Jicama
Pachyrhizus erosus
Pachyrhizus erosus, commonly known as yam bean or jicama, is a plant traditionally used in various culinary and cultural practices. Its traditional uses are not well-documented, but it has been incorporated into dishes across different regions. Scientific evidence on its medicinal properties is limited; one study noted that jicama starch with a degree of hydrolysis less than 6.3% can form stable particles via electrospraying, while higher degrees do not yield the same results. Another study found significant discrepancies between FvCB model estimates and empirical Jmax values for three out of four C3 species, suggesting potential limitations in predictive models. Yam bean treated with vacuum impregnation of mango seed extract showed enhanced antioxidant activity and greater phenolic metabolite diversity during in vitro colonic fermentation. Rotenone, a compound found in the seeds, was observed to inhibit melanogenesis by inducing ERK activation leading to MITF degradation in B16F10 cells. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Pachyrhizus erosus.
- 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 hydrolyzed jicama starch with a degree of hydrolysis < 6.3% can form stable, rounded particles via electrospraying, while higher degrees of hydrolysis are not suitable.
- Yam bean treated with vacuum impregnation of mango seed extract showed enhanced antioxidant activity and greater phenolic metabolite diversity during in vitro colonic fermentation.
- The FvCB sub-models showed varying degrees of accuracy in estimating Jmax across four C3 species, with significant discrepancies noted.
- Rotenone, a metabolite from Pachyrhizus erosus seeds, inhibits melanogenesis in B16F10 cells by inducing ERK activation and MITF degradation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Jicama?
Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus) 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 Jicama?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Jicama; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that hydrolyzed jicama starch with a degree of hydrolysis < 6.3% can form stable, rounded particles via electrospraying, while higher degrees of hydrolysis are not suitable.
How strong is the evidence for Jicama?
The strongest finding for Jicama carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Jicama safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Jicama in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Jicama interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Jicama in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Jicama?
Jicama is also known as: Хикама, Manioc cochon.
Is Jicama 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 Synthesis of Jicama (Pachyrhizus erosus) Starch Particles by Electrospraying: Effect of the Hydrolysis Degree. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Rotenone-mediated mitochondrial ROS generation inhibits melanogenesis in B16F10 cells by inducing the ERK activation-MITF degradation pathway. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Polyphenol-enriched yam bean via vacuum impregnation: enhanced antioxidant activity and metabolite bioconversion during in vitro colonic fermentation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Integrated modeling and observational analysis of light-saturated electron transport rates in four C3 species. literature abstract metadata