Pansy - How does it Work?
8 November 2008Taxonomic class
Violaceae
Common Trade Names
None known.
Common Forms
Available as an extract.
Source
Active components are obtained from the flowers of Viola tricolor.
Chemical Components
The stems and leaves contain flavonoids, salicylate derivatives, terpenes and triterpenes, carbohydrate derivatives, sterines, a polysaccharide, and magnesium tartrate. Vitamin F and other fatty acids have also been detected . Other compounds include violanthin, rutin, violaquercitrin, resin, saponin, gums, and mucilage.
Actions
Physiologic mechanisms of action are poorly described. Salicylates may be responsible for anti-inflammatory properties because of prostaglandin inhibition. Although not a major component of pansy, rutin has been shown to exert many pharmacologic effects, the most well known of which is its ability to affect capillary permeability. Herbs with high levels of rutin were thought to be useful for bleeding events. Other effects of rutin include inhibition of angiotensin II and prostaglandin E2.
Reported Uses
This agent is claimed to be useful in treating bronchitis, rheumatism, skin cancer, and whooping cough. One Hungarian study indicates its possible use in preventing heart spasms and as an anti-inflammatory .
Dosage
Dosage is 2 to 4 ml of tincture or tea P.O. t.i.d.
Adverse Reactions
GI: cathartic effects (seeds), diarrhea.
Interactions
Salicylates: Effects may be additive. Use cautiously.
Contraindications and Precautions
Avoid using pansy in pregnant or breast-feeding patients; effects are unKnown.
special Considerations
Monitor the patient for diarrhea.
Advise women to avoid using pansy during pregnancy or when breast- feeding.
Inform the patient that no clinical data support the use of this herb or any medical condition.
Commentary
Without clinical data supporting the use of pansy for medical purposes, it cannot be recommended.
Tagged under:angiotensin ii, breast feeding, bronchitis, capillary permeability, flavonoids, Herbal Medicines, pansy, skin cancer whooping cough
