Lewis' monkeyflower

Erythranthe lewisii

Erythranthe lewisii, commonly known as Lewis monkeyflower, is a plant native to western North America. While its traditional medicinal uses are not well-documented in historical or cultural practices, it has been studied for genetic and genomic reasons. Scientific evidence from studies indicates that overexpression of PSY1 can increase carotenoid content in apple fruit skin and flesh, with higher beta-carotene levels observed. Additionally, research on Erythranthe lewisii found no significant decrease in genetic diversity linked to its rapid post-glacial range expansion. The study also noted an increased probability of autonomous selfing as distance from the inferred contemporary range center increased, supporting the abundant-center hypothesis. Notably, there is currently no recorded evidence of major safety issues or drug interactions associated with Erythranthe lewisii.

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

  • Overexpression of PSY1 increased carotenoid content in apple fruit skin and flesh, with higher beta-carotene levels observed. D PMID
  • The study found that the probability of autonomous selfing increased with distance from the inferred contemporary range center, supporting the abundant-center hypothesis. D PMID
  • The study found no decrease in genetic diversity in Erythranthe lewisii associated with its rapid post-glacial range expansion. D PMID
  • The study reported the sequencing and assembly of high-quality nuclear and chloroplast genomes of Mimulus laciniatus. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Lewis' monkeyflower?

Lewis' monkeyflower (Erythranthe lewisii) 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 Lewis' monkeyflower?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Lewis' monkeyflower; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Overexpression of PSY1 increased carotenoid content in apple fruit skin and flesh, with higher beta-carotene levels observed.

How strong is the evidence for Lewis' monkeyflower?

The strongest finding for Lewis' monkeyflower carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Lewis' monkeyflower safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Lewis' monkeyflower interact with medications?

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

What are the common names of Lewis' monkeyflower?

Lewis' monkeyflower is also known as: mimule de Lewis.

Is Lewis' monkeyflower 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 Overexpression of PSY1 increases fruit skin and flesh carotenoid content and reveals associated transcription factors in apple (Malus × domestica). literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 The reference genome of a Sierra Nevada endemic, the cut-leaved monkeyflower, Mimulus laciniatus (syn. Erythranthe lacinata). literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 An alpine plant shows no decrease in genetic diversity associated with rapid post-glacial range expansion. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Joint test of historical vs. contemporary biogeography supports abundant center hypothesis shaping spatial patterns of self-fertilization. literature abstract metadata