Quick Summary

Geum urbanum (Avens) is a plant species containing phenolic compounds, flavonoids, triterpenes, and unsaturated fatty acids. It has been investigated mainly for its nutritional, cosmetic, and phytotherapeutic potential. However, currently there is insufficient direct clinical evidence regarding its efficacy or safety in human clinical applications.

What is it?

Avens (Geum urbanum) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is known for its small yellow flowers and its use in traditional herbal practices. The plant contains various bioactive phytochemicals, making it of interest for research in nutrition, cosmetics, and medicine.

Traditional Uses

Traditionally, Avens has been used in folk medicine for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. It has found applications in treating minor wounds, digestive issues, and as a mild tonic. However, comprehensive clinical evaluations of these uses are lacking.

Active Compounds

  • Phenolic compounds (including gallic acid derivatives)
  • Flavonoids
  • Triterpenes
  • Saponins
  • Unsaturated fatty acids (notably linoleic and linolenic acids)

Potential Benefits with Evidence Levels

  • Nutritional and phytotherapeutic potential: Seed extracts contain bioactive phenolics and unsaturated fatty acids that may contribute to nutritional and cosmetic uses. (Preclinical / phytochemical studies)
  • In vitro biological activities: Some extracts have demonstrated antineoplastic and antiviral activities in laboratory studies, though no clinical data in humans currently supports these effects.

Side Effects

Currently, no clinical reports or systematic data on adverse effects of Geum urbanum are available. As such, potential side effects are not well characterized.

Drug Interactions

There is no evidence or documented reports of drug interactions with Geum urbanum extracts in the available literature.

Who Should Avoid It

Due to the lack of safety data, use of Avens by pregnant or breastfeeding individuals is not recommended without medical advice. Furthermore, those with allergies to related plants or unknown sensitivities should exercise caution.

Evidence Limitations

  • Absence of randomized controlled trials or human clinical studies specifically on Geum urbanum.
  • Most available data derive from phytochemical, in vitro, or animal studies without clinical translation.
  • No standardized formulations or dosing guidelines are established.
  • Scarcity of published clinical safety or efficacy data limits medical recommendations.

References

  • Bunse M, Lorenz P, Stintzing FC, Kammerer DR. Insight into the Secondary Metabolites of Geum urbanum L. and Geum rivale L. Seeds (Rosaceae). 2021. DOI: 10.3390/plants10061219. Summary: Phytochemical analysis revealing bioactive phenolics and unsaturated fatty acids in seeds of Geum urbanum supporting potential nutritional and phytotherapeutic uses. PubMed.
  • In Vitro Antineoplastic and Antiviral Activity and In Vivo Toxicity of Geum urbanum L. Extracts. 2021. DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010245. Summary: Studies on extracts indicating in vitro biological activities but lacking clinical data on humans.
  • Vademecum Anthroposophische Arzneimittel. Geum urbanum. 2024. DOI: 10.14271/de05-g0281. Summary: Review indicating research pending status without current clinical evidence.

Last Reviewed

June 2024

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The safety and efficacy of Geum urbanum have not been fully established through clinical trials. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have underlying health conditions, or are taking medications.