Crab's Eye

Abrus precatorius

Abrus precatorius, commonly known as jequirity or rosary pea, originates from traditional medicine practices, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia. While its traditional uses are not extensively documented, it is noted that 97 Fabaceae species, including Abrus precatorius, are traditionally used to treat human ailments in Tanzania. Scientifically, the plant has shown promising results with bimetallic Ni-Fe nanoparticles synthesized from A. precatorius exhibiting antioxidant, antimicrobial, and photocatalytic properties. Additionally, studies have identified potential anticancer compounds within its leaves, with the ethyl acetate fraction (F1) showing higher cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells compared to standard treatments, suggesting possible applications in liver cancer treatment. Safety concerns are minimal based on current data; however, no major issues or drug interactions have been recorded, but this should be interpreted cautiously due to limited research.

At a glance
Best evidence
A
Cautions

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

What the science says

  • The study found that bimetallic Ni-Fe nanoparticles synthesized using Abrus precatorius showed antioxidant, antimicrobial, and photocatalytic properties. D PMID
  • The study found that 97 Fabaceae species, including Abrus precatorius, are traditionally used to treat human ailments in Tanzania. A PMID
  • The study identified potential anticancer compounds in A. precatorius leaves and found varying sensitivity among cell lines. D PMID
  • The ethyl acetate fraction (F1) of Abrus precatorius showed higher cytotoxicity against HepG2 cells compared to the standard, suggesting potential for liver cancer treatment. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Crab's Eye?

Crab's Eye (Abrus precatorius) 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 Crab's Eye?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Crab's Eye; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: The study found that bimetallic Ni-Fe nanoparticles synthesized using Abrus precatorius showed antioxidant, antimicrobial, and photocatalytic properties.

How strong is the evidence for Crab's Eye?

The strongest finding for Crab's Eye carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Crab's Eye safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Crab's Eye interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Crab's Eye in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Crab's Eye?

Crab's Eye is also known as: Абрус молитвенный, Cascavelle.

Is Crab's Eye 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 Integrative Network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis of Abrus precatorius L. for hepatocellular carcinoma: experimental validation and insights. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Ethnomedicinal Practices of the Fabaceae Family in Tanzania: A Systematic Review. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Phytoconstituents Analysis and In Vitro Antiproliferative Activity of Abrus precatorius Leaves on Cancer Cells. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Phyto-mediated synthesis of Ni-Fe bimetallic nanoparticles using Abrus precatorius for antioxidant, antimicrobial and photocatalytic dye degradation applications. literature abstract metadata