Devil's-Pepper
Rauvolfia
Rauvolfia is a genus of plants traditionally used in various forms of traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda and traditional African practices. The seeds of Rauvolfia serpentina are known for their potential anti-pseudomonal activity, as they interfere with quorum sensing and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa, according to a study that also identified key genes involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis and root development. Similarly, Rauvolfia vomitoria has been noted among twelve antidiabetic plants used in West African traditional medicine for its hypoglycemic activity, though further scientific validation is required. Scientific evidence suggests promising biological activities but remains limited. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded, indicating a generally safe profile for the plant.
- 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
- Rauvolfia serpentina seed extract showed anti-pseudomonal activity by interfering with quorum sensing and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa.
- The study identifies key genes, including STR1, ABI3/VP1, and WRKY25, involved in secondary metabolite biosynthesis and root development in Rauvolfia serpentina.
- The study elucidated the mechanistic details of RsSTR-catalyzed reaction between 1-IEA and secologanin to form a rare piperazinyl-indole scaffold.
- This study identified Rauvolfia vomitoria among twelve antidiabetic plants commonly used in West African traditional medicine, showing notable hypoglycemic activity but requiring further scientific validation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Devil's-Pepper?
Devil's-Pepper (Rauvolfia) 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 Devil's-Pepper?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Devil's-Pepper; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Rauvolfia serpentina seed extract showed anti-pseudomonal activity by interfering with quorum sensing and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa.
How strong is the evidence for Devil's-Pepper?
The strongest finding for Devil's-Pepper carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Devil's-Pepper safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Devil's-Pepper in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Devil's-Pepper interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Devil's-Pepper in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Devil's-Pepper?
Devil's-Pepper is also known as: Раувольфия.
Is Devil's-Pepper 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 Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals ABI3/VP1-WRKY25-STR1 regulatory module linking specialized metabolism with root system development and stress response in Rauvolfia serpentina. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Diabetes mellitus in ECOWAS: an overview of the safety and efficacy of medicinal plants used in traditional medicine practices. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Disruption in Quorum-Sensing Circuits and Biofilm Matrix in Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Super-Critical CO2 Extracted Oleoresins From Rauvolfia serpentina Seeds Rescue Caenorhabditis elegans Model of Infection. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Mechanistic elucidation of strictosidine synthase-catalyzed Pictet-Spengler reaction for rare piperazine-indole scaffold formation. literature abstract metadata