Candlenut Tree
Aleurites moluccanus
Aleurites moluccanus, commonly known as the candlenut tree or kukui tree, is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Traditionally, its nuts have been used in various cultural practices, though specific traditional uses are not well-documented. Scientific studies have shown that the hydroalcoholic extract of Aleurites moluccanus bark exhibits antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory properties in animal models. Kukui nut oil has been found to promote hair growth by increasing prostaglandin F2α levels and activating the Nrf2/ARE-AKR1C family signaling pathway, suggesting potential benefits for dermatological conditions. While no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, further research is needed to confirm these findings in human studies.
- 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 study found that QLB populations peak from May-July, are mostly sedentary, and are concentrated below 500m elevation near the coast.
- All eight commercial candlenut dietary supplement samples were found to be adulterated with yellow oleander.
- The hydroalcoholic extract of Aleurites moluccanus bark showed antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity in animal models.
- Aleurites moluccanus yielded two novel diterpenoids with mild in vitro anti-lymphangiogenic activity.
- Kukui nut oil was found to promote hair growth by increasing PGF2α levels and activating the Nrf2/ARE-AKR1C signaling pathway.
Frequently asked questions
What is Candlenut Tree?
Candlenut Tree (Aleurites moluccanus) 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 Candlenut Tree?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Candlenut Tree; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that QLB populations peak from May-July, are mostly sedentary, and are concentrated below 500m elevation near the coast.
How strong is the evidence for Candlenut Tree?
The strongest finding for Candlenut Tree carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Candlenut Tree safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Candlenut Tree in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Candlenut Tree interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Candlenut Tree in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Candlenut Tree?
Candlenut Tree is also known as: Тунг молуккский, Aleurites moluccana.
Is Candlenut 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 Aleuritin, a novel dinor-diterpenoid from the twigs of Aleurites moluccanus with an anti-lymphangiogenic effect. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemical Analysis and Antinociceptive Properties of Hydroalcoholic Extracts of Aleurites moluccanus Bark. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Microscopy, HPTLC, and LC-DAD-Q-ToF validation of nut-based weight-loss dietary supplements, Aleurites moluccanus (candlenut) and Bertholletia excelsa (Brazil nut). literature abstract metadata
- T2 An interdisciplinary approach to investigating an invasive insect pest: tracking, phenology, and genetics of the Queensland longhorn beetle, Acalolepta aesthetica (Cerambycidae: Lamiinae). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Kukui nut oil (Aleurites moluccanus seed oil) promotes hair growth by activating the Nrf2/ARE-AKR1C family-PGF2α signaling axis. literature abstract metadata