Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Sundew Extract

Also known as: Sundew, round-leaved sundew, Drosera spatulata, Drosera rotundifolia

Overview

Sundew extract is derived from carnivorous plants belonging to the genus *Drosera*, notably *Drosera rotundifolia* and *Drosera spatulata*. These plants are known for their sticky leaves used to trap insects. The extracts are rich in secondary metabolites, including naphthoquinones and flavonoids, which are believed to contribute to their biological activities. Traditionally, sundew has been used to address various respiratory ailments such as cough, bronchitis, asthma, and whooping cough, and has also been explored for conditions like cancer, though clinical evidence for these uses is limited. Research indicates that sundew extracts possess antioxidant and antiviral properties, with field-grown plants generally exhibiting higher concentrations of bioactive compounds compared to those propagated in vitro. While biochemical and in vitro studies are ongoing, robust clinical trials in humans are largely absent, meaning current evidence is insufficient to conclusively support therapeutic claims for human use.

Benefits

Sundew extracts demonstrate significant antioxidant activity, particularly in field-grown varieties, which may offer protective effects against oxidative stress. In vitro studies have also shown antiviral properties, though the clinical relevance of these findings in humans remains unclear. Traditional uses suggest anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects, potentially attributable to its phytochemical composition, which might explain its historical application in respiratory conditions. However, there is a critical lack of high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with adequate sample sizes and clinical endpoints to substantiate these benefits in humans. Consequently, the strength of evidence for any therapeutic benefit is currently very low, and no specific conditions or populations have been definitively shown to benefit from sundew extract supplementation.

How it works

The biological activity of sundew extract is primarily attributed to its rich content of secondary metabolites, such as naphthoquinones and flavonoids. These compounds are known for their antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Some studies also suggest potential antiviral effects, although the exact mechanisms are not fully elucidated. Additionally, the adhesive mucilage produced by sundew leaves contains hydrogels with viscoelastic properties, which may play a role in its traditional use for respiratory conditions by potentially aiding in mucus clearance. Symbiotic fungi found in carnivorous sundews have been shown to enhance protein digestion, suggesting an enzymatic environment that could contribute to its traditional applications, though human absorption and bioavailability are not well characterized.

Side effects

The overall safety profile of sundew extract is not well established due to a significant lack of clinical data. There are no well-documented common side effects, and available studies have not reported significant adverse effects. However, this absence of reported side effects may be due to the limited scope and number of human studies rather than confirmed safety. Crucially, there is insufficient reliable information regarding the safety of sundew extract during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and its use is generally not recommended for these populations as a precautionary measure. Furthermore, there are no documented drug interactions or contraindications from high-quality studies. The long-term safety and potential toxicity of sundew extract remain unclear, necessitating caution and further research before widespread use can be recommended.

Dosage

Currently, there is no standardized or clinically established dosing guideline for sundew extract due to the absence of robust human clinical trials. Traditional preparations vary widely, and modern supplement formulations lack consensus on minimum effective doses or maximum safe limits. Information regarding optimal timing of administration, the impact of different formulations on bioavailability, or the need for specific cofactors to enhance its effects is also unavailable. Without sufficient clinical data, it is impossible to recommend a specific dosage range for any therapeutic purpose, and users should exercise extreme caution given the unknown safety thresholds and potential for adverse effects.

FAQs

Is sundew extract effective for cough or asthma?

Current scientific evidence is insufficient to confirm the efficacy of sundew extract for treating cough, asthma, or other respiratory conditions in humans. Most research is preclinical.

Is it safe to use?

Safety data for sundew extract are limited. Caution is advised, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as its safety in these populations has not been established.

How quickly does it work?

There are no clinical data available to determine the onset of effects for sundew extract in humans. Its efficacy and speed of action are not yet understood.

Are there misconceptions about sundew extract?

Yes, many traditional uses of sundew extract are often overstated without sufficient clinical validation. Its purported benefits lack robust scientific backing from human trials.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8230826/ – This in vitro study compared the antioxidant and antiviral activities of field-grown versus in vitro propagated *Drosera rotundifolia*. It found that field-grown extracts had significantly higher antioxidant potential and a more diverse range of secondary metabolites, while antiviral effects were similar at higher concentrations. The study used appropriate statistical methods but was limited to in vitro findings, with no human trials.
https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsif.2015.0226 – This research investigated the physico-chemical properties and cytotoxicity of sundew adhesive hydrogel. MTT assays demonstrated low cytotoxicity in various cell lines, suggesting biocompatibility. While it elucidated structural characteristics, the study did not assess clinical efficacy or therapeutic potential in humans.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11445062/ – This study revealed that an acidophilic fungus associated with *Drosera spatulata* enhances prey digestion by increasing protein degradation. This symbiotic relationship suggests a potential enzymatic activity within sundew, but its clinical implications for human health, such as in respiratory mucus clearance, remain speculative and require further investigation.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-916/sundew – This source provides a general overview of sundew, highlighting its traditional uses for respiratory conditions and noting the lack of sufficient scientific evidence to support its effectiveness. It also emphasizes the limited safety data, particularly concerning pregnancy and breastfeeding, advising caution.