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Sorbus Aucuparia

Also known as: Rowan, European mountain ash, Sorbus aucuparia

Overview

Sorbus aucuparia, commonly known as Rowan or European mountain ash, is a deciduous tree whose fruits and flowers are utilized for their rich phytochemical content, primarily phenolic compounds. Extracts derived from these parts are studied for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties. The supplement is primarily investigated for its potential nephroprotective effects, as well as its antibacterial and general antioxidant applications. Research is currently in the preclinical and early clinical stages, with most evidence coming from in vitro and some ex vivo studies. There is a notable absence of large-scale human clinical trials or meta-analyses specifically on S. aucuparia supplementation, indicating that its clinical efficacy and safety in humans are yet to be fully established.

Benefits

Sorbus aucuparia extracts demonstrate several promising benefits, primarily supported by in vitro and ex vivo studies. Significant antioxidant activity has been observed, with extracts from flowers and fruits effectively neutralizing various radical species and protecting human plasma from oxidative and nitrative stress. This suggests a strong potential for combating oxidative damage in the body. Furthermore, fruit extracts have shown cytoprotective effects in renal epithelial cells, improving cell viability when stressed with gentamicin, which points to a potential nephroprotective role. The extracts also exhibit anti-inflammatory potential by inhibiting key proinflammatory enzymes such as lipoxygenase (LOX), hyaluronidase (HYAL), and xanthine oxidase (XO). Additionally, some studies indicate antibacterial activity of fruit extracts, suggesting possible applications in topical or cosmetic formulations. However, it is crucial to note that clinical effect sizes and benefits in human populations remain unquantified due to the lack of randomized controlled trials.

How it works

The primary biological activity of Sorbus aucuparia is attributed to its rich profile of phenolic compounds, with over 72 different phenolics identified, including various flavonoids and other polyphenols. These compounds act as potent antioxidants by directly scavenging free radicals and inhibiting the activity of oxidative enzymes. By reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protecting cellular components from oxidative damage, these compounds contribute to the observed cytoprotective effects. The inhibition of prooxidant and proinflammatory enzymes, such as LOX, HYAL, and XO, further contributes to its anti-inflammatory actions. While these mechanisms are well-understood in vitro, the absorption, metabolism, and bioavailability of these active compounds in humans are not yet well characterized.

Side effects

In vitro studies suggest a favorable safety profile for Sorbus aucuparia extracts at tested concentrations, showing no cytotoxicity against human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). However, safety considerations are dose-dependent; some in vitro research indicates that higher concentrations of fruit extracts can decrease cell viability, and high doses of certain carotenoid components may even exhibit pro-oxidative effects. Due to the lack of human clinical trials, there are no reported adverse effects or drug interactions from clinical data. Consequently, no specific contraindications have been established. Caution is advised with high doses until more comprehensive human safety data become available. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional before using this supplement, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking other medications.

Dosage

Currently, there are no established dosing guidelines for Sorbus aucuparia from human clinical trials. Research to date has primarily utilized various concentrations in in vitro settings. These studies indicate that lower concentrations of the extracts tend to show beneficial effects, while higher concentrations have, in some instances, led to decreased cell viability. Although standardized extracts with quantified phenolic content are used in research, there is no consensus on an optimal dose or formulation for human consumption. Without clinical data, specific recommendations for dosage, timing, or upper safety limits cannot be provided. Any use of Sorbus aucuparia should be approached with caution, and individuals should await further research before incorporating it into their regimen.

FAQs

Is Sorbus aucuparia safe?

In vitro data suggest safety at moderate doses, but human safety data are largely lacking. Caution is advised, especially at higher doses, until more comprehensive research is available.

What benefits can be expected?

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects are most supported by current research. However, clinical benefits in humans remain unproven and require further investigation.

How quickly do effects appear?

In vitro effects are typically rapid, but the time course for any potential effects in humans is currently unknown due to a lack of clinical studies.

Can it be used for kidney protection?

Preliminary cell studies suggest potential nephroprotective effects, but this finding requires clinical confirmation in humans before any definitive claims can be made.

Research Sources

  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10892614/ – This in vitro study on mouse renal epithelial cells found that Sorbus aucuparia fruit extract improved cell viability in gentamicin-stressed cells at low doses. However, higher doses reduced viability, highlighting dose-dependent effects and the need for further research beyond in vitro models.
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6378767/ – This in vitro study demonstrated that Sorbus aucuparia flower extracts exhibited significant antioxidant activity against multiple oxidants in human plasma. It also showed inhibition of pro-inflammatory enzymes (LOX, HYAL, XO) and no cytotoxicity in human PBMCs, suggesting potential anti-inflammatory and safe properties in vitro.
  • https://openagriculturejournal.com/VOLUME/17/ELOCATOR/e18743315268063/ – This study characterized the phenolic composition of Sorbus aucuparia fruit extract and demonstrated its antibacterial activity. It suggests potential for cosmetic applications, but lacks clinical efficacy data, indicating its preliminary nature.