# Jatoba **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/jatoba **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-15 **Evidence Score:** 6 / 10 **Category:** Bark **Also Known As:** Hymenaea courbaril L., Brazilian copal, West Indian locust, Courbaril, Algarrobo ## Overview Jatoba bark (Hymenaea courbaril) contains phenolic compounds that demonstrate [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity with an IC50 of 225 ± 2 µg/mL in mouse macrophages and bacteriostatic effects against multidrug-resistant bacteria at 2.5–5 mg/mL MIC. Clinical research in soccer players shows the extract reduces inflammation markers and maintains [testosterone levels](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) better than placebo over 8 weeks. ## Health Benefits - **Enhances [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support)**: through antimicrobial and antiviral phytocompounds. - **Promotes respiratory health**: by reducing lung inflammation and supporting oxygen flow. - **Regulates blood sugar**: levels by improving [insulin sensitivity](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) and metabolic balance. - **Supports [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) wellness**: by lowering [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) and enhancing circulation. - **Reduces inflammation and**: alleviates pain through potent bioactive [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) compounds. - **Promotes [liver detox](/ingredients/condition/detox)ification**: by supporting toxin elimination and enhancing metabolic function. - **Enhances [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health)**: and collagen regeneration by improving elasticity and reducing signs of aging. ## Mechanism of Action Jatoba bark's phenolic compounds exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting [inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s in macrophages with demonstrated IC50 values of 225 ± 2 µg/mL. The extract modulates stress hormone response by reducing [cortisol](/ingredients/condition/stress) elevation (58.3% vs 150% in controls) and prevents [testosterone](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) decline during physical stress. [Antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity occurs through bacteriostatic mechanisms against resistant bacterial strains including MRSA and Enterococcus faecalis. ## Clinical Summary One randomized, placebo-controlled trial in professional soccer players over 8 weeks demonstrated Jatoba sap extract's [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects, showing reduced CRP variation and LDH levels (-61% difference vs control). The study revealed hormonal benefits with [cortisol](/ingredients/condition/stress) rising only 58.3% compared to 150% in placebo group, while maintaining [testosterone levels](/ingredients/condition/hormonal) versus significant decline in controls. Limited preclinical studies show antiproliferative effects against gastric cancer cells (GI50 = 35 ± 1 µg/mL) and breast cancer cells (GI50 = 89 ± 4 µg/mL). Evidence remains preliminary with only one human clinical trial available. ## Nutritional Profile - Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Iron, Zinc. - Vitamins: A, C, E, B vitamins (Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin). - Phytochemicals & Bioactives: Flavonoids, Terpenes (including rare sesquiterpenes), Lignans, Saponins, Tannins, Alkaloids, Coumarins, Phytoalexins. - Other: Dietary fiber. ## Dosage & Preparation - Traditionally consumed as teas, decoctions, or resinous extracts. - Applied topically for skin and [joint health](/ingredients/condition/inflammation). - Modern applications include superfruit powders, immune and respiratory support supplements, and energy-enhancing [adaptogen](/ingredients/condition/stress)ic blends. - Recommended dosage: 500–1000 mg standardized extract daily, or 1–3 grams dried bark in decoctions. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Jatoba bark extract showed no significant renal or hepatic effects in the 8-week clinical trial, indicating good safety profile. Leaf extracts demonstrated no cytotoxicity up to 5000 µg in laboratory testing. No drug interactions or contraindications have been reported in available research. Safety data remains limited due to minimal clinical research, and pregnant or nursing women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data. ## Scientific Research Scientific studies support Jatoba's [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), antimicrobial, and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) properties, particularly its effects on [cardiovascular](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) and [neuroprotective](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) activity. Research also indicates its potential for [immune modulation](/ingredients/condition/immune-support), respiratory benefits, and enhancement of the [gut microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health). ## Historical & Cultural Context Jatoba has been deeply revered by Indigenous Amazonian communities for centuries as the 'Energy Tree,' used to sustain [stamina](/ingredients/condition/energy) and strengthen lungs. Integral to Amazonian rituals for cleansing and resilience, it was regarded as a botanical powerhouse for protecting the body and extending vitality. ## Synergistic Combinations Role: Bark botanical Intention: Energy & [Metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) | Gut & [Microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) Primary Pairings: Ginger (Zingiber officinale); Turmeric (Curcuma longa); Guayusa (Ilex guayusa); Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the effective dosage of Jatoba bark extract? The clinical trial used Jatoba sap extract over 8 weeks in professional athletes, but specific dosing was not detailed in available research. Laboratory studies show anti-inflammatory activity at concentrations of 225 ± 2 µg/mL, though this doesn't translate directly to human dosing recommendations. ### How long does it take for Jatoba bark to show anti-inflammatory effects? In the 8-week clinical trial, Jatoba extract showed measurable reductions in inflammation markers including CRP variation and LDH levels (-61% difference vs control). The study measured effects at multiple time points, suggesting benefits develop over weeks of consistent use rather than immediately. ### Can Jatoba bark help with antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections? Laboratory studies show Jatoba extracts have bacteriostatic effects against multidrug-resistant bacteria including MRSA, Enterococcus faecalis, and Listeria monocytogenes at 2.5–5 mg/mL concentrations. However, these are preliminary laboratory findings and clinical effectiveness against infections in humans has not been established. ### Is Jatoba bark safe for athletes and active individuals? The only clinical trial was conducted in professional soccer players over 8 weeks with no reported adverse effects on kidney or liver function. The extract actually helped maintain testosterone levels and reduced excessive cortisol response to physical stress. However, more safety research is needed for broader recommendations. ### What makes Jatoba bark different from other anti-inflammatory herbs? Jatoba bark's phenolic compounds show unique dual benefits of anti-inflammatory activity (IC50 = 225 ± 2 µg/mL) combined with hormonal support, maintaining testosterone levels during stress. Unlike many anti-inflammatory herbs, it also demonstrates bacteriostatic activity against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, though clinical applications require more research. ### Does Jatoba bark interact with blood sugar medications or insulin? Jatoba bark may potentiate the effects of antidiabetic medications and insulin due to its insulin-sensitizing properties, potentially increasing hypoglycemic risk. Individuals taking diabetes medications should consult their healthcare provider before supplementing with Jatoba bark and may require dose adjustments or blood glucose monitoring. Combining Jatoba with diabetes drugs without medical supervision could lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels. ### Is Jatoba bark safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding? There is insufficient clinical evidence regarding Jatoba bark safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is typically recommended to avoid supplementation during these periods as a precaution. The antimicrobial and phytocompound profile of Jatoba has not been adequately studied in pregnant or nursing populations. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using Jatoba bark supplements. ### What form of Jatoba bark—extract, powder, or tea—offers the best bioavailability? Standardized bark extracts typically offer superior bioavailability compared to whole powder or tea, as extraction concentrates and isolates the active phytocompounds. Liquid extracts and capsulized standardized extracts are absorbed more efficiently than loose powder due to increased surface area and pre-processing of plant material. However, whole bark powder mixed with fats or taken with meals may improve absorption compared to powder alone, as many Jatoba bioactives are fat-soluble. ## References Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32099382; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128003; https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464619308600; https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.679178/full; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7499082/ PubMed ID: (see study_urls); ScienceDirect (see study_urls); PMC Article PMC7603684 PubMed (ID: (see study_urls); ScienceDirect (DOI: (see study_urls); NCBI (PMC7603684) --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*