Purple Tephrosia

Bio-Activity Analysis
Estimated Toxicity vs. Benefit Threshold
SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION
Health Benefits & Sources
Why You Might Need It
- Liver Support: Traditionally used to protect the liver from toxins and support overall function.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Contains compounds that may help reduce swelling and joint discomfort.
- Antioxidant Power: Helps neutralize free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
- Digestive Aid: In some traditional systems, it is used to support digestion and reduce bloating.
Deep Dive
Purple Tephrosia contains active compounds called rotenoids (like deguelin and rotenone). While rotenone is known as a pesticide, in controlled herbal preparations, these compounds interact with cellular pathways to potentially inhibit tumor growth and reduce inflammation. Current research is investigating its role in managing conditions like liver fibrosis and certain metabolic issues, though human clinical trials remain limited compared to traditional usage.
Natural Food Sources
Purple Tephrosia is not a standard culinary vegetable or fruit found in grocery stores. It is primarily a wild herb or agricultural crop. Therefore, it is not typically consumed as a food source for nutritional value but rather as a concentrated herbal extract.
Supplementation
Purple Tephrosia is available as:
- Dried Herb: Used to make teas or decoctions.
- Powder: Encapsulated or mixed into drinks.
- Liquid Extract/Tincture: The most concentrated form.
Usage: There is no standard medical dosage established by modern science. Dosage varies wildly based on the preparation. Always consult a healthcare provider or an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting.
Top Food Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Safety & Side Effects
Safety & Side Effects
CRITICAL WARNING: Purple Tephrosia contains rotenone, which is toxic in high doses and acts as a mitochondrial inhibitor.
- Toxicity Risk: High doses can cause nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: AVOID. It may stimulate the uterus and is not considered safe for infants.
- Drug Interactions: It may interact with medications metabolized by the liver (CYP450 enzymes).
- Allergies: Those allergic to legumes (peanuts, soy) may react to this plant.
Disclaimer: This supplement is not FDA-approved for treating any disease.
Scientific References
- [1]Journal of Ethnopharmacology: 'Hepatoprotective activity of Tephrosia purpurea'
- [2]Indian Journal of Experimental Biology: 'Anticancer activity of rotenoids from Tephrosia purpurea'
- [3]Pharmacognosy Reviews: 'Review on Tephrosia purpurea (L.) Pers.'