Condurango cortex

Condurango cortex, also known as condurango bark, is a herbal medicine used internally as a bitter remedy for loss of appetite and indigestion. The bark of twigs and younger stems is used medicinally. The drug has been positively monographed by Commission E.

Condurango cortex contains 1 to 3 % bitter substances, of which at least 1,8 % are condurangine, caffeic acid derivatives and coumarin derivatives. The drug should have a bitter value between 600 and 800.

Condurango cortex stimulates the secretion of gastric juice and saliva and also has an appetite-stimulating effect. An antitumour activity of the doge has been reported.

Condurango bark is used for loss of appetite and dyspeptic complaints.

The usual daily dose of the drug is 2 to 4 g; aqueous extract 0.2 to 0.5 g, extract 0.2 to 0.5 g, tincture 2 to 5 g, fluid extract 2 - 4 g.
The crushed drug is used in the form of infusions or other preparations for ingestion.

1. Steinegger E et al (1977) Condurango determination in condurango cortex and its preparations. Pharm Acta Helv 52(6-7):139-142.
2. Hayashi K et al (1980) Antitumor active glycosides from Condurango Cortex. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 28:1954-1958.