Carlina

BotanicalBest taken away from food

What is it

Carlina, commonly known as carline thistle (Carlina acaulis), is a perennial herb in the daisy family traditionally used in European folk medicine. The root is the medicinal portion, containing essential oils (notably carlina oxide), inulin, and tannins.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Antimicrobial use

Mixed Evidence

In vitro antimicrobial activity has been demonstrated, but no human clinical trials confirm therapeutic benefit.

How it works

Carline thistle root has been used historically as a diuretic, diaphoretic, and digestive aid. Carlina oxide and related compounds in the essential oil have demonstrated antimicrobial activity in vitro against bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. The inulin content provides prebiotic effects, and tannins contribute astringent properties. Clinical research in humans is very limited. Most data come from in vitro and animal studies investigating antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dosage

Traditional doses: 1-2 g dried root as a decoction, or 1-3 mL of tincture (1:5), 2-3 times daily. No standardized supplement doses are widely established.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Traditionally taken before or between meals. HOW: As tea, tincture, or capsule per product instructions.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried root

Used as decoction or powder.

Traditional preparation

Tincture

Liquid alcoholic extract.

Extracts both polar and lipophilic compounds

Safety

Generally well tolerated when used traditionally. Carlina oxide has shown some toxicity at high concentrations in animal studies. Allergic reactions possible in people sensitive to Asteraceae family plants.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Caution in people with allergies to ragweed, daisies, or related plants.

Interactions

Limited data on drug interactions. Theoretical caution with diuretic medications.

Frequently asked questions

What is carline thistle used for?⌄

Traditionally used as a diuretic and digestive aid in European folk medicine. Clinical evidence for these uses is limited.

Is carlina safe?⌄

Generally well tolerated at traditional doses, but safety data are limited, especially for long-term use.

References

Carlina on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Carlina on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Carlina (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.