Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Salacia is a genus of plants traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, primarily for diabetes and metabolic disorders. Recent scientific studies have started to investigate its effects on lipid metabolism, including triglyceride levels. Some animal studies and a handful of small human clinical trials suggest that extracts from Salacia species (such as Salacia reticulata and Salacia oblonga) may help lower serum triglycerides. The proposed mechanism involves inhibition of intestinal alpha-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase, leading to reduced absorption of sugars and fats.

For example, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial published in 2007 (J Am Coll Nutr) found that supplementation with Salacia oblonga extract over six weeks resulted in a moderate reduction in triglyceride levels in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Similar results have been seen in smaller studies and in animal models, though the effects are generally modest.

While these findings are promising, the overall quality and size of the clinical evidence remain limited. No large-scale, long-term trials have confirmed robust triglyceride-lowering effects, and Salacia is not recognized by major medical guidelines for this purpose. Thus, the scientific support is preliminary with a moderate level of evidence (rated 2 out of 5).

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