Quillaja Saponaria Extract
Also known as: Quillaja saponaria extract, Soapbark tree extract, Quillaja extract, E 999 (food additive code)
Overview
Quillaja saponaria extract is derived from the bark and wood of the soapbark tree, native to Chile. It is rich in triterpenoid saponins, which are amphipathic glycosides with surfactant properties. Primarily used as a food additive (E 999) and as an adjuvant in vaccines, it is also being investigated for its potential antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. The extract exhibits strong surfactant and immunomodulatory activity and is approved for use in beverages and food supplements in the EU and US. Research is moderately mature, with most studies being preclinical or in animal models, and limited human clinical trials. Evidence is strongest for in vitro and animal studies, while human data are limited and primarily observational or from food safety assessments. The extract's saponins contribute to its surfactant properties, making it useful in various applications.
Benefits
In animal models, Quillaja extract has demonstrated a significant reduction in rotavirus-induced diarrhea. Specifically, a dose of 0.015 mg/mouse/day reduced diarrhea incidence from 79% to 11%, showing a clear dose-response relationship. Secondary benefits include potential antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial effects observed in vitro and in animal models. There is also some evidence suggesting possible gut health benefits in cases of cryptosporidiosis. While these effects are promising, robust human data are lacking, and the clinical significance in humans remains uncertain. The effects in animal models were observed within days of administration, but the duration of effect is not well characterized in humans.
How it works
Quillaja saponaria extract primarily works by disrupting virus-host attachment, interfering with cellular membrane proteins and virus receptors. It also exhibits immunomodulatory and adjuvant effects. The extract interacts mainly with the gastrointestinal and immune systems, potentially modulating gut microbiota and immune responses. Its known molecular targets include membrane proteins and viral receptors, although the exact mechanisms are not fully elucidated. When ingested orally, the extract is poorly absorbed systemically, suggesting that its primary action is local within the gut.
Side effects
Quillaja saponaria extract is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods and beverages at approved levels, with low acute toxicity in mammals. Common side effects have not been reported in available studies, though mild gastrointestinal discomfort is possible at high doses. No uncommon or rare side effects have been reported. There are no significant drug interactions reported, but there is a theoretical risk of increased absorption of other compounds due to its surfactant properties. No contraindications have been established, but caution is advised in individuals with known hypersensitivity to saponins. Safety in pregnancy and lactation has not been established, so special populations should exercise caution.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose in animal models is 0.015 mg/mouse/day, which is equivalent to approximately 0.6 mg/kg/day in humans, extrapolated by body surface area, though this has not been directly validated in humans. Optimal dosage ranges have not been established in humans; its use as a food additive typically involves much lower concentrations. The maximum safe dose has not been established in humans, but animal studies and food safety assessments suggest low toxicity at typical use levels. In animal studies, daily administration was used. It is available as liquid or solid extracts, with no evidence suggesting the superiority of one form over another. Due to poor systemic absorption, its effects are likely predominantly local in the gut. No required cofactors have been identified.
FAQs
What is Quillaja extract primarily used for?
Quillaja extract is mainly used as a food additive or adjuvant. Its therapeutic use in humans is not well established, and more research is needed to confirm its benefits.
Is Quillaja extract safe?
It is considered safe at food additive levels. However, therapeutic doses in humans have not been well studied, so caution is advised when considering it for medicinal purposes.
How should Quillaja extract be taken?
There are no specific timing recommendations. Daily use has been typical in animal studies. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
What results can I expect from taking Quillaja extract?
In animals, it has reduced the severity and duration of viral diarrhea. Human benefits are speculative and require further research to confirm.
Is Quillaja extract a cure-all?
No, it is not a cure-all. Its benefits are limited to specific conditions and are best supported by animal data. Human clinical trials are needed to validate these findings.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3106224/ – This animal study (mouse model) investigated the effects of Quillaja extract on rotavirus-induced diarrhea. The study found that Quillaja extract at a dose of 0.015 mg/mouse/day reduced rotavirus-induced diarrhea from 79% to 11%, along with reductions in severity and interval of diarrhea, demonstrating a dose-response relationship.
- https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2903/j.efsa.2024.8563 – This regulatory safety assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that Quillaja extract (E 999) is safe for use in food supplements at the proposed levels. The assessment found no significant toxicity concerns based on existing data and regulatory review, supporting its use as a food additive.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6337100/ – This systematic review summarizes the phytochemical and pharmacological properties of Quillaja saponins, including their antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and adjuvant activities. The review highlights the lack of robust human clinical trials, noting that most data are preclinical, which limits the conclusions that can be drawn about human efficacy.
- https://www.plantaelabs.com/the-role-of-quillaja-in-cryptosporidiosis/ – This source discusses the potential role of Quillaja in treating cryptosporidiosis, a parasitic infection. It suggests that Quillaja may have gut health benefits in managing this condition, although specific research details and clinical trial data are not provided in the context.
- https://www3.epa.gov/pesticides/chem_search/reg_actions/registration/decision_PC-097095_11-Sep-09.pdf – This document from the EPA provides a regulatory decision regarding the registration of a pesticide containing Quillaja saponaria extract. It assesses the safety and efficacy of the extract for use as a pesticide, focusing on environmental and human health considerations within that specific application.