Albizia Benefits | Seasonal Allergies & Eczema
Historically Albizia (Albizia lebbeck) has been used within Ayurvedic medicine to manage allergies, skin eruptions, dermatitis, eczema and hives.
Albizia Pharmacology
Botanical Name
Albizia lebbeck & Albizzia lebbeck
Other Common Names
Mimosa, Mimosa Tree, Persian Silk Tree, Silk Tree & Siris
Part Used
Bark
Main Therapeutic Compounds
Saponins, cardiac glycosides, tannins, and flavonoids
Herbal Actions
Anti-allergic
Antimicrobial
Hypocholesterolaemic (reduces cholesterol)
Antioxidant
Albizia Herbal Benefits
Allergies || Skin Conditions || Hay Fever
Hives || Eczema || Mood Support
It is thought that Filipo del Albizi, a Florentine nobleman in the 18th century, introduced the species into cultivation, which is how albizia got its name. It has been used for many years in Ayurvedic medicine and is still a well-liked remedy for eczema, allergies, and asthma.
Allergies and Eczema
Albizia has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine to help relieve allergic conditions such as hayfever, asthma, dermatitis, eczema and hives. Albizia's anti-allergy action works by stabilising mast cells and stopping the release of histamine and other chemicals that perpetuate the allergic response. This action helps relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, dripping nose, watery eyes and itchy or irritated skin.
Current research has shown the bark of Albizia to reduce allergic sensitivity and may be valuable for managing asthma, coughs and bronchitis.
Pain & Inflammation
Albizia has shown anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anti-arthritic effects in animal studies. It is thought that the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of albizia may be caused by its ability to stop the production of prostaglandins and cyclooxygenase. The anti-arthritic ability of albizia may also come from its ability to fight free radicals by increasing superoxide dismutase and decreasing lipid peroxidation.
Brain & Memory Function
In vivo studies show that Albizia changes the levels of -aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin, and dopamine. Different parts of the herb affect neurotransmitters in slightly different ways. In one study, a saponin-containing fraction from the extract of dried albizia leaves showed to lower the amount of GABA and dopamine in the brain while raising the amount of serotonin. When testing an ethanolic extract of albizia leaves, the researchers found it to increase the levels of GABA and serotonin in the brain. Saponins from albizia have been shown to make mice with typical memories, and mice with amnesia remember things much better than their respective controls.
Albizia Typical Use
Tea & Infusion
3-6 grams of dried powdered herb daily usually in capsules.
Tincture & Liquid Extract
Typical use of Albizia tincture is 2.5 - 10mls daily, or as directed by your practitioner.
Herbal Combinations
Albizia combines well with Perilla, Bacial Skullcap, Rosemary & Ginger.
Cautions & Safety
Not recommended during pregnancy and lactation.
If you have a medical condition or take pharmaceutical medications, please consult your primary healthcare practitioner prior to use.
References
Prussin C, Metcalfe DD. 4. IgE, mast cells, basophils, and eosinophils. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2003;111(2 Suppl):S486-494. https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(02)09177-6/fulltext
Bone K. A clinical guide to blending liquid herbs. QLD: Churchill Livingstone, 2003. https://www.elsevier.com/books/a-clinical-guide-to-blending-liquid-herbs/bone/978-0-443-07207-5
Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs & natural supplements: an evidence-based guide, 3rd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone, 2010. https://www.elsevier.com/books/herbs-and-natural-supplements-an-evidence-based-guide/braun/978-0-7295-4036-6
Barua, CC, et al.: Immunomodulatory effects of Albizia lebbeck. Pharmaceut Biol. 38(3), 2000, 161–166. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21214455/
Nurul, IM, et al.:Albizia lebbeck suppresses histamine signaling by the inhibition of histamine H1 receptor and histidine decarboxylase gene transcriptions. International Immunopharmacology. 11(11), 2011, 1766–1772. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21744473
Venkatesh, P, et al.: Anti-allergic activity of standardized extract of Albizia lebbeck with reference to catechin as a phytomarker. Immunopharmacology and immunotoxicology. 32(2), 2010, 272–276.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/08923970903586227
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