Catalpol

PhytochemicalIridoid glycosideBest with a meal

What is it

Catalpol is an iridoid glycoside found in several medicinal plants, particularly Rehmannia glutinosa (di huang in Chinese medicine) and Plantago species. It is a marker compound used to standardize some traditional extracts.

How it works

Catalpol has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and possible neuroprotective activity in cell-culture and animal models. Some research describes effects on insulin signaling, microglial activation, and mitochondrial function in preclinical neurological models. Human pharmacokinetic data is limited. Oral bioavailability of pure catalpol is modest because it is hydrolyzed by intestinal bacteria.

Dosage

There is no established daily intake recommendation for isolated catalpol. Rehmannia extract supplements vary in catalpol content and dosing.

When and how to take it

Catalpol-containing extracts like Rehmannia are typically taken with meals as part of traditional formulas. There is no critical time-of-day requirement.

1 commercial form

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

Rehmannia extract (catalpol-rich)

Most clinical and traditional use is via Rehmannia or Plantago extracts rather than isolated catalpol.

Catalpol partially hydrolyzed by gut bacteria.

Safety

Catalpol-containing plants like Rehmannia have a long traditional use record and are generally well tolerated at typical herbal doses. Isolated high-dose catalpol has not been characterized in human safety studies.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to limited safety data on isolated catalpol. Use cautiously if you have diabetes, as catalpol may affect glucose metabolism.

Interactions

No significant medication interactions formally reported.

Frequently asked questions

What is catalpol used for?⌄

It is a marker compound in Rehmannia and other herbs. Most clinical use is via whole-plant extracts rather than isolated catalpol.

Is catalpol safe?⌄

Traditional Rehmannia preparations are generally well tolerated. Isolated catalpol has not been characterized in human safety studies.

References

Catalpol on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Catalpol (ChEBI:69797) — ChEBI link

Catalpol (PubChem CID 91520) — PubChem link

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

Research on Catalpol (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.