Cnicin

Clinical trial

Mechanism of Action

Primary bitter principle (0.2–0.7% in dried herb); stimulates gastric secretion and bile flow via TAS2R bitter taste receptors; emetic at high doses via direct mucosal irritation

Primary bitter principle of Centaurea species; confirmed anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-febrile properties; responsible for the balsamic tonic tradition

Research Notes

Blessed ThistleWestern

Well-characterised bitter compound. German Commission E approval for dyspeptic complaints based on established bitter pharmacology. Also demonstrates antiprotozoal, antitumour, and mild cytotoxic activity in vitro.

Star ThistleWestern

Cnicin is the characteristic sesquiterpene lactone of the Centaurea genus. Demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antipyretic activity.

Found In 2 Herbs

Blessed Thistle

Western

Star Thistle

Western

3D Molecular Structure

Sesquiterpene Lactone

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Cnicin

Sesquiterpene LactoneAromatic plant metabolites with anti-inflammatory properties

Representative pattern: C₂₁H₃₀O₂

Atoms

Carbon

Oxygen

Related Compounds (Sesquiterpene Lactone)

Absinthin(1)Atractylodide I(1)Bilobalide(1)Cnicin-related sesquiterpene lactones(1)Costunolide(2)Cynaropicrin(1)Dehydrocostus lactone(1)Lactucin(3)Lactucopicrin(2)Taraxacin(1)

Live Research

Open on PubMed

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.