Asclepias curassavica
Asclepias curassavica
Asclepias curassavica, commonly known as the tropical milkweed, is a plant traditionally used in various cultural practices, particularly in Central and South America. While it has not been widely documented for traditional medicinal uses, its role in supporting monarch butterfly populations by extending their developmental periods into non-favorable seasons is well-known. Scientific evidence suggests that N,S-cardenolides from Asclepias curassavica can reduce growth efficiency and sequestration in monarch butterfly caterpillars compared to other cardenolides. Additionally, seven new compounds isolated from an endophytic fungus associated with the plant show potential as HIV latency reversal agents, indicating its pharmacological interest. There are no major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions noted for Asclepias curassavica.
- 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
- Seven new compounds were isolated from an endophytic fungus associated with Asclepias curassavica, showing potential activity in reversing HIV latency.
- The study found that Asclepias curassavica may extend monarch butterfly development into seasons with typically lower growth rates compared to native A. incarnata.
- The study elucidates the developmental processes involved in gynostegium formation across Apocynaceae species, highlighting morphological and anatomical changes.
- The study found that N,S-cardenolides reduced monarch butterfly caterpillar growth efficiency and sequestration compared to other cardenolides, and phytochemical mixtures imposed additional costs beyond individual toxins.
Frequently asked questions
What is Asclepias curassavica?
Asclepias curassavica (Asclepias curassavica) 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 Asclepias curassavica?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Asclepias curassavica; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Seven new compounds were isolated from an endophytic fungus associated with Asclepias curassavica, showing potential activity in reversing HIV latency.
How strong is the evidence for Asclepias curassavica?
The strongest finding for Asclepias curassavica carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Asclepias curassavica safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Asclepias curassavica in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Asclepias curassavica interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Asclepias curassavica in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Asclepias curassavica?
Asclepias curassavica is also known as: Ваточник кюрасавский.
Is Asclepias curassavica 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 The role of a non-native host plant in altering the seasonal dynamics of Danaus plexippus (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae) development. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Harziachalasins A-G, polycyclic-fused cytochalasins from the endophytic fungus Trichoderma harzianum MLJ-4 with HIV latency reversal activity. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Cardenolide toxin diversity impacts monarch butterfly growth and sequestration. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Step by step: Floral structure and developmental changes to the formation of the gynostegium in Apocynaceae s.l. literature abstract metadata