Glacier Buttercup

Ranunculus glacialis

Ranunculus glacialis, commonly known as Alpine Fumitory, is a plant traditionally associated with mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. While it has not been extensively used in traditional medicine, its resilience to cold temperatures makes it an interesting subject for botanical studies. Scientific research indicates that the leaf freezing behavior of Ranunculus glacialis can be preserved during cryo-fixation for electron microscopy, highlighting its potential as a model organism for studying plant responses to extreme cold. Cold stress in plants generally leads to increased organelle contacts and mitochondrial fusion into 3D networks, alongside autophagy processes; however, specific findings related to Ranunculus glacialis are limited. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant, suggesting it may be used without significant concern in various applications.

At a glance
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

  • Leaf freezing in Ranunculus glacialis occurred even when air temperatures were above 0°C, with all mesophyll cells subjected to freezing cytorrhysis. D PMID
  • A new technical approach allows preserving the ultrastructure of frozen Ranunculus glacialis during cryo-fixation for transmission electron microscopy. D PMID
  • Winter frosts reduce flower bud survival in high-mountain plants, with varying degrees depending on temperature and exposure time. D PMID
  • Cold stress in plants leads to increased organelle contacts, mitochondrial fusion into 3D networks, and autophagy processes. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Glacier Buttercup?

Glacier Buttercup (Ranunculus glacialis) 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 Glacier Buttercup?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Glacier Buttercup; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Leaf freezing in Ranunculus glacialis occurred even when air temperatures were above 0°C, with all mesophyll cells subjected to freezing cytorrhysis.

How strong is the evidence for Glacier Buttercup?

The strongest finding for Glacier Buttercup carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Glacier Buttercup safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Glacier Buttercup in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Glacier Buttercup interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Glacier Buttercup in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Glacier Buttercup?

Glacier Buttercup is also known as: Беквичия ледниковая, Caraline.

Is Glacier Buttercup 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

  1. T2 A new technical approach for preparing frozen biological samples for electron microscopy. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Winter Nights during Summer Time: Stress Physiological Response to Ice and the Facilitation of Freezing Cytorrhysis by Elastic Cell Wall Components in the Leaves of a Nival Species. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Fusion of Mitochondria to 3-D Networks, Autophagy and Increased Organelle Contacts are Important Subcellular Hallmarks during Cold Stress in Plants. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Winter Frosts Reduce Flower Bud Survival in High-Mountain Plants. literature abstract metadata