Ashitaba

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Ashitaba (Angelica keiskei), known as "tomorrow's leaf" in Japanese, is a perennial herb traditionally used on the Japanese island of Hachijo. It is studied for its yellow stem sap rich in chalcones, especially 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Metabolic and longevity claims

Limited Evidence

Preclinical and small human data on autophagy and metabolic effects are intriguing but preliminary.

How it works

Ashitaba chalcones have been studied for autophagy induction, metabolic effects, and anti-inflammatory activity. In animal models, the chalcones (under brand names like ChalCurb) extend lifespan and reduce body weight gain. Mechanism is linked to AMPK activation and autophagy support. Human clinical evidence is limited but includes small studies on metabolic markers and lipid profiles.

Dosage

There is no standardized dose. Whole-herb products use 1 to 4 g/day. Chalcone-standardized extracts deliver tens of milligrams of chalcones per dose.

When and how to take it

Most products are taken once or twice daily, often with meals.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Whole leaf powder

Used in traditional Japanese preparations.

Standard plant absorption.

Chalcone-standardized extract (ChalCurb)

Used in metabolic and longevity-positioned products.

Standardized to 4-hydroxyderricin and xanthoangelol.

Safety

Considered safe at typical traditional doses. Concentrated chalcone extracts have less long-term safety data.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. Caution with anticoagulants and diabetes medications.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with anticoagulants based on coumarin content. Caution with diabetes medications if using metabolically active extracts.

Food sources

Fresh ashitaba leaf

Amount
30 g
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Does ashitaba extend lifespan?⌄

Animal data are intriguing. Human lifespan effects are not established.

Is ashitaba the same as angelica?⌄

It is a different species (Angelica keiskei) from medicinal angelicas like dong quai or A. archangelica.

References

Ashitaba on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Ashitaba on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Ashitaba (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.