Devil's tongue

Amorphophallus konjac

Amorphophallus konjac is a plant traditionally used in East Asian medicine, particularly in Japan and China. It has been employed for its purported health benefits, including weight management and blood sugar regulation, though specific traditional uses are not extensively documented. Scientific evidence suggests that certain compounds in Amorphophallus konjac may enhance immune function by regulating antioxidant activity and inhibiting the migration and invasion of triple-negative breast cancer cells through modulation of OLFML2A to inhibit epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Additionally, a study found that Kūlaris, an extract from this plant, significantly reduced acne severity and counts in subjects with mild-to-severe acne. The scientific findings are promising but require further investigation for broader applications. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded to date, suggesting it may be generally safe when used as directed; however, more research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks.

At a glance
Best evidence
B
Cautions

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

What the science says

  • AkNBS-LRR43 and AkNBS-LRR100 positively regulate immunity in Amorphophallus konjac against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum by enhancing antioxidant activity. D PMID
  • Konjac petroleum ether extract inhibits triple-negative breast cancer cell migration and invasion by modulating OLFML2A to inhibit EMT. D PMID
  • This study identified 11 AkLOX family members in Amorphophallus konjac and found their expression patterns under various stresses. D PMID
  • Kūlaris significantly reduced acne severity and counts, improved quality of life, and was well-tolerated in subjects with mild-to-severe acne. B PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Devil's tongue?

Devil's tongue (Amorphophallus konjac) 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 Devil's tongue?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Devil's tongue; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: AkNBS-LRR43 and AkNBS-LRR100 positively regulate immunity in Amorphophallus konjac against Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum by enhancing antioxidant activity.

How strong is the evidence for Devil's tongue?

The strongest finding for Devil's tongue carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Devil's tongue safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Devil's tongue in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Devil's tongue interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Devil's tongue in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Devil's tongue?

Devil's tongue is also known as: Аморфофаллус коньяк.

Is Devil's tongue 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 Safety and Clinical Efficacy of KūlarisTM, an Herbal Supplement for Mild to Severe Acne Vulgaris - A 12-Week Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Identification of the AkLOX gene family in Amorphophallus konjac and analysis of its expression patterns under different treatments. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Konjac petroleum ether extract inhibits triple-negative breast cancer cell migration and invasion by attenuating OLFML2A-mediated epithelial-mesenchymal transition. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Identification of the NBS-LRR gene family and AkNBS-LRR43 and 100 functional analysis under biotic stress. literature abstract metadata