Uses for Creosote Bushes

The creosote bush or chaparral is one of the most common plants in the desert areas of North America, according to the team at Herbal Safety. This shrub is described by Herbal Safety as being short in stature and evergreen with small resin coated leaves that are shaped like deer hooves. It is incredibly drought resistant and the leaves contain many potent chemicals that have long been known, if used correctly, to alleviate many common ailments.

Urinary System Health

• According to Dr. Armando Gonzales Stuart from the University of Texas, creosote has been shown in both humans and laboratory animals to dissolve kidney stones and to alleviate gallbladder stones. Taken internally, the creosote plant can also aid in the prevention of such calculi, though it should be noted that creosote taken internally should be a part of a very weak infusion as there is link between high amounts of creosote and toxicity.

Anti-Carcinogenic

• Creosote contains a great amount of antioxidants, which is one reason that it is thought to work as an anti-carcinogen, according to Dr. Stuart. Additionally, one of the substances in chaparral has been shown to inhibit the cyclooxygenase enzyme, which is essential in the conversion of pro-carcinogens to carcinogens. There is some debate as to the effectiveness of creosote, as some studies have shown the anti-carcinogenic properties to only apply in-vitro, not ex-vitro according to Dr. Stuart. However, as creosote can also be used as an abortafacient, use during pregnancy is not advised. Finally, the powerful anti-oxidants are fat soluble, therefore they are stored in the body and are shown to have anti-tumor properties.

Antibacterial/Anti-fungal

• Creosote has many anti-bacterial and anti-fungal uses. Used as a foot soak, it can eliminate foot odor. When used orally, the plant is thought to reduce halitosis and tooth decay. A poultice can be made and used externally for skin infections, especially those caused by bacteria and fungi. Athlete's foot is commonly treated in this fashion. Additionally, studies have shown that creosote can be used to inhibit the growth of streptococcus, bacillus, penicillium and salmonella.

Other Medical Uses

• According to Dr. Stuart, creosote is also used to combat rheumatism, venereal diseases and bronchitis. Although it has been used for generations in Mexican culture to treat diabetes, it is only recently that studies have shown that the compound Mysoprotol, found in creosote has hypoglycemic and lypocemic properties, making it a feasible option in the treatment of this disease. When inhaled, it can combat dizziness and its anti-viral capabilities are thought to make creosote a prospect for HIV treatment. It is important to note that the active components in creosote, while helpful, are toxic and as such should not be given to children or used by individuals who are using pharmaceuticals and should only be taken in very small doses.

Uses Around The Home

• Creosote has been found to have non-medical uses as well, according to Dr. Stuart. It has been found useful to prohibit the growth of various molds, fungi and viruses. For many years, it was used in lard, bakery products and vitamins to fight rancidity, though it was recently taken off of the USDA's "Generally safe to use" list due to cases of liver and kidney damage reported in some individuals.