Catalpol is a chemical compound with the chemical formula C15H22O10, and it is classified as a iridoid glycoside. It is scientifically known as beta-D-glucopyranoside, (1S,4aS,6aS,7S,7aR)-1-[(3R,5S,7R,8R)-3-hydroxy-8-[(2S,3R,4S,5S,6R)-3,4,5-trihydroxy-6-(hydroxymethyl)oxan-2-yl]oxy-7-methyl-1,4a,5,6,6a,7,7a-octahydrocyclopenta[c]pyran-7-yl]ethanone. It has a molecular weight of 362.33 and a CAS number of 2415-24-9.
Catalpol is known to have several health benefits, including anticonvulsant, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory properties. As it is a natural compound found in certain plant extracts, it has gained attention as an alternative therapy for certain medical conditions.
Keywords associated with Catalpol include natural, traditional medicine, iridoids, glycogen, plant extract, and therapeutic. Synonyms for Catalpol include Rehmannia Glutinosa, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, and Nepeta.
One of the significant benefits of Catalpol is its use as an anticonvulsant. In a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, investigators assessed the use of Catalpol to help prevent seizures in mice, finding that it was effective in reducing seizure activity. This treatment may have the possibility of being used in humans with epilepsy or seizure disorders.
Catalpol also offers neuroprotective benefits. A study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine found that Catalpol protected brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation in rat brains. This mechanism also offers therapeutic potential in diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's or other neurodegenerative diseases.
Additionally, Catalpol has an immunomodulatory effect on the body. A study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology found that Catalpol was beneficial in treating inflammatory bowel disease in mice. Thus, it can be seen as a potential treatment for immune-based diseases.
Though it has health benefits, Catalpol may cause potential side-effects in some people. Such side-effects may include gastrointestinal distress, allergies, or respiratory complications. As it is naturally found in certain plant extracts and herbs, allergy-prone people should be cautious while consuming any natural compounds of Catalpol.
Regarding dosing information, there is no official guideline on the appropriate dose of Catalpol for individuals. Researchers across several studies, have suggested that optimal doses should be further studied to determine the safe levels for chronic or intermittent use of them.
In conclusion, Catalpol is an increasingly popular natural compound, which offers several potential health benefits, including anticonvulsant, neuroprotective and immunomodulatory properties. Though it has been found to be safe for most individuals, possible side-effects include respiratory complications, allergies, and gastrointestinal distress. More research is required to determine its efficacy to provide the safety levels of its optimal doses. Still, the research on this herbal compound has suggested that it has significant potential for use in various medicinal applications.
