Viscum capense
Viscum capense
Viscum capense, a traditional medicine plant native to southern Africa, has not been extensively documented in historical or cultural medical practices. Scientific studies have shown that alcoholic extracts from Viscum species exhibit various biological activities, including hypotensive, anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects; however, the evidence is currently limited and more research is needed to confirm these findings. The methanol extract of Viscum capense has demonstrated antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and anticonvulsant activity in mice, but specific compounds responsible for these effects have not yet been identified. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, suggesting that it may be relatively safe to use, though further investigation is warranted.
- 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
- Alcoholic extracts from Viscum species showed various biological activities including hypotensive, anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
- The data suggests that Viscum album L. may have cardioprotective properties, but further research is needed to confirm these findings.
- The study reviewed in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activities of Viscum species but did not definitively identify specific compounds responsible for these effects.
- The methanol extract of Viscum capense showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus and anticonvulsant activity in mice against PTZ- and bicuculline-induced seizures.
- Viscum capense was among 1,085 medicinal plants documented for treating cardiovascular diseases and related risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa.
Frequently asked questions
What is Viscum capense?
Viscum capense (Viscum capense) 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 Viscum capense?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Viscum capense; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Alcoholic extracts from Viscum species showed various biological activities including hypotensive, anticancer, antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
How strong is the evidence for Viscum capense?
The strongest finding for Viscum capense carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Viscum capense safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Viscum capense in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Viscum capense interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Viscum capense in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Viscum capense 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 Biological activity of mistletoe: in vitro and in vivo studies and mechanisms of action. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ethnopharmacological Study of Medicinal Plants Used for the Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases and Their Associated Risk Factors in sub-Saharan Africa. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A Scoping Review of Genus Viscum: Biological and Chemical Aspects of Alcoholic Extracts. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The cardioprotective potential of selected species of mistletoe. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Antimicrobial and anticonvulsant activities of Viscum capense. literature abstract metadata