Corktree Extract
Also known as: Corktree extract, Nexrutine, Amur cork tree, Phellodendron amurense
Overview
Phellodendron amurense, commonly known as the Amur cork tree, is a botanical extract derived from its bark. It has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for conditions such as inflammation, gastroenteritis, and pain relief. The extract is rich in bioactive alkaloids, most notably berberine, which is recognized for its diverse pharmacological properties. Modern research is exploring its potential in anti-inflammatory, anticancer, metabolic, and cardiovascular health applications. While preclinical studies show promise, particularly in animal models for prostate cancer, and in vitro studies for cytotoxicity, high-quality human randomized controlled trials specifically on the whole corktree extract are limited. Much of the clinical evidence for its benefits, especially metabolic effects, is attributed to its berberine content.
Benefits
Corktree extract, primarily through its active compound berberine, offers several potential benefits. Preclinical studies, including a controlled mouse study, have indicated significant anticancer potential, with one study showing a 62% reduction in aggressive prostate tumor growth, comparable to exercise. Traditionally, it has been used for its anti-inflammatory properties, and some research suggests it modulates inflammatory pathways, though clinical data are scarce. The most robust evidence, largely attributed to berberine, points to metabolic benefits. Meta-analyses have shown berberine's effectiveness in improving insulin sensitivity and lowering blood glucose and lipid levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes and hyperlipidemia. A pilot study combining Phellodendron and citrus extracts also suggested cardiovascular benefits in osteoarthritis patients, but isolated corktree extract data for cardiovascular health are limited.
How it works
The therapeutic actions of Phellodendron amurense are primarily mediated by its alkaloid content, particularly berberine. These compounds exert their effects through multiple biological pathways. They are known to inhibit inflammatory cytokines and suppress NF-κB signaling, which contributes to its anti-inflammatory properties. In cancer cells, the extract can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) and arrest the cell cycle, thereby impeding tumor growth. Berberine, a key constituent, is also recognized for activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which plays a crucial role in improving insulin sensitivity and regulating lipid metabolism. However, the oral bioavailability of berberine is generally low, which can limit its systemic effects.
Side effects
Corktree extract is generally considered safe for short-term use, especially when part of combination formulations. However, comprehensive documentation of common side effects for the isolated extract is limited. Potential adverse effects may include gastrointestinal discomfort, which is a known side effect of berberine. Significant drug interactions are a concern, primarily due to its berberine content. Berberine can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulants and may potentiate the effects of diabetes medications like metformin, potentially leading to hypoglycemia. Due to insufficient safety data, corktree extract is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before use.
Dosage
There is no standardized dosage for Phellodendron amurense extract alone, as most research has focused on its constituents or combination products. Doses used in animal studies, such as those for Nexrutine, are not directly translatable to humans. For its primary active compound, berberine, clinical studies typically use doses ranging from 500 mg to 1500 mg daily, often divided into multiple doses. The timing of administration and the formulation can significantly impact absorption and bioavailability. Some research suggests that acidified extracts may improve the absorption of berberine. Due to the lack of specific human clinical trials for the whole extract, it is crucial to adhere to product-specific recommendations or consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate dosing.
FAQs
Is corktree extract effective for cancer?
Preclinical studies, particularly in animal models for prostate cancer, suggest potential anticancer effects. However, human clinical trials specifically on corktree extract for cancer are currently lacking, so its efficacy in humans is not yet established.
Is it safe to combine corktree extract with medications?
Caution is advised, especially with blood thinners and diabetes medications, due to potential interactions. Berberine, a key component, can increase bleeding risk and may enhance the effects of diabetes drugs. Consult a healthcare professional.
How soon can one expect to see benefits from corktree extract?
In animal cancer models, effects have been observed within weeks. For metabolic benefits attributed to berberine, human studies suggest that several weeks of consistent use may be required to see noticeable improvements.
What are the main active compounds in corktree extract?
The primary active compounds are alkaloids, with berberine being the most well-studied. These alkaloids are responsible for many of the extract's observed anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and metabolic effects.
Research Sources
- https://news.uthscsa.edu/cork-tree-bark-extract-exercise-each-slow-aggressive-prostate-cancer-2/ – This preclinical study in mice with aggressive prostate cancer found that Nexrutine, a corktree extract, reduced tumor growth by 62%, a result comparable to the effects of exercise. The study highlights the potential of the extract in cancer management, though it is an animal model.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11201499/ – This in vitro study investigated the cytotoxicity of corktree extracts on melanoma and lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. It demonstrated dose-dependent cytotoxic effects, suggesting potential anticancer properties at a cellular level, but lacks clinical relevance for human application.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6111450/ – This review and meta-analysis focused on berberine, a major alkaloid in corktree extract, and its effects on metabolic health. It concluded that berberine significantly improves insulin resistance and lipid profiles, providing strong evidence for its metabolic benefits, though not specific to the whole corktree extract.
- https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbclip/issues/2008/bin_356/review060681-356/ – This pilot randomized controlled trial investigated a combination of Phellodendron and citrus extracts in osteoarthritis patients. It reported improvements in cardiovascular markers, suggesting potential benefits, but the small sample size and combined formulation limit conclusions about isolated corktree extract.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1095/phellodendron – This WebMD summary, referencing various studies including meta-analyses on berberine, outlines berberine's ability to lower blood sugar and cholesterol. It also highlights potential drug interactions, providing a general overview of safety and efficacy, though not exclusively for corktree extract.
- https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-drug/def/phellodendron-amurense-bark-extract – This entry from the National Cancer Institute's dictionary defines Phellodendron amurense bark extract. It serves as a general reference for the ingredient, confirming its scientific name and source, but does not provide specific research findings.