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Lomatium Root Extract

Also known as: Lomatium Root Extract, Biscuitroot, Desert parsley, Indian celery, Lomatium dissectum

Overview

Lomatium dissectum is a perennial plant native to western North America, traditionally utilized by Indigenous peoples for its purported medicinal properties, particularly for respiratory and viral illnesses. The root extract is a common herbal supplement primarily employed for its suggested antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, especially against influenza and other respiratory viral infections. While its traditional use is extensive, scientific research on Lomatium dissectum is limited, consisting mainly of in vitro studies, ethnobotanical reports, and case studies. There is a notable absence of large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs), systematic reviews, or meta-analyses, indicating a low to moderate quality of evidence for its efficacy. Despite this, it remains a popular choice in herbal medicine for its broad-spectrum antiviral potential.

Benefits

The primary suggested benefit of Lomatium dissectum is its antiviral activity, particularly against influenza and other respiratory viruses. This is supported by ethnobotanical use and some in vitro data. One study indicates that *L. dissectum* extract may inhibit the secretion of CXCL10, a chemokine linked to poor prognosis in influenza infections, suggesting a plausible antiviral mechanism. Secondary benefits include potential anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to symptom relief during viral infections. Traditionally, it has been used in Indigenous populations for respiratory ailments, with anecdotal evidence suggesting early administration during viral illness is most effective. However, the strength of evidence for these benefits is low to moderate due to a lack of high-quality clinical trials, such as large randomized controlled trials, making it difficult to establish effect sizes or clinical significance.

How it works

Lomatium dissectum extract is believed to exert its effects primarily through its potential antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. The most studied mechanism involves the inhibition of CXCL10 secretion. CXCL10 is a chemokine that plays a role in the inflammatory response during influenza infection, and its inhibition by Lomatium extract could potentially reduce morbidity associated with the infection. While this suggests a plausible antiviral pathway, other molecular targets and specific mechanisms of action are not yet well characterized. The bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of Lomatium dissectum in humans have also not been extensively studied, meaning how it is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the body is not fully understood.

Side effects

Lomatium dissectum is generally considered relatively safe, but it can cause adverse reactions, most notably a distinctive and sometimes severe rash. This rash has been reported in multiple case reports, with some instances being refractory and only resolving after discontinuation of the extract. The rash may also be accompanied by pruritus (itching). Other significant adverse effects are not well-documented in peer-reviewed literature. Drug interactions with Lomatium dissectum are not well studied, so caution is advised, especially when combining it with other medications. Contraindications include individuals with known hypersensitivity to plants in the Apiaceae family (which includes parsley, carrots, and celery) or those with a history of developing a rash after using Lomatium. The safety of Lomatium dissectum in special populations such as pregnant women, children, or immunocompromised patients is currently unknown due to a lack of research.

Dosage

There is no standardized dosing established for Lomatium dissectum due to the lack of comprehensive clinical trials. Traditional dosing, as reported in some case reports, suggests approximately six drops orally five times daily. However, there is no established minimum effective dose or maximum safe dose derived from clinical research. For optimal potential benefit, traditional use suggests early administration during the onset of viral illness. Lomatium dissectum is typically available as liquid tinctures, though seed powders are also available but have been less studied. Information regarding its absorption rates or cofactors that might influence its efficacy is currently unavailable.

FAQs

Is Lomatium safe?

Lomatium is generally considered safe, but it can cause a distinctive rash that may be severe and requires discontinuation of the supplement. Other significant side effects are rare.

When should it be taken?

Traditional use suggests that Lomatium is most effective when taken early in the course of a viral respiratory illness to maximize its potential benefits.

What results can be expected?

Anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies suggest potential symptom relief and possible reduction in viral morbidity, but high-quality clinical evidence is lacking to confirm these effects.

Is it effective against COVID-19?

There is no high-quality evidence to support the use of Lomatium for COVID-19. One case report noted a rash as an adverse event with prophylactic use for COVID-19.

Can it replace conventional antiviral treatment?

No, Lomatium should not replace evidence-based conventional antiviral therapies. It is an herbal supplement with limited clinical research.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5962321/ – This case report details a patient who developed a rash after using Lomatium dissectum extract for influenza. The rash resolved upon discontinuation of the extract, highlighting a known adverse effect of the supplement.
https://klamathsiskiyouseeds.com/2020/03/25/the-power-of-lomatium/ – This source discusses the ethnobotanical use of Lomatium dissectum and provides insights into its traditional application, including its potential to inhibit CXCL10 secretion, suggesting a plausible antiviral mechanism. It emphasizes the importance of early administration during viral illness.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7661918/ – This case report describes a patient who developed a rash after using Lomatium for COVID-19 prophylaxis. It serves as an example of the potential adverse skin reactions associated with Lomatium use, even in a prophylactic context.