Nelumbo Nucifera Seed Extract
Also known as: Sacred Lotus, Lotus, Nelumbo nucifera
Overview
*Nelumbo nucifera* is a perennial aquatic plant native to Asia, popularly known as the Sacred Lotus. Traditionally, various parts of this plant, including seeds, leaves, flowers, and rhizomes, are utilized for both nutritional and medicinal purposes. It is celebrated for its rich composition of flavonoids, alkaloids, and other phytochemicals, contributing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential anti-cancer properties. Although widely used in traditional medicine, modern clinical trials are limited, yielding variable quality of evidence regarding its efficacy and safety. Current research primarily focuses on its bioactive compounds and their potential health benefits, making it a subject of interest in herbal medicine.
Benefits
Research indicates that *Nelumbo nucifera* possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, primarily demonstrated in vitro and in animal studies. While no specific human-Dose-Response data is established, the seed extract shows potential benefits in alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation. Secondary benefits may include anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity effects, with phytochemicals being implicated in these processes. However, due to a dearth of clinical human trials, definitive conclusions regarding effectiveness and recommended populations are lacking. Significant quantifiable benefits remain uncertain without further studies that comprehensively assess its efficacy.
How it works
*Nelumbo nucifera* is thought to exert its effects through several biological pathways, particularly those related to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. Key phytochemicals, such as flavonoids, interact within these pathways, potentially modulating immune and metabolic systems. Notably, compounds in the extract may inhibit tyrosinase, affecting melanin synthesis, which indicates possible uses for skin health. However, understanding of its molecular mechanisms and absorption in humans remains inadequate and requires further exploration.
Side effects
The safety profile of *Nelumbo nucifera* is generally considered positive when used in traditional contexts; however, modern safety data is sparse. Common, uncommon, or rare side effects have not been well-documented due to limited clinical data. Potential drug interactions may arise from its bioactive compounds, although specific interactions are not extensively studied. Additionally, while no formal contraindications exist, individuals should exercise caution, especially pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to insufficient safety evaluations. Continued monitoring of emerging research is essential to fully understand its safety implications in diverse populations.
Dosage
Currently, there is no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for *Nelumbo nucifera* supplements. Timing and administration guidelines remain undefined, and various forms such as capsules and extracts are available, yet without specific recommendations to direct use. There is a lack of research on absorption factors and co-factors that may enhance its bioavailability. It is crucial to consult healthcare providers when considering supplementation, particularly because standardized dosing remains absent in modern pharmacological literature.
FAQs
Is *Nelumbo nucifera* safe to use?
Generally regarded as safe when used traditionally, but modern safety data is limited. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the expected health benefits?
Potential benefits include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects, yet these are primarily supported by non-human studies.
How should it be taken?
There are no specific guidelines for timing or form, as optimal dosages and effectiveness are yet to be established.
Are there any side effects?
Known side effects are not well-documented; caution is advised due to limited information on safety.
What’s the consensus on its efficacy?
While traditional uses suggest various benefits, current human trial data is inadequate for conclusive efficacy assessments.
Research Sources
- https://cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/NelumboNucifera.pdf – This document reviews the safety and efficacy of *Nelumbo nucifera*, noting its wide use in traditional medicine while highlighting the absence of comprehensive human clinical studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27667670/ – A pharmacological review that identifies active compounds in *Nelumbo nucifera* and their potential therapeutic activities against cancer, infections, and inflammation.
- https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/SLR_Nelumbonucifera_092024_0.pdf – This systematic review assesses the phytochemical profile of *Nelumbo nucifera* and its pharmacological benefits, emphasizing the need for human trials.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22898740/ – An in vitro study demonstrating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of lotus leaf flavonoid extract, stressing its potential use in health supplements.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2021/8375961 – This article delves into the chemical properties of *Nelumbo nucifera* and discusses its role in traditional Chinese medicine, yet lacks evidence for clinical efficacy.
