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Lotus Seed Extract

Also known as: Lotus seed, Nelumbinis semen, Nelumbo nucifera

Overview

Lotus seeds, derived from the aquatic plant *Nelumbo nucifera*, have been utilized for over 7,000 years in culinary and medicinal contexts. These seeds are known for their rich composition of carbohydrates, proteins, and various phytochemicals, including alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids. They contain significant amounts of resistant starch, contributing to improved gut microbiota and gastrointestinal health. While research indicates promising anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, clinical validation in humans is still required. Current studies mostly involve in vitro and animal models, highlighting the need for quality clinical trials to confirm efficacy and safety.

Benefits

Lotus seed extracts offer various evidence-based benefits. Anti-obesity effects have been documented through studies on high-fat-diet-fed mice, showing modulation of the AMPK signaling pathway to reduce fat accumulation. Additionally, methanolic extracts reveal anticancer properties, specifically inhibiting ovarian cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis. Antidiabetic effects are also observed, with extracts impacting insulin receptors and glucose metabolism. Secondary benefits include anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may support overall health, along with hepato-protective impacts on liver function and cardiovascular health from improved lipid metabolism. However, while effect sizes are noted in studies, human clinical corroboration remains essential.

How it works

Lotus seed extracts primarily interact with various biological pathways. They modulate the AMPK signaling pathway, pivotal for regulating energy balance and fat metabolism. These extracts also target insulin receptors affecting glucose metabolism, contributing to their antidiabetic effects. Additionally, compounds within the extracts induce apoptosis in cancer cells and inhibit cell cycle progression, suggesting effective mechanisms against cancer. The resistant starch present enhances gastrointestinal health by promoting beneficial gut microbiota growth, while interactions with specific targets like PPARα and HMG-CoA reductase help regulate lipid metabolism.

Side effects

Lotus seeds are generally considered safe; however, comprehensive safety data on their extracts in supplement form is limited. While gastrointestinal disturbances may occur due to high fiber content, no significant common or rare side effects have been documented in peer-reviewed studies. Caution is advised when co-administering with diabetes or cholesterol-lowering medications due to potential interactions affecting insulin signaling and lipid metabolism. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare professionals prior to use, given the lack of extensive human safety data regarding lotus seed extracts.

Dosage

There is no established optimal dosage for human supplementation of lotus seed extracts, with effective doses noted between 5 to 320 μg/mL in vitro. While animal studies suggest potential dosing ranges, definitive human clinical trials are necessary to establish safety and efficacy. Due to variability in extraction methods affecting bioactive compound levels, methanolic extracts may provide a more efficient option for obtaining desired health benefits. General guidance for herbaceous extracts is to consider administration with meals for enhanced absorption, but specific timing and dosing recommendations are not well defined.

FAQs

Are lotus seed extracts safe to use?

While traditionally used, the safety of lotus seed extracts in supplement form requires more clinical evidence. They are generally considered safe when consumed in moderation.

When is the best time to take lotus seed extracts?

There are no specific timing recommendations, but taking them with meals may enhance absorption.

What benefits can I expect from taking lotus seed extracts?

Benefits may include improvements in metabolic health, antioxidant effects, and support for gut health, but these claims need to be validated through clinical trials.

Can lotus seed extracts replace my medications?

Lotus seed extracts are not a substitute for prescribed medications, but may complement healthcare strategies under guidance.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/11/14/2085 – This study evaluates the effects of red-skin lotus seed extracts on obesity in high-fat-diet-fed mice, demonstrating modulation of the AMPK pathway and reducing fat accumulation.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/chemistry/articles/10.3389/fchem.2024.1505272/full – The study presents in vitro findings on the anticancer potential of methanolic lotus seed extracts, showing significant inhibition of ovarian cancer cell growth and apoptosis induction.
https://www.nrfhh.com/A-comprehensive-network-pharmacology-study-of-Nelumbinis-semen-Lotus-Seeds-phytochemicals,175559,0,2.html – This network pharmacology analysis highlights multiple therapeutic pathways affected by lotus seed compounds, linking them to diseases like atherosclerosis and diabetes.