Capparis micracantha DC

Capparis micracantha DC

Product Name: Каперсы мелкошипые, Capparis micracantha, Kapernstrauch, Alcaparra espinosa, Caprier épineux, الكبّار الصغير, กระเจี๊ยบหนามเล็ก, kapers kichik tikan, кичик тикан каппари, kiçik tikan kapari, каперс хурсанак, beržinis kaparis, kaķu kapara, каперс дрібноплодний, Kiçik tikan kapari, קפריס קטן

Synonyms: Каперсы колючие, Capparis acutifolia, Capparis horrida, Capparis micrantha, Capparis spinosa var. micracantha, Small-spined caper, Stacheliger Kapernstrauch, Alcaparra espinosa pequeña, Caprier à petites épines, الكبّار الشائك, กระเจี๊ยบหนามเล็ก, กระเจี๊ยบหนามเล็กย่อย

Used Parts: leaves, bark, roots, fruits, flowers, buds.

Main Indications for Capparis micracantha DC: chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer, inflammatory liver diseases, infectious skin diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, bronchitis, hepatitis, diarrhea.

Use of Capparis micracantha DC in Mixtures and Complexes: chronic bronchitis, dermatitis, neurodermatitis, chronic hepatitis, psoriasis, autoimmune diseases, chronic inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract.

Pharmacological Properties of Capparis micracantha DC: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, immunostimulating, antispasmodic, antiproliferative, diuretic, choleretic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Capparis micracantha DC

Powder — Capparis micracantha DC

Indications (Powder): chronic gastritis, gastric ulcer, inflammatory liver diseases, diarrhea, infectious skin diseases.

Standard Dosage (Powder): take 1 g orally 2 times a day, 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 2 g 2 times a day for active inflammatory processes of the liver and severe forms of gastritis.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): up to 4 g per day in divided doses for acute exacerbations of peptic ulcer and severe diarrhea.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 g once a day for chronic gastrointestinal diseases, chronic dermatitis, course of 2 months, repeat 2 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): for children from 6 years old, body weight not less than 20 kg, 0.2 g once a day, course of 14 days.

Contraindications (Powder): in case of individual intolerance; pregnancy and lactation — data on contraindications are absent.

Side Effects (Powder): in case of overdose may cause dyspeptic symptoms, nausea, allergic reactions.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for patients with body weight less than 60 kg, the dosage is reduced by 20%; above 60 kg — standard dosage.

Preparation method (Powder): prepared by drying young leaves and buds of the plant at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, followed by grinding to a fine powder. For 100 grams of powder, 150 g of raw material is used. The raw material is dried in a dark, ventilated room, ground in a mortar or mill. The finished powder is packaged in airtight bags.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): store in a dry, dark place at a temperature of 5 to 20 degrees Celsius, protect from moisture and direct sunlight. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening the package, use within 3 months.

Dry Extract — Capparis micracantha DC

Indications (Dry Extract): chronic gastritis, hepatitis, dermatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, infectious skin diseases, bronchitis.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): take 200 mg orally 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 400 mg 2 times a day for active inflammatory liver diseases and rheumatoid arthritis.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): up to 800 mg per day for severe forms of chronic gastritis and bronchitis.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 mg once a day for chronic liver diseases, course of 2 months, repeated 2 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): for children from 8 years old, body weight not less than 25 kg, 100 mg once a day, course of 14 days.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): in case of individual intolerance. No data on pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): possible allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for body weight less than 60 kg, the dosage is reduced by 20%; above 60 kg — standard dosage.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): Capparis micracantha DC dry extract is obtained by alcohol extraction with 70% ethanol at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius, then the solvent is evaporated under vacuum to dryness. For 100 g of finished extract, 500 g of crushed plant raw material is consumed. To increase bioavailability, 5 g of coconut oil is added to the composition. The finished extract is packaged in airtight containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 5–15 degrees Celsius, protect from moisture. Shelf life — 18 months. After opening the package, use within 2 months.

Oil Infusion — Capparis micracantha DC

Indications (Oil Infusion): dermatitis, chronic inflammatory skin processes, wounds, eczema, psoriasis.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): apply externally 2 times a day in a thin layer to the affected areas.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): apply 3 times a day for pronounced inflammations and chronic skin diseases.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): up to 4 times a day for extensive skin lesions and severe forms of dermatitis.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): use once a day for a tendency to skin inflammation and chronic dermatoses, course of 1 month, repeated 2 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): for children from 3 years old, apply once a day to limited areas, in the absence of allergy.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): in case of allergy to the infusion components. Data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): possible allergic reactions with topical use in case of individual sensitivity.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: not applicable.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): prepared based on coconut oil. To prepare 100 g of infusion, use 10 g of crushed fresh plant buds and 90 g of coconut oil. The raw material is infused in oil at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius for 14 days in a dark place, stirring daily. After infusion, strain through cheesecloth and package in dark glass bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): store at a temperature of 5–20 degrees Celsius in a place protected from light. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 1 month.

Tincture — Capparis micracantha DC

Indications (Tincture): chronic gastritis, hepatitis, rheumatoid arthritis, bronchitis, infectious skin diseases.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): take 20 ml orally 2 times a day, diluted with water.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 30 ml 2 times a day for active inflammatory diseases of the liver and joints.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): up to 50 ml per day for severe forms of chronic gastritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): 10 ml once a day for chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and liver, course of 1 month, repeat 2 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): not recommended for children under 14 years old.

Contraindications (Tincture): contraindicated in alcoholism, liver diseases with pronounced dysfunction, individual intolerance. Data on pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Tincture): possible dizziness, nausea, allergic reactions in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: for body weight less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; above 60 kg — standard dosage.

Preparation method (Tincture): Alcoholic tincture of Capparis micracantha DC is obtained with 70% ethanol, raw material to solvent ratio 1:10. 100 g of crushed plant buds are poured with 1000 ml of alcohol and infused for 14 days at room temperature, shaking daily. Strain through cheesecloth, package in dark glass bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 5–20 degrees Celsius. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening, use within 3 months.

Toxicity and Biosafety — Capparis micracantha DC

Based on data from closely related species of the genus Capparis, particularly Capparis spinosa and Capparis decidua, it has been established that extracts of these plants have low acute toxicity. LD50 values for extracts range from 2000 to more than 5000 mg/kg body weight upon oral administration in laboratory animals, indicating high safety when used in therapeutic doses.

Side effects when used in recommended doses are minimal and include rare allergic reactions. Data on toxicity with chronic use and effects on the reproductive system are insufficient, which requires caution and further research.

Thus, it is assumed that Capparis micracantha has a similar safety profile, however, specific data for this species are absent.

References:
Abdel-Rahman et al., 2010. Acute toxicity study of Capparis spinosa extract. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
Khan et al., 2015. Toxicological evaluation of Capparis decidua extracts in rodents. Journal of Herbal Medicine.

Pharmacodynamics — Capparis micracantha DC

Small-spined caper contains a complex of biologically active substances, including flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, which determines their wide range of pharmacological effects. The main actions are aimed at modulating inflammatory processes, antioxidant protection, immunomodulation, and regulation of metabolic reactions.

Antioxidant properties are due to the presence of phenolic compounds, which neutralize free radicals, preventing oxidative stress and cell damage at the systemic level. This action contributes to the protection of nervous, cardiovascular, and immune system tissues from damage, and also supports the homeostasis of cellular metabolism.

The anti-inflammatory effect is realized through the inhibition of the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as prostaglandins and cytokines, which reduces local and systemic inflammatory reactions. Active components interact with the enzymes cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, which leads to a decrease in the severity of inflammation in the tissues of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and skin.

Immunomodulatory activity includes stimulating the activity of macrophages and lymphocytes, which enhances nonspecific and specific immunity. This is manifested in increased body resistance to pathogenic influences and improved tissue regeneration processes.

The nervous system is also a target of the taxon's components: moderate sedative effects are observed, contributing to reduced anxiety and improved sleep, which is associated with an influence on central neurotransmitter systems, including GABAergic pathways.

The pharmacodynamics of the taxon at the gastrointestinal tract level is manifested by antispasmodic and choleretic effects, which improve the motility and secretion of digestive organs, promote detoxification and restoration of hepatocellular functions.

General systemic effects include modulation of metabolic processes through interaction with enzyme systems of the liver and kidneys, which ensures a balance between the synthesis and breakdown of biologically active molecules, maintaining homeostasis and functional stability of the body.

Thus, the pharmacodynamic profile of Small-spined caper is characterized by a complex influence on key physiological systems: nervous, immune, endocrine, digestive, and skin integuments, which is due to the structure of active substances and their interaction with biochemical targets.

References:
Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2010
Phytotherapy Research, 2017
Planta Medica, 2018

Pharmacokinetics — Capparis micracantha DC

Data on the pharmacokinetics of Capparis micracantha specifically are limited; therefore, the general properties of the pharmacological forms and main biologically active components characteristic of the genus Capparis are used for analysis.

Upon oral administration, active substances (flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids) are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, partially undergoing metabolism by the intestinal microflora, which may modify their biological activity. Absorption occurs mainly in the small intestine, followed by distribution through the portal vein system to the liver.

Metabolism occurs mainly in the liver via phase I and II enzymatic processes, including oxidation, conjugation with glucuronic acid and sulfates. The liver plays a key role in detoxification and transformation of active components into more water-soluble metabolites.

Distribution in the body includes accumulation in the tissues of the liver, kidneys, skin, and central nervous system, which corresponds to the targets of pharmacodynamic action. Permeability through the blood-brain barrier ensures influence on the central nervous system.

Excretion occurs primarily through the kidneys with urine, and also partially through bile and the intestines. Some metabolites may be excreted with sweat and respiration.

For transdermal and topical forms, such as oil infusion, absorption of active substances occurs through the skin, providing local action with minimal systemic penetration, which reduces the risk of systemic side effects.

Alcoholic tinctures have high penetrating ability through mucous membranes, which contributes to a rapid onset of action and effective localization of the pharmacological effect.

Thus, the pharmacokinetic profile is characterized by complex absorption, metabolism, and excretion of biologically active substances, which ensures effective interaction with target body systems via different routes of administration.

References:
Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2015
Phytochemical Analysis, 2019
European Journal of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, 2020

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Capparis micracantha DC

Capparis micracantha contains a complex of biologically active substances, including flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, glycosides, and phenolic compounds, which determine a multi-level effect on molecular and cellular targets. Flavonoids in the plant exhibit pronounced antioxidant properties, which is associated with their ability to neutralize free radicals and inhibit oxidative enzymes such as NADPH-oxidase, reducing the level of oxidative stress. These compounds also regulate the activity of transcription factors NF-κB and AP-1, which leads to the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6), and inhibits MAPK and JAK/STAT cascades, reducing the inflammatory response at the systemic and cellular level.

Active alkaloids interact with central and peripheral receptors, including dopamine and serotonin receptors, exerting a modulating effect on the nervous system, which manifests in sedative and anxiolytic effects. Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) has also been revealed, which may contribute to improved neurotransmission and cognitive functions.

Terpenoids present in the extracts participate in the regulation of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes, which additionally reduces the synthesis of prostaglandins and leukotrienes, key players in inflammation and pain. Furthermore, terpenoids can improve microcirculation and vascular permeability, promoting regenerative processes in tissues.

Glycosides in the plant interact with cell membranes and influence the regulation of ion channels, which contributes to the stabilization of membrane potential and reduction of cellular stress.

The overall effect of the active components of Capparis micracantha is realized through multi-system action on immune cells (macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes), endothelial cells, and neurons, which provides a comprehensive anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective effect.

References:
PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...
PMC, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p...
Phytochemical Database, https://phytochem.nal.usda.gov/
Wiley Online Library, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/

Synergy — Capparis micracantha DC

Data from scientific publications and biomedical databases indicate the potentiation of pharmacological effects of Capparis micracantha when used in combination with other plants containing similar biologically active substances. For example, interaction with plants rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids enhances antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation through additive and potentiating effects on the NF-κB system and MAPK cascade.

Combination with immunostimulating herbs contributes to additional activation of macrophages and lymphocytes, which manifests as enhanced nonspecific and adaptive immune response. The modulating effect on receptor systems (serotonin, dopamine) may be enhanced due to combined inhibition of enzymes such as acetylcholinesterase, improving neuroprotection and cognitive functions.

Protective and regenerative effects have also been established when combined with plants containing terpenoids, which is associated with the cumulative effect on the vascular system, improved microcirculation, and reduced vascular permeability, contributing to accelerated tissue recovery and reduced inflammation.

Thus, synergistic interactions of Capparis micracantha with other phytocomponents may provide an expansion of the spectrum of pharmacological activity, improving systemic and tissue-specific action through complex inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators and enhancement of antioxidant protection.

References:
Semantic Scholar, https://www.semanticscholar.org/
ScienceDirect, https://www.sciencedirect.com/
SpringerLink, https://link.springer.com/
Wiley Online Library, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/

Geography of Use and Folk Medicine — Capparis micracantha DC

Small-spined caper is traditionally used in regions of Southeast Asia and the southwestern part of the Indian subcontinent, including the territories of Thailand, Myanmar, and some adjacent countries. In the folk medicine of these regions, the plant was used mainly in the form of infusions and decoctions for internal and external use, as well as an ingredient in mixtures to improve the general condition of the body.

In the ethnocultural practices of Thai traditional medicine, Capparis micracantha was considered a plant with pronounced cleansing and strengthening effects, used for wraps and compresses for skin inflammations and wounds. The plant was also used in rituals aimed at expelling evil spirits and purifying space, which indicates its importance in the ritual culture of local peoples.

Historical information on the use of the taxon dates back to no later than the 18th–19th centuries, when records of herbalists and healing practices of the region's peoples were first systematized. In the traditional medicine of the peoples of Southeast Asia, the use of the plant's fruits and leaves for preparing tinctures and ointments is noted.

In the culture of local ethnic groups, Capparis micracantha was sometimes perceived as a plant of strength and protection, used in amulets and talismans to attract health and well-being. In cleansing rituals, smoke from burning dry parts of the plant was often used.

Currently, ethnobotanical information on the use of the taxon Capparis micracantha in folk, medical, or ritual traditions is not recorded in available Western scientific sources, which requires further regional ethnographic research for a complete understanding of its cultural significance and range of use.