Potentilla anserina vs Silverweed

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Potentilla anserina

Argentina anserina

Womens Health

Potentilla anserina

Womens Health

Potentilla anserina

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Silverweed

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Description

Widespread Potentilla used for menstrual cramps, diarrhea, and wound healing across multiple cultures.

Creeping perennial of damp ground worldwide; leaves used in European and Native American folk medicine for menstrual cramps and diarrhea.

Active Compounds

tormentoside, tannins, flavonoids, linoleic acid

tannins, flavonoids, ellagic acid, phenolic acids, zinc

Traditional Uses

Menstrual cramps in European folk medicine, Diarrhea treatment, Wound healing, Throat conditions

Menstrual cramps in European folk medicine, Diarrhea and dysentery, Wound healing, Used by Cree and other Indigenous peoples

Modern Uses

Antispasmodic effects, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory

Antispasmodic, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Wound healing

Adult Dosage

3-6 g dried herb as tea; 2-3 ml tincture

2–4 g dried herb as tea; 2–3 mL tincture 3x daily

Contraindications

Constipation, Pregnancy in high doses

Pregnancy in large doses, Constipation

Side Effects

Constipation in excess

Constipation with overuse, GI irritation in excess

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E