Wood Anemone vs Saussurea Obvallata

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Wood Anemone

Anemone nemorosa

Anti-inflammatory

Saussurea obvallata

Anti-inflammatory

Wood Anemone

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Saussurea Obvallata

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

A delicate European woodland flower used historically for headaches and rheumatism, now primarily homeopathic.

Rare and sacred alpine thistle of the Himalayas used in Tibetan and Ayurvedic medicine for anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and tonic properties.

Active Compounds

Protoanemonin, Anemonin, Ranunculin, Tannins

cynaropicrin, chlorogenic acid, luteolin, quercetin, sesquiterpene lactones

Traditional Uses

Headaches, Rheumatism, Menstrual cramps, Eye conditions

inflammation, pain, menstrual disorders, rheumatism, tonic

Modern Uses

Historically used; now primarily in homeopathy. Fresh plant is irritant.

anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antispasmodic, tonic

Adult Dosage

Homeopathic preparations only — fresh plant too irritant for herbal use

3–5g plant decoction or 200mg extract daily

Contraindications

Pregnancy, GI inflammation, Fresh plant contact

pregnancy, allergy to Asteraceae, protected species concern

Side Effects

Skin blistering (fresh), GI irritation, Kidney damage (internal)

mild nausea, allergic reactions

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

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

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E