Pterocarpus Santalinus
Also known as: Red sandalwood, Red Sanders, Rath Handun, Pterocarpus santalinus
Overview
Pterocarpus santalinus, commonly known as Red sandalwood or Red Sanders, is a tree species native to India. Its heartwood is highly valued in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for various therapeutic applications. The plant is rich in bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and stilbenes like santalin A and B, savinin, and pterostilbenes. Research indicates its potential as an antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic agent, with some studies also suggesting organ-protective properties. While traditional uses are extensive, most scientific evidence is derived from preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models), with a notable lack of comprehensive human clinical trials. The current evidence quality is moderate, primarily based on phytochemical analyses and cell-based assays.
Benefits
Pterocarpus santalinus exhibits several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. It demonstrates strong antioxidant activity, with various extracts (bark, heartwood, leaves, stem bark) showing dose-dependent free radical scavenging capabilities, achieving 56-83% scavenging at concentrations between 200-1000 µg/mL. This suggests its potential in mitigating oxidative stress. The plant also possesses antimicrobial effects, with extracts showing activity against pathogens such as *Escherichia coli* and *Aspergillus niger*. Furthermore, in vitro studies indicate anticancer potential, specifically against HeLa cervical cancer cells, showing cytotoxicity with an LC50 of approximately 365 µg/mL and significant cell death at 500 µg/mL. However, these anticancer findings are preliminary and require in vivo validation. Traditional medicine and some animal models also report anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective effects, though these are less rigorously studied in a modern scientific context.
How it works
The therapeutic actions of Pterocarpus santalinus are primarily attributed to its diverse array of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and stilbenes. These compounds are believed to exert their effects mainly through antioxidant mechanisms, by scavenging reactive oxygen species and modulating cellular pathways involved in oxidative stress. In the context of inflammation and cancer, some constituents may inhibit specific enzymes or receptors that play roles in these processes, thereby potentially reducing inflammation or impeding cancer cell proliferation. While these general mechanisms are proposed, the detailed molecular targets and specific biological pathways through which Pterocarpus santalinus interacts with human body systems are not yet fully elucidated. Furthermore, the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of its active compounds in humans remain largely uncharacterized.
Side effects
Currently, there is a significant lack of comprehensive human safety data and clinical trials for Pterocarpus santalinus. While traditional use suggests a general level of safety, this is not supported by modern clinical evidence. In vitro studies have indicated dose-dependent cytotoxicity at elevated concentrations, suggesting a potential for toxicity if consumed in high amounts, though this has not been confirmed in living organisms. There are no documented drug interactions or contraindications derived from clinical studies. Due to the absence of rigorous human safety evaluations, caution is advised. Further toxicological assessments and clinical safety trials are essential to establish a clear safety profile, identify potential adverse effects, and determine safe dosage limits for human consumption. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional before using this supplement, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.
Dosage
Due to the absence of human clinical trials, there are no established clinical dosing guidelines for Pterocarpus santalinus. The dosages used in experimental in vitro studies typically range from 200 to 1000 µg/mL of extract. These concentrations are relevant for cell culture experiments but cannot be directly translated into human oral dosages. Traditional medicine practices utilize varying doses, but these are not standardized or scientifically validated for efficacy and safety. Without robust clinical data, it is impossible to recommend a safe or effective dosage for human consumption. Any use of Pterocarpus santalinus should be approached with extreme caution, and individuals should refrain from self-dosing. Further research is critically needed to determine appropriate and safe dosage ranges for any potential therapeutic applications.
FAQs
Is Pterocarpus santalinus effective for cancer?
Preliminary in vitro studies suggest cytotoxic effects on cancer cells, but there is no clinical evidence to support its use as a cancer treatment in humans. More research is needed.
Is Pterocarpus santalinus safe for human consumption?
Safety in humans is not established due to a lack of clinical trials. Caution is advised, and it should not be used without professional medical guidance.
How should Pterocarpus santalinus be used?
There are no standardized formulations or dosing recommendations. It is typically used as extracts or powders in traditional medicine, but clinical guidance is absent.
Research Sources
- https://biomedpharmajournal.org/vol18no1/antioxidant-cytotoxic-and-antimicrobial-activities-of-pterocarpus-santalinus-leaves/ – This in vitro study investigated the antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antimicrobial activities of Pterocarpus santalinus leaf extracts. It found dose-dependent cytotoxicity against HeLa cancer cells and confirmed significant antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The study highlights the plant's potential but notes the lack of in vivo or clinical data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4791987/ – This narrative review synthesizes existing literature on Pterocarpus santalinus, summarizing its traditional uses, phytochemical constituents, and reported pharmacological activities. It discusses antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties, primarily based on preclinical findings, emphasizing the need for further research.
- https://www.interesjournals.org/articles/pterocarpus-santalinus-l-f-a-study-on-phytochemical-constituents-and-biological-properties-of-bark-and-heartwood-extracts-91908.html – This study focused on the phytochemical composition and biological activities of Pterocarpus santalinus bark and heartwood extracts. It confirmed the presence of various phytochemicals and quantified their antioxidant and antibacterial activities in vitro, providing further support for its traditional uses but without clinical validation.
