Black Pearl Wax Apple Extract
Also known as: Wax apple, Black Pearl Wax Apple, Black Pearl Wax Apple Extract, Syzygium samarangense
Overview
Syzygium samarangense, commonly known as wax apple, is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, traditionally consumed fresh and utilized in folk medicine. The 'Black Pearl' cultivar is distinguished by its dark purple to black skin, indicative of a high anthocyanin content. Extracts derived from this fruit are being investigated for their potential metabolic, cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. While research on wax apple extract is still emerging, with a focus on in vivo animal studies, broader evidence exists for general apple polyphenols and the constituents of wax apple fruit. The overall quality of evidence is considered moderate, though specific human data for Black Pearl wax apple extract remains limited.
Benefits
Black Pearl wax apple extract shows promising benefits, primarily supported by animal studies and broader research on apple products. In terms of metabolic and cardiovascular health, animal studies have demonstrated that wax apple extract can ameliorate endothelial dysfunction and fatty liver induced by high cholesterol, significantly improving vascular relaxation responses (p < 0.05). This suggests a potential role in improving blood vessel function. The extract is also rich in phenolics, flavonoids, and anthocyanins (such as cyanidin 3-glucoside), along with vitamins C and E, which contribute to its significant antioxidant capacity. This antioxidant activity has been shown to reduce oxidative stress in diabetic rat models. While specific human trials on Black Pearl wax apple extract are scarce, a systematic review and meta-analysis of various apple and apple-derived products (not exclusively wax apple) reported metabolic and cardiovascular benefits, with only mild side effects like headache and rash occasionally noted. This broader evidence suggests a general positive impact of apple-derived compounds on these health markers.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Black Pearl wax apple extract revolves around its rich content of bioactive compounds, particularly polyphenols and anthocyanins. These compounds exert potent antioxidant activity by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. Beyond direct antioxidant effects, the extract is believed to modulate inflammatory pathways, leading to the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This anti-inflammatory action, coupled with improved endothelial nitric oxide bioavailability, contributes to enhanced vascular function. Furthermore, research on fruit preservation indicates that compounds like melatonin, also present in wax apple, can reduce ROS and regulate jasmonic acid and salicylic acid pathways, which are involved in stress responses and antioxidant enzyme activity, further supporting its protective effects.
Side effects
Based on current research, Black Pearl wax apple extract appears to have a favorable safety profile. No significant adverse effects have been reported in animal studies specifically investigating wax apple extract. Similarly, human trials involving broader apple products have generally shown good tolerability, with only mild, non-fatal side effects such as headache and rash occasionally reported. However, it is crucial to note that human data specifically for Black Pearl wax apple extract are very limited, meaning its full safety profile in humans is not yet comprehensively established. There are no known drug interactions or contraindications documented for Black Pearl wax apple extract at this time. While the existing evidence suggests a low risk of adverse effects, individuals should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially given the limited human-specific safety data.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established dosing guidelines for Black Pearl wax apple extract due to the limited number of human studies. The available research primarily consists of animal studies, which utilized extract doses sufficient to observe vascular and metabolic effects over a period of four weeks. However, these animal doses cannot be directly extrapolated to human recommendations. A systematic review and meta-analysis on general apple products included various doses, but it did not specify extract equivalents or provide specific guidance for Black Pearl wax apple extract. Therefore, without human clinical trials, a recommended dosage for human consumption cannot be confidently provided. Consumers should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, as the optimal dose, timing, and form for human use remain undetermined.
FAQs
Is Black Pearl wax apple extract safe?
Current evidence from animal studies and broader apple product research suggests a good safety profile, with mild side effects occasionally reported. However, specific human safety data for this extract are still lacking.
What benefits can I expect from Black Pearl wax apple extract?
Based on animal studies and general apple product data, potential benefits include antioxidant effects, improved cardiovascular function (e.g., vascular relaxation), and metabolic support.
How long does it take to see effects from Black Pearl wax apple extract?
Animal studies have shown effects within a few weeks (e.g., 4 weeks for vascular effects). However, human data are insufficient to provide precise timing for observable effects.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2020.569779/full – This study investigated the effect of exogenous melatonin on the post-harvest preservation of wax apple fruit. It found that melatonin treatment significantly reduced decay incidence and weight loss by modulating antioxidant enzymes and stress hormones, indicating its role in enhancing fruit quality and shelf life.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.766155/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials examined the effects of apple and apple-derived products on metabolic and cardiovascular markers. It concluded that apple consumption can improve these markers with generally mild side effects, though heterogeneity among studies was noted and addressed.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9618390/ – This animal study demonstrated that wax apple extract improved endothelial function and vascular relaxation in rats, particularly in models of high cholesterol-induced dysfunction. The findings suggest a potential role for wax apple extract in ameliorating cardiovascular issues by enhancing vascular health.
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