Southern Cat-tail
Typha domingensis
Typha domingensis is a wetland plant species utilized within various traditional medicinal practices. It has been historically employed as a diuretic, emetic, and purgative. Scientific studies have focused primarily on its phytoremediation potential, noting its ability to localize aluminum and lead in its roots and its response to chromium exposure. Research also suggests that zinc oxide nanoparticles biosynthesized by the plant may possess antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. No major safety issues or notable drug interactions have been recorded in the available data.
- Traditionally for
- diuretic · emetic
- Traditions
- traditional
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
- diuretic
- emetic
- purgative
What the science says
- Both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) significantly altered root morphology in Typha domingensis, with different patterns observed between the two chromium species.
- The study found that Cenchrus setaceus showed superior performance in removing contaminants compared to Typha domingensis and Eichhornia crassipes.
- The study found that Chrome Azurol S (CAS) and Pyrogallol Red (PGR) could effectively localize aluminum and lead in the roots of Typha domingensis grown in contaminated soil.
- Typha domingensis biosynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles showed potential antioxidant and antimicrobial activities.
Frequently asked questions
What is Southern Cat-tail?
Southern Cat-tail (Typha domingensis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Southern Cat-tail traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Southern Cat-tail for: diuretic, emetic, purgative. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Southern Cat-tail?
Southern Cat-tail appears in these traditions in our sources: traditional.
What does the scientific evidence say about Southern Cat-tail?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Southern Cat-tail; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Both Cr(III) and Cr(VI) significantly altered root morphology in Typha domingensis, with different patterns observed between the two chromium species.
How strong is the evidence for Southern Cat-tail?
The strongest finding for Southern Cat-tail carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Southern Cat-tail safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Southern Cat-tail in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Southern Cat-tail interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Southern Cat-tail in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Southern Cat-tail?
Southern Cat-tail is also known as: Massette Australe.
Is Southern Cat-tail 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
- T3 Dr. Duke's Ethnobotanical Database public domain (USDA ARS — attribute Dr. Duke's)
- T2 Investigating the antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties of typha domingensis leaves assisted synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytoremediation of Wastewater From Oil Well Drilling: Potential of Different Plant Species. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A novel method for the histolocalization of Al and Pb in root tissues, tested in Typha domingensis Pers. grown in iron mining tailings. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of Chromium Species on Root Morphometry of Typha domingensis in Floating Treatment Wetlands. literature abstract metadata