Sacred Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic plant important in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. All parts are used - seeds, leaves, rhizomes, flowers. Rich in polyphenols (catechins, procyanidins) and contains unique alkaloids like neferine. Preclinical research suggests anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-depressant, and sedative effects. NO human clinical trials. Most interesting bioactive is neferine (unique to this plant) which shows various pharmacological effects in vitro. Remains underresearched in humans.
Sacred Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic plant important in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. All parts are used - seeds, leaves, rhizomes, flowers.
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
3 shared conditions · 9 outcomes
Piperine is the pungent alkaloid from black pepper (Piper nigrum). Primary use is as a bioavailability enhancer - increases absorption of many supplements (curcumin by 2000%, CoQ10, resveratrol, etc.) by inhibiting drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters. IMPORTANT: Same mechanism that increases supplement absorption also affects medications - significant drug interaction potential. As a standalone supplement, has mild thermogenic and metabolic effects. BioPerine is a standardized 95% piperine extract.
3 shared conditions · 8 outcomes
Piceatannol is a stilbene compound similar to resveratrol, found in passion fruit, grapes, and berries. Also a metabolite of resveratrol. May have superior bioavailability and bioactivity compared to resveratrol in some studies. Unique SIRT1 activation and AMPK effects. Preliminary human studies suggest benefits for insulin sensitivity. Less studied than resveratrol but potentially more promising. Contains extra hydroxyl group giving stronger antioxidant activity.
3 shared conditions · 8 outcomes
Mulberry fruit extract is derived from the fruit of Morus alba (white mulberry). Different from mulberry LEAF extract (which is used for blood sugar control), the FRUIT extract contains anthocyanins and has been researched for glycemic control and antioxidant effects. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - research is limited. Contains cyanidin-3-glucoside and other anthocyanins similar to other dark berries. May have benefits for blood sugar and oxidative stress. Safe as a food; the fruit has been consumed for millennia.
3 shared conditions · 8 outcomes
Haskap berries (blue honeysuckle) are antioxidant-rich berries native to northern regions, called 'fruit of longevity' in Japan. Rich in anthocyanins (particularly cyanidin-3-glucoside), vitamin C, and polyphenols. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - limited human research. Anthocyanin content exceeds blueberries. May have cardiovascular, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive benefits based on similar berry research, but haskap-specific studies are lacking. Safe as a food. Available fresh, frozen, or as supplements. Emerging berry gaining research interest due to high polyphenol content.
3 shared conditions · 10 outcomes
Cyanidin is a type of anthocyanin pigment found in dark berries, purple vegetables, and black rice. Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) is the most studied form. Shows promise for blood glucose regulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and metabolic health. Notable for potentially improving glucose uptake without impairing muscle protein synthesis (unlike some AMPK activators). However, bioavailability is a major concern - most cyanidin is rapidly metabolized. Human evidence is limited despite promising in vitro data.
2 shared conditions · 6 outcomes
White Kidney Bean extract (Phase 2) is an alpha-amylase inhibitor that blocks starch digestion. It DOES work but potency is variable and modest - blocks ~25-65% of starch calories in acute studies. Meta-analyses show ~2kg weight loss over 4-12 weeks. Must be taken with starchy meals. Undigested starch goes to colon bacteria (gas, bloating). Better for preventing weight gain than losing existing weight. Works best with high-starch meals.
2 shared conditions · 7 outcomes
Valine is one of three branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), along with leucine and isoleucine. It's essential (must come from diet). NO GRADED OUTCOMES for isolated valine. Least studied and likely least important of the BCAAs for muscle building. Generally supplemented as part of BCAA mixture rather than alone. No unique proven benefits compared to other BCAAs. Safe as an amino acid. Adequate protein intake typically provides sufficient valine.
2 shared conditions · 7 outcomes
Tetraselmis chuii is a marine microalgae approved as a Novel Food in the EU. Rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Marketed as a sustainable superfood. NO GRADED OUTCOMES - human research is very limited. Primarily used in aquaculture as fish feed. Potential as a sustainable nutrient source but lacks clinical evidence for specific health claims. Generally safe as food.