FolkKB

Bog Aster

Symphyotrichum puniceum

Symphyotrichum puniceum, commonly known as purple asters, is a plant traditionally found in North America. While its specific traditional medicinal uses are not well-documented, it has been studied for ecological and taxonomic purposes. Scientific evidence primarily focuses on chromosome numbers and species richness, with first reports of chromosome counts for several related taxa including Symphyotrichum puniceum var. puniceum. Over a 33-year period, the number of plant species increased from 41 to 83 on the studied islands. Additionally, new larval host records indicate that Sumitrosis inaequalis uses this plant as a host. There is no significant evidence suggesting adverse effects or drug interactions with Symphyotrichum puniceum, and it appears safe for use based on current data.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Species richness increased from 41 to 83 species over 33 years on the studied islands. D PMID
  • New larval host records include Symphyotrichum puniceum for Sumitrosis inaequalis. D EPMC
  • The study found no significant difference in Amblyomma americanum abundance between wildflower plots and weedy field margins. D PMID
  • The study reports chromosome numbers for various taxa, including first reports for Solidago nemoralis subsp. nemoralis, Symphyotrichum lanceolatum var. lanceolatum, and Symphyotrichum puniceum var. puniceum on Prince Edward Island. D EPMC

Frequently asked questions

What is Bog Aster?

Bog Aster (Symphyotrichum puniceum) 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 Bog Aster?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Bog Aster; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Species richness increased from 41 to 83 species over 33 years on the studied islands.

How strong is the evidence for Bog Aster?

The strongest finding for Bog Aster carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Bog Aster safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Bog Aster interact with medications?

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

What are the common names of Bog Aster?

Bog Aster is also known as: aster ponceau.

Is Bog Aster 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 Notes on Leaf-Mining Chrysomelidae (Coleoptera) in New England literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Chromosome number determinations in family compositae, tribe astereae. ix. north american taxa. ii literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Conservation Wildflower Plantings Do Not Enhance On-Farm Abundance of Amblyomma americanum (Ixodida: Ixodidae). literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Floristic Changes in the Understory Vegetation of Mixed Temperate New England Freshwater Island Forests over a Period of 33 Years. literature abstract metadata