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Sophora Japonica Bud Extract

Also known as: Sophora japonica, Japanese Pagoda Tree, Chinese Scholar Tree

Overview

Sophora japonica, commonly known as the Japanese Pagoda Tree or Chinese Scholar Tree, is a plant native to East Asia. The flower buds of this tree are utilized to create an extract rich in flavonoids and polyphenols, which are believed to contribute to its bioactive properties. Traditionally, this extract has been used in medicine for cardiovascular health and as an anti-inflammatory agent. Recent research has focused on its potential in managing hyperuricemia due to its ability to inhibit xanthine oxidase, an enzyme crucial for uric acid production. The extract is available in various forms, primarily as a water extract, and its efficacy is attributed to its high content of flavonoids and polyphenols. While in vitro and animal studies show promise, human clinical trials are limited, making it an area of emerging research.

Benefits

In animal models, Sophora japonica bud extract has demonstrated potential in reducing serum uric acid levels and inhibiting xanthine oxidase activity, suggesting a possible role in managing hyperuricemia. These studies also indicate potential protective effects against kidney damage associated with high uric acid levels. However, the evidence is primarily from animal studies, and human data is lacking. Therefore, while there is potential benefit for individuals with hyperuricemia, more human studies are needed to confirm these effects and establish clinical significance. The time course of these benefits in humans is currently not well established.

How it works

Sophora japonica primarily works by inhibiting xanthine oxidase, an enzyme crucial for uric acid production. This inhibition reduces the conversion of hypoxanthine to xanthine and xanthine to uric acid, thereby lowering uric acid levels in the body. The flavonoids and polyphenols present in the extract are believed to be the active components responsible for this inhibitory effect. The extract may interact with renal and metabolic systems by reducing uric acid levels, potentially alleviating hyperuricemia-related complications. However, the exact mechanisms and bioavailability of these compounds in humans are not fully understood.

Side effects

While Sophora japonica is generally considered safe based on traditional use, comprehensive safety data in humans is limited. Common side effects are not well documented, but potential adverse effects may include gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions, although these have not been extensively studied. Rare side effects are unknown due to the lack of comprehensive human studies. There is a potential for interactions with medications affecting uric acid metabolism or renal function. Due to limited data, caution is advised in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Further research is needed to fully establish the safety profile of Sophora japonica bud extract.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Sophora japonica bud extract has not been established in humans. Animal studies suggest that doses of 200-600 mg/kg may be effective in reducing uric acid levels, but these dosages are not directly translatable to human use. The maximum safe dose is also not established. Typically, the extract is used as a water extract, but bioavailability may vary based on the extraction method and individual metabolism. Without sufficient human clinical trials, specific dosage recommendations cannot be provided, and caution is advised.

FAQs

What is the correct dosage of Sophora japonica bud extract?

Due to a lack of human clinical trials, there is no established safe or effective dosage for Sophora japonica bud extract. Animal studies suggest potential dosages, but these cannot be directly applied to humans.

Is Sophora japonica bud extract safe?

While traditionally used, comprehensive safety data on Sophora japonica bud extract in humans is lacking. Potential side effects and drug interactions are not well-defined, so caution is advised.

What are the expected benefits of taking Sophora japonica bud extract?

Animal studies suggest potential benefits for managing hyperuricemia by reducing uric acid levels. However, these benefits have not been confirmed in human studies, and it is not a proven treatment for any condition in humans.

How should I take Sophora japonica bud extract?

There are no specific timing or administration recommendations available due to the lack of human studies. Practical usage guidance is limited by the absence of clinical trial data.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36496580/ – This in vitro and animal study investigated the effects of Sophora japonica bud extract on hyperuricemia in mice. The key finding was that the extract significantly reduced serum uric acid levels and inhibited xanthine oxidase activity, suggesting a potential mechanism for managing hyperuricemia. However, the study's limitation is the lack of human data, requiring further human trials for validation.
https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/24/8932 – This study focused on the toxicity of Sophora japonica extract using mouse spermatogenesis pathway cell lines. The key finding was that the extract showed dose-dependent decreases in cellular metabolic activity, indicating potential toxicity. The limitation is its focus on toxicity rather than therapeutic effects, and it lacks direct clinical relevance.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2023.1255637/full – This review compiles ethnomedical uses and pharmacological effects of Sophora japonica. The review provides an overview of the plant's traditional uses and potential therapeutic effects. However, it lacks a systematic review or meta-analysis structure, limiting its comprehensiveness in terms of clinical evidence.
https://www.eurekaselect.com/article/135097 – This article discusses the various pharmacological effects of Sophora japonica. It provides a general overview of the plant's potential therapeutic applications. However, it does not offer a systematic analysis of clinical evidence, and further research is needed to validate these effects.
https://jpp.krakow.pl/journal/archive/12_18/pdf/10.26402/jpp.2018.6.11.pdf – This study investigates the effects of Sophora japonica extract on cellular metabolic activity. The key finding was a dose-dependent decrease in cellular metabolic activity in mouse spermatogenesis pathway cell lines. The study provides insight into potential toxicity but lacks clinical relevance regarding therapeutic applications.