Inula Racemosa Root Extract
Also known as: Inula racemosa Hook. f., Pushkarmool, Indian Elecampane, Inula racemosa
Overview
Inula racemosa root extract is derived from the rhizomes of a plant native to the Himalayan region, traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. It is primarily recognized for its applications in respiratory and cardiovascular ailments. The extract is rich in various phytochemicals, including sesquiterpene lactones, flavonoids (such as quercetin and rutin), and ketones. Research indicates its potential for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anxiolytic, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective properties. While preclinical studies show promise, and some controlled trials exist, the overall evidence base is still developing, with a scarcity of systematic reviews and meta-analyses. This suggests a moderate maturity level of scientific evidence for its efficacy and safety in humans.
Benefits
Preclinical research suggests several potential benefits of Inula racemosa root extract: * **Hepatoprotective effects:** A recent rat study demonstrated that the extract significantly reduced chemically induced liver damage, improving liver morphology and preventing pathological changes. This suggests a strong potential for liver protection, though human studies are needed. * **Anxiolytic activity:** Hydro-alcoholic root extract at 200 mg/kg showed significant anxiolytic effects in rodent models, increasing time spent in light zones and open arms in behavioral tests. This effect is possibly mediated by the modulation of neurotransmitters like inulinadrenaline and serotonin, indicating a moderate level of evidence from animal models. * **Antioxidant and cytotoxic potential:** In vitro assays revealed moderate antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS) and the presence of beneficial polyphenols like quercetin and rutin. The extract also exhibited cytotoxicity against HepG2 liver cancer cells, suggesting potential anti-proliferative effects. This evidence is strong for in vitro activity but requires in vivo and clinical validation. * **Other potential benefits:** Patented formulations suggest anti-diabetic effects when combined with naringin. However, independent clinical validation for this specific benefit is currently lacking, indicating a low level of evidence.
How it works
The therapeutic actions of Inula racemosa root extract are attributed to its diverse phytochemical composition. Its hepatoprotective effects are likely linked to its antioxidant properties, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in liver tissue. The anxiolytic effects may involve the modulation of central neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin and adrenaline, influencing mood and anxiety pathways. Polyphenolic compounds like quercetin and rutin contribute to its free radical scavenging capabilities, providing antioxidant benefits, and also play a role in its observed cytotoxicity against certain cancer cells. The bioactive ketones and sesquiterpene lactones present in the extract are thought to interact with various inflammatory and metabolic pathways, although their precise molecular targets and mechanisms require further detailed elucidation.
Side effects
Acute toxicity studies in rats have shown a favorable safety profile for Inula racemosa root extract, with no adverse effects or pathological changes observed at doses up to 2 g/kg, indicating a wide safety margin in animal models. No significant side effects have been reported in the animal studies reviewed. However, it is crucial to note that human safety data are very limited, and comprehensive clinical trials are lacking. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications in the currently available scientific literature. Despite the promising animal safety data, caution is advised due to the insufficient clinical safety data in humans. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications, as the full spectrum of potential human side effects and interactions is not yet established.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established human dosing guidelines for Inula racemosa root extract derived from high-quality randomized controlled trials. Animal studies have utilized doses around 200 mg/kg for observing anxiolytic effects. Traditional use doses vary widely, and clinical standardization is lacking, making it difficult to recommend a specific human dosage. Factors such as bioavailability and optimal formulation also require further scientific investigation to determine effective and safe human doses. Without robust clinical data, any human dosage recommendations would be speculative. Therefore, individuals interested in using Inula racemosa should exercise caution and seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional, as the appropriate dosage for various conditions and individual responses remains largely unknown.
FAQs
Is Inula racemosa root extract safe for human consumption?
Animal studies suggest a wide safety margin at high doses, but human safety data are currently insufficient. More research is needed to confirm its safety in humans.
What conditions might Inula racemosa root extract help with?
Preclinical evidence suggests potential benefits for liver protection, anxiety reduction, and antioxidant support. Further human studies are required to confirm these effects.
How quickly can one expect to see benefits from Inula racemosa?
Animal studies indicate effects over weeks, but there is no human data available to determine the onset of benefits in people.
Is Inula racemosa effective for diabetes?
Patented combinations suggest potential anti-diabetic effects, but independent clinical trials confirming this specific benefit are currently lacking.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12274669/ – This preclinical randomized controlled trial in rats demonstrated that Inula racemosa root extract significantly reduced diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver damage, improved liver morphology, and prevented weight loss. The study provides strong evidence for the hepatoprotective effects of the extract in an animal model.
- https://www.phytojournal.com/archives/2021/vol10issue5/PartD/11-1-33-943.pdf – This preclinical randomized controlled trial in rodents showed that a hydro-alcoholic extract of Inula racemosa at 200 mg/kg exhibited significant anxiolytic effects in behavioral tests. The findings suggest that its anxiolytic action may involve modulation of neurotransmitters, providing evidence for its potential in anxiety management.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9735473/ – This in vitro and phytochemical analysis revealed moderate antioxidant activity of Inula racemosa extract, attributed to the presence of polyphenols like quercetin and rutin. The study also demonstrated cytotoxicity against HepG2 liver cancer cells, indicating potential anti-proliferative effects in a laboratory setting.
- https://patents.google.com/patent/WO2014090569A1/en – This patent describes formulations involving Inula racemosa in combination with naringin for potential anti-diabetic effects. While it suggests a possible therapeutic application, it is a patent document and not a peer-reviewed clinical study, thus requiring independent validation.
