Page 55 - product-manual

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PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES - TOXICOLOGY - DRUG INTERACTIONS

Albizia julibrissin (Silk Tree)

Traditionally known in China as the “herb of happiness,” Albizia julibrissin is one of the most valued
Chinese botanicals for supporting a healthy mood. Albizia julibrissin, also known as mimosa, has been
traditionally used for centuries to elevate the mood, promote mental and emotional calmness, and
support a peaceful night’s sleep. Studies show that Cortex Albiziae extract has anxiolytic properties
acting via the serotonergic nervous system (Kim et al., 2004). Animal model studies showed that the
antidepressant effects of Cortex Albiziae extract are equal to that of imipramine, and that it acts via the
5-HT1A receptor system (Kim et al., 2007). Cortex Albiziae exhibits a synergism with Radix Polygoni
Multiflori and this combination is commonly used in treating insomnia in Asian countries (Chen et al.,
2009).

Toxicity for Cortex Albiziae has not been documented in dogs and cats when administered orally in therapeutic
doses. The LD value for Cortex Albiziae has not been determined.
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TOXICOLOGY NOTE: Anzio-VM ™ contains Cortex Albiziae (bark) which is non-toxic to animals. However, Semen Albiziae

(bean) contains a neurotoxic alkaloid which is a pyridoxine antagonist, causing nervous symptoms. Poisoning
occurs when trees with green or mature pods are made avaiable to cattle, sheep or dogs. The lethal dose is about
1.5 percent of an animal’s body weight in green or brown legumes containing seeds. Signs of poisoning occur 12
to 24 hours after intake of the legumes and include: exaggerated response to stimuli; muscular twitching; labored
respiration; salivation; convulsive seizures; death (AgriLIFE).

DRUG Validated interactions studies do not exist for Cortex Albiziae preparations. Clinical interactions
INTERACTIONS with other drugs have not been reported.

6 | Anzio-VM TM