Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Mallotus philippensis (Kampillaka) is an Ayurvedic medicinal plant containing phloroglucinol compounds that demonstrate antimicrobial and anthelmintic properties. The bark contains exceptionally high phenolic content (up to 927 mg/g) responsible for its antioxidant activity.
CategoryHerbs (Global Traditional)
GroupAyurveda
Evidence LevelModerate
Primary KeywordMallotus philippensis benefits
Synergy Pairings3
Kampillaka (Mallotus philippensis) — botanical close-up
Health Benefits
Origin & History
Natural habitat
Kampillaka is the red-brown glandular powder collected from the hairy fruit of Mallotus philippensis, an evergreen tree native to India, the Philippines, and Southeast Asia. The medicinal powder, known as kamala, is harvested directly from the infructescence and used either as-is or extracted using solvents like petroleum ether, methanol, or ethanol.
“Kampillaka has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 2,000 years, appearing in classical texts like the Sushruta Samhita for treating intestinal worms and wound healing. Traditional systems across Southeast Asia have similarly employed it for gastrointestinal disorders, skin conditions, and as a natural red dye.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses have been conducted on Mallotus philippensis according to the available research. All evidence is limited to preclinical phytochemical screening, in vitro studies, and animal models examining antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activities.
Preparation & Dosage
Traditional preparation
No clinically studied dosage ranges are available as human trials have not been conducted. Traditional preparations use the red glandular powder directly or as solvent extracts, but standardized doses have not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Nutritional Profile
Kampillaka (Mallotus philippensis) is a medicinal plant used primarily for its bioactive phytochemical constituents rather than conventional nutritional value. The glandular trichomes of the fruit (kamala powder) are the primary medicinal part. Key bioactive compounds include: rottlerin (mallotoxin) at approximately 0.5–1.2% w/w in fruit glands, a phloroglucinol derivative and the principal anthelmintic constituent; isorottlerin present in smaller fractions (~0.1–0.3%); kamaladiol (a triterpene) and its acetate derivatives. Phenolic content is notably high, with bark fractions yielding up to 927 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram in standardized extracts, and fruit gland extracts containing flavonoids including bergenin, quercetin, and kaempferol derivatives at approximately 12–45 mg/g depending on solvent extraction. Tannin content in bark ranges from 8–15% w/w. Fixed oils are present in seeds at approximately 18–25% of seed weight, comprising primarily ricinoleic and other fatty acids. Conventional macronutrient data (proteins, carbohydrates, dietary fiber as food values) are not established, as the plant is not consumed as a food source. Mineral micronutrient profiling is limited, though trace quantities of calcium, potassium, and iron have been detected in ash analysis. Bioavailability of rottlerin is noted to be variable due to poor aqueous solubility; lipid-based or ethanolic preparations enhance absorption in preclinical models. No human pharmacokinetic bioavailability data are currently available.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Phloroglucinol derivatives in Mallotus philippensis disrupt microbial cell membranes and inhibit parasitic enzyme systems. The high phenolic content (927 mg/g in bark fractions) scavenges free radicals through electron donation mechanisms. These compounds also interfere with helminth nervous system function, explaining traditional anthelmintic effects.
Clinical Evidence
Current evidence is limited to preliminary in vitro studies demonstrating antimicrobial activity against various bacterial and fungal strains. Antioxidant capacity has been quantified in laboratory screenings showing significant free radical scavenging ability. Traditional anthelmintic use is documented in Ayurvedic texts, but controlled human trials are lacking. Most research consists of phytochemical analysis and preclinical screening rather than clinical validation.
Safety & Interactions
Safety profile in humans remains inadequately studied due to limited clinical research. Traditional use suggests potential gastrointestinal irritation at high doses, particularly from glandular hair preparations. No documented drug interactions exist in scientific literature, though theoretical concerns with anticoagulant medications due to phenolic compounds. Pregnancy and lactation safety is unknown and use should be avoided during these periods.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Also Known As
Mallotus philippensisKamalaKamala powderRed kamalaMonkey face treePhilippine kamalaRottlera tinctoriaCroton philippenseKamilaKapilaSinduri
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the active compound in Mallotus philippensis?
The primary bioactive compounds are phloroglucinol derivatives, particularly concentrated in the red glandular hairs. The bark contains up to 927 mg/g of phenolic compounds responsible for antioxidant effects.
Is Mallotus philippensis effective against parasites?
Traditional Ayurvedic use supports anthelmintic properties, and phloroglucinol compounds show anti-parasitic activity in laboratory studies. However, controlled human trials validating effectiveness against specific parasites are lacking.
What parts of Mallotus philippensis are used medicinally?
The bark and red glandular hairs (called rottlerin) are the primary medicinal parts used. The bark contains the highest phenolic content while glandular hairs are traditionally used for anthelmintic purposes.
Are there side effects from Mallotus philippensis?
Potential gastrointestinal irritation may occur at high doses, especially from glandular hair preparations. Overall safety profile is poorly documented due to lack of clinical studies in humans.
How much phenolic content does Mallotus philippensis contain?
Laboratory analysis shows bark fractions contain up to 927 mg/g of total phenolic compounds. This exceptionally high phenolic content contributes to the plant's demonstrated antioxidant activity in preclinical studies.
What does research currently show about Mallotus philippensis's effectiveness in humans?
Most evidence for Mallotus philippensis comes from laboratory and animal studies demonstrating antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, but human clinical trials are limited or absent. While traditional use as an anthelmintic is well-documented, the lack of controlled human studies means efficacy claims remain preliminary. Current research supports further investigation into its phloroglucinol derivatives like rottlerin, but consumers should understand the gap between in vitro findings and proven human benefits.
Is Mallotus philippensis safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
There is insufficient safety data on Mallotus philippensis use during pregnancy and lactation, and it is not recommended without medical supervision due to its traditional use as an anthelmintic and lack of human safety studies. Traditional remedies with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties may carry unknown risks to fetal development or nursing infants. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare provider before considering this ingredient.
Does Mallotus philippensis interact with antiparasitic medications or antimicrobial drugs?
Specific drug interaction studies for Mallotus philippensis have not been conducted, but its traditional antimicrobial and anthelmintic properties suggest potential interactions with prescription antiparasitic or antibiotic medications. Combined use could theoretically enhance or interfere with medication efficacy, though no documented clinical interactions exist. Anyone taking antiparasitic or antimicrobial pharmaceuticals should consult a healthcare provider before adding this ingredient to avoid unintended effects.
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