Cryptolepis dubia

Cryptolepis dubia

Cryptolepis dubia is a plant traditionally not used in any known medical practices. Scientific research has identified several steroidal compounds from this plant, with (-)-cryptanoside A showing potent cytotoxic and NKA inhibitory activities, indicating potential anti-cancer properties. Two leuconoxine-type diazaspiroindole alkaloids isolated also demonstrated selective cytotoxicity towards human ovarian cancer cells. Four new pentacyclic triterpene glycosides were found in Cryptolepis buchananii fruits and showed significant inhibition of NO production, suggesting possible anti-inflammatory effects. While no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, the current evidence is limited and more research is needed to fully understand its potential therapeutic applications.

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

  • Cryptolepis dubia yielded several steroidal compounds, with (-)-cryptanoside A showing potent cytotoxic and NKA inhibitory activities. D PMID
  • Two leuconoxine-type diazaspiroindole alkaloids were isolated from Cryptolepis dubia and showed selective cytotoxicity towards OVCAR3 human ovarian cancer cells. D PMID
  • Four new pentacyclic triterpene glycosides were isolated from Cryptolepis buchananii fruits and showed significant inhibition of NO production in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells. D PMID
  • (-)-Cryptanoside A from Cryptolepis dubia showed potent cytotoxicity against several human cancer cell lines with selectivity towards cancer cells. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Cryptolepis dubia?

Cryptolepis dubia (Cryptolepis dubia) 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 Cryptolepis dubia?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Cryptolepis dubia; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Cryptolepis dubia yielded several steroidal compounds, with (-)-cryptanoside A showing potent cytotoxic and NKA inhibitory activities.

How strong is the evidence for Cryptolepis dubia?

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

Is Cryptolepis dubia safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Cryptolepis dubia interact with medications?

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

Is Cryptolepis dubia 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 The Cytotoxic Cardiac Glycoside (-)-Cryptanoside A from the Stems of Cryptolepis dubia and Its Molecular Targets. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Four New Pentacyclic Triterpene Glycosides Isolated from the Fruits of Cryptolepis buchananii R.Br. ex Roem. & Schult and Their Inhibition of NO Production in LPS-activated RAW264.7 Cells. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Cytotoxic leuconoxine-type diazaspiroindole alkaloids isolated from Cryptolepis dubia. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Cytotoxic and Noncytotoxic Steroidal Constituents of Cryptolepis dubia. literature abstract metadata