Last verified: today
Heather
Also known as: Calluna vulgaris, Common Heather, Ling, Scotch Heather
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Shrub plant with anthelmintic and antioxidant properties in lab/animal studies; no human clinical evidence.
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What it does
Heather (Calluna vulgaris) is a perennial shrub native to Europe, traditionally used as a medicinal plant. It contains polyphenols, proanthocyanidins (condensed tannins), and flavonoids that show...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
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Found in
What the Science Says
Heather (Calluna vulgaris) is a perennial shrub native to Europe, traditionally used as a medicinal plant. It contains polyphenols, proanthocyanidins (condensed tannins), and flavonoids that show antimicrobial and antioxidant activity in laboratory tests. Animal studies suggest it may help reduce gastrointestinal parasite burdens in livestock, though no human clinical trials support these effects.
What It Doesn't Do
No proven benefits for humans. Not shown to treat parasites in people. No evidence it boosts immunity, reduces inflammation, or improves gut health in clinical trials. Heather honey is high-glycemic — it won't help blood sugar control.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Reduces gastrointestinal parasite egg output and larval establishment in infected goats and lambs.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Approximately 20% of dry matter intake (animal studies only)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Plant extracts inhibit growth of S. aureus, MRSA, E. coli, and K. pneumoniae in laboratory tests.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Contains polyphenols and flavonoids with measurable antioxidant capacity in lab assays.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No established dose
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no human pharmacokinetic or absorption data in the provided studies. Animal studies suggest tannins are bioactive in the gut but systemic absorption is unclear.
Red Flags to Watch For
- All anthelmintic (anti-parasite) evidence comes from animal studies in goats and lambs — not humans
- Heather fed to lambs at 20% of diet caused a 6% reduction in body weight, suggesting anti-nutritional effects at meaningful doses
- No human clinical trials exist in the provided data to support any health claim
- Heather honey has a high glycemic index (>70) — not suitable for blood sugar management despite marketing as a 'natural' sweetener
- 125 supplement products registered in NIH DSLD despite near-zero human evidence
Products Containing Heather
See how Heather is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Heather do?
Shrub plant with anthelmintic and antioxidant properties in lab/animal studies; no human clinical evidence.
What is the effective dose of Heather?
No established dose
Is Heather safe?
All anthelmintic (anti-parasite) evidence comes from animal studies in goats and lambs — not humans
What doesn't Heather do?
No proven benefits for humans.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-09-28