Cinquefoil
Other names for Cinquefoil
certified organic tormentilla (potentilla erecta) dried root liquid extract
cinquefoil
cinquefoil glycerite liquid extract
cinquefoil herb extract, dry
cinquefoil, powder
golden cinquefoil
potentilla erecta root extract, dry
tormentilla root extract, dry
wildcrafted cinquefoil extract
wildcrafted cinquefoil (potentilla reptans) dried herb liquid extract
wild harvested cinquefoil extract
Synopsis of Cinquefoil
History
Cinquefoil (Potentilla spp.), a member of the rose family, has a rich history in traditional medicine across Europe, Asia, and North America. Its name—derived from the French for "five leaves"—reflects the characteristic foliage, but it is the plant’s roots, leaves, and flowers that have been prized for their healing properties since antiquity. In medieval Europe, cinquefoil was widely celebrated for its astringent qualities; herbalists used it to treat digestive disturbances such as diarrhea, dysentery, and gastrointestinal inflammation. Poultices made from cinquefoil leaves were commonly applied to wounds, ulcers, and sore throats, leveraging its reputed ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Throughout centuries, cinquefoil was also valued for its antispasmodic and febrifuge effects—helping to ease cramps, fevers, and even toothaches. Folk healers often recommended it as a soothing remedy for mouth ulcers and as a gargle for sore throats. In the British Isles, cinquefoil tea was a household staple, used to relieve menstrual discomfort and mild pain. The plant’s gentle, yet effective nature made it a trusted remedy for children and adults alike.
In modern herbalism, cinquefoil is often combined with other botanicals such as chamomile, sage, and yarrow to enhance its soothing and restorative effects. These combinations are thought to create synergistic blends that support digestive health, enhance relaxation, and bolster the body’s natural defenses. Overall, cinquefoil stands as a testament to the enduring power of traditional herbal remedies, offering gentle yet effective support for a variety of common ailments.
Traditional and scientific validation
Cinquefoil, a common name for several species in the genus Potentilla, has a rich history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly across Europe and Asia. Historically, cinquefoil was valued for its purported astringent, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. It was commonly used in teas, tinctures, and topical preparations to address digestive disturbances, sore throats, and skin irritations.
Modern scientific validation for cinquefoil’s health benefits is still emerging. Preliminary laboratory studies have identified a number of bioactive compounds in cinquefoil, including flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids, which may contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest potential antimicrobial and hepatoprotective effects, though these findings have not yet been robustly confirmed in human trials.
Clinical research on cinquefoil is limited. A few small-scale studies have explored its use in alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort and mild inflammation, with some promising results. However, larger and more rigorous clinical trials are required to substantiate these effects and determine optimal dosing and safety profiles.
Overall, while historical use and preliminary scientific findings support the potential contributions of cinquefoil as a natural ingredient in nutritional products, more comprehensive research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety in humans. Its traditional reputation, combined with emerging scientific interest, makes cinquefoil a promising botanical for further study and application in health and wellness products.
Cinquefoil is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Abrasions (Traditional)
Abscesses (Traditional)
Afterbirth Pain (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Blisters (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Eye Infections (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Gonorrhea (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Infection (bacterial) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Injuries (Traditional)
Itching (Traditional)
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen) (Traditional)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
Nausea and Vomiting (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Parasites (general) (Traditional)
Phlebitis (Traditional)
Cinquefoil is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
