Pelargonium
Also known as: South African geranium, Umckaloabo, EPs 7630, Pelargonium sidoides
Overview
Pelargonium sidoides is a medicinal plant native to South Africa, traditionally used for respiratory tract infections. The primary extract studied is EPs 7630, a standardized root extract. It is mainly used for treating acute bronchitis and other upper respiratory tract infections. Key characteristics include antimicrobial, antiviral, and immunomodulatory properties. Research maturity is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, primarily focusing on respiratory conditions. The quality of evidence is generally good, with multiple RCTs and meta-analyses supporting efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Pelargonium sidoides extract (EPs 7630) has demonstrated significant benefits, primarily in the treatment of acute bronchitis. A meta-analysis of four placebo-controlled RCTs showed a significant reduction in bronchitis symptom scores by day 7 compared to placebo (p < 0.05). This includes improvements in cough, sputum production, and general well-being. Secondary effects include potential modulation of immune markers such as secretory IgA and cytokines (IL-6, IL-15) in nasal mucosa, suggesting immunomodulatory effects. The extract is effective and well-tolerated across various populations, including adults, children, and adolescents, as confirmed in clinical trials involving over 10,000 patients. The benefits are typically observed within 7 days of treatment initiation, with no serious adverse events reported in meta-analyses.
How it works
Pelargonium sidoides exerts its therapeutic effects through multiple mechanisms. It exhibits direct antimicrobial activity against various respiratory pathogens, including both bacteria and viruses, which helps combat the underlying cause of infections. Additionally, it possesses immunomodulatory properties, enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms. This includes the potential to increase mucosal immunity, possibly by boosting secretory IgA levels and modulating the production of cytokines like IL-6 and IL-15. The extract may also inhibit pathogen adhesion to host cells and replication, thereby reducing the spread and severity of infection. The active constituents are orally bioavailable, allowing for systemic effects.
Side effects
Pelargonium sidoides is generally considered safe with a favorable tolerability profile, confirmed in clinical trials involving thousands of patients. The most common side effects, reported in a minority of patients (up to 7.9%), are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or abdominal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include rare allergic reactions or mild skin reactions, though these are not prominent in trials. Serious adverse events are rare, with no such events reported in comprehensive meta-analyses. There are no significant drug interactions documented. Contraindications include known hypersensitivity to Pelargonium extracts. The extract is well-tolerated in special populations such as children and adolescents, making it a suitable option for a broad age range.
Dosage
For acute bronchitis, the typical dosage of Pelargonium sidoides extract (EPs 7630) used in clinical trials is 30 mg, taken three times daily, totaling 90 mg per day. The recommended duration of treatment is usually 7 days. There is no established maximum dose beyond what has been studied in clinical trial protocols; doses exceeding these ranges are not well documented for safety or efficacy. The extract is administered orally, and its bioavailability is considered adequate for achieving systemic effects. No specific cofactors are required to enhance its absorption, making it convenient for use.
FAQs
Is Pelargonium effective for acute bronchitis?
Yes, systematic reviews and meta-analyses support its efficacy in reducing symptoms of acute bronchitis within one week.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, clinical trials including children and adolescents have shown good safety and tolerability for Pelargonium sidoides extract.
When should it be taken?
It is typically taken three times daily, with or without food, for approximately 7 days, as per clinical trial protocols.
Are there serious side effects?
Serious adverse events are not reported in high-quality randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, indicating a favorable safety profile.
Does it replace antibiotics?
Pelargonium sidoides is used for viral or non-bacterial bronchitis; it does not replace antibiotics when a bacterial infection is confirmed.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18222667/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 6 RCTs found that EPs 7630 significantly reduced bronchitis symptoms compared to placebo, with no serious adverse events. It highlights the efficacy and safety of the extract for acute bronchitis in adults.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.666546/full – This review of clinical trials and safety data involving over 10,000 patients confirmed the efficacy and favorable safety profile of EPs 7630 across adults, children, and adolescents. It noted mild gastrointestinal adverse events as the most common side effect.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK75219/ – This source provides general information on Pelargonium sidoides, supporting its traditional use and modern research findings. It contributes to the understanding of its mechanisms and clinical applications, aligning with the overall safety and efficacy profile.
