Salacia (genus)
| Salacia | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Salacia prinoides | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Rosids |
| Order: | Celastrales |
| Family: | Celastraceae |
| Genus: | Salacia |
Salacia is a genus of plants in the family Celastraceae.
[edit] Medicinal uses
Several species in this genus of plant have been used in traditional medical systems for thousands of years,[vague] particularly in the Ayurveda system from India. Uses have included treatment of diabetes, obesity, gonorrhea, rheumatism, itching, and asthma. Recently, it has gained popularity in the US, Japan, and other countries for the prevention of diabetes and obesity. Studies have shown that extracts from some species (Salacia oblonga and Salacia reticulata) activate multiple cell receptors and metabolic processes that theoretically have beneficial effects in type 2 diabetes. S. reticulata is being investigated as an anti-obesity herb in cellular models.[1] No studies in humans showing a benefit for weight loss are available as of May 2011[update].
Selected species:
- Salacia fimbrisepala
- Salacia mamba
- Salacia miegei
- Salacia oblonga
- Salacia petenensis
- Salacia reticulata
[edit] References
- ^ Shimada T, Nagai E, Harasawa Y, Watanabe M, Negishi K, Akase T, Sai Y, Miyamoto KI, Aburada M (12 April 2011). "Salacia reticulata inhibits differentiation of 3T3-L1 adipocytes". J Ethnopharmacol..
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