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Chickweed Aerial Parts Extract

Also known as: Chickweed, Starweed, Satin flower, Mouse-ear, Chickweed aerial parts extract, Stellaria media L.

Overview

Chickweed aerial parts extract is derived from the above-ground portions of *Stellaria media*, a widespread herbaceous plant. Traditionally used in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and weight loss properties, the extract boasts a rich phytochemical profile, including phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and saponins. While preclinical studies (in vitro, in silico) suggest potential benefits such as antioxidant, enzyme inhibition, and cytotoxic activities, high-quality human clinical trials are scarce. The current evidence base is predominantly from laboratory and animal studies, with a notable lack of rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in humans, indicating that its health benefits are largely unproven in clinical settings.

Benefits

Chickweed aerial parts extract demonstrates several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. It exhibits strong antioxidant activity in vitro, with water extracts effectively scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. The extract also shows enzyme inhibition properties, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, which suggests potential neuroprotective effects. Furthermore, in vitro studies indicate cytotoxic effects against HepG2 liver cancer cells, hinting at possible anticancer potential. Secondary effects, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity activities, are attributed to specific metabolites like triterpenoid saponins (gypsogenin, oleanolic acid) and flavonoids (apigenin, kaempferol derivatives). However, it is crucial to note that robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking, and these benefits are largely inferred from preclinical data. Quantitative data on effect sizes and clinical significance in humans are not established due to the absence of well-powered RCTs.

How it works

The mechanism of action for chickweed aerial parts extract is primarily understood through its bioactive compounds. Its antioxidant effects are mediated by phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which scavenge free radicals and mitigate oxidative stress. Enzyme inhibition, such as AChE inhibition, may involve the binding of flavonoid glycosides to enzyme active sites, as supported by molecular docking studies. The anti-inflammatory effects are likely due to the modulation of inflammatory pathways by saponins and phenolics. Cytotoxicity towards cancer cells, observed in vitro, might be linked to interactions with cancer-associated proteins like TP53, PTEN, and KRAS, as suggested by network pharmacology analysis. However, the absorption and bioavailability of these active compounds in humans remain poorly characterized.

Side effects

The overall safety profile of chickweed aerial parts extract is not well-defined due to limited clinical data. Anecdotal reports suggest common side effects include gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea and diarrhea, which are likely attributable to its saponin content. Rare instances of contact dermatitis have been reported with topical use, possibly indicating allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. There are no documented serious adverse effects or drug interactions reported in the reviewed literature. However, due to insufficient safety data, chickweed extract is contraindicated for use in children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women. Caution is advised, and its use should be approached with awareness of the limited safety information available.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose or optimal dosage range for chickweed aerial parts extract derived from clinical trials. Traditional use varies widely, with extracts commonly prepared as teas, tinctures, or topical applications. The absorption factors and any required cofactors for its active compounds are not well studied. Due to the lack of standardized dosing and comprehensive safety data from human clinical trials, caution is strongly advised. There are no defined upper limits or safety thresholds, and any use should be approached with awareness of the unproven efficacy and safety in humans.

FAQs

Is chickweed extract safe?

Limited data suggest it is generally safe in small amounts but may cause gastrointestinal upset or skin reactions in sensitive individuals. Safety in specific populations like children or pregnant women is not established.

What benefits can be expected?

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects are plausible based on preclinical studies. However, clinical benefits in humans remain unproven due to a lack of robust research.

How should it be taken?

There is no standardized dosing. Traditionally, it has been used as infusions (teas) or applied topically. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

How long until effects appear?

The time course for effects is unknown due to the absence of human clinical trials. Efficacy and onset of action are not established.

Are there any contraindications?

Yes, avoid use in children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety evidence. Individuals with allergies to plants in the Caryophyllaceae family should also exercise caution.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11606822/ – This study utilized in vitro, in silico, and network pharmacology analyses to investigate *Stellaria media*. It identified 12 phenolic compounds with significant antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and cytotoxic activities against HepG2 liver cancer cells. Molecular docking simulations further revealed strong binding affinities of flavonoid glycosides to cancer-related proteins, suggesting potential therapeutic mechanisms, though these findings are limited to preclinical models.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7284062/ – This systematic review comprehensively analyzed the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of *Stellaria media*. It identified approximately 50 bioactive metabolites, including various flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins, which are associated with anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity potential. The review highlights the plant's rich chemical diversity and its traditional uses, but notes that most supporting evidence comes from preclinical studies rather than human clinical trials.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/chickweed-benefits – This overview from Healthline summarizes the traditional uses of chickweed, including its purported benefits for weight loss, wound healing, and inflammation reduction. It emphasizes that while these traditional uses exist, the clinical evidence supporting them is limited and primarily derived from animal or in vitro studies. The article also touches upon potential safety concerns, such as gastrointestinal upset and possible allergic reactions, aligning with available scientific literature.