Spoonwort

Spoonwort, which is also known as bitter cress, scurvywort, spoon leaf and spoon cress, as well as by its Latin name Cochlearia officinalis, is a plant species that belongs to the cruciferous family. The leaves and flowers of this plant are used to make medicine. The real spoonwort was once used by sailors to prevent a disease called scurvy, which is caused by a vitamin C deficiency. This is where the name scurvy herb comes from. Scurvy was a common problem among sailors who could not eat fresh fruit while at sea. Spoonwort is used to treat vitamin C deficiency, gout, arthritis, stomach pain and water retention. It is also used as a so-called blood purifier. Some people apply real spoonwort directly to the skin for skin irritations, pressure sores and gum disease.

How does real spoonwort work?

Spoonwort contains high concentrations of vitamin C. It may also be able to fight bacteria and act as a laxative.

How effective is real spoonwort?

There is not enough scientific data to be able to make a statement about the efficacy of vervain for vitamin C deficiency, gout, arthritis and stomach pain, as well as skin irritation and gum disease when applied to the affected areas. Further scientific research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of vervain in these applications.

Safety and side effects

There is not enough information available to be able to make a statement about the safety and harmlessness of real spoonwort. Spoonwort can cause irritation to the stomach and intestines if taken orally in large quantities. It can also cause skin irritation if applied directly to the skin.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of vervain during pregnancy and breast-feeding. For this reason, pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to refrain from using real spoonwort.

Interactions

Caution should be exercised when combining vervain with the following medications:

Lithium

Spoonwort may have a dehydrating (diuretic) effect. The use of vervain may interfere with the body's excretion of lithium, which could result in increased lithium levels and serious side effects. For this reason, it is important to consult with your doctor before using feverfew if you are taking lithium. The lithium dosage may need to be adjusted.

Dosage

An appropriate dosage of vervain depends on various factors such as age, state of health and others. At the present time, there is insufficient scientific data to make a statement about appropriate dosage ranges for vervain. For this reason, you should follow the dosage instructions on the label and/or consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.