Generic name: pitcher plant [ pitch-er-plant ]
Drug class: Herbal products
Availability: Prescription only
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Pitcher plant?
Pitcher plant is also known as Eve's Cups, Fly-Catcher, Fly-Trap, Herbe Crapaud, Huntsman's Cup, Nepente, Oreille de Cochon, Petits Cochons, Purple Side-Saddle Flower, Sarapin, Sarracenia, Sarracénie Pourpre, Sarracenia purpurea, Side-Saddle Plant, Smallpox Plant, or Water-Cup.
Pitcher plant taken by mouth has been used in alternative medicine to treat constipation, urinary tract problems, digestion problems, fluid retention, and other conditions. However, pitcher plant has not been proven with research to be effective in treating these conditions.
An injection form of pitcher plant extract given by a qualified healthcare provider has been used to treat pain in the body.
It is not certain whether pitcher plant is effective in treating any medical condition. Medicinal use of this product has not been approved by the FDA. Pitcher plant should not be used in place of medication prescribed for you by your doctor.
Pitcher plant is often sold as an herbal supplement. There are no regulated manufacturing standards in place for many herbal compounds and some marketed supplements have been found to be contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs. Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of contamination.
Pitcher plant may also be used for purposes not listed in this product guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on the product label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
How should I take Pitcher plant
When considering the use of herbal supplements, seek the advice of your doctor. You may also consider consulting a practitioner who is trained in the use of herbal/health supplements.
If you choose to use pitcher plant, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. Do not use more of this product than is recommended on the label.
Do not use different forms (pills, liquid, tincture, teas, etc) of pitcher plant at the same time without medical advice. Using different formulations together increases the risk of an overdose.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Dosing information
Before Taking
Before using pitcher plant, talk to your healthcare provider. You may not be able to use pitcher plant if you have certain medical conditions.
It is not known whether pitcher plant will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether pitcher plant passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this product without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Do not give any herbal/health supplement to a child without medical advice.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra pitcher plant to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Pitcher plant?
Follow your healthcare provider's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Pitcher plant side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
The side effects of pitcher plant taken by mouth are not known. The injectable form of pitcher plant may cause a sensation of warmth where it is injected into the body.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Pitcher plant Side Effects