Sumac
Rhus taitensis
Rhus taitensis is a traditional plant used in various Asian and Pacific Islander practices for treating diarrhea. It has also been employed to address hearing loss, though its efficacy in this regard remains unverified through scientific studies. Scientific evidence suggests that the plant contains compounds with antimycobacterial activity; specifically, two new triterpenoids from Rhus taitensis demonstrated moderate antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Additionally, tetrahydroxysqualene extracted from the plant showed an MIC of 10.0 µg/mL against M. tuberculosis in vitro. While there is some potential for its use in addressing mycobacterial infections, broader clinical validation is needed. No significant safety concerns or drug interactions have been reported for Rhus taitensis to date.
- Traditionally for
- diarrhea · hearing loss
- Traditions
- traditional
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
- diarrhea
- hearing loss
What the science says
- Two new triterpenoids from Rhus taitensis showed moderate antimycobacterial activity.
- Tetrahydroxysqualene from Rhus taitensis shows antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis with an MIC of 10.0 µg/mL.
- Mycoplasma was detected in some Arabian camels, and Moringa oleifera showed potential antimycobacterial activity in vitro.
- The ethyl acetate extract of Holigarna arnottiana showed antimicrobial activity against both shrimp and human pathogens, though efficacy varied.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sumac?
Sumac (Rhus taitensis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Sumac traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Sumac for: diarrhea, hearing loss. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Sumac?
Sumac appears in these traditions in our sources: traditional.
What does the scientific evidence say about Sumac?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Sumac; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Two new triterpenoids from Rhus taitensis showed moderate antimycobacterial activity.
How strong is the evidence for Sumac?
The strongest finding for Sumac carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Sumac safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Sumac in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Sumac interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Sumac in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Sumac 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 Tetrahdroxysqualene from Rhus taitensis shows antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 New antimycobacterial triterpenoids from Rhus taitensis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Potential in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of Holigarna arnottiana (Hook F). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Detection of Mycobacteria in Arabian camels and antimycobacterial potential of Moringa oleifera. literature abstract metadata
- T3 Rhus taitensis CC BY-SA 4.0