Cirsium kawakamii
Cirsium kawakamii
Cirsium kawakamii, a plant native to regions in Taiwan and Japan, has not been traditionally used for any specific medicinal purposes. Scientific studies have shown high endophytic fungal diversity within this species, with variations noted across different locations and seasons. Methanol extracts from Cirsium japonicum DC. var. australe Kitam., which are closely related, have demonstrated significant reductions in juglone-induced oxidative stress in nematodes (C. elegans). Additionally, methanol extracts from Cirsium kawakamii (CKH) were found to decrease serum ALT and AST levels in mice with liver damage caused by CCl₄, though the effectiveness was not as pronounced as that of other extracts. Chromosome number variations and divergence times suggest polyploidization driven by glaciations played a role in the evolution of this plant species. Safety data indicates no major issues have been recorded for Cirsium kawakamii. There are also no reported drug interactions associated with this plant, though comprehensive research on its safety profile is limited.
- 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 high endophytic fungal diversity in Cirsium kawakamii with significant variations across locations and seasons.
- Methanol extracts from Cirsium japonicum DC. var. australe Kitam. flowers, leaves, and stems, containing silychristin and taxifolin, significantly reduced juglone-induced oxidative stress in C. elegans.
- The study found that extracts from Cirsium kawakamii (CKH) decreased serum ALT and AST levels in mice with CCl₄-induced liver damage, though CKH did not restore hepatic antioxidant enzyme expression as effectively as CJF or CH.
- The study found that Cirsium pengii, a new species from Taiwan, has a diploid chromosome number (2n=32), distinct from the tetraploid (2n=68) Japanese taxa, indicating separate evolutionary histories.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cirsium kawakamii?
Cirsium kawakamii (Cirsium kawakamii) 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 Cirsium kawakamii?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Cirsium kawakamii; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found high endophytic fungal diversity in Cirsium kawakamii with significant variations across locations and seasons.
How strong is the evidence for Cirsium kawakamii?
The strongest finding for Cirsium kawakamii carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Cirsium kawakamii safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Cirsium kawakamii in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Cirsium kawakamii interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Cirsium kawakamii in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Cirsium kawakamii 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 Comparison of the Hepatoprotective Effects of Four Endemic Cirsium Species Extracts from Taiwan on CCl₄-Induced Acute Liver Damage in C57BL/6 Mice. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Methanol Extracts from Cirsium japonicum DC. var. australe Kitam. and Their Active Components Reduce Intracellular Oxidative Stress in Caenorhabditis elegans. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Endophytic Fungal Diversity in Cirsium kawakamii from Taiwan. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Chromosome number variation and phylogenetic divergence of East Asian Cirsium sect. Onotrophe subsect. Nipponocirsium (Compositae), with a new species from Taiwan. literature abstract metadata