cucumber
Also known as: Cucumber, Cucumis sativus L., Cucumis sativus
Overview
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a widely cultivated plant whose fruit is commonly consumed fresh or as an extract supplement. It is rich in bioactive compounds, including iminosugars like idoBR1, flavonoids, and antioxidants. Supplement forms include extracts standardized for specific active components. Preliminary research suggests potential benefits for joint function, blood pressure regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and overall physical and mental well-being, particularly in aging populations. While some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews exist, the overall evidence for cucumber supplements is emerging and considered limited and preliminary, warranting further investigation.
Benefits
Cucumber extracts show preliminary evidence for several health benefits. A 12-week randomized controlled trial using a standardized cucumber extract (Q-actin™, >1% idoBR1) demonstrated improved finger dexterity and a trend toward better sleep quality in healthy older adults, suggesting benefits for motor function and sleep regulation. Another quasi-experimental study in hypertensive menopausal women observed significant reductions in systolic (31.3 mmHg) and diastolic (16.6 mmHg) blood pressure after cucumber suri juice supplementation, indicating potential antihypertensive effects. Cucumber extracts also contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, such as idoBR1, which may contribute to reduced inflammation and oxidative stress, though direct clinical evidence for these effects is limited. While the blood pressure reductions were large and statistically significant, the small sample size (n=20) limits generalizability. The finger dexterity improvements were statistically significant in a larger RCT, indicating functional benefits. Benefits in motor function and sleep were observed over 12 weeks, while blood pressure effects were noted after an unspecified intervention period.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for cucumber extract is attributed to the active iminosugar idoBR1. This compound is believed to exert anti-inflammatory effects by modulating inflammatory pathways, possibly through the inhibition of glycosidases or other enzymes involved in inflammation. Its effects on joint function and motor skills suggest an interaction with the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, while blood pressure effects imply involvement with the vascular and cardiovascular systems. Specific molecular targets are not fully elucidated but may include enzymes related to inflammation and oxidative stress. Standardized extracts aim to ensure consistent idoBR1 content, though detailed pharmacokinetic data on absorption and bioavailability are currently lacking.
Side effects
Current research indicates that cucumber extract is generally safe, with no significant adverse effects reported in the reviewed randomized controlled trials and studies. No common side effects have been reported at an incidence greater than 5% in available studies, and uncommon or rare side effects have not been documented in the literature. There are no documented drug interactions, but caution is advised due to the limited data. Contraindications for cucumber extract have not been established. While some evidence supports its use in older adults and menopausal women, larger and more comprehensive studies are needed to fully assess its safety profile across various populations and to identify any potential interactions or contraindications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose identified in one randomized controlled trial was 20 mg/day of standardized Cucumis sativus extract. However, optimal dosage ranges are not well established due to limited research. Studies using Q-actin™ (a standardized cucumber extract with >1% idoBR1 content) have involved daily supplementation over 12 weeks. The maximum safe dose for cucumber extract has not been defined. For observed benefits, daily supplementation for at least 8-12 weeks appears necessary. Standardized extracts, such as Q-actin™, are preferred for consistent delivery of active compounds. No specific absorption factors or cofactors have been identified as necessary for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is cucumber extract safe?
Current evidence suggests cucumber extract is safe, with no significant adverse effects reported in clinical studies to date.
How long before benefits appear?
Functional and sleep benefits have been observed after 12 weeks of consistent supplementation. The timing for blood pressure effects is less clear.
Can cucumber extract replace medications?
No, the evidence is preliminary and insufficient to recommend cucumber extract as a replacement for prescribed medications or standard medical treatments.
Does fresh cucumber provide the same benefits?
Supplement forms are standardized for active compounds like idoBR1, which may not be present in consistent or sufficient amounts in fresh cucumber to achieve the same effects.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/13/1/485 – This 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial used 20 mg/day of Cucumis sativus extract. The study reported effectiveness on unspecified outcomes, indicating a positive effect, but the summary lacks detailed information on sample size and specific effect sizes.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2025.1563999/full – This 12-week randomized controlled trial in healthy older adults investigated Q-actin™ (standardized cucumber extract with >1% idoBR1). It demonstrated statistically significant improvements in finger dexterity and trends toward improved sleep quality, supported by biochemical markers like melatonin metabolites, highlighting functional benefits.
- https://sjik.org/index.php/sjik/article/view/532 – This quasi-experimental study involved 20 hypertensive menopausal women and showed significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after supplementation with cucumber suri juice. Despite strong effect sizes and statistical significance, the small sample size and study design limit the generalizability of the findings.
