Loquat

botanical

What is it

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) is an evergreen tree native to southeastern China. The leaves and fruit are used in traditional Chinese medicine, particularly for cough, respiratory complaints, and skin conditions. Pi Pa Gao (loquat syrup) is a popular traditional cough remedy.

Evidence for 2 uses

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

Cough / respiratory support

Limited

Long traditional use is supported by preclinical data showing antitussive and anti-inflammatory effects on airways. Modern clinical trials are limited.

Joint / muscle support (maslinic acid extracts)

Limited

Small clinical trials of standardized maslinic acid extracts suggest possible benefits for joint comfort and exercise recovery.

How it works

Loquat leaves contain triterpenes (maslinic acid, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid), polyphenols, flavonoids (kaempferol, quercetin), and sesquiterpene glycosides. Maslinic acid in particular has been investigated for anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and anti-arthritic effects. In the respiratory system, loquat leaf extracts have shown antitussive (cough-suppressing) and mucolytic activities in animal studies, supporting its traditional use. Anti-inflammatory effects on the airways and possible antiviral activity have also been reported. Proprietary extracts standardized to maslinic acid (such as AminoShield) are marketed for joint, muscle, and recovery support.

Dosage

Traditional Chinese medicine: 6-12 g of dried leaf as decoction. Standardized extracts (e.g., 6% maslinic acid): typically 100-500 mg/day. Loquat syrup formulations follow product instructions.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Traditional cough preparations taken several times daily. HOW: As syrup, capsule, or tea; follow product instructions.

3 commercial forms

Loquat leaf (traditional)

Decoction extracts water-soluble compounds

Used in TCM cough formulas.

Maslinic acid extract (e.g., AminoShield)

Standardized triterpene content

Used in joint and recovery formulations.

Loquat syrup (Pi Pa Gao)

Combination with other herbs

Popular OTC cough remedy in Chinese pharmacies.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Loquat seeds and unripe fruit contain cyanogenic glycosides and should not be consumed in large quantities. Allergic reactions to the fruit are uncommon but possible.

Who should be cautious

Avoid concentrated supplements in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient data. Eat fruit only when ripe; avoid seeds. Caution in diabetes when used as supplement (monitor glucose).

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with antidiabetic medications (maslinic acid may modestly affect glucose). Limited clinical interaction data.

Food sources

FoodAmount%DV
Loquat fruit (ripe)Variable—

Frequently asked questions

Is loquat syrup effective for coughs?⌄

Traditional use and preclinical evidence support cough-suppressing effects. Modern clinical evidence is limited but the products are generally well-tolerated.

Can I eat loquat seeds?⌄

No, loquat seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides and should not be consumed. Only eat the ripe fruit flesh.

References

  • Loquat on Wikidata — Wikidata link
  • Loquat on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link
  • Research on Loquat (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.