Ilex Asprella Extract
Also known as: Ilex asprella, Ilex asprella root extract, RIAPs
Overview
Ilex asprella is a plant belonging to the Aquifoliaceae family, primarily known for its roots, which are a source of various bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols. The extract derived from its roots is currently under investigation for its potential antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-lowering properties. While it shares its genus with more widely studied species like Ilex paraguariensis (yerba mate), research on Ilex asprella is still in its nascent stages. Most available data are from preclinical studies focusing on the characterization of its chemical constituents and in vitro bioactivities. There is a notable absence of high-quality human clinical trials, meaning its efficacy and safety in humans are not yet established. The extract is considered a botanical extract and a traditional medicinal herb, rich in polyphenols.
Benefits
Research on Ilex asprella extract primarily highlights its potential benefits based on preclinical and in vitro studies. The most prominent benefit is its significant antioxidant activity, attributed to its high polyphenol content, which can scavenge free radicals. This suggests a potential role in mitigating oxidative stress. Furthermore, preclinical studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, indicating possible applications in managing inflammatory conditions and combating bacterial infections. Preliminary bioactivity experiments also suggest a lipid-lowering potential, although this has not been validated in human trials. The extract contains minor amounts of alkaloids and amino acids, which might contribute to its overall bioactivity. However, it is crucial to note that these benefits are currently theoretical and require robust clinical validation. There is no clinical data to specify benefits for particular populations, and the strength of evidence is limited to in vitro and preclinical findings.
How it works
The biological activities of Ilex asprella extract are primarily mediated by its rich content of polyphenol compounds. These polyphenols are believed to exert antioxidant effects by directly scavenging free radicals and potentially modulating cellular antioxidant defense systems. The anti-inflammatory actions likely involve the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines, although the specific molecular pathways have not been fully elucidated. Its antibacterial activity may stem from interactions with microbial cell structures or interference with bacterial metabolic processes. However, detailed mechanisms, including specific receptor interactions, enzyme inhibitions, or signaling pathway modulations, are still largely unknown. Data regarding the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of Ilex asprella polyphenols in the human body are currently unavailable.
Side effects
The safety profile of Ilex asprella extract in humans is currently undetermined due to a complete lack of clinical safety data and adverse event reports. As no human trials have been conducted, the severity, frequency, and specific risk factors associated with its use are unknown. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications. Consequently, extreme caution is warranted when considering the use of Ilex asprella extract. Without established clinical safety data, it is not possible to provide comprehensive warnings or identify specific populations at higher risk. Consumers should be aware that any use of this extract is experimental and carries unknown risks until rigorous human safety studies are performed.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established dosing guidelines for Ilex asprella extract due to the absence of human clinical trials. All available information pertains to extraction optimization in laboratory settings, not human consumption. For instance, studies on extraction methods suggest that a 50% ethanol solution, with 30 minutes of ultrasonic extraction at 300 W, yields the maximal polyphenol content from the roots. However, this information is for manufacturing purposes and does not translate into a recommended human dosage. The optimal clinical dosage, timing of administration, and suitable formulation for human use remain entirely undefined. There are no known upper limits or safety thresholds for human consumption.
FAQs
Is Ilex asprella extract effective for lipid lowering?
Preclinical studies suggest Ilex asprella extract has anti-hyperlipidemic potential. However, there is no clinical evidence in humans to support its effectiveness for lipid lowering.
Is Ilex asprella extract safe to use?
The safety of Ilex asprella extract in humans has not been established. There are no clinical safety data or adverse event reports, so caution is advised, and professional guidance is recommended.
How does Ilex asprella compare to Ilex paraguariensis (yerba mate)?
Ilex paraguariensis has more clinical evidence, including studies showing benefits for HDL-C. Ilex asprella lacks such clinical data, and its effects cannot be directly extrapolated from yerba mate.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40660662/ – This experimental study characterized polyphenols from Ilex asprella roots (RIAPs) and optimized their ultrasonic extraction. It found that the extract exhibited significant antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hyperlipidemic activities in vitro, suggesting promising bioactivities but highlighting the need for clinical validation.
- https://phcogrev.com/article/2021/14/28/105530phrev20201413 – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of Ilex paraguariensis (yerba mate) on lipid profiles in humans. It concluded that yerba mate supplementation significantly increased HDL-C but showed no significant changes in total cholesterol or triglycerides, providing comparative context for Ilex asprella.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9354139/ – While not directly about Ilex asprella, this source discusses immunomodulatory polysaccharides from other plants. It serves as a general reference for botanical research but does not provide specific evidence for Ilex asprella's properties or effects.
