Quick summary

Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) is a plant studied for its phytochemical constituents including flavonoids, glucosinolates, and isothiocyanates. Existing research primarily focuses on its phytochemical properties, potential antimicrobial activities, and usage as an edible flower. Direct high-quality clinical evidence on its efficacy and safety in humans is currently lacking and research is considered pending.

What is it?

Nasturtium, scientifically known as Tropaeolum majus, is a flowering plant that is commonly used as an edible flower. It contains various phytochemicals which are of interest due to their potential biological activities. The plant is often explored for its bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, glucosinolates, and isothiocyanates.

Traditional uses

Traditionally, nasturtium has been used as a culinary herb for its peppery flavor and ornamental value. It has also been valued in folk medicine for various purposes, although specific traditional medicinal uses are not well-documented in current literature.

Active compounds

  • Flavonoids
  • Glucosinolates
  • Isothiocyanates (breakdown products of glucosinolates)

Potential benefits with evidence levels

  • Potential antimicrobial effects — Preclinical / in vitro evidence
    Studies on antimicrobial properties of mustard oil-containing plants, including those rich in glucosinolate breakdown products like isothiocyanates, suggest possible antibacterial effects. Research on edible flowers including T. majus highlights antibacterial potential of its phytochemicals.
  • Phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory and antioxidative potential relevant to digestive diseases — Review and preclinical research
    Systematic reviews on flavonoids indicate potential therapeutic activities for digestive system diseases. Literature generally supports the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles of flavonoids derived from plants like T. majus.
  • Promoting skin health and keratinocyte differentiation (wound healing potential) — In vitro study (not direct evidence for T. majus)
    Some in vitro studies on polysaccharides in plants suggest they may induce keratinocyte differentiation, which is relevant for wound healing; however, this evidence is not specific to nasturtium and requires further research.

Side effects

No specific adverse effects have been documented in human clinical studies on nasturtium. However, there are toxicological concerns generally related to alkaloid contamination, such as tropane and pyrrolizidine alkaloids, commonly discussed with edible flowers broadly. No reported clinical data currently indicate toxicity or allergenicity specific to nasturtium. Safety profiles require further clinical validation.

Drug interactions

No documented drug interactions are available from current research data on Tropaeolum majus.

Who should avoid it

No specific contraindications have been identified based on current evidence. Use with caution is advised during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of clinical safety data. Individuals with allergies to edible flowers or related plants should exercise caution. Further research is needed before formal recommendations can be made.

Evidence limitations

  • Lack of human clinical trials or randomized controlled trials directly investigating nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus).
  • Most evidence comes from in vitro, animal, or general phytochemical reviews without direct clinical correlation.
  • Potential safety concerns regarding alkaloid contamination in edible flowers broadly necessitate further toxicological evaluation specific to nasturtium.
  • Current knowledge is insufficient to make clinical recommendations or safety guidelines.
  • Further high-quality clinical investigations are recommended to substantiate any therapeutic claims and assess safety profiles.

References

Last reviewed

April 2024

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements or starting new health-related practices. The efficacy and safety of Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) require further clinical research.