Common Gromwell
Lithospermum officinale
Lithospermum officinale, commonly known as Chinese gentian or litharge root, originates from traditional medicine practices in East Asia. It has been traditionally used for various purposes such as treating burns and skin conditions, though specific uses related to acne are not well-documented. Scientific studies have shown promising results with topical applications of Lithospermum officinale extracts leading to significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions compared to a placebo group, without serious adverse events. The plant contains flavonoids exceeding 2% of the dry weight, which contribute to its potential efficacy. Additionally, shikonin from this plant has been found to inhibit thyroid cancer cell migration and invasion through multiple mechanisms, with no reported cross-resistance to other anticancer agents. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Lithospermum officinale.
- 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