All herbs
Traditional part
Madder
Rubia tinctorum
Traditional useHigh caution — significant risksInteractions: ModeratePregnancy: Caution
Benefits summary
A red dye root historically used for kidney and bladder stones.
Traditional & historical use
Traditional use (european-folk): A red dye root historically used for kidney and bladder stones.
Modern claims
A red dye root historically used for kidney and bladder stones.
How it may work
Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.
Benefit–risk at a glance
Potential benefits
- A red dye root historically used for kidney and bladder stones.
Most credible evidence
Evidence strength: traditional use.
Key uncertainties
- See the evidence level above
Known risks
- Contains compounds flagged as possibly genotoxic — internal use is discouraged.
Who should avoid
- Pregnant/breastfeeding people without medical advice
Risks
Contains compounds flagged as possibly genotoxic — internal use is discouraged.
Interactions
May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.
Special populations
Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.
Sourcing & growing
Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.
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