# Pulasari (Alyxia stellata) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/pulasari **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-19 **Evidence Score:** 4 / 10 **Category:** Southeast Asian **Also Known As:** Alyxia stellata, Star Jasmine, Pulasari bark, Kayu Pulasari, Malayan Star Jasmine, Akar Pulasari ## Overview Pulasari (Alyxia stellata) is a traditional Jamu medicinal plant containing alkaloids and flavonoids with preliminary [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties. The bark extract demonstrates activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria through disruption of bacterial cell wall synthesis. ## Health Benefits • [Antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (preliminary in-vitro evidence only) • Traditional use for respiratory conditions including cough and whooping cough (no clinical trials available) • Traditional carminative effects for flatulence and stomach discomfort (evidence limited to historical use) • Traditional antispasmodic properties for abdominal pain and colic (no modern clinical validation) • Traditional use for diarrhea and dysentery (based solely on ethnobotanical reports) ## Mechanism of Action Pulasari's alkaloids and flavonoids inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis by interfering with peptidoglycan formation, particularly effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The carminative effects likely result from volatile compounds that relax smooth muscle in the gastrointestinal tract. Respiratory benefits may involve expectorant action through stimulation of mucus secretion and bronchodilation. ## Clinical Summary Current evidence for Pulasari is limited to preliminary in-vitro studies demonstrating [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. No human clinical trials have been conducted to validate traditional uses for respiratory conditions like cough and whooping cough. Traditional applications for digestive issues including flatulence and stomach discomfort lack scientific validation through controlled studies. The evidence base remains entirely preclinical with no established dosing protocols or efficacy data in humans. ## Nutritional Profile Pulasari (Alyxia stellata) is used primarily as a medicinal spice/aromatic bark rather than a dietary food source, so conventional macronutrient data is extremely limited. Bioactive compounds are the primary focus of documented analysis. Coumarin is the principal bioactive constituent, reported at concentrations of approximately 1.6–2.5% in the dried bark by weight, responsible for its characteristic sweet, vanilla-like aroma. Alkaloids including pleiocarpamine and related indole alkaloids have been isolated from stem and bark tissues at trace concentrations (estimated <0.5% dry weight). Essential oil content in the bark ranges from approximately 0.3–1.2% by weight, with major volatile components identified as coumarin, linalool, and eugenol derivatives. Tannins and polyphenolic compounds are present in moderate amounts (estimated 2–5% dry weight), contributing to its astringent properties and likely its [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity. Flavonoids have been detected in leaf and bark extracts in preliminary phytochemical screenings, though precise concentrations are not well-quantified in published literature. Saponins and cardiac glycoside-related compounds have been reported in related Alyxia species, suggesting possible presence at low levels. Fiber content of the dried bark is structurally significant (lignocellulose matrix) but not quantified for nutritional purposes. Vitamins and conventional minerals have not been characterized, as the ingredient is consumed in very small quantities as a flavoring or decoction rather than as a food. Bioavailability of coumarin from bark decoctions is considered moderate; hepatotoxic risk exists at high cumulative coumarin intake levels. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges are available due to absence of human trials. Traditional preparations use bark decoctions or powders for internal use, but specific amounts, standardization methods, or extract concentrations have not been quantified. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Safety data for Pulasari is extremely limited with no established adverse effect profile or contraindications documented in scientific literature. Potential interactions with prescription medications, particularly antibiotics or respiratory drugs, remain unknown due to lack of pharmacokinetic studies. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety has not been established, requiring avoidance during these periods. Traditional use suggests general tolerability, but individual sensitivity reactions cannot be ruled out without proper safety studies. ## Scientific Research No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses on Alyxia stellata (Pulasari) were identified. The only modern research consists of preliminary [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) screening showing in-vitro activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa planktonic and biofilm growth, without clinical validation or study design details. ## Historical & Cultural Context Pulasari has been used for centuries in Indonesian and Malay traditional medicine (Jamu) for treating respiratory conditions, digestive issues, and various [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) conditions. The fragrant bark has also been used in Malesia for body adornment and perfuming purposes, reflecting its cultural significance beyond medicinal applications. ## Synergistic Combinations Ginger, Turmeric, Fennel, Licorice root, Peppermint ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is Pulasari used for in traditional medicine? Pulasari is traditionally used in Jamu medicine for respiratory conditions including cough and whooping cough, as well as digestive issues like flatulence and stomach discomfort. However, these uses lack clinical trial validation. ### Does Pulasari have antimicrobial properties? Preliminary in-vitro studies show Pulasari extract has antimicrobial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria. This evidence is limited to laboratory studies and has not been confirmed in human infections. ### What compounds are responsible for Pulasari's effects? Pulasari contains alkaloids and flavonoids that are believed responsible for its antimicrobial and traditional medicinal effects. The specific bioactive compounds and their concentrations have not been fully characterized. ### Is Pulasari safe to use during pregnancy? Pulasari safety during pregnancy has not been established through scientific studies. Due to lack of safety data, it should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding periods. ### How much Pulasari should I take daily? No standardized dosage for Pulasari has been established through clinical research. Traditional preparations vary widely, and without safety studies, specific dosing recommendations cannot be provided. ### What is the evidence quality for Pulasari's traditional uses? Most traditional uses of Pulasari, including for respiratory conditions and digestive complaints, lack modern clinical trials and rely primarily on historical traditional medicine practices. Antimicrobial activity has only been demonstrated in preliminary laboratory (in-vitro) studies against specific bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa, not in human studies. The scientific evidence base for Pulasari remains limited compared to more extensively researched herbal ingredients. ### Are there known drug interactions with Pulasari? There is insufficient clinical data available to establish definitive drug interactions with Pulasari or common medications. Because Pulasari has traditionally been used for digestive and respiratory support, it may theoretically interact with medications affecting these systems, but no formal interaction studies have been conducted. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining Pulasari with prescription medications. ### Who should avoid taking Pulasari? Beyond the established concern for pregnant women, specific populations who should avoid Pulasari have not been clearly defined in available research or traditional guidelines. Individuals with severe digestive disorders or respiratory conditions should consult a healthcare practitioner before use, as the ingredient's safety profile in these populations remains undocumented. Those with known allergies to plants in the Apocynaceae family should exercise caution. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*