FolkKB

picrorhiza

Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora

Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora, commonly known as African neem or Kalmegh, is a traditional medicine used in Ayurveda and other Indian systems of medicine. Traditionally, it has been employed for various conditions including inflammation, fever, and skin disorders, though specific uses vary among different traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora contains compounds like picrocylide A, which exhibit potent hepatoprotective activity against acetaminophen-induced liver damage. Additionally, studies have identified key genes involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis, enhancing understanding of its chemical production mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications. A meta-analysis indicated that combining Chinese herbal medicine with Western medicine significantly improved clinical efficacy in patients with severe acute pancreatitis-associated acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome (SAP-ALI/ARDS), though the evidence is still limited. No major safety issues have been recorded for Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora, and there are no reported drug interactions. However, further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits and risks in various clinical settings.

At a glance
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

  • Picrocylide A, a compound from Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora, showed potent hepatoprotective activity against APAP-induced cell damage. D PMID
  • The study identified key genes involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis in Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora, enhancing understanding of its chemical production mechanisms. D PMID
  • The study identified 43 candidate genes potentially involved in picroside-I and picroside-II biosynthesis in Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora. D PMID
  • The combination of Chinese herbal medicine with Western medicine significantly improved clinical efficacy and inflammatory markers in patients with severe acute pancreatitis-related acute lung injury/ARDS, though limitations exist. A PMID
  • Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora was one of the most frequently reported medicinal substances among the documented 51 plant species used by the Sherpa people. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is picrorhiza?

picrorhiza (Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora) 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 picrorhiza?

5 sourced findings are recorded for picrorhiza; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Picrocylide A, a compound from Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora, showed potent hepatoprotective activity against APAP-induced cell damage.

How strong is the evidence for picrorhiza?

The strongest finding for picrorhiza carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is picrorhiza safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does picrorhiza interact with medications?

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

Is picrorhiza 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 Traditional medicinal knowledge of Sherpa people: Assessment in Xizang, China. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Integrative analysis of metabolite and transcriptome reveals the biosynthetic pathway and candidate genes for iridoid glycoside biosynthesis in Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora (Pennell) D.Y.Hong. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Multi-Omics and Functional Insights into Triterpenoid Biosynthesis Pathways in Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora (Pennell) D.Y.Hong. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Picrocylide A: A Cyclobutane-Containing Apocarotenoid-Derived Meroterpenoid from Neopicrorhiza scrophulariiflora with Hepatoprotective Effect. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Assessment of the efficacy of Chinese herbal medicine combined with western medicine for treating severe acute pancreatitis-related acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on random literature abstract metadata