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Three Leaf Caper Extract

Also known as: Caper, Caper bush, Caper plant, *Capparis spinosa* L.

Overview

The flowering plant *Capparis spinosa*, commonly known as the caper bush, is native to the Mediterranean region and valued for its edible buds and fruits. It contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, alkaloids, and glucosinolates, recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Traditionally, capers have been utilized in both culinary and medicinal applications. Despite accumulating evidence highlighting its potential health effects, particularly in preclinical studies, the body of human clinical research remains limited. Current knowledge suggests that while *C. spinosa* demonstrates promising effects, further investigations, especially clinical trials, are warranted to confirm these findings and establish standardized usage guidelines.

Benefits

Studies have documented several potential benefits of *Capparis spinosa*, particularly its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and possible anticancer properties, primarily observed in vitro and in animal models. However, human clinical trials are sparse, limiting the effectiveness of these claims. Preclinical results indicate that individuals experiencing oxidative stress may benefit most from its antioxidant effects. Additionally, there are suggestions of liver and cardiovascular protective properties, although concrete evidence of time-dependent benefits is lacking. Effect sizes have not been well established in human populations, emphasizing a crucial gap in research that needs addressing.

How it works

The beneficial effects of *C. spinosa* are primarily attributed to its antioxidant activity, which involves scavenging free radicals and potentially modulating inflammatory pathways. Evidence suggests that bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, may interact with various enzymes and receptors linked to inflammation. The extract also shows potential interactions with the cardiovascular and hepatic systems, helping to mitigate oxidative stress, although detailed elucidation of its specific molecular targets is still required.

Side effects

*Capparis spinosa* is generally regarded as safe when consumed as food; however, comprehensive data on long-term supplement use is still lacking. While common side effects are not well-documented due to the limited scope of human studies, potential gastrointestinal discomfort has been noted. Rare side effects remain unclear due to insufficient data. There is a potential for interactions with anticoagulants due to its antioxidant properties, though this has not been extensively researched. Caution should be exercised in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to the lack of safety data. Additionally, individuals allergic to plants in the Capparaceae family are advised to avoid this supplement.

Dosage

Currently, there are no established minimum effective doses for *Capparis spinosa* supplements, nor are optimal dosage ranges clearly defined, given the variability in traditional uses. No maximum safe dosage has been determined due to the absence of long-term safety studies. Given that the extract can come in various forms, including pickled buds and supplements, recommended dosages may vary widely. The bioavailability of its bioactive compounds may also be influenced by processing methods, underscoring the need for further detailed investigation into absorption factors. No specific timing for administration is provided.