Plant Name
Anthriscus sylvestris L
Anthriscus aemula
Anthriscus nemorosa
Chaerofillum sylvestre L.
Botanical Info
Biennial plant , 50-150 cm heigh.
Geography:
Is native to Europe and has been introduced into northeastern United States and Canada where it has become naturalized. Grows also in temperate climates (mountain districts) of Asia including Tjan-shane. Grows in forests, on inundated and subalpine meadows, among bushes, reaches 3200 meters above sea level.
Chemical Content
In roots: organic acids, terpenoids, (an alpha pinene, beta myrcene, gamma-terpinen, etc.) sesquiterpenes, steroids (a stigmasterol, beta Sitosterin, caempesterine), phenols and their derivatives (crocatone, etc.), aromatic compounds coumarins (apterine, etc.) , flavonoids(luteoline, cherofilline), contains flavolignane deoxypodophyllotoxin (DPPT).Caulises and leaves contains an essential oil containing Phenole, omicron-krezol, rho-krezol, omicron-gvajakol, eugenol, alpha pinene, beta myrcene and other compounds, and also steroids (a stigmasterol, beta Sitosterin), carotin, vitamins B, C., starch, a laevulose, sucrose, proteins.
Traditional Use and Activity
The plant possesses abirritating, soothing, anticonvulsant, antiinflammatory and vermicidal properties. Plant infusion or decoction is prescribed for dropsies of various degrees, gastrointestinal diseases, a pulmonary tuberculosis and female diseases. Lotions are used for combustions, furuncles, carbuncles, abscesses, an eczema. Deoxypodophyllotoxin (DPPT), a natural flavolignan,a derivative of podophyllotoxin, exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities. DPPT may be of therapeutic value for the treatment of cervix cancer. This plant is a valuable vernal honey plant. Caulises and leaves are used to dye wool in various tints of yellow colour.