Vina Tea Leaf
Also known as: Vine tea, Vina tea leaf, Dihydromyricetin, Ampelopsis grossedentata
Overview
Ampelopsis grossedentata, commonly known as Vine tea or Vina tea leaf, is a plant native to China and Southeast Asia, traditionally consumed as a tea. It is highly valued for its rich flavonoid content, particularly dihydromyricetin (DMY), which is considered its primary bioactive compound. Historically, it has been used for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Modern scientific inquiry has expanded on these traditional uses, identifying a broader spectrum of pharmacological activities including potential hypoglycemic, anti-tumor, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects. While research on Vine tea is progressing, much of the current evidence comes from in vitro and animal studies, with a limited number of human clinical trials. This means that while promising, the full extent of its benefits and optimal usage in humans is still under investigation, and large-scale clinical validation is needed.
Benefits
Vine tea exhibits several evidence-based benefits, primarily driven by its rich flavonoid content, especially dihydromyricetin. Its most established effects include significant antioxidant activity, demonstrated by its ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce markers of oxidative stress. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, modulating inflammatory cytokines to alleviate inflammatory responses. A notable benefit is its antibacterial activity, particularly against Staphylococcus aureus, where it disrupts bacterial cell membranes and inhibits protein synthesis. Preclinical studies, mainly in animal models, suggest hypoglycemic effects, indicating potential for diabetes management. Secondary effects observed in vitro and in animal models include anti-tumor activity, as well as potential cardioprotective and neuroprotective effects, though these require more robust clinical validation. While promising, human data on these benefits are limited, and quantitative effect sizes are not well established due to the scarcity of large-scale randomized controlled trials. Potential benefits are most relevant for individuals with metabolic syndrome, diabetes, or certain infections, but clinical evidence in these populations is still emerging.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Ampelopsis grossedentata is attributed to dihydromyricetin (DMY), a potent flavonoid antioxidant. DMY neutralizes reactive oxygen species, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Its antibacterial effects involve disrupting the integrity of bacterial cell membranes, leading to the leakage of essential enzymes like alkaline phosphatase and β-galactosidase, and inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. Furthermore, DMY has been shown to interfere with bacterial DNA through groove and intercalation binding. The anti-inflammatory properties are likely mediated by the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulation of key signaling pathways. Hypoglycemic actions may involve influencing glucose metabolism enzymes and enhancing insulin sensitivity. While DMY's absorption and bioavailability are considered moderate, its precise metabolism and pharmacokinetics in humans warrant further detailed study.
Side effects
Based on current preclinical and limited clinical data, Ampelopsis grossedentata and its extracts appear to have a favorable safety profile, with no significant toxicity reported in preclinical studies. Common side effects are not well documented in the literature but are believed to be minimal. There are no significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been widely reported. However, it is crucial to note that sufficient safety data are lacking for special populations, including pregnant and lactating women, as well as children. Therefore, its use in these groups is not recommended without further research and medical supervision. As with any supplement, individual sensitivities can vary, and users should monitor for any unexpected reactions. Due to the limited human clinical trials, the full spectrum of potential rare or long-term side effects, as well as interactions with a wide range of medications, has not been comprehensively established.
Dosage
Currently, there is no standardized or clinically established dosing regimen for Ampelopsis grossedentata due to the limited number of human clinical trials. Experimental doses in research studies vary significantly, and translating these to human equivalent doses is challenging. For instance, a study on dairy fermentation used 2 mg/mL of vine tea extract, which is not directly applicable to human oral intake. Optimal dosage, timing of administration, and the most effective formulation (e.g., tea, extract, isolated dihydromyricetin) require extensive further clinical research. Without clear guidelines, individuals should exercise caution. It is advisable to start with lower doses if considering use and consult with a healthcare professional to determine appropriate and safe intake levels, especially given the lack of established upper limits or safety thresholds in humans.
FAQs
Is vine tea safe?
Current evidence suggests vine tea is generally safe with no major adverse effects reported in preclinical studies. However, human safety data, especially for long-term use or specific populations, are limited.
How quickly does it work?
Human data are insufficient to determine the onset of effects. Most research is preclinical, and the time frame for observable benefits in humans is not yet established.
Can it replace conventional treatments?
No, vine tea should not replace conventional medical treatments. It may serve as a complementary agent, but more robust clinical evidence is needed to support its use in conjunction with or as an alternative to prescribed therapies.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8572699/ – This review summarizes the diverse pharmacological effects of vine tea (Ampelopsis grossedentata), including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antidiabetic activities. It notes the absence of reported toxicity but highlights that most studies are preclinical, indicating a need for more human clinical trials.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33293561/ – This in vitro and mechanistic study investigated how vine tea extract and dihydromyricetin affect Staphylococcus aureus. It found that these compounds disrupt bacterial cell membranes, inhibit protein synthesis, and interact with bacterial DNA, suggesting their potential as natural antimicrobial agents or food preservatives.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/fsn3.4547 – This experimental fermentation study explored the effect of vine tea extract on the fermentation of skimmed milk by probiotic bacteria. The findings indicated that vine tea extract enhanced the fermentation process, suggesting its potential as a prebiotic to support beneficial gut bacteria, though this was not a clinical efficacy study in humans.
