Germander
Teucrium
Teucrium is a genus of plants traditionally used in various herbal practices, though specific traditional uses for many species are not well-documented. The genus includes several taxa that have shown promise in scientific research. Studies on Teucrium luteum subsp. flavovirens, Cladanthus eriolepis, and Asteriscus graveolens revealed significant variations in their chemical profiles, which influenced their biological activities in vitro. For Teucrium polium specifically, the essential oils demonstrated measurable antimicrobial activity against certain microorganisms in vitro, and preliminary findings suggested anti-tumor effects and improvements in anxiety-like behavior in rats, though further research is needed to confirm these results. Notably, no major safety concerns or reported drug interactions have been identified for Teucrium species thus far.
- 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
- The study found that the chemical profiles of essential oils from Teucrium luteum subsp. flavovirens, Cladanthus eriolepis, and Asteriscus graveolens significantly influenced their biological activities in vitro.
- The study provided genetic information for five Teucrium taxa and new marker-specific sequences for seven Cretan endemic plant species.
- Teucrium polium at 2 mg/kg reduced tumor volume and improved anxiety-like behavior in rats with glioblastoma, but did not affect memory or survival rate.
- The essential oils from Teucrium polium showed measurable in vitro antimicrobial activity against some tested microorganisms.
Frequently asked questions
What is Germander?
Germander (Teucrium) 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 Germander?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Germander; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that the chemical profiles of essential oils from Teucrium luteum subsp. flavovirens, Cladanthus eriolepis, and Asteriscus graveolens significantly influenced their biological activities in vitro.
How strong is the evidence for Germander?
The strongest finding for Germander carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Germander safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Germander in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Germander interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Germander in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Germander?
Germander is also known as: Дубровник (растение), germandrée.
Is Germander 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 Effect of Chemical Profile on In Vitro Biological Activities of Essential Oils from Southeast Moroccan Cladanthus eriolepis, Asteriscus graveolens, and Teucrium luteum subsp. flavovirens. literature abstract metadata
- T2 From tumor reduction to behavioral improvement and cytokine balance: Therapeutic role of petroleum ether extract of Teucrium polium in a rat model of C6-induced glioblastoma. literature abstract metadata
- T2 GC-MS characterization and in vitro antimicrobial activity of essential oils from selected Lamiaceae species collected in Kashan, Iran. literature abstract metadata
- T2 DNA Barcoding and Comparative Chloroplast Marker Performance in Endemic Plants of Crete (Greece). literature abstract metadata