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Erva Tostao Extract

Also known as: Erva Tostão, Punarnava, Boerhavia diffusa

Overview

Boerhavia diffusa, commonly known as Erva Tostão or Punarnava, is a perennial herb extensively utilized in traditional Ayurvedic and ethnobotanical medicine systems. Its medicinal properties are primarily derived from its roots and whole plant extracts. Traditionally, it has been employed for a wide range of therapeutic purposes, including hepatoprotection (liver protection), diuresis (increased urine production), anti-inflammation, immunomodulation, and as an anti-aging agent. The plant is rich in diverse bioactive compounds such as rotenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to its pharmacological effects. While research on B. diffusa is moderately developed, encompassing various in vitro and animal studies, and some preliminary human investigations, there is a notable absence of extensive large-scale clinical trials. The quality of evidence varies, with some systematic reviews and meta-analyses available for Ayurvedic herbs that include B. diffusa, but high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) specifically on this extract are limited.

Benefits

Boerhavia diffusa exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily supported by preclinical studies. Its most notable primary effect is hepatoprotective activity, demonstrated in various in vitro and animal models, suggesting its potential to shield liver cells from toxic damage. It also shows diuretic effects, aligning with its traditional use in managing fluid balance and supporting kidney health. Furthermore, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties have been observed in cell and animal models, indicating its potential to modulate immune responses and reduce inflammation. Significantly, in vitro studies have reported antiproliferative effects against certain cancer cell lines, such as HeLa and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, showing dose-dependent cell death and cell cycle arrest. Secondary benefits include a reduction in cortisol levels under stress conditions, attributed to its alkaloid fractions. While these findings are promising, most evidence stems from preclinical or small-scale clinical studies, and large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these effects in specific human populations. Quantitative data from in vitro studies indicate significant cell death (up to 85%) at specific concentrations, but clinical effect sizes and time courses are not yet well-established.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of Boerhavia diffusa are attributed to its rich array of bioactive compounds. Its antiproliferative effects against cancer cells are thought to be mediated by rotenoid compounds, which can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) and arrest the cell cycle. The anti-inflammatory properties likely stem from its ability to modulate cytokine production and interfere with oxidative stress pathways. Immunomodulation may involve enhancing the function of various immune cells. The diuretic effect is possibly achieved through direct action on renal tubules, influencing water and electrolyte balance. Furthermore, specific alkaloid fractions within the plant have been shown to reduce cortisol levels, suggesting an interaction with the adrenal stress response system. However, the precise bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of these compounds in humans are not yet well characterized.

Side effects

Based on traditional use and current scientific literature, Boerhavia diffusa is generally considered safe, with no major adverse effects frequently reported. However, due to the limited number of rigorous clinical trials, common side effects are not well documented. There are no significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been clearly identified in high-quality studies. Despite its traditional use, the safety of Boerhavia diffusa during pregnancy, lactation, and in pediatric populations has not been scientifically established, and its use in these groups should be approached with caution or avoided. As with any supplement, individual sensitivities may vary, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

Dosage

Currently, there is no standardized dosing regimen for Boerhavia diffusa established through comprehensive clinical trials. Preclinical studies have utilized extract concentrations ranging from 20 to 320 μg/mL in in vitro settings, but these concentrations do not directly translate to human oral dosages. Traditional Ayurvedic practices involve varying doses depending on the specific formulation and intended therapeutic purpose, but these traditional dosages lack modern scientific validation for efficacy and safety. Therefore, clinical dosing guidelines for Boerhavia diffusa require further rigorous research to determine effective and safe ranges for human consumption. Without established clinical data, it is not possible to specify recommended dosage ranges, timing considerations, or upper safety limits. Users should exercise caution and consult with a qualified healthcare provider for guidance on appropriate use.

FAQs

Is Erva Tostão effective for liver protection?

Preclinical evidence from in vitro and animal studies supports the hepatoprotective effects of Erva Tostão, suggesting its potential to protect liver cells. However, clinical confirmation in humans is currently limited and requires further research.

Is it safe to use long-term?

Traditional use suggests that Erva Tostão is generally safe for long-term consumption. However, rigorous clinical safety data, particularly from large-scale, long-duration studies, are lacking to definitively confirm its long-term safety profile.

Can it be used for cancer treatment?

In vitro studies have shown antiproliferative effects of Erva Tostão against certain cancer cell lines. However, there are no clinical trials supporting its use as a treatment for cancer in humans, and it should not be used for this purpose.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4053255/ – This review, including in vitro studies, investigated the effects of Boerhavia diffusa extracts on cancer cells. It found that an ethanolic extract induced 55-85% cell death in HeLa cells, while a methanolic extract reduced MCF-7 breast cancer cell viability by 46.8% and caused G0-G1 cell cycle arrest. The study highlights the in vitro antiproliferative potential of the herb but notes the absence of clinical data.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34071454/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on Ayurvedic herbs for hypercholesterolemia, including Boerhavia diffusa among those with potential benefits. It concluded that Ayurvedic herbs, when used in combination, showed cholesterol-lowering effects. However, the specific contribution and efficacy of Boerhavia diffusa alone were not clearly elucidated due to the combined nature of the herbal interventions.
https://www.rain-tree.com/erva-tostao-activity.pdf – This document, part of the Rain-Tree Botanical Database, compiles various biological activities of Boerhavia diffusa, drawing from in vitro and animal models. It notes that an alkaloid fraction of the plant reduced cortisol levels and documents multiple other bioactivities. While informative, it is a secondary source and not peer-reviewed primary research.
https://www.rain-tree.com/ervatostao.htm – This page from the Rain-Tree Botanical Database provides a general overview of Erva Tostão (Boerhavia diffusa), detailing its traditional uses and documented biological activities. It serves as a compilation of information from various sources, supporting the traditional claims and preclinical findings related to the herb's properties.
https://www.journal-jop.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.3831%2FKPI.2023.26.2.124 – This research paper, while not explicitly detailed in the provided text, is a general reference that could contribute to the understanding of plant-based interventions. Without specific findings from this URL in the provided text, its summary is generalized to indicate its potential relevance to the broader field of herbal medicine research.