Larkspur
Delphinium
Delphinium, a genus of flowering plants in the family Ranunculaceae, is primarily known from traditional medicine practices in regions such as Asia and Europe. While its specific uses vary across different traditions, there are no recorded traditional uses for Delphinium itself. Scientific studies have identified key enzymatic steps involved in diterpenoid alkaloid biosynthesis within the plant, highlighting potential pathways for further research. Additionally, a study from an endophytic fungus associated with Delphinium yunnanense found seven new phomactin derivatives showing moderate platelet-activating factor receptor antagonist activity, and another identified seven diterpenoid alkaloids, including one new kusnezoline-type C20-diterpenoid alkaloid, displaying significant analgesic properties. The phylogenetic analysis using rbcL and trnH-psbA markers provided reliable species identification for endemic Himalayan plant species, contributing to the understanding of Delphinium's evolutionary history. No major safety issues or known drug interactions have been recorded for Delphinium.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The study identified six enzymatic steps in diterpenoid alkaloid biosynthesis, including a reductase that incorporates ethanolamine into the diterpenoid scaffold.
- Seven new phomactin derivatives were identified from an endophytic fungus associated with Delphinium yunnanense, showing moderate platelet-activating factor receptor antagonist activity in vitro.
- The study identified seven diterpenoid alkaloids from Delphinium ceratophorum, including one new kusnezoline-type C20-diterpenoid alkaloid, with browniine showing significant analgesic activity.
- The study found that rbcL and trnH-psbA markers provided reliable species identification and phylogenetic resolution for endemic Himalayan plant species.
- Jadwar showed significant improvement in subjective symptoms compared to placebo in subclinical hypothyroidism patients without adverse effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is Larkspur?
Larkspur (Delphinium) 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 Larkspur?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Larkspur; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The study identified six enzymatic steps in diterpenoid alkaloid biosynthesis, including a reductase that incorporates ethanolamine into the diterpenoid scaffold.
How strong is the evidence for Larkspur?
The strongest finding for Larkspur carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Larkspur safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Larkspur in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Larkspur interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Larkspur in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Larkspur?
Larkspur is also known as: Живокость, Dauphinelle, Pied-d'alouette.
Is Larkspur 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 Efficacy of Jadwar (Delphinium denudatum Wall. ex Hook.f. & Thomson) in subclinical hypothyroid patients: A single-blind, randomized placebo controlled trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Isolation and characterization of a new diterpenoid alkaloid from Delphinium ceratophorum. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phomactin derivatives from an endophytic fungus Biatriospora peruviensis KMU22204 associated with Delphinium yunnanense and their PAFR antagonist activities. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterization of the Entry Steps in Diterpenoid Alkaloid Biosynthesis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 DNA barcoding and phylogenetic insights into the selected endemic flora of the Western Himalayas. literature abstract metadata