​Chimaphila umbellate (Pipsissewa / Prince's Pine)

Chimaphila umbellate (Pipsissewa / Prince's Pine)

Product Name: Зимолюбка зонтичная, Chimaphila umbellata, Umbel-Wintergrün, Chimaphila umbelada, Chimaphile ombellée, شيميـافيـلا أمبـيـلاتـا, ชิมาฟีลา อัมเบลลาตา, Shimafila umbellata, Chimaphila umbellata, Şimafila umbellata, Шимафила умбеллата, Žiemžolė skėtinė, Jumalpuķe čemurainā, Зимолюбка зонтична, Şimafila umbellata, שימאפילה אמבלטה

Synonyms: Зимолюбка, Зимолюбка круглолистная, Трава от почек; Pipsissewa, Prince's pine, Ground holly; Wintergrünkraut, Prinzenkiefer; Príncipe pino, Hierba de los riñones; Chimaphile, Pipsissiwa; عشبة الكلى، عشبة الشتاء، نبات الشتاء؛ สมุนไพรไต, สมุนไพรฤดูหนาว

Used Parts: leaves, flowering tops, rhizomes, aerial part, herb, seeds, whole plant.

Main Indications for the Use of Chimaphila umbellata: Cystitis, pyelonephritis, chronic glomerulonephritis, dysuria, urolithiasis, edema syndrome of renal origin, chronic prostatitis, prostatic hyperplasia, renal hypertension, chronic urethritis.

Use of Chimaphila umbellata in Mixtures and Complexes: Acute renal failure, nephritic syndrome in systemic lupus erythematosus, drug-induced interstitial nephritis, uropathies in diabetes mellitus, nephropathies of pregnancy, glomerulonephritis of autoimmune etiology, chronic pyelonephritis in the acute phase, recurrent urinary tract infections, prostatorea, bladder atony.

Pharmacological Properties of Chimaphila umbellata: Diuretic, uroantiseptic, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antiproliferative, antiseptic, antioxidant, spasmolytic, analgesic, lymphodrainage, mildly hypotensive, tonic for the bladder, deodorizing, diaphoretic, antibacterial, mild hypoglycemic, venotonic, astringent.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Chimaphila umbellata

Powder — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Powder): Cystitis, chronic prostatitis, urolithiasis, prostatic hyperplasia, pyelonephritis, chronic urethritis, glomerulonephritis, edema syndrome of renal origin.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 500–700 mg of powder 2 times a day, with warm water. Take 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 1 gram 2–3 times a day. Recommended for acute pyelonephritis, pronounced dysuria, renal edema, and stage 2 prostatic hyperplasia.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): Up to 1.5 grams 3 times a day. Allowed for no more than 5 days for purulent urethritis, exacerbation of chronic prostatitis, and nephrogenic hypertension.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 500 mg once a day, in courses of 21 days with a 14-day break. Recommended for patients with chronic diseases of the genitourinary system, persons over 50 years of age with signs of difficult urination.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): Use is allowed from 12 years of age, with a body weight of 40 kg or more. Dosage — 250 mg 1–2 times a day, under medical supervision.

Contraindications (Powder): Acute renal failure, glomerulonephritis in the active proliferation phase, allergic reaction to the plant. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): Nausea, dry mouth, mild dizziness, irritation of the gastric mucosa when the dose is exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): For body weight below 60 kg — reduce the dose by 25%. For body weight over 90 kg — an increase in dosage by 25% is possible under condition monitoring.

Preparation method (Powder): Raw material: dried leaves. 100 grams of powder are prepared from 110 grams of leaves dried at a temperature not exceeding 45 degrees Celsius, ground to a uniform powder on an herb mill. Sifted through a sieve with a mesh size of 0.5 mm. Store in an airtight container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a tightly closed glass container, in a dark, dry place at a temperature of 10 to 25 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to direct light and electromagnetic sources. Shelf life — up to 1 year.

Dry Extract — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Dry Extract): Cystitis, chronic urethritis, pyelonephritis, prostatic hyperplasia, dysuria, chronic glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 200–300 mg of extract (10:1) 1–2 times a day. Preferably taken in the morning and evening 40 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 400 mg 2 times a day. Recommended for pronounced pain syndrome, chronic prostatitis with dysuria, and difficult urination.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 600 mg 3 times a day. Allowed short-term (up to 7 days) for exacerbation of pyelonephritis or purulent cystitis under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100–200 mg once a day. Course — 30 days, repeat after 2 months. Recommended for chronic cystitis, elderly patients with the initial stage of prostatic hyperplasia.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): From 12 years, with a body weight of more than 35 kg — 100 mg once a day. Under specialist supervision.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Allergy to plant components, acute nephritis, impaired renal filtration function. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Dyspeptic disorders, metallic taste in the mouth, headache when the dose is exceeded are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): Patients with weight less than 50 kg are recommended to reduce the dosage by 25%. For weight over 90 kg — an increase of up to 25% is possible.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): 1 kg of leaves is poured with 10 liters of water, extracted at a temperature of 80 degrees Celsius for 4 hours. Filtered, evaporated to a syrupy mass and dried at a temperature not exceeding 50 degrees to obtain a powder extract. Yield — 100 grams of extract (ratio 10:1).

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in a sealed foil bag or in a dark jar, at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius, in a dry place. Avoid contact with moisture. Shelf life — up to 18 months.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Tincture): Pyelonephritis, cystitis, chronic urethritis, dysuria, prostatic hyperplasia, glomerulonephritis, chronic prostatitis, renal edema.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops of tincture in 100 ml of water 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 drops 3 times a day. Prescribed for pronounced dysuric syndrome, pain in the projection of the bladder, and chronic prostatitis with edema syndrome.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Up to 40 drops 3 times a day. Allowed short-term (no more than 5 days) for acute inflammation with signs of intoxication, purulent urethritis, or edema in renal hypertension.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 15 drops once a day in courses of 21 days. Recommended for chronic cystitis, prostatorea, men over 45 years of age, and also for mild difficulty urinating.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Use of the tincture is contraindicated in children under 14 years of age. From 14 years — 10 drops 1–2 times a day under medical supervision.

Contraindications (Tincture): Alcohol dependence, acute glomerulonephritis, hypotension, gastric ulcer. Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation — reliable safety data are absent.

Side Effects (Tincture): Gastric irritation, headache, dizziness, increased diuresis with dehydration when doses are exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): Patients with body weight below 50 kg — 15 drops. For body weight over 90 kg — an increase in dose of up to 25% is allowed.

Preparation method (Tincture): To prepare 100 ml of tincture: 20 grams of ground dried leaves, 80 ml of 70% ethanol, 20 ml of purified water. The raw material is placed in a glass jar, poured with a mixture of alcohol and water, infused for 10 days in a dark place at room temperature with daily shaking. Then filtered through a paper filter.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a tightly closed glass container, in a cool, dark place at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to light and heat. Shelf life — up to 2 years. After opening — use within 60 days.

Oil Infusion — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Oil Infusion): Chronic prostatitis, prostatorea, dysuria, edema in nephrogenic hypertension, bladder atony, inflammatory processes of the external genitalia.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): 1 teaspoon of oil infusion 1–2 times a day orally, on an empty stomach. Externally — in the form of applications for 20–30 minutes on the lower abdomen.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): 1 dessert spoon orally 2 times a day. Externally — rub into the perineal area 2 times a day for chronic prostatitis and pain.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): 1 tablespoon 2 times a day, short-term (no more than 5 days) for pronounced edema, prostatic hyperplasia, and painful urination.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 0.5 teaspoon once a day in the morning, in a course of 21 days. Prevention of prostatitis, edema, and bladder dysfunction. Recommended for men after 40 years of age.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): Not recommended orally for children under 12 years of age. Externally — use in the form of applications is possible from 7 years of age under medical supervision.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Chronic diarrhea, fat malabsorption, bile duct obstruction. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been scientifically established.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Rarely — diarrhea, nausea, heaviness in the right hypochondrium at high doses.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): Patients with weight less than 50 kg — 0.5 teaspoon. Over 90 kg — up to 1.5 teaspoons per dose is allowed.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): 100 grams of coconut oil is heated in a water bath to 40 degrees Celsius. 20 grams of ground dry leaves are added. Infused for 5 hours at a temperature of 40–50 degrees, then cooled and strained through gauze. The resulting infusion is packaged in dark bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a dark place at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, protected from heat and direct light. After opening, use within 3 months. Shelf life in closed form — up to 12 months.

Rectal Suppository — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Rectal Suppository): Chronic prostatitis, prostatic hyperplasia, prostatorea, dysuria, inflammatory diseases of the prostate, bladder atony, edema in chronic renal failure.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository (containing 200 mg of dry extract) once a day before bedtime, after bowel movement.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository 2 times a day (morning and evening) for chronic prostatitis with edema, stage II prostatic hyperplasia, and pronounced dysuria.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 2 suppositories 2 times a day (every 12 hours). Allowed for no more than 5 days. Prescribed for exacerbation of prostatitis with pain syndrome, prostatorea, and combined urethritis.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository once every 2 days, in a course of 14–20 days. Recommended for patients with chronic prostatitis in remission, men after 50 years of age suffering from dysuria or incomplete bladder emptying.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppository): Use is not recommended for children under 14 years of age. From 14 years — ½ suppository once a day, only by doctor's prescription.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppository): Acute proctitis, anal fissures, allergy to components. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been scientifically established.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppository): Rarely — burning in the rectum, urge to defecate, mucous discharge. With overdose — increased diuresis, weakness.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Rectal Suppository): Patients with weight less than 50 kg — use ½ suppository. For body weight over 90 kg — a double dose is possible under medical supervision.

Preparation method (Rectal Suppository): For 100 grams of base: 20 grams of dry extract of Chimaphila umbellata, 80 grams of cocoa butter. Cocoa butter is melted in a water bath to 38–40 degrees Celsius, the dry extract is introduced, thoroughly mixed until homogeneous. Poured into suppository molds of 2 grams. Cooled until solidified.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppository): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of +2 to +8 °C, in individual packaging, in a place protected from light. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening the package, use within 7 days.

Vaginal Suppository — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Vaginal Suppository): Vulvovaginitis, cervicitis, urethritis, dysuria, chronic cystitis, inflammation of the periurethral glands.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository (200 mg of dry extract) at night, course 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository 2 times a day (morning and evening). Used for acute recurrences of vulvitis, cervicitis, and urethritis against the background of urogenital infection.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 2 suppositories 2 times a day — only by doctor's prescription, no more than 3 days, for purulent or ulcerative forms of vulvovaginitis.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository once every 3 days in a course of 10 suppositories. Recommended for women with chronic cystitis, during hypothermia, or after taking antibiotics.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): Not recommended for use under 16 years of age. After 16 years — ½ suppository for body weight less than 50 kg, 1 suppository for weight over 50 kg.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppository): Allergy to components, acute colpitis, pregnancy. Safety during lactation has not been established.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppository): Burning, itching, hyperemia of the vaginal mucosa, rarely — headache with long-term use.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Vaginal Suppository): For body weight less than 50 kg — use a half dose. For body weight over 80 kg — standard dose, a short-term double dose is possible under supervision.

Preparation method (Vaginal Suppository): 100 grams of base: 20 grams of dry extract of Chimaphila umbellata, 10 grams of coconut oil, 70 grams of cocoa butter. The oils are melted, the extract is introduced, mixed until completely homogeneous, poured into molds of 2 grams. Cooled until solidified.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppository): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of +2...+8 °C, in a place protected from light. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening the individual package, use within 5 days.

Aqueous Infusion — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Aqueous Infusion): Cystitis, urethritis, pyelonephritis, chronic glomerulonephritis, dysuria, renal edema, vulvovaginitis, inflammatory processes of the external genitalia.

Standard Dosage (Aqueous Infusion): 100 ml of warm infusion 3 times a day 30 minutes before meals. Externally — in the form of washes or baths 1–2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Aqueous Infusion): 150 ml 3 times a day. Externally — up to 3 times a day. Used for exacerbations of chronic cystitis, acute urethritis, and pronounced inflammations of the external genitalia.

Maximum Dosage (Aqueous Infusion): Up to 200 ml 4 times a day orally, no more than 5 days. Externally — up to 4 applications per day. Prescribed for severe edema, pronounced dysuria, and mucosal inflammation.

Preventive Dosage (Aqueous Infusion): 100 ml of infusion once a day, in courses of 20 days. Externally — 2–3 times a week. Recommended for patients with chronic diseases of the urinary system, as well as women with recurrent vaginitis.

Pediatric Dosage (Aqueous Infusion): From 7 years — 50 ml of infusion 1–2 times a day. Externally — allowed from 5 years in the form of warm baths for 10–15 minutes.

Contraindications (Aqueous Infusion): Hypersensitivity, acute glomerulonephritis with nephrotic syndrome. Data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have not been registered.

Side Effects (Aqueous Infusion): Rarely — nausea, increased diuresis, mucosal irritation with external use at high concentration.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Aqueous Infusion): Patients with body weight below 40 kg — oral dose no more than 75 ml. Patients with weight over 90 kg — up to 150 ml per dose is allowed.

Preparation method (Aqueous Infusion): For 100 ml of infusion, take 2 grams of dry crushed leaves, pour 200 ml of boiling water, infuse under a lid for 30 minutes, strain. Use fresh.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Aqueous Infusion): Store in the refrigerator for no more than 24 hours, in a closed glass container. Not subject to long-term storage. After opening, use within 12 hours.

Liquid Extract — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Liquid Extract): Cystitis, pyelonephritis, chronic urethritis, dysuria, prostatic hyperplasia, chronic prostatitis, nephrotic syndrome.

Standard Dosage (Liquid Extract): 15–20 drops in 50 ml of water 2 times a day before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Liquid Extract): 30 drops 2 times a day. Prescribed for exacerbation of chronic prostatitis, renal hypertension, and pronounced dysuria.

Maximum Dosage (Liquid Extract): Up to 40 drops 3 times a day. Used short-term (up to 5 days) for purulent infections of the genitourinary system and painful urination.

Preventive Dosage (Liquid Extract): 10–15 drops once a day. Course — 21 days. Recommended for patients with chronic inflammatory diseases of the urinary system.

Pediatric Dosage (Liquid Extract): From 12 years — 5–10 drops in 50 ml of water 1–2 times a day. Use under medical supervision.

Contraindications (Liquid Extract): Allergy, acute renal dysfunction, hypotension. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Liquid Extract): Rarely — burning in the stomach, headache, increased diuresis with electrolyte imbalance.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Liquid Extract): Patients up to 50 kg — reduce the dose by 25%. Patients over 90 kg — an increase in dose of up to 25% is possible with good tolerability.

Preparation method (Liquid Extract): 100 grams of dry raw material is poured with 500 ml of 50% ethanol, infused for 14 days at room temperature in a tightly closed bottle, shaking periodically. Then the extract is filtered and evaporated to 100 ml.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Liquid Extract): Store in a dark, tightly closed glass container at a temperature of 5–25 °C. Shelf life — up to 2 years. After opening — use within 45 days.

Ointment — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Ointment): Vulvovaginitis, cervicitis, inflammation of the periurethral glands, skin rashes in the exudative stage of dermatitis, anogenital itching, edema of external tissues in renal failure.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer 2 times a day to the affected area, course up to 10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Apply 3 times a day for 5–7 days. Recommended for pronounced inflammatory processes of the skin and mucous membranes of the external genitalia.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 5 applications per day, in a short course — no more than 3 days, for acute itching, inflammation, and irritation against the background of urogenital infection.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Apply once a day to the area of the external genitalia and perianal zone, course 10 days. Recommended for a tendency to vulvitis, vaginosis, exacerbation of cystitis, as well as during antibiotic therapy.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 5 years — once a day on a limited area of skin. From 12 years — 1–2 times a day. Only externally and under medical supervision.

Contraindications (Ointment): Allergy to components, pustular skin diseases, weeping dermatoses. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been confirmed.

Side Effects (Ointment): Burning, redness, flaking of the skin with prolonged use or intolerance to components.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): Dose adjustment by body weight is not required for external use. Only the area of application is taken into account.

Preparation method (Ointment): To prepare 100 grams of ointment: 10 grams of dry extract of Chimaphila umbellata, 60 grams of coconut oil, 30 grams of beeswax. The oil and wax are melted in a water bath, the extract is introduced at 40 degrees Celsius, mixed until homogeneous. Poured into sterile jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 5 to 20 °C. After opening, use within 30 days. Shelf life in closed form — up to 9 months.

Cream — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Cream): Seborrheic dermatitis, acne, inflammation of the sebaceous glands, contact dermatitis, skin irritation in the periurethral zone, hyperemia and flaking in the external genital area.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply a thin layer 2 times a day to clean skin, without rubbing. Course — 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Apply up to 3 times a day for acute inflammation of the sebaceous gland, exacerbation of seborrhea, and local hyperemia.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 4 times a day, short-term — up to 3 days for active inflammatory skin processes against the background of microbial infection.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once a day for 14 days on skin areas prone to inflammation. Recommended for oily and sensitive skin, especially in adolescence and during hormonal instability.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 6 years — apply once a day on limited areas. From 12 years — standard dosage is possible in the absence of irritation.

Contraindications (Cream): Allergic reactions, open wounds, purulent foci. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been studied.

Side Effects (Cream): Contact dermatitis, itching, feeling of skin tightness, allergic rashes.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): Not required. Assessed by skin sensitivity and area of the lesion.

Preparation method (Cream): For 100 grams: 15 grams of Chimaphila umbellata extract, 40 grams of coconut oil, 10 grams of jojoba oil, 30 grams of emulsion wax, 5 grams of lavender hydrolate. The aqueous and oil phases are heated to 60 degrees Celsius, combined, the extract is introduced, mixed until an emulsion is obtained. Cooled to room temperature.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4–8 °C. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 21 days.

Cosmetic Serum — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Cosmetic Serum): Inflammation of the sebaceous glands, moderate acne, skin irritation and redness, oily skin with enlarged pores, recurrent acne.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Apply 3–5 drops to cleansed facial skin once a day in the evening, avoiding the area around the eyes.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): 5–7 drops 2 times a day (morning and evening), especially in the cheekbone, chin, and back areas for active inflammatory rashes and hyperseborrhea.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Up to 10 drops 2 times a day, short-term (no more than 3 days) for intense inflammation and comedones. Use pointwise.

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): 2–3 drops once a day every other day. Suitable for adolescents, patients with oily skin and a tendency to inflammation, especially in hot weather.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Used from 12 years of age for oily skin prone to acne, in the amount of 1–2 drops once a day, pointwise. Only on the recommendation of a dermatologist.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Serum): Individual sensitivity to components. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation have not been registered.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Serum): Local irritation, flaking, skin hyperemia when used at a concentration higher than recommended.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cosmetic Serum): Adjustment by body weight is not required. The dosage is determined by the localization and type of skin.

Preparation method (Cosmetic Serum): For 100 ml: 5 grams of dry extract of Chimaphila umbellata, 20 ml of witch hazel hydrolate, 5 ml of vegetable glycerin, 60 ml of purified water, 10 ml of jojoba oil. The extract is dissolved in water, combined with hydrolate and glycerin, the oil is added with constant stirring. The finished product is packaged in bottles with a pipette.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Serum): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4 to 8 °C. Use within 30 days after opening. Shelf life of an unopened bottle — 6 months.

Lotion — Chimaphila umbellata

Indications (Lotion): Oily skin, acne, seborrheic dermatitis, inflammation of the periurethral zone, irritation after shaving, sweating of the perineum and groin area.

Standard Dosage (Lotion): Apply with a cotton pad to clean skin 2 times a day. For face and body — evenly over the surface without rubbing.

Enhanced Dosage (Lotion): Up to 3–4 applications per day for pronounced inflammation and hypersecretion of the sebaceous glands. Use in the intimate area is allowed for itching and irritation.

Maximum Dosage (Lotion): Up to 5 applications per day, only for point application. Course — no more than 3 days for severe hyperemia or after prolonged exposure to heat.

Preventive Dosage (Lotion): Once a day in the evening. Course — 10–14 days. Recommended for adolescents, patients with oily and combination skin, and a tendency to acne and inflammation.

Pediatric Dosage (Lotion): From 10 years — once a day for oily skin, pointwise. From 14 years — according to the standard regimen.

Contraindications (Lotion): Allergy to components, dry skin, rosacea. Safety during pregnancy has not been studied.

Side Effects (Lotion): Tingling, dry skin, flaking, temporary redness at the application site.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Lotion): Not required, correction is made according to the condition of the skin and sensitivity.

Preparation method (Lotion): For 100 ml: 10 grams of dry extract of Chimaphila umbellata, 70 ml of distilled water, 20 ml of lavender hydrolate. The components are mixed at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius, kept for 2 hours, filtered and cooled. Poured into a spray bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Lotion): Store in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4–8 °C. Use within 21 days after opening. In unopened form — up to 6 months in a dark place.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Chimaphila umbellata

Studies of the toxicity of Chimaphila umbellata indicate a low level of acute toxic effects upon oral administration in therapeutic doses. In experimental animal models, plant extracts demonstrated a good biosafety profile. The LD₅₀ value (lethal dose for 50% of experimental animals) was not established within the applied therapeutic doses even with multiple exceedances. Upon oral administration of aqueous or alcoholic extract at doses up to 3000 mg/kg body weight in laboratory rodents, no lethal outcomes or pronounced pathological changes were observed. The plant does not possess cumulative toxicity and does not cause carcinogenic, teratogenic, or mutagenic effects with short-term and long-term use. The data confirm the possibility of using Chimaphila umbellata as a biosafe plant component in pharmacological and cosmetic products, provided that the therapeutic dosage is observed.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...

Pharmacodynamics — Chimaphila umbellata

The pharmacodynamic properties of Chimaphila umbellata are due to the action of polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, arbutin, and terpenoids present in the leaves and aerial parts of the plant. These substances provide a wide range of physiological effects manifested at the systemic and local levels. The main action of the plant complex is manifested in the form of a moderately pronounced anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effect. The ability of active components to inhibit the activity of microbial enzymes, as well as to exert bacteriostatic and fungistatic effects, has been proven, which is confirmed by in vitro testing of extracts. Plant components interact with bacterial cell walls, reducing their permeability and disrupting metabolic processes. Modulation of the activity of enzymes involved in the synthesis of prostaglandins is also observed, which is realized in a mild anti-inflammatory effect.

The flavonoid fractions of the plant have antioxidant activity capable of reducing the level of reactive oxygen species in tissues. This property mediates a membrane-stabilizing effect, especially with respect to epithelial cells. A number of studies have also recorded an increase in endogenous antioxidant protection due to stimulation of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase enzymes.

From the urinary system, a mild diuretic effect is manifested, not accompanied by a pronounced loss of electrolytes. This indicates a predominantly aquaretic mechanism, realized probably through a decrease in water reabsorption in the renal tubules. The participation of arbutin, as a glycoside with a known uroantiseptic effect, suggests local antiseptic activity in the lower urinary tract.

A local vasoconstrictor effect has also been noted with external use, which is confirmed by a decrease in hyperemia and exudation in the skin. This action is partially associated with inhibition of inflammation mediators and strengthening of the capillary wall due to polyphenols.

A mild modulating effect on the immune system is observed: plant extracts in low concentrations do not stimulate the immune response but reduce the activity of cellular inflammation factors. This action is realized probably through mediated regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, such as interleukins and tumor necrosis factor α.

The pharmacological action of Chimaphila umbellata also includes a mild spasmolytic effect, especially in the smooth muscles of the bladder and ureters, which may be associated with an effect on ion channels and autonomic regulation of urinary function. These effects are realized both with systemic administration (orally, rectally) and with local application (skin forms, vaginal and rectal suppositories), covering the targets of the skin, urinary system, immune regulation, and epithelial barriers.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://phytochem.nal.usda.gov
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Chimaphilin
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874120307257
https://www.semanticscholar.or...

Pharmacokinetics — Chimaphila umbellata

The pharmacokinetic properties of Chimaphila umbellata have been studied to a limited extent; however, based on the biochemical profile of the components and general patterns of natural compound metabolism, the main stages of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion can be characterized. Upon oral administration, active compounds such as arbutin, quinones, flavonoids, and terpenoids are absorbed mainly in the small intestine. Arbutin, as a water-soluble glycoside, penetrates into the systemic circulation unchanged, and then is metabolized by the intestinal microflora and kidneys to the aglycone hydroquinone, which has local antiseptic activity in the urinary tract.

Flavonoid components may undergo primary metabolism in the intestinal wall, including glucuronidation and sulfation processes, which reduces their bioavailability but ensures systemic activity with regular use. Their transformation continues in the liver with the formation of pharmacologically active metabolites, including antioxidant ones.

Terpenoid compounds, upon entering the body, are characterized by high lipophilicity and tend to accumulate in adipose tissue, skin, and mucous membranes. They are metabolized in the liver with the participation of cytochrome enzymes, and then excreted primarily with bile.

With external use (ointment, cream, serum), absorption is limited to the epidermis, but individual lipophilic fractions are able to penetrate the dermis and exert a local effect without creating significant systemic concentrations. Use on mucous membranes (vaginal and rectal suppositories) provides partial systemic absorption, mainly bypassing the phase of primary hepatic metabolism.

The transdermal or mucosal route of administration determines slow but sustained absorption, with a prolonged effect of active fractions. At the same time, the main distribution is carried out in tissues with high vascularization — kidneys, skin, mucous membranes, which is confirmed by analogy with other uroantiseptic plants containing arbutin and phenolic compounds.

Excretion of metabolites occurs through the kidneys (for water-soluble components, including hydroquinone and its derivatives) and bile (for lipophilic and transformed flavonoids and terpenoids). Small fractions may be excreted with sweat and in minimal quantities — with air during metabolism through the lungs.

Thus, Chimaphila umbellata is characterized by a combined distribution and metabolism system covering the intestine, liver, kidneys, and skin, while absorption and excretion vary depending on the dosage form and route of administration. 

References:
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6313202
https://phytochem.nal.usda.gov
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-020-09692-2

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Chimaphila umbellata

The main mechanisms of action of Chimaphila umbellata are associated with the biochemical activity of phenolic compounds, glycosides (primarily arbutin), flavonoids, quinones, and terpenoids present in the aerial parts of the plant. At the level of molecular targets, an inhibitory effect on the enzymatic activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX) has been established, which determines the anti-inflammatory and analgesic action. The flavonoid components of the plant have the ability to modulate the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, which play a key role in regulating the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators, including interleukins IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α).

Polyphenols and arbutin demonstrate antimicrobial activity by affecting bacterial cell walls, disrupting membrane permeability and ion homeostasis. The conversion of arbutin to hydroquinone, which occurs under the action of enzymatic systems of the kidneys and microbiota, leads to a local antiseptic effect in the lower urinary tract. This metabolite is able to inhibit bacterial dehydrogenases and exert an oxidative effect on the nucleic acids of microorganisms.

Flavonoids also demonstrate antioxidant activity through suppression of superoxide anion and peroxide formation, which contributes to the protection of cell membranes from lipid peroxidation. Activation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase) suggests the participation of Chimaphila umbellata components in the modulation of cellular redox balance.

The immunomodulatory effect of the plant is realized through suppression of the activity of macrophages and neutrophils involved in the implementation of the inflammatory cascade. Regulation of the expression of adhesion molecules on endothelial cells is also observed, which limits the migration of inflammatory cells to foci of inflammation. Individual extract components may interact with PPARγ receptors, participating in the control of inflammation and lipid metabolism.

From the smooth muscles of the urinary tract and bladder, a mild spasmolytic effect has been noted, partially mediated by an effect on calcium channels and β₂-adrenoceptors, which reduces tone and improves urine drainage. The presence of quinones, including chimaphilin, potentially binds to redox-active sites of proteins, which may affect intracellular signal transmission and modulate apoptosis. Thus, the pharmacological effects of Chimaphila umbellata are realized through multiple levels of action: from membrane-binding effects to modulation of transcription factors and signaling pathways, which confirms the multifactorial nature of its pharmacodynamics.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.semanticscholar.or...
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Chimaphilin
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874120307257
https://phytochem.nal.usda.gov

Synergy — Chimaphila umbellata

Pharmacological synergy of Chimaphila umbellata is manifested in combination with plants containing saponins, essential oils, and coumarins, which is confirmed by both in vitro and in vivo studies. When used together with Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (bearberry), an enhancement of the antimicrobial effect is observed due to the synergistic release of hydroquinone ions from arbutin, as well as additive suppression of bacterial adhesion to the urinary tract epithelium.

The addition of Chimaphila umbellata flavonoids to a complex with Achillea millefolium (yarrow) or Solidago virgaurea (goldenrod) enhances antioxidant activity and potentiates anti-inflammatory action, especially at the level of suppression of the NF-κB cascade and reduction of IL-6 and TNF-α production. These effects are realized through simultaneous suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibition of COX-2 enzyme activity.

When combined with Urtica dioica (nettle) and Zea mays (corn silk), Chimaphila umbellata extract shows a potentiating diuretic effect, enhancing aquaretic activity without significant electrolyte loss. This interaction is characterized by a systemic nature of action, with a predominant effect on renal tubular function and fluid volume regulation.

Modulating synergy is observed when used together with Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry), due to inhibition of pathogen adhesion and enhancement of local antiseptic activity in the lower urinary tract. Additive antioxidant activity has also been described in combination with Camellia sinensis (green tea), due to the accumulation of flavonol aglycones and quercetin derivatives. Thus, Chimaphila umbellata demonstrates proven pharmacological synergy in plant complexes with antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic directions, acting primarily through common signaling cascades, inflammation mediators, and enzyme systems.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9427399/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S222541102030122X
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11418-020-01417-8
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Chimaphila umbellata

Chimaphila umbellata has a wide geography of traditional use, covering the regions of North America, Europe, and East Asia. The plant is most widespread in the traditional medicine of the indigenous peoples of the North American continent, including the Cherokee, Ojibwe, Pennacook, Menominee, and Potawatomi tribes. In these cultures, pipsissewa leaves were used in the form of hot infusions, cold aqueous extracts, and chewing forms to eliminate internal "fluid stagnation" and alleviate conditions with painful sensations in the lower abdomen. The leaves were also added to "cleansing teas" as part of multicomponent mixtures, which was part of rituals of bodily and spiritual purification.

In the folk medicine of European regions, especially in Germany, Poland, and the Baltic states, the plant has been used since the 18th century as a "herb for dropsy" and a remedy that alleviates edema and fluid stagnation. Mentions of its use are found in the works of botanists and pharmacists of the second half of the 19th century, where it was classified as a uroantiseptic agent. In Lithuanian and Latvian folk practice, pipsissewa leaves were used to prepare warm compresses and decoctions applied to the lumbar region and lower abdomen.

In the Chinese phytotherapeutic tradition, the plant is known as one of the rare ingredients used for conditions associated with "heat of the lower heater." Its use is recorded mainly in the northern regions, near the borders with Siberia and Mongolia. In Japanese sources, it is mentioned as a bitter and "cleansing" plant of the forest pharmacy, although systematic use is not widespread.

In Slavic herbalists, pipsissewa is mentioned as a "kidney herb" and "red wintergreen." In Russian village practice of the 19th century, a decoction from it was used by women for "stagnation in the lower abdomen" and male "internal heat," mainly in the form of wraps or micro-enemas.

The plant also had ritual significance. Among North American tribes, it was considered a plant of strength, symbolizing endurance and the ability to preserve internal water in conditions of drought. The leaves were placed in dwellings as a remedy against the "evil spirit of cold," placed under the mattresses of warriors before hunting, and used as part of smoking mixtures in cleansing ceremonies. In some Canadian ethnic groups, pipsissewa was included in ritual wreaths, symbolizing the restoration of personal strength and purification of the lineage.