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Phellodendron Extract

Also known as: Amur cork tree, Huang Bai, Phellodendron extract, Phellodendron amurense

Overview

Phellodendron extract is primarily derived from the bark of Phellodendron amurense, a tree native to East Asia. This botanical extract is rich in isoquinoline alkaloids, with berberine being a key active compound. Traditionally, it has been a staple in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and gastrointestinal benefits. Modern research explores its potential in supporting cardiovascular health, alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis, and exhibiting anticancer properties. The extract contains a complex array of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, contributing to its diverse pharmacological actions. While preclinical and pilot clinical studies show promise, large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials are still needed to fully establish its efficacy and optimal usage.

Benefits

Phellodendron extract, particularly when combined with other botanicals, shows promising health benefits. A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving a blend containing Phellodendron and Citrus extracts (NP06-1) demonstrated significant improvements in lipid profiles, blood pressure, and fasting glucose in overweight and normal-weight individuals, suggesting a role in cardiovascular risk factor modulation. The same blend also showed benefits in reducing joint pain and improving mobility in patients with osteoarthritis in a double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, indicating anti-inflammatory and symptomatic relief effects. Preclinical studies have highlighted the anticancer potential of Phellodendron extract and its alkaloids, showing inhibition of proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and suppression of angiogenesis in various cancer cell lines (e.g., prostate, pancreatic, breast, lung). However, clinical evidence for anticancer effects in humans is currently lacking. Immunomodulatory and gastroprotective effects have also been suggested in animal and in vitro studies, but these require further clinical validation.

How it works

The primary mechanisms of action for Phellodendron extract are attributed to its alkaloid content, particularly berberine. These compounds inhibit inflammatory pathways, such as NF-kB signaling, reduce oxidative stress, and modulate lipid metabolism, contributing to its cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory effects. In the context of its potential anticancer properties, Phellodendron extract and its alkaloids induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), arrest the cell cycle, inhibit matrix metalloproteinases, and modulate reactive oxygen species in cancer cells. While berberine has relatively low oral bioavailability, it is considered the main active constituent. The extract interacts with various body systems, including the cardiovascular system (lipid metabolism, blood pressure regulation), the immune system (anti-inflammatory responses), the musculoskeletal system (reducing joint inflammation), and cellular pathways involved in cancer development.

Side effects

Phellodendron extract is generally well tolerated in the short-term clinical pilot studies conducted, with no serious adverse events reported. However, due to its berberine content, mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or diarrhea, may occur, although this was not significantly reported in the cited studies. A crucial consideration is its potential for drug interactions. Berberine can interact with cytochrome P450 enzymes and P-glycoprotein, which are involved in the metabolism and transport of many medications. This interaction could potentially alter the effectiveness or increase the side effects of other drugs, including anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and immunosuppressants. Therefore, caution is advised for individuals on multiple medications. Phellodendron extract is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Limited research exists for special populations, such as the elderly or those with pre-existing comorbidities, necessitating further investigation into its safety profile in these groups.

Dosage

The optimal dosage for Phellodendron extract is not well established, as most clinical studies have utilized proprietary blends containing Phellodendron alongside other ingredients, rather than the isolated extract. For instance, the NP06-1 blend, which showed benefits in cardiovascular health and osteoarthritis, contained standardized berberine, but the exact contribution and specific dose of Phellodendron extract within this blend are not clearly isolated. Therefore, a precise recommended dosage for standalone Phellodendron extract cannot be definitively provided based on current clinical research. When used in supplements, extracts standardized to their berberine alkaloid content are preferred to ensure consistency. The timing of administration relative to meals has not been specifically detailed in the available studies. Users should follow product-specific guidelines or consult with a healthcare professional, especially given the lack of established upper limits and safety thresholds for the isolated extract.

FAQs

Is Phellodendron extract safe for long-term use?

Limited long-term safety data exists for Phellodendron extract. Short-term use in pilot studies appears safe, but more research is needed to confirm its safety over extended periods.

Can Phellodendron extract be used alone or only in blends?

Most clinical evidence for Phellodendron's benefits comes from studies using it as part of proprietary blends. Its effects as an isolated extract require more dedicated clinical trials.

How soon can benefits be expected from Phellodendron extract?

In pilot studies, benefits for cardiovascular health and joint pain were observed within study durations, typically ranging from 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use.

Does Phellodendron extract interact with medications?

Yes, Phellodendron, particularly its berberine content, can interact with medications metabolized by liver enzymes (cytochrome P450) and P-glycoprotein. Consult a healthcare provider if you are on other medications.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2409365/ – This pilot randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a proprietary blend (NP06-1) containing Phellodendron and Citrus extracts on metabolic parameters in overweight and normal-weight subjects. The study found significant improvements in lipid profiles, blood pressure, and fasting glucose compared to placebo, with no serious adverse events, suggesting potential benefits for cardiovascular risk factors.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2739863/ – This double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study evaluated the same NP06-1 blend (Phellodendron and Citrus extracts) for its effects on joint health in osteoarthritis patients. The results indicated improvements in joint pain and mobility, suggesting anti-inflammatory and symptomatic relief properties of the blend in this population.
https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/12/5/767 – This preclinical study reviewed the anticancer potential of Phellodendron amurense and its active compounds. It highlighted in vitro and in vivo evidence showing that Phellodendron extract can inhibit cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and suppress angiogenesis in various cancer cell lines, providing a basis for future clinical investigations.