FolkKB

Labisia pumila

Labisia pumila

Labisia pumila, a plant traditionally used primarily in Malaysian folk medicine, has shown promise across various scientific studies. It is traditionally employed for respiratory and gastrointestinal conditions but lacks specific documented uses in traditional practices. Scientific evidence suggests that Labisia pumila standardized extract (SKF7®) may aid in weight management by reducing body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and waist-to-height ratio in individuals with obesity. Additionally, the polysaccharides from this plant have been shown to increase lifespan and improve stress tolerance in nematodes and fruit flies, indicating potential anti-aging benefits. Labisia pumila var. alata extract has demonstrated apoptosis induction in MCF-7 breast cancer cells by inhibiting oestrogen receptor activity, suggesting possible applications in oncology research. The extract also showed potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 and anti-inflammatory activities in vitro, indicating broad biological effects. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded to date, but further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety profile.

At a glance
Best evidence
B
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Labisia pumila polysaccharides increased lifespan and improved stress tolerance in C. elegans and D. melanogaster. D PMID
  • Labisia pumila var. alata extract induces apoptosis in MCF-7 breast cancer cells by inhibiting oestrogen receptor activity. D PMID
  • The study found that SKF7® showed potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 and anti-inflammatory activities in vitro. D PMID
  • The study found that Labisia pumila standardized extract (SKF7®) showed a statistically significant reduction in the percentage change of body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and waist-to-height ratio in individuals with obesity. B PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Labisia pumila?

Labisia pumila (Labisia pumila) 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 Labisia pumila?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Labisia pumila; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: Labisia pumila polysaccharides increased lifespan and improved stress tolerance in C. elegans and D. melanogaster.

How strong is the evidence for Labisia pumila?

The strongest finding for Labisia pumila carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Labisia pumila safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Labisia pumila interact with medications?

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

Is Labisia pumila 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 Labisia pumila standardized extract (SKF7®) reduces percentage of waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio in individuals with obesity. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 In vitro study on efficacy of SKF7®, a Malaysian medicinal plant product against SARS-CoV-2. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Labisia pumila var. alata Extract Induces Apoptosis Cell Death by Inhibiting the Activity of Oestrogen Receptors in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Polysaccharide-mediated aging-modulatory effects of Labisia Pumila extracts on the physiological changes in C. elegans and D. melanogaster. literature abstract metadata