Daphne (plant)

Daphne

Daphne is a genus of shrubs native to Asia and Europe. Traditionally, there are no specific uses recorded for Daphne in any traditional medicine practices. Scientific evidence suggests that Daphne odora flowers contain genes involved in terpene biosynthesis and scent formation, though this does not directly translate into medicinal use. A study found that rbcL and trnH-psbA markers provided reliable species identification for endemic Himalayan plant species, including some Daphne varieties, but no specific medicinal uses were identified. Additionally, an affordable arsenic detection device using handmade Lokta paper from Daphne plants showed strong agreement with commercial kits for groundwater testing, indicating potential applications in environmental monitoring. Extracts from several Daphne species, including Daphne oleoides and Thymelaea lanuginosa, have shown selective cytotoxicity against certain cancer cells, though this finding is preliminary and more research is needed to confirm these effects. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Daphne, but caution should be exercised due to the presence of toxic compounds in some species.

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 study identified key genes involved in terpene biosynthesis and transcriptional regulation during the scent formation of Daphne odora flowers. D PMID
  • The study found that rbcL and trnH-psbA markers provided reliable species identification and phylogenetic resolution for endemic Himalayan plant species. D PMID
  • The study found that an affordable arsenic detection device using handmade Lokta paper from Daphne plants showed strong agreement with commercial kits for groundwater testing. D PMID
  • The study found that specific enzymes in Daphne genkwa lead to the selective production of the (+)-enantiomer of matairesinol. D PMID
  • Several extracts from plants, including Daphne oleoides and Thymelaea lanuginosa, showed selective cytotoxicity against certain cancer cells. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Daphne (plant)?

Daphne (plant) (Daphne) 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 Daphne (plant)?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Daphne (plant); the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study identified key genes involved in terpene biosynthesis and transcriptional regulation during the scent formation of Daphne odora flowers.

How strong is the evidence for Daphne (plant)?

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

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

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

Does Daphne (plant) interact with medications?

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

What are the common names of Daphne (plant)?

Daphne (plant) is also known as: Волчеягодник, Daphné.

Is Daphne (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 TPS-mediated transcription reprogramming during the robust aroma formation in Daphne odora flowers. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Pinoresinol/Lariciresinol Reductases and Secoisolariciresinol Dehydrogenases Involved in the Specific Production of (+)-Enantiomer of Matairesinol in Daphne genkwa. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Screening for Selective Anticancer Activity of Extracts from 59 Plant Species Collected in Southern Spain (Andalusia). literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Affordable Arsenic Detection Device Using Handmade Lokta Paper for Decentralized and Sustainable Manufacturing. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 DNA barcoding and phylogenetic insights into the selected endemic flora of the Western Himalayas. literature abstract metadata