Compound Monograph
Herniarin
A simple coumarin (7-methoxycoumarin) found in chamomile, lavender and other aromatic plants.
Classification
Herniarin is a coumarin, part of the phenolics class. Antioxidant compounds built around one or more phenol rings — the flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acids, coumarins, and pigments behind much of a plant's protective chemistry.
Where Does It Come From? (4)
Herniarin is a naturally occurring coumarin, found in Chamomile, Lavender, Licorice and 1 other source. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).
Research & Evidence
Herniarin is a simple coumarin, the 7-methoxy derivative of umbelliferone, found in chamomile, lavender and a variety of other aromatic plants. It contributes to the chemistry of these herbs and, like other coumarins, fluoresces and shows modest antioxidant and antimicrobial activity in the laboratory. It is studied mainly as a minor constituent of the plants in which it occurs.
Toxicity & Safety
Herniarin occurs at low levels in commonly used herbs and is generally regarded as well tolerated at those amounts. As a methoxycoumarin it is not a strong photosensitiser in the way that the furanocoumarins are, and dedicated high-dose human safety data are limited.