# Shireesha (Albizia lebbeck) **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/shireesha **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-19 **Evidence Score:** 4 / 10 **Category:** Ayurveda **Also Known As:** Albizia lebbeck, Woman's Tongue Tree, Siris Tree, Shirish, Kokko, Lebbek Tree, Indian Siris, Frywood ## Overview Albizia lebbeck is an Ayurvedic medicinal tree containing bioactive saponins and flavonoids that exhibit [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and anti-allergic properties. The bark and leaves contain compounds like lebbecagenin and albizin that modulate immune responses and inhibit inflammatory mediators. ## Health Benefits • [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects demonstrated in preclinical models (evidence: animal studies only) • Anti-asthmatic and anti-allergic properties shown in laboratory research (evidence: in vitro and animal studies) • [Antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity against various pathogens (evidence: laboratory studies only) • Anti-histaminic and anti-anaphylactic effects (evidence: preclinical investigations) • Potential [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) properties from flavonoid and tannin content (evidence: phytochemical analysis) ## Mechanism of Action Albizia lebbeck's saponins, particularly lebbecagenin and albizin, inhibit mast cell degranulation and reduce histamine release, providing anti-allergic effects. The flavonoid compounds suppress [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s like TNF-α and IL-1β through NF-κB pathway inhibition. Additionally, the bark extracts demonstrate [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity by disrupting bacterial cell wall synthesis and interfering with fungal membrane integrity. ## Clinical Summary Current evidence for Albizia lebbeck is limited to preclinical studies, with no published human clinical trials available. Animal studies have shown 40-60% reduction in [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers and significant bronchodilation in asthma models using 200-400mg/kg doses. Laboratory studies demonstrate [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Candida albicans with MIC values ranging from 50-200 μg/ml. Human studies are needed to establish clinical efficacy and optimal dosing protocols. ## Nutritional Profile Shireesha (Albizia lebbeck) is a medicinal plant used primarily for its bioactive phytochemical constituents rather than conventional macronutrient content. Key bioactive compounds include: Saponins (lebbeckaside, acaciaside; approximately 2-5% in bark and pods), which are among the primary active constituents responsible for anti-allergic and anti-asthmatic effects. Flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin (approximately 0.3-1.2% in leaf and bark extracts), contributing to [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) and [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant). Tannins (condensed and hydrolyzable; approximately 8-12% in bark), including ellagic acid and gallic acid derivatives. Alkaloids including albizine and macro-carpal compounds (trace amounts, <0.5%). Terpenoids and sterols including β-sitosterol and stigmasterol identified in seed and bark fractions. Crude protein content in seeds is relatively high at approximately 25-32% dry weight, with significant lysine and methionine content. Crude fiber in pods and bark ranges from 15-25% dry weight. Seed fat content is approximately 5-8%, comprising oleic and linoleic acids. Mineral content includes calcium (approximately 1,200-1,500 mg/100g dry bark), potassium (~800 mg/100g), magnesium (~250 mg/100g), and iron (~15-20 mg/100g), though these values are derived from limited analytical studies. Bioavailability note: Saponins may enhance absorption of co-administered compounds but can reduce direct nutrient bioavailability through anti-nutritional effects; traditional decoction preparation (kwatha) likely hydrolyzes some saponin glycosides, potentially improving tolerability. Data is primarily derived from phytochemical screening studies; standardized nutritional analysis for all fractions remains limited. ## Dosage & Preparation No clinically studied dosage ranges are available as human trials have not been conducted. Traditional preparations include decoctions and powders from bark and seeds, but standardized dosing has not been established. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Albizia lebbeck appears generally well-tolerated in traditional use, but comprehensive safety data is lacking. The plant may interact with anticoagulant medications due to potential blood-thinning effects observed in animal studies. Gastrointestinal upset and mild sedation have been reported with high doses in traditional medicine accounts. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use due to insufficient safety data, and individuals with bleeding disorders should exercise caution. ## Scientific Research No human clinical trials, randomized controlled trials, or meta-analyses were identified for Albizia lebbeck. Current research is limited entirely to preclinical studies including in vitro and animal models demonstrating various bioactivities. ## Historical & Cultural Context In Ayurveda, Shirisha has been used for over 2,000 years as a Vishagna (anti-toxic) and Tridoshagna (balancer of Vata, Pitta, Kapha doshas) herb. Traditional applications include treating skin disorders, wounds, [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), asthma, poisoning, respiratory issues, and allergies. ## Synergistic Combinations Tulsi, Ashwagandha, Turmeric, Neem, Guduchi ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the recommended dosage for Albizia lebbeck? Traditional Ayurvedic texts suggest 1-3 grams of bark powder daily, while modern preparations typically provide 200-500mg of standardized extract. However, optimal human dosing has not been established through clinical trials. ### How long does Albizia lebbeck take to work for allergies? Animal studies suggest anti-allergic effects occur within 2-4 hours of administration. Traditional practitioners report improvement in seasonal allergies after 2-4 weeks of consistent use, though human clinical data is not available. ### Can Albizia lebbeck be taken with asthma medications? No interaction studies exist, but the herb's bronchodilator effects could theoretically enhance prescription asthma medications. Consult a healthcare provider before combining with inhalers or oral asthma treatments. ### What part of Albizia lebbeck is most potent? The bark contains the highest concentration of active saponins like lebbecagenin, typically 3-5% by weight. Leaves also contain beneficial compounds but at lower concentrations than bark preparations. ### Is Albizia lebbeck safe for long-term use? Traditional use suggests relative safety over months, but no long-term toxicity studies exist in humans. Some animal studies show no adverse effects after 90 days, but professional monitoring is recommended for extended use. ### What does clinical research show about Albizia lebbeck's effectiveness? Current research on Albizia lebbeck is limited to preclinical studies, including animal models and laboratory investigations, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and anti-histaminic properties. However, human clinical trials are lacking, meaning efficacy in people has not been conclusively established. The evidence base remains at an early stage, and more rigorous human studies are needed to confirm traditional uses and determine real-world effectiveness. ### Is Albizia lebbeck safe for children and pregnant women? There is insufficient safety data regarding Albizia lebbeck use in children and pregnant women, as systematic studies in these populations have not been conducted. Traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine suggests a history of use, but this does not constitute modern safety evidence. Pregnant women and caregivers considering use for children should consult a healthcare provider before supplementation. ### What is the difference between Albizia lebbeck and other anti-allergic herbs? Albizia lebbeck is traditionally valued in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-histaminic and anti-anaphylactic properties, with laboratory evidence of antimicrobial activity that distinguishes it from common allergy herbs. Unlike some anti-allergic plants that primarily focus on symptom relief, preclinical research suggests Albizia lebbeck may work through multiple mechanisms including inflammation reduction and immune modulation. However, direct comparative clinical studies between Albizia lebbeck and other herbs (such as quercetin-rich plants or butterbur) have not been performed. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*