Bitter bush
Chromolaena odorata
Chromolaena odorata is a plant traditionally not known for any specific medicinal uses. Scientific evidence indicates that its methanolic and hexane extracts exhibit potent cercaricidal activity against Schistosoma mansoni with low cytotoxicity, suggesting potential in schistosomiasis treatment. Additionally, the plant shows adaptability to temperature changes, while other species like Cirsium japonicum are projected to lose significant habitat under climate change scenarios. Chromolaena odorata also demonstrated varying antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa when combined with extracts from Piper betle L. and Bauhinia scandens L., but the strength of this evidence is varied. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Chromolaena odorata.
- 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
- Both methanolic and hexane extracts of Chromolaena odorata showed potent cercaricidal activity against Schistosoma mansoni with low cytotoxicity.
- AWL-derived MgONPs exhibited higher surface area, better adsorption capacity, and stronger antibacterial activity compared to RL-derived MgONPs.
- The study found that extracts from Chromolaena odorata, along with Piper betle L. and Bauhinia scandens L., showed varying antibacterial activities against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- Isosakuranetin derivatives, particularly Isn_96, showed promising binding affinity and stability against KasA, a target for novel anti-tuberculosis agents.
- Chromolaena odorata shows a sustained positive response to temperature changes, while the native Cirsium japonicum is projected to lose over 50% of its habitat by 2050.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bitter bush?
Bitter bush (Chromolaena odorata) 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 Bitter bush?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Bitter bush; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Both methanolic and hexane extracts of Chromolaena odorata showed potent cercaricidal activity against Schistosoma mansoni with low cytotoxicity.
How strong is the evidence for Bitter bush?
The strongest finding for Bitter bush carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bitter bush safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bitter bush in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bitter bush interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bitter bush in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Bitter bush?
Bitter bush is also known as: Хромолена душистая, Herbe du Laos.
Is Bitter bush 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 Comparative evaluation of the photocatalytic and antibacterial activities of nanostructured MgO biosynthesized using Chromolaena odorata and Hevea brasiliensis extracts. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Targeting KasA: isosakuranetin derivatives as promising scaffolds for novel anti-tuberculosis agents against drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Comparative in vitro antibacterial activity of herbal extracts from Piper betle L., Bauhinia scandens L. and Chromolaena odorata against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Climate Change Drives Divergent Potential Habitat Dynamics of Invasive and Native Noxious Asteraceae Weeds in Yunnan Grasslands. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effectiveness of Chromolaena odorata Extracts Against Cercariae From Schistosoma mansoni: Pharmacological Related Properties and Phytochemical Profile. literature abstract metadata