Kothala himbutu
Salacia reticulata
Salacia reticulata, a plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, has not been extensively documented for specific traditional uses. Scientific evidence suggests that Salacia reticulata extract may modestly reduce total body fat mass but does not significantly alter body fat percentage compared to placebo. Green-synthesized CuO nanoparticles from the plant caused developmental anomalies and increased mortality in zebrafish embryos at a high concentration, indicating potential toxicity concerns. In type 2 diabetes (T2DM) rats, Salacia reticulata improved insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis by enhancing insulin signaling and GLP-1 levels, while a polyherbal formulation containing it showed improvements in glycemic parameters and quality of life without adverse events in T2DM patients; however, further research is needed. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for Salacia reticulata.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Salacia reticulata extract showed a modest reduction in total body fat mass but no significant change in body fat percentage compared to placebo.
- Green-synthesized CuO nanoparticles from Salacia reticulata caused developmental anomalies and increased mortality in zebrafish embryos at a concentration of 200 µL/mL.
- The polyherbal formulation LG significantly improved glycemic parameters and QoL without adverse events in T2DM patients.
- Salacia reticulata improved insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis in type 2 diabetes rats by enhancing insulin signaling and GLP-1 levels.
Frequently asked questions
What is Kothala himbutu?
Kothala himbutu (Salacia reticulata) 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 Kothala himbutu?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Kothala himbutu; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: Salacia reticulata extract showed a modest reduction in total body fat mass but no significant change in body fat percentage compared to placebo.
How strong is the evidence for Kothala himbutu?
The strongest finding for Kothala himbutu carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Kothala himbutu safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Kothala himbutu in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Kothala himbutu interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Kothala himbutu in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is Kothala himbutu 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 A comparative study of in vivo toxicity in zebrafish embryos synthesized CuO nanoparticles characterized from Salacia reticulata. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Efficacy and Safety of an Ayurveda Herbal Formulation in Uncomplicated Type 2 Diabetes mellitus. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Salacia Reticulata Extract Improves Insulin Sensitivity and Glucose Homeostasis by Activating Insulin Signaling and Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Modulation. literature abstract metadata
- T2 A 12-Week Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Salacia reticulata Extract for Fat-Mass Reduction in Adults with Overweight/Obesity. literature abstract metadata