Acteoside

A potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound found in various plants.

Also known as: Verbascoside

other Names
Verbascoside
primary Benefits
Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective
common Dose
No standard dose; depends on the source plant extract.
best Form
Standardized extract from plants like Cistanche or Olive Leaf.
timing
Can be taken with or without food.
safety Rating
Generally considered safe, but research is ongoing.

Overview

Acteoside, also known as verbascoside, is a phenylethanoid glycoside found in a variety of medicinal plants. It is a powerful antioxidant that has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and potential anti-cancer properties. It is often considered one of the key active compounds in herbs like Cistanche and Plantain.

Key Benefits

Powerful Antioxidant

Acteoside is a potent scavenger of free radicals, helping to protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

It has been shown to inhibit inflammatory pathways in the body, which may help with a variety of inflammatory conditions.

Neuroprotective Properties

Research suggests that acteoside may help protect nerve cells from damage and could have applications in neurodegenerative diseases.

May Support Skin Health

Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help protect the skin from damage and aging.

Dosage & How to Take

There is no established standard dosage for pure acteoside. Dosing is dependent on the specific herbal extract it is derived from and its concentration.

PurposeDoseNotes
Neuroprotection (in animal studies)Varies widely, e.g., 30-60 mg/kg body weightHuman equivalent doses have not been established.
General HealthDependent on extract standardizationFollow the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific product.

Best Time to Take

Can be taken at any time of day.

With or Without Food

Can be taken with or without food.

Forms & Bioavailability

FormAbsorptionBest ForNotes
Standardized Herbal ExtractMediumEnsuring a consistent amount of acteoside.Found in supplements of Cistanche, Olive Leaf, or Plantain.
Whole Herb Powder/TinctureLowGeneral herbal support.The concentration of acteoside can vary significantly.

Side Effects & Safety

Common

  • Generally well-tolerated; specific side effects are not well-documented for the isolated compound.

Rare

  • Unknown

Contraindications

  • Caution is advised for those with known allergies to source plants (e.g., olive, plantain).

Interactions

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet drugsModerate

Acteoside may have antiplatelet effects and could increase the risk of bleeding when taken with these medications.

ImmunosuppressantsModerate

Due to its immunomodulatory effects, it could potentially interact with immunosuppressive drugs.

Scientific Research

2018Phytotherapy Research

Acteoside: A review of its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and clinical applications

Acteoside demonstrates a wide array of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects, suggesting its potential for therapeutic use.

2020Journal of Ethnopharmacology

The neuroprotective effects of acteoside and its potential mechanisms

Acteoside shows promise as a neuroprotective agent, potentially through its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic (anti-cell death) mechanisms.

Food Sources

Cistanche deserticola
Olive (Olea europaea)
Plantago species
Verbena officinalis (Vervain)

Products With Acteoside

1 product in our database contains this ingredient

Frequently Asked Questions

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. The statements on this page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.