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Dwarf Morning Glory Extract

Also known as: Dwarf Morning Glory, Shankhpushpi, Evolvulus alsinoides

Overview

Evolvulus alsinoides, commonly known as Dwarf Morning Glory or Shankhpushpi in Ayurvedic medicine, is a perennial herb traditionally utilized for its potential cognitive-enhancing, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective properties. It is classified as a herbal supplement and is rich in bioactive phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which are believed to be responsible for its pharmacological effects. While widely used in traditional Indian medicine, the scientific evidence supporting its benefits is primarily derived from preclinical studies or small-scale human trials. Comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically focusing on Evolvulus alsinoides are currently lacking, indicating a need for more rigorous, large-scale clinical research to fully establish its efficacy and safety.

Benefits

Preclinical research suggests several potential benefits of Evolvulus alsinoides, though human evidence is limited. It has shown promise in cognitive enhancement, with animal studies indicating improvements in memory and learning, possibly due to its antioxidant and neuroprotective actions. Anxiolytic and antidepressant effects have also been observed in preclinical models, suggesting a potential role in reducing anxiety and stress markers. Furthermore, methanolic extracts of Evolvulus alsinoides exhibit significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, attributed to their high phenolic and flavonoid content. Some extracts have also demonstrated antimicrobial activity against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Helicobacter pylori, which is linked to its flavonoid compounds. However, the strength of evidence for these benefits is currently low, as most findings are from in vitro or animal studies, and robust human clinical trials are scarce.

How it works

The proposed mechanisms of action for Evolvulus alsinoides primarily revolve around its rich content of bioactive compounds, particularly flavonoids and phenolic compounds. Its neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects are hypothesized to stem from its potent antioxidant activity, which helps reduce oxidative stress in neural tissues. This reduction in oxidative stress can protect brain cells from damage and support cognitive function. The anxiolytic and analgesic effects may involve interactions with various neurotransmitter systems, such as serotonergic and α-2 adrenoceptors. Additionally, certain compounds within the plant, like flavonoids, may inhibit enzymes such as urease, contributing to its antimicrobial properties. These diverse pharmacological actions are mediated by the complex interplay of its various phytochemical constituents.

Side effects

Comprehensive safety data for Evolvulus alsinoides in humans are limited, as there have been no large-scale, well-controlled clinical trials specifically reporting adverse effects. While animal studies on other morning glory species have noted potential toxicity from hallucinogenic seed extracts, this is not directly applicable to the leaves or extracts of Evolvulus alsinoides typically used in supplements. Due to the lack of clinical data, potential herb-drug interactions are largely unknown, and caution is advised, especially for individuals on other medications. The variability in herbal preparations and the potential for contamination in unregulated products also pose a risk. Overall, while traditionally considered likely safe in typical doses, the absence of robust clinical safety studies means that the full spectrum of potential side effects, their severity, and frequency, as well as specific risk factors and contraindications, remain largely uncharacterized. Users should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before use.

Dosage

There is no standardized dosing regimen for Evolvulus alsinoides established through rigorous clinical trials. Traditional Ayurvedic practices utilize various forms, including aqueous or methanolic extracts, but specific dosages are not well-quantified in modern clinical terms. The bioavailability and absorption characteristics of its active compounds have not been systematically studied, making it difficult to determine optimal intake for different purposes. Without clinical data, specific dosage ranges, timing considerations, or different dosages for varying conditions cannot be definitively recommended. Furthermore, upper limits and safety thresholds have not been scientifically determined. Due to the lack of standardized clinical guidelines, any use should be approached with caution, ideally under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner familiar with traditional herbal medicine.

FAQs

Is it effective for memory enhancement?

Animal studies suggest potential benefits for memory and learning, but robust human evidence is currently insufficient to confirm these effects.

Is it safe?

While traditionally considered likely safe in typical doses, comprehensive clinical safety data in humans are lacking, so caution is advised.

How quickly do effects appear?

The onset of effects is unknown, as preclinical studies do not provide time course data, and human clinical trials are insufficient.

Can it replace conventional treatments?

No, the evidence for Evolvulus alsinoides is preliminary and insufficient to recommend it as a replacement for conventional medical treatments.

Research Sources

https://www.nutrahacker.com/journal_club/en/dwarf-morning-glory.php – This overview article discusses the traditional uses and biological effects of Evolvulus alsinoides, highlighting its potential cognitive and anxiolytic benefits. It emphasizes the significant lack of rigorous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses in humans, noting that most evidence is preclinical or from limited human observations.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10794760/ – This study performed a biochemical analysis of the methanolic extract of Evolvulus alsinoides, identifying 10 compounds with significant phenolic and flavonoid content. The findings suggest strong antioxidant potential for the extract, though the study was preclinical and involved only in vitro/chemical analysis, without human subjects.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5871274/ – This narrative review summarizes the traditional uses and various biological effects of Evolvulus alsinoides. It highlights potential analgesic, anxiolytic, and antimicrobial properties, linking them to the presence of flavonoids and other phytochemicals, but acknowledges the absence of systematic review methodology and clinical trial data.
https://www.rroij.com/peer-reviewed/formulation-evaluation-and-antimicrobial-activity-of-evolvulus-rnalsinoides-cream-91695.html – This research investigates the formulation, evaluation, and antimicrobial activity of an Evolvulus alsinoides cream. It demonstrates antibacterial effects against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Helicobacter pylori, attributing these actions to the plant's flavonoid content.