Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis)

Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis) is widely grown in many parts of the world. It is found in field margins and ploughing fields. It is mainly found in European and African countries, as well as Turkey.

Fumitory is characterised by isoquinoline alkaloids, which are the main active constituents. Animal studies support some traditional uses. In our country, it is traditionally used as a blood purifier, diuretic, for gallbladder disorders and skin diseases.

Its chemical composition contains alkaloids of the isoquinoline type. These are mainly the alkaloids protopine (fumarin) and cryptopine and alkaloids of different structures. The flavonoids are quercetin glycosides, including isoquercitrin, rutin and quercetin-3,7-diglucoside-3-arabinoglucoside. It also contains chlorogenic, caffeic and fumaric acids.

In vivo (rat) studies have reported antispasmodic activity of preparations of the plant on smooth muscle. Studies with prepared extracts have shown that it prevents the formation of gallstones in animals, and the alkaloid molecule protopin has antihistamine, hypotensive, bradycardic and sedative activities in small doses.

Bactericidal activity against the Gram-positive organisms Bacillus anthracis and Staphylococcus has also been reported. Because of its antimicrobial activity, it is used in many cosmetic preparations abroad. Fumaria officinalis contains glycans that reduce the inflammatory response by limiting the release of key inflammatory factors such as NF-kB and PGE2. It therefore relieves irritation and itching of the scalp caused by a variety of conditions.