Injectiones (Injection Solution) of Herbs

by: Joe Hing Kwok Chu

The herbal injectiones are aqueous preparations of herbs or combinations of herbs, intended for introduction into the cavities of the body by means of a syringe.

These are available in the forms of solutions, emulsions, extract in the form of dried powder (to be made into solution when ready to use) and concentrates (to be diluted when ready to use).

Herbal injectiones are required to be:

1. Free of bacteria.

2. Within the pH range of 4 to 9 (blood pH is about 7.4). Too high or too low can cause pain and necrosis.

3. Free of pyrogen (toxins produced by micro-organisms). This is very important. When the application volume is large or when the injectiones is for venous or spinal column application, the maximum level of pyrogen must conform to official government standards. Pyrogen refers to the production of micro-organisms. When introduced into the body, especially in liquid form, after half an hour, pyrogen causes chill and fever, sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Sometimes the body temperature can reach above 40 ^oC. In serious cases, the result can be shock, coma and death.

4. Safe. The injectiones must previously have been tested for allergenic reactions, hemolysis, irritability, acute toxicity, and long term toxicity.

5. Stable. The injectiones must be physically, chemically, and biologically stable to insure effectiveness and safety.

6. Clear. The herbs must be totally dissolved.

7. Of the same osmosis pressure as the osmosis pressure of the plasma.

The packaging should be designed primarily for safety, rather than  for cosmetic effect.

It is not advisable to produce injectiones in clinics because they are not equipped to meet the requirements listed above. They must be produced in pharmaceutical factories as the production process and the quality must meet government standards.

In California, it is not currently legal for acupuncturists to use them unless they are licensed medical doctors.

Warning: There were report that injectiones of yu xing cao 魚腥草 (Houttuynia cordata Thunb.) had caused death.