Celastrus

Botanical

What is it

Celastrus paniculatus, known as jyotishmati or intellect tree, is a climbing shrub native to India. Its seeds and seed oil have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for cognitive support, often described as enhancing memory and learning.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Memory and cognition

Limited Evidence

Some small clinical and many preclinical studies suggest cognitive benefits, but rigorous Western-standard trials are sparse.

How it works

Celastrus seeds contain sesquiterpene esters (celastrine, paniculatine), alkaloids, and a fixed oil with sesquiterpenes. Preclinical studies suggest cholinergic activity, antioxidant effects on neural tissue, and modulation of neurotrophic factors. Clinical evidence in humans is limited; most product claims rest on traditional use and animal data.

Dosage

Traditional doses use 5 to 10 drops of seed oil or 1 to 4 g of seed powder. Modern extract capsules typically deliver 200 to 500 mg.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken once or twice daily.

1 commercial form

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

Seed oil or seed extract

Often included in Ayurvedic cognitive tonics with other adaptogens.

Seed oil components have moderate absorption.

Safety

Generally tolerated at traditional doses. Higher doses can cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Long-term safety data are limited.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and lactation due to lack of safety data. Caution with cognitive medications.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with cholinergic medications, sedatives, and cognitive enhancers (e.g., acetylcholinesterase inhibitors).

Frequently asked questions

Does celastrus actually improve memory?⌄

Animal evidence is suggestive; human clinical evidence is limited.

Is celastrus safe daily?⌄

Short-term traditional use appears safe. Long-term data are not available.

References

Celastrus on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Celastrus (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.