Lacquertree

Bio-Activity Analysis
Antioxidant Capacity Comparison (ORAC Value)
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Need It
- Metabolic Harmony: Helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports healthy insulin sensitivity.
- Cellular Defense: Acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that cause premature aging.
- Joint Comfort: Traditionally used to support mobility and reduce stiffness by managing inflammation.
Deep Dive
The magic of Lacquertree lies in its rich profile of urushiol-type compounds and other flavonoids. While urushiol is famous for causing rashes in poison ivy, when carefully processed and dosed in supplements, it exhibits powerful biological activities. It activates specific pathways in your body (like AMPK) that act as a 'master switch' for metabolism. This helps your cells use energy more efficiently and clear out waste products, which is crucial for maintaining vibrant health as we age.
Natural Food Sources
While the purest medicinal form comes from the tree's sap, the active compounds belong to a family of ellagitannins found in various berries and nuts. If you can't find a high-quality Lacquertree supplement, you can get similar benefits from these foods:
| Food | Amount | % DV (Approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Raspberries | 1 cup | High |
| Pomegranate | 1/2 cup | High |
| Blackberries | 1 cup | High |
| Walnuts | 1 oz | Medium |
| Strawberries | 1 cup | Medium |
Supplementation
Dosage: Standard extracts typically range from 100mg to 300mg daily. Always start with the lowest dose to assess tolerance.
Who Should Take It: Ideal for adults looking to support metabolic health or those seeking extra antioxidant protection. It is particularly popular among those managing weight or blood sugar levels.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Safety First
Important Distinction: The raw sap of the Lacquertree contains high levels of urushiol, which is a potent allergen (the same compound in poison ivy). However, reputable dietary supplements use processed extracts where urushiol levels are significantly reduced or isolated for safety.
Side Effects: Mild digestive upset is possible if taken on an empty stomach.
Interactions: Use caution if you are taking blood thinners (like Warfarin) or medication for diabetes, as Lacquertree may enhance their effects. Always consult your doctor before starting a new regimen.
Scientific References
- [1]Park, K. Y., et al. (2012). 'Increased Antioxidant Activity of Lacquer Tree Sap.' *Journal of Medicinal Food*.
- [2]Lee, J. H., et al. (2018). 'Urushiol derivatives from *Toxicodendron vernicifluum* and their anti-inflammatory effects.' *Phytochemistry Letters*.
- [3]Kim, M. J., et al. (2015). 'Metabolic regulation by Lacquertree extracts in high-fat diet-induced obese mice.' *Nutrients*.