Mandevilla velutina (Mandevilla velutina): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

How does Mandevilla velutina work for pain and inflammation?

Mandevilla velutina contains active compounds such as velutinol and triterpenes, which are thought to modulate inflammatory pathways. Preclinical research suggests these constituents may inhibit pro-inflammatory mediators, contributing to the herb's analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties (Evidence Level C). Additionally, flavonoids and phenolic acids present in the plant provide antioxidant effects that support wound healing, though specific human clinical trials confirming these mechanisms are currently lacking.

Does Mandevilla velutina interact with any medications?

There is currently insufficient clinical data to confirm specific drug interactions for Mandevilla velutina. However, due to its traditional use as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory, there is a theoretical risk of additive effects if taken with NSAIDs or prescription painkillers. Patients taking immunosuppressants or anticoagulants should exercise caution. Always consult a healthcare provider before adding herbal supplements to a prescribed medication regimen.

What is the recommended dosage for Mandevilla velutina?

The traditional adult dosage for Mandevilla velutina is prepared as a tea using 5 to 10 grams of dried plant material per cup. This infusion is typically taken twice daily to address pain and inflammation. Because standardized clinical trials are not available (Evidence Level C), users should strictly adhere to traditional preparation guidelines and avoid exceeding the recommended amounts to prevent adverse gastrointestinal reactions.

Is Mandevilla velutina safe to use during pregnancy?

No, Mandevilla velutina is contraindicated during pregnancy and is considered unsafe for pregnant women. The presence of active triterpenes like velutinol may stimulate uterine contractions or cause toxicity. Breastfeeding women should also avoid this herb due to a lack of safety data. It is vital to seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional before using this or any herbal remedy during pregnancy.

What are the side effects of Mandevilla velutina?

Based on traditional use, Mandevilla velutina is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal effects, including nausea or stomach discomfort. These side effects are usually dose-dependent. Since the evidence level is C, comprehensive safety profiles are limited. Users should discontinue use if gastrointestinal symptoms persist or worsen and consult a medical professional.

PubMed-compiled information sheet

This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.

Compiled from 23 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b

Summary

Mandevilla velutina is a Brazilian medicinal plant native to the Cerrado region, recognized for its anti-inflammatory and bradykinin-antagonizing properties [PMID: 39461387, PMID: 4041675].

Background

Mandevilla velutina (Apocynaceae), also known as 'infalível' and 'jalapa', is a plant native to the Brazilian Savannah (Cerrado) [PMID: 14644557, PMID: 39461387].

Traditional uses

The underground organ (xylopodium) is traditionally prepared as an infusion or ethanolic extract to treat snake venom and infections by Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas' disease) [PMID: 39461387].

Active compounds

Active principles include velutinol A (a pregnane compound) and other non-peptide compounds identified as MV8608, MV8609, MV8610, MV8611, and MV8612 [PMID: 16764951, PMID: 3207977, PMID: 16494941].

Mechanism of action

The plant contains selective bradykinin (BK) antagonists that inhibit BK-induced contractions in various tissues [PMID: 4041675, PMID: 3410281]. Velutinol A specifically demonstrates selective inhibition of kinin B1 receptor-mediated responses [PMID: 16764951].

Clinical evidence

Evidence DSnakebite/Venom

Small molecular weight compounds and crude aqueous extracts from the subterranean system inhibit the phospholipase activity and myotoxic activity of Crotalus durissus terrificus venom [PMID: 1842000, PMID: 14644557]

Evidence DInflammation/Edema

Crude extract (50-200 mg/kg) inhibits bradykinin and cellulose sulphate-induced rat paw oedema and pleural exudate [PMID: 1719783]

Evidence DPain/Nociception

Velutinol A practically abolished nociceptive effects caused by phorbol myristate acetate and partially inhibited capsaicin-induced responses [PMID: 16494941]; compound MV8612 inhibited thermal hyperalgesia caused by bradykinin and formalin-induced pain [PMID: 12531494]

Evidence summary

The evidence consists primarily of pre-clinical in vitro and in vivo animal studies (Level D), demonstrating significant bradykinin antagonism and anti-inflammatory activity.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 1842000 (1991) — Plants against snake-bites. · Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
2.PMID: 3742164 (1986) — Effect of a crude extract of Mandevilla velutina on contractions induced by bradykinin and [des-Arg9]-bradykinin in isolated vessels of the rabbit. · British journal of pharmacology
3.PMID: 14644557 (2003) — Inhibition of enzymatic and pharmacological activities of some snake venoms and toxins by Mandevilla velutina (Apocynaceae) aqueous extract. · Biochimie
4.PMID: 1719783 (1991) — Inhibition of rat paw oedema and pleurisy by the extract from Mandevilla velutina. · Agents and actions
5.PMID: 39461387 (2025) — Antioxidant and anti-glycation activities of Mandevilla velutina extract and effect on parasitemia levels in Trypanosoma cruzi experimental infection: In vivo, in vitro and in silico approaches.

Mandevilla velutina

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Mandevilla velutina

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Frequently asked questions

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources

Mandevilla velutina

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Mandevilla velutina

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Andiroba

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Frequently asked questions

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources