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Siegesbeckia Orientalis

Also known as: Siegesbeckia orientalis L., Oriental Siegesbeckia, St. Paul's Wort, Siegesbeckia orientalis

Overview

Siegesbeckia orientalis, commonly known as Oriental Siegesbeckia or St. Paul's Wort, is an herb traditionally used in Asian medicine. It is recognized for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunosuppressive properties. The plant contains bioactive compounds like kirenol, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Traditionally, it has been used to treat rheumatic conditions and allergies. While research on Siegesbeckia orientalis is increasing, most studies are preclinical or small-scale human trials. The available evidence suggests potential benefits, but high-quality, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are needed to confirm these effects. It is typically used as an ethanol extract, but further research is needed to understand its absorption, bioavailability, and optimal dosing in humans.

Benefits

Preclinical studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Siegesbeckia orientalis. For instance, an ethanol extract of Siegesbeckia orientalis (SOE) reduced inflammatory mediators in cell cultures and improved survival rates in mice with induced inflammation. In vitro studies suggest potential benefits for skin protection against particulate matter-induced oxidative stress. Bibliometric analysis indicates that Siegesbeckia orientalis is among traditional Chinese medicines studied for arthritis. However, the clinical significance and effect sizes are not well-documented in human studies, and more research is needed to confirm these benefits in human populations.

How it works

Siegesbeckia orientalis is believed to exert its anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-κB activation and reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α. It interacts with the immune system to modulate inflammatory responses. Known molecular targets include COX-2 and NF-κB pathways. However, the exact mechanisms of absorption and bioavailability are not well-studied. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the pathways and interactions involved in its therapeutic effects.

Side effects

While Siegesbeckia orientalis is generally considered safe based on traditional use, formal safety studies are lacking. Common, uncommon, and rare side effects are not well-documented due to limited human data. Potential interactions with immunosuppressive drugs exist. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the lack of safety data. Caution is advised in immunocompromised individuals. Further research is needed to comprehensively assess its safety profile and potential adverse effects.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Siegesbeckia orientalis has not been established in humans. Animal studies have used doses such as 32 mg/kg body weight, but human dosing recommendations are unclear. The maximum safe dose is also not established. Timing considerations and form-specific recommendations are not well-defined, although it is typically used as an ethanol extract. Absorption factors and required cofactors are unknown. Due to the lack of human studies, it is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using Siegesbeckia orientalis.

FAQs

What are the expected results from using Siegesbeckia orientalis?

Anti-inflammatory effects are expected based on preclinical studies, but these effects have not been proven in humans. More research is needed to confirm its efficacy in human populations.

Is Siegesbeckia orientalis safe to use?

Use with caution due to limited safety data. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

How should Siegesbeckia orientalis be administered?

Administration and timing are not well-studied. It is typically used as an ethanol extract, but specific guidelines are lacking. Further research is needed to determine optimal administration methods.

What are the practical usage concerns for Siegesbeckia orientalis?

The lack of human trials limits practical advice. Belief in its efficacy without sufficient human evidence is a common misconception. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4160630/ – This preclinical study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of Siegesbeckia orientalis ethanol extract (SOE) in mice and RAW264.7 cells. The findings showed that SOE reduced inflammatory mediators and improved survival in mice with induced inflammation, suggesting its potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. However, the study's limitations include the lack of human data, necessitating further research to validate these effects in human populations.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/10/11/1762 – This in vitro study examined the antioxidant effects of Siegesbeckiae Herba extract on HaCaT keratinocytes. The results indicated that the extract protected cells from particulate matter-induced oxidative stress, suggesting potential benefits for skin protection. The study's limitation is its in vitro nature, which requires further in vivo studies to confirm these findings in a more complex biological system.
https://journals.lww.com/md-journal/fulltext/2022/11110/trends_and_frontiers_in_natural_products_for.43.aspx – This bibliometric analysis reviewed literature from 2000-2021 and found that Siegesbeckia orientalis is among the traditional Chinese medicines studied for arthritis. While the review highlights the potential of Siegesbeckia orientalis in arthritis treatment, it does not provide direct clinical evidence, indicating a need for more clinical trials to validate its efficacy.
https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/15/7/826 – This review discusses the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications of Siegesbeckia orientalis. It highlights the presence of bioactive compounds and their potential therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The review emphasizes the need for further clinical studies to confirm these effects and establish safe and effective dosages.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.846631/full – This study investigates the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Siegesbeckia orientalis in a rat model of osteoarthritis. The results suggest that Siegesbeckia orientalis can reduce pain and inflammation associated with osteoarthritis by modulating inflammatory pathways. While promising, the findings need to be validated in human clinical trials to confirm their applicability and efficacy in treating osteoarthritis.