Dutch tonka-bean

Dipteryx odorata

Dipteryx odorata, commonly known as tonka bean or coumarin tree, originates from the tropical regions of South America. Traditionally, its use is not well-documented in any specific medical practices. Scientific evidence suggests that different species within the Dipteryx genus exhibit variable responses to fertilization, impacting their growth and biomass production. There are indications that natural products derived from this plant may have potential as anti-lipid peroxidation drugs for diabetic kidney disease; however, these findings are preliminary and require further clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety. Studies also show that Dipteryx odorata saplings exhibit lower mortality rates under drought conditions compared to Tachigali vulgaris but similar to Bertholletia excelsa. Seed extracts from the plant have demonstrated antimicrobial activity, variable cytotoxicity, no clear genotoxicity, and some antigenotoxic potential. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded for Dipteryx odorata thus far.

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