Silverweed vs Potentilla anserina

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Silverweed

Potentilla anserina

Womens Health

Argentina anserina

Womens Health

Silverweed

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Potentilla anserina

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

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

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

Active Compounds

tannins, flavonoids, ellagic acid, phenolic acids, zinc

tormentoside, tannins, flavonoids, linoleic acid

Traditional Uses

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

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

Modern Uses

Antispasmodic, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Wound healing

Antispasmodic effects, Astringent, Anti-inflammatory

Adult Dosage

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

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

Contraindications

Pregnancy in large doses, Constipation

Constipation, Pregnancy in high doses

Side Effects

Constipation with overuse, GI irritation in excess

Constipation in excess

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E