Herbs (Global Traditional) · European
Silverweed (Potentilla anserina) (Potentilla anserina)
Moderate Evidencebotanical1 PubMed Study
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Silverweed (Potentilla anserina) is a European herb containing high levels of tannins that provide astringent properties for digestive and gynecological applications. The plant's bioactive compounds primarily work through astringent mechanisms to reduce inflammation and provide antimicrobial effects.
Silverweed (Potentilla anserina L.) is a perennial herb from the Rosaceae family, native to temperate zones globally and characterized by solitary five-petaled flowers and pinnate compound leaves with 7 or more toothed leaflets. Extracts are typically prepared from the herb using acetone, ethanol, or aqueous solutions at 40°C extraction temperatures.
The research dossier contains no human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs. Available studies focus solely on phytochemical composition analysis and traditional use documentation rather than clinical efficacy.
No clinically studied dosage ranges are available in the research. Traditional preparation involves leaf tea, while analytical studies used liquid-to-solid ratio 1:25 at 40°C for 30 minutes, though these are extraction parameters rather than therapeutic doses. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Silverweed (Potentilla anserina) nutritional composition is primarily characterized by its bioactive polyphenolic content rather than macronutrient density. Tannin content is significant, ranging from 4–10% dry weight in leaves, dominated by ellagitannins — most notably agrimoniin, along with pedunculagin and related hydrolyzable tannins. Flavonoids present include quercetin, luteolin, kaempferol, and their glycosides at concentrations estimated 0.5–2% dry weight. Phenolic acids documented include ellagic acid, gallic acid, and chlorogenic acid. The aerial parts contain modest fiber content, with leaves providing structural cellulose and hemicellulose; precise fiber quantification in herbal preparations is limited but consistent with leafy plant material (~15–25% dry weight total fiber). Protein content in the whole plant is low, approximately 8–12% dry weight in dried leaf material, typical of herbaceous plants. Vitamin C has been historically noted in fresh plant material at low to moderate levels (estimated 20–50 mg/100g fresh weight), consistent with other Rosaceae family members. Mineral content includes potassium, calcium, and magnesium at trace-to-moderate levels; precise concentrations are not well-characterized in modern literature. Roots contain starch and have historically been used as a food source, contributing carbohydrates. Bioavailability note: ellagitannins such as agrimoniin are hydrolyzed in the gut to release ellagic acid, which is further metabolized by gut microbiota to urolithins; bioavailability of parent tannins is low but metabolite activity is variable and microbiome-dependent. Flavonoid glycosides require intestinal deglycosylation prior to absorption, limiting but not eliminating bioavailability.
Silverweed's primary bioactive compounds are condensed tannins, particularly proanthocyanidins, which exert astringent effects by binding to proteins in mucous membranes. These tannins reduce inflammation through inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and provide antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria. The astringent action helps tighten tissues and reduce excessive secretions in digestive and reproductive tract applications.
Current clinical evidence for silverweed is limited to traditional use documentation and in vitro studies examining its tannin content. No randomized controlled trials have specifically evaluated silverweed's efficacy for gynecological or digestive conditions in humans. Laboratory studies have confirmed the presence of 8-12% tannins in dried leaves, supporting traditional astringent uses. Most evidence remains anecdotal from traditional European herbal medicine practices spanning several centuries.
Silverweed is generally considered safe when used as a traditional tea, though high tannin content may cause stomach irritation in sensitive individuals. The herb may theoretically reduce absorption of iron and certain medications due to tannin binding properties. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to lack of safety data and traditional use for gynecological conditions. No specific drug interactions have been documented, but caution is advised with iron supplements and medications requiring optimal absorption.
