Pentatropis Capensis Extract
Also known as: Pentatropis capensis (L.f.) Bullock, Kukka bachchataay, Chhagal lata, Singroti, Pentatropis capensis
Overview
Pentatropis capensis is a plant species belonging to the Asclepiadaceae family, traditionally used in folk medicine for various health conditions. Modern research explores its antioxidant, antiulcer, and potential anticancer properties. It contains flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, and other bioactive compounds. Traditionally, it has been used for treating headaches, running nose, body pain, and skin diseases. Current research focuses on its potential antioxidant, antiulcer, and anticancer effects. Studies are primarily in vitro or animal-based, with limited human trials available. The quality of available evidence is moderate, warranting further investigation to validate its efficacy and safety in humans. It is available primarily as an herbal extract.
Benefits
Pentatropis capensis exhibits several potential health benefits, primarily supported by in vitro and animal studies. It demonstrates moderate antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals in vitro. Animal models suggest significant antiulcer effects, comparable to omeprazole at higher doses. In vitro studies also show that it inhibits HeLa cell proliferation, indicating potential anticancer activity. Traditional uses suggest analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, supported by some studies. However, the lack of human trials limits the clinical significance and applicability of these findings. Further research is needed to confirm these benefits in humans and to determine optimal dosages and safety profiles.
How it works
The mechanism of action for Pentatropis capensis involves several biological pathways. Its antioxidant activity is likely due to its ability to scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative stress. The antiulcer effects may be attributed to enhancing antioxidant defenses in gastric tissue, protecting it from damage. Additionally, it may interact with cellular pathways to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. However, the specific molecular targets and detailed mechanisms are not yet fully understood. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise interactions with body systems and the absorption and bioavailability of its active compounds.
Side effects
Based on traditional use and animal studies, Pentatropis capensis is generally considered safe. However, due to the limited number of human trials, the full safety profile is not well-established. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not documented in the available literature. Drug interactions are also not well-studied, and no specific contraindications have been identified. Special populations, such as pregnant women, children, and elderly individuals, should exercise caution due to the lack of safety data. Further research is needed to comprehensively assess the safety and potential adverse effects of Pentatropis capensis in humans.
Dosage
Due to the limited human data, a minimum effective dose for Pentatropis capensis has not been established for humans. Animal studies have used doses of 200-400 mg/kg for antiulcer effects. Acute toxicity studies in mice showed no mortality up to 10,000 mg/kg, suggesting a relatively high safety threshold. Timing considerations and form-specific recommendations are not well-established, though it is typically used as an ethanolic extract. Absorption factors and required cofactors are also not well-studied. Until more human research is available, it is difficult to provide specific dosage guidelines. Consult with a healthcare professional before using Pentatropis capensis.
FAQs
What are the primary uses of Pentatropis capensis?
Traditionally used for headaches, body pain, and skin diseases. Current research explores its antioxidant, antiulcer, and potential anticancer properties, though human data is limited.
Is Pentatropis capensis safe?
Generally considered safe based on traditional use and animal studies. However, human safety data are limited, and further research is needed to confirm its safety profile.
What dosage should I take?
No established human dosage exists. Animal studies used 200-400 mg/kg for antiulcer effects. Consult with a healthcare professional before use due to limited human data.
What are the expected results?
Potential antioxidant and antiulcer benefits are suggested by research, but more studies are needed. Human data is limited, so results may vary. Consult with a healthcare provider.
Research Sources
- https://recentscientific.com/sites/default/files/12169-A-2018.pdf – This animal study investigated the antiulcer activity of Pentatropis capensis. The key finding was that the extract exhibited significant antiulcer effects comparable to omeprazole at higher doses in experimental rats. The study is limited by its animal model and the absence of human data, resulting in a moderate quality assessment.
- https://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIRAD06066.pdf – This in vitro study examined the anticancer activity of Pentatropis capensis using HeLa cell lines. The extract inhibited HeLa cell proliferation with an IC50 of 312.1 µg/ml. The study's limitations include its in vitro nature and the lack of human data, leading to a moderate quality assessment.
- https://www.ijpcbs.com/articles/phyto-chemical-anti-fungal-anti-microbial-andanti-oxidant-studies-on-whole-plant-extract-of-pentatropis-capensis.pdf – This in vitro study assessed the phytochemical, antifungal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of Pentatropis capensis. The extract exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity against various bacterial strains. The study is limited by its in vitro model and the absence of human data, resulting in a moderate quality assessment.
- https://www.ayurvedjournal.com/JAHM_201952_07.pdf – This article discusses the traditional uses and medicinal properties of Pentatropis capensis in Ayurvedic medicine. It highlights the plant's use in treating various ailments, including headaches, body pain, and skin diseases. While informative, the article lacks specific research findings and clinical data, limiting its overall quality assessment.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37151714/ – This study investigates the protective effects of Pentatropis capensis against oxidative stress and inflammation in a cellular model. The findings suggest that the plant extract can mitigate oxidative damage and reduce inflammatory responses in cells exposed to stress. This research contributes to understanding the potential mechanisms underlying the plant's traditional uses and supports further investigation into its therapeutic applications.