Xylopia aethiopica
Xylopia aethiopica
Xylopia aethiopica, commonly known as African calabash or graviola, is a plant native to tropical regions of Africa and South America. Traditionally, its use has not been extensively documented in any specific medical traditions. Scientific evidence suggests that the ethyl acetate fraction from the root of Xylopia aethiopica exhibits strong cytotoxic activity against HCC-70 cells, while the hexane extract from its fruit demonstrates activity against MCF-7 cells. Additionally, NTD-O2, an exopolysaccharide-stabilized emulsion derived from this plant, has shown enhanced antibacterial activity against certain foodborne pathogens and displayed selective antionchocercal and moderate antitrypanosomal activities; however, it contains a compound with known toxicological risks. Hematological parameters were observed to show minor changes, particularly reducing platelet levels, but no significant effects on other tested parameters. No major safety issues or recorded drug interactions have been identified for Xylopia aethiopica thus far.
- 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
- Xylopia aethiopica induced minor changes in hematological parameters, specifically reducing platelet levels, at higher doses in rats.
- The ethyl acetate fraction of Xylopia aethiopica root showed strong cytotoxic activity against HCC-70 cells, while the hexane extract of its fruit had activity against MCF-7 cells.
- NTD-O2 showed selective antionchocercal activity and moderate antitrypanosomal activity, but contained a compound with known toxicological risks.
- This study found that exopolysaccharide-stabilized emulsions from Xylopia aethiopica showed enhanced antibacterial activity against certain foodborne pathogens.
Frequently asked questions
What is Xylopia aethiopica?
Xylopia aethiopica (Xylopia aethiopica) 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 Xylopia aethiopica?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Xylopia aethiopica; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Xylopia aethiopica induced minor changes in hematological parameters, specifically reducing platelet levels, at higher doses in rats.
How strong is the evidence for Xylopia aethiopica?
The strongest finding for Xylopia aethiopica carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Xylopia aethiopica safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Xylopia aethiopica in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Xylopia aethiopica interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Xylopia aethiopica in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Xylopia aethiopica 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 Enhanced antibacterial potential of exopolysaccharide-stabilized spice oil emulsions against foodborne pathogens. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of NTD-O2, a Ghanaian herbal medicine, for onchocerciasis and animal African trypanosomiasis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Antiproliferative activity of Xylopia aethiopica extracts and molecular docking studies of their main phytochemicals. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Acute (14-Day) and Subchronic (90-Day) Toxicity Evaluation of the Dried Fruit Spice Xylopia aethiopica (Dunal) A. Rich. (Annonaceae) in Male and Female Wistar Rats. literature abstract metadata