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Gravel Root

Also known as: Gravel root, Joe Pye weed, Eupatorium purpureum

Overview

Gravel root, scientifically known as *Eupatorium purpureum*, is a plant native to North America. The rhizome of this plant has been traditionally used in herbal medicine, primarily for addressing urinary tract issues such as kidney stones, bladder infections, and painful urination. However, it's crucial to note that gravel root contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which are hepatotoxic compounds. These PAs pose significant health risks, including potential liver damage and, in some cases, cancer or birth defects. Due to these safety concerns, the use of gravel root is generally discouraged unless it can be certified as free of PAs. Research on gravel root is limited, with most evidence being anecdotal or based on in vitro studies. The quality of available evidence is low, and there is a lack of clinical trials to support its traditional uses.

Benefits

Limited evidence supports the traditional uses of gravel root. One study identified anti-inflammatory activity of cistifolin, a compound found in gravel root, in in vitro and in vivo models. Specifically, cistifolin may inhibit integrin-mediated leucocyte adhesions, potentially contributing to anti-inflammatory effects. However, the clinical significance of these findings is not yet established due to the absence of human trials. The primary concern with gravel root is the presence of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which outweigh any potential benefits. Therefore, caution is advised, and alternative treatments with better safety profiles should be considered.

How it works

The mechanism of action for gravel root's purported benefits is not well-defined. One identified compound, cistifolin, may exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting integrin-mediated leucocyte adhesions, specifically targeting integrins like LFA-1 and Mac-1. However, the primary concern is the presence of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). These compounds can cause liver damage and potentially lead to more severe health issues. The absorption and bioavailability of gravel root's active compounds are not well-studied, and the interaction with various body systems is not fully understood beyond the known liver toxicity associated with PAs.

Side effects

Gravel root poses significant safety concerns due to the presence of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). These compounds can cause liver damage, ranging from mild inflammation to severe liver failure. Long-term exposure to PAs may increase the risk of liver cancer. Additionally, PAs are known to cause birth defects, making gravel root contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Drug interactions may occur, particularly with lithium and CYP3A4 inducers. Individuals with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family should avoid gravel root. Due to these risks, gravel root should be used with extreme caution, if at all, and only if certified PA-free.

Dosage

Due to safety concerns related to hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), a safe and effective dosage for gravel root has not been established. The maximum safe dose is undetermined, and its use is generally discouraged unless it can be certified as PA-free. There are no established guidelines for timing or form-specific recommendations. Given the potential for liver damage and other adverse effects, it is crucial to avoid using gravel root without professional guidance and assurance of PA-free certification. Alternative treatments with better-defined safety profiles should be considered.

FAQs

Is gravel root safe to use?

Gravel root is likely unsafe due to the presence of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can cause liver damage and other health issues. It should only be considered if certified PA-free.

What are the expected benefits of using gravel root?

There are no clearly established benefits of using gravel root. While traditionally used for urinary issues, the risks associated with PAs outweigh any potential benefits.

Can gravel root be used during pregnancy?

No, gravel root is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects associated with pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs).

Are there any drug interactions with gravel root?

Gravel root may interact with certain medications, including lithium and CYP3A4 inducers. Consult with a healthcare professional before using gravel root if you are taking any medications.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33196371/ – This study investigates the anti-inflammatory properties of cistifolin, a compound isolated from *Eupatorium purpureum* (gravel root). The research demonstrates that cistifolin exhibits anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting integrin-mediated leucocyte adhesions in both in vitro and in vivo models, suggesting a potential mechanism for its traditional use as an anti-inflammatory agent. However, further clinical trials are needed to validate these findings in humans.
https://wlv.openrepository.com/bitstream/handle/2436/625596/Beyond%20Futures%202024%20-%20Research%20Student%20Conference%20Proceedings-Final.pdf;jsessionid=F099397A41ED2D10176918CD3F123055?sequence=2 – This document is a research student conference proceeding. While it may contain information related to herbal remedies, its reliability as a primary research source is limited. Further investigation into specific studies cited within the proceedings would be necessary to assess the validity of any claims related to gravel root.
https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/gravel_root.htm – RxList provides information on gravel root, highlighting its traditional use for urinary tract issues. It also emphasizes the safety concerns associated with pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) present in the plant, which can cause liver damage. The resource serves as a general reference but lacks in-depth scientific analysis.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11746861/ – This study investigates the presence and effects of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) in various plant species. It highlights the hepatotoxic nature of PAs and the potential risks associated with consuming plants containing these compounds. The research underscores the importance of assessing PA content in herbal remedies like gravel root to ensure consumer safety.