Astrantia major vs Water Avens

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Astrantia major

Digestive

Geum rivale

Digestive

Astrantia major

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Water Avens

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

European mountain Apiaceae used in folk medicine for digestive and respiratory conditions.

Woodland and wetland perennial; roots used in European folk medicine for digestive and fever conditions; pleasant chocolate flavor.

Active Compounds

astrangin, saponins, tannins, flavonoids

tannins, eugenol, flavonoids, gein, phenolic acids

Traditional Uses

Digestive conditions in European folk medicine, Respiratory complaints, Wound healing

Digestive conditions in European folk medicine, Fever reduction, Wound healing, Used as chocolate substitute (chocolate avens)

Modern Uses

Anti-inflammatory effects, Digestive tonic, Antimicrobial

Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antispasmodic

Adult Dosage

2-4 g dried root as tea

2–3 g root as decoction; 1–2 mL tincture

Contraindications

Pregnancy in high doses

Pregnancy in large doses, Constipation

Side Effects

Mild GI upset

GI irritation in excess, Constipation with overuse

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E