Botanical Overview
Melampyrum arvense is a species in the Scrophulariaceae family. The figwort family (Scrophulariaceae) includes herbs and shrubs with alternate or opposite leaves and two-lipped, often showy flowers. The fruits are typically capsules with many small seeds. Many species contain iridoid glycosides and cardiac glycosides with medicinal properties. Phytochemical data for this species are limited at present.
General Description
It is striking because of the conspicuous spike of pink or purple terminal bracts which includes the flowers. The Latin specific epithet arvense means “growing in cultivated fields”.
Family Context
The Scrophulariaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Scoparia dulcis — 56 documented uses
- Chinese Foxglove — 53 documented uses
- Mullein — 50 documented uses
- Common Speedwell — 24 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Melampyrum arvense has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Germany, Denmark, and others.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 1 compound in this species: aucubin.
Research Status
Although this species has documented phytochemical constituents, its ethnobotanical and clinical documentation remains incomplete. The limited documentation available for this species represents an opportunity for ethnobotanical research.