Broadleaf Gumweed

Grindelia squarrosa

Grindelia squarrosa, a traditional medicine plant native to North America, has not been extensively documented in historical or cultural medical practices. Scientific studies have shown that extracts from Grindelia squarrosa and other plants can exhibit moderate nematicidal activity against Strongyloides papillosus larvae, though this finding is preliminary. Additionally, research indicates that the essential oil of Grindelia squarrosa contains monoterpenoids such as (-)-β-pinene, which has shown strong antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae. Extracts from both Inula helenium and Grindelia squarrosa have been observed to suppress neutrophil migration and release of inflammatory cytokines, similar to budesonide, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory properties. While no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, further research is needed to fully understand the plant's efficacy and safety profile.

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

  • Grindelia squarrosa showed moderate nematicidal activity against Strongyloides papillosus larvae alongside other plant species in the study. D PMID
  • The study found that extracts from Inula helenium and Grindelia squarrosa can suppress neutrophil migration and release of inflammatory cytokines, similar to budesonide. D PMID
  • The essential oil of Grindelia squarrosa from southern Idaho contains monoterpenoids like α-pinene, limonene, and terpinolene, with (-)-β-pinene showing strong antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pneumoniae. D PMID
  • The study found that (-)-borneol from Grindelia squarrosa essential oils modulates human neutrophil activity. D PMID
  • Grindelia squarrosa extract modulated pro-inflammatory functions of respiratory epithelium and macrophages without antimicrobial activity. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Broadleaf Gumweed?

Broadleaf Gumweed (Grindelia squarrosa) 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 Broadleaf Gumweed?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Broadleaf Gumweed; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Grindelia squarrosa showed moderate nematicidal activity against Strongyloides papillosus larvae alongside other plant species in the study.

How strong is the evidence for Broadleaf Gumweed?

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

Is Broadleaf Gumweed safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Broadleaf Gumweed interact with medications?

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

What are the common names of Broadleaf Gumweed?

Broadleaf Gumweed is also known as: Гринделия растопыренная, Grindélia squarreux.

Is Broadleaf Gumweed 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 Inula helenium and Grindelia squarrosa as a source of compounds with anti-inflammatory activity in human neutrophils and cultured human respiratory epithelium. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Grindelia squarrosa Extract and Grindelic Acid Modulate Pro-inflammatory Functions of Respiratory Epithelium and Human Macrophages. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Nematicidal activity of aqueous tinctures of plants against larvae of the nematode Strongyloides papillosus. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Neutrophil Immunomodulatory Activity of (-)-Borneol, a Major Component of Essential Oils Extracted from Grindelia squarrosa. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Essential Oil Composition of Grindelia squarrosa from Southern Idaho. literature abstract metadata