Quick Summary

Agrimonia eupatoria is a medicinal herb traditionally used in Europe and other regions for various ailments, particularly in skin care and wound healing applications. It contains phenolic antioxidants such as procyanidin C1 and has demonstrated antioxidant potential in phytochemical studies. While traditional use and preclinical data suggest potential benefits, clinical evidence remains limited and further research is needed.

What is it

Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) is a perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its slender stalks, serrated leaves, and small yellow flowers. It has a long history of use in traditional medicine, primarily for its astringent properties and purported ability to support skin and digestive health.

Traditional Uses

  • Skin care and wound healing
  • Treatment of gastrointestinal complaints
  • Management of inflammatory conditions
  • Use in folk medicine for mild infections and oral mucositis

Active Compounds

Agrimony contains several biologically active phytochemicals, including:

  • Phenolic antioxidants, notably procyanidin C1 (a flavan-3-ol oligomer)
  • Tannins and flavonoids
  • Other plant polyphenols contributing to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects

Potential Benefits with Evidence Levels

  • Skin care and dermatological applications (including potential wound healing)
    Evidence Level: Preclinical and in vitro evidence
    Details: Systematic reviews highlight therapeutic potential of agrimony extracts in cosmetic and dermatological applications, associated with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, comprehensive clinical trials are lacking. (Pezantes-Orellana et al. 2025, PMID: 40917836, Herman & Herman 2023, PMID: 36678910)
  • Antioxidant activity
    Evidence Level: In vitro and phytochemical analysis
    Details: Phenolic compounds including procyanidin C1 contribute to antioxidant potential demonstrated in laboratory studies. (Häßler et al. 2026, PMID: 41603958)
  • Traditional use in gastrointestinal and inflammatory conditions
    Evidence Level: Traditional and ethnobotanical
    Details: Used historically in Europe for digestive and inflammatory ailments, although robust clinical evidence is lacking to support these uses.

Side Effects

No specific adverse effects have been reported in the current clinical or preclinical literature for Agrimonia eupatoria. However, as with many traditional medicinal plants, potential adverse reactions cannot be ruled out. Caution is advised when trying new herbal products.

Drug Interactions

There are no documented drug interactions with Agrimonia eupatoria identified in the reviewed scientific literature. Due to limited pharmacological data, caution is recommended, especially when taken with anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or other medications.

Who Should Avoid It

  • People who are pregnant or breastfeeding, due to insufficient safety data
  • Individuals with allergies to related plants or unknown sensitivities
  • Those taking medications with risk for interactions should consult healthcare providers before use

Evidence Limitations

Clinical evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of Agrimonia eupatoria is currently insufficient. Most data derive from in vitro, phytochemical, or ethnobotanical sources. The lack of standardized herbal preparations and variability in chemical composition further limits reproducibility and comparability of studies. Well-designed human clinical trials are needed to clarify therapeutic potential and safety profiles.

References

Last Reviewed

April 2024

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or are taking other medications.