Ferula Gummosa (Ferula gummosa): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

How does Ferula gummosa work as an antispasmodic?

Ferula gummosa contains active compounds such as alpha-pinene and umbelliferone which contribute to its biological activity. Research suggests these monoterpenes exert antispasmodic effects by relaxing smooth muscle tissue, likely through calcium channel blockade or anticholinergic pathways. Additionally, the gum resin demonstrates anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting pro-inflammatory mediators. While the exact mechanism requires further study (Evidence Level C), traditional use supports its efficacy in soothing digestive and respiratory spasms.

Is Ferula gummosa safe to take during pregnancy?

No, Ferula gummosa is considered unsafe during pregnancy and is strictly contraindicated. The gum resin contains compounds that may stimulate uterine contractions, potentially leading to miscarriage or premature labor. Historical texts reference its use as an emmenagogue to stimulate menstrual flow. Consequently, pregnant women and those breastfeeding should avoid this herb entirely. It is also contraindicated for individuals with epilepsy or kidney disease due to potential toxicity risks (Evidence Level C/D).

What is the recommended dosage for Ferula gummosa resin?

The traditional adult dosage for Ferula gummosa resin is typically 2 to 4 grams daily. If using the essential oil, the recommended amount is 2 to 5 drops diluted in a carrier oil or water. It is crucial to start with the lowest effective dose to assess tolerance, as higher doses can cause nausea or digestive upset. Dosage should be determined by a qualified herbalist, particularly given the limited standardization of commercial products (Evidence Level Traditional).

Does Ferula gummosa interact with medications?

Currently, there is limited clinical data regarding specific drug interactions for Ferula gummosa. However, due to its potential effects on smooth muscle and the nervous system, caution is advised when combining it with antispasmodics or CNS depressants. Coumarin derivatives like umbelliferone are present, suggesting a theoretical risk of increased bleeding if taken with anticoagulants, though this is not well-documented. Patients should consult a healthcare provider before combining this herb with prescription medications (Evidence Level D).

What are the benefits of Ferula gummosa for respiratory conditions?

Ferula gummosa is traditionally used to support respiratory health by acting as an expectorant and antispasmodic. It helps clear mucus from the lungs and relieves spasms associated with coughs or asthma. The presence of alpha-pinene contributes to bronchodilation and anti-inflammatory effects. While these uses are well-documented in Persian medicine, clinical trials are limited, placing the evidence at Level C. It is often utilized for chronic bronchitis and persistent coughs.

PubMed-compiled information sheet

This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.

Compiled from 30 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b

Summary

Ferula gummosa, also known as Barijeh, is a medicinal plant native to Iran and Central Asia used traditionally for various ailments and currently studied for its anticancer and antimicrobial properties [PMID:27077815, PMID:30345231].

Background

Ferula gummosa Boiss. (Apiaceae) is an Iranian endemic plant that produces a valuable oleo-gum-resin known as galbanum, primarily concentrated in the roots [PMID:22568044, PMID:28687892, PMID:33458896].

Traditional uses

Traditionally used as an antiseptic, anti-flatulent, anti-seizure agent, anti-spasm, pain killer, inflammation reliever, memory enhancement tonic, and for wound healing [PMID:27077815, PMID:36894108].

Active compounds

The resin's dominant compound is β-amyrin (triterpene), while essential oils contain α-pinene, β-pinene (monoterpenes), α-eudesmol, and germacrene-D (sesquiterpenes) [PMID:28687892]. Other identified components include cauferoside and various pyrazines [PMID:42306573, PMID:19173603].

Mechanism of action

In vitro anticancer activity is associated with the induction of apoptosis via ROS mechanisms, upregulation of the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and p53 genes, and cell cycle arrest at the G1/S phase [PMID:36386486, PMID:29208170, PMID:25142312].

Clinical evidence

Evidence BCOVID-19

Topical galbanum oil combined with dry cupping significantly increased SpO2 levels and reduced fever, cough, and dyspnea compared to standard therapy alone [PMID:37663385]

Evidence DVarious Cancers (In Vitro)

Extracts and gum demonstrated cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effects against glioblastoma (U87), leukemic (NB4, HL-60), breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7), cervical (HeLa), prostate (PC-3), and colorectal (SW-480) cell lines [PMID:36386486, PMID:29208170, PMID:38683376, PMID:30345231, PMID:37655001, PMID:37565477]

Evidence DBacterial Infections (In Vitro)

Extracts and essential oils showed significant antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa, ESBL-producing Acinetobacter, and Streptococcus mutans [PMID:29701161, PMID:28210466, PMID:40843121]

Safety & adverse effects

Sub-chronic oral administration of hydroalcoholic root extract (100-600 mg/kg) in rats showed no lethality, adverse toxic signs, or significant changes in hematology and serum biochemistry [PMID:26893240].

Pregnancy & lactation

In rat studies, doses of 150 and 700 mg/kg during pregnancy had no significant effect on pregnancy duration or maternal weight, though 700 mg/kg decreased pup birthweight; no significant adverse effects were noted during lactation [PMID:28678536].

Evidence summary

Evidence is primarily based on in vitro cell studies and animal models (Level D), with one randomized clinical trial (Level B) regarding COVID-19 adjunctive therapy.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 27077815 (2016) — Ferula gummosa, a Traditional Medicine with Novel Applications. · Journal of dietary supplements
2.PMID: 36386486 (2022) — Ferula gummosa gum exerts cytotoxic effects against human malignant glioblastoma multiforme in vitro. · Research in pharmaceutical sciences
3.PMID: 29208170 (2017) — Ferula gummosa gum induces apoptosis via ROS mechanism in human leukemic cells. · Cellular and molecular biology (Noisy-le-Grand, France)
4.PMID: 38683376 (2024) — Cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of Ferula gummosa Boiss: extract on human breast adenocarcinoma cell line. · Molecular biology reports
5.PMID: 33458896 (2021) — Metabolic differences of two Ferula species as potential sources of galbanum: An NMR-based metabolomics study. · Phytochemical analysis : PCA

Ferula Gummosa

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Ferula Gummosa