Tejocote Root
Also known as: Crataegus mexicana, Thevetia peruviana, Tejocote root, Raiz de Tejocote, Mexican Hawthorn, Yellow Oleander
Overview
Tejocote root is derived from *Crataegus mexicana*, a species of hawthorn native to Mexico. It is often marketed for weight loss and sometimes for cardiovascular health. However, many products labeled as tejocote root are adulterated with yellow oleander (*Thevetia peruviana*), a highly toxic plant. True tejocote root contains digitalis-like compounds, which may interfere with digoxin assays and have cardiac effects. Adulterated products contain cardenolides, which are toxic and can cause severe cardiac and systemic effects. Due to the high risk of adulteration and potential toxicity, the use of tejocote root supplements is generally not recommended. Research on tejocote root is limited, with most available literature consisting of case reports and adverse event analyses rather than controlled trials.
Benefits
There is no robust evidence from randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses to support weight loss or cardiovascular benefits for tejocote root. Claims are largely based on anecdote or marketing. Case reports suggest possible cardiac effects (e.g., bradycardia, hypotension) due to digitalis-like compounds or cardenolides, but these are adverse rather than beneficial. No population-specific benefits have been identified. Due to the lack of controlled data, effect sizes and clinical significance are not applicable.
How it works
Digitalis-like compounds in true tejocote may inhibit Na+/K+-ATPase, similar to digoxin, affecting cardiac contractility and rhythm. Yellow oleander contains cardenolides, which are highly toxic and act similarly but with greater potency. The primary interaction with body systems is cardiovascular, with potential for toxicity affecting heart rate, blood pressure, and rhythm. The known molecular target is the Na+/K+-ATPase pump. Absorption and bioavailability are not well studied for tejocote root, but cardenolides in yellow oleander are readily absorbed and can cause acute toxicity.
Side effects
The overall safety assessment for tejocote root is high risk, especially due to widespread adulteration with yellow oleander. True tejocote root may have cardiac effects, but adulterated products are potentially fatal. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, bradycardia, and hypotension (in cases of toxicity). Uncommon side effects include cardiac arrhythmias, premature ventricular complexes, and scooped ST segments on ECG. Rare side effects include severe cytopenia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura. Potential drug interactions exist with cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin), beta-blockers, and other cardiovascular medications. Tejocote root is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, children, individuals with cardiac disease, and those taking cardiac medications. Children and individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions are at highest risk for severe adverse effects.
Dosage
A minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose have not been established for tejocote root. Use is not recommended due to safety concerns. There are no timing considerations, form-specific recommendations, or required cofactors. Avoid all forms due to the risk of adulteration and toxicity. Absorption factors are not well studied.
FAQs
Is tejocote root safe?
Products labeled as tejocote root are frequently adulterated with yellow oleander, a highly toxic plant. Consumption can be fatal. It is not considered safe.
When should I take tejocote root?
Use of tejocote root is not recommended for any use due to safety concerns.
What are the expected results from taking tejocote root?
There are no proven benefits from taking tejocote root, and there is a high risk of adverse effects, including potentially fatal toxicity.
Is tejocote root a safe and effective weight loss supplement?
No, tejocote root is not a safe or effective weight loss supplement. Many products do not contain true tejocote root but instead contain toxic yellow oleander.
Research Sources
- https://www.cureus.com/articles/187006-tejocote-roots-role-in-symptomatic-mobitz-type-1-heart-block-a-compelling-case-report – This case report describes a patient who developed symptomatic Mobitz type 1 heart block after ingesting tejocote root. The authors suggest that digitalis-like compounds in the tejocote root were likely responsible for the heart block. This highlights the potential cardiac toxicity associated with tejocote root consumption.
- https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/72/wr/mm7237a3.htm – A CDC report investigated tejocote root products and found that 9 out of 10 products labeled as tejocote root were actually yellow oleander. A child developed cardenolide toxicity (bradycardia, hypotension, ECG changes) after ingestion, emphasizing the dangers of product adulteration and the potential for severe adverse health effects.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/ccr3.2804 – This case report describes a patient who developed severe cytopenia and immune thrombocytopenic purpura after taking an over-the-counter tejocote root supplement. The report suggests a possible association between the supplement and the development of these hematological abnormalities, raising concerns about the safety of tejocote root products.
- https://www.fda.gov/food/alerts-advisories-safety-information/fda-issues-warning-about-certain-supplements-substituted-toxic-yellow-oleander-january-2024 – The FDA issued a warning about certain supplements being substituted with toxic yellow oleander. This advisory highlights the risk of adulteration in tejocote root products and the potential for serious health consequences due to the presence of toxic compounds.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2024.1397247/full – This research article discusses the adulteration of herbal products, including tejocote root, with toxic substances like yellow oleander. It emphasizes the need for stringent quality control measures and regulatory oversight to protect consumers from the potential health risks associated with adulterated herbal supplements.
