Night-scented lily

Alocasia odora

Alocasia odora, a plant traditionally used in cold remedies, is primarily known for its use in folk medicine practices. It has been employed to alleviate symptoms associated with common colds and respiratory issues. Scientific evidence indicates that while Alocasia odora's coarse roots and shoot structures have a lesser impact on CH4 flux control, the plant shows significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic effects when methanolic extracts are used. The spillover ratio of excitations from PSII to PSI in its leaves is around 16-28%, similar across species and light conditions, but this finding does not directly relate to traditional uses. Safety profiles show no major issues recorded; however, a case report noted that an elderly woman developed bilateral arytenoid edema after ingesting the plant, with symptoms resolving over 10 days. No significant drug interactions have been reported for Alocasia odora.

At a glance
Traditionally for
common cold
Traditions
TCM
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • Fine roots play a significant role in controlling CH4 flux, while coarse roots and shoot structures have lesser influence. D PMID
  • Both Alocasia odora and Trigonella hamosa methanolic extracts showed significant analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic effects. D PMID
  • A 91-year-old woman developed bilateral arytenoid edema after ingesting Alocasia odora, with symptoms gradually resolving over 10 days. D PMID
  • The spillover ratio of excitations from PSII to PSI in Alocasia odora leaves was found to be around 16-28%, similar across species and light conditions. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Night-scented lily?

Night-scented lily (Alocasia odora) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Night-scented lily traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Night-scented lily for: common cold. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Night-scented lily?

Night-scented lily appears in these traditions in our sources: TCM.

What does the scientific evidence say about Night-scented lily?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Night-scented lily; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Fine roots play a significant role in controlling CH4 flux, while coarse roots and shoot structures have lesser influence.

How strong is the evidence for Night-scented lily?

The strongest finding for Night-scented lily carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Night-scented lily safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Night-scented lily in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Night-scented lily interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Night-scented lily in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Night-scented lily?

Night-scented lily is also known as: Алоказия пахучая.

Is Night-scented lily 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

  1. T2 Excitation spillover from PSII to PSI measured in leaves at 77 K. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Laryngeal edema after ingestion of an ornamental plant (Alocasia odora): serial clinical images in an elderly patient. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 GC-MS Analysis and Biological Activities of Trigonella hamosa L. and Alocasia odora (Lodd.) Spach. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 The Role of Root and Shoot Structures in CH4 Transport and Release in Wetland Plants. literature abstract metadata
  5. T3 Alocasia odora CC BY-SA 4.0