Clematis Root Extract
Also known as: Clematis root extract, Wei Ling Xian, Clematis hirsuta, Clematis terniflora
Overview
Clematis root extract is derived from the roots of various *Clematis* species, most notably *Clematis hirsuta* and *Clematis terniflora* (var. *mandshurica*). It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine, primarily for its purported anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The extract is rich in various phytochemicals, which are believed to be responsible for its observed biological activities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. While preclinical studies, including in vitro and animal models, have shown promising results, there is a significant lack of human clinical trials. Consequently, the current evidence base for its efficacy and safety in humans is considered moderate to low, with no large-scale randomized controlled trials specifically on Clematis root extract alone. It is primarily available as a botanical extract.
Benefits
Clematis root extract has demonstrated several potential benefits in preclinical settings, though human clinical evidence is largely absent. Its **antibacterial activity** has been observed in vitro, with extracts from *Clematis hirsuta* roots showing effects against Gram-negative bacteria like *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* and *Escherichia coli*, albeit at relatively high minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC ≥ 50 μg/mL). This suggests a potential role in combating bacterial infections, but further research is needed to confirm clinical relevance. The extract also exhibits **anti-inflammatory effects**, as evidenced by studies on *Clematis terniflora* leaf extracts. These extracts reduced inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide, TNF-α, and IL-6 in activated macrophages and alleviated symptoms in an LPS-induced acute lung injury mouse model, indicating a potential for managing inflammatory conditions. Furthermore, certain isolated compounds from *Clematis hirsuta* roots have shown strong DPPH radical scavenging activity, highlighting its **antioxidant potential**. Despite these promising preclinical findings, there is no high-quality clinical evidence to support its efficacy in humans for conditions like osteoarthritis or cancer, despite traditional uses suggesting such potential.
How it works
The therapeutic actions of Clematis root extract are attributed to its diverse phytochemical composition. Its anti-inflammatory effects are primarily mediated by the suppression of key signaling pathways, specifically nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). By inhibiting these pathways, the extract reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby mitigating the inflammatory response. The antibacterial effects are thought to stem from specific phytochemicals that interfere with bacterial growth, possibly by disrupting bacterial cell walls or inhibiting essential metabolic enzymes, as suggested by molecular docking studies. The antioxidant activity is due to the presence of radical-scavenging compounds within the roots. However, the bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of these active compounds in humans remain uncharacterized.
Side effects
Comprehensive human safety data for Clematis root extract are currently unavailable, as there have been no large-scale randomized controlled trials. While traditional use suggests a degree of tolerability, the safety profile of isolated compounds or standardized extracts in humans is not well-established. Preclinical studies have not reported common or serious adverse effects, but these studies are primarily in vitro or animal models and may not fully reflect human responses. Due to the lack of clinical research, potential drug interactions and contraindications are unknown. Specific risk factors for adverse reactions have not been identified. Consumers should exercise caution due to the limited safety data and consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if they have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. The long-term safety of Clematis root extract has also not been evaluated.
Dosage
There are no established dosing guidelines for Clematis root extract derived from human clinical trials. The dosages used in preclinical studies vary significantly and are not directly translatable to human use. For instance, in vitro antibacterial activity was observed at minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 50 μg/mL, and animal studies for anti-inflammatory effects used doses such as 300 mg/kg in mice. Traditional medicine practices utilize varying doses, but these are not standardized or scientifically validated for modern supplement use. Due to the absence of clinical data, safe and effective dosage ranges, timing considerations, and upper limits for human consumption remain undetermined. Consumers should be aware that any dosage recommendations found outside of a clinical context are speculative and not evidence-based. It is crucial to avoid self-dosing and to seek professional medical advice before considering the use of Clematis root extract.
FAQs
Is Clematis root extract effective for inflammation?
Preclinical studies show promising anti-inflammatory effects by reducing inflammatory mediators. However, human clinical trials are lacking, so its effectiveness in people is not yet confirmed.
Is Clematis root extract safe to use?
Human safety data are very limited, with no comprehensive clinical trials. While traditional use suggests some tolerability, caution is advised due to the lack of scientific evidence on its safety profile in humans.
How quickly might Clematis root extract show effects?
In animal models, effects were observed within hours to days. However, there is no human data available to determine how quickly it might work or if it would have similar onset times in people.
Can Clematis root extract treat infections or cancer?
In vitro studies show antibacterial activity, and some preclinical research suggests anticancer potential. However, these findings are not clinically proven, and it should not be used as a treatment for infections or cancer.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10984721/ – This in vitro and in silico study identified seven compounds from *Clematis hirsuta* roots, demonstrating their antibacterial activity against *S. aureus*, *P. aeruginosa*, and *E. coli*, as well as antioxidant properties. The research suggests these compounds could be lead candidates for drug development, though it lacks in vivo or clinical data and toxicity assessments.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10791263/ – This study investigated the ethanol extract of *Clematis terniflora* leaves, showing its ability to suppress inflammatory mediators (NO, TNF-α, IL-6) in vitro and reduce lung injury in an LPS-induced acute lung injury mouse model. While well-designed, it focuses on leaf extract rather than root and lacks human trials.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1155/2024/6653893 – This source appears to be a duplicate or related publication to the Park et al. 2024 study, reinforcing the findings on the anti-inflammatory effects of *Clematis terniflora* extract in an LPS-induced acute lung injury mouse model. It supports the preclinical evidence for its potential in inflammatory conditions.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1934578X251333027?icid=int.sj-abstract.similar-articles.6 – This review discusses the ethnopharmacology of various medicinal plants, including *Clematis* species, highlighting their traditional uses and potential anticancer properties. While it provides broader context, it primarily focuses on preclinical data and does not present direct randomized controlled trials for Clematis root extract in humans.
