Summary: Shikimic acid has many uses which include fighting viral, bacterial and fungal diseases. This is due to its ability to enhance immune function, restore bacteria and fungi balance in the intestinal tract and its microbial derivatives. However, shikimic acid has side effects that you should know before you use it.
After reading a comprehensive Shikimic acid review, you will know whether this herbal extract is an ideal supplement for you or not. Shikimic acid refers to an herbal extract that comes from the Chinese star anise. Chinese star anise, also called Illicium verum, is a plant that has many medicinal properties. It commonly grows in Vietnam and China and it has an attractive and sweet fragrance. Traditionally, star anise extract has been used for healing purposes and as a spice. Shikimic acid is the major precursor of most aromatic amino acids, alkaloids and indole derivatives. It is commonly used in pharmaceuticals synthesis and it acts as the first material for neuraminidase inhibitor, Oseltamivir.
Use shikimic acid to fight viral diseases
According to a study that was published by the Journal of Molecular Neuroscience, shikimic acid can be used as an anti-viral medication. This study established the scientific mechanism behind this activity of the acid as its ability to enhance immune function. This is made possible by the antioxidant activity of shikimic acid which leads to neuro-protection actions of the cells.
Use shikimic acid as an anti-fungal treatment
Shikimic acid has anti-fungal properties which make it an ideal anti-fungal treatment. According to a study that was published on the Korean Journal of Medical Mycology, the mechanism behind this activity is the ability of shikimic acid to restore bacteria and fungi balance in the intestinal tract. An imbalance of bacteria and fungi in the intestinal tract leads to the growth of a yeast called Candida albicans which leads to candidacies if not controlled. Taking shikimic acid helps in restoring this balance.
Take shikimic acid as a treatment for bacterial diseases
According to a study that was conducted by Taiwan scientists and published on the Journal of Medicinal Food, Shikimic acid has anti-bacterial properties. The scientific mechanism behind the anti-bacterial activity of shikimic acid is its microbial derivatives. The researchers found that the anti-microbial compounds that are found in this acid are effective in fighting up to 67 drug-resistant bacteria strains.
The appropriate shikimic acid dosage when used as a treatment for various medical conditions depends on several factors which include the age of the user and health as well as other medical conditions. Currently, there is not adequate scientific information regarding the appropriate range of doses of shikimic acid when used as a treatment for various medical conditions.
However, there are doses of shikimic acid that have been used in different studies. They are as follows:
Almost every Shikimic acid review that you come across highlights its benefits only. However, this acid has ingredients that can cause blisters, scaling and swelling when applied on the skin. It can also cause problems of the nervous system such as seizures when taken in wrong doses.
How to avoid shikimic acid side effects
These side effects can be avoided by taking shikimic acid according to the physician’s or manufacturer’s instructions. Also consult your doctor before taking the acid as a treatment for any medical condition.
Breastfeeding and pregnant women should not take shikimic acid because there is no adequate, reliable information about its safety on them. Infants should also not be given shikimic acid because it can cause irritability, seizures and vomiting.
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