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Organic Bitter Wood

Also known as: Quassia amara L., Bitter wood, Quassia, Organic Bitter Wood, Quassia amara

Overview

Organic Bitter Wood refers to extracts derived from the bark and wood of *Quassia amara*, a tropical plant known for its intensely bitter compounds, primarily quassinoids, β-carboline, and cantin-6 alkaloids. Traditionally, it has been used for its anti-inflammatory, anti-fertility, anti-hyperglycemic, and antimicrobial properties. It is also being explored for potential weight loss and metabolic benefits. The plant contains bioactive compounds with a bitter taste and notable pharmacological activities, with quassinoids being largely responsible for its biological effects. Research on *Quassia amara* is considered to be at a moderate stage, with several preclinical studies and some clinical trials available. However, there is a lack of high-quality human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews specifically focused on *Quassia amara*.

Benefits

The primary benefits observed in preclinical studies include anti-inflammatory, anti-fertility, and anti-hyperglycemic effects. Methanol extracts have shown significant reduction in carrageenan-induced paw edema in mice, comparable to indomethacin, indicating anti-inflammatory potential. Dose-dependent reductions in sperm count, motility, and viability, along with increased abnormal sperm morphology, suggest contraceptive effects in male mice. Oral administration of wood powder has significantly reduced blood glucose levels in rats after glucose loading, comparable to metformin effects in animal models. Secondary effects include antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic activities demonstrated in vitro. However, these benefits are primarily observed in animal models, and human data specifically for *Quassia amara* are lacking. Clinical significance and effect sizes in humans are not well established.

How it works

The primary biological pathways involve quassinoids and alkaloids inhibiting inflammatory mediators, modulating glucose metabolism, and affecting reproductive cell viability. It interacts with the immune system (anti-inflammatory), endocrine system (anti-hyperglycemic), and reproductive system (anti-fertility). The known molecular targets are not fully elucidated but likely involve the inhibition of pro-inflammatory enzymes and modulation of glucose uptake pathways. Absorption and bioavailability data are limited; however, oral administration has been effective in animal models, though human pharmacokinetics remain unknown.

Side effects

Preclinical studies indicate potential toxicity at higher doses, especially reproductive toxicity. Common side effects are not well documented in humans. Uncommon and rare side effects observed in animal studies include Leydig cell vacuolation and germ cell damage at certain doses. Drug interactions are unknown, and caution is advised due to potential effects on fertility and glucose metabolism. It is likely contraindicated in pregnancy and fertility planning due to its anti-fertility effects. Given animal reproductive toxicity data, caution is advised in males of reproductive age. Human safety data are sparse, necessitating careful consideration before use.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose in animal studies ranged from 25-200 mg/kg, but human equivalent doses have not been established. Optimal dosage ranges for humans are not defined. The maximum safe dose is unknown, with toxicity observed in animal reproductive tissues at higher doses. Acute dosing has been effective in animal models, but human timing is unknown. Extracts standardized for quassinoids are preferred for consistency. Absorption factors are also unknown. Due to limited human data and potential toxicity, it is crucial to exercise caution and consult with healthcare professionals before considering its use.

FAQs

Is Organic Bitter Wood effective for diabetes or weight loss?

Animal studies suggest anti-hyperglycemic effects, but no high-quality human trials confirm efficacy. Bitter melon, a different bitter plant, has more evidence for metabolic benefits but is distinct from *Quassia amara*.

Is it safe to use during pregnancy?

No; animal studies show anti-fertility effects and testicular toxicity, indicating potential risks.

How quickly does it work?

Animal studies show effects within hours to days; human data lacking.

Are there any known drug interactions?

Not well studied; caution advised especially with antidiabetic or fertility-related medications.

Research Sources

https://www.phytopharmajournal.com/Vol11_Issue3_10.pdf – A preclinical study in Swiss mice demonstrated that a methanol extract of *Quassia amara* bark reduced inflammation and showed anti-fertility effects by reducing sperm count and viability, with histological damage to Leydig cells. The study highlights the potential of *Quassia amara* as an anti-inflammatory and anti-fertility agent, but its limitations include the use of an animal model and the absence of human data.
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/WeightLoss-HealthProfessional/ – This National Institutes of Health (NIH) fact sheet provides general information about weight loss, including strategies, dietary supplements, and considerations for healthcare professionals. It serves as a broad resource for understanding weight management but does not specifically focus on *Quassia amara*.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38274207/ – A systematic review and meta-analysis on bitter melon (*Momordica charantia*) showed modest benefits on metabolic syndrome parameters including blood glucose and lipid profiles in humans. This study highlights the need for similar rigorous studies on *Quassia amara* to validate its potential metabolic benefits.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317051 – This article provides general information about bitter melon, including its potential health benefits and uses. It does not specifically address *Quassia amara* but offers context on related bitter plants and their traditional uses.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bitter-melon – This article discusses the nutritional properties and potential health benefits of bitter melon. It provides an overview of bitter melon's effects on blood sugar control and other health aspects, but it does not focus on *Quassia amara*.