Alpine Delphinium
Delphinium elatum
Delphinium elatum, commonly known as larkspur, is a traditional plant with origins in Europe and Asia. Traditionally, its use has not been documented; however, it has been employed in modern research for its potential medicinal properties. Scientific evidence suggests that diterpenoid alkaloids from Delphinium elatum exhibit slight cytotoxic activity against certain human tumor cell lines, though the findings are preliminary and require further investigation. Additionally, new C19-diterpenoid alkaloids identified from both the plant and its seeds have shown some cytotoxicity against cancer cells; however, these results are limited in scope. Notably, steam treatments derived from Delphinium elatum have demonstrated nematode control comparable to or better than methyl bromide in agricultural settings. Safety records indicate no major issues, and there is currently no recorded evidence of drug interactions 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
- Several diterpenoid alkaloids from Delphinium elatum showed slight cytotoxic activity against certain human tumor cell lines.
- Eleven new C19-diterpenoid alkaloids were identified from Delphinium elatum cv. Pacific Giant, with some showing cytotoxic activity against certain cancer cell lines.
- Both steam treatments provided nematode control comparable to or exceeding that of methyl bromide in larkspur (Delphinium elatum).
- Four new C19-diterpenoid alkaloids were identified from Delphinium elatum seeds, along with evaluations of their cytotoxic activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Alpine Delphinium?
Alpine Delphinium (Delphinium elatum) 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 Alpine Delphinium?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Alpine Delphinium; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Several diterpenoid alkaloids from Delphinium elatum showed slight cytotoxic activity against certain human tumor cell lines.
How strong is the evidence for Alpine Delphinium?
The strongest finding for Alpine Delphinium carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Alpine Delphinium safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Alpine Delphinium in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Alpine Delphinium interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Alpine Delphinium in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Alpine Delphinium?
Alpine Delphinium is also known as: Живокость высокая, Dauphinelle elevee.
Is Alpine Delphinium 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 Evaluation of Steam and Soil Solarization for Meloidogyne arenaria Control in Florida Floriculture Crops. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Four new C19-diterpenoid alkaloids from Delphinium elatum. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Eleven new C19-diterpenoid alkaloids from Delphinium elatum cv. Pacific Giant. literature abstract metadata
- T2 [Chemistry and Biological Activity of Diterpenoid Alkaloids]. literature abstract metadata