Bitter-ash
Euonymus atropurpureus
Euonymus atropurpureus, commonly known as purple spindle or Japanese spindle, is a plant traditionally used in East Asian medicine. However, specific traditional uses for this species are not well-documented. Scientific studies have shown that the spring phenophases of shrubs occur approximately 3 weeks earlier than those of trees, with native shrubs exhibiting a 6-day advantage in full-leaf unfolding. Additionally, research has identified 22 fungal species from diseased Euonymus japonicus specimens in Beijing and noted the extinction of 51 plant species since European settlement in North America, but these findings do not directly pertain to E. atropurpureus. Safety concerns are minimal; no major issues have been recorded. There is also no evidence of drug interactions associated with 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
- All three spring phenophases occurred 3 weeks earlier for shrubs compared to trees, with native shrubs showing a 6-day advantage in full-leaf unfolded.
- The study suggests that 51 species and 14 infraspecific taxa of vascular plants have become extinct in the continental United States and Canada since European settlement.
- The study found no relationship between anatomical xylem characteristics and hydraulic conductivity between native and non-native woody species.
- The study identified 22 fungal species from diseased Euonymus japonicus specimens in Beijing, including three new pathogens for this plant.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bitter-ash?
Bitter-ash (Euonymus atropurpureus) 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-ash?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Bitter-ash; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: All three spring phenophases occurred 3 weeks earlier for shrubs compared to trees, with native shrubs showing a 6-day advantage in full-leaf unfolded.
How strong is the evidence for Bitter-ash?
The strongest finding for Bitter-ash carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Bitter-ash safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Bitter-ash in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Bitter-ash interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Bitter-ash in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Bitter-ash 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 Contrasting xylem vessel constraints on hydraulic conductivity between native and non-native woody understory species. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Vascular plant extinction in the continental United States and Canada. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The Potential Fungal Pathogens of Euonymus japonicus in Beijing, China. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Characterizing spring phenology in a temperate deciduous urban woodland fragment: trees and shrubs. literature abstract metadata