Eastern hemlock

Related Terms

Alpha-Phellandrene, alpha-pinene, beta-phellandrene, beta-pinene, bornyl acetate, camphene, Canada pitch, Canadian hemlock, catechin, epicatechin, flavan-3-ols, flavanols, hemlock bark, hemlock gum, hemlock spruce, Hemlocktanne, limonene, myrcene, Pinaceae (family), Pinus bark, Pinus extract, proanthocyanidins, Pruche de l'est, tannin, terpinolene, tricyclene, Tsuga canadensis Carriere, Tsuga Canadensis, L.

Background

Eastern hemlock contains tannins (organic compounds), which are responsible for some of its medicinal properties. The bark has astringent properties, and the leaves contain significant amounts of vitamin C.
Traditionally, Eastern hemlock was used to treat digestive disorders, mouth/throat disorders, and diarrhea.
Although the Eastern hemlock is primarily used for lumber today, Native Americans used the tree's cambium (the tissue in a plant that produces new cells) in breads, soups and pemmican (dried, pounded meat mixed with fat and berries). Early settlers also used the tree in dying wool and tanning leather.

Evidence Table

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory

The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Dosing

Adults (over 18 years old)
There is no proven safe or effective dose for Eastern hemlock in adults, and use is not recommended.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Interactions

Interactions with Drugs
Theoretically, concomitant ingestion may cause precipitation of some drugs due to the high tannin content of Eastern hemlock. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, to check for any interactions.

Attribution

This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

Bibliography

Broeckling CD, Salom SM. Volatile emissions of eastern hemlock, Tsuga canadensis, and the influence of hemlock woolly adelgid. Phytochemistry 2003;62(2):175-180.
Feucht W, Treutter D, Polster J. Flavanol binding of nuclei from tree species. Plant Cell Rep. 2004;22(6):430-436.
Forest Service. Eastern Hemlock. American Woods--FS-239 1970.
Mitchell, J. C. Patch test results - screening set and plants. Contact Dermatitis Newsletter 1970;8:177.