Quick summary
Glechoma hederacea, commonly known as Ground Ivy, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb primarily used for nephrolithiasis (kidney stones). It contains over 190 identified chemical compounds, including organic acids, flavonoids, terpenes, and volatile oils. Research has explored various pharmacological activities such as anti-stone, anti-inflammatory, bacteriostatic, cholagogic, diuretic effects, and potential anti-tumor and hypoglycemic effects. However, robust clinical data are lacking, and safety evidence remains preliminary.
What is it
Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea) is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to parts of Europe and Asia and has been traditionally used in Chinese herbal medicine. The herb contains a complex mixture of bioactive compounds that have attracted scientific interest for their diverse biological activities.
Traditional uses
Traditionally, Ground Ivy has been used in Chinese medicine mainly to support kidney health, particularly in the management of nephrolithiasis (kidney stones). It has also been applied for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties in various folk remedies.
Active compounds
Ground Ivy contains more than 190 chemical constituents, including:
- Organic acids
- Flavonoids
- Terpenes
- Volatile oils
These compounds are considered responsible for the herb’s pharmacological activities.
Potential benefits with evidence levels
- Anti-stone (nephrolithiasis): Traditional use with supportive preclinical evidence; lacks well-designed human clinical trials.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Supported by preclinical and pharmacological evidence; related medicinal plants show anti-inflammatory phytochemicals, but direct clinical evidence for Ground Ivy is limited.
- Bacteriostatic activity: Reported in pharmacological studies based on in vitro or animal models; no clinical trials identified.
- Cholagogic and diuretic effects: Observed in preclinical studies; no controlled human trials available.
- Anti-tumor potential: Suggested by preclinical studies; no clinical trials to confirm efficacy.
- Hypoglycemic effects: Shown in animal or in vitro studies; lacking clinical validation.
Side effects
There are no specific or significant adverse effects reported for Ground Ivy in the available clinical or systematic review literature. However, general caution is advised due to the lack of comprehensive safety assessments.
Drug interactions
No data are available regarding drug interactions with Ground Ivy or its extracts.
Who should avoid it
Due to insufficient safety data, individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid using Ground Ivy. Additionally, use should be cautious in all populations pending further safety and clinical efficacy studies.
Evidence limitations
Current evidence for Ground Ivy is primarily based on traditional use, phytochemical analysis, and preclinical pharmacological studies. There is a lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses. Safety data are preliminary and incomplete, limiting the ability to make firm clinical recommendations. More rigorous research including pharmacokinetics, mechanisms of action, quality control, and clinical validation is needed.
References
- Yang L, Zhang J, Zheng S, Hou A, Wang S, Yu H, Wang X, Xu Y, Kuang H, Jiang H. The phytochemistry, pharmacology and traditional medicinal use of Glechomae Herba – a systematic review. 2021.
- Hussain I. The Safety of Medicinal Plants Used in the Treatment of Vitiligo and Hypermelanosis: A Systematic Review of Use and Reports of Harm. 2021.
- Widén B, Widén M. Pollen limitation and distance-dependent fecundity in females of the clonal gynodioecious herb Glechoma hederacea (Lamiaceae). 1990.
Last reviewed
June 2024
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbal products, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.