Radix alkannae

Extract from the root Alkanna tuberculata, the make-up root.

Alkannin, alkannarot, anchusin, alkannic acid, tannins, pyrrolizidine alkaloids

In experimental studies, alkannin and its esters show an antibiotic-like effect. Extracts of the alkanna root also have an antiphlogistic effect and promote wound healing.

(there are no monographs of the various Commissions before e.g. Commission E): Chronic wounds (this indication was already known in ancient times); recently alkannin is also used for the treatment of varicose veins. The effectiveness is not sufficiently proven.

1. Huu Tung N et al.(2013) Naphthoquinone components from Alkanna tinctoria (L.) Exchange show significant antiproliferative effects on human colorectal cancer cells. Phytother Res 27:66-70.
2. Karayannopoulou M et al.(2011) Evaluation of the effectiveness of an ointment based on Alkannins/Shikonins on second intention wound healing in the dog. Can J Vet Res 75:42-48.
3. Papageorgiou VP et al.(2008) Alkannins and shikonins: a new class of wound healing agents. Curr Med Chem 15:3248-3267.
4. Wang Y et al(2016) Suppressive effect of β,β-dimethylacryloyl alkannin on activated dendritic cells in psoriasis by the TLR7/8 pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 40:410-418.
5. Wang R et al (2014) Synthesis and evaluation of novel alkannin and shikonin oxime derivatives as potent antitumor agents. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 24:4304-4307.