Health Guide

Pterocarpus marsupium

Meet **Pterocarpus marsupium**, a tree native to India and Nepal often called the 'Indian Kino Tree' or 'Vijaysar.' While it might sound like a complex chemical, it is a powerful botanical traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. Its heartwood, gum, and leaves are rich in potent compounds like pterostilbene, which act as natural helpers for the body. Best known for its role in blood sugar regulation, this ingredient is a favorite for those looking to manage metabolic health naturally. Think of it as a plant-based ally working to keep your internal systems balanced and running smoothly.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Pterocarpus marsupium
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Blood Glucose Response (Post-Meal)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Glucose Level (mg/dL)
Time (Hours)

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Supports Healthy Blood Sugar: Helps lower glucose levels after meals.
  • Aids Weight Management: Can assist in regulating metabolism.
  • Antioxidant Power: Fights cellular damage from free radicals.

Deep Dive

The primary superpower of Pterocarpus marsupium lies in its ability to support pancreatic beta-cells—the tiny factories that produce insulin. Research suggests that its active compounds, particularly pterostilbene, mimic insulin's effects and improve how your cells use glucose. This helps prevent the sharp spikes in blood sugar that can lead to energy crashes and long-term metabolic issues. Beyond sugar control, it provides a shield of antioxidants that protect your heart and blood vessels from oxidative stress, promoting overall cardiovascular wellness.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike Vitamin C found in oranges, Pterocarpus marsupium is not a nutrient found in standard fruits or vegetables. It is a specific tree extract. You consume it via:

  1. Heartwood Extract: Often sold as a supplement or used to make water vessels (which infuse water with the extract).
  2. Gum Resin: Can be chewed or dissolved.

Supplementation

  • Typical Dosage: Studies often use extracts ranging from 200mg to 500mg daily, depending on the concentration of active compounds.
  • Best For: Individuals looking for natural metabolic support or blood sugar management.
  • Format: Usually found in capsule or powder form.

Top Food Sources

Vijaysar Water Tumbler
Soak overnight, drink water in AM
Heartwood Powder
Mix into smoothies (bitter taste)
Standardized Extract
Capsule form (200-400mg)
Gum Resin
Dissolve in water
Leaf Extract
Less common commercially

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, for most healthy adults at recommended dosages. However, cycling it (taking a break after a few months) is often recommended to maintain effectiveness and safety.
Indirectly, yes. By stabilizing blood sugar, it reduces cravings and helps your body metabolize sugar more efficiently, which can support weight loss efforts.
Metabolic effects can take a few weeks of consistent use to become noticeable in blood work, though some feel energy stabilization sooner.
The heartwood is intensely bitter. It is rarely eaten raw; usually taken as a standardized extract in a capsule to bypass the taste.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety First: While natural, this is a potent botanical.

  • Hypoglycemia Risk: Because it lowers blood sugar, taking it alongside prescription diabetes medication (like insulin or metformin) can cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitoring is essential.
  • Liver Health: Very high doses have shown potential for liver toxicity in animal studies. Stick to recommended dosages.
  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: There is insufficient safety data. Avoid use.
  • Surgery: Stop using at least 2 weeks before scheduled surgery due to blood sugar effects.

Scientific References

  • [1]Kumar, P. A., et al. (2013). 'Pterocarpus marsupium: An update.' *Journal of Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy*.
  • [2]Manickam, M., et al. (1997). 'Effect of Pterocarpus marsupium on blood glucose.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
  • [3]National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) - Review on Antidiabetic Plants.