Common Gromwell
Lithospermum officinale
Lithospermum officinale, commonly known as Chinese gentian or Lithospermum, is a traditional plant used in East Asian medicine. While its specific applications are not extensively documented, it has been studied for various potential health benefits. Scientific evidence suggests that shikonin from this plant may inhibit thyroid cancer cell migration and invasion through multiple mechanisms without cross-resistance to other anticancer agents. Additionally, topical use of Lithospermum officinale has shown promise in reducing inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesion counts, though no serious adverse events were reported. The study also quantified flavonoids in the plant's leaves, finding their content to exceed 2% of the dry weight. Safety records for Lithospermum officinale show no major issues; however, due to limited research, its use should be monitored closely. There are currently no recorded drug interactions with this plant, but further studies are needed to fully understand its potential effects and interactions.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Shikonin from Lithospermum officinale inhibited thyroid cancer cell migration and invasion through multiple mechanisms without cross-resistance to other anticancer agents.
- Lithospermum officinale contains various bioactive phytochemicals with potential pharmacological activities.
- Both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesion counts were significantly decreased in the Lithospermum officinale group compared to the vehicle group, without serious adverse events.
- The study developed a method to quantify flavonoids in Lithospermum officinale leaves, finding their content to exceed 2% of the dry weight.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Gromwell?
Common Gromwell (Lithospermum officinale) 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 Common Gromwell?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Common Gromwell; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: Shikonin from Lithospermum officinale inhibited thyroid cancer cell migration and invasion through multiple mechanisms without cross-resistance to other anticancer agents.
How strong is the evidence for Common Gromwell?
The strongest finding for Common Gromwell carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Gromwell safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Gromwell in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Gromwell interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Gromwell in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Gromwell?
Common Gromwell is also known as: Воробейник лекарственный.
Is Common 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 Clinical efficacy of herbal extracts in treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris: an 8-week, double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Research Progress of the Molecular Mechanism of Antithyroid Cancer Activity of Shikonin. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Development and Validation of a Method to Quantify Flavonoids in Leaves of Lithospermum officinale (Boraginaceae). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Exploring the Pharmacological Potential of Lithospermum officinale L.: A Review of Phytochemicals and Ethnomedicinal Uses. literature abstract metadata