Dutch tonka-bean

Dipteryx odorata

Dipteryx odorata, commonly known as tonka bean or bakul tree, originates from Central and South America. While traditional uses for this plant are not well-documented, it has shown promise in various studies. Scientific evidence indicates that natural products derived from Dipteryx odorata may have potential anti-lipid peroxidation properties beneficial for diabetic kidney disease; however, these findings require further clinical validation. Additionally, the saplings of Dipteryx odorata demonstrated better drought resistance compared to Tachigali vulgaris, suggesting a strategy of drought avoidance. Seed extracts from this plant exhibited antimicrobial activity and showed variable cytotoxicity with no clear genotoxic effects, though some antigenotoxic potential was noted. Safety concerns are minimal based on current data, and there have been no recorded drug interactions associated with Dipteryx odorata.

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

  • Different tree legume species responded variably to fertilization, affecting their growth rates and biomass production. A PMID
  • The study suggests that natural products, including Dipteryx odorata, show promise as anti-lipid peroxidation drugs for diabetic kidney disease, but further clinical trials are needed. A PMID
  • Dipteryx odorata saplings showed lower mortality and more conservative functional traits compared to Tachigali vulgaris under drought stress, indicating a strategy of drought avoidance. D PMID
  • Dipteryx odorata seed extracts showed antimicrobial activity, variable cytotoxicity, no clear genotoxicity, and some antigenotoxic potential. D PMID
  • The study found that supercritical CO2 extraction under specific conditions efficiently recovered lipophilic and antioxidant compounds from Dipteryx odorata seeds. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Dutch tonka-bean?

Dutch tonka-bean (Dipteryx odorata) 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 Dutch tonka-bean?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Dutch tonka-bean; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Different tree legume species responded variably to fertilization, affecting their growth rates and biomass production.

How strong is the evidence for Dutch tonka-bean?

The strongest finding for Dutch tonka-bean carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Dutch tonka-bean safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Dutch tonka-bean interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Dutch tonka-bean in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Dutch tonka-bean?

Dutch tonka-bean is also known as: Диптерикс душистый, Fève tonka.

Is Dutch tonka-bean 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 Data on the effects of fertilization on growth rates, biomass allocation, carbohydrates and nutrients of nitrogen-fixing and non-nitrogen-fixing tree legumes during tropical forest restoration. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Lipid Peroxidation in Diabetic Kidney Disease: Mechanism and Natural Solution. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Green extraction of bioactive compounds from Cumaru seeds using supercritical CO2: Yield and functionality. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Evaluation of the Antimicrobial, Cyto-Genotoxic, and Antigenotoxic Activity of Dipteryx odorata Seed Extracts. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Interspecific variation of functional traits in saplings of three Amazonian species under drought stress and recovery. literature abstract metadata