Sutherlandia frutescens is also known as Cancer Bush or Kankerbos.

All the Big Tree Sutherlandia frutescens is of the subspecies microphylla.

Sutherlandia powerfully assists the body to mobilize its own immunological and physiological resources to combat disease and physical and mental stress. It is widely regarded as the African adaptogenic tonic par excellence.

Sutherlandia is a dietary supplement and has been known to help with the following indications:

Dose
One to two capsules/tablets twice a day after meals, unless otherwise directed. AIDS and cancer patients should take Sutherlandia on an ongoing basis under supervision of a health care professional. Contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Sutherlandia can be taken indefinitely to support chronic conditions.

Children - Half a tablet can be given twice a day, crushed in a little sugar.

Chemistry and Pharmacology
Highly bioactive compounds have been found in Sutherlandia. L-canavanine is a non-protein amino acid with documented antiviral, anti-bacterial, anti fungal and anticancer activities. It is also a selective inhibitor of inducible nitric oxide synthase. Pinitol has clinical application in treating the wasting syndrome. GABA is a natural neurotransmitter that gives a profound sense of well-being.

Side-Effects
Minor side-effects reported include occasional incidents of:

Contra-indications
As with most health supplements, safety during breast feeding has not been established.

Drug Interactions
None known. There may be theoretical interactions with anti-hypertensive and anti-diabetic medication, requiring a possible reduction in dose of these medications. Patients on any medication should consult suitably qualified health professionals before commencing a course of Sutherlandia. In view of recent information that many common dietary supplements (e.g. garlic, ginkgo, ginseng) may be implicated in prolonging bleeding time, it is not recommended to take this product while on anti-coagulants, including aspirin, heparin and warfarin. Similarly it is recommended that the use of Sutherlandia should be stopped two weeks before elective surgery.

Storage Conditions
Store at room temperature, out of reach of children.