Blackboard Tree
Alstonia scholaris
Alstonia scholaris is a traditional medicine plant native to Southeast Asia and used in various folk remedies. While its specific uses are not well-documented, studies have shown that Alstonia scholaris bark extract exhibits antioxidant, antifungal, and anthelmintic properties against certain fungi and parasites. Phytochemicals from the plant, such as echitamine chloride and alstonine, demonstrated promising but weaker inhibitory potential compared to standard antimicrobials in combating periodontal pathogens. Additionally, mouthrinses containing Alstonia scholaris and Calotropis procera extracts were found to be effective in maintaining oral health among children, though their efficacy was similar to chlorhexidine with better taste acceptance. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Alstonia scholaris, indicating that it is generally safe when used as directed.
- 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
- Alstonia scholaris bark extract showed antioxidant, antifungal, and anthelmintic activity against certain fungi and parasites.
- The study found that female Diaphania angustalis release sex pheromones synchronously with their mating activity, peaking at 3 days post-eclosion during the fourth hour of the scotophase.
- Alstonia scholaris phytochemicals, particularly echitamine chloride and alstonine, showed promising but weaker inhibitory potential than standard antimicrobials against periodontal pathogens.
- The study found that mouthrinses formulated with Alstonia scholaris, Calotropis procera extracts, or chlorhexidine showed similar efficacy in maintaining oral health among children aged 9-12 years.
Frequently asked questions
What is Blackboard Tree?
Blackboard Tree (Alstonia scholaris) 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 Blackboard Tree?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Blackboard Tree; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Alstonia scholaris bark extract showed antioxidant, antifungal, and anthelmintic activity against certain fungi and parasites.
How strong is the evidence for Blackboard Tree?
The strongest finding for Blackboard Tree carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Blackboard Tree safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Blackboard Tree in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Blackboard Tree interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Blackboard Tree in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Blackboard Tree?
Blackboard Tree is also known as: Quinquina d'Inde.
Is Blackboard 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 Assessment of the Efficacy of Alstonia scholaris, Calotropis procera, and Chlorhexidine Mouthrinses on Oral Health of Children Aged 9-12 Years: A Randomized Clinical Trial. literature abstract metadata
- T2 In silico evaluation of Alstonia scholaris phytochemicals against periodontal pathogens. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Rhythmic dialogue: The precise synchronization between reproductive behavior and sex pheromone release in Diaphania angustalis Snellen. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Investigating the Devil's tree(Alstonia scholaris) for its health-safeguardingproperty and antipathogenic activities against fungi and helminthparasites of veterinary importance. literature abstract metadata