Background

• The genus Pedicularis contains several species referred to as louseworts. The common name was derived from the idea that livestock would get lice from eating the plant.
• Pedicularis plants are found mainly in temperate northern hemisphere climates, although some are also found in South America.
• Although animal studies have indicated that certain chemicals found in the plants may have antiproliferative or antioxidant activity, there is insufficient evidence in humans to support the use of Pedicularis species for any indication.

References

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• Wang P, Kang J, Zheng R, et al. Scavenging effects of phenylpropanoid glycosides from Pedicularis on superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical by the spin trapping method(95)02255-4. Biochem.Pharmacol. 3-8-1996;51(5):687-691.
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• Zhang F, Jia Z, Deng Z, et al. In vitro modulation of telomerase activity, telomere length and cell cycle in MKN45 cells by verbascoside. Planta Med 2002;68(2):115-118.
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• Zheng RL, Wang PF, Li J, et al. Inhibition of the autoxidation of linoleic acid by phenylpropanoid glycosides from Pedicularis in micelles. Chem Phys.Lipids 1993;65(2):151-154.
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