Phellodendron Amurense Bark Extract
Also known as: Phellodendron amurense, Amur cork tree, Huang Bai
Overview
Phellodendron amurense, also known as the Amur cork tree or Huang Bai, is a plant native to East Asia. Its bark extract is utilized in traditional medicine due to its rich content of compounds like berberine and palmatine. The extract is recognized for its potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. It contains alkaloids, notably berberine, which is known for its diverse biological activities. Research on Phellodendron amurense bark extract is expanding, with studies focusing on its anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects. However, much of the evidence is derived from in vitro and animal models, highlighting the need for more human clinical trials to validate its benefits and safety. The extract is available in various forms, including tinctures and capsules.
Benefits
Phellodendron amurense bark extract has demonstrated antiproliferative and antiangiogenic effects in in vitro and animal studies, suggesting potential anticancer benefits. These effects are attributed to compounds like berberine, which inhibit cell proliferation and angiogenesis. Additionally, the extract has shown anti-ulcer activity in animal models, indicating potential benefits for gastrointestinal health. While these findings are promising, the evidence is primarily based on preclinical studies, and more human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits and determine the appropriate dosages and time course of effects. The extract may be beneficial for individuals seeking alternative cancer therapies or gastrointestinal support, but consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.
How it works
Phellodendron amurense bark extract primarily acts by inhibiting cell proliferation and angiogenesis, partly through compounds like berberine. Berberine targets various cellular pathways involved in growth and inflammation, interacting with body systems at a molecular level. The extract's active compounds affect pathways crucial for cancer cell growth. However, the absorption and bioavailability of these compounds in humans are not well-studied, which limits a full understanding of its mechanism of action in vivo. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise mechanisms and optimize its therapeutic potential.
Side effects
While Phellodendron amurense bark extract is generally considered safe, long-term effects and interactions with medications are not fully understood. Common side effects are not well-documented in human studies, but potential gastrointestinal disturbances have been reported. Rare side effects are also not well-documented. Due to its berberine content, the extract may interact with blood thinners and diabetes medications, potentially affecting their efficacy. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data. Caution is advised in individuals with diabetes or those taking medications that interact with berberine. Consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those taking other medications.
Dosage
There is no established minimum effective dose for specific health benefits of Phellodendron amurense bark extract. Traditional medicine practices often use it without standardized dosing. The optimal dosage ranges and maximum safe dose are not well-defined. Timing considerations for administration are also not established. It is often used as a tincture or capsule, but bioavailability may vary based on the formulation. There are no established required cofactors for its use. Due to the limited research, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine a safe and appropriate dosage, especially considering potential interactions with other medications.
FAQs
How should I use Phellodendron amurense bark extract?
Consult a healthcare provider before using, especially if you are taking other medications or have pre-existing health conditions. There are no specific timing recommendations for administration.
Is Phellodendron amurense bark extract safe?
While generally considered safe, long-term use and interactions are not well-studied. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
What are the expected results from using this extract?
Potential benefits include support for cancer and gastrointestinal health, but more research is needed. It is not a proven treatment for any disease without further clinical evidence.
Are there any misconceptions about this extract?
It is not a proven treatment for cancer or other diseases without further clinical evidence. More rigorous human clinical trials are needed to validate its benefits.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7824043/ – This article discusses the pharmacological activities of berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid found in plants like Phellodendron amurense. It highlights berberine's potential therapeutic effects, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties, based on preclinical studies. The review suggests that berberine could be a promising compound for further research and development in various health applications.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9143060/ – This study investigates the anticancer effects of Phellodendron amurense bark extract on human lung cancer cells. The research demonstrates that the extract inhibits cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in lung cancer cells in vitro. These findings suggest that Phellodendron amurense may have potential as a therapeutic agent for lung cancer, warranting further investigation in vivo and in clinical trials.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/12/6/1339 – This review explores the potential of various plant-derived compounds, including those found in Phellodendron amurense, for cancer treatment. It discusses the mechanisms by which these compounds exert their anticancer effects, such as inhibiting cell growth, inducing apoptosis, and suppressing angiogenesis. The review emphasizes the need for further research to validate these findings and develop effective cancer therapies based on natural products.
- https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/yakushi1947/109/9/109_9_672/_article/-char/en – This study examines the anti-ulcer activity of Phellodendron amurense extract in animal models. The research demonstrates that the extract can protect against gastric ulcer formation, suggesting potential benefits for gastrointestinal health. The findings indicate that Phellodendron amurense may have therapeutic applications for preventing and treating ulcers, but further human studies are needed to confirm these effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35629433/ – This study investigates the effects of Phellodendron amurense extract on prostate cancer cells. The research demonstrates that the extract inhibits the growth and survival of prostate cancer cells in vitro. These findings suggest that Phellodendron amurense may have potential as a therapeutic agent for prostate cancer, warranting further investigation in vivo and in clinical trials.