# Ceylon Spinach (Basella alba)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/ceylon-spinach
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-28
**Evidence Score:** 2 / 10
**Category:** Vegetable
**Also Known As:** Basella alba, Malabar spinach, Indian spinach, Red vine spinach, Climbing spinach, Buffalo spinach, Vine spinach, Poi saag, Bachhali, Pui shak, Alugbati, Acelga trepadora

## Overview

Ceylon spinach (Basella alba) contains betacyanins and flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin that provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds work by scavenging [free radical](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)s and modulating COX-2 enzyme activity to reduce [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s.

## Health Benefits

["\u2022 Provides potent [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), attributed to its betacyanin and flavonoid content (kaempferol, quercetin) as demonstrated in in-vitro assays [1].", "\u2022 May support anti-[inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s by modulating COX-2 enzyme activity, a mechanism linked to its kaempferol content, though this is based on preclinical data [1].", "\u2022 Supports gastrointestinal health through its mucilaginous polysaccharides, which can form a protective barrier and provide a soothing, demulcent effect on mucous membranes [1].", "\u2022 Exhibits potential nephroprotective (kidney-protective) effects, as suggested by animal studies, but human clinical evidence is required to confirm this benefit [2].", "\u2022 Contains a rich profile of micronutrients, including approximately 8,000 IU of Vitamin A precursors, 187 mg of calcium, and 5.45 mg of iron per 100g of fresh leaves [2]."]

## Mechanism of Action

Ceylon spinach's betacyanin pigments act as potent [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ers, neutralizing oxidative stress at the cellular level. The flavonoid kaempferol specifically inhibits cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme activity, reducing pro-inflammatory [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) synthesis. Quercetin contributes additional antioxidant activity by chelating metal ions and stabilizing cell membranes against lipid peroxidation.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for Ceylon spinach comes primarily from in-vitro antioxidant assays demonstrating significant [free radical scaveng](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant)ing capacity. Limited preliminary studies suggest [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) potential through COX-2 modulation, but these findings require validation in human trials. No large-scale clinical studies have been conducted to establish therapeutic dosages or confirm health benefits in human populations. The evidence remains at the preclinical stage with promising but unconfirmed therapeutic potential.

## Nutritional Profile

Ceylon Spinach (Basella alba) is a low-calorie leafy vegetable (~19-23 kcal per 100g fresh weight) with the following approximate composition per 100g edible portion: Water: 93g. Macronutrients: Carbohydrates: 3.4g (of which dietary fiber: 0.7-1.0g, notably rich in soluble mucilaginous polysaccharides); Protein: 1.8-2.0g (containing essential amino acids including lysine and methionine at modest levels); Fat: 0.3g (predominantly polyunsaturated fatty acids including linolenic acid). Micronutrients: Vitamin A (as beta-carotene): 400-8000 IU (significant variability by cultivar and growing conditions); Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): 102-120mg (notably high, exceeding many common leafy greens); Vitamin K1: ~140mcg (clinically relevant for anticoagulant drug interactions); Folate (B9): 140-180mcg DFE; Riboflavin (B2): 0.15mg; Iron: 1.2-1.5mg (non-heme; bioavailability limited by co-occurring oxalates, estimated absorption ~5-8%); Calcium: 109-126mg (bioavailability significantly reduced by oxalic acid content estimated at 600-900mg/100g, forming insoluble calcium oxalate); Magnesium: 65mg; Potassium: 510mg; Phosphorus: 52mg; Zinc: 0.43mg. Bioactive compounds: Betacyanins (betanin, isobetanin): 0.5-1.2mg/g dry weight, water-soluble pigments with documented [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) capacity; Flavonoids: Quercetin (~0.8mg/100g fresh), Kaempferol (~0.6mg/100g fresh); Chlorophyll a and b: ~1.5mg/g dry weight; Mucilaginous polysaccharides (arabinogalactan-proteins, glucomannans): contribute to viscous texture and [prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) potential. Bioavailability notes: The high oxalate content (~600-900mg/100g) substantially limits calcium and iron absorption; cooking (boiling and discarding water) reduces oxalates by ~30-50%, improving mineral bioavailability. Vitamin C content degrades significantly with heat; consumption raw or lightly cooked preserves ascorbic acid. Beta-carotene bioavailability is enhanced when consumed with dietary fat (~3-5g fat co-ingestion recommended).

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for Ceylon spinach in extract, powder, or any other form have been established in the available research. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Ceylon spinach is generally recognized as safe when consumed as a food vegetable with no documented serious adverse effects. Potential interactions with anticoagulant medications may occur due to vitamin K content, though specific drug interaction studies are lacking. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should limit consumption to culinary amounts due to insufficient safety data for medicinal use. Individuals with kidney stones should exercise caution as the plant contains oxalates that may contribute to stone formation.

## Scientific Research

The provided research dossier does not contain any human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs for Ceylon spinach. The reported health benefits are based on in-vitro assays and animal studies (e.g., Kumar et al., 2013; Kumar et al., 2015), and lack validation from human clinical research.

## Historical & Cultural Context

The research dossier notes a lack of specific information on traditional medicine systems. It briefly mentions that the properties of Basella alba align with Ayurvedic claims of being cooling and Pitta-pacifying, but does not provide detailed historical context or traditional applications.

## Synergistic Combinations

Turmeric (Curcumin), Marshmallow Root, Spirulina, Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

## Frequently Asked Questions

### How much kaempferol is in Ceylon spinach?

Specific kaempferol concentrations in Ceylon spinach have not been quantified in published studies. The flavonoid content varies based on growing conditions, harvesting time, and plant maturity, but exact bioactive compound levels require further analytical research.

### Can Ceylon spinach help with inflammation?

In-vitro studies suggest Ceylon spinach may reduce inflammation by inhibiting COX-2 enzyme activity through its kaempferol content. However, human clinical trials have not been conducted to confirm anti-inflammatory effects or establish effective dosages for therapeutic use.

### Is Ceylon spinach the same as regular spinach?

Ceylon spinach (Basella alba) is botanically unrelated to true spinach (Spinacia oleracea) despite the similar name. Ceylon spinach belongs to the Basellaceae family and contains unique betacyanin pigments not found in regular spinach, giving it distinct purple-red coloration and different nutritional properties.

### What is the best way to consume Ceylon spinach for health benefits?

Ceylon spinach can be consumed fresh in salads or lightly cooked to preserve heat-sensitive compounds like vitamin C and some flavonoids. Raw consumption may provide maximum antioxidant activity, though cooking can improve the bioavailability of certain carotenoids and make the leaves more digestible.

### Does Ceylon spinach interact with blood pressure medications?

No specific interactions between Ceylon spinach and blood pressure medications have been documented in clinical literature. However, its potassium content may theoretically complement ACE inhibitors or diuretics, so patients on cardiovascular medications should monitor their intake and consult healthcare providers about dietary changes.

### What is the bioavailability of betacyanins in Ceylon spinach, and does cooking affect their absorption?

Betacyanins in Ceylon spinach are water-soluble pigments with moderate bioavailability that may be enhanced when consumed with dietary fats, though research specific to Basella alba is limited. Cooking can cause some degradation of these compounds, but it may also increase the bioaccessibility of other nutrients by breaking down cell walls. To preserve betacyanin content, light steaming or minimal cooking is generally recommended over prolonged boiling.

### Is Ceylon spinach safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Ceylon spinach is generally recognized as safe for consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a whole food, given its nutrient density and traditional use. However, due to its oxalate content and potential effects on mineral absorption, pregnant or nursing women should consume it in moderation and consult with a healthcare provider. No specific clinical safety data exists for Ceylon spinach supplements during these periods, making food-based consumption the safer choice.

### How does the antioxidant potency of Ceylon spinach compare to other commonly supplemented leafy greens?

Ceylon spinach demonstrates potent antioxidant activity in in-vitro assays attributed to its betacyanin and flavonoid profile, though direct comparative human studies with kale, regular spinach, or other leafy greens are lacking. Its unique betacyanin content distinguishes it from many temperate leafy greens, potentially offering distinct antioxidant compounds, but the clinical significance of this difference remains understudied. The actual antioxidant benefit in humans may depend more on total daily intake and overall diet quality than on the specific green chosen.

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