Sichuan Pepper
Zanthoxylum bungeanum
Zanthoxylum bungeanum is a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, though its specific uses within traditional medicine are not well-documented. Scientific studies have shown that Zanthoxylum bungeanum seeds can reduce body weight and food intake in obese mice by increasing levels of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and PYY (peptide YY), suggesting potential anti-obesity effects. Oleic acid and palmitic acid are identified as possible key components contributing to its anti-hypoxic activity. Additionally, research indicates that Zanthoxylum bungeanum treated with US-SA followed by MFUS-FIRD has superior retention of bioactive compounds and sensory attributes compared to other methods, which could be beneficial for preserving the plant's nutritional value during processing. Phenolic compounds, particularly chlorogenic acid, enhance anthocyanin stability and maintain color intensity in frozen Zanthoxylum bungeanum fruit, indicating potential benefits for food preservation. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded to date, suggesting that this plant is generally safe when used as intended.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- HAS reduced body weight and food intake while increasing GLP-1 and PYY levels in obese mice.
- This study identified oleic acid and palmitic acid as potential key components contributing to the anti-hypoxic activity of Zanthoxylum bungeanum seeds.
- The study found that Zanthoxylum bungeanum treated with US-SA followed by MFUS-FIRD had superior retention of bioactive compounds and sensory attributes compared to other methods.
- Phenolic compounds, particularly chlorogenic acid, can enhance anthocyanin stability and maintain color intensity in frozen Zanthoxylum bungeanum fruit.
- Supplementing diets with varying levels of Zanthoxylum bungeanum seed cake improved egg production and reduced feed-to-egg ratio in laying hens, with the best effect at 3% addition.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sichuan Pepper?
Sichuan Pepper (Zanthoxylum bungeanum) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Sichuan Pepper?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Sichuan Pepper; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: HAS reduced body weight and food intake while increasing GLP-1 and PYY levels in obese mice.
How strong is the evidence for Sichuan Pepper?
The strongest finding for Sichuan Pepper carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Sichuan Pepper safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Sichuan Pepper in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Sichuan Pepper interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Sichuan Pepper in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Sichuan Pepper?
Sichuan Pepper is also known as: Зантоксилум Бунге, Anthophylum de Bunge, Poivrier de Sichuan.
Is Sichuan Pepper a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Phenolic Copigment Enhanced Anthocyanin Stability and Color Intensity of Frozen Red Huajiao (Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim.) Fruit. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Ultrasound - assisted sodium alginate coating pretreatment integrated with advanced drying technologies: A novel strategy to optimize drying behavior, energy consumption, physicochemical quality, and sensory attributes of Zanthoxylum bungea literature abstract metadata
- T2 Screening the anti-hypoxic active components of Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. seeds based on spectrum-effect relationship analysis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Hydroxy-α-Sanshools From Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. Alleviate Obesity in Mice via the Regulation of Appetite and Gut Microbiota. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Dietary Supplementation with Zanthoxylum bungeanum Seed Cake and Meal Improves the Productive Performance and Antioxidant Capacity of Laying Hens. literature abstract metadata