Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria L.) – botanical characteristics and prohealthy properties*

Abstract

Goutweed (Aegopodium podagraria L.) is a common plant in the Apiaceae family. It occurs in Europe, North America and Asia. In folk medicine, mainly the leaves of goutweed were used to treat gout, inflammatory states in kidneys and bladder and to facilitate wound healing. Chemical composition of goutweed has not been entirely determined, however, it is known that the main group of compounds are polyacetylenes (falcarinol and falcarindiol). Moreover, other compounds were isolated from this plant, such as essential oils from the group of mono- and sesquiterpenes, as well as coumarins and polyphenol compounds, e.g. phenolic acids and flavonoids. Preparations from goutweed have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Research performed in recent years have shown the possibilities to use tinctures and extracts from goutweed in the treatment of gout and metabolic diseases including type 2 diabetes.