Desmodium molliculum

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Desmodium molliculum, also called burbur, is a leafy plant from the Andean regions of South America that has been used in traditional Peruvian medicine. It is now sold as a dietary supplement, typically as a leaf extract.

How it works

The proposed mechanisms of Desmodium molliculum have not been well established in modern pharmacology. Traditional use has focused on liver and kidney support, and limited preclinical work has examined antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in plant extracts. Standardized actives and reliable human pharmacokinetics have not been published in the peer-reviewed literature available to consumers. Because robust human data is lacking, any biological effects in people should be considered unverified. The plant contains a mix of phenolic compounds typical of legumes, but the dose-response relationship is unknown.

Dosage

There is no established Recommended Dietary Allowance, Adequate Intake, or Tolerable Upper Intake Level for Desmodium molliculum. Product labels vary widely, and supplement label data for this single-source ingredient is too sparse to define a typical range. Follow the dosage listed on individual product labels.

When and how to take it

There is no established timing guidance for Desmodium molliculum. Most herbal extracts are taken with a meal to reduce stomach upset. Follow the manufacturer's directions on the product you purchase.

1 commercial form

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Burbur leaf extract

Most products use an aqueous or hydroalcoholic extract of the dried leaf, sometimes labeled as 'burbur' in detox-style blends.

Standardization varies by manufacturer; no validated bioavailability data.

Safety

Human safety data is limited. Reported traditional use suggests it is generally tolerated as a tea, but adverse-event reporting in supplement form is sparse. Discontinue if you notice gastrointestinal upset or rash and consult a clinician.

Who should be cautious

Pregnant or breastfeeding people, children, and anyone with liver or kidney disease should avoid Desmodium molliculum unless directed by a qualified clinician. People taking prescription medications should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Interactions

No significant interactions have been formally reported in the peer-reviewed literature, but this reflects a lack of study rather than confirmed safety. Caution is warranted if combining with prescription medications, particularly those processed by the liver.

Frequently asked questions

What is Desmodium molliculum used for?

It has a folk-medicine history in the Andes for liver and urinary support, but modern human trials are essentially absent. Treat any health claims with skepticism.

Is Desmodium molliculum safe?

Short-term use in traditional doses appears generally tolerated, but rigorous safety data is lacking. Avoid in pregnancy and consult a clinician if you have liver, kidney, or medication concerns.

References

Desmodium molliculum on WikidataWikidata link

Desmodium molliculum on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database)NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Desmodium molliculum (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.