Overview
Given the pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, internal medicinal use is not recommended in this database entry. Historically it was used for urinary stones/cystitis/urethritis and rheumatic conditions, but safety concerns dominate current practice notes.
Plant family
Asteraceae/Compositae
Parts used
Above ground parts, rhizome, and roots
Actions
Diuretic · Anti-inflammatory
Affinities
Urinary
Body systems
Urinary
Tissue states
Traditional use
Traditional use lists include urinary calculi (kidney/bladder stones), cystitis/painful urination, prostatitis, gout/rheumatism, and febrile illnesses (malaria, dengue, typhus), plus diuretic/tonic/emetic style uses.
Current use
Given the pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, internal medicinal use is not recommended in this database entry. Historically it was used for urinary stones/cystitis/urethritis and rheumatic conditions, but safety concerns dominate current practice notes.
Cautions & contraindications
CONTRAINDICATED for potential liver damage. Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) — hepatotoxic, pneumotoxic, carcinogenic, mutagenic. Long-term exposure linked to veno-occlusive disease (blocked liver veins). US supplements not required to list PA amounts; all oral preparations potentially unsafe. Avoid with Asteraceae allergies. Insufficient info for pregnancy/breastfeeding. AHPA: Class 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d.
Evidence notes
Strong evidence-of-harm warning: pyrrolizidine alkaloids are hepatotoxic/pneumotoxic/carcinogenic/mutagenic and supplement labeling is unreliable; therefore all oral preparations are treated as potentially unsafe. Any ‘uses’ should be read as historical rather than recommended.