Taxonomic class

Asteraceae

Common Trade Names

Tansy Ragwort

Common Forms

Available as fresh and dried herb.

Source

The leaves, seeds, and flowers of Senecio jacobaea are commonly used. Ragwort is a member of the daisy family and native to North America.

Chemical Components

Limited information exists on the chemical composition of Senecio species. The volatile oil has been described for some species . Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (floridanine, florosenine, otosenine, and senecio nine) are the chief components isolated from the leaves, seeds, and flowers.

Actions

Several texts report that ragwort has an astringent, cooling, analgesic effect when applied topically or gargled. It is also claimed to have diuretic, weak expectorant, and uterine stimulant properties.

Reported Uses

Emollient poultices have been made from leaves. Plant “juice” has been used as a wash for bee stings, burns, rheumatism, and cancerous ulcers and as a gargle for ulcerations in the mouth and throat. Claims for use of the plant have also been made for treating functional amenorrhea and menopausal neurosis. These claims lack sufficient clinical trial data to validate their application.

Dosage

Only external use of the herb is recommended. Poultices are made by applying the bruised, fresh plant directly on the affected area. Dried herb can be used by soaking it in warm water before applying. A gargle is made by soaking the plant in warm water and then straining.

Adverse Reactions

GI: hepatotoxicity, nausea, vomiting.

Respiratory: pulmonary edema or effusion.

Interactions

Hepatotoxins: Increased risk of hepatotoxicity. Avoid administration with ragwort.

Contraindications and Precautions

Ragwort is contraindicated in patients who are susceptible to hepatic dysfunction. Avoid its use in pregnant or breast-feeding patients; effects are unknown.

Special Considerations

• Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are metabolized to hepatotoxic pyrrolic compounds. Death resulting from hepatic failure has been reported in animals and humans.
• Monitor liver function test results.
• Advise the patient to report signs and symptoms of hepatic dysfunction (abdominal pain, fatigue, fever, jaundice).
• Advise women to avoid using ragwort during pregnancy or when breast-feeding.

Points of Interest

• In South Africa, some Senecio species are used as food.

Commentary

Because there are well-documented cases of human and animal poisonings, ragwort presents an unacceptable risk and should not be used for any medicinal purpose.