American cow-parsnip
Heracleum maximum
Heracleum maximum, commonly known as cow parsnip, is a plant native to Europe and Asia. While traditionally used in some herbal practices, specific traditional uses for this plant are not well-documented. Scientific studies have identified two compounds from an endophyte of Heracleum maximum with potential antimycobacterial activity, though the evidence supporting its use in treating mycobacterial infections is limited and inconclusive. The plant has been associated with cases of phytophotodermatitis due to furanocoumarins present in the sap, which can cause skin irritation when exposed to sunlight. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported for this plant, but caution should be exercised when handling it to avoid dermatological issues.
- 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
- Both Depressaria radiella populations metabolized furanocoumarins at different rates, with H. maximum feeding individuals metabolizing angular furanocoumarins more rapidly.
- Gracilacus wuae n. sp., associated with cow parsnip, is described based on morphological and molecular characteristics.
- The study identified two compounds, phomopsolide A and 6(E)-phomopsolide A, from an endophyte of Heracleum maximum with antimycobacterial activity.
- Antimycobacterial constituents, including (3R,8S)-falcarindiol and several furanocoumarins, were identified from the roots of Heracleum maximum.
- The study reports a case of phytophotodermatitis from contact with cow parsnip (Heracleum maximum).
Frequently asked questions
What is American cow-parsnip?
American cow-parsnip (Heracleum maximum) 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 American cow-parsnip?
5 sourced findings are recorded for American cow-parsnip; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Both Depressaria radiella populations metabolized furanocoumarins at different rates, with H. maximum feeding individuals metabolizing angular furanocoumarins more rapidly.
How strong is the evidence for American cow-parsnip?
The strongest finding for American cow-parsnip carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is American cow-parsnip safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for American cow-parsnip in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does American cow-parsnip interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for American cow-parsnip in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of American cow-parsnip?
American cow-parsnip is also known as: Berce laineuse.
Is American cow-parsnip 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 The Canadian medicinal plant Heracleum maximum contains antimycobacterial diynes and furanocoumarins. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Isolation of Phomopsolide A and 6(E)-Phomopsolide A as Antimycobacterial Natural Products from an Unidentified Endophyte of the Canadian Medicinal Plant Heracleum maximum. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Gracilacus wuae n. sp. (Nematoda: Criconematoidea) Associated with Cow Parsnip (Heracleum maximum) in Ontario, Canada. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Degree of Dietary Specialization on Furanocoumarin-Containing Hostplants in a Newly Invasive Web Building Caterpillar. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Sap and Sun: A Case of Phytophotodermatitis. literature abstract metadata