Elephant's ears
Bergenia crassifolia
Bergenia crassifolia, commonly known as Himalayan cowberry or pig's ear plant, is traditionally found in mountainous regions of Asia, particularly in China and Tibet. While it has a rich history in traditional medicine, its specific uses are not well-documented in the literature. Scientific studies have primarily focused on its genetic structure and potential applications rather than therapeutic benefits. A study reported the complete chloroplast genome of Bergenia crassifolia, contributing to our understanding of its evolutionary relationships. Another study noted that a root extract reduced methane production by up to 5% in rice straw substrate but did not show significant effects at lower concentrations. Regarding oral health, a systematic review found no significant difference in lesion improvement for oral candidiasis between Bergenia crassifolia and conventional antifungal treatments. The rheological properties of Ca-gels derived from different pectins of Bergenia crassifolia vary based on molecular weight and methoxylation degree. Safety profiles indicate that there are no major issues recorded, and no significant drug interactions have been reported.
- 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