Shepherd's-purses
Capsella
Capsella, commonly known as shepherd's purse, is a genus of plants traditionally used in various herbal practices. While specific traditional uses for individual species within this genus are not well-documented, Capsella bursa-pastoris has been studied for its potential antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, with ethanolic extracts from it showing varying levels of activity alongside those from other herbs like Arnica montana and Melissa officinalis. Scientific evidence is limited in terms of direct traditional use, but studies have explored genetic diversity and reproductive effects in Capsella species. Research indicates that temperatures above 30°C can impact fruit morphology and reproduction but do not significantly affect growth or survival in Capsella bursa-pastoris. Safety concerns are minimal based on current data, with no major issues recorded. There is also no evidence of significant drug interactions associated with 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 study finds evidence of introgression from diploid Capsella rubella contributing to genetic diversity in polyploid Capsella bursa-pastoris populations in the New York City metropolitan area.
- The study found significant antioxidant activity in extracts from Capsella bursa-pastoris, along with antimicrobial effects against certain bacteria.
- The study found limited convergence in pollen coat thickness and protein composition across independent selfing transitions in Arabidopsis and Capsella.
- Temperatures above 30°C affected fruit morphology and reproduction but not growth or survival in Capsella bursa-pastoris.
Frequently asked questions
What is Shepherd's-purses?
Shepherd's-purses (Capsella) 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 Shepherd's-purses?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Shepherd's-purses; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study finds evidence of introgression from diploid Capsella rubella contributing to genetic diversity in polyploid Capsella bursa-pastoris populations in the New York City metropolitan area.
How strong is the evidence for Shepherd's-purses?
The strongest finding for Shepherd's-purses carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Shepherd's-purses safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Shepherd's-purses in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Shepherd's-purses interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Shepherd's-purses in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Shepherd's-purses?
Shepherd's-purses is also known as: Пастушья сумка, Capselle.
Is Shepherd's-purses 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 Introgression across ploidies contributes to genetic diversity in introduced urban Capsella bursa-pastoris. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Heat alters fruit morphology and severely limits reproduction but not growth in a widespread urban weed. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The abundance of pollen coat small signaling proteins shows limited convergence between independent selfing transitions in Arabidopsis and Capsella. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Comparative Phytochemical Profiling and In Vitro Investigation of the Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Potential of Arnica montana L., Melissa officinalis L. and Capsella bursa-pastoris Medik. Extracts and Their Synergistic Combinations. literature abstract metadata