Balloon Pea
Lessertia frutescens
Lessertia frutescens is a plant traditionally used with no specific records of its application. Scientific studies indicate that it may possess potential anticancer and immunomodulatory properties, along with enhancing drought tolerance in plants through improved root proliferation and metabolite production. However, the evidence for these effects is limited to preliminary findings and in vitro studies, and more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm these observations. Isolates from Lessertia frutescens have shown negligible toxicity and potential neuroprotective benefits in cell cultures exposed to MPP+. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified, but further research is warranted to fully understand its potential uses and 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
- The study found that Lessertia frutescens exhibits various biological activities, including potential anticancer effects and immunomodulatory properties.
- Isolate TUTLFNC37 enhanced drought tolerance in Lessertia frutescens by improving root proliferation and metabolite production.
- The available data suggest that Sutherlandia frutescens shows some potential antiproliferative effects in vitro but lacks rigorous clinical evidence and meets few established guidelines for evaluating its bioactivity.
- Compounds isolated from Lessertia frutescens showed negligible toxicity and improved cell viability in MPP+-exposed SH-SY5Y cells.
Frequently asked questions
What is Balloon Pea?
Balloon Pea (Lessertia frutescens) 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 Balloon Pea?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Balloon Pea; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that Lessertia frutescens exhibits various biological activities, including potential anticancer effects and immunomodulatory properties.
How strong is the evidence for Balloon Pea?
The strongest finding for Balloon Pea carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Balloon Pea safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Balloon Pea in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Balloon Pea interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Balloon Pea in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Balloon Pea?
Balloon Pea is also known as: Сутерландия кустарниковая.
Is Balloon Pea 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 Bioprospecting for Rhizobacteria with the Ability to Enhance Drought Tolerance in Lessertia frutescens. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Isolation of Lessertiosides A and B and Other Metabolites from Lessertia frutescens and Their Neuroprotection Activity. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemistry, Ethnopharmacology, and Pharmacology of Lessertia frutescens (Cancer Bush): A Comprehensive Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The "Cancer Bush" Sutherlandia (syn. Lessertia) frutescens. An Example of Promotional Research, or Is There Scientific Merit? literature abstract metadata