black chuglam

Terminalia citrina

Terminalia citrina, a plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Thailand, has been subject to limited traditional use. Scientific evidence suggests that its aqueous extract exhibits potent antimicrobial activity against A. baumannii AB0014 by targeting OmpA and shows varying degrees of antibacterial activity against other tested pathogens. Additionally, both water and alcohol extracts have demonstrated strong antioxidant properties and the ability to inhibit cholinesterases. In a Thai herbal formulation, Terminalia citrina significantly decreased total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels in patients with borderline hyperlipidemia over 12 weeks. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for this plant, though further research is warranted to fully understand its potential benefits and applications.

At a glance
Best evidence
B
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • The aqueous extract of Terminalia citrina showed potent antimicrobial activity against A. baumannii AB0014 by targeting OmpA. D PMID
  • Both aqueous and methanol extracts from Terminalia citrina showed varying degrees of antibacterial activity against tested pathogens. D PMID
  • The Thai herbal formulation significantly decreased total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels in patients with borderline hyperlipidemia after 12 weeks. B PMID
  • Both water and alcohol extracts of Terminalia citrina fruits showed strong antioxidant capacity and inhibited cholinesterases. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is black chuglam?

black chuglam (Terminalia citrina) 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 black chuglam?

4 sourced findings are recorded for black chuglam; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The aqueous extract of Terminalia citrina showed potent antimicrobial activity against A. baumannii AB0014 by targeting OmpA.

How strong is the evidence for black chuglam?

The strongest finding for black chuglam carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is black chuglam safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for black chuglam in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does black chuglam interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for black chuglam in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

Is black chuglam 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

  1. T2 LC-HRMS Profiling and Phenolic Content, Cholinesterase, and Antioxidant Activities of Terminalia citrina. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Antibacterial and Synergistic Effects of Terminalia citrina Leaf Extracts Against Gastrointestinal Pathogens: Insights from Metabolomic Analysis. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 In-silico insights into Terminalia citrina targeting OmpA: an approach to combat multidrug resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Clinical and Biological Efficacy of Thai Herbal Blood Lipid-Lowering Formulation for Borderline Hyperlipidemia: A Double-Blind Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial. literature abstract metadata