ironwood
Fagraea fragrans
Fagraea fragrans is a plant traditionally not used for medicinal purposes, with its origins and usage within specific traditional medicine practices unrecorded. Scientific studies have focused on its genetic structure and chemical compounds. A recent study determined the complete chloroplast genome of Fagraea fragrans, placing it in the Gentianaceae family. Another identified new lignan and secoiridoid glycoside compounds from various parts of the plant, with some showing weak to moderate cytotoxicity against cholangiocarcinoma cell lines, though overall evidence is limited. The essential oil extracted from its flowers demonstrated moderate antioxidant activity without significant toxicity. Notably, no major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded for Fagraea fragrans.
- 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 study determined the complete chloroplast genome of Fagraea fragrans, revealing its structure and placing it phylogenetically within the Gentianaceae family.
- A new lignan, fagraeanolide, and 14 known compounds were identified from the stem bark of Fagraea fragrans, with no reported toxicity or antibacterial activity.
- The study optimized essential oil extraction from Fagraea fragrans flowers and found it had moderate antioxidant activity without significant toxicity to cells.
- The study identified a new secoiridoid glycoside and twenty-nine other compounds from Fagraea fragrans, with weak to moderate cytotoxicity observed in some against cholangiocarcinoma cell lines.
- Seven new compounds were isolated from Fagraea fragrans, showing potential for antimycobacterial activity in combination with erythromycin.
Frequently asked questions
What is ironwood?
ironwood (Fagraea fragrans) 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 ironwood?
5 sourced findings are recorded for ironwood; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study determined the complete chloroplast genome of Fagraea fragrans, revealing its structure and placing it phylogenetically within the Gentianaceae family.
How strong is the evidence for ironwood?
The strongest finding for ironwood carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is ironwood safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for ironwood in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does ironwood interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for ironwood in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is ironwood 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 Factorial design of essential oil extraction from Fagraea fragrans Roxb. flowers and evaluation of its biological activities for perfumery and cosmetic applications. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Constituents of Fagraea fragrans with Antimycobacterial Activity in Combination with Erythromycin. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A new secoiridoid glycoside and other constituents from the roots and flowers of Fagraea fragrans Roxb. (Gentianaceae). literature abstract metadata
- T2 A new lignan from the stem bark of Fagraea fragrans Roxb. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The complete chloroplast genome sequence of Fagraea fragrans. literature abstract metadata