Bakau Putih
Bruguiera cylindrica
Bruguiera cylindrica is a mangrove species traditionally not known for any specific medicinal uses. However, it has been found to effectively concentrate chromium and play a role in trapping plastic debris, particularly single-use PET water bottles, in the Maldives. Scientific studies have also shown that Bruguiera cylindrica exhibits significant anticancer effects against A549, AW 13516, and HeLa cells with selective toxicity, though more research is needed to fully understand these findings. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant, but further investigation is warranted given its potential medicinal properties.
- 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
- Amorosia littoralis, a root endophyte in Bruguiera cylindrica, produces water soluble melanin (pyomelanin).
- Bruguiera cylindrica effectively concentrated chromium, challenging typical stabilization paradigms observed in other mangrove species.
- The study found that Bruguiera cylindrica-dominated mangroves in the Maldives naturally trap plastic debris, including single-use PET water bottles.
- Bruguiera cylindrica exhibited significant anticancer effects against A549, AW 13516, and HeLa cells with selective toxicity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bakau Putih?
Bakau Putih (Bruguiera cylindrica) 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 Bakau Putih?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bakau Putih; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Amorosia littoralis, a root endophyte in Bruguiera cylindrica, produces water soluble melanin (pyomelanin).
How strong is the evidence for Bakau Putih?
The strongest finding for Bakau Putih carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bakau Putih safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bakau Putih in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bakau Putih interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bakau Putih in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Bakau Putih 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 Amorosia littoralis Mantle & D. Hawksw. survives as root endophyte of mangroves and produces water soluble melanin pigment. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Mangrove forests as a natural trap for marine plastic litter: Insights from the Maldives. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Anticancer potential of mangrove derived metabolites: cytotoxicity and phytochemical based studies. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytostabilization of potentially toxic elements by mangrove trees in coastal sediments along Pattani Bay, Thailand. literature abstract metadata