Elephant's ears
Bergenia crassifolia
Bergenia crassifolia, commonly known as the Himalayan or Chinese cowberry, is a traditional plant used in Asian medicine. It has been traditionally employed for various purposes such as treating digestive issues and promoting wound healing, though specific uses vary among different cultural practices. Scientific evidence on Bergenia crassifolia is limited. A study provided insights into its genetic structure by sequencing its complete chloroplast genome. Another investigation found that root extracts of the plant could reduce methane production in rice straw substrate but did not show significant effects at lower concentrations. Regarding oral health, a meta-analysis comparing botanical and conventional antifungals for treating oral candidiasis found no significant difference in efficacy between them. Safety data indicates that there are currently no major concerns recorded regarding Bergenia crassifolia. No significant drug interactions have been reported, suggesting it is generally safe to use without known adverse effects when combined with other medications.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study reports the complete chloroplast genome of Bergenia crassifolia, providing insights into its genetic structure and evolutionary relationships.
- Bergenia crassifolia root extract reduced methane production by up to 5% in rice straw substrate, with 1% showing no significant effect on fermentation parameters.
- This systematic review found no significant difference in lesion improvement for oral candidiasis between botanical and conventional antifungals.
- The study found that the rheological properties of Ca-gels from different Bergenia crassifolia pectins vary based on molecular weight and methoxylation degree.
Frequently asked questions
What is Elephant's ears?
Elephant's ears (Bergenia crassifolia) 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 Elephant's ears?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Elephant's ears; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study reports the complete chloroplast genome of Bergenia crassifolia, providing insights into its genetic structure and evolutionary relationships.
How strong is the evidence for Elephant's ears?
The strongest finding for Elephant's ears carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Elephant's ears safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Elephant's ears in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Elephant's ears interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Elephant's ears in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Elephant's ears?
Elephant's ears is also known as: Бадан толстолистный, Bergenia.
Is Elephant's ears 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 Complex influence of structural characteristics of low-methoxyl pectins on rheological properties of semi-solid Ca-gels. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of Mongolian Bergenia crassifolia L. (root) extract on rumen methane emission and microbial community. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Efficacy of botanical antifungal and conventional antifungal in the treatment of oral candidiasis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The characteristics of the complete chloroplast genome of Bergenia crassifolia (L.) Fritsch. literature abstract metadata