Waterlily Extract
Also known as: Nymphaea caerulea Extract, Blue Water Lily Extract, Water Lily Extract
Overview
Water lily extract, primarily derived from *Nymphaea caerulea*, is an herbal supplement known for its purported sedative and psychoactive properties. The extract contains bioactive compounds, including apomorphine, a nonselective dopamine agonist, and various phenolic compounds. Historically, it has been used as a sedative, anxiety reliever, and for sexual performance enhancement. Research indicates potential antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, primarily demonstrated in in vitro studies. However, human clinical trials are limited, and the evidence for its benefits largely relies on chemical composition analyses and in vitro results. The extract is available in various forms, including powders and oils, but evidence-based recommendations for specific uses are lacking. Caution is advised due to the potential psychoactive effects and limited safety data.
Benefits
The primary evidence-based benefits of water lily extract are its antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, demonstrated in in vitro studies. Specifically, ethanolic extracts have shown significant antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. The presence of apomorphine suggests potential sedative effects, but this has not been confirmed in human clinical trials. Anecdotal benefits for anxiety and sexual performance enhancement exist, but these are not supported by rigorous clinical evidence. No specific population benefits have been established through high-quality research. The lack of clinical trials means that effect sizes and clinical significance have not been quantified.
How it works
Water lily extract's mechanism of action is primarily attributed to its apomorphine content, which acts as a dopamine agonist, potentially influencing mood and sexual function by interacting with dopamine receptors in the central nervous system. Additionally, phenolic compounds present in the extract may contribute to its antioxidant effects by neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress at the cellular level. However, the absorption and bioavailability of these compounds in humans are not well-studied, and further research is needed to fully elucidate the extract's biological pathways and interactions with body systems.
Side effects
Due to limited human clinical trials, the overall safety profile of water lily extract is not well-established. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are largely unknown. There is a potential for abuse due to its psychoactive properties, and caution is advised. Potential drug interactions may occur with dopamine-related medications, but these are not well-studied. Contraindications have not been established. Special populations, such as individuals with psychiatric conditions or those taking dopamine-related medications, should exercise caution. Further research is needed to comprehensively assess the safety and potential adverse effects of water lily extract.
Dosage
Due to the lack of clinical evidence, there is no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for water lily extract. Timing considerations are not specified, and there are no evidence-based recommendations for form-specific usage (e.g., powders, oils). Absorption factors have not been studied, and no required cofactors have been identified. Given the limited safety data and potential psychoactive effects, it is crucial to approach water lily extract with caution and await further research before establishing dosage guidelines.
FAQs
What are the practical uses of water lily extract?
Due to a lack of clinical evidence, it is difficult to recommend water lily extract for any specific use. More research is needed to determine its efficacy and safety.
Is water lily extract safe to use?
Caution is advised due to the potential psychoactive effects and lack of comprehensive safety data. Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
What results can I expect from taking water lily extract?
The expected results are uncertain due to limited human studies. Claims of benefits for sleep, anxiety, and sexual performance lack robust clinical evidence.
How should water lily extract be taken?
There are no evidence-based guidelines for timing and administration. Further research is needed to provide specific recommendations.
Research Sources
- https://colab.ws/articles/10.1002%2Fappl.202400122 – This study focuses on the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of water lily extracts, particularly highlighting the effectiveness of ethanolic extracts. The research provides in vitro evidence of these properties, suggesting potential applications in various fields. However, the study does not involve human subjects, and further research is needed to validate these findings in vivo.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9834888/ – This research article likely discusses various aspects of water lily extracts, potentially including their chemical composition and traditional uses. Further details would be needed to provide a more specific summary, but it likely contributes to the understanding of the plant's bioactive compounds. The article may also touch upon potential health benefits, though clinical validation might be limited.
- https://ijiset.com/vol8/v8s11/IJISET_V8_I11_18.pdf – This study likely involves the phytochemical analysis of water lily extracts, revealing a range of bioactive compounds. These compounds may contribute to potential health benefits, but clinical validation is needed. The research provides insight into the plant's chemical composition and potential applications, but further studies are required to confirm its efficacy and safety for human use.
- https://www.maxapress.com/article/doi/10.48130/TP-2023-0001 – This article likely focuses on the extraction and analysis of apomorphine from *Nymphaea caerulea*, highlighting its potential psychoactive properties. The research may explore the plant's traditional uses and chemical composition. However, it is important to note that no human clinical trials were conducted, and further research is needed to validate these findings in vivo.
- https://besjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/2688-8319.12350 – This study likely investigates the ecological aspects of water lilies, potentially focusing on their role in aquatic ecosystems. While not directly related to human health benefits, it provides valuable information about the plant's biology and environmental interactions. The research may contribute to a broader understanding of the plant's significance and potential applications.