sacred virola
Virola elongata
Virola elongata, a tree native to the Peruvian Amazon, is traditionally not used for any known medicinal purposes in its cultural context. Scientific studies have shown that its hydroethanolic extract (HEVe) exhibits both systemic and topical anti-inflammatory activity without cytotoxicity in mice models and RAW 264.7 cells. The plant contributes significantly to aboveground biomass, ranking as the fourth most important contributor among Myristicaceae species in Peruvian Amazon forests. While HEVe did not show cytotoxicity or genotoxicity, it caused minor changes in blood counts and water consumption in mice and rats. Additionally, the extract demonstrated significant gastroprotective effects in various ulcer models without direct activity against H. pylori. No major safety issues have been recorded for Virola elongata, nor are there any known drug interactions reported.
- 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
- HEVe showed both systemic and topical anti-inflammatory activity without cytotoxicity in mice models and RAW 264.7 cells.
- Virola elongata contributes to 376.97 Mg/ha of aboveground biomass, ranking it as the fourth most important contributor among Myristicaceae species in Peruvian Amazon forests.
- HEVe did not show cytotoxicity or genotoxicity but caused minor changes in blood counts and water consumption in mice and rats.
- The hydroethanolic extract of Virola elongata stem bark showed significant gastroprotective effects in various ulcer models without direct activity against H. pylori.
Frequently asked questions
What is sacred virola?
sacred virola (Virola elongata) 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 sacred virola?
4 sourced findings are recorded for sacred virola; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: HEVe showed both systemic and topical anti-inflammatory activity without cytotoxicity in mice models and RAW 264.7 cells.
How strong is the evidence for sacred virola?
The strongest finding for sacred virola carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is sacred virola safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for sacred virola in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does sacred virola interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for sacred virola in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
Is sacred virola 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 [Aboveground biomass input of Myristicaceae tree species in the Amazonian Forest in Peru]. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Chemical characterization and evaluation of gastric antiulcer properties of the hydroethanolic extract of the stem bark of Virola elongata (Benth.) Warb. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Evaluation of the toxicity of the hydroethanolic extract of the stem bark of Virola elongata (Benth.) Warb. in in vitro and in vivo models. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Phytochemistry and Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory Activity of the Hydroethanolic Extract of Virola elongata (Benth.) Warb. Stem Bark. literature abstract metadata