might contain chemicals that stimulate the uterus and kill intestinal worms. It might also increase the production of urine.

QUESTION

Next to red peppers, you can get the most vitamin C from ________________. See Answer

Uses & Effectiveness

Insufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of false unicorn for these uses.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).

Side Effects

False unicorn seems to be safe for most adults. Large doses can cause nausea and vomiting.

SLIDESHOW

Vitamin D Deficiency: How Much Vitamin D Is Enough? See Slideshow

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It's UNSAFE to use false unicorn if you are pregnant. It might cause uterine contractions and threaten the pregnancy.

Not enough is known about the safety of using false unicorn during breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Stomach or intestinal disorders (gastrointestinal disorders): False unicorn can irritate the stomach and intestines. Don't use it if you have any problems with your stomach or intestines.

Interactions


LithiumInteraction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.

False unicorn might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking false unicorn might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose might need to be changed.

Dosing

The appropriate dose of false unicorn depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for false unicorn. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

References

Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 1st ed. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 1998.

McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, Goldberg A, eds. American Herbal Products Association's Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, LLC 1997.

Newall CA, Anderson LA, Philpson JD. Herbal Medicine: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. London, UK: The Pharmaceutical Press, 1996.