Sarcostemma viminale
Sarcostemma viminale
Sarcostemma viminale, a plant traditionally used in various African and Asian herbal practices but with no specific traditional uses documented for this species, has shown promise in scientific research. It was identified as one of 14 plants potentially useful for developing poultry phytogenic feed additives, suggesting possible benefits for livestock health. Additionally, Sarcostemma viminale is noted among four plants globally that have demonstrated antidiarrhoeal properties, indicating potential therapeutic applications. However, the scientific evidence supporting its use remains limited and more research is needed to confirm these findings. Notably, poisoning incidents in ostriches have been reported, leading to symptoms such as beak patting, muscular tremors, and head flopping before death, highlighting the need for caution when handling or consuming this plant. There are no recorded major safety issues or known drug interactions with Sarcostemma viminale at present.
- 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
- Sarcostemma viminale was one of 14 plant species documented as potentially useful for developing poultry phytogenic feed additives.
- Sarcostemma viminale is one of four plants recorded globally for the first time as having antidiarrhoeal properties.
- Sarcostemma viminale poisoning in ostriches resulted in symptoms including beak patting, muscular tremors, and head flopping before death.
- Cynanchum viminale showed superior cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines compared to Pergularia daemia.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sarcostemma viminale?
Sarcostemma viminale (Sarcostemma viminale) 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 Sarcostemma viminale?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Sarcostemma viminale; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Sarcostemma viminale was one of 14 plant species documented as potentially useful for developing poultry phytogenic feed additives.
How strong is the evidence for Sarcostemma viminale?
The strongest finding for Sarcostemma viminale carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Sarcostemma viminale safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Sarcostemma viminale in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Sarcostemma viminale interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Sarcostemma viminale in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Sarcostemma viminale 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 Poisoning in ostriches following ingestion of toxic plants--field observations. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Medicinal plants used for the treatment of diarrhoea in northern Maputaland, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ethnoveterinary Remedies Used in Avian Complementary Medicine in Selected Communal Areas in Zimbabwe. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A comparative analysis of bioactive phytochemicals in Cynanchum viminale (L.) L. and Pergularia daemia (Forssk.) Chiov. from Saudi Arabian folk medicine. literature abstract metadata