Evidence supporting the use of: Jaborandi
For the body system: Acetylcholine

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Jaborandi (Pilocarpus species) has a long-standing traditional use, particularly in South American and Indian herbal medicine, for its effects on the parasympathetic nervous system, which is mediated by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. The active compound in Jaborandi, pilocarpine, is a known muscarinic acetylcholine receptor agonist. Traditionally, Jaborandi leaves were chewed or brewed into tea to induce sweating and salivation—classic cholinergic effects. These uses primarily reflect empirical, traditional knowledge rather than rigorous scientific validation for systemic acetylcholine "support".

In modern medicine, pilocarpine is extracted and standardized for pharmaceutical use (not as crude Jaborandi), particularly in the treatment of glaucoma and dry mouth, where it mimics acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors. However, these uses are targeted interventions rather than general "acetylcholine support". While the plant’s traditional use aligns with its pharmacological activity, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of whole Jaborandi (as opposed to purified pilocarpine) for general support of the acetylcholine body system. Its use is also limited by potential toxicity and side effects due to excessive cholinergic stimulation.

In summary, while Jaborandi’s traditional use is consistent with some understanding of acetylcholine-mediated effects, scientific evidence for its use as a general acetylcholine system "support" is limited to its isolated alkaloid (pilocarpine) in specific clinical contexts.

More about Jaborandi
More about Acetylcholine

Products containing Jaborandi

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.