Erythroxylum cuneatum
Erythroxylum cuneatum
Erythroxylum cuneatum, a plant native to Central America, has not been traditionally used for any specific medicinal purposes. Scientific research indicates that its alkaloid extract may exhibit properties similar to methadone by upregulating proteins affected by chronic morphine and reducing morphine-induced cellular adaptation in neuroblastoma cells. Additionally, the leaf extract of Erythroxylum cuneatum demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity both in vitro and in a rat model. In vitro studies also showed cytotoxic activity but no significant genotoxicity in human HepG2 and WRL68 cells. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified to date, though further research is necessary to fully understand its potential applications and effects.
- 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 alkaloid extract of Erythroxylum cuneatum upregulated proteins affected by chronic morphine, similar to methadone.
- Erythroxylum cuneatum alkaloid leaf extract showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in vitro and in a rat model.
- Erythroxylum cuneatum reduced morphine-induced cellular adaptation in neuroblastoma cells, similar to methadone.
- Erythroxylum cuneatum extract showed cytotoxic activity but no significant genotoxicity in human HepG2 and WRL68 cells.
Frequently asked questions
What is Erythroxylum cuneatum?
Erythroxylum cuneatum (Erythroxylum cuneatum) 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 Erythroxylum cuneatum?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Erythroxylum cuneatum; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The alkaloid extract of Erythroxylum cuneatum upregulated proteins affected by chronic morphine, similar to methadone.
How strong is the evidence for Erythroxylum cuneatum?
The strongest finding for Erythroxylum cuneatum carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Erythroxylum cuneatum safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Erythroxylum cuneatum in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Erythroxylum cuneatum interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Erythroxylum cuneatum in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Erythroxylum cuneatum 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 genotoxicity and cytotoxicity of standardized aqueous extract from leaves of Erythroxylum cuneatum in human HepG2 and WRL68 cells line. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Morphine Antidependence of Erythroxylum cuneatum (Miq.) Kurz in Neurotransmission Processes In Vitro. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Erythroxylum cuneatum alkaloid leaf extract. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Erythroxylum cuneatum Prevented Cellular Adaptation in Morphineinduced Neuroblastoma Cells. literature abstract metadata