Golden Cinquefoil
Also known as: Potentilla spp., Golden Cinquefoil, Potentilla, Five-finger grass, Potentilla erecta
Overview
Golden Cinquefoil (Potentilla spp.), particularly Potentilla erecta, is a herbaceous plant used in traditional herbal medicine. The flower, leaf, and root are utilized for their medicinal properties. It is traditionally employed for conditions such as sore throat, menstrual cramps, gastrointestinal issues, and wound healing. Belonging to the Rosaceae family, it is characterized by its astringent properties attributed to tannins and flavonoids. As a supplement ingredient, research is limited, relying more on traditional use and small-scale studies. It is used for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antimicrobial effects. The plant is available in forms such as dried herb infusions, tinctures, and topical extracts. Its primary effects are localized to the gastrointestinal tract or mucosal surfaces due to low systemic absorption.
Benefits
Golden Cinquefoil is traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antimicrobial effects, potentially aiding sore throat, diarrhea, and minor wounds. Some evidence suggests benefits for menstrual cramps and gastrointestinal discomfort, likely due to its tannin content. However, there is a lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses to quantify effect sizes or confirm clinical significance. Traditional use suggests short-term symptomatic relief, but formal data on duration or onset of effects are lacking. The strength of evidence is generally low, based on traditional use rather than rigorous clinical trials.
How it works
The astringent effect of Golden Cinquefoil is primarily due to tannins, which precipitate proteins and reduce inflammation and secretions. It acts locally on mucous membranes and skin, with potential antimicrobial effects that may modulate local flora. While no specific molecular targets have been conclusively identified in clinical research, the tannins are believed to interact with proteins in the affected areas, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Absorption is likely low, with primary effects localized to the gastrointestinal tract or mucosal surfaces.
Side effects
Golden Cinquefoil is generally considered safe when used in traditional doses, with no major safety concerns reported in short-term use. Common side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort in some cases. Uncommon side effects include possible but rare allergic reactions. No documented serious adverse events have been reported. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but caution is advised with other astringent or anti-inflammatory agents. It is contraindicated in cases of known allergy to Rosaceae family plants. Insufficient data exist for use in pregnancy, lactation, or children, so use in these populations is not recommended.
Dosage
Due to a lack of clinical trials, a minimum effective dose for Golden Cinquefoil has not been established. Traditional preparations vary, but it is typically used as teas or topical applications. A maximum safe dose has not been defined. It is traditionally used as needed for symptom relief. It is commonly used as dried herb infusions, tinctures, or topical extracts. Oral bioavailability is likely low, with topical use acting locally. There are no identified required cofactors. More research is needed to determine optimal and safe dosage ranges.
FAQs
Is Golden Cinquefoil effective for weight loss?
No, there is no evidence supporting Golden Cinquefoil for weight loss. Systematic reviews of herbal weight loss supplements do not list it as effective.
Can it be used safely long-term?
Long-term safety data are lacking. Short-term traditional use appears safe, but caution is advised with prolonged use.
How quickly does it work?
Traditional use suggests symptomatic relief within hours to days, but no clinical data confirm this. Individual results may vary.
Is it safe to combine with other herbs or medications?
There are no known interactions, but caution is advised due to limited data. Consult with a healthcare professional before combining.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31984610/ – This systematic review on herbal medicines for weight loss found insufficient evidence to recommend any herbal medicines, including those related to Potentilla, for weight loss. The review highlighted poor methodological quality and small study numbers for many herbs, indicating a need for more rigorous research in this area.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK116013/ – This is a general herbal medicine resource that notes traditional uses of Potentilla but does not provide clinical trial data or meta-analyses supporting efficacy or safety beyond traditional use. It serves as a reference for traditional applications but lacks robust scientific validation.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-52/potentilla – WebMD notes traditional uses of Potentilla but does not provide clinical trial data or meta-analyses supporting efficacy or safety beyond traditional use. The information is based on traditional use rather than rigorous clinical trials.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0292138 – This study investigates the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas for insomnia. While it doesn't focus on Golden Cinquefoil, it highlights the broader context of herbal medicine research and the need for rigorous clinical trials to validate traditional uses.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/aging-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2018.00349/full – This research explores the potential of traditional Chinese medicine in improving post-surgical recovery. Although Golden Cinquefoil is not a primary focus, the study underscores the importance of evidence-based approaches in evaluating herbal interventions.
