Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alantolactone is a sesquiterpene lactone primarily derived from the roots of Inula helenium (elecampane). Its use against parasites is largely based on traditional herbal medicine practices, especially in European and Asian phytotherapy. Historically, preparations from elecampane root have been used to expel intestinal worms and treat various parasitic infections, reflecting a longstanding folk reputation as an anthelmintic. However, scientific validation of alantolactone’s antiparasitic efficacy in humans is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that alantolactone exhibits activity against certain parasites, such as Leishmania species and Schistosoma mansoni, likely due to its ability to disrupt parasite membranes and induce oxidative stress. Still, these findings have not been robustly confirmed in clinical trials, and no standardized dosing or safety data exist for antiparasitic use in humans. The bulk of support for alantolactone as an antiparasitic thus derives from historical and traditional usage rather than rigorous scientific evidence, resulting in a low but non-zero evidence rating.

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