10 Health Benefits Of Prunella Vulgaris (Selfheal)

Prunella vulgaris, also known as selfheal, has health benefits such as reducing inflammation and fighting off infections due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

This can improve respiratory issues, wound healing, and skin conditions like eczema. Selfheal tea or supplements can be used to treat coughs and colds, promote relaxation, and even reduce stress and anxiety levels.

These benefits can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with chronic health conditions, allowing them to lead healthier and more active lifestyles.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Prunella vulgaris.

1. Reduces inflammation

Prunella vulgaris reduces inflammation because it contains bioactive compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids.

These antioxidants have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and prostaglandins, which contribute to inflammation.

Additionally, selfheal's anti-inflammatory properties may be attributed to its ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, ultimately leading to a decrease in inflammatory responses and promoting overall health and well-being.

2. Heals wounds

Prunella vulgaris heals wounds because it contains a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids.

These compounds have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, which can help prevent infection, reduce swelling, and promote tissue repair.

Additionally, selfheal's high concentration of allantoin, a natural wound-healing agent, has been linked to improved wound closure rates and reduced scarring.

3. Fights bacteria

Prunella vulgaris fights bacteria because of its unique composition and bioactive compounds.

The plant contains triterpenoid saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which have been shown to exhibit antibacterial properties against a range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

These compounds disrupt bacterial cell membranes and inhibit the production of toxins, making it challenging for bacteria to survive and replicate, thereby providing natural defense against infections.

4. Treats viral infections

Prunella vulgaris treats viral infections because of its rich concentration of rosmarinic acid, a potent antioxidant that inhibits viral replication and modulates the immune response.

Selfheal's antiviral properties have been shown to effectively combat various viral strains, including influenza, herpes simplex, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Its ability to stimulate cytokine production and enhance natural killer cell activity further reinforces its efficacy in treating viral infections.

5. Alleviates respiratory conditions

Prunella vulgaris alleviates respiratory conditions because of its natural anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties.

The plant's essential oils, including beta-caryophyllene and caryophyllene oxide, have been shown to reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways, making it an effective treatment for conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

6. Supports liver function

Prunella vulgaris supports liver function because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant's bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes in the liver, reducing oxidative stress and promoting detoxification processes.

This may help protect against liver damage caused by environmental toxins, medications, and other harmful substances, ultimately supporting overall liver health and function.

7. Regulates blood sugar levels

Prunella vulgaris regulates blood sugar levels because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.

The herb contains flavonoids and saponins that have been shown to inhibit alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme involved in carbohydrate digestion, thereby reducing the absorption of glucose into the bloodstream.

Additionally, selfheal's antioxidant properties help to reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to insulin resistance and blood sugar imbalances.

8. Lowers blood pressure

Prunella vulgaris lowers blood pressure because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.

The herb contains flavonoids, particularly orientin and isoorientin, which have been shown to possess vasodilatory properties, causing blood vessels to relax and expand. This increased blood flow reduces peripheral resistance, leading to a decrease in blood pressure.

Additionally, selfheal has been found to inhibit the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), further contributing to its hypotensive effects.

9. Prevents tumor growth

Prunella vulgaris prevents tumor growth because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant's flavonoids, such as rosmarinic acid, have been shown to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells by inducing apoptosis and arresting cell cycle progression.

Additionally, selfheal's saponins have demonstrated antimutagenic activity, helping to prevent genetic mutations that can lead to tumor formation.

10. Protects against oxidative stress

Prunella vulgaris protects against oxidative stress because of its rich antioxidant and phenolic compounds.

The plant's extracts have been shown to scavenge free radicals, neutralize reactive oxygen species, and reduce lipid peroxidation, thereby mitigating cellular damage caused by oxidative stress.

Selfheal's antioxidants also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, further enhancing its protective effects against oxidative stress-induced diseases such as atherosclerosis, neurodegeneration, and cancer.