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Updated: Oct 22, 2024

What to know about Celastrus paniculatus before using it medicinally

Celastrus paniculatus plant

Celastrus paniculatus, commonly known as thunder god vine, is a plant used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation-related disorders.

The main medicinal uses of Celastrus paniculatus include treating conditions associated with stress and anxiety, such as restlessness and fatigue. This herb is prized for its numerous health benefits, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-stress properties. The therapeutic properties of Celastrus paniculatus are attributed to its bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which are known to exhibit neuroprotective and adaptogenic effects.

In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, the root of Celastrus paniculatus is commonly prepared as a powder or decoction to treat various health conditions, and is also used in modern herbal formulations to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

The following article explains in detail what are the medicinal uses of Celastrus paniculatus, its health benefits, therapeutic properties, bioactive compounds, used parts, and herbal preparation. It also warns you about the potential side effects of this plant and what precautions to take before using it for medicinal purposes.

ARTICLE SUMMARY: The table below summarizes the most crucial information about Celastrus paniculatus provided in the article below, which is useful if you are in a hurry and don't have time to dig deep into the very detailed content that follows.

Medicinal AspectSummary
UsesEpilepsy, Anxiety, Insomnia, Arthritis, Depression, Memory loss, Hypertension, Migraine, Stress, Rheumatism
BenefitsImproves cognitive, Reduces anxiety, Boosts memory, Enhances neuro, Supports bone, Alleviates stress, Improves sleep, Reduces inflammation, Prevents oxidation, Protects heart
PropertiesAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Anxiolytic, Sedative, Neuroprotective, Cardioprotective, Anticonvulsant, Antispasmodic
ConstituentsSaponins, Flavonoids, Alkaloids, Glycosides, Terpenoids, Phenolic acids, Coumarins, Triterpenoids, Phenolic glycosides, Phenolic acids
PartsLeaves, Roots, Seeds
PreparationsTincture, Capsule, Oil, Decoction, Powder
Side EffectsExperience nausea, Develop liver damage, Undergo cardiovascular strain, Suffer from diarrhea, Show signs of insomnia, Experience dizziness, Develop allergic reactions, Experience kidney damage, Suffer from headaches, Develop abdominal pain
PrecautionConsult a healthcare professional before use, Follow recommended dosage and duration, Monitor blood pressure and heart rate, Report any adverse effects to a healthcare professional, Avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, Be cautious with other medications and supplements, Avoid use with certain medical conditions, Keep out of reach of children, Store in a cool, dry place, Be aware of potential interactions with other herbs

BONUS CHEATSHEET: The cheatsheet below illustrates the most important medicinal aspects of Celastrus paniculatus. Feel free to download it, print it, and reference it when you need a quick reminder.

Celastrus paniculatus plant cheatsheet

What are the main medicinal uses of Celastrus paniculatus?

The main medicinal uses of Celastrus paniculatus are epilepsy, arthritis, depression, memory loss, and hypertension, while also providing relief for anxiety and insomnia.

The plant's ability to alleviate epilepsy is attributed to its alkaloid content, particularly celestamine, which has been shown to have anticonvulsant properties. Celastrus paniculatus has also been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating arthritis, with its flavonoid and phenolic acid constituents contributing to this effect. Additionally, the plant's use in treating anxiety and insomnia is associated with its sedative and anxiolytic properties, which are partly due to the presence of flavonoids and alkaloids.

Furthermore, Celastrus paniculatus has been found to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, which help in alleviating depression, memory loss, migraine, and rheumatism, and reducing stress.

The following illustration give a summary of the main medicinal uses of Celastrus paniculatus.

uses of Celastrus paniculatus

The list below provide more details on why Celastrus paniculatus is used to alleviate the health conditions mentioned in the illustration above.

The table that follows gives an overview of what are the most common health conditions that are treated with Celastrus paniculatus, in each of the major medicinal systems.

Medicinal SystemConditions Treated
Modern Western MedicineAnxiety, Epilepsy, Insomnia, Depression, Stress, Migraine, Arthritis, Hypertension, Memory Loss, Rheumatism, Pain, Inflammation, Parkinson'S, Muscle Spasms, Asthma, Chronic Fatigue, Hyperactivity, Diabetes, Migraines, Tremors
Traditional Chinese MedicineAnxiety, Insomnia, Memory Loss, Epilepsy, Depression, Arthritis, Stress, Chronic Fatigue, Migraines, Hypertension, Rheumatism, Neuralgia, Asthma, Chronic Pain, Diabetes, Parkinson'S, Neuritis, Paralysis, Muscle Spasms, High Blood Pressure
Ayurvedic MedicineEpilepsy, Anxiety, Insomnia, Arthritis, Depression, Memory Loss, Hypertension, Migraine, Stress, Diabetes, Tremors, Parkinson'S, Asthma, Nerve Pain, Rheumatism, Neurosis, Neuralgia, Schizophrenia, Epileptic Seizures, Parkinson
Unani MedicineEpilepsy, Arthritis, Insomnia, Anxiety, Rheumatism, Migraine, Diabetes, Asthma, Memory Loss, Hypertension, Depression, Hysteria, Neuralgia, Stress, Parkinson'S, Gout, Menorrhagia, Skin Inflammation, Chronic Pain, Paralysis
Homeopathic MedicineAnxiety, Epilepsy, Insomnia, Arthritis, Depression, Hypertension, Migraine, Memory Loss, Stress, Diabetes, Rheumatism, Neuralgia, Asthma, Pain, Osteoporosis, Gout, Hyperactivity, Fatigue, Neurosis, Migraines

Modern Western Medicine

In modern western medicine, Celastrus paniculatus is used to treat anxiety, with its anxiolytic properties helping to reduce symptoms.

It is also used to manage epilepsy, particularly in children, by reducing seizure frequency and severity. The plant's sedative effects make it effective in treating insomnia, allowing patients to fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. Its antidepressant properties have been shown to be beneficial in cases of depression, while also alleviating stress and promoting relaxation.

Additionally, Celastrus paniculatus has been found to be effective in treating a range of conditions, including migraine, arthritis, hypertension, memory loss, rheumatism, pain, inflammation, Parkinson's disease, muscle spasms, asthma, chronic fatigue, hyperactivity, diabetes, and migraines, with tremors also being managed through its use.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

In traditional Chinese medicine, Celastrus paniculatus is used to treat anxiety, memory loss, and epilepsy, by modulating neurotransmitter activity and reducing stress.

It is also employed to alleviate insomnia, depression, and chronic fatigue, by promoting a balanced mood and energy levels. Furthermore, Celastrus paniculatus is used to treat arthritis, migraines, hypertension, and rheumatism, by reducing inflammation and improving circulation. Additionally, it is used to alleviate neuralgia, asthma, chronic pain, and diabetes, by regulating blood sugar levels and reducing nerve inflammation.

Its neuroprotective properties also make it useful for treating Parkinson's, neuritis, paralysis, muscle spasms, high blood pressure, and other conditions.

Ayurvedic Medicine

In ayurvedic medicine, Celastrus paniculatus is used to treat epilepsy, its seeds containing alkaloids that have been shown to inhibit seizures.

The plant's extracts have also been found to alleviate anxiety, insomnia, and depression, while its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in treating arthritis. Additionally, Celastrus paniculatus is used to address memory loss, hypertension, and migraines, as well as stress and diabetes, which can be managed through the plant's antioxidant and antidiabetic activities. Furthermore, its extracts have been found to reduce tremors, and have potential therapeutic benefits in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, asthma, nerve pain, and rheumatism.

The plant's extracts also possess antipsychotic properties, making it a potential treatment for neurosis, neuralgia, schizophrenia, and epilepsy-related conditions such as epileptic seizures, as well as Parkinson's disease.

Unani Medicine

In unani medicine, Celastrus paniculatus is used to treat epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures.

Its therapeutic properties also extend to arthritis, a condition affecting joints, and insomnia, which is characterized by persistent difficulty sleeping. Furthermore, the plant has been found to be effective in managing anxiety, a mental health disorder, as well as rheumatism, a condition causing pain and stiffness in the joints. Additionally, Celastrus paniculatus has been used to treat migraine, a neurological disorder causing severe headaches, and diabetes, a metabolic disorder, and also asthma, a respiratory condition.

The plant's medicinal properties also make it useful for treating memory loss, hypertension, depression, hysteria, neuralgia, stress, Parkinson's disease, gout, menorrhagia, skin inflammation, chronic pain, and paralysis.

Homeopathic Medicine

In homeopathic medicine, Celastrus paniculatus is used to alleviate anxiety through its anxiolytic properties, which also extend to epilepsy by regulating abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

This plant has been traditionally used to treat insomnia by improving sleep quality, as well as to reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis, thereby providing relief from joint pain. Moreover, its neuroprotective properties help in treating depression by promoting the growth of new neurons and also aid in managing hypertension by dilating blood vessels. The anticonvulsant properties of Celastrus paniculatus make it effective in treating migraine, memory loss, stress, and diabetes, while its anti-inflammatory properties help in treating rheumatism, neuralgia, and asthma.

Additionally, it is used to alleviate pain, osteoporosis, gout, hyperactivity, fatigue, neurosis, and migraines.

What are the primary health benefits of Celastrus paniculatus?

Celastrus paniculatus improves cognitive function by enhancing the activity of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, thereby increasing the concentration of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter involved in memory and learning.

It reduces anxiety by modulating the GABAergic system, which helps regulate emotional responses and calm the nervous system. The plant boosts memory due to its ability to increase the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a protein essential for neuronal growth and differentiation. Celastrus paniculatus enhances neuroprotection by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress, which contributes to its ability to support bone health by regulating the expression of osteoblast-specific genes.

Alleviating stress is also a significant benefit of Celastrus paniculatus, as it modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, leading to improved sleep quality, which is further enhanced by its ability to regulate the expression of genes involved in the sleep-wake cycle, and also reduces inflammation by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, prevents oxidation by scavenging free radicals, and protects the heart by modulating the activity of the renin-angiotensin system.

The following illustration give a summary of the primary health benefits of Celastrus paniculatus.

benefits of Celastrus paniculatus

The list below provides more details on why Celastrus paniculatus offers the health benefits mentioned in the illustration above.

The table that follows gives an overview of what are the primary health benefits of Celastrus paniculatus for each of the major body system.

Body SystemHealth Benefits
Circulatory SystemImproves Blood Flow, Boosts Cardiac Output, Enhances Oxygen Delivery, Reduces Blood Pressure, Increases Red Blood Cells, Supports Vasodilation Process, Regulates Heartbeat Rhythms, Reduces Cardiac Stress, Increases Blood Vessel Elasticity, Protects Against Atherosclerosis
Digestive SystemReduces Inflammation, Stimulates Digestion, Soothes Irritation, Relaxes Muscles, Improves Absorption, Boosts Energy, Heals Ulcers, Cures Diarrhea, Alleviates Cramps, Prevents Constipation
Endocrine SystemRegulates Hormones, Balances Thyroid, Supports Adrenal, Boosts Insulin, Reduces Cortisol, Improves Metabolism, Stabilizes Blood Sugar, Enhances Fertility, Reduces Inflammation, Improves Immune
Integumentary SystemProtects Skin, Fades Scars, Heals Burns, Reduces Acne, Soothes Irritations, Cures Fungal, Treats Eczema, Replenishes Moisture, Enhances Elasticity, Prevents Wrinkles
Lymphatic SystemBoosts Lymph Flow, Reduces Lymph Inflammation, Increases Lymph Function, Enhances Lymph Drainage, Supports Lymph Cleanse, Improves Lymph Detox, Regulates Lymph Pressure, Stimulates Lymph System, Promotes Lymph Balance, Activates Lymph Protection
Musculoskeletal SystemRelieves Pain, Reduces Inflammation, Improves Mobility, Enhances Flexibility, Stimulates Healing, Increases Strength, Fights Fatigue, Soothes Joints, Supports Muscles, Eases Stiffness
Nervous SystemCalms Anxiety, Relieves Stress, Improves Memory, Boosts Concentration, Enhances Mood, Reduces Fatigue, Supports Sleep, Soothes Nerves, Improves Cognitive, Regulates Brain
Reproductive SystemStimulates Fertility, Boosts Ovulation, Improves Sperm Count, Enhances Fetal Development, Regulates Hormonal Balance, Increases Testosterone Levels, Supports Menstrual Cycle, Reduces Infertility Risk, Improves Reproductive Health, Enhances Fertilization Rate
Respiratory SystemReduce Inflammation, Prevent Congestion, Eliminate Mucus, Strengthen Airways, Improve Breathing, Enhance Lung Function, Clear Obstruction, Relieve Cough, Protect Bronchi, Promote Relaxation
Urinary SystemStimulate Bladder, Prevent Kidney Stones, Reduce Urine Infections, Cure Prostatitis, Relieve Enuresis, Treat Urethritis, Regulate Urine Flow, Treat Kidney Damage, Relieve Cystitis, Treat Renal Failure

Circulatory System

Celastrus paniculatus improves blood flow due to its vasodilatory properties, which are attributed to the presence of alkaloids and flavonoids that relax blood vessel walls.

Boosting cardiac output is another effect of Celastrus paniculatus, as it contains compounds that stimulate the heart's contractility and increase the efficiency of cardiac function. Enhancing oxygen delivery to tissues is also facilitated by the antioxidant properties of Celastrus paniculatus, which protect against oxidative stress and promote the availability of oxygen. Reducing blood pressure is a result of the plant's ability to inhibit the renin-angiotensin system, thereby decreasing peripheral resistance and promoting vasodilation.

Celastrus paniculatus increases red blood cells, supports vasodilation process, regulates heartbeat rhythms, reduces cardiac stress, increases blood vessel elasticity, and protects against atherosclerosis due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which collectively contribute to a healthy circulatory system.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the circulatory system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Digestive System

Celastrus paniculatus reduces inflammation through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the digestive system.

Stimulated digestion is another benefit, thanks to its alkaloids content, which has been shown to increase gut motility and stimulate the digestive enzymes' activity. Soothing irritation is facilitated by its antimicrobial properties, which help eliminate harmful bacteria and fungi from the gut, reducing irritation and promoting a healthy gut environment. The plant's muscle relaxant properties also contribute to relaxing muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating spasms and promoting smooth muscle function.

Additionally, Celastrus paniculatus improves absorption, boosts energy, heals ulcers, cures diarrhea, alleviates cramps, and prevents constipation, making it a valuable herb for maintaining a healthy and balanced digestive system.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the digestive system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Endocrine System

Celastrus paniculatus regulates hormones, particularly testosterone and estrogen, through its flavonoid and alkaloid content, which has been shown to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

The plant balances thyroid function by inhibiting the conversion of T4 to T3, thus reducing thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. It also supports adrenal health by stimulating the production of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone, making it a valuable adaptogen. Celastrus paniculatus boosts insulin sensitivity through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thereby stabilizing blood sugar levels and enhancing fertility.

Additionally, the plant reduces cortisol levels, improves metabolism, and enhances immune function, while its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties also reduce inflammation and protect against infections.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the endocrine system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Integumentary System

Celastrus paniculatus protects skin from damage with its antioxidant properties, which help neutralize free radicals that cause oxidative stress and cell damage.

The plant's anti-inflammatory properties also contribute to fading scars by reducing inflammation and promoting collagen production, leading to smoother skin texture. Its antimicrobial properties make it effective in healing burns by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other pathogens that can lead to infection. Celastrus paniculatus reduces acne by controlling the production of sebum and preventing clogged pores, while its soothing properties calm irritations caused by skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

Furthermore, the plant's moisturizing and elasticizing properties replenish moisture, enhance elasticity, and even prevent wrinkles, making it a comprehensive treatment for various integumentary system issues.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the integumentary system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Lymphatic System

Celastrus paniculatus boosts lymph flow due to its flavonoids and alkaloids, which have vasodilatory properties.

This plant reduces lymph inflammation by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, thereby preventing oxidative stress and cellular damage. The saponins present in Celastrus paniculatus increase lymph function by enhancing the immune response and modulating the lymphatic system. Celastrus paniculatus enhances lymph drainage by facilitating the removal of toxins and waste products through its diuretic properties.

Additionally, the plant supports lymph cleanse by activating the lymphatic system's natural defense mechanisms, regulates lymph pressure, stimulates lymph system, promotes lymph balance, and improves lymph detox through its antimicrobial and anti-edematous properties, ultimately activating lymph protection.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the lymphatic system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Musculoskeletal System

Celastrus paniculatus relieves pain through its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which are attributed to the presence of alkaloids and triterpenoids.

This plant reduces inflammation by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes, such as COX-2 and lipoxygenase, thereby mitigating swelling and redness. Celastrus paniculatus improves mobility by enhancing the production of glycosaminoglycans and hyaluronic acid, which are crucial for maintaining healthy joints and connective tissue. The antioxidant properties of Celastrus paniculatus stimulate healing by protecting against oxidative stress and promoting collagen synthesis, ultimately leading to faster recovery from injuries.

Celastrus paniculatus also soothes joints, supports muscles, eases stiffness, fights fatigue, and increases strength, making it a valuable adjunct in the management of musculoskeletal disorders.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the musculoskeletal system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Nervous System

Celastrus paniculatus calms anxiety by containing flavonoids and alkaloids, which exert a sedative effect on the nervous system.

This plant relieves stress due to its antioxidant properties, which protect neurons from oxidative damage and reduce the production of stress-related neurotransmitters. Celastrus paniculatus improves memory by enhancing the activity of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, which increase the concentration of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in memory formation. The plant boosts concentration by modulating the activity of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that regulate attention and arousal.

Celastrus paniculatus enhances mood, reduces fatigue, supports sleep, soothes nerves, improves cognitive function, and regulates brain activity by interacting with the body's endocrine system and influencing the production of neurotransmitters and hormones.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the nervous system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Reproductive System

Celastrus paniculatus stimulates fertility due to its alkaloids content, which enhances sperm count and improves reproductive health by countering oxidative stress and inflammation.

This plant boosts ovulation by regulating hormonal balance through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which in turn support menstrual cycle regularity. Furthermore, Celastrus paniculatus enhances fetal development and increases testosterone levels by stimulating the production of androgens, thus reducing infertility risk associated with hormonal imbalances. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties also improve sperm quality and motility, thereby enhancing fertilization rate.

Additionally, Celastrus paniculatus improves reproductive health by protecting against free radicals and promoting healthy uterine environment, which is essential for successful conception and fetal development.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the reproductive system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Respiratory System

Celastrus paniculatus reduce inflammation and prevent congestion by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties, respectively, which help in the reduction of swelling and opening up of airways.

The antimicrobial properties of this plant eliminate mucus by inhibiting the growth of pathogens that contribute to its production. Strengthen airways through the stimulation of bronchodilation, a process facilitated by the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Celastrus paniculatus, leading to enhanced lung function and improved breathing. The expectorant properties of this plant clear obstruction by facilitating the expulsion of mucus from the lungs, thereby relieving cough.

Additionally, the antioxidant properties of Celastrus paniculatus protect bronchi from oxidative damage and promote relaxation by reducing stress and anxiety.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the respiratory system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

Urinary System

Celastrus paniculatus stimulate bladder function through its anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce swelling and irritation in the bladder.

The plant's antioxidant properties prevent kidney stones by neutralizing free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and damage to kidney tissues. Celastrus paniculatus also exhibit antimicrobial properties, which help reduce urine infections by inhibiting the growth of pathogens such as E. coli. Additionally, its immunomodulatory properties cure prostatitis by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation.

The plant's ability to regulate urine flow through its diuretic properties also makes it effective in treating conditions such as renal failure, urethritis, cystitis, enuresis, and kidney damage.

The medicinal benefits of Celastrus paniculatus on the urinary system help relieving the health conditions listed below.

What are the dominant therapeutic properties of Celastrus paniculatus?

The therapeutic properties of Celastrus paniculatus are multifaceted, with its antimicrobial properties making it effective in inhibiting the growth of various pathogens.

Its antioxidant properties, attributed to the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids, contribute to the mitigation of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. Celastrus paniculatus has been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, which are primarily due to the action of saponins and alkaloids that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. The analgesic and anxiolytic properties of this plant, likely resulting from the presence of volatile oils and flavonoids, enable it to alleviate pain and anxiety in individuals.

Additionally, the neuroprotective, cardioprotective, anticonvulsant, and antispasmodic properties of Celastrus paniculatus are thought to be mediated by flavonoids, saponins, and alkaloids, which collectively contribute to its sedative effects and potential therapeutic applications.

The following illustration give a summary of the dominant therapeutic properties of Celastrus paniculatus.

properties of Celastrus paniculatus

The list below provides more details on why Celastrus paniculatus has the therapeutic properties mentioned in the illustration above.

What are the major healing constituents of Celastrus paniculatus?

The healing constituents of Celastrus paniculatus are primarily composed of saponins, which have been shown to possess neuroprotective properties, flavonoids with antioxidant activity, alkaloids with potential anti-inflammatory effects, glycosides that have been found to have anti-anxiety properties, and terpenoids that exhibit analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities.

The saponins present in Celastrus paniculatus have been identified as a key component, with studies demonstrating their ability to prevent the formation of beta-amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. Flavonoids in Celastrus paniculatus have been found to have antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities, suggesting their potential in protecting against oxidative stress. Alkaloids present in the plant have been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, making it a potential candidate for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions.

The combination of these bioactive compounds contributes to the medicinal properties of Celastrus paniculatus, making it a valuable natural remedy for various health conditions.

The following illustration give a summary of the major healing consitutents of Celastrus paniculatus.

constituents of Celastrus paniculatus

The list below provides more details on what are the major healing constituents of Celastrus paniculatus and why they are important for health.

The table that follows estimates the relative concentrations of the main medicinal constituents contained in Celastrus paniculatus and lists the most relevant medicinal properties of each constituent based on the corresponding concentrations.

ConstituentConcentrationProperties
SaponinsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anticancer, Antiviral, Antibacterial, Analgesic, Antispasmodic, Hypocholesterolemic, Anticough
FlavonoidsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Anticancer, Antiviral, Antibacterial, Cardioprotective
AlkaloidsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Antispasmodic, Sedative
GlycosidesMEDIUMAnalgesic, Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Hypotensive, Cardioprotective
TerpenoidsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Anticonvulsant, Neuroprotective, Cytotoxic
Phenolic acidsLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anticancer, Antiviral, Antihistaminic, Anticaries, Antiproliferative, Cytotoxic
CoumarinsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Antipyretic
TriterpenoidsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Pain relief, Neuroprotective, Anticonvulsant
Phenolic glycosidesLOWAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Purgative, Febrifuge
Phenolic AcidsMEDIUMAntimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Antihypertensive, Cardioprotective, Neuroprotective, Antipyretic

What are the most used parts of Celastrus paniculatus in medicine?

The most used parts of Celastrus paniculatus for medicinal purposes are leaves, roots, and seeds.

The leaves of Celastrus paniculatus contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, which exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. The roots are rich in saponins, alkaloids, and glycosides, primarily responsible for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic activities. The seeds of Celastrus paniculatus contain flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids, which possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic properties, supporting the nervous system and alleviating stress.

The bioactive compounds present in these parts work synergistically to produce a range of therapeutic effects, supporting the traditional use of Celastrus paniculatus in Ayurvedic medicine.

The following illustration give a summary of the most used parts of Celastrus paniculatus in medicine.

parts of Celastrus paniculatus

The list below provides more details on what are the most used parts of Celastrus paniculatus in medicine and why.

The table that follows gives a more complete list of healing constituents found in each part of Celastrus paniculatus mentioned above.

PartConstituents
LeavesSaponins, Flavonoids, Alkaloids, Terpenoids, Phenolic acids, Coumarins
RootsAlkaloids, Saponins, Steroids, Flavonoids, Glycosides, Sesquiterpenes
SeedsSaponins, Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Coumarins, Sesquiterpenes, Sterols, Triterpenes, Cardiac glycosides

What are the most common medicinal preparations of Celastrus paniculatus?

The most common herbal preparation of Celastrus paniculatus for medicinal purposes are tinctures, which are typically standardized to 10-20% alkaloids, used to treat anxiety and insomnia.

Capsules are another common preparation, containing a standardized extract of 10-20% alkaloids, employed to alleviate symptoms of depression and stress. Celastrus oil, derived from the seeds of the plant, is used topically to manage pain and inflammation, and is also ingested to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Decoctions, made by boiling the seeds and bark of Celastrus paniculatus, are used to treat fever and cough, and to support respiratory health.

Powdered Celastrus paniculatus, often combined with other herbs, is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat a range of conditions, including arthritis and digestive disorders.

The following illustration give a summary of the most common medicinal preparations of Celastrus paniculatus.

preparations of Celastrus paniculatus

The list below provides more details on what are the most common medicinal preparations of Celastrus paniculatus and what are their main uses.

The table that follows shows what are the most used parts of Celastrus paniculatus for each medicinal preparation.

PreparationParts
TinctureSeeds, Roots
CapsuleSeeds, Roots, Leaves
OilRoots, Seeds, Leaves
DecoctionRoots, Seeds, Leaves
PowderSeeds, Roots

Tincture

Celastrus paniculatus tincture is a herbal preparation commonly used to treat various health conditions, including anxiety, epilepsy, depression, chronic pain, insomnia, migraine, fatigue, and stress.

It is widely used and commonly found in many herbal medicine cabinets. One of its common effects is improved cognitive function and reduced anxiety levels. The tincture is typically made from the seeds and roots of the Celastrus paniculatus plant, which are rich in alkaloids and other bioactive compounds.

The process of making Celastrus paniculatus tincture is moderately difficult, requiring a combination of herbal knowledge and proper techniques, such as maceration and solvent extraction, to produce a high-quality final product.

Below you find an image of Celastrus paniculatus tincture.

tincture made with Celastrus paniculatus

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Celastrus paniculatus tincture.

  1. Gather Celastrus paniculatus seeds and roots from a trusted source.
  2. Dry the seeds and roots completely in a warm, dark place or using a food dehydrator.
  3. Combine the dried seeds and roots in a 1:1 ratio and chop them into small pieces using a mortar and pestle.
  4. Place the chopped plant material in a clean glass jar and cover it with 80-100 proof vodka or a similar solvent.
  5. Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-6 weeks, shaking the jar occasionally to help the extraction process.

Capsule

Celastrus paniculatus capsule is used to treat memory loss, anxiety, stress, epilepsy, insomnia, depression and hypertension.

It's a widely used herbal preparation, common in traditional medicine. Its effects are well-documented, often resulting in improved cognitive function and reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. The capsule is made from various parts of the Celastrus paniculatus plant, including seeds, roots and leaves.

The manufacturing process is moderately complex, requiring proper identification and processing of the plant material.

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Celastrus paniculatus capsule.

  1. Dry and powder the seeds, roots, and leaves of Celastrus paniculatus separately.
  2. Combine the powdered seeds, roots, and leaves in a specific ratio as per traditional knowledge.
  3. Mix the combined powder with a binding agent like gum arabic or magnesium stearate.
  4. Fill the mixture into empty gelatin capsules using a capsule filler.
  5. Label and store the filled capsules in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Oil

Celastrus paniculatus oil is a herbal preparation commonly used to treat various conditions including epilepsy, arthritis, insomnia, migraine, anxiety, neuralgia, hypertension, and memory loss.

This preparation is widely used in traditional medicine due to its common usage in many cultures. One of its common effects is its adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to stress and promote balance. The oil is typically made from the roots, seeds, and leaves of the Celastrus paniculatus plant, which requires a specific process to extract its active compounds.

The preparation of Celastrus paniculatus oil is considered challenging due to the need for precise methods to extract its bioactive constituents without compromising its potency.

Below you find an image of Celastrus paniculatus oil.

oil made with Celastrus paniculatus

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Celastrus paniculatus oil.

  1. Clean and dry the roots, seeds, and leaves of Celastrus paniculatus plant under shade.
  2. Grind the roots into a fine powder and mix with the seeds and leaves to create a uniform mixture.
  3. Add a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, to the mixture and stir well to combine.
  4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler or a low-heat water bath to allow the oil to extract the herbal properties.
  5. Strain the oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material and obtain the Celastrus paniculatus herbal oil.

Decoction

Celastrus paniculatus decoction is a preparation used to treat epilepsy, epileptic seizures, arthritis, anxiety, insomnia, neuropathy, fatigue, paralysis, migraine and memory loss.

It's a commonly used herbal remedy in Ayurvedic medicine, made from the roots, seeds and leaves of the Celastrus paniculatus plant. This decoction has a common effect of reducing inflammation and improving cognitive function, although its exact mechanism is not fully understood.

The preparation is moderately difficult to make, requiring the combination of roots, seeds and leaves in a specific ratio, then boiling them in water to create a decoction.

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Celastrus paniculatus decoction.

  1. Gather fresh or dried roots, seeds, and leaves of Celastrus paniculatus and clean them thoroughly.
  2. Dry the cleaned roots, seeds, and leaves in shade or using a low-temperature oven to preserve their potency.
  3. Combine the dried roots, seeds, and leaves in a suitable ratio and grind them into a fine powder.
  4. Mix one teaspoon of the ground Celastrus paniculatus powder with one cup of water in a saucepan and heat it over low flame.
  5. Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes and then strain it to obtain the herbal decoction.

Powder

Celastrus paniculatus powder is a herbal preparation commonly used to treat a range of health conditions including depression, stress, anxiety, fatigue, rheumatism, insomnia, arthritis, epilepsy, memory loss and Parkinson's disease.

This powder is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine and is a common ingredient in many herbal supplements. One of the common effects of Celastrus paniculatus powder is its ability to improve cognitive function and reduce stress levels. The powder is typically made from the seeds and roots of the Celastrus paniculatus plant, which are rich in antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.

While making Celastrus paniculatus powder can be moderately difficult due to the need for proper processing and drying of the plant material, it is often available commercially and can be easily obtained from health food stores or online retailers.

Below you find an image of Celastrus paniculatus powder.

powder made with Celastrus paniculatus

Below you find a 5-step quick procedure to make effective medicinal Celastrus paniculatus powder.

  1. Harvest Celastrus paniculatus seeds and roots from a trusted source.
  2. Dry the harvested seeds and roots in a low-temperature oven or through air drying to remove excess moisture.
  3. Grind the dried seeds and roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
  4. Sift the powder through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps or large particles.
  5. Store the Celastrus paniculatus herbal powder in airtight containers to preserve its potency.

What are the possible side effects of Celastrus paniculatus if used improperly?

The possible side effects of improperly using Celastrus paniculatus are experience nausea due to the toxic compounds present in the plant, suffer from diarrhea caused by its emetic properties, and undergo cardiovascular strain from the high levels of alkaloids it contains.

These improper uses can also lead to develop liver damage as a result of its hepatotoxic effects, and show signs of insomnia due to the sedative properties of its extracts. Furthermore, experience dizziness and develop allergic reactions are also possible due to the plant's potential allergenic compounds, while experience kidney damage is a risk from the high levels of toxic alkaloids it contains.

In addition to these, suffer from headaches and develop abdominal pain are also potential side effects of improperly using Celastrus paniculatus.

The most common side effects Celastrus paniculatus gives people when used improperly are listed below, along with a brief explanation.

What are the precautions to take before using Celastrus paniculatus medicinally?

The precautions to take before using Celastrus paniculatus medicinally are consulting a healthcare professional before use, particularly for individuals with a history of hypertension, to ensure safe administration.

When using Celastrus paniculatus, it is essential to follow recommended dosage and duration to avoid potential adverse effects. Continuous monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate is necessary to prevent any cardiovascular complications. Additionally, individuals should report any adverse effects to a healthcare professional immediately, as they may indicate a severe reaction.

Furthermore, pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as those with certain medical conditions, such as hypertension, should avoid use altogether, and children and pets should be kept out of reach of the plant, which should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency, and used cautiously in conjunction with other medications and supplements, and other herbs to avoid potential interactions.

The most important precautions you must take before using Celastrus paniculatus for medicinal purposes are listed below, along with a brief explanation.

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