Star Apple
Chrysophyllum cainito
Chrysophyllum cainito, commonly known as caimito or star apple, is a tree native to tropical regions of Central and South America. While traditional uses for this plant are not well-documented, studies have shown potential benefits. Genomic analyses indicate that Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L from Chrysophyllum cainito may possess probiotic traits, suggesting possible health benefits related to gut microbiota. Additionally, essential oils extracted from the leaves and seeds of Chrysophyllum cainito have demonstrated antimicrobial activity, with leaf oil showing higher potency. The leaves of a related species, Chrysophyllum oliviforme, were found to contain higher concentrations of bioactive metabolites that synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles with enhanced antiviral properties. Furthermore, gold nanoparticles functionalized with peels of Chrysophyllum cainito exhibited significant cytotoxic activity in HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells. To date, no major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified for this plant.
- 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
- Genomic and metabolomic analyses suggest Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L from Chrysophyllum cainito has potential probiotic traits including safety and antimicrobial activity.
- The essential oils from leaves and seeds of Chrysophyllum cainito showed antimicrobial activity, with the leaf oil exhibiting higher potency.
- Chrysophyllum oliviforme showed higher concentrations of bioactive metabolites and synthesized more stable ZnO nanoparticles with better antiviral activity compared to Chrysophyllum cainito.
- Gold nanoparticles functionalized with Chrysophyllum cainito peels showed significant cytotoxic activity in HCT-116 colorectal cancer cells.
Frequently asked questions
What is Star Apple?
Star Apple (Chrysophyllum cainito) 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 Star Apple?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Star Apple; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Genomic and metabolomic analyses suggest Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L from Chrysophyllum cainito has potential probiotic traits including safety and antimicrobial activity.
How strong is the evidence for Star Apple?
The strongest finding for Star Apple carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Star Apple safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Star Apple in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Star Apple interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Star Apple in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Star Apple?
Star Apple is also known as: Звёздное яблоко, Pomme de lait, Caïmitier, Cainitier, Pomme lait.
Is Star Apple 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 chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils from leaves and seeds of star apple (Chrysophyllum cainito L.). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Green Synthesis, Chemical Characterization, and Antiproliferative Effect of Gold Nanoparticles Using Methanolic Extracts of Chrysophyllum cainito L. Peels. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Genomic and metabolomic insights into the antimicrobial and therapeutic potential of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum UTNGt28L isolated from Amazonian star apple. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Superiority of Chrysophyllum oliviforme in the green synthesis of highly stable ZnO nanoparticles: metabolomic profiling, quadruple antiviral screening, and comparative MD simulations. literature abstract metadata