Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Atractylodes Extract

Also known as: Atractylodes macrocephala Koidz, Atractylodes lancea Thunb, Bai Zhu, Atractylodes Extract, Atractylodes macrocephala

Overview

Atractylodes extract is primarily derived from the rhizome of Atractylodes macrocephala, a plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is a key component in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is traditionally used to strengthen the spleen and stomach, resolve dampness, and regulate gastrointestinal function. The extract contains various bioactive compounds, including volatile oils, polysaccharides, and amino acids, which contribute to its pharmacological activities. Research indicates its utility as an adjuvant in cancer treatment, particularly for advanced gastric cancer, and for managing gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). While much of the research originates from Chinese clinical studies, there is a growing body of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses supporting its therapeutic applications.

Benefits

Atractylodes extract offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly in the realm of cancer adjunct therapy and gastrointestinal health. A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 RCTs involving over 2,000 advanced gastric cancer patients demonstrated that Atractylodes macrocephala-containing TCM, when combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC), significantly improved objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR). This combination also enhanced patients' quality of life (QOL) and reduced adverse drug reactions (ADRs) compared to NAC alone, with statistically significant effect sizes. For gastrointestinal health, a meta-analysis showed that an Atractylodes macrocephala-Paeonia lactiflora formula effectively treated irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), improving symptom scores and bowel function with a favorable safety profile. Preclinical studies further suggest benefits in metabolic and microbiota modulation; polysaccharides from Atractylodes macrocephala can regulate intestinal microbiota and improve gastrointestinal microecology, potentially alleviating symptoms related to mucosal gastric hyperplasia. Additionally, preliminary animal data on Atractylodes lancea and its constituent atractylodin indicate potential in reducing high-fat diet-induced obesity, fatty liver, and insulin resistance, suggesting broader metabolic benefits.

How it works

Atractylodes extract primarily exerts its effects by modulating gastrointestinal function, aligning with its traditional TCM use of strengthening spleen/stomach function. Its mechanism involves improving gut microbiota balance and exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties. At a molecular level, it modulates immune cells, such as peripheral blood lymphocytes in cancer patients, and regulates intestinal microbial populations. The extract also influences metabolic pathways related to lipid and glucose metabolism. Bioactive compounds like volatile oils and polysaccharides are key to these actions; polysaccharides may act locally within the gut, while volatile oils can be systemically absorbed. The overall effect is a comprehensive improvement in gut health and systemic metabolic regulation.

Side effects

Atractylodes extract is generally well-tolerated, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. The most commonly observed side effects are mild gastrointestinal discomfort, occurring in less than 5% of users. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been consistently reported in the reviewed clinical studies. Safety data predominantly stem from Chinese clinical trials, which have not identified any major safety signals or severe adverse events. While the overall safety profile appears favorable, users should always exercise caution when combining it with other medications, especially given the limited data on potential interactions outside of specific clinical contexts. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with pre-existing medical conditions, should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Dosage

Specific dosing for Atractylodes extract varies considerably depending on the formulation, the specific indication, and the individual's condition. In clinical trials for gastric cancer, Atractylodes macrocephala-containing formulas were used as adjuvants alongside chemotherapy, typically as standardized extracts or decoctions. While optimal doses are not universally established due to preparation variability, doses in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) ranged from 5 to 15 grams of raw herb equivalent per day. Standardized extract doses would be adjusted accordingly. The timing of administration is generally concurrent with chemotherapy or as prescribed for gastrointestinal disorders. Absorption may be influenced by co-administration with other herbs or food, and the metabolism of polysaccharides may rely on an intact gut microbiota. It is crucial to follow the guidance of a healthcare professional or the product's specific instructions, as self-dosing can be inaccurate.

FAQs

Is Atractylodes extract safe to use with chemotherapy?

Yes, current evidence, particularly from meta-analyses of clinical trials, suggests that Atractylodes extract can safely enhance chemotherapy efficacy and reduce side effects in advanced gastric cancer patients when used as an adjuvant.

How soon can benefits be expected?

For cancer adjunct therapy, clinical improvements are typically observed over several weeks to months, aligning with chemotherapy cycles. For gastrointestinal issues like IBS, symptom relief may become noticeable within a few weeks of consistent use.

Are there any known drug interactions?

No significant drug interactions have been widely reported in the reviewed clinical studies. However, as with any supplement, caution is advised when combining Atractylodes extract with other medications, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2024.1431381/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 32 RCTs (n=2157) found that Atractylodes macrocephala-containing TCM combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy significantly improved objective response rate, disease control rate, and quality of life, while reducing adverse drug reactions in advanced gastric cancer patients. The study highlights the potential of Atractylodes as an effective adjunctive therapy.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11521787/ – This source provides further details on the Niu et al., 2024 meta-analysis, confirming the significant benefits of Atractylodes macrocephala in combination with neoadjuvant chemotherapy for advanced gastric cancer, including improved efficacy and reduced side effects. It supports the findings of the primary publication.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2022.1102605/full – This experimental animal study demonstrated that Atractylodes macrocephala polysaccharides modulated gut microbiota composition, improved intestinal microecology, and alleviated symptoms in rats with mucosal gastric hyperplasia. The findings suggest a role for Atractylodes in gut health and metabolic regulation through microbiota modulation.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10769129/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on an Atractylodes macrocephala-Paeonia lactiflora formula for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It concluded that the formula effectively improved IBS symptoms and bowel function with a favorable safety profile, indicating its potential for managing gastrointestinal disorders.
https://www.biomolther.org/view.html?uid=1574&vmd=Full – This experimental animal study investigated Atractylodes lancea and its constituent atractylodin. It found that atractylodin reduced high-fat diet-induced obesity, fatty liver, and insulin resistance in mice, suggesting potential metabolic benefits and a role in addressing metabolic syndrome.