Research

Sutherlandia Frutescens (Cancer Bush)

64 peer-reviewed studies curated from PubMed and Semantic Scholar.

0
Meta-analyses
0
Systematic reviews
3
RCTs
61
Other studies
RCTs (5%)
Observational (8%)

Studies

Sorted by quality and recency

2017·Medical anthropology·Christopher Morris

Biopolitics and Boundary Work in South Africa's Sutherlandia Clinical Trial.

RCTImmunity

RCT conducted between 2008 and 2011 to assess the safety and efficacy of Sutherlandia frutescens, an African traditional medicine, in HIV-seropositive but asymptomatic South Africans. The study explores the cross-cultural challenges and biopolitical implications of transforming Sutherlandia into a clinical trial substance.

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2015·PloS one·Douglas Wilson, Kathy Goggin, Karen Williams, et al

Consumption of Sutherlandia frutescens by HIV-Seropositive South African Adults: An Adaptive Double-Blind Randomized Placebo Controlled Trial.

RCTn = 107

An adaptive double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial evaluated the safety of consuming Sutherlandia frutescens by HIV seropositive adults. The study found no change in HIV viral load or CD4 T-lymphocyte count, but a greater burden of infection in the S. frutescens group, possibly due to interaction with isoniazid preventive therapy.

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2007·PLoS clinical trials·Quinton Johnson, James Syce, Haylene Nell, et al

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Lessertia frutescens in healthy adults.

RCTn = 25

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Sutherlandia leaf powder in 25 healthy adults over 3 months. The study found no significant differences in adverse events or physiological indices between the treatment and placebo groups, though participants consuming Sutherlandia reported improved appetite.

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2020·Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)·Samkele Zonyane, Olaniyi A Fawole, Chris la Grange, et al

The Implication of Chemotypic Variation on the Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Cancer Activities of(L.) R.Br. (Fabaceae) from Different Geographic Locations.

In vitroInflammation Longevity

In vitro study of Sutherlandia extracts from different geographic locations assessing antioxidant and anti-cancer activities. Extracts showed variability in bioactive capacities, with coastal plants exhibiting superior antioxidant activity and Colesburg plants showing the highest anti-cancer activity against DLD-1 colon cancer cells.

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2018·Journal of pharmacy & pharmaceutical sciences : a publication of the Canadian Society for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Societe canadienne des sciences pharmaceutiques·Adrienne Carmel Muller, Murray P Ducharme, Isadore Kanfer

Identification of Mechanism and Pathway of the Interaction between the African Traditional Medicine, Sutherlandia Frutescens, and the Antiretroviral Protease Inhibitor, Atazanavir, in Human Subjects Using Population Pharmacokinetic (PK) Analysis.

Study

The study investigates the interaction between Sutherlandia frutescens and the antiretroviral protease inhibitor atazanavir using population pharmacokinetic analysis. It suggests that Sutherlandia frutescens may reduce the bioavailability of atazanavir by inhibiting the active absorption process.

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2017·Journal of chromatography. A·Cuiping Chen, William R Folk, Rodrigo Lazo-Portugal, et al

Isolation of sutherlandins A, B, C and D from Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R. Br. by counter-current chromatography using spiral tubing support rotors.

Study

The paper describes the use of spiral countercurrent-chromatography for isolating flavonoids, specifically sutherlandins A-D, from the medicinal plant Sutherlandia frutescens. The study highlights the efficiency of different rotor systems in purifying these compounds.

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2017·Acta pharmaceutica (Zagreb, Croatia)·Oluchi N Mbamalu, James Syce, Halima Samsodien

Short communication. Challenges relating to comparison of flavonoid glycosides dissolution profiles from Sutherlandia frutescens products.

Observational

The study investigated the dissolution profiles of flavonoid glycosides from Sutherlandia frutescens products using different dissolution media. Variations in dissolution profiles were observed across different products, suggesting the potential use of this method for comparing orally administered S. frutescens products.

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2014·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Bingzhao Zhang, Wei Kee Leung, Yuanfeng Zou, et al

Immunomodulating polysaccharides from Lessertia frutescens leaves: isolation, characterization and structure activity relationship.

ObservationalImmunity

The study isolated and characterized polysaccharides from the leaves of Sutherlandia frutescens, testing their bioactivity in the complement assay. It found that certain polysaccharide fractions, particularly those rich in galactose and xylose, had significant immunomodulating effects.

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2011·African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM·Shakira Shaik, Nisha Singh, Ashley Nicholas

Comparison of the selected secondary metabolite content present in the cancer-bush Lessertia (Sutherlandia) frutescens L. Extracts.

Observational

The study analyzed extracts of in vitro leaves, field leaves, and seeds of Lessertia frutescens to compare their phenolic, flavonoid, alkaloid, and saponin contents. Saponins were most abundant in in vitro leaves, followed by phenolics, flavonoids, and alkaloids. The presence of tannins, phlobatannins, and cardiac glycosides was also noted, suggesting potential therapeutic uses.

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2010·Journal of pharmaceutical and biomedical analysis·Bharathi Avula, Yan-Hong Wang, Troy J Smillie, et al

Quantitative determination of flavonoids and cycloartanol glycosides from aerial parts of Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R. BR. by using LC-UV/ELSD methods and confirmation by using LC-MS method.

Study

The paper describes an analytical method for determining flavonoids (sutherlandins A-D) and cycloartanol glycosides (sutherlandiosides A-D) from Sutherlandia frutescens using LC-UV/ELSD and LC-MS methods. The method was validated for linearity, repeatability, limits of detection, and quantification, with considerable variation found in the major compound, sutherlandioside B.

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2009·Planta medica·Xiang Fu, Xing-Cong Li, Yan-Hong Wang, et al

Flavonol glycosides from the south African medicinal plant Sutherlandia frutescens.

Study

Phytochemical investigation of Sutherlandia frutescens leaves led to the isolation of four new flavonol glycosides, sutherlandins A-D. Their structures were elucidated using chemical and spectroscopic methods.

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2008·Journal of natural products·Xiang Fu, Xing-Cong Li, Troy J Smillie, et al

Cycloartane glycosides from Sutherlandia frutescens.

Study

The paper reports the isolation and structural elucidation of four new cycloartane glycosides, sutherlandiosides A-D, from the South African folk medicine Sutherlandia frutescens. The structures were established using spectroscopic methods and X-ray crystallography.

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2005·AIDS (London, England)·Edward Mills, Brian C Foster, Rolf van Heeswijk, et al

Impact of African herbal medicines on antiretroviral metabolism.

Study

The study examined the effects of African herbal medicines Hypoxis and Sutherlandia on antiretroviral metabolism. Both herbs significantly affected cytochrome P450 3A4 metabolism and activated the pregnane X receptor. P-glycoprotein expression was inhibited, with Hypoxis showing 42-51% and Sutherlandia showing 19-31% of activity compared with verapamil. The findings suggest potential risks of treatment failure, viral resistance, or drug toxicity when combining these herbal medicines with antiretroviral agents.

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2025·Plants (Basel, Switzerland)·Kadidiatou O Ndjoubi, Rajan Sharma, Ahmed A Hussein

Phytochemistry, Ethnopharmacology, and Pharmacology of(Cancer Bush): A Comprehensive Review.

Review

This comprehensive review examines the phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, and pharmacology of cancer bush, a South African medicinal plant. It highlights its phytochemical profile and therapeutic effects, including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, antistress, and antimicrobial activities, based on 154 articles.

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2025·Planta medica·Nicezelle Gernandt, Frank van der Kooy

The "Cancer Bush" Sutherlandia (syn. Lessertia) frutescens. An Example of Promotional Research, or Is There Scientific Merit?

ReviewLongevity

Narrative review of Sutherlandia (Lessertia frutescens) evaluating its traditional use and scientific data regarding antiproliferative properties. The review concludes that despite some studies suggesting potential effects, the evidence is insufficient and biased, with many studies lacking proper controls and realistic dosages. Sutherlandia is not recommended for cancer treatment due to these limitations and potential herb-drug interactions.

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2020·Nanotechnology·Phumuzile Dube, Samantha Meyer, Abram Madiehe, et al

Antibacterial activity of biogenic silver and gold nanoparticles synthesized from Salvia africana-lutea and Sutherlandia frutescens.

In vitro

The study synthesized biogenic silver and gold nanoparticles using water extracts of Salvia africana-lutea and Sutherlandia frutescens. The antibacterial activity of these nanoparticles was tested against Staphylococcus epidermidis and P. aeruginosa. SAL AgNP and SF AgNP displayed high antibacterial activity, while SAL AuNP and the water extracts did not show significant activity.

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2018·BMC complementary and alternative medicine·Longsheng Chen, Minjie Xu, Zhunan Gong, et al

Comparative cardio and developmental toxicity induced by the popular medicinal extract of Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R.Br. detected using a zebrafish Tuebingen embryo model.

Animal study

The study investigated the cardio and developmental toxicity of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts using a zebrafish embryo model. Both ethanol and water extracts caused bleeding and pericardial cyst formation at high concentrations, with the aqueous extract being less toxic. Chemical differences between the extracts were analyzed using LC-MS/MS, highlighting sutherlandiosides as distinguishing features.

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2018·BMC complementary and alternative medicine·Siyabulela S B N Ntuli, Wentzel C A Gelderblom, David R Katerere

The mutagenic and antimutagenic activity of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts and marker compounds.

In vitro

The study investigated the mutagenic and antimutagenic activity of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts and marker compounds using the Ames assay. The ethylacetate extract exhibited antimutagenicity against all bacterial strains, while the methanol extract showed both pro-mutagenic and antimutagenic activities. L-canavanine showed co-mutagenicity, whereas L-arginine and GABA exhibited antimutagenic responses. The ethylacetate extract had higher phenolic content and antioxidant potential.

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2017·Journal of ethnopharmacology·C A Sergeant, D Africander, P Swart, et al

Sutherlandia frutescens modulates adrenal hormone biosynthesis, acts as a selective glucocorticoid receptor agonist (SEGRA) and displays anti-mineralocorticoid properties.

In vitroStress Inflammation Hormone Health

The study investigated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens and sutherlandioside B on adrenal hormone biosynthesis and steroid receptor interaction in COS-1 and H295R cell models. The extracts inhibited key steroidogenic enzymes and decreased cortisol and androgen precursors, suggesting anti-stress, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypertensive properties.

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2016·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Denver Davids, Diana Gibson, Quinton Johnson

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used to manage High Blood Pressure and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Bitterfontein, Western Cape Province, South Africa.

Observationaln = 112

Ethnobotanical survey in Bitterfontein, Western Cape Province, South Africa, documenting medicinal plants used to manage High Blood Pressure and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Twenty-four plant species were identified, with Lessertia frutescens being the most commonly used. The study highlights the widespread use of medicinal plants alongside allopathic medicine.

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2016·Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM·Nicola B van der Walt, Zahra Zakeri, Marianne J Cronjé

The Induction of Apoptosis in A375 Malignant Melanoma Cells by Sutherlandia frutescens.

In vitro

The study investigates the effect of Sutherlandia frutescens extract on A375 melanoma cells, demonstrating its ability to induce apoptosis through both caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways. The findings suggest potential for further in vivo studies.

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2016·PloS one·Wei Lei, Jimmy D Browning, Peggy A Eichen, et al

An Investigation into the Immunomodulatory Activities of Sutherlandia frutescens in Healthy Mice.

Animal studyImmunity -Inflammation

Animal study investigating the immunomodulatory effects of Sutherlandia frutescens in healthy mice. Consumption of S. frutescens did not significantly alter host response to systemic infection and tended to diminish in vivo inflammatory responses.

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2015·International immunopharmacology·Wei Lei, Jimmy D Browning, Peggy A Eichen, et al

Unveiling the anti-inflammatory activity of Sutherlandia frutescens using murine macrophages.

In vitroInflammation

The study investigates the anti-inflammatory activities of Sutherlandia frutescens extract (SFE) on murine macrophage cell lines and primary mouse macrophages. SFE exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, but these were not mediated by sutherlandiosides or sutherlandins, with chlorophyll contributing to the observed activity.

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2015·PloS one·Yuan Lu, Nicholas Starkey, Wei Lei, et al

Inhibition of Hedgehog-Signaling Driven Genes in Prostate Cancer Cells by Sutherlandia frutescens Extract.

In vitro

The study investigates the effect of Sutherlandia frutescens extract on Hedgehog-signaling driven genes in TRAMPC2 murine prostate cancer cells. Sutherlandia ethanol extract repressed 50% of Hh-responsive genes, including Gli1 and Ptch1.

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2015·Journal of negative results in biomedicine·Luan Dane Africa, Carine Smith

Sutherlandia frutescens may exacerbate HIV-associated neuroinflammation.

In vitroBrain Health

In vitro study using a co-culture model of the blood-brain barrier to investigate the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on HIV-associated neuroinflammation. S. frutescens decreased IL-1β secretion but exacerbated monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and CD14+ monocyte infiltration, suggesting potential negative effects on neuroinflammation in HIV/AIDS.

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2015·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Wei Lei, Jimmy D Browning, Peggy A Eichen, et al

Immuno-stimulatory activity of a polysaccharide-enriched fraction of Sutherlandia frutescens occurs by the toll-like receptor-4 signaling pathway.

In vitroImmunity

The study investigated the immuno-stimulatory activity of a polysaccharide-enriched fraction from Sutherlandia frutescens using RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells. SFPS increased the production of ROS, NO, and TNF-α in a dose-dependent manner, effects that were blocked by a TLR4-specific inhibitor, suggesting the involvement of TLR4 and NF-κB signaling pathways.

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2015·Cell biology international·Hui Lin, Glenn A Jackson, Yuan Lu, et al

Inhibition of Gli/hedgehog signaling in prostate cancer cells by "cancer bush" Sutherlandia frutescens extract.

In vitro

The study investigates the anti-cancer effects of Sutherlandia frutescens extract on prostate cancer cells. It found dose- and time-dependent growth inhibition in human and mouse prostate cancer cells, linked to inhibition of the Gli/hedgehog signaling pathway. Sutherlandioside D was identified as a potent compound in the extract.

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2014·African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM·George Asumeng Koffuor, Rita Dickson, Stephen Yao Gbedema, et al

The immunostimulatory and antimicrobial property of two herbal decoctions used in the management of HIV/AIDS in Ghana.

Observationaln = 16Immunity

The study investigated the efficacy of Betula alba and Sutherlandia frutescens decoctions in managing HIV/AIDS in Ghana. The herbal decoctions significantly reduced viral loads in patients and increased total WBC and lymphocyte counts in immunosuppressed mice. They also exhibited antimicrobial activity against various bacteria and Candida albicans.

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2014·BMC complementary and alternative medicine·Shakila Tobwala, Weili Fan, Connor J Hines, et al

Antioxidant potential of Sutherlandia frutescens and its protective effects against oxidative stress in various cell cultures.

In vitroInflammation

The study assessed the antioxidant potential of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts in cell-free systems and various cell lines. The extracts showed significant antioxidant activity, and the freeze-dried hot water extract protected against oxidative stress induced by tert-butyl hydroperoxide in cell cultures.

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2014·ASN neuro·Dennis Y Chuang, Jiankun Cui, Agnes Simonyi, et al

Dietary Sutherlandia and elderberry mitigate cerebral ischemia-induced neuronal damage and attenuate p47phox and phospho-ERK1/2 expression in microglial cells.

Animal studyBrain Health Inflammation

Animal study where C57BL/6J male mice were fed diets with Sutherlandia or American elderberry for 2 months before inducing cerebral ischemia. The supplemented diets ameliorated sensorimotor impairment and reduced neuronal cell death and microglial activation, demonstrating neuroprotective effects against oxidative and inflammatory responses.

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2014·PloS one·Jinghua Jiang, Dennis Y Chuang, Yijia Zong, et al

Sutherlandia frutescens ethanol extracts inhibit oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in neurons and microglial cells.

In vitroInflammation Brain Health

In vitro study of Sutherlandia frutescens ethanol extracts showing suppression of NMDA-induced ROS production in neurons and LPS- and IFNγ-induced ROS and NO production in microglial cells. The extracts inhibit the IFNγ-induced p-ERK1/2 signaling pathway, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for stress and inflammatory diseases in the brain.

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2013·Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM·Adrienne C Müller, Michael F Skinner, Isadore Kanfer

Effect of the African Traditional Medicine, Sutherlandia frutescens, on the Bioavailability of the Antiretroviral Protease Inhibitor, Atazanavir.

Studyn = 12

The study investigated the effect of Sutherlandia frutescens on the bioavailability of atazanavir in twelve healthy male subjects. Sutherlandia frutescens significantly reduced the bioavailability of atazanavir, potentially resulting in subtherapeutic plasma concentrations and reduced anti-HIV efficacy.

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2013·Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.)·Oluwaseyi M Aboyade, Gustav Styger, Diana Gibson, et al

Sutherlandia frutescens: the meeting of science and traditional knowledge.

Study

The paper discusses Sutherlandia frutescens, a plant used in traditional medicine, and its intersection with scientific research. Specific study details are not available due to the lack of an abstract.

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2013·Journal of ethnopharmacology·S Williams, S Roux, T Koekemoer, et al

Sutherlandia frutescens prevents changes in diabetes-related gene expression in a fructose-induced insulin resistant cell model.

In vitroHormone Health

The study investigated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on insulin resistance in a human liver cell culture model. Sutherlandia frutescens prevented insulin resistance parameters such as reduced glucose uptake, increased glucose release, and lipid accumulation. It also regulated the expression of 27 diabetes-related genes, suggesting potential anti-diabetic mechanisms.

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2013·Experimental biology and medicine (Maywood, N.J.)·Carine Smith, Marthinus Janse van Vuuren

Central and peripheral effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on the response to acute psychological stress.

Animal studyStress

The study investigated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on acute psychological stress in a rodent model. A low dose of S. frutescens extract was administered before stress exposure, and it was found to abolish stress-induced down-regulation of glucocorticoid receptors, suggesting central mechanisms of action supporting its use in stress-related disorders.

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2012·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Chris Vorster, Andre Stander, Annie Joubert

Differential signaling involved in Sutherlandia frutescens-induced cell death in MCF-7 and MCF-12A cells.

In vitro

In vitro study evaluating the effects of aqueous extracts of Sutherlandia frutescens on MCF-7 breast adenocarcinoma and MCF-12A non-tumorigenic cell lines. The study found that Sutherlandia frutescens induced apoptosis and autophagy, with the MCF-7 cell line being more susceptible to its cytostatic and cytotoxic effects compared to the MCF-12A cell line.

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2012·Journal of pharmacy & pharmaceutical sciences : a publication of the Canadian Society for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Societe canadienne des sciences pharmaceutiques·Adrienne C Müller, Srinivas Patnala, Olena Kis, et al

Interactions between phytochemical components of Sutherlandia frutescens and the antiretroviral, atazanavir in vitro: implications for absorption and metabolism.

In vitro

In vitro study investigating the interaction between Sutherlandia frutescens extracts and the antiretroviral drug atazanavir. The study found that Sutherlandia frutescens components affected atazanavir absorption and metabolism, with implications for its oral bioavailability.

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2012·Drug metabolism and disposition: the biological fate of chemicals·Pius S Fasinu, Heike Gutmann, Hilmar Schiller, et al

The potential of Sutherlandia frutescens for herb-drug interaction.

In vitro

The study investigated the inhibitory effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on major cytochrome P450 isozymes using human liver microsomes and its effect on midazolam clearance using hepatocytes. S. frutescens showed inhibitory potency for several CYP enzymes and transporters, indicating potential herb-drug interactions.

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2012·African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM·Mlungisi Ngcobo, Nceba Gqaleni, Paul K Chelule, et al

The immunomodulatory effects of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts in human normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

In vitroImmunity

In vitro study investigating the immunomodulatory effects of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts on normal human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. High doses of the extract significantly decreased cytokines TNF-α and IL 1β, while low doses did not change TNF-α and IL 1β secretion. The study suggests that SF extracts can modulate cytokine secretion in unstimulated normal PBMCs.

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2012·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Janine MacKenzie, Trevor C Koekemoer, Saartjie Roux, et al

Effect of Sutherlandia frutescens on the lipid metabolism in an insulin resistant rat model and 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

Animal studyNutrition

The study evaluated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on lipid metabolism in an insulin resistant rat model and 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Rats treated with S. frutescens showed lower body weight and decreased levels of insulin, free fatty acids, and triglycerides. In 3T3-L1 cells, S. frutescens decreased triglyceride accumulation and increased glucose consumption and lactate production, suggesting improved insulin sensitivity.

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2011·African journal of traditional, complementary, and alternative medicines : AJTCAM·Mlungisi Ngcobo, Nceba Gqaleni, Paul K Chelule, et al

Effects of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts on normal T-lymphocytes in vitro.

In vitro

In vitro study examining the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts on normal human T cells. High concentrations of ethanol extracts induced significant necrosis, ATP depletion, and inhibition of caspase-3/-7 activity, while water extracts were less toxic. DNA fragmentation was observed with high doses of both extracts over 48 hours.

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2011·International journal of pharmaceutics·Mukul Minocha, Nanda K Mandava, Deep Kwatra, et al

Effect of short term and chronic administration of Sutherlandia frutescens on pharmacokinetics of nevirapine in rats.

Animal study

The study investigated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on the pharmacokinetics of nevirapine in Sprague Dawley rats. Short-term co-administration showed no significant effect, but chronic exposure led to a 50% decrease in the AUC and C(max) values of nevirapine. The study also found increased mRNA expression of CYP3A2 in rats and CYP3A4 in human cell models, suggesting a potential drug-herb interaction.

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2011·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Nicola B Skerman, Annie M Joubert, Marianne J Cronjé

The apoptosis inducing effects of Sutherlandia spp. extracts on an oesophageal cancer cell line.

In vitroLongevity

In vitro study investigating the apoptosis-inducing effects of Sutherlandia frutescens and Sutherlandia tomentosa extracts on oesophageal cancer cell line SNO. The extracts induced apoptosis and were more cytotoxic to cancerous cells compared to non-cancerous cells, showing promise as anti-cancer agents.

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2009·Phytotherapy research : PTR·Janine MacKenzie, Trevor Koekemoer, Maryna van de Venter, et al

Sutherlandia frutescens limits the development of insulin resistance by decreasing plasma free fatty acid levels.

Animal studyNutrition

The study investigated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on insulin resistance in rats fed a high fat diet. S. frutescens reduced plasma free fatty acid levels and prevented the development of insulin resistance over twelve weeks, also decreasing total cholesterol levels and the LDL/HDL ratio.

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2009·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Andre Stander, Sumari Marais, Voula Stivaktas, et al

In vitro effects of Sutherlandia frutescens water extracts on cell numbers, morphology, cell cycle progression and cell death in a tumorigenic and a non-tumorigenic epithelial breast cell line.

In vitro

In vitro study of Sutherlandia frutescens water extracts on tumorigenic and non-tumorigenic breast cell lines. The extracts decreased cell growth and induced apoptosis, with more pronounced effects in the tumorigenic MCF-7 cells. The study suggests differential mechanisms of action in the two cell lines.

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2008·Journal of ethnopharmacology·L Brown, O Heyneke, D Brown, et al

Impact of traditional medicinal plant extracts on antiretroviral drug absorption.

In vitro

In vitro study investigating the effect of Hypoxis hemerocallidea and Sutherlandia frutescens extracts, as well as l-canavanine, on the transport of nevirapine across human intestinal epithelial cells. Hypoxis hemerocallidea and l-canavanine decreased nevirapine efflux, potentially increasing its bioavailability.

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2008·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Désirée Prevoo, Pieter Swart, Amanda C Swart

The influence of Sutherlandia frutescens on adrenal steroidogenic cytochrome P450 enzymes.

In vitroStress

The study investigated the interaction of Sutherlandia frutescens with cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in glucocorticoid biosynthesis. The extracts inhibited progesterone and pregnenolone metabolism, suggesting a mechanism by which Sutherlandia frutescens may reduce glucocorticoid levels and alleviate stress symptoms.

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2007·Brain research bulletin·John A O Ojewole

Anticonvulsant property of Sutherlandia frutescens R. BR. (variety Incana E. MEY.) [Fabaceae] shoot aqueous extract.

Animal study

The study examined the anticonvulsant properties of Sutherlandia frutescens shoot aqueous extract against seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole, picrotoxin, and bicuculline in mice. The extract significantly delayed the onset of and antagonized pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures, profoundly antagonized picrotoxin-induced seizures, and weakly antagonized bicuculline-induced seizures. The findings suggest potential use as a supplementary remedy for childhood convulsions and epilepsy.

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2007·Journal of ethnopharmacology·B A Stander, S Marais, T J Steynberg, et al

Influence of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts on cell numbers, morphology and gene expression in MCF-7 cells.

In vitro

The study investigated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts on MCF-7 human breast adenocarcinoma cells. A significant decrease in malignant cell numbers and apoptotic morphological changes were observed after exposure to the extract. Gene expression analysis provided insights into the molecular mechanisms involved.

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2006·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Wayne Anthony Chadwick, Saartjie Roux, Maryna van de Venter, et al

Anti-diabetic effects of Sutherlandia frutescens in Wistar rats fed a diabetogenic diet.

Animal studyNutrition

Study investigated the effects of Sutherlandia frutescens on glucose uptake and insulin levels in pre-diabetic rats fed a high fat diet. The plant extract normalized insulin levels, increased glucose uptake in muscle and adipose tissue, and decreased intestinal glucose uptake, showing promise as a type 2 anti-diabetes medication.

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2005·Cancer letters·Joydeb Kumar Kundu, Kensese S Mossanda, Hye-Kyung Na, et al

Inhibitory effects of the extracts of Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R. Br. and Harpagophytum procumbens DC. on phorbol ester-induced COX-2 expression in mouse skin: AP-1 and CREB as potential upstream targets.

Animal studyInflammation

The study investigated the effects of methanolic extracts of Sutherlandia frutescens and Harpagophytum procumbens on TPA-induced COX-2 expression in mouse skin. Topical application of both extracts inhibited COX-2 expression by diminishing ERK catalytic activity and inhibiting AP-1 activation, suggesting anti-inflammatory properties.

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2005·Journal of ethnopharmacology·S M Harnett, V Oosthuizen, M van de Venter

Anti-HIV activities of organic and aqueous extracts of Sutherlandia frutescens and Lobostemon trigonus.

In vitro

The study screened extracts from Sutherlandia frutescens and Lobostemon trigonus for anti-HIV activity. Sutherlandia extracts showed inhibitory compounds against HIV target enzymes, while aqueous Lobostemon leaf extracts inhibited HIV-1 reverse transcriptase with an IC50 of 49 microg/ml.

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2005·Phytotherapy research : PTR·David R Katerere, Jacobus N Eloff

Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of Sutherlandia frutescens (Fabaceae), a reputed anti-HIV/AIDS phytomedicine.

In vitro

The study investigated the antibacterial and antioxidant activity of Sutherlandia frutescens extracts. The hexane extract showed significant antibacterial activity against S. aureus, E. faecalis, and E. coli. Antioxidant activity was demonstrated using the DPPH free-radical scavenging assay.

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2005·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Kenneth Anye Chinkwo

Sutherlandia frutescens extracts can induce apoptosis in cultured carcinoma cells.

In vitro

In vitro study showing that crude aqueous Sutherlandia frutescens extracts induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis in cervical carcinoma and CHO cell lines. Apoptotic responses were confirmed through morphological observation, chromatin condensation, phosphotidyl serine externalisation, DNA fragmentation patterns, and flow cytometric analysis.

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2004·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Joseph Tai, Susan Cheung, Edwin Chan, et al

In vitro culture studies of Sutherlandia frutescens on human tumor cell lines.

In vitro

In vitro study of Sutherlandia frutescens on human tumor cell lines. The herb showed a concentration dependent antiproliferative effect on several tumor cell lines but did not show significant antioxidant effects.

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2004·Journal of ethnopharmacology·Antonio C Fernandes, A Duncan Cromarty, Carl Albrecht, et al

The antioxidant potential of Sutherlandia frutescens.

In vitroInflammation Immunity

The study investigates the antioxidant potential of Sutherlandia frutescens extract, focusing on its superoxide and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activities. The extract showed significant scavenging activities, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties.

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2004·Methods and findings in experimental and clinical pharmacology·J A O Ojewole

Analgesic, antiinflammatory and hypoglycemic effects of Sutherlandia frutescens R. BR. (variety Incana E. MEY.) [Fabaceae] shoot aqueous extract.

Animal studyInflammation Nutrition

Animal study investigating the analgesic, antiinflammatory, and hypoglycemic effects of Sutherlandia frutescens shoot aqueous extract. The extract showed significant analgesic effects in mice and inhibited inflammation and caused hypoglycemia in rats, supporting its traditional use in managing pain, inflammation, and type-2 diabetes.

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2016·Neuromolecular medicine·William R Folk, Aaron Smith, Hailong Song, et al

Does Concurrent Use of Some Botanicals Interfere with Treatment of Tuberculosis?

ReviewImmunity

The paper discusses the potential interference of botanicals, specifically Sutherlandia frutescens, with tuberculosis treatment. Sutherlandia suppresses reactive oxygen species production and microglial activation, which may reduce the host's immune response to Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is recommended that individuals on isoniazid avoid concurrent use of botanicals with antioxidant activity.

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2010·Stress (Amsterdam, Netherlands)·Anna-Mart Engelbrecht, Carine Smith, Ian Neethling, et al

Daily brief restraint stress alters signaling pathways and induces atrophy and apoptosis in rat skeletal muscle.

Animal studyn = 40Physical Performance

The study investigated the effects of restraint stress on muscle atrophy and apoptosis in 40 male Wistar rats, and the potential protective effects of Sutherlandia frutescens. Restraint stress increased myostatin and apoptosis, and attenuated MyoD expression and PI3-Kinase/Akt signaling, all of which were counteracted by Sutherlandia treatment.

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2008·Journal of ethnopharmacology·B-E van Wyk, C Albrecht

A review of the taxonomy, ethnobotany, chemistry and pharmacology of Sutherlandia frutescens (Fabaceae).

ReviewStress Inflammation Immunity

Narrative review of Sutherlandia frutescens, a plant used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments including stress, inflammation, and cancer. The review discusses its taxonomy, ethnobotany, chemistry, and pharmacology, highlighting its antiproliferative, anti-HIV, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-stress activities. Preclinical data suggest efficacy and safety, supporting the need for controlled clinical studies.

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2006·Journal of ethnopharmacology·K A Reid, J Maes, A Maes, et al

Evaluation of the mutagenic and antimutagenic effects of South African plants.

In vitro

In vitro study screening dichloromethane and methanol extracts of 42 South African plants for mutagenicity and antimutagenicity using the Ames test. Methanol extracts of Helichrysum species showed mutagenicity, while several other species showed antimutagenic properties in the presence of S9.

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2005·Nutrition journal·Edward Mills, Curtis Cooper, Dugald Seely, et al

African herbal medicines in the treatment of HIV: Hypoxis and Sutherlandia. An overview of evidence and pharmacology.

Review

The paper reviews the evidence and safety concerns related to the use of two African herbal medicines, African Potato and Sutherlandia, in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It discusses the pharmacology, toxicology, and pharmacokinetics of these herbs, highlighting the lack of clinical trials and potential for drug interactions with antiretroviral drugs.

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2004·Endocrine research·D Prevoo, C Smith, P Swart, et al

The effect of Sutherlandia frutescens on steroidogenesis: confirming indigenous wisdom.

Animal studyn = 40Stress

The study investigated the effect of Sutherlandia frutescens on stress-related steroidogenesis in 40 male Wistar rats. Sutherlandia extract significantly decreased corticosterone levels in stressed rats and inhibited substrate binding and conversion in adrenal steroidogenesis assays.

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2004·The review of diabetic studies : RDS·Charles Sia

Spotlight on ethnomedicine: usability of Sutherlandia frutescens in the treatment of diabetes.

Review

The paper discusses the usability of Sutherlandia frutescens in the treatment of diabetes, focusing on its role in ethnomedicine.

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