Ashitaba Chalcones

Chalcones are rarely found anywhere in the natural world but are the key factor in ashitaba (Angelica Keiskei Koidzmi). Research has shown that the unique properties of ashitaba are at least partly due to these remarkable compounds. Ashitaba Chalcones

The chalcones that are in ashitaba are known as Xanthoangelol, Xanthoangelol-E and 4-Hydrooxyderricin and were discovered by Dr. Kimie Baba (MD, Osaka University of Pharmacy). These organic compounds are flavonoids and they give the plant its characteristic yellow sap. Ashitaba Chalcones

This differentiates ashitaba from all other strains of angelica. The antioxidant activity of flavonoids is due to their molecular structure, and these structural characteristics of certain flavonoids found in ashitaba confer surprisingly potent antioxidant activity exceeding that of red wine, green tea, or soy.

The Main Functions of Chalcone are:

1. To cleanse the Blood and promote blood circulation which then:-
	Regulates cholesterol levels	Prevents cancer
	Reduces blood pressure	Prevents osteoporosis
	Regulates blood sugar	Reduces allergy and sinus problems
	Improves vision	Strengthens the immune system
	Improves memory	Functions as an Antibacterial and Antiviral
	Reduces joint and muscular pains	Promotes metabolism
	Enhances liver and kidney functions	Acts as a mild sedative
	Aids sleep	Relieves smooth muscle spasms in the arteries and bronchial tube
	Aids in weight control	Beautifies of skin and hair
	Replenishes energy	Prevents thrombus
	Suppresses cytophy	Suppresses gastric acid secretion
2. As a potent antioxidant, it helps to protect the organ from destructive free radicals and slows the aging process.
3. Detoxification by enhancement of smooth bowel movements. It also acts as an effective diuretic to remove toxic waste from the body.

The chalcones in ashitaba have been shown to be very potent anti-oxidants.

In an effort to make it easier to compare the different antioxidants found in our foods a new standard called Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) has been created to measure the antioxidant activity of foods. Specifically, ORAC measures the time it takes to prevent an oxidation reaction.

Ashitaba's anti-oxidants are more potent than those found in green tea.

Research on Ashitaba Chalcones:

Antitumor and antimetastatic activities of Angelica keiskei roots, part 1: Isolation of an active substance, xanthoangelol by Yoshiyuki Kimura, Kimiye Baba Publ in Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy

Antibacterial, anti-ulcer, and anti-Hiv effects of chalcones (pdf file)

Four papers on Reduction of blood pressure and LDL cholesterol.

Artery Relaxation by Chalcones Isolated from the Roots of Angelica keiskei in Pharmacology Planta Med 2001; 67: 230-235

Anti-Tumor-Promotion by Principles Obtained from Angelica keiskei Okuyama, T.; Takata, M.; Takayasu, J.; Hasegawa, T.; Tokuda, H.; Nishino, A.; Nishino, H.; Iwashima, A. Full text as PDF (390 kb) Planta Medica; 03, 1991