For many years, the Mediterranean people have been using the root of the madder plant to dye wool and other fabrics red. Synthetic coloring substances, such as aniline, were discovered in the 20th century and have displaced the madder plant in industrial use. However, its medicinal applications are still alive. Hippocrates already used it as a diuretic, a property still taken advantage of.
- One ounce bag Madder root pieces
- red chips – for dying textiles or non edibles only
Madder Plant Scientific Facts
- Other names are Madder dye plant and Rubia tinctorum L.
- French – Garance des teinturiers.
- Spanish – Rubia.
- Environment: This plant was formerly cultivated in calcareous soils in southern Europe and is now found in South America.
- Description—A Vigorous plant of the Rubiaceae family, it can grow up to one meter high. Its stem is quadrangular, reddish, and covered by thorny hooks. The root is large, winding, and red.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The root.
Healing Properties
The root of the madder plant contains anthraquinone glycosides, to which it owes its coloring and diuretic properties, as well as alkaline citrates and malic and tartaric acids. Its more outstanding properties are the following:
- Diuretics are recommended for all kinds of renal afflictions (calculi, colic, infections) and cystitis.
- It relieves aches and has antiseptic properties on the urinary pathways, making it very useful for colic. This plant can dissolve certain types of renal calculi (kidney stones).
- Appetizer – it increases appetite.
- Choleretic – recommended for gallbladder disorders.
- Emmenagogue – it promotes menstruation and eases pain.
- Laxative – it promotes intestinal evacuation.
When this plant is used as a remedy, urine, mucous secretion, and even sweat are dyed pink, but this is not a problem for health.
How to use Madder Plant
- Decoction with 30 to 40 g of ground root per liter of water. Boil for ten minutes. Drink from four to six cups daily.
- Root powder – The recommended dose is 2 to 4 g daily, distributed into three intakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is madder poisonous? No.
- Where does madder grow? This plant mainly grows in southern Europe and South America.
- What is madder used for? Madder is an excellent remedy for urinary tract conditions.
- What sort of plant is madder? It is a member of the Rubiaceae botanical family.
Frequently Asked Question
What primary bioactive compounds are responsible for the madder plant’s potential health effects?
Madder contains anthraquinones, which are the primary source of its therapeutic value. Important anthraquinones include alizarin, purpurin, and rubiadin. These compounds have potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Can the madder plant root help with kidney stones?
Some research suggests a possible benefit. Madder root could work as a mild diuretic, and its anthraquinones may inhibit the formation of calcium-based kidney stones.
Does the madder plant have a traditional use in wound healing?
Yes, madder has a long history of topical use for accelerating wound healing. Its antimicrobial properties, along with its potential to promote collagen production, may support this traditional usage.
Could the madder plant have applications for bone health?
There’s preliminary evidence suggesting a positive connection. Research indicates that madder extract might stimulate osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) and inhibit osteoclasts (bone-resorbing cells), which could benefit conditions like osteoporosis. More research is needed.
Is there evidence for the madder plant’s anti-inflammatory use?
Yes, both animal and in vitro studies show promise. Madder extract appears to reduce the production of inflammatory markers and enzymes, potentially due to its anthraquinone content.
Can madder be used as a natural dye, and are there health concerns about this usage?
Absolutely! Madder is a historical source of red dye, particularly for textiles. Generally, madder as a dye isn’t considered a significant health risk. However, some individuals may experience skin irritation if they have sensitive skin.
Are there any known drug interactions with madder?
Madder may interact with diuretic medications, potentially increasing their effects. It could also interact with drugs that slow blood clotting. It’s vital to talk to a doctor before using madder if you are on any medications.
What are the potential side effects?
Madder is generally well-tolerated, but excessive intake could lead to gastrointestinal upset. Long-term use in high concentrations has been associated with potential toxicity risks in animal studies.
Is madder safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
There’s insufficient safety data. Avoid its use during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless under the strict advice of a healthcare professional.
Where can I find reliable sources for further information about madder?
Reputable sources include:
European Medicines Agency (https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/homepage)
National Institutes of Health (https://www.nih.gov/)
PubMed (for research studies) (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 589. Print.
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7917717/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9762506/
- https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-opinion/opinion-hmpc-european-union-herbal-monograph-rheum-palmatum-l-and-rheum-officinale-baillon-radix_en.pdf
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API