Ailanthus altissima
Ailanthus altissima
Ailanthus altissima, commonly known as the tree of heaven, is a traditional plant with its origins in East Asia. While it has been used in some Asian cultures for various purposes such as timber and landscaping, no specific traditional medicinal uses have been recorded. Scientific studies have shown varying levels of bioactivity from different parts of the plant. The leaves have demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity against certain tumor cell lines, while the samaras exhibit strong antioxidant properties due to their high phenolic content. However, the scientific evidence is limited and more research is needed to confirm these findings comprehensively. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been reported for Ailanthus altissima, but further investigation is warranted given its potential biological activities.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Different parts of Ailanthus altissima showed varying bioactivity in wheat germination inhibition and rice weevil mortality.
- The study identified two new quassinoids from Ailanthus altissima leaves, with one exhibiting significant cytotoxic activity against several tumor cell lines.
- A new triterpenoid from Ailanthus altissima showed moderate inhibition of MDA-MB-231 cell proliferation.
- The samaras of Ailanthus altissima showed strong antioxidant activity due to their phenolic content and had limited potential for biodiesel development.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ailanthus altissima?
Ailanthus altissima (Ailanthus altissima) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Ailanthus altissima?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Ailanthus altissima; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Different parts of Ailanthus altissima showed varying bioactivity in wheat germination inhibition and rice weevil mortality.
How strong is the evidence for Ailanthus altissima?
The strongest finding for Ailanthus altissima carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Ailanthus altissima safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Ailanthus altissima in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Ailanthus altissima interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Ailanthus altissima in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Ailanthus altissima?
Ailanthus altissima is also known as: Айлант высочайший, Ailante.
Is Ailanthus altissima a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 New nor-tirucallane triterpenoid with antitumor activity from Ailanthus altissima (mill.) swingle. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Bioactivity of Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle Extracts on Wheat Germination and Rice Weevil Survival. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Chemistry and Potential Applications of the Samaras of the Invasive Plant Species Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Cytotoxic Quassinoids From the Leaves of Ailanthus altissima. literature abstract metadata