Rhaponticin
Also known as: Rhaponticin, Rhapontigenin, Rheum rhaponticum extract, ERr 731
Overview
Rhaponticin is a flavonoid glycoside extracted from the root of *Rheum rhaponticum*, also known as rhapontic rhubarb. It is recognized for its diverse biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-diabetic properties. Primarily, rhaponticin is studied for its potential in alleviating menopausal symptoms and treating osteoporosis. A key characteristic is its selective agonist activity on estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) and its anti-catabolic effects on osteoclasts. Research on rhaponticin is progressing, with several in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as clinical trials, focusing on its effects on menopausal symptoms and bone health. The available evidence includes systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and experimental studies, indicating a moderate to high level of research quality. ERr 731® is a standardized extract containing rhaponticin.
Benefits
Rhaponticin has demonstrated several potential health benefits, particularly for menopausal women and in the context of bone health. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that ERr 731®, a standardized extract containing rhaponticin, significantly reduced the Menopause Rating Scale score (MD: -15.12; *P* < 0.001), suggesting a substantial reduction in menopausal symptoms. Furthermore, rhaponticin has been shown to inhibit osteoclast formation and bone resorption, indicating its potential in treating osteoporosis by suppressing RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and reducing the expression of key osteoclast genes. Rhaponticin acts as a highly selective agonist for ERβ, which is beneficial in maintaining body temperature and alleviating vasomotor menopausal symptoms without affecting ERα-mediated activities. The benefits in alleviating menopausal symptoms can be observed as early as day 2 of administration and persist throughout the treatment period.
How it works
Rhaponticin primarily functions by inhibiting osteoclast formation through targeting RANKL-induced NFATc1 and ROS activity. It also suppresses MAPK, NF-κB, and Ca²⁺ oscillation pathways, leading to the deactivation of osteoclast master transcriptional factors. Additionally, rhaponticin acts as a selective ERβ agonist, which helps in maintaining body temperature and alleviating vasomotor menopausal symptoms without affecting ERα-mediated activities. At the molecular level, rhaponticin targets NADPH oxidase 1 (Nox1), antioxidant enzymes (catalase, SOD-2, HO-1), and osteoclast-specific genes (integrin β3, c-Fos, cathepsin K, Atp6v0d2).
Side effects
The available studies suggest that rhaponticin is generally safe, with no significant cytotoxicity observed in vitro. There is limited data on common side effects, but the studies do not report any significant adverse effects associated with rhaponticin administration. No specific uncommon or rare side effects have been reported in the peer-reviewed literature. There is no detailed information on drug interactions, but given its selective ERβ agonist activity, it is unlikely to interfere significantly with other hormonal therapies. No specific contraindications have been identified in the literature. The safety and efficacy in special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women have not been extensively studied. Long-term safety data is limited, and further research is needed to fully assess the safety profile of rhaponticin.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of rhaponticin or ERr 731® for alleviating menopausal symptoms has been observed at 0.3 mg/kg/day in animal studies, which translates to human doses accordingly. Human studies using ERr 731® have used doses ranging from 1 to 3 mg/kg/day, which have shown significant benefits in reducing menopausal symptoms. There is no established maximum safe dose, but the doses used in clinical studies have not reported any adverse effects. The benefits can be observed as early as day 2 of administration, suggesting that it can be taken daily without specific timing considerations. The extract is typically administered orally. There is limited data on the absorption of rhaponticin, but it is assumed to be bioavailable given its observed effects. No specific cofactors are required for the efficacy of rhaponticin.
FAQs
Is rhaponticin safe to use?
Rhaponticin appears to be safe based on the available studies, but long-term safety data is limited. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
When and how should I take rhaponticin?
It can be taken daily, with benefits observable within a few days of administration. Follow the dosage guidelines provided by the manufacturer or your healthcare provider.
What results can I expect from taking rhaponticin?
Users can expect a reduction in menopausal symptoms and potentially improved bone health. Individual results may vary.
Is rhaponticin regulated and supported by clinical evidence?
Rhaponticin's safety and efficacy are supported by clinical evidence, particularly in the form of ERr 731®, a standardized extract. However, regulation may vary by region.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38646867/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 390 participants (193 in the ERr 731® group, 197 in the control group) found that ERr 731® significantly reduced the Menopause Rating Scale score (MD: -15.12; *P* < 0.001) compared to control therapy, indicating a substantial reduction in menopausal symptoms. The study notes potential bias and high heterogeneity in the results, warranting further clinical studies, and assesses the included studies as high-quality using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale and the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.645140/full – This in vitro and in vivo study found that rhaponticin inhibited osteoclast formation and bone resorption by targeting RANKL-induced NFATc1 and ROS activity. It also acted as a selective ERβ agonist in animal models. The study is limited to in vitro and animal models, and human studies are needed to confirm these findings, but it is considered a well-designed study with clear methodologies and significant findings.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/3/1032 – This animal study on OVX rats found that ERr 731® reduced vasomotor menopausal symptoms and maintained body temperature similarly to estrogen therapy. It showed selective ERβ agonist activity. The study is limited to an animal model, and human studies are needed to confirm these findings, but it is considered a well-designed study with significant findings.
- https://libguides.usc.edu/healthsciences/systematicreviews/databases – This resource provides information on databases for conducting systematic reviews in health sciences. It is a guide for researchers looking to gather evidence for clinical practice and research.
- https://libguides.kcl.ac.uk/systematicreview/advanced – This resource provides advanced guidance on conducting systematic reviews. It covers various aspects of the systematic review process, including searching, screening, and data extraction.
Supplements Containing Rhaponticin
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief
Estroven
Estrovera
Metagenics
Estrovera
Metagenics
Estrovera
Metagenics
Estrovera
Metagenics
Estrovera
Metagenics