Zygophyllaceae
Chapparal
Larrea tridentata
✗ High Risk
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: Mojave and Sonoran deserts, North America
Also known as: Creosote Bush, Greasewood, Gobernadora
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
LeafStem
Therapeutic Uses
Traditionally used by Native Americans for infections, arthritis, skin conditions. LARGELY DISCONTINUED due to severe hepatotoxicity. Historical interest only in most countries.
Herbal Actions
Antioxidant (NDGA — most potent natural antioxidant known), antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor (traditional)
Active Constituents
Nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA — primary active, potent antioxidant), flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), lignans, wax
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | NOT RECOMMENDED — hepatotoxic |
| Tincture | AVOID — multiple cases of severe liver failure. Not for therapeutic use. |
| Notes | AVOID INTERNAL USE — multiple cases of acute and chronic liver failure, renal failure, and death documented. Previously sold as 'cancer herb'. NDGA antioxidant activity cannot justify hepatotoxicity risk. Safer alternatives for all indications. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✗ High Risk
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: DO NOT USE INTERNALLY — hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic. FDA warned against use. Multiple organ failure cases documented.
Side Effects: Acute and subacute hepatitis. Renal failure. Cholestasis. Liver transplant in documented cases. Not safe for internal use.