Combretum trifoliatum

Combretum trifoliatum

Combretum trifoliatum is a plant traditionally used in certain African herbal practices, though specific traditional uses have not been documented. Scientific studies have identified two new triterpenoid saponins from its leaves and assessed their anti-inflammatory activity, suggesting potential benefits. The crude ethanol extract of the plant also demonstrated insecticidal properties against Spodoptera frugiperda and Nilaparvata lugens, indicating possible applications in pest control. While promising, these findings are preliminary and more research is needed to confirm the full range of effects. No significant safety concerns or known drug interactions have been reported for Combretum trifoliatum.

At a glance
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 crude ethanol extract of Combretum trifoliatum showed insecticidal activity against Spodoptera frugiperda, affecting larval development and egg hatchability. D PMID
  • The study identified two new triterpenoid saponins from Combretum trifoliatum leaves, comtrifoside A and B, along with other known compounds, and found some anti-inflammatory activity in vitro. D PMID
  • The study found that an extract from Combretum trifoliatum leaves showed significant inhibition of nitric oxide production with HPLC-PDA identifying two main triterpene saponins. D PMID
  • The crude extract and isolated compounds from Combretum trifoliatum showed potential insecticidal effects on Nilaparvata lugens by reducing detoxification enzyme activities. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Combretum trifoliatum?

Combretum trifoliatum (Combretum trifoliatum) 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 Combretum trifoliatum?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Combretum trifoliatum; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The crude ethanol extract of Combretum trifoliatum showed insecticidal activity against Spodoptera frugiperda, affecting larval development and egg hatchability.

How strong is the evidence for Combretum trifoliatum?

The strongest finding for Combretum trifoliatum carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Combretum trifoliatum safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Combretum trifoliatum in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Combretum trifoliatum interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Combretum trifoliatum in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is Combretum trifoliatum 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

  1. T2 Insecticidal efficacy and possibility of Combretum trifoliatum Vent. (Myrtales: Combretaceae) extracts in controlling Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Comtrifosides A and B, two new triterpenoid saponins from the leaves of Combretum trifoliatum. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Effect of isolated compounds from Combretum trifoliatum on toxicity and detoxification enzymes in Nilaparvata lugens. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Anti-inflammatory effects and HPLC-PDA quantification of the triterpene saponin-enriched extract of Combretum trifoliatum leaves. literature abstract metadata