Agrimony
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
Agrimony was one of the most famous vulnerary herbs with anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. The tannin content is responsible for many of its medicinal uses. The dried leaves can be used to make tea for drinking or as a throat gargle. Data from in vitro and animal studies suggest that agrimony may be useful against certain bacterial and viral infections, for tumor growth inhibition, diabetes, and hypertension. Available clinical trials looked at its use in treating certain skin and gastrointestinal disorders. More human studies are needed to confirm these findings and other reported used for agrimony.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Gastrointestinal disorders C
Skin disorders C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Summary:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to agrimony or its related species. When used as recommended, agrimony is considered to be safe. Avoid with bleeding disorders, kidney or liver disease or diabetes. Use cautiously with drugs that lower blood pressure.

Possible side effects:
Skin sensitivity to sunlight, skin discoloration (cyanosis), cell/tissue death (necrosis), low blood pressure, upset stomach, cancer of the esophagus, liver damage, nausea, kidney damage, increased risk of bleeding.

Possible interactions:
Drugs that increase the risk of bleeding (blood thinners) like warfarin (like Coumadin®), diabetic drugs like insulin, drugs that affect blood pressure, drugs that contain estrogen, drugs that treat kidney disease, and herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
Liquid extract (1:1 in 25% alcohol): 1-3mL has been used three times daily.
Tincture (1:5 in 45% alcohol): 1-4mL has been used three times daily. 3-5mL has been used every 2-3 hours for mild symptoms.
Agrimony leaf: 1 cup or 3-5mL of tincture has been used every 2-3 hours; then decreased as symptoms decrease.
Tea: 1 teaspoon has been used in 8 ounces of water every 2-3 hours for acute symptoms.
Dried herb: 2-4 grams has been used by infusion (injected) three times daily. A typical dose of agrimony is three grams daily.
Poultice (medical dressing): A poultice is typically applied several times daily using approximately 10% water extract, which is prepared by boiling agrimony at low heat for 10-20 minutes.

Children:
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.