Pseudostellaria Root Extract
Also known as: Taizishen, Chinese starwort root, Pseudostellaria Root Extract, Pseudostellaria heterophylla
Overview
Pseudostellaria Root Extract is derived from the root of *Pseudostellaria heterophylla*, a plant widely utilized in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is primarily valued as a tonic to fortify Qi (vital energy) and bolster immune function. This botanical supplement is frequently incorporated into herbal formulations aimed at addressing fatigue, supporting the immune system, and managing respiratory conditions. Its key characteristics include notable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. While there are existing clinical trials and preclinical studies, the research maturity is moderate, with a limited number of high-quality systematic reviews specifically focusing on Pseudostellaria Root Extract in isolation. The majority of available evidence stems from TCM studies where it is often a component of multi-herb formulas rather than being tested as a standalone extract.
Benefits
Pseudostellaria Root Extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily in immune modulation and enhancement. Preclinical and some clinical data suggest improved immune response and antioxidant activity, making it a potential aid for overall immune health. When used as part of Chinese herbal medicine formulas, it has shown potential in managing chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), with meta-analyses indicating some efficacy, though these findings are limited by study quality and heterogeneity. It has also been reported as an adjunctive treatment in integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine (ITCWM) approaches for respiratory infections like COVID-19, where it contributed to improved clinical outcomes compared to Western medicine alone. However, in these cases, Pseudostellaria Root is one of many herbs in the formulas, making its isolated contribution difficult to ascertain. Secondary benefits include anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrated in animal and in vitro studies, which may help mitigate stress-induced injury. Most studies have been conducted in Chinese populations, particularly those with chronic fatigue or respiratory illnesses, so generalizability to other populations is not yet clear. While meta-analyses show moderate improvements in fatigue and symptom scores, the exact effect sizes attributable solely to Pseudostellaria remain unisolated.
How it works
Pseudostellaria Root Extract exerts its effects through several mechanisms. It demonstrates significant antioxidant activity by effectively scavenging free radicals and enhancing the body's endogenous antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, it modulates immune system function, likely by regulating cytokine production and boosting the activity of various immune cells. Its anti-inflammatory properties are thought to involve the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, particularly those induced by stress or injury. While traditional use involves decoctions or extracts, the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of Pseudostellaria Root Extract in humans are not yet well characterized, meaning how it is absorbed and processed by the body is still being studied.
Side effects
Pseudostellaria Root Extract is generally considered safe based on its extensive traditional use and findings from clinical studies involving herbal formulas that contain it. Common side effects are not well documented and appear to be rare, with no significant adverse events reported in meta-analyses of multi-herb formulas containing this root. There are no known significant drug interactions or contraindications reported in the current literature. However, it is important to note that sufficient data are lacking for definitive safety conclusions in special populations, such as pregnant or lactating individuals, and children. Therefore, caution is advised for these groups until more research is available. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Dosage
There are no standardized dosing guidelines for isolated Pseudostellaria Root Extract due to the limited number of clinical trials focusing solely on this extract. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), formulas commonly utilize 10-30 grams of the dried root per day, typically prepared as a decoction. However, optimal dosing and the maximum safe dose for isolated extracts have not been established through rigorous clinical trials. The timing of administration and the form of consumption (e.g., decoction, extract, granules) vary widely based on traditional practices. Furthermore, factors related to absorption and bioavailability are not well studied, making it difficult to provide precise recommendations for modern supplement forms. Users should adhere to product-specific instructions or consult a qualified TCM practitioner for guidance.
FAQs
Is Pseudostellaria Root Extract effective alone?
Most evidence for Pseudostellaria Root's efficacy comes from its use within multi-herb formulas in Traditional Chinese Medicine; its effectiveness as an isolated extract is not yet well established.
Is it safe?
Pseudostellaria Root is generally considered safe based on traditional use and clinical studies of formulas containing it, with minimal reported side effects.
How long does it take to see effects?
Clinical studies vary, but effects related to fatigue and immune support may require several weeks of consistent use to become noticeable.
Can it be combined with other medicines?
No major drug interactions are currently known, but due to limited data, caution is advised, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9557005/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). It included 3 RCTs with 212 patients, finding that CHM, including Pseudostellaria-containing formulas, showed symptom improvement and safety. However, the study noted limitations due to the poor quality, small sample sizes, and heterogeneity of the included trials, calling for better-designed future research.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7331568/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the role of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) in treating COVID-19. Analyzing 53 studies with 5425 patients, it concluded that integrated traditional Chinese and Western medicine (ITCWM) approaches, which often included Pseudostellaria, improved clinical outcomes compared to Western medicine alone. A key limitation was that the interventions were multi-herb formulas, making the specific contribution of Pseudostellaria unclear.
- https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/pdf/10.5555/20210430578 – This mini-review and meta-analysis synthesized preclinical and clinical data on the antioxidant and immune effects of Pseudostellaria heterophylla. It demonstrated the herb's antioxidant and immunomodulatory mechanisms. A significant limitation highlighted was the lack of large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) specifically on the isolated extract, with much of the evidence being preclinical.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.7643 – This mechanistic study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of Pseudostellaria extract using animal and in vitro models. The research showed that the extract exhibited anti-inflammatory properties by influencing pathways related to stress injury. A key limitation is that these findings are based solely on preclinical models, meaning their direct applicability to human clinical outcomes requires further investigation.