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 13 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b
Summary
Pulsatilla vulgaris is a perennial plant containing compounds such as protoanemonin and anemonin [PMID:29999784, PMID:32497949]. While it has been studied for potential cancer-inhibiting properties in vitro, the fresh plant is noted to be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes [PMID:29999784, PMID:36674653].
Background
Pulsatilla vulgaris (Pasque flower) is a member of the Ranunculaceae family and is considered a rare and endangered species in various regions, including Europe and Russia [PMID:29999784, PMID:41702734].
Traditional uses
In the Republic of Korea, a related species, Pulsatilla koreana, is used in herbal and folk medicine for analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and hemostatic effects [PMID:29166255]. Homeopathic preparations of pulsatilla are reportedly used for mastitis, sore nipples, and to modulate milk supply, though no scientifically valid clinical trials support these uses [PMID:29999784].
Active compounds
Pulsatilla species contain ranunculin, protoanemonin, anemonin, triterpene saponins, and flavonoids [PMID:29999784]. Protoanemonin is a characteristic constituent with antimicrobial and fungicidal properties [PMID:32497949].
Mechanism of action
In vitro studies using methanolic root extracts of P. vulgaris demonstrated inhibition of 12 signaling pathways in a cervical cancer cell line (including MYC, Notch, Wnt, E2F, Ets, Stat3, Smad, Hedgehog, AP-1, and NF-κB), which enhanced apoptotic death and deregulated cellular proliferation [PMID:36674653].
Clinical evidence
Evidence DCancer proliferation (HeLa cells)
Methanolic root extract inhibited 12 signaling pathways and enhanced apoptotic death in vitro [PMID:36674653]
Safety & adverse effects
The fresh plant is extremely irritating to the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and mucous membranes [PMID:29999784]. Allergic reactions have been reported [PMID:29999784]. Case reports involving Pulsatilla koreana indicate that incorrect use in herbal massages can result in cutaneous chemical burns [PMID:29166255].
Pregnancy & lactation
Homeopathic preparations are reportedly used for lactation issues, but there is a lack of information and no scientifically valid clinical trials to support these uses; other agents may be preferred in nursing mothers [PMID:29999784].
Evidence summary
The available evidence is primarily based on phytochemical analysis, in vitro cell studies, and case reports of toxicity. There are no high-level clinical trials (RCTs or systematic reviews) supporting the therapeutic efficacy of Pulsatilla vulgaris in humans.
PubMed sources
- 1.PMID: 29999784 (2006) — Conservation of the Threatened Species, Pulsatilla vulgaris Mill. (Pasqueflower), is Aided by Reproductive System and Polyploidy. · The Journal of heredity
- 2.PMID: 29166255 (2017) — Chemical Burns Following Massage With Chopped Pulsatilla koreana. · Wounds : a compendium of clinical research and practice
- 3.PMID: 36674653 (2023) — Pulsatilla vulgaris Inhibits Cancer Proliferation in Signaling Pathways of 12 Reporter Genes. · International journal of molecular sciences
- 4.PMID: 41702734 (2026) — Intragenomic Polymorphism of 35S rDNA Internal Transcribed Spacers: Verification of the Hypothesis on the Hybridogenic Origin of Tetraploid Pulsatilla vulgaris. · Biochemistry. Biokhimiia
- 5.PMID: 32497949 (2020) — Stability of protoanemonin in plant extracts from Helleborus niger L. and Pulsatilla vulgaris Mill.