Heal-All

BotanicalBest taken away from food

What is it

Heal-all (Prunella vulgaris), also known as selfheal or xia ku cao in traditional Chinese medicine, is a small purple-flowered herb of the mint family. The aerial parts and fruit spikes are used in traditional herbal preparations.

How it works

Prunella vulgaris contains rosmarinic acid, ursolic acid, triterpenoids, and various polyphenols. In vitro studies show antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Traditional Chinese medicine uses xia ku cao for 'liver heat' and lymphatic-related complaints. Human clinical evidence for specific health outcomes is limited. Most published research is preclinical or focuses on traditional symptom patterns rather than modern diagnostic categories.

Dosage

There is no established Recommended Dietary Allowance. Traditional decoctions use 6 to 12 g of dried herb per day. Extract supplements vary widely in concentration.

When and how to take it

Traditional preparations are often taken between meals. Modern supplements typically follow product label guidance.

1 commercial form

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

Prunella vulgaris extract

Most supplements use a dried-spike or aerial-part extract, sometimes labeled as xia ku cao or selfheal.

Hydroalcoholic extracts deliver rosmarinic acid and triterpenes.

Safety

Generally regarded as well tolerated when consumed as a tea or culinary herb. Concentrated extracts can occasionally cause gastrointestinal symptoms or allergic reactions.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data. Use cautiously with prescription medications and consult a clinician.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with antihypertensive or anticoagulant medications. No major interactions have been formally reported.

Frequently asked questions

What is heal-all used for?⌄

Traditional uses include throat health, eye support, and 'liver heat' in Chinese medicine. Modern human evidence for specific conditions is limited.

Is heal-all safe?⌄

It is generally well tolerated as a tea or food. Concentrated extracts have less safety data. Avoid during pregnancy.

References

Heal-All on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Heal-All (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.