Shiny bugleweed

Lycopus lucidus

Lycopus lucidus, commonly known as clear-leaved water-horehound, is a plant traditionally used in some herbal practices but lacks specific traditional uses documented. Scientific evidence for its medicinal applications is limited; however, studies suggest potential neuroprotective effects through modulation of biomarkers in animal models of retinal degenerative diseases, though these findings are preliminary and require further investigation. Four new diterpenoids were identified from a related variety, Lycopus lucidus var. hirtus, showing antineuroinflammatory activity, indicating possible therapeutic potential. Genome-wide scans have revealed adaptive variants in the psbD gene within this plant lineage, contributing to its evolutionary history but not directly linked to medicinal use. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Lycopus lucidus, suggesting it may be generally safe when used as part of traditional practices.

At a glance
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

  • This study suggests that specific TCM formulas may exert neuroprotective effects in animal models of retinal degenerative diseases by modulating various biomarkers, though findings are preliminary. A PMID
  • The study reveals asymmetric subgenomic evolution and local adaptation in the polyploid plant Lycopus lucidus. D PMID
  • Four new diterpenoids were identified from Lycopus lucidus var. hirtus showing antineuroinflammatory activity. D PMID
  • Genome-wide scans detected signatures of adaptive variants in the psbD gene within the SD lineage of Lycopus lucidus. D PMID
  • The study identified 12 diterpenoids from Lycopus lucidus, with compounds 3 and 9 showing potential cytotoxicity against HEL cells. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Shiny bugleweed?

Shiny bugleweed (Lycopus lucidus) 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 Shiny bugleweed?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Shiny bugleweed; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: This study suggests that specific TCM formulas may exert neuroprotective effects in animal models of retinal degenerative diseases by modulating various biomarkers, though findings are preliminary.

How strong is the evidence for Shiny bugleweed?

The strongest finding for Shiny bugleweed carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Shiny bugleweed safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Shiny bugleweed in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Shiny bugleweed interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Shiny bugleweed in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Shiny bugleweed?

Shiny bugleweed is also known as: Зюзник блестящий.

Is Shiny bugleweed 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

  1. T2 C-Ring Aromatized Abietane Diterpenoids From Lycopus lucidus. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Neuroprotective effects of traditional Chinese medicine formulas in animal models of retinal degenerative diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Pan-Plastome Insights Into Genetic Adaptation and Future Distribution of Lycopus lucidus Under Climate Change. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 A Highly Rearranged Nor-Abietane Diterpenoid with an Unusual 6/6/6/5/4 Pentacyclic System and Three Other Diterpenoids from Lycopus lucidus var. hirtus and Antineuroinflammatory Activities. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Genomic and population analyses reveal asymmetric subgenome evolution and local adaptation in the polyploid Lycopus lucidus. literature abstract metadata