Salacia
Other names for Salacia
metavive
metavive salacia root extract
salacia
salacia bark extract
salacia chinensis extract
salacia extract
salacia oblonga
salacia oblonga extract
salacia oblonga root extract
salacia raticulata extract
salacia reticulata
salacia reticulata bark extract
salacia reticulata extract
salacia reticulata (leaf) extract
salacia reticulata powder
salacia root extract, powder
salacia (salacia chinensis) root extract
salaretin
salsulin salacia oblongata root extract
Synopsis of Salacia
History
Salacia is a revered genus of woody climbing plants native to regions of Asia and Africa, with particular prominence in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine systems of India and Sri Lanka. Historically, the roots and stems of Salacia species, especially Salacia reticulata, Salacia oblonga, and Salacia chinensis, have been employed for centuries to address a variety of health concerns, most notably in the management of diabetes. Ancient Ayurvedic texts describe decoctions and infusions of Salacia as effective remedies for regulating blood sugar levels, improving digestion, and supporting overall metabolic health. Its potent bioactive compounds, including salacinol and kotalanol, have demonstrated promising abilities to inhibit enzymes that break down carbohydrates, thereby helping to maintain healthier postprandial glucose levels.
Beyond its singular use, Salacia is frequently incorporated into synergistic herbal combinations. In traditional remedies, it is often blended with other botanicals such as Gymnema sylvestre, Momordica charantia (bitter melon), and Syzygium cumini to enhance its antidiabetic efficacy and holistic health benefits. These combinations are believed to not only regulate blood glucose but also support lipid metabolism and protect organs from oxidative stress. Modern nutritional products continue this legacy, utilizing Salacia as a key ingredient in supplements designed for metabolic wellness and healthy weight management. Overall, Salacia’s remarkable contributions to traditional and contemporary medicine highlight its enduring value as a natural, plant-based support for health and vitality.
Traditional and scientific validation
Salacia, a genus of woody climbing plants native to regions of Asia and Africa, has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, particularly in India and Sri Lanka, for managing diabetes and promoting metabolic health. Salacia species, notably Salacia reticulata, Salacia oblonga, and Salacia chinensis, contain bioactive compounds such as salacinol, kotalanol, and mangiferin, which have been the focus of scientific interest.
Historically, Salacia roots and stems were prepared as herbal decoctions for blood sugar regulation. Over the past two decades, scientific studies have explored its potential benefits. In vitro and animal research has demonstrated that Salacia extracts inhibit intestinal enzymes like alpha-glucosidase and alpha-pancreatic amylase, resulting in reduced carbohydrate absorption and postprandial blood glucose spikes.
Several small-scale human clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate these effects. For instance, a randomized, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition (2007) found that Salacia reticulata extract significantly reduced blood glucose and insulin levels in healthy volunteers after a carbohydrate-rich meal. Another study in type 2 diabetic patients reported improvements in glycemic control after Salacia supplementation. Additionally, Salacia may support healthy lipid metabolism, as seen in some animal and preliminary human trials.
While these findings are promising, most studies involve small sample sizes and short durations. Thus, larger and longer-term clinical trials are needed to definitively establish the efficacy and safety of Salacia as a nutritional ingredient. Nonetheless, its traditional use and emerging scientific evidence suggest a positive role for Salacia in supporting metabolic wellness.
Salacia is used for these health conditions
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Diabetes (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Traditional)
Metabolic Syndrome (Scientific)
Sugar Cravings (Scientific)
Triglycerides (high) (Scientific)
Salacia is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Pancreas Head (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Traditional)