cowa
Garcinia cowa
Garcinia cowa is a plant traditionally found in Southeast Asia. While its use in traditional medicine has not been extensively documented, studies have shown potential for some of its phytochemicals to interact with the SASP2-DNA interface, which may affect spore viability. Additionally, research indicates that a chamuangone-enriched extract from Garcinia cowa can significantly inhibit breast cancer lung metastasis in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Taxonomic revisions have grouped several species under Garcinia cowa and its variants. Two butenolide derivatives isolated from Aspergillus terreus GCD2 associated with Garcinia cowa demonstrated notable antibacterial activity against MRSA. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant, though further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and applications.
- 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
- Several phytochemicals from Garcinia cowa showed potential to interact with the SASP2-DNA interface, potentially affecting spore viability.
- The taxonomy of Garcinia cowa, G. oliveri, and G. schomburgkiana is revised, with four taxa synonymized under G. cowa var. cowa and two under G. oliveri.
- A chamuangone-enriched extract from Garcinia cowa significantly inhibited breast cancer lung metastasis in both in vitro and in vivo studies.
- Two butenolide derivatives were isolated from Aspergillus terreus GCD2 associated with Garcinia cowa, and one exhibited notable antibacterial activity against MRSA.
Frequently asked questions
What is cowa?
cowa (Garcinia cowa) 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 cowa?
4 sourced findings are recorded for cowa; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Several phytochemicals from Garcinia cowa showed potential to interact with the SASP2-DNA interface, potentially affecting spore viability.
How strong is the evidence for cowa?
The strongest finding for cowa carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is cowa safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for cowa in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does cowa interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for cowa in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is cowa 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 Antimetastatic effects of chamuangone-enriched extract in breast cancer lung metastasis: in vitro and in vivo evidence. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Taxonomic treatment of three Garcinia species (section Brindonia, Clusiaceae) in Thailand, with six new synonyms and ten lectotypifications. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Isolation of butenolide compounds from endophytic Aspergillus terreus GDC2 associated with Garcinia cowa and their anti-MRSA activity: in vitro and in silico insights. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemical targeting of SASP2-mediated DNA protection to impair spore resilience in Bacillus cereus: A Computational Investigation. literature abstract metadata