Loading...
Loading...
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Estrogen [EPC]
Aquilegia Vulgaris is a botanical substance classified as a non-standardized plant allergenic extract and an estrogen/androgen receptor agonist, primarily utilized in diagnostic allergy testing and specific homeopathic formulations.
Name
Aquilegia Vulgaris
Raw Name
AQUILEGIA VULGARIS
Category
Estrogen [EPC]
Drug Count
4
Variant Count
4
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Aquilegia Vulgaris
Aquilegia Vulgaris is a botanical substance classified as a non-standardized plant allergenic extract and an estrogen/androgen receptor agonist, primarily utilized in diagnostic allergy testing and specific homeopathic formulations.
Detailed information about Aquilegia Vulgaris
References used for this content
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Aquilegia Vulgaris.
Aquilegia Vulgaris, commonly known as the European Columbine or Granny's Bonnet, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae (buttercup) family. In the context of modern clinical pharmacology and the FDA's Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC) system, Aquilegia Vulgaris is categorized as a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract, Estrogen, Progesterone, and Androgen. While historically recognized in traditional European medicine, its contemporary clinical application is primarily focused on its role as an allergenic extract for diagnostic testing and its inclusion in specific therapeutic regimens targeting hormonal pathways.
As a member of the Ranunculaceae family, Aquilegia Vulgaris contains a complex array of bioactive phytochemicals, including isonitril glycosides (such as aquilegiolide), flavonoids, and alkaloids. These constituents contribute to its classification as an Estrogen Receptor Agonist and Androgen Receptor Agonist. The FDA regulates non-standardized extracts of this nature under specific guidelines for allergenic products, ensuring that while the potency may vary between lots, the manufacturing process follows strict Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). It is important to distinguish between the raw botanical form, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities, and the highly diluted or purified extracts used in clinical settings.
The mechanism of action for Aquilegia Vulgaris is multifaceted, reflecting its diverse chemical composition. At the molecular level, specific flavonoids found within the plant, such as apigenin and luteolin derivatives, exhibit affinity for human steroid receptors.
The pharmacokinetics of Aquilegia Vulgaris are highly dependent on the route of administration, whether it be intradermal (for allergy testing), sublingual (in homeopathic preparations), or oral (in specific botanical formulations).
Aquilegia Vulgaris is utilized in several distinct clinical contexts:
Aquilegia Vulgaris is available in several specialized forms:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Aquilegia Vulgaris is right for your specific condition. The use of non-standardized extracts requires professional supervision to ensure safety and efficacy.
Dosage for Aquilegia Vulgaris varies significantly based on the intended use and the specific formulation prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Aquilegia Vulgaris is generally not recommended for systemic use in pediatric populations unless specifically directed by a specialist.
There are no specific dosage adjustment guidelines for Aquilegia Vulgaris in patients with renal impairment. However, since metabolites are primarily excreted renally, patients with a GFR < 30 mL/min should be monitored closely for signs of accumulation or toxicity.
Due to the reliance on hepatic conjugation (glucuronidation) for the metabolism of the plant's flavonoids and alkaloids, patients with significant hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B or C) should use Aquilegia Vulgaris with extreme caution. Dose reductions may be necessary to prevent hepatotoxic effects from alkaloid constituents.
Geriatric patients may be more sensitive to the hormonal effects (Estrogen/Androgen [EPC]) of Aquilegia Vulgaris. Healthcare providers should initiate treatment at the lowest possible dose and monitor for cardiovascular or endocrine changes.
If you miss a dose of Aquilegia Vulgaris, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up, as this may increase the risk of alkaloid-related toxicity.
Signs of an acute overdose of Aquilegia Vulgaris (particularly the raw plant or concentrated tinctures) include:
In the event of a suspected overdose, contact your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention immediately. Emergency measures may include gastric lavage and supportive care for respiratory or cardiac symptoms.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or frequency of use without explicit medical guidance.
When used as a diagnostic allergenic extract, the most common side effects are localized to the site of administration:
> Warning: Stop taking Aquilegia Vulgaris and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these serious symptoms.
Prolonged use of Aquilegia Vulgaris, particularly in non-homeopathic doses, may lead to:
No FDA black box warnings currently exist for Aquilegia Vulgaris. However, the FDA requires all allergenic extracts to carry warnings regarding the risk of severe systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis. These products must only be administered by clinicians prepared to manage life-threatening allergic emergencies.
Report any unusual symptoms or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider immediately. Monitoring of liver enzymes and hormonal levels may be recommended for long-term users.
Aquilegia Vulgaris contains bioactive compounds that can significantly affect hormonal balance and immune response. It should never be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment for serious conditions. Patients with a history of severe allergies or asthma must be monitored with extreme caution when undergoing testing with this extract.
No FDA black box warnings for Aquilegia Vulgaris. However, it is classified under the general safety mandates for Allergenic Extracts, which emphasize that systemic reactions can occur and may be fatal. These products are intended for use only by physicians who are experienced in the administration of allergenic extracts and the treatment of systemic reactions.
If you are using Aquilegia Vulgaris systemically for its hormonal properties, your doctor may require the following:
Aquilegia Vulgaris may cause dizziness or mild sedation in some patients, particularly when first starting the medication or if using an alcohol-based tincture. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this substance affects you.
Alcohol should be avoided or minimized while taking Aquilegia Vulgaris. Alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness and may exacerbate the hepatotoxic potential of the plant's alkaloids. Additionally, many tinctures already contain high percentages of ethanol.
Do not stop taking Aquilegia Vulgaris suddenly if you have been using it for a prolonged period to manage hormonal symptoms. A gradual tapering of the dose may be necessary to prevent 'rebound' symptoms or hormonal fluctuations. Discuss a discontinuation plan with your healthcare provider.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially any history of cancer or severe allergies, with your healthcare provider before starting Aquilegia Vulgaris.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. A complete review of your 'medication list' is essential to prevent dangerous interactions.
Aquilegia Vulgaris must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring careful risk-benefit analysis include:
Patients allergic to other members of the Ranunculaceae family (e.g., Aconitum, Delphinium, Ranunculus) may exhibit cross-sensitivity to Aquilegia Vulgaris. If you have a known allergy to 'Buttercups,' inform your allergist before undergoing any testing with Columbine extracts.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any family history of hormone-sensitive cancers, before prescribing or administering Aquilegia Vulgaris.
Aquilegia Vulgaris is classified as Category X for systemic use during pregnancy. It contains alkaloids and isonitril glycosides that can stimulate uterine smooth muscle, potentially leading to miscarriage or premature labor. Furthermore, the hormonal activity (Estrogen/Androgen [EPC]) can interfere with the delicate endocrine balance required to maintain a healthy pregnancy. There is no safe level of systemic Aquilegia Vulgaris established for pregnant women.
It is unknown if the active constituents of Aquilegia Vulgaris pass into breast milk. However, many alkaloids and flavonoids are excreted in milk and could potentially affect a nursing infant, causing gastrointestinal distress or hormonal disruptions. Breastfeeding is generally not recommended while using systemic forms of this medication. Risk-benefit considerations should be discussed with a pediatrician.
The safety and efficacy of systemic Aquilegia Vulgaris have not been established in children. Use is generally limited to diagnostic allergy testing in children over the age of 2, performed by a specialist. Children may be more susceptible to the toxic effects of the plant's alkaloids, particularly the irritant protoanemonin.
Elderly patients often have reduced renal and hepatic clearance, increasing the risk of accumulation of the plant's metabolites. There is also a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease and hormone-sensitive cancers in this population, making the Estrogen/Androgen [EPC] activity particularly concerning. Geriatric patients should undergo regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rhythm if using this substance.
In patients with impaired kidney function, the excretion of conjugated metabolites is slowed. While specific GFR-based dose adjustments are not standardized, a conservative approach (starting at 25-50% of the standard dose) is advised for those with moderate to severe renal impairment. Dialysis is unlikely to clear the highly protein-bound flavonoid components effectively.
Since the liver is the primary site for the detoxification of Ranunculaceae alkaloids, patients with hepatic impairment are at a significantly increased risk of toxicity. Aquilegia Vulgaris should be avoided in patients with Child-Pugh Class C cirrhosis and used only with extreme caution in Class A or B.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Always disclose your full health status to your medical team.
Aquilegia Vulgaris functions through several distinct pharmacological pathways:
The dose-response relationship for Aquilegia Vulgaris is non-linear, particularly for its allergenic effects. Even minute quantities can trigger a massive immune response in sensitized individuals. For its hormonal effects, the onset is typically slow, requiring 2-4 weeks of consistent use to observe changes in physiological markers or symptom relief. Tolerance to the hormonal effects has not been widely documented, but sensitization (increased allergic response) can occur with repeated exposure.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 15-30% (Oral) |
| Protein Binding | 85-95% (Flavonoid components) |
| Half-life | 4-8 hours (Metabolites) |
| Tmax | 1.5-3 hours |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (UGT1A1, SULT1A1, CYP3A4) |
| Excretion | Renal 70%, Fecal 25% |
Aquilegia Vulgaris is classified as a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract. Within the therapeutic hierarchy, it is grouped with other botanical allergens like Ambrosia (Ragweed) and Artemisia (Sagebrush). Its secondary classification as an Estrogen [EPC] and Androgen [EPC] places it alongside other phytoestrogens like Glycine max (Soy) and Trifolium pratense (Red Clover).
Common questions about Aquilegia Vulgaris
Aquilegia Vulgaris, or Common Columbine, is primarily used in clinical settings as a non-standardized allergenic extract for diagnostic skin testing to identify specific plant allergies. Beyond allergy diagnostics, it is classified by the FDA as having Estrogen and Androgen receptor agonist properties, leading to its use in certain integrative medicine practices for hormonal support. In homeopathy, highly diluted preparations are used to treat conditions such as menstrual pain, headaches, and nervous exhaustion. It is important to note that while it has these classifications, it is not a first-line treatment for hormonal disorders. Always consult a healthcare provider before using it for any therapeutic purpose.
The most common side effects of Aquilegia Vulgaris depend on how it is administered. When used for allergy testing, patients typically experience localized redness, itching, and swelling at the site of the skin prick. If taken orally as a tincture or supplement, common side effects include mild nausea, stomach upset, dizziness, and headache. Because of its hormonal activity, some women may experience breast tenderness or minor changes in their menstrual cycle. Most of these effects are mild and resolve once the substance is discontinued. However, any persistent or worsening symptoms should be reported to a doctor immediately.
It is generally advised to avoid or strictly limit alcohol consumption while using Aquilegia Vulgaris. Alcohol can worsen side effects such as dizziness and lightheadedness, and it may increase the risk of liver strain when combined with the plant's alkaloid constituents. Furthermore, many liquid preparations of Aquilegia Vulgaris are tinctures that already contain a significant amount of ethanol, so adding more alcohol can lead to unintended intoxication or interactions. Alcohol can also interfere with the body's hormonal balance, potentially counteracting the intended effects of the extract. Always discuss your alcohol intake with your prescribing physician.
No, Aquilegia Vulgaris is not considered safe during pregnancy and is generally contraindicated. Historically, the plant has been used to stimulate uterine contractions, which poses a significant risk of miscarriage or preterm labor. Additionally, its classification as an Estrogen and Androgen agonist means it could interfere with the natural hormonal environment necessary for a healthy pregnancy and fetal development. There is also a lack of rigorous clinical data regarding its potential for birth defects or other developmental issues. Pregnant women should avoid all forms of this plant, including teas, tinctures, and supplements.
The 'onset of action' for Aquilegia Vulgaris varies by its use. For allergy diagnostic testing, the reaction is almost immediate, with results typically visible within 15 to 20 minutes. However, when used systemically for hormonal modulation or in homeopathic preparations, the effects are much slower. Patients may need to take the medication consistently for 2 to 4 weeks before noticing an improvement in symptoms like menstrual cramps or menopausal hot flashes. Because it works by modulating receptor activity and gene expression, the therapeutic benefits are cumulative rather than instant. If you do not see results after a month, consult your doctor.
While Aquilegia Vulgaris is not known to cause a traditional 'withdrawal' syndrome like opioids or benzodiazepines, stopping it suddenly after long-term use can cause issues. If you have been using it for its hormonal effects, a sudden stop may lead to a rapid return of symptoms or hormonal fluctuations, such as breakthrough bleeding or mood swings. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing any herbal or hormonal treatment. They may suggest a tapering schedule to allow your body's endocrine system to readjust gradually. Sudden discontinuation of homeopathic forms is generally considered safe and without significant rebound effects.
If you miss a dose of Aquilegia Vulgaris, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next scheduled dose, it is safer to skip the missed dose entirely and continue with your regular timing. You should never 'double up' or take two doses at once to compensate for a missed one, as this increases the risk of experiencing side effects or toxicity from the plant's alkaloids. Consistency is key for the effectiveness of hormonal and homeopathic treatments, so try to take your doses at the same time each day. If you frequently miss doses, consider using a pill reminder app or organizer.
There is no definitive clinical evidence linking Aquilegia Vulgaris directly to significant weight gain. However, because it acts as an Estrogen Receptor Agonist, it could theoretically cause mild fluid retention or bloating in some individuals, which might be perceived as weight gain. Estrogen-like substances can also influence fat distribution and metabolism in some people. If you notice rapid or unusual weight gain while taking this medication, it is important to discuss it with your doctor to rule out other causes, such as thyroid issues or cardiovascular changes. Maintaining a balanced diet and exercise routine can help manage any minor metabolic shifts.
Aquilegia Vulgaris has the potential for several significant drug interactions, particularly with other hormonal treatments. It should not be used with aromatase inhibitors or SERMs used in cancer therapy, as it can reduce their effectiveness. It may also interact with blood thinners, birth control pills, and certain antidepressants or immunosuppressants. Because it is metabolized by the liver, it can affect how other drugs are processed by the body. You must provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal supplements you are taking to ensure a safe treatment plan.
Aquilegia Vulgaris is not a 'brand-name' pharmaceutical drug in the traditional sense, so the concept of a 'generic' does not apply in the same way it does to medications like Lipitor or Advil. It is a botanical substance available from various manufacturers as a non-standardized extract, tincture, or homeopathic remedy. When purchasing, it is important to choose products from reputable sources that follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure the purity and consistency of the extract. In the United States, these products are often sold under their botanical name or as part of specialized allergenic panels used by medical professionals.