Cattail

Typha angustifolia

Typha angustifolia, commonly known as narrow-leaved cattail, is a plant traditionally used in various ecological and agricultural contexts but lacks specific traditional medicinal uses. Scientific studies suggest potential benefits for alleviating adverse left ventricular remodeling and improving cardiac function after hypertensive heart disease, particularly through the action of acetylated mannan from its pollen which selectively enriches Lactobacillus johnsonii in the gut microbiota. Additionally, Typha angustifolia shows promise in phytoremediation for on-site treatment of hospital wastewater contaminants and has moderate phosphorus extraction potential. However, these findings are based on limited evidence and further research is needed to confirm these effects. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, but the plant's efficacy and safety should still be evaluated through additional studies before widespread use.

At a glance
Best evidence
A
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Typha angustifolia was among the top 5 Chinese botanical drugs potentially effective as an adjuvant therapy for alleviating adverse left ventricular remodeling and improving cardiac function after hypertensive heart disease. A PMID
  • The study found that acetylated mannan from Typha angustifolia pollen selectively enriched Lactobacillus johnsonii in the gut microbiota. D PMID
  • Typha angustifolia shows potential in phytoremediation for on-site treatment of hospital wastewater contaminants. D PMID
  • Typha angustifolia cultivation showed moderate phosphorus extraction potential but did not fully negate surface water P concentrations in the study. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Cattail?

Cattail (Typha angustifolia) 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 Cattail?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Cattail; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Typha angustifolia was among the top 5 Chinese botanical drugs potentially effective as an adjuvant therapy for alleviating adverse left ventricular remodeling and improving cardiac function after hypertensive heart disease.

How strong is the evidence for Cattail?

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

Is Cattail safe? What are the side effects?

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

Does Cattail interact with medications?

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

What are the common names of Cattail?

Cattail is also known as: рогоз узколистный, Massette à feuilles étroites.

Is Cattail 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 Potential preventive effects of selected traditional Chinese medicine as adjuvant therapy on hypertensive heart disease progression by replenishing qi and activating blood circulation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trial literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Nutrient dynamics and GHG emissions in Azolla and Typha based cultivation on inundated former agricultural soils. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Sustainable strategies for hospital wastewater treatment: bioremediation, phytoremediation, and hybrid approaches for emerging pollutants. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Structural characterization of acetylated mannan from Typha angustifolia pollen and the impact of acetylation on its growth-promoting effect toward Lactobacillus johnsonii. literature abstract metadata