White Hellebore
Veratrum lobelianum
Veratrum lobelianum, a plant traditionally not used in any known medical practices, has shown potential for scientific investigation. Studies have indicated that its seeds stored in liquid nitrogen for 18 years had a significantly reduced germination rate to 14.81%. In a pilot study, extracts from the plant were found to activate DNA damage checkpoint responses via ATM/ATR and CHK-1 pathways in C. elegans, suggesting possible disruption of germline development. There is also evidence that jervine, protoveratrine A, and protoveratrine B from Veratrum lobelianum may cause cardiotoxicity by inhibiting the NaV1.5 sodium channel. Four cases of poisoning have been diagnosed based on alkaloid detection in patient samples using LC-MS-MS. No major safety issues or recorded drug interactions are currently known for this plant.
- 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 germination rate of Veratrum lobelianum seeds stored in liquid nitrogen for 18 years decreased significantly to 14.81%.
- Veratrum lobelianum extracts were found to activate a DNA damage checkpoint response via ATM/ATR and CHK-1 pathways in C. elegans, potentially disrupting germline development.
- The study developed a LC-MS-MS method to quantify jervine and protoveratrine A in plasma and urine from four cases of Veratrum lobelianum poisoning.
- Jervine, protoveratrine A, and protoveratrine B show affinity to NaV1.5, potentially contributing to cardiotoxicity.
Frequently asked questions
What is White Hellebore?
White Hellebore (Veratrum lobelianum) 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 White Hellebore?
4 sourced findings are recorded for White Hellebore; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The germination rate of Veratrum lobelianum seeds stored in liquid nitrogen for 18 years decreased significantly to 14.81%.
How strong is the evidence for White Hellebore?
The strongest finding for White Hellebore carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is White Hellebore safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for White Hellebore in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does White Hellebore interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for White Hellebore in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of White Hellebore?
White Hellebore is also known as: Чемерица Лобеля, Vératre de Lobel.
Is White Hellebore 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 Veratrum Alkaloid Determination in Four Cases of Veratrum Aqua Poisonings. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Insights into the Cardiotoxic Effects of Veratrum Lobelianum Alkaloids: Pilot Study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Exploring the Impact of Onobrychis cornuta and Veratrum lobelianum Extracts on C. elegans: Implications for MAPK Modulation, Germline Development, and Antitumor Properties. literature abstract metadata
- T2 IPPRAS Cryobank for the Conservation of Orthodox Seeds of Rare, Endangered, Medicinal, and Ornamental Plant Species-Current Research. literature abstract metadata