Evidence supporting the use of: Embelia ribes
For the health condition: Malaria

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Embelia ribes, commonly known as false black pepper or vidanga, has a long history of use in traditional Indian (Ayurvedic) medicine, including as a remedy for fevers and parasitic infections. Its use against malaria is primarily rooted in this traditional context, where it has been included in herbal formulations for its anthelmintic and febrifuge properties. However, direct references to its use specifically for malaria (caused by Plasmodium species) are sparse in classical texts, and its application is typically broader—targeting general fever or ‘vishama jwara.’

From a scientific perspective, there is limited research evaluating Embelia ribes or its main active compound, embelin, for direct antimalarial activity. A few in vitro and animal studies have hinted at possible antiparasitic effects, but robust clinical or preclinical data supporting its efficacy against malaria are lacking. As such, while traditional use exists, scientific validation is minimal, and the overall evidence is weak. Therefore, the use of Embelia ribes for malaria is justified primarily by its traditional use, and not by substantial scientific proof.

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Products containing Embelia ribes

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