​Lagerstroemia speciosa L (Giant Crape-Myrtle)

Lagerstroemia speciosa L (Giant Crape-Myrtle)

Product Name: Лагерстремия великолепная, Lagerstroemia speciosa, Pracht-Lagerstroemie, Lagerstroemia espléndida, Lagerstroemia splendide, لاغرستروميا الرائعة, อินทนิลน้ำ, Barqiya daraxti, Kөrөktү lagerstroemia, Möhtəşəm lagerstremiya, Лагерстремияи зебо, Nuostabioji lagerstremija, Lieliskā lagerstremija, Лагерстромія розкішна, הדר לאגרסטרומיה

Synonyms: Лагерстромия великолепная, Банаба, Индийская сирень, Банаба дерево, Giant crepe-myrtle, Queen's flower, Pride of India, Jarul, Banaba tree, Pracht-Banaba, Königinblume, Lagerstroemia real, Banaba planta, Lagerstroemia royale, Lagerstroemia el espléndido, ملكة الزهور, شجرة البانابا, อินทนิล, ต้นบานาบา

Parts Used: leaves, flowers, bark, fruits, seeds, root.

Main Indications for Use of Lagerstroemia speciosa: Type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, hepatic steatosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, arterial hypertension, atherosclerosis, chronic pancreatitis, polycystic ovary syndrome, acne.

Use of Lagerstroemia speciosa in mixtures and complexes: Hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, chronic fatigue, erectile dysfunction, benign prostatic hyperplasia, acne disease, dysmetabolic nephropathy, irritable bowel syndrome, premenstrual syndrome.

Pharmacological Properties of Lagerstroemia speciosa: hypoglycemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, hepatoprotective, antiadipogenic, antimicrobial, antitumor, nephroprotective, antiatherogenic, antihypertensive, insulinomimetic, immunotropic.

Dosage of Pharmacological Forms — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Powder — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Powder): Type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, metabolic syndrome, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hyperlipidemia.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 2 times a day orally 30 minutes before meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 2 grams of powder 3 times a day for grade III obesity, pronounced insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome with hypertriglyceridemia.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 3 grams 3 times a day. Used strictly under medical supervision for type 2 diabetes mellitus not amenable to standard therapy, and pronounced fasting hyperglycemia.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams once a day in the morning. Recommended for patients with metabolic syndrome, prediabetes, chronic non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Course — 21 days with a break of 10 days, up to 4 times a year.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): From 12 years of age, with body weight not less than 40 kg — 250 mg once a day. Use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended due to the lack of clinical data.

Contraindications (Powder): Individual intolerance, hypoglycemia. Data on contraindications during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): Hypoglycemia, dizziness, nausea in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight below 60 kg, a reduction of dosage by 25% is recommended. For patients with body weight more than 90 kg, an increase of the daily dose by 25% is possible in the absence of side effects.

Preparation Method (Powder): Raw material: dried leaves without signs of mold and damage. Grind to a fine powder state. To prepare 100 grams of powder: – Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves — 100 grams. Grinding in a mortar or electric mill. Store in a glass jar with a ground lid. Sieve through a 0.5 mm mesh sieve.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in a dry, dark place at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C, away from heat sources and electromagnetic fields. Shelf life — 12 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Dry Extract — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Dry Extract): Type 2 diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, obesity, hyperlipidemia, hepatic steatosis.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 250 mg of dry extract 2 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 500 mg 2 times a day for pronounced metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus with obesity and fatty hepatosis.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 1000 mg 2 times a day. Only under medical supervision for the ineffectiveness of other hypoglycemic agents.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 mg once a day for 14 days, repeat the course after 3 months. Recommended for patients with insulin resistance and impaired glucose tolerance.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): From 12 years of age with body weight more than 40 kg — 50 mg once a day. Under 12 years of age, use is not recommended due to the lack of studies.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Individual sensitivity, hypoglycemia. No data on safety during pregnancy, lactation, and in children under 12 years of age.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): Rarely: dizziness, dry mouth, drop in glucose level below 3.3 mmol/l.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Up to 60 kg — reduction of dosage by 20%. More than 90 kg — an increase of the daily dose by 20–25% is possible.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): Dry the leaves, grind, extract in 70% ethanol at a temperature of 60 °C for 4 hours, filter. Evaporate the extract at 45 °C in vacuum to a thick consistency, then dry in a drying chamber at a temperature of 40 °C. At the output, from 500 g of leaves, about 75 g of dry extract are obtained.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in an airtight package in a dry, light-protected place at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Alcohol Tincture — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Alcohol Tincture): Type 2 diabetes mellitus, hyperglycemia, obesity, chronic pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia.

Standard Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 20 drops 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals, diluted in 50 ml of water.

Enhanced Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 30 drops 3 times a day for pronounced fasting hyperglycemia, insulin resistance with atherogenic dyslipidemia.

Maximum Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 40 drops 3 times a day — used under medical supervision for persistent type 2 diabetes mellitus with high fasting plasma glucose.

Preventive Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 10 drops once a day in the morning on an empty stomach for 21 days. Suitable for patients with a hereditary predisposition to diabetes, with obesity, impaired glucose tolerance. Repeat after 2 months.

Pediatric Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): Not recommended for children under 18 years of age due to ethanol content.

Contraindications (Alcohol Tincture): Alcoholism, epilepsy, liver diseases, pregnancy, lactation. Contraindicated in children. In case of hypoglycemia — only under medical supervision.

Side Effects (Alcohol Tincture): Drowsiness, irritability, nausea, headache, decrease in sugar level below the physiological level.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Up to 60 kg — reduce the dose by 5 drops; more than 90 kg — an increase of dosage by 5 drops is possible with good tolerability.

Preparation Method (Alcohol Tincture): Per 100 grams of finished product: – Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves — 20 grams. – 70% ethyl alcohol — 100 ml. Pour the ground plant raw material with alcohol, infuse in a dark, cool place for 10 days, shaking periodically. Filter through gauze. Store in a dark glass bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Alcohol Tincture): Store in an airtight dark glass container at a temperature from +5 to +20 °C, away from light and heat sources. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — up to 60 days.

Oil Infusion — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Oil Infusion): Atherosclerosis, chronic pancreatitis, metabolic syndrome, hyperlipidemia, inflammation of the sebaceous gland, seborrheic dermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): 1 teaspoon orally once a day with meals. Topically — 1–2 ml on the affected skin area 2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): 2 teaspoons per day orally for pronounced hyperlipidemia, a tendency to atherogenesis. Topically — 3 times a day for seborrhea, acne.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Up to 10 ml per day orally. Topically — up to 5 ml per application, no more than 4 times a day. Used short-term (up to 5 days) under medical supervision.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 0.5 teaspoon once a day for 14 days. Topically — once a day on areas with increased sebum secretion. Repeat after 2 months. Suitable for a predisposition to lipid metabolism disorders.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): From 12 years of age, topically — 1 ml once a day. Orally not recommended for children under 16 years of age.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Acute diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, allergy to coconut oil. Data on use in pregnant, lactating women, and children under 12 years of age have not been registered.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): Rarely — skin rash, itching, nausea, diarrhea when the dosage is exceeded.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Up to 60 kg — use ½ teaspoon. More than 90 kg — increase the dose by 25% for oral administration.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): Per 100 grams of finished product: – Dry Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves — 20 grams. – First cold-pressed coconut oil — 100 ml. Grind the plant raw material, pour with warm (not above 45 °C) coconut oil, infuse for 7 days in a dark place, shaking daily. Then filter through thick cloth or gauze. Store in a glass container.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a dark, cool place at a temperature from +5 to +18 °C. Avoid direct sunlight and heating. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Vaginal Suppository — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Vaginal Suppository): Bacterial vaginosis, candidal vulvovaginitis, vaginal dysbiosis, atrophic vaginitis in postmenopause, inflammation of the cervix, cervicitis.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository vaginally at night for 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository 2 times a day (morning and evening) for 10 days for acute forms of bacterial vaginosis, cervicitis, or recurrent candidiasis.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 2 suppositories 2 times a day — maximum 5 days consecutively, then transition to the standard regimen. Used for pronounced inflammation with copious discharge.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository every other day before bedtime for 7 days. Recommended for a tendency to vaginal dysbiosis, chronic candidiasis, in postmenopause with mucosal dryness.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): Use is not recommended under 18 years of age due to the lack of clinical data.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppository): Pregnancy, individual hypersensitivity, acute damage to the vaginal mucosa. Scientific data on use during lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppository): Local irritation, itching, burning in case of individual intolerance.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required. Individual tolerability is possible with body weight below 50 kg — if discomfort occurs, switch to a single use every other day.

Preparation Method (Vaginal Suppository): Per 100 grams of base: – Dry extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves — 3 grams. – Cocoa butter — 90 grams. – Coconut oil — 7 grams. Melt cocoa and coconut oils in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 40 °C. Introduce the extract with constant stirring until homogeneous. Pour into molds. Cool and keep in a refrigerator for 12 hours. Store in individual suppository molds.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppository): Store in a refrigerator at a temperature from +2 to +8 °C. Protect from moisture and light. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening the blister, use within 24 hours.

Rectal Suppository — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Rectal Suppository): Chronic pancreatitis, dysmetabolic nephropathy, type 2 diabetes mellitus, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hyperlipidemia.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository rectally at night for 10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository morning and evening for 7 days for pronounced disorders of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 2 suppositories 2 times a day up to 5 days, under specialist supervision for fatty hepatosis and concomitant pancreatitis.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository once every 2 days in the evening — course of 10 suppositories. Prevention for metabolic syndrome, prediabetes, and hepatic steatosis.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppository): From 12 years of age with body weight more than 40 kg — ½ suppository at night. Use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppository): Hemorrhoidal bleeding, acute anal fissures, hypoglycemia. No data on use during pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppository): Local irritation, false urges to defecate, burning sensation in the rectum.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight below 60 kg — use ⅔ suppository. For body weight above 90 kg — increase to 1.5 suppositories per intake with good tolerability.

Preparation Method (Rectal Suppository): Per 100 grams of base: – Dry extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves — 4 grams. – Cocoa butter — 85 grams. – Coconut oil — 11 grams. Melt the oils in a water bath at a temperature up to 45 °C. Add the extract, stir until completely homogeneous. Pour into molds and cool. Store in a refrigerator.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppository): Store at a temperature from +2 to +8 °C in a dark place, in individual packaging. Shelf life — 3 months. After removal from the mold — use within 12 hours.

Nasal Drops — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Nasal Drops): Allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, chronic rhinitis, hypertrophy of the nasal conchae, post-viral syndrome with nasal congestion.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): 2 drops in each nasal passage 2 times a day, course — 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): 3 drops in each nasal passage 3 times a day for pronounced mucosal edema, chronic vasomotor rhinitis, and allergic inflammation.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): 4 drops in each nasal passage up to 4 times a day, no more than 5 days consecutively. Used short-term for severe congestion and acute inflammation.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1 drop in each nasal passage once a day for 5 days. Prevention of seasonal rhinitis and hyperreactivity of the nasal mucosa.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): From 6 years of age — 1 drop in each nasal passage once a day. Under 6 years of age — not recommended due to the lack of safety data.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): Acute purulent sinusitis, pronounced anatomical deformation of the nasal septum. No data on use during pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): Burning in the nose, sneezing, mucosal dryness in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Dose adjustment is not required. Evaluate individual reaction with body weight below 45 kg.

Preparation Method (Nasal Drops): Per 100 ml of finished product: – Aqueous extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves — 10 ml. – Lavender hydrolate — 45 ml. – Distilled water — 45 ml. Combine the components under sterile conditions, filter through a 0.22 µm microfilter. Pour into sterile dark glass dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): Store in a refrigerator at a temperature from +2 to +8 °C. Shelf life — 30 days. After opening, use within 7 days.

Ear Drops — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Ear Drops): Chronic external otitis, fungal otitis, eczema of the external auditory canal, seborrheic dermatitis of the ear area.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): 2 drops in each auditory canal 2 times a day, course — 5–7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): 3 drops 3 times a day for pronounced itching, edema, and fungal lesion.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): 4 drops up to 4 times a day for 3 days for acute inflammation, then transition to the standard dose.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): 1 drop once a day after water procedures in patients with recurrent external otitis or eczema of the auditory canal. Course — 5 days.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): From 6 years of age — 1 drop once a day. Use in children under 6 years of age is not recommended without medical supervision.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): Perforation of the tympanic membrane, acute otitis media. Data on use during pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): Burning, ear fullness, short-term hearing decrease in case of overdose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Correction is not required, the dose does not depend on body weight.

Preparation Method (Ear Drops): Per 100 ml of finished product: – Oil infusion of Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves — 50 ml. – Jojoba oil — 40 ml. – Lavender essential oil — 10 drops. Combine all components at a temperature not exceeding 35 °C, stir until homogeneous. Pour into sterile dark glass dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): Store in a light-protected place at a temperature from +5 to +18 °C. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening, use within 14 days.

Ointment — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Ointment): Seborrheic dermatitis, acne, acne rash, folliculitis, atopic dermatitis in remission, dermatoses with hyperproliferation.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer to the affected skin area 2 times a day for 7–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): 3 times a day for acute inflammatory dermatoses, acne with pronounced infiltrates, pustules, comedones.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Up to 5 times a day on limited areas (no more than 5 cm²) for 3 days for intense inflammation.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Once a day at night for 10 days, for a tendency to acne, seborrheic dermatitis, hypersecretion of sebaceous glands.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 3 years of age — once a day on limited skin areas. If necessary, use once every 2 days.

Contraindications (Ointment): Allergy to components, purulent wounds, weeping erosions. Data on use during pregnancy and lactation are limited; use with caution.

Side Effects (Ointment): Rarely — burning, erythema, skin dryness, contact dermatitis.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. With low body weight, a reduction of the application area by 25–30% is possible.

Preparation Method (Ointment): Per 100 grams of ointment: – Oil infusion of Lagerstroemia speciosa — 50 grams. – Beeswax — 10 grams. – Coconut oil — 30 grams. – Vitamin E (natural) — 1 gram. – Zinc oxide (as indicated) — 9 grams. Melt the wax and coconut oil in a water bath, add the oil infusion. At a temperature of 40 °C, introduce vitamin E, stir until homogeneous, cool, pour into sterile jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a dark, cool place, optimally at +5…+10 °C. Shelf life — 3 months. After opening, use within 30 days.

Cream — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Cream): Skin dryness in metabolic disorders, post-acne, mild form of seborrheic dermatitis, skin irritation, hyperpigmentation, vascular spots.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply to cleansed skin 2 times a day, morning and evening, for 14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Up to 3 times a day for pronounced dryness, peeling, impaired skin barrier function.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Up to 4 times a day for 5 days. Used for short-term intensive moisturizing and skin restoration.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once a day at night, course of 7–10 days. Suitable for seasonal skin dryness, metabolic disorders, and during hormonal changes.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 6 years of age — once a day. Under 6 years of age — use only as prescribed by a doctor.

Contraindications (Cream): Individual intolerance, allergy to natural oils. During pregnancy — permissible with the consent of a doctor. Safety during lactation has not been studied.

Side Effects (Cream): Rarely — comedogenicity, itching, allergic rashes.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required, but in patients with body weight below 45 kg, start with ½ the standard volume.

Preparation Method (Cream): Per 100 grams of cream: – Oil infusion of Lagerstroemia speciosa — 15 grams. – Coconut oil — 20 grams. – Rose hydrolate — 50 grams. – Emulsifier (cetyl alcohol or jojoba wax) — 10 grams. – Vitamin E — 1 gram. Heat the water phase (hydrolate) to 40 °C, separately melt the fat phase. Combine both phases with constant stirring, cool to 30 °C. Add vitamin E. Whip until a creamy consistency.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store in a dark, cool place at a temperature of +4…+10 °C. After opening — use within 21 days. Store in an airtight jar or tube.

Serum — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Indications (Serum): Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, enlarged pores, decreased skin elasticity, dull complexion, early signs of photoaging.

Standard Dosage (Serum): 2–3 drops on cleansed facial skin once a day in the evening. Course — 21 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 2–3 drops 2 times a day (morning and evening) in the presence of pronounced hyperpigmentation, dull skin tone, reduced elasticity.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): 4–5 drops 2 times a day for 5 days in preparation for professional cosmetic procedures (peeling, laser therapy).

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 2 drops once a day every other day, course of 14 days. Recommended for a tendency to photoaging, dull complexion, post-acne.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): Not used under 16 years of age.

Contraindications (Serum): Individual intolerance to components. No data on use during pregnancy and lactation — use only as prescribed by a specialist.

Side Effects (Serum): Burning, redness, slight skin peeling when the dosage is exceeded or in sensitive skin.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required, correction is carried out according to skin sensitivity and type, not body weight.

Preparation Method (Serum): Per 100 ml of finished product: – Aqueous glycerin extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa — 30 ml. – Lavender hydrolate — 50 ml. – Native aloe vera juice — 10 ml. – Fermented rice extract — 5 ml. – Plant-based preservative (e.g., COSGARD) — 1 ml. – Hyaluronic acid (0.5% solution) — 4 ml. Combine the components in a cold sterile state. Stir on a magnetic stirrer until completely homogeneous. Pour into dark glass dropper bottles.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store in a refrigerator at a temperature of +4…+8 °C. Avoid exposure to direct light. Shelf life — 30 days. After opening, use within 14 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Lagerstroemia speciosa

Studies on the toxicity of Lagerstroemia speciosa show a high level of biosafety. In preclinical animal studies, the leaf extract did not cause acute toxic reactions even at high dosages.

The acute oral toxicity value (LD50) of the aqueous extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves in rats exceeded 5000 mg/kg of body weight, which classifies the plant as a practically non-toxic substance.

The absence of lethal effects, mutagenicity, carcinogenicity, and reproductive toxicity with prolonged use is also reported. In studies on rats and mice, no deviations in body weight, hematological and biochemical parameters, as well as in the morphology of internal organs, were recorded.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/p....

Pharmacodynamics — Lagerstroemia speciosa

The pharmacodynamic properties of Lagerstroemia speciosa are formed mainly due to flavonols, ellagitannins, triterpenoids, and phenolic compounds present predominantly in the leaves of the plant. These components demonstrate systemic pharmacological effects, including a modulating effect on enzyme activity, regulation of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

Experimental studies confirm the ability to inhibit key enzymes involved in metabolic cascades, including alpha-glucosidase and lipase. This indicates a peripheral effect of biologically active substances on the processes of hydrolysis and absorption of substrates in the gastrointestinal tract, with a subsequent decrease in the metabolic load on the hepatobiliary system.

At the systemic level, antioxidant activity has been revealed, confirmed by a decrease in the concentration of lipid peroxidation products and an increase in the level of antioxidant enzymes in the blood plasma of laboratory animals. This effect is due to the presence of polyphenols, in particular ellagic acid derivatives, capable of stabilizing cell membranes and preventing oxidative tissue damage.

Immunomodulatory effects have also been registered, manifested in the normalization of the cellular and humoral links of the immune system. During the studies, an increase in macrophage activity, stimulation of interleukin production, and normalization of the ratio of T-helpers and T-suppressors were observed. This indicates a possible effect of the plant components on receptor signaling pathways involved in the regulation of the immune response.

Locally, anti-inflammatory properties are observed, realized through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators (for example, prostaglandins and tumor necrosis factors), as well as a decrease in the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). When applied to the skin or mucous membranes, a decrease in hyperemia, edema, and infiltration is noted.

Some compounds of Lagerstroemia speciosa exhibit a selective effect on endocrine regulation, interacting with signaling mechanisms that regulate tissue sensitivity to insulin. This is due, in particular, to the activation of receptors involved in the transmitting link of the metabolic sensitivity of cells to hormones. Such an effect indicates the possibility of influencing cellular phosphorylation cascades and GLUT transporters.

The combination of the identified effects allows attributing the pharmacodynamic action of Lagerstroemia speciosa components to systemic modulating effects involving the gastrointestinal tract, liver, subcutaneous adipose tissue, skin, immune, and endocrine systems. The main pharmacological targets are enzyme proteins, cell surface receptors, and intracellular signaling proteins involved in the control of metabolic and inflammatory processes.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3065156/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2221169115300716
https://www.semanticscholar.or...

Pharmacokinetics — Lagerstroemia speciosa

The pharmacokinetics of Lagerstroemia speciosa components depend on the form of administration and the category of active substances. With oral administration of powder, dry or alcohol extract, biologically active compounds (primarily flavonoids and tannins) undergo partial absorption in the small intestine. At the same time, a significant part of tannins is capable of binding to proteins of the food contents and mucosa, which limits the rate of absorption.

Flavonoid glycosides contained in the leaves require the participation of intestinal microflora for conversion into active forms (aglycone structures), which indicates the participation of microbiota in the biotransformation and prolongation of the action of these substances. Absorbed compounds enter the portal system of the liver, where conjugation reactions occur (glucuronidation, sulfation), ensuring water solubility and further distribution through the systemic bloodstream.

The distribution of active components occurs predominantly in highly perfused organs: liver, kidneys, spleen, subcutaneous adipose tissue. Certain fractions of flavonoids and triterpenoids tend to accumulate in cells of the reticuloendothelial system. With transdermal application (ointment, cream, serum), the penetration of active compounds is limited to the stratum corneum of the epidermis; however, in the presence of a lipophilic base (coconut oil, jojoba), delivery to the dermal layer with partial absorption into the skin capillaries is possible.

The metabolism of most active components occurs in the liver with the participation of microsomal oxidation enzymes. Tannins and polyphenols can undergo microbial cleavage in the colon with the formation of metabolites with biological activity. Some part of the substances is excreted unchanged in feces.

The main routes of excretion are the kidneys and intestines. Conjugated metabolites of flavonoids are excreted mainly in urine, while high-molecular fractions of tannins and their complexes with proteins — with bile and further with feces. With repeated use, circulation of metabolites along the enterohepatic circle is possible.

A feature of transdermal application is the slowed excretion and the possibility of prolonged action with long-term accumulation in the lipophilic environment of the skin. Rectal and vaginal forms demonstrate a faster systemic effect with partial bypass of first-pass hepatic metabolism.

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

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Lagerstroemia speciosa

The main biologically active compounds of Lagerstroemia speciosa include corosolic acid, ellagitannins, flavonols (in particular quercetin and its glycosides), as well as triterpenoids. These substances have confirmed activity on multiple cellular and molecular targets, including enzyme systems, receptors, and signaling cascades involved in the regulation of metabolic and inflammatory processes.

Corosolic acid and other triterpenoids from the leaves of Lagerstroemia speciosa inhibit the activity of alpha-glucosidase — a key enzyme of the intestinal brush border responsible for the breakdown of complex carbohydrates. This leads to a decrease in the load on the transport systems of enterocytes and an indirect decrease in the concentration of sugars in the systemic circulation. In addition, corosolic acid can activate glucose transporters (GLUT4), enhancing glucose utilization in peripheral tissues. In parallel, a decrease in the expression of lipogenesis enzymes, such as fatty acid synthase and acetyl-CoA carboxylase, is noted, which indicates an effect on genes regulated by PPARγ.

Flavonoid components and ellagitannins exhibit a pronounced antioxidant effect due to the inhibition of lipid oxidation, chelation of metal ions, stabilization of membranes, and suppression of the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In experimental models, a decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β) and suppression of the activation of the transcription factor NF-κB are observed, which determines a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect at the level of cells of the immune system and vascular endothelium. It has also been established that flavonoids from Lagerstroemia speciosa suppress the activity of COX-2 and iNOS, reducing the production of prostaglandins and nitric oxide.

The effect on endocrine regulation may be associated with an effect on the sensitivity of receptors to insulin, as well as a possible modulation of the PI3K/Akt signaling cascade involved in signal transmission from tyrosine kinase receptors. In particular, it has been proven that corosolic acid and related triterpenoids activate phosphorylation of IRS-1 and subsequent activation of GLUT4, ensuring cellular glucose uptake regardless of insulin level.

With topical application of the oil extract and ointment forms of Lagerstroemia speciosa, modulation of local inflammatory processes occurs due to the suppression of cytokine-induced expression of adhesion molecules (for example, ICAM-1) in keratinocytes and endothelial cells. Antiproliferative effects on epidermal cells have also been recorded, which allows the plant to be considered as a source of substances with potential dermoregulatory activity.

Thus, the mechanism of action of Lagerstroemia speciosa is polymodal in nature, including inhibition of digestive enzymes, activation of intracellular signaling pathways, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory modulation, as well as a systemic effect on the regulation of carbohydrate and lipid homeostasis.

References:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3065156/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2221169115300716
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Lagerstroemia-speciosa
https://www.semanticscholar.or...

Synergy — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Scientific studies confirm the pharmacological synergy between the components of Lagerstroemia speciosa and a number of natural and synthetic agents, manifested in the potentiation of antioxidant, metabolic, and anti-inflammatory effects. In particular, combined use with plants containing flavonoids and terpenoids (for example, Momordica charantia, Trigonella foenum-graecum, Camellia sinensis) demonstrates an additive and potentiating effect with respect to antioxidant activity in vitro and in vivo. This is explained by enhanced inhibition of lipid peroxidation and restoration of the level of endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase.

An enhancement of anti-inflammatory activity with combined use with curcumin has also been confirmed, which may be associated with co-inhibition of the NF-κB signaling pathway and a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in macrophages. In a model of systemic inflammation, combined extracts demonstrate a significant decrease in the level of TNF-α and IL-6 compared to monoextracts.

A number of works describe an enhancement of insulin sensitivity with the combined use of Lagerstroemia speciosa and preparations stimulating the PI3K/Akt cascade, which indicates synergy at the level of receptor signal transduction. In addition to this, a functional complementation of action is observed when combined with substances regulating the expression of PPARγ and adiponectin, which enhances the systemic effect on lipid metabolism.

At the skin level, a complementation of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action has been described when combining the oil infusion of Lagerstroemia speciosa with essential oils of lavender and tea tree, which is due to co-inhibition of inflammatory mediators and pronounced antibacterial activity with topical application.

The nature of the interaction between Lagerstroemia speciosa and other substances is predominantly additive and potentiating, with modulation of common signaling cascades (NF-κB, JNK, MAPK) and enzyme systems (COX, LOX, α-glucosidase), as well as with enhancement of antioxidant protection in the cells of the liver, skin, and immune system.

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

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Lagerstroemia speciosa

Lagerstroemia speciosa is traditionally used in the medical and ritual practices of Southeast Asia, especially in India, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. In Philippine folk medicine, the tree is known as "banaba" and is considered one of the most respected plants in traditional phytotherapy. The local population uses the leaves, less often the flowers and bark, to prepare infusions, decoctions, and baths. Such remedies have been used in the home for generations, often as part of women's health practices.

In the Ayurvedic tradition, the plant is known as a remedy affecting the bodily doshas, with an emphasis on normalizing metabolism. It is mentioned in the context of herbalists of North and Central India, as well as in the southern schools of Siddha and Unani. Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves were part of phytocollections used in complex cleansing procedures. Poultices and wraps were made from the bark of the trees, used in the traditional practice of Dravidian peoples to maintain the skin and energy balance of the body.

In Thailand, the plant is included in the national pharmacopoeial list and is actively used in traditional Thai medicine. Lagerstroemia leaves are added to hot compresses and herbal inhalations (luk-pra-khong) along with turmeric, tamarind leaf, and lemongrass. In Thai monasteries, ritual smoking of dried Lagerstroemia leaves is practiced as a means of purifying the spirit before meditation, especially on lunar days of retreats. In the temples of northern Thailand, the tree is planted near springs and wells, attributing energetically cleansing properties to it.

In the southern regions of Vietnam and Laos, the leaves and flowers of Lagerstroemia speciosa were collected by women during the off-season to prepare ritual decoctions used after childbirth. In local legends, the tree is associated with female longevity and resistance to external influences. Its image is found in drawings on fabric and in decorative carvings, where it is considered a symbol of calm and harmony.

In ritual practice, the tree was attributed with the properties of protecting the home from evil spirits. Dried fragments of bark were hung at the entrance to the house, especially during the monsoon season. It is believed that Lagerstroemia has the ability to absorb negative influences through the leaves, especially during the full moon. In Sri Lanka, the tree is included in festive compositions during spring ceremonies in honor of the renewal of the life cycle.

Despite the wide geography of use, documentary written sources about the plant are recorded in South Indian herbals no earlier than the 11th century. In one of the manuscripts in the Tamil language, the use of the Lagerstroemia leaf as part of pastes for "softening the body" and "pacifying the blood" is mentioned, which indicates the deep integration of the plant into ancient healing schools.