Croton (plant)

Croton

Croton is a genus of plants used in traditional medicine, particularly in Thailand where Croton persimilis has been traditionally cited for treating hemorrhoids. However, there are no specific recorded uses for other species within this genus. Scientific evidence suggests that Croton macrostachyus leaf extracts exhibit higher in-vitro antibacterial activity compared to stem bark extracts, and essential oils from Croton jacobinensis show promising antiulcerogenic activity by reducing inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α levels. Luteolin, a compound found in some Croton species, demonstrates significant anti-cSCC effects both in vitro and in vivo through modulation of the EGFR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and induction of apoptosis. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported for these species.

At a glance
Best evidence
A
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The study identified 181 plant species used in Thailand for treating hemorrhoids, with Croton persimilis among the most cited. A PMID
  • Croton macrostachyus leaf extracts showed higher in-vitro antibacterial activity against selected human pathogens compared to stem bark extracts. D PMID
  • The essential oils from Croton jacobinensis showed promising antiulcerogenic activity with reduced IL-1β and TNF-α levels, but α-pinene alone did not exhibit antidiarrheal effects. D PMID
  • Luteolin showed significant anti-cSCC effects both in vitro and in vivo by modulating the EGFR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and inducing apoptosis. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Croton (plant)?

Croton (plant) (Croton) 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 Croton (plant)?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Croton (plant); the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study identified 181 plant species used in Thailand for treating hemorrhoids, with Croton persimilis among the most cited.

How strong is the evidence for Croton (plant)?

The strongest finding for Croton (plant) carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Croton (plant) safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Croton (plant) interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Croton (plant) in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Croton (plant)?

Croton (plant) is also known as: Кротон.

Is Croton (plant) 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 An ethnobotanical review of medicinal plants used for treating hemorrhoids in Thailand. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Phytochemical profiling and in-vitro antibacterial activity of Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile leaf and stem bark extracts against selected human pathogens. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Potential Efficacy of Luteolin in Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Combined In Vitro and In Vivo Study. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Evaluation of the antiulcerogenic and antidiarrheal activities of essential oils from Croton jacobinensis Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) and its major compound α-pinene. literature abstract metadata