Irvingia gabonensis: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Irvingia gabonensis is a tree found in areas of Africa. Its fruit is similar to mango and eaten as food. Its seeds are also eaten as food and used as medicine.

Irvingia gabonensis seeds are high in fiber which might help lower cholesterol. The seeds might also affect fat cells, which might reduce fat cell growth and increase the breakdown of fats.

People use Irvingia gabonensis for high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Irvingia gabonensis overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Irvingia gabonensis seed extract is possibly safe when used short-term. A crude seed extract has been used safely in doses up to 1.05 grams three times daily for up to 12 weeks, and a standardized seed extract (IGOB131) has been used safely in doses up to 150 mg twice daily for up to 12 weeks. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include flatulence, headache, insomnia, and nausea.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if Irvingia gabonensis is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Surgery: Irvingia gabonensis might affect blood sugar. This might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop taking Irvingia gabonensis at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Interactions

Moderate Interaction

Be cautious with this combination

Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with Irvingia gabonensis
Irvingia gabonensis might lower blood sugar levels. Taking Irvingia gabonensis along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.
Testosterone interacts with Irvingia gabonensis
Irvingia gabonensis might increase testosterone levels. Taking Irvingia gabonensis along with testosterone might cause too much testosterone in the body. This might increase the chance of testosterone side effects. Do not take Irvingia gabonensis if you are taking testosterone.

Dosing

Irvingia gabonensis has most often been used by adults in total daily doses of 0.3-4 grams by mouth divided two to three times daily for up to 12 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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