Avens

Geum urbanum

Geum urbanum, commonly known as wood avens, is a plant traditionally associated with European herbal medicine. While its specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it has been studied for potential health benefits. Scientific evidence suggests that Geum urbanum contains ellagitannins and other polyphenols which may positively influence lipid profiles. Additionally, extracts from the roots and aerial parts of this plant have shown inhibition of MRSA biofilm formation without significantly affecting bacterial growth. In another study, EtOAc (ethyl acetate) extracts from both roots and aerial parts also inhibited biofilm formation, pyocyanin synthesis, and motility in Pseudomonas aeruginosa at sub-MIC concentrations. The plant's genome has been sequenced, revealing a total of 1,304.9 megabases with 21 chromosomal pseudomolecules and annotated gene coding sequences. Safety concerns are currently minimal; no major issues have been recorded. Similarly, there is no reported evidence of significant drug interactions associated with Geum urbanum.

At a glance
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

  • Geum urbanum is a source of ellagitannins and other polyphenols, potentially beneficial for lipid profile. D PMID
  • Both ethyl acetate root and aerial parts extracts from Geum urbanum inhibited MRSA biofilm formation without significantly affecting bacterial growth. D PMID
  • The genome sequence of Geum urbanum consists of 1,304.9 megabases and includes 21 chromosomal pseudomolecules, with annotated gene coding sequences. D PMID
  • EtOAc extracts from roots and aerial parts of Geum urbanum inhibited biofilm formation, pyocyanin synthesis, and motility in Pseudomonas aeruginosa at sub-MIC concentrations. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Avens?

Avens (Geum urbanum) 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 Avens?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Avens; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Geum urbanum is a source of ellagitannins and other polyphenols, potentially beneficial for lipid profile.

How strong is the evidence for Avens?

The strongest finding for Avens carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Avens safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Avens in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Avens interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Avens in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Avens?

Avens is also known as: Гравилат городской, Benoîte commune.

Is Avens 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

  1. T2 The genome sequence of wood avens, Geum urbanum L., 1753. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Redox-Modulating Capacity and Effect of Ethyl Acetate Roots and Aerial Parts Extracts from Geum urbanum L. on the Phenotype Inhibition of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa Las/RhI Quorum Sensing System. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Inhibition of the MRSA Biofilm Formation and Skin Antineoplastic Activity of Ethyl Acetate Roots and Aerial Parts Extracts from Geum urbanum L. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Ellagitannins and Other Polyphenols Along with Dietary Components of the Rosaceae Medicinal Plants. literature abstract metadata