Convallaria majalis
| Lily of the Valley Convallaria majalis |
Lily of the Valley - Convallaria majalis (in the Liliaceae or Lily family)
Part used: Rhizomes.
Taste/smell: Semi-acrid.
Tendencies: Drying.
Dosage: 1:1.3 fresh strength
liquid extract: 1-10 drops 1-3 times per day.
Mental picture and specific indications: Lily of the valley is indicated for organic heart weakness with valvular insufficiency, edema, dyspnea, venous stasis, with a rapid and feeble pulse. The thoughts are dulled and the tongue is broad and thick with a heavy dirty coating that feels sore and scalded. The individual feels better in open air and worse in a warm room.
Use: (a) Diuretic, (b) Cardiac tonic, (c) Ganglionic trophorestorative, (d) Increases coronary circulation, (e) Increases myocardial action.
It is specific for cardiac decompensation, congestive heart failure, angina, endocarditis, mitral insufficiency, heart palpitations and irregular pulse. This herb is similar to digitalis in its action but it is faster acting and appears to be non-cumulative.
Contraindications: A toxic dose may cause nausea, vomiting, cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, restlessness, trembling, confusion, weakness, depression, circulatory collapse and death. Lily of the valley should only be used under the supervision of a qualified health care practitioner. It is also contraindicated in pregnancy.