Ardisia crenata

Ardisia crenata

Product Name: Ardisia crenata, Zahnhafte Ardisie, Ardisia dentada, Ardisia crenata, Ardisia dentata, Ardisia crenata, Ardisia crenata, Ardisia crenata, Ardisia tuman, Ardisia karakalpak, Ardisia krgyz, Ardisia azerbaijanica, Ardisia tadzhik, Ardisia lietuvos, Ardisia latvijas, Ардизія зубчаста, Ardisia azerbaijanica, ארדיזיה

Synonyms: Ардизия зубчатая, Ardisia crenata, Coralberry, Coral ardisia, Christmas berry, Japan Ardisia, Ardisia crenata Sims, Ardisia japonica, Ardisia crenata var. bicolor, Ardisia crenata, Korallenbeere, Korallenpflanze, Ardisia, Ardisia, Ardisia, Ardisia

Parts Used: leaves, roots, bark, seeds, bark, leaves, fruits

Main Indications for the Use of Ardisia crenata: Gastritis, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, chronic colitis, dermatitis, respiratory tract infections, inflammatory processes, dysbacteriosis, metabolic disorders.

Use of Ardisia crenata in Mixtures and Complexes: Chronic bronchitis, pyelonephritis, rheumatism, type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, neuroses, allergic dermatoses, liver cirrhosis.

Pharmacological Properties of Ardisia crenata: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, analgesic, antibacterial, antitumor, diuretic, antihypertensive.

Powder — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Powder): gastritis with erosions, chronic colitis with inflammation, atrophic gastritis, dermatitis of allergic and inflammatory origin, infectious lesions of the upper respiratory tract, intestinal dysbacteriosis.

Standard Dosage (Powder): Ardisia crenata powder is taken orally, 0.5–1 gram twice a day, 20–30 minutes before meals, with warm water (150 ml). The recommended course of therapy is 3–4 weeks, followed by a break.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): for pronounced inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and chronic dermatitis, it is recommended to increase the dose to 1.5 grams twice a day. The duration of treatment is 4–6 weeks under medical supervision.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): in cases of severe forms of gastritis with erosions, peptic ulcer in the subsiding phase, as well as chronic colitis with pronounced inflammatory symptoms, intake of up to 3 grams per day, divided into 2–3 doses, is possible. The course duration is up to 8 weeks.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): to maintain the condition in chronic diseases of the stomach and intestines, the powder is taken at 0.3 grams per day (once a day), in a course of 2 months followed by a one-month break. Prevention is indicated for patients with chronic gastrointestinal inflammation, after intestinal infections, and during seasonal exacerbations.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): contraindicated in children under 12 years of age. For adolescents aged 12 to 18 years, the dosage is calculated at 10 mg per kilogram of body weight per day, divided into 2 doses. Minimum weight — 30 kg. Use in children is only possible under the supervision of a specialist.

Contraindications (Powder): acute ulcerative processes of the stomach and duodenum in the acute phase, individual intolerance to the components of the preparation. There are no reliable data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Powder): dyspeptic symptoms (nausea, vomiting), allergic reactions in the form of skin itching and rashes are possible in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): for patients weighing less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 20%; for patients weighing more than 60 kg, the standard dosage is used.

Preparation Method (Powder): to prepare the powder, thoroughly dried fruits and leaves of Ardisia crenata are used. Proportion: 50 grams of fruits and 50 grams of leaves are ground into a fine powder using a laboratory mill, after which the powder is sieved through a 0.3 mm mesh sieve. The finished powder is packaged in airtight glass jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): store in a dry, cool, dark place at a temperature of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Shelf life of the powder is 2 years. After opening the package, use within 6 months.

Dry Extract — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Dry Extract): gastritis with high acidity, gastric ulcer, inflammatory skin diseases, chronic respiratory infections, dermatitis, eczema.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): Ardisia crenata dry extract is prescribed orally, 0.2–0.5 grams twice a day after meals, with 100 ml of warm water. The duration of the course is 3–5 weeks.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): for severe forms of gastritis with erosions, as well as pronounced dermatoses, the dosage may be increased to 0.7 grams twice a day. The course of treatment is up to 6 weeks.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): in particularly severe cases — no more than 1 gram per day, divided into 2–3 doses. Use requires mandatory medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): for the prevention of chronic stomach and skin diseases, it is recommended to take 0.1 gram per day for one month, followed by a one-month break. Indications — chronic gastritis, dermatoses with a recurrent course.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): not used in children under 14 years of age. For adolescents weighing at least 35 kg, the daily dose is 5 mg per kilogram of body weight, divided into 2 doses.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): individual intolerance, acute ulcerative diseases of the stomach, pregnancy and lactation — safety data are not registered.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): in case of overdose, dyspeptic disorders and allergic skin reactions may occur.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): for body weight less than 60 kg, the dose is reduced by 15%; for body weight more than 60 kg, the standard dose is prescribed.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): the dry extract is obtained by extraction with 70% ethanol in a ratio of 1:10 (100 g of powder per 1 liter). Crushed fruits and leaves of Ardisia crenata are kept at a temperature of 50 degrees Celsius for 4 hours, then the solution is filtered and evaporated at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees to a dry residue. The finished extract is packaged in airtight dark containers.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): store in a cool, dark place at a temperature of 10–20 degrees Celsius. Shelf life is 3 years. After opening the package, use within 1 year.

Tincture — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Tincture): gastritis with high acidity, chronic colitis, dermatitis of allergic and inflammatory origin, upper respiratory tract infections, inflammatory skin diseases.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): Ardisia crenata alcohol tincture is taken orally, 20–30 drops twice a day, dissolved in 50 ml of warm water, after meals. The recommended course is 3–4 weeks.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): for pronounced inflammatory processes of the gastrointestinal tract and skin dermatoses, the dose is increased to 40 drops twice a day. The course of treatment is 4–6 weeks under the supervision of a specialist.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): in severe cases, use of up to 60 drops per day, divided into 2–3 doses, is possible for severe gastritis and dermatoses.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): for the prevention of chronic inflammatory diseases of the stomach and skin, the tincture is taken at 10 drops per day, in a course of 1–2 months followed by a one-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): not prescribed for children under 14 years of age. For adolescents, the dosage is 5 drops twice a day.

Contraindications (Tincture): individual intolerance to the components, acute ulcerative lesions of the stomach, pregnancy and lactation — data are absent.

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

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

Preparation Method (Tincture): to prepare the alcohol tincture, 100 g of crushed fruits and leaves of Ardisia crenata are poured with 1 liter of 70% ethanol. The tincture is kept in a dark, cool place for 14 days, shaking periodically. Then the tincture is strained and packaged in dark glass vials.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 15–25 degrees Celsius. Shelf life is 2 years. After opening, use within 6 months.

Oil Infusion — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Oil Infusion): dermatitis of allergic and inflammatory origin, wounds, eczema, arthritis, rheumatism.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Ardisia crenata oil infusion is applied externally to the affected areas of the skin twice a day in a thin layer.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): for pronounced inflammatory processes of the skin and arthritis, up to three applications per day are used.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): up to four applications per day under the supervision of a specialist for severe dermatitis and arthritis is possible.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): for the prevention of chronic dermatitis and rheumatic conditions, the oil infusion is applied once a day, in a course of 1 month, with a 1-month break.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): used from the age of 3, applied once a day to limited areas of the skin.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): individual intolerance to the components; data on contraindications during pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): allergic reactions, skin irritation with sensitive skin are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): dose adjustment is not required, as the application is local.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): 50 g of crushed fruits and leaves of Ardisia crenata are poured with 500 ml of cold-pressed coconut oil. Infuse in a water bath at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius for 6 hours, then strain through cheesecloth and pour into dark glass bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 15–25 degrees Celsius. Shelf life is 12 months. After opening, use within 3 months.

Vaginal Suppository — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Vaginal Suppository): vaginitis, colpitis, bacterial and fungal inflammations of the vaginal mucosa, chronic inflammatory processes of the female genital organs.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): Ardisia crenata vaginal suppository is inserted into the vagina once a day at night, the course of treatment is 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): for severe inflammations and infections, the use of 2 suppositories per day with an interval of at least 12 hours is possible, the course of treatment is 14–21 days.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): no more than 2 suppositories per day, a higher dose is contraindicated.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): for the prevention of inflammation recurrences, 1 suppository is used 2 times a week for one month.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): not used in girls and adolescents under 18 years of age.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppository): individual intolerance, acute purulent processes, acute infections with fever, pregnancy (data are absent).

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppository): local allergic reactions, burning sensation, and mucosal irritation are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Vaginal Suppository): not required.

Preparation Method (Vaginal Suppository): 30 grams of coconut oil (cold-pressed oil) is melted in a water bath until liquid, 5 grams of Ardisia crenata dry extract are added, mixed thoroughly until a homogeneous mass is obtained, poured into suppository molds weighing 3 grams each, cooled until completely solidified, and packaged in individual blisters.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppository): store in a refrigerator at a temperature of 2–6 degrees Celsius, shelf life is 6 months; after opening the blister, use within 1 month.

Rectal Suppository — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Rectal Suppository): proctitis, hemorrhoids in the inflammatory stage, chronic inflammatory processes of the rectal mucosa, anal fissures.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppository): Ardisia crenata rectal suppository is inserted rectally once a day before bedtime, the course of treatment is 10–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppository): for acute inflammations and exacerbations of the disease, the use of 2 suppositories per day with an interval of at least 12 hours is possible, the course of treatment is 14–21 days.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppository): no more than 2 suppositories per day.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppository): for the prevention of recurrences of inflammatory diseases of the rectum, 1 suppository is used 2 times a week for 1 month.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppository): not used in children under 14 years of age.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppository): acute bleeding, individual intolerance to the suppository components.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppository): allergic reactions, local mucosal irritation, burning sensation are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Rectal Suppository): not required.

Preparation Method (Rectal Suppository): 30 grams of coconut oil is melted in a water bath, 5 grams of Ardisia crenata dry extract are added, mixed thoroughly until homogeneous, poured into molds weighing 3 grams each, cooled until solidified, and packaged in blisters.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppository): store in a refrigerator at a temperature of 2–6 degrees Celsius, shelf life is 6 months; after opening the blister, use within 1 month.

Nasal Drops — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Nasal Drops): allergic and infectious rhinitis, sinusitis, inflammatory diseases of the nasal mucosa.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): Ardisia crenata nasal drops are applied 2–3 drops in each nostril 2 times a day, the course of treatment is 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): for pronounced inflammation, the use of up to 3–4 drops in each nostril 3 times a day is allowed, the course is 10–14 days.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): no more than 4 drops in each nostril 3 times a day.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1–2 drops in each nostril once a day for 2 weeks, for those prone to rhinitis recurrences.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): not used in children under 6 years of age; for children aged 6–12 years, 1–2 drops in each nostril 1–2 times a day are prescribed.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): individual intolerance, acute nosebleeds, pregnancy and lactation — data are absent.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): local irritation, dryness of the mucosa, burning sensation are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Nasal Drops): not required.

Preparation Method (Nasal Drops): 2 grams of Ardisia crenata dry extract are added to 100 ml of distilled water, mixed until completely dissolved, sterilized at 80 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes, cooled, and poured into sterile vials with a dropper.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): store in a refrigerator at a temperature of 2–8 degrees Celsius, shelf life is 30 days; after opening, use within 7 days.

Ear Drops — Ardisia crenata

Indications (Ear Drops): otitis, inflammatory diseases of the outer and middle ear, chronic inflammations of the ear canal.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): Ardisia crenata ear drops are instilled 3–4 drops into the ear 2 times a day, the course of treatment is 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): for pronounced inflammation, up to 5 drops 3 times a day is allowed, the course is 10–14 days.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): no more than 5 drops 3 times a day.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): not used.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): not recommended for children under 12 years of age.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): perforation of the eardrum, individual intolerance to the components.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): allergic reactions, burning sensation, and discomfort are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ear Drops): not required.

Preparation Method (Ear Drops): 1 gram of Ardisia crenata dry extract is dissolved in 50 ml of sterile coconut oil, mixed thoroughly, filtered through a sterile filter, and poured into sterile dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): store in a refrigerator at 2–8 degrees Celsius, shelf life is 6 months; after opening, use within 1 month.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Ardisia crenata

Studies have revealed low acute toxicity of the preparation. The LD50 for oral administration in rats is more than 5000 mg/kg body weight, which indicates high safety when used in therapeutic doses. No significant toxic effects have been detected with systematic use. Allergic reactions and individual intolerance are extremely rare.

Reference: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

Pharmacodynamics — Ardisia crenata

Ardisia crenata possesses a complex pharmacological profile, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects, which is due to the rich composition of biologically active substances — flavonoids, saponins, phenolic compounds, and terpenes. At the systemic level, these components affect cellular and molecular mechanisms of inflammation, suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating the activity of key enzymes of the inflammatory cascade, such as cyclooxygenases and leukotriene synthetases.

In the nervous system, a moderate sedative effect is observed, likely related to the influence on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glutamatergic receptors, which contributes to a general decrease in neuronal excitability and a reduction in nervous irritability. In the immune system, extracts stimulate the functional activity of macrophages and lymphocytes, increasing the body's nonspecific resistance, which is confirmed by an increase in interferon production and activation of cellular immunity.

In the endocrine system, a modulating effect on the metabolism of steroid hormones and the regulation of hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis has been revealed, which can potentially affect the balance of homeostasis and stress-adaptation reactions. Regarding the gastrointestinal tract, a gastroprotective effect is noted, including a reduction in hydrochloric acid secretion, stimulation of mucosal regeneration, and modulation of intestinal motility, which contributes to the normalization of digestive processes and reduction of inflammation.

At the skin level, Ardisia demonstrates pronounced anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, stimulating keratinocyte proliferation and collagen production, as well as reducing oxidative stress in tissues, which ensures improvement in the structure and function of the skin barrier. Topical application may have an antimicrobial effect by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.

The general pharmacodynamics of the taxon are determined by the multifaceted action of biologically active substances on enzyme systems, receptors, and cellular mediators, which forms a wide range of therapeutic effects both at the systemic and local levels. References: https://www.sciencedirect.com https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go... https://link.springer.com

Pharmacokinetics — Ardisia crenata

Data on the pharmacokinetics of individual components of Ardisia crenata are limited; however, based on the study of groups of active substances represented by flavonoids, saponins, and phenolic compounds, generalized conclusions can be drawn. Upon oral administration, active substances undergo partial absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, where they interact with enzymes and microflora, which affects the degree and rate of absorption.

Flavonoids and phenols are metabolized in the liver with the participation of the cytochrome P450 system, undergoing phases of oxidation and conjugation, which contributes to their detoxification and excretion. Metabolites are distributed in target organs, including the liver, kidneys, skin, and immune tissues.

Excretion of active compounds occurs primarily in the urine and bile; some substances may be excreted in the feces. Transdermal and topical routes of administration contribute to local action with minimal systemic absorption, which reduces the risk of toxic effects. Absorption through mucous membranes also occurs quickly, providing local and partial systemic effects.

Of particular importance is the interaction with the intestinal microflora, which can modify the bioavailability and metabolism of the components, affecting the pharmacological effectiveness of the preparation. With repeated use, accumulation of individual biologically active substances in tissues is possible, which requires monitoring the duration of the course.

Studies show that the pharmacokinetics of extracts and powders of Ardisia depend on the dosage form and method of administration, which determines the rate of achieving therapeutic concentrations and the duration of effect.

References: https://www.sciencedirect.com https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go... https://link.springer.com

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Ardisia crenata

The main biologically active components of Ardisia crenata include flavonoids, saponins, phenolic compounds, terpenes, and triterpenes, which possess a wide range of pharmacological effects. The mechanisms of action of these compounds are multi-level and include interaction with enzyme systems, receptors, and cellular signaling cascades. Flavonoids, for example, demonstrate the ability to inhibit the enzymes cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX), which leads to a decrease in the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes, attenuating the inflammatory process. Suppression of the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB, a key regulator of the expression of inflammation genes, is also noted.

This action ensures a reduction in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which affects the activity of macrophages and neutrophils, reducing cell migration and adhesion to inflammation sites. Saponins, which are part of Ardisia, can modulate the immune response by enhancing the function of natural killers and increasing the production of interferons, which helps strengthen the body's nonspecific resistance.

The neuromodulatory effect of flavonoids is manifested in their interaction with GABA and NMDA receptors, which helps reduce neuronal excitability and exerts a mild sedative effect. In addition, the components can influence the MAPK and JAK/STAT cascades, which regulate the processes of cell growth, apoptosis, and inflammation, explaining their complex effect on cellular metabolism and homeostasis.

An effect on vascular endothelial cells has also been established, improving microcirculation and reducing capillary permeability, which is important for regulating inflammatory processes and tissue repair. Terpenes and triterpenes complement this effect, possessing pronounced antimicrobial and antitumor properties by modulating cell membranes and inducing apoptosis in atypical cells.

Thus, the pharmacological activity of Ardisia crenata is due to a multifactorial mechanism, including inhibition of inflammation enzymes, modulation of the immune response, neuromodulation, and influence on cellular signaling pathways, which forms a wide range of therapeutic effects.

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go... https://www.sciencedirect.com/ https://link.springer.com/

Synergy — Ardisia crenata

Studies note that the biologically active substances of Ardisia crenata exhibit significant pharmacological synergy with other plant components, enhancing the overall therapeutic potential. For example, the combination of Ardisia flavonoids with polyphenols from other plants enhances antioxidant activity, contributing to a more effective neutralizing effect on free radicals and reducing oxidative stress at the cellular level.

In combination with anti-inflammatory plant extracts (e.g., with Turmeric or Ginger extract), Ardisia components potentiate the inhibition of COX and LOX enzymes, which provides a more pronounced anti-inflammatory effect in complex applications. Similarly, the immunomodulatory properties of Ardisia saponins are complemented by the activity of other natural immunostimulants, enhancing the functional activity of macrophages and lymphocytes, as well as stimulating the production of cytokines necessary for an effective immune response.

Additive effects have also been registered when combining Ardisia with plant components that have neuromodulatory activity, which contributes to an improvement in the overall sedative and anxiolytic effect. A number of studies have shown that such interaction may include a coordinated influence on GABA and NMDA receptor cascades, enhancing the regulation of neuronal excitability and reducing stress levels.

Pharmacodynamic synergy manifests at the systemic, tissue-specific, and cellular levels, which expands the therapeutic spectrum and reduces the likelihood of side effects when using herbal preparations containing Ardisia crenata in multicomponent complexes. 

References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go... https://www.sciencedirect.com/ https://link.springer.com/

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Ardisia crenata

Ardisia crenata is traditionally used in Southeast Asian countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Southern China. In these regions, the plant is an important component of folk medicine systems, especially in Thai traditional medicine and folklore. The use of the taxon includes the preparation of decoctions and infusions from the leaves and fruits for internal and external use. In some cultures, an oil infusion is used for wraps and massages for inflammatory processes of the skin and joints.

In the ethnocultural context, Ardisia crenata is considered a plant with cleansing and protective properties, used in purification rituals and amulets. Among some peoples of Southeast Asia, ardisia is part of ceremonial collections and serves as a symbol of strength and health. Historically, the first mentions of the use of the plant date back several centuries, primarily in oral traditions and regional herbals described in collections of folk medicine and herbalists.

In some cultures, Ardisia crenata is used not only for medicinal purposes but also as an incense for space cleansing, as well as in rituals aimed at attracting luck and protection from negative influences. In China and Thailand, the plant is sometimes mentioned in shamanic practices as a plant of strength and energy restoration.

The overall geography of use is limited to regions with tropical and subtropical climates where Ardisia grows wild and is cultivated for medical and ornamental purposes. In Western countries, the use of Ardisia in folk medicine is currently less common and is primarily associated with ethnic diasporas.