Succinum Extract
Also known as: Amber extract, Succinum resin extract, Succinum extract
Overview
Succinum extract is derived from *succinum*, commonly known as amber, which is fossilized resin primarily from ancient coniferous and leguminous plants. It is classified as a traditional herbal/mineral extract used in complementary and alternative medicine, particularly in Chinese medicine. Key chemical components include succinic acid and other organic compounds. Traditionally, it has been used for mood tranquilization, promoting blood circulation, removing blood stasis, and cognitive enhancement. Preclinical studies suggest it possesses anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antidepressant properties, with some extracts containing approximately 5.7 mg/g of succinic acid. The research maturity level is emerging, with most evidence coming from preclinical animal studies and some early meta-analyses on broader Chinese herbal medicine formulations that include succinum.
Benefits
Preclinical studies indicate several potential benefits of succinum extract. It has demonstrated anti-neuroinflammatory and antidepressant effects by inhibiting microglial activation in both in vitro and in vivo (animal) studies, leading to statistically significant reductions in inflammatory markers (p < 0.05). Furthermore, ethyl acetate extracts of succinum have shown cognitive improvement in vascular dementia rat models, significantly enhancing learning and memory performance and reducing neuronal apoptosis (p < 0.01). These effects are primarily observed in animal models of vascular dementia and neuroinflammation. While these findings are promising, human clinical significance remains unestablished due to the lack of direct human clinical trials on succinum extract alone. The effects are typically observed within days to weeks in animal models.
How it works
Succinum extract exerts its effects primarily through the regulation of microglial activation and chemokine receptor signaling, such as the CX3CL1/CX3CR1 axis. It also inhibits neuronal apoptosis and provides general anti-inflammatory effects, largely mediated by its succinic acid content and other constituents. The extract interacts with the central nervous system, particularly affecting hippocampal neurons and microglia. Known molecular targets include microglial chemokine receptors and pathways involved in neuronal apoptosis. The absorption and bioavailability of succinum extract are not well characterized, but bioactive fractions obtained via ethyl acetate extraction suggest the presence of lipophilic components.
Side effects
Based on available preclinical studies, succinum extract has not shown significant adverse effects on locomotor activity or general health in animal models. Common or uncommon side effects have not been reported or documented due to the limited clinical data. There is currently no information regarding drug interactions, as no clinical pharmacokinetic or interaction studies have been conducted. Contraindications for succinum extract are not established, and there are no specific considerations for special populations due to the lack of human data. Overall, while preclinical safety appears favorable, the absence of human trials means the full safety profile, including potential side effects and interactions in humans, remains largely unknown.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for succinum extract has not been established in humans. Animal studies typically use standardized extract concentrations, for example, those with a 5.7 mg/g succinic acid content. Optimal dosage ranges and the maximum safe dose for human consumption are currently undefined. Effects in animal studies were observed after repeated dosing, but human dosing regimens have not been established. For research purposes, extracts standardized for succinic acid content or specific solvent fractions, such as ethyl acetate extracts, which showed the strongest effects in animal models, may be preferable. Absorption factors are unknown, though lipophilic extraction methods suggest potential solubility considerations. No specific cofactors are reported as required for its efficacy.
FAQs
Is succinum extract effective for cognitive impairment?
Preclinical evidence suggests potential benefits in vascular dementia models by improving learning and memory, but direct human clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy.
Is it safe to use?
Animal studies show no significant adverse effects, but human safety data are currently lacking, so caution is advised.
How quickly does it work?
Animal studies have observed effects within days to weeks of administration; however, the timeline for human effects is unknown.
Can it be used with other medications?
There is no available data on drug interactions, so it is advisable to exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional.
Is it the same as amber essential oil?
No, succinum extract is a specific resin extract with defined chemical constituents, distinct from amber essential oils.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.991243/full – This preclinical study investigated the anti-neuroinflammatory and antidepressant effects of succinum extract. It found that the extract inhibited microglial activation and reduced inflammatory markers in both in vitro and in vivo models, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for neuroinflammation and depression.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9240707/ – This animal study focused on the cognitive effects of succinum extract in a rat model of vascular dementia. The research demonstrated that ethyl acetate extracts of succinum significantly improved learning and memory performance and reduced neuronal apoptosis, indicating neuroprotective properties.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9557005/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM), including formulations containing succinum, for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). While it suggested potential benefits, the authors cautioned that the quality of included studies was generally low, making direct conclusions about succinum alone difficult.
