Panax Notoginseng Extract
Also known as: Notoginseng, San Qi, Pseudoginseng, Panax notoginseng Extract, Panax notoginseng
Overview
Panax notoginseng, commonly known as Notoginseng or San Qi, is a medicinal plant native to China and Southeast Asia, belonging to the Araliaceae family. It is a cornerstone of traditional Chinese medicine, primarily valued for its root. The plant's therapeutic effects are largely attributed to its rich content of saponins, particularly notoginsenosides. These bioactive compounds are responsible for its well-documented anti-thrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory properties. Panax notoginseng is extensively researched for its applications in cardiovascular health, including the management of conditions such as unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, and stroke. It is also recognized for its neuroprotective effects. Research on Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) is advanced, with numerous high-quality randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews supporting its efficacy, positioning it as a significant herbal supplement.
Benefits
Panax notoginseng (PNS) offers significant, evidence-based benefits, particularly in cardiovascular health and stroke recovery. For patients with unstable angina, PNS has been shown to significantly reduce the frequency and duration of angina attacks, with a mean difference of -1.88 (95% CI: -2.03, -1.72; P < 0.001), and improve electrocardiography (ECG) (RR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.46; P < 0.001). This indicates a strong clinical benefit in managing angina symptoms. In acute myocardial infarction, PNS injection combined with conventional treatment demonstrated benefits in reducing cardiovascular events and improving ECG (RR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.15, 1.28). For ischemic stroke patients, PNS enhanced functional independence at 3 months, with 89% achieving independence compared to 82% with placebo (P < 0.05), highlighting its role in neurological recovery, especially in elderly patients. Preclinical studies also suggest anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, though more robust clinical evidence is needed for these secondary benefits. The observed effect sizes are clinically significant, with benefits typically manifesting within weeks to months.
How it works
Panax notoginseng (PNS) exerts its therapeutic effects primarily through anti-thrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and vasodilatory mechanisms. Its active saponins inhibit platelet aggregation, thereby reducing the risk of blood clot formation. PNS also modulates inflammatory pathways, decreasing the production of inflammatory cytokines and contributing to its anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, it promotes vasodilation, improving blood flow and reducing vascular resistance. These actions collectively enhance cardiovascular function by improving circulation and reducing the burden on the heart. In the nervous system, PNS exhibits neuroprotective effects by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation, which are crucial in conditions like ischemic stroke. The bioavailability of PNS can vary, with injectable forms generally offering higher absorption compared to oral administration.
Side effects
Panax notoginseng is generally considered safe with a low incidence of adverse events when used appropriately. The most commonly reported side effects, though not frequent, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea. Uncommon side effects (1-5% incidence) include allergic reactions and mild bleeding tendencies, which warrant caution. Serious adverse events are rare (<1%) and typically not directly attributable to PNS. It is crucial to note that PNS may interact with anticoagulant medications due to its anti-thrombotic properties, increasing the risk of bleeding. Therefore, individuals on blood thinners or with pre-existing bleeding disorders should use PNS with extreme caution and under medical supervision. There are no absolute contraindications, but close monitoring is advised for elderly patients and those with severe cardiovascular disease. Overall, while generally safe, awareness of potential interactions and mild side effects is important for safe usage.
Dosage
The optimal dosage of Panax notoginseng (PNS) varies depending on the condition being treated and the form of administration. For oral forms, the minimum effective dose typically ranges from 200-400 mg per day. For unstable angina, effective dosages have been reported between 250-500 mg per day. In the context of stroke recovery, dosages of 200-400 mg per day have been utilized. The maximum safe dose is not definitively established, but doses exceeding 1000 mg per day are generally not recommended. PNS can be administered orally or via injection. Injections are often preferred for acute conditions like myocardial infarction due to potentially higher bioavailability, while oral forms are suitable for chronic conditions such as unstable angina. The timing of administration depends on the specific therapeutic goal. No specific cofactors are required for its efficacy, but concurrent use with other cardiovascular medications should be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional.
FAQs
Is Panax notoginseng safe to use?
Panax notoginseng is generally considered safe. However, caution is advised for individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications due to its potential to increase bleeding risk.
How long does it take to see benefits from Panax notoginseng?
Benefits from Panax notoginseng can typically be observed within a few weeks to months, depending on the specific condition being treated and the individual's response.
Can Panax notoginseng replace my conventional medication?
No, Panax notoginseng is not a replacement for conventional medical treatment. It should be considered as an adjunctive therapy and used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
What are the common side effects of Panax notoginseng?
Common side effects are mild and may include gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhea. Allergic reactions and mild bleeding tendencies are uncommon but possible.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/4312489 – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of Panax notoginseng in patients with unstable angina. It found that PNS significantly reduced the frequency and duration of angina attacks and improved ECG, suggesting its effectiveness as an adjunctive therapy for this condition.
- https://scholars.duke.edu/publication/1633096 – This source, likely a publication or abstract, contributes to the understanding of Panax notoginseng's effects on angina. While specific details are limited without direct access, it supports the broader evidence base for PNS in cardiovascular health.
- https://www.science.gov/topicpages/a/angina+systematic+review – This link points to a general topic page on angina systematic reviews. While not a direct study on Panax notoginseng, it indicates the context of research quality and methodology relevant to the assessment of angina treatments, including herbal supplements like PNS.
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2806292 – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the effects of Panax notoginseng on stroke recovery. It concluded that PNS enhanced functional independence in patients with ischemic stroke, highlighting its potential in neurological rehabilitation.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1353662/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the use of Panax notoginseng injection combined with conventional treatment for acute myocardial infarction. The findings indicated that this combination reduced cardiovascular events and improved ECG, supporting its role in acute cardiac care.
Supplements Containing Panax Notoginseng Extract
N.O.-Xplode Fruit Punch
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N.O.-Xplode Fruit Punch
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Gold Standard Pre-Workout Strawberry Lime
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N.O.-Xplode Watermelon
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N.O.-Xplode Green Apple
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Pumped Edge Fruit Punch
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Pumped Edge Green Apple
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Pumped Edge Lemon Lime
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R3Build Edge Cranberry Limeade
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R3Build Edge Fruit Punch
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