Tickseed (Coreopsis) is a diverse genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family, found across North and South America. Known for their cheerful, daisy-like blossoms, often yellow but also pink, red, and orange, their common name comes from the resemblance of their seeds to ticks. While primarily appreciated for ornamental value, Coreopsis species have a long history in traditional medicine, drawing interest for their potential properties.
Traditional Medicinal Applications
Historically, various Indigenous cultures across North America, including the Cherokee, Zuni, Seminole, Lakota, Navajo, and Ramah, utilized tickseed for medicinal benefits, addressing a range of ailments. Beyond North America, Coreopsis tinctoria, a native North American species, found its way into Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as Snow Chrysanthemum or Kun Lun Xue Ju. In TCM, it was integrated into formulas for conditions like high blood pressure, insomnia, and inflammation. In Portugal, traditional uses of Coreopsis also emerged, particularly concerning blood sugar regulation.
Specific Historical Uses and Preparation Methods
Traditional healers employed various parts of the tickseed plant and specific preparation methods. A common preparation involved making a tea from the roots, traditionally used by some Native American groups as an emetic, or to treat diarrhea, internal pains, and bleeding.
Infusions from dried tops or the whole plant (excluding the root) were believed to strengthen blood and address internal pains. Zuni women consumed a whole-plant infusion to conceive a female child. Boiled flowers created a red liquid used as a beverage or dye.
For external issues, the leaves and flowers, recognized for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, treated skin conditions like wounds, insect bites, and rashes. Additionally, some Native American tribes, including the Navajo and Ramah, used Coreopsis infusions or fumigation for infections, including syphilis.
Scientific Review and Active Compounds
Modern scientific investigations explore the chemical composition and pharmacological activities of Coreopsis species, particularly Coreopsis tinctoria. Over 120 chemical constituents have been identified, with flavonoids as major bioactive components, alongside polyacetylenes, polysaccharides, phenylpropanoids, and volatile oils. Current studies indicate that extracts and compounds from Coreopsis exhibit a range of biological activities, including antidiabetic, anti-cardiovascular disease, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, organ-protective, neuroprotective, antimicrobial, and antineoplastic effects. Some traditional uses, such as for anti-infection and chronic metabolic diseases, have found support in recent scientific findings. Specifically, flavonoids from Coreopsis tinctoria show potential in regulating glucose metabolism, promoting blood circulation, and reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
Important Safety Considerations
While tickseed has a history of traditional medicinal use, this information is not an endorsement for self-medication. Using any plant for medicinal purposes without expert guidance carries inherent risks, including potential side effects, allergic reactions, or adverse interactions with prescription medications. Although some animal studies suggest Coreopsis tinctoria may be considered a non-toxic herb, this does not guarantee safety for all individuals or all forms of preparation. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before considering any plant-based remedies to ensure personal safety and appropriate treatment.