Cow parsnip

Related Terms

Apiaceae (family), common cow parsnip, giant cow parsnip, Heracleum, Heracleum mantegazzianum, Heracleum maximum, hogweeds, pushki, Sosnovskii's cow parsnip.

Background

Cow parsnip (Heracleum maximum) is the only member of the hogweeds that is native to North America. Like other hogweeds, cow parsnip sap can cause blisters and phytophotodermatitis. There is currently insufficient evidence available in humans to support the use of cow parsnip for any indication.
Some Native American tribes used cow parsnip to treat bruises and sores.

Evidence Table

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory

The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older)
There is no proven safe or effective dose for cow parsnip in adults.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Interactions

Interactions with Drugs
Cow parsnip may cause contact dermatitis, including phytophotodermatitis or acute bullous dermatitis. Caution is advised when taking other photosensitizing agents as the risk of side effects may increase.

Attribution

This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

Bibliography

Kriazheva SS, Khamaganova IV, Kolibrina AM. [Dermatitis bullosa in children caused by cow-parsnip]. Pediatriia. 1991;(6):88-90.
Maksakova GP. [Case of contact dermatitis caused by Sosnovskii's cow parsnip]. Vestn.Dermatol Venerol. 1978;(8):48-49.
Prinz VL, Kostler H. [Report on 3 cases of toxic phytophotodermatitis due to Heracleum mantegazzianum (giant cow parsnip)]. Dermatol Monatsschr. 1976;162(11):881-886.
Rogov VD. [Acute bullous dermatitis developing after contact with cow parsnip (Heracleum)]. Vestn.Dermatol Venerol. 1985;(11):58-59.
Sokolova EM. [Bullous occupational dermatitis caused by the cow parsnip]. Vestn.Dermatol Venerol. 1968;42(2):64-67.