Cryptolepis sanguinolenta
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta is a climbing shrub with thin, willowing stems that can snake along the ground for up to 30 feet, often twinning into other plants for support. The dried leaves, stems, and roots have a sweet fragrance. The stems contain a yellow-orange sap that becomes red upon drying. The sap is very bitter.
Cryptolepis Benefits
Cryptolepis benefits include supporting the immune system against a wide range of diseases, including malaria, Lyme disease, and tick-borne bacterial infections. It supports the cardiovascular system and may defend against cholesterol plaque formation in the arteries, Cryptolepis has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, anti-diabetic properties, and anti-fungal properties.
Potential for Lyme Disease Support and Bartonella henselae Support
Cryptolepis extract has shown potential antibacterial activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria including Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease. In fact, it may be used as a herbal support during the treatment of tick-borne infections such as Lyme Borrelia burgdorferi and Bartonella henselae. Cryptolepine, the main alkaloid in the herb, has shown effective activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Another study reveals that the bioactive compounds may degrade DNA in Borrelia burgdorferi.
Cryptolepis may have an important supportive role in the need to develop novel treatment strategies against persister microcolonies of Borrelia burgdorferi. A 2020 study in Frontiers in Medicine involved the testing of a panel of botanical and natural products commonly used by Lyme disease patients. The scientists found Cryptolepis sanguinolenta to be highly active in vitro against both growing Borrelia burgdorferi and non-growing stationary phase Borrelia burgdorferi.
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta extract:
- Supports healthy immune response
- Supports healthy metabolic function
- Supports gastrointestinal health
- Provides antimicrobial support
- Supports healthy inflammation response
- Supports cardiovascular health
Serving Suggestion
Instructions: Add 1/4 teaspoon of extract to 8oz of near boiling water or a cup of juice. Mix until dissolved. Drink 1-2 servings a day.
One serving per gram (e.g., 20 grams = 20 servings, 50 grams = 50 servings, and 100 grams = 100 servings).
Additional information
The information herein is intended for educational purposes only. This information should not substitute for seeking responsible, professional medical care. The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency. Not intended to be used for the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, or curing of any medical condition. Consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbal supplement.
The history of using Cryptolepis as an herbal medicine goes back more than 5,000 years. Traditionally, a tea made from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta has been used in the treatment of various infections such as malaria, bacterial respiratory diseases, tuberculosis, and hepatitis. The roots and leaves have been used for stomach, intestinal disorders, and diarrhea. The root has a traditional use for urinary tract infection and for yeast infections. The leaves and roots have been used in traditional cultures for hypertension, and insomnia.
Other names include Gangamau, Nibima, Kadze, Kɔli mekari, Paran pupa, Yellow root, and Blood vine. We call Cryptolepis the flowering healer.
Cryptolepis sanguinolenta contains several bioactive compounds that contribute to the herb’s medicinal value. Some of these bioactive compounds include alkaloids, anthocyanosides, flavones, polyuronides, triterpenes, and tannins.
Significant identified alkaloids include indoloquinoline cryptolepine, isocryptolepine, cryptosanguinolentine, neocryptolepine, quindoline, the spirononacyclic alkaloid cryptospirolepine, cryptolepicarboline, cryptomisrine, 11-isopropylcryptolepine, cryptolepinone, and biscryptolepine. Other isolated indole alkaloids include hydroxycryptolepine, cryptoheptine, and cryptoquindoline.
No known side effects.
You should consult your physician before using any herbal supplant, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.