Bugleweed
Also known as: Lycopus europaeus, Lycopus virginicus, Bugleweed, Bitter bugle, Carpenter's herb, Green archangel, Gypsywort, Northern bugleweed, Paul's betony, Purple archangel, Rough bugleweed, Sweet bugle, Virginia water horehound, Water bugle, Water horehound, Wolf foot, Wolfstrappkraut
Overview
Bugleweed, scientifically known as *Lycopus europaeus* and *Lycopus virginicus*, is an herbaceous perennial mint found in wet environments. It has a history of traditional medicinal use, primarily for its potential antithyroid and sedative properties. Bugleweed contains phenolic compounds such as lithospermic acid, rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid, which are believed to contribute to its effects. It is available in various forms, including dried herb and extracts. While traditionally used for conditions like mild hyperthyroidism, premenstrual syndrome, and breast pain, the clinical evidence supporting these uses is limited. The current research landscape is characterized by a scarcity of high-quality clinical trials, resulting in generally low evidence quality. More rigorous studies are needed to validate its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
The evidence supporting specific benefits of bugleweed is limited. Some studies suggest potential antithyroid effects, but these are not well-quantified. Traditional uses include sedative and astringent properties, but modern clinical evidence is lacking. There is potential benefit for individuals with mild hyperthyroidism, but further research is necessary to confirm this. Open-label clinical studies with small sample sizes (e.g., one with 62 participants) have reported improved cardiac symptoms in mild hyperthyroidism, but the lack of robust randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and the small sample sizes limit the strength of these findings. Effect sizes and clinical significance are not well established due to the lack of robust clinical trials, and the time course of any potential benefits remains unknown due to insufficient data.
How it works
Bugleweed's proposed antithyroid activity is attributed to compounds like lithospermic acid, although the exact mechanism is complex and involves oxidation of phenolics. It may affect thyroid function by inhibiting thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) activity. The known molecular targets include TSH receptors, although the evidence is not conclusive. Animal studies have shown antithyroid effects, but these results may not translate directly to humans. The absorption and bioavailability of bugleweed's active compounds are not well studied.
Side effects
Bugleweed is generally considered safe, but data are limited. Common side effects are not well documented. Uncommon side effects may include cardiac rhythm disturbances in some cases. Rare side effects include a theoretical risk of thyroid enlargement if taken in high amounts or stopped suddenly. There is potential for drug interactions with thyroid medications, although these are not well documented. Bugleweed is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to potential antigonadotropic and antithyrotropic effects. Caution is advised in individuals with hypothyroidism. It is important to note that the overall safety assessment is based on limited data, and more comprehensive studies are needed to fully understand the potential adverse effects.
Dosage
A minimum effective dose of bugleweed has not been established. Some studies have used a daily dosage of 40 mg/day in divided doses. The maximum safe dose is not well defined. There are no specific timing recommendations. Bugleweed is typically used as a dried herb or extract. Absorption factors are not well studied. There are no established required cofactors. Due to the limited research, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using bugleweed, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
FAQs
Is bugleweed safe to use during pregnancy?
No, bugleweed is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential antigonadotropic and antithyrotropic effects, which could harm the developing fetus.
Can bugleweed be used to treat hyperthyroidism?
Some studies suggest potential antithyroid effects, but the evidence is limited. More research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for treating hyperthyroidism.
Are there any known drug interactions with bugleweed?
There is potential for interactions with thyroid medications, although these are not well documented. Consult with a healthcare professional before using bugleweed if you are taking any medications.
What are the expected results from taking bugleweed?
The expected results are uncertain due to limited evidence. Overestimation of its efficacy for various conditions is a common misconception due to traditional use.
How should bugleweed be taken?
Typically used as a dried herb or extract. A daily dosage of 40 mg/day in divided doses has been used in some studies, but there are no specific timing recommendations. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38772539/ – This study investigates the effects of bugleweed. Further details about the study design, sample size, and key findings would be needed to provide a more comprehensive summary. The study's limitations and quality assessment are not available without further information.
- https://osf.io/mepkc/?action=download – This resource appears to be a downloadable file from the Open Science Framework. Without accessing and reviewing the contents of the file, it is impossible to provide a summary of its key findings, limitations, or quality assessment. Further investigation is needed to determine its relevance to bugleweed research.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/bugleweed.html – This Drugs.com page provides general information about bugleweed, including its uses, potential side effects, and interactions. It serves as a reference for understanding the traditional applications and safety considerations associated with bugleweed, but it is not a primary research article.
- https://web.mit.edu/~ecprice/Public/wordlist.ranked – This URL leads to a ranked word list from MIT, which is not a research source related to bugleweed. It is likely included in error and does not provide any relevant information about the supplement's effects or safety.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26071633/ – This study investigates the effects of bugleweed. Further details about the study design, sample size, and key findings would be needed to provide a more comprehensive summary. The study's limitations and quality assessment are not available without further information.
