Chokeberry Interactions Overview

Additional Details

Is Chokeberry Safe? Are There Any Warnings?

Chokeberry, commonly consumed in Eastern Europe and Russia, is generally considered safe when used orally and appropriately in medicinal amounts for a short term. Capsules and juices containing chokeberry have shown apparent safety in clinical studies lasting up to 90 days. However, caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient reliable information.

How Is Chokeberry Thought To Work? What is the Mechanism of Action?

Chokeberry works by utilizing its berry and juice components. High in anthocyanins and procyanidins, such as cyanidin 3-galactoside, chokeberry demonstrates various effects:

• Antibacterial Effects: Lab research shows potent antibacterial activity against several strains.
• Anticancer Effects: Demonstrates anti-mutagenic effects, prevents cancer cell proliferation, and induces apoptosis.
• Antidiabetic Effects: Preliminary research suggests improved glucose levels, possibly by inhibiting carbohydrate and fat digestion enzymes.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Reduces production and activity of inflammatory mediators.
• Antioxidant Effects: Known for antioxidant activity, modifying blood levels of antioxidant enzymes.
• Antiviral Effects: Investigated for potential effects on the influenza virus.
• Cardioprotective Effects: May protect endothelial cells, inhibit platelet aggregation, and reduce plasma lipids and blood pressure.
• Dermatologic Effects: Shows interest in reducing cellulite and improving skin tightness.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Improves colonic environment and enhances intestinal barrier function.
• Neuroprotective Effects: Associated with improved memory, likely due to antioxidant effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Anthocyanins from chokeberry juice are absorbed into the plasma, reaching maximum concentrations in 1-3 hours. Cyanidin 3-galactoside is metabolized to peonidin 3-galactoside in the colon prior to absorption. Chokeberry anthocyanins are excreted in the urine.

Interaction Overview (See Bottom of Page For Full List)

Chokeberry may interact with anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs, antidiabetes drugs, CYP3A4 substrates, and trabectedin, potentially increasing the risk of bleeding or hypoglycemia, affecting drug metabolism, and enhancing trabectedin effects.

Common Side Effects To Watch For

Common side effects of chokeberry, when taken orally, may include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, stomach cramps, and vomiting.

Are Supplements Standardized?

Clinical trials have evaluated chokeberry juice and extract. Specific products like Mana Blue and Aronox are standardized for anthocyanin content. However, chokeberry's composition may vary based on factors like maturation and harvest date.

What Is Chokeberry Typically Used For?

Traditionally, chokeberry has been used for the common cold. Current research is exploring its potential in various areas, including cardiovascular health, diabetes, anti-inflammatory effects, and dermatologic applications like reducing cellulite.

Drugs that interact with Chokeberry