Ampelopsis grossedentata
Also known as: Vine tea, Mao Teng tea, Ampelopsis grossedentata
Overview
Ampelopsis grossedentata, commonly known as vine tea or Mao Teng tea, is a plant native to China traditionally consumed for its health benefits. It is categorized as a herbal supplement and a flavonoid-rich botanical extract. The plant is particularly abundant in flavonoids, with dihydromyricetin (ampelopsin) being a key bioactive compound. Research indicates its primary uses are for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential metabolic health-improving properties. While traditional use is extensive, scientific research is emerging, focusing on its phytochemistry and biological effects. Current evidence largely stems from animal studies and in vitro assays, with human clinical trials remaining limited, necessitating further investigation to fully validate its therapeutic potential and establish standardized usage guidelines.
Benefits
Ampelopsis grossedentata exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily driven by its rich flavonoid content: * **Antioxidant Activity:** It demonstrates strong antioxidant effects, effectively scavenging free radicals. In vitro studies show significant free radical scavenging activity (e.g., DPPH assay IC50 ~15.35 µg/ml) and protection against lipid and protein oxidation in food models. This suggests its potential in combating oxidative stress in biological systems. * **Improved Growth Performance and Metabolism (Preclinical):** A randomized controlled trial in goats (n=24) showed that supplementation with Ampelopsis grossedentata flavonoids (AGF) significantly improved rumen microbial diversity, increased beneficial bacteria (Prevotella_1), enhanced plasma lipid profiles (higher HDL, lower LDL), and improved growth rates and feed efficiency compared to controls (p < 0.05). This indicates a potential role in metabolic regulation and nutrient utilization. * **Potential Human Benefits (Emerging Evidence):** While clinical data in humans are sparse, traditional use suggests benefits for metabolic disorders. Emerging preclinical evidence points towards anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects. However, these potential human benefits require substantial validation through rigorous clinical trials.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Ampelopsis grossedentata revolves around its rich content of flavonoids, particularly dihydromyricetin. These compounds exert their effects primarily through potent antioxidant activity, directly scavenging free radicals and modulating various oxidative stress pathways within the body. Additionally, studies in animal models suggest that these flavonoids can positively influence gut microbiota composition, which in turn contributes to improved metabolic health and potentially modulates immune function. At a molecular level, the active compounds are believed to interact with enzymes involved in oxidative stress and inflammatory signaling pathways. While the exact human molecular pharmacology is still under investigation, the bioavailability of these flavonoids is considered moderate, as they undergo metabolism in the gut and liver, influencing their systemic exposure and efficacy.
Side effects
Currently, no significant safety concerns or common side effects have been well-documented for Ampelopsis grossedentata in human clinical trials due to the limited research in this area. Animal studies conducted at tested doses have not reported adverse effects. However, the absence of reported side effects does not equate to guaranteed safety, especially given the lack of extensive human data. No major drug interactions or contraindications have been definitively established. Nevertheless, caution is strongly advised, particularly for individuals on medication or with pre-existing health conditions, until more comprehensive human safety data become available. As with any supplement, individuals may experience idiosyncratic reactions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and young children should avoid use due to insufficient safety information.
Dosage
Human dosing guidelines for Ampelopsis grossedentata are not well-established due to the limited number of clinical trials. Traditional consumption as a tea varies widely, making it difficult to ascertain a standardized dose. Animal studies have utilized doses around 1.0 g/kg of flavonoid extract in feed, but these findings cannot be directly extrapolated to human dosage. There is no consensus on optimal dosing, timing, or formulation for specific health benefits in humans. Therefore, an upper limit or safety threshold for human consumption has not been defined. Further rigorous clinical research is essential to determine effective and safe dosage ranges, optimal timing, and suitable formulations for human use.
FAQs
Is Ampelopsis grossedentata safe?
Animal studies suggest safety at tested doses. Human safety data are limited, but no adverse effects have been widely reported with traditional use. More research is needed to confirm long-term human safety.
What benefits can be expected from Ampelopsis grossedentata?
Current evidence, primarily from preclinical studies, most strongly supports antioxidant and metabolic benefits. Potential anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects are also being investigated.
How should Ampelopsis grossedentata be taken?
Traditionally, it is consumed as a tea. In research, extracts are used. However, there is no standardized dosage or recommended method of intake for human supplementation due to limited clinical data.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10417322/ – This randomized controlled animal trial investigated the effects of Ampelopsis grossedentata flavonoids (AGF) on goats. It found that AGF supplementation significantly improved rumen microbial diversity, enhanced plasma lipid profiles (higher HDL, lower LDL), and led to better growth rates and feed efficiency, suggesting a positive impact on metabolism and gut health in livestock.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/fsn3.1013 – This experimental study focused on the antioxidant properties of vine tea extract. It demonstrated strong antioxidant activity in vitro, showing significant free radical scavenging capabilities. The study also found that the extract effectively reduced lipid and protein oxidation in food models, highlighting its potential as a natural antioxidant.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37343650/ – This systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of Ampelopsis grossedentata, summarizing its ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacology. It highlights the plant's rich bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids, and discusses its potential therapeutic uses, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic benefits, while noting the need for more human clinical trials.