Alexanders
Smyrnium olusatrum
Smyrnium olusatrum, commonly known as sea fennel, is a plant traditionally found in coastal areas of Europe and Asia. While its use in traditional medicine has not been extensively documented, studies have shown that different parts of the plant exhibit varying levels of secondary metabolites and biological activities, including antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibition. Additionally, research indicates that Smyrnium olusatrum possesses potent antileishmanial and/or antitrypanosomal activity in vitro. The S-CO2 extraction method optimized at 50 MPa for 60 minutes provided higher yields compared to conventional methods without causing thermal degradation. The essential oil from this plant demonstrated significant insecticidal potential against stored-product pests, comparable to other Apiaceae oils. To date, no major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Smyrnium olusatrum.
- 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
- Smyrnium olusatrum different plant parts showed varying levels of secondary metabolites and biological activities, including antioxidant and enzyme inhibition properties.
- S-CO2 extraction optimized at 50 MPa, 60 min, and 25% static mode provided higher yields and IFD recovery compared to conventional methods without causing thermal degradation.
- Smyrnium olusatrum was among 217 plants showing potent antileishmanial and/or antitrypanosomal activity in vitro.
- Smyrnium olusatrum essential oil showed high insecticidal potential against stored-product pests in wheat, comparable to other Apiaceae oils.
- Smyrnium olusatrum extracts showed significant dose-dependent gastroprotection and selective anti-H. pylori activity in rats.
Frequently asked questions
What is Alexanders?
Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum) 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 Alexanders?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Alexanders; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Smyrnium olusatrum different plant parts showed varying levels of secondary metabolites and biological activities, including antioxidant and enzyme inhibition properties.
How strong is the evidence for Alexanders?
The strongest finding for Alexanders carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Alexanders safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Alexanders in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Alexanders interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Alexanders in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Alexanders?
Alexanders is also known as: Смирния европейская, Maceron.
Is Alexanders 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 comparative study of secondary metabolites profiling and biological activity of Smyrnium olusatrum L. leaf, flower and fruit. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Exploring the Efficacy of Four Apiaceae Essential Oils against Nine Stored-Product Pests in Wheat Protection. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Harnessing nature: a systematic exploration of in vitro antileishmanial and antihuman African trypanosomal properties in traditional medicinal plants and their active principles. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Advances in Isofuranodiene Extraction from Smyrnium olusatrum L.: Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Mechanistic insights into the gastroprotective and anti-Helicobacter pylori effects of novel Smyrnium olusatrum extracts through NF-κB, IBA1, and COX-2 modulation. literature abstract metadata