Lantana Camara
Also known as: Lantana camara, Pigeon berry, Lantana
Overview
Lantana camara is a tropical herbaceous plant recognized for its diverse medicinal properties. It has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects. The plant contains various bioactive compounds, including phenols and flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic potential. While research on Lantana camara is still emerging, there is growing interest in its use as a herbal supplement. Most of the current evidence is derived from in vitro and animal studies, with limited human trials available. Lantana camara is available in various forms, including extracts and essential oils, and is sourced directly from the plant's leaves and flowers.
Benefits
Lantana camara exhibits several potential health benefits, primarily supported by in vitro and animal studies. Its extracts have demonstrated significant antioxidant activity, with notable IC50 values against DPPH and ABTS free radicals, suggesting a strong capacity to neutralize oxidative stress. Additionally, essential oils derived from Lantana camara have shown dose-dependent inhibition of cancer cell proliferation in laboratory settings, indicating potential anticancer properties. Leaf extracts have also displayed antibacterial effects against Gram-positive bacteria. However, human studies are needed to confirm these benefits and determine their clinical significance.
How it works
Lantana camara's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways. The plant's bioactive compounds, such as phenols and flavonoids, inhibit protein denaturation and activate antioxidant pathways, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. These compounds interact with the immune and cellular systems, potentially modulating immune responses and cellular functions. While the specific molecular targets are not well-defined in human studies, the plant's constituents are believed to influence various cellular processes, contributing to its observed therapeutic effects.
Side effects
The overall safety assessment of Lantana camara suggests it is generally non-toxic, with an LC50 of 574 ppm in brine shrimp lethality assays. However, comprehensive human studies are lacking, and the full spectrum of potential side effects is not well-documented. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects have not been identified in human trials. Drug interactions are not well-studied, and there are no identified contraindications in peer-reviewed literature. Special populations, such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly, should exercise caution due to the limited safety data. Further research is needed to fully understand the safety profile of Lantana camara.
Dosage
Due to the limited human studies, there is currently no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for Lantana camara. Timing considerations, form-specific recommendations, and absorption factors are also not well-documented. There are no identified required cofactors. Until more research is available, it is difficult to provide specific dosing guidelines. Individuals considering Lantana camara should consult with a healthcare professional to determine appropriate and safe usage.
FAQs
Is Lantana camara safe to use?
Lantana camara is generally considered safe based on in vitro and animal studies. However, human studies are limited, and potential side effects are not well-documented. Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
What are the potential benefits of Lantana camara?
Potential benefits include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects, primarily supported by in vitro studies. Human trials are needed to confirm these benefits and determine their clinical significance.
How should Lantana camara be taken?
There is limited information on safe dosing and potential interactions. Dosing guidelines are not well-established, and timing and administration are not well-documented. Consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.
What are the expected results from using Lantana camara?
Potential benefits include reduced inflammation and increased antioxidant activity. However, results may vary, and more human studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11391997/ – This in vitro analysis of Lantana camara extract demonstrated significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The study reported IC50 values for DPPH and ABTS scavenging, indicating the extract's potential to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation. These findings suggest that Lantana camara may have therapeutic applications related to oxidative stress and inflammatory conditions.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11902251/ – This study focused on graphene-silver nanocomposites catalyzed by Lantana camara extract and found enhanced cytotoxic activity against cancer cells. While not directly related to supplement use, the research highlights the potential of Lantana camara in cancer-related applications. The study suggests that the plant extract can enhance the efficacy of nanocomposites in targeting cancer cells.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/30/4/851 – This research investigated the essential oils from Lantana camara flowers and found they exhibited dose-dependent inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation. The study highlights the potential anticancer properties of Lantana camara, suggesting that its essential oils may have therapeutic benefits in combating breast cancer. The findings support further investigation into the use of Lantana camara extracts in cancer treatment.
- https://www.journals.innovareacademics.in/index.php/ajpcr/article/view/815 – This study focused on the antibacterial effects of Lantana camara leaf extracts against Gram-positive bacteria. The research demonstrated that the leaf extracts have antibacterial properties, suggesting potential applications in treating bacterial infections. The findings support the traditional use of Lantana camara for its antimicrobial benefits.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/29/22/5431 – This study explored the anticancer potential of Lantana camara extracts. The research demonstrated that the extracts have dose-dependent inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, highlighting potential anticancer properties. The findings support further investigation into the use of Lantana camara extracts in cancer treatment.