Tinospora sinensis (scientific name: Tinospora sinensis ) is a large, climbing herbaceous plant found in eastern India and Southeast Asia, where it grows by wrapping itself around surrounding trees and structures. Its stems are fleshy and characterized by numerous wart-like protrusions, and its leaves are heart-shaped and shed irregularly. Plants of the same genus have long been used in Ayurveda as nourishing and tonic herbs.
Traditionally, the stems have been used as an antipyretic and tonic to treat feverish illnesses, chronic rheumatism, and to nourish those experiencing a decline in physical strength. Locally, there are records of the plant being used to combat infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis, purify the blood, relieve abdominal pain and diarrhea, and to detoxify and restore health.
In terms of chemical components, the whole plant contains approximately 0.6-0.8% of the bitter component picroretin , and glycosides , alkaloids , and plant sterols have been detected in the stem. Research on plants in the same genus has suggested, primarily at the basic research level, that these components may have physiological activities such as anti-inflammatory , antioxidant , immunomodulatory , antipyretic , antibacterial, antiparasitic , and detoxifying properties.
Characteristics of Kankinto
- Scientific name: Tinospora sinensis
- Classification: Menispermaceae
- Japanese name: Kankinto
- Growth form: Large climbing herb
- Distribution: Eastern India to Southeast Asia
- Characteristics: Fleshy stems, warts, heart-shaped leaves
- Parts used: Stems (traditional use)
Main ingredients (reported examples)
- Bitter component: picroretin
- Glycosides: Diterpene glycosides
- Alkaloids: Isoquinoline alkaloids
- Plant sterols: β-sitosterol, etc.
- Others: phenolic compounds, trace minerals, etc.
Expected effects
- Antipyretic and body temperature regulation support effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining good health during fever.
- Tonic and nourishing support effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to maintaining physical condition during periods of decline in physical strength and recovery.
- Joint and inflammation support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to regulating inflammatory conditions such as chronic rheumatoid arthritis.
- Immune balance support effect: It has been suggested that it may contribute to regulating the body's defense functions.
- Antibacterial and antiparasitic support: Inhibitory activity against some microorganisms and parasitic factors has been reported.
- Digestive and intestinal condition support: It has been suggested that it may contribute to regulating digestive problems such as abdominal pain and diarrhea.
- Detoxification and blood conditioning support effects: It has been suggested that it may contribute to clearing the internal environment and supporting metabolism.
