Agave Tequilana Stem Extract
Also known as: Agave tequilana Weber var. azul, Blue agave, Agave tequilana, Agave tequilana stem extract
Overview
Agave tequilana stem extract is derived from the blue agave plant, renowned for its use in tequila and agave syrup production. This extract contains bioactive compounds such as saponins, phytosterols, and fatty acid derivatives. It is incorporated into dietary supplements for its potential anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and cardiovascular benefits. While research is emerging, preclinical and limited clinical studies suggest potential health effects. However, comprehensive systematic reviews and meta-analyses specifically focusing on the stem extract as a supplement are currently limited. The extract is available in various forms, including powders and liquid extracts, and is sourced directly from the agave plant's stem.
Benefits
Agave tequilana stem extract may offer several potential health benefits, primarily supported by preclinical studies: * **Cardiovascular Health:** Animal studies suggest that an aqueous extract of Agave tequilana can counteract chronic hypertension and improve endothelial function. These studies have shown reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in kidney tissue, which are implicated in hypertension pathophysiology. The strength of this evidence is moderate, based on animal models. * **Anti-inflammatory and Immunomodulatory Effects:** In murine models of systemic lupus erythematosus, A. tequilana extract reduced articular inflammation, proteinuria, and autoantibody titers. It also modulated cytokine profiles by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10). The strength of this evidence is moderate, based on animal models. * **Metabolic and Nutritional Profile:** Agave syrup, derived from A. tequilana, contains a high fructose content (~88%) and is a source of minerals, vitamins, and polyphenols. This suggests potential as a natural sweetener with nutritional benefits compared to traditional sugars, although human metabolic effects require further study. The strength of this evidence is low, based on compositional analysis and preliminary observations.
How it works
Agave tequilana stem extract's bioactive compounds, including β-sitosterol glycoside, phytol, and saponins, appear to modulate inflammatory pathways. This modulation may involve NF-κB inhibition, leading to decreased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The antihypertensive effects are likely mediated through improved endothelial function and a reduction of inflammatory mediators in vascular and renal tissues. The high fructose content in agave syrup influences carbohydrate metabolism, but its overall health impact is still under investigation.
Side effects
Limited human safety data are available specifically for Agave tequilana stem extract from high-quality clinical trials. Traditional use and animal studies suggest low toxicity at studied doses (e.g., 50 mg/kg in mice). However, human tolerability, side effects, and potential interactions remain to be fully characterized. Given the fructose content in agave syrup, excessive consumption could pose metabolic risks similar to other high-fructose sweeteners, including insulin resistance and increased triglyceride levels. Individuals with fructose malabsorption or diabetes should exercise caution. Drug interactions are not well-documented, but caution is advised when combining with anti-inflammatory or antihypertensive medications. There is a lack of data on safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so use should be avoided.
Dosage
Due to the lack of clinical trials meeting rigorous criteria, no established human dosing guidelines exist for Agave tequilana stem extract. Preclinical studies used doses around 50 mg/kg in animal models for anti-inflammatory and antihypertensive effects. Further research is needed to determine minimum effective and safe doses in humans. Until more data are available, it is not possible to recommend a specific dosage. Individuals considering using this extract should consult with a healthcare professional.
FAQs
Is Agave tequilana stem extract effective for hypertension?
Animal studies suggest potential benefits for hypertension, but human clinical evidence is lacking. More research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Is it safe to consume agave syrup as a sweetener?
Agave syrup is generally recognized as safe in moderate amounts. However, its high fructose content warrants caution, especially for individuals with metabolic disorders or fructose malabsorption.
Does it have anti-inflammatory properties?
Preclinical data support immunomodulatory effects of Agave tequilana stem extract, but human data are insufficient to confirm these properties. More research is needed.
Are there any known side effects?
Limited human data are available. Potential side effects may be related to the high fructose content if consumed as agave syrup, but specific risks from the extract alone are not well-defined.
Research Sources
- https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/10.1094/PBIOMES-01-23-0001-R – This systematic review focuses on the interactions between agave production residues and soil health. It does not directly address the human health effects of Agave tequilana extract, making its relevance to supplement efficacy limited. The review provides insights into the environmental aspects of agave cultivation rather than its medicinal properties.
- https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/abs/10.1089/jmf.2021.0044 – This preclinical study demonstrates that aqueous and methanolic extracts of A. tequilana reduced systemic arterial hypertension and kidney inflammation in mice. The mechanism involves lowering IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, suggesting improved endothelial function and cytokine modulation. These findings support the potential of A. tequilana extract as a therapeutic agent for hypertension and inflammation.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9460694/ – This review highlights the presence of bioactive compounds in Agave species, including A. tequilana, with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects in animal models of autoimmune disease. The findings support potential therapeutic applications of these compounds in managing autoimmune conditions. The review emphasizes the need for further research to validate these effects in humans.
- https://scijournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bbb.2625?af=R – This article focuses on the impact of agave plants on soil and plant interactions. It does not provide information on the health benefits or side effects of Agave tequilana stem extract in humans. Therefore, its relevance to the supplement's efficacy and safety is limited.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9222424/ – This study investigates the neuroinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of various compounds, including those found in Agave species. It provides evidence for the potential of Agave tequilana to modulate immune responses and reduce inflammation in the context of neurological disorders. The research suggests a promising avenue for further exploration of agave-derived compounds in therapeutic applications.