Sorrel
Rumex acetosa
Rumex acetosa, commonly known as common sorrel, is a traditional plant found in Europe and parts of Asia. While its use in herbal medicine traditions is not extensively documented, it has been observed for its ecological and environmental roles. Scientific evidence indicates that the sex ratios of Rumex acetosa fluctuate seasonally due to differences in developmental timing between sexes. Additionally, studies have shown that Rumex acetosa roots exhibit high nickel uptake with a bioaccumulation factor of 248.43, indicating potential variability in its use as a bioindicator or for ecological monitoring purposes. The plant has also been noted for promoting methane oxidation and carbon black degradation through root-secreted compounds, enhancing microbial activity. No significant safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded for Rumex acetosa.
- 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
- Observable sex ratios in Rumex acetosa and R. thyrsiflorus fluctuate seasonally due to differences in developmental timing and morphological recognizability between sexes.
- Rumex acetosa roots showed high Ni uptake, with a bioaccumulation factor of 248.43.
- The study reveals substantial spatial variability in the representation of anthropogenic signals, including Rumex acetosa-type pollen, across Anatolian lake records during the Beyşehir Occupation Phase.
- Rumex acetosa promoted higher CH4 oxidation and CB degradation capacity compared to other tested plants by enhancing specific microbial metabolisms.
- The study developed a CMCS-MIR resin for selectively adsorbing epicatechin from Rumex acetosa, showing good stability and recovery rates in extraction.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sorrel?
Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) 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 Sorrel?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Sorrel; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Observable sex ratios in Rumex acetosa and R. thyrsiflorus fluctuate seasonally due to differences in developmental timing and morphological recognizability between sexes.
How strong is the evidence for Sorrel?
The strongest finding for Sorrel carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Sorrel safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Sorrel in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Sorrel interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Sorrel in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Sorrel?
Sorrel is also known as: щавель кислый, Oseille commune.
Is Sorrel 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 Accumulation of heavy metals in soil, medicinal plants and agricultural crops irrigated with drain water. Case study of Bahr El-Baqar Drain, Egypt. literature abstract metadata
- T2 [Rhizosphere bacterial metabolism of plants growing in landfill cover soil regulates biodegradation of chlorobenzene]. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Insights from experiments and simulation of polydopamine modified carboxymethyl chitosan molecularly imprinted resins for adsorption of epicatechin in Rumex acetosa L. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Sex ratios in flux: seasonal dynamics and methodological insights in Rumex species. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Assessment of Anthropogenic Pollen Signals in Anatolian Lake Records During the Beyşehir Occupation Phase. literature abstract metadata