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Wood Betony Aerial Parts Extract

Also known as: Stachys officinalis, Betonica officinalis, Wood Betony, Betony

Overview

Wood Betony, scientifically known as *Stachys officinalis*, is a perennial herb native to Europe and cultivated in temperate regions. The aerial parts (leaves and flowers) are primarily used for medicinal purposes. Traditionally, it has been used for anxiety, nerve pain, heartburn, gastritis, and sinusitis, as well as an anti-inflammatory agent. The herb contains tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, volatile oils, phenylethanoid glycosides, and various acids such as caffeic, chlorogenic, and rosmarinic acids. Research on Wood Betony is limited, with most evidence based on traditional use and in vitro or animal studies. The quality of available evidence is moderate, with a lack of high-quality human clinical trials and systematic reviews. It is available in forms such as tea, tincture, and liquid extract.

Benefits

Wood Betony has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in preclinical studies. Extracts of the aerial parts have shown anti-inflammatory activity in animal models, such as the carrageenan paw edema model in rats. In vitro assays have demonstrated significant antioxidant properties, including DPPH and ABTS+ radical scavenging. Additionally, in vitro studies suggest antifungal efficacy against fungi like *Aspergillus* and *Candida albicans*, and antimicrobial activity against gram-positive bacteria. Traditional use supports its role in calming nervous disorders and gastrointestinal issues, though this is not well-supported by modern clinical evidence. Due to the lack of human clinical trials, effect sizes and clinical significance are not well-defined.

How it works

The mechanism of action of Wood Betony is attributed to its active constituents, including tannins, alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolic acids. These compounds may contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities. It may interact with the nervous system to provide calming effects and with the gastrointestinal system to alleviate symptoms of heartburn and gastritis. The phenolic compounds, such as chlorogenic acid and phenylethanoid glycosides, are known to scavenge free radicals and may inhibit inflammatory pathways. However, there is limited information on the absorption and bioavailability of Wood Betony's active compounds in humans.

Side effects

Wood Betony is generally considered safe, with few reports of toxicity, though long-term safety data is lacking. The most commonly reported side effect is mild gastrointestinal upset. No specific uncommon or rare side effects are well-documented. No significant drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised due to the lack of comprehensive studies. Safety in pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally unknown, and caution is advised for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the lack of safety data. It is important to note that while traditionally used for various conditions, modern clinical evidence supporting these uses is limited.

Dosage

Due to the lack of comprehensive safety and efficacy studies, specific dosage guidelines for Wood Betony are not well-established. Traditional use involves steeping 1 to 2 tsp of dried leaf and flower in a cup of water for 15 minutes, taken 1-2 times a day. Aerial wood betony tea at a dose of 5 g per 100 mL, 3 times daily, has been suggested for some conditions like PCOS, but this is not universally established. It is best taken between meals to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Wood Betony is available as tea, tincture, or liquid extract. The maximum safe dose is not defined due to the lack of comprehensive safety studies.

FAQs

How should I prepare Wood Betony?

Steep 1-2 tsp of dried leaf and flower in a cup of water for 15 minutes. It is best taken between meals to avoid gastrointestinal upset.

Is Wood Betony safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Use with caution during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to unknown safety. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.

How often should I take Wood Betony?

Traditionally, it is taken 1-2 times a day. However, consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.

What are the expected benefits of Wood Betony?

Traditional use suggests benefits for anxiety, nerve pain, and gastrointestinal issues, but modern clinical evidence is lacking. Results may vary.

Is Wood Betony a cure-all for all diseases?

No, it is not a panacea. Its efficacy for many conditions is not supported by modern clinical evidence. It should not be considered a substitute for conventional medical treatment.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/26/8/2359 – This URL links to a study about the phytochemistry and bioactivity of Stachys species. While not specific to Stachys officinalis, it provides context on the potential bioactive compounds present in the Stachys genus, which may contribute to the observed effects of Wood Betony.
https://www.peacehealth.org/medical-topics/id/hn-3662000 – This resource provides general information about Wood Betony, including its traditional uses and potential benefits. It serves as a reference for understanding the historical context and applications of the herb, though it may not contain detailed scientific evidence.
https://www.herb-pharm.com/products/wood-betony – This is a product page for a Wood Betony supplement. It may provide information on the sourcing and preparation of Wood Betony extracts, but it is not a primary research source.
https://graz.elsevierpure.com/en/publications/antioxidant-properties-and-phenolic-composition-of-wood-betony-be – This study examined the antioxidant properties of Wood Betony extracts. The study found that the extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, with the methanol extract being a stronger radical scavenger in DPPH and ABTS+ assays, suggesting potential health benefits related to oxidative stress.
https://www.drugs.com/npp/betony.html – This resource provides a comprehensive review of the traditional use and chemical composition of Wood Betony. It highlights the various compounds present in the plant and their potential biological activities, while also noting the lack of modern clinical evidence to support many traditional uses.