Journal article
Traditionelle Nutzung von Arzneimitteln aus Rhodiola rosea (Rosenwurz)
Zeitschrift für Phytotherapie, Vol.42(6), pp.280-291
12/2021
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Abstract
Background:
Herbal remedies are traditionally used very frequently in Germany. Their use is based on centuries of experience and knowledge. However, historical sources are often disregarded in the scientific investigation of herbal medicines. The aim of the present narrative review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the integrated state of research on the medicinal plant Rhodiola rosea (rose root) as an example. Therefore, historical literature on the traditional use of R. rosea was analyzed from both a scientific and historical perspective and presented in a descriptive summary.
Summary:
A total of 15 historical sources with information on the traditional use of rose root were identified. However, the historical sources available are limited. The first record of R. rosea for medical use goes back to Dioscorides in ancient times. Many of the subsequent sources refer directly to Dioscorides' descriptions of R. rosea. All identified sources on R. rosea describe its use for headache. Furthermore, an application for tumors, period pains, liver complaints, “dropsy”, “hysteria”, as well as a nerve strengthening effect is described, which can be found in modern study results as well. However, the current medical use of R. rosea as an adaptogen with its stress-protective effects is not described to this degree in historical sources. In contrast to today's use in the form of capsules, tablets or drops, the traditional application was mainly external in the form of ointments, pastes or wraps. Unfortunately, little or no information can be obtained on concrete application modalities from the available sources. Further systematic research of historical sources from Northern and Eastern Europe may present a valuable resource for additional information due to the occurrence of the plant in predominantly circumpolar and alpine regions.
Key message:
Historical sources on traditional medicinal methods represent an important source of information for today’s science, which can contribute to substantiate today's well-established medicinal use and also offer valuable indications for new research directions.
Details
- Title
- Traditionelle Nutzung von Arzneimitteln aus Rhodiola rosea (Rosenwurz)
- Creators
- Dennis Anheyer - University of Duisburg-EssenMarleen Schröter - University of Duisburg-EssenGustav Dobos - University of Duisburg-EssenHolger Cramer - University of Duisburg-Essen
- Publication Details
- Zeitschrift für Phytotherapie, Vol.42(6), pp.280-291
- Publisher
- Georg Thieme Verlag
- Identifiers
- 991013036327702368
- Copyright
- © 2021. Thieme. All rights reserved.
- Academic Unit
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine
- Language
- German
- Resource Type
- Journal article