DrFeb
Health Guide

Red Larkspur

Red Larkspur (Delphinium), also known as 'Knight's-spur' or 'Staphisagria,' is a striking flowering plant historically used in traditional herbalism. While visually stunning, it is critical to understand that unlike common superfoods, Red Larkspur contains potent alkaloids (such as delphinine) that are neurotoxic. In modern health contexts, it is strictly used in highly controlled homeopathic preparations for specific conditions, rather than as a nutritional food or general supplement. Its primary value lies in its potent, targeted phytochemical profile, which requires expert handling.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Red Larkspur
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Safety vs. Benefit Profile (Oral Intake)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

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Level (0-100)
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Health Benefits & Sources

Why It Is Used (Historically & Homeopathically)

  • Joint & Nerve Discomfort: Historically applied topically (never ingested raw) to soothe severe joint pain and neuralgia due to its analgesic properties.
  • Skin Health: Used in diluted forms to treat stubborn skin conditions like eczema and itching (pruritus).
  • Hair Health: Traditionally used in lotions to treat dandruff and stimulate hair follicles.

How It Works

Red Larkspur contains diterpenoid alkaloids. These compounds interact with the nervous system. While they can block pain signals, they can also cause paralysis if the dosage is incorrect. This is why modern usage is restricted to homeopathy (where the substance is diluted to the point where no molecules remain) or strictly external applications.

Natural Sources

CRITICAL WARNING: There is no safe dietary food source of Red Larkspur. It is a poisonous plant, not a vegetable or fruit.

Safe Alternatives for Similar Benefits: If your goal is joint health or nerve support, please consume these safe, edible foods instead:

FoodAmountBenefit
Turmeric1-3g dailyAnti-inflammatory (Curcumin)
Ginger2-4g dailyPain relief
Blueberries1 cup dailyAntioxidant support

Supplementation

  • Homeopathic Dilution: If used, it is found as Delphinium in 6C or 30C potencies.
  • Topical: Historically as a poultice (Fresh plant parts).
  • Dosage: Do not attempt to source or dose this yourself. It is poisonous.

Top Food Sources

Delphinium Plant
POISONOUS. Do not consume.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Safe alternative for inflammation
Willow Bark
Safe alternative for pain (Salicin)
Devil's Claw
Safe alternative for joint health

Frequently Asked Questions

No. All parts of the Delphinium plant are considered poisonous to humans and pets if ingested.
Yes. 'Red Larkspur' refers to specific varieties of the Delphinium genus. They share the same toxic alkaloid profile.
Because of its historical use. However, modern science advises against using it unless in a strictly controlled homeopathic preparation where the toxicity is removed through dilution.
Alpha-lipoic acid, Vitamin B12, and topical Capsaicin (from chili peppers) are safe, evidence-backed alternatives for nerve support.

Safety & Side Effects

Red Larkspur is toxic.

Side Effects of Ingestion (Raw/Supplemental):

  • Numbness and tingling.
  • Vomiting and diarrhea.
  • Slowed heart rate (bradycardia).
  • Muscle paralysis and respiratory failure.

Who Should Avoid It: Everyone. It is not a standard dietary supplement and is not safe for self-administration.

Interactions: Do not mix with other sedatives or muscle relaxants.

Scientific References

  • [1]USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service: Delphinium Toxicity Profile
  • [2]Journal of Ethnopharmacology: 'Historical uses and toxicity of Delphinium species'
  • [3]Homeopathic Materia Medica: 'Delphinium Staphisagria'