German ipecac
Vincetoxicum hirundinaria
Vincetoxicum hirundinaria is a plant traditionally not used in any known medicinal practices. Scientific evidence has shown that extracts from this plant exhibit an inhibitory effect on IL-6 release, with activity observed at 3.6 μg/mL. However, the strength of this finding is limited by the small scale and specific conditions under which the study was conducted. Genetic studies indicate local inbreeding and regional isolation patterns for related species, suggesting limited dispersal ability despite colonization of northern Europe post-glacially. Extracts from Vincetoxicum hirundinaria have been found to induce DNA damage as measured by the comet assay, with varying effects on micronuclei and sister chromatid exchange; these findings are preliminary and require further investigation. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant, but caution is advised due to its potential genotoxicity.
- 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
- Vincetoxicum hirundinaria showed a distinct inhibitory effect on IL-6 release in PBMCs at 3.6 μg/mL.
- The study found significant levels of local inbreeding and regional isolation-by-distance patterns for the gall midge Contarinia vincetoxici, suggesting limited dispersal ability despite colonizing northern Europe post-glacially.
- Genetic drift rather than trade-offs limited adaptation of L. equestris to novel hosts over 20 generations.
- All extracts induced DNA damage as measured by the comet assay, with varying responses noted.
Frequently asked questions
What is German ipecac?
German ipecac (Vincetoxicum hirundinaria) 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 German ipecac?
4 sourced findings are recorded for German ipecac; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Vincetoxicum hirundinaria showed a distinct inhibitory effect on IL-6 release in PBMCs at 3.6 μg/mL.
How strong is the evidence for German ipecac?
The strongest finding for German ipecac carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is German ipecac safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for German ipecac in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does German ipecac interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for German ipecac in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of German ipecac?
German ipecac is also known as: Ластовень ласточкин, Dompte-venin.
Is German ipecac 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 Genetic drift precluded adaptation of an insect seed predator to a novel host plant in a long-term selection experiment. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Genotoxic properties of Betonica officinalis, Gratiola officinalis, Vincetoxicum luteum and Vincetoxicum hirundinaria extracts. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Post-glacial colonization of the Fennoscandian coast by a plant parasitic insect with an unusual life history. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Plants and their uses in dermatological recipes of the Receptarium of Burkhard III von Hallwyl from 16th century Switzerland - Data mining a historical text and preliminary in vitro screening. literature abstract metadata