Isatis Extract
Also known as: Isatis tinctoria, Isatis indigotica, Woad, Chinese woad, Dyer's woad
Overview
Isatis extract, derived from the *Isatis tinctoria* and *Isatis indigotica* plants, is a botanical supplement traditionally used in herbal medicine, particularly in Chinese medicine. These plants, belonging to the Brassicaceae family, are native to Europe and Asia. The extract, typically prepared from the leaves or roots, contains bioactive compounds such as indigo, indirubin, flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. It has been historically used for its purported antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying effects. Modern research is exploring its potential antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-endotoxin properties. While preclinical studies show promise, high-quality human clinical trials are limited, necessitating further research to validate its efficacy and safety in humans. The extract is available in various forms, including hydroalcoholic and aqueous extracts.
Benefits
Isatis extract exhibits several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical studies. It demonstrates antioxidant and neuroprotective effects, as shown in a mouse model where *Isatis tinctoria* reversed stress-induced behavioral disturbances and reduced oxidative stress markers (p < 0.05). The extract also possesses anti-endotoxin activity, neutralizing bacterial endotoxins and reducing inflammatory cytokines in vitro and in animal models. Furthermore, it has shown anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, reducing pro-inflammatory markers and improving antioxidant enzyme activities. A study in sheep also suggests potential benefits for gastrointestinal health and microbiota modulation with Isatis leaf supplementation. However, human clinical data are limited, and the clinical significance of these findings requires further investigation.
How it works
Isatis extract's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. Its antioxidant activity is attributed to scavenging reactive oxygen species and enhancing endogenous antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase and catalase. Anti-inflammatory effects are mediated by downregulating pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and inhibiting nitric oxide synthesis. Neuroprotective effects may involve modulating brain-derived neurotrophic factor and reducing neuroinflammation. Additionally, the extract exhibits anti-endotoxin effects by directly neutralizing and degrading bacterial lipopolysaccharides. These actions impact the nervous system (stress modulation), immune system (anti-inflammatory), and gastrointestinal system (microbiota modulation), targeting molecules like tumor necrosis factor-alpha, nitric oxide synthase, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor.
Side effects
Isatis extract is generally considered safe based on traditional use and animal studies, with no significant adverse effects reported at tested doses. However, comprehensive human safety data are limited. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not well-documented in available literature. Due to its potential effects on immune and inflammatory pathways, caution is advised regarding potential drug interactions. While no formal contraindications are established, caution is recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of safety data. Insufficient data exist to support its use in children or individuals with chronic illnesses. Further research is needed to fully characterize its safety profile in diverse populations.
Dosage
Optimal dosage ranges for Isatis extract in humans are not well-established due to limited clinical data. Animal studies have shown effects at doses of 250–500 mg/kg body weight in mice. Traditional use doses vary, but specific recommendations are lacking. The maximum safe dose is undefined, as no toxicity has been observed at tested animal doses. Acute administration has been effective in stress models, but the effects of chronic dosing are unknown. Hydroalcoholic leaf extracts are commonly used in studies, and the extraction method can influence the availability of bioactive compounds. No specific cofactors are required. Until further research is available, it is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using Isatis extract.
FAQs
Is Isatis Extract effective for anxiety or depression?
Animal studies suggest potential anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms. However, human evidence is lacking, and more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Can it be used for infections?
It has demonstrated anti-endotoxin and antimicrobial properties in vitro and in animal models. However, clinical efficacy against infections is unproven, and it should not be used as a primary treatment for infections.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety data are not available. Traditional use suggests safety, but clinical confirmation is needed. Consult with a healthcare professional before using it long-term.
How quickly do effects appear?
In animal models, effects on stress behavior and biochemical markers appear within hours to days. The onset of effects in humans is not well-defined and may vary.
Are there any known drug interactions?
No documented interactions exist, but caution is warranted due to its potential effects on immune and inflammatory pathways. Consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking other medications.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9252841/ – This study investigated the effects of hydroalcoholic leaf extract of *Isatis tinctoria* on stress in mice. The results showed that the extract reversed stress-induced behavioral changes and reduced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, suggesting potential anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects. The study provides a good methodological rigor for a preclinical study.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8249990/ – This systematic review summarized the phytochemistry and pharmacology of *Isatis indigotica*. It highlighted the anti-endotoxin, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of the plant, describing the underlying mechanisms. The review is comprehensive in its coverage of phytochemical and pharmacological aspects, although it notes the limited availability of clinical trials.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1155/2022/3567879 – This article likely discusses the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Isatis species. Further information would be needed to provide a more detailed summary, but it likely supports the existing evidence for these benefits based on preclinical studies.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/9/3/298 – This source likely contains information on the chemical composition and potential health benefits of Isatis extracts. Further review would be needed to provide a more detailed summary, but it likely supports the existing evidence for the presence of bioactive compounds and their potential therapeutic effects.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1332457/full – This study examined the effects of Isatis leaf supplementation on fattening sheep using a multi-omics approach. The results indicated improved gastrointestinal morphology and modulation of microbiota and metabolism. While the sample size was small and the findings are species-specific, the multi-omics approach adds depth to the analysis.
Supplements Containing Isatis Extract
Isatis Cooling
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Astra Isatis
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Astra Isatis
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Clear Heat
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Clear Heat
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Cold Away
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Enhance
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Isatis Gold
Health Concerns
Yin Chao Jin
Health Concerns
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