Bittercress
Barbarea vulgaris
Barbarea vulgaris, commonly known as winter cress or yellow rocket cabbage, is a traditional plant with origins in Europe and Asia. Traditionally, it has not been extensively used for medicinal purposes across various cultures. Scientific studies have shown that the β-amyrin synthase gene LUP5 plays a key role in determining saponin composition and insect feeding preference in this plant. Additionally, research indicates that Barbarea vulgaris metabolites exhibit notable antibacterial activity and selective LOX inhibition, though significant antioxidant effects were not observed. The plant's metabolite profiles vary by organ, with roots containing 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate and aerial parts dominated by barbarin. Land use significantly influences the bacterial community structure and metabolite profiles of Barbarea vulgaris rhizosphere, particularly in forest environments where microbiome-metabolome integration is strongest. No major safety issues or recorded drug interactions have been identified for this plant.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study found that the β-amyrin synthase gene LUP5 is a key determinant of saponin composition and insect feeding preference in Barbarea vulgaris.
- Barbarea vulgaris metabolites showed notable antibacterial activity and selective LOX inhibition, but no significant antioxidant effects were observed.
- The study identified organ-specific patterns of volatile glucosinolate degradation products in Barbarea vulgaris, with roots enriched in 2-phenylethyl isothiocyanate and aerial parts dominated by barbarin.
- Land use significantly shaped the bacterial community structure and metabolite profiles of Barbarea vulgaris rhizosphere, with forest environments showing the strongest microbiome-metabolome integration.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bittercress?
Bittercress (Barbarea vulgaris) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Bittercress?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bittercress; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that the β-amyrin synthase gene LUP5 is a key determinant of saponin composition and insect feeding preference in Barbarea vulgaris.
How strong is the evidence for Bittercress?
The strongest finding for Bittercress carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bittercress safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bittercress in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bittercress interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bittercress in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Bittercress?
Bittercress is also known as: Сурепка обыкновенная, Barbarée commune.
Is Bittercress a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Land Use Shapes the Rhizosphere Microbiome and Metabolome of Naturally Growing Barbarea vulgaris. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Glucosinolate-Derived Metabolites from Barbarea vulgaris (Brassicaceae): Evaluation of Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Potentials. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Volatile Glucosinolate Hydrolysis Products of Barbarea vulgaris From Serbia: Organ-Specific Patterns, P-Type Chemistry in a G-Type Morph, and Storage-driven Barbarin Isomerization. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Metabolic engineering reveals LUP5 as a determinant of saponin composition and insect feeding preference in Barbarea vulgaris. literature abstract metadata