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Lophatherum

Also known as: Lophatherum, Dan Zhu Ye, Lophatherum gracile

Overview

Lophatherum gracile, commonly known as Lophatherum or "Dan Zhu Ye" in traditional Chinese medicine, is a perennial grass native to East Asia. Its leaves are the primary source of extracts used in herbal supplementation. Traditionally, it has been valued for its antipyretic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. Modern research is exploring its potential in areas such as bone health, anti-inflammatory effects, and uric acid regulation. The plant contains various bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to its pharmacological effects. While it has a long history of traditional use, the scientific evidence supporting its modern applications is still emerging, with most studies conducted in vitro or in animal models. High-quality randomized controlled trials in humans are currently limited, indicating a moderate to low level of research maturity and evidence quality.

Benefits

Lophatherum gracile shows promising, albeit preliminary, benefits primarily in two areas. For bone health, a 2022 in vivo study demonstrated that water extract of Lophatherum gracile leaves (WELG) effectively inhibited osteoclast differentiation and prevented bone loss in an ovariectomy-induced postmenopausal osteoporosis mouse model. This suggests a potential role in osteoporosis therapy and prevention, particularly for postmenopausal women, though human trials are needed to confirm these findings. Secondly, preliminary cell model studies indicate that Lophatherum gracile extracts may reduce uric acid levels, suggesting potential benefits for managing hyperuricemia and gout. While traditional uses point to antiviral, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects, these lack robust clinical trial confirmation. The quantitative effect sizes and clinical significance in humans are not well-established due to the absence of large-scale randomized controlled trials.

How it works

Lophatherum gracile's primary mechanism of action appears to involve the inhibition of key signaling pathways crucial for osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption. Specifically, it has been shown to suppress receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced signaling pathways, including mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). These pathways are central to bone remodeling and excessive bone breakdown. Beyond bone health, Lophatherum is also believed to modulate immune and inflammatory responses, and some studies suggest potential antiviral activity. Its effects on uric acid levels are thought to involve direct or indirect modulation of uric acid metabolism, though the precise molecular targets are still under investigation. Specific pharmacokinetic data on the absorption and bioavailability of Lophatherum compounds are currently lacking.

Side effects

The safety profile of Lophatherum gracile is not well-documented in humans due to limited clinical research. No significant safety concerns have been reported in the animal studies conducted to date. Common, uncommon, or rare side effects are not established. There are no documented drug interactions, but caution is advised due to the lack of comprehensive data. Similarly, specific contraindications for its use have not been established. Its effects and safety in special populations, such as pregnant or lactating women, children, or individuals with chronic diseases, have not been studied. Therefore, its use in these groups should be approached with extreme caution, or avoided, until more robust human safety data become available.

Dosage

The optimal and safe dosage ranges for Lophatherum gracile in humans are currently unknown and not well-established. There is no defined minimum effective dose or maximum safe dose for human consumption. Animal studies have utilized standardized extracts at specific doses, but these are not directly translatable to human dosing. The timing of administration is also not established. Research primarily focuses on water extracts of the leaves. Factors influencing absorption and the need for cofactors are not identified. Due to the limited human clinical data, it is not possible to provide specific dosing recommendations, and any use should be approached with caution, ideally under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

FAQs

Is Lophatherum effective for osteoporosis?

Animal studies suggest potential bone-protective benefits by inhibiting bone loss, but human trials are needed to confirm its effectiveness for osteoporosis in people.

Is it safe to use?

Human safety data are very limited. While traditional use suggests low toxicity, clinical confirmation of its safety profile is currently lacking.

How long before effects appear?

The time frame for effects in humans is unknown. Animal models have shown effects over several weeks, but this may not directly translate to human response times.

Can it be used for gout?

Preliminary cell studies indicate a potential for uric acid lowering, which could be relevant for gout, but clinical evidence in humans is currently absent.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9699449/ – This preclinical study used an in vivo mouse model of postmenopausal osteoporosis. It found that water extract of Lophatherum gracile leaves (WELG) inhibited osteoclastogenesis by suppressing RANKL-induced MAPK and NF-κB pathways, preventing bone loss and fat accumulation without uterine atrophy. The study identified active bone-protective constituents, providing mechanistic insights but is limited by being an animal model with uncertain dosing translation to humans.
https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.26599/FMH.2026.9420099 – This cell model study investigated the uric acid-lowering effects of Lophatherum gracile extracts in vitro. The findings indicated that the extracts demonstrated uric acid-lowering effects, suggesting a potential for managing hyperuricemia. However, this is a preliminary in vitro study and requires clinical validation through human trials.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35940344/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis included 20 randomized controlled trials on various flavonoid-containing supplements for acute respiratory tract infections. It concluded that flavonoid supplements were generally efficacious and safe in preventing ARTIs. However, the review noted significant heterogeneity among studies and a lack of independent verification of flavonoid purity, and it did not isolate the specific effects of Lophatherum as it included diverse flavonoid sources.