Rukam
Flacourtia rukam
Flacourtia rukam, a plant native to Southeast Asia and parts of Africa, is traditionally used by various communities but specific traditional uses for this species are not well-documented. Scientific studies have identified four new phenolic compounds from Flacourtia rukam, with one showing promising activity against Trypanosoma brucei trypomastigotes and some exhibiting in-vitro anti-inflammatory effects. However, the evidence is limited, and more research is needed to confirm these findings. No significant cytotoxic activities were observed against tested cancer cell lines. The plant's use by the Karen people of Thailand for treating musculoskeletal disorders has been documented, but this information is not widely reported. Safety profiles are currently favorable with no major issues recorded, and there have been no reports of drug interactions.
- 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
- Four new phenolic compounds were identified from Flacourtia rukam, with one showing good activity against Trypanosoma brucei trypomastigotes and some exhibiting in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity.
- The study isolated rukamtenol, a new compound from Flacourtia rukam, but found no significant cytotoxic activity against tested cancer cell lines.
- Phytolith and pollen assemblages indicate subtropical climate conditions in Southwest China's low-latitude region.
- This study documented the use of 175 plant species by Karen people in Thailand for treating musculoskeletal disorders.
Frequently asked questions
What is Rukam?
Rukam (Flacourtia rukam) 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 Rukam?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Rukam; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Four new phenolic compounds were identified from Flacourtia rukam, with one showing good activity against Trypanosoma brucei trypomastigotes and some exhibiting in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity.
How strong is the evidence for Rukam?
The strongest finding for Rukam carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Rukam safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Rukam in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Rukam interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Rukam in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Rukam?
Rukam is also known as: prunier café.
Is Rukam 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 Medicinal Plants for Treating Musculoskeletal Disorders among Karen in Thailand. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Rukamtenol, a new spiro compound isolated from Flacourtia rukam Zoll. & Moritzi growing in Vietnam. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Four new phenolics and antiparasitic secondary metabolites from Flacourtia rukam Zoll. & Mortizi. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Surface phytolith and pollen assemblages of a low-latitude subtropical region in Southwest China and their implications for vegetation and climate. literature abstract metadata