Lablab Bean Dried Seed Liquid Extract
Also known as: Lablab bean, hyacinth bean, Indian bean, white hyacinth bean, Dolichos lablab, Lablab purpureus
Overview
Lablab purpureus, commonly known as the Lablab bean, is a leguminous plant whose dried seeds are utilized both as a traditional food source and in ethnomedicine. The dried seed liquid extract is typically an aqueous or solvent-based preparation derived from these seeds. It is primarily explored for its nutritional value, being rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, and for its potential pharmacological applications. These applications include antioxidant support, anti-stress effects, antimicrobial properties, and enzyme inhibitory activities. The plant is characterized by its high protein content (20-28%) and the presence of various bioactive phytochemicals. While its agricultural and nutritional aspects are well-documented, clinical research specifically on the dried seed liquid extract as a supplement is still emerging, with most current evidence stemming from in vitro and animal studies.
Benefits
Lablab purpureus dried seed liquid extract exhibits several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical research. It demonstrates strong antioxidant activity, effectively scavenging free radicals (DPPH, NO, ABTS assays) and offering protection against DNA and protein damage in vitro. This suggests a role in combating oxidative stress. The extract also shows enzyme inhibitory effects, specifically on acetylcholinesterase and porcine α-amylase, which could imply potential benefits for cognitive function and glycemic control, respectively. Furthermore, crude seed extracts have displayed antibacterial activity against certain pathogens and cytotoxic effects in cell culture models, indicating possible antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Nutritionally, the seeds are a valuable source of protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and zinc, making them beneficial for addressing dietary deficiencies. Animal studies have also suggested protective effects against stress-induced gastric mucosal damage, hinting at adaptogenic qualities. While these findings are promising, most data are from in vitro or animal models, and rigorous human clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits, establish effect sizes, and determine clinical significance.
How it works
The beneficial effects of Lablab purpureus dried seed liquid extract are attributed to its diverse phytochemical composition. Its antioxidant properties stem from compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids, which neutralize reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, thereby mitigating oxidative stress. The observed enzyme inhibition, particularly of acetylcholinesterase, suggests a mechanism involving the modulation of neurotransmitter breakdown, potentially enhancing cognitive function. Inhibition of α-amylase indicates an interference with carbohydrate metabolism, which could help in managing blood glucose levels. Antibacterial activity may involve the disruption of microbial cell walls or interference with essential microbial enzymes. Cytotoxicity in cell lines could be due to the induction of apoptosis or inhibition of viral replication. The exact absorption and bioavailability of these active compounds from the seed extracts in humans are not yet well characterized, and are likely influenced by the specific extraction method and formulation.
Side effects
The safety profile of Lablab purpureus dried seed liquid extract is not extensively documented in human clinical trials. While traditional use and animal studies generally suggest it is safe, comprehensive human safety data are limited. There are no well-documented reports of common side effects, and rare or uncommon adverse effects have not been systematically studied. Specific drug interactions or contraindications have also not been established. However, caution is advised for pregnant or lactating women due to the lack of specific safety data in these populations. Individuals with known allergies to legumes should also exercise caution, as they may be at risk of allergic reactions. No significant conflicts of interest have been reported in the independent studies conducted to date. Overall, while no severe adverse effects have been reported, the absence of extensive human safety data means that potential risks cannot be fully ruled out, and further research is warranted.
Dosage
Currently, there is no standardized or clinically established dosing regimen for Lablab purpureus dried seed liquid extract due to the limited number of human clinical trials. Preclinical studies have utilized a wide range of extract concentrations, with effective doses in in vitro assays typically ranging from micrograms to milligrams per milliliter. Traditional consumption involves whole seeds or flours, which differs significantly from a concentrated liquid extract. Therefore, appropriate dosing for a liquid extract would depend heavily on its concentration, standardization, and specific formulation. The optimal timing for administration and factors affecting absorption and bioavailability remain unclear. Co-administration with food might influence the absorption of active compounds, but this has not been systematically investigated. Without robust clinical data, it is not possible to provide specific upper limits or safety thresholds for human consumption of the liquid extract.
FAQs
Is Lablab bean dried seed liquid extract safe?
Limited preclinical data suggest safety, but comprehensive human clinical trials are needed to fully establish its safety profile for supplemental use.
What benefits can be expected from this extract?
Preclinical studies indicate antioxidant support and potential enzyme inhibition (e.g., for cognitive function or blood sugar). Clinical benefits in humans are currently unconfirmed.
How long does it take to see effects?
The time frame for observing effects in humans is unknown. Preclinical data show immediate biochemical effects, but clinical outcomes would require longer-term studies.
Can Lablab bean extract replace medications?
No, it cannot. While it shows potential, it should not be used as a substitute for prescribed medications or established medical therapies.
Research Sources
- https://www.science.gov/topicpages/b/bean+dolichos+lablab – This source provides general information about Lablab purpureus, including its classification and various names. It serves as a foundational reference for understanding the plant's identity and broad scientific context.
- https://www.bsmiab.org/jabet/178-1519813435-antibacterial-and-cytotoxic-activity-of-seeds-of-white-hyacinth-bean-lablab-purpureus-l-sweet-white – This in vitro study investigated the antibacterial and cytotoxic activities of crude seed extracts from Lablab purpureus. It demonstrated that the extracts possess antibacterial properties against certain pathogens and exhibit cytotoxic effects in cell culture models, suggesting potential antimicrobial and anticancer applications.
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.3c01478 – This peer-reviewed study, published in ACS Omega, explored the in vitro cytotoxicity and potential antiviral activity of Lablab purpureus seed extracts using an MDBK cell line. The findings indicated that the extracts showed cytotoxic effects and preliminary evidence of antiviral properties, warranting further investigation.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10809392/ – This article focuses on the agronomic and nutritional analysis of multiple Lablab purpureus genotypes. It highlights the high protein, vitamin, and mineral content of the seeds, emphasizing their significant nutritional value and the genotypic variations that influence these components.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7417803/ – This animal study, an RCT, investigated the effects of Lablab purpureus extracts on rats subjected to a stress model. The research found that the extracts were effective in reducing stress-induced gastric mucosal damage, suggesting potential adaptogenic or protective effects under physiological stress conditions.
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