DrFeb
Health Guide

White Ash

Let's talk about **Fraxin**, a unique plant compound often associated with the bark of the White Ash tree (*Fraxinus excelsior*). While the tree is famous for its sturdy wood, its bark and leaves hold a secret weapon for metabolic health. Fraxin belongs to a family of compounds called 'coumarins.' Don't let the technical name scare you; think of it as nature's way of helping your body manage sugar and inflammation. You might also hear it mentioned alongside 'Pyracantha' (Firethorn) berries, another rich natural source. It's a fascinating compound that bridges traditional herbal wisdom with modern metabolic science.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
White Ash
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Blood Sugar Regulation Mechanism

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Inhibition Activity (%)
Compound Action →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Balances Blood Sugar: It helps your body utilize glucose more efficiently.
  • Fights Inflammation: It acts as a natural antioxidant, calming cellular stress.
  • Supports Heart Health: By managing sugar, it protects your blood vessels.

Deep Dive

Fraxin works primarily by inhibiting an enzyme called alpha-glucosidase. In simple terms, this enzyme is responsible for breaking down starches and sugars in your gut. By slowing it down, Fraxin prevents a sudden spike in blood sugar after a meal, leading to more stable energy levels. Additionally, it possesses significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect your cells from damage caused by environmental stressors and poor dietary choices. This makes it a valuable ally for maintaining metabolic flexibility as we age.

Natural Food Sources

Nature provides this compound in specific woody plants and fruits. While White Ash bark is the classic source, it is not a food. We can find edible alternatives.

Food SourcePart UsedApproximate Fraxin Content
Pyracantha (Firethorn)BerriesHigh (Variable)
White AshBarkHigh (Supplemental)
Leucophleum frutescensLeavesModerate

Supplementation

Dosage: There is no official Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Fraxin. If taking a White Ash bark extract, follow the manufacturer's instructions (typically 300-500mg of standardized extract).

Who should take it? This is primarily beneficial for individuals looking to support healthy blood glucose levels or those managing metabolic syndrome. It is not a primary vitamin or mineral and should be viewed as a targeted herbal support.

Top Food Sources

Pyracantha Berries
Edible berry source; wash thoroughly.
White Ash Bark
Solely for supplements; not a food.
Leucophleum leaves
Used in traditional teas.
Garden Sorrel
Contains related coumarins.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The bark is woody and not a food source. It is used to make supplements. However, the berries of the Pyracantha plant (Firethorn) contain similar compounds and are edible (though often tart).
No. It is not a cure. It is a supportive supplement that helps manage blood sugar levels alongside diet, exercise, and medication.
It works immediately to slow sugar digestion in the gut, but the metabolic benefits on insulin sensitivity may take several weeks of consistent use.
It is named after the tree *Fraxinus excelsior*, the bark of which was historically used in traditional medicine and contains high levels of the active compound Fraxin.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety & Interactions

General Safety: Fraxin is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts found in food.

Chemical Safety (White Ash Bark): As a concentrated extract, White Ash bark contains coumarins. In very high doses, coumarins can be toxic to the liver.

Interactions:

  1. Blood Thinners: Due to coumarin content, it may interact with anticoagulants like Warfarin.
  2. Diabetes Medications: It may enhance the effect of insulin or oral diabetes drugs, potentially causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Always consult a doctor before starting a new supplement, especially if you have liver conditions or take prescription medication.

Scientific References

  • [1]El-Halawany, A. M., et al. (2012). 'Alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity of some constituents from Fraxinus excelsior.' *Pharmaceutical Biology*.
  • [2]Gupta, R. S., et al. (2012). 'Antihyperglycemic and antioxidant activity of Fraxinus excelsior.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
  • [3]Sharma, N., et al. (2017). 'Fraxin: A potential therapeutic agent.' *Journal of Functional Foods*.