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Ligustrum Fruit Extract

Also known as: Glossy Privet, Nü-zhen-zi, Ligustrum lucidum

Overview

Ligustrum lucidum, commonly known as glossy privet, is a plant species native to Asia, particularly valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its health benefits. The fruit of this plant is rich in bioactive compounds, including oleanolic acid and ursolic acid, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, Ligustrum lucidum is used to tonify liver and kidney Yin and is noted for its antiproliferative effects against various cancers, aiding in enhancing chemotherapy outcomes. Though research has explored its anticancer properties, most studies are conducted in vitro or in vivo, with limited human trials, calling for more comprehensive clinical validation.

Benefits

Research highlights that Ligustrum lucidum fruit extract exhibits significant antiproliferative effects against several cancer cell lines, such as hepatocellular carcinoma. In particular, it induces apoptosis and cell senescence, positively influencing cancer management. Furthermore, it may improve chemotherapy outcomes by alleviating side effects like myelosuppression and immunosuppression, thus benefiting patients undergoing such treatments. Evidence supporting these benefits primarily arises from in vitro studies, and while the findings are promising, specific clinical data on human effect sizes remain lacking.

How it works

The mechanism of action for Ligustrum lucidum involves inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, effectively inhibiting cancer cell growth. This is facilitated through caspase activation and the regulation of cell cycle components, such as p21. Although the bioavailability and absorption in humans are not well-documented, the fruit extract's interaction with cellular pathways suggests potential benefits for immune function enhancement, warranting further investigation.

Side effects

Ligustrum lucidum is generally regarded as safe in traditional use, but comprehensive safety data from clinical trials is limited. Common and uncommon side effects are not well-documented, reflecting the need for clinical studies. Potential drug interactions with chemotherapy drugs may exist, although specific interactions have not been rigorously studied. Caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety data. Therefore, users should consult healthcare professionals before usage, particularly in conjunction with ongoing treatments.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose for Ligustrum lucidum as a supplement, and optimal dosage ranges have not been standardized. While traditionally used dosages are referenced, they vary widely and lack scientific backing for supplementation. Maximum safe doses remain unspecified, and timing considerations for administration are not well-documented. The fruit is commonly utilized as an aqueous extract, though absorption factors require further exploration. Due to the variability in forms, users should consider guided recommendations from health practitioners.

FAQs

Can I use Ligustrum lucidum fruit extract while undergoing chemotherapy?

Consultation with a healthcare provider is advised before using Ligustrum lucidum extract to ensure safety and efficacy during chemotherapy.

Is Ligustrum lucidum a cure for cancer?

No, it is not a proven cure for cancer but may provide supportive benefits, especially in traditional contexts.

What are the potential side effects?

While generally safe in traditional use, documented side effects are limited; caution is recommended for specific populations.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9803785/ – This article reviews the anticancer properties of Ligustrum lucidum, highlighting its ability to induce apoptosis and cell senescence in hepatocellular carcinoma cells based on in vitro findings, while noting the necessity for clinical trials.
https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/or.2014.3312 – This study analyzed the bioactive compounds of Ligustrum lucidum, reporting high yields of oleanolic and ursolic acids, but emphasizing the need for research focusing on their clinical relevance for therapeutic applications.
https://jmla.pitt.edu/ojs/jmla/article/download/246/1489 – This review discusses Ligustrum lucidum's traditional use in cancer treatment within TCM, underlining its role in enhancing chemotherapy outcomes despite the absence of systematic reviews.