Silphium perfoliatum (Silphium perfoliatum): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

How does Silphium perfoliatum work as an anti-inflammatory?

Silphium perfoliatum contains sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, compounds known to modulate inflammatory pathways in the body. These constituents may inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and prostaglandins. The resin and silphiperfolene compounds also contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research on the specific mechanism is limited (Evidence Level C), and most understanding comes from traditional use and extrapolation from related Asteraceae plants with similar constituent profiles.

Does Silphium perfoliatum interact with any medications?

There are no well-documented clinical drug interactions for Silphium perfoliatum (Evidence Level C). However, due to its potential effects on liver function and inflammatory pathways, caution is advised when combining it with hepatotoxic medications or anti-inflammatory drugs. Individuals taking blood thinners, immunosuppressants, or medications metabolized by the liver should consult a healthcare provider before use. Those with Asteraceae allergies should avoid this herb entirely due to potential cross-reactivity.

What is the recommended dosage for Silphium perfoliatum?

Traditional adult dosages for Silphium perfoliatum include 2-4ml of tincture taken three times daily, or 3-5g of dried root prepared as a tea (Evidence Level C, Traditional). These recommendations are based on historical Native American use and herbal tradition rather than standardized clinical trials. Dosage should be adjusted based on individual tolerance, starting at the lower end of the range. Consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider for personalized dosing guidance.

Is Silphium perfoliatum safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Silphium perfoliatum is considered unsafe during pregnancy and should be strictly avoided (Evidence Level C, Traditional). Historical use suggests it may stimulate uterine contractions or affect hormonal balance, posing risks of miscarriage or premature labor. There is insufficient data on safety during breastfeeding, so avoidance is recommended. Women who are pregnant, trying to conceive, or nursing should not use this herb. Always consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy during pregnancy.

What are the traditional medicinal uses of Silphium perfoliatum?

Silphium perfoliatum has been used traditionally by Native Americans and in folk medicine for treating fever, rheumatism, liver complaints, and indigestion (Evidence Level C, Traditional). Its anti-inflammatory properties make it relevant for joint and muscle discomfort. The herb was historically valued as a general tonic for liver support and digestive health. Modern clinical evidence is limited, and these uses are primarily based on ethnobotanical records rather than controlled clinical studies.

What are the side effects of Silphium perfoliatum?

Common side effects of Silphium perfoliatum include mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or stomach discomfort (Evidence Level C, Traditional). More serious reactions can occur in individuals with Asteraceae family allergies, potentially causing skin rashes, respiratory symptoms, or anaphylaxis in sensitive individuals. The sesquiterpene lactones in this plant are known allergens. Discontinue use if adverse reactions occur and seek medical attention for severe symptoms. Those with known allergies to ragweed, chamomile, or echinacea should avoid this herb.

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

Silphium perfoliatum, known as the cup plant, is a North American perennial herb used traditionally by Indigenous tribes for hepatobiliary and metabolic conditions [PMID:38484950, PMID:39357582, PMID:40872480].

Background

Silphium perfoliatum is a perennial herb native to North America [PMID:38484950]. It is also utilized as a biomass crop for biogas production and carbon sequestration [PMID:36340578, PMID:30227338].

Traditional uses

It is used in the traditional medicinal herbs of Indian tribes to improve physical fitness and treat liver and spleen related diseases [PMID:38484950], and is noted for hepatobiliary therapy effects [PMID:39357582].

Active compounds

The plant is rich in chlorogenic acids and their analogues [PMID:38484950, PMID:41751492], caffeoylquinic acids (CQA) [PMID:39357582], and polysaccharides [PMID:28837625]. Isolated compounds include kaempferol triosides [PMID:12150809, PMID:23919684], triterpene aglycones such as oleanolic acid and ursolic acid [PMID:17263457], and labdane diterpenes including chlorosilphanol A and silphanepoxol [PMID:7931366].

Mechanism of action

Extracts rich in chlorogenic acid may regulate the AMPK/FXR signaling pathway to improve lipid accumulation in NAFLD [PMID:38484950]. Caffeoylquinic acid-rich extracts protect against cholestatic liver injury by regulating the farnesoid x receptor (FXR) signaling pathway and the enterohepatic circulation of bile acids [PMID:39357582]. Additionally, some extracts exhibit alpha-glucosidase inhibition [PMID:40872480].

Clinical evidence

Evidence DNonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

Extract (CY-10) rich in chlorogenic acid improves lipid accumulation in NAFLD mice by regulating the AMPK/FXR signaling pathway [PMID:38484950]

Evidence DCholestatic liver disease (CLD)

Extract (SP-8) rich in caffeoylquinic acids protects against cholestatic liver injury induced by alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate in mice [PMID:39357582]

Evidence DHyperglycemia

Extracts (specifically SP-10) demonstrate hypoglycemic effects in vitro via alpha-glucosidase inhibition and in vivo during sucrose/maltose/starch tolerance assays [PMID:40872480]

Evidence DShrimp Health (Penaeus vannamei)

Adding cup plant to feed (optimal at 5%) significantly improved specific growth rate, survival rate, and resistance to Vibrio parahaemolyticus E1 and White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) [PMID:36907480]

Evidence summary

The current evidence consists primarily of in vitro studies and animal models (mice and shrimp), indicating potential hepatoprotective and hypoglycemic activities. There are no human clinical trials provided.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 36907480 (2023) — Investigation of the effects of cup plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.) on the growth, immunity, gut microbiota and disease resistance of Penaeus vannamei. · Fish & shellfish immunology
2.PMID: 36365359 (2022) — Energy vs. Nutritional Potential of Virginia Mallow (Sida hermaphrodita L.) and Cup Plant (Silphium perfoliatum L.). · Plants (Basel, Switzerland)
3.PMID: 12150809 (2002) — Kaempferol triosides from Silphium perfoliatum. · Phytochemistry
4.PMID: 38484950 (2024) — Extract of Silphium perfoliatum L. improve lipid accumulation in NAFLD mice by regulating AMPK/FXR signaling pathway. · Journal of ethnopharmacology
5.PMID: 36340578 (2022) — Biomass partitioning and nutrient fluxes in Silphium perfoliatum and silage maize cropping systems.

Silphium perfoliatum

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Silphium perfoliatum