Cabbage Rose
Also known as: Red Cabbage Extract, Red Cabbage Juice (RCJ), Anthocyanin-rich Cabbage Extracts, Cabbage Rose (common but undefined term), Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. rubra extract
Overview
Red Cabbage Extract, primarily derived from *Brassica oleracea* var. *capitata* f. *rubra*, is a plant-based phytochemical supplement rich in anthocyanins, phenolics, ascorbic acid, and glucosinolates. While the term "Cabbage Rose" is sometimes used, scientific literature predominantly refers to red cabbage extracts. Its primary uses are centered around its potent antioxidant capacity, with preclinical studies suggesting potential benefits in extending lifespan and enhancing stress resistance. The active compounds in red cabbage are known for their ability to combat oxidative damage at a cellular level. Research into red cabbage extract is currently in its early stages, with most evidence stemming from in vitro and animal models, particularly *Caenorhabditis elegans*. Human clinical data is limited, and no specific human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses on red cabbage extracts as supplements have been identified. Despite the early stage of research, the high antioxidant content and promising results in model organisms highlight its potential as a beneficial dietary supplement.
Benefits
Red Cabbage Extract demonstrates significant antioxidant and potential anti-aging benefits, primarily observed in preclinical models. In vitro studies show that red cabbage juice (RCJ) significantly improves cell viability and reduces oxidative stress markers in H2O2-induced caco-2 cells, indicating strong cellular protection. In *Caenorhabditis elegans* (nematodes), RCJ has been shown to increase survival during oxidative stress by 171.63% and heat stress by 31.64%. Furthermore, it extended the mean lifespan of *C. elegans* by 28.16%. These effects are attributed to its rich content of anthocyanins and other phytochemicals. Secondary effects observed in *C. elegans* include decreased autofluorescence and reproductive capacity, along with increased body length, suggesting improvements in overall healthspan markers. While these findings show large effect sizes in model organisms, the clinical relevance and applicability to human populations are currently unknown due to the lack of human clinical trials. The evidence base is moderate, relying on well-controlled preclinical studies, but human-specific benefits remain unconfirmed.
How it works
Red Cabbage Extract exerts its effects primarily through its potent antioxidant activity, attributed to its high concentration of anthocyanins and phenolics. These compounds neutralize reactive oxygen species, thereby reducing oxidative stress and cellular damage. The mechanism of action involves the activation of key biological pathways related to stress response and longevity. Specifically, studies suggest involvement of the heat-shock transcription factor (HSP-1) pathway, which plays a crucial role in cellular protection against various stressors. Additionally, sirtuin signaling, known for its role in regulating cellular metabolism, DNA repair, and aging, appears to be modulated. The calmodulin kinase II (CaMKII) pathway may also be involved. These interactions contribute to improved cellular resilience and potentially influence lifespan extension by enhancing the body's natural defense mechanisms against environmental and internal stressors.
Side effects
Red Cabbage Extract, derived from red cabbage, is generally considered safe as a food source, and no specific safety concerns or adverse effects have been reported in the preclinical studies cited. Common side effects are not documented, as typical dietary consumption of red cabbage is well-tolerated. There is no available data on uncommon or rare side effects, drug interactions, or contraindications for red cabbage extract as a supplement. Specific population considerations, such as use in pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, children, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, have not been studied. Given the lack of human clinical trials, comprehensive safety data for concentrated supplement forms is not yet established. Individuals with known allergies to cruciferous vegetables should exercise caution. As with any supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation, especially if taking other medications or having underlying health conditions.
Dosage
Optimal dosage ranges for Red Cabbage Extract as a supplement are not yet established due to the early stage of research and the lack of human clinical trials. The available studies primarily utilized red cabbage juice extracts in in vitro cellular models and *Caenorhabditis elegans* (nematode) models, not in human subjects. Therefore, minimum effective doses, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe doses for human consumption have not been defined. Timing considerations for intake are also not studied. Recommendations for specific forms, such as juice or concentrated extract rich in anthocyanins, are based on the composition used in preclinical studies. It is important to note that anthocyanin bioavailability can be influenced by factors such as the food matrix and individual gut microbiota. No specific cofactors are identified as required for its efficacy. Without human data, any supplementation should be approached with caution, and guidance from a healthcare professional is recommended.
FAQs
Is "Cabbage Rose" the same as red cabbage extract?
The term "Cabbage Rose" is not clearly defined in scientific literature regarding supplements. The available research and evidence pertain to anthocyanin-rich extracts derived from red cabbage (*Brassica oleracea* var. *capitata* f. *rubra*).
Is red cabbage extract safe to consume?
Red cabbage is generally recognized as safe as a food. Preclinical studies on red cabbage extract have not reported adverse effects. However, comprehensive safety data for concentrated supplement forms in humans is currently limited.
Are there human clinical trials for red cabbage extract supplements?
Currently, there are no high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or meta-analyses specifically evaluating the efficacy or safety of red cabbage extract as a supplement in humans. Research is primarily based on cellular and animal models.
What benefits can be expected from red cabbage extract?
Preclinical studies suggest red cabbage extract has strong antioxidant properties and may offer anti-aging benefits, including improved stress resistance and extended lifespan in model organisms. However, these benefits have not yet been confirmed in humans.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8228718/ – This experimental study investigated the effects of red cabbage juice (RCJ) on oxidative stress and lifespan in *C. elegans* and caco-2 cells. It found that RCJ significantly improved cell viability, reduced oxidative stress markers, and extended the mean lifespan of *C. elegans* by 28.16%, suggesting potent antioxidant and anti-aging properties in preclinical models.
- https://www.aging-us.com/article/202913/text – This article discusses the role of sirtuins in aging and disease. While not directly about red cabbage, it provides context for one of the proposed mechanisms of action (sirtuin signaling) through which red cabbage extract might exert its anti-aging effects, highlighting the importance of these pathways in longevity.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8623061/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focuses on the impact of plant-based diets on health outcomes, particularly in relation to type 2 diabetes and metabolic markers. While not specific to red cabbage extract as a supplement, it supports the general health benefits associated with diets rich in vegetables, including cruciferous ones, reinforcing the potential of their bioactive compounds.
