Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Chinese Smilax

Also known as: Chinese Smilax, Jin Gang Teng, Smilax glabra, Smilax china

Overview

Chinese Smilax, primarily derived from the rhizomes of *Smilax china* and *Smilax glabra*, is a herbal supplement widely utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for various health benefits. It is particularly noted for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, with applications including the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease and management of obesity. The plant contains an array of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to its efficacy. Current research on Chinese Smilax is still in its infancy, with moderate maturity, showing promise in animal studies but lacking comprehensive human trials to fully establish its benefits and safety.

Benefits

The primary benefits of Chinese Smilax include anti-inflammatory effects and potential anti-obesity action. Animal studies have shown that ethanol extracts of *Smilax china* can significantly reduce body weight gain and fat mass by inhibiting lipid synthesis and promoting lipolysis and β-oxidation. Additionally, research indicates it may suppress proinflammatory cytokines, highlighting its role in managing inflammatory conditions. However, evidence in humans remains limited, with a need for more rigorous studies to quantify these benefits and establish the populations that may gain the most.

How it works

Chinese Smilax is thought to exert its effects through the activation of key metabolic pathways such as AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which plays a crucial role in energy balance and fat metabolism. Moreover, it may inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and modulate signaling pathways like MAPK and NF-κB, contributing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Overall, it influences lipid metabolism and the body's inflammatory responses, although detailed mechanisms in humans require further exploration.

Side effects

The safety profile of Chinese Smilax is generally considered acceptable, yet human data on adverse effects are scarce. Common side effects are not well documented, and potential uncommon or rare side effects remain unknown due to the lack of extensive human studies. Some animal studies have suggested drug interactions, notably with methotrexate, which may experience altered pharmacokinetics when co-administered with *Smilax glabra*. There are no established contraindications, but pregnant or breastfeeding women should proceed with caution and consult healthcare providers to mitigate any risks associated with insufficient data.

Dosage

While the minimum effective dose of Chinese Smilax for human use is not established, animal studies suggest administering 0.25% to 1% of a diet as an ethanol extract of *Smilax china* may be beneficial. No maximum safe dose has been identified, and the optimal timing and specific forms for human consumption remain unspecified. As knowledge about absorption and bioavailability is limited, careful consideration should be given when incorporating this supplement into dietary regimes. Specific co-factors necessary for its efficacy have yet to be defined.

FAQs

Is Chinese Smilax safe to use?

While generally considered safe, the limited human data necessitates caution, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.

What benefits can I expect from Chinese Smilax?

Potential benefits include anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity effects, primarily observed in animal studies.

How should I take Chinese Smilax?

Optimal dosage and timing are not clearly defined; consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Are there any known drug interactions?

Yes, *Smilax glabra* may alter the pharmacokinetics of methotrexate, highlighting the need for caution with concurrent medications.

What research supports the use of Chinese Smilax?

Most evidence comes from animal studies indicating anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory effects, but human data is lacking.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30679938/ – This study examines the effects of *Smilax china* L. ethanol extract on high-fat diet-induced obesity in mice, demonstrating reduced body weight gain and fat mass through lipid metabolism mechanisms. Limitations include its animal-based design and the need for human trials.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34824594/ – The research highlights the anti-inflammatory activity of *Smilax china* L. extract, revealing its capacity to suppress proinflammatory cytokines and inhibit COX-2. Results emphasize the extract's potential therapeutic application, though human studies remain necessary for validation.
https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/mmr.2017.7559/download – *Smilax glabra* was shown to significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of methotrexate in rats. The findings raise concerns about possible human drug interactions, although direct applicability remains uncertain due to the animal model.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36277602/ – Further investigation is needed to detail *Smilax china*'s bioactive properties and their influence on human health, advocating for structured human trials to confirm animal findings.
https://www.jcancer.org/v15/p0889/jcav15p0889s1.pdf – This article highlights previous studies exploring the various bioactive components of *Smilax* species and their potential therapeutic effects, particularly in inflammation and obesity, urging further research for conclusive evidence.