Purple Gromwell
Lithospermum erythrorhizon
Lithospermum erythrorhizon, commonly known as Zicao or Lithospermum root, is a traditional Chinese medicine. Traditionally, it has not been extensively used for specific ailments in documented practices. Scientific evidence indicates that the plant's polyphenol shikonin shows anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties through multiple mechanisms; however, clinical applications are limited due to potential toxicity concerns. In animal models of atopic dermatitis, Zicao treatment significantly reduced severity and scratching behavior but did not fully restore epidermal barrier function. Meta-analyses suggest that shikonin can reduce paw edema and arthritis scores in experimental rheumatoid arthritis (RA) models. Safety records show no major issues have been recorded, and there are currently no known drug interactions associated with this plant.
- Best evidence
- A
- 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 genome-edited hairy roots of LePPO1, a polyphenol oxidase gene, showed reduced shikonin content without affecting other metabolites.
- Shikonin exhibits both anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects through multiple mechanisms, but its clinical application is limited by potential toxicity.
- Meta-analysis showed that shikonin significantly reduced paw edema and arthritis scores in experimental RA models.
- Zicao treatment significantly decreased dermatitis severity and scratching behavior in animal models of atopic dermatitis, but had limited effects on epidermal barrier restoration.
Frequently asked questions
What is Purple Gromwell?
Purple Gromwell (Lithospermum erythrorhizon) 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 Purple Gromwell?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Purple Gromwell; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study found that genome-edited hairy roots of LePPO1, a polyphenol oxidase gene, showed reduced shikonin content without affecting other metabolites.
How strong is the evidence for Purple Gromwell?
The strongest finding for Purple Gromwell carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Purple Gromwell safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Purple Gromwell in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Purple Gromwell interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Purple Gromwell in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Purple Gromwell?
Purple Gromwell is also known as: vorobejnik krasnokornevoj.
Is Purple Gromwell 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 A meta-analysis of the traditional herb Zicao and its active components for atopic dermatitis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Shikonin: Unraveling its Multi-Mechanistic Anticancer and Anti- Inflammatory Mechanisms. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Immunopharmacological effects of shikonin in experimental rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of in vivo studies. literature abstract metadata
- T2 CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing reveals the involvement of a polyphenol oxidase in the shikonin-specific biosynthesis in Lithospermum erythrorhizon. literature abstract metadata