coleus
Plectranthus scutellarioides
Plectranthus scutellarioides, also known as African blue basil or salvia africana-lutea, is a plant traditionally used in various African herbal practices. It has been reported to be used for treating coughs, but the effectiveness of this traditional use lacks scientific evidence. Scientific studies have shown that certain extracts from Plectranthus scutellarioides exhibit significant antiplasmodial activity against malaria parasites in vitro, though further research is needed to confirm these findings. The plant's leaves and roots also demonstrated cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on breast and lung cancer cells, but more comprehensive studies are required for a full understanding of its potential therapeutic applications. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded for Plectranthus scutellarioides.
- 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
- Seven extracts, including one from Plectranthus scutellarioides, showed significant antiplasmodial activity against malaria parasites in vitro.
- Both aerial parts and root extracts of Plectranthus scutellarioides showed cytotoxic and genotoxic effects on MCF-7 and A549 cancer cells.
- The study developed a chitosan/fucoidan film with coleus grass anthocyanins that showed improved properties and potential for monitoring salmon spoilage.
- Plectranthus scutellarioides is used to treat cough, though no specific efficacy data are provided.
Frequently asked questions
What is coleus?
coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides) 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 coleus?
4 sourced findings are recorded for coleus; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Seven extracts, including one from Plectranthus scutellarioides, showed significant antiplasmodial activity against malaria parasites in vitro.
How strong is the evidence for coleus?
The strongest finding for coleus carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is coleus safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for coleus in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does coleus interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for coleus in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of coleus?
coleus is also known as: Плектрантус шлемниковидный.
Is coleus 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 Intelligent packaging based on chitosan/fucoidan incorporated with coleus grass (Plectranthus scutellarioides) leaves anthocyanins and its application in monitoring the spoilage of salmon (Salmo salar L.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Biological Properties of Extracts Obtained from In Vitro Culture of Plectranthus scutellarioides in a Cell Model. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of the antiplasmodial and anti-Toxoplasma activities of several Indonesian medicinal plant extracts. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ethnomedicinal Survey of Plants Used for Treatment of Mild COVID-19-Related Symptoms in Gorontalo Province, Indonesia. literature abstract metadata