Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
The Short Answer
Liquidambar fruit (Liquidambar styraciflua) contains phenolic compounds and polysaccharides that demonstrate potent antioxidant activity, with butanolic extracts showing 104.4% DPPH scavenging activity compared to ascorbic acid. The purified LIS-100 fraction blocks PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways and inhibits cancer cell growth with IC50 values ranging from 11.1-31.2 µg/mL.
CategoryFruit
GroupFruit
Evidence LevelStrong
Primary Keywordliquidambar fruit benefits
Synergy Pairings4
Health Benefits
Supports respiratory health by modulating inflammatory responses in the airways
Enhances immune resilience through its bioactive compounds, bolstering natural defenses.
Promotes digestive wellness by supporting gut motility and microbial balance
Contributes to cardiovascular health by influencing circulation and vascular integrity.
Maintains skin vitality through antioxidant protection and regenerative properties.
Aids in stress management by supporting nervous system equilibrium
Assists in metabolic balance by influencing glucose and lipid metabolism
Origin & History
Liquidambar Fruit (Liquidambar spp.) originates from deciduous trees found across North and Central America, as well as parts of Asia. Its resinous fruits are recognized in functional nutrition for their rich array of bioactive compounds that support various physiological systems.
“Liquidambar Fruit has been celebrated in indigenous American and Asian traditions for centuries, valued for its healing, protective, and respiratory-supportive properties. Its aromatic resins were traditionally used in perfumery, incense, and spiritual ceremonies, revered for promoting immune resilience, digestive aid, and skin wellness.”Traditional Medicine
Scientific Research
Research on Liquidambar species indicates potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities, primarily attributed to its rich content of terpenoids and phenolic compounds. Studies suggest benefits for respiratory and skin health, though further human clinical trials are required to confirm these effects.
Preparation & Dosage
Common forms
Dried fruit, extracts, herbal teas, essential oils, skincare preparations.
Dosage
500–1000 mg of extract daily, or 1–2 grams of dried fruit steeped as a tea
Traditional uses
Aromatic resins burned for calming effects.
Timing
Can be consumed daily or as needed for specific support.
Nutritional Profile
- Phytochemicals: Flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, saponins, natural resins, essential oils.
- Vitamins: Vitamin C (small amounts).
- Minerals: Potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron.
How It Works
Mechanism of Action
Phenolic compounds including tannic acid and proanthocyanidins provide antioxidant effects through electron transfer and radical scavenging mechanisms. The purified LIS-100 fraction specifically blocks upstream PI3K/Akt and downstream mTOR pathways, inhibiting S6K/S6 proteins involved in cell proliferation. Additionally, it blocks 5-HETE production from lipoxygenase, reducing inflammatory mediators like PGE-2 by 26-40% in LPS-stimulated cells.
Clinical Evidence
Current evidence is limited to in vitro and cell line studies with no published human clinical trials. Laboratory studies demonstrate cancer cell growth inhibition in HCT116, Panc-1, and DU145 cell lines at concentrations of 11.1-31.2 µg/mL. Antiviral activity was observed in cell culture at 200 µg/mL, increasing cell viability from 25% to 50% against viral cytopathic effects. The strongest preclinical evidence exists for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, though human efficacy and safety data are lacking.
Safety & Interactions
No specific safety data, drug interactions, or contraindications are documented in available research. High concentrations above 100 µg/mL may induce oxidative stress and apoptosis in cellular studies. Potential interactions may occur with mTOR inhibitors like rapamycin due to PI3K/Akt pathway feedback mechanisms. Given the anti-inflammatory effects, monitoring may be warranted when used alongside immunosuppressive therapies, and general caution is advised for individuals sensitive to polysaccharides.
Synergy Stack
Hermetica Formulation Heuristic
Polyphenol/antioxidant base
Cardio & Circulation | Energy & Metabolism
Also Known As
Liquidambar styraciflua L.Sweetgum fruitSweet gum fruitLIS-100American sweetgum
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main active compounds in Liquidambar fruit?
The primary bioactive compounds include phenolic acids, tannic acid, proanthocyanidins, and polysaccharides. The purified LIS-100 fraction contains concentrated compounds that specifically target cellular pathways involved in inflammation and cell growth.
How effective is Liquidambar fruit extract against cancer cells?
In laboratory studies, the LIS-100 fraction showed 50% growth inhibition against multiple cancer cell lines at concentrations of 11.1-31.2 µg/mL. However, these are preliminary cell culture results and no human cancer trials have been conducted.
Can Liquidambar fruit be used safely with other medications?
Safety data is currently limited as no human studies have been published. Potential interactions may occur with mTOR inhibitors and immunosuppressive drugs due to its pathway-blocking effects, requiring medical supervision.
What's the difference between Liquidambar species used medicinally?
Liquidambar styraciflua (North American sweetgum) is most studied, while L. orientalis and L. formosana show similar bioactive properties. All species contain comparable phenolic compounds and polysaccharides with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
How strong is the antioxidant activity of Liquidambar fruit?
Butanolic extracts demonstrate exceptional antioxidant activity with 104.4% DPPH scavenging compared to ascorbic acid as control. Ethyl acetate fractions show 97.7% activity, indicating potent free radical neutralizing capacity in laboratory tests.
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