Kokilaksha

Asteracantha longifolia (Kokilaksha or Talmakhana) is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, hepatoprotective agent, and for glucose disturbances. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - research is extremely preliminary with only animal and in vitro studies. May enhance glycogen synthesis and protect against lipid peroxidation (potency comparable to vitamin E in one study). Also traditionally used as a diuretic. The plant components are not well characterized and toxicology data is lacking. Cannot recommend use due to insufficient evidence on both efficacy and safety.

Quick Answer

What it is

Asteracantha longifolia (Kokilaksha or Talmakhana) is an Ayurvedic herb traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, hepatoprotective agent, and for glucose disturbances. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - research is extremely preliminary with only animal and in vitro studies.

Key findings

  • Grade D: Liver Protection
  • Grade D: Glycogen Synthesis
  • Grade D: Antioxidant Status

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Kokilaksha

Quick Facts: Kokilaksha

  • Best Evidence:Grade D
  • Conditions Studied:1
  • Research Outcomes:4
  • Key Effect:Antioxidant Status
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B0
C0
D4
1 conditions · 4 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

D
Liver Protection
In animal studies, Asteracantha longifolia extracts demonstrated hepatoprotective effects, reducing markers of liver damage. No human trials have been conducted to validate these findings.
2 studies
smallImproves
D
Glycogen Synthesis
In rodent models, Kokilaksha extracts enhanced glycogen synthesis. This effect has not been studied in humans and the mechanism is not well characterized.
1 study
smallImproves
D
Sexual Function
Kokilaksha has a traditional Ayurvedic reputation as an aphrodisiac, with some animal studies exploring this claim. There is no scientific validation of aphrodisiac effects in human subjects.
1 study
smallImproves
D
Antioxidant Status
In one preclinical study, Asteracantha longifolia demonstrated antioxidant effects and protection against lipid peroxidation with potency reported as comparable to vitamin E. No human data exists to confirm this effect.
1 study
smallImproves

Evidence by Condition

Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)

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