Albizia: Clinical Applications
Welcome to the blog series Herb of the Month!
This week, we will be exploring the numerous benefits and clinical applications of Albizia, a tropical flowering herb. For centuries, Albizia has been cultivated and revered as a tonic root in both southwestern and eastern Asia. It is rich in diverse active compounds such as triterpenoids, lignans, flavonoids, saponins, sterols, and more. Research conducted on these active ingredients has demonstrated their pharmacological properties, including antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as well as the potential to enhance immunological function. Additionally, Albizia has been identified to possess analgesic, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective properties, as well as antibacterial and antiallergic effects. Because of its versatile roles, Albizia can be used alone or in combination with other herbs and dietary supplements to enhance synergistic and potent medicinal qualities.
Health Benefits of Albizia
Respiratory Health
Albizia lebbeck is a species of Albizia that has been used in traditional medicine for its potential benefits on respiratory health. It is believed to have properties that can help alleviate respiratory issues such as asthma, cough, and bronchitis. A 2010 study entitled “The Clinical Effect of Albizia lebbeck Stem Bark Decoction on Bronchial Asthma” written by S. Kumar et al and published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, investigated the clinical efficacy of traditional Ayurvedic medicine, specifically Albizia lebbeck stem bark decoction (Shireesh Twak Kwatha), in treating bronchial asthma. They gave this medicine to 81 patients, who drank it three times a day for six weeks. These patients also followed a light diet. The researchers looked at how the patients felt, how well they were breathing, and how their lungs were working. The results showed that most patients had a good response to the medicine. Their breathing got better, and some of the markers of inflammation in their blood went down. About 56% of patients felt a lot better, 38% felt somewhat better, and only 6% did not improve much. This medicine seems promising for treating asthma, but scientists still need to do more research to understand exactly how it works inside the body.
A recent 2022 study entitled “Bio Actives from Albizia Lebbeck on Acute Lung Injury/ Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Molecular Targets: In-Silico Study” written by Priyanka Mishra et al and published in Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, talks about using natural ingredients found in Albizia lebbeck (Bronco T) to potentially treat Acute Lung Injury (ALI) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which are serious lung conditions caused by inflammation. Current treatments involve using machines to help with breathing and medication, which are not always effective. The study suggests that bioactive substances found in Albizia lebbeck might be able to help by targeting certain molecules that are involved in the development of ARDS. If Albizia lebbeck can be used to target the molecules involved in ARDS, it could help to reduce inflammation and limit the damage in the lungs caused by ARDS.
Wound Healing
Albizia has a long history of traditional use in various cultures for its potential wound healing properties. Some studies have shown that Albizia julibrissin extracts can accelerate wound closure and promote collagen production, which is essential for the healing process. In a clinical trial entitled “Comparison of Albizia Julibressin and Silver Sulfadiazine in Healing of Second and Third Degree Burns” written by Hossein Asgarirad et al and published in the 2018 World Journal of Plastic Surgery, researchers compared the effectiveness of Albizia julibressin gel and silver sulfadiazine. The trial involved 40 participants who were divided into two groups: one group receiving Albizia julibressin gel and the other group receiving silver sulfadiazine. The study carefully evaluated multiple factors such as pain intensity, inflammation, the presence of purulent secretions, and the time taken for healing. The findings of the study revealed that Albizia julibressin gel had significant benefits in relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and decreasing purulent secretions for both second and third degree burns when compared to silver sulfadiazine. Additionally, it was observed that Albizia julibressin gel promoted a faster healing process for the burns. These positive results suggest that Albizia julibressin could be a promising herbal remedy for wound healing, potentially offering a new approach in the field of burn care.
A more recent 2023 study entitled “The Potential of Medicinal Plants and Natural Products in the Treatment of Burns and Sunburn—A Review” written by Weronika Skowrońska and Agnieszka Bazylko and published in the Pharmaceutics Journal, discusses the use of botanical preparations and their mixtures in treating burn wounds and sunburn. The review examines clinical trials and animal model studies on the effectiveness of plant extracts in wound healing. The clinical trials showed that certain herbal preparations, including Albizia julibrissin, were more effective in treating burn wounds compared to conventional treatments. Animal model studies also demonstrated the potential benefits of various plant extracts in the treatment of burn wounds and sunburn. These herbal preparations, with their diverse mechanisms of action, antibacterial activity, safety, and cost-effectiveness, can be considered as alternatives to conventional treatments. The review emphasizes the need for further research, particularly on the synergistic effects of herbal mixtures, to expand the knowledge and potential use of medicinal plants in burn wound care.
Additional Health Benefits of Albizia
Mental Health
For many years, Albizia julibrissin has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to address anxiety and depression. People have recognized the plant’s potential to support mental well-being and provide relief from the symptoms associated with these conditions. In a recent 2022 study entitled “Two Lignan Glycosides from Albizia julibrissin Durazz. Noncompetitively Inhibit Serotonin Transporter,” written by Bishan Huang et al and published in the Pharmaceuticals Journal, they discuss the identification and characterization of two lignan glycosides obtained from Albizia julibrissin Durazz., a commonly used herb for the treatment of depression and anxiety. The study found that these chemicals can affect a protein called the serotonin transporter (SERT), which is involved in regulating the levels of a chemical called serotonin in the brain. The chemicals in Albizia were found to decrease the activity of SERT and change its shape, making it harder for certain substances to pass through. The study also discovered that these chemicals attach to a specific site on SERT, which is different from how traditional antidepressant drugs work. These findings suggest that these chemicals in Albizia may have a unique way of reducing depression and anxiety.
Another study entitled “Anxiolytic-like effects of extracts from Albizzia julibrissin bark in the elevated plus-maze in rats” written by Won-Ki Kim et al and published in the 2004 Life Sciences Journal, investigated the potential anxiety-reducing properties of a water-based extract derived from the stem bark of Albizzia julibrissin, using the elevated plus maze test method in rats. The extract was given to the rats at different doses and compared to two other groups: one that didn’t receive anything and another that was given a medicine called buspirone, known for reducing anxiety. The study found that when the rats received the extract, they spent more time in the open arms of the maze, which suggests they felt less anxious. These effects were stopped when another substance called pindolol was given, which suggests that the extract’s anxiety-reducing properties work through a specific part of the nervous system. The study suggests that Albizzia julibrissin could potentially be used as a natural remedy for reducing anxiety.
Final Recommendations
Here are Nancy’s Albizia recommendations:
Some Precautions with Taking Albizia:
Surgery: Albizia julibrissin might affect the central nervous system. It might increase the effects of anesthesia and other medications on the brain during and after surgery. Stop taking Albizia julibrissin at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Sedatives: Albizia julibrissin might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Medications that cause sleepiness are called sedatives. Taking Albizia julibrissin along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness.
Some sedative medications include pentobarbital (Nembutal), phenobarbital (Luminal), secobarbital (Seconal), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), zolpidem (Ambien), and others.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Albizia is considered very safe, although caution should be taken when pregnant as it invigorates blood. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding consult a medical herbalist to make sure you are not contraindicated.
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to recommending Albizia. Because of this, Nancy recommends Booking a 15 Minute Discovery call if you’re interested in taking this wonderful herb. It’s important to consult with a registered clinical herbalist or natural health practitioner trained in clinical herbalism for more resistant and deeper set health issues. They will be able to give a more tailored suggested serving and daily frequency based on your age, gender, body weight, and any present medical conditions.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Other Resources:
Herbal Reality | Molecular basis and mechanism of action of Albizia julibrissin in depression treatment and clinical application of its formulae | Wiley Library
Welcome to the blog series Herb of the Month!
This week, we will be exploring the numerous benefits and clinical applications of Albizia, a tropical flowering herb. For centuries, Albizia has been cultivated and revered as a tonic root in both southwestern and eastern Asia. It is rich in diverse active compounds such as triterpenoids, lignans, flavonoids, saponins, sterols, and more. Research conducted on these active ingredients has demonstrated their pharmacological properties, including antidepressant and anxiolytic effects, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, as well as the potential to enhance immunological function. Additionally, Albizia has been identified to possess analgesic, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective properties, as well as antibacterial and antiallergic effects. Because of its versatile roles, Albizia can be used alone or in combination with other herbs and dietary supplements to enhance synergistic and potent medicinal qualities.
Health Benefits of Albizia
Respiratory Health
Albizia lebbeck is a species of Albizia that has been used in traditional medicine for its potential benefits on respiratory health. It is believed to have properties that can help alleviate respiratory issues such as asthma, cough, and bronchitis. A 2010 study entitled “The Clinical Effect of Albizia lebbeck Stem Bark Decoction on Bronchial Asthma” written by S. Kumar et al and published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Drug Research, investigated the clinical efficacy of traditional Ayurvedic medicine, specifically Albizia lebbeck stem bark decoction (Shireesh Twak Kwatha), in treating bronchial asthma. They gave this medicine to 81 patients, who drank it three times a day for six weeks. These patients also followed a light diet. The researchers looked at how the patients felt, how well they were breathing, and how their lungs were working. The results showed that most patients had a good response to the medicine. Their breathing got better, and some of the markers of inflammation in their blood went down. About 56% of patients felt a lot better, 38% felt somewhat better, and only 6% did not improve much. This medicine seems promising for treating asthma, but scientists still need to do more research to understand exactly how it works inside the body.
A recent 2022 study entitled “Bio Actives from Albizia Lebbeck on Acute Lung Injury/ Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Molecular Targets: In-Silico Study” written by Priyanka Mishra et al and published in Biomedical Journal of Scientific & Technical Research, talks about using natural ingredients found in Albizia lebbeck (Bronco T) to potentially treat Acute Lung Injury (ALI) and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), which are serious lung conditions caused by inflammation. Current treatments involve using machines to help with breathing and medication, which are not always effective. The study suggests that bioactive substances found in Albizia lebbeck might be able to help by targeting certain molecules that are involved in the development of ARDS. If Albizia lebbeck can be used to target the molecules involved in ARDS, it could help to reduce inflammation and limit the damage in the lungs caused by ARDS.
Wound Healing
Albizia has a long history of traditional use in various cultures for its potential wound healing properties. Some studies have shown that Albizia julibrissin extracts can accelerate wound closure and promote collagen production, which is essential for the healing process. In a clinical trial entitled “Comparison of Albizia Julibressin and Silver Sulfadiazine in Healing of Second and Third Degree Burns” written by Hossein Asgarirad et al and published in the 2018 World Journal of Plastic Surgery, researchers compared the effectiveness of Albizia julibressin gel and silver sulfadiazine. The trial involved 40 participants that were divided into two groups: one group receiving Albizia julibressin gel and the other group receiving silver sulfadiazine. The study carefully evaluated multiple factors such as pain intensity, inflammation, presence of purulent secretions, and the time taaken for healing. The findings of the study revealed that Albizia julibressin gel had significant benefits in relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and decreasing purulent secretions for both second and third degree burns when compared to silver sulfadiazine. Additionally, it was observed that Albizia julibressin gel promoted a faster healing process for the burns. These positive results suggest that Albizia julibressin could be a promising herbal remedy for wound healing, potentially offering a new approach in the field of burn care.
A more recent 2023 study entitled “The Potential of Medicinal Plants and Natural Products in the Treatment of Burns and Sunburn—A Review” written by Weronika Skowrońska and Agnieszka Bazylko and published in the Pharmaceutics Journal, discusses the use of botanical preparations and their mixtures in treating burn wounds and sunburn. The review examines clinical trials and animal model studies on the effectiveness of plant extracts in wound healing. The clinical trials showed that certain herbal preparations, including Albizia julibrissin, were more effective in treating burn wounds compared to conventional treatments. Animal model studies also demonstrated the potential benefits of various plant extracts in the treatment of burn wounds and sunburn. These herbal preparations, with their diverse mechanisms of action, antibacterial activity, safety, and cost-effectiveness, can be considered as alternatives to conventional treatments. The review emphasizes the need for further research, particularly on the synergistic effects of herbal mixtures, to expand the knowledge and potential use of medicinal plants in burn wound care.
Additional Health Benefits of Albizia
Mental Health
For many years, Albizia julibrissin has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine to address anxiety and depression. People have recognized the plant’s potential to support mental well-being and provide relief from the symptoms associated with these conditions. In a recent 2022 study entitled “Two Lignan Glycosides from Albizia julibrissin Durazz. Noncompetitively Inhibit Serotonin Transporter,” written by Bishan Huang et al and published in the Pharmaceuticals Journal, they discuss the identification and characterization of two lignan glycosides obtained from Albizia julibrissin Durazz., a commonly used herb for the treatment of depression and anxiety. The study found that these chemicals can affect a protein called the serotonin transporter (SERT), which is involved in regulating the levels of a chemical called serotonin in the brain. The chemicals in Albizia were found to decrease the activity of SERT and change its shape, making it harder for certain substances to pass through. The study also discovered that these chemicals attach to a specific site on SERT, which is different from how traditional antidepressant drugs work. These findings suggest that these chemicals in Albizia may have a unique way of reducing depression and anxiety.
Another study entitled “Anxiolytic-like effects of extracts from Albizzia julibrissin bark in the elevated plus-maze in rats” written by Won-Ki Kim et al and published in the 2004 Life Sciences Journal, investigated the potential anxiety-reducing properties of a water-based extract derived from the stem bark of Albizzia julibrissin, using the elevated plus maze test method in rats. The extract was given to the rats at different doses and compared to two other groups: one that didn’t receive anything and another that was given a medicine called buspirone, known for reducing anxiety. The study found that when the rats received the extract, they spent more time in the open arms of the maze, which suggests they felt less anxious. These effects were stopped when another substance called pindolol was given, which suggests that the extract’s anxiety-reducing properties work through a specific part of the nervous system. The study suggests that Albizzia julibrissin could potentially be used as a natural remedy for reducing anxiety.
Final Recommendations
Here are Nancy’s Albizia recommendations:
Some Precautions with Taking Albizia:
Surgery: Albizia julibrissin might affect the central nervous system. It might increase the effects of anesthesia and other medications on the brain during and after surgery. Stop taking Albizia julibrissin at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Sedatives: Albizia julibrissin might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. Medications that cause sleepiness are called sedatives. Taking Albizia julibrissin along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness.
Some sedative medications include pentobarbital (Nembutal), phenobarbital (Luminal), secobarbital (Seconal), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), zolpidem (Ambien), and others.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Albizia is considered very safe, although caution should be taken when pregnant as it invigorates blood. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding consult a medical herbalist to make sure you are not contraindicated.
There is also no “one size fits all” when it comes to recommending Albizia. Because of this, Nancy recommends Booking a 15 Minute Discovery call if you’re interested in taking this wonderful herb. It’s important to consult with a registered clinical herbalist or natural health practitioner trained in clinical herbalism for more resistant and deeper set health issues. They will be able to give a more tailored suggested serving and daily frequency based on your age, gender, body weight, and any present medical conditions.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Other Resources:
Herbal Reality | Molecular basis and mechanism of action of Albizia julibrissin in depression treatment and clinical application of its formulae | Wiley Library