FlorasoneTM: A Magically Stupid Product

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FlorasoneTM A Magically Stupid Product Jason
Smith, Marina Kawaguchi, Collene Roff Oregon
State University College of Pharmacy
Introduction FlorasoneTM is a homeopathic cream
used as an alternative treatment for eczema. Its
traditional medicinal properties are derived from
cardiospermum halicacabum an indigenous plant to
Africa, India and South America. C.
halicacabums traditional uses have been for
rheumatic pain, swelling, tumours, and pruritis.1
Florasone is marketed by Boericke Tafel for
use to decrease the incidence of inflammation and
pruritis associated with eczema. Despite a
number of claims by Boericke Tafel no current
data suggests Florasone is effective at reducing
the incidence of inflammation and pruritis
associated with eczema in human trials.
Clinical Data No conclusive studies have been
demonstrated in humans regarding the effects of
C. halicacabum for treatment of eczema. Despite
contacting Boericke Tafel on numerous
occasions, we were unable to locate the four
clinical studies that confirm the effectiveness
of C. halicacabum on eczema. A single trial and
currently the only available trial in English was
analyzed for effectiveness in a rat model.
Pushpangadan noted that when a yeast-induced
pyrexia was administered to rats followed by an
administration of an extract of C. halicacabum,
significant antipyretic activity was noted.2
Pushpangadan notes this is the first time the
antipyretic activity of C. halicacabum.
Comparison to Conventional Medicine Hydrocortisone
has been shown to be an effective and safe
treatment option for patients suffering from
inflammation and pruritis. The treatment
requires topical application of hydrocortisone
cream to the affected area as a thin film 2 to 4
times daily to decrease the incidences of
inflammation and itching (pruritis).3 Florasone
is a product with limited or no studies done in
humans. As a result, no conclusions can be made
based on its effectiveness. Furthermore,
individuals looking to try alternatives to
hydrocortisone should consider the manufacturer
have never published studies regarding the safety
and effectiveness of Florasone.
Biochemical/Homeopathic Several studies of
active constituents of Miracle Herb 2000 have
been reported in the literature. MH 2000
contains a variety of flavones and terpenes which
may contribute to its effects1. One component,
alpha hydroxy mega terpene has a unique, and
highly unstable pyridine ring system which may
disrupt sulfhydryl bonds in susceptible amino
acids2.
Conclusion
Precautions and possible complications In
accordance with the Dietary Supplement Health and
Education Act 1994, herbal supplements need not
prove efficacy and safety. As a result, no
complications have been reported while using this
product. Those allergic to C. halicacabum,
glycerin or mineral oil should not use this
product given C. halicacabum, glycerin and
mineral are ingredients Boericke Tafel note in
the formulation of Florasone. For further
information regarding the formulation of
Florasone, contact Boericke Tafel at (800)
876-9505 ext 1. Boericke Tafel 2381 Circadian
Way Santa Rosa CA 95407.
Drug Action Absorption Studies of the active
components of MH 2000 have demonstrated that
several of the are acid labile. Only one product
currently available is an enteric coated tablet,
possibly circumventing rapid inactivation by
gastric acid. Distribution No studies have been
conducted to determine the distribution of MH
2000. xxxx is highly water soluble, indicating
that if it is absorbed intact it would not likely
distribute to fat tissues Metabolism and
excretion Urinalysis of patients using enteric
coated MH 2000 found 15, 25 and 25 of xxxx
excreted unchanged at 4, 6 and 8 hours.
References 1 2 3 Handbook of Nonprescription
Drugs A Drug prices http//www.drugstore.com/