Herbs & Botanicals · Ayurvedic flower for tonics
Dhataki
Woodfordia fruticosa · also called Fire-flame bush, woodfordia, dhatki, dhaiphul
Dhataki is the dried flower of a shrub used in Ayurveda for women's health, diarrhoea and bleeding, and to start fermentation in liquid tonics called asavas and arishtas. No trial of the flower in people was found, so its benefits are unproven. Those fermented tonics contain alcohol. If you are pregnant, anaemic, take blood thinners, or have heavy bleeding, see a doctor or pharmacist first.
General information, not medical advice. Last substantive update · Not medically reviewed. A named clinician has not signed off on this page. How this page is made
About Dhataki
Dhataki (Woodfordia fruticosa) is an Ayurvedic flower used for women's health, diarrhoea and bleeding, and to start fermentation in alcoholic tonics. Evidence in people is almost absent; safety in pregnancy and alcohol content are the main concerns.
What dhataki is
Dhataki, also called fire-flame bush, is a shrub in the loosestrife family (Lythraceae). The dried flowers are the part used in Ayurveda. The flowers and leaves contain tannins, flavonoids and other plant chemicals.
What it is used for
Ayurvedic sources describe use for heavy periods, vaginal discharge, fertility, diarrhoea, ulcers and liver complaints. Use over a long time is not proof that it works. We found no trial of dhataki in women or for diarrhoea.
A starter for fermented tonics
Dhataki flowers are added with jaggery to start fermentation in asavas and arishtas. A 1993 lab study found the flowers raised alcohol in a model arishta, and a 2013 study isolated alcohol-making yeasts from the flowers. The two papers disagree on whether the flowers carry the yeasts, so we only state what both agree on: the flowers matter for alcohol production.
Because of the fermentation, these tonics contain alcohol. A study of 20 shop-bought fermented Ayurvedic products found the ethanol content varied between products.
What the research shows
Most studies are in rats, mice and test tubes. A standardised flower extract protected rats from stomach ulcers, and a flower extract protected rat livers from a paracetamol overdose. Leaf and bark extracts eased pain and diarrhoea in mice. None of this proves a benefit in people.
The only human trials we found are two small mouthwash trials of a leaf extract. In one, the pomegranate mouthwash did better than dhataki for gum disease. The other reported fewer Candida yeast counts. Neither had a placebo group in the abstract, and a mouthwash is not a swallowed medicine.
At a glance
Traditional uses history, not proof
- Ayurvedic use for heavy periods, vaginal discharge and fertility
- Diarrhoea and stomach ulcers
- Liver complaints and rheumatism
- A fermentation starter for asavas and arishtas
Studied for research
- Women's health: insufficient (traditional use only)
- Diarrhoea and ulcers: insufficient (mice and rats)
- Liver protection: insufficient (rats)
- Mouthwash for gum disease and mouth thrush: very low (two small trials, leaf extract)
- Blood sugar and mood: insufficient (leaf, lab and mice)
Main compounds
- Hydrolysable tannins (macrocyclic type)
- Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol)
- Gallic acid
- Anthraquinone glycosides
Common forms
- Dried flower (traditional)
- Fermented tonics (asavas and arishtas) in which the flowers start fermentation
- Research extracts (rats only)
- Leaf extract mouthwash (two trials)
Research links: Review: traditional uses and findings (PubMed) · Rat study of a standardised flower extract (PubMed) · Flowers and alcohol in Nimba arishta (PubMed) · Ethanol in fermented Ayurvedic products (PubMed) · Research Library · Genes & Biomarkers Library
The plant and its history
- Accepted scientific name
- Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz
- Naming authority
- GBIF species match read 2026-10-25: ACCEPTED, EXACT match, usageKey 5635525, confidence 98.
- Synonyms
- Lythrum fruticosum L. (synonym per GBIF, key 3988972)
- Common names
- Dhataki (dhātakī) (Sanskrit/Hindi); Fire-flame bush (English); Woodfordia (English); Dhaiphul (Bengali); Dhayati (Marathi (as spelled in a 2016 paper))
- Botanical family
- Lythraceae (the loosestrife family, order Myrtales).
- Classification
- Plantae > Myrtales > Lythraceae > Woodfordia > Woodfordia fruticosa
- Native range
- Not verified. The 2007 review calls it a plant of tropical and subtropical regions.
- Habitat
- Not covered in the abstracts read.
- What the plant looks like
- Roots: Not covered.; Stems: A shrub (fire-flame bush) per its common name; details not verified.; Leaves: Leaf extracts are studied in the lab.; Flowers: Dried flowers are the traditional part used in Ayurveda.; Fruit: Not covered.
- Cultivation
- Not covered.
- Harvest and processing
- Not covered.
- Look-alikes and adulterants
- Name: Arjuna (Terminalia arjuna); Note: A different plant, but dhataki flowers are used to ferment Arjunarishta, a tonic made with arjuna bark.; Name: Other Lythraceae shrubs; Note: Not assessed. Check that a product names Woodfordia fruticosa and the part used.
- Sustainability and conservation
- Not covered.
Traditional use and history history, not clinical proof
| Tradition or era | Documented use | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Ayurveda | Diarrhoea, poisoning, menstrual disorders, ulcers and fertility, per the 2019 paper; heavy periods and discharge per other abstracts; and as a fermentation starter for asavas and arishtas. | p31195031 |
| Ayurvedic fermentation (asava and arishta) | Flowers are added to start and maintain fermentation in jaggery-based tonics. | p24563601 |
Traditional use shows how a plant was used. It does not show that a supplement works or is safe today.
What is inside, and how it may work
What the plant contains and how those compounds act in cells and animals. Laboratory and animal mechanisms are not proven effects in people.
Main compounds
| Compound | Family | Where it is concentrated | Activity studied | Level of evidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrolysable tannins (macrocyclic type, including woodfordins and oenothein-type tannins) | ellagitannins | Flower and leaf | The 2007 review names macrocyclic hydrolysable tannins as characteristic. Woodfordin C (PubChem CID 16131173) and Oenothein C (CID 9962370) exist as PubChem records; that woodfordins occur in this plant is general knowledge not confirmed by an abstract we read. 4 18 | Laboratory research |
| Oenothein C PubChem 9962370 | macrocyclic ellagitannin | Flower | Used as a chemical marker to standardise a flower extract (2019). 5 18 | Laboratory research |
| Gallic acid PubChem 370 | phenolic acid | Flower | Marker compound for the standardised flower extract; not tested alone here. 5 18 | Laboratory research |
| Quercetin PubChem 5280343 | flavonol | Flower | Marker compound in the flower extract. 5 18 | Laboratory research |
| Kaempferol PubChem 5280863 | flavonol | Flower | Marker compound in the flower extract. 5 18 | Laboratory research |
| Anthraquinone glycosides | anthraquinones | Not specified | Named in the 2007 review. Anthraquinones can act as laxatives in other plants; not shown for dhataki. 4 | Laboratory research |
Mechanisms, receptors and pathways
| Target or pathway | Gene or receptor | What was found | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar-splitting enzyme (invertase) in flowers | Invertase | The authors suggest this enzyme may explain why flowers raise alcohol in arishta. 6 | Laboratory research |
| Stomach acid pump and Helicobacter pylori | H+,K+-ATPase | Earlier work (cited in the 2019 paper) reported these activities; the 2019 paper tested rat ulcers. 5 | Animal research |
| Starch digestion | Alpha-amylase | A leaf fraction blocked the enzyme in a tube about like acarbose. 14 | Laboratory research |
| Pathogen attachment to gut cells | Not specified | Fermented flower cut germ attachment in HT-29 cells. 7 | Laboratory research |
| Liver oxidative stress | Glutathione | Flower extract kept liver glutathione in overdosed rats. 1 | Animal research |
Absorption, metabolism and elimination
- Absorption
- Not covered. The 2019 paper title mentions pharmacokinetics in rats of a research extract, but the abstract gives no figures.
- Distribution
- Not covered.
- Metabolism
- Not covered.
- Elimination
- Not covered.
- Bioavailability
- Not established. A bioequivalent capsule was prepared in the 2019 work but no figures are in the abstract.
Isolated compounds versus whole extracts
Nearly all lab data are for solvent extracts or fractions of leaf or bark, not whole flower or traditional tonics. The tonic itself is a fermented mixture with other herbs, jaggery and alcohol.
Nutritional composition
Not a nutrient and not a food.
2 very low certainty10 not enough evidence
What is Dhataki good for?
Dhataki has no tested benefit in people for its main traditional uses. The rows show what is claimed and how weak the evidence is.
Benefits, one by one
Each card is a research question, not a promise. Tap a goal to filter. Open a card to see the studies, doses and limits.
Heavy periods, vaginal discharge and fertility (traditional use)
Not enough evidenceAyurvedic and related traditions use dhataki flowers for heavy menstrual bleeding, vaginal discharge and fertility. We found no trial in women, so we cannot say it works.
3 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No trial, case series or review of dhataki in women was found.
Results
None.
Effect sizes as reported
None.
Why this rating
Traditional use only. Use over time is not proof of benefit.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Not applicable
Limits
Based on abstracts that state the traditional uses. Heavy or long-lasting bleeding can have serious causes and needs medical care.
Why researchers looked
This is the best-known traditional use of the flower, and it is why the herb is in many Ayurvedic women's tonics.
Traditional use
Papers describe use for menstrual disorders, fertility, heavy periods (menorrhagia) and leucorrhoea (vaginal discharge).
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Not shown. The flowers are tannin-rich and astringent in chemistry terms, but no study tested an effect on bleeding.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Do not use a herb to manage heavy bleeding without a clinician's advice. No pregnancy safety data were found.
Diarrhoea (traditional use and mouse tests)
Not enough evidenceDhataki is used traditionally for diarrhoea. Leaf and bark extracts reduced diarrhoea in mice. Nothing has been tested in people.
2 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study. One mouse study (Rahman 2023) of leaf and bark extracts, not the flower.
Results
Both bark doses and the higher leaf dose reduced diarrhoea in mice, with statistical significance.
Effect sizes as reported
Not given as numbers in the abstract.
Why this rating
Mouse tests of leaf and bark; the traditional part used is the flower.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Mice
Limits
Mouse results often do not carry over to people. Diarrhoea that lasts more than a couple of days, or comes with blood, fever or dehydration, needs medical care.
Why researchers looked
Diarrhoea is one of the main traditional uses named in the research papers.
Traditional use
Ayurvedic use for diarrhoea is stated in the 2019 paper.
Proposed mechanism Pharmacological theory
Tannins can tighten gut tissue in lab terms, but the mouse study did not test how the extracts work.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Heavy tannin intake may cause constipation (general knowledge; not tested for dhataki).
Stomach ulcer protection (rats)
Not enough evidenceA standardised flower extract protected rats from stomach ulcers and passed rat safety studies. The authors say it is ready for human testing, but none has been published that we found.
1 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study.
Results
Effective in rat ulcer models at 31.25 to 62.5 mg/kg; single dose safe by mouth up to 2000 mg/kg and no-effect level 800 mg/kg in a 28-day rat study.
Effect sizes as reported
Rat doses only. Not human doses.
Why this rating
Rat study of a research extract; no trial in people.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Rats
Limits
A research extract, not a consumer product. The animal safety figures say nothing about a safe amount for people.
Why researchers looked
Researchers followed up the traditional ulcer use with a standardised extract.
Traditional use
Ayurvedic use for ulcers is cited in the paper.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
The authors had earlier reported effects on the stomach acid pump (H+,K+-ATPase) and on Helicobacter pylori in lab work; this paper tested rats.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Stomach pain with black stools or vomiting blood is an emergency; do not self-treat with herbs.
Starting fermentation in Ayurvedic tonics (asavas and arishtas)
Not enough evidenceDried dhataki flowers are added to many Ayurvedic liquid tonics to start and speed up fermentation. This is how the tonic is made, not a health benefit. The fermentation makes alcohol.
3 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study of any tonic.
Results
Lab results: flowers raised alcohol content in model Nimba arishta (1993); yeast from flowers made 69.57 g/L alcohol versus 6.04 to 7.32 g/L for other strains in jaggery medium (2013); flower microbes gave about the same alcohol as traditional methods in lab-made Arjunarishta (2016).
Effect sizes as reported
See results.
Why this rating
Lab preparation studies, not health trials. No benefit claim is made.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Not applicable
Limits
Lab-made preparations, not shop products. Actual alcohol content of products varies; see the safety file.
Why researchers looked
Dhataki flowers are a traditional starter in asavas and arishtas, so papers have studied what the flowers do to these tonics.
Traditional use
Flowers are added with jaggery to start fermentation of asavas and arishtas.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
In a 1993 model study, adding the flowers raised alcohol, which the authors link to an invertase (sugar-splitting enzyme) in the flowers. A 2013 study isolated alcohol-making yeasts from the flowers. These two papers disagree on whether the flowers carry the yeasts: the 1993 paper says they do not, the 2013 paper found yeasts on them.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Fermented tonics contain alcohol. See the alcohol warning in the safety section.
Gut germs in a culture dish (fermented flower)
Not enough evidenceDhataki fermented with lactic acid bacteria reduced the sticking of some food-poisoning germs to human gut cells in a dish. It has not been tried in people.
1 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study.
Results
Attachment of Listeria and Vibrio germs fell to about 6 to 7% of the unfermented control; IL-6 rose with some germs.
Effect sizes as reported
As stated in the abstract.
Why this rating
Cell-culture study only.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Human gut cell line
Limits
The material was a lab-fermented preparation, not a traditional tonic. Raised IL-6 is a mixed signal.
Why researchers looked
Fermented plant foods are studied for gut health.
Traditional use
Not applicable. This is a modern lab design.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
Not established. The authors suggest a stronger antimicrobial effect after fermentation.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
No safety conclusion.
Liver protection (rats)
Not enough evidenceA flower extract protected rat livers from a paracetamol overdose. This is animal work only and says nothing about whether it is safe for human livers.
1 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study.
Results
Methanol flower extract prevented the rise in AST, ALT and ALP and tissue damage in overdosed rats.
Effect sizes as reported
Not given as numbers in the abstract.
Why this rating
Single rat study.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Rats
Limits
Protection against an overdose in rats is not proof of safety or benefit in people.
Why researchers looked
Dhataki flowers are traditionally used for liver disorders.
Traditional use
Liver disorders are listed as a traditional use in the paper.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Authors report less oxidative stress and kept glutathione in rat liver.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
If you have liver disease or take liver-affecting medicines, ask a doctor first.
Pain, inflammation and clot dissolving (mice and test tubes)
Not enough evidenceLeaf and bark extracts reduced pain behaviour in mice and showed anti-inflammatory and clot-dissolving activity in test tubes. None of this has been shown in people.
2 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study.
Results
Both leaf and bark extracts reduced pain responses in mice (p<0.001). Red-cell membrane protection 43.16% (leaf chloroform fraction) and 45.37% (bark aqueous fraction) against aspirin as comparator; clot lysis 41.24% (leaf aqueous) and 44.90% (bark).
Effect sizes as reported
As stated.
Why this rating
Test-tube and mouse screens on leaf and bark.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Mice, red blood cells
Limits
Not the flower. Clot-dissolving activity in a tube raises a theoretical question about bleeding risk with blood thinners; it is not tested in people.
Why researchers looked
Anti-inflammatory and pain uses are named in traditional descriptions.
Traditional use
Rheumatism and inflammatory conditions are listed as traditional uses.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
Not established; the tests are screens (red-cell membrane protection, clot lysis).
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Possible added effect with blood thinners is a theory only.
Antioxidant activity (test tubes)
Not enough evidenceFlower and leaf extracts mop up free radicals in test tubes. That does not mean the herb protects the body when swallowed.
2 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study.
Results
All leaf and bark extracts scavenged DPPH radicals (IC50 6.11 to 20.79 ug/mL).
Effect sizes as reported
As stated.
Why this rating
Test-tube result only.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Chemistry assays
Limits
Antioxidant tube results often do not predict health effects.
Why researchers looked
Tannins and flavonoids are strong antioxidants in chemistry tests.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Laboratory research
Free-radical scavenging in DPPH and ferric-reducing assays.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
None identified.
Blood sugar and low mood (leaf extract, lab and mice)
Not enough evidenceA leaf extract blocked a starch-digesting enzyme in a test tube and made mice act less depressed in swim tests. No human study exists.
1 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study.
Results
Hexane fraction blocked alpha-amylase similar to acarbose in a tube; ethyl acetate and hexane fractions reduced depressive-like behaviour in mice.
Effect sizes as reported
As stated.
Why this rating
Leaf, not flower. Tubes, mice and computer models.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Mice and test tubes
Limits
If you take diabetes medicine, a plant that blocks sugar digestion could in theory add to it; this is not tested.
Why researchers looked
Researchers in Bangladesh tested a local leaf for diabetes and mood.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Preliminary mechanism
Alpha-amylase blocking in the tube; computer models of binding to enzyme and brain-transporter proteins.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Possible added effect with diabetes medicines is a theory only.
Gum disease (mouthwash)
Very low certaintyIn a 2023 trial of 100 people with gum disease, a dhataki leaf mouthwash was compared with a pomegranate peel mouthwash. The authors report the pomegranate one worked better.
1 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One randomised trial of 100 people (Bhavana 2023).
Results
The authors report a highly significant fall in salivary amylase at 1 hour for the pomegranate group and conclude pomegranate was more effective than Woodfordia.
Effect sizes as reported
See study record.
Why this rating
One small single-site trial, abstract only, no placebo group, an indirect marker, and the dhataki arm was the comparison group.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
People with chronic gum disease
Limits
Leaf, not flower; an ethanol-based extract used as a rinse. Not a general health benefit.
Why researchers looked
Herbal mouthwashes are studied as alternatives to chemical ones.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Not established
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Rinses are not meant to be swallowed. Alcohol-based rinses are not for children or people avoiding alcohol.
Mouth thrush in denture wearers (mouthwash)
Very low certaintyIn a 2020 trial of 100 diabetic denture wearers, a dhataki leaf mouthwash was reported to cut yeast counts in the mouth. There was no placebo group, so this is weak evidence.
1 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
One randomised trial of 100 people (Sujanamulk 2020), same dental institute as the gum trial.
Results
The authors report a drastic fall in Candida colony counts at 1 hour and 1 week after the Woodfordia leaf mouthwash.
Effect sizes as reported
Not given as numbers in the abstract.
Why this rating
Abstract only, no placebo group, comparison with pomegranate not reported in the abstract, a lab count rather than symptoms.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
People with uncontrolled diabetes who wear dentures
Limits
Leaf mouthwash, not a swallowed product.
Why researchers looked
Mouth yeast infections are common in denture wearers with diabetes.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Not established
Authors suggest glycosides in the leaf act on Candida; not tested.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
If you have diabetes and mouth soreness or white patches, see a dentist or doctor.
Infected burn wounds (a fermented herbal mix, rats)
Not enough evidenceA fermented Ayurvedic herbal mix applied to infected burns in rats healed faster than an antibiotic cream. It was a mix, not dhataki alone, and it was tested on skin in rats only.
1 studiesNot applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Studies, doses and limits
What the trials found
No human study.
Results
Residual wound area was 40.63% of the starting area within two weeks after one application.
Effect sizes as reported
Residual area 40.63%
Why this rating
Combination product, rats, skin only.
Form and dose studied
Not applicable. No amount, preparation or form is recommended.
Who was studied
Rats
Limits
The abstract does not name dhataki, so any effect cannot be credited to it. Do not put herbal mixes on burns; see a clinician.
Why researchers looked
Resistant skin infections are a problem, so Ayurvedic mixes are being tested.
Traditional use
Not applicable.
Proposed mechanism Not established
Not established.
A proposed mechanism does not show that the effect happens in people.
Burns and infected wounds need medical care.
Connections to the rest of health
How Dhataki connects to the rest of our health knowledge graph. Every link says what kind of connection it is. A safety link (for example to the liver) is a warning, not a benefit. A study that merely mentions a topic never creates a benefit link.
Explore every connection: goals, body systems, organs, symptoms, genes
A. Wellness goals
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Womens Wellness | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Heavy periods, vaginal discharge and fertility (traditional use): Ayurvedic and related traditions use dhataki flowers for heavy menstrual bleeding, vaginal discharge and fertility. We found no trial in women, so we cannot say it works. | 5 1 4 |
| Fertility Support | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Heavy periods, vaginal discharge and fertility (traditional use): Ayurvedic and related traditions use dhataki flowers for heavy menstrual bleeding, vaginal discharge and fertility. We found no trial in women, so we cannot say it works. | 5 1 4 |
| Digestive Support | Traditional use | Not enough evidence | Diarrhoea (traditional use and mouse tests): Dhataki is used traditionally for diarrhoea. Leaf and bark extracts reduced diarrhoea in mice. Nothing has been tested in people. | 11 5 |
| Digestive Support | Not enough evidence | Stomach ulcer protection (rats): A standardised flower extract protected rats from stomach ulcers and passed rat safety studies. The authors say it is ready for human testing, but none has been published that we found. | 5 | |
| Womens Wellness | Not enough evidence | Starting fermentation in Ayurvedic tonics (asavas and arishtas): Dried dhataki flowers are added to many Ayurvedic liquid tonics to start and speed up fermentation. This is how the tonic is made, not a health benefit. The fermentation makes alcohol. | 6 9 12 | |
| Gut Health | Not enough evidence | Gut germs in a culture dish (fermented flower): Dhataki fermented with lactic acid bacteria reduced the sticking of some food-poisoning germs to human gut cells in a dish. It has not been tried in people. | 7 | |
| Liver Support | Not enough evidence | Liver protection (rats): A flower extract protected rat livers from a paracetamol overdose. This is animal work only and says nothing about whether it is safe for human livers. | 1 | |
| Inflammation Balance | Not enough evidence | Pain, inflammation and clot dissolving (mice and test tubes): Leaf and bark extracts reduced pain behaviour in mice and showed anti-inflammatory and clot-dissolving activity in test tubes. None of this has been shown in people. Antioxidant activity (test tubes): Flower and leaf extracts mop up free radicals in test tubes. That does not mean the herb protects the body when swallowed. | 11 4 14 | |
| Blood Sugar Balance | Not enough evidence | Blood sugar and low mood (leaf extract, lab and mice): A leaf extract blocked a starch-digesting enzyme in a test tube and made mice act less depressed in swim tests. No human study exists. | 14 | |
| Mood Balance | Not enough evidence | Blood sugar and low mood (leaf extract, lab and mice): A leaf extract blocked a starch-digesting enzyme in a test tube and made mice act less depressed in swim tests. No human study exists. | 14 | |
| Inflammation Balance | Very low certainty | Gum disease (mouthwash): In a 2023 trial of 100 people with gum disease, a dhataki leaf mouthwash was compared with a pomegranate peel mouthwash. The authors report the pomegranate one worked better. Mouth thrush in denture wearers (mouthwash): In a 2020 trial of 100 diabetic denture wearers, a dhataki leaf mouthwash was reported to cut yeast counts in the mouth. There was no placebo group, so this is weak evidence. | 2 13 | |
| Inflammation Balance | Not enough evidence | Infected burn wounds (a fermented herbal mix, rats): A fermented Ayurvedic herbal mix applied to infected burns in rats healed faster than an antibiotic cream. It was a mix, not dhataki alone, and it was tested on skin in rats only. | 3 |
B. Body systems
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reproductive system | Not enough evidence | Used for menstrual and uterine problems; no safety data in pregnancy. Preparation or compound: Dhataki flower, traditional use |
5 | |
| Reproductive System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Heavy periods, vaginal discharge and fertility (traditional use) | 5 1 4 |
| Digestive System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Diarrhoea (traditional use and mouse tests) Studied for: Stomach ulcer protection (rats) | 11 5 6 9 12 7 2 13 |
| Hepatic System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Liver protection (rats) Studied for: Pain, inflammation and clot dissolving (mice and test tubes) | 1 11 4 14 |
| Endocrine System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Blood sugar and low mood (leaf extract, lab and mice) | 14 |
| Integumentary System | Biological association | Not enough evidence | Studied for: Infected burn wounds (a fermented herbal mix, rats) | 3 |
L. Active compounds
| Connected to | Kind of connection | Evidence status | Context | Studies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hydrolysable tannins (macrocyclic type, including woodfordins and oenothein-type tannins) | Biological association | In vitro | The 2007 review names macrocyclic hydrolysable tannins as characteristic. Woodfordin C (PubChem CID 16131173) and Oenothein C (CID 9962370) exist as PubChem records; that woodfordins occur in this plant is general knowledge not confirmed by an abstract we read. Preparation or compound: Flower and leaf |
4 18 |
| Oenothein C | Biological association | In vitro | Used as a chemical marker to standardise a flower extract (2019). Preparation or compound: Flower |
5 18 |
| Gallic acid | Biological association | In vitro | Marker compound for the standardised flower extract; not tested alone here. Preparation or compound: Flower |
5 18 |
| Quercetin | Biological association | In vitro | Marker compound in the flower extract. Preparation or compound: Flower |
5 18 |
| Kaempferol | Biological association | In vitro | Marker compound in the flower extract. Preparation or compound: Flower |
5 18 |
| Anthraquinone glycosides | Biological association | In vitro | Named in the 2007 review. Anthraquinones can act as laxatives in other plants; not shown for dhataki. Preparation or compound: Not specified |
4 |
Each connection is stored with the ingredient, the connected record, the kind of connection, the evidence status, the supporting studies, the preparation or compound involved, and a review date (last reviewed October 25, 2026).
The evidence
The research centre for Dhataki. Every record here was checked against PubMed or the publisher's page; we never list a study we have not verified.
Evidence by outcome
Bars show how many studies we found for each outcome, not how well it works. People are added up across trials only (reviews are not added, to avoid double counting).
How we rate evidence
High certainty
Several well-run trials or reviews agree; further research is unlikely to change the picture much.
Moderate certainty
Good trials point the same way, but some doubt remains.
Low certainty
Small, short or inconsistent trials. The finding could change with better research.
Very low certainty
Very little or very weak human data. Treat as a possibility only.
Mixed findings
Trials or reviews disagree with each other.
Not enough evidence
Not enough human research to say either way.
Evidence against
Good research found no benefit, or found harm.
We take the reviewers' own risk-of-bias and GRADE statements where they exist, and otherwise judge from study size, design, consistency, directness and whether a product matches what is sold. Many publications do not make evidence high. Method note: We read our existing herb summary, searched PubMed, read the abstract of each PubMed record cited, and checked names in GBIF and compounds in PubChem. Pages that could not be opened are marked not verified.
Study library: every study we checked 18
| Study | Design | People | Product, dose, length | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baravalia 2011 Protective effect of Woodfordia fruticosa flowers against acetaminophen-induced hepatic toxicity in rats. Pharm Biol · PMID 21501038 · DOI |
Animal study animal |
Rats given a paracetamol (acetaminophen) overdose | Methanol extract of flowers flower Not given here Not given here · vs Overdose-only control |
Pre-treatment with the extract prevented the rise in liver enzymes and the tissue damage in rats. Not given as numbers in the abstract Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP), albumin, urea nitrogen, liver antioxidant markers, tissue slides Limitations: Rats only. Protection against a deliberate overdose is not evidence that the herb is safe for human livers. Only the abstract was read. Read: abstract |
| Bhavana 2023 Spectrophotometric Analysis and Determination of Anti-inflammatory Effect of Punica granatum and Woodfordia fruticosa in Subjects With Chronic Periodontitis - A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial. Cureus · PMID 38229772 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
100 100 people with chronic periodontitis (gum disease) |
Ethanolic leaf extract mouthwash (Group II) versus pomegranate peel mouthwash (Group I) leaf Not given here Not given here · vs Pomegranate peel mouthwash |
Both groups were measured. A highly significant fall in salivary amylase at 1 hour was reported for the pomegranate group. The authors conclude the pomegranate mouthwash was more effective than the Woodfordia mouthwash. Pomegranate group p<0.001 at 1 hour (abstract); no result figures for the Woodfordia group in the abstract Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Salivary amylase (a marker of gum inflammation) at baseline, 1 hour and 1 week Limitations: Swished mouthwash, not swallowed; leaf, not flower. No placebo group described in the abstract. Single-site, small. The marker is an indirect measure. Only the abstract was read. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no competing interests. Read: abstract |
| Chakraborty 2024 Fermented Polyherbal Formulation Ameliorates the Severity of Acute Multiple Antibiotics-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa-Infected Burn Wound in a Rat Burn Model. J Pathog · PMID 38783899 · DOI |
Animal study animal |
Rats with infected burn wounds | Ayurveda-based fermented polyherbal preparation (AP-01), used on the skin not stated in the abstract Not given here Not given here · vs Untreated rats and a conventional antibiotic |
Residual infected wound area was 40.63% (+/- 0.69) of the starting area within two weeks after a single treatment; the authors report this was better than the antibiotic control. Residual wound area 40.63% Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Residual wound area, C-reactive protein, bacterial colonies Limitations: A combination product applied to skin in rats. The abstract does not name dhataki; our existing summary says dhataki flowers start the fermentation (from the methods section), which we did not re-read. Not evidence for the flower on its own or for swallowing it. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no conflicts of interest. Read: abstract |
| Das 2007 Woodfordia fruticosa: traditional uses and recent findings. J Ethnopharmacol · PMID 17276634 · DOI |
Narrative review review |
Review of chemistry and pharmacology | Flower and leaf extracts and isolated compounds flower, leaf Not given here Not given here · vs Not applicable |
Describes tannins (especially macrocyclic hydrolysable tannins), flavonoids, anthraquinone glycosides and polyphenols, and says flower and leaf extracts have useful pharmacological activities. Not applicable Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Chemistry and biological activities Limitations: Abstract only; the review text was not opened (403 when tried earlier). The abstract does not list particular traditional uses. Read: abstract |
| Khan 2019 Preclinical development of gastro-protective botanical candidate from Woodfordia fruticosa (Linn.) Kurz: Chemical standardization, efficacy, pharmacokinetics and safety pharmacology. J Ethnopharmacol · PMID 31195031 · DOI |
Animal study animal |
Rats | Standardised hydro-alcoholic flower extract (coded ICB014), a research extract flower Not given here Not given here · vs Not stated in the abstract |
Extract was effective in rat gastric ulcer models; safe by mouth up to 2000 mg/kg as a single dose and NOAEL 800 mg/kg in a 28-day rat study. Authors say it is ready for clinical evaluation. Effective at 31.25 to 62.5 mg/kg in rats Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Gastric ulcer models in rats, single-dose and 28-day rat safety Limitations: Rats only; a research extract, not a consumer product. No human trial. Animal doses are not doses for people. Only the abstract was read. Read: abstract |
| Kroes 1993 Fermentation in traditional medicine: the impact of Woodfordia fruticosa flowers on the immunomodulatory activity, and the alcohol and sugar contents of Nimba arishta. J Ethnopharmacol · PMID 8133651 · DOI |
Lab study in-vitro |
Model preparations of Nimba arishta (a fermented Ayurvedic tonic) | Dhataki flowers added to model arishta preparations flower Not given here Not given here · vs Preparations without the flowers |
Adding the flowers raised the alcohol content in model preparations and increased activity in two human immune-cell tests; the flowers themselves were not the source of the alcohol-producing microbes (yeasts came from commercial arishtas), and an invertase (sugar-splitting enzyme) activity in the flowers may explain the alcohol rise. Not given as numbers in the abstract Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Immune-cell tests in the dish, alcohol and sugar content Limitations: A 1993 model preparation, not a modern commercial product. Test-tube immune assays. Only the abstract was read. Read: abstract |
| Lee 2024 Woodfordia fruticosa fermented with lactic acid bacteria impact on foodborne pathogens adhesion and cytokine production in HT-29 cells. Front Microbiol · PMID 38751719 · DOI |
Laboratory research in-vitro |
Human gut cell line (HT-29) in a dish | Dhataki fermented with lactic acid bacteria not stated in the abstract Not given here Not given here · vs Unfermented control |
Fermented material cut the attachment of Listeria and Vibrio germs to the cells (to 6.87% and 6.07% of control, as the abstract reports) and raised IL-6 in the presence of some germs. L. monocytogenes 6.87% +/- 0.33; V. parahaemolyticus 6.07% +/- 0.50 of control Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Germ attachment to cells, IL-6 production Limitations: Cell culture only, not a swallowed tonic and not people. The authors say more work is needed. Only the abstract was read. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no commercial or financial relationships. Read: abstract |
| Maithani 2019 Ethanol content in traditionally fermented ayurvedic formulations: Compromised Good Manufacturing Practice regulations - compromised health. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse · PMID 30427752 · DOI |
Lab survey lab |
20 20 over-the-counter fermented Ayurvedic formulations from 3 makers |
Asavas and arishtas (not dhataki alone) not applicable Not given here Not given here · vs Between brands |
Ethanol content differed significantly between formulations. The authors judge that makers poorly follow good manufacturing practice and call this a safety hazard. Not given as numbers in the abstract Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Ethanol content by gas chromatography Limitations: Which products were tested and their ethanol percentages are not in the abstract. Indian market. Only the abstract was read. Read: abstract |
| Manwar 2013 Isolation, biochemical and genetic characterizations of alcohol-producing yeasts from the flowers of Woodfordia fruticosa. J Young Pharm · PMID 24563601 · DOI |
Lab study in-vitro |
Yeasts isolated from dhataki flowers | Yeasts grown in jaggery medium (50% w/v) flower Not given here Not given here · vs Not applicable |
Four strains were identified (three Saccharomycopsis fibuligera and one Saccharomyces cerevisiae). Under controlled conditions S. cerevisiae Jm.20 produced 69.57 g/L alcohol; the other strains 6.04 to 7.32 g/L. 69.57 g/L versus 6.04 to 7.32 g/L Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Alcohol produced by four selected yeast strains Limitations: Lab conditions, not a finished tonic. The authors suggest using a pure yeast in place of the flowers. Only the abstract was read. Read: abstract |
| Milman 2020 A Review of Nutrients and Compounds, Which Promote or Inhibit Intestinal Iron Absorption. J Nutr Metab · PMID 33005455 · DOI |
Narrative review review |
Review of dietary factors and iron uptake | Dietary polyphenols and tannins in general not applicable Not given here Not given here · vs Not applicable |
Lists polyphenols and tannins among the most important inhibitors of iron uptake, and alcohol as stimulating iron uptake. Not applicable Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Intestinal iron absorption Limitations: General nutrition review; it does not mention dhataki. Used only to explain why a tannin-rich herb could matter for iron. Only the abstract was read. Funding and conflicts: Author declares no conflicts of interest. Read: abstract |
| Rahman 2023 Exploring therapeutic potential of Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz leaf and bark focusing on antioxidant, antithrombotic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antidiarrheal properties. Health Sci Rep · PMID 37885464 · DOI |
Lab and animal study animal+in-vitro |
Test tubes, red blood cells and mice | Methanol extracts of leaf and bark (and solvent fractions) leaf, bark Not given here Not given here · vs Aspirin (membrane test); control groups in mice |
All extracts scavenged free radicals in the test tube. Both extracts reduced pain responses in mice (p<0.001) and bark extract (both doses) and leaf extract (higher dose) reduced diarrhoea in mice. Acute toxicity: LD50 above 5000 mg/kg in mice. Antioxidant IC50 6.11 to 20.79 ug/mL (test tube); clot lysis 41.24% (leaf aqueous) and 44.90% (bark); membrane protection 43.16% and 45.37% Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Free-radical scavenging, clot lysis, membrane protection, pain and diarrhoea tests in mice, acute toxicity Limitations: Leaf and bark, not the flower. Mice and test tubes only. Animal safety figures do not give a safe amount for people. Only the abstract was read. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no conflict of interest. Read: abstract |
| Randive 2016 Preparation of Arjunariṣṭa Using Microbes Isolated from Woodfordia fruticosa Flowers (Dhayati). Anc Sci Life · PMID 28182028 · DOI |
Lab study in-vitro |
Arjunarishta prepared in the lab | Microbes isolated from dhataki flowers added to the arishta ingredients flower (microbes) Not given here Not given here · vs Traditional preparation method |
The authors report the new method gave about the same alcohol content as traditional methods, which they say vary, and was more uniform. Not given as numbers in the abstract Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Alcohol content, total phenols, solids, chromatography Limitations: Lab preparation by the authors, not a commercial product. Only the abstract was read. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no conflicts of interest. Read: abstract |
| Sujanamulk 2020 Comparison of antifungal efficacy of ethanolic extracts of Woodfordia fruticosa leaf and Punica granatum peel in uncontrolled diabetic patients wearing removable dentures: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Curr Med Mycol · PMID 33834138 · DOI |
Controlled trial |
100 100 people with uncontrolled diabetes who wear removable dentures |
Ethanolic leaf extract mouthwash (Group II) versus pomegranate peel mouthwash (Group I) leaf Not given here Not given here · vs Pomegranate peel mouthwash; saline at baseline |
The authors report a drastic fall in Candida colony counts at 1 hour and 1 week after the Woodfordia leaf mouthwash and conclude it may help oral candidiasis. Not given as numbers in the abstract Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Candida colony counts (CFU) at baseline, 1 hour and 1 week Limitations: Swished mouthwash, not swallowed; leaf, not flower. No placebo group (saline at baseline only). The abstract does not report how the two mouthwashes compared. Same dental institute as the 2023 trial. Only the abstract was read. Funding and conflicts: Not stated in the abstract. Read: abstract |
| Tayab 2021 Antioxidant-Rich Woodfordia fruticosa Leaf Extract Alleviates Depressive-Like Behaviors and Impede Hyperglycemia. Plants (Basel) · PMID 33546288 · DOI |
Lab and animal study animal+in-vitro |
Test tubes, mice, and computer models | Methanol leaf extract and ethyl acetate and hexane fractions leaf Not given here Not given here · vs Control and positive control (acarbose in the enzyme test) |
Extracts were antioxidant; the hexane fraction blocked alpha-amylase (a starch-digesting enzyme) about as well as acarbose in the test tube; two fractions reduced depressive-like behaviour in mice. Not given as numbers in the abstract Methods, limits and fundingOutcomes: Antioxidant assays, alpha-amylase blocking, mouse swim and tail-suspension tests, computer docking Limitations: Leaf, not the flower. Test tubes, mice and computer models. A mouse swim test is a weak model of human depression. Only the abstract was read. Funding and conflicts: Authors declare no conflict of interest. Read: abstract |
| s-books-livertox NCBI Bookshelf search for 'woodfordia' (covers LiverTox) · Source |
Database search n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: search-result | ||
| s-gbif-lythrum GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Lythrum fruticosum L. (usageKey 3988972) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-gbif-wf GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz (usageKey 5635525) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text | ||
| s-pubchem-wf PubChem name lookups: gallic acid (CID 370), quercetin (5280343), kaempferol (5280863), oenothein C (9962370), woodfordin C (16131173) · Source |
Reference database n/a |
Methods, limits and fundingRead: full-text |
What we do not know yet
- No trial of dhataki flower in people for any use.
- No human safety, pregnancy, liver or interaction data.
- Actual alcohol content of dhataki-fermented tonics was not found.
- Regulator documents (EMA, NCCIH, LactMed, LiverTox) were not read.
How new research is added
New studies are found by a saved PubMed search and placed in a review queue. A person reads each one before it changes any rating or safety wording.
Lab markers
What changed in blood or saliva tests during trials. A changed number is not the same as feeling or being healthier, and we give no "normal ranges".
Safety
What studies and official sources say about side effects, medicines and who should check first. Each point shows what kind of evidence it comes from.
Main points to know 4
- Fermented tonics (asavas and arishtas) contain alcohol. Dhataki flowers are added to start fermentation, and flowers raised alcohol in a 1993 model of an Ayurvedic tonic. A study of 20 shop-bought fermented Ayurvedic formulations found their ethanol content differed significantly between products and called quality control poor. The abstracts do not give percentages. If you avoid alcohol, are pregnant, breastfeeding, driving, recovering from alcohol problems, or take medicines that react with alcohol, ask a pharmacist about any fermented tonic. Alcohol also increases iron uptake. Lab study 6 8 9
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: no safety data. Dhataki is used traditionally for uterine and menstrual complaints, and we found no pregnancy or breastfeeding safety data. Because it acts on the uterus in tradition, and fermented tonics contain alcohol, avoid it unless an obstetrician or midwife agrees. This is a precaution, not a finding from an agency. Insufficient 5 8
- Heavy bleeding needs medical care, not a herb. Heavy or long periods, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after menopause can have serious causes such as fibroids, hormone problems, clotting disorders or cancer. Dhataki is traditionally used for such bleeding, but nothing shows it works. Do not use it to delay seeing a doctor. Authoritative guidance 5 1
- No human safety studies for the flower. We found no human safety trial, no case report of harm and no regulator monograph. Rat studies of one research extract report no-effect levels, but these are animal numbers and not a safe amount for people. Insufficient 5 11 15
Side effects 2
| Effect | How often | Severity and recovery | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Constipation or stomach upset (theoretical, from the tannin content) The review says the plant is rich in tannins. Tannins can bind proteins and may cause constipation or nausea, but no study of dhataki reported this. Theory only. | Not established | mild Not reported | Pharmacological theory 4 |
| Effects of alcohol from fermented tonics Applies to asavas and arishtas, not to dried flower or capsules. | Not established | varies Ends when alcohol is cleared | Lab study 8 6 |
Liver
No human liver-injury case from dhataki was found, and a search of NCBI Bookshelf (which holds LiverTox) for 'woodfordia' found no entry. Rats given a paracetamol overdose had less liver damage with a flower extract, which says nothing about safety in people. 1 15
How often. No data.
Monitoring. No agency advice found. Stop and seek care for dark urine, yellow eyes or skin, or severe stomach pain.
This is a safety connection. It is not evidence that Dhataki supports liver health.
Medicines and supplements 5
| With | Why it matters | Importance | Evidence | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron supplements and iron-poor diets nutrient | Tannins and polyphenols in general are among the main inhibitors of iron uptake from food, per a 2020 review. Dhataki is tannin-rich, so it may do the same; this is not tested for dhataki. | Could matter for people with anaemia, heavy periods or low iron. No dhataki study exists. | Pharmacological theory Not enough evidence 4 10 | If you are anaemic or take iron, ask your doctor or pharmacist before using dhataki, and do not use it to treat heavy bleeding yourself. |
| Blood thinners (warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel, heparin) prescription | Theory only: leaf and bark extracts dissolved clots in a test tube. | No human data. Test-tube clot lysis may not apply in the body. | Laboratory research Not enough evidence 11 | Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any dhataki product, especially before surgery. |
| Diabetes medicines prescription | Theory only: a leaf fraction blocked a starch-digesting enzyme in a test tube. | No human data; leaf, not flower. | Laboratory research Not enough evidence 14 | Ask a pharmacist if you take diabetes medicine. |
| Alcohol-sensitive medicines (metronidazole, disulfiram, sedatives) prescription | Fermented tonics contain alcohol, which interacts with these medicines. This is a property of alcohol, not of dhataki. | Amount varies between products. | Authoritative guidance Low certainty 8 | Check the label and ask a pharmacist before using a fermented tonic. |
| Hormone medicines, contraceptives and fertility treatment prescription | Unknown. No source read tested hormone effects. | No data. | Insufficient Not enough evidence 5 | Tell your prescriber if you use dhataki for menstrual or fertility reasons. |
Who should check first 6
| Situation | Advice | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | Avoid unless a clinician agrees. No data; precaution only. | Insufficient 5 |
| Heavy or unexplained vaginal bleeding | See a doctor first; do not self-treat. | Authoritative guidance 5 |
| Anaemia or low iron | Ask a doctor first because tannins can reduce iron uptake (theory). | Pharmacological theory 10 |
| Avoiding alcohol (for health, religious or recovery reasons) when considering fermented tonics | Fermented tonics contain alcohol; choose a non-fermented form or ask a pharmacist. | Lab study 8 |
| Before surgery | Tell the surgical team; clot effects are untested in people. | Laboratory research 11 |
| Children | No data. Do not use without a clinician; fermented tonics also contain alcohol. | Insufficient |
Overdose, product quality and regulators
Summary. Rat studies report low toxicity, but no human toxicity data exist.
Animal. Mice: LD50 above 5000 mg/kg for methanol leaf and bark extracts (acute). Rats: a standardised flower extract was safe by mouth up to 2000 mg/kg as a single dose and had a no-effect level of 800 mg/kg in a 28-day study. These are animal figures and not safe human amounts.
Human doses studied. None for swallowed forms. Mouthwash trials used leaf extract rinses.
High dose or long term signals. None found.
Overdose response. Not covered. For suspected poisoning call poison control (US: 1-800-222-1222).
Genotoxicity. Not covered in the abstracts read.
Toxic plant parts. Not established for any part. Leaf and bark data are separate from flower data.
The documented quality issues are about fermented tonics, not contaminants. Heavy metals and pesticides in dhataki products were not studied in the sources read.
Variable alcohol content in fermented Ayurvedic products. A 2019 study of 20 over-the-counter formulations from three manufacturers found ethanol content differed significantly between products and concluded that manufacturers comply poorly with good manufacturing practice. Lab-made arishta using flower microbes was reported to be more uniform than traditional preparation. 8 12
Different species and plant parts. Most animal safety and activity data are for leaf or bark extracts, not the flower used in tradition. 11 4
Heavy metals, pesticides, adulteration. No testing was found.
| Body | Action | Date |
|---|
When to get medical help
- Heavy bleeding that soaks a pad or tampon every hour, dizziness or fainting: emergency care.
- Bleeding in pregnancy: contact your doctor or emergency services at once.
- Blood in diarrhoea, black stools, or diarrhoea with fever, dehydration or lasting more than two days: seek medical care.
- Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or severe stomach pain: stop and seek care.
- Swelling of the face or lips, hives or trouble breathing: emergency care (possible allergy).
Stop the supplement and contact a clinician or emergency service. In the US, Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.
General information only, not medical advice. Ask a clinician or pharmacist before use, especially with medicines, in pregnancy or with a health condition. See the Natural Remedy Safety guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is dhataki?
Does dhataki help heavy periods?
Why is dhataki in asavas and arishtas?
Do dhataki tonics contain alcohol?
Fermented tonics do. One study of 20 shop-bought products found the ethanol content varied between them. Check the label and ask a pharmacist.
Is dhataki safe in pregnancy?
Can it stop diarrhoea?
Leaf and bark extracts reduced diarrhoea in mice. No human study was found. Diarrhoea with blood, fever or lasting days needs medical care.
Does it protect the liver?
Can dhataki cause constipation or affect iron?
Does it interact with medicines?
Is there human research?
What is in dhataki?
How much should I take?
We do not give amounts because no trial supports one. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using it.
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Editorial transparency
- Written by
- AlternativeMed editorial team. Research compiled with AI assistance, then checked against PubMed records.
- Medical review
- None. This page has not been reviewed by a physician or pharmacist.
- First published
- 2026-10-25
- Last substantive update
- 2026-10-25
- How we research
- We read our existing herb summary, searched PubMed, read the abstract of each PubMed record cited, and checked names in GBIF and compounds in PubChem. Pages that could not be opened are marked not verified.
- How we rate evidence
- See "How we rate evidence" in the Evidence tab.
- Independence
- No product is promoted on this page. No affiliate links are shown.
Sources 18
Each source was opened and checked. Where we read only the abstract, it says so. The small numbers in the text point here.
- Baravalia Y, Chanda S. Protective effect of Woodfordia fruticosa flowers against acetaminophen-induced hepatic toxicity in rats.. Pharm Biol. 2011. PMID 21501038. DOI 10.3109/13880209.2010.550057. (abstract)
- Bhavana S, Nallamilli SM, Thippani M, et al.. Spectrophotometric Analysis and Determination of Anti-inflammatory Effect of Punica granatum and Woodfordia fruticosa in Subjects With Chronic Periodontitis - A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.. Cureus. 2023. PMID 38229772. DOI 10.7759/cureus.50654. (abstract)
- Chakraborty S, Sen S, Das A, Chakraborty R. Fermented Polyherbal Formulation Ameliorates the Severity of Acute Multiple Antibiotics-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa-Infected Burn Wound in a Rat Burn Model.. J Pathog. 2024. PMID 38783899. DOI 10.1155/2024/3601954. (abstract)
- Das PK, Goswami S, Chinniah A, et al.. Woodfordia fruticosa: traditional uses and recent findings.. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007. PMID 17276634. DOI 10.1016/j.jep.2006.12.029. (abstract)
- Khan IA, Singh A, Mindala DP, et al.. Preclinical development of gastro-protective botanical candidate from Woodfordia fruticosa (Linn.) Kurz: Chemical standardization, efficacy, pharmacokinetics and safety pharmacology.. J Ethnopharmacol. 2019. PMID 31195031. DOI 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112023. (abstract)
- Kroes BH, van den Berg AJ, Abeysekera AM, de Silva KT, Labadie RP. Fermentation in traditional medicine: the impact of Woodfordia fruticosa flowers on the immunomodulatory activity, and the alcohol and sugar contents of Nimba arishta.. J Ethnopharmacol. 1993. PMID 8133651. DOI 10.1016/0378-8741(93)90056-b. (abstract)
- Lee EB, Lee K. Woodfordia fruticosa fermented with lactic acid bacteria impact on foodborne pathogens adhesion and cytokine production in HT-29 cells.. Front Microbiol. 2024. PMID 38751719. DOI 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1346909. (abstract)
- Maithani M, Grover H, Raturi R, Gupta V, Bansal P. Ethanol content in traditionally fermented ayurvedic formulations: Compromised Good Manufacturing Practice regulations - compromised health.. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2019. PMID 30427752. DOI 10.1080/00952990.2018.1529181. (abstract)
- Manwar J, Mahadik K, Paradkar A, et al.. Isolation, biochemical and genetic characterizations of alcohol-producing yeasts from the flowers of Woodfordia fruticosa.. J Young Pharm. 2013. PMID 24563601. DOI 10.1016/j.jyp.2013.11.007. (abstract)
- Milman NT. A Review of Nutrients and Compounds, Which Promote or Inhibit Intestinal Iron Absorption.. J Nutr Metab. 2020. PMID 33005455. DOI 10.1155/2020/7373498. (abstract)
- Rahman MM, Soma MA, Sultana N, et al.. Exploring therapeutic potential of Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz leaf and bark focusing on antioxidant, antithrombotic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antidiarrheal properties.. Health Sci Rep. 2023. PMID 37885464. DOI 10.1002/hsr2.1654. (abstract)
- Randive DS, Sayyad SF, Bhinge SD, Bhutkar MA. Preparation of Arjunariṣṭa Using Microbes Isolated from Woodfordia fruticosa Flowers (Dhayati).. Anc Sci Life. 2016. PMID 28182028. DOI 10.4103/0257-7941.195405. (abstract)
- Sujanamulk B, Shyam Sunder S, Ratnakar Pawar B, et al.. Comparison of antifungal efficacy of ethanolic extracts of Woodfordia fruticosa leaf and Punica granatum peel in uncontrolled diabetic patients wearing removable dentures: A randomized controlled clinical trial.. Curr Med Mycol. 2020. PMID 33834138. DOI 10.18502/cmm.6.3.3983. (abstract)
- Tayab MA, Chowdhury KAA, Jabed M, et al.. Antioxidant-Rich Woodfordia fruticosa Leaf Extract Alleviates Depressive-Like Behaviors and Impede Hyperglycemia.. Plants (Basel). 2021. PMID 33546288. DOI 10.3390/plants10020287. (abstract)
- . NCBI Bookshelf search for 'woodfordia' (covers LiverTox). . . (search-result)
- . GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Lythrum fruticosum L. (usageKey 3988972). . . (full-text)
- . GBIF Backbone Taxonomy: Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz (usageKey 5635525). . . (full-text)
- . PubChem name lookups: gallic acid (CID 370), quercetin (5280343), kaempferol (5280863), oenothein C (9962370), woodfordin C (16131173). . . (full-text)