Is laxogenin a myostatin inhibitor?
In this study, laxogenin (LAX) and 5-alpha-hydroxy-laxogenin (5HLAX) were computationally screened against myostatin (MSTN), a negative regulator of muscle mass, because of their antioxidant properties and dual roles as MSTN inhibitors and enhancers of myogenesis regulatory factors. Coffee silverskin extract has been proven to improve muscle mass and strength in mice by inhibiting myostatin activity [18].
What is laxogenin smilax sieboldii?
Several dietary supplements claim to contain 5α-hydroxy laxogenin, which is a derivative of a naturally occurring spirostane-type steroid, laxogenin. Although laxogenin has been isolated from the rhizomes of Smilax sieboldii, 5α-hydroxy laxogenin has not been isolated or reported from any natural source. Chemical investigation on Smilax species showed they are rich sources of steroidal saponins with diversified structure types, including spirostane, isospirostane, furostane, pregnane, and cholestane.
What is Smilax used for?
Smilax glabra is known as Tufuling in traditional Chinese medicine. The root has been used in combination with other herbs to treat various types of infections and inflammatory conditions. Lab studies suggest this plant has anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. While animal studies have shown a benefit of Smilax for complex conditions such as psoriasis, and Smilax has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine for eczema and psoriasis, high-quality human clinical studies are currently lacking.The Botanical Dermatology Database lists the only possible injury from any Smilax species as being a mechanical injury from the thorns. Indeed, concoctions of the roots have been used as folk medicines for various skin diseases as well as to make the drink sarsaparilla.While Smilax is not toxic to people or animals—in fact in many parts of the world it is used as a food plant—we don’t recommend eating it yourself unless you have had expert guidance in how to identify and use it.