Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

The use of the blackboard tree (Alstonia scholaris) for treating infections is primarily justified by traditional medicine rather than scientific validation. In various regions of South and Southeast Asia, traditional healers have utilized different parts of the blackboard tree—most notably the bark and leaves—for their purported antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and febrifuge properties. Ethnobotanical records document its application in treating fevers, respiratory tract infections, and skin diseases. The traditional use is especially noted in Ayurveda and folk medicine in India, where decoctions or extracts are administered for ailments believed to be caused by infections.

Scientifically, some preliminary studies have investigated the antimicrobial properties of extracts from Alstonia scholaris. In vitro experiments suggest that certain alkaloids and other phytochemicals in the bark and leaves might inhibit the growth of some bacterial and fungal strains. However, these findings remain largely preclinical, with limited studies involving animal models and no robust human clinical trials confirming efficacy or safety for infection treatment. As such, while traditional use is well-documented, scientific evidence remains weak, warranting a low rating of 1 on the evidence scale. Individuals considering the use of blackboard tree extracts for infection should consult healthcare professionals due to potential toxicity and lack of clinical validation.

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