Fig. 1
From: Preclinical evaluation of safety and potential of black hellebore extracts for cancer treatment
Helleborus niger L. Black hellebore is a perennial herb with a shallow rhizome blossoming during winter. Taxonomically it is grouped with the Ranunculaceae. Black hellebore has been used as a remedy since ancient times. Because of the multiple components, a broad pharmacological spectrum is ascribed to Christmas rose: anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, cholesterol- and blood glucose-lowering, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective and immune-modulating effects. With respect to pharmacologically active ingredients, four compound classes are particularly relevant, i.e. steroidal saponins, ranunculin derivatives (including protoanemonin), beta-ecdysone and flavonoids. Photograph was taken by WALA Heilmittel GmbH