Jamaica cherry
Muntingia calabura
Muntingia calabura, commonly known as the jungle fruit or lantana berry, is a plant traditionally used in various Asian and Pacific Island cultures. While its specific traditional medicinal uses are not well-documented, studies have shown potential benefits such as antihyperglycemic effects observed in diabetic rats, indicating possible blood sugar regulation properties. Additionally, Muntingia calabura leaf extract has been found to be effective in managing wound temperature and enhancing wound contraction when applied topically. Scientific evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses, particularly in the quality of studies conducted. Mercury concentrations in Muntingia calabura samples vary geographically and seasonally, suggesting potential variability in its composition. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded to date.
- Best evidence
- A
- 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 mercury concentrations in Muntingia calabura samples varied spatially and temporally, with higher levels near industrial areas.
- The review identified a shared core of 239 medicinal plant species across multiple ethnic groups in Indonesia, though quality assessment highlighted methodological weaknesses.
- Muntingia calabura leaves extract showed antihyperglycemic activity in diabetic rats, reducing fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels.
- The study found that a 15% concentration of Muntingia calabura extract in spray gel form effectively managed wound temperature and enhanced wound contraction.
Frequently asked questions
What is Jamaica cherry?
Jamaica cherry (Muntingia calabura) 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 Jamaica cherry?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Jamaica cherry; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study found that mercury concentrations in Muntingia calabura samples varied spatially and temporally, with higher levels near industrial areas.
How strong is the evidence for Jamaica cherry?
The strongest finding for Jamaica cherry carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Jamaica cherry safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Jamaica cherry in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Jamaica cherry interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Jamaica cherry in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Jamaica cherry?
Jamaica cherry is also known as: Мунтингия.
Is Jamaica cherry 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 Spray Gel Extract of Karsen Leaves (Muntingia Calabura L.) can Control Inflammation and Enhance Proliferation in Second-Degree Burns. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A systematic review of ethnobotanical study in Indonesia: diversity and cultural patterns of medicinal plant use. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemicals Characterization and Antidiabetic Efficacy of Muntingia calabura L. Leaves Extract: In vitro and in vivo Studies. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Utilizing tropical tree rings to trace the spatial and temporal distribution of mercury levels in Cebu, Philippines. literature abstract metadata