Elephant's Foot
Elephantopus scaber
Elephantopus scaber is a plant traditionally used in various folk medicine practices, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. While its traditional uses are not well-documented, studies have shown that it contains secondary metabolites with significant anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective effects through multiple signaling pathways. Research indicates genotype-specific and dose-dependent responses to antimitotic extracts from G. superba, which can enhance yield-related traits in rice. Additionally, deoxyelephantopin has been found to suppress IL-2 production in T cells by inhibiting NF-κB and calcineurin/NFAT signaling pathways, highlighting its potential anti-inflammatory properties. The study also identified distinct secondary metabolites with varying anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activities in Elephantopus scaber and Elephantopus tomentosus. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant, though further research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic applications and potential side effects.
- 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
- Elephantopus scaber contains various secondary metabolites showing significant anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective effects through multiple signaling pathways.
- The study found genotype-specific and dose-dependent responses to antimitotic extracts, with G. superba showing promise for improving rice yield traits.
- Deoxyelephantopin suppressed IL-2 production in T cells by inhibiting NF-κB and calcineurin/NFAT signaling.
- This study identified distinct secondary metabolites in Elephantopus scaber and Elephantopus tomentosus, showing different anti-hepatocellular carcinoma activities.
Frequently asked questions
What is Elephant's Foot?
Elephant's Foot (Elephantopus scaber) 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 Elephant's Foot?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Elephant's Foot; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Elephantopus scaber contains various secondary metabolites showing significant anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and organ-protective effects through multiple signaling pathways.
How strong is the evidence for Elephant's Foot?
The strongest finding for Elephant's Foot carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Elephant's Foot safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Elephant's Foot in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Elephant's Foot interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Elephant's Foot in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Elephant's Foot?
Elephant's Foot is also known as: Элефантопус шершавый.
Is Elephant's Foot 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
- T2 Untargeted metabolomics and in-house database analysis reveal differences between Elephantopus scaber L. and Elephantopus tomentosus L. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Elephantopus scaber L.: phytochemistry, pharmacology, nanoformulation, and synthetic modification - a review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Deoxyelephantopin, a natural sesquiterpene lactone, suppresses IL-2 production of ConA-activated T lymphocytes through inhibiting NF-κB and calcineurin/NFAT signaling. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Agronomic responses of rice to putative polyploid-inducing plant extracts: a screening study. literature abstract metadata