Gelatinum Asini
Also known as: Colla corii asini, Donkey-hide gelatin, Ejiao, Gelatinum Asini
Overview
Gelatinum Asini, also known as Donkey-hide gelatin or Ejiao, is a traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) derived animal gelatin extracted from donkey hide. It is widely recognized for its purported hematopoietic (blood-forming) and immunomodulatory properties. Primarily, it is utilized to enhance blood health, address anemia, bolster immune function, and manage gynecological conditions such as uterine fibroids. The ingredient is rich in collagen and bioactive peptides, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research on Gelatinum Asini is moderately developed, with a body of clinical trials and systematic reviews, predominantly from Chinese medical literature. While the quality of evidence varies, there are well-conducted randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses supporting its uses, though some studies may be limited by sample size or methodological transparency.
Benefits
Gelatinum Asini offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly in specific clinical contexts. It demonstrates significant hematopoietic effects, with clinical studies showing its ability to increase platelet (PLT) and leukocyte counts in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancers, thereby improving bone marrow function (p < 0.05). This benefit is clinically meaningful for individuals with hematological deficiencies. Furthermore, Gelatinum Asini exhibits immune-modulating properties. A meta-analysis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients revealed a statistically significant improvement in immune markers, specifically CD3+ T-cell levels (MD 10.60, 95% CI [7.22, 13.98], p < 0.001), suggesting enhanced cellular immunity. In the gynecological domain, systematic reviews and meta-analyses indicate that TCM prescriptions containing Ejiao can reduce uterine fibroid volume and alleviate associated symptoms. These formulations also show favorable hormone modulation, specifically reducing estradiol and progesterone levels, with a lower incidence of adverse events compared to control groups. These benefits are particularly relevant for populations experiencing uterine fibroids. Treatment durations typically range from weeks to months for observable effects.
How it works
Gelatinum Asini's mechanism of action is attributed to its rich content of collagen and bioactive peptides. These components are believed to stimulate bone marrow stem cells, particularly megakaryocytes, which are crucial for enhancing platelet production. In terms of immune modulation, it appears to increase specific T-cell subsets, such as CD3+ cells, thereby potentially improving overall cellular immunity. For uterine fibroids, the ingredient's effects may involve the modulation of estrogen and progesterone levels, although the precise molecular targets and pathways are still under investigation. As a gelatin product, its peptides are absorbed orally and are thought to exert systemic effects throughout the body.
Side effects
Gelatinum Asini is generally considered safe, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Rare, mild gastrointestinal discomfort is the most commonly noted side effect, but its occurrence is infrequent. High-quality studies have not reported any significant drug interactions or contraindications. However, specific populations should exercise caution. Individuals with known allergies to animal proteins should be wary due to its animal origin. While data are limited, pregnant women are generally advised to exercise caution, as with many supplements where comprehensive safety data for this group is not fully established. Overall, the safety profile appears favorable, but individual sensitivities should always be considered.
Dosage
Clinical studies on Gelatinum Asini often utilize standardized Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prescriptions that incorporate Ejiao, rather than isolated gelatin. For conditions like uterine fibroids and hematological support, effective doses in trials typically range from several grams daily. These doses are usually administered orally, often divided into multiple intakes throughout the day. The optimal dosage can vary depending on the specific formulation and the intended therapeutic indication. Currently, there is no universally established maximum safe dose. Absorption of Gelatinum Asini may be enhanced when consumed with warm liquids, though specific cofactors that might further improve absorption are not yet well-defined. Patients should consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for their specific needs.
FAQs
Is Gelatinum Asini safe for cancer patients?
Yes, evidence supports its use to improve blood counts, specifically platelets and leukocytes, in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, with a good safety profile.
How long until benefits appear?
Immune and hematopoietic improvements are typically observed within weeks. For uterine fibroid symptoms, improvement may take longer, often several months.
Can it be used alone or only in combination?
Most of the existing evidence involves Gelatinum Asini as part of combination TCM formulas. Its efficacy and safety when used in isolation are less studied.
Is it suitable for vegetarians?
No, Gelatinum Asini is derived from donkey hide, an animal source, making it unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11483700/ – This meta-analysis of 5 RCTs involving 610 NSCLC patients found that herbal medicine (HM) including Gelatinum Asini significantly increased CD3+ T cells (MD 10.60, p<0.001). The study was of high quality with low bias, supporting the immunomodulatory effects of Ejiao in cancer patients.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34488366/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 9 RCTs with 844 uterine fibroid patients concluded that Ejiao-containing prescriptions reduced fibroid volume, improved symptoms, and lowered estradiol and progesterone levels with fewer adverse events. While studies were from China and some had small samples, the overall quality was moderate to high.
- https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/ddt/8/5/8_2014.01038/_pdf – This review, summarizing clinical observations from 2002-2006, indicated that large doses of Gelatinum Asini increased platelet and leukocyte counts in cancer patients post-chemotherapy/radiotherapy (p<0.05). The study is of moderate quality, highlighting the need for more confirmatory RCTs due to its observational nature.
- https://cdn.amegroups.cn/journals/amepc/files/journals/8/articles/77429/public/77429-PB3-6998-R2.pdf – This source, likely related to the meta-analysis on uterine fibroids, reinforces findings that Ejiao-containing prescriptions are effective in reducing fibroid volume and improving symptoms, along with favorable hormonal modulation and a low incidence of adverse events. It supports the gynecological benefits of Gelatinum Asini.
