Indian kapok
Bombax ceiba
The plant *Bombax ceiba*, commonly known as the cotton tree, originates from traditional medicine practices in various parts of Asia and Africa. While its specific uses are not well-documented in traditional contexts, studies have shown that extracts from this plant exhibit enhanced antioxidant defense and wound healing effects in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts, indicating potential benefits for skin health. Additionally, research has demonstrated that the crosslinked network material derived from Bombax ceiba gum can effectively remove Crystal violet dye with high efficiency and good reusability, suggesting possible applications in industrial settings or as a natural adsorbent. Furthermore, BCP-3, an extract from *Bombax ceiba*, improved motor function in rotenone-treated mice by modulating gut bacteria and brain signaling, hinting at potential neuroprotective properties. Scientific evidence is limited but promising across these areas. Safety profiles for *Bombax ceiba* have not reported any major issues to date. There are no recorded drug interactions associated with this plant either, making it generally safe for use without significant concerns. However, further research is needed to fully understand its potential applications and safety in diverse contexts.
- 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
- BCFE enhanced antioxidant defense and wound healing effects in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts.
- Seasonal variation and habitat type significantly influence the diversity and composition of bacterial and fungal communities in different parts of Bombax ceiba.
- The study found that the Bombax ceiba gum-based adsorbent showed high and reusable removal efficiency for crystal violet dye.
- BCP-3 improved motor functions and reduced oxidative stress in rotenone-treated mice via gut microbiota modulation.
- BCFP significantly alleviated DSS-induced colitis symptoms and improved intestinal barrier function in mice.
Frequently asked questions
What is Indian kapok?
Indian kapok (Bombax ceiba) 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 kapok?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Indian kapok; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: BCFE enhanced antioxidant defense and wound healing effects in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts.
How strong is the evidence for Indian kapok?
The strongest finding for Indian kapok carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Indian kapok safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Indian kapok in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Indian kapok interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Indian kapok in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Indian kapok?
Indian kapok is also known as: Бомбакс капоковый, Fromager.
Is Indian kapok 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 Microbial assembly among plant parts of a tropical tree in different habitats and seasons. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Polysaccharides From Bombax ceiba Flower by Deep Eutectic Solvent Based Three-Phase Partitioning and Their Protective Effects Against DSS-Induced Colitis in Mice. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Cysteine functionalised cross-linked network of Bombax Ceiba gum and glycidyl methacrylate derived adsorbent for the removal of cationic dyes. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Bombax ceiba flower extract enhances antioxidant defense and wound healing effects in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Structural characterization of a pectic polysaccharide from Bombax ceiba L. flowers and its neuroprotective effects via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. literature abstract metadata