Cascabela thevetia
Cascabela thevetia
Cascabela thevetia, also known as yellow oleander, is a plant traditionally found in tropical and subtropical regions of Central America and South America. Although its use in traditional medicine has not been extensively documented, it has shown potential for various biological activities such as cytotoxicity, antiviral effects, and insecticidal properties. Scientific evidence suggests that the plant contains 81 identified phytochemicals with these bioactivities; however, the strength of this evidence is limited by the lack of extensive clinical trials. The safety profile of Cascabela thevetia appears to be relatively good, with no major issues recorded in available literature. There are also no reported drug interactions associated with its use. However, case reports highlight significant toxicity and potential fatal outcomes from ingestion, particularly concerning ventricular fibrillation as seen in a 47-year-old woman who ingested approximately 50 yellow oleander seeds. This underscores the need for caution when handling or consuming any parts of this plant.
- 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
- The review identified 81 phytochemicals from Cascabela thevetia with some showing potent cytotoxic, antiviral, and insecticidal activities.
- The study aims to synthesize evidence on the incidence of electrocardiographic and electrolyte changes following acute oleander poisoning, to inform patient management.
- A 47-year-old woman experienced severe toxicity from ingesting approximately 50 yellow oleander seeds, leading to fatal ventricular fibrillation despite treatment.
- This case report details two family members' contrasting cardiac presentations following intentional ingestion of Cascabela thevetia leaves.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cascabela thevetia?
Cascabela thevetia (Cascabela thevetia) 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 Cascabela thevetia?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Cascabela thevetia; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The review identified 81 phytochemicals from Cascabela thevetia with some showing potent cytotoxic, antiviral, and insecticidal activities.
How strong is the evidence for Cascabela thevetia?
The strongest finding for Cascabela thevetia carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Cascabela thevetia safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Cascabela thevetia in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Cascabela thevetia interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Cascabela thevetia in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Cascabela thevetia 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 Incidence of electrocardiographic and electrolyte changes in acute oleander poisoning in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Cascabela thevetia (L.) lippold.- a review on its phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicity. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Oleander poisoning: Two cases with contrasting cardiac presentations. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Fatal Yellow Oleander Poisoning From a Weight-Loss Seed Product Requiring Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation. literature abstract metadata