Larkspur
Delphinium
Delphinium, a flowering plant native to mountainous regions of Asia, particularly in China and the Himalayas, has not been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Scientific research has focused on its chemical composition, revealing that it contains diterpenoid alkaloids which play significant roles in biosynthesis pathways. Studies have identified new phomactin derivatives from associated endophytic fungi showing moderate platelet-activating factor receptor antagonist activity and have isolated several diterpenoid alkaloids with notable analgesic properties. Phylogenetic analysis using molecular markers has provided reliable species identification for endemic Himalayan plant species, though no significant traditional uses or direct medicinal applications are reported. Safety concerns do not appear to be major issues based on current data; however, there is currently no recorded evidence of drug interactions involving 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