Snowdrop
Galanthus
Galanthus, commonly known as snowdrop, is a traditional medicinal plant native to Europe and Western Asia. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented in any specific medical traditions. Scientific studies have shown that two-leaf squill (Scilla spp.) can reduce pollinator visits and reproductive success of Galanthus nivalis L., indicating potential ecological interactions. In a more recent study, plasma from individuals with Long COVID was found to contain elevated levels of mannose-positive extracellular vesicles, which could potentially be targeted using Galanthus nivalis agglutinin affinity resin. Another study detected the presence of Lilium mottle virus (LMoV) in asymptomatic Galanthus samples but did not involve direct involvement with Galanthus for therapeutic purposes. Safety data indicates no major issues have been recorded, and there are currently no reported drug interactions associated with 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 presence of two-leaf squill (Scilla spp.) reduced pollinator visits and reproductive success of snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis L.).
- The study found that plasma from people with Long COVID had elevated levels of mannose-positive extracellular vesicles, which could potentially be targeted for removal using Galanthus nivalis agglutinin affinity resin.
- The study found that a Potyvirus, likely Lilí mottle virus (LMoV), was detected in asymptomatic Galanthus nivalis samples.
- This study found distinct serum IgG glycosylation patterns in breast cancer subtypes using lectin microarray analysis.
Frequently asked questions
What is Snowdrop?
Snowdrop (Galanthus) 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 Snowdrop?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Snowdrop; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The presence of two-leaf squill (Scilla spp.) reduced pollinator visits and reproductive success of snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis L.).
How strong is the evidence for Snowdrop?
The strongest finding for Snowdrop carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Snowdrop safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Snowdrop in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Snowdrop interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Snowdrop in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Snowdrop?
Snowdrop is also known as: Подснежник, Galanthe, Perce-neige.
Is Snowdrop 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 Serum immunoglobulin G glycosylation profiling in breast cancer using a 56-lectin microarray and subtype-specific patterns. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Increased mannosylation of extracellular vesicles in Long COVID plasma provides a potential therapeutic target for Galanthus nivalis agglutinin (GNA) affinity resin. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The magnet species effect of two-leaf squill (Scilla spp.) on pollinator competition with the snowdrop (Galanthus nivalis L.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Recombinant Potyvirus lilimaculae in asymptomatic Galanthus nivalis: Ecological and evolutionary implications. literature abstract metadata