Indian kapok
Bombax ceiba
Bombax ceiba, commonly known as the silk cotton tree, is a traditional plant with its roots in various cultures across Asia and Africa. Its traditional uses are not well-documented; however, it has been utilized for its fibers and wood rather than medicinal purposes in some communities. Scientific evidence suggests that Bombax ceiba extracts (BCFE) may enhance antioxidant defense and wound healing effects, particularly in human keratinocytes and fibroblasts. Additionally, the plant's bacterial and fungal communities vary with seasonal changes and habitat type, influencing its potential bioactivity. The gum-based adsorbent derived from Bombax ceiba has shown high and reusable dye removal efficiency for crystal violet. Furthermore, a study indicated that BCP-3 (a compound from Bombax ceiba) improved motor functions and reduced oxidative stress in rotenone-treated mice by modulating gut microbiota. Safety concerns are minimal, with no major issues recorded; similarly, there is no evidence of significant drug interactions reported.
- 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