Compound Monograph
Senkirkine
Senkirkine is a hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid identified in coltsfoot and related plants.
Classification
Senkirkine is a pyrrolizidine alkaloid, part of the alkaloids class. Nitrogen-containing, often bitter and physiologically potent compounds — the group behind many of the strongest plant medicines and poisons.
Where Does It Come From? (1)
Senkirkine is a naturally occurring pyrrolizidine alkaloid, found in Coltsfoot. It is flagged as toxic and a known carcinogen.
Research & Evidence
Senkirkine is a macrocyclic pyrrolizidine alkaloid found in coltsfoot and some other Asteraceae. It is an otonecine-type alkaloid and, like related pyrrolizidines, is studied chiefly as a plant toxin rather than for any beneficial activity.
Toxicity & Safety
Senkirkine is hepatotoxic and genotoxic, contributing to the liver toxicity associated with coltsfoot and similar herbs. It is regarded as potentially carcinogenic, and plants containing it should not be consumed, especially during pregnancy or by people with liver disease.