Nerium Oleander more popularly known as oleander is a commonly grown plant in home gardens. It is admired for its scented and colorful flowers. Is there more to this pretty plant? Is it wise to use Oleander (Nerium oleander) to treat anal fissure?
A Brief Background
Oleander is originally from northern Africa and Southeast Asia. However, it can grow quite well in areas with dry and warm climates too. Despite its pretty appearance, oleander is actually poisonous. In fact, it is a common mode of suicide in Sri Lanka. Oleander poisoning in the country is reported to exceed 150 per 100,000 yearly. A person who ingests oleander has a 10 percent chance of dying.
Does oleander have medicinal purpose?
Oleander has made quite a name in the field of ornamental gardening but it may prove more useful. It may be poisonous when ingested but it can also be effective as a medicine. Oleander has glycosides. These are chemicals that have the ability to slow down a person’s heart rate. It can be effective for people suffering from heart conditions. In fact, it is used in combination with fluid extracts from squill, lily-of-the-valley and pheasant’s eye for the treatment of mild heart failure.
Epileptic patients may also find oleander helpful. It may also prove useful to people with asthma, malaria, leprosy and venereal disease. It may relieve painful menstrual periods and indigestion. It is also used as a natural remedy for treating skin problems such as warts.
There are rumors about nerium oleander’s anti-cancer properties too. Itseffects in cancer treatment have been investigated. However, the American Cancer Society says there is no sufficient evidence yet that establishes its effectiveness, or the safety of its use.
The most useful parts of oleander for medicine are the leaves and seeds. They are usually powdered. In some cases, fluid is extracted and combined with herbs.
Using Oleander (Nerium oleander) to Treat Anal Fissure
There isn’t enough available information to know whether or not oleander is safe and effective to use for the treatment of anal fissure. Some people may use it. The ability of oleander to treat skin problems may make it just as effective in treating rashes, itching or pain from fissures. However, there is no evidence to support this claim.
There is also a special concern with regard to its poisonous properties. people must keep in mind that is it not recommended to ingest oleander, its seeds or leaves in whatever form. It may however, be applied directly to the skin.
Who should avoid using oleander as medicine?
Children, pregnant and breastfeeding women must steer clear of this natural remedy. It may cause abortion and birth defects. It must also be kept in mind that oleander has quite an effect to the heart. In which case, it is best avoided by people suffering from electrolyte imbalance.
Because of its nature, it is not advisable to use Oleander (Nerium oleander) to treat anal fissure without the supervision of a doctor. It is not safe to self-medicate.
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