Health Guide

Purple Tephrosia

Purple Tephrosia (Tephrosia purpurea) is a hardy, flowering legume found in tropical and subtropical regions, often referred to as 'Sarapunkha' in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. While it has historically been used as a natural fish poison due to its rotenoid content, modern interest focuses on its potential as a herbal supplement. It is rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds that may support liver health and combat inflammation. However, because this is a potent botanical, it requires careful understanding of its effects before adding it to your wellness routine.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Purple Tephrosia
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Estimated Toxicity vs. Benefit Threshold

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Safety/Effectiveness
Dosage Level

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

Purple Tephrosia (Herb)
Taken as supplement/tea only
Spinach (Alternative)
Rich in liver-supporting chlorophyll
Turmeric (Alternative)
Potent anti-inflammatory
Beetroot (Alternative)
Liver detox support
Legumes
Related family, but distinct usage

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. The plant contains rotenoids which are natural piscicides (fish poisons). This toxicity to fish and insects is why it must be used carefully by humans.
No. It is not a food vegetable. The leaves are bitter and contain compounds that are not meant for raw consumption. It should only be taken as a prepared supplement or tea.
Some traditional claims suggest it aids metabolism, but there is **no strong scientific evidence** supporting it as a weight loss supplement.
In traditional use for liver support, it may take several weeks of consistent use. However, due to safety concerns, long-term use is not recommended without medical supervision.

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.'