Evidence supporting the use of: Matapalo Tree
For the health condition: Bites and Stings

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Synopsis

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

The use of the Matapalo tree (commonly referring to a group of parasitic Ficus species, especially Ficus insipida) to treat bites and stings is primarily rooted in traditional medicine practices among indigenous peoples in Central and South America. Historically, the latex or sap of the Matapalo tree has been applied topically to the site of insect bites, stings, or even snakebites, with the intention of reducing inflammation, pain, or swelling. Ethnobotanical surveys document such uses among Amazonian tribes and rural communities who attribute various healing properties to the plant, often linked to its sticky latex and its perceived ability to "draw out" toxins.

However, there is limited scientific evidence to support the efficacy or safety of Matapalo tree preparations for this purpose. Few pharmacological studies have addressed the specific mechanisms by which Matapalo latex might affect toxins from bites or stings. While some Ficus species are known to contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and triterpenoids, direct evidence of efficacy against envenomation or insect venom is lacking. The available evidence is thus mostly anecdotal and based on historical use rather than clinical trials or laboratory validation.

In summary, the application of Matapalo for bites and stings is justified by traditional usage rather than scientific validation, and its effectiveness remains unproven in modern research.

More about Matapalo Tree
More about Bites and Stings

Other ingredients used for Bites and Stings

aloe vera
basil
beta caryophyllene
beta-pinene
betel
bisabolol
black cumin
black walnut
bасора
chamomile
citrus oil
turmeric
curcumin
echinacea purpurea
goldenseal
green tea
hemp oil
horseradish
honeysuckle
lavender
mustard seed
oregano
phenolic acids
plantain
rosemary
sage
schizonepeta
sphaeranthus indicus
thyme
vitamin C
vitamin E
zinc
bentonite
chickweed
xanthium (cockleburs)
papaya
shen-chu
mugwort
neem tree
nut grass
clerodendrum indicum
paederia foetida
blackboard tree
boxthorne
buckthorn
lemongrass
siler root
fern
zanthoxylum
eucalyptus
wintergreen
camphor oil
menthol oil
paw paw
herbal blend (proprietary)
melaleuca alternifolia
geranium
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Ash
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Asclepias cordifolia
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Baphicacanthus cusia
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Brazillian peppertree
Bisabolene
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Black Nightshade
Black root
Borneol
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Colloidal Silver
Capillary Artemisia
Cinquefoil
Cajuput
Chinese Raisintree
Cowherb
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Cedar
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Copaiba Oil
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Dichrostachys glomerata
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Eugenol
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Gnaphalium
gamma-terpinene
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Products containing Matapalo Tree

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.