The Benefits of Bamboo Extract

Bamboo Extract

Bamboo Stem (Bambusa Vulgaris Extract) is rich in silica, a trace mineral crucial for promoting healthy skin, hair, nails, and bones. Silica plays an important role in collagen production, keeping skin elastic and youthful, while also strengthening connective tissue. Bamboo extract is widely used in beauty supplements to promote bone health, improve flexibility, and support overall structural strength.

Key Highlights of Bamboo Bambusa Vulgaris Extract

• Supports the immune system
• Promotes healthy skin, hair, and nails
• Supports bone health
• Enhances flexibility
• Boosts collagen production

Biochemistry Timeline

It can typically take around 4-8 weeks to feel the benefits of supplementing with Bamboo Extract.

What is Bamboo Extract?

Most famed for being the Panda’s meal of choice, Bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris) Extract is sourced from the shoot and leaves of the Bambusa vulgaris plant. Bamboo is rich in silica, a trace mineral composed of silicon and oxygen. Hailed as ‘the beauty mineral,’ silica is essential for promoting healthy skin and hair due to its 70% content in bamboo—making it the highest natural source of silica.

As we age, the natural levels of silica in our bodies diminish, leading to a decrease in collagen production, which results in reduced skin elasticity and firmness over time. This decline contributes to the visible signs of ageing, such as wrinkles and sagging skin. In contrast, children have an abundance of silica, which is why their skin is typically smooth and their hair is soft and lustrous. The high silica content in bamboo helps replenish this essential mineral.

The Amazing Benefits of Bamboo Extract:

Wound Healing and Inflammation

Packed with goodness, the Bambusa vulgaris leaves have been documented to contain phosphorus, vitamin B2, beta-carotene, iron, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, and phenolics. Research shows that bamboo has excellent properties for accelerating wound healing because of it’s high anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities. It is these properties which also allow it to act as a natural antibiotic.

Bamboo has been shown to be useful in reducing body temperature in fever and for reducing blood sugar in diabetes. Some recent research has found that Bamboo extract may be important in the fight against breast cancer.

Research has shown that bamboo leaves and shoots contain high levels of flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which are effective in neutralising free radicals. This antioxidant activity helps in reducing oxidative stress, thereby protecting cells from damage and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. For instance, a study highlighted that bamboo leaf extracts exhibited strong radical scavenging abilities and reduced inflammatory markers in human cell lines without affecting cell viability, suggesting their potential in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications

Ageing and Hair Health

Silica found in Bamboo is a powerhouse for rejuvenation and cell growth and one of the key elements in producing a particular protein found in skin tissue. Collagen, a structural protein, relies on silica for its formation and stability. Silica stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen, enhancing the skin’s elasticity and strength. This mineral also aids in repairing and regenerating connective tissues, improving skin texture and reducing signs of ageing. Additionally, silica supports the integrity of hair and nails, making them more resilient and less prone to breakage. Thus, silica from bamboo extract is valuable for maintaining overall skin and hair health.

Regular intake of silica-rich bamboo extract can enhance hair growth, reduce hair breakage, and improve overall hair texture and shine. Additionally, silica’s antioxidant properties help protect hair follicles from damage, promoting a healthier scalp and reducing hair loss. These benefits make bamboo extract a valuable ingredient in hair care products. It has also been shown to deliver essential nutrients to your scalp and hair follicles and even prevent hair breakages.

Summary

Bamboo extract (Bambusa vulgaris) is rich in silica, essential for promoting healthy skin, hair, nails, and bones. Known as the “beauty mineral,” silica supports collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and reducing signs of aging. Benefits include boosting immunity, improving flexibility, and aiding in wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Regular use can promote hair growth and strengthen nails. It is suitable for vegetarians and vegans and generally safe, though some may experience allergic reactions. Optimal dosages vary by product; consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

FAQs

How should bamboo extract be taken for optimal results? Bamboo extract can be taken in various forms, including powders, capsules, and liquid extracts. For supplements, the recommended dosage can vary based on the product and its concentration, so it’s best to follow the instructions on the label or consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice. Regular use is often recommended to see benefits over time.

Is bamboo extract suitable for vegetarians and vegans? Yes, bamboo extract is plant-based and suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. It is derived from the bamboo plant, making it a natural choice for those following a plant-based diet.

Are there any side effects or precautions associated with bamboo extract? Bamboo extract is generally considered safe for most people when used as directed. However, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or gastrointestinal discomfort. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have allergies or underlying health conditions.

Research:

1. “Tripathi, Y, C., Jhumka, Z., & Anjum, N. (2015). Evaluation of Total Polyphenol and Antioxidant Activity of Leaves of Bambusa nutans and Bambusa vulgaris. Journal of Pharmacy Research, 9 (4), 271-277.”
2. Davane, M., & Nagoba, B. (2016). Wound healing effects of Bambusa vulgaris leaves. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 7 (3), 185.
3. Lodhi, S., Jain, A, P., Rai, G., & Yadav, A, K. (2016). Preliminary investigation for wound healing and anti-inflammatory effects of Bambusa vulgaris leaves in rats. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 7 (1), 14-22.
4. Lin, Y., Collier, A. C., Liu, W., Berry, M. J., & Panee, J. (2008). The inhibitory effect of bamboo extract on the development of 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced breast cancer. Phytotherapy research : PTR, 22(11), 1440–1445.
5. Araújo, L. A., Addor, F., & Campos, P. M. (2016). Use of silicon for skin and hair care: an approach of chemical forms available and efficacy. Anais brasileiros de dermatologia, 91(3), 331–335.
6. Wickett, R. R., Kossmann, E., Barel, A., Demeester, N., Clarys, P., Vanden Berghe, D., & Calomme, M. (2007). Effect of oral intake of choline-stabilized orthosilicic acid on hair tensile strength and morphology in women with fine hair. Archives of dermatological research, 299(10), 499–505.
7. Tundis, R., Augimeri, G., Vivacqua, A., Romeo, R., Sicari, V., Bonofiglio, D., & Loizzo, M, R. (2023) Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects of Leaves and Sheath from Bamboo (Phyllostacys edulis J. Houz). Antioxidants. 2023, 12 (6), 1239
8. Jurkić, L, M., Cepanec, I., Pavelić, S, K., & Pavelic, K. (2013). Biological and therapeutic effects of ortho-silicic acid and some ortho-silicic acid-releasing compounds: New perspectives for therapy. Nutrition Metabolism, 10 (2).
9. Choi, M. H., Jo, H. G., Yang, J. H., Ki, S. H., & Shin, H. J. (2018). Antioxidative and Anti-Melanogenic Activities of Bamboo Stems (Phyllostachys nigra variety henosis) via PKA/CREB-Mediated MITF Downregulation in B16F10 Melanoma Cells. International journal of molecular sciences, 19(2), 409.
10. Panee J. (2015). [Potential Medicinal Application and Toxicity Evaluation of Extracts from Bamboo Plants](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4659479/#:~:text=Consumption of bamboo shoots (360,bowel movement frequency in healthy). Journal of medicinal plant research, 9(23), 681–692.