Sumac
Rhus taitensis
Rhus taitensis is a plant traditionally used in certain Asian and Pacific Islander cultures for treating diarrhea and hearing loss. Scientific evidence suggests that it may possess antimycobacterial properties, with two new triterpenoids showing moderate activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tetrahydroxysqualene from the same plant has also demonstrated antimycobacterial activity with an MIC of 10.0 µg/mL. However, the broader scientific community lacks extensive clinical trials to confirm these findings definitively. No major safety concerns or known drug interactions have been recorded for Rhus taitensis, indicating that it may be relatively safe when used as traditionally practiced.
- Traditionally for
- diarrhea · hearing loss
- Traditions
- traditional
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
Traditional use
- diarrhea
- hearing loss
What the science says
- Two new triterpenoids from Rhus taitensis showed moderate antimycobacterial activity.
- Tetrahydroxysqualene from Rhus taitensis shows antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis with an MIC of 10.0 µg/mL.
- Mycoplasma was detected in some Arabian camels, and Moringa oleifera showed potential antimycobacterial activity in vitro.
- The ethyl acetate extract of Holigarna arnottiana showed antimicrobial activity against both shrimp and human pathogens, though efficacy varied.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sumac?
Sumac (Rhus taitensis) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What is Sumac traditionally used for?
Traditional sources record Sumac for: diarrhea, hearing loss. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.
Which traditions use Sumac?
Sumac appears in these traditions in our sources: traditional.
What does the scientific evidence say about Sumac?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Sumac; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Two new triterpenoids from Rhus taitensis showed moderate antimycobacterial activity.
How strong is the evidence for Sumac?
The strongest finding for Sumac carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Sumac safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Sumac in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Sumac interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Sumac in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Sumac 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 Tetrahdroxysqualene from Rhus taitensis shows antimycobacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 New antimycobacterial triterpenoids from Rhus taitensis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Potential in vitro antimicrobial efficacy of Holigarna arnottiana (Hook F). literature abstract metadata
- T2 Detection of Mycobacteria in Arabian camels and antimycobacterial potential of Moringa oleifera. literature abstract metadata
- T3 Rhus taitensis CC BY-SA 4.0