Indian tamarind
Tamarindus indica
Tamarindus indica, commonly known as the tamarind tree, is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa but has been widely cultivated in various parts of Asia, South America, and the Caribbean. Traditionally, its use for medicinal purposes is not well-documented; however, it is noted that 97 Fabaceae species, including T. indica, are traditionally used to treat human ailments in Tanzania. Scientific evidence suggests significant correlations between microbial phyla in the rhizosphere of tamarind and grafting conditions, though potential confounding factors such as rootstock genotypes cannot be fully excluded. Additionally, a marketed herbal formulation containing tamarind showed improvement in cognitive performance in diabetic rats by modulating BDNF, insulin, and inflammatory pathways. The volatile compounds identified through various analytical techniques provided a comprehensive profile of the plant's aromatic properties. Safety records indicate no major issues have been recorded for T. indica, and there are currently no reported drug interactions associated with its use.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Significant correlations were found between some microbial phyla in the rhizosphere and tamarind traits under grafting conditions, though potential influences of rootstock genotypes could not be excluded.
- The study found that 97 Fabaceae species, including Tamarindus indica, are traditionally used to treat human ailments in Tanzania.
- The marketed herbal formulation Diabecon improved cognitive performance in diabetic rats by modulating BDNF, insulin, and inflammatory pathways.
- DMU-SPME identified more volatile compounds than HS-SPME or SAFE, providing a comprehensive volatile profile of tamarind.
- This review indicates that tamarind contains various nutrients and bioactive compounds with potential health benefits, though human clinical data are limited.
Frequently asked questions
What is Indian tamarind?
Indian tamarind (Tamarindus indica) 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 Indian tamarind?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Indian tamarind; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Significant correlations were found between some microbial phyla in the rhizosphere and tamarind traits under grafting conditions, though potential influences of rootstock genotypes could not be excluded.
How strong is the evidence for Indian tamarind?
The strongest finding for Indian tamarind carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Indian tamarind safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Indian tamarind in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Indian tamarind interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Indian tamarind in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Indian tamarind?
Indian tamarind is also known as: Тамаринд, Tamarinier.
Is Indian tamarind 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 Ethnomedicinal Practices of the Fabaceae Family in Tanzania: A Systematic Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Differential volatile-omics analysis for tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) and aroma-active compounds identification via DMU-SPME-GC-MS method. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of Germplasm Resources and Microbial Diversity Among Different Geographical Provenances of Tamarindus indica L. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Reversal of diabetes-associated cognitive impairment through modulation of BDNF, insulin, and NF-κB pathways by a marketed herbal formulation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Exploring Nutritional Properties, Bioactive Compounds, and Potential Applications of Tamarindus indica L.: An Underutilized Food Plant. literature abstract metadata