Ononidis radix

Ononidis Radix, the Hauhechel root, is a herbal medicine with diuretic effect, which is used internally for the treatment of urinary tract infections (cystitis). Ononidis Radix, according to Ph.Eur., consists of the whole or the cut, dried root of Ononis spinosa L., the thorny bark hedge.

Extracts of the Hauhechel root contain 0.1% essential oil (with trans-anethole), Onocol also called alpha-onocerine, a triterpene which has an acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity, the isoflavone glycosides (ononine, trifolirhizin) as well as tanning agents.

The dried root is traditionally used as a diuretic for flushing therapy in uncomplicated infections and inflammations of the urinary tract (urinary tract infections). It is also said to prevent deposits of kidney gravel and urinary stones.

2 heaped teaspoons of Hauhechel root are brewed with 150 ml boiling water and left to rest for about 30 minutes. Then pour off through a tea strainer. Unless otherwise prescribed, 1 cup is drunk 2 to 3 times/day between meals.

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