Sophora japonica extract is mainly derived from the dried flowers and buds of the leguminous plant Sophora japonica L. Sophora japonica is widely distributed in my country and is commonly found in North China and East China. Sophora japonica flowers are usually harvested in summer when the flowers bloom or the buds form, and are used for extraction after drying and other processing.
Ingredients of Sophora japonica extract
Sophora japonica extract is rich in flavonoids, among which rutin has a high content and is one of its main active ingredients. Rutin has many physiological activities such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. In addition, it also contains flavonoids such as quercetin.
It contains triterpenoid saponins, which may play a role in anti-inflammatory and blood lipid regulation. In addition, there are a small amount of volatile oils, polysaccharides and other ingredients, which also contribute to the overall properties and efficacy of Sophora japonica extract.
Efficacy of Sophora japonica extract
Antioxidant effect
The flavonoids in Sophora japonica extract are the main antioxidant components. Flavonoids such as rutin can remove free radicals in the body, such as superoxide anion free radicals, hydroxyl free radicals, etc. They terminate the chain reaction of free radicals by providing hydrogen atoms and protect cells from oxidative damage.
For example, in some in vitro experiments, Sophora japonica extract has a significant inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation, and its antioxidant capacity helps prevent cardiovascular diseases, aging-related diseases, etc., and maintain the normal physiological function of cells.
Anti-inflammatory effect
Flavonoids and triterpenoid saponins work together to exert anti-inflammatory effects. They can inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines (such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), etc.), and can also inhibit the activity of key enzymes in the inflammatory process (such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)).
For some inflammatory diseases, such as enteritis and arthritis, Sophora japonica extract may have a certain auxiliary therapeutic effect, which can reduce symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain caused by inflammation.
Improve cardiovascular function
Sophora japonica extract has many benefits for the cardiovascular system. Rutin can enhance the resistance of capillaries, reduce the permeability of capillaries, and help prevent and treat problems such as capillary bleeding.
At the same time, it can also reduce the cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Its mechanism may be achieved by regulating the activity of lipid metabolism-related enzymes and inhibiting platelet aggregation.
Hemostatic effect
Sophora japonica extract has a hemostatic effect in traditional medicine. It may promote blood coagulation by affecting the activity of coagulation factors or constricting blood vessels, and has a certain alleviating effect on various bleeding symptoms such as nosebleeds and blood in the stool.
For example, in some cases of mild bleeding, Sophora japonica extract can be used as an auxiliary hemostatic drug to accelerate the process of wound hemostasis.
Application of Sophora japonica extract
Medical field
In traditional Chinese medicine formulas, Sophora japonica extract is a commonly used medicinal ingredient. For example, it plays a role in some prescriptions for treating hemorrhagic diseases such as blood in the stool and hemorrhoids. In modern medicine, it can be used to develop drugs for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, taking advantage of its characteristics of improving cardiovascular function.
It can also be used to develop anti-inflammatory drugs to assist in the treatment of inflammatory diseases. In the research and development of hemostatic drugs, Sophora japonica extract is also a potential ingredient.
Food industry
Sophora japonica extract can be used as a natural food additive. Adding it to food, such as beverages, pastries, etc., can take advantage of its antioxidant and health-care functions. For example, in functional beverages, it can play its antioxidant role and increase the nutritional value of beverages.
Cosmetics industry
Sophora japonica extract is used in cosmetics, mainly for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In skin care products, such as creams and lotions, it can prevent skin aging and reduce skin inflammation. In shampoos and conditioners, it can improve the scalp environment and promote scalp health.