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Sphaeranthus indicus

Also known as: Sphaeranthus indicus L., East Indian Globe Thistle, Gorakhmundi, Mundi, Sphaeranthus indicus

Overview

Sphaeranthus indicus, also known as East Indian Globe Thistle, is a flowering plant native to India and Southeast Asia. It has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. The flower heads are the primary medicinal part of the plant. Standardized extracts containing sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, and essential oils are commonly used in research and supplements. S. indicus is primarily used for its potential benefits in metabolic health, including weight management and lipid profile improvement. It is also investigated for its effects on muscle strength and endurance, as well as its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research on S. indicus is considered moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses available, supporting its traditional uses.

Benefits

Sphaeranthus indicus has shown potential benefits in several areas. Meta-analyses suggest that when combined with Garcinia mangostana, it can improve lipid profiles, blood glucose levels, and blood pressure in obese patients at a dosage of 800 mg/day over 8–16 weeks. Supplementation, often in blends, has also been shown to increase muscle strength and endurance in healthy men, with effect sizes comparable to placebo-controlled resistance training groups. Preclinical studies indicate antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-modulatory effects. Most evidence is based on studies involving overweight or obese adults and healthy young men. While improvements in metabolic and anthropometric parameters are statistically significant, their magnitude is modest. Strength gains are statistically significant and likely clinically relevant for resistance-trained individuals. Benefits are typically observed within 8–16 weeks for metabolic outcomes and within 8 weeks for muscle benefits.

How it works

Sphaeranthus indicus exerts its effects through several biological pathways. For metabolic health, it modulates lipid metabolism, improves insulin sensitivity, and reduces oxidative stress. In muscle tissue, it activates the mTOR pathway, upregulates muscle-specific transcription factors such as myogenin and myoD, and enhances mitochondrial function in myoblasts. The herb interacts with adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and the vascular endothelium. Known molecular targets include mTOR, myogenin, myoD, and nitric oxide synthase. However, data on its absorption and bioavailability are limited, as most studies use standardized extracts, and the pharmacokinetics of its active compounds are not well characterized.

Side effects

Sphaeranthus indicus is generally well-tolerated in clinical trials. The most common side effect reported is mild gastrointestinal discomfort, occurring in more than 5% of participants. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1–5% of individuals, include rare reports of headache or dizziness. No serious adverse events have been reported in clinical trials. While no significant drug interactions have been reported, caution is advised when using S. indicus with hypoglycemic or hypotensive drugs due to potential additive effects. Due to a lack of safety data, it is contraindicated in pregnancy. Limited data are available for children, the elderly, or those with severe comorbidities. Overall, S. indicus appears to have a favorable safety profile, but further research is needed to fully assess its long-term effects and potential interactions.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Sphaeranthus indicus is 650–800 mg/day of a standardized extract, often used in combination with other botanicals. An optimal dosage range for both muscle and metabolic benefits is 650–850 mg/day. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 850 mg/day have been used safely in clinical trials. It is typically taken once daily, with or without food. A standardized flower head extract is preferred. Absorption factors are not well studied but are likely improved with food. No specific cofactors are required for its activity.

FAQs

How long does it take to see results?

Best results are typically seen with consistent daily use over 8–16 weeks for metabolic improvements and around 8 weeks for muscle strength and endurance gains.

Is Sphaeranthus indicus safe?

It is generally safe for healthy adults. However, monitor closely if you are using blood pressure or glucose-lowering medications due to potential additive effects.

When should I take it?

Take it once daily. The timing is not critical, so you can take it at a time that is convenient for you.

What kind of results can I expect?

Expect modest improvements in metabolic markers and muscle strength/endurance. It is not a quick fix, and benefits are best realized when combined with lifestyle changes.

Research Sources

https://www.ijpsonline.com/articles/a-metaanalysis-of-isphaeranthus-indicusi-and-igarcinia-mangostanai-products-on-cardiometabolic-outcomes-in-obese-patient.pdf – This meta-analysis of RCTs examined the effects of Sphaeranthus indicus and Garcinia mangostana on cardiometabolic outcomes in obese/overweight adults. The study found consistent improvements in lipid profile, blood glucose, and blood pressure at 800 mg/day over 8–16 weeks, with no serious adverse effects reported, suggesting a potential benefit for metabolic health. However, the authors noted heterogeneity in study designs and the use of combination products as limitations.
https://foodandnutritionresearch.net/index.php/fnr/article/view/8972 – This RCT evaluated the impact of a proprietary blend containing Sphaeranthus indicus on muscle strength in healthy men. The study reported significant increases in muscle strength and size, along with improved endurance. A limitation of the study is the use of a proprietary blend, making it difficult to determine the exact contribution of S. indicus to the observed effects.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1393917/full – This RCT investigated the effects of a botanical extract blend, including Sphaeranthus indicus and Mangifera indica, combined with resistance exercise training in healthy young men. The study found improved upper and lower body strength and endurance compared to placebo, with no adverse effects reported. The multi-component intervention makes it challenging to isolate the individual effects of S. indicus.
https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&profile=ehost&scope=site&authtype=crawler&jrnl=0250474X&AN=146387815&h=0FFdU%2Fb%2FM%2BnS9gecF2De1PTZ2l3nJ%2FrKv7DgNE4enmrAXH%2FiBtOh0YyGNKJ5M4zszNFy4Z4nZ7bxWCYlnzDh7g%3D%3D&crl=c – This study provides insights into the chemical composition and traditional uses of Sphaeranthus indicus in Ayurvedic medicine. It highlights the presence of various bioactive compounds, including sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which contribute to its therapeutic properties. The research supports the plant's potential as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory agent, aligning with its traditional applications.
https://research-repository.uwa.edu.au/en/publications/effectiveness-of-herbal-medicines-for-weight-loss-a-systematic-re – This systematic review assesses the effectiveness of herbal medicines, including Sphaeranthus indicus, for weight loss. It evaluates the available evidence from clinical trials and provides an overview of the potential benefits and limitations of using herbal remedies for weight management. The review contributes to a better understanding of the role of Sphaeranthus indicus in weight loss strategies and highlights the need for further research to confirm its efficacy.