sweet woodruff
Galium odoratum
Galium odoratum, commonly known as sweet woodruff, is a plant traditionally associated with European herbal medicine. While it has been used in various cultural practices for centuries, there are no specific traditional uses documented for this particular species. Scientific evidence regarding its potential health benefits is limited; studies suggest that during drying, the coumarin content decreases due to sublimation. There is also mixed evidence on its pharmacological effects, with some plants like S. costus, L. sativum, and R. tripartite showing significant anticancer potential, while Galium odoratum has shown limited evidence for such activity. Sun-grown extracts of Galium odoratum have been found to have increased phenolic content and anti-inflammatory properties compared to cultivated ones. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, but further research is needed to fully understand its potential uses and effects.
- 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 review suggests that while Hypericum perforatum and Melissa officinalis show robust clinical data for anxiety and depression, other species like Galium odoratum have limited evidence.
- During drying, coumarin content in Galium odoratum decreases due to sublimation.
- The study found that while some plants like S. costus, L. sativum, and R. tripartite showed significant anticancer potential, others including G. odoratum had limited research on their anti-cancer properties.
- The phenolic content and antioxidant activity of Galium odoratum extracts increase under sun-grown conditions, enhancing their anti-inflammatory effects on macrophages.
Frequently asked questions
What is sweet woodruff?
sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum) 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 sweet woodruff?
4 sourced findings are recorded for sweet woodruff; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The review suggests that while Hypericum perforatum and Melissa officinalis show robust clinical data for anxiety and depression, other species like Galium odoratum have limited evidence.
How strong is the evidence for sweet woodruff?
The strongest finding for sweet woodruff carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is sweet woodruff safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for sweet woodruff in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does sweet woodruff interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for sweet woodruff in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of sweet woodruff?
sweet woodruff is also known as: Подмаренник душистый, Aspérule odorante.
Is sweet woodruff 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 Phenolic Content and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Cultivated and Wild-Type Galium odoratum Extracts in Murine Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Comprehensive analysis of natural products of Galium odoratum (Rubiaceae), focusing on the formation of coumarin during the drying process. literature abstract metadata
- T2 From Herb to Hope: A Systematic Exploration of Medicinal Plants' Role in Cancer Therapy. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Wild Flora Species from Romania with Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Potential: A Global Perspective-Narrative Review. literature abstract metadata