Water Avens vs Astrantia major

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Water Avens

Geum rivale

Digestive

Digestive

Water Avens

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Astrantia major

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

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

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

Active Compounds

tannins, eugenol, flavonoids, gein, phenolic acids

astrangin, saponins, tannins, flavonoids

Traditional Uses

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

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

Modern Uses

Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antispasmodic

Anti-inflammatory effects, Digestive tonic, Antimicrobial

Adult Dosage

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

2-4 g dried root as tea

Contraindications

Pregnancy in large doses, Constipation

Pregnancy in high doses

Side Effects

GI irritation in excess, Constipation with overuse

Mild GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E