Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Cercidiphyllum japonicum): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

What is Cercidiphyllum japonicum used for in herbal medicine?

Cercidiphyllum japonicum, commonly known as katsura tree, has been used in Japanese folk medicine primarily for liver conditions and skin disorders. Traditional applications include supporting liver health, treating minor skin ailments, and serving as a general tonic. The bark is typically prepared as a tea for internal or topical use. Modern clinical research on this herb is limited, with evidence rated at Level C. While traditional use suggests potential benefits, more scientific studies are needed to validate these applications.

How does Cercidiphyllum japonicum work medicinally?

Cercidiphyllum japonicum bark contains active compounds including catechin, flavonoids, and tannins, which are believed to provide its medicinal effects. These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support liver function and promote skin healing. The tannins contribute astringent effects useful for skin conditions. However, specific mechanisms of action have not been well-studied in clinical trials, and evidence remains at Level C. Traditional use suggests hepatoprotective properties, though modern research is needed to confirm these mechanisms.

Does Cercidiphyllum japonicum interact with any medications?

There is limited research on drug interactions for Cercidiphyllum japonicum. Due to its tannin content, it may potentially interfere with the absorption of certain medications if taken simultaneously. The herb's effects on the liver could theoretically interact with hepatotoxic medications or drugs metabolized by the liver. However, no specific clinical drug interaction studies have been conducted. Patients taking prescription medications should consult a healthcare provider before using this herb. Evidence level: C, based on traditional use and pharmacological reasoning.

What is the recommended dosage of Cercidiphyllum japonicum bark?

The traditional adult dosage for Cercidiphyllum japonicum is approximately 2 grams of dried bark prepared as a tea. This preparation is typically consumed once or twice daily for liver or skin support. Due to limited clinical research, standardized dosing recommendations are not established. Dosage should be individualized based on the specific condition being treated. It is advisable to start with lower doses and consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for personalized guidance. Evidence level: C, based on traditional use.

Is Cercidiphyllum japonicum safe to take during pregnancy?

Cercidiphyllum japonicum is considered unsafe during pregnancy and should be avoided. The bark contains tannins and other compounds that may pose risks to fetal development or pregnancy outcomes. Traditional contraindications specifically caution against use in pregnant women. There is insufficient safety data to support use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding should not use this herb. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for safe alternatives. Evidence level: C, based on traditional contraindications.

PubMed-compiled information sheet

This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.

Compiled from 30 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b

Summary

Cercidiphyllum japonicum, also known as the katsura tree, is an East Asian Tertiary relict tree with potential bioactive compounds that exhibit proliferative and anti-aging effects [PMID:32643803, 12451489, 40864785].

Background

Cercidiphyllum japonicum is a dioecious, broad-leaved, wind-pollinated, and wind-dispersed tree native to eastern China and Japan [PMID:16304606, 34188849]. It is described as a 'living fossil' and a Tertiary relict species [PMID:32643803].

Active compounds

Identified compounds include polyphenols such as (+)-taxifolin, quercetin, myricetin, (+)-dihydromyricetin, and gallic acid [PMID:12451489]. Other identified constituents from aerial parts include maltol, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, and quercitrin [PMID:40864785]. Additionally, the tree contains flavonol glycosides [PMID:18518920, 20040364] and hydrolyzable gallotannins, including 2,2',5-tri-O-galloyl-α,β-D-hamamelose (kurigalin), 1,2,6-tri-O-galloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside, and 1,2,3,6-tetragalloyl-β-D-glucopyranoside [PMID:22038380].

Mechanism of action

Ellagic acid from C. japonicum suppresses intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and matrix metalloproteinase activity in human dermal fibroblasts [PMID:40864785]. Certain polyphenols from the heartwood stimulate the proliferation of mouse hair epithelial cells [PMID:12451489].

Clinical evidence

Evidence DSkin aging and inflammation

Flavonoids, specifically ellagic acid, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities in human dermal fibroblast models [PMID:40864785]

Evidence DHair epithelial cell proliferation

Methanol extract of heartwood and isolated polyphenols ((+)-taxifolin, quercetin, myricetin, (+)-dihydromyricetin, and gallic acid) stimulated proliferation of mouse hair epithelial cells [PMID:12451489]

Evidence summary

The current evidence is limited to in vitro studies (cell cultures) and botanical/genomic research; there are no clinical trials or human studies provided.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 32643803 (2020) — Genomic insights on the contribution of balancing selection and local adaptation to the long-term survival of a widespread living fossil tree, Cercidiphyllum japonicum. · The New phytologist
2.PMID: 18518920 (2008) — Deep supercooling xylem parenchyma cells of katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) contain flavonol glycosides exhibiting high anti-ice nucleation activity. · Plant, cell & environment
3.PMID: 21616894 (2010) — New microsatellite markers for the rare plant Cercidiphyllum japonicum and their utility for Cercidiphyllum magnificum. · American journal of botany
4.PMID: 41568018 (2026) — Paleodistribution of Cercidiphyllaceae and Future Habitat Prediction for Cercidiphyllum japonicum Under Climate Change. · Ecology and evolution
5.PMID: 28562649 (2017) — Floral organ MADS-box genes in Cercidiphyllum japonicum (Cercidiphyllaceae): Implications for systematic evolution and bracts definition.

Cercidiphyllum japonicum

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Cercidiphyllum japonicum