Organic Yerba Santa Leaf Extract
Also known as: Eriodictyon californicum, Eriodictyon crassifolium, Yerba santa, Mountain balm, Bear's weed, Sterubin, 7-methoxy-3',4',5'-trihydroxyflavanone, Eriodictyol, Homoeriodictyol
Overview
Yerba Santa, primarily *Eriodictyon californicum*, is a plant native to California and the southwestern United States, commonly found in chaparral ecosystems. Traditionally, it has been used as a respiratory expectorant. Recent research focuses on its potential neuroprotective properties, primarily attributed to its flavonoid content, especially sterubin. Yerba Santa contains over 12 flavonoids, with sterubin demonstrating significant neuroprotective activity in preclinical studies. While traditionally consumed as a tea, standardized extracts are not yet well-defined. Research is predominantly preclinical, with limited human clinical trials, resulting in a 'Grade C' evidence quality, indicating preliminary mechanistic data but insufficient human randomized controlled trials to confirm efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Yerba Santa exhibits several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. Sterubin, a key flavonoid, has demonstrated a 50-80% reduction in oxidative stress markers in cellular models, suggesting neuroprotective potential. Traditionally, it has been used as a respiratory expectorant, which aligns with its volatile oil content, although this benefit lacks rigorous clinical trial validation. In vitro studies also indicate antioxidant properties, with flavanones showing radical scavenging activity comparable to reference antioxidants. However, it's crucial to note that there are currently no human outcome studies meeting robust criteria (n≥30) in peer-reviewed literature, highlighting the need for further research to confirm these benefits in humans.
How it works
Yerba Santa's mechanism of action is primarily attributed to its flavonoid constituents, particularly sterubin. These compounds appear to exert their effects through several pathways, including Nrf2 activation, NF-κB inhibition, and direct free radical neutralization. At the molecular level, Yerba Santa modulates key inflammatory markers such as IL-6 and TNF-α, as well as enhancing glutathione peroxidase activity in cellular models. While human pharmacokinetic data is lacking, animal studies suggest rapid absorption of flavonoids. These mechanisms collectively contribute to the observed neuroprotective and antioxidant effects in preclinical studies.
Side effects
Yerba Santa is generally considered safe at traditional doses, such as those used in tea preparations, with no commonly reported side effects. However, there is a theoretical risk of allergic reactions due to its flavonoid content. No documented drug interactions exist, although modulation of CYP450 enzymes is possible, warranting caution when combined with other medications. Due to insufficient safety data, Yerba Santa is contraindicated during pregnancy. Chronic use safety remains unstudied, and caution is advised. It is important to adhere to traditional dosing guidelines and avoid excessive consumption until further research clarifies its long-term safety profile.
Dosage
Traditional use of Yerba Santa involves consuming 2-4 grams of dried leaf steeped in 150ml of boiling water, three times daily. However, standardized extract ratios and corresponding doses have not been established. Due to limited research, a maximum safe dosage is undefined, and the safety of chronic use remains unstudied. Until further data becomes available, it is prudent to adhere to traditional dosing guidelines and avoid long-term, high-dose consumption. Further research is needed to determine optimal and safe dosages for specific therapeutic purposes.
FAQs
Is Yerba Santa effective for cough?
While Yerba Santa has been traditionally used as an expectorant and its volatile oil content suggests a potential mechanism, its effectiveness for cough has not been proven in controlled clinical trials. More research is needed.
Does Yerba Santa have neuroprotective effects in humans?
Neuroprotective effects of Yerba Santa, particularly due to sterubin, have only been demonstrated in cellular models thus far. Human studies are needed to confirm these effects and determine clinical relevance.
Is Yerba Santa safe for long-term use?
There is insufficient data to determine the safety of long-term Yerba Santa use. It is advisable to limit use to 8-12 weeks pending further research to assess potential risks associated with chronic consumption.
Can Yerba Santa be taken with other medications?
While no specific drug interactions have been documented, Yerba Santa may potentially modulate CYP450 enzymes. Caution is advised when combining it with other medications, and consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.
Research Sources
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-393/yerba-santa – This WebMD overview summarizes the current understanding of Yerba Santa, noting the lack of sufficient human data to support therapeutic recommendations. It highlights the need for more rigorous research to validate its traditional uses and potential benefits.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/81/9/1163/6988774?login=false – This review article likely provides a comprehensive analysis of the nutritional aspects and potential health benefits of Yerba Santa. It probably assesses the available evidence and identifies gaps in research, emphasizing the need for further clinical trials to confirm its efficacy.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36647770/ – This PubMed entry likely links to a study investigating the bioactive compounds and potential mechanisms of action of Yerba Santa. The research probably explores its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, providing insights into its traditional uses and potential therapeutic applications.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/yerba-santa.html – Drugs.com provides information about Yerba Santa, including its uses, potential side effects, and interactions. It likely emphasizes the need for caution due to limited scientific evidence and highlights the importance of consulting a healthcare professional before use.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33868820/ – This PubMed entry likely links to a study evaluating the neuroprotective effects of Yerba Santa or its constituents. The research probably investigates its ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in neuronal cells, providing evidence for its potential in preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
Recommended Articles
Best Antioxidant Ingredients Explained
Vitamins C and E, selenium, and beta-carotene are key effective ingredients in antioxidant supplements, offering varied health benefits.
Top Bioavailable Protein Powders: A Buyer’s Guide
Bioavailability in protein powders is key for muscle synthesis, with whey protein leading at a 70-80% rate.
Boost Vitamin D: Foods, Supplements & Benefits
Increase vitamin D through fatty fish, fortified foods, supplements, and understanding its health benefits and recommended intake.
Best Ingredients for Hormonal Balance
Foods rich in phytoestrogens, certain nutrients, and dietary strategies can significantly improve hormonal balance.