Quassia amara
Quassia amara
Quassia amara, a tree native to tropical regions of Central and South America, is known for its traditional use in various folk medicines. While specific traditional uses are not well-documented, it has been employed in some indigenous practices for treating digestive issues and other ailments. Scientific studies have shown that Quassia amara exhibits bactericidal properties and may offer gastroprotective effects; however, the evidence is limited and further research is needed to confirm these findings. Notably, a study found that an aqueous extract of Quassia amara leaf reduced blood glucose levels in diabetic mice at higher doses, comparable to glibenclamide, though more human studies are required for broader applicability. The flavonoids identified in the plant have shown potential antitubercular activity but require further investigation. Safety and drug interaction data suggest that Quassia amara does not pose significant risks when used as directed; however, comprehensive safety profiles across different populations remain to be established.
- 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
- Quassia amara exhibited bactericidal and gastroprotective effects but not significant genotoxicity.
- The study found that probiotics and Quassia amara supplementation helped reduce oxidative stress in bees after a waste fire event, though effects varied.
- The aqueous extract of Quassia amara leaf at 250 and 500 mg/kg showed a dose-dependent significant blood glucose-lowering effect in diabetic mice, with the highest dose comparable to glibenclamide from 2 hours post-intervention.
- This study identified flavonoids as contributors to antitubercular activity in non-polar fractions from three plant species.
Frequently asked questions
What is Quassia amara?
Quassia amara (Quassia amara) 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 Quassia amara?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Quassia amara; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Quassia amara exhibited bactericidal and gastroprotective effects but not significant genotoxicity.
How strong is the evidence for Quassia amara?
The strongest finding for Quassia amara carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Quassia amara safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Quassia amara in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Quassia amara interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Quassia amara in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Quassia amara?
Quassia amara is also known as: Квассия горькая.
Is Quassia amara 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 Landfill fire impact on bee health: beneficial effect of dietary supplementation with medicinal plants and probiotics in reducing oxidative stress and metal accumulation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Bioactive Compounds Discovery from French Guiana Plant Extracts Through Antitubercular Screening and Molecular Networking. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of the biological potential of crude extracts of Brazilian medicinal plants in a social context and for safe use in human health. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of the Blood Glucose-Lowering Effect of the Aqueous Leaf Extract of Quassia amara L. (Simaroubaceae) on Alloxan-induced Diabetes in Male ICR Mice (Mus musculus). literature abstract metadata