Fringe Tree Extract
Also known as: Fringe Tree, Old Man's Beard, Chionanthus virginicus L.
Overview
Fringe tree, scientifically known as Chionanthus virginicus L., is a small tree or shrub indigenous to North America. It is primarily recognized for its medicinal applications, particularly its root and bark, which are traditionally employed to address liver and gallbladder disorders. Though this usage persists in folk medicine, scientific backing remains sparse. The key characteristic of Fringe tree is its antioxidant properties, primarily stemming from extracts of its root bark. Current research primarily consists of in vitro studies examining its antioxidant potential, revealing notable antioxidant activity; however, a significant gap exists in rigorous clinical trials evaluating its efficacy and safety for human consumption.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Fringe tree extract appears to be its antioxidant activity, demonstrated through its ability to scavenge free radicals, such as DPPH, ABTS, and superoxide anions. Although the extract may have potential benefits in reducing lipid peroxidation, there is a distinct lack of clinical evidence substantiating its use for specific health conditions. No population-specific benefits have been established due to the absence of clinical trials, and thus the strength of the evidence for its benefits remains low. Overall, while some antioxidant effects are noted, they have yet to be quantified or proven significant within human subjects.
How it works
Fringe tree extract's mechanism of action leverages its antioxidant properties, likely through the scavenging of free radicals within the body. These antioxidants can potentially interact with various biological pathways linked to oxidative stress; however, the particular molecular targets remain poorly defined. The overall interaction with bodily systems is still not well-understood, limiting our knowledge about its systematic implications and overall efficacy.
Side effects
The safety profile of Fringe tree extract is largely unestablished due to insufficient data, resulting in an inability to provide comprehensive safety assessments. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects remain unknown, and there is also a lack of documented drug interactions. It is advised that pregnant and breastfeeding individuals avoid using this extract, as safety data is lacking for these populations. Caution should be taken, given the lack of extensive clinical evidence. Overall, while Fringe tree has traditionally been utilized in various medicinal capacities, the corresponding safety data does not currently support its widespread use in humans.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established dosage guidelines for Fringe tree extract, with minimum effective doses and optimal dosage ranges yet to be determined. The maximum safe dose remains undefined, and there are no known timing considerations regarding administration. Additionally, factors such as absorption characteristics and required cofactors have not been documented, leading to significant uncertainty surrounding effective use. Health professionals should approach with caution due to these gaps in knowledge and the lack of clinical evidence to support specific dosing recommendations.
FAQs
What are the practical uses of Fringe tree?
Due to the lack of clinical evidence, practical recommendations for health benefits are difficult to establish.
Is it safe to use during pregnancy?
Fringe tree extract should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the absence of safety data.
What is the recommended timing for taking Fringe tree?
There are no established guidelines regarding timing and administration.
What results can one expect from using Fringe tree extract?
Due to limited clinical trials, the expected results remain unknown.
Are there misconceptions about its effectiveness for liver disorders?
Many believe in Fringe tree's efficacy for liver issues, but strong scientific backing is lacking.
Research Sources
- https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ajb/article/view/56230 – This study evaluated the antioxidant activity of extracts from the root bark of Fringe tree, showing significant radical scavenging abilities and lipid peroxidation inhibition.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22275325/ – A systematic review emphasized the sparse evidence supporting dietary supplements, including botanical supplements like Fringe tree, pointing to the need for more rigorous studies.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-449/fringetree – WebMD describes traditional uses of Fringe tree for liver health; however, it stresses that scientific evidence validating these uses is limited.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27818322/ – This research highlights a lack of strong clinical data supporting the safety and efficacy of botanical supplements, including Fringe tree.
- https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Antioxidant,-Cytotoxicity-and-Cytoprotective-of-of-Masisi-Masamba/8d36e0bb0afa5be8e587e9d1a8b90511c9fcdace – The paper discusses antioxidant and cytoprotective assays of Fringe tree extracts, noting impressive results but highlighting the need for further studies in human subjects.
Supplements Containing Fringe Tree Extract
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