Isatis Indigotica Extract
Also known as: Isatis indigotica Fortune, Isatis tinctoria L., Chinese woad, Banlangen, Isatis indigotica
Overview
Isatis indigotica extract is derived from the leaves and roots of the plant, traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and detoxifying properties. It contains a rich array of phytochemicals, including alkaloids, flavonoids, organic acids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its diverse biological activities. Primary applications in traditional medicine include the treatment of viral infections and inflammation. More recently, research has explored its potential neuropsychiatric effects, particularly in relation to stress and depression. While preclinical studies, primarily in animal models, show promising results, high-quality human randomized controlled trials are limited, indicating that the evidence base is still developing.
Benefits
Research suggests several potential benefits for Isatis indigotica extract. In animal models, hydroalcoholic leaf extract of *I. tinctoria* has been shown to reduce anxiety- and depression-like behaviors induced by acute restraint stress. This effect is likely mediated through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms, as well as nitric oxide (NO) inhibition. Extracts also exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, reducing oxidative stress markers, and modulating immune responses. Clinical observational data, though limited to small case series and combination herbal formulas, indicate efficacy in viral myocarditis, keratoconjunctivitis, and various skin conditions, with reported effective rates between 68-92%. While animal studies show statistically significant behavioral improvements and biochemical marker modulation, human clinical effect sizes are not yet well quantified. In mice, behavioral effects have been observed within hours of a single administration.
How it works
Isatis indigotica extract exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. A key mechanism involves the inhibition of nitric oxide synthase, which leads to reduced levels of nitric oxide (NO). It also demonstrates significant antioxidant activity by reducing reactive oxygen species, thereby mitigating oxidative stress. The extract downregulates pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and C-reactive protein, contributing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, its bioactive compounds are known to inhibit NF-κB signaling, a crucial pathway in regulating inflammation and immune responses. These actions collectively modulate neuroimmune pathways and oxidative stress, particularly in brain regions like the hippocampus, which are involved in mood regulation. Absorption and bioavailability data are currently limited and likely vary depending on the specific extract preparation.
Side effects
The safety profile of Isatis indigotica extract appears favorable in preclinical studies, with no significant adverse effects reported in animal models at tested doses. However, human safety data are sparse, and while traditional use suggests low toxicity, rigorous safety evaluations in human populations are lacking. There are no well-documented drug interactions or contraindications identified in the currently reviewed literature. Specific risk factors or adverse reactions have not been systematically studied in special populations such as pregnant individuals or children. Comprehensive toxicology studies and clinical trials are needed to fully establish the safety profile, potential drug interactions, and contraindications for human use. Users should exercise caution due to the limited human safety data.
Dosage
Currently, there is no standardized dosing established for Isatis indigotica extract from clinical trials. Animal studies have utilized single doses of hydroalcoholic leaf extract that were sufficient to produce behavioral effects, but human equivalent doses have not been defined. Traditional decoctions vary widely in their preparation methods and resulting dosages, making it difficult to extrapolate to standardized extract forms. The optimal dosing, timing of administration, and specific formulation (e.g., capsule, liquid extract) require further clinical research to determine. Due to the lack of human clinical data, upper limits and safety thresholds for human consumption are also undefined, and caution is advised until more comprehensive research is available.
FAQs
Is it effective for depression or anxiety in humans?
Currently, evidence for its effectiveness in treating depression or anxiety is limited to animal models. Clinical efficacy in humans remains to be demonstrated through further research.
Is it safe?
Traditional use suggests a degree of safety, but formal toxicology studies and drug interaction research in humans are needed to fully establish its safety profile.
How quickly does it work?
Animal studies have shown that effects can be observed within hours after a single administration, particularly for behavioral changes related to stress.
Can it be used alone or only in combination?
Both single extracts and combination formulas are used traditionally. However, clinical data on the efficacy of the single extract are limited, especially for specific conditions.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9252841/ – This preclinical randomized controlled trial in mice demonstrated that hydroalcoholic leaf extract of Isatis indigotica reversed stress-induced anxiety and depression-like behaviors. The study identified reduced nitric oxide, oxidative stress, and inflammation as key mechanisms, highlighting its potential neuroprotective effects in an animal model.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2022/3567879 – This preclinical randomized controlled trial in mice, similar to the first, investigated the effects of Isatis indigotica leaf extract on stress. It confirmed the extract's ability to alleviate stress-induced behavioral changes and elucidated underlying mechanisms involving antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, supporting its potential for neuropsychiatric applications.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8249990/ – This source compiles clinical observational reports and case series on Isatis indigotica's use, often in combination herbal formulas, for viral and skin conditions. It reports high effective rates (68-92%) in small human cohorts, suggesting clinical utility, though it notes the limitations of non-RCT designs and lack of control groups.
- https://www.sciltp.com/journals/fm/articles/2507000991 – This systematic review focuses on the modulation of the NF-κB pathway by Isatis indigotica. It identifies and summarizes the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of the extract, primarily through its ability to inhibit NF-κB signaling, a key regulator of inflammatory responses, drawing mostly from preclinical data.