Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Ox Eye Daisy (Leucanthemum vulgare) contains phenolic compounds and flavonoids that demonstrate antioxidant activity with ORAC values of 9.05 µmol Trolox/mg in related species. The compounds inhibit acetylcholinesterase activity and reduce nitric oxide production in macrophages through anti-inflammatory pathways.
CategoryFlower
GroupFlower
Evidence LevelModerate
Primary KeywordOx Eye Daisy benefits
Synergy Pairings4
Ox Eye Daisy — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
**Supports respiratory health**
by soothing irritation and reducing inflammation in airways.
**Aids digestive wellness**
by calming gut discomfort and promoting healthy flora.
**Enhances immune resilience**
through its rich content of antioxidant compounds.
**Promotes cardiovascular health**
by supporting healthy circulation and reducing oxidative stress.
**Modulates the stress**
response, contributing to emotional balance and relaxation.
**Supports skin vitality**
through its anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Leucanthemum vulgare, commonly known as Ox Eye Daisy, is a flowering plant native to Europe and temperate Asia, now naturalized across North America. It thrives in meadows and open fields, recognized for its distinctive white petals and yellow center. This botanical is valued in functional nutrition for its traditional use in supporting respiratory and digestive wellness.
“In European folklore, Ox Eye Daisy symbolized purity and healing, often used in rituals and associated with clarity and divination. Traditionally, it was incorporated into home remedies for respiratory and digestive health, as well as for stress relief.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Preliminary in vitro and animal studies indicate that Ox Eye Daisy possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulating properties, attributed to its flavonoid and phenolic acid content. Research is exploring its traditional applications in respiratory and digestive support.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
Common Forms
Dried flowers for tea, powdered extracts, tinctures.
Preparation
Brew 1–2 grams of dried flowers into an herbal tea.
Dosage
500–1000 mg of extract daily
1–2 grams of dried flower brewed daily, or .
Traditional Use
Applied topically in European folk medicine for skin healing.
Nutritional Profile
- Flavonoids: Apigenin, luteolin, and other compounds provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Terpenoids and Phenolic Acids: Contribute to its therapeutic properties.
- Essential Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, and potassium support various bodily functions.
- Saponins and Tannins: Offer additional bioactive compounds.
- Mucilage: Provides soothing properties, particularly for mucous membranes.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Phenolic compounds and flavonoids in Ox Eye Daisy demonstrate free radical scavenging activity and inhibit inflammatory mediators including COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in macrophage models. The compounds reduce acetylcholinesterase activity with IC50 values of 1.49 mM in vitro studies. Anti-inflammatory effects occur through nitric oxide inhibition in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages with IC50 of 193.1 µg/mL.
Clinical Evidence
No human clinical trials exist for Ox Eye Daisy specifically, with evidence limited to preclinical studies on related Asteraceae species. In vitro studies on Bellis perennis show 85.8% DPPH scavenging activity at 102.5 µg/mL and acetylcholinesterase reduction to 0.89-1.91 nM/mg in rodent models compared to 10.03 nM/mg in controls. Current scientific evidence is insufficient to support traditional medicinal uses. All documented effects derive from laboratory and animal studies rather than controlled human trials.
Safety & Interactions
Ox Eye Daisy has insufficient safety data for oral consumption and may be potentially unsafe due to unknown side effects. Individuals with allergies to Asteraceae/Compositae family plants (ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds) should avoid use due to cross-reactivity potential. No documented drug interactions have been reported, though comprehensive interaction studies are lacking. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety data is unavailable, warranting avoidance during these periods.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Polyphenol/antioxidant base
Immune & Inflammation | Mood & Stress
Also Known As
Leucanthemum vulgareChrysanthemum leucanthemumOxeye daisyWhite daisyMargueriteDog daisyButter daisy
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main active compounds in Ox Eye Daisy?
Ox Eye Daisy contains phenolic compounds and flavonoids, with highest concentrations found in ethyl acetate extracts via LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis. These compounds demonstrate antioxidant activity with ORAC values of 9.05 µmol Trolox/mg in related species studies.
Is there clinical evidence supporting Ox Eye Daisy's health benefits?
No human clinical trials exist for Ox Eye Daisy, with all evidence derived from laboratory and animal studies on related daisy species. Current scientific evidence is insufficient to support traditional medicinal uses for respiratory or digestive conditions.
Can Ox Eye Daisy cause allergic reactions?
Yes, Ox Eye Daisy may cause allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to the Asteraceae/Compositae plant family. People allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, marigolds, or other daisies should avoid this herb due to potential cross-reactivity.
How does Ox Eye Daisy work as an anti-inflammatory?
Ox Eye Daisy's phenolic compounds inhibit nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated macrophages with IC50 of 193.1 µg/mL. The compounds also inhibit inflammatory mediators including COX-2, iNOS, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α pathways.
Is Ox Eye Daisy safe to consume orally?
Oral consumption of Ox Eye Daisy has insufficient safety data and may be potentially unsafe due to unknown side effects. No comprehensive toxicity studies or drug interaction profiles exist for human use.
Is Ox Eye Daisy safe to take with blood pressure or heart medications?
Ox Eye Daisy may interact with cardiovascular medications due to its circulatory effects and coumarin compounds that can influence blood clotting. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining it with antihypertensive drugs, anticoagulants, or other heart medications to avoid potential interactions. Medical supervision is especially important if you're on warfarin or similar blood-thinning agents.
What is the most effective form of Ox Eye Daisy—dried flower, tea, or extract?
Dried flower tea is the most traditional and well-researched form, as it preserves heat-sensitive antioxidant compounds while allowing for flexible dosing. Standardized extracts may offer concentrated benefits but can lose some of the synergistic compounds present in whole flower preparations. The choice depends on your preference for absorption speed and the specific health benefit you're targeting.
Is Ox Eye Daisy safe for children or during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Ox Eye Daisy is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data and its potential uterine stimulant properties. For children, use should be limited and only under professional guidance, as dosing standards have not been established for pediatric populations. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before giving this herb to vulnerable populations.
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