Indian redwood
Biancaea sappan
Biancaea sappan, commonly known as Sappan wood or bloodwood, is a traditional plant primarily associated with Southeast Asian and Indian medicinal practices. While its specific uses in these traditions are not well-documented, it has been noted among 181 species used for treating hemorrhoids in Thailand. Scientific evidence suggests that Biancaea sappan extract coated ZnO nanoparticles can effectively degrade dyes in textile treatments, showing high efficiency with good recyclability. Additionally, a study found that the plant's extract at 50 mg/kg BW reduced spleen iron levels and increased M2 macrophage polarization, comparable to Deferiprone, an established iron chelator. In vitro and in vivo studies also indicated that 3-DSC (a compound possibly derived from Sappan wood) inhibited HMGB1-mediated inflammatory responses. Notably, no significant safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Biancaea sappan to date.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Biancaea sappan extract coated ZnO nanoparticles showed high dye degradation efficiency (98.88%) with good recyclability in textile dye treatment.
- Sappan wood extract at 50 mg/kg BW reduced spleen iron levels and increased M2 macrophage polarization, comparable to Deferiprone.
- 3-DSC inhibited HMGB1-mediated inflammatory responses in both cell and animal models.
- The study identified 181 plant species used for treating hemorrhoids in Thailand, with Biancaea sappan among those noted.
Frequently asked questions
What is Indian redwood?
Indian redwood (Biancaea sappan) 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 Indian redwood?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Indian redwood; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Biancaea sappan extract coated ZnO nanoparticles showed high dye degradation efficiency (98.88%) with good recyclability in textile dye treatment.
How strong is the evidence for Indian redwood?
The strongest finding for Indian redwood carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Indian redwood safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Indian redwood in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Indian redwood interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Indian redwood in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Indian redwood?
Indian redwood is also known as: Césalpinie sappan, Sappan, Brésillet des Indes, Bois de sappan, Campêche sappan.
Is Indian redwood 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 3-Deoxysappanchalcone Inhibited High Mobility Group Box Protein 1-Mediated Severe Inflammatory Responses. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Impact of Sappan Wood Extract as Iron Chelator Adjuvant on Iron Concentration and Macrophage Polarization in Rat Spleen. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Degradation of textile dyes using Biancaea sappan extract coated zinc nanoparticle. literature abstract metadata
- T2 An ethnobotanical review of medicinal plants used for treating hemorrhoids in Thailand. literature abstract metadata