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Boneset Aerial Parts Extract

Also known as: Boneset, Thoroughwort, Feverwort, *Eupatorium perfoliatum*

Overview

Boneset is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America, flourishing in wet environments from Nova Scotia to Florida. Historically utilized by Native Americans and early settlers for its medicinal properties, boneset traditionally treats influenza, common cold, fevers, and is recognized as a diaphoretic and laxative. The aerial parts of boneset contain bioactive compounds including flavonoids, terpenes, and potentially harmful dihydropyrrolizidine alkaloids. Despite these traditional applications, scientific evidence supporting its efficacy remains limited, largely anecdotal, and derived from historical uses rather than modern clinical studies.

Benefits

Current research does not robustly substantiate significant clinical benefits from boneset. While traditional applications hint at anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, and laxative effects, these claims lack strong evidence from controlled trials. Early research indicates possible mild antibacterial activity, yet no definitive studies establish effect sizes or clinical significance. Therefore, no specific populations can be confirmed to benefit from boneset through rigorous scientific inquiry. The absence of reliable data prevents determinations of benefit time courses.

How it works

Boneset may contain compounds with mild antibacterial properties, stimulating the immune system, and displaying diaphoretic effects. However, the biological mechanisms and molecular pathways involved are poorly understood, with no well-defined molecular targets identified for its active components. The specific absorption and bioavailability of boneset's constituents remain inadequately studied, leaving gaps in the understanding of how the supplement interacts with the body.

Side effects

Boneset is considered possibly unsafe due to its potential to contain hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which pose risks of liver damage. Common side effects include severe diarrhea and vomiting, with allergic reactions observed in individuals sensitive to Asteraceae/Compositae family plants. Rare but serious effects may include liver damage due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Concurrent use of boneset with CYP3A4 inducing medications may enhance toxicity. Contraindications exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women and those with pre-existing liver disease, alongside particular caution advised for individuals with allergies to ragweed and related flora.

Dosage

There is inadequate scientific information to suggest an appropriate dosage range for boneset. No optimal dosages have been established, nor is there guidance on maximum safe limits due to the lack of clinical studies. Historically, boneset has been consumed as a tea, tincture, or homeopathic remedy, but any standardized dosage forms continue to be absent. Consequently, no specific timing or absorption recommendations can be outlined.

FAQs

Is boneset safe to use?

Boneset is possibly unsafe due to potential liver toxicity and should be approached cautiously, especially among pregnant or breastfeeding individuals and those with liver conditions.

How should boneset be taken?

No specific guidelines on timing and administration exist; traditional forms include tea or tincture, but standardized dosages are not available.

What results can I expect from using boneset?

There is insufficient evidence to predict reliable outcomes from boneset use, as robust clinical data is lacking.

Is boneset effective for colds and flu?

Although traditionally used for colds and flu, current scientific evidence does not support its efficacy as a treatment for these conditions.

Research Sources

https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/download/boneset_MF2607 – This source discusses the traditional uses and properties of boneset, emphasizing its historical applications without providing significant modern clinical studies.
https://herbal-ahp.com/products/boneset-aerial-parts – The source outlines the historical uses of boneset and notes its potential bioactive compounds, while lacking substantial modern evidence of safety or efficacy.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-594/boneset – WebMD provides an overview of boneset, mentioning its traditional use, safety concerns related to liver toxicity, and lack of rigorous scientific investigations to confirm its effectiveness.