Compound Monograph
Osthol
Osthol is a coumarin found in Angelica and Cnidium species and used as a marker compound in traditional Chinese herbs.
Where Does It Come From? (2)
Osthol is a naturally occurring coumarin, found in Angelica and Cnidium. It is flagged as moderately toxic.
Research & Evidence
Osthol (osthole) is a prenylated coumarin found in several plants of the carrot family, notably Cnidium monnieri and various Angelica species, where it is often used as a quality-control marker. It has been studied in the laboratory and in animal models for a broad range of activities, including effects on inflammation, bone and the nervous system, although these remain largely preclinical.
Toxicity & Safety
As a coumarin, osthol belongs to a class whose members can vary considerably in safety, and its profile in humans is not well established. Because many furanocoumarins and related compounds in Angelica can cause photosensitivity and interact with drug metabolism, caution is warranted, and concentrated extracts should be approached carefully.