Andiroba: Benefits, Side Effects and Dosage

Andiroba oil, derived from the seeds of the Carapa guianensis tree, has long been treasured by Amazonian communities for its diverse therapeutic uses. From treating inflammation and infections to serving as a natural insect repellent, the oil's rich profile of bioactive compounds—especially limonoids—has attracted growing scientific interest. Yet, as its popularity expands globally for medicinal and cosmetic purposes, understanding its health benefits, potential risks, and appropriate usage is more important than ever. This guide dives deep into the science-backed benefits, possible side effects, and dosage recommendations for andiroba oil, aiming to empower you with balanced, evidence-based knowledge.

Benefits of Andiroba

Andiroba oil isn't just a traditional Amazonian remedy—it carries a wealth of scientifically validated therapeutic properties. Let’s explore the main benefits supported by modern research.

Benefit	Mechanism/Area	Application	Source(s)
Anti-inflammatory	Limonoids, fatty acids	Skin, systemic	3 4
Antimalarial	Limonoids (gedunin)	Infectious disease	1 4
Wound healing	Collagen synthesis	Skin injuries, mucositis	2 5
Antioxidant	Fatty acids, limonoids	Oxidative stress, skin	4 7
Insect repellent	Bioactive compounds	Skin, environment	1 4
Anti-allergic	NFκB pathway inhibition	Allergy, inflammation	3
Protection against drug toxicity	Reduces lesion severity	Chemotherapy adjunct	11

Table 1: Evidence-Based Benefits of Andiroba Oil

Anti-inflammatory and Anti-allergic Effects

Andiroba oil’s most prominent claim to fame is its robust anti-inflammatory action. Limonoids—especially gedunin and its derivatives—have been shown to interfere with key inflammatory pathways, reducing edema, suppressing inflammatory mediators (such as IL-5, CCL11/eotaxin, TNF-α, IL-1β), and impairing the activation of immune cells like mast cells, eosinophils, and T lymphocytes. This results in a potent reduction of both acute and chronic inflammation, as well as allergic responses, via mechanisms involving the inhibition of the NFκB pathway 3 4.

• Applications: Relief for arthritis, eczema, and allergic skin conditions.
• Bioactive Compounds: Limonoids, unsaturated fatty acids.

Antimalarial Properties

Traditionally, andiroba oil has been used to manage fevers and malaria. Laboratory studies confirm that both the crude oil and its limonoid-rich fractions can inhibit the growth of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for malaria. Gedunin and its derivatives demonstrate especially strong antiplasmodial activity, supporting traditional uses 1 4.

• Potential Use: Adjunct to conventional malaria therapies (not a substitute).

Wound Healing and Collagen Synthesis

Andiroba oil is renowned for speeding up wound healing. Scientific studies show that the oil—and specifically its limonoid constituents—stimulate collagen synthesis in skin fibroblasts, which is crucial for tissue repair. In animal models, topical andiroba oil accelerated healing of oral mucositis (a painful side effect of chemotherapy) 2 5.

• Applications: Minor wounds, burns, post-surgical recovery, mucosal injuries.

Antioxidant Activity

The oil contains unsaturated fatty acids and limonoids that exhibit antioxidant properties, helping protect biological systems against oxidative stress. While most evidence is from laboratory studies, this suggests potential for skin protection and anti-aging effects when used topically 4 7.

Insect Repellent

Andiroba oil is a traditional insect repellent, effective against mosquitoes and other pests. Its efficacy is attributed to its distinctive bioactive compounds 1 4. In regions where vector-borne diseases are prevalent, this property is highly valued.

Adjunctive Protection in Drug Therapy

Emerging research highlights andiroba oil’s potential to mitigate tissue damage caused by harsh medications like doxorubicin, a chemotherapy drug. Animal studies found that andiroba oil and its nanoemulsion reduced the severity of lesions, hematotoxicity, and organ damage in treated mice 11.

Side Effects of Andiroba

Despite its many benefits, andiroba oil is not without risks—especially if misused or consumed in large amounts. Here’s what research reveals about its safety profile.

Side Effect	Nature/Area	Severity/Observations	Source(s)
Hepatic Changes	Liver function	↑ALT, ↑liver weight (high oral doses)	6
Genotoxic Potential	DNA damage (in vitro)	Detected at high topical doses	2
No acute toxicity	General	No death or major symptoms (≤2g/kg)	1 6 7 8 9
No hematotoxicity	Blood	No significant changes	7 8 9
Mild cytotoxicity	Cellular (in vitro)	Only at highest concentrations	8
No mutagenicity	Genetic	No mutagenic effects in vivo	7 8 9

Table 2: Safety and Side Effects of Andiroba Oil

Liver Effects and Hepatotoxicity

While acute and subacute oral administration of andiroba oil in animal studies did not produce immediate toxic symptoms or deaths, repeated high doses (≥0.75–1.5 g/kg) have been associated with increased liver weights and elevated ALT levels—markers of potential liver stress or toxicity 6. However, at typical doses, no overt liver damage was observed.

• Caution: People with pre-existing liver conditions or those taking hepatotoxic drugs should consult a healthcare provider before using andiroba oil internally.

Genotoxicity and Cytotoxicity

Most studies report no genotoxic, mutagenic, or hematotoxic effects from andiroba oil at normal doses, both in vitro and in animal models 7 8 9. However, one study observed genotoxic effects when 100% andiroba oil was applied topically at high frequency in animals 2. This effect was not seen in all experimental setups and requires further investigation.

• Topical Use: Occasional use appears safe, but caution is warranted with frequent, undiluted applications.

General Safety Profile

• No Acute Toxicity: Doses up to 2000 mg/kg in rodents showed no acute toxicity, behavioral changes, or deaths 1 6 7 8.
• No Hematological Toxicity: Blood parameters remained within normal ranges in treated animals 7 8 9.
• Minimal Cytotoxicity: Only very high concentrations showed cytotoxicity in cell cultures, with nanoemulsions displaying even lower toxicity 8.

Allergic Reactions

Although not well-documented in research, any topical botanical product carries a risk of allergic reaction in sensitive individuals. Perform a patch test before widespread application.

Dosage of Andiroba

Determining the ideal dosage of andiroba oil depends on its intended use, form (oral, topical), and individual factors. While traditional uses guide much of today’s practice, scientific dosing guidelines are emerging from animal and laboratory studies.

Use Case	Typical Dose/Method	Notes/Considerations	Source(s)
Oral (animal studies)	0.375–2.0 g/kg/day	No acute toxicity up to 2g/kg	1 6 7 8 9
Topical (wound/mucosa)	2–3 times daily (100%)	Accelerated healing observed; genotoxicity possible at high frequency	2
Chemotherapy adjunct	2000 mg/kg oral (mice)	Reduced tissue damage	11
Collagen induction (in vitro)	1–100 μg/mL	Promoted synthesis without cytotoxicity	5
Insect repellent	Apply as needed	Traditionally used undiluted	1 4

Table 3: Dosage and Application Guidelines for Andiroba Oil

Oral Dosage

Animal studies suggest that oral doses up to 2 g/kg are generally safe, with no acute toxicity observed. Subacute treatment for up to 30 days at 0.375–1.5 g/kg did not produce major adverse effects, though higher doses may stress the liver 6 7 8 9. Human equivalent doses remain to be established, and oral use is not widely recommended outside traditional contexts.

• Note: Oral consumption is not common in commercial products and should be approached with caution.

Topical Application

For wound healing and skin benefits, topical andiroba oil is typically applied directly to the affected area two to three times daily. In studies, 100% oil was most effective for accelerating healing but showed genotoxicity potential when used frequently and at high concentrations 2.

• Guidance: Use diluted formulations or limit the frequency of undiluted applications, especially on broken skin or mucosa.

As an Adjunct in Chemotherapy

In animal studies, a dose of 2000 mg/kg orally, given before chemotherapy, reduced drug-induced lesions and organ toxicity 11. However, this is not yet validated in human clinical practice.

For Collagen Synthesis

In laboratory studies, limonoid concentrations of 1–100 μg/mL promoted collagen synthesis in skin fibroblasts without toxicity 5. Topical formulations for skin care often contain 1–10% andiroba oil.

Insect Repellent

Traditionally, andiroba oil is applied directly to the skin as an insect repellent. There are no established dose limits, but as with all botanicals, monitor for skin irritation.

Conclusion

Andiroba oil is a versatile natural remedy with a remarkable profile of benefits—and a safety record that, while strong, deserves respect and careful use. Here’s a quick recap of the key points:

• Scientifically Validated Benefits: Includes anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, antimalarial, wound-healing, antioxidant, and insect-repellent properties, as well as protection against certain drug toxicities [1–5,7,11].
• Generally Safe Profile: No acute toxicity at typical doses; no mutagenic or hematotoxic effects observed in animal studies [1,6–9].
• Potential Risks: High oral doses may stress the liver; frequent undiluted topical use may have genotoxic potential 2 6.
• Dosage Guidance: Oral use should be cautious and guided by traditional knowledge or healthcare providers; topical use is effective for skin and wound healing with moderate frequency 2 5 6 11.
• Individual Considerations: Always patch test before topical use; consult a healthcare provider before internal use, especially if you have liver concerns.

Remember: Nature’s remedies can be powerful allies—when used with knowledge and care.