# Cinquefoil (Potentilla erecta)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/cinquefoil
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 4 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Potentilla erecta, Tormentil, Bloodroot, English Sarsaparilla, Ewe Daisy, Septfoil, Shepherd's Knot, Red Root

## Overview

Cinquefoil (Potentilla erecta) is an astringent herb containing high concentrations of condensed tannins that bind to proteins and reduce inflammation. The plant's tannin content creates a vasoconstricting effect on tissues while inhibiting [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s like IL-6.

## Health Benefits

• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects on skin cells - Preliminary evidence from in vitro studies (PMID: 28400287) showing reduced IL-6 and PGE2 production
• Vasoconstriction comparable to hydrocortisone - Preliminary evidence from patch tests and collagen assays
• Traditional astringent for diarrhea - Traditional use only, rated as insufficient evidence by WebMD
• Topical wound healing support - Traditional use for cuts and burns, no clinical trials available
• Sore throat relief - Traditional use only, insufficient clinical evidence

## Mechanism of Action

Cinquefoil's condensed tannins bind to cellular proteins and mucous membranes, creating astringent effects through protein precipitation. These tannins specifically reduce production of [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) mediators IL-6 and PGE2 in skin cells. The vasoconstricting action occurs through tannin-induced tissue contraction comparable to hydrocortisone's effects.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence comes primarily from in vitro studies showing cinquefoil extracts reduce [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cytokine production in skin cell cultures. Patch test studies demonstrate vasoconstriction effects comparable to hydrocortisone in collagen assays, though sample sizes and methodologies are not well-documented. Traditional use for diarrhea is supported by the herb's high tannin content, but controlled clinical trials are lacking. Evidence remains preliminary and largely limited to laboratory and traditional use data.

## Nutritional Profile

Cinquefoil (Potentilla erecta) rhizome is not consumed as a food source and therefore lacks a conventional macronutrient profile (negligible protein, fat, and carbohydrate contribution at typical medicinal doses of 2–4 g dried rhizome or 4–6 mL tincture). Its pharmacological relevance derives from a dense concentration of bioactive polyphenolic compounds: • **Tannins (condensed and hydrolyzable):** 15–22% of dried rhizome weight, predominantly catechin-derived proanthocyanidins (procyanidins B1–B3) and ellagitannins (agrimoniin, pedunculagin, laevigatin); these are the principal astringent and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) constituents; oral bioavailability of condensed tannins is generally low (<5%) due to protein binding and poor intestinal absorption, though local GI tract activity (astringent/antidiarrheal) remains relevant. • **Tormentol (triterpenoid):** ~0.3–0.5% of dried rhizome; a 3β-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid derivative contributing to anti-inflammatory and wound-healing activity. • **Ellagic acid (free and glycosylated):** approximately 0.5–1.5% of dried rhizome; moderate bioavailability enhanced by gut microbial conversion to urolithins. • **Catechin and epicatechin (flavanols):** approximately 0.5–1.0%; bioavailability ~10–30% depending on matrix and formulation. • **Gallic acid:** ~0.3–0.8%; relatively high oral bioavailability (~30–40%) with rapid conjugation and excretion. • **Flavonoids (kaempferol glycosides, quercetin glycosides):** trace to ~0.2%; low to moderate bioavailability (~2–10% for aglycones). • **Minerals:** Rhizome contains modest amounts of calcium (~200–400 mg/100 g dry weight), potassium (~300–600 mg/100 g), iron (~5–15 mg/100 g), and manganese (~2–5 mg/100 g), though these are not meaningfully consumed at medicinal doses. • **Vitamins:** No significant vitamin content documented. • **Starch and polysaccharides:** Present in rhizome (~10–15%) but not nutritionally relevant at typical dose. • **Bioavailability notes:** Topical preparations (creams, poultices) deliver tannins and tormentol directly to skin/mucosal surfaces, bypassing low oral bioavailability. For oral use (teas, tinctures), tannin-protein complexation in the gut lumen is the primary mechanism of astringent/antidiarrheal action, meaning systemic absorption is less important than local mucosal contact. Alcohol-based tinctures (40–60% ethanol) enhance extraction of both hydrophilic tannins and lipophilic terpenoids compared to aqueous decoctions.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges are available from human trials. Traditional preparations include strong decoctions of the rhizome for washes or teas, or dried rhizome powder, but no standardization is specified in studies. Topical use requires caution to avoid scarring from high tannin concentrations. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Cinquefoil is generally considered safe when used topically or in small oral doses due to its food-grade tannin content. High oral doses may cause stomach irritation, nausea, or constipation due to tannin astringency. The herb may reduce absorption of medications when taken orally due to tannin-drug binding interactions. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety data is insufficient, so use should be avoided during these periods.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses are identified for Potentilla erecta; evidence is limited to preclinical studies. One in vitro study (PMID: 28400287) tested Potentilla erecta extract on irradiated or TNF-α-stimulated HaCaT keratinocytes, showing reduced [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers and vasoconstrictive effects comparable to hydrocortisone.

## Historical & Cultural Context

In European folk medicine, Potentilla erecta rhizomes have been used for centuries as an astringent for diarrhea, dysentery, sore throats, and skin issues. Native American traditions used related cinquefoils topically for wounds and as teas for diarrhea and fevers. Historical applications date back to at least medieval European herbalism.

## Synergistic Combinations

Oak bark, Witch hazel, Marshmallow root, Slippery elm, Chamomile

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in cinquefoil?

Cinquefoil contains high concentrations of condensed tannins, particularly proanthocyanidins, which provide the herb's astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. These tannins can comprise up to 15-20% of the dried root material.

### How does cinquefoil compare to hydrocortisone for inflammation?

In vitro studies show cinquefoil extracts produce vasoconstriction effects comparable to hydrocortisone in collagen assays and patch tests. However, this comparison is limited to laboratory settings and doesn't establish equivalent clinical anti-inflammatory potency.

### Can cinquefoil help with diarrhea?

Traditional use supports cinquefoil for diarrhea due to its high tannin content, which can reduce intestinal secretions and inflammation. However, no controlled clinical trials have validated this traditional application or established effective dosages.

### What are the side effects of cinquefoil supplements?

Oral cinquefoil may cause stomach irritation, nausea, or constipation due to its astringent tannins. High doses can potentially interfere with nutrient and medication absorption through tannin binding interactions.

### How much cinquefoil should I take daily?

No standardized dosage exists for cinquefoil supplements due to limited clinical research. Traditional preparations typically use 2-4 grams of dried root daily, but consulting a healthcare provider is recommended before use.

### Is cinquefoil safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical evidence to establish the safety of cinquefoil during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is generally recommended to avoid supplementation during these periods. Traditional use does not provide adequate assurance of safety for developing fetuses or nursing infants. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using cinquefoil supplements.

### Does cinquefoil interact with medications like blood thinners or diabetes drugs?

There is limited research on cinquefoil's potential interactions with common medications, including anticoagulants and antidiabetic agents. Due to its astringent and vasoconstricting properties, there is theoretical concern for interactions with anticoagulants, though no clinical evidence confirms this. Individuals taking medications should consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist before adding cinquefoil supplements.

### Is cinquefoil extract more effective than dried root powder for skin inflammation?

In vitro research demonstrating anti-inflammatory effects has primarily used cinquefoil extracts, particularly those standardized for tannin content, rather than whole dried powder. Extracts may offer more concentrated levels of active compounds that reduce IL-6 and PGE2 production in skin cells. However, direct clinical comparisons between extract and powder forms in humans are not available.

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