Ashitaba (Angelica keiskei) Exerts Possible Beneficial Effects on Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition comprising a combination of glucose metabolism disorder, high blood pressure and obesity. The main underlying risk factors for metabolic syndrome are abdominal obesity and insulin resistance. Various studies have shown that herbal medicines can be effective against these aspects of metabolic syndrome. Angelica keiskei Koidzumi (ashitaba) is a large perennial herb that is native to the South East Pacific coast of Japan, and it has recently become popular as a herbal medicine, dietary supplement and health food in Asian countries. Ashitaba leaves, stems and roots contain abundant nutrients and dietary fiber, as well as various natural substances such as chalcones, flavanones and coumarins. Various physiological and biological activities of ashitaba and its natural substances have recently been reported. Although numerous reports describe health benefits of ashitaba, it is most popularly applied against metabolic syndrome. Here, we introduce current information derived from studies on the effects of ashitaba on various pathological disorders associated with metabolic syndrome.