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

Thursday, 7 November 2013

#Healthy #Foods - Vegetables - Cauliflower (Brassica Oleracea)

Cauliflower is the species Brassica oleracea, including cabbage, brussels sprouts, kale and broccoli , belong to the family Brassicaceae, native to Italy.

Nutritional Supplements
Nutritional Supplements
1. Carbohydrates
2. Sugars
3. Fiber
4. Omega 3 fatty acid
5. Protein
6. Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
7. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
8. Niacin (VitaminB3)
9. Pantothenic acid (B5)
10. Vitamin B6
11. Folate (Vitamin. B9)
12. Vitamin C
13. Vitamin K
14. Calcium
15. Iron
16. Magnesium
17. Phosphorus
18. Potassium
19. Tryptophan
20. Zinc
21. Etc.

Health benefits
A. Health benefits according to studies
1. Anti-proliferative activity
In the investigation of regular consumption of fresh and cooked Brassicaceae and its effect in reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease found that Anti-proliferative and chemoprotective effects towards DNA oxidative damage of fresh and cooked vegetable extracts were evaluated by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium and Comet assays on HT-29 human colon carcinoma cells. The fresh vegetable extracts showed the highest anti-proliferative and antioxidant activities on HT-29 cells (broccoli>cauliflower = Brussels sprouts). No genotoxic activity was detected in any of the samples tested. The cooking methods that were applied influenced the anti-proliferative activity of Brassica extracts but did not alter considerably the antioxidant activity presented by the raw vegetables. Raw, microwaved, boiled (except broccoli) and steamed vegetable extracts, at different concentrations, presented a protective antioxidative action comparable with vitamin C (1 mm), according to "Anti-proliferative activity and chemoprotective effects towards DNA oxidative damage of fresh and cooked Brassicaceae" by Ferrarini L, Pellegrini N, Mazzeo T, Miglio C, Galati S, Milano F, Rossi C, Buschini A.(a)

2. Colon cancer
In evaluation of iquid chromatography-electrospray ionization (LC-ESI) mass spectrometry two glucosinolates, glucoiberin and 3-hydroxy,4(α-L-rhamnopyranosyloxy) benzyl glucosinolate of the aqueous extract of Brassica oleraceae L var. italica found that when myrosinase hydrolysate was tested for cytotoxic activity on the colon cancer cell line it showed very high activity - 95% lethality up to 0.78 µg/mL, according to "Myrosinase Hydrolysates of Brassica oleraceae L. Var. italica Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer" by Hashem FA, Motawea H, El-Shabrawy AE, Shaker K, El-Sherbini S.(b)

3. Antioxidant capacity
In the classification of polyphenols, flavonoids and glucosinolates of vegetables belonging to the Brassicaceae family and theirs antioxidant effects found that the antibacterial activity was determined against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. York cabbage extract exhibited significantly higher antibacterial activity against Listeria monocytogenes (100%) and Salmonella abony (94.3%), being the most susceptible at a concentration of 2.8%, whereas broccoli, Brussels sprouts and white cabbage had moderate to weak activity against all the test organisms. Good correlation (r2 0.97) was found between total phenolic content obtained by spectrophotometric analysis and the sum of the individual polyphenols monitored by HPLC-DAD, according to "Phenolic composition, antioxidant capacity and antibacterial activity of selected Irish Brassica vegetables" by Jaiswal AK, Rajauria G, Abu-Ghannam N, Gupta S.(c)

4. Anti inflamatory effect
In the research of Benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) found abundantly in Brassica vegetables and it anti inflammatory effect found that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 and Akt was suppressed by BITC. BITC also inhibited ear edema formation and the protein expression of iNOS and COX-2 in mouse skin treated with TPA. We demonstrate that BITC is a potent anti-inflammatory agent, and the anti-inflammatory properties of BITC may result from the downregulation of NFkappaB signaling, according to "Benzyl isothiocyanate exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in murine macrophages and in mouse skin" by Lee YM, Seon MR, Cho HJ, Kim JS, Park JH.(d)

5. Arthritis
In the observation of 3,3'-Diindolylmethane (DIM), a natural compound formed during the autolysis of glucobrassicin presented in Brassica food plants and its anti-arthritis effect, found that the inhibition of kappa B ligand (RANKL) by DIM. DIM has shown anti-arthritis activity in animal models via inhibiting the expression of RANKL, and thus may offer potential treatments for arthritis and associated disorders, according to "3,3'-Diindolylmethane attenuates experimental arthritis and osteoclastogenesis" by Dong L, Xia S, Gao F, Zhang D, Chen J, Zhang J.(e)

6. Etc.

B. Health benefits according to concentration
1. Vitamin C
In the evaluation of pulmonary dysfunction. and it effects on pulmonary dysfunction found that At present, evidence from randomised-controlled trials is insufficient to recommend a specific role for vitamin C in the treatment of asthma. Further methodologically strong and large-scale randomised controlled trials are needed in order to address the question of the effectiveness of vitamin C in children with asthma but some outcome data showed effectiveness on lung function, symptom scores, IgE levels and inhaled steroid use. One small study showed a significant difference in % drop in FEV1 post-exercise, according to the study of "Vitamin C supplementation for asthma" by Kaur B, Rowe BH, Arnold E.(I)

2. Vitamin K
Vitamin K not only plays an important role in protecting our skin from aging, it is also needed for the proper clotting of blood, thus decreasing the risk of excessive bleeding, in a study of "Delayed vitamin K deficiency as a cause of bleeding: still a concern in the 21st century!" by Kasatkar P, Shetty S, Ghosh K., posted in PubMed, researchers found that Laboratory tests confirmed acquired bleeding diathesis due to vitamin K deficiency, which was corrected after adequate vitamin K supplementation. VKDB is not an uncommon phenomenon and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a child with bleeding diathesis.

3. Folate
In the investigation of the prevalence and multifactorial etiology of anemia among Indian human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children and its effect on anemia, found that Anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia and anemia of inflammation, is highly prevalent among children with HIV infection. Micronutrient supplements (iron and, folate) combined with ART(antiretroviral therapy) improved anemia in HIV-infected children, according to "The prevalence and etiology of anemia among HIV-infected children in India" by Shet A, Arumugam K, Rajagopalan N, Dinakar C, Krishnamurthy S, Mehta S, Shet AS.(II)

4. Vitamin B6
c. 1. Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine beside is important in enhancing the developing red blood cells by stimulating the production of hemoglobin, it also helps to keep blood sugar levels steady during the process of breaking down stored energy in gestation pregnancy, according to the study of "Improvement of oral glucose tolerance in gestational diabetes by pyridoxine" by Bennink HJ, Schreurs WH., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1131652)

c.2. It also plays a pivotal role as a methyl donor in the basic cellular process of methylation, through which methyl groups are transferred from one molecule to another, resulting in the formation of a wide variety of precess, including regulation of gene expression, protein function, and RNA metabolism. When levels of B6 are inadequate, it may cause faulty Methylation with high levels of homocysteine that can cause variety of disease, including cervical dysplasia, faulty detoxification and impaired DNA repair, etc., according to the study of "Back To Life Natural Health Center - Healthcare Through Natural Methods"(http://www.backtolifehealth.com/Methylation.htm)

5. Potassium
Potassium beside is important in maintaining the regular contraction and relaxation of the muscle, that helps to reducing the risk of hypokalemia, it also helps the lymphatic system in regulating the levels of fluid in the body, thus lessening the risk of lymphedema, swelling caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid. In a study of "Narrative review: evolving concepts in potassium homeostasis and hypokalemia" by Greenlee M, Wingo CS, McDonough AA, Youn JH, Kone BC., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19414841), researchers found that recent experimental insights into the participation of feedback and feedforward control mechanisms in potassium homeostasis. New data make clear that feedforward homeostatic responses activate when decreased potassium intake is sensed, even when plasma potassium concentration is still within the normal range and before frank hypokalemia ensues, in addition to the classic feedback activation of renal potassium conservation when plasma potassium concentration decreases.

6. Dietary fiber
Daily intake of right amount of fibers can prvent and treata. Diabetes, as Increased consumption of vegetables, whole grains, and soluble and insoluble fiber is associated with improved glucose metabolism in both diabetic and nondiabetic individuals. Improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis were more evident in participants following a plant-based diet compared with other commonly used diets, according to the study of "Efficacy of high-fiber diets in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus" by Wolfram T, Ismail-Beigi F.(III)

7. Etc.

C. Other health benefits
1. Anti-Tumors
Cauliflower contains high amount of glucosinolates which are potent inducers of protective enzymes that provide defense against cancer-causing chemicals, thus reducing the risk of developing liver, colon, mammary gland, pancreatic tumors, according to the article of "Glucosinolates" by Wikipedia(1)

2. Cancers
The compound indole-3-carbinol has exerted the peoperty in preventing the growth of tumor and cancer, as it may be considered as a potential natural cancer preventive compounds bnecuase of its mechanisms of action, according to the study of "Cancer prevention with natural compounds" Gullett NP, Ruhul Amin AR, Bayraktar S, Pezzuto JM, Shin DM, Khuri FR, Aggarwal BB, Surh YJ, Kucuk O.(2)

3. Antioxidants
Cauliflower improves the immune function in fighting against the forming of free radical due to its high amount of phytonutrients, according to the study of "Antioxidant and antigenotoxic activities of Angelica keiskei, Oenanthe javanica and Brassica oleracea in the Salmonella mutagenicity assay and in HCT116 human colon cancer cells" Kwon D, Yoon S, Carter O, Bailey GS, Dashwood RH(3)

4. Localized adjuvant Arthritis
Cauliflower contains high amount of Vitamin C that plays a role in the production of collagen, an important protein found in bones and joints that helps reduce the risk of infection and inflammation, according to the study of "Vitamin C influence on localized adjuvant arthritis" by
Davis RH, Rosenthal KY, Cesario LR, Rouw GR.(4)

5. Cardiovascular diseases

#Healthy #Foods - Fruits - Grapes (Vitaceae)

Grapes

Grape is a woody vines of the genus Vitis, belong to the family Vitaceae, native to southern Turkey.

Nutritional Supplements

1. Carbohydrates
2. Sugars
3. Dietary fiber
4. Protein
5. Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
6. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
7. Niacin (Vitamin B3)
8. Pantothenic acid (B5)
9. Vitamin B6
10. Folate (Vitamin B9)
11. Sugars
12. Vitamin C
13. Vitamin K
14. Calcium
15. Iron
16. Magnesium
17. Manganese
18. Phosphorus
19. Potassium
20. Sodium
21. Zinc

22. Etc.

Health benefits
A. Health benefits according to studies
1. Polyphenols
In the investigation of grapes and its biological activities found that Anthocyanins, flavanols, flavonols and resveratrol are the most important grape polyphenols because they possess many biological activities, such as antioxidant, cardioprotective, anticancer, anti-inflammation, antiaging and antimicrobial properties, according to "Biological activities of polyphenols from grapes" by Xia EQ, Deng GF, Guo YJ, Li HB.(a)

2. Cardiovascular diseases
In the research of grapes consumption and a mild to moderate drinking of wine, particularly red wine and its effect on cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and peripheral vascular risk, found that both wines and grapes can attenuate cardiac diseases such as atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease. Recently, wine was also found to increase life span by inducing longevity genes. It appears that resveratrol and proanthocyanidins, especially resveratrol, present in grapes and wines play a crucial role in cardioprotective abilities of grapes and wines. according to "Grapes, wines, resveratrol, and heart health" by Bertelli AA, Das DK.(b)

3. Type 2 diabetes
In the investigation of comsuption of grapes and other fruit and theirs effect on type II diabetes
found that grapes and other fruits contain numerous polyphenols, including the stilbene resveratrol, the flavanol quercetin, catechins, and anthocyanins that have shown potential for reducing hyperglycemia, improving beta-cell function, and protecting against beta-cell loss. Therefore, with a low mean GI and GL, grapes or grape products may provide health benefits to type 2 diabetics, according to "Type 2 diabetes and glycemic response to grapes or grape products" by Zunino S.(c)

4. Hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and renal-protective effects
In the identification of organic and conventional grapevine (Vitis labrusca L.) leaf extracts and theirs effect against hydrogen peroxide-induced stress in the liver, heart and kidney found that the beneficial effects of the V labrusca leaf extract shown in this study could probably be important for formulating dietary supplements, as well as for developing new ingredients with improved antioxidant properties from other plant sources, according to "Hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and renal-protective effects of organic and conventional grapevine leaf extracts (Vitis labrusca var. Bordo) on Wistar rat tissues" by Oliboni LS, Dani C, Funchal C, Henriques JA, Salvador M.(d)

5. Antioxidant and antigenotoxic activities
In the evaluation of the protection of organic and conventional purple grape juices and theirs effect against the oxidative damage provoked by carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)) found that in the alkaline version of the comet assay performed on whole blood, it was observed that CCl(4) was capable of inducing mainly DNA damage class 4 and 3 frequencies, which was significantly reduced in groups that received both purple grape juices. This implies that both grape juices have an important antigenotoxic activity, according to "Antioxidant and antigenotoxic activities of purple grape juice--organic and conventional--in adult rats" by Dani C, Oliboni LS, Umezu FM, Pasquali MA, Salvador M, Moreira JC, Henriques JA.(e)

6. Etc.

B. According to the concentration

1. Manganese

a. sperm cryopreservation

Manganese improves the quality/fertility of semen, which will result in enhancing the successful rate in normal conception or in vitro fertilization and artificial insemination, according to the study of "Manganese provides antioxidant protection for sperm cryopreservation that may offer new consideration for clinical fertility" by Cheema RS, Bansal AK, Bilaspuri GS.(1)

b. Damage of DNA

MnTBAP or by over-expression of MnSOD have exerted the antioxidant propperties by preventing mtDNA damage and protecting mitochondrial-encoded genes of renalretinal endothelial cells, exposured to high glucose increased mtDNA(mitochondrial DNA ) damage, according to the study of "Oxidative damage of mitochondrial DNA in diabetes and its protection by manganese superoxide dismutase" by Madsen-Bouterse SA, Zhong Q, Mohammad G, Ho YS, Kowluru RA.(2)

2. Vitamin C

a. Upper respiratory tract infection

Grape contains high amount of vitamin C of which intake reduces the risk of Upper respiratory tract infection(URTIO) among women, according to the study of "Dietary intake and supplement use of vitamins C and e and upper respiratory tract infection" by Fondell E, Bälter O, Rothman KJ, Bälter K.(3)

b. Breast cancer
Vitamin C has shown the ability to activate a caspase-independent and AIF-mediated cell death pathway in human breast cancer cells, SK-BR3, and Hs578T of human breast cancer cell lines, according to the study of "Ascorbate (vitamin C) induces cell death through the apoptosis-inducing factor in human breast cancer cells" by Hong SW, Jin DH, Hahm ES, Yim SH, Lim JS, Kim KI, Yang Y, Lee SS, Kang JS, Lee WJ, Lee WK, Lee MS.(4)

3. Vitamin B1

a. Cell metabolism

Vitamin B1 play an impotant role in the regulation of cell metabolism at both the coenzymatic and non-coenzymatic level., according to the study of "[Thiamine and its derivatives in the regulation of cell metabolism]. [Article in Polish]" by Tylicki A, Siemieniuk M.(5)

b. Wilson's disease

Vitamin B1 has also demonstrated the activity in treating genetic defect in P-type Cu(2+)-ATPase (Atp7b) mouse model of Wilson's disease by constituting a prophylactic for Wilson's disease-induced hepatocellular carcinoma, according to the study of "Thiamine supplementation attenuated hepatocellular carcinoma in the Atp7b mouse model of Wilson's disease" by Sheline CT.(6)

4. Etc.

C. Other health benefits1. Heart diseases
Grape seed helps to reduce high blood pressure, vascular damage and inctrases the production of vascular damage due to polyphenols, thus decreasing the risk of heart diseases, according to the study of "Cholesterol-lowering activity of the major polyphenols in grape seed"by Ngamukote S, Mäkynen K, Thilawech T, Adisakwattana S.(7)

2. Immune system

It also helps to educe the risk of irregular cell growth (causes of tumor and cancer), according to the study of "A combination of resveratrol and melatonin exerts chemopreventive effects in N-methyl-N-nitrosourea-induced rat mammary carcinogenesis" by Kisková T, Ekmekcioglu C, Garajová M, Orendáš P, Bojková B, Bobrov N, Jäger W, Kassayová M, Thalhammer T.(8) and degeneration diseases such as Parkinson's disease, According to the study of "Formation of dopamine quinone-DNA adducts and their potential role in the etiology of Parkinson's disease" by Zahid M, Saeed M, Yang L, Beseler C, Rogan E, Cavalieri EL(9) and improves the immune function in fighting against the forming of free radicals and foreign bacteria and virus invasion due the presentation of Grape phytochemicals such as resveratrol, according to the study of "The immunomodulating activities of resveratrol glucosides in humans" by Fuggetta M, Mattivi F.(10)

3. Saponins

Saponins are glucosides consisted a polycyclic aglycones attached to one or more sugar side chains. It binds with bile salt and cholesterol in the intestinal tract and secret them through waste., according to the study of "Effect of alfalfa saponins on intestinal cholesterol absorption in rats" by Malinow MR, McLaughlin P, Papworth L, Stafford C, Kohler GO, Livingston AL, Cheeke PR.(11)

4. Osteoporosis
It contains high amount of magnesium which enhances the digestive system in absorbing calcium, an essential minerals for bone health, according to the study of "A case of magnesium deficiency associated with insufficient parathyroid hormone action and severe osteoporosis" by Kanazawa I, Yamamoto M, Yamaguchi T, Yamauchi M, Yano S, Sugimoto T.(12)

5. Coagulation effect

Since it contains high amount of vitamin K, it helps to promote coagulation of blood, thus reducing the risk of excessive bleeding, according to the study of "The neonatal coagulation system and the vitamin K deficiency bleeding - a mini review" by Pichler E, Pichler L.(13)

6. Etc.

Side Effects1. Since it contains high amount of sugar, people who has high blood sugar should consult their doctor before consuming.

2. Eat flesh raisins to avoid artificial sweeteners.

3. Etc.

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Wednesday, 6 November 2013

Chinese Herbs– Huang Yao Zi (Rhizoma Dioscoreae Bulbiferae)

Huang Yao Zi is also known as Tuber Dioscoreae. The bitter, acrid, cool and slightly toxic herb has been used in TCM to treat swelling of the thyroid glands as a result of Iodin deficiency, get rid of toxin, relieves swelling, etc., as it resolves masses, treats goitre, reduces phlegm, clears Heat, expels toxins, cools Blood, stops bleeding, etc., by enhancing the functions of liver and lung channels.
Ingredients
1. Saponin
2. Tannin
3. Diosbulbin B
4. β-sitosterol
5. Diosbulbin A-H
6. D-sorbitol
7. 2,4,5,6-tetrahydroxyphenanthrene
8. Etc.
Health Benefits
1. Antitumor activity
The investigation of water extract (fraction A), ethanol extract (fraction B), ethyl acetate extract (fraction C), non-ethyl acetate extract (fraction D) and compound diosbulbin B isolated from Dioscorea bulbifera L. (DB), showed that compound diosbulbin B demonstrated anti-tumor effects in the dose-dependent manner at the dosage of 2 to 16 mg/kg without significant toxicity in vivo. Furthermore, on the basis of chemical analysis of the above extracts by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a diode array detector (DAD), diosbulbin B was found to be the major antitumor bioactive component of DB, according to “Antitumor activity of Dioscorea bulbifera L. rhizome in vivo” by Wang JM, Ji LL, Branford-White CJ, Wang ZY, Shen KK, Liu H, Wang ZT.(1)
2. Oral Cancer
In the evaluation of the evaluated chemopreventive efficacy of Antitumor B, a Chinese herbal mixture of six plants (Sophora tonkinensis, Polygonum bistorta, Prunella vulgaris, Sonchus arvensis L., Dictamnus dasycarpus, and Dioscorea bulbifera) on the development of 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide (4NQO) induced oral squamous cell carcinomas in A/J mice, found that plasma concentrations had reached a steady-state level at 1 wk. There was no significant body weight loss and there was no other obvious sign of toxicity in Antitumor B-treated mice. These results suggest that Antitumor B is a promising agent for human oral cancer chemoprevention, according to “Chemopreventive effect of a mixture of Chinese Herbs (antitumor B) on chemically induced oral carcinogenesis” by Wang Y, Yao R, Gao S, Wen W, Du Y, Szabo E, Hu M, Lubet RA, You M.(2)
3. Cytotoxic activity
In the study of two new steroidal saponins, diosbulbisides D (1) and E (2), along with five known saponins (3- 7) isolated from the rhizomes of Dioscorea bulbifera L., found that Compounds 6 and 7, two 3- O-trisaccharides of diosgenin spirostanes, showed moderate cytotoxic activity against human hepatocellular carcinoma cells, with IC₅₀ values of 3.89 µM and 7.47 µM on SMMC7721, and 10.87 µM and 19.10 µM on Bel-7402 cell lines, according to “Steroidal saponins from the rhizomes of Dioscorea bulbifera and their cytotoxic activity” by
Liu H, Chou GX, Wang JM, Ji LL, Wang ZT.(3)
4. Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory
In the demonstration of the aqueous and methanol extracts from the dry bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera L. var sativa (Dioscoreaceae)-evaluated orally at the doses of 300 and 600 mg/kg against pain induced by acetic acid, formalin, suggested that the bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera var sativa possess potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities. These activities may results from the inhibition of inflammatory mediators such as histamine, serotonin and prostaglandins. Thus, the analgesic activity of the bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera may be at least partially linked to its anti-inflammatory activity, according to “Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Extracts from the Bulbils of Dioscorea bulbifera L. var sativa (Dioscoreaceae) in Mice and Rats” by Mbiantcha M, Kamanyi A, Teponno RB, Tapondjou AL, Watcho P, Nguelefack TB.(4)
5. Against multidrug-resistant bacteria
showed that that the compound was effective in the reversal of bacterial resistance to various antibiotics. In addition, the compound did not show any cytotoxicity against a broad range of human cancer cell lines, namely MCF-7 (breast cancer), SiHa (cervical cancer) and A431 (epidermal carcinoma), and hence has the potential to be used as a lead compound for drug discovery programmes, according to “A potential plasmid-curing agent, 8-epidiosbulbin E acetate, from Dioscorea bulbifera L. against multidrug-resistant bacteria” by Shriram V, Jahagirdar S, Latha C, Kumar V, Puranik V, Rojatkar S, Dhakephalkar PK, Shitole MG.(5)
6. Etc.

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Side effects
1. Overdoses or consumption can increase the risk of burning sensation of the mouth and tongue, etc.
2. Prolonged period of uses or large dose can cause and kidney damage
3. The roots contains chemical ingredients which can damage to liver(a)
4. Do not use the herb in newborn, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without consulting first with the related field specialist
5. Etc.
Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22178682
(a) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17348210
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22086836
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21165820
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20953397
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18718743

Chinese Herbs– Ma Ren or Huo Ma Ren (Semen Cannabis Sativae)

Ma Ren or Huo Ma Ren is also known as hemp seed. The sweet and neutral herb has been used in TCM to treat constipation, acute infection of urinary tract, rheumatoid arthritis, diarrhea, irregular menses, etc., as it moistens the Intestines, promotes bowel movement, etc., by enhancing the functions of spleen, stomach, large intestine channels.
Ingredients
1. Dietary fiber
2. Fat
3. Saturated fat
4. Palmitic
5. Stearic
6. Monounsaturated fat
7. Oleic
8. Polyunsaturated fat
9. Linoleic
10. Linolenic
11. Gamma-Linolenic
12. Etc.
Health Benefits
1. Antidepressant-like effect
In the assessment of the antidepressant-like activity of Delta(9)-THC and other cannabinoids showed that Delta(9)-THC exhibited the same U-shaped dose response with significant antidepressant-like action at 2.5 mg/kg (p<0.05) while CBC resulted in a significant dose-dependent decrease in immobility at 40 and 80 mg/kg doses (p<0.01). Results of this study show that Delta(9)-THC and other cannabinoids exert antidepressant-like actions, and thus may contribute to the overall mood-elevating properties of cannabis, according to “Antidepressant-like effect of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other cannabinoids isolated from Cannabis sativa L.” by El-Alfy AT, Ivey K, Robinson K, Ahmed S, Radwan M, Slade D, Khan I, ElSohly M, Ross S.(1)
2. Atherogenesis and contractile function
In the determination of if determine if hempseed ingestion over an 8-week period may provide protection to rabbits against the deleterious effects associated with dietary cholesterol supplementation, revealed that dietary hempseed provides mildly beneficial effects against contractile dysfunction associated with atherosclerotic vessels in the cholesterol-fed rabbit, according to “The effect of dietary hempseed on atherogenesis and contractile function in aortae from hypercholesterolemic rabbits” by Gavel NT, Edel AL, Bassett CM, Weber AM, Merchant M, Rodriguez-Leyva D, Pierce GN.(2)
3. Complications of menopause
In the determination of the effects of hamp seed in protect ing against complications of menopause, suggest that hempseed may improve post-ovariectomy complications in rats, according to “The effects of Cannabis sativa L. seed (hempseed) in the ovariectomized rat model of menopause” by Saberivand A, Karimi I, Becker LA, Moghaddam A, Azizi-Mahmoodjigh S, Yousefi M, Zavareh S.(3)
4. Functional constipation
In the assessment with a rigidly designed studyof the efficacy and safety of a CHM proprietary medicine, Hemp Seed Pill (HSP), in optimal dosage for treating FC, found that The dose of 7.5 g b.i.d. showed better therapeutic effect than that of 2.5 and 5.0 g b.i.d. among 96 subjects (32 per arm) in trial I and was therefore selected for comparison with placebo in trial II. In trial II, 120 subjects were randomized into two arms (60 per arm). Responder rates for the HSP and placebo groups were 43.3 and 8.3% during treatment and 30.0 and 15.0% in the follow-up period, respectively (P<0.05), according to “Efficacy of a Chinese herbal proprietary medicine (Hemp Seed Pill) for functional constipation” by Cheng CW, Bian ZX, Zhu LX, Wu JC, Sung JJ.(4)
5. Anti-neoplastic chemotherapy, nausea, vomitting and analgesic effects
In the review of the use of traditional medicine and the identification of Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol and the cloning of two receptors; CB1 that is primarily present in the central nervous system, and CB2 that is present on the cells of the immune system,
found that The effectiveness of the cannabinoids in the treatment of nausea and vomit due to anti-neoplastic chemotherapy and in the wasting-syndrome during AIDS is recognized. Moreover, the cannabinoids are analgesic, and their activity is comparable to the weak opioids. Furthermore, parallels exist between opioid and cannabinoid receptors, and evidence is accumulating that the two systems sometimes may operate synergistically. The interest of the pharmaceutical companies led to the production of various drugs, whether synthetic or natural derived. The good ratio between the polyunsatured fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 of the oil of Cannabis seeds led to reduction of the phlogosis and an improvement of the pain symptoms in patients with chronic musculo-skeletal inflammation, according to “[Cannabinoids in the control of pain].[Article in Italian]” by Shaladi AM, Crestani F, Tartari S, Piva B.(5)
6. Immunomodulation effect and anti fatigue
In the study of the effects of Hemp seeds protein (HSP) on antifatigue and immunnomodulation effect in mice, revealed that HSP could have the ability of antifatigue and improve the immunomodulation effect in mice, according to “[Initial study of Hemp seeds protein on antifatigue and the immunomodulation effects in mice].[Article in Chinese]“ by Li Y, Yang R, Hu X, Long Z, et al.(6)
7. Hypercholesterolemia
In the valuation of whether dietary hempseed, a rich source of PUFAs, inhibits platelet aggregation under normal and hypercholesterolemic conditions, showed that when hempseed is added to a cholesterol-enriched diet, cholesterol-induced platelet aggregation returns to control levels. This normalization is not due to a reduction in plasma cholesterol levels, but may be partly due to increased levels of plasma GLA, according to “Cholesterol-induced stimulation of platelet aggregation is prevented by a hempseed-enriched diet” by Prociuk MA, Edel AL, Richard MN, Gavel NT, Ander BP, Dupasquier CM, Pierce GN.(7)
8. Etc.
Side effects
1. Overdoses and prolonged period of use can damage circulation and cause impotence
2. Do not use the herb in newborn, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without consulting first with the related field specialist
3. Overdoses can also cause caused nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, numbness in the limbs, antsy and anxiety, confusion.
4. Etc.

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Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20332000
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21893466
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21069097
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21045817
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19388223
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18589601
(7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18418423

Chinese Herbs – Huo Xiang (Herba Agastaches seu Pogostemi)

Hou Xiang is also known as Agastache or Giant Hyssop. The acrid and slightly warm herb has been used in TCM to treat weak digestion, lack of appetite, diarrhea/vomiting, dysentery, coughing, bad breath, vomiting and diarrhea, etc., as it transforms dampness, disperses Summer-Heat, stops vomiting, etc., by enhancing the functions of spleen, stomach and lungs channels.
Ingredients
1. Mgthyl Chavicol
2.D-imonene
3. α-β Pinene
4.Anisaldehyde
5. Linalool
6. β-Humluene
7. Agastacho
8. Sesquiterpene
9. Pogostol
10. Etc.
Health Benefits
1. Anti-influenza virus
In the determination of the methanol extract from the leaves of Pogostemon cablin Benth. showed potent in vitro antiviral activity (99.8% inhibition at a concentration of 10 μg/mL) against influenza virus A/PR/8/34 (H1N1), according to “Patchouli alcohol: in vitro direct anti-influenza virus sesquiterpene in Pogostemon cablin Benth” by Kiyohara H, Ichino C, Kawamura Y, Nagai T, Sato N, Yamada H.(1)
2. Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities
In the investigation of the analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of standardized PC methanol extract (PCMeOH) in vivo, suggested that the anti-inflammatory effect was tested by lambda-carrageenan (Carr)-induced mice paw edema. These analgesic experimental results indicated that PCMeOH (1.0 g/kg) decreased the acetic acid-induced writhing responses and PCMeOH (0.5 and 1.0 g/kg) decreased the licking time in the second phase of the formalin test. This study has demonstrated the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of PCMeOH, thus verifying its popular use in traditional medicine, according to “Analgesic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of the Methanol Extract from Pogostemon cablin” by Lu TC, Liao JC, Huang TH, Lin YC, Liu CY, Chiu YJ, Peng WH.(2)
3. Maintaining the membrane fluidity of IMC
In the observation of the effects of Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth. (PCB), a Chinese aromatic herbal medicine, on serum levels of nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and membrane fluidity of intestinal epithelial cells (IMC) in rats undergoing lower limbs ischemic reperfusion (I/R), showed that PCB could effectively protect the intestinal barrier function by way of maintaining the membrane fluidity of IMC through regulating the level of NO and TNF-alpha in serum, according to “[Protective effect of Pogostemon cablin on membrane fluidity of intestinal epithelia cell in ischemia/ reperfusion rats after ischemia/reperfusion].[Article in Chinese]” by Xie YC, Tang F.(3)
4. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) Scavenger
In the examination of the efficacy of Pogostemon cablin, a well-known herb in Korean traditional medicine, on ROS-induced brain cell injury suggested that Pogostemon cablin effectively protected human neuroglioma cell line A172 against both the necrotic and apoptotic cell death induced by hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)). The effect of Pogostemon cablin was dose dependent at concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 5 mg ml(-1). Pogostemon cablin significantly prevented depletion of cellular ATP and activation of poly ADP-ribose polymerase induced by H(2)O(2), according to “Pogostemon cablin as ROS Scavenger in Oxidant-induced Cell Death of Human Neuroglioma Cells” by Kim HW, Cho SJ, Kim BY, Cho SI, Kim YK.(4)
5. Anti fungal activities
In the investigation of the effects of 12 essential oils, popularly used as antifungal treatments in aromatherapy, on growth of Candida albicans, found that Mycelial growth of C. albicans, which is known to give the fungus the capacity to invade mucosal tissues, was inhibited in the medium containing 100 micro g/ml of the oils: lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) and cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica), according to “[Anti-Candida albicans activity of essential oils including Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) oil and its component, citral].[Article in Japanese]” by Abe S, Sato Y, Inoue S, Ishibashi H, Maruyama N, Takizawa T, Oshima H, Yamaguchi H.(5)
6. Antimutagenic activity
In the study of the suppressive compounds of methanol extract re-extracted against furylfuramide in the dichloromethane fraction isolated by SiO(2) column chromatography and identified as 7,4′-di-O-methyleriodictyol (1), 7, 3′,4′-tri-O-methyleriodictyol (2), and 3,7,4′-tri-O-methylkaempferol (3) and three flavonoids, ombuine (4), pachypodol (5), and kumatakenin (6), isolated and identified from the dichrolomethane fraction, showed that these compounds were assayed with activated Trp-P-1, and the suppressed effects of these compounds were further decreased when compared to Trp-P-1. The antimutagenic activities of these compounds against furylfuramide, Trp-P-1, and activated Trp-P-1 were assayed by the Ames test using S. typhimurium TA100, according to “Antimutagenic activity of flavonoids from Pogostemon cablin” by Miyazawa M, Okuno Y, Nakamura S, Kosaka H.(6)
7. Etc.
Side Effects
1. Do not use the herb in newborn, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without consulting first with the related field specialist
2. Do not use Hou Xiang in case of Yin deficiency with heat and stomach fire
3. 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 Chinese Herbs http://kylejnorton.blogspot.ca/p/chinese-herbs.html

Back to Kyle J. Norton Home page http://kylejnorton.blogspot.ca

Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21671149
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19933324
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19852300
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18955302
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14615795
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10725128

Chinese Herbs – Ji Cai or Yu Xing Cao (Herba cum radice houttuyniae cordatae)

Ji Cai or Yu Xing Cao is also known as Houttuynia. The biter, acrid and slightly cool herb has been used in TCM as antibiotics, inhibit HIV virus, get rid of heat and toxin, treat swellings, abscesses, expel pus, promote urination, etc., as it regulates the Spleen, eliminates Water, stops bleeding,etc., by enhancing the functions of lung and large intestine channels.
Ingredients
1. Myrcene
2. α- Pinene
3. d-Limonene
4. 2-Methyheptenone
5. Camphene
6. Bornyl acetate
7. Caryophyllene
8. Dodecanaldehyde
9. Etc.
Health Benefits
1. Blocking HSV infection
In the confirmation of whether a water extract of H. cordata exhibits activity against herpes simplex virus (HSV) and the virus of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), showed that a hot water extract of H. cordata (HCWE) inhibits HSV-2 infection through inhibition of NF-κB activation. The IC(50) was estimated at 50 μg/ml of lyophilized HCWE powder. At 150 and 450 μg/ml, HCWE blocked infectious HSV-2 production by more than 3 and 4 logs, respectively. The inhibitory activity was concomitant with an inhibition of NF-κB activation by HSV-2 infection, according to “Houttuynia cordata blocks HSV infection through inhibition of NF-κB activation” by Chen X, Wang Z, Yang Z, Wang J, Xu Y, Tan RX, Li E.(1)
2. Anti cancers
In the comparison of the cytotoxic effects, apoptosis induction, and mechanism(s) with the ethanolic and water extracts of fermented and non-fermented Houttuynia cordata Thunb (HCT), showed that The ethanolic extract of fermented HCT was cytotoxic to HL-60 >Molt- 4 > PBMCs, to a greater extent than the non-fermented preparation and the number of apoptotic cells was higher. The alcoholic (fermented) extract produced more radicals than the non-fermented in HL-60 cells but the converse was observed in Molt-4 cells. Reduction of MTP was found in HL-60 and Molt-4 cells treated with the alcoholic (fermented) extract and caspase-9 was cleaved dose-dependently in both cells. In conclusion, the alcoholic extract of fermented HCT was more toxic to human leukemic cells than the non-fermented and both cell lines underwent apoptosis via oxidative stress and a mitochondrial pathway, according to “Ethanolic Extract of Fermented Houttuynia cordata Thunb Induces Human Leukemic HL-60 and Molt-4 Cell Apoptosis Via Oxidative Stress and a Mitochondrial Pathway” by Banjerdpongchai R, Kongtawelert P.(2)
3. Anti-inflammatory activity
In the determination the effect of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. (Saururaceae; HC) used in traditional oriental medicine for the treatment of inflammation diseases, found that suggest HC mediates inhibition of COX-2 enzyme activity and can affect related gene and protein expression. HC works by a mechanism of action similar to that of NSAIDs, according to “Houttuynia cordata, a novel and selective COX-2 inhibitor with anti-inflammatory activity” by Li W, Zhou P, Zhang Y, He L.(3)
4. Protective effect against pseudorabies herpesvirus (PrV) infection
In the investigation of the effect of H. cordata injection on cell infection by PrV using Vero cells (a monkey kidney cell line) and swine testis cells (ST) as models, indicated that H. cordata efficiently inhibited cell infection after incubating the drug with PrV. Nevertheless, H. cordata was more efficient in Vero cells than in ST cells in terms of its inhibitory effect. Low-dosage drug inhibited cell apoptosis induced by PrV; nevertheless, high-dosage drug alone resulted in cell apoptosis, according to “The effect of Houttuynia cordata injection on pseudorabies herpesvirus (PrV) infection in vitro” by Ren X, Sui X, Yin J.(4)
5. Anti-obesity effects
In the evaluation of the effect of the water extract of H. cordata leaves (WEH) in the obesity prevention and reduction, found that found that the water extract of H. cordata leaves (WEH) inhibited the corn oil-induced increase in plasma triglyceride levels in mice. WEH also inhibited the oleic acid- and glycerol-induced increase in the levels of plasma nonesterified fatty acids and glycerol, respectively. Moreover, WEH had anti-obesity effects in mice with high-fat-diet-induced obesity. Therefore, WEH may be able to prevent or reduce obesity induced by a high-fat diet, according to “Water extract of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. leaves exerts anti-obesity effects by inhibiting fatty acid and glycerol absorption” by
Miyata M, Koyama T, Yazawa K.(5)
6. Allergic inflammation
In the investigation of the inhibitory activity of Houttuynia cordata Thunb fractions (HcFs) on the T helper 2 (Th2) immune response, indicated that HcFs inhibited the expression of IL-4 and IL-5 in response to phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and calcium ionophore (CaI) in Jurkat T cells and the human mast cell line, HMC-1. IL-4- and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)-induced TARC production was blocked by HcFs in skin fibroblast CCD-986sk cells, particularly by the ethanol extract of Hc. Stimulants included in PMA, phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and CaI, increased the mRNA level of CC chemokine receptor 4 (CCR4), a receptor of TARC, in Jurkat T cells, and the ethanol extract of HcF weakly blocked the increased mRNA level. However, the stimulants and ethanol extract had no effect on the CCR4 protein level. The ethanol extract inhibited TARC-induced migration, as well as basal migration of Jurkat T cells. according to “Suppressive effects of Houttuynia cordata Thunb (Saururaceae) extract on Th2 immune response” byLee JS, Kim IS, Kim JH, Kim JS, Kim DH, Yun CY.(6)
7. Etc.
Side Effects
1. The herb may cause allergic reaction, including rash, skin inflammation, etc.
2. Do not use the herb in newborn, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without consulting first with the related field specialist,
3. Over heating or prolong heating can reduce the effectiveness of the herb.
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 Chinese Herbs http://kylejnorton.blogspot.ca/p/chinese-herbs.html

Back to Kyle J. Norton Home page http://kylejnorton.blogspot.ca

Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21951655
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22393956
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21073936
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20942608
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20495298
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18325701

Chinese Herbs – Ji Gu Cao (Herba Abri fruticulosi)

Ji Gu Cao is also known as Chinese prayer bead grass. The sweet, slightly bitter and cool herb has been used in TCM as anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-cancer, antibiotic agent and to protect the liver, lower blood sugar, enhance autoimmune function, etc, as it eliminates Blood stasis, treats rheumatic pain, clear Heat and relieves toxicity, soothes the Liver, etc., by enhancing the functions of liver and stomach channels.
Ingredients
1. Abrine
2. Hypaphorine
3. Precatorine
4. Choline
5. Abrin I, II, III
6. Abrus precatorius agglutinin (lectin) I, II
7. Ricin
8. Abricin
9. Abridin
10. Squalene
11. Cycloartenol
12. Campesterol
13. 5β-cholanic acid
14. Abrussic acid
15. Sophoradiol
16. Etc.
Health Benefits
1. Liver cancer
In the investigation of the protective effects of Abrus precatorius L. (Leguminosae) (AP) in HepG2 cells and N-nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA) induced hepatocellular carcinoma in Swiss albino rats, showed that
the AP extract has strong cytotoxic effects on HepG2 cells. The
expression of p53 was markedly increased and maintained at high level from 6-12
hr with 100 μg/ml of AP extract, according to ” Exploring the Protective Effects of Abrus precatorius in HepG2 and N-Nitrosodiethylamine-Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Swiss Albino Rats” by Ramaswami Kartika, Chandana Venkateshwara Raoa, Palpu Pushpangadanb, Sunil Prakesh Trivedic, Gaddam Dayanand Reddyd(1)
2. Antimicrobial activity
In the investigation of the in-vitro antimicrobial activities of the extracts of Abrus precatorius on some clinical isolates as resistance to available and affordable antibiotics by these pathogens is on the increase, showed that extract from the stem and seed oil were potent against some of the gram-positive bacteria and Candida albicans but not against S anginosus, E. faecalis and gram-negative bacteria tested. The pH of the extracts ranged between pH5 and pH8 and concluded that Abrus precatorius particularly the seed oil has a potent antimicrobial activity, according to “The in-vitro antimicrobial activity of Abrus precatorius (L) fabaceae extract on some clinical pathogens” by Adelowotan O, Aibinu I, Adenipekun E, Odugbemi T.(2)
3. Antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects
In the investigation of the afficacy of five isoflavanquinones isolated from the roots of Abrus precatorius L. (Leguminosae). Three of them are new and designated as abruquinones D, E, and F. The pharmacological activities of the isoflavanquinones, found that abruquinones A, B, and D exhibited remarkable inhibitory effects on the platelet aggregation. The IC50 of abruquinones A and B for the inhibition of the platelet aggregation induced by arachidonic acid (AA) and collagen were less than 5 micrograms/ml, and of abruquinone D, was less than 10 micrograms/ml for that induced by AA. On the other hand, abruquinones A, B, D, and F showed strong anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects, according to “Potent antiplatelet, anti-inflammatory and antiallergic isoflavanquinones from the roots of Abrus precatorius” by Kuo SC, Chen SC, Chen LH, Wu JB, Wang JP, Teng CM.(3)
4. Etc.

Side Effects
1. The seed of Ji Gu Cao is toxic
2. Do not use the herb in newborn, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without consulting first with the related field specialist
3. Etc.