# Sheep's Sorrel (Rumex acetosella)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/sheep-s-sorrel
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-28
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** European
**Also Known As:** Red sorrel, Field sorrel, Sour weed, Common sorrel, Sheep sorrel, Sour grass, Little vinegar plant, Acetosella, Rumex acetosella

## Overview

Sheep's sorrel (Rumex acetosella) contains oxalic acid, anthraquinones, and flavonoids such as vitexin that contribute to its antioxidant and organ-protective properties. Preclinical evidence suggests these compounds modulate [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) pathways and reduce hepatic and renal enzyme markers associated with cellular damage.

## Health Benefits

• Potential [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) effects, as shown in a rat study with reduced liver enzymes (PMID: 28559857).
• [Antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties demonstrated in airway cells exposed to swine dust (in vitro evidence).
• Possible nephroprotective effects with improved kidney markers in animal studies (PMID: 28559857).
• Antidiabetic and antiobesity potential observed in vitro studies.
• Cardioprotective effects suggested by lipid profile improvements in animal models (PMID: 28559857).

## Mechanism of Action

Sheep's sorrel's flavonoids, including vitexin and quercetin derivatives, scavenge [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) (ROS) and inhibit lipid peroxidation by upregulating endogenous antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Anthraquinone glycosides may modulate NF-κB inflammatory signaling, reducing [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) production in hepatic and renal tissue. Oxalic acid and tannin fractions have shown inhibitory activity against xanthine oxidase, a key enzyme in uric acid synthesis and ROS generation.

## Clinical Summary

The majority of evidence for sheep's sorrel comes from preclinical animal models and in vitro studies. A rat study (PMID: 28559857) demonstrated statistically significant reductions in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) following administration of Rumex acetosella extract, suggesting [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) activity. Separate in vitro work in swine-dust-exposed airway epithelial cells showed measurable attenuation of [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers, while additional animal studies reported improved creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels indicative of nephroprotection. No randomized controlled trials in humans have been published, making evidence strength low and preventing definitive clinical recommendations.

## Nutritional Profile

Sheep's Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) contains moderate levels of vitamin C (approximately 40–60 mg/100g fresh weight), contributing to its antioxidant capacity. It is notably rich in oxalic acid (1–4% dry weight) and its soluble oxalate salts, which reduce bioavailability of calcium and iron through chelation — a key bioavailability limitation. The plant contains flavonoids including vitexin, orientin, and quercetin glycosides (estimated 0.5–2% dry weight total flavonoids), which are primary contributors to its documented [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Anthranoids and anthraquinones (including emodin, approximately 0.1–0.3% dry weight) are present and linked to [hepatoprotective](/ingredients/condition/detox) and nephroprotective bioactivities observed in PMID: 28559857. Tannins (condensed and hydrolysable, ~2–5% dry weight) contribute to astringency and free-radical scavenging. Carotenoids including beta-carotene are present at low levels (~1–2 mg/100g fresh weight). Protein content is modest (~2–3 g/100g fresh weight), with a limited essential amino acid profile. Dietary fiber is approximately 2–3 g/100g fresh weight. Mineral content includes iron (~2–3 mg/100g), potassium (~300–400 mg/100g), calcium (~50–80 mg/100g, though bioavailability is reduced by oxalates), and magnesium (~15–25 mg/100g). Chlorogenic acid and other hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives have been identified and may contribute to the antidiabetic and antiobesity potential noted in vitro. Overall bioavailability of minerals is notably compromised by high oxalate content; heat processing can reduce oxalate levels by 30–50%, improving mineral absorption.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosages exist due to the absence of human trials. In a rat study, doses of 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg body weight were used. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Sheep's sorrel contains high concentrations of oxalic acid, which can promote calcium oxalate kidney stone formation with excessive or prolonged intake, and is contraindicated in individuals with a history of nephrolithiasis or hyperoxaluria. Anthraquinone constituents carry a theoretical risk of cathartic effects and electrolyte imbalance, particularly hypokalemia, with high doses. Due to potential additive effects on hepatic enzyme activity, caution is warranted when combining with hepatotoxic medications or anticoagulants such as warfarin, as flavonoid-mediated CYP450 enzyme modulation has been noted in related Rumex species. Safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established, and use should be avoided in these populations.

## Scientific Research

No human clinical trials or meta-analyses are available for Rumex acetosella. The evidence is primarily from preclinical studies, including a rat study (PMID: 28559857) that showed health marker improvements using a water extract.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Sheep's sorrel has been used in global traditional herbal systems for its purported benefits in treating skin diseases and promoting hemostasis post-trauma. It is also a component of Essiac tea, a traditional formula with unvalidated anti-cancer claims.

## Synergistic Combinations

Milk Thistle, Curcumin, Green Tea, Resveratrol, N-acetylcysteine

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Does sheep's sorrel protect the liver?

A 2017 rat study (PMID: 28559857) found that Rumex acetosella extract significantly reduced elevated serum ALT and AST levels, key biomarkers of hepatocellular damage. The proposed mechanism involves flavonoid-driven inhibition of lipid peroxidation and upregulation of catalase activity in liver tissue. However, no human clinical trials confirm this effect, so evidence remains preclinical.

### What are the active compounds in sheep's sorrel?

Sheep's sorrel contains oxalic acid, anthraquinone glycosides (such as chrysophanol and emodin), flavonoids including vitexin and quercetin derivatives, and condensed tannins. These phytochemicals collectively account for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential organ-protective activities. Oxalic acid, while bioactive, is also the constituent most associated with adverse effects at high intake levels.

### Can sheep's sorrel cause kidney stones?

Yes, sheep's sorrel is high in oxalic acid, which binds dietary calcium in the gut and can increase urinary oxalate excretion, elevating the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stone formation. Individuals with a prior history of oxalate nephrolithiasis, chronic kidney disease, or hyperoxaluria should avoid supplemental use. Adequate hydration may partially mitigate risk, but does not eliminate it in susceptible individuals.

### Is sheep's sorrel the same as the herb in Essiac tea?

Yes, sheep's sorrel (Rumex acetosella) is one of the four original ingredients in Essiac tea, alongside burdock root, slippery elm bark, and Turkish rhubarb root. Its inclusion is attributed to its antioxidant flavonoid content and traditional use in European herbal medicine as a cleansing and detoxifying herb. While Essiac tea has been studied as a complementary cancer therapy, clinical evidence for efficacy remains insufficient and inconclusive.

### What is the typical dosage of sheep's sorrel supplement?

No standardized human dosage has been established through clinical trials for sheep's sorrel as an isolated ingredient. In the context of Essiac tea formulations, sheep's sorrel typically comprises roughly 56% of the blend by dry weight, with daily tea servings ranging from 30 to 90 mL in observational usage reports. Due to oxalic acid content, long-term high-dose use is not recommended, and consultation with a healthcare provider is advised before supplementation.

### Is sheep's sorrel safe to take with blood pressure or diabetes medications?

Sheep's sorrel may interact with antidiabetic and antihypertensive medications due to its potential effects on blood glucose and cardiovascular function, though clinical drug interaction studies are limited. If you take medications for blood pressure, blood sugar, or heart conditions, consult your healthcare provider before adding sheep's sorrel supplements to avoid unintended additive effects. Most safety concerns relate to its oxalate content rather than direct drug interactions, but individualized medical guidance is recommended.

### Is sheep's sorrel safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

There is insufficient clinical evidence to establish the safety of sheep's sorrel supplements during pregnancy or breastfeeding, making it prudent to avoid supplemental forms during these periods. The herb's high oxalate content and potential effects on kidney function raise additional concerns for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their healthcare provider before using sheep's sorrel in any form beyond occasional culinary quantities.

### What does the current clinical research show about sheep's sorrel's effectiveness in humans?

Most evidence for sheep's sorrel comes from animal studies and in vitro research showing antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective potential, but human clinical trials remain limited or absent. While rat studies have shown reduced liver enzymes and improved kidney markers, these findings have not yet been replicated in well-designed human studies. The gap between promising laboratory results and human efficacy means sheep's sorrel is primarily used as a traditional herbal remedy rather than a clinically proven supplement.

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