Sphaeranthus indicus
Sphaeranthus indicus
Sphaeranthus indicus, a plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, has shown potential in various scientific studies. It is primarily known for its larvicidal and pupicidal effects against mosquitoes like Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus, with phytol demonstrating comparable efficacy to conventional insecticides but lower ovicidal activity. Additionally, the plant's bioactive fraction cryptomeridiol and biosynthesized silver nanoparticles have shown cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cells, while a robust HPTLC method was developed for quality control and standardization. β-Isocostic acid has been found to delay mosquito development and cause midgut histopathological changes, though specific safety or efficacy data are limited. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, but further research is needed to fully understand its potential applications.
- 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
- The study found that Sphaeranthus indicus extract, its bioactive fraction cryptomeridiol, and biosynthesized silver nanoparticles showed comparable cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cells.
- The study developed a robust HPTLC method using complementary solvent systems to provide detailed fingerprints for Sphaeranthus indicus, supporting its quality control and standardization.
- Phytol from Sphaeranthus indicus showed comparable larvicidal and pupicidal efficacy to conventional insecticides but had lower ovicidal activity against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus.
- β-Isocostic acid significantly delayed mosquito development and caused midgut histopathological changes without specifying safety or efficacy.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sphaeranthus indicus?
Sphaeranthus indicus (Sphaeranthus indicus) 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 Sphaeranthus indicus?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Sphaeranthus indicus; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that Sphaeranthus indicus extract, its bioactive fraction cryptomeridiol, and biosynthesized silver nanoparticles showed comparable cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cells.
How strong is the evidence for Sphaeranthus indicus?
The strongest finding for Sphaeranthus indicus carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Sphaeranthus indicus safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Sphaeranthus indicus in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Sphaeranthus indicus interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Sphaeranthus indicus in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Sphaeranthus indicus 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 Developmental disruption and midgut histopathology induced by β-isocostic acid in Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Utilization of HPTLC in standardization and quality control of Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. Using complementary solvent systems. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemical and nanoparticle-based therapeutic potential of Sphaeranthus indicus against hepatocellular carcinoma via cryptomeridiol targeting. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytol from Sphaeranthus indicus: A Natural Insecticide Against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. literature abstract metadata