Madagascar periwinkles
Catharanthus
Catharanthus, primarily associated with traditional medicine in regions such as India and Southeast Asia, is traditionally used for various ailments but lacks specific documented uses. Scientifically, Catharanthus roseus has shown promise in several areas. Research indicates that genetic manipulation can enhance catharanthine production, an alkaloid known for its anti-cancer properties. Additionally, a study found that a 1.5% extract of Catharanthus roseus-infused silk fibroin hydrogel promoted faster wound healing in diabetic mouse models compared to controls. The plant has also shown potential antiviral activity against MERS-CoV spike protein, with several novel indole alkaloids identified that exhibit anti-ferroptotic properties in cardiomyocytes. Safety-wise, no major issues have been recorded, and there are currently no known drug interactions associated with Catharanthus roseus.
- 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
- Silencing CrLHP1 increased catharanthine accumulation and upregulated JA-responsive and MIA biosynthetic genes in Catharanthus roseus.
- Catharanthus roseus produced 12 novel indole alkaloids, some of which showed anti-ferroptotic activity in cardiomyocytes.
- The study found that a 1.5% Catharanthus roseus extract-infused silk fibroin hydrogel promoted faster wound healing in diabetic mouse models compared to control.
- The study found genotype-specific and dose-dependent responses in rice following seed soaking with antimitotic extracts from Gloriosa superba, Catharanthus roseus, and Elephantopus scaber.
- The study identified several potential epitopes in MERS-CoV spike protein and found that compounds from Catharanthus roseus showed promising binding affinity, suggesting possible antiviral activity.
Frequently asked questions
What is Madagascar periwinkles?
Madagascar periwinkles (Catharanthus) 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 Madagascar periwinkles?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Madagascar periwinkles; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Silencing CrLHP1 increased catharanthine accumulation and upregulated JA-responsive and MIA biosynthetic genes in Catharanthus roseus.
How strong is the evidence for Madagascar periwinkles?
The strongest finding for Madagascar periwinkles carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Madagascar periwinkles safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Madagascar periwinkles in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Madagascar periwinkles interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Madagascar periwinkles in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Madagascar periwinkles?
Madagascar periwinkles is also known as: Катарантус, Catharanthe.
Is Madagascar periwinkles 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 Discovery of Quebrachamine-like Indole Alkaloids with Ferroptosis Inhibitory Activity from Catharanthus roseus Using HSQC-Based DeepSAT. literature abstract metadata
- T2 CrLHP1-CrJAZ1 Module Regulates Monoterpenoid Indole Alkaloid Biosynthesis via JA Signaling in Catharanthus roseus. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Immunoinformatics-based epitope prediction in MERS-CoV and docking analysis of Catharanthus roseus compounds for drug discovery. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Agronomic responses of rice to putative polyploid-inducing plant extracts: a screening study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Vinca Extract Infused Silk Fibroin Hydrogel for Treatment of Artificially Induced Diabetic Foot Ulcer in Murine Model. literature abstract metadata