Fructus mume extract

Fructus mume extract is derived from the unripe fruit of Prunus mume (also known as Japanese apricot or Chinese plum). It has been used in traditional Asian medicine for centuries to treat various conditions, particularly gastrointestinal disorders. ## Composition and Preparation Fructus mume extract is typically prepared using water or ethanol extraction methods. The ethanol extract (E. F. mume) contains both polar and nonpolar compounds, resulting in a more comprehensive extraction of active ingredients. Key components identified in Fructus mume extract include: - Organic acids: Citric acid, L-(-)-malic acid, D-(-)-quinic acid - Phenolic compounds: Chlorogenic acid, neochlorogenic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid - Other compounds: 5-HMF (5-hydroxymethylfurfural), protocatechuic acid, vanillic acid, syringic acid, amygdalin - Triterpenes: Maslinic acid, corosolic acid - Flavonoids: Rutin ## Therapeutic Applications Fructus mume extract has demonstrated several pharmacological effects: 1. **Anti-inflammatory properties**: Studies show it can block expression of proinflammatory molecules and reduce inflammatory cytokines like cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and interleukin-4 (IL-4)[1][3]. 2. **Gastrointestinal protection**: It has been traditionally used to treat chronic diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, and other digestive disorders[1][3][4]. Clinical studies have shown effectiveness in treating diarrhea in breast cancer patients[4]. 3. **Antioxidant activity**: The extract contains compounds with significant antioxidant properties that can help protect against oxidative stress[5]. 4. **Respiratory benefits**: Traditional uses include treatment of chronic cough and asthenic fever[2][6]. 5. **Neuroprotective effects**: Research indicates it may reverse cognitive disabilities by regulating cholinergic neurons[1]. ## Clinical Evidence A study on breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy found that Fructus mume extract significantly reduced the incidence of diarrhea compared to placebo. The extract also improved gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life measures in these patients[4]. In animal models of ulcerative colitis, Fructus mume pills (which contain Fructus mume as the primary ingredient) demonstrated protective effects by regulating inflammatory cytokines and improving vascular permeability[3]. ## Traditional Uses Fructus mume has been used in Asian countries since ancient times for: - Treating chronic diarrhea and gastrointestinal diseases - Managing chronic cough and respiratory conditions - Addressing ulcerations and skin diseases - Relieving eye pain - Treating ascarides (intestinal parasites) The extract continues to be studied for its potential applications in modern medicine, particularly for inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and as a supportive therapy for cancer patients experiencing treatment-related side effects.

Other names

E. F. mume