Celastrus Seed Extract
Also known as: Intellect Seed, Jyotishmati, Malkangani, *Celastrus paniculatus*
Overview
Celastrus paniculatus, commonly known as Intellect Seed, is an evergreen climbing shrub found predominantly in India and parts of Asia. This plant is significant in traditional medicine, particularly within Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha systems. The seeds and their oil are used for various medicinal purposes, mainly focusing on neurological health. *Celastrus paniculatus* is known for its rich composition of secondary metabolites such as β-Dihydroagarofuranoids, alkaloids (including Celastrine), flavonoids, terpenoids, and sterols. Traditionally, it has been utilized to treat cognitive dysfunction, paralysis, epilepsy, insomnia, and joint disorders like rheumatism and arthritis. While there are promising studies regarding its cognitive and neuroprotective effects, most research remains at the preclinical level, with limited clinical trials in humans confirming its efficacy and safety. A thorough evaluation of *Celastrus paniculatus* in larger human trials is warranted to establish definitive health impacts.
Benefits
Celastrus paniculatus exhibits several potential benefits primarily evidenced through animal studies. Key effects include: 1) **Nootropic Activity**: Aqueous extracts have demonstrated significant improvements in memory performance in rats and mice, primarily by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase and increasing acetylcholine levels. 2) **Neuroprotection**: Extracts protect neuronal health by modulating glutamate receptors and reducing glutamate-induced toxicity. 3) **Antioxidant Properties**: Augmentation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes and decreased lipid peroxidation have been observed in rat brains. Additionally, potential anxiolytic and sedative effects are noted but less quantified. While human-specific benefits are yet to be firmly established, traditional applications for cognitive enhancement highlight its potential for individuals, particularly students.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Celastrus paniculatus involves inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, leading to increased acetylcholine levels, which are crucial for improved cognitive function. Additionally, it modulates glutamate receptor activity to protect against excitotoxicity—an important factor in neuroprotection. Through an antioxidant effect, it also decreases oxidative stress, contributing to neuronal health and resilience against damage.
Side effects
While limited human data exists, Celastrus paniculatus appears to have a relatively safe profile according to traditional use and animal studies. Adverse effects are not well-documented, with no specific common or rare side effects identified in current research. Potential concerns include drug interactions with cholinergic and anticholinergic medications due to its inhibitory effects on acetylcholinesterase. Caution is advised in individuals with known neurological conditions, and minimal data exists about its safety in pregnant or breastfeeding women and children, necessitating additional exploration in these populations. Overall, while the safety appears encouraging, extensive clinical trials are needed for a comprehensive assessment.
Dosage
Recommended dosages of Celastrus paniculatus for cognitive effects are largely deduced from animal models, suggesting 350-1050 mg/kg for rats and 500-1500 mg/kg for mice. However, human dosing remains unestablished; traditional practices indicate a daily consumption of small amounts of the seed oil, approximately half a teaspoon. Timing for consumption aligns with daily intake to achieve cognitive benefits. The maximum safe dose has not been concretely defined within human trials, signaling a need for further research into effective and safe dosage recommendations across different forms and populations.
FAQs
Is Celastrus paniculatus safe to use?
While traditionally used, comprehensive human clinical trial data is lacking to fully assess safety.
How should I take Celastrus paniculatus?
Daily consumption is advised, generally in the form of aqueous extracts or seed oil.
What benefits can I expect from Celastrus paniculatus?
Potential cognitive enhancement and anxiolytic effects, though these require confirmation from human trials.
Can I take Celastrus paniculatus with other medications?
Caution is advised due to possible interactions with cholinergic and anticholinergic medications.
Research Sources
- https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.1515/jcim-2021-0251/html?lang=en – This study investigates the nootropic activity of Celastrus paniculatus. It reported significant cholinergic activity enhancing memory performance in animal models along with marked reductions in acetylcholinesterase activity, highlighting potential cognitive benefits.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20645820/ – This research outlines the neuroprotective effects of Celastrus paniculatus extract on neuronal cultures, demonstrating how pre-treatment with extracts can guard against glutamate-induced toxicity, emphasizing its protective role in neural health.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15234755/ – This article presents a protocol for a randomized controlled trial examining the efficacy of Celastrus paniculatus against standardized treatments for anxiety disorders, emphasizing a structured approach to validate its benefits in clinical settings.
- https://f1000research.com/articles/12-1577 – This review discusses the various therapeutic applications of Celastrus paniculatus, with a focus on its historical usage and current understanding of its pharmacological properties, stressing the need for robust clinical trials.
- https://www.esutras.com/superfoods-elixirs/983-celastrus-extract-intellect-seed-powder-extract.html – This product page provides an overview of Celastrus paniculatus, detailing its traditional uses and recommending proper usage guidelines while emphasizing the roots of its applications in cognitive enhancement.
