Arabinogalactan: Your New Favorite Polysaccharide

Larch Arabinogalactan : Dr. Foresman's Supplement of the Week

The study of this unique polysaccharide spans decades and its clinical value may never get fully studied because exactly how it works seems to confuse everyone!

First of all, arabinogalactan, a polysaccharide primarily composed of galactose and arabinose, two uncommon saccharides (sugars) which play more structural (think glycoprotein) and functional (think mushroom) effects than nutrient roles. Secondly, the high molecular weight polysaccharides we think of as fiber and prebiotics, where the microbiome digests them into the healthy short chain fatty acids (SCFA) that fuel the health of the intestinal tract, especially the colon. Arabinogalactan also prevents the formation of unhealthy SCFAs. Here are two articles worth noting:

This first article, from 2016: “Does larch arabinogalactan enhance immune function? A
review of mechanistic and clinical trials.” (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4828828/)
This article reviews the sparse research, but primarily complementary, and never detrimental, effects of arabinogalactan on improving immune responses to some, tetanus and pneumococcus), but not all vaccines, specifically influenza. It was also helpful at preventing the common cold. Note, in the largest trial (still only 46 healthy patients) 75% of people noted an improvement in their bowel movements.

The second article, from 2017: “Protection of the brain through supplementation with larch arabinogalactan in a rat model of vascular disease” (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5621360/ ) We find another role for arabinogalactan, called immunomodulation. What this means is that in our previous article we found a boost in immune function, whereas in this article we find, in response to ischemic challenge (think stroke), a significant decrease in microglial activation and ongoing white matter injury. Whether this is due to direct absorption of the saccharides, improvements in microbiome health, or support of the glycocalyx (the all-important mucoid lining of the intestinal tract that directly affects the health of all blood vessels) is yet to be determined.

Larch arabinogalactan at a dose of 1.5 g - 2.0 g (3-4 caps) can be thought of as a profoundly healthful fiber and prebiotic. Whether treating IBS, SIBO/Dysbiosis, or anyone with chronic neurodegenerative or chronic infectious disease, arabinogalactans should be considered a powerful and extremely safe addition to one’s routine.

Your Journey to Health and Healing,
Gary E Foresman MD