Cassia Occidentalis Extract
Also known as: Cassia occidentalis, Coffee Senna, Negro Coffee, Fedegoso, Kasamarda
Overview
Cassia occidentalis, also known as Coffee Senna or Negro Coffee, is a tropical plant native to Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Various parts of the plant, including the leaves, seeds, and roots, have been utilized in traditional medicine for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and inflammation. The plant is characterized by its rich content of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. Research on Cassia occidentalis is moderately developed, with a predominance of preclinical and animal studies demonstrating its hypolipidemic and antioxidant properties. Human clinical trials are limited, necessitating cautious interpretation of the available evidence. Extracts are typically prepared using aqueous or ethanolic solvents to capture the plant's beneficial components.
Benefits
Cassia occidentalis exhibits several potential health benefits, primarily supported by preclinical and animal studies. It has demonstrated hypolipidemic effects, significantly reducing total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, VLDL-C, and triglycerides (TG), while increasing HDL-C in animal models. Furthermore, it shows anti-atherosclerotic properties by reducing aortic atherosclerotic plaque formation and lipid peroxidation. The plant also possesses antioxidant capabilities, demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo. While traditional uses suggest anti-inflammatory properties, and some animal studies indicate antitumor activity, human data is currently lacking. These findings suggest potential benefits for metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk reduction, but further human studies are needed to confirm these effects and establish appropriate dosages.
How it works
Cassia occidentalis exerts its effects through several biological pathways. Primarily, it influences lipid metabolism by inhibiting cholesterol absorption, increasing fecal cholesterol excretion, and modulating hepatic lipid synthesis. Its antioxidant activity involves scavenging free radicals and reducing lipid peroxidation. The plant primarily affects the cardiovascular and hepatic systems. While the exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated, it likely involves modulation of lipid-regulating enzymes and antioxidant enzymes. Absorption and bioavailability in humans are not well characterized, but animal studies suggest oral bioavailability of key phytochemicals.
Side effects
Cassia occidentalis is generally considered safe based on traditional use and animal studies, which show no significant organ toxicity at therapeutic doses. Common side effects are not reported in controlled studies, though anecdotal reports suggest mild gastrointestinal upset. Rare side effects include case reports of acute liver failure and poisoning, particularly with high doses or contaminated preparations. Drug interactions are not well studied, but there is a theoretical risk with lipid-lowering and anticoagulant drugs due to potential additive effects. Contraindications include pregnancy, lactation, and known hypersensitivity. Caution is advised in patients with liver disease. It is not recommended for children or individuals with compromised liver function. Monitoring for signs of liver injury is recommended, especially with high doses.
Dosage
Due to the limited human data, specific dosage recommendations for Cassia occidentalis are not well-established. Animal studies have used doses equivalent to 100–500 mg/kg body weight, but these cannot be directly translated to humans. The optimal dosage range and maximum safe dose are not determined, and there is a risk of hepatotoxicity at high doses. In animal models, it is typically administered orally, once or twice daily. Aqueous and ethanolic extracts are the most studied forms. It is crucial to avoid unstandardized or contaminated preparations. Absorption factors are not well characterized but are likely influenced by food and formulation. Until human studies provide more clarity, caution is advised, and use should be guided by a healthcare professional.
FAQs
Is Cassia occidentalis safe?
Generally safe at traditional doses, but rare cases of liver toxicity have been reported with high doses or contaminated products. Monitor for signs of liver injury.
How should I take Cassia occidentalis?
Oral administration is typical, preferably with meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset. However, human dosing guidelines are lacking, so caution is advised.
What are the expected benefits?
Based on animal data, modest improvements in lipid profiles and antioxidant status may be expected. Human efficacy and safety are not fully established.
Can Cassia occidentalis replace my lipid-lowering medication?
No, it is not a substitute for prescribed lipid-lowering medications. Consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5264340/ – This animal study demonstrated that Cassia occidentalis aqueous extract significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL-C, VLDL-C, and triglycerides, while increasing HDL-C and fecal cholesterol excretion in rats. The extract also reduced aortic plaque formation, suggesting anti-atherosclerotic properties. The study highlights the potential of C. occidentalis as a lipid-lowering agent, but its findings need to be confirmed in human trials.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9336676/ – This study investigates the phytochemical composition and potential bioactivities of Cassia occidentalis. It identifies various bioactive compounds and highlights the plant's traditional uses for various ailments. While the study provides a comprehensive overview of the plant's chemical constituents, it emphasizes the need for further research to validate its therapeutic potential.
- https://academicstrive.com/AATPS/AATPS180138.pdf – This systematic review and meta-analysis of animal models found evidence of antitumor activity associated with Cassia occidentalis. However, the authors note that human data is limited, and there is heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes. The review suggests potential for further investigation into the antitumor properties of C. occidentalis, but emphasizes the need for well-designed human trials.
- https://acmcasereport.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ACMCR-V14-2368-.pdf – This case report and systematic review highlights rare but serious cases of acute liver failure and poisoning associated with Cassia occidentalis. The report underscores the importance of caution when using C. occidentalis, particularly at high doses or with unstandardized preparations. It emphasizes the need for monitoring liver function and avoiding use in individuals with compromised liver function.
- https://globalresearchonline.net/journalcontents/v37-2/25.pdf – This study investigates the anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities of Cassia occidentalis. The findings suggest that the plant possesses compounds that can reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. However, the study is limited by its preclinical nature, and further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.