Health Guide

Phlomis umbrosa

Meet **Phlomis umbrosa** (also known as Jerusalem Sage), a plant traditionally used in Eastern medicine that is gaining modern attention for its potent antioxidant properties. While it is not a standard vitamin or mineral found in your typical salad, it is a powerful phytochemical extract. Think of it less as a food ingredient and more as a specialized botanical supplement designed to support your body's cellular defense systems. It matters because it helps combat oxidative stress, a major driver of aging and inflammation, offering a natural way to bolster your health resilience.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Phlomis umbrosa
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Antioxidant Capacity (ORAC Value Estimate)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Antioxidant Activity (Units)
Source Type

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Reduces Oxidative Stress: Packed with phenolic compounds that neutralize harmful free radicals.
  • Supports Cellular Health: May help protect your cells from environmental damage.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Traditionally used to soothe internal inflammation.

Deep Dive

Phlomis umbrosa is rich in specific antioxidants like verbascoside and flavonoids. Research suggests these compounds act as a cleanup crew for your body, scavenging unstable molecules that can damage DNA and tissues. While human trials are ongoing, preliminary studies highlight its potential in protecting the liver and supporting the immune system. It is an excellent addition to a regimen focused on long-term cellular protection.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike Vitamin C (found in oranges) or Potassium (found in bananas), Phlomis umbrosa is not a standard food source. It is a specific botanical extract derived from the plant itself. You generally will not find this active compound in common fruits or vegetables. It is primarily obtained through specialized herbal supplements or teas made from the dried plant.

Supplementation

Because this is a specialized botanical, it is rarely found in multivitamins. It is best taken as a standardized extract in capsule or powder form. If you are looking to incorporate its benefits, look for high-quality herbal supplements specifically listing Phlomis umbrosa or Jerusalem Sage on the label.

Top Food Sources

Phlomis umbrosa Extract
Primary source (Capsules/Powder)
Jerusalem Sage Leaves
Rarely used as a culinary herb
Dried Root
Used in traditional decoctions

Frequently Asked Questions

It is most often referred to as 'Jerusalem Sage' or 'Dong Kui' in traditional herbal contexts.
While some Phlomis species are used as leafy vegetables in parts of Asia, the specific medicinal extract is concentrated and processed. Do not forage or eat wild plants without expert identification.
No. It does not contain caffeine and is not a stimulant. It works via antioxidant pathways rather than stimulating the nervous system.
As an antioxidant supplement, benefits are cumulative. It usually takes several weeks of consistent use to notice subtle effects on general well-being.

Safety & Side Effects

Generally recognized as safe for adults when used in standard supplement doses. However, because it is a potent plant extract, pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it due to a lack of safety data. Always consult your doctor before starting, especially if you have liver conditions or are taking medication.

Scientific References

  • [1]Kim, H. J., et al. (2009). 'Antioxidant constituents from the roots of Phlomis umbrosa.' *Journal of Natural Products*.
  • [2]Lee, K. T., et al. (2010). 'Anti-inflammatory effects of Phlomis umbrosa.' *Archives of Pharmacal Research*.
  • [3]National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - PubChem: Verbascoside.