Xanthorrhizum Alatum Fruit Extract
Also known as: Zanthoxylum alatum, Winged Prickly Ash, Timur, Toothache Tree
Overview
Zanthoxylum alatum, commonly known as Winged Prickly Ash, is a plant species native to South Asia. The fruit extract is derived from the dried fruits of the plant and has been traditionally used as a spice and condiment. Research suggests that Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metal-chelating properties. These effects are primarily attributed to the presence of phytochemicals such as tambulin, alkaloids, flavonoids, and essential oils. While preclinical studies show promising results, human clinical trials are limited, and the clinical significance of these findings remains uncertain. The extract is being investigated for potential metabolic health benefits, but more research is needed to confirm these effects. It is important to note that 'Xanthorrhizum Alatum' is not a recognized botanical name; the correct species is Zanthoxylum alatum.
Benefits
Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract demonstrates significant antioxidant activity in vitro, including DPPH radical scavenging (IC50 = 4.56 ± 1.3 mg/mL), hydroxyl radical scavenging, and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in rat tissue homogenates. The extract also exhibits Fe²⁺ chelating activity, protecting against iron-induced oxidative damage. Animal studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory effects, but human data are lacking. While these preclinical findings are promising, the clinical significance of Zanthoxylum alatum's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in humans remains uncertain due to the limited availability of large, well-controlled randomized clinical trials. Further research is needed to determine the specific benefits and optimal uses of this extract in human populations.
How it works
Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract exerts its effects primarily through antioxidant mechanisms. It scavenges free radicals such as DPPH and hydroxyl radicals, inhibits lipid peroxidation, and chelates metal ions like Fe²⁺. These actions help to reduce oxidative stress and protect against cellular damage. While animal studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory effects, the precise mechanisms are not fully understood. The extract's interaction with other body systems and its specific molecular targets beyond free radicals and metal ions require further investigation. Absorption and bioavailability of the active compounds in humans are not well-established.
Side effects
Based on traditional use and limited preclinical data, Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract is generally considered safe. However, there is a lack of comprehensive safety data in humans. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects have not been reported in available literature. Due to the limited data, potential drug interactions are not well-documented, and caution is advised when using this extract in conjunction with other medications. Contraindications are not established, but individuals with known allergies to Zanthoxylum species should avoid this extract. Insufficient data exist to determine the safety of Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract in pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations, and its use in these groups should be approached with caution.
Dosage
Due to the limited human clinical data, a minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, and maximum safe dose of Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract have not been established. Animal studies have used dosages of 100–200 mg/kg body weight, but these cannot be directly translated to human recommendations. Timing considerations and form-specific recommendations are also not well-defined. Ethanol or methanol extracts have been used in research settings. Absorption factors and required cofactors are not well-studied. Until further research is available, it is difficult to provide specific dosing guidelines for Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract.
FAQs
What are the practical uses of Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract?
Due to limited human clinical data, practical recommendations are lacking. Traditional use is as a spice or condiment. Antioxidant effects are likely based on preclinical data, but clinical benefits are speculative.
Is Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract safe?
No significant safety concerns have been identified in animal studies, but human safety is not well-documented. Caution is advised, especially for pregnant, lactating, or pediatric populations.
How should Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract be taken?
There is no established protocol for timing and administration. Traditional use is as a spice or condiment. Ethanol or methanol extracts have been used in research settings.
What results can I expect from taking Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract?
Antioxidant effects are likely based on preclinical data, but clinical benefits are speculative. More research is needed to determine the specific effects in humans.
Is 'Xanthorrhizum Alatum' the correct name for this plant?
No, 'Xanthorrhizum Alatum' is not a recognized botanical name. The correct species is Zanthoxylum alatum, sometimes confused with Zanthoxylum armatum.
Research Sources
- https://www.plantsjournal.com/archives/2025/vol13issue3/PartA/13-2-43-445.pdf – This preclinical study investigated the antioxidant and metal chelating activity of Zanthoxylum alatum fruit extract. The ethanol extract demonstrated significant antioxidant effects in vitro, including DPPH radical scavenging and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in rat tissue homogenates, suggesting potential protective effects against oxidative damage.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37810926/ – This study focuses on the impact of *Zanthoxylum* species on metabolic diseases. It highlights the potential of compounds derived from *Zanthoxylum* in managing conditions like diabetes and obesity, suggesting a role in improving metabolic health through various mechanisms.
- https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2024BioCB..1430467K/abstract – This abstract explores the chemical composition and biological activities of *Zanthoxylum alatum*. It identifies various bioactive compounds and their potential applications in medicine and pharmacology, emphasizing the plant's role as a source of natural therapeutic agents.
- https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/707039-ZANTHOXYLUM_ALATUM_WINGED_PRICKLY_ASH_EXTRACT/ – This source provides a safety assessment of Zanthoxylum alatum (Winged Prickly Ash) extract for use in cosmetics and personal care products. It summarizes available data on potential hazards and concerns associated with its topical application, offering insights into its safety profile.
- http://www.pakbs.org/pjbot/PDFs/42(6)/PJB42(6)4299.pdf – This study examines the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Zanthoxylum alatum. The research highlights the plant's potential as a natural source of antioxidants and antimicrobial agents, suggesting its possible use in food preservation and medicinal applications.