Cow Parsnip
Heracleum sphondylium
Heracleum sphondylium, commonly known as hogweed, is a plant native to Europe and western Asia. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented in any specific medical practice or tradition. Scientifically, five coumarin derivatives have been isolated from the roots of Heracleum sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum, with heraclenol-3″-O-β-glucoside showing significant anti-inflammatory activity. Additionally, a novel silver nanoparticle phytocarrier derived from this plant demonstrated enhanced antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects against certain cancer cells. While the scientific evidence is promising, more research is needed to fully understand its potential applications. The plant can cause photosensitization in livestock, and caution should be exercised when handling it due to its toxicity. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, but further studies are recommended for a comprehensive evaluation of its safety profile.
- 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
- Five coumarin derivatives were isolated from Heracleum sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum roots, with heraclenol-3″-O-β-glucoside showing significant anti-inflammatory activity.
- Heracleum sphondylium, like other toxic plants, can cause photosensitization in livestock.
- The study found that a novel Heracleum sphondylium-based silver nanoparticle phytocarrier showed enhanced antimicrobial activity and cytotoxicity against certain cancer cells.
- The study developed an ultrafast method using micellar electrokinetic chromatography to screen furocoumarins in hogweed-containing food supplements, detecting varying levels across ten samples.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cow Parsnip?
Cow Parsnip (Heracleum sphondylium) 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 Cow Parsnip?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Cow Parsnip; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Five coumarin derivatives were isolated from Heracleum sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum roots, with heraclenol-3″-O-β-glucoside showing significant anti-inflammatory activity.
How strong is the evidence for Cow Parsnip?
The strongest finding for Cow Parsnip carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Cow Parsnip safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Cow Parsnip in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Cow Parsnip interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Cow Parsnip in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Cow Parsnip?
Cow Parsnip is also known as: Борщевик обыкновенный, Berce des pres.
Is 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 Insight into Romanian Wild-Grown Heracleum sphondylium: Development of a New Phytocarrier Based on Silver Nanoparticles with Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Cytotoxicity Potential. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Toxic Plants and Their Impact on Livestock Health and Economic Losses: A Comprehensive Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Anti-Inflammatory Compounds From Roots of Heracleum sphondylium subsp. cyclocarpum. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Fast Determination of Furocoumarins in Food Supplements Containing Heracleum sphondylium L. Using Capillary Electrophoresis. literature abstract metadata