Pterocarpus Marsupium Wood Extract
Also known as: Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb., Indian Kino, Bijasal, Vijaysar, Pterocarpus marsupium
Overview
Pterocarpus marsupium wood extract is derived from the heartwood of the *Pterocarpus marsupium* tree, a plant traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for managing conditions such as diabetes, leprosy, asthma, and bronchitis. The extract is rich in bioactive compounds including phenols, flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, epicatechin), terpenoids, and stilbenes (e.g., pterostilbene, marsupsin). Its primary application is for its antidiabetic properties, which are supported by evidence suggesting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and β-cell protective effects. While numerous in vitro and animal studies exist, along with some preliminary human clinical data, comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on *Pterocarpus marsupium* are limited, indicating a moderate level of research maturity. It is often consumed as a herbal supplement.
Benefits
Pterocarpus marsupium wood extract exhibits several promising benefits, primarily in the context of metabolic health. Its most significant effect is its **antihyperglycemic** and **hypoglycemic** activity, consistently demonstrated in animal models of diabetes (e.g., alloxan- or streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats). These studies show dose-dependent reductions in blood glucose and improved insulin levels, with effects observed within 7 to 14 days of treatment. It also improves glucose uptake and reduces oxidative stress in liver cells (HepG2), suggesting enhanced cellular glucose metabolism and protection against oxidative damage. Furthermore, the extract has shown β-cell protective and regenerative effects, helping to restore insulin secretion capacity in diabetic animal models. Secondary benefits include significant antioxidant activity, reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cellular apoptosis, and antihyperlipidemic effects, attributed to compounds like marsupin and liquiritigenin. While preclinical evidence is strong, human clinical data are limited, with some suggestions of usefulness in non-obese diabetes. The strength of evidence is high for preclinical efficacy, but moderate for human application due to a lack of large-scale clinical trials.
How it works
Pterocarpus marsupium wood extract exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms. It significantly contributes to **antioxidant pathways**, reducing oxidative stress and cellular damage often exacerbated by hyperglycemia. The extract enhances **glucose uptake** by sensitizing liver cells, potentially by modulating key insulin signaling pathways such as AKT and AMPK. Flavonoids like (−) epicatechin, present in the extract, possess insulinogenic activity, promoting both insulin release and the conversion of proinsulin to active insulin. Additionally, the extract may contribute to the regeneration of pancreatic β-cells, thereby restoring the body's endogenous insulin production. Key bioactive compounds such as quercetin, pterostilbene, marsupsin, and epicatechin are believed to be responsible for these diverse metabolic and protective actions.
Side effects
Pterocarpus marsupium wood extract is generally considered safe based on current preclinical data. In various in vitro and animal studies, no significant toxicity has been reported at effective doses. The available literature does not document any well-established adverse effects or contraindications. Furthermore, there are no reported drug interactions or specific warnings for special populations. However, it is crucial to note that human clinical safety data are limited. While preclinical studies suggest a favorable safety profile, the absence of extensive human trials means that potential rare or long-term side effects, drug interactions, or contraindications in human populations have not been thoroughly investigated. Therefore, caution is advised, and individuals should consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established human dosing guidelines for Pterocarpus marsupium wood extract derived from high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Preclinical studies have utilized various doses; for instance, methanolic extracts have shown efficacy in vitro at concentrations ranging from 23.43–93.75 µg/mL. In animal models, doses in the range of 500 mg/kg have been used to achieve significant antidiabetic effects. However, these animal doses do not directly translate to human recommendations. Optimal human dosing, including specific ranges, timing considerations, and appropriate formulations for different purposes, requires further rigorous clinical research. Without robust human data, it is not possible to specify upper limits or safety thresholds for human consumption. Users should exercise caution and seek professional medical advice before initiating supplementation.
FAQs
Is Pterocarpus marsupium effective for diabetes?
Preclinical evidence strongly supports its antidiabetic effects through multiple mechanisms, including improving glucose uptake and protecting pancreatic cells. Human data are still limited.
Is Pterocarpus marsupium safe?
It appears safe in preclinical studies with no significant toxicity reported at effective doses. However, comprehensive human safety data are currently limited, so caution is advised.
How quickly does Pterocarpus marsupium work?
In animal models, beneficial effects on blood glucose levels have been observed within 7 to 14 days of treatment.
Can Pterocarpus marsupium replace standard diabetes treatment?
No, there is not enough clinical evidence to support its use as a replacement for standard diabetes treatment. It should be considered complementary, pending further clinical trials.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9607431/ – This in vitro study on HepG2 liver cells demonstrated that Pterocarpus marsupium heartwood methanolic extract reduced oxidative stress and improved glucose uptake. It also identified key bioactive compounds responsible for these effects, providing mechanistic insights into its antidiabetic potential.
- https://phcogrev.com/sites/default/files/PhcogRev-3-6-359.pdf – This comprehensive review of animal studies on Pterocarpus marsupium highlighted its dose-dependent antihyperglycemic effects and β-cell protective properties. It summarized various active compounds and their roles, though it noted the limited human clinical data available at the time of publication.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3687502/ – This animal study using STZ-diabetic rats showed that Pterocarpus marsupium normalized blood glucose, HbA1c, and insulin levels, and promoted β-cell regeneration. It also confirmed significant antioxidant effects, providing strong preclinical evidence for its antidiabetic efficacy.
- https://biomedres.us/fulltexts/BJSTR.MS.ID.006853.php – This in vivo rat study, which involved silver nanoparticles of Pterocarpus marsupium, reported significant glucose reduction, improved lipid profiles, and β-cell regeneration. While innovative, the use of nanoparticles limits its direct clinical relevance for traditional extracts.
- https://jddtonline.info/index.php/jddt/article/view/6438/5902 – This source, likely a research paper, is cited in the context of animal study dosages (500 mg/kg). It contributes to the understanding of effective concentrations in preclinical models, supporting the observed antidiabetic effects of the extract.
