Erythrina Variegata Bark Extract
Also known as: Indian Coral Tree, Erythrina variegata Bark Extract, Erythrina variegata
Overview
Erythrina variegata, commonly known as the Indian Coral Tree, is a plant native to tropical and subtropical regions including India and China. Its bark is traditionally used in herbal medicine, particularly for its sedative properties. The extract has been explored for its anxiolytic and anti-convulsant effects, with recent studies indicating potential anti-depressant benefits. This plant's bark contains various compounds such as sugars, steroids, glycosides, alkaloids, and tannins, contributing to its medicinal applications. Current research is primarily based on animal studies, with limited human data available to support its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
The extract has shown anti-depressant-like activity in animal models, demonstrating a synergistic effect with conventional antidepressants like escitalopram. Secondary benefits traditionally attributed to Erythrina variegata include anxiolytic and anti-convulsant properties, but modern studies on these effects are lacking. Evidence of benefits primarily comes from animal studies, indicating a need for further human research to quantify the effects and define specific populations that may benefit.
How it works
Erythrina variegata is thought to exert its effects by inhibiting monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B, enzymes involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. This mechanism may contribute to its mood-regulating properties, notably in the context of anxiety and depression. However, detailed mechanisms and absorption parameters remain largely unexplored in human studies.
Side effects
Current knowledge of the safety profile of Erythrina variegata is limited, as data from human studies are lacking. Traditionally, the herb has been used without significant reports of adverse effects. However, the potential for interaction with other medications, particularly monoamine oxidase inhibitors and central nervous system drugs, is noted, although specific interaction data are not documented. Due to the absence of rigorous clinical trials, the long-term safety, uncommon side effects, and effects in specific populations (such as pregnant women or children) are unknown and warrant caution.
Dosage
Effective dosing for Erythrina variegata in humans has not been established. Based on animal studies, doses ranging from 50-500 mg/kg were evaluated, but translating these findings to human recommendations is speculative. Traditional extracts typically come in ethanolic forms, but specifics regarding timing, absorption, and safety thresholds remain undefined. As no maximum safe dose has been established, caution is advised in usage until more is known from clinical studies.
FAQs
How should I use Erythrina variegata bark extract?
Usage guidelines for Erythrina variegata are limited as human safety and efficacy data are lacking. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Is Erythrina variegata safe to use?
While traditionally used with few adverse reports, the lack of modern safety data prompts caution when considering Erythrina variegata.
What results can I expect from Erythrina variegata?
Animal studies suggest anti-depressant-like effects, but these findings have not yet been substantiated in humans.
Are there any common misconceptions about Erythrina variegata?
It is not a proven or universally accepted treatment for depression in humans despite promising animal research.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31600560/ – This study demonstrated anti-depressant-like activity of Erythrina variegata in an animal model, showing potential synergistic effects with escitalopram. However, it is limited by the lack of human data.
- https://www.science.gov/topicpages/m/medicinal+dendrobium+species – This ethnopharmacological review discusses traditional uses of Erythrina variegata for CNS effects but highlights the absence of modern clinical trials to support these uses.
- https://chemistry.uonbi.ac.ke/sites/chemistry.uonbi.ac.ke/files/2021-04/Hepatoprotective%20effects%20ofErythrina%20abyssinica%20Lam%20Ex%20Dc%20against%20Non.pdf – This analysis provides insights into the phytochemical composition of Erythrina species, identifying important compounds, but does not address efficacy or safety.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20487580/ – The research details various pharmacological activities of Erythrina variegata, emphasizing its use in traditional medicine while noting the lack of systematic clinical evaluations.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2021/5513484 – This publication reviews the current state of knowledge on Erythrina variegata, documenting its historical usage and urging further research to establish clinical relevance.
