African wild potato
Natural Standard evidence-based flashcard. Copyright © 2008 (www.naturalstandard.com). Commercial distribution prohibited. This flashcard is intended for informational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Patients should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about therapies and/or health conditions. 		Image
While some complementary and alternative techniques have been studied scientifically, high-quality data regarding safety, effectiveness, and mechanism of action are limited or controversial for most therapies. Whenever possible, it is recommended that practitioners be licensed by a recognized professional organization that adheres to clearly published standards. In addition, before starting a new technique or engaging a practitioner, it is recommended that patients speak with their primary healthcare provider(s). Potential benefits, risks (including financial costs), and alternatives should be carefully considered. The below monograph is designed to provide historical background and an overview of clinically-oriented research, and neither advocates for or against the use of a particular therapy.

Summary:
The African wild potato grows in South Africa. The bitter plant is used to treat many conditions like diabetes mellitus, bleeding and prostate problems. Some human studies suggest that it might effectively treat benign prostate hyperplasia and prostate cancer.

Uses
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Grade*
Benign prostate hyperplasia (enlarged prostate) C
*Key to grades: A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use (it may not work); F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likely does not work).

Safety:
Avoid if allergic or hypersensitive to African wild potato or any species of the Hypoxidaceae family. Use cautiously with diabetes, liver disease or damage, HIV/AIDS, and kidney disease or damage. Avoid if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Possible side effects:
Anxiety, decreased sex drive, decreased urine, diarrhea, nausea, erectile dysfunction, reduced kidney function, skin rash, stomach cramps, vomiting.

Possible interactions:
Drugs that affect blood sugar levels, antiretroviral (like HIV/AIDS drugs), drugs that are broken down by the body's CYP34A system, drugs that affect the kidney, diuretics (drugs that increase urine), and herbs or supplements with similar effects.

Dosing:

Adults (18 years and older):
Benign prostate hyperplasia: 60-130mg of beta-sitosterol divided into 2-3 doses daily has been used
Lung cancer: 1200-3200mg standardized Hypoxis plant extract (200mg capsules) daily divided in three doses has been used
Tumor treatment: 2400mg daily (12200mg capsules) has been used

Children (younger than 18 years):
Not enough scientific data available.
Natural Standard Monograph (www.naturalstandard.com)
Copyright © 2008 Natural Standard Inc. Commercial distribution or reproduction prohibited.
The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.