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Boldo Extract

Also known as: Peumus boldus Mol., Boldo, Boldo leaf, Boldo folium, Peumus boldus

Overview

Boldo extract is derived from the leaves of *Peumus boldus*, a tree native to Chile. It has been traditionally used in folk medicine as a digestive aid and mild sedative. The extract contains bioactive compounds, including boldine, flavonoids, and essential oils. Boldo is commonly consumed as teas or standardized extracts. Research suggests antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, but clinical evidence for therapeutic claims remains limited. While preclinical studies show promise, high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews are needed to confirm its clinical efficacy. Boldo's effects are attributed to its bioactive components, particularly boldine, which exhibits antioxidant and potential hepatoprotective properties. However, caution is advised due to potential toxicity associated with essential oils, especially ascaridole. Further research is necessary to fully understand the benefits and risks associated with boldo extract.

Benefits

Boldo extract has traditionally been used as a digestive aid to alleviate indigestion and promote bile flow, although robust clinical data are limited. In vitro and animal studies have demonstrated significant antioxidant effects due to high levels of flavonoids and boldine. Some studies also indicate antimicrobial effects, particularly in food preservation contexts, but the clinical relevance of these findings is unclear. Preclinical studies have suggested anti-inflammatory and potential anticancer activities, but human data are currently lacking. Mild sedative effects have been reported anecdotally, but these effects have not been well quantified in clinical trials. Quantitative clinical effect sizes are not well established due to a lack of large, well-controlled RCTs.

How it works

Boldo extract's antioxidant activity is primarily attributed to the scavenging of free radicals by flavonoids and boldine. It may also modulate inflammatory pathways. The extract affects the digestive system by stimulating bile flow and has shown potential hepatoprotective effects in preclinical models. Boldine interacts with oxidative stress pathways. The essential oils contain ascaridole, a compound with known bioactivity but also toxicity concerns. Extraction methods, such as ultrasound-assisted extraction, can improve the yield and concentration of active compounds, potentially enhancing bioavailability.

Side effects

Boldo extract is generally considered safe in traditional doses, but concerns exist regarding hepatotoxicity, teratogenicity, and abortive effects based on preclinical data. Common side effects include occasional gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon side effects may include allergic reactions and mild sedation. Rare side effects, suggested by animal studies but not confirmed in humans, include hepatotoxicity and reproductive toxicity. Boldo extract may interact with hepatically metabolized drugs due to its effects on liver enzymes, so caution is advised. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential teratogenic and abortive effects. It should be avoided in pregnant women and possibly in those with liver disease.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of boldo extract is not well established due to a lack of clinical trials. Traditional use involves infusions or teas, while standardized extracts vary widely in dosage. The maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, and caution is advised due to toxicity concerns with essential oils, especially ascaridole. Boldo extract is typically taken before or after meals for digestive effects. Leaf extracts standardized for boldine content are preferred over essential oils due to toxicity concerns. The extraction method impacts concentration and bioavailability, with ultrasound-assisted extraction improving yield. There are no specifically identified required cofactors.

FAQs

Is boldo extract safe?

Generally safe in traditional doses, but avoid during pregnancy and with liver conditions due to potential toxicity observed in preclinical studies.

How quickly does it work?

Traditional use suggests digestive relief within hours, but clinical data supporting this timeline are lacking. More research is needed.

Can it be used long-term?

Long-term safety data are insufficient; caution is recommended. Consult a healthcare provider before using boldo extract long-term.

Does it interact with medications?

Possible interactions with liver-metabolized drugs; consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are taking other medications.

Is boldine the main active compound?

Boldine is a major bioactive alkaloid, but other flavonoids and compounds also contribute to the overall effects of the extract.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10170464/ – This systematic review of preclinical studies on Boldo species highlighted concerns about hepatotoxicity, teratogenicity, and abortive effects in animal models. The review included 16 studies and followed PRISMA guidelines, emphasizing the need for caution in systemic use and in vulnerable populations. The limitations include a lack of human clinical data.
https://rbpm.emnuvens.com.br/revista/article/view/128 – This meta-analysis examined plant essential oils and extracts, including boldo, for antimicrobial activity in food preservation. It found measurable microbial reduction rates but did not focus on clinical therapeutic use. The study included 38 articles with quantitative microbial reduction data.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23481637/ – This experimental study optimized ultrasound-assisted extraction of boldo leaves, demonstrating improved yield and antioxidant activity compared to conventional methods. This study supports better bioavailability of active compounds but does not address clinical efficacy. The extraction method impacts concentration and bioavailability.
http://www.jcimjournal.com/CN/abstract/abstract1771.shtml – This narrative review summarized the phytochemistry and pharmacology of boldo, highlighting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer properties primarily from boldine and other alkaloids. It noted the lack of robust clinical trials and cautioned about essential oil toxicity due to ascaridole. The review emphasizes the need for further research.
https://www.benthamdirect.com/content/journals/ctm/10.2174/2215083804666181113112928 – This review discusses the therapeutic potential of boldine, an alkaloid found in Boldo, focusing on its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It explores boldine's potential applications in various diseases, highlighting its mechanisms of action and bioavailability. The review emphasizes the need for further clinical trials to validate these findings.