Clerodendrum trichotomum

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Clerodendrum trichotomum is a flowering shrub native to East Asia, traditionally used in Chinese and Korean herbal medicine for hypertension and pain. Extracts of the leaf and root appear in specialty herbal products.

How it works

Preclinical research has examined Clerodendrum trichotomum extracts for antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. The active constituents include phenylpropanoids, iridoid glycosides, and clerodane diterpenes. Despite traditional use for blood pressure, modern controlled human trials are limited. Pharmacokinetics of the relevant compounds in people have not been published in well-known databases.

Dosage

There is no established Recommended Dietary Allowance or research-based daily dose. Product labels are the only practical guide.

When and how to take it

There is no established timing guidance. Herbal extracts are typically taken with meals to reduce stomach irritation.

1 commercial form

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Clerodendrum trichotomum leaf extract

Most products use a dried-leaf hydroethanolic extract included in traditional Chinese medicine blends.

Standardization varies; active constituent profile not standardized.

Safety

Human safety data is sparse. Traditional use suggests reasonable tolerance, but adverse-event reporting is incomplete.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of safety data. Use cautiously if you have low blood pressure or take antihypertensive medications.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions exist with antihypertensive medications, given the traditional blood-pressure-lowering use. Combine cautiously with prescription drugs.

Frequently asked questions

What is Clerodendrum trichotomum used for?⌄

Traditional use includes blood pressure and pain support. Modern human evidence is limited.

Is it safe to combine with blood pressure medications?⌄

Caution is warranted because the herb has a traditional blood-pressure effect. Consult a clinician before combining.

References

Clerodendrum trichotomum on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Clerodendrum trichotomum (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.