Butea Superba Extract
Also known as: Butea superba Roxb., Red Kwao Krua, Kwao Krua Dang, Butea superba
Overview
Butea superba is a plant native to Southeast Asia, traditionally used for its purported health benefits, primarily related to sexual health and rejuvenation. It is most commonly used as a natural treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). Key characteristics include its potential antioxidant properties and effects on sexual function. The research maturity level is moderate, with some clinical trials but limited systematic reviews or meta-analyses. The quality of available evidence varies, with some studies showing positive effects while others are inconclusive or controversial. It is available in various forms, including capsules and extracts, and is sourced from the Butea superba plant. While traditionally considered safe, formal safety data is limited, necessitating caution in its use. Further research is needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety profile.
Benefits
Some studies suggest that Butea superba extract may improve erectile function in men with ED, though results are inconsistent. For example, one study found that 84% of patients responded positively to Butea superba, compared to 81% for sildenafil, though these results could not be replicated in a double-blind phase. Antioxidant properties have been demonstrated, which could contribute to overall health benefits. There is some evidence suggesting benefits for diabetic rats in enhancing penile erection. The clinical significance of Butea superba for ED is uncertain due to inconsistent results and lack of robust clinical trials. The time course for benefits is not well established.
How it works
The exact mechanism of action for Butea superba is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve relaxation of smooth muscle and increased blood flow, potentially through cAMP/cGMP pathways. It may interact with the cardiovascular and reproductive systems. Some compounds in Butea superba have shown inhibitory effects on cAMP phosphodiesterase. Limited information is available on its absorption and bioavailability. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and pathways involved in its effects.
Side effects
Butea superba is generally considered safe in traditional use, but there is limited formal safety data. Common side effects are not well documented. Uncommon side effects include reports of hyperandrogenemia. Rare side effects are unknown. Potential drug interactions exist with nitrates if the product is contaminated with PDE5 inhibitors. Contraindications are not well established. Caution is advised in populations with cardiovascular conditions due to potential interactions. Users should be aware of the potential for contamination and the lack of comprehensive safety data.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Butea superba is not established. It is typically used in doses around 100 mg, but efficacy and safety at this dose are not well confirmed. The maximum safe dose is also not established. There are no specific timing recommendations. Form-specific recommendations are not available. Absorption factors are unknown. Required cofactors have not been identified. Due to the limited safety data, it is crucial to adhere to conservative dosing and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
FAQs
Is Butea superba a proven treatment for erectile dysfunction?
While some studies suggest potential benefits, the evidence is inconsistent, and it is not a proven alternative to pharmaceutical treatments like sildenafil. Results vary, and more research is needed.
Is Butea superba safe to use?
It is generally considered safe in traditional use, but there is limited formal safety data. Users should be cautious due to the potential for contamination and the lack of comprehensive safety data.
How should Butea superba be taken?
There are no specific guidelines for timing and administration. Typically, doses around 100 mg have been used, but efficacy and safety at this dose are not well confirmed. Consult with a healthcare professional.
What results can I expect from using Butea superba?
Expected results are variable, with some users reporting improved erectile function. However, the effects are not consistent across studies, and individual responses may differ significantly.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19624593/ – This open-label study compared Butea superba to sildenafil for erectile dysfunction in 32 men with organic ED. Initially, Butea superba appeared more effective, but these results could not be replicated in a double-blind phase. The study's limitations include a small sample size and inconsistent results, leading to a moderate quality assessment.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38310207/ – This in vitro study demonstrated that Butea superba extract exhibits significant antioxidant activity. While the findings are promising, the study's limitations include its in vitro nature, meaning it lacks human data. The quality assessment is high for demonstrating antioxidant properties, but further research is needed to confirm these effects in vivo.
- https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Clinical-trial-of-Butea-superba,-an-alternative-for-Cherdshewasart-Nimsakul/9898d1e5e565bb36d5a5866ce5a31d8344225638 – This clinical trial suggested that Butea superba may improve erectile function without apparent toxicity. However, the search results lack detailed information about the study's sample size, population, and duration. Due to these limitations, the quality assessment is moderate, and further research is needed to confirm these findings.
- https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/The-use-of-Butea-superba-(Roxb.)-compared-to-for-Cort%C3%A9s-Gonz%C3%A1lez-Arratia-Maqueo/add0f1e4770b59d2cd33e531a8d3895b32558cf4 – This paper discusses the use of Butea superba compared to other treatments. Further details about the study design, sample size, and specific findings are needed to provide a more comprehensive summary. The quality assessment is moderate due to the limited information available in the search results.
- https://www.pagepressjournals.org/index.php/aiua/article/download/aiua.2022.3.373/10345 – This article provides additional insights into the properties and potential uses of Butea superba. Further details about the study design, sample size, and specific findings are needed to provide a more comprehensive summary. The quality assessment is moderate due to the limited information available in the search results.