ackee
Blighia sapida
Blighia sapida, commonly known as African mango or dika fruit, originates from West and Central Africa. Traditionally, its use is not well-documented in medical practices; however, it has been utilized for various non-medical purposes such as food and cosmetics. Scientific evidence suggests that the ethanol extract of Blighia sapida exhibits dose-dependent antimalarial, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities in mice infected with chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium berghei, indicating potential benefits against malaria. Additionally, a study found that combining Khaya senegalensis leaf powder and Alloeocranum biannulipes showed reduced survival of Dinoderus porcellus pests under farm conditions when used together. The oil extracted from Blighia sapida did not cause adverse effects in Wistar rats up to 5000 mg/kg body weight, suggesting a generally safe profile for use. No significant safety concerns or known drug interactions have been reported, though further research is warranted to fully understand its potential applications and risks.
- 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 ethanol extract of Blighia sapida showed dose-dependent antimalarial, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities in mice infected with chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium berghei.
- The study found that while no treatment induced complete mortality of Dinoderus porcellus, combining Khaya senegalensis leaf powder and Alloeocranum biannulipes showed reduced survival of the pest under farm conditions.
- The study found that green synthesized selenium nanoparticles from Ackee leaves and arils showed enhanced antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory activities compared to standard drugs.
- The study found that B. sapida oil did not cause adverse effects in Wistar rats at doses up to 5000 mg/kg body weight.
- The study identified several compounds from Blighia sapida that showed potential as inhibitors of PfDHODH, a target for malaria treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What is ackee?
ackee (Blighia sapida) 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 ackee?
5 sourced findings are recorded for ackee; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The ethanol extract of Blighia sapida showed dose-dependent antimalarial, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective activities in mice infected with chloroquine-resistant Plasmodium berghei.
How strong is the evidence for ackee?
The strongest finding for ackee carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is ackee safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for ackee in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does ackee interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for ackee in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of ackee?
ackee is also known as: Аки (растение), Akée.
Is ackee 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 Photo-physical characterizations and evaluation of in-vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic potentials of green synthesized ackee (Blighia sapida) selenium nano-particles. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Toxicity of Oils Extracted From the Arils of Blighia sapida (K.D. Koenig) in Wistar Rats. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effect of botanical powders and the assassin bug, Alloeocranum biannulipes Mont. and Sign. (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) against Dinoderus porcellus Lesne (Coleoptera: Bostrichidae) infesting yam chips. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Antimalarial, Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activities of Ethanol Extract of Blighia sapida K.D. Koenig (Sapindaceae) in Plasmodium berghei-infected Mice. literature abstract metadata
- T2 In-silico study of the bioactive compounds of Blighia sapida koenig revealed a novel Plasmodium falciparum dihydroorotate dehydrogenase inhibitor for malaria. literature abstract metadata