# Agnimantha (Clerodendrum phlomidis) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/agnimantha **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-19 **Evidence Score:** 4 / 10 **Category:** Ayurveda **Also Known As:** Clerodendrum phlomidis, Headache tree, Arni, Agnimant, Fire flame bush, Clerodendron phlomidis, Bharangi ## Overview Agnimantha (Clerodendrum phlomidis) contains bioactive flavonoids and phenolic compounds that demonstrate anti-inflammatory and [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties in laboratory studies. The herb traditionally supports joint health through modulation of [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s, though clinical evidence remains limited. ## Health Benefits • [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) potential - Based on preclinical models only, no human studies available • [Antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) - Supported by in vitro studies of isolated flavonoid compounds, no clinical evidence • Traditional use for arthritis and rheumatism - Historical Ayurvedic applications, no modern clinical validation • Pain and fever management - Traditional use only, lacks clinical trial support • Respiratory support - Traditional application without scientific verification ## Mechanism of Action Agnimantha's flavonoid compounds, particularly quercetin and kaempferol derivatives, inhibit cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes involved in [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cascade reactions. These bioactive compounds also scavenge free radicals and modulate NF-κB signaling pathways. The herb's phenolic constituents contribute to antioxidant activity by chelating metal ions and neutralizing [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). ## Clinical Summary Current research on Agnimantha consists primarily of in vitro and animal studies, with no published human clinical trials available. Laboratory studies have demonstrated significant [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity in cell culture models, with some compounds showing 60-70% inhibition of inflammatory markers. Animal studies using standardized extracts have shown reduced joint swelling and improved mobility in arthritis models. The lack of human clinical data limits definitive conclusions about therapeutic efficacy and optimal dosing protocols. ## Nutritional Profile Agnimantha (Clerodendrum phlomidis) is a medicinal shrub used primarily for its bioactive phytochemicals rather than conventional nutritional value. Macronutrient data for isolated plant parts is limited in standardized databases. Key bioactive compounds identified include: iridoid glycosides (clerodenoside, phlomiside) concentrated in root bark at estimated 0.5–2% dry weight; flavonoids including luteolin, apigenin, and baicalein detected in leaf extracts at approximately 1.2–3.5 mg/g dry weight; phenolic acids including caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid at roughly 0.8–2.0 mg/g dry weight; alkaloids (trace quantities, unquantified in most studies); sterols including beta-sitosterol and stigmasterol identified in root fractions. Tannins are present in bark at estimated 4–8% dry weight. Terpenoids including clerodin (a clerodane diterpene) are characteristic bioactive constituents. Saponins have been detected in root and stem fractions. Regarding conventional nutrients: crude fiber content of dried leaf material is estimated at 15–20% dry weight; crude protein approximately 8–12% dry weight in leaf material; ash content (mineral fraction) approximately 6–10% dry weight suggesting moderate mineral presence including calcium, potassium, and iron, though precise mineral quantification per standardized serving is absent from published literature. Bioavailability of flavonoid compounds from aqueous decoctions (traditional preparation method) is considered moderate; lipophilic terpenoids require lipid-based extraction for optimal bioavailability. Most compositional data derives from Indian and Chinese phytochemical studies using non-standardized plant material, limiting precise quantification. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges are available due to absence of human trials. Traditional Ayurvedic use employs root bark powder or decoctions as part of Dashmool formulations, but specific quantities or standardization markers have not been established in research contexts. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Safety data for Agnimantha is limited to traditional use patterns, with no comprehensive toxicity studies available. The herb may interact with anticoagulant medications due to potential blood-thinning properties observed in preliminary studies. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking NSAIDs should exercise caution. Pregnancy and lactation safety has not been established, making use inadvisable during these periods without medical supervision. ## Scientific Research No human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses specific to Clerodendrum phlomidis have been conducted according to available research. The PubMed-linked review (PMC5755984) covers the broader Clerodendrum genus and notes only preclinical (in vitro or animal) studies for pharmacological properties. ## Historical & Cultural Context Agnimantha has been used for centuries in Ayurveda, primarily for treating [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), pain, fever, and headaches, and serves as a key component of Dashmool formulations for vata disorders like arthritis. Known as the 'headache tree' in English, its use is documented in classical texts like Dravyaguna Vijnana. ## Synergistic Combinations Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Boswellia, Ginger, Guggul ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What compounds in Agnimantha provide anti-inflammatory effects? Agnimantha contains flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol derivatives that inhibit inflammatory enzymes including cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase. These compounds also modulate NF-κB signaling pathways responsible for inflammatory responses. ### How much Agnimantha should I take for joint pain? No standardized human dosage exists for Agnimantha due to lack of clinical trials. Traditional Ayurvedic preparations typically use 3-6 grams of dried herb powder daily, but medical supervision is recommended for therapeutic use. ### Can Agnimantha be taken with blood pressure medications? Agnimantha may interact with anticoagulant and blood pressure medications due to potential cardiovascular effects observed in animal studies. Consult a healthcare provider before combining with any prescription medications. ### Is Agnimantha effective for rheumatoid arthritis? While traditional Ayurveda uses Agnimantha for arthritis and animal studies show promising anti-inflammatory effects, no human clinical trials have tested its effectiveness for rheumatoid arthritis specifically. More research is needed to confirm therapeutic benefits. ### What's the difference between Agnimantha and other anti-inflammatory herbs? Agnimantha's unique flavonoid profile distinguishes it from other anti-inflammatory herbs, with specific quercetin derivatives showing dual COX and LOX enzyme inhibition. However, herbs like turmeric and boswellia have stronger clinical evidence for inflammatory conditions. ### What is the research quality and evidence level for Agnimantha's health benefits? Current evidence for Agnimantha is limited to preclinical laboratory and in vitro studies, with no human clinical trials published to date. Most traditional claims for anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relief properties lack modern clinical validation, meaning real-world efficacy in humans remains unproven. The available research focuses on isolated flavonoid compounds rather than whole-plant extracts, which may not reflect how the herb functions when taken as a supplement. ### Is Agnimantha safe for children or elderly individuals? Safety data for Agnimantha in children and elderly populations is not available, as formal safety studies have not been conducted in these age groups. Traditional Ayurvedic use does not provide sufficient evidence to recommend dosing or confirm safety in vulnerable populations. Anyone considering Agnimantha for children or elderly individuals should consult a healthcare provider first, as age-related factors may affect tolerance and interactions. ### What form of Agnimantha extract provides the best absorption and bioavailability? Information on the bioavailability and optimal extraction methods for Agnimantha is not available in published research, as comparative studies on different forms (powder, standardized extract, decoction) have not been conducted. Traditional Ayurvedic preparation typically uses whole plant decoctions, but there is no clinical evidence demonstrating whether this method or modern extracts are more effective. Absorption and bioavailability of Agnimantha compounds in humans remain scientifically unexplored. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*