| Lady's slipper is obtained from the dried rhizome, with | | | | cause a disulfiram-like reaction. If used in conjunction |
| the roots, of the Cypripediium calceolus, a member of | | | | with dopamine agonists, there may be risk of |
| the orchid family. | | | | increased hallucinations. Because of the sedative |
| Lady's slipper species may contain volatile oils, tannins, | | | | effect of lady's slipper, use with other sedatives or |
| and quinones. These constituents may be responsible | | | | hypnotics may cause increased drowsiness. |
| for the herb's effect on bleeding, diarrhea, menorrhagia, | | | | Lady's slipper shouldn't be used by patients allergic to |
| and pruritus. Lady's slipper is usually used in | | | | orchids or those prone to headaches. It shouldn't be |
| combination with other herbs, especially valerian. It's | | | | used by pregnant or breast-feeding patients. |
| available as a liquid extract, powdered root, dried root, | | | | Clinical considerations |
| tea, and tincture. | | | | Monitor patient for psychotic behavior or headaches |
| Reported uses | | | | related to the use oflady's slipper. |
| Lady's slipper is made into a tea for nervousness, | | | | Instruct patient to notify his health care provider of any |
| headaches, insomnia, and emotional tension. It's also a | | | | potential allergic reaction. |
| mild sedative and hypnotic. Its GI antispasmodic effects | | | | Tell patient to remind prescriber and pharmacist of any |
| may be useful in the treatment of diarrhea. Lady's | | | | herbal or dietary supplement that he's taking when |
| slipper is also used for menorrhagia and topically for | | | | obtaining a new prescription. |
| pruritus. | | | | Advise patient to consult his health care provider |
| Administration | | | | before using an herbal preparation because a |
| Dried root made into an infusion: 2 to 4 g by mouth | | | | treatment with proven efficacy may be available. |
| three times a day | | | | Safety Risk Caution patient not to drive or perform |
| Extract: (1: 1 in water or 45% ethanol): 2 to 4 ml by | | | | hazardous tasks while taking lady's slipper because of |
| mouth three times a day. | | | | the potential for increased sedation. |
| Hazards | | | | Research summary |
| Patients using lady's slipper may experience sedation, | | | | The concepts behind the use oflady's slipper and the |
| giddiness, and headache. Hallucinations and | | | | claims made regarding its effects haven't yet been |
| restlessness have also been reported, as has contact | | | | validated scientifically. |
| dermatitis. Lady's slipper prepared with alcohol may | | | | |