Holistic Health Articles and Research Related to Herbal Medicines, Foods and Phytochemicals

Monday, 4 November 2013

Popular #Herbs - Rhodiola Rosea

Rhodiola Rosea, one of the perennial plant grows in coldest region in the world, including the Arctic, is a genus Rhodiola, belonging to the family Crassulaceae. The herb has been used as an antiaging agent, and to treat fatigue, depression, anemia, impotence, gastrointestinal ailments, infections, nervous system disorders, enhance physical endurance, etc.

Health Benefits 1. Immune booster
In the investigation of the anti-cellular and immunomodulatory potential of aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricata rhizome (RAE) found that The reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis of RAE treated rat splenocytes confirmed the up regulation of TLR-4 mRNA expression. Therefore, the present study concludes that RAE has potent immune boosting activity which might be useful in immunocompromised individuals, according to "Anti-cellular and immunomodulatory potential of aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricata rhizome" by Mishra KP, Ganju L, Singh SB.(1)

2. Anti cancers
In the assessment of the anti-proliferative effects of Rhodiola aqueous extract (RAE) in human erythroleukemic cell line K-562 using MTT cell proliferation assay, indicated that RAE was also found to induce intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in K-562 cells at 200microg/ml when incubated overnight. The increased ROS generation may cause apoptosis, which was observed in AnnexinV-FITC and propidium iodide (PI) staining of cells treated with RAE for 72h in K-562 cells. Moreover, RAE arrested cell cycle progression in G2/M phase in early and late period of exposure. The anti-cancer activity of RAE was also confirmed by increased NK cell cytotoxicity. These observations suggest that aqueous extract of R. imbricata rhizome has very potent anti-cancer activities, which might be useful in leukemia cancer treatment, according to "Aqueous extract of Rhodiola imbricata rhizome inhibits proliferation of an erythroleukemic cell line K-562 by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase" by Mishra KP, Padwad YS, Dutta A, Ganju L, Sairam M, Banerjee PK, Sawhney RC.(2)

3. Neuroprotective effects
In the demonstration of the neuroprotective effects of a titolated extract from Rhodiola rosea L. (RrE) and of salidroside (Sa), one of the major biologically active compounds extracted from this medicinal plant, found that RrE has a neuroprotective effect in cortical neurons and suggest that the antioxidant activity of the RrE, due to the structural features of the synergic active principles they contain, may be responsible for its ability to stabilize cellular Ca(2+) homeostasis, according to "Rhodiola rosea Extract Protects Human Cortical Neurons against Glutamate and Hydrogen Peroxide-induced Cell Death Through Reduction in the Accumulation of Intracellular Calcium" by Palumbo DR, Occhiuto F, Spadaro F, Circosta C.(3)

4. Adjuvant effects
In the study of Salidroside, a major component of Rhodiola rosea L., for its adjuvant effects on the immune responses in mice by ovalbumin (OVA) stimulation, found that co-administration of salidroside with OVA significantly enhanced the ConA-, LPS-, and OVA-induced splenocyte proliferation, produced more IL-2, IL-4, IFN-γ, and IgG, IgG1, and IgG2b antibody levels, and increased the percentage of CD4(+), CD8(+) lymphocyte subsets than OVA alone. Thus, salidroside possess immunological adjuvant activity by regulating humoral and cellular immune responses in mice, according to "Adjuvant effects of salidroside from Rhodiola rosea L. on the immune responses to ovalbumin in mice" by Guan S, He J, Guo W, Wei J, Lu J, Deng X.(4)

5. Anti depression
In the evaluation of herbal medicines, other than St. John's wort, in the treatment of depression
found that the combination of lavender and imipramine was significantly more effective than imipramine alone. When compared to placebo, Echium was found to significantly decrease depression scores at week 4, but not week 6. Rhodiola was also found to significantly improve depressive symptoms when compared to placebo, according to "Herbal medicines, other than St. John's Wort, in the treatment of depression: a systematic review" by Dwyer AV, Whitten DL, Hawrelak JA.(5)

6. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
In the identification of Rhodiola rosea effect on anxiety, depression, and insomnia found that Significant improvement in GAD symptoms was found with R. rosea, with a reduction in HARS scores similar to that found in clinical trials. These preliminary findings warrant further exploration of treatment with R. rosea in clinical samples, according to "A pilot study of Rhodiola rosea (Rhodax) for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)" by Bystritsky A, Kerwin L, Feusner JD.(6)

7. Psychiatric disorders
In the review of 27 herbal medicines and formulas in treating a broad range of psychiatric disorders (in addition to anxiety and depression), including obsessive-compulsive, seasonal affective, bipolar depressive, psychotic, phobic and somatoform disorders, found that Phytotherapies which potentially have significant use in psychiatry, and urgently require more research are Rhodiola rosea (roseroot) and Crocus sativus (saffron) for depression; Passiflora incarnata (passionflower), Scutellaria lateriflora (scullcap) and Zizyphus jujuba (sour date) for anxiety disorders; and Piper methysticum (kava) for phobic, panic and obsessive-compulsive disorders. While depression and anxiety are commonly researched, the efficacy of herbal medicines in other mental disorders requires attention, according to "Herbal medicines in the treatment of psychiatric disorders: a systematic review" by Sarris J.(7)

8. Endurance Performance enhancers
In the investigation of To determine whether the ingestion of a herbal supplement called Rhodiola-Gingko Capsule (RGC) would enhance the endurance performance of healthy volunteers, found that the combined herbal supplement of Rhodiola and Gingko could improve the endurance performance by increasing oxygen consumption and protecting against fatigue, according to "Dietary supplement with a combination of Rhodiola crenulata and Ginkgo biloba enhances the endurance performance in healthy volunteers" by Zhang ZJ, Tong Y, Zou J, Chen PJ, Yu DH.(8)

9. Anti oxidative stress
In the study of Rhodiola rosea used in traditional medical systems in Europe and Asia as an adaptogen to increase an organism's resistance to physical stress found that R. rosea supplementation could protect cultured cells against ultraviolet light, paraquat, and H(2)O(2). However, it did not alter the levels of the major antioxidant defenses nor did it markedly activate the antioxidant response element or modulate heme-oxygenase-1 expression levels at relevant concentrations, according to "Protection of human cultured cells against oxidative stress by Rhodiola rosea without activation of antioxidant defenses" by Schriner SE, Avanesian A, Liu Y, Luesch H, Jafari M.(9)

10. Sport performance
In the evaluation of a chronic supplementation with Rhodiola Rosea for 4 weeks, 14 trained male athletes underwent a cardio-pulmonary exhaustion test and blood samples, found that Chronic Rhodiola Rosea supplementation is able to reduce both lactate levels and parameters of skeletal muscle damage after an exhaustive exercise session. Moreover this supplementation seems to ameliorate fatty acid consumption. Taken together those observation confirm that Rhodiola Rosea may increase the adaptogen ability to physical exercise, according to "Effects of chronic Rhodiola Rosea supplementation on sport performance and antioxidant capacity in trained male: preliminary results" by Parisi A, Tranchita E, Duranti G, Ciminelli E, Quaranta F, Ceci R, Cerulli C, Borrione P, Sabatini S.(10)

11. Etc.

Side Effects
1. Overdoses may cause nervous tension, including restlessness, irritability, and insomnia and rapid heart beat, or heart palpitations as a result of stimulant in the herb
2. Do not use the herb in children, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist
3. Since it contains stimulant, people who have psychological disorders should consult with your doctor before taking.
4. Etc.

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Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22239552
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18241696
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22086763
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21711135
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21438645
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18307390
(7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17562566
(8) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19568709
(9) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19486939
(10) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20308973

Popular #Herbs - Reishi Mushroom

Reishi mushroom or Lingzhi is a fungal species in the genus Ganoderma, belonging to the family Ganodermataceae, native to Asia. The herb has been use in traditional medicine as anti-caners and anti inflammatory, antioxdant agent and to enhance immune function, treat hepatitis B virus, protect against neuron degeneration, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC)
In the investigation of medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) as an attractive candidate for anti-IBC therapy, found that Reishi inhibits cell invasion and disrupts the cell spheroids that are characteristic of the IBC invasive pathology. Reishi decreases the expression of genes involved in cancer cell survival and proliferation (BCL-2, TERT, PDGFB), and invasion and metastasis (MMP-9), whereas it increases the expression of IL8. Reishi reduces BCL-2, BCL-XL, E-cadherin, eIF4G, p120-catenin, and c-Myc protein expression and gelatinase activity. These findings suggest that Reishi is an effective anti-IBC therapeutic, according to "Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) inhibits cancer cell growth and expression of key molecules in inflammatory breast cancer" by Martínez-Montemayor MM, Acevedo RR, Otero-Franqui E, Cubano LA, Dharmawardhane SF.(1)

2. Prostate cancer
In the assessment of the effects of Ganoderma lucidum on cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells PC-3, founf that found that Ganoderma lucidum induced apoptosis of PC-3 cells with a slight decrease in the expression of NF-kappaB-regulated Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl. However, the expression of proapoptotic Bax protein was markedly up-regulated, resulting in the enhancement of the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and Bax/Bcl-xl. Thus, Ganoderma lucidum exerts its effect on cancer cells by multiple mechanisms and may have potential therapeutic use for the prevention and treatment of cancer, according to "Ganoderma lucidum inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells PC-3" by Jiang J, Slivova V, Valachovicova T, Harvey K, Sliva D.(2)

3. Vascular proliferative diseases
In the assessment of extract of Reishi polysaccharides (EORP) inhibited platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF)-stimulated HASMC proliferation and the mechanism involved, found that EORP interferes with the mitogenic activation of JNK, preventing entry of HASMCs into the cell cycle in vitro and reducing cell proliferation in the neointima and decreasing the neointimal area in vivo. Thus, EORP may represent a safe and effective novel approach to the prevention and treatment of vascular proliferative diseases, according to "Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides prevent platelet-derived growth factor-stimulated smooth muscle cell proliferation in vitro and neointimal hyperplasia in the endothelial-denuded artery in vivo" by Wang SH, Liang CJ, Weng YW, Chen YH, Hsu HY, Chien HF, Tsai JS, Tseng YC, Li CY, Chen YL.(3)

4. Lung cancer
In the analyzing the effects of recombinant LZ-8 protein (rLZ-8) on the proliferation of A549 human lung cancer cells, found that The treatment of A549 cells with rLZ-8 activated p53 and p21 expression, and both the G(1) arrest and the antigrowth effect were found to be p53 dependent. It was further demonstrated that rLZ-8 inhibited tumor growth in mice transplanted with Lewis lung carcinoma cells, according to "Ling Zhi-8 mediates p53-dependent growth arrest of lung cancer cells proliferation via the ribosomal protein S7-MDM2-p53 pathway" by Wu CT, Lin TY, Hsu HY, Sheu F, Ho CM, Chen EI.(4)

5. Immune system
In the demonstration of Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal fungus is thought to possess and enhance a variety of human immune functions, found that Our current results of analyzing rLZ-8-mediated signal transduction in T cells might provide a potential application for rLZ-8 as a pharmacological immune-modulating agent, according to "Reishi immuno-modulation protein induces interleukin-2 expression via protein kinase-dependent signaling pathways within human T cells" by Hsu HY, Hua KF, Wu WC, Hsu J, Weng ST, Lin TL, Liu CY, Hseu RS, Huang CT.(5)

6. Anti inflammatory effects
In the investigation of the water-soluble, polysaccharide components of Reishi (designated as MAK) in murine colitis induced by trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS), found that MAK-stimulated PMs produced GM-CSF in a dose-dependent manner. Intestinal inflammation by TNBS was improved by feeding with MAK. MLNs of mice treated with TNBS produced IFN-γ, which was inhibited by feeding with MAK. In contrast, MLNs of mice treated with TNBS inhibited GM-CSF production, which was induced by feeding with MAK and conculded that that the induction of GM-CSF by MAK may provide the anti-inflammatory effect, according to "The water-soluble extract from cultured medium of Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi) mycelia (Designated as MAK) ameliorates murine colitis induced by trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid" by Hanaoka R, Ueno Y, Tanaka S, Nagai K, Onitake T, Yoshioka K, Chayama K.(6)

7. Type 2 diabetes
In the investigation of the inhibition of protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) activity has been considered to be a promising therapy approach to treat type 2 diabetes, found that The type 2 diabetic mice treated orally by FYGL showed an obvious decrease in plasma glucose level compared with the diabetic controls without drug treatment, comparable with that of diabetic mice treated with metformin, a clinical drug. The toxicity of FYGL is very low. The results indicate that FYGL may serve as a drug candidate or a health-care food for diabetic therapy or protection, according to "A protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B activity inhibitor from the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum (Fr.) Karst and its hypoglycemic potency on streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic mice" by Teng BS, Wang CD, Yang HJ, Wu JS, Zhang D, Zheng M, Fan ZH, Pan D, Zhou P.(7)

8. Anti aging
In the classification of tyhe the anti aging efects of ganodermasides C and D, found that Both of them significantly extended the replicative lifespan of the K6001 yeast strain, according to "Ganodermasides C and D, two new anti-aging ergosterols from spores of the medicinal mushroom Ganoderma lucidum" by Weng Y, Lu J, Xiang L, Matsuura A, Zhang Y, Huang Q, Qi J.(8)

9. Anti tumors
In the study of triterpenoids, polysaccharides, nucleosides, sterols, and alkaloids, among others from G. lucidum,and the examination of the potential role of G. lucidum polysaccharide (GLPS) in tumor therapy and the possible mechanisms involved, found that the anti-tumor activities of GLPS are mediated by its immunomodulatory, anti-angiogenic, and cytotoxic effects. GLPS affects immune cells and immune-related cells including B lymphocytes, T lymphocytes, dendritic cells, macrophages, and natural killer cells. In addition, recent data also suggest that GLPS suppresses tumorigenesis or inhibits tumor growth through direct cytotoxic effect and anti-angiogenic actions, according to "Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides: immunomodulation and potential anti-tumor activities" by Xu Z, Chen X, Zhong Z, Chen L, Wang Y.(9)

10. Ovarian cancer
In the investigation of the effect of Ganoderma lucidum on epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC),
found that Ganoderma lucidum strongly decreased cell numbers in a dose-dependent manner. Ganoderma lucidum also inhibited colony formation, cell migration and spheroid formation. In particular, Ganoderma lucidum was effective in inhibiting cell growth in both chemosensitive and chemoresistant cells and the treatment with Ganoderma lucidum significantly enhanced the effect of cisplatin on EOC cells, according to "Ganoderma lucidum exerts anti-tumor effects on ovarian cancer cells and enhances their sensitivity to cisplatin" by Zhao S, Ye G, Fu G, Cheng JX, Yang BB, Peng C.(10)

11. Itching
In this study of the antipruritic effect of the methanol extract of Ganoderma lucidum (MEGL) in mice, found that MEGL is effective against pruritus mediated by proteinases and 5-HT and that primary afferents expressing PAR(2) and 5-HT(2A) receptors are the sites of its action, according to "Inhibitory effect of methanol extract of Ganoderma lucidum on acute itch-associated responses in mice" by Zhang Q, Andoh T, Konno M, Lee JB, Hattori M, Kuraishi Y.(11)

12. Hemodynamic and antioxidation
In the investigate the effect of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides (GLPs) on hemodynamic and antioxidation in the T2DM rats, found that Both the middle dosage and the high dosage of GLPs could low blood glucose effectively, and they could reduce LVEP but increase -dp/dt(max). Meanwhile, they could activate GSH-Px, CAT, SOD, NO, but reduce MDA in cardiac tissue and improve the myocardial ultrastructure, according to "[Effect of Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides on hemodynamic and antioxidation in T2DM rats]. [Article in Chinese]" by Xue H, Qiao J, Meng G, Wu F, Luo J, Chen H, Zheng H, Xu J.(12)

13. Etc.

Healthy Happy Herbs
A Beginner's Guide To Herbs And
Herb Gardening, Step by step

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For the world most popular herbs list, visit http://theworldmostpopularherbs.blogspot.com/2011/10/world-most-popular-herbs-health.htmlother health articles, please visit http://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com

Side effects
1. Do not use reishi mushroom because the herb is contraindicated to exopathic diseases or if you have diabetes or high blood pressure(a)
2. long term use may increase the risk of forming of kidney stone as Reishi mushroom contains a measurable amount of oxalates
3. Do not use the herb in children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist.
4. The herb may cause allergic effect including stomach discomfort, skin rash, nosebleeds, skin irritation, dizziness, etc.

Chinese Secrets To Fatty Liver And Obesity Reversal
Use The Revolutionary Findings To Achieve
Optimal Health And Loose Weight

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Sources
(a) http://alternativehealing.org/ling_zhi.htm
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21888505
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15067330
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22021110
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21983128
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18189229
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21973321
(7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21585203
(8) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21512225
(9) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21512225
(10) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21399867
(11) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20460776
(12) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20423001

Popular #Herbs - Red Yeast Rice

Red Yeast Rice is fermented rice with the bright reddish purple color, cultivated with the yeast Monascus purpureus. The herb has been used in traditional medicine to treat gastric problems such as indigestion, diarrhea, lower cholesterol, aid blood circulation and enhance spleen and stomach health.

Health Benefits
1. Cholesterol lowering
In the examination of the cholesterol-lowering effects of a proprietary Chinese red-yeast-rice supplement, found that Total cholesterol concentrations decreased significantly between baseline and 8 wk in the red-yeast-rice-treated group compared with the placebo-treated group [(x+/-SD) 6.57+/-0.93 mmol/L (254+/-36 mg/dL) to 5.38+/-0.80 mmol/L (208+/-31 mg/dL); P < 0.001]. LDL cholesterol and total triacylglycerol were also reduced with the supplement. HDL cholesterol did not change significantly, according to "Cholesterol-lowering effects of a proprietary Chinese red-yeast-rice dietary supplement" by Heber D, Yip I, Ashley JM, Elashoff DA, Elashoff RM, Go VL.(1)

2. Dyslipidemia
In the evaluation of the effectiveness and tolerability of red yeast rice and therapeutic lifestyle change to treat dyslipidemia found that Red yeast rice and therapeutic lifestyle change decrease LDL cholesterol level without increasing CPK or pain levels and may be a treatment option for dyslipidemic patients who cannot tolerate statin therapy, according to "Red yeast rice for dyslipidemia in statin-intolerant patients: a randomized trial" by
Becker DJ, Gordon RY, Halbert SC, French B, Morris PB, Rader DJ.(2)

3. Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and atherosclerosis
In the evaluation of whether administration of Chinese red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus; RYR) suppressed angiotensin II (AngII)-induced AAA and atherosclerosis, found that RYR extract administration suppressed AngII-induced AAA and atherosclerosis associated with regulating inflammation responses independent of lipid-lowering effects. Red yeast rice may have preventive potential for patients with AAA, according to "Chinese red yeast rice attenuates the development of angiotensin II-induced abdominal aortic aneurysm and atherosclerosis" by Xie X, Wang Y, Zhang S, Zhang G, Xu Y, Bi H, Daugherty A, Wang JA.(3)

4. Prostate cancer
In the identification of Chinese red yeast rice (RYR), a food herb made by fermenting Monascus purpureus and its effect on prostate cancer, found that RYR decreased gene expression of androgen synthesizing enzymes (HSD3B2, AKR1C3, and SRD5A1) in both type of tumors (P < 0.05). Clinical studies of RYR for prostate cancer prevention in the increasing population of men undergoing active surveillance should be considered, according to "Chinese red yeast rice inhibition of prostate tumor growth in SCID mice" by Hong MY, Henning S, Moro A, Seeram NP, Zhang Y, Heber D.

5. Colon cancer
In the comparison of the mixture of monacolins of Chinese red yeast rice (RYR) versus monacolin K (identical to lovastatin (LV) alone on colon cancer, found that the effect of monacolin-rich fraction of Chinese red yeast rice (MF-RYR)was similar to that of LV, while the effect of Chinese red yeast rice (PF-RYR) was similar to the effect of the whole RYR extract on the proliferation, apoptosis and mRNA level of HMGCR and sterol response element binding protein-2. These results suggest that the matrix effects of RYR beyond MK alone may be active in inhibiting colon cancer growth. RYR with or without MK may be a botanical approach to colon cancer chemoprevention worthy of further investigation., according to "Anticancer effects of Chinese red yeast rice versus monacolin K alone on colon cancer cells" by Hong MY, Seeram NP, Zhang Y, Heber D.(5)

6. Excretion of bile acids
In the assessment of the hypocholesterolemic activity of red yeast rice (RYR) and its underlying mechanism, found that Hypocholesterolemic activity of RYR is mediated at least partially by enhancement of acidic sterol excretion, according to "Red yeast rice increases excretion of bile acids in hamsters" by Ma KY, Zhang ZS, Zhao SX, Chang Q, Wong YM, Yeung SY, Huang Y, Chen ZY.(6)

7. Cardiovascular diseases
In the analyzing the role of omega-3, red yeast rice and garlic in preventing clinical cardiovascular events, found that Omega-3 in modest doses reduces cardiac deaths, and in high doses reduces nonfatal cardiovascular events. Red yeast rice reduces adverse cardiac events to a similar degree as the statins. It is unlikely that garlic is useful in preventing cardiovascular disease, according to "Statin alternatives or just placebo: an objective review of omega-3, red yeast rice and garlic in cardiovascular therapeutics" by Ong HT, Cheah JS.(7)

8. Anticancers
In the classification of two new dehydromonacolins (1 and 3), together with nine known monacolins (4-12) and theirs effect on cancers, found that Compound 1, possessing a C2 side chain, is unprecedented in the natural monacolin family and exhibited moderate cytotoxic activity against Hep G2, Caco-2, and MCF-7 cancer cell lines. Dehydromonacolin K (8) demonstrated the most potent cytotoxicity to all three of these cell lines, according to 'Cytotoxic Dehydromonacolins from Red Yeast Rice" by Zhu L, Yau LF, Lu JG, Zhu GY, Wang JR, Han QB, Hsiao WL, Jiang ZH.(8)

9. Hypertension
In the evaluation of the impact of Xuezhikang (a partial extract of red yeast rice containing statin) on reducing cardiovascular events and mortality in elderly Chinese hypertensive patients with a history of myocardial infarction (MI) enrolled in the Chinese Coronary Secondary
found that Xuezhikang therapy could effectively and safely reduce cardiovascular events and all-cause death in Chinese elderly hypertensive patients with previous MI. This finding may have an important implication for the treatment of elderly hypertensive patients with CHD, according to "Beneficial impact of Xuezhikang on cardiovascular events and mortality in elderly hypertensive patients with previous myocardial infarction from the China Coronary Secondary Prevention Study (CCSPS)" by Li JJ, Lu ZL, Kou WR, Chen Z, Wu YF, Yu XH, Zhao YC; Chinese Coronary Secondary Prevention Study Group.(9)

10. Type 2 diabetes
In the study of the mandarin Hon-Chi, a red yeast rice fermented with Monascus pilous and Monascus purpu and its effect on plasma glucose in a dose-dependent manner, found that that Hon-Chi has an ability to raise the release of ACh from nerve terminals, which in turn to stimulate muscarinic M(3) receptors in pancreatic cells and augment the insulin release to result in plasma glucose lowering action. Thus, Hon-Chi seems suitable to employ as the health food for increase of insulin secretion in the prevention of type-2 diabetes, according to "Release of acetylcholine by Hon-Chi to raise insulin secretion in Wistar rats" by
Chen CC, Liu IM.(10)

Side effects
1. The herb may because allergic effects
2. Do not use the herb in children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist
3. Please consult with your doctor if you are taking lower cholesterol, high blood pressure medicine or if you have kidney ot liver problem before taking red yeast rice as the herb contain lovastatin.
4. Etc.

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(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9989685
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19528562
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21764282
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21278313
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17869085
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19950521
(7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18982874
(8) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22224625
(9) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19602720
(10) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16762503

Chinese Herbs – Ma Bo (Fructificatio Lasiosphaerae seu Calvatiae)

Ma Bo is also known as Pearly puffball. The acrid and neutral herb has been used in TCM to treat pain in the throat, coarse voice, inhibit bacteria and use xternally for nose bleeding and bleeding due to injuries, etc., as it clears the Lungs, expels toxins stops bleeding, etc., by enhancing the function of lung channels.
Ingredients

Health Benefits
1. Anti-Cancer Effects
Researchers at the College of Life Sciences, National Chiayi University, in the study of Anti-Cancer Effects of Protein Extracts from Calvatia lilacina, Pleurotus ostreatus and Volvariella volvacea, found that The PO and VV protein extracts induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, glutathione (GSH) depletion and mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨ(m)) loss in SW480 cells. Pretreatment with N-acetylcysteine, GSH or cyclosporine A partially prevented the apoptosis induced by PO protein extracts, but not that induced by VV extracts, in SW480 cells. The protein extracts of CL, PO and VV exhibited therapeutic efficacy against human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells and human monocytic leukemia cells. The PO protein extracts induced apoptosis in SW480 cells partially through ROS production, GSH depletion and mitochondrial dysfunction. Therefore, the protein extracts of these mushrooms could be considered an important source of new anti-cancer drugs(1)
2. Human colorectal cancer
Scientists at the Toko University, Puzih City, in the investion of Calvatia lilacina protein-extract induces apoptosis through glutathione depletion in human colorectal carcinoma cells, reported that a novel protein extract isolated from Calvatia lilacina (CL) can induce cell death against four types of human colorectal cancer cells. Importantly, CL was shown to be free of apoptotic effects against normal rat liver cells. We have also identified that CL-induced glutathione (GSH) depletion is the major contributor responsible for the apoptotic cell death induction of SW 480 cells, as evidenced by the observation that exogenously added N-acetylcysteine (NAC), or GSH, but not vitamin C, could offer a near complete protection of CL-treated cells against apoptotic cell death. Furthermore, the participation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) evoked a drop in the transmembrane potential (Delta Psi(m)) in the CL-induced apoptotic cell death(2)
3. Antiproliferative and antimitogenic activities
In the study to exmaine the antiproliferative and antimitogenic activities of the extracted Fresh fruiting bodies of the mushroom Calvatia caelata, with 10 mM Tris-HCl buffer (pH 7.2) showed that Calcaelin inhibited translation in rabbit reticulocyte lysate with an IC 50 value of 4 nM and displayed a heat-labile RNase activity of 1.58 U/mg toward yeast tRNA. It exhibited an antimitogenic activity toward mouse splenocytes, and it reduced the viability of breast cancer cells. There was no hemagglutinating, antibacterial or antifungal activity(3)
4. Etc.

Side Effects
1. Do not use in case of voice loss as a result of wind cold
2. It may cause allergic reaction, including dizziness, throat feels swollen, heaviness in chest, itchiness , rash. etc.
3. Do not use the herb in newborn, children, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding with first consulting with the related field specialist.
4. Etc.

Chinese Secrets To Fatty Liver And Obesity Reversal
Use The Revolutionary Findings To Achieve
Optimal Health And Loose Weight

Super foods Library, Eat Yourself Healthy With The Best of the Best Nature Has to Offer

Back to Popular Herbs http://kylejnorton.blogspot.ca/p/popular-herbs.html
Back to Kyle J. Norton Home page http://kylejnorton.blogspot.ca

Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21792367
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19182949
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12677523

Chinese Herbs – Ma Chi Xian (herb portulacae oleraceae)

Ma Chi Xian is also known as Pigweed. The sour and cold herb has been used in TCM as antibiotic, anti-hypertensive and anti tumors and to promote contraction of uterus, prevent and treats dysentery, get rid of parasites , treat post partum bleeding, etc, as it clears Heat, expels toxins; cools Blood, stops bleeding, etc., by enhancing the functions of large intestine, liver chasubles.

Ingredients
1. Omega-3 fatty acid
2. Noradrenaline
3. Dopamine
4. Dopa
5. Galacturonic acid
6. β – Amyrin
7. Lupeol
8. Oxalic acid
9. Etc.

Health Benefits 1. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects
In a review of the records in both folkloric and scientific literature, conducted by Zayed Complex for Herbal Research and Traditional Medicine, indicated that Portulaca has many medicinal uses. After our previous preliminary screening of three species of the family for analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, Portulaca oleracea L. subsp. sativa (Haw.) Celak. (a cultivar) was chosen for further work due to its abundant availability from reliable sources. The 10% ethanolic extract of the aerial parts (dried leaves and stem) showed significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic after intraperitoneal and topical but not oral administration when compared with the synthetic drug, diclofenac sodium as the active control. Results indicate this cultivar species of Portulaca also possesses some of the claimed traditional uses of the wild species in the relief of pain and inflammation(1).

2. Diabetic endothelial dysfunction
In the study to investigate the protective effect of the aqueous extract of Portulaca oleracea L. (AP), an edible plant used as a folk medicine, on diabetic vascular complications. Dr. Lee AS and the research team at the Wonkwang University, showed that the insulin immunoreactivity of the pancreatic islets remarkably increased in AP treated db/db mice compared with untreated db/db mice. Taken together, AP suppresses hyperglycemia and diabetic vascular inflammation, and prevents the development of diabetic endothelial dysfunction for the development of diabetes and its vascular complications(2).

3. Hepatoprotective activity
In the study to investigate the hepatoprotective activity of the aqueous extract of the aerial parts of Portulaca oleracea (P. oleracea) in combination with lycopene against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity in rats, showed that both the treatment groups showed hepatoprotective effect against carbon tetrachloride induced hepatotoxicity by significantly restoring the levels of serum enzymes to normal which was comparable to that of silymarin group(3).

4. Type-2 diabetes mellitus
In the study to investigate antidiabetic activity of purslane seeds on type-2 diabetic subjects and to provide scientific basis for the clinical use of Portulaca oleracea (PO), scientists at the Sana’a University, Madbah, Sana, indicated that PO seeds could be effective and safe as adjuvant therapy for Type-2 diabetic subjects. These results demonstrated that PO seeds possessed notable hypoglycaemic, hypolipidaemic and insulin resistance reducer effects; possibly due to its contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids, flavonoids, and polysaccharides(4).
5. Etc.

Side Effects
1. No not use the herb in case of spleen and stomach deficiency.
2. Do not use the herb in newborn, children, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without first consulting with the related field specialist.
3. Etc.

Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11090998
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22474522
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22022001
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21718775

Chinese Herbs – Mai Dong or Mai Men Dong (Tuber Ophiopogonis Japonici)

Mai Dong or Mai Men Dong is also known as Ophiopogon tuber. The sweet and slightly bitter and cold herb has been used in TCM as anti-arrhythmia, Anti shock, anti bacterial agent and improve contraction of heart muscles, and improves toleration of lack of oxygen, protect heart muscle, enhance immune system, lower blood sugar, etc., as it moistens the Lung and Lung-Yin, benefits the Stomach, promotes generation of Body Fluids, clears the Heart, calms restlessness and anxiety, etc., by enhancing the functions of hear, lung and stomach channels.

Ingredients
1. Beta-sitosterol(major)
2. Stigmasterol(minor)-beta-D-glucopyranoside (glycoside I),
3. 25(S)-ruscogenin 1-O-beta-D-fucopyranosido-3-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranoside (glycoside II), 25(S)-ruscogenin 1-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1—-2)-beta-D-xylopyranoside (glycoside III) and
4. 25(S)-ruscogenin 1-O-[alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl(1----2)] [beta-D-xylopyra-nosyl(1----3)]-beta-D-fucopyranoside (glycoside IV)(1)
5. Etc.

Health Benefits
1. Hemodynamic effects
In the study to investigate the effects of water soluble extract of Liriope spicata on acute hemodynamics were studied in anesthetized cats, showed that LV dp/dt max was increased by 87%, whereas t-dp/dt max was shortened by 28% after administration of WSEL (1.75 g/kg, iv). At the same time CO, CI, SI, and SVWI were increased by 146, 151, 153, and 194%, respectively. HR was declined slightly. SVR was reduced by about 48%. WSEL (0.7 g/kg, iv) induced an increase of 38% in LV dp/dt max, 44% in CO, 50% in SI and a decrease of 20% in t-dp/dt max and 20% in SVR. Preliminary results indicated that WSEL increased ventricular contractile force and might increase cardiac pump function(2).
2. Immune function
In the comparative study on the immune function of the tuberous root of Liriope spicata var. prolifera and Ophiopogon japonicus, showed that the aqueous extract of both species mentioned above could increase obviously the spleen weight (immunity organ) of mice, enhance the clearance rate of iv charcoal particles in mice and antagonize remarkably the leukopenia caused by cyclophosphamide(3).
3. Etc.

Side Effects
1. Not not use the herb in case of diarrhea as a result of cold due to deficiency or fuild retention
2. Do not use the herb in newborn, children, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without first consulting with the related field specialist.
3.Do not use in cases of cough due to Wind-Cold or Damp-Phlegm
4. Etc.

Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2618666
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2511875
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1820786

Chinese Herbs – Ma Qian Zi (Semen Strychnotis)

Ma Qian Zi or Fan Mu Bie is also known as Nux Vomica.. The bitter, cold and very toxic herb has been used in TCM to treat Bell’s palsyma, myasthenia gravis, tuberculosis, cervical erosion, rheumatoid arthritis,injuries,boils and swellings,sequelae from polio of children,impotence,etc., as it promotes circulation in the channels and collaterals, dissolves nodules, resolves oedema, calms pain, etc., by enhancing the functions of liver and spleen channels.

Ingredients
1. Strychnine
2. brucine
3. vomicine
4. pseudostrychnine
5. pseudobrucine
6. (a-Colubrine
7. β-Colubrine
8. loganin
9. chlorogenic acid
10. palmitic acid
11. Etc

Health Benefits
1. Human gastric carcinoma AGS cells
In the study to examine whether and how the water extract of Strychni Semen (ESS) treatment would affect the growth of AGS human gastric carcinoma cells, found that ESS inhibits the growth of AGS cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Cell cycle analysis showed G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in AGS cells following ESS treatment. ESS-mediated G2/M arrest was found to be associated with up-regulation of cyclin A, Cdc2, tumor suppressor p53 and cyclin dependent kinase (Cdk) inhibitor p21(WAF1/CIP1), whereas the expressions of other G2/M regulatory proteins, including cyclin B1 and Cdk2, were down-regulated compared with the control. The induction of apoptotic cell death by ESS was associated with down-regulation of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and up-regulation of pro-apoptotic Bax expression(1)
2. Ovalbumin-specific IgE antibody response
In the study to investigate Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. (SNV; Loganiaceae) possible immunomodulatory effect on induction of ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE antibody response in a murine model, indicated that revealed no significant change in the total IgG antibody response against OVA, as evaluated by ELISA. These results confirm the suppressive activity of S. nux-vomica on allergen-specific IgE antibody response and suggest its possible application in allergic conditions(2).
3. Antisnake venom activity
Scientist at the Department of Physiology, University of Calcutta indictaed that the whole seed extract of S. nux vomica (in low doses) effectively neutralized Daboia russelii venom induced lethal, haemorrhage, defibrinogenating, PLA2 enzyme activity and Naja kaouthia venom induced lethal, cardiotoxic, neurotoxic, PLA2 enzyme activity. An active compound (SNVNF) was isolated and purified by thin layer chromatography and silica gel column chromatography, which effectively antagonised D. russelii venom induced lethal, haemorrhagic, defibrinogenating, oedema, PLA2 enzyme activity and N. kaouthia induced lethal, cardiotoxic, neurotoxic, PLA, enzyme activity. Polyvalent snake venom antiserum action was significantly potentiated by the active compound. Spectral studies revealed it to be a small, straight chain compound containing methyl and amide radicals. Detailed structure elucidation of the compound (SNVNF) is warranted before its clinical trials as a snake venom antagonist.(3).
4. Etc.

Side Effects
1. Since the herb is very toxic, overdose can cause spasm of the jaw and neck muscles, difficulty in swallowing, the whole body is uncomfortable, then extreme contraction of the muscles and tetany, etc.
2. Do not use the herb in newborn, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without first consulting with the related field specialist.
3. Etc.