Japanese Nutmeg Tree
Torreya nucifera
Torreya nucifera, commonly known as Chinese nutmeg or yew tree, is a traditional plant with origins in East Asia. While its use in traditional medicine has not been extensively documented, studies have shown potential for certain compounds derived from the plant. Research indicates that ippin, an active compound found in Torreya nucifera, selectively induces cell death in nutrient-deprived colon cancer cells by disrupting autophagy and mitophagy. Additionally, ten phenolic compounds identified from the plant showed promise in modulating the NF-kB signaling pathway for treating rheumatoid arthritis. The essential oil yield of Torreya nucifera is stable across seasons but varies significantly between regions, with D-limonene levels peaking in Hwasun during summer and autumn. Genetic studies reveal high differentiation between two varieties of the plant, estimated to have diverged between 1.77 to 3.03 million years ago. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for 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 oil yield of Torreya nucifera was stable across seasons but varied by region, with 3-carene levels differing significantly between regions.
- The study identified ten phenolic compounds from Torreya nucifera that showed potential for treating rheumatoid arthritis by modulating the NF-kB signaling pathway.
- The two varieties of Torreya nucifera showed high genetic differentiation with divergence times estimated between 1.77 Ma and 3.03 Ma.
- IPA from Torreya nucifera blocks autophagy and mitophagy, sensitizing colon cancer cells to nutrient starvation-induced cell death.
Frequently asked questions
What is Japanese Nutmeg Tree?
Japanese Nutmeg Tree (Torreya nucifera) 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 Japanese Nutmeg Tree?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Japanese Nutmeg Tree; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The oil yield of Torreya nucifera was stable across seasons but varied by region, with 3-carene levels differing significantly between regions.
How strong is the evidence for Japanese Nutmeg Tree?
The strongest finding for Japanese Nutmeg Tree carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Japanese Nutmeg Tree safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Japanese Nutmeg Tree in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Japanese Nutmeg Tree interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Japanese Nutmeg Tree in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Japanese Nutmeg Tree?
Japanese Nutmeg Tree is also known as: Торрея орехоносная.
Is Japanese Nutmeg Tree 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 The Divergence History of Two Japanese Torreya Taxa (Taxaceae): Implications for Species Diversification in the Japanese Archipelago. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Seasonal and Regional Effects on the Yield and Bioactive Constituents of Torreya nucifera Essential Oils in South Korea. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Integrative Discovery Through Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Approaches of Phenolic Compounds Isolated from Torreya nucifera to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Isopimaric acid derived from Torreya nucifera blocks autophagy and mitophagy to sensitize colon cancer cells to nutrient starvation. literature abstract metadata