# Scarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/scarlet-pimpernel **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-04-01 **Evidence Score:** 2 / 10 **Category:** European **Also Known As:** Anagallis arvensis, Lysimachia arvensis, Scarlet Pimpernel, Red Pimpernel, Blue Pimpernel, Poor Man's Weatherglass, Shepherd's Weather-glass, Red Chickweed, Poison Chickweed, Burnet Rose, Adder's Eyes ## Overview Scarlet pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) contains saponins, flavonoids, and cucurbitacins that drive its primary biological activities. These compounds inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and [COX-2](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)) and scavenge superoxide radicals, underpinning its traditional use in wound healing and infection management. ## Health Benefits • [Antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity against Candida albicans (in vitro) [3]. • Potential [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects via COX-1 and COX-2 inhibition (in vitro) [3]. • Superoxide scavenging properties (in vitro) [3]. • Traditional use for wound healing in Navarra, Spain [3]. • Historical use in treating infections, though lacking scientific backing [5]. ## Mechanism of Action Scarlet pimpernel's triterpenoid saponins and cucurbitacins inhibit COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, reducing [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) synthesis and dampening inflammatory cascades. Its flavonoid constituents, including luteolin and apigenin glycosides, donate hydrogen atoms to neutralize superoxide radicals, reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) at the cellular level. Antifungal activity against Candida albicans is attributed to saponin-mediated disruption of fungal membrane integrity, altering membrane permeability and ergosterol function. ## Clinical Summary Available evidence for scarlet pimpernel is limited exclusively to in vitro studies, with no published human clinical trials or controlled animal studies establishing efficacy or dosing. In vitro assays have demonstrated inhibition of COX-1 and [COX-2](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) enzymes and superoxide scavenging activity in plant extracts, though effect magnitudes and concentrations tested do not directly translate to human dosing. Antifungal activity against Candida albicans has been observed in laboratory settings, but no minimum inhibitory concentration data from standardized clinical panels has been widely replicated. Ethnobotanical records from Navarra, Spain document topical wound healing use, representing low-quality observational evidence that cannot establish causation or safety thresholds. ## Nutritional Profile Scarlet Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis) has limited formal nutritional analysis, but the following compounds have been identified: Bioactive compounds include triterpenoid saponins (primulasaponin and related oleanolic acid glycosides), flavonoids including kaempferol and quercetin derivatives, and cucurbitacins (toxic tetracyclic triterpenoids that significantly limit edibility). Phenolic compounds including caffeic acid derivatives contribute to its [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties. The plant contains anagallin (a flavonol glycoside) and cyclamin-type saponins. Tannins are present at moderate levels. Essential oils with terpenoid constituents have been detected in aerial parts. Regarding macronutrients: as a small leafy herb, it would contain predominantly water (~80-85% fresh weight), with modest fiber content typical of leafy plants (<2g/100g fresh weight), minimal protein, and negligible fat. No formal vitamin or mineral quantification data exists in peer-reviewed literature. Bioavailability is a significant concern: the presence of cucurbitacins renders the plant toxic in meaningful quantities, causing gastrointestinal irritation and potential neurotoxicity, severely restricting safe consumption. Saponins may also reduce mineral bioavailability through chelation. The plant is classified as toxic to humans and livestock by European regulatory standards, meaning its nutritional profile is largely academic — it is NOT considered a food ingredient in contemporary use and any historical culinary application was extremely limited. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges exist for any form of Scarlet pimpernel due to the lack of human trials. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Scarlet pimpernel has a well-documented history of toxicity in livestock, caused by saponin content that can irritate mucous membranes and cause gastrointestinal distress, vomiting, and dermatitis in sensitive individuals at higher doses. The plant is considered potentially toxic when consumed in large quantities by humans, and internal use is not recommended without professional supervision. No formal drug interaction studies exist, but COX-inhibiting activity theoretically warrants caution alongside NSAIDs, anticoagulants such as warfarin, and antiplatelet medications. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to historical use as an emmenagogue and abortifacient, and safety in breastfeeding has not been established. ## Scientific Research No human clinical trials or randomized controlled trials have been identified for Anagallis arvensis. The evidence is limited to preclinical in vitro studies, such as the study with PMID: 21237261, which explored [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects. ## Historical & Cultural Context In Navarra, Spain, Scarlet pimpernel has been used ethnomedicinally for wound healing and internal infections despite its known toxicity. It is also traditionally applied for various ailments like joint pain and liver disorders. ## Synergistic Combinations Turmeric, Ginger, Boswellia, Echinacea, Green Tea ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Is scarlet pimpernel safe to consume as a supplement? Scarlet pimpernel is not considered safe for internal consumption in significant quantities due to its saponin content, which can cause gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, and dermatitis. Livestock toxicity cases are well documented, and no standardized safe human dosage has been established through clinical research. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any internal use. ### What is scarlet pimpernel used for in traditional medicine? In European traditional medicine, particularly in the Navarra region of Spain, scarlet pimpernel was applied topically to support wound healing and manage skin infections. Historically it was also used to treat liver complaints, epilepsy, and melancholy, though none of these uses are supported by modern clinical evidence. Its ethnobotanical record spans centuries across European and North African herbalism. ### Does scarlet pimpernel have antifungal properties? In vitro studies have shown that scarlet pimpernel extracts exhibit antifungal activity against Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for common yeast infections. The mechanism is attributed to saponin compounds that disrupt fungal cell membrane integrity by interacting with ergosterol. These findings have not been translated into human clinical trials, so efficacy in treating fungal infections in people remains unproven. ### How does scarlet pimpernel reduce inflammation? Scarlet pimpernel extracts inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes in vitro, which are the same enzymatic targets as common NSAIDs like ibuprofen. By blocking these cyclooxygenase pathways, the plant's saponins and flavonoids reduce the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. This mechanism has only been demonstrated in cell-based assays and has not been confirmed through human pharmacological studies. ### What are the active compounds in scarlet pimpernel? The primary bioactive compounds in Anagallis arvensis include triterpenoid saponins (such as anagallosides), cucurbitacins, and flavonoids including luteolin and apigenin derivatives. Saponins are responsible for antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities, while flavonoids contribute to superoxide radical scavenging and antioxidant effects. The plant also contains tannins and polyacetylenes that may contribute to its antimicrobial profile. ### Does scarlet pimpernel interact with anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications? Scarlet pimpernel has not been extensively studied for direct drug interactions with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs in clinical trials. However, due to its traditional use in treating infections and potential bioactive compounds, individuals taking warfarin, aspirin, or other blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare provider before supplementing. The lack of clinical evidence means interactions cannot be ruled out without professional medical evaluation. ### Is scarlet pimpernel safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women? There is insufficient clinical data on the safety of scarlet pimpernel during pregnancy and breastfeeding, making it prudent for pregnant and nursing women to avoid supplementation unless specifically recommended by their healthcare provider. Traditional use does not guarantee safety for vulnerable populations, and potential compounds in the plant have not been adequately tested in these groups. ### What is the difference between scarlet pimpernel extract and whole herb preparations? Extracts concentrate the plant's bioactive compounds, potentially offering higher potency per dose compared to whole herb powders or dried plant material. However, scarlet pimpernel has not undergone rigorous clinical trials comparing extraction methods, so bioavailability differences between forms remain unclear. The choice between extract and whole herb forms should consider individual tolerance and the specific traditional preparation method being emulated. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*