Star Apple
Chrysophyllum cainito
Chrysophyllum cainito, commonly known as star apple or caimito, is a tropical tree native to Central America and widely cultivated in the Caribbean, South America, and parts of Asia. Traditionally, it has not been extensively used for medicinal purposes across various cultures. However, recent studies have shown that Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L from Chrysophyllum cainito exhibits potential probiotic traits such as safety and antimicrobial activity. Additionally, the essential oils extracted from its leaves and seeds display antimicrobial properties, with leaf oil being more potent. Research also indicates that Chrysophyllum oliviforme (a closely related species) contains higher concentrations of bioactive metabolites and synthesizes more stable zinc oxide nanoparticles with better antiviral activity compared to C. cainito. Furthermore, gold nanoparticles functionalized with the peels of Chrysophyllum cainito have demonstrated significant cytotoxic activity in HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions are associated with 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
- Genomic and metabolomic analyses suggest Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L from Chrysophyllum cainito has potential probiotic traits including safety and antimicrobial activity.
- The essential oils from leaves and seeds of Chrysophyllum cainito showed antimicrobial activity, with the leaf oil exhibiting higher potency.
- Chrysophyllum oliviforme showed higher concentrations of bioactive metabolites and synthesized more stable ZnO nanoparticles with better antiviral activity compared to Chrysophyllum cainito.
- Gold nanoparticles functionalized with Chrysophyllum cainito peels showed significant cytotoxic activity in HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells.
Frequently asked questions
What is Star Apple?
Star Apple (Chrysophyllum cainito) 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 Star Apple?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Star Apple; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Genomic and metabolomic analyses suggest Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L from Chrysophyllum cainito has potential probiotic traits including safety and antimicrobial activity.
How strong is the evidence for Star Apple?
The strongest finding for Star Apple carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Star Apple safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Star Apple in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Star Apple interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Star Apple in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Star Apple?
Star Apple is also known as: Звёздное яблоко, Pomme de lait, Caïmitier, Cainitier, Pomme lait.
Is Star Apple 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 Comparative chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils from leaves and seeds of star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito L.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Green Synthesis, Chemical Characterization, and Antiproliferative Effect of Gold Nanoparticles Using Methanolic Extracts of Chrysophyllum cainito L. Peels. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Genomic and metabolomic insights into the antimicrobial and therapeutic potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L isolated from Amazonian star apple. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Superiority of Chrysophyllum oliviforme in the green synthesis of highly stable ZnO nanoparticles: metabolomic profiling, quadruple antiviral screening, and comparative MD simulations. literature abstract metadata