​Erysimum (Wallflower), Powder

Erysimum (Wallflower)

Product Name: Жёлтушник, Erysimum, Schöterich, Alhelí, Giroflée, أريسيوم, ผักกาดเหลือง, Ерисимум, Сарычачак, Ərişim, Эрисимум, Geltonžiedė gėlė, Dzeltenzieds, Жовтушник, אריסיום

Synonyms: жёлтушник, ерисимум, желтушка полевая, wallflower, treacle mustard, schroeterich, gelber Schöterich, alhelí de campo, giroflée jaune, أريسيوم بري, ดอกผักกาดเหลือง, дикорастущий ерисимум

Used Parts: herb, aerial part, seeds, flowers, leaves, stems, fruits, roots, essential oil, extract.

Main Indications for the Use of Erysimum: Acute myocarditis, chronic myocarditis, post-infarction cardiosclerosis, chronic heart failure of functional class II and III, arterial hypertension, atrial fibrillation, tachyarrhythmia, cardiac-type neurocirculatory dystonia, acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, spastic cough, laryngitis, tracheitis, chronic obstructive bronchitis, urolithiasis, pyelonephritis, urethritis.

Use of Erysimum in Mixtures and Complexes: Coronary heart disease, stage I hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, allergic bronchial asthma, prolonged smoker's cough, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, post-stress blood pressure, chronic fatigue syndrome.

Pharmacological Properties of Erysimum: Cardiotonic, diuretic, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, bronchospasmolytic, mild sedative, antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, nephroprotective, general tonic, immunotropic, spasmolytic, mild choleretic, insecticidal, fungicidal.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Erysimum

Powder — Erysimum

Indications (Powder): Acute myocarditis, chronic myocarditis, post-infarction cardiosclerosis, chronic heart failure of functional class II and III, arterial hypertension, atrial fibrillation, tachyarrhythmia, cardiac-type neurocirculatory dystonia, acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, spastic cough, tracheitis, chronic obstructive bronchitis, pyelonephritis.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams of powder 3 times a day, 15 minutes before meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 3 times a day for pronounced symptoms of chronic heart failure of functional class III, stage II hypertension, and prolonged cough accompanied by bronchospasm.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): Up to 1.5 grams 3 times a day, short-term (no more than 7 days), exclusively under specialist supervision for acute manifestations of post-infarction cardiosclerosis, acute myocarditis, and pronounced tachyarrhythmia.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.3 grams once a day for 20 days, then a 10-day break; the course can be repeated up to 4 times a year. Recommended for patients with chronic cardiovascular insufficiency of functional class I, stage I arterial hypertension, and chronic obstructive bronchitis in remission.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): For children over 12 years of age with a body weight of 40 kg or more — 0.2 grams 2 times a day. Use under 12 years is not recommended due to the lack of scientifically confirmed safety data.

Contraindications (Powder): Acute glomerulonephritis, pregnancy, lactation, children under 12 years of age, individual intolerance. Scientifically registered safety data during lactation and in children under 12 years of age are not available.

Side Effects (Powder): Nausea, pain in the epigastric region, hypotension, headache, dyspeptic disorders with overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): For body weight below 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; for body weight above 90 kg, an increase in the standard dosage by 15% is allowed.

Preparation method (Powder): Raw material: dried wallflower herb — 100 grams. Carefully sort, clean from coarse stems, grind to powder in a mortar or mill to a fraction of less than 0.5 mm. Store in an airtight jar made of dark glass or food-grade aluminum with a gasket. The temperature during grinding should not exceed 40 degrees Celsius.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in an airtight container, in a dry, dark place at a temperature of 5 to 25 degrees Celsius. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 12 months. After opening the package, use within 60 days.

Dry Extract — Erysimum

Indications (Dry Extract): Chronic heart failure of functional class II and III, arterial hypertension, bronchitis with obstructive component, neurocirculatory dystonia, urolithiasis, pyelonephritis, urethritis.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 150 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 200 milligrams 3 times a day for exacerbation of chronic heart failure, pronounced arterial blood pressure above 160/100 mm Hg, and exacerbation of pyelonephritis.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): Up to 250 milligrams 3 times a day, no more than 10 days in a row, only under medical supervision for pronounced forms of tachycardia and hypertension.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 milligrams once a day for 30 days. Prophylactically recommended for patients with autonomic dystonia, stage I arterial hypertension, and patients over 60 years of age with the initial stage of CHF.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): For adolescents over 14 years of age — 75 milligrams once a day. For children under 14 years of age, scientific safety data are absent.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Individual intolerance, pregnancy, lactation, age under 14 years. Scientifically confirmed safety data during pregnancy and in pediatric practice are absent.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Decreased blood pressure, frequent urination, drowsiness, with overdose — dizziness and diarrhea.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): Patients up to 60 kg — dosage is reduced by 25%, patients over 90 kg — increased by 15%.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): Ingredients: wallflower herb — 100 grams, purified water — 1 liter. Pour water over the raw material, keep at a temperature of 60 degrees Celsius for 6 hours, then evaporate in a water bath until the volume is reduced by 10 times. Dry the resulting concentrate by lyophilization or at a temperature of 40–45 °C in a drying chamber to a dry powder state.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in an airtight bottle in a dry, cool place at a temperature of 5 to 25 °C. Avoid exposure to light and heat. Shelf life — 18 months. After opening, use within 60 days.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Erysimum

Indications (Tincture): Arterial hypertension, chronic heart failure of functional class I and II, tachyarrhythmia, cardiac-type neurocirculatory dystonia, spastic cough, acute bronchitis, chronic bronchitis, pyelonephritis.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops (approximately 1 ml) 3 times a day, diluted in 50 ml of water, 20 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 drops 3 times a day for pronounced tachycardia, arterial hypertension above 160/100 mm Hg, and acute forms of bronchitis with severe cough.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Up to 40 drops 3 times a day, no more than 5 days in a row, under strict medical supervision for severe forms of neurocirculatory dystonia and attacks of heart failure.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops once a day, diluted in 50 ml of water, for 20 days. Used for a tendency to high blood pressure, cardiac fatigue, and increased irritability in patients over 40 years of age. Repeat the course 2–3 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to the ethanol content and lack of safety data.

Contraindications (Tincture): Alcohol dependence, pregnancy, lactation, age under 18 years, gastric and duodenal ulcers in the acute stage. Scientifically registered data on use during lactation and in pediatrics are not available.

Side Effects (Tincture): Allergic reactions, dizziness, palpitations, dyspepsia with overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): Patients up to 60 kg — 15 drops per dose, patients with body weight above 90 kg — up to 35 drops.

Preparation method (Tincture): Ingredients: wallflower herb — 20 grams, 40% ethyl alcohol — 100 ml. Grind the raw material, pour with alcohol, infuse in a tightly closed glass container in a dark, cool place for 14 days. After this, strain through a paper filter. Adjust the volume to 100 ml with alcohol of the same concentration.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a tightly closed dark glass container at a temperature of 10 to 25 °C, in a place protected from light and electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening, use within 3 months.

Oil Infusion — Erysimum

Indications (Oil Infusion): Chronic obstructive bronchitis, prolonged cough, tracheitis, inflammatory skin diseases, psoriasis, neurodermatitis, eczema, fissures of the nipples and perianal area.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Externally — apply to affected skin areas 2 times a day. Internally — 5 ml once a day for prolonged cough and chronic bronchitis.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): Externally — up to 3 times a day for psoriatic eruptions and weeping eczema. Internally — 5 ml 2 times a day for pronounced tracheitis and bronchial cough.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Internally — up to 10 ml 2 times a day for no more than 5 days. Externally — up to 4 times a day. Only under specialist supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): Externally — once a day on sensitive skin areas in patients with chronic eczema and dermatoses. Course — 10 days, repeat after 1 month. Internally — 5 ml every other day, for 14 days, for chronic bronchitis in smokers and persons over 50 years of age.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): External use is possible from 3 years of age: apply a small amount (1–2 ml) to the affected area once a day. Internal use is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Individual intolerance, history of allergic dermatitis, acute inflammatory skin processes with suppuration, age under 3 years for external use. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been scientifically confirmed.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Local redness, itching, flaking; when taken internally — nausea, bitterness in the mouth, diarrhea with overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): Not required for external use. Internally: for body weight less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 25%.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): Ingredients: wallflower herb — 25 grams, cold-pressed coconut oil — 100 grams. Grind the herb to a coarse fraction, mix with oil and keep in a water bath at a temperature of 40–45 °C for 3 hours. Then cool, filter through gauze, squeeze. Pour into a dark jar, close tightly.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in an airtight dark glass container at a temperature of 5 to 20 °C, in the shade, away from sources of EMI. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Cerate — Erysimum

Indications (Cerate): Anal fissure, chronic dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, diaper rash, cracked nipples, skin irritation in elderly patients, local skin itching in neurodermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Cerate): Apply a thin layer to the affected area of skin 2 times a day, preferably in the morning and before bedtime.

Enhanced Dosage (Cerate): Apply 3 times a day for pronounced inflammation, fissures with weeping, ulcerative lesions of the perianal area, and anal itching.

Maximum Dosage (Cerate): Up to 4 times a day for the presence of coarse fissures and hyperkeratosis, only on limited skin areas, in a course of up to 10 days.

Preventive Dosage (Cerate): Apply once a day for 7 days on sensitive skin areas (elbows, heels, perianal zone) in patients with chronic dermatitis, diabetes mellitus, psoriasis in remission, and dry skin syndrome.

Pediatric Dosage (Cerate): Use is possible from 2 years of age — once a day on a small area (no more than 10 cm²). If necessary — under medical supervision. Do not apply under a diaper.

Contraindications (Cerate): Allergic reactions to components, purulent skin inflammations, dermatomycoses, age under 2 years. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation have not been registered in the scientific literature.

Side Effects (Cerate): Burning, hyperemia, edema with hypersensitivity. With prolonged use, skin maceration is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cerate): Not required for external use, applied according to the area of the lesion.

Preparation method (Cerate): Ingredients: wallflower herb powder — 10 grams, beeswax — 15 grams, coconut oil — 75 grams. Melt the wax and oil in a water bath, add the powder, keep at 40–45 °C for 1.5 hours. Cool to 35 °C, strain, pour into a glass jar with a lid.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cerate): Store in a tightly closed glass container in a cool place at a temperature of 5 to 15 °C, in the shade. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days. Do not expose to direct light and heat.

Lotion — Erysimum

Indications (Lotion): Acne, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, folliculitis, enlarged pores, oily skin, skin inflammation in the beard area or décolleté zone.

Standard Dosage (Lotion): Apply with a cotton pad to cleansed skin 2 times a day — morning and evening, avoiding the area around the eyes.

Enhanced Dosage (Lotion): Up to 3 times a day for acute inflammation, pustules, and oily seborrhea.

Maximum Dosage (Lotion): No more than 4 applications per day for 5 days for pustular rashes and folliculitis in the acute stage. Apply pointwise to inflamed areas.

Preventive Dosage (Lotion): Once a day before bedtime on the T-zone of the face, shoulders, or décolleté area in patients with oily and problem skin, adolescents during hormonal changes, and women with PMS.

Pediatric Dosage (Lotion): Use is possible from 10 years of age under supervision, no more than once a day. Do not use on dry or sensitive skin. Avoid the area around the eyes and mucous membranes.

Contraindications (Lotion): Dry skin, couperose, eczema in the acute stage, individual intolerance. Safety data during pregnancy and lactation have not been registered.

Side Effects (Lotion): Skin irritation, dryness, flaking, burning with frequent use or individual intolerance.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Lotion): Not required, adjustment is made according to skin area and sensitivity.

Preparation method (Lotion): Ingredients: wallflower tincture — 30 ml, distilled water — 60 ml, vegetable glycerin — 10 ml. Mix the components at room temperature, pour into a sterile bottle with a dispenser. Shake before use.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Lotion): Store in a tightly closed bottle in a cool place (5 to 20 °C), in the shade. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Sitz Bath — Erysimum

Indications (Sitz Bath): Anal fissure, proctitis, hemorrhoids, post-episiotomy conditions, perianal skin itching, vulvitis, post-traumatic inflammation of the perineum.

Standard Dosage (Sitz Bath): One procedure once a day for 15 minutes, the decoction is prepared at the rate of 50 grams of herb per 1 liter of water.

Enhanced Dosage (Sitz Bath): 2 procedures per day — morning and evening, for exacerbated hemorrhoids, pronounced anal fissure, and acute inflammations of the external genitalia.

Maximum Dosage (Sitz Bath): Up to 3 baths per day, no more than 5 days in a row. Used only for medical indications for pronounced inflammation and pain syndrome.

Preventive Dosage (Sitz Bath): Once every 2 days for 2 weeks. Recommended for patients with chronic hemorrhoids outside of exacerbation, women after childbirth, and elderly patients with chronic itching of the anal area.

Pediatric Dosage (Sitz Bath): Possible from 5 years of age — once a day, no more than 10 minutes. The decoction is less concentrated: 20 grams of raw material per 1 liter of water. Use under adult supervision.

Contraindications (Sitz Bath): Acute purulent inflammation of the perineum, pronounced skin allergy, epilepsy (due to the risk of overheating). Data on pregnancy and lactation have not been registered, but short-term external use is acceptable.

Side Effects (Sitz Bath): Redness of the skin, itching, local edema with individual sensitivity. With overheating — dizziness.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Sitz Bath): Not required. The dosage is determined by the volume of the bath and the concentration of the decoction.

Preparation method (Sitz Bath): Ingredients: wallflower herb — 50 grams, water — 1 liter. Pour boiling water over the raw material, infuse for 30 minutes under a lid. Strain, add hot water to a temperature of 37–38 °C. Pour into a basin, sit so that the perineal area is completely immersed in the solution.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Sitz Bath): The prepared infusion is not stored. A fresh decoction must be prepared each time. Not subject to storage due to high microbiological instability.

Compress — Erysimum

Indications (Compress): Bruises, myositis, arthralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, trophic ulcers, superficial skin inflammations, lymphedema, hematomas.

Standard Dosage (Compress): A compress from the decoction (30 g of herb per 500 ml of water) is applied to the affected area once a day for 30 minutes.

Enhanced Dosage (Compress): 2 times a day for pronounced edema and pain syndrome in the area of joints or superficial soft tissues.

Maximum Dosage (Compress): Up to 3 times a day, no more than 5 days in a row. Used for acute inflammation if there is no pus.

Preventive Dosage (Compress): Once every 3 days for 10 days. Prophylactically can be used for a tendency to joint inflammation, recurrent lymphedema, and in elderly patients with chronic edema.

Pediatric Dosage (Compress): Possible from 6 years of age — compress no more than 15 minutes once a day. Use a less concentrated decoction (15 g per 500 ml).

Contraindications (Compress): Purulent skin inflammations, open wounds, individual intolerance, acute thrombophlebitis. Data on use during pregnancy and lactation are absent; external use is possible after consultation.

Side Effects (Compress): Burning, redness, contact dermatitis, especially with prolonged contact.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Compress): Not required, the dosage depends on the area of application.

Preparation method (Compress): Ingredients: wallflower herb — 30 grams, water — 500 ml. Pour boiling water over the herb, boil over low heat for 5 minutes, infuse for 20 minutes, strain. Moisten a clean cloth or gauze, slightly squeeze, apply to the affected area. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel on top.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Compress): The prepared decoction for compress is stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. Heat to a temperature of 36–38 °C before use.

Cosmetic Serum — Erysimum

Indications (Cosmetic Serum): Acne, post-acne, oily seborrhea, enlarged pores, inflammatory elements on the facial skin, hyperkeratosis, hyperpigmentation, photoaging.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Apply once a day in the evening to cleansed facial skin, distribute 2–3 drops over the T-zone and problem areas.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Apply 2 times a day — morning and evening, for active inflammatory elements, oily seborrhea, pronounced pigmentation, or enlarged pores.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Up to 3 applications per day (for no more than 5 days) for pronounced inflammations and post-traumatic pigmentation. Only locally, on areas no more than 3 cm².

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Once a day, in 10-day courses every month, in patients with oily skin, adolescents, women during premenstrual syndrome, and also with a tendency to clogged pores and blackheads.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Allowed from 12 years of age under adult supervision. 1–2 drops once a day for oily skin and isolated inflammatory elements. Avoid the area around the eyes.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Serum): Increased skin sensitivity, eczema, psoriasis in the active stage, couperose. Scientifically registered data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are not available; however, it is recommended to avoid application to the chest and abdomen.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Serum): Burning sensation, flaking, contact dermatitis, increased inflammatory elements with individual intolerance or excessive use.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cosmetic Serum): Not required, applied locally according to skin type.

Preparation method (Cosmetic Serum): Ingredients: dry wallflower extract — 1 gram, rosemary hydrolate — 45 ml, vegetable glycerin — 3 ml, aqueous green tea extract — 1 ml. Mix everything at a temperature not exceeding 30 °C, pour into a sterile bottle with a pipette. Shake before use.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Serum): Store at a temperature of 5 to 10 °C, in a tightly closed dark glass bottle, protected from light and EMI. Shelf life — 60 days. After opening, use within 30 days, store in the refrigerator.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Erysimum

Toxicological studies conducted on various species of wallflower (including Erysimum cheiri and Erysimum diffusum) have shown the presence of moderate toxicity, mainly associated with the content of cardiac glycosides (erysimin and steroid-type glycosides). These compounds have a cumulative effect with prolonged use and can cause cardiotoxic effects when dosages are exceeded.

The acute toxicity (LD₅₀) for dry extract of wallflower (Erysimum cheiri) upon oral administration to mice is 426 mg/kg body weight. The study was conducted with a hydroalcoholic extract containing glycosides, alkaloids, and flavonoids.

It is important to note that in therapeutic doses, wallflower extract demonstrates a high safety profile, but overdose can lead to cardiac arrhythmia, nausea, convulsions, and CNS depression. Studies on rats and mice have not revealed mutagenicity or carcinogenicity with long-term use in low doses. When used in cosmetic products (externally), wallflower has shown good dermal tolerability at a concentration of the active component of up to 1%.

Data on teratogenicity and fetotoxicity during pregnancy and lactation in clinical settings are insufficient — use in these groups should be limited.

Reference: https://www.researchgate.net/p...

Pharmacodynamics — Erysimum

The pharmacodynamic properties of wallflower are determined by the presence of cardiac glycosides (erysimin, cheirine), flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, as well as alkaloids and saponins. The main effects are realized primarily at the level of the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, immune, and cutaneous systems. The established mechanisms of action are mediated by interaction with transmembrane receptors, ion channels, as well as an effect on enzymatic activity in target tissues.

At the systemic level, extracts and preparations from wallflower exhibit a positive inotropic effect by inhibiting Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase in myocardial cells, which increases the intracellular concentration of calcium and enhances the contraction of cardiomyocytes. This effect is similar to the action of digitalis group glycosides, but is inferior to them in intensity, providing a milder and more prolonged response. At the level of the vascular wall, wallflower components are capable of exerting a moderate spasmolytic and vasodilatory effect, probably due to a decrease in the tone of smooth muscles and an effect on calcium channels.

Flavonoids and phenolic compounds provide an antioxidant effect, stabilizing cell membranes and reducing the formation of free radicals. This action plays a role in modulating inflammatory reactions and protecting the vascular endothelium from damage. These same components participate in the regulation of cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) activity, suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

At the level of the respiratory system, a modulating effect on the smooth muscles of the bronchi is manifested, realized through flavonoids and terpenoids with bronchospasmolytic effects. Increased mucus secretion and enhanced mucociliary clearance have also been noted, which is associated with the expectorant properties of the saponin and polyphenolic component complex.

On the skin, wallflower components are capable of exerting a local anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effect, acting as inhibitors of microbial growth and activators of epidermal regeneration. These effects are confirmed by in vitro models of suppression of bacterial strain growth and acceleration of epithelialization.

The effect on the central nervous system is weakly expressed; however, individual glycosides demonstrate sedative and mild anxiolytic action, which is explained by their possible interaction with GABAergic system receptors. There is also an effect on neurovegetative centers that regulate heart rhythm and vascular tone.

The immunomodulatory effect is realized primarily through polyphenols capable of activating non-specific defense, enhancing phagocyte activity, and reducing the activity of chronic inflammation mediators. This is confirmed by a decrease in the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines and an increase in the content of protective immunoglobulins in a number of preclinical models. The pharmacodynamic profile of wallflower is characterized by polyorganic and multi-level action with a mild expression of effects that contribute to the adaptation of the body to chronic functional disorders of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.

References:
https://www.researchgate.net/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.worldscientific.co...

Pharmacokinetics — Erysimum

Data on the complete pharmacokinetics of wallflower preparations in clinical practice are limited; however, based on the main groups of active substances and the dosage forms used, a generalized kinetic model can be formed. Wallflower preparations are used primarily orally and externally, less frequently — transmucosally or in the form of inhalation forms.

Upon oral administration, the absorption of active components depends on the degree of their hydrophilicity. Cardiac glycosides have moderate bioavailability and slow entry into the systemic circulation. The absorption process takes place in the small intestine, while a significant proportion may be inactivated by the intestinal microflora. Alkaloids and phenolic compounds are partially hydrolyzed and metabolized in the intestinal wall before entering the bloodstream.

Flavonoids, present in the form of aglycones and glycosides, are predominantly absorbed after breakdown by the microflora. They are metabolized in the liver by conjugation (glucuronidation, sulfation), which leads to the formation of more water-soluble metabolites, the excretion of which is carried out by the kidneys and partially with bile. Terpenoids and essential oils, if present in the form of oil infusions, penetrate well through the skin, making transdermal action possible. Through mucous membranes, extracts penetrate rapidly, especially when used in the form of alcoholic or aqueous infusions.

With external use, the main components of wallflower act primarily locally, without penetrating the systemic circulation in significant quantities. However, with prolonged use of cerates and infusions with glycosides, accumulation in tissues (especially in the heart muscle) may occur, similar to digitalis compounds.

The metabolism of active components is carried out primarily in the liver, by oxidation and conjugation, with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzyme systems. The excretion system includes the kidneys (the main route) and partially bile. An insignificant amount of volatile compounds may be excreted through the lungs and skin. Components bound to fiber and polysaccharides are excreted unchanged with feces.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://link.springer.com/arti...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Erysimum

The pharmacological mechanisms of action of wallflower (Erysimum) are mainly due to its biochemical composition, which includes cardenolide glycosides (erysimin, cheirine), flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin), phenolic carboxylic acids, terpenoids, and sulforaphane-like compounds. One of the key directions of action is positive effects on ion exchange in cardiomyocytes: inhibition of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase increases the intracellular concentration of calcium ions, activating contractile proteins and enhancing myocardial contractility. This effect is similar to the cardiotonic mechanisms of digitalis-like substances and potentially involves cAMP-dependent signaling pathways.

On the molecular level, it has been established that the flavonoid components of Erysimum suppress the activity of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (5-LOX), which leads to a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids, including prostaglandins (PGE2) and leukotrienes. This action is accompanied by inhibition of nuclear factor NF-κB expression and modulation of MAPK cascades, which leads to a decrease in the transcription of cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β. Such a mechanism implements systemic and tissue-specific anti-inflammatory action.

The antioxidant properties of Erysimum extracts are realized through direct scavenging of reactive oxygen species and inhibition of oxidative enzymes (e.g., NADPH oxidase). In addition, the transcription factor Nrf2, responsible for the expression of antioxidant proteins — including superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase — is activated. This leads to stabilization of cell membranes, reduction of oxidative stress, and protection of endothelial cells.

Saponins and phenolic acids of Erysimum demonstrate immunomodulatory action, affecting the innate and adaptive links of immunity. In vitro studies show an increase in the phagocytic activity of macrophages and an increase in the production of cytokines IL-10 and IFN-γ while reducing IL-6. Such effects confirm participation in the regulation of the inflammatory and protective immune response.

With respect to the respiratory system, wallflower has a combined effect on mucociliary transport and bronchial patency. Experimental data show that its glycosides and terpenoids modulate β₂-adrenoceptors and reduce the tone of bronchial smooth muscles. This action is possible through activation of adenylate cyclase and an increase in intracellular cAMP, which leads to relaxation of the bronchial musculature.

Some studies indicate the ability of Erysimum components to inhibit acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which may be associated with modulation of autonomic regulation of the cardiovascular system. Data on interaction with GABA receptors have also been found, especially in the area of sedative and anxiolytic action, which may be explained by the presence of flavonoid aglycones acting on the benzodiazepine sites of receptors.

External use of wallflower is accompanied by an antimicrobial effect, due to the presence of isothiocyanate-like substances and phenolic compounds that inhibit the growth of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as dermatophytes. This action is associated with disruption of the integrity of the microbial membrane and inhibition of bacterial enzymes. Thus, wallflower acts as a multifunctional phytocomplex capable of affecting diverse cellular and molecular targets, including receptors, enzymes, signaling cascades, and mediator systems.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.researchgate.net/p...
https://link.springer.com/arti...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...

Synergy — Erysimum

Pharmacological synergy of wallflower (Erysimum) is manifested when combined with a number of natural substances and extracts with similar or complementary pharmacological activity. The most convincingly described interactions are with phytocomponents possessing cardiotonic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

In in vitro models, synergy has been demonstrated between wallflower extract and glycoside fractions of Digitalis purpurea and Convallaria majalis, where potentiation of the positive inotropic effect is observed due to combined inhibition of Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase and accumulation of calcium ions in myocytes. This leads to a more pronounced and sustained increase in myocardial contractility while maintaining rhythm and conductivity.

It has been noted that wallflower flavonoids exhibit additive and potentiating interaction with quercetin, rutin, and hesperidin present in Sophora japonica, Citrus sinensis, and Ginkgo biloba. Combined use leads to an increase in antioxidant activity and suppression of COX-2 and 5-LOX activity, as well as a decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6. These data have been confirmed in experiments on endothelial and macrophage cell cultures.

There is confirmed synergy between the polyphenolic compounds of wallflower and curcuminoids of Curcuma longa. The combined effect on the signaling cascades NF-κB and Nrf2 leads to pronounced antioxidant and anti-inflammatory modulation in intestinal epithelial and neuronal tissue cells. An increase in the expression of protective enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase) and a decrease in MDA (malondialdehyde) levels have also been identified.

When wallflower is combined with saponins of Glycyrrhiza glabra and Panax ginseng, mutual enhancement of immunostimulatory action is observed, expressed in an increase in macrophage activity and IgA secretion in mucous membranes. This is confirmed by in vivo experiments on models of mucosal immunity and shown in studies published in Wiley and SpringerLink.

Modulating interaction of wallflower with essential oils of Thymus vulgaris and Eucalyptus globulus has also been demonstrated, where synergy is expressed in enhanced antimicrobial activity against pathogenic skin and respiratory microflora.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://www.researchgate.net/p...
https://link.springer.com/arti...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...
https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Er...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Erysimum

Erysimum, as a genus and as a collection of species, has an extensive history of use in the traditional medical systems of Eurasia, including Slavic, Persian, Greco-Roman, Arab, and East Asian ethnomedical schools. The main species used in folk medicine — Erysimum cheiri (wallflower) and Erysimum diffusum — were distributed from the Mediterranean to Central Asia and Siberia.

In ancient Greek texts, Dioscorides and Galen mentioned wallflower as a plant possessing "heart strength" and used for various weaknesses of the body. Medieval Arab medicine — in the treatises of Avicenna — described the use of wallflower in the form of poultices and decoctions for "strengthening the spirit of the heart," clearing the bronchi, and removing "black bile." In Persia, it was part of oils and ointments for external use in skin changes. In the Iranian tradition, cerate from wallflower was considered one of the main remedies for the treatment of perianal fissures. The Iranian school of medicine has preserved the formulation from the 12th century to the present day.

In the Slavic phytotherapeutic culture, wallflower was used in the form of infusions, powders, and smoking mixtures. In the folk healing tradition of Ukraine, Belarus, and the southern regions of Russia, it was considered a "herb for the heart" and was also used for "heaviness of breathing." It was often used in mixtures with motherwort, adonis, and thyme. Infusions of wallflower were used in ablutions and in protective practices — it was believed that it "opens up damage caused through breathing."

In Tajikistan and Uzbekistan, wallflower herb was brewed for wraps, used as an external compress, and also as a means of enhancing sweating in bath rituals. In Kyrgyz and Kazakh steppe medicine, the plant was added to mixtures for cleansing the body in the spring period.

Wallflower was also common in the German and French herbalist tradition, where it was called "poor man's gillyflower" or "yellow wallflower." In medieval Europe, it was grown in monastery gardens and added to medicinal wines and ointments.

In some esoteric practices of Europe and the Middle East, wallflower was considered a plant of a solar nature, associated with Mars, and used in rituals of "restoration of strength and spirit." It was believed that smoking it in combination with wild rosemary enhances clairvoyance and drives away negative dreams.

In China and Southeast Asia, the use of wallflower in the medical tradition is practically not recorded, although individual authors mention it as an ornamental plant in Buddhist monasteries. In Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, information on the use of Erysimum is absent in the traditional registries of QSBG and TCI-Thaijo.

Thus, wallflower represents a taxon with a deeply rooted ethnomedical and ritual history, especially in the countries of the Persian region, Eastern Europe, and the Mediterranean.