Ailanthis Altissima Extract
Also known as: Tree of Heaven extract, Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle extract, Ailanthus altissima extract
Overview
Ailanthus altissima extract is derived primarily from the bark of the 'Tree of Heaven' plant and is recognized for its content of bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids and phenols. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, current research is exploring its potential neuroprotective, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. While preclinical studies show promise, particularly in animal models for anxiety and memory improvement, and in vitro for anticancer effects, human research is very limited. There are no comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses confirming its efficacy or safety as a dietary supplement in humans. The extract is also noted for its allergenic potential, with a significant percentage of individuals showing IgE sensitization to its pollen.
Benefits
Research on *Ailanthus altissima* extract suggests several potential benefits, though evidence is largely preclinical. In a controlled animal study, chronic supplementation with *Ailanthus altissima* bark extract demonstrated neuroprotective effects, reducing anxiety and improving memory in rats. This was supported by biochemical markers showing decreased oxidative stress (malondialdehyde) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, alongside increased antioxidant enzymes. This suggests a potential role in cognitive health, though human data is absent. Furthermore, ailanthone, a compound isolated from *Ailanthus altissima*, has shown anticancer potential by inhibiting gastric cancer cell growth in both in vitro and in vivo models. This indicates a possible therapeutic application, but these findings are strictly preclinical and have not been validated in human clinical trials. It's important to note that approximately 42% of tested patients have shown IgE sensitization to *Ailanthus altissima* pollen, indicating a risk of allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, which is a significant safety consideration rather than a benefit.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for *Ailanthus altissima* extract is attributed to its antioxidant properties, largely due to its flavonoid and phenol content. These compounds scavenge free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress, particularly in neural tissues. This reduction in oxidative stress is believed to contribute to its observed neuroprotective effects, including improvements in memory and anxiety in animal models. Additionally, the extract has been shown to modulate acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, which could enhance cholinergic neurotransmission, a key process for cognitive functions. In the context of its anticancer potential, ailanthone, a specific compound from the plant, is thought to inhibit tumor cell proliferation pathways in gastric cancer models, although the precise molecular targets and detailed mechanisms require further investigation.
Side effects
Comprehensive human safety data for *Ailanthus altissima* extract is currently lacking, as most studies are preclinical. While animal studies have generally suggested a favorable safety profile at tested doses, these findings do not directly translate to human use. A significant concern is the allergenic potential of the plant; observational studies indicate that approximately 42% of individuals tested show IgE sensitization to *Ailanthus altissima* pollen. This suggests a risk of allergic reactions, which could range from mild symptoms to more severe responses in sensitive individuals. As there are no documented clinical trials in humans, specific drug interactions or contraindications have not been established. The long-term safety of *Ailanthus altissima* extract supplementation in humans remains unestablished, and caution is advised due to the limited human data and known allergenic properties.
Dosage
There are no established dosing guidelines for *Ailanthus altissima* extract in humans, as clinical trials to determine efficacy and safety have not been conducted. While animal studies have utilized chronic supplementation, the specific doses used in these models are not standardized or directly translatable for human consumption. The phytochemical content and bioavailability of the extract can vary significantly depending on the extraction methods employed, further complicating any attempt to infer human dosages from preclinical data. Without human clinical trials, any recommended dosage would be speculative and potentially unsafe. Therefore, it is currently not possible to provide specific dosage ranges, timing considerations, or upper limits for human use.
FAQs
Is Ailanthus altissima extract safe for human consumption?
Human safety data is very limited. While animal studies suggest a favorable profile, there's a known risk of allergic reactions due to pollen sensitization. More research is needed to confirm human safety.
Can Ailanthus altissima extract improve memory?
Animal studies indicate potential memory improvement and reduced anxiety, possibly due to antioxidant effects. However, these findings have not been replicated or confirmed in human studies.
Does Ailanthus altissima extract have anticancer properties?
Preclinical research shows that a compound from the extract, ailanthone, can inhibit gastric cancer cell growth in lab and animal models. This is not yet validated in human clinical trials.
What are the common side effects?
The most noted concern is its allergenic potential, with many individuals showing IgE sensitization to its pollen. Other side effects in humans are not well-documented due to lack of clinical trials.
What is the recommended dosage?
There are no established dosing guidelines for humans. All current research is preclinical, and human clinical trials are needed to determine safe and effective dosages.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10023549/ – This animal study investigated the neuroprotective effects of Ailanthus altissima bark extract. It found that chronic supplementation reduced anxiety and improved memory in rats, correlating with decreased oxidative stress markers and modulated acetylcholinesterase activity. The study suggests potential for cognitive benefits but is limited to an animal model.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8326126/ – This preclinical study explored the anticancer potential of ailanthone, a compound from Ailanthus altissima. It demonstrated that ailanthone inhibited gastric cancer cell growth in both in vitro and in vivo models. The research highlights a promising therapeutic avenue but emphasizes the need for human clinical validation.
- https://www.dovepress.com/invasive-growth-of-ailanthus-altissima-trees-is-associated-with-a-high-peer-reviewed-fulltext-article-JAA – This observational study assessed the allergenicity of Ailanthus altissima pollen. It found that 42% of tested patients showed IgE sensitization, indicating a significant risk of allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. This highlights a crucial safety consideration for any potential human use of the plant or its extracts.