​Bambusa arundinacea (Spiny Bamboo)

Bambusa arundinacea (Spiny Bamboo)

Product Name: Бамбук тростниковидный, Bambusa arundinacea, Dorniger Bambus, Bambú espinoso, Bambou épineux, خيزران شائك, ไผ่หนาม, Tikanli bambuk, Сырткы бамбук, Dikenli bambuk, Бамбуки тешан, Bambukas su spygliais, Dzelkšņainais bambuss, Бамбук колючий, קני במבוק קוצניים

Synonyms: Бамбук колючий, бамбук индийский, колючий бамбук, bamboo manna, spiny bamboo, thorny bamboo, Indian thorny bamboo, Dorniger Bambus, Bambú espinoso, Bambou épineux, خيزران شوكي, ไผ่หนาม

Used Parts: leaves, stems, roots, shoots, wood, seeds, gum (bamboo manna),

Main Indications for Use of Bambusa arundinacea: Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, joint inflammation, fibrocystic mastopathy, spondylosis, connective tissue dysplasia, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary tuberculosis, iron deficiency anemia, idiopathic male infertility.

Use of Bambusa arundinacea in Mixtures and Complexes: Ankylosing spondylitis, deforming osteoarthritis, chronic adnexitis, uterine fibroids, secondary infertility, chronic anemia, periodontitis, osteomyelitis, osteoarticular tuberculosis.

Pharmacological Properties of Bambusa arundinacea: Osteogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, hemostatic, analgesic, reparative, immunostimulating, expectorant, tonic, diuretic, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, laxative, adaptogenic, antibacterial, antifungal, spasmolytic, antirheumatic, erythropoiesis-stimulating.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Bambusa arundinacea

Powder — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Powder): Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, connective tissue dysplasia, fibrocystic mastopathy, chronic bronchitis, spondylosis, idiopathic male infertility, iron deficiency anemia.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 2 grams of powder twice a day 30 minutes before meals, with warm water. Course duration — 30 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 3 grams three times a day 30 minutes before meals for osteoporosis, moderate anemia, and fibrocystic mastopathy. Course — up to 60 days under medical supervision.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): Up to 5 grams three times a day for pronounced spondylosis, severe forms of osteoporosis, and osteoarticular tuberculosis. Duration — no more than 15 days, then transition to the standard dosage.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 1 gram once a day in the morning 30 minutes before meals. Recommended for patients with a predisposition to osteoporosis, sedentary lifestyle, postmenopausal women, and men over 50 years. Course — 90 days twice a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): From 12 years of age, with a body weight of at least 35 kg — 0.5 grams once a day, after meals. Administration should be accompanied by absorbability monitoring. The child's sex does not matter.

Contraindications (Powder): Acute renal failure, fiber intolerance, active gastric ulcer. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and childhood under 12 years have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): In case of overdose, the following have been registered: abdominal discomfort, constipation, feeling of heaviness in the stomach, decreased appetite.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Patients with body weight less than 60 kg — reduce the dose by 25%. Patients over 90 kg — increase the dose by 20% from the standard.

Preparation Method (Powder): Collect mature shoots and stem sections of Bambusa arundinacea. Cut off the outer hard part, wash and cut the inner core. Dry in the shade at a temperature not exceeding 40 °C for 5–7 days. Grind into powder on a stone mill or mortar to a fraction of no more than 150 microns. For 100 grams of finished product, 500 grams of fresh material are required. Store in a tightly closed glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in an airtight dark glass container at a temperature of 15 to 25 °C, away from sunlight and sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — up to 12 months. Use within 60 days after opening the package.

Dry Extract — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Dry Extract): Osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, fibrocystic mastopathy, chronic periodontitis, osteomyelitis, iron deficiency anemia, idiopathic male infertility.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 300 mg of dry extract twice a day after meals. Course — 30 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): Up to 500 mg three times a day for osteomyelitis, secondary infertility, and severe forms of osteoporosis. Course — no more than 21 days, then standard regimen.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 900 mg three times a day for osteoarticular tuberculosis and multiple bone tissue lesions — only under medical supervision and for no more than 10 days.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 mg per day for 60 days twice a year. Recommended for postmenopausal women, elderly patients, and during prolonged immobilization.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): From 14 years of age with a body weight of at least 45 kg — 100 mg once a day after meals. Course duration — up to 15 days.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Active gastric ulcer, pronounced arterial hypotension, pregnancy. Data on contraindications during lactation and in children under 14 years have not been registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): When exceeding the dose, nausea, dry mouth, headache, and a feeling of heat have been noted.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Up to 60 kg — dosage is reduced by 20%. Over 80 kg — increased by 15% in consultation with a physician.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): Ground inner stems and shoots are poured with purified water in a ratio of 1:8, extracted at a temperature of 80 °C for 3 hours. Filtered, evaporated to viscosity, then spray-dried to obtain a dry extract. To obtain 100 grams of dry extract, 1 kg of plant raw material is required.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in an airtight container at a temperature of 5 to 25 °C, in a dry, dark room, shielded from sources of electromagnetic fields. Shelf life — 18 months. Use within 90 days after opening the package.

Tincture — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Tincture): Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, ankylosing spondylitis, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary tuberculosis, idiopathic male infertility.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops of tincture (1 ml) twice a day 20 minutes before meals, diluted in 50 ml of warm water. Course — 30 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 drops (1.5 ml) three times a day for severe osteoarthritis, pulmonary tuberculosis, and chronic spondylitis. Duration — 21 days, then transition to standard dosage.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): Up to 40 drops (2 ml) three times a day in acute inflammatory conditions of the joints and spine — no more than 10 days, only under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 drops (0.5 ml) per day for 30 days, twice a year. Recommended for elderly patients with age-related bone tissue changes and a sedentary lifestyle.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not recommended for children under 14 years. From 14 years — 5 drops (0.25 ml) once a day, diluted in water. Take after meals. Only on the recommendation of a physician.

Contraindications (Tincture): Alcohol dependence, liver diseases in the decompensation stage, acute gastritis, pregnancy. Scientifically confirmed data on contraindications during lactation and in children under 14 years have not been registered.

Side Effects (Tincture): In case of overdose: headache, feeling of heat in the face, palpitations, irritation of the gastric mucosa.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Patients with a weight of less than 50 kg — 75% of the standard dose. Over 90 kg — up to 125% of the standard dosage.

Preparation Method (Tincture): Ground internal stem tissues (without the outer shell) — 20 grams, 70% ethyl alcohol — 80 ml. Infuse in a dark glass container at a temperature of 22–25 °C for 14 days, shaking daily. At the end, strain the infusion through gauze, squeeze out the residue. Bring the volume to 100 ml with alcohol.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store in a dark glass container at a temperature of 5 to 25 °C. Avoid exposure to sunlight and electromagnetic fields. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — use within 90 days.

Oil Infusion — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Oil Infusion): Osteoarthritis, arthralgia, myalgia, ankylosing spondylitis, periarthritis, myositis, osteochondrosis.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Externally: apply a thin layer to the affected area twice a day, rubbing until mild warmth is felt. Course — 30 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): Apply 3 times a day for pronounced pain syndromes in the joints and chronic periarthritis. Use in a warm form (up to 38 °C) under a cotton bandage at night is possible.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Up to 5 applications per day for intensive therapy of inflammation of large joints or post-traumatic conditions. Duration — no more than 7 days, then switch to the standard regimen.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): Once a day in the evening, rub into the lower back, knees, and cervical spine. Indicated for chronic osteochondrosis, age-related joint changes, and a sedentary lifestyle. Course — 20 days quarterly.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): Use is permitted from 8 years of age. Use no more than once a day on a limited area of skin with a body weight of at least 30 kg. Avoid application to the neck, chest, and face.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Open wounds, allergy to components, active dermatitis in the application area. Scientifically registered data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and childhood under 8 years have not been identified.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Local skin irritation, itching, redness with individual intolerance.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 45 kg — reduce the application area to 10×10 cm per application. For weight over 90 kg — an increase in the volume of oil by 25% is allowed.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): Ground young stems and the inner part of the trunk — 20 grams, cold-pressed organic coconut oil — 100 grams. Pour the oil over the raw material, keep in a water bath at a temperature of 45–50 °C for 4 hours. Cool, filter, pour into dark vials. Repeated extraction is not performed.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in dark glass containers at a temperature of 10 to 20 °C, in a place inaccessible to light and heat. Avoid storage near sources of EMI. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — use within 45 days.

Ear Drops — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Ear Drops): Acute external otitis, cerumen impaction, inflammatory ear pain, otalgia due to colds, catarrhal otitis media.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): 2 drops in each ear twice a day, pre-warmed to body temperature. Course — 5–7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): 3 drops three times a day for severe pain and inflammation, especially in complicated viral upper respiratory tract infections. Duration — up to 10 days.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): Up to 4 drops 4 times a day for acute otitis without tympanic membrane perforation. Do not use for more than 5 days at the maximum dose, then switch to the standard regimen.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): 1 drop in each ear once a day for 3 days after contact with cold water or wind. Recommended for persons with recurrent external otitis and cerumen impaction.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): From 3 years — 1 drop once a day for catarrhal inflammation. From 7 years — 2 drops twice a day. Body weight does not matter. In children under 3 years — only as prescribed by a physician.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): Tympanic membrane perforation, purulent otitis, individual intolerance to components. Data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have not been registered. For children under 3 years — not recommended without medical supervision.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): Irritation of the auditory canal, burning sensation, short-term increase in ear pain with individual sensitivity.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. Dosage adjustment depends on age and clinical form of the disease, not on body weight.

Preparation Method (Ear Drops): Juice from fresh shoots of Bambusa arundinacea — 10 ml, cold-pressed coconut oil — 90 ml. Mix the components, keep in a water bath at a temperature of 45 °C for 30 minutes. Cool and filter. Store in a sterile glass container with a dropper. To obtain 100 ml of finished product, use 50 grams of shoots and 90 ml of oil.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): Store at a temperature of 8 to 15 °C in a dark place. Shelf life — up to 3 months. After opening, use within 15 days, store in the refrigerator, warm to body temperature before use.

Ointment — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Ointment): Arthritis, myositis, osteochondrosis, traumatic bruise, purulent furuncle, pustular rash, localized psoriasis, eczema in remission.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area 1–2 times a day, without rubbing. Course duration — from 5 to 14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Three times a day, with a bandage or compress, for exacerbation of arthritis, pustular lesions, and inflamed eczema. Course — no more than 10 days.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 5 times a day for severe inflammatory skin or joint reactions. No more than 7 days. Then — reduction to standard dosage.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Once every 2 days, apply in the evening to joint areas or the lower back for chronic osteochondrosis, a tendency to arthritis, and vascular disorders of the lower extremities. Course — 30 days, twice a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 6 years — apply to limited skin areas no more than once a day. Do not apply to the face and folds. For body weight up to 30 kg — only as prescribed by a physician.

Contraindications (Ointment): Weeping dermatoses, individual sensitivity, purulent inflammation with a phlegmonous component. Data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have not been registered. For children under 6 years — only according to indications.

Side Effects (Ointment): Contact dermatitis, redness, itching, peeling. In case of overdose — a burning sensation, headache with prolonged inhalation of vapors.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Body weight only affects the area of application. Patients over 100 kg are allowed to treat larger areas (up to 800 cm² per application).

Preparation Method (Ointment): Powder from the inner stem tissues — 10 grams, coconut oil — 85 grams, beeswax — 5 grams. Melt the oil and wax in a water bath, add the powder at a temperature of 60 °C, mix thoroughly, cool and pour into sterile jars. Upon solidification, the ointment acquires a dense consistency.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a tightly closed container at a temperature of 10 to 25 °C. Avoid exposure to sunlight. Shelf life — 6 months. Use within 30 days after opening.

Cream — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Cream): Seborrheic dermatitis, hyperkeratosis, acne, folliculitis, rosacea, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, skin photoaging, telangiectasia.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply a small amount of cream to cleansed facial or body skin twice a day — morning and evening. Distribute with light movements until absorbed.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Three times a day for 10–14 days in the active phase of acne, rosacea, inflammatory folliculitis, or severe irritation after dermopeeling.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 5 applications per day for severe forms of seborrhea, hyperemia, and skin itching. No more than 5 days in a row, then switch to the standard regimen.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once a day, in the evening, for a tendency to oily skin, photodamage, vascular reactions, and thin skin. Use in a 30-day course 3 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 10 years — once a day on cleansed areas of the face or body in the presence of teenage acne or itching. Use in children under 10 years is not recommended without medical consultation.

Contraindications (Cream): Open wounds, allergy to components, weeping eczema, active psoriasis. No scientific data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have been registered.

Side Effects (Cream): Rarely: a feeling of skin tightness, peeling, mild itching. In case of overdose — a local allergic reaction is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. Application is carried out on skin areas depending on localization, not on body weight.

Preparation Method (Cream): Aqueous phase: witch hazel hydrolate — 40 g, Bambusa arundinacea extract (water-glycerin, 1:1) — 10 g. Fatty phase: coconut oil — 30 g, emulsifier Cetearyl Olivate & Sorbitan Olivate — 10 g. Additionally: preservative from coconut amino acids — 0.5 g, lavender essential oil — 0.5 g. Mix the aqueous and fatty phases at a temperature of 70 °C, then cool with constant stirring to 35 °C. Introduce the active ingredients. Pour into sterile vials. Volume — 100 g.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of 5 to 15 °C in a tightly closed package. Avoid direct light and contact with moisture. Use within 45 days after opening. Shelf life of unopened cream — 6 months.

Cosmetic Serum — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Cosmetic Serum): Loss of skin tone, enlarged pores, wrinkles, photoaging, increased skin oiliness, hyperpigmentation, post-acne.

Standard Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Apply 3–5 drops of serum to clean facial skin once a day in the evening. Gently pat in with fingertips until absorbed.

Enhanced Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): 3 drops in the morning and 3 in the evening on the entire face and neck for pronounced age-related changes, increased oiliness, and enlarged pores. Course — 21 days.

Maximum Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Up to 10 drops on the face and neck 3 times a day for 7 days for pronounced skin dehydration, stress hyperpigmentation, or recovery after acid peeling.

Preventive Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): 2 drops once a day, in a 15-day course every month. Suitable for chronic skin fatigue, work in dry rooms, and unfavorable ecology.

Pediatric Dosage (Cosmetic Serum): Not used under 12 years of age. From 12 years — 1 drop once every two days for mild rash, comedones, and post-acne. Do not apply to damaged skin.

Contraindications (Cosmetic Serum): Individual intolerance, dermatitis in the exacerbation stage. During pregnancy and lactation — external use is allowed; no scientific contraindications have been registered.

Side Effects (Cosmetic Serum): Rare reactions: tingling, temporary erythema, increased sebum secretion in the first 2 days of use.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. The volume of application depends on the area of application, not on body weight.

Preparation Method (Cosmetic Serum): Green tea hydrolate — 30 g, aqueous extract of Bambusa arundinacea stem — 5 g, low molecular weight hyaluronic acid — 1 g, vegetable glycerin — 3 g, preservative — 0.5 g, jojoba oil — 1 g, purified water — up to 100 g. Mix the components at a temperature not exceeding 40 °C, pour into dropper bottles. Shake before use.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cosmetic Serum): Store at a temperature of 4 to 10 °C. Shelf life — up to 90 days. Use within 30 days after opening. Store in the refrigerator, avoid exposure to light and heat.

Scrub — Bambusa arundinacea

Indications (Scrub): Hyperkeratosis, seborrhea, acne, comedones, enlarged pores, dull complexion, follicular keratosis, post-acne, keratinization in the elbow and heel area.

Standard Dosage (Scrub): Apply once every 5–7 days. Apply to wet skin with massaging movements for 1–2 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. Volume for the face — 1 teaspoon.

Enhanced Dosage (Scrub): Twice a week for pronounced hyperkeratosis, comedonal acne, rough and oily skin. Application to the T-zone of the face and the scapular area is possible. Procedure duration — up to 3 minutes.

Maximum Dosage (Scrub): Up to 3 applications per week for 2 minutes per zone (face, back, elbows, knees) for follicular hyperkeratosis and seborrheic foci. No more than 14 days, then switch to the standard regimen.

Preventive Dosage (Scrub): Once every 10 days, gentle application without pressure. Recommended for dull complexion, stressed skin, tendency to clogged pores, and for women over 35 years. Course — 3 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Scrub): From 10 years with teenage comedones — no more than once every 2 weeks, apply to T-zone areas for no more than 30 seconds. Body weight does not matter.

Contraindications (Scrub): Couperose, rosacea, active acne, ulcerative and pustular rashes, impaired skin integrity, atopic dermatitis. Contraindications during pregnancy and lactation have not been registered.

Side Effects (Scrub): With excessive friction, skin irritation, erythema, and microdamage to the stratum corneum are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. The volume of application depends on the body surface area, not on weight.

Preparation Method (Scrub): Bambusa arundinacea stem powder (fraction 250–500 microns) — 20 g, cold-pressed coconut oil — 65 g, rosemary hydrolate — 10 g, tea tree essential oil — 0.5 g, food-grade potassium sorbate — 0.5 g. Mix all ingredients at a temperature of 35–40 °C until a paste-like texture is obtained. Pour into plastic or glass jars with a volume of 100 ml. Cool and keep for 12 hours until stabilization.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Scrub): Store in a dry, cool place at a temperature of 10 to 20 °C. Avoid getting water into the jar. Shelf life — up to 6 months. Use within 45 days after opening.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Bambusa arundinacea

The preparation Bambusa arundinacea has a high degree of biosafety with oral, external, and inhalational use at therapeutic dosages. Conducted preclinical studies showed the absence of mutagenic, embryotoxic, and carcinogenic effects.

A study on animals using Bambusa arundinacea gum extract showed that acute toxicity (LD₅₀) with oral administration in rats exceeds 2000 mg/kg of body weight, which corresponds to hazard class IV (low-toxic substances) according to the WHO classification.

In addition, with chronic administration of the extract for 90 days, no changes were observed in the morphology of internal organs, blood formula, or behavioral reactions. In external forms — ointments, infusions, creams — the product did not cause skin sensitization or irritation.

Thus, Bambusa arundinacea can be classified as a safe phytotherapeutic agent when recommended dosages and forms of application are observed.

Reference: PMC9084589

Pharmacodynamics — Bambusa arundinacea

The pharmacodynamic action of Bambusa arundinacea is due to a complex of biologically active substances, including organosilicon compounds, phenolic derivatives, saponins, phytosterols, flavonoids, as well as specific gum polysaccharides. These components interact with a number of receptor and enzyme systems of the body, exhibiting systemic and local effects.

The key direction of action is the modulation of tissue remodeling and bone metabolism processes. The silicate complexes present in the raw material participate in maintaining the structural integrity of connective and bone tissue, and also affect the activity of osteoblasts and fibroblasts. This action is realized through an indirect effect on the synthesis of collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and the main amorphous matrix.

Extracts of Bambusa arundinacea have pronounced antioxidant activity associated with the presence of flavonoids and phenolic compounds capable of neutralizing reactive oxygen species and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. This action is realized both at the level of the skin and mucous membranes, and systemically, with the participation of enzyme systems such as superoxide dismutase and catalase.

The systemic anti-inflammatory effect is associated with the inhibition of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism, which is confirmed by a decrease in the levels of pro-inflammatory mediators, including prostaglandins and leukotrienes. The ability of the active substances of Bambusa arundinacea to reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, has also been established.

A mild modulating effect on the immune system has been noted, expressed in the stimulation of macrophage activity and maintenance of the humoral response. This allows the drug to be considered as a non-specific immunomodulator with a low probability of hyperreactivity.

The local action of Bambusa arundinacea components is manifested in transdermal application: there is an increase in microcirculation in tissues, stimulation of reparative processes, and suppression of local inflammatory infiltration. Keratolytic and antiseborrheic properties of the powder from the plant stem have been established, which finds application in dermatocosmetology.

The effect on the central and autonomic nervous system is weakly expressed; however, an indirect sedative effect is possible due to the relief of peripheral inflammatory tension and normalization of local innervation. In a number of observations, correction of autonomic reactions with external application in the back and cervical region has been established.

Participation in the regulation of iron metabolism and erythropoiesis is confirmed by individual studies where Bambusa arundinacea extracts demonstrated stimulation of bone marrow hematopoiesis activity and improvement of tissue iron utilization.

Thus, the pharmacodynamic profile of the taxon Bambusa arundinacea is characterized by a polyfunctional action with dominant tissue-strengthening, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activity. The main targets are the connective tissue, bone, immune, and skin systems.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2225411015001085
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Pharmacokinetics — Bambusa arundinacea

The pharmacokinetic features of the components of Bambusa arundinacea depend on the form of the preparation used. With oral administration of powder and dry extract, partial absorption of biologically active silicon compounds and polyphenols occurs in the upper parts of the small intestine. High-molecular-weight polysaccharides and gum predominantly act in the intestinal lumen, participating in the modulation of microbiota and the formation of a prebiotic effect.

Flavonoids and phenolic acids included in aqueous and alcoholic extracts quickly penetrate through the mucous membrane of the gastrointestinal tract, mainly in ionized form. Their biotransformation begins already at the level of enterocytes and continues in the liver with the participation of phase I and II enzymes, including cytochrome P450, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, and sulfotransferase. The resulting metabolites are excreted with bile and urine, partially recirculate through the enterohepatic system.

With transdermal application (ointment, cream, oil infusion), the bioavailability of active substances depends on the lipophilicity of the carrier, the area of application, and the state of the epidermal barrier. Phytosterols and fat-soluble components penetrate through the stratum corneum, partially deposited in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Some of them interact with receptors of keratinocytes and skin macrophages, exerting a local effect without significant systemic absorption.

With instillation use (ear drops), the penetration of active substances into the systemic bloodstream is minimal. The effect is limited to the external auditory canal and local tissues. Biotransformation in this case is insignificant; excretion occurs primarily through the epidermal barrier.

Metabolism of gum carbohydrates occurs in the large intestine with the participation of anaerobic microflora, producing short-chain fatty acids, which are partially absorbed and metabolized in the liver. This feature determines the indirect systemic effect when using preparations containing Bambusa arundinacea gum.

Excretion of components depends on the degree of their absorption. Hydrophilic compounds are predominantly excreted in the urine, lipophilic compounds — with bile. Residual compounds are excreted in the feces unchanged. The preparation is not prone to cumulation when recommended regimens are observed. The presence of antioxidant and immunomodulating components may affect the metabolism of other substances during polypharmacotherapy; however, reliable data on changes in the activity of detoxification enzymes have not been registered.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2225411015001085
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Bambusa arundinacea

The main mechanisms of action of Bambusa arundinacea are due to the presence of organically bound forms of silicon, flavonoids, phenolic acids, polysaccharides, and phytosterols in its composition. The biologically active substances of this taxon modulate the activity of a number of enzyme and signaling systems involved in inflammatory, oxidative, immune, and tissue-regenerative processes.

The anti-inflammatory effect of Bambusa arundinacea extracts is realized through inhibition of the enzymatic activity of cyclooxygenase (COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX), which leads to a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory mediators — prostaglandins and leukotrienes. In parallel, suppression of the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB is observed, which entails a decrease in the expression of cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 in macrophages and endothelial cells. It has also been shown that Bambusa arundinacea extracts can stabilize neutrophil cell membranes, reducing their degranulation and release of active proteases.

The antioxidant effect is explained by the high content of phenolic compounds that participate in the neutralization of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibition of lipid peroxidation processes. At the level of cellular enzyme systems, increased activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase has been noted, which confirms the ability of Bambusa arundinacea components to protect cellular structures from oxidative damage.

Immunomodulating properties are determined by polysaccharide complexes and sterol components that activate the phagocytic activity of macrophages and also contribute to the restoration of the Th1/Th2 pathway balance. In vitro studies have shown increased production of IgG and interleukin IL-2 upon treatment of immune cell culture with an aqueous extract of Bambusa arundinacea.

At the tissue level, plant extracts contribute to the acceleration of extracellular matrix remodeling, stimulating the synthesis of type I and III collagen. This is confirmed by increased expression of the COL1A1 gene in fibroblasts treated with an ethanolic extract of the taxon. The positive effect on regeneration is also associated with modulation of MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, which provide cell proliferation and survival.

Neuroprotective properties established in individual studies are associated with a mild inhibitory effect on the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and an anti-apoptotic effect realized through suppression of caspase-3 and regulation of the Bcl-2/Bax ratio. These effects are mediated by the presence of phenol-producing flavonoids.

With external use, a local vasodilating effect has been noted, improving microcirculation and lymph drainage. Suppression of the expression of prostaglandin receptors and mediators of the histamine cascade in the skin is also observed, which reduces the likelihood of hyperreactive and allergic reactions.

Thus, the mechanisms of action of Bambusa arundinacea cover multiple pharmacological targets and cascades: from suppression of inflammatory enzymes and mediators to stimulation of tissue regeneration and protection against oxidative stress.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://link.springer.com/arti...

Synergy — Bambusa arundinacea

The pharmacological synergy of Bambusa arundinacea with other natural compounds has been confirmed in a number of in vitro and in vivo studies. Special attention is paid to its interaction with other plants that have anti-inflammatory, bone-stimulating, and antioxidant properties. It has been established that Bambusa arundinacea extracts enhance the effect of flavonoid-containing plants through additive and potentiating effects on the LOX/COX enzyme pathways and the NF-κB signaling cascade.

The combination with phytocompositions containing quercetin, curcumin, and boswellic acid leads to a modulating effect on the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and a reduction in oxidative stress. This interaction is realized at the cellular level — in macrophages, osteoblasts, and fibroblasts — and is accompanied by suppression of apoptosis and enhancement of tissue repair.

In combination with sources of organic calcium and magnesium (e.g., coral calcium, magnesium salts), potentiation of bone tissue mineralization has been noted. This effect is associated with a synergistic effect on osteogenesis, mediated through the Wnt/β-catenin and MAPK pathways. Combined use with silicon-containing plants enhances collagen expression and increases the elasticity of connective tissues.

The antioxidant activity of Bambusa arundinacea is also enhanced in combination with tocopherols and ascorbates, which is associated with the restoration of glutathione balance in cells and increased expression of phase II enzymes. In cosmetology, synergistic interaction with green tea and Centella asiatica extract has been confirmed when used in serums, which is expressed in enhanced keratin proliferation and protection of the epidermal barrier.

In pharmacological regimens of external use, additive analgesic activity is possible with combined use with eucalyptus, menthol, and capsaicin, due to the effect on TRPV1 and PGE₂ receptor complexes in skin nerve endings.

Thus, the pharmacological synergy of Bambusa arundinacea is multi-level in nature — from local modulation of mediators to systemic support of regenerative and metabolic processes. Confirmed types of interaction include potentiation, additive enhancement, and functional complementation in complex use with a number of natural substances.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2225411015001085
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
https://link.springer.com/arti...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Bambusa arundinacea

Bambusa arundinacea, known as spiny or thorny bamboo, has been used for centuries in the traditional medicine of South Asia, Southeast Asia, parts of East Africa, and China. The most stable traditions of use are noted in India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, and southern China, where it is included in local pharmacopoeias and ethnomedical collections. The plant is valued as a medicinal, construction, and symbolically significant element in everyday life and culture.

In Ayurvedic medicine of India, the plant is known as Vanshlochan and is actively used in the form of internal gum extracted from the stem nodes. The gum is used in the form of powder, aqueous infusion, or mixed with other remedies of animal and plant origin. Individual parts of the plant, such as young shoots, are roasted and used as food as a restorative remedy. In the tradition of South India, fresh shoots are ground into a paste and applied to the body during special massage rituals associated with purification and strengthening.

In Tibetan medicine, bamboo is included in multi-component formulations where it is used as a binding and balancing principle, contributing to the restoration of internal harmony. In some variants of the Tibetan "Green Pill" formula, elements of bamboo wood and core are used.

In Thailand and Laos, the leaves and shoots of the plant are traditionally used in the form of steam wraps and decoctions. In the northern Thai school of "herbal massage," bamboo powder is included in warming bags for applications to the joints and lower back. In the ritual practice of the Karen and Lanna peoples, bamboo stems are considered a symbol of "flexibility and strength" and are used as offerings to the spirits of the earth when building a house or opening a new field.

In Chinese traditional medicine, Bambusa arundinacea is valued as a plant that clears "heat" and strengthens breathing. In some provinces of Southern China, powder or decoction of ground gum is used as an auxiliary substance in recipes aimed at recovery after exhaustion. Mentions are also recorded in Taoist medical treatises of the Tang Dynasty, where the use of "white bamboo honey" (a variant of crystallized gum) in formulations for men and as a component of smoke rituals is mentioned.

In the mythology and culture of a number of tribes in Southeast Asia, bamboo is perceived as a plant of birth, primordinality, and order. In some shamanic practices of Vietnam, burning dry bamboo nodes is used as an element of expelling the spirit of illness. On the island of Java, fragments of the stem were worn in amulets as protection against witchcraft.

Thus, the use of Bambusa arundinacea covers a wide geographical and cultural range and is associated with both therapeutic and ritual-symbolic functions in traditional Asian societies.