Cardiospermum halicacabum L. (Balloon Vine)

Cardiospermum halicacabum L. (Balloon Vine)

Product Name: Сердцевидносемянник пузырчатый, Серцевидносем’янник пухирчастий, Cardiospermum halicacabum L., Ballonrebe, amor en globo (love-in-a-puff), cardiosperme (liane ballon), كرمة البالون، عشب القلب, โคกกระออม

Synonyms: сердцевидносемянник, кардиоспермум; Enlish.: balloon vine, heartseed, love-in-a-puff; German: Ballonrebe, Herzsame; Spanish: amor en globo, bejuco de corazón, hierba del corazón; Fench.: cardiosperme, liane ballon; Arabic: كرمة البالون، عشب القلب; Thai: โคกกระออม; ботанические: Cardiospermum muricatum auct., Cardiospermum microcarpum (auct.), Cardiospermum halicacabum var.

Parts Used: roots, leaves, herb (aerial part), seeds, fruits, flowers

Main indications for use of Cardiospermum halicacabum: Atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, urticaria, itching of non-infectious etiology, allergic rhinitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis of mild activity, superficial tendinopathies, bursitis, periarthritis of the shoulder joint, neurodermatitis, insect bites with local inflammation.

Use of Cardiospermum halicacabum in mixtures and complexes: Atopic bronchial asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in the stable phase, chronic allergic sinusitis, chronic urticaria, discoid lupus erythematosus (cutaneous form, adjuvant), intercritical period of gouty arthritis, painful diabetic polyneuropathy (adjuvant), trophic ulcers of the lower extremities (adjuvant), infectious dermatomycosis (when combined with systemic therapy), mild viral dermatoses (adjuvant).

Pharmacological properties of Cardiospermum halicacabum: anti-inflammatory, antipruritic, antiallergic, immunomodulatory, analgesic, antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, wound-healing, dermatoprotective, spasmolytic, vasodilatory (local).

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Powder — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Indications (Powder): atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, urticaria, itching of non-infectious etiology, allergic rhinitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis of mild activity, superficial tendinopathies, bursitis, periarthritis of the shoulder joint, neurodermatitis, insect bites with local inflammation.

Standard Dosage (Powder): orally 1-2 grams of powder 2 times a day after meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): orally 2-3 grams of powder 3 times a day for severe itching, acute skin inflammation, enhanced allergic response.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): orally up to 12 grams per day for acute inflammatory skin diseases with severe itching, under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): orally 1 gram of powder once a day, in courses of 20 days every 2 months for chronic atopic dermatitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis, chronic neurodermatitis.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): orally from 6 years old, with body weight from 20 kg — 0.5 grams of powder 1-2 times a day, with body weight from 30 kg — 1 gram 1-2 times a day.

Contraindications (Powder): individual hypersensitivity, acute gastrointestinal diseases with diarrhea, data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation and in children under 6 years old are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): in case of overdose, nausea, dyspepsia, excessive sedation are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: body weight below 60 kg — dose reduction by 25%, body weight above 60 kg — standard dosage.

Preparation method (Powder): Ingredients per 100 g: plant leaves — 100 g. The leaves are washed in running water, dried at room temperature in the shade to remove surface moisture, spread in a thin layer and dried in a drying oven at a temperature of 40 °C until brittle. The dried raw material is ground in a mortar or mill to a powder state, sieved through a sieve with a mesh size of 0.5 mm. Packaged in airtight containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): store in an airtight container, in a dry, dark place at a temperature of 10 to 25 °C, without exposure to direct light and sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 2 years, after opening the package — no more than 6 months.

Dry Extract — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Indications (Dry Extract): atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, urticaria, allergic rhinitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis of mild activity, tendinopathies, bursitis, periarthritis of the shoulder joint, neurodermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): orally 250-500 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day after meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): orally 500-750 milligrams 2-3 times a day for acute dermatological inflammations, severe itching, active phase of rheumatoid arthritis.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): up to 3 grams of dry extract per day for acute allergic dermatoses, under specialist supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): orally 250 milligrams of dry extract once a day in courses of 20-30 days every 3 months for chronic allergic diseases of the skin and joints.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): from 6 years old — 100-200 milligrams of dry extract 1-2 times a day depending on body weight.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): individual hypersensitivity, acute gastrointestinal disorders, data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation and under 6 years of age are not scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): in case of overdose, dizziness, dyspepsia, drowsiness are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for body weight below 60 kg — reduce dosage by 20-25%.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): Ingredients per 100 g: leaves — 500 g, purified water — 3 liters. The leaves are washed, crushed, placed in an extractor, covered with water, heated to 70 °C, and held for 4 hours. Strain through cheesecloth, evaporate in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 50 °C to obtain a thick extract, then dried at 40 °C in a drying chamber to a powder state. Packaged in airtight containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): store in airtight packaging, in a dry and dark place at a temperature of 10-25 °C, away from sources of light and heat. Shelf life — 3 years, after opening — 12 months.

Tincture — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Indications (Tincture): atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, urticaria, allergic rhinitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis of mild activity, tendinopathies, bursitis, periarthritis of the shoulder joint, neurodermatitis, insect bites with local inflammation.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): orally 20 drops of tincture in 50 ml of water 2 times a day after meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): orally 25-30 drops in 50 ml of water 3 times a day for acute allergic dermatoses, pronounced joint inflammation, intense itching.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): up to 40 drops 3 times a day, under medical supervision, for severe eczema or active phase rheumatoid arthritis.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 15 drops in 50 ml of water once a day in courses of 20 days every 2-3 months for chronic atopic dermatitis, seasonal allergic rhinitis.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): orally from 12 years old — 5-10 drops in 50 ml of water 1-2 times a day; use under 12 years is not recommended due to ethanol content.

Contraindications (Tincture): individual hypersensitivity, pregnancy, lactation, liver diseases in the decompensation stage, alcoholism, age under 12 years; data on contraindications for other conditions are not registered.

Side Effects (Tincture): in case of overdose — dizziness, drowsiness, irritation of the gastric mucosa.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for body weight below 60 kg — reduce dosage by 20%.

Preparation method (Tincture): Ingredients per 100 g of finished product: dry leaves — 30 g, 70% ethanol — 100 ml (organic solvent is used only for extraction, is not a component of the finished preparation). The leaves are crushed, placed in a glass container, covered with ethanol, infused for 14 days in a dark place at a temperature of 20-25 °C, shaking periodically. After infusion, filter, evaporate in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 50 °C until the smell of alcohol completely disappears (residual ethanol content ≤ 500 ppm), adjust the volume with purified water to 100 ml, pour into dark glass bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): store in tightly closed dark glass bottles at a temperature of 10-25 °C, protect from light and heat sources; shelf life — 2 years, after opening — 6 months.

Oil Infusion — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Indications (Oil Infusion): atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, urticaria, itching of non-infectious etiology, osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, bursitis, periarthritis of the shoulder joint, neurodermatitis, insect bites with local inflammation, dry skin, skin cracks, post-traumatic scars.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): apply a thin layer to affected skin areas 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): apply 3-4 times a day for pronounced inflammation, intense itching, dry skin with cracks.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): up to 5 times a day on limited skin areas for acute manifestations of eczema or psoriasis.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): once a day for 10-14 days monthly for chronic atopic dermatitis, recurrent contact dermatitis, dry skin in elderly patients.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): from 1 year old — 1-2 times a day in a thin layer, avoiding contact with eyes and mucous membranes.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): individual hypersensitivity; data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): in case of overdose — local skin irritation, redness, burning.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: dosage adjustment is not required, as the form is intended for external use.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): Ingredients per 100 g of finished product: fresh leaves — 30 g, cold-pressed coconut oil — 100 ml. The leaves are washed, dried, crushed, placed in a glass container, covered with oil, kept in a water bath at a temperature of 40-45 °C for 6 hours. Cool, filter, pour into dark bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): store in tightly closed dark glass containers at a temperature of 10-20 °C, in a place protected from light; shelf life — 12 months, after opening — 3 months.

Ointment — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Indications (Ointment): atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, urticaria, neurodermatitis, itching of non-infectious etiology, osteoarthritis, tendinopathies, bursitis, periarthritis of the shoulder joint, insect bites with local inflammation, skin cracks, post-traumatic scars.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): apply a thin layer to affected skin areas 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): apply 3-4 times a day for pronounced inflammation, intense itching, dry skin.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): apply up to 5 times a day on limited skin areas for acute manifestations of dermatitis or psoriasis.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): apply once a day in courses of 7-10 days monthly for chronic atopic dermatitis, recurrent contact dermatitis, tendency to dry skin.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): from 1 year old — apply a thin layer 1-2 times a day, avoiding contact with mucous membranes.

Contraindications (Ointment): individual hypersensitivity; data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Ointment): in case of overdose — local skin irritation, redness, peeling.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: dosage adjustment is not required (external agent).

Preparation method (Ointment): Ingredients per 100 g: oil infusion of Cardiospermum halicacabum leaves — 70 g, beeswax — 20 g, cold-pressed coconut oil — 10 g. The wax and coconut oil are melted in a water bath at a temperature of 50 °C, the oil infusion is added, mixed until homogeneous, poured into sterile jars, cooled until completely solidified.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): store in a tightly closed dark glass jar at a temperature of 10-20 °C, protecting from direct light and heat sources; shelf life — 12 months, after opening — 3 months.

Cream — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Indications (Cream): atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, urticaria, neurodermatitis, itching of non-infectious etiology, dry skin, skin cracks, post-traumatic scars, skin irritation after sunburn.

Standard Dosage (Cream): apply a thin layer to affected areas 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): apply 3 times a day for pronounced inflammation, dryness, peeling of the skin.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): apply up to 4 times a day on limited skin areas for acute manifestations of dermatoses.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): once a day for 7-10 days monthly for chronic dermatitis, increased skin sensitivity, seasonal dryness.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): from 1 year old — apply 1-2 times a day in a thin layer, avoiding contact with eyes.

Contraindications (Cream): individual hypersensitivity; data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Cream): in case of overdose — local irritation, rashes, burning sensation.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: dosage adjustment is not required.

Preparation method (Cream): Ingredients per 100 g: oil infusion of leaves — 20 g, cold-pressed coconut oil — 15 g, shea butter — 15 g, distilled water — 45 g, natural emulsifier (beeswax + lecithin) — 5 g. The oil phase (oil infusion, coconut oil, shea butter, emulsifier) is heated in a water bath to 65 °C, the water phase (water) is heated to the same temperature, combined with constant stirring, cooled to 40 °C while stirring, poured into sterile containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): store in tightly closed containers at a temperature of 5-15 °C, protecting from direct light; shelf life — 6 months, after opening — 1 month.

Cosmetic Forms — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Indications (Cosmetic Forms): atopic dermatitis, eczema, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis in the stage of infiltration and itching, neurodermatitis, itching of non-infectious etiology, dry skin, skin cracks, post-traumatic scars, skin irritation after sunburn, prevention of skin photoaging, skin restoration after aggressive cosmetic procedures, care for sensitive skin of the eyelids and lips.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Forms): apply a thin layer to cleansed skin 1-2 times a day, avoiding contact with eyes (except for special products for eyelids and lips).

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Forms): apply 2-3 times a day for pronounced dryness, skin irritation, during the recovery period after sunburns or cosmetological procedures (peelings, laser resurfacing).

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Forms): apply up to 4 times a day locally to problem areas for acute inflammatory reactions or severe dry skin.

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Forms): use once a day in courses of 14-21 days every 2 months for tendency to dermatoses, seasonal dry skin, when working in unfavorable climatic conditions.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Forms): from 1 year old — apply once a day in a thin layer to areas of skin with increased dryness or irritation, avoiding the eye area.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Forms): individual hypersensitivity; data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not registered.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Forms): in case of overdose — local skin irritation, mild burning, redness.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: dosage adjustment is not required (external cosmetic product).

Preparation method (Cosmetic Forms): Ingredients per 100 g (example for nourishing facial serum): oil infusion of Cardiospermum halicacabum leaves — 15 g, cold-pressed coconut oil — 10 g, jojoba oil — 10 g, distilled water — 55 g, chamomile hydrolate — 5 g, lecithin-based emulsifier — 3 g, natural preservative (rosemary extract) — 2 g. The oil phase (oil infusion, coconut oil, jojoba oil, emulsifier) is heated to 65 °C, the water phase (water, hydrolate) is heated to the same temperature, combined with constant stirring, cooled to 40 °C, the preservative is added, mixed, poured into sterile bottles with a dispenser.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Forms): store in tightly closed containers at a temperature of 5-15 °C, protect from direct sunlight; shelf life — 6 months, after opening — 1 month.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Cardiospermum halicacabum

Data on the toxicity of Cardiospermum halicacabum indicate a low level of acute toxicity when administered orally. In experimental studies on laboratory rats, it was determined that the oral LD₅₀ value exceeds 2000 mg/kg body weight, which classifies it as a practically non-toxic substance according to the Hodge and Sterner scale. No skin-irritating or sensitizing effects have been identified with external use of plant extracts. Chronic toxicity with long-term use at therapeutic doses has not been established.

Reference: https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Pharmacodynamics — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Cardiospermum halicacabum contains a complex of biologically active compounds, among which flavonoids, saponins, triterpenoids, phytosteroids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids dominate. These compounds exhibit pronounced modulating effects on key links of the inflammatory process, including suppression of the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators. In vitro and in vivo studies confirm that plant extracts reduce the activity of the cyclooxygenase enzyme, leading to a decrease in prostaglandin synthesis and a reduction of the inflammatory response. Polyphenolic components have an antioxidant effect, inactivating free radicals and preventing damage to cell membranes, as well as stabilizing the structure of cellular proteins and lipids.

The effect on the immune system is manifested in the ability of individual extract fractions to modulate the Th1/Th2 response balance, as well as regulate the activity of mast cells and basophils, which leads to reduced degranulation and decreased histamine release. Plant phytosteroids can interact with receptor systems of the skin, including glucocorticoid receptors, which explains the antipruritic and anti-inflammatory effects with local use. Additionally, an effect on the synthesis of epidermal barrier lipids has been identified, which helps restore the protective function of the skin and reduce transepidermal water loss.

At the nervous system level, a mild sedative and anxiolytic effect is noted, presumably associated with an influence on GABAergic mechanisms and the regulation of nerve impulse transmission. Extracts have a spasmolytic effect on smooth muscles, including through calcium channel blockade, as confirmed in pharmacological studies on tissue models. They have a moderate vasodilatory effect on the cardiovascular system, mainly by improving endothelial function and increasing nitric oxide synthesis.

The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of the plant are associated with the presence of saponins and phenolic compounds that damage the cell membranes of microorganisms and inhibit their growth. The antiviral effect is manifested in inhibiting the attachment and penetration of viral particles into host cells. Thus, the pharmacodynamic profile of Cardiospermum halicacabum combines anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antipruritic, spasmolytic, antimicrobial, and dermatoprotective effects, realized both systemically and locally, depending on the dosage form and route of administration.

References: https://www.sciencedirect.com/...   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...

Pharmacokinetics — Cardiospermum halicacabum

After oral administration of Cardiospermum halicacabum extracts, the active components, mainly flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic acids, undergo absorption in the proximal sections of the small intestine with the participation of passive diffusion and, partly, active transport. Polar glycosidic forms of flavonoids are hydrolyzed by the intestinal microflora to aglycones, which are more easily absorbed and exhibit systemic action. Lipophilic triterpenoids and phytosteroids are absorbed more slowly but undergo enterohepatic circulation to a greater extent.

With transdermal administration via ointments, creams, or oil infusions, the bioavailability of active substances is determined by their lipophilicity and ability to penetrate the stratum corneum of the epidermis. Phytosteroids and some triterpenoids can reach the dermal layers, exerting a local and partially systemic effect. When applied to mucous membranes (e.g., in the form of liquid extracts), absorption occurs faster due to the high vascularization of the tissues.

Metabolism of the main active components occurs primarily in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, glucuronidation, and sulfation. Metabolites of flavonoids and saponins are excreted mainly in the urine, and to a lesser extent in the bile. Lipophilic fractions can be partially deposited in adipose tissue and cell membranes, being released gradually. During excretion, insignificant amounts of metabolites may also be eliminated through the skin with the secretion of sebaceous and sweat glands.

With external use, the systemic uptake of active substances is limited, and pharmacological effects are realized mainly at the application site. With the inhalation route of administration (not typical for this taxon, but studied under experimental conditions), rapid absorption of volatile fractions through the alveolar surface and their systemic distribution is possible.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...  https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Cardiospermum halicacabum

The pharmacological action of Cardiospermum halicacabum is mediated by a complex of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin and their glycosides), triterpene saponins, phytosteroids (β-sitosterol, stigmasterol), phenolic acids, and tannins. In vitro studies demonstrate inhibition of key enzymes of the inflammatory cascade, including cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX), which leads to a decrease in the biosynthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Polyphenolic compounds suppress the activation of the nuclear factor NF-κB and modulate the MAPK and JAK/STAT signaling pathways, affecting the expression of cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and chemokines involved in the regulation of the inflammatory response. At the cellular level, plant extracts reduce the activation and infiltration of macrophages and neutrophils, stabilize mast cell membranes, preventing degranulation and histamine release, which is associated with the antipruritic effect. Phytosteroid components interact with glucocorticoid receptors in the skin, providing local immunomodulatory and dermatoprotective effects. Antioxidant activity is realized through direct binding of free radicals and inducing the expression of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and catalase.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...   https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Synergy — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Scientific data confirm that Cardiospermum halicacabum exhibits pharmacological synergy with a number of plant taxa and natural compounds, enhancing certain effects when used together. Combined use with Glycyrrhiza glabra demonstrates a potentiating anti-inflammatory and antipruritic effect due to additive inhibition of NF-κB and COX-2, as well as joint stabilization of mast cell membranes. Combination with Aloe vera enhances the dermatoprotective and moisturizing effects, which is due to the combined impact on the synthesis of epidermal barrier lipids and increased skin hydration. Extracts of Chamomilla recutita when combined with Cardiospermum halicacabum exhibit additive antioxidant and mild sedative effects, modulating GABA receptor activity and reducing oxidative stress in tissues. Combination with polyphenolic complexes of Camellia sinensis enhances antioxidant activity and endothelial stabilization through the synchronous suppression of the lipid free radical oxidation cascade. Saponins of Cardiospermum halicacabum in combination with triterpenes of Centella asiatica exhibit a synergistic effect in stimulating collagen synthesis and angiogenesis, which is important for tissue repair. These interactions, confirmed by in vitro and in vivo experiments, are both additive and potentiating in nature, including systemic and tissue-specific levels of modulation.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...  https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Cardiospermum halicacabum

Cardiospermum halicacabum is traditionally used in the folk medicine of tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, Central and South America. In South and Southeast Asia, the plant is known in Ayurvedic and Siddha traditions, as well as in the folk medicine of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, where it is used in the form of decoctions, infusions, and juices from fresh leaves. In Indian ethnobotanical practice, the plant was used for local compresses and wraps, as well as in oil infusions for skin care. In African countries, including Nigeria and Ghana, it was used in the form of decoctions and pastes for external use, as well as in purification rituals associated with protection from evil spirits and pathogenic influences. In Latin America, particularly in Brazil and Colombia, there are known traditions of using Cardiospermum halicacabum both as medicinal infusions and in rituals where the plant was considered an "herb of power" and used in protective amulets.

In the ethno-cultural context of the peoples of Southeast Asia, the plant was sometimes included in ritual bath mixtures used in rites of passage and purification. Among some African ethnic groups, it was used as a smoking component combined with aromatic herbs in ceremonies for expelling ailments. In the Caribbean region, the plant was part of herbal mixtures for ablutions used in traditional healing rituals.

Historical references to Cardiospermum halicacabum are found in Indian herbals and medical poems dating no later than the 15th century, where the plant is described as a multi-purpose herbal remedy. Ethnobotanical data record the use of the plant for both medicinal and symbolic purposes, including amulets, talismans, and protective wreaths, which was associated with its image as a "protector plant" in the cultural beliefs of several peoples.