Grains of paradise seed extract (6-Paradol 12.5%)
Also known as: Aframomum melegueta, Grains of Paradise, Guinea pepper, Alligator pepper, 6-Paradol, 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, 6-gingeredione, caryophyllene, α-humulene
Overview
Grains of Paradise, derived from the seeds of *Aframomum melegueta*, a West African plant, is used as a spice and in traditional medicine. As a supplement, it's primarily used for weight management and metabolic health due to its thermogenic properties. The extract contains bioactive compounds like 6-paradol, 6-gingerol, and 6-shogaol, structurally similar to gingerols and capsaicinoids. Research suggests it may activate brown adipose tissue (BAT), increasing energy expenditure. While studies show potential benefits in body fat reduction and thermogenesis, the evidence is considered early to moderate, with limited large-scale human trials. Standardized extracts, such as those containing 12.5% 6-paradol, are commonly used in research.
Benefits
Grains of Paradise extract has shown potential benefits in body fat reduction and thermogenesis. A study on healthy young males with low brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity found that 40 mg/day of GP extract for 5 weeks led to a slight but significant decrease in body fat percentage and increased cold-induced thermogenesis (CIT). Animal studies suggest anti-obesity effects and improvements in lipid metabolism, specifically reduced hepatic total cholesterol and triglycerides. Preliminary evidence also hints at potential mood and stress modulation. However, most evidence is based on studies with small sample sizes and specific populations, warranting further research to confirm these benefits in broader contexts.
How it works
Grains of Paradise primarily works by activating brown adipose tissue (BAT), leading to increased adaptive thermogenesis and energy expenditure. The bioactive compounds, such as 6-paradol, likely interact with vanilloid receptors, similar to capsaicin, but with a distinct mechanism. This activation of BAT increases the rate at which the body burns calories, potentially contributing to weight management. Additionally, it may improve lipid metabolism in the liver. The lipophilic nature of compounds like 6-paradol and 6-gingerol suggests they are absorbed in the gut, facilitating their interaction with relevant biological pathways.
Side effects
Grains of Paradise extract appears to be safe in short-term use at studied doses, with no serious adverse events reported in human trials. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects have not been reported in available studies. However, data on drug interactions are lacking, and contraindications have not been established. Safety in pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations has not been studied, so caution is advised. Further research is needed to fully assess the long-term safety profile and potential adverse effects in diverse populations. Individuals should consult with a healthcare professional before using Grains of Paradise, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Grains of Paradise extract in human studies is 40 mg/day. This dosage has been used for up to 5 weeks, but longer-term data are lacking. The maximum safe dose has not been established, but no toxicity has been reported at the studied doses. It is recommended to ingest the extract daily, although the timing relative to meals has not been specified. Standardized extracts, such as those containing 12.5% 6-paradol, are commonly used in research. Absorption may be enhanced with food due to the lipophilic nature of the active compounds. More research is needed to determine optimal dosage ranges and long-term safety.
FAQs
Is Grains of Paradise safe to use?
Grains of Paradise appears safe for short-term use at recommended doses. However, long-term safety data are lacking, and it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before use.
When should I take Grains of Paradise?
It is recommended to ingest Grains of Paradise daily. While the timing relative to meals has not been specified, taking it with food may enhance absorption due to its lipophilic nature.
What results can I expect from taking Grains of Paradise?
Studies suggest modest reductions in body fat and increased thermogenesis after several weeks of use. However, individual results may vary, and it's not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.
Is Grains of Paradise a miracle weight loss supplement?
No, Grains of Paradise is not a miracle weight loss supplement. Its effects are modest and may not be clinically significant for all individuals. It should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33952741/ – This single-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study investigated the effects of Grains of Paradise (GP) extract on body fat and thermogenesis in healthy young males with low brown adipose tissue (BAT) activity. The study found that 40 mg/day of GP extract for 5 weeks led to a slight but significant decrease in body fat percentage and increased cold-induced thermogenesis compared to placebo, suggesting a potential role in weight management.
- https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=73586 – This animal study examined the anti-obesity effects of Grains of Paradise extract in mice. The study found that GP extract suppressed body weight gain and fat accumulation, improved hepatic lipid metabolism, and had a greater effect in high-fat diet-fed mice, suggesting a potential mechanism for its anti-obesity properties.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/grains-of-paradise-aframomum-melegueta-extract-activates-brown-adipose-tissue-and-increases-wholebody-energy-expenditure-in-men/517F8F0D73864C919E42D502537BA01D – This human RCT investigated the effects of Grains of Paradise extract on energy expenditure and brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation in men. The study found that GP extract increased whole-body energy expenditure through BAT activation, supporting its thermogenic effect. However, the study had a small sample size and short duration, limiting the robustness of the findings.
- https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jnsv/60/1/60_22/_article – This study investigates the effects of grains of paradise on brown adipose tissue (BAT) activation. The research indicates that grains of paradise extract can stimulate BAT, leading to increased energy expenditure. This suggests a potential mechanism for its use in weight management and metabolic health.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/18/2/278 – This review explores the potential of various natural compounds, including grains of paradise, for mood and stress modulation. The findings suggest that grains of paradise may have anxiolytic and mood-improving effects. However, further research is needed to confirm these benefits and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.