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Chinese Smilax Root Extract

Also known as: Chinese Smilax Root, Smilax glabra, Smilax china L., Smilax china

Overview

Smilax china L. is a climbing plant native to Asia, widely utilized in traditional Asian medicine, particularly in Korea and China. The roots of *Smilax china* and its species, *Smilax glabra*, are the principal parts used for their medicinal properties. Known for its anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and immunomodulatory effects, *Smilax* root has emerged as a focus of research, especially for its antimicrobial properties against *Cutibacterium acnes*, a key player in acne development. Compounds such as quercetin, resveratrol, and oxyresveratrol found in the roots are predominant contributors to its effects. While traditional uses are well-documented, scientific research is still at an early stage, primarily composed of in vitro studies and small-scale animal tests.

Benefits

The primary benefit of *Smilax china* root extract is its antimicrobial action against *Cutibacterium acnes*, indicating potential application for treating acne. Secondary benefits include anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, although these are more closely related to *Smilax glabra*. Evidence suggests that individuals with acne-prone skin may find *Smilax china* beneficial, yet specific effect sizes or well-documented clinical data are lacking. Most available studies indicate potential antimicrobial activity; however, further human research is required to substantiate these claims.

How it works

The antimicrobial properties of *Smilax china* root extract are attributed to compounds such as quercetin and resveratrol. These compounds might disrupt bacterial cell wall synthesis or affect membrane integrity, leading to reduced infection rates. The extract may also modulate immune responses, impacting skin microbiota and contributing to its therapeutic effects. Nonetheless, specific molecular targets and bioavailability are not well characterized in existing research.

Side effects

Generally considered safe when used traditionally, *Smilax china* L. root extract has limited documentation regarding its side effects. Some potential common side effects may include gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions, although direct evidence is sparse. Drug interactions have been noted with *Smilax glabra*, particularly with methotrexate, necessitating caution. As safety data is limited, the use of this extract is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Individuals with known allergies to plant extracts should use it with caution, and adverse effects may go unreported due to a lack of comprehensive safety assessments.

Dosage

Currently, a defined effective dosage or safety threshold for *Smilax china* L. root extract is not established. Typically, it is used in crude extract form or as ethyl acetate fractions. Without established optimal ranges, users should proceed cautiously and consult healthcare providers for individualized dosing recommendations. Absorption factors and the timing of administration are also not clearly specified, warranting further research to define these parameters.

FAQs

Is *Smilax china* effective for acne treatment?

Preliminary studies suggest it may reduce acne severity due to its antimicrobial activity against *Cutibacterium acnes*, but clinical evidence is lacking.

Are there any side effects associated with *Smilax china*?

Side effects are not well-documented, but gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions may occur. Use cautiously.

Can I take *Smilax china* during pregnancy?

It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data.

How should *Smilax china* be taken?

It is commonly used as a crude extract. Consult a healthcare provider for proper guidance on use.

Is there a difference between *Smilax china* and *Smilax glabra*?

*Smilax glabra* has different properties and pharmacological effects, despite both being part of the Smilax family.

Research Sources

https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/27/23/8331 – This study presents the antimicrobial effects of *Smilax china* L. root extract against *Cutibacterium acnes*, providing preliminary evidence supporting its potential for acne treatment. However, it lacks clinical trials.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36500424/ – An in vitro investigation revealing possible effects of *Smilax* species on microbial agents, reinforcing the interest in *Smilax china* for dermatological applications, particularly against acne.
https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/mmr.2017.7559/download – The pharmacokinetic interactions of *Smilax glabra* with methotrexate indicate critical drug interaction potential. This informs caution in concurrent use of *Smilax* species but does not directly apply to *Smilax china*.
https://osf.io/mepkc/?action=download – This resource aggregates studies on *Smilax* with a focus on pharmacological activities and encourages more extensive human trials to understand efficacy.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.1029949/full – This article reviews herbal extracts, including *Smilax*, emphasizing the significance of more demonstrable evidence of efficacy and safety through systematic research.