Native to North America, the wafer ash (Ptelea trifoliata) is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is most frequently found in the eastern and central parts of the country. Due to its distinctive smell, it is also known as Hoptree, Swamp Dogwood, or Stinking Ash and it belongs to a member of the Rutaceae family. Indigenous people have used this plant for a variety of medical purposes throughout its long ethnobotanical history. In order to use Wafer Ash responsibly as a nutritional supplement, this article tries to give a thorough examination of its phytochemical makeup, health advantages, recommended dosage, potential side effects, drug interactions, and other factors.
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Wafer Ash: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, and Other Important Information is an original (NootropicsPlanet) article.
Nature of Wafer Ash (Ptelea trifoliata)
Wafer Ash is a deciduous, perennial shrub or small tree with a rounded crown that can reach heights of 6 to 25 feet (2 to 8 meters). It has trifoliate compound leaves with oblong to elliptical-shaped leaflets that are normally 1.5 to 4 inches (4 to 10 cm) long. The leaves are a deep green color that becomes golden in the autumn. From late spring to early summer, the plant bears tiny, greenish-white flowers clustered in clusters (cymes), each of which has a distinct citrus-like scent. The blooms give birth to samaras, which are disc-shaped and 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. They are thin, papery, wafer-like fruits.
Wafer ash can be found in multiple habitats, including forests, thickets, swamps, and limestone outcrops. It is tolerant of a wide range of environmental conditions. It can handle both full sun and light shade, and it does best in well-drained soils. The plant can be grown in a variety of climates because it is hardy in USDA plant hardiness zones 4 through 9.
Wafer Ash has the potential to be a beneficial dietary supplement and traditional medicinal herb due to its adaptability and versatility.
Health Benefits of Wafer Ash
1. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions: Flavonoids, coumarins, and triterpenoids, which are present in wafer ash extracts, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects both in vitro and in vivo. These substances prevent the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators that are involved in the inflammatory response, including prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and nitric oxide (NO). In animals, Wafer Ash extracts have also demonstrated analgesic properties that lessen pain perception by altering pain pathways.
2. Antioxidant qualities: Wafer ash flavonoids and coumarins exhibit strong antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), defending cells from oxidative damage. This antioxidant activity contributes to the plant’s potential advantages in treating and managing chronic diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders that are brought on by oxidative stress.
3. Neuroprotective effects: By altering neurotransmitter systems and lowering neuroinflammation, alkaloids have been shown to have neuroprotective benefits. This raises the possibility of using wafer ash to treat neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
4. Antimicrobial activity: A variety of bacterial and fungal diseases have been shown to be resistant to the coumarins xanthyletin and pteleine. This suggests that Wafer Ash extracts may be used as a natural preservative and to treat infections.
Chemistry of Wafer Ash
Wafer Ash’s phytochemical profile includes a variety of bioactive substances, including alkaloids, coumarins, triterpenoids, and flavonoids. Various plant-derived substances known as flavonoids have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic activities. The main flavonoids found in wafer ash are derivatives of quercetin and kaempferol. The plant’s bark has yielded coumarins, including xanthyletin and pteleine, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Lupeol and betulinic acid are two triterpenoids that contribute to the plant’s ability to reduce inflammation and fight cancer. Alkaloids with neuroprotective qualities have also been found as one of the plant’s components.
Physiological Mechanism of Action of Wafer Ash
1. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties:
As mentioned, the flavonoids, coumarins, and triterpenoids in wafer ash reduce inflammation by preventing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, and cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. Wafer Ash’s bioactive components lessen inflammation and ease pain by inhibiting the activation of these mediators. Furthermore, the modification of pain signaling pathways, including the suppression of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels and the lowering of neuronal excitability, also plays a role in the analgesic effects.
2. Antioxidant Capabilities:
Flavonoids and coumarins in Wafer Ash have antioxidant capabilities. They scavenge free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS), preventing oxidative damage to cells and macromolecules. This antioxidant effect lowers the risk of chronic diseases brought on by oxidative stress and aids in maintaining cellular redox balance.
3. Neuroprotective effects:
The alkaloids in Wafer Ash protect neuronal cells by altering neurotransmitter systems, such as the cholinergic and dopaminergic systems, which are essential for cognitive function and motor coordination. Additionally, these substances protect the brain from injury by preventing the creation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and microglial activation, which diminish neuroinflammation.
4. Antimicrobial action:
Xanthyletin and pteleine, two coumarins, destroy bacterial and fungal cell walls, prevent the formation of nucleic acids, and interfere with vital enzyme functioning. This antibacterial effect aids in the treatment of infections and stops the spread of dangerous pathogens.
Optimal Dosage of Wafer Ash
The ideal Wafer Ash dosage as a nutritional supplement varies on the user’s age, weight, health, and desired therapeutic impact, among other things. There haven’t been any standardized dosage recommendations for Wafer Ash because there haven’t been many clinical investigations on the substance. Traditional practices and early research, however, recommend consuming 100–500 mg/day of dried Wafer Ash extract for overall health advantages. Before beginning Wafer Ash supplementation, it is essential to speak with a healthcare provider to establish the right dosage for your needs.
Side Effects and Safety Concerns Regarding Wafer Ash
When taken in moderation and under a healthcare professional’s supervision, wafer ash is typically regarded as safe for eating. However, some people could develop minor side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and allergic responses. Before taking Wafer Ash, pregnant or nursing women, children, and people with pre-existing medical issues should use caution and speak with a doctor.
Potential Substance Interactions with Wafer Ash
1. Anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs: Warfarin, heparin, and aspirin are just a few examples of the anticoagulant and antiplatelet drugs that Wafer Ash’s coumarin concentration may interact with, thus raising the risk of bleeding. Therefore, before consuming Wafer Ash supplements, people who are taking these medications should talk to a doctor.
2. Blood pressure-lowering drugs: Wafer ash extracts may have hypotensive properties, which may enhance the effects of blood pressure-lowering drugs. If using Wafer Ash along with antihypertensive drugs, it is crucial to keep an eye on blood pressure levels and seek medical help immediately if you notice any drastic changes to your blood pressure levels.
3. Hypoglycemia medications: The flavonoids in Wafer Ash may have hypoglycemic effects, which may affect how well hypoglycemic medications like insulin and oral anti-diabetic drugs work. Hence, observe proper blood glucose monitoring and medication changes before beginning supplementation.
Responsible Usage of Wafer Ash
1. Prior to beginning Wafer Ash supplementation, especially for people with pre-existing medical conditions, women who are pregnant or nursing, and people who are taking medications must speak with a healthcare professional.
2. To guarantee purity, efficacy, and security, pick high-quality, standardized Wafer Ash products from trustworthy producers.
3. Follow the dosing instructions and keep an eye out for any bad reactions or potential side effects. If any alarming symptoms appear, stop using the product and seek medical advice.
Wafer Ash:
Conclusion
In conclusion, wafer ash, also known as Ptelea trifoliata, stands out as a natural botanical powerhouse. It is recognized for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial attributes. It also has neuroprotective properties and may support the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s. These attributes stem from the bioactive substances that are contained in wafer ash such as alkaloids, coumarins, triterpenoids, and flavonoids. As with any natural remedy, you must approach it with careful consideration. Wafer ash may cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and allergic responses. To use wafer ash wisely in your supplemental routine, you need to research its traditional uses and understand any substance interactions. Most importantly, you need to seek advice from your doctor.
References:
- Antimicrobial agents from higher plants. The quaternary alkaloids of Ptelea trifoliata. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1094214/
- The station of the hoptree (Ptelea trifoliata L. ssp. trifoliata) in the forests of the Wyszków Forest District. Retrieved from: https://depot.ceon.pl/handle/123456789/7659
- [Alkaloids in leaves and roots of Ptelea trifoliata L. (Rutaceae)]. Retrieved from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/5959368/
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
