Canada Yew
Taxus baccata
Taxus baccata, commonly known as the European yew, is a traditional medicine plant native to Europe and western Asia. Traditionally, it has not been extensively used in any specific medical practices or traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that advances in functional genomics and biotechnology can enhance the production of bioactive compounds like paclitaxel in Taxus baccata, though this research is still in early stages. Notably, two fatal cases of donkey intoxication by Taxus baccata have been documented, highlighting potential toxicity concerns. The plant's pollination drop contains a high sugar content of glucose and fructose, which optimizes pollen capture while limiting insect interaction. Safety records indicate no major issues, and there are currently no recorded drug interactions associated with this 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
- The study reviews advances in functional genomics and biotechnology that enhance the production of bioactive compounds in medicinal plants like Taxus baccata.
- TRV triggered localized hypersensitive responses and increased paclitaxel levels in Taxus baccata shoots without systemic infection.
- This study reports two fatal cases of donkey intoxication by Taxus baccata, confirmed through necropsy, botanical identification, and toxicological analysis.
- The sugar composition of Taxus baccata's pollination drop, rich in glucose and fructose, optimizes pollen capture while limiting interaction with insects.
Frequently asked questions
What is Canada Yew?
Canada Yew (Taxus baccata) 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 Canada Yew?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Canada Yew; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study reviews advances in functional genomics and biotechnology that enhance the production of bioactive compounds in medicinal plants like Taxus baccata.
How strong is the evidence for Canada Yew?
The strongest finding for Canada Yew carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Canada Yew safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Canada Yew in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Canada Yew interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Canada Yew in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Canada Yew?
Canada Yew is also known as: тис ягодный.
Is Canada Yew 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 Fatal Intoxication of European Yew (Taxus baccata L.) in Two Donkeys in North-Eastern Italy: A Case Report. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Sugar-mediated physical constraints drive the evolution of pollination drops into nectar. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Tobacco rattle virus triggers local defense and systemically coordinates taxoid biosynthesis in Taxus baccata revealed by integrated metabolic analysis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Advances in Functional Genomics and Biotechnology for Enhancing Therapeutic Potential of Medicinal Plants. literature abstract metadata