Indications
Colchicum luteum (Suranjan, yellow autumn crocus) is a plant whose dried corm (underground stem) has long been used in Unani and Ayurvedic medicine. It is traditionally used for gout, joint pain and swelling, some types of arthritis and back pain. It is usually found as one ingredient in combination Unani preparations. Scientific evidence for these traditional products is limited, and the plant must be used with great care because it contains Colchicine, a strong and potentially toxic substance.
How It Works
The corm contains Colchicine and related alkaloids. Colchicine reduces the movement of white blood cells into inflamed joints and calms the inflammation caused by uric acid crystals in gout. This is why the plant has been used for joint pain. The same substance is toxic in larger amounts, so the dose matters a great deal.
Dosage and Administration
Take only as directed on the label or by a registered Unani or Ayurvedic practitioner. Never take more than the stated amount and do not use it for long periods without supervision. Take after food with water. Do not combine it with other products that contain Colchicum or Colchicine.
Interactions
- Colchicine tablets: using both increases the risk of poisoning.
- Clarithromycin, Erythromycin, Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Ritonavir, Verapamil, Diltiazem and Cyclosporine can raise colchicine levels in the body.
- Statins such as Simvastatin or Atorvastatin, and fibrates: higher risk of muscle damage.
- Grapefruit juice may also raise colchicine levels.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines and herbal products you use.
Contraindications
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Children.
- Serious kidney or liver disease.
- Blood disorders or low blood counts.
- Serious stomach or bowel disease.
- Allergy to the plant.
Side Effects
Common effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea, which may be the first signs that too much has been taken. With longer use or higher amounts it can cause muscle weakness or pain, numbness or tingling, hair loss and low blood counts.
Get urgent medical help if you have severe vomiting or diarrhoea, muscle pain or weakness, unusual bleeding or bruising, fever or sore throat, dark urine, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy because Colchicine can harm the developing baby. Do not use while breastfeeding unless a doctor specifically advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- This is a potent herb: never exceed the stated dose.
- Stop using it and see a doctor if diarrhoea or vomiting starts.
- Older adults and people with kidney or liver problems are at higher risk of side effects.
- Gout needs a proper diagnosis; see a doctor if pain is severe or keeps coming back.
- Keep well away from children.
Overdose
Overdose can be life threatening. Early signs are burning in the mouth and throat, severe vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea, followed by dehydration, muscle damage, low blood counts and organ failure. Seek emergency medical help immediately, even if the person feels well at first, and take the pack with you.
Therapeutic Class
Unani and Ayurvedic herbal ingredient, traditionally used for gout and joint pain.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.