Sphaeranthus indicus (Sphaeranthus indicus): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

What is the mechanism of action of Sphaeranthus indicus?

Sphaeranthus indicus contains active compounds such as sphaeranthine, flavonoids, and terpenes. These constituents are believed to exert anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects by modulating inflammatory cytokines and scavenging free radicals. In the context of antiobesity research, the herb is thought to influence lipid metabolism and adipogenesis, though the precise molecular mechanisms require further validation through human trials (Evidence Level C).

Is Sphaeranthus indicus safe to take during pregnancy?

No, Sphaeranthus indicus is considered unsafe during pregnancy. Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern safety assessments contraindicate its use for pregnant women. The herb may possess emmenagogue properties or stimulate uterine activity, posing a potential risk to the fetus. Women who are pregnant or attempting to conceive should strictly avoid this herb and consult a qualified healthcare provider for safe alternatives.

Are there any drug interactions with Sphaeranthus indicus?

Currently, there is limited clinical data regarding specific drug interactions for Sphaeranthus indicus. However, due to its potential effects on blood sugar and lipid metabolism, it may theoretically interact with antidiabetic or cholesterol-lowering medications. Because the evidence level is C, patients taking prescription medications should consult a physician prior to use to prevent potential interference with drug efficacy.

What is the recommended dosage for Sphaeranthus indicus?

The standard adult dosage for Sphaeranthus indicus is typically 1 to 3 grams of powder daily. This amount is traditionally used to support nervous system function and digestive health. Because clinical evidence is limited (Level C), it is advisable to start with the lowest effective dose. Users should follow the specific instructions provided by a qualified herbalist or product manufacturer.

Can Sphaeranthus indicus help with weight loss?

Sphaeranthus indicus has been studied for potential antiobesity effects, specifically regarding lipid metabolism and weight management. While preliminary research suggests a possible benefit, the evidence level is currently rated C, meaning there is insufficient human clinical data to confirm efficacy. It should not be used as a standalone weight loss solution but may be considered as part of a comprehensive health plan under professional guidance.

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

Sphaeranthus indicus is a medicinal herb from the Asteraceae family used in traditional Indian medicine for various ailments [PMID:24347924, PMID:21455454].

Background

Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (also known as Munditika, Mundi, Shravana, and others) is a plant from the aroma family Asteraceae, commonly found in damp plains and as a weed in rice fields [PMID:24347924].

Traditional uses

In the Indian system of medicine, the whole plant and its parts (leaf, stem, bark, root, flower, and seed) are used to treat epilepsy, mental illness, hemicrania, jaundice, hepatopathy, diabetes, leprosy, fever, pectoralgia, cough, gastropathy, hernia, hemorrhoids, helminthiasis, dyspepsia, and skin diseases [PMID:21455454, PMID:24347924].

Active compounds

Secondary metabolites include eudesmanolides, sesquiterpenoids, sesquiterpene lactones, sesquiterpene acids, flavone glycosides, flavonoid C-glycosides, isoflavone glycoside, sterols, sterol glycoside, alkaloids, peptide alkaloids, amino acids, sugars, and essential oils [PMID:24347924, PMID:21455454]. Specific eudesmanoids such as 11alpha,13-dihydro-3alpha,7alpha-dihydroxy-4,5-epoxy-6beta,7-eudesmanolide and 3-keto-beta-eudesmol have been isolated [PMID:10844165], as well as 5alpha-hydroperoxy-7alpha-hydroxy-isosphaerantholide [PMID:28412842].

Mechanism of action

The plant exhibits antioxidant potential [PMID:29618441, PMID:31444866], mushroom tyrosinase inhibition [PMID:31444866], and the ability to increase antioxidant enzymes (GSH, SOD, CAT) while decreasing lipid peroxidase (LPO) levels [PMID:20738176].

Clinical evidence

Evidence BMuscle strength and endurance

A proprietary blend of S. indicus flower head and Mangifera indica stem bark extracts (650 mg/day) was evaluated for ergogenic potential in young male volunteers [PMID:36794013].

Evidence AAppetite suppression

A study on a formulation (Meratrim) containing S. indicus flower heads extract and Garcinia mangostana fruit revealed longer-term evidence for appetite suppression [PMID:31126562].

Evidence DEpilepsy (Animal Model)

Methanolic and acetone extracts of flowers protected mice against PTZ and Picrotoxin induced convulsions, though not MES induced convulsions [PMID:30638715].

Evidence DInsulin resistance (Animal Model)

Methanol extract of the whole plant significantly decreased plasma glucose and serum triglyceride levels and stimulated glucose uptake in dexamethasone-induced insulin resistant mice [PMID:20738176].

Evidence DObesity (Animal Model)

A combination of S. indicus and Garcinia mangostana (Meratrim 450 mg/kg) significantly reduced body weight and fat mass in high-fat diet obese mice [PMID:39335940].

Evidence summary

Evidence is primarily based on phytochemical reviews, in vitro studies, and animal models (Level D), with limited clinical data from a randomized trial on muscle strength (Level B) and a systematic review mentioning a proprietary blend for appetite suppression (Level A).

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 24347924 (2013) — Review on Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. (Koṭṭaikkarantai). · Pharmacognosy reviews
2.PMID: 21455454 (2010) — Sphaeranthus indicus Linn.: A phytopharmacological review. · International journal of Ayurveda research
3.PMID: 28412842 (2017) — Four new Sesquiterpenoids from Sphaeranthus indicus. · Natural product research
4.PMID: 29618441 (2018) — Phytochemical screening and antibacterial potential of Artemisia absinthium L., Swertia chirayita and Sphaeranthus indicus. · Pakistan journal of pharmaceutical sciences
5.PMID: 30638715 (2019) — Anticonvulsant effect of Sphaeranthus flower extracts in mice. · Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine

Sphaeranthus indicus

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Sphaeranthus indicus

Pfaffia Paniculata

Acanthopanax Sessiliflorus

Nance

Frequently asked questions

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources

Sphaeranthus indicus

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Sphaeranthus indicus

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Pfaffia Paniculata

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Frequently asked questions

Summary

Background

Traditional uses

Active compounds

Mechanism of action

Clinical evidence

Evidence summary

PubMed sources

Government sources