Toothed Clubmoss
Huperzia serrata
Huperzia serrata, commonly known as Chinese clubmoss or firmoss, is a traditional medicine plant native to East Asia. While its use in traditional practices has not been extensively documented, it has shown promise in various scientific studies. Research indicates that the rhizospheric soil can influence the size and miRNA content of extracellular vesicles in Huperzia serrata roots, suggesting potential interactions between the plant and its environment. Additionally, genetic diversity within the species has been identified, with certain accessions from Guizhou and Yunnan showing high similarity. The plant has also produced novel compounds, including a C-23-methylated steroid that demonstrated inhibition of nitric oxide production in macrophages. However, current scientific evidence does not strongly support specific traditional uses or significant therapeutic applications. Notably, no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Huperzia serrata to date.
- 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 study found that rhizospheric soil alters the size, density, and miRNA content of extracellular vesicles in the roots of Huperzia serrata.
- The study identified and characterized a microbial-like terpene synthase from Huperzia serrata that produces multiple diterpene products.
- Genetic analysis using EST-SSR markers revealed moderate genetic diversity in Huperzia serrata with distinct genetic groupings, though clustering did not fully align with traditional taxonomy.
- A new C-23-methylated steroid was isolated from an endophyte of Huperzia serrata, and one compound showed inhibition of nitric oxide production in macrophage cells.
Frequently asked questions
What is Toothed Clubmoss?
Toothed Clubmoss (Huperzia serrata) 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 Toothed Clubmoss?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Toothed Clubmoss; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that rhizospheric soil alters the size, density, and miRNA content of extracellular vesicles in the roots of Huperzia serrata.
How strong is the evidence for Toothed Clubmoss?
The strongest finding for Toothed Clubmoss carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Toothed Clubmoss safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Toothed Clubmoss in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Toothed Clubmoss interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Toothed Clubmoss in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Toothed Clubmoss?
Toothed Clubmoss is also known as: Баранец пильчатый.
Is Toothed Clubmoss 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 Functional Characterization and Mutagenesis Studies of a Microbial-like Diterpene Synthase from Huperzia serrata. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of genetic diversity and structure of the endangered medicinal plant genus Huperzia (Lycopodiaceae) in China based on EST-SSR markers. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A new C-23-methylated steroid from Penicillium herquei WY-25, an endophyte of Huperzia serrata. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Rhizospheric soil alter extracellular vesicles in the roots of Huperzia serrata and their carried miRNA. literature abstract metadata