Man Shan Hong has been used traditionally for thousands of years in Eastern Siberia, North China, and Japan to relieve a cough and eliminate phlegm. This herbal remedy consists of the dried leaves from Rhododendron dauricum. Recent studies have started to unlock the secrets of this mysterious herb.

Grifolin is one of the more interesting compounds isolated from Rhododendron, which has shown promising results in vitro and in vivo, showcasing a spectrum of health benefits. Notably, it’s anticancer effects have positioned Grifolin as a significant research subject.

Grifolin is a powerful natural anti-aging compound known to induce apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy, and senescence, modulating signaling pathways like NF-κB and ERK1/2. These mechanisms offer therapeutic potentials against cancer but also protect against age-related diseases, making Grifolin a potential key player in anti-aging strategies. It is thought to down-regulate Cyclin D1, similar to Dasatinib. Several promising studies are combining Dasatinib with Quercetin, known as the D+Q senolytic treatment. It also inhibits Cyclin E, CDK4, CDK6, PDK1, and increases Bax/Bcl-2 tyrosine kinase enzymes associated with longevity research.

The compound’s anti-microbial properties further enhance its profile, displaying activity against bacteria, fungi, and parasites. This broad spectrum of action suggests Grifolin’s potential for anti-aging.

Another natural compound found in Rhododendron dauricum is Farrerol. It is natural flavanone that has also been extensively studied for its pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, vasoactive, antitumor, and antimicrobial effects.

This compound’s mechanisms involve modulation of multiple molecular pathways such as NF-κB, PI3K/AKT, ERK1/2, and Nrf2, suggesting its potential in treating vascular-related diseases and possibly contributing to anti-aging effects through reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, key factors in the aging process.

MDS Labs® has been following the developments in research surrounding the phytochemical compounds found in Rhododendron dauricum, and recognizing their potential in anti-aging medicine, plan on releasing a Rhododendron based supplement in the near future.