Named Bioactive Compounds · Compound
Astilbin
Moderate Evidencecompound3 PubMed Studies
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Astilbin is a flavonoid glycoside primarily found in Smilax glabra that demonstrates potent anti-inflammatory activity through inhibition of NF-κB signaling pathways. This bioactive compound specifically suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in rheumatoid arthritis models.
Astilbin is a dihydroflavonol flavonoid primarily isolated from the stems of Psychotria strychnifolia and the rhizome of Smilax glabra Roxb. (tufuling in traditional Chinese medicine). It is extracted from plant stem or rhizome materials, with rapid oral absorption confirmed in pharmacokinetic studies.
No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses on astilbin have been conducted. Evidence is limited to preclinical studies including rat models of arthritis showing anti-inflammatory effects comparable to leflunomide at 5.7 mg/kg oral dosing, and in vitro cancer cell studies demonstrating apoptosis induction.
No clinically studied human dosages exist. Preclinical rat studies used 5.7 mg/kg orally for anti-inflammatory effects. In vitro studies used 50-100 μM concentrations. Pharmacokinetic studies show rapid absorption (15 minutes) but very low bioavailability (0.32%). Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Astilbin is a pure bioactive flavonoid compound (specifically a flavanonol/dihydroflavonol glycoside), not a whole food or nutritional source, and therefore does not contain macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, or dietary fiber in any meaningful context. Molecular formula: C21H22O11; molecular weight: 454.39 g/mol. It is the 3-O-rhamnoside of taxifolin (dihydroquercetin), consisting of a taxifolin aglycone core linked to a rhamnose sugar unit. Bioactive compound concentration in natural sources: Found in Smilax glabra rhizome (Tu Fu Ling) at approximately 0.1–1.2% dry weight, and detectable in Astilbe species, Engelhardia roxburghiana, and certain grape/wine matrices at lower concentrations (trace to 0.05% dry weight). As an isolated compound used in research, it is evaluated at doses of 5.7 mg/kg in animal models. Bioavailability: Oral bioavailability is moderate; the rhamnoside bond is cleaved by intestinal microbiota to release the aglycone taxifolin, which is more readily absorbed. Peak plasma concentration in rodent studies achieved within 1–2 hours post-oral administration. Lipophilicity (LogP ≈ 1.0–1.5) supports partial passive intestinal absorption. First-pass hepatic metabolism is notable, with glucuronidated and sulfated metabolites identified as primary circulating forms. Protein binding estimated at 70–80% in preliminary studies. No caloric, protein, fat, or carbohydrate contribution is applicable given its use as an isolated phytochemical compound rather than a food ingredient.
Astilbin exerts its anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing Toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated NF-κB signaling cascades, which are central to inflammatory responses. The compound directly inhibits the production of key pro-inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). This mechanism involves blocking the nuclear translocation of NF-κB transcription factors, thereby reducing inflammatory gene expression.
Current evidence for astilbin comes primarily from preclinical animal studies, with no published human clinical trials available. In adjuvant-induced arthritis rat models, astilbin at 5.7 mg/kg demonstrated anti-inflammatory efficacy comparable to the pharmaceutical drug leflunomide. These studies showed significant reductions in inflammatory markers and joint swelling, but human safety and efficacy data remain lacking. The evidence strength is limited to animal research and requires clinical validation.
Safety data for astilbin in humans is extremely limited due to the absence of clinical trials. No specific drug interactions have been documented, though theoretical interactions with immunosuppressive medications may exist given its anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established. Individuals with autoimmune conditions or those taking anti-inflammatory medications should consult healthcare providers before use.
