Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Uhaloa leaf (Waltheria indica) contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and triterpenoids that modulate calcium and potassium channels, particularly ATP-sensitive K+ channels. Animal studies demonstrate bronchorelaxant effects with an EC50 of 0.191 mg/mL against acetylcholine-induced contractions.
CategoryLeaf & Herb
GroupLeaf/Green
Evidence LevelStrong
Primary Keyworduhaloa leaf benefits
Synergy Pairings4
Health Benefits
Reduces inflammation by modulating cytokine expression
Alleviates bronchial conditions, supporting respiratory health
Provides analgesic effects, particularly in soothing sore throats and reducing pain.
Modulates immune responses, contributing to overall immune balance
Supports gut health by soothing the gastrointestinal tract
Promotes skin healing through its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
May aid in treating conditions like asthma and arthritis
Origin & History
Uhaloa Leaf is derived from *Waltheria indica*, a plant indigenous to the tropical islands of the Pacific, particularly Hawai‘i, Polynesia, and Micronesia. Thriving in diverse habitats, it is valued in functional nutrition for its potent anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and respiratory-supporting properties.
“Uhaloa (*Waltheria indica*) has been integral to traditional Hawaiian and Pacific Island medicine (*la‘au lapa‘au*) for centuries, revered as a healer of voice, breath, and spirit. Traditionally, the root bark was chewed for sore throats, and decoctions from various plant parts were used to treat asthma, bronchial infections, and for emotional renewal.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Preclinical studies, including in vitro and animal models, support *Waltheria indica*'s anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties, attributed to its alkaloid and flavonoid content. Research indicates potential in modulating cytokine expression and alleviating respiratory conditions, validating its traditional uses in Hawaiian medicine.
Preparation & Dosage
Common forms
Dried leaves for tea, root bark, fresh plant parts, tinctures, salves, lozenges.
For tea
Infuse 1–2 teaspoons of dried leaf per cup of hot water for 10–12 minutes.
For tincture
10–20 drops, 1–3 times daily.
Other applications
Chewed fresh for sore throat, applied as warm compress, used in steam therapies.
Dosage
Consult with a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider for appropriate usage, especially for root decoctions.
Nutritional Profile
- Trace minerals (Calcium, Magnesium, Iron)
- Alkaloids, Flavonoids (quercetin), Tannins, Saponins, Phenolic acids, Mucilage
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Uhaloa's bioactive compounds including alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and triterpenoids modulate calcium and potassium channels, specifically targeting ATP-sensitive K+ channels. This mechanism is evidenced by glibenclamide inhibition studies showing hydroalcoholic extract EC50 values of 0.191 ± 0.002 mg/mL. The ion channel modulation contributes to bronchorelaxant effects and supports traditional respiratory applications.
Clinical Evidence
Clinical evidence for Uhaloa remains limited to preclinical studies with no human clinical trials reported. One pharmacological study on rat tracheal preparations demonstrated bronchorelaxant effects against acetylcholine (10⁻⁵ M) and KCl (6 × 10⁻² M) induced contractions. Acute toxicity testing in mice at 5000 mg/kg body weight showed no deaths or behavioral changes, indicating low acute toxicity. Additional research is needed to validate traditional uses and establish clinical efficacy in humans.
Safety & Interactions
Acute toxicity studies in mice at 5000 mg/kg body weight showed no deaths or significant behavioral changes, suggesting low acute toxicity potential. No documented drug interactions or contraindications are available in current literature. Traditional external use is noted as safe for circulation support in inflamed areas. Pregnant and nursing women should consult healthcare providers before use due to lack of safety data in these populations.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Polyphenol/antioxidant base
Immune & Inflammation | Gut & Microbiome
Also Known As
Waltheria indicaSterculia indicaHawaiian velvet leaf
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main active compounds in Uhaloa leaf?
Uhaloa leaf contains alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, triterpenoids, tannins, and coumarins as primary bioactive compounds. These compounds work synergistically to provide the plant's therapeutic effects through ion channel modulation.
How does Uhaloa help with respiratory conditions?
Uhaloa demonstrates bronchorelaxant effects by modulating ATP-sensitive potassium channels in airway smooth muscle. Animal studies show it can relax acetylcholine and potassium chloride-induced contractions with an EC50 of 0.191 mg/mL.
Is Uhaloa safe to use?
Acute toxicity studies in mice at 5000 mg/kg showed no deaths or behavioral changes, indicating low toxicity. However, human safety data is limited and no drug interactions have been formally studied.
What is the traditional Hawaiian use of Uhaloa?
Traditional Hawaiian medicine uses Uhaloa for sore throats, asthma, inflammation, and arthritis, typically prepared as teas from roots, leaves, or stems. It's also used externally for circulation support in inflamed areas.
Are there clinical trials for Uhaloa leaf?
No human clinical trials have been conducted on Uhaloa leaf to date. Current evidence is limited to preclinical animal studies and traditional use documentation from Hawaiian medicine practices.
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