Aralu (Ailanthus excelsa)

Aralu (Ailanthus excelsa) contains the bioactive triterpenoid AECHL-1, which demonstrates anticancer activity by inhibiting tumor cell proliferation and reducing tumor volume. The stem bark extracts also exhibit anti-inflammatory properties through mechanisms that reduce inflammatory markers in preclinical studies.

Origin & History

Aralu refers to the stem bark, root bark, or other parts of Ailanthus excelsa Roxb., native to India and Southeast Asia. The plant is extracted using solvents like methanol or water to produce bioactive fractions rich in triterpenoids and alkaloids.

Historical & Cultural Context

In Ayurveda, Ailanthus excelsa has been used traditionally for treating asthma, bronchitis, and colic pain. It is also used in remedies for malaria and fungal infections, highlighting its longstanding role in South Asian herbal medicine.

Health Benefits

• Potential anticancer effects: AECHL-1 triterpenoid inhibits cancer cell proliferation in vitro and reduces tumor volume in mice, comparable to paclitaxel and cisplatin (PMID: 19399188).
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Stem bark extracts reduce inflammation in rat models (100-200 mg/kg orally).
• Bronchodilator effects: Aqueous extracts act as H1-antagonists, aiding asthma and bronchitis relief.
• Anti-obesity potential: Ethyl acetate fractions inhibit metabolic enzymes like lipase and HMG-CoA reductase.
• Anti-plasmodial activity: Demonstrated action against chloroquine-sensitive malaria strains.

How It Works

AECHL-1 triterpenoid from Aralu inhibits cancer cell proliferation through cytotoxic mechanisms that interfere with cellular growth pathways. The anti-inflammatory effects occur via reduction of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines. These compounds appear to modulate cellular signaling pathways involved in inflammation and tumorigenesis.

Scientific Research

No human clinical trials or RCTs have been found for Ailanthus excelsa. Evidence is limited to preclinical studies such as in vitro cell lines and in vivo animal models, indicating promising anticancer and anti-inflammatory effects.

Clinical Summary

Research on Aralu is primarily limited to in vitro and animal studies. The AECHL-1 compound showed anticancer effects comparable to paclitaxel and cisplatin in mouse tumor models. Anti-inflammatory activity was demonstrated in rat studies at doses of 100-200 mg/kg orally. No human clinical trials have been conducted to establish safety or efficacy in humans.

Nutritional Profile

Ailanthus excelsa (Aralu) is a medicinal plant whose nutritional composition has been partially characterized, with primary research focus on its bioactive phytochemicals rather than conventional macronutrient profiling. Known constituents include: BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS: Triterpenoids — AECHL-1 (ailanthexcelsin), a key quassinoid-type triterpenoid identified as the principal anticancer compound; ailanthone and related quassinoids present in bark and leaves. Alkaloids — canthin-6-one derivatives detected in stem bark extracts. Flavonoids — quercetin and rutin reported in leaf and bark fractions (approximate concentration: 12–18 mg/g dry weight in crude extracts, though precise values vary by extraction method). Tannins — condensed tannins present in bark (estimated 6–10% w/w in crude bark powder). Saponins — detected qualitatively in multiple plant parts. Sterols — beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol identified in lipid fractions. PROXIMATE COMPOSITION (bark/leaf, limited data): Crude fiber content of bark estimated at 15–25% dry weight; protein content of leaves reported in the range of 8–12% dry weight in related Ailanthus species (direct A. excelsa data limited). Moisture content of fresh bark approximately 60–70%. MINERALS: Calcium, potassium, and magnesium have been detected in ash analysis of related species; specific quantified values for A. excelsa are not well-documented in peer-reviewed literature. BIOAVAILABILITY NOTES: Aqueous and ethanol extracts of stem bark are the primary delivery forms studied; oral bioavailability of AECHL-1 is suggested by in vivo efficacy at 100–200 mg/kg in rodent models, though human pharmacokinetic data are absent. Tannin content may reduce mineral bioavailability when consumed as decoctions.

Preparation & Dosage

In animal studies, AECHL-1 was dosed at 50 µg/mouse/day subcutaneously. Anti-inflammatory effects were seen with 100-200 mg/kg oral doses in rats. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

Synergy & Pairings

Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Ginger, Tulsi, Licorice

Safety & Interactions

Safety data for Aralu in humans is lacking due to absence of clinical trials. Potential side effects, drug interactions, and contraindications have not been systematically studied. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety is unknown and should be avoided. Given the potent bioactive compounds, consultation with healthcare providers is recommended before use.