Asian lobelia

Lobelia chinensis

Lobelia chinensis is a plant traditionally not associated with any specific medicinal practices. Scientific evidence suggests potential benefits, including its effects on melanoma and hepatocellular carcinoma through targeted gene pathways. Amentoflavone from Lobelia chinensis also shows promise in binding to proteins of SARS-CoV-2 and suppressing osteoclast differentiation, which could have implications for anti-resorptive agents like those used for osteoporosis. While no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, the current body of research is limited, so further investigation is needed.

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

  • The study identifies three unique melanoma-related gene targets potentially influenced by two active ingredients from Solanum nigrum. D PMID
  • Lobelia chinensis demonstrated effects on hepatocellular carcinoma through the PTEN/AKT signaling pathway in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. D PMID
  • Amentoflavone, found in Lobelia chinensis among other plants, potentially binds to five non-structural proteins of SARS-CoV-2. D PMID
  • Lobelia chinensis consistently maintained photosynthetic stability above F v/F m 0.7 during water stress, indicating its potential for use in tropical rain gardens. D PMID
  • Lobelia chinensis extract suppresses osteoclast differentiation through dual inhibition of JNK/nF-κB and btk/PLCγ2 pathways, suggesting potential use in osteoporosis. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Asian lobelia?

Asian lobelia (Lobelia chinensis) 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 Asian lobelia?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Asian lobelia; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study identifies three unique melanoma-related gene targets potentially influenced by two active ingredients from Solanum nigrum.

How strong is the evidence for Asian lobelia?

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

Is Asian lobelia safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Asian lobelia interact with medications?

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

Is Asian lobelia 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 In silico evaluation of flavonoids as potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 main nonstructural proteins (Nsps)-amentoflavone as a multitarget candidate. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Lobelia chinensis Lour inhibits the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma via the regulation of the PTEN/AKT signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Molecular entities for the anti-melanoma effect of Solanum nigrum. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Selection and Evaluation of Native Plants for Rain Gardens in Tropical Regions: A Dual-Method Assessment Framework. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Lobelia chinensis extract suppresses osteoclast differentiation through dual inhibition of JNK/nF-κB and btk/PLCγ2 pathways. literature abstract metadata