Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Loquat leaf (Eriobotrya japonica) contains ursolic acid and triterpenes that provide respiratory and liver support through anti-inflammatory mechanisms. These bioactive compounds help reduce mucus production while promoting hepatic detoxification pathways.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Loquat Leaf comes from the Eriobotrya japonica tree, native to China and Japan. The leaves are harvested and dried for medicinal use.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Preliminary studies indicate Loquat Leaf may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but more research is needed.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Loquat leaf (dried, per 100g) contains modest macronutrients: carbohydrates approximately 60-65g (primarily cellulose and hemicellulose), protein 4-6g, fat 1-2g, and dietary fiber 15-20g. Key bioactive compounds include triterpene acids: ursolic acid (0.5-2.0mg/g dry weight), oleanolic acid (0.3-1.5mg/g dry weight), and corosolic acid (trace amounts). Polyphenolic content is significant: chlorogenic acid (2-8mg/g), neochlorogenic acid (1-5mg/g), and total flavonoids estimated at 10-25mg quercetin equivalents per gram dry weight, including quercetin glycosides and kaempferol derivatives. Sesquiterpene glycosides (nerolidol-type) are present at approximately 0.1-0.5mg/g. Amygdalin (cyanogenic glycoside) is detectable at low levels (0.1-0.3mg/g), relevant for safety in high-dose preparations. Tannins contribute 3-8% of dry weight. Mineral content includes potassium (800-1200mg/100g), calcium (200-400mg/100g), magnesium (80-150mg/100g), and iron (5-10mg/100g). Vitamins present include vitamin C (10-30mg/100g in dried form, significantly reduced from fresh), small amounts of B vitamins including niacin (~1-2mg/100g). Bioavailability note: triterpene acids and flavonoids have moderate oral bioavailability (20-40%) enhanced by co-consumption with lipids; most studies reflect tea infusion delivery where extraction efficiency for chlorogenic acid is approximately 60-80% of total content.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Loquat leaf's ursolic acid inhibits 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase enzymes, reducing inflammatory mediators like leukotrienes and prostaglandins. The triterpenes betulinic acid and oleanolic acid activate nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways, enhancing antioxidant enzyme production. These compounds also modulate mucin gene expression in respiratory epithelium, reducing excessive mucus secretion.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
Human studies on loquat leaf are limited, with most evidence from animal and in vitro research. A small pilot study (n=24) showed 15% improvement in respiratory function scores after 4 weeks of loquat leaf extract supplementation. Animal studies demonstrate hepatoprotective effects at doses equivalent to 200-400mg daily in humans. More robust clinical trials are needed to confirm therapeutic efficacy and optimal dosing protocols.
Also Known As
Research updates — and 25% off your first order
Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.