Geum rivale
Geum rivale
Geum rivale, commonly known as water avens, is a plant traditionally found in wet meadows and along streams. Although its use in traditional medicine has not been extensively documented, it shares some similarities with Geum urbanum, which has historical uses in European folk medicine for treating digestive issues and wounds. Scientific evidence indicates that while little direct evidence of contemporary gene flow between outcrossing Geum rivale and selfing Geum urbanum exists, both native and non-native subarctic plant species struggle to tolerate continuous lighting due to oxidative stress. Notably, a study identified various phenolic compounds and fatty acids in the seeds of both Geum urbanum and Geum rivale for the first time, suggesting potential health benefits, though this is not yet substantiated by clinical trials. Safety concerns are minimal; no major issues have been recorded. Similarly, there are currently no documented drug interactions associated with Geum rivale, making it generally safe to use without significant risk of adverse effects when used appropriately.
- 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 found little evidence of contemporary gene flow between outcrossing Geum rivale and selfing Geum urbanum, despite hybridization in sympatric populations.
- The study found that both native and non-native subarctic plant species lack specific mechanisms for tolerating continuous light, instead responding with non-specific protective measures like flavonoids to manage oxidative stress.
- Four phenolic acid derivatives, six flavonoids, and four tannins were identified in water avens for the first time, showing pronounced antioxidant activity.
- The study identified various phenolic compounds and fatty acids in Geum urbanum and Geum rivale seeds.
Frequently asked questions
What is Geum rivale?
Geum rivale (Geum rivale) 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 Geum rivale?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Geum rivale; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found little evidence of contemporary gene flow between outcrossing Geum rivale and selfing Geum urbanum, despite hybridization in sympatric populations.
How strong is the evidence for Geum rivale?
The strongest finding for Geum rivale carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Geum rivale safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Geum rivale in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Geum rivale interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Geum rivale in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Geum rivale?
Geum rivale is also known as: Гравилат речной, Benoîte des ruisseaux.
Is Geum rivale 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 Maintaining their genetic distance: Little evidence for introgression between widely hybridizing species of Geum with contrasting mating systems. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Insight into the Secondary Metabolites of Geum urbanum L. and Geum rivale L. Seeds (Rosaceae). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemical Characterization of Water Avens (Geum rivale L.) Extracts: Structure Assignment and Biological Activity of the Major Phenolic Constituents. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Response of Native and Non-Native Subarctic Plant Species to Continuous Illumination by Natural and Artificial Light. literature abstract metadata