Scleranthus annuus
Also known as: Scleranthus annuus, Annual knawel, German knotweed
Overview
*Scleranthus annuus*, commonly known as annual knawel, is a small, mat-forming annual herb native to Europe. It belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family and is typically found in open, sandy soils and disturbed habitats. While not a traditional dietary supplement, it is sometimes used in homeopathic preparations. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence supporting its use for any health benefits. The plant is characterized by its prostrate growth, narrow leaves, and inconspicuous green flowers. Current research is limited to ecological and botanical studies, with no clinical trials evaluating its effects on human health. Therefore, its role and efficacy as a supplement remain unverified.
Benefits
Currently, there is no scientific evidence to support any health benefits associated with *Scleranthus annuus* supplementation in humans. No peer-reviewed, high-quality clinical trials (RCTs, systematic reviews, or meta-analyses) have demonstrated any significant positive effects. Therefore, no specific benefits can be attributed to its use, and no population-specific benefits have been identified. Claims of benefits are not substantiated by current scientific literature.
How it works
The mechanism of action of *Scleranthus annuus* in humans is currently unknown. There are no peer-reviewed studies that elucidate the biological pathways or interactions with body systems relevant to supplementation. No molecular targets have been identified, and there is no data available regarding its absorption or bioavailability in the human body. Therefore, how it might exert any potential effects remains speculative.
Side effects
Due to the lack of clinical data on *Scleranthus annuus* supplementation in humans, the safety profile is not well-established. No common, uncommon, or rare side effects have been reported, but this is primarily due to the absence of research rather than demonstrated safety. No drug interactions or contraindications have been documented. There is also no data available for special populations such as pregnant, lactating, or pediatric individuals. Therefore, caution is advised, and potential users should be aware of the unknown safety profile.
Dosage
There are no established dosing guidelines for *Scleranthus annuus* due to the lack of clinical research. The minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose have not been determined. There are no timing considerations or form-specific recommendations available. Absorption factors and required cofactors have not been identified. Therefore, any use of *Scleranthus annuus* as a supplement should be approached with caution, given the absence of scientific guidance on appropriate dosage.
FAQs
Is *Scleranthus annuus* safe to use as a supplement?
The safety of *Scleranthus annuus* as a supplement is not established due to a lack of clinical data. Caution is advised, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
What are the benefits of taking *Scleranthus annuus*?
There is no scientific evidence to support any health benefits from taking *Scleranthus annuus*. Claims of benefits are not substantiated by current research.
How should I take *Scleranthus annuus*?
There are no established dosing guidelines. Due to the lack of research, there is no recommended way to take *Scleranthus annuus*.
Can *Scleranthus annuus* interact with my medications?
No drug interactions have been documented, but this is due to the lack of research. Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
Research Sources
- https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/knawel-scleranthus-annuus – This resource from Michigan State University Extension provides information on identifying and managing Knawel (*Scleranthus annuus*) as a weed. It details its characteristics, growth habits, and control methods in agricultural settings, focusing on its ecological impact rather than its use as a supplement.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2073-4395/12/8/1808 – This study identifies *Scleranthus annuus* as one of the most frequent weed species in certain agricultural settings. The research focuses on weed infestation and management strategies, providing no data related to the plant's potential health benefits or use as a dietary supplement.
- https://naturebftb.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Annual-Knawel.pdf – This document offers a botanical description of Annual Knawel (*Scleranthus annuus*), detailing its morphology, habitat, and ecological role. It serves as a guide for identifying the plant in its natural environment but does not provide any information on its potential uses or effects on human health.
- https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/pdf/10.5555/20153340292 – This entry in the CABI Digital Library discusses *Scleranthus annuus* as a weed, focusing on its distribution and impact on agriculture. It provides information on its biology and ecology but does not address any potential uses or benefits related to human health or supplementation.
- https://www.habitas.org.uk/priority/species.asp?item=4587 – This page from Habitas provides ecological information about *Scleranthus annuus*, including its habitat and distribution in the UK. It focuses on the plant's conservation status and ecological role, with no mention of its potential use as a dietary supplement or its effects on human health.