scientists have suggested that the popular pronouncement of ironwort as panacea may have some basis in fact. studies indicate a positive effect on many common ailments. ironwort is known scientifically to be anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant. active elements include diterpenoid and flavonoids. significant research has been done on ironwort confirming its popular use to prevent colds, flu, and allergies. most of this research has taken place in universities in the netherlands and in greece, turkey, north macedonia, bulgaria, and albania, where the plant is indigenous.