Chameleon

Houttuynia cordata

Houttuynia cordata, commonly known as fish mint or fishwort, is a traditional herb used in East Asian medicine. It has been traditionally employed for its purported benefits in treating respiratory infections and skin conditions, though specific uses vary across different cultures. Scientific evidence suggests that Houttuynia cordata extract can modulate host physiology by activating antioxidant pathways and suppressing inflammation, with some studies indicating potential antiviral activity against HSV-1. Additionally, HCI demonstrated therapeutic efficacy in reducing bacterial load and protecting lung tissue in murine models of acute lung infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, suggesting possible applications for treating such infections. The leaves are the primary source of flavonoids, which play a significant role in its biological activities. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded to date.

At a glance
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

  • Houttuynia cordata extract modulates host physiology by activating antioxidant pathways and suppressing inflammation, showing efficacy across various livestock species. D PMID
  • This study outlines various synthetic methods for producing houttuynoids from Houttuynia cordata, highlighting their potential as antiviral agents against HSV-1. D PMID
  • HCI showed therapeutic efficacy in reducing bacterial load and protecting lung tissue in murine acute lung infection models, suggesting potential for treating Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections. D PMID
  • The study found that leaves are the primary site for flavonoid accumulation and biosynthesis in Houttuynia cordata. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Chameleon?

Chameleon (Houttuynia cordata) 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 Chameleon?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Chameleon; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Houttuynia cordata extract modulates host physiology by activating antioxidant pathways and suppressing inflammation, showing efficacy across various livestock species.

How strong is the evidence for Chameleon?

The strongest finding for Chameleon carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Chameleon safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Chameleon in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Chameleon interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Chameleon in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Chameleon?

Chameleon is also known as: Plante caméléon.

Is Chameleon 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

  1. T2 Integrated metabolomics and transcriptomics analysis of flavonoids in different parts of Houttuynia cordata. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Houttuynia cordata Injection Alleviates Acute Pulmonary Infection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Evidence for its Mechanism of Action. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Synthetic routes towards antiviral agents from the houttuynoid family: structure-activity relationships and antiviral efficacy against herpes simplex virus type 1. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Mechanism of action of Houttuynia cordata extract and its application in animal production. literature abstract metadata