Ayuric Terminalia Bellerica Extract
Also known as: Terminalia bellerica (Gaertn.) Roxb., Belleric myrobalan, Bahera, Ayuric Terminalia Bellerica Extract, Terminalia bellerica
Overview
Terminalia bellerica, also known as Belleric myrobalan or Bahera, is a plant species native to Central and Southeast Asia. Its fruit has been used in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurvedic systems, for centuries. The fruit contains bioactive phytochemicals such as gallic acid, tannins, flavonoids, and other polyphenolic compounds, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Traditionally, it has been used to treat conditions like hypertension, diabetes, anemia, asthma, and inflammatory diseases. Research on Terminalia bellerica includes preclinical and some clinical studies, but more comprehensive clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. The available evidence is primarily based on in vitro and in vivo studies, highlighting the need for more human-based research.
Benefits
Terminalia bellerica extract has demonstrated several potential health benefits in preclinical studies. It exhibits antihypertensive effects, potentially through a calcium channel blocking mechanism, similar to verapamil. Studies have shown that the extract can lower blood pressure in isolated rabbit aortic ring preparations. Additionally, it has shown antidiabetic effects by reducing serum glucose levels in diabetic rats and enhancing adipocyte differentiation, which may help in managing metabolic disorders. Gallic acid, a component of Terminalia bellerica, has been shown to enhance the expression and secretion of adiponectin and fatty acid binding protein-4. The extract also possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, and renoprotective activities due to its bioactive phytochemicals. These effects suggest potential benefits for individuals with metabolic syndrome.
How it works
Terminalia bellerica exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its antihypertensive properties are attributed to its action as a calcium channel blocker, inhibiting calcium influx and reducing blood pressure. In the metabolic system, it enhances adipocyte differentiation and increases the expression of adiponectin and fatty acid binding protein-4, which are involved in metabolic regulation. Gallic acid, a key component, plays a role in these metabolic processes. The extract interacts with the cardiovascular system by modulating calcium channels and with the metabolic system by influencing adipocyte function and insulin sensitivity. However, the absorption and bioavailability of Terminalia bellerica extract and its components are not well-studied.
Side effects
While Terminalia bellerica is generally considered safe based on traditional use, comprehensive safety data from clinical trials are lacking. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not well-documented in the available literature. Potential drug interactions may occur with calcium channel blockers and other cardiovascular medications due to its calcium channel blocking activity. Caution should be exercised in patients with cardiovascular conditions or those taking medications that interact with calcium channels. Due to insufficient data, its use is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or children. More extensive research is needed to fully characterize the safety profile and potential adverse effects of Terminalia bellerica.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose of Terminalia bellerica are not well-established in human studies. Preclinical studies have used various concentrations of the extract, but human dosage ranges are not clearly defined. There is no specific guidance on the timing and administration of Terminalia bellerica extract. The extract can be administered in various forms, including aqueous-methanolic extracts, but the optimal form is not well-defined. Absorption factors and required cofactors are not well-studied in the available literature. Given the lack of comprehensive data, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using Terminalia bellerica.
FAQs
Is Terminalia bellerica safe?
While traditionally used and considered safe, comprehensive safety data from clinical trials are lacking. Caution should be exercised in patients with cardiovascular conditions or those taking medications that interact with calcium channels.
When and how should I take Terminalia bellerica?
There is no specific guidance on the timing and administration of Terminalia bellerica extract. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
What are the expected benefits of Terminalia bellerica?
Potential benefits include reduced blood pressure, improved metabolic parameters, and antioxidant effects, but these need to be confirmed in comprehensive clinical trials.
Can Terminalia bellerica replace standard medical treatment?
No, it is not a substitute for standard medical treatment and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Are there any risks associated with taking Terminalia bellerica?
Potential risks include interactions with cardiovascular medications and a lack of comprehensive safety data. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27374289/ – This in vitro study using mouse 3T3-L1 cells found that gallic acid, a component of Terminalia bellerica, enhanced adipocyte differentiation and increased the expression of adiponectin and fatty acid binding protein-4. The study provides mechanistic insights into the metabolic effects of Terminalia bellerica, suggesting potential benefits for metabolic syndrome.
- https://www.jfda-online.com/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2355&context=journal – This preclinical study using isolated rabbit aortic ring preparations demonstrated that the crude extract of Terminalia bellerica lowered blood pressure through a calcium channel blocking mechanism. The findings suggest that Terminalia bellerica may have antihypertensive effects, similar to verapamil, a standard calcium channel blocker.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32781393/ – This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the traditional medicinal use, phytoconstituents, and pharmacological activities of Terminalia bellerica. It highlights various biological and pharmacological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic activities, supporting its traditional uses.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23850833/ – This study investigates the protective effect of Terminalia bellerica fruit extract against streptozotocin-induced oxidative stress and beta-cell damage in diabetic rats. The results suggest that the extract has potential as an antidiabetic agent by reducing oxidative stress and protecting pancreatic beta-cells.
- https://www.jmb.or.kr/journal/view.html?volume=33&number=11&spage=1467 – This study explores the effects of Terminalia bellerica extract on the differentiation of preadipocytes into adipocytes. The findings indicate that the extract promotes adipocyte differentiation and increases the expression of adiponectin, suggesting a potential role in regulating metabolic processes.
