Angelica Dahurica Extract
Also known as: Angelica dahuricae Radix, Baizhi, Dahurian angelica, Angelica dahurica
Overview
Angelica dahurica, commonly known as Dahurian angelica or Baizhi, is a perennial herb whose roots have been extensively utilized in traditional East Asian medicine. The extract derived from its roots is rich in various bioactive compounds, including coumarins, volatile oils, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. Historically, it has been employed for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anti-infective properties. Modern research, primarily in vitro and in vivo, suggests its potential in areas such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and bone-protective applications. While numerous preclinical studies and some systematic reviews exist, high-quality, large-scale human randomized controlled trials are currently limited, indicating a moderate level of research maturity. The evidence quality varies, with most findings stemming from animal or cell-based models, suggesting potential clinical relevance that has yet to be definitively established in humans.
Benefits
Angelica dahurica extract demonstrates several evidence-based benefits, primarily observed in preclinical settings. It exhibits significant anti-cancer properties, with ethanol extracts shown to suppress the growth and metastasis of melanoma cells. This effect is mediated by inducing apoptosis through mitochondrial pathways, reducing matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9), and decreasing tumor necrosis factor-alpha expression in lung metastasis models. The extract also possesses strong anti-inflammatory effects, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IFN-γ), the NF-κB pathway, COX-2, and iNOS expression in cell and animal models of periodontitis and asthma, leading to reduced airway inflammation and mucus production. Furthermore, Angelica dahurica radix shows potential in preventing microgravity-induced bone loss by modulating pathways involved in osteoporosis, with active compounds like coumarins and terpenoids contributing to this effect. Secondary benefits include hepatoprotective and analgesic effects, supported by traditional use and some experimental data. While these benefits are promising, the strength of evidence is largely preclinical, and large-scale human clinical trials are needed to establish effect sizes and clinical significance in humans.
How it works
Angelica dahurica extract exerts its therapeutic effects through multiple mechanisms attributed to its diverse bioactive compounds, including coumarins, volatile oils, and alkaloids. In cancer cells, it induces apoptosis by activating the mitochondrial intrinsic pathway, increasing reactive oxygen species, and altering the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio. For its anti-inflammatory actions, the extract primarily suppresses inflammatory signaling by inhibiting NF-κB activation and its downstream mediators, such as COX-2 and iNOS. In the context of bone health, it modulates bone metabolism pathways, likely through its coumarins and other constituents, which influence osteoclast and osteoblast activity. The oral bioavailability of key compounds varies, with some coumarins demonstrating moderate bioavailability and drug-like properties, contributing to their systemic effects.
Side effects
The safety profile of Angelica dahurica extract is not yet fully established in humans due to limited clinical data. Preclinical animal studies have reported no significant hepatotoxicity or nephrotoxicity at the tested doses, suggesting a relatively safe profile in experimental settings. However, common side effects in humans are not well documented, and there is insufficient clinical safety data to draw definitive conclusions. No major drug interactions or contraindications have been widely reported in the reviewed literature. While traditional use suggests a generally safe profile, individuals should exercise caution. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions, or those on medications should consult a healthcare professional before use, as comprehensive human safety data, including potential drug interactions and contraindications, are still lacking.
Dosage
Currently, there is no standardized dosing for Angelica dahurica extract established from rigorous human clinical trials. Experimental studies in animal models have utilized ethanol extracts at doses ranging from 10 to 100 mg/kg. However, these dosages are not directly translatable to humans and should not be used as a guideline for human consumption. Any human dosing should be approached with extreme caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. Traditional medicine doses vary widely and require further pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies to determine safe and effective human dosages. Factors such as the specific extract preparation, concentration of active compounds, and co-administration with other substances can significantly influence bioavailability and absorption, further complicating dosage recommendations. Upper limits and safety thresholds for human consumption have not been determined.
FAQs
Is Angelica dahurica extract safe?
Preclinical data suggest safety at tested doses in animals, showing no significant organ toxicity. However, human safety data are limited, and more research is needed to confirm its safety profile for human consumption.
What conditions can it help?
Based on preclinical research, it shows promise for anti-inflammatory effects, certain types of cancer (e.g., melanoma), and potential prevention of bone loss. Its traditional uses also include pain relief and anti-infection.
How soon do effects appear?
In animal models, effects have been observed within days to weeks, depending on the condition studied. The timeline for effects in humans is currently unknown due to a lack of clinical trials.
Is it effective alone or with other treatments?
Some evidence from related Angelica species suggests potential synergistic effects with chemotherapy. However, specific data for Angelica dahurica regarding its efficacy alone or in combination with other treatments are currently lacking.
Research Sources
- https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/bst/14/1/14_2019.01230/_article/-char/en – This preclinical study investigated the effects of Angelica dahurica ethanol extract on melanoma. It found that the extract suppressed melanoma growth, induced apoptosis, and reduced metastasis in both in vitro cell lines and in vivo mouse models, with no observed toxicity, suggesting its potential as an anti-cancer agent.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9283917/ – This systematic review summarized the pharmacological effects of Angelica dahurica, highlighting its anti-inflammatory properties. It concluded that the extract inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines and the NF-κB pathway in various cell and animal models, demonstrating its potential in treating inflammatory conditions like periodontitis and asthma.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41526-024-00433-0 – This experimental study explored the role of Angelica dahurica radix in preventing bone loss, particularly in simulated microgravity conditions. It identified that the extract, through its active compounds, can modulate pathways involved in osteoporosis, suggesting its potential for bone health, though human trials are needed.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1934578X241309226 – This meta-analysis focused on Angelica sinensis, a related species, and its anti-tumor effects. While not directly on Angelica dahurica, it provides indirect evidence for the Angelica genus's multi-target anti-tumor potential, suggesting a broader therapeutic scope for these herbs.
