Ailanthus altissima is a fast-growing tree, also known as tree-of-heaven or Chinese sumac. Its  bark and leaves are used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat colds and gastric diseases. Extracts of Ailanthus altissima, have demonstrated anti-proliferative and CNS- depressant activities. Among the bioactives identified are quassinoids (notably, ailanthone), which have anti-tumor, anti-viral, antimalarial, insecticidal and anti-inflammatory activities. Ailanthus is distinguished by the presence of quassinoids, particularly ailanthone, which is believed responsible for some of the therapeutic bioactivities.