Alexanders
Smyrnium olusatrum
Smyrnium olusatrum, commonly known as sea fennel or wild celery, is a plant traditionally found in coastal regions of Europe and Asia. Although its traditional medicinal uses are not well-documented, studies have shown promising results for its potential antiparasitic properties, particularly against Leishmania and Trypanosoma species. Scientific evidence indicates that S-CO2 extraction methods can yield higher and more effective compounds compared to conventional techniques without causing thermal degradation. Additionally, the essential oil from Smyrnium olusatrum has demonstrated significant insecticidal activity against stored-product pests in wheat, comparable to other Apiaceae oils tested. The plant's different parts exhibit varying levels of secondary metabolites and biological activities, including antioxidant and enzyme inhibition properties. To date, no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Smyrnium olusatrum different plant parts showed varying levels of secondary metabolites and biological activities, including antioxidant and enzyme inhibition properties.
- S-CO2 extraction optimized at 50 MPa, 60 min, and 25% static mode provided higher yields and IFD recovery compared to conventional methods without causing thermal degradation.
- Smyrnium olusatrum was among 217 plants showing potent antileishmanial and/or antitrypanosomal activity in vitro.
- Smyrnium olusatrum essential oil showed high insecticidal potential against stored-product pests in wheat, comparable to other Apiaceae oils.
- Smyrnium olusatrum extracts showed significant dose-dependent gastroprotection and selective anti-H. pylori activity in rats.
Frequently asked questions
What is Alexanders?
Alexanders (Smyrnium olusatrum) 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 Alexanders?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Alexanders; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Smyrnium olusatrum different plant parts showed varying levels of secondary metabolites and biological activities, including antioxidant and enzyme inhibition properties.
How strong is the evidence for Alexanders?
The strongest finding for Alexanders carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Alexanders safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Alexanders in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Alexanders interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Alexanders in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Alexanders?
Alexanders is also known as: Смирния европейская, Maceron.
Is Alexanders 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 A comparative study of secondary metabolites profiling and biological activity of Smyrnium olusatrum L. leaf, flower and fruit. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Exploring the Efficacy of Four Apiaceae Essential Oils against Nine Stored-Product Pests in Wheat Protection. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Harnessing nature: a systematic exploration of in vitro antileishmanial and antihuman African trypanosomal properties in traditional medicinal plants and their active principles. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Advances in Isofuranodiene Extraction from Smyrnium olusatrum L.: Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Mechanistic insights into the gastroprotective and anti-Helicobacter pylori effects of novel Smyrnium olusatrum extracts through NF-κB, IBA1, and COX-2 modulation. literature abstract metadata