Billygoat Weed
Catharanthus roseus
Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle, is a traditional plant used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. It has been traditionally employed for treating diabetes, hypertension, and various skin conditions, though specific uses vary across different cultures. Scientific evidence suggests that Catharanthus roseus produces novel indole alkaloids with anti-ferroptotic activity, one of which shows particular potency. Additionally, the plant's compounds have shown promising binding affinity to potential epitopes in MERS-CoV spike protein, indicating possible antiviral properties. However, these findings are genotype-specific and dose-dependent, and more research is needed for broader generalization. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded; however, further studies are warranted to fully understand its effects and applications.
- 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 study found genotype-specific and dose-dependent responses in rice following seed soaking with antimitotic extracts from Gloriosa superba, Catharanthus roseus, and Elephantopus scaber.
- Catharanthus roseus produced novel indole alkaloids with anti-ferroptotic activity, with one compound showing particular potency.
- Silencing CrLHP1 increased catharanthine accumulation and upregulated JA-responsive and MIA biosynthetic genes in Catharanthus roseus.
- The study identified several immunogenic regions in MERS-CoV spike protein and found that compounds from Catharanthus roseus showed potential antiviral activity.
- 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.
Frequently asked questions
What is Billygoat Weed?
Billygoat Weed (Catharanthus roseus) 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 Billygoat Weed?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Billygoat Weed; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: 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.
How strong is the evidence for Billygoat Weed?
The strongest finding for Billygoat Weed carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Billygoat Weed safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Billygoat Weed in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Billygoat Weed interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Billygoat Weed in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Billygoat Weed?
Billygoat Weed is also known as: Катарантус розовый, Pervenche de Madagascar.
Is Billygoat Weed 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