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QUALITY
The Quality and Safety of Rhodiola rosea Supplements on the U.S. Market: An Analysis of Biomarkers, Heavy Metals, and Pesticide Residues
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41544018/
Summary: Analysis of the biomarkers rosavins and salidroside in Rhodiola rosea supplements sold in the U.S. found concentrations ranging from 0.01% to 3.08% and 0.07% to 2.91%, respectively, including substantial differences from advertised amounts and one product containing an undisclosed likely addition of synthetic salidroside. Assessment of heavy metals showed trace amounts of arsenic, cobalt, and lead with pesticide levels below detection limits.
Citation: Porwollik S, Jafari M. PLoS One. 2026 Jan 16;21(1):e0341070. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0341070. eCollection 2026.
Comparative Analysis of Phytochemicals in Different Plant Organs of Verbascum thapsus L. by Using UPLC/MS-QToF and Analytical Standardization of Bioactive Compounds, Verbascoside and Luteolin, on HPLC Platform
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41481338/
Summary: Analysis of methanol extracts from various plant parts of Verbascus thapsus (mullein) resulted in 61 active biomarkers with 48 compounds found in the inflorescence, 40 in the leaf, 32 in the stem, and 29 in the root. Additional analysis via a novel reverse-phase HPLC method identified and quantified verbascoside and luteolin.
Citation: Balkrishna A, Verma S, Tomer M, et al. Nat Prod Res. 2026 Jan 2:1-10. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2025.2601253. Online ahead of print.
Impact of Regional Variation on the Bioactive Composition and Antioxidant Potential of Piper longum Linn
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41563950/
Summary: An investigation on effects of geographical variations on constituent and pharmacognostical activities of Piper longum (long pepper) showed significant differences in bioactive marker levels of piperine and piperlongumine (PLG), with PLG absent in samples from some areas. Differences were also found in antioxidant activity and phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as fruit size and color.
Citation: Misro L, Jeevan AS, Maurya R, et al. Chem Biodivers. 2026 Jan;23(1):e02460. doi: 10.1002/cbdv.202502460.
Identification of the Chemical Constituents in Viticis Fructus from Different Regions by UPLC-QTOF-MS Combined with Multivariate Statistical Analyses
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41060264/
Summary: The identification and quantification of Viticis fructus as assessed according to regional growing areas and conditions showed significant differences in chemical composition, including 12 terpenoids, 7 phenylpropyl compounds, 3 phenolic acids, 2 flavonoids, 2 fatty acids, and 1 steroid.
Citation: Zhang Y, Yuan C, Wu Q, et al. Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom. 2026 Jan;40(1):e10144. doi: 10.1002/rcm.10144.
Ambient Ionization Mass Spectrometry for Rapid Screening of Illegal Adulteration in Traditional Chinese Medicines: A Review
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41549947/
Summary: A review by Yang et al. (2026) examined the use of ambient ionization mass spectrometry technologies (e.g. desorption electrospray ionization, paper spray ionization, low temperature plasma ionization, and others) to detect potential adulterants in traditional Chinese medicine powders, pills, decoctions, creams, and botanical tissues. While noting limitations and challenges related to matrix effects, quantitative variability, identification of novel analogues, and regulatory acceptance, the authors highlighted high sensitivity, near zero sample preparation, and strong agreement between ambient ionization mass spectrometry screening and laboratory based chromatographic confirmation.
Citation: Yang F, Shen W, Ying J. Anal Methods. 2026 Jan 19. doi: 10.1039/d5ay02001h. Online ahead of print.
RESEARCH
A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study on Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract (Withania somnifera) for Managing Menopausal Symptoms in Women
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41561822/
Summary: A 56-day, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (N=60) investigated the efficacy of ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root aqueous extract (KSM-66; 300 mg twice daily) for menopausal symptoms in women aged 45-55 years. Significant improvements were seen in the Menopause Rating Scale; psychological, somatic, and urogenital measures; and serum hormonal measures (e.g. estradiol and progesterone); hot flashes; and perceived stress.
Citation: Vani I, Muralidhar G, Rao BS. Front Reprod Health. 2026 Jan 5:7:1647721. doi: 10.3389/frph.2025.1647721. eCollection 2025.
Efficacy of EGb 761® and Betahistine in Treatment of Dizziness/Vertigo: A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41487075/
Summary: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (N=80) assessed the effects of Ginkgo biloba (EGb 761; 120 mg/day) in comparison with betahistine (36 mg/day) in those with dizziness/vertigo without a specific etiology for more than one month. After 12 months of intervention, significant comparable improvements were observed in change in dizziness severity as assessed by the 11-Point Box Scale and Dizziness Handicap Inventory scores in both groups. Notably, most clinical improvements were seen within the first two weeks. Safety assessments showed only mild gastrointestinal effects.
Citation: Jianbunjongkit N Nattarangsi W, Teeravanittrakul P. J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2026 Jan-Dec:55:19160216251407927. doi: 10.1177/19160216251407927. Epub 2026 Jan 5.
Artichoke Leaf Extract Reduces Steatosis and Decreases Liver Size in Prebariatric Patients: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial-The "SteatoChoke-Study"
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41274796/
Summary: In a pilot study to determine the liver steatosis reducing effects of artichoke (Cynara scolymus) leaf extract (2,600 mg/day, standardized to 2.5% cynarine) taken for six weeks in obese patients who would be undergoing bariatric surgery (N=40), the extract significantly lowered steatosis FibroScan values and liver lobe diameters compared to placebo. Additional results included improvements in total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in females, as well as body composition and fat mass percentage. However, increases were observed in transaminase levels, particularly aspartate aminotransferase.
Citation: Hollander S, Marth E, Scherber PR, et al. J Clin Lipidol. 2026 Jan;20(1):167-178. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2025.10.063. Epub 2025 Oct 21.
Preliminary Clinical Evaluation of Capsules Containing Standard Hydroalcoholic Extract of Myrtus communis L. in Patients with Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease: A Randomized, Double-Blind Parallel-Group Clinical Trial
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41491579/
Summary: In a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical study, those with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease (N=50) received Myrtus communis leaf hydroalcoholic extract (500 mg) or placebo for four weeks. At the end of the trail, the M. communis group showed significant improvement in the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scales compared to placebo.
Citation: Kamali M, Ansari M, Nooraee P, et al. BMC Complement Med Ther. 2026 Jan 5. doi: 10.1186/s12906-025-04994-9. Online ahead of print.
The Effect of Cornus mas L. Fruit Extract Supplementation on Glycemic Control, Insulin Resistance, and Adiponectin Levels in Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41484805/
Summary: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial assessed the benefits of Cornus mas fruit extract (20 cc/day, providing 32 mg/day total anthocyanin) in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) (N=50). After 12 weeks, C. mas was found to potentially provide benefits on adiponectin levels specifically in women. No significant effects were observed on glycemic control and insulin resistant indices.
Citation: Sangsefidi ZS, Sangouni AA, Yarhosseini F, et al. J Health Popul Nutr. 2026 Jan 3. doi: 10.1186/s41043-025-01186-6. Online ahead of print.
Clinical Effectiveness and Safety of Total Glucosides of Paeony as an Immunomodulator in Patients with Refractory Oral Lichen Planus: A Multicenter, Pragmatic, Randomized Controlled Trial
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41539096/
Summary: A randomized controlled study, those with symptomatic refractory oral lichen planus (N=448) received other conventional therapy (tapering prednisone from 15 mg to 5 mg over 4 weeks plus standardized oral hygiene) or conventional therapy plus peony (Paeonia lactiflora) dried root total glucosides (0.6 g three times daily for 12 months). Results showed the peony group to experience significantly faster and more complete response, including reduced pain, as well as better sleep quality. Mild adverse events, primarily diarrhea, were reported.
Citation: Deng Y, Zhou L, Li N, et al. Phytomedicine. 2026 Feb:151:157770. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2026.157770. Epub 2026 Jan 5.
The Renoprotective Anti-Hyperuricemia Effect of Cornus officinalis Extract in Hyperuricemia Rats Based on Network Pharmacology and Multiple Omics
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40914308/
Summary: An investigation of the anti-hyperuricemia mechanisms of action of Cornus officinalis extract with rats and using in vitro studies showed the extract to provide hepatorenal protection via a number of activities. Among the effects were intestinal microbial changes, liver antioxidation and reduced liver uricemia, enhanced renal tubile uricemia transport, and reduced kidney inflammatory infiltration.
Citation: Ding B, Liu J, Kasay I, et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 2026 Jan 10:354:120519. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2025.120519. Epub 2025 Sep 4.
Piper longum Ameliorates Obesity by Regulating Gut Microbiota and Promoting Adipose Thermogenesis
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41317577/
Summary: Piper longum ethanol extract was shown to exert anti-obesity effects in mice through the restoration of gut microbiota homeostasis (reversed Bacteroidota reduction/Firmicutes increase) and enhanced adipose thermogenesis via brown adipose tissue activation and white adipose tissue browning.
Citation: Cheng L, Liu Z, Gan M, et al. Phytomedicine. 2026 Jan:150:157588. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2025.157588. Epub 2025 Nov 24.
Plantago asiatica L. Extract Alleviates Hyperuricemia-Associated Renal Injury by Modulating Gut Microbiota to Inhibit NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41539089/
Summary: In a hyperuricemia mouse model, Plantago asiatica ethanol extract by oral gavage provided renoprotection by significantly reducing serum uric acid levels, regulating uric acid transported expression in the intestines and kidneys, increasing Lachnospiraceae bacteria in the gut, and suppressing renal inflammasome activation.
Citation: Ou G, Wu J, Wang S, et al. Phytomedicine. 2026 Feb:151:157771. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2026.157771. Epub 2026 Jan 8.
SAFETY
Potential Adverse Effects of Ashwagandha: A Critical Review of Preclinical and Clinical Evidence
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41502355/
Summary: In a comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical data on ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Kumar et al. (2026) focused on potential adverse effects, especially with prolonged or excessive use and in certain populations, cytochrome P450 enzyme metabolic transformation, and endocrine-modulating activity. In addition, the authors encouraged standardizing dosing regimens, further rigorous clinical trials, improved pharmacovigilance, long-term safety assessments, and revised regulatory guidelines.
Citation: Kumar A, Sah BK, Ahmad F, et al. Phytother Res. 2026 Jan 8. doi: 10.1002/ptr.70158. Online ahead of print.
Biosafety Assessment of Shagandha, Standardized Extract from the Roots of Withania somnifera
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41562266/
Summary: The safety of the ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract Shagandha, standardized to 2-5% withanolides, was assessed via acute, subacute, subchronic, reproductive, bacterial reverse mutation assay, and mammalian erythrocyte micronucleus tests following guidelines established by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Results showed no toxicologically significant changes in clinical signs, behavior, body weight, reproductive and developmental parameters, or gross and histopathologicy. No genotoxicity was seen either in an in vitro reverse mutation assay or in a mouse oral micronucleus test.
Citation: Majeed A, Majeed S, Pandey A, et al. Phytother Res. 2026 Jan 21. doi: 10.1002/ptr.70156. Online ahead of print.
Genotoxicity Studies of Milk Thistle Fruit (Silybum marianum Fructus) Dry Extracts: No Hints of Mutagenicity
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41534860/
Summary: To assess the genotoxicity of Silybum marianum (milk thistle) fruit, six dry extracts were tested in accordance with the "bracketing and matrixing" approach recommended by the Herbal Medicinal Product Committee of the European regulatory agency EMA and OECD bacterial reverse mutation test guidelines. Results showed no signs of mutagenicity when tested up to 5 mg per plate or up to the solubility or cytotoxicity limits.
Citation: Ringel PD, Feistel B, Kelber O, Nieber K. Planta Med. 2026 Jan 14. doi: 10.1055/a-2731-9622. Online ahead of print.
Oral Acute and Subacute Toxicity Studies as Well as Safety Pharmacology in Beagle Dogs of Total Lignans from Arctii Fructus
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40548442/
Summary: As a follow up to reports of oral toxicity in rats, the acute and subacute toxicity of total lignans of Arctii Fructus (Arctium lappa) was tested in beagle dogs. The approximate lethal dose after oral administration was greater than 5,000 mg/kg in the acute toxicity test; however, oral administration at 540 mg/kg for 28 days resulted in 50% of animals to die. While respiratory and cardiovascular systems were not significantly affected in the acute test, toxic reactions with repeated administration were seen in the digestive system, heart, liver, and kidneys.
Citation: Zhang J, Li X, Wu W, et al. Drug Chem Toxicol. 2026 Jan;49(1):44-58. doi: 10.1080/01480545.2025.2519186. Epub 2025 Jun 23.
Identifying Immunostimulatory Herbal Supplements That May Flare Autoimmune Skin Diseases: A Systematic Scoping Review
Quick Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41475897/
Summary: A review of 227 preclinical and clinical studies of immunostimulatory herbal supplements was published to provide information to clinicians for potential risks in patients with autoimmune skin diseases. Among the herbs which were reported to have the most robust evidence were alfalfa, ashwagandha, astragalus, chlorella, echinacea, garlic, ginseng, green tea extract, Indian mulberry, licorice, mistletoe, reishi mushroom, skullcap, spirulina, and tinospora. In addition, proinflammatory mechanisms of action, including increased production of inflammatory cytokines, were noted.
Citation: Weiner JD, Hill A, Shen C, et al. Lupus Sci Med. 2025 Dec 31;12(2):e001803. doi: 10.1136/lupus-2025-001803.
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