Honolulu Nehe
Wollastonia biflora
Wollastonia biflora is a plant traditionally not associated with any known medicinal practices. Scientific research has identified several bioactive compounds in Wollastonia biflora, including three new germacrane-type sesquiterpenes, two new pimarane-type diterpenes, and a novel naphthalene derivative, some of which have shown significant cytotoxic activity against hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Additionally, the plant's leaves contain S-methylmethionine (SMM), which is converted to dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) via an unusual transamination reaction rather than simple deamination; this compound plays a role in sulfur transport and osmotic control. While no major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded, the limited scientific evidence means that further research is necessary to fully understand its potential applications and risks.
- 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
- DMSP concentrations in Wollastonia biflora increase with salinity, possibly for osmotic control.
- Three new germacrane-type sesquiterpenes showed significant cytotoxic activity against hepatocellular carcinoma cells.
- S-methylmethionine (SMM) is a major component of phloem sap, contributing significantly to sulfur transport in plants.
- The study found that S-methylmethionine in Wollastonia biflora leaves is converted to DMSP via an unusual transamination reaction, not simple deamination.
Frequently asked questions
What is Honolulu Nehe?
Honolulu Nehe (Wollastonia biflora) 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 Honolulu Nehe?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Honolulu Nehe; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: DMSP concentrations in Wollastonia biflora increase with salinity, possibly for osmotic control.
How strong is the evidence for Honolulu Nehe?
The strongest finding for Honolulu Nehe carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Honolulu Nehe safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Honolulu Nehe in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Honolulu Nehe interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Honolulu Nehe in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Honolulu Nehe?
Honolulu Nehe is also known as: Tournesol des plages, faux topinambour.
Is Honolulu Nehe 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 S-methylmethionine plays a major role in phloem sulfur transport and is synthesized by a novel type of methyltransferase. literature abstract metadata
- T2 S-Methylmethionine Conversion to Dimethylsulfoniopropionate: Evidence for an Unusual Transamination Reaction. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Dimethylsulphoniopropionate (DMSP) and related compounds in higher plants. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Cytotoxic germacrane-type sesquiterpenes, pimarane-type diterpenes, and a naphthalene derivative from Wollastonia biflora. literature abstract metadata