Albizia Liquid Extract
Also known as: Albizia lebbeck, Albizia julibrissin, Albizia anthelmintica, Siris tree, Lebbeck, Mimosa tree, Persian silk tree
Overview
Albizia liquid extracts are botanical supplements primarily derived from the bark or leaves of *Albizia lebbeck* and *Albizia julibrissin*. These extracts are rich in bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, tannins, phenols, alkaloids, and saponins, which are believed to contribute to their therapeutic properties. Traditionally used in various herbal medicine systems, modern research is exploring their potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective (liver-protective), and gastroprotective (stomach-protective) effects. While promising, the current body of evidence is largely based on in vitro studies and animal models, with a notable absence of human randomized controlled trials. Therefore, while the extracts show potential, their efficacy and safety in humans are not yet fully established, and they are considered to be in the preclinical to early clinical stages of research.
Benefits
Albizia liquid extracts demonstrate several potential health benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. *Albizia lebbeck* bark extract has shown significant in vitro antidiabetic potential by inhibiting α-glucosidase and DPP-4 enzymes, which could help reduce postprandial glucose spikes and improve glycemic control. For liver health, *Albizia julibrissin* extract, particularly its compound quercitrin, has been found to alleviate methamphetamine-induced liver toxicity in mice by reducing apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial damage. Furthermore, *Albizia anthelmintica* leaf extract exhibits strong gastroprotective effects, preventing gastric ulcers in rats by reducing inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers, comparable to conventional medications. Some animal studies also suggest *Albizia julibrissin* may have cognitive benefits, ameliorating short-term memory loss induced by insomnia. While these findings are promising, it is crucial to note that the evidence is predominantly from in vitro and animal studies, and human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits.
How it works
The therapeutic actions of Albizia liquid extracts are attributed to their rich phytochemical composition, including flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic compounds. The antidiabetic effects are primarily linked to the inhibition of enzymes like α-glucosidase, which slows carbohydrate digestion, and DPP-4, which prolongs the action of incretin hormones, thereby improving blood glucose regulation. Hepatoprotective and gastroprotective effects are mediated through potent antioxidant activity, scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Additionally, these extracts exert anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating inflammatory pathways, such as NF-κB and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Specific compounds like quercitrin modulate apoptotic pathways, reducing cell death in damaged tissues, contributing to liver protection.
Side effects
Based on the available research, significant adverse effects of Albizia liquid extracts have not been reported in animal models at the tested doses. However, there is a critical lack of human safety data, including reports of side effects, drug interactions, or contraindications. Given its botanical origin, there is a theoretical potential for allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Furthermore, due to its observed antidiabetic and hepatoprotective activities in preclinical studies, caution is advised regarding potential interactions with conventional antidiabetic medications or other hepatoprotective drugs. Without comprehensive human clinical trials, the full safety profile, including potential for adverse reactions, drug interactions, or contraindications, remains largely unknown. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using Albizia liquid extract, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established clinical dosing guidelines for Albizia liquid extract due to the absence of human trials. The dosages used in preclinical animal studies vary significantly, for example, ranging from 100–200 mg/kg for gastroprotection in rats. While in vitro studies provide insights into the potency of the extract (e.g., IC₅₀ values for enzyme inhibition), these values do not directly translate into human dosages. Without human clinical data, it is impossible to recommend a safe and effective dose for human consumption. Any use of Albizia liquid extract should be approached with caution, and individuals should refrain from self-dosing. Further research is required to determine appropriate and safe dosage ranges for various therapeutic purposes in humans.
FAQs
Is Albizia liquid extract effective for diabetes?
Preclinical studies show that Albizia extracts can inhibit enzymes relevant to diabetes management, suggesting potential. However, there is no clinical evidence in humans to confirm its effectiveness for diabetes.
Is Albizia liquid extract safe to use?
Animal studies have not reported significant adverse effects at tested doses. However, human safety data are insufficient, and potential side effects or interactions are not fully known.
How quickly might benefits appear?
Animal studies show effects within days to weeks, but the timeline for potential benefits in humans is unknown due to the lack of clinical trials.
Can Albizia liquid extract be combined with other supplements or drugs?
There is no data available on interactions with other supplements or drugs. Caution is advised, especially if taking medications for diabetes or liver conditions.
Research Sources
- https://tjpps.org/index.php/home/article/view/79 – This in vitro study investigated the pharmacognostic and biochemical properties of Albizia lebbeck bark extract. It found significant α-glucosidase inhibition (IC₅₀ ~305 µg/mL) and moderate DPP-4 inhibition, suggesting potential antidiabetic effects by regulating carbohydrate digestion and incretin degradation. The study provides robust in vitro data but lacks in vivo or clinical validation.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1482172/full – This study explored the hepatoprotective effects of quercitrin from Albizia julibrissin against methamphetamine-induced liver toxicity in mice. It demonstrated that quercitrin reduced hepatocyte apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial damage by modulating the BAX/CASP3 pathway. This high-quality animal study provides strong evidence for the liver-protective potential of a key compound found in Albizia.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7911069/ – This in vivo study evaluated the gastroprotective effects of Albizia anthelmintica leaf extract in a rat ulcer model. The extract significantly prevented gastric ulcers (up to 92.3%) and reduced inflammatory markers (TNF-α, IL-6) and oxidative stress, comparable to famotidine. This good-quality animal RCT supports the traditional use of Albizia for stomach protection.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6463593/ – This research investigated the effects of Albizia julibrissin on short-term memory loss induced by insomnia in animal models. The findings indicated that Albizia julibrissin ameliorated memory deficits, suggesting potential neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing properties. This animal study highlights another promising area for future research into Albizia's benefits.
