Common Lignum Vitae
Guaiacum officinale
Guaiacum officinale, commonly known as lignum vitae, is a tree native to the Caribbean and parts of South America. While it has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, its specific traditional uses are not well-documented. Scientific research indicates that extracts from Guaiacum officinale combined with Rhodomyrtus tomentosa showed promise in improving acne symptoms without significant side effects. Additionally, a study found that the bark extract of Guaiacum officinale reduced blood glucose and liver enzyme levels in diabetic rats, suggesting potential hepatoprotective properties. The plant contains various phytochemicals but no specific studies have compared its effectiveness against bovine diarrheal pathogens to Balanites aegyptiaca. Safety-wise, there are no major issues recorded for Guaiacum officinale, and it does not appear to interact with any medications based on current data.
- 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 combination of Guaiacum officinale and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa extracts significantly improved acne symptoms without adverse effects in a 28-day clinical trial.
- Guaiacum officinale was one of the dominant non-native tree species found along roadsides in Karachi.
- The study found that Guaiacum officinale contains various phytochemicals but did not specifically compare its activity against bovine diarrheal pathogens to other species.
- The study found that Guaiacum officinale bark extract reduced blood glucose and liver enzyme levels in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, showing potential hepatoprotective effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is Common Lignum Vitae?
Common Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum officinale) 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 Common Lignum Vitae?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Common Lignum Vitae; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The combination of Guaiacum officinale and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa extracts significantly improved acne symptoms without adverse effects in a 28-day clinical trial.
How strong is the evidence for Common Lignum Vitae?
The strongest finding for Common Lignum Vitae carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Common Lignum Vitae safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Common Lignum Vitae in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Common Lignum Vitae interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Common Lignum Vitae in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Common Lignum Vitae?
Common Lignum Vitae is also known as: Гваяковое дерево, Gaïac.
Is Common Lignum Vitae 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 Hepatoprotective and antidiabetic effect of Guaiacum officinale in diabetes induced male albino wistar rats. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluating the impact of roads on the diversity pattern and density of trees to improve the conservation of species. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Variation of Secondary Metabolite Contents and Activities against Bovine Diarrheal Pathogens among Zygophyllaceae Species in Benin and Implications for Conservation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 The synergistic effects of Guaiacum officinale and Rhodomyrtus tomentosa extracts in the treatment of acne vulgaris on sensitive skin. literature abstract metadata