Colchicum autumnale
Autumn crocus containing colchicine, a potent antimitotic agent used medically for gout. The pharmaceutical colchicine drug has a very narrow therapeutic index. The raw plant has highly variable alkaloid content. Serious toxicity including multi-organ failure and death reported with inappropriate use.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
DANGEROUS: narrow therapeutic index. Colchicine toxicity causes GI haemorrhage, bone marrow suppression, peripheral neuropathy, multi-organ failure, and death. NOT for use as unregulated supplement. Pharmaceutical preparations only, under physician supervision. Interactions: statins, cyclosporine, clarithromycin (CYP3A4 inhibitors increase toxicity dramatically).