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

Thursday, 7 November 2013

Popular #Herbs - Tea Tree oil

Rea Tree oil is an essential oil with pale yellow color made from the leaves of the Narrow-leaved Tea-tree which is in the genus belonging to the family Myrtaceae, native to the northeast coast of New South Wales, Australia. The herb has been used in the traditional medicine as topical to treat acne, fungal infections, parasites, bacteria infection, relieve pain, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Mild to moderate acne vulgaris
In the determination of the efficacy of 5% tea tree oil in mild to moderate acne vulgaris, found that There was a significant difference between tea tree oil gel and placebo in the improvement of the TLC and also regarding improvement of the ASI. In terms of TLC and ASI, tea tree oil gel was 3.55 times and 5.75 times more effective than placebo respectively. Side-effects with both groups were relatively similar and tolerable and suggested that topical 5% tea tree oil is an effective treatment for mild to moderate acne vulgaris, according to "The efficacy of 5% topical tea tree oil gel in mild to moderate acne vulgaris: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study" by Enshaieh S, Jooya A, Siadat AH, Iraji F.(1)

2. Acne
In the classification of plant extracts and isolated compounds, used increasingly in cosmetics and food supplements to improve skin conditions, indicated that Green tea extract and tea tree oil have been investigated in the treatment of acne. ..., according to "Which plant for which skin disease? Part 1: Atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, condyloma and herpes simplex.[Article in English, German]" by Reuter J, Wölfle U, Weckesser S, Schempp C.(2)

3. Skin inflammation
In the investigation of the anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil on histamine-induced weal and flare, found that application of liquid paraffin had no significant effect on histamine-induced weal and flare. There was also no difference in mean flare area between control arms and those on which tea tree oil was applied. However, mean weal volume significantly decreased after tea tree oil application (10 min after tea tree oil application, P = 0.0004, Mann-Whitney U-test), according to "Tea tree oil reduces histamine-induced skin inflammation" by Koh KJ, Pearce AL, Marshman G, Finlay-Jones JJ, Hart PH.(3)

4. Edema
In the evaluation of the effect of topically applied tea tree oil (TTO) on histamine-induced oedema in the ears of mice, found that topical application of TTO, and in particular terpinen-4-ol, may be effective in controlling histamine-induced oedema often associated with Type I allergic immediate hypersensitivities, according to "Tea tree oil reduces histamine-induced oedema in murine ears" by Brand C, Townley SL, Finlay-Jones JJ, Hart PH.(4)

5. Anti tumors
In the examination the anticancer activity of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil (TTO) in vitro and its major active terpene component, terpinen-4-ol, against two aggressive murine tumour cell lines, AE17 mesothelioma and B16 melanoma, found that TTO and terpinen-4-ol had significant anti-proliferative activity against two tumour cell lines. Moreover, the identification of primary necrotic cell death and cell cycle arrest of the aggressive tumour cells highlights the potential anticancer activity of TTO and terpinen-4-ol., according to "Induction of necrosis and cell cycle arrest in murine cancer cell lines by Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil and terpinen-4-ol" by Greay SJ, Ireland DJ, Kissick HT, Levy A, Beilharz MW, Riley TV, Carson CF.(5)

6. Tinea pedis
In the identification of tea tree oil (an essential oil derived primarily from the Australian native Melaleuca alternifolia) and its efficacy in fungal infections, found that tea tree oil cream (10% w/w) appears to reduce the symptomatology of tinea pedis as effectively as tolnaftate 1% but is no more effective than placebo in achieving a mycological cure. This may be the basis for the popular use of tea tree oil in the treatment of tinea pedis, according to "Tea tree oil in the treatment of tinea pedis" by Tong MM, Altman PM, Barnetson RS.(6)

7. Anti microbial effects
In the demonstration of Melaleuca alternifolia oil (tea tree oil) and its promising efficacy in treating these infections, found that tea tree oil has been effective as an adjunctive therapy in treating osteomyelitis and infected chronic wounds in case studies and small clinical trials, according to "Staphylococcus aureus and wounds: a review of tea tree oil as a promising antimicrobial" by Halcón L, Milkus K.(7)

8. Ocular itching
In the assessment of twenty-four patients with ocular itching and ocular Demodex were treated with chlortetracycline hydrochloride eye ointment lid massage for 4 weeks and then treatment was switched to TTOO for another 4 weeks, found that after 4 weeks of chlortetracycline hydrochloride eye ointment treatment, little changes were observed regarding itching and Demodex counts in all patients (P > 0.05). In contrast, after 5% TTOO treatment, 16 patients were totally free of itching and the remaining 8 patients had different degrees of relief (P < 0.01). The Demodex count decreased to 0.7 ± 0.8 for total (P < 0.01), according to "Treatment of ocular itching associated with ocular demodicosis by 5% tea tree oil ointment" by Gao YY, Xu DL, Huang J, Wang R, Tseng SC.(8)

9. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
In the review of tea tree oil is capable of killing methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in a laboratory setting, found that researched the effectiveness of tea tree oil preparations against MRSA. One small RCT (n = 30) showed a large but non-significant improvement at eradicating MRSA compared to traditional treatment, whereas a larger study (n = 224) demonstrated little difference in rates of eradication overall (41% for tea tree and 49% for mupirocin, p = 0.286). However, the larger study found that those with nasal colonization receiving a tea tree regimen were more likely to remain colonized with MRSA in the nose, according to "Is tea tree oil effective at eradicating MRSA colonization? A review" by

Flaxman D, Griffiths P.(9)

10. Etc.

Popular #Herbs - Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra)

Slippery elm is a genus Ulmus, belonging to the family Ulmaceae, native to eastern North America. The herb has been used in traditional medicine to treat wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, skin inflammation, relieve coughs, sore throats, diarrhea, stomach problems, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Antioxidant and anti cancer effects
In the determination the antioxidant and anti cancer effects of Essiac, a tea prepared from a mixture of four herbs Arctium lappa, Rumex acetosella, Ulmus rubra and Rheum officinale,
found that Essiac inhibited hydroxyl radical-induced lipid peroxidation by up to 50% at the 50% tea preparation concentration. These data indicate that Essiac tea possesses potent antioxidant and DNA-protective activity, properties that are common to natural anti-cancer agents. This study may help to explain the mechanisms behind the reported anti-cancer effects of Essiac, according to "Essiac tea: scavenging of reactive oxygen species and effects on DNA damage" by Leonard SS, Keil D, Mehlman T, Proper S, Shi X, Harris GK.(1)

2. Breast cancer
In the investigation of the effect of Flor-Essence and Essiac (Resperin Canada Limited, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada) a blend of at least four herbs (burdock root [Arctium lappa], Indian rhubarb [Rheum palmatum], sheep sorrel [Rumex acetosella], and the inner bark of slippery elm [Ulmus fulva or U. rubra]) agnaist breast cancer, found that Flor-Essence and Essiac herbal tonics at 1%, 2%, 4% and 8% stimulated cell proliferation relative to untreated controls in both estrogen receptor positive (MCF-7 and T47D) and estrogen receptor negative (MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-436) cell lines. Exposure to the tonics also produced a dose-dependent increase in ER dependent luciferase activity in MCF-7 cells. A 10(-7) M concentration of ICI 182,780 inhibited the induction of ER dependent luciferase activity by Flor-Essence and Essiac, but did not affect cell proliferation, according to "Essiac and Flor-Essence herbal tonics stimulate the in vitro growth of human breast cancer cells" by Kulp KS, Montgomery JL, Nelson DO, Cutter B, Latham ER, Shattuck DL, Klotz DM, Bennett LM.(2)

3. Inflammatory bowel disease
In the investigation of herbal remedies used by patients for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease include slippery elm, fenugreek, devil's claw, found that all six herbal remedies have antioxidant effects. Fenugreek is not a superoxide scavenger, while Mexican yam did not inhibit radical generation by inflamed biopsies. Slippery elm, fenugreek, devil's claw, tormentil and wei tong ning merit formal evaluation as novel therapies in inflammatory bowel disease, according to "Antioxidant effects of herbal therapies used by patients with inflammatory bowel disease: an in vitro study" by Langmead L, Dawson C, Hawkins C, Banna N, Loo S, Rampton DS.(3)

4. Inflammatory conditions
In the evaluation fo Hybrid protocols combine one, two, or three pharmaceutical drugs with several nutritional or immune-based therapies, indicated that the goal is to obtain the benefits of protease inhibitors without viral resistance and side effects which include problems with fat metabolism and cholesterol levels. Natural treatments for inflammatory conditions are also described. Options include licorice root, ginger root, and slippery elm, accoridng to "Hybrid protocols plus natural treatments for inflammatory conditions" by

[No authors listed](4)

5. Prostate cancer
In the determination of Essiac is a popular complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) that is utilized by many cancer patients in North America, reported that at low doses of Essiac, augmentation of proliferation of these T cells was demonstrated, but at higher doses Essiac was inhibitory to T-cell proliferation. The same doses of Essiac that stimulated spleen cells were inhibitory for LNCaP cell proliferation and concluded that Essiac preparations may be able to inhibit tumor cell growth while enhancing immune response to antigenic stimulation. This may be especially valuable in immune-suppressed individuals.according to "Inhibition of prostate cancer-cell proliferation by Essiac" by Ottenweller J, Putt K, Blumenthal EJ, Dhawale S, Dhawale SW.(5)

6. Diseases prevention
In the evaluation of the activity of Essiac's anti-oxidant, fibrinolytic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, immune modulation, cell-specific cytotoxicity, and impact on cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme pathways. found that Essiac exhibited significant antioxidant activity in the ABTS assay. A 20-fold dilution of Essiac also exhibited significant immunomodulatory effects, specifically through stimulation of granulocyte phagocytosis, increases in CD8+ cell activation, and moderately inhibiting inflammatory pathways. Essiac exhibited significant cell-specific cytotoxicity towards ovarian epithelial carcinoma cells (A2780). Importantly, a 20-fold dilution of Essiac showed significant inhibition of several CYP450 enzymes, most notably CYP1A2 (37%) and CYP2C19 (24%). Essiac demonstrated dose-dependent inhibition of clot fibrinolysis., according to "In vitro analysis of the herbal compound Essiac" by Seely D, Kennedy DA, Myers SP, Cheras PA, Lin D, Li R, Cattley T, Brent PA, Mills E, Leonard BJ.(6)

7. Etc.

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Side Effects
1. Slippery elm can interact with other herbs and medication, please consult with your doctor if you are currently taking prescription medicine before consuming slippery elm.
2. Do not use the herb in new born, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist
3. Etc.

Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16226859 (2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16541326
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11860402
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11366545
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15353028
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18225545

Popular #Herbs - Skullcap (Scutellaria)

Skullcap is a flowering plants in the genus Scutellaria, belonging to the family Lamiaceae, native to North America. The herb has been used in traditional medicine as anti-asthmatic, antifungal, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory agent and to relieve tension, lower blood pressure, to treat nervous tension and eases muscle tension, spasms, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Breast cancer
In the investigation of The cytotoxicity of Pa-PDT (Pheophorbide-a (Pa)), an active component of Scutellaria barbatawas evaluated by using an estrogen receptor (ER)-negative human breast adenocarcinoma cell line MDA-MB-231, found that Pa-PDT exhibited its anti-tumor effects by the activation of mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and the ERK-mediated autophagy in MDA-MB-231 cells and concluded that suggested Pa-PDT is a potential protocol for the late phase human breast cancer, according to "Photo-activated pheophorbide-a, an active component of Scutellaria barbata, enhances apoptosis via the suppression of ERK-mediated autophagy in the estrogen receptor-negative human breast adenocarcinoma cells MDA-MB-231" by Bui-Xuan NH, Tang PM, Wong CK, Fung KP.(1)

2. Liver diseases
In the evaluation of the anti-proliferative effects on human hepatoma HepG2 and Hep3B cells of each fraction of Pheophorbide a, a major antitumor component purified from Scutellaria barbata, found that pheophorbide a induced apoptosis in Hep3B cells, a viral-induced hepatoma cell line. However, it was found to be non-toxic in normal human liver cells WRL-68. DNA fragmentation, sub-G1 cell cycle arrest, as well as suppression of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, release of cytochrome c to the cytosol, and activation of pro-caspase 3 and pro-caspase 9 were observed when Hep3B cells were treated with 40 microg/mL (i. e., 67.5 microM) pheophorbide a for 48 hours, according to "Pheophorbide a, a major antitumor component purified from Scutellaria barbata, induces apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma cells" by Chan JY, Tang PM, Hon PM, Au SW, Tsui SK, Waye MM, Kong SK, Mak TC, Fung KP.(2)

3. Antitumor activity
In the testing of The IC(50) values of of an ethanol extract of SB on the cancer cell lines tested ranged from 16 to 70 microg/mL after 48 h of treatment, found that The antitumor activity of CE-SB in vivo was also evaluated. At 60 mg/kg/day, CE-SB significantly inhibited the solid tumor proliferation and increased the life span of ascites tumor bearing mice (p < 0.01). CE-SB was subjected to bioassay-guided isolation of the active compounds by chromatography on silica gel and Sephadex LH-20. Phytol, wogonin, luteolin and hispidulin were obtained as cytotoxic constituents, according to "Antitumor activity of chloroform fraction of Scutellaria barbata and its active constituents" by Yu J, Liu H, Lei J, Tan W, Hu X, Zou G.(3)

4. Cavernous smooth muscle
In the observation of o investigate whether an ethanol extract of Scutellaria baicalensis (ESB) relaxes penile corpus cavernosum muscle, found that suggest that ESB relaxed rabbit cavernous smooth muscle via the NO/cGMP system and Ca(2+)-sensitive K(+) channels in the corpus cavernosum, according to "Effect of an Ethanol Extract of Scutellaria baicalensis on Relaxation in Corpus Cavernosum Smooth Muscle" by Li X, Oh HC, Son SB, Lee YJ, Kang DG, Lee HS.(4)

5. Cholesterol
In the evaluation of the effect of the Baikal skullcap root (Scutellaria baicalensis radix) on the cholesterol level and chemical composition of the hind leg muscles of rabbits, found that Using a Baikal skullcap root with hypercholesterolemic diet (group CH+SR) caused significant reduction (P < or = 0.05) in total cholesterol level in comparison with hypercholesterolemic diet (CH group), according to "Effect of baikal skullcap root (Scutellaria baicalensis radix) on cholesterol level and meat quality in rabbits fed a cholesterol rich diet" by Króliczewska B, Miśta D, Zawadzki W, Skiba T.(5)

6. Anticonvulsant activity
In the analyzing the chemical ingredients of American skullcap and to evaluate its anticonvulsant activity, found that (1) phenolic compounds, especially flavonoids, are the predominant constituents in American skullcap; (2) American skullcap products have similar constituents, but the content and relative proportions of the individual constituents varies widely; and (3) American skullcap has anticonvulsant activity in rodent models of acute seizures, according to "Characterization of chemical ingredients and anticonvulsant activity of American skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)" by Zhang Z, Lian XY, Li S, Stringer JL.(6)

7. Antioxidants
In the Comparisons of Scutellaria baicalensis, Scutellaria lateriflora and Scutellaria racemosa: genome size, antioxidant potential, found that Antioxidant potential studies showed that there were no significant differences in the 3 Scutellaria species. Phytochemical analyses detected and quantified the flavonoids baicalin, baicalein, scutellarin, and wogonin as well as the human neurohormones melatonin and serotonin in leaf and stem tissues from S. baicalensis, S. lateriflora, and S. racemosa, according to "Comparisons of Scutellaria baicalensis, Scutellaria lateriflora and Scutellaria racemosa: genome size, antioxidant potential and phytochemistry" by Cole IB, Cao J, Alan AR, Saxena PK, Murch SJ.(7)

8. Neurodegeneration diseases
In the study of flavones isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis root exhibit strong neuroprotective effects on the brain, found that Baicalein, the main flavone present in Scutellaria baicalensis root, strongly inhibited aggregation of neuronal amyloidogenic proteins in vitro and induces dissolution of amyloid deposits. It exerts strong antioxidative and anti-inflammatory activities and also exhibits anti-convulsive, anxiolytic, and mild sedative actions. Importantly, baicalein, and also another flavone: oroxylin A, markedly enhanced cognitive and mnestic functions in animal models of aging brains and neurodegeneration, according to "Flavones from root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi: drugs of the future in neurodegeneration?" by Gasiorowski K, Lamer-Zarawska E, Leszek J, Parvathaneni K, Yendluri BB, Błach-Olszewska Z, Aliev G.(8)

9. Anti-inflammatory activity
In the investigation of the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic activities of water and ethanol extracts of 14 Chinese medicinal plants found that five plant extracts (S. baicalensis, T. chinensis, S. japonica, Mahonia fortunei , and Sophora flavescens ) exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity by in vitro inhibition of the production of NO and TNF-α with low IC(50) values, according to "Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of selected medicinal plants containing phenolic and flavonoid compounds" by Zhang L, Ravipati AS, Koyyalamudi SR, Jeong SC, Reddy N, Smith PT, Bartlett J, Shanmugam K, Münch G, Wu MJ.(9)

10. Ageing-related cognitive impairment
In the research of the effects of flavonoid, isolated from aerial parts of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SSF), on memory impairment, neuronal damage, free radicals and energy metabolite disorders in aged rats, found that beneficial effects of SSF on memory impairment and neuronal damage in aged rats may be important for the treatment of senile dementia and for delaying the ageing processes, according to "Scutellaria flavonoid supplementation reverses ageing-related cognitive impairment and neuronal changes in aged rats" by Song HR, Cheng JJ, Miao H, Shang YZ.(10)

11. Asthma
In the deiermination of the effects of Scutellaria Root, a major herb in Saiboku-to and its components such as baicalein and baicalin on eotaxin production by IL-4 plus TNF-alpha-stimulated human fibroblasts, found that the inhibitory effect of baicalein was expressed in a dose-dependent manner, and almost 50% inhibition was observed at 1.8 micrograms/ml. Furthermore, baicalein prevented human eotaxin mRNA expression in IL-4 plus TNF-alpha-stimulated human fibroblasts. These results help explain the pharmacological efficacy of Scutellaria Root in the treatment of bronchial asthma since it would suppress eotaxin associated recruitment of eosinophils, according to "Inhibitory effect of baicalein, a flavonoid in Scutellaria Root, on eotaxin production by human dermal fibroblasts" by Nakajima T, Imanishi M, Yamamoto K, Cyong JC, Hirai K.(11)

12. Anti fungal effects
In the study of the interaction of AmB and baicalein (BE) was investigated against thirty clinical isolates of C. albicans, found that AmB increased the caspase activity and expression of the corresponding gene CaMCA1 in C. albicans. These effects were enhanced in the presence of BE. Deletion of CaMCA1 clearly attenuated AmB-induced apoptosis, indicating the involvement of CaMCA1-mediated caspase pathway in AmB-induced apoptosis and the synergistic action, according to "Combination of baicalein and Amphotericin B accelerates Candida albicans apoptosis" by Fu Z, Lu H, Zhu Z, Yan L, Jiang Y, Cao Y.(12)

13. Anxiolytic activity
In the investigation of the phytochemistry and biological activity of Scutellaria lateriflora L. (American skullcap) which has been traditionally used as a sedative and to treat various nervous disorders, found that these compounds may play a role in anxiolytic activity since baicalin and baicalein are known to bind to the benzodiazepine site of the GABAA receptor and since GABA is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, according to "Phytochemical and biological analysis of skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora L.): a medicinal plant with anxiolytic properties" by Awad R, Arnason JT, Trudeau V, Bergeron C, Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Merali Z.(13)

14. Etc.

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Side effects
1. Overdoses may cause nervous tension, including giddiness, stupor, confusion, irregular heartbeat and twitching.
2. Do not use the herb in new born, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist.
3. Overdoses cam also toxic to liver (a)
4. Skullcap may interact with other medication such as sedatives
5. Etc.
Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20586134
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16450292
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17674423
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22235229
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22195472
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18786819
(7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18484546
(8) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21222632
(9) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22023309
(10) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19191093
(11) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11301858
(12) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21415530
(13) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14692724

Popular #Herbs - Shiitake Mushroom

Shiitake mushroom is an edible mushroom, genus Lentinula, belonging to family Marasmiaceae, native to East Asia and widely cultivated for consumption for its health benefits and commercial purpose in many Asian countries. The herb has been used in traditional medicine as blood tonic agent and to strengthen immune system, treat colds, measles, bronchial inflammations, etc.

Health benefits
A. Health benefits according to researches
1. Prevents Fat Deposition and Lowers Triglyceride
In the investigation of the effects of Shiitake mushroom on the prevention of alterations of plasma lipid profiles, fat deposition, energy efficiency, and body fat index induced by High-fat diet (HFD) found that the existence of negative correlations between the amount of Shiitake mushroom supplementation and body weight gain, plasma TAG, and total fat masses,
according to "Dietary Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinus edodes) Prevents Fat Deposition and Lowers Triglyceride in Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet" by Handayani D, Chen J, Meyer BJ, Huang XF.(1)

2. Antigingivitis activity
In the assessment of Gingivitis as a result of inflammation of the gums due to the buildup of a microbial biofilm at the gingival margin found that shiitake mushroom extract lowered the numbers of some pathogenic taxa without affecting the taxa associated with health, unlike chlorhexidine which has a limited effect on all taxa, according to "In vitro assessment of shiitake mushroom (Lentinula edodes) extract for its antigingivitis activity" by Ciric L, Tymon A, Zaura E, Lingström P, Stauder M, Papetti A, Signoretto C, Pratten J, Wilson M, Spratt D.(2)

3. Anticariogenic effects
In the analyzing the anticariogenic potential of the (sub)fractions obtained from the edible mushroom shiitake (Lentinula edodes) found that the SF4 of shiitake showed strong inhibiting effect on dentin demineralization and induced microbial shifts that could be associated with oral health. The acid producing potential was increased, suggesting uncoupling of the glycolysis of the microbiota by the exposure to shiitake extract and subfractions 4 (SF4). In conclusion, the results suggest that SF4 of shiitake has an anticariogenic potential, according to "The effects of fractions from shiitake mushroom on composition and cariogenicity of dental plaque microcosms in an in vitro caries model" by Zaura E, Buijs MJ, Hoogenkamp MA, Ciric L, Papetti A, Signoretto C, Stauder M, Lingström P, Pratten J, Spratt DA, Wilson M.(3)

4. Anticaries effect
In the evaluation of the caries-inhibiting effect of the extract from shiitake (Lentinus edodes), found that the firmly adherent plaque in the artificial plaque formation test was strongly inhibited by shiitake extract. The reduction of firmly adherent plaque caused an increase in the incidence of non- and loosely adherent plaque and a decrease in total plaque formation. A significantly lower caries score was observed in specific pathogen-free rats infected with S. mutans JC-2 and fed with a cariogenic diet containing 0.25% shiitake extract as compared with controls fed the cariogenic diet without shiitake extract, according to "Anticaries effect of a component from shiitake (an edible mushroom)" by Shouji N, Takada K, Fukushima K, Hirasawa M.(4)

5. Arthritis
In the investigation the effects of WBM and shiitake mushrooms (SM) on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) found that Whether mushrooms are beneficial for arthritis management remains to be investigated. To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating a possible health benefit of WBM in arthritis treatment, accoridng to "White button and shiitake mushrooms reduce the incidence and severity of collagen-induced arthritis in dilute brown non-agouti mice" by Chandra L, Alexander H, Traoré D, Lucas EA, Clarke SL, Smith BJ, Lightfoot SA, Kuvibidila S.(5)
1. Active hexose correlated compound (AHCC)
AHCC is an alpha-glucan rich nutritional supplement produced from the Shiitake mushroom
the second most popular alternative medicine used to treat cancer patients. Study published in 2003 reported improved survival associated with AHCC in primary liver cancer patients after surgical resection of the primary tumor, according to "Alleviating effect of active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) for anticancer drug-induced side effects in non-tumor-bearing mice" by Shigama K, Nakaya A, Wakame K, Nishioka H, Fujii H.(6)

2. Immune system
Shiitake mushroom enhances the immune system in fighting against infection and disease. influenza, viruses and irregular cells growth due to it anti-tumor polysaccharide lentinan, according to "Immunoregulatory effects of the antitumor polysaccharide lentinan on Th1/Th2 balance in patients with digestive cancers" by Yoshino S, Tabata T, Hazama S, Iizuka N, Yamamoto K, Hirayama M, Tangoku A, Oka M.(7)

3. Cholesterol
It also enhances the ration levels of blood cholesterol due to its active compound eritadenine, according to "Eritadenine-induced alterations of plasma lipoprotein lipid concentrations and phosphatidylcholine molecular species profile in rats fed cholesterol-free and cholesterol-enriched diets" by Shimada Y, Morita T, Sugiyama K.(8)

4. Free radicals
Shiitake mushroom contains high levels of antioxidants such as L-ergothioneine, that helps to
reduce the risk of oxidative cause of mutation in cell division and alternation, according to"Ergothioneine; antioxidant potential, physiological function and role in disease" by Cheah IK, Halliwell B.(9)

5. Liver diseases
Extracts of the mycelium of shiitake mushrooms not only protect the liver but also recover from liver fibrosis, according to "Effects and mechanisms of Acremoniumterricola milleretal mycelium on liver fibrosis induced by carbon tetrachloride in rats" by Tian XP, Yin YY, Li X.(10)

6. Etc.

Side effects
1. Cooking eliminates the effect of toxin lentinan.
2. Purines
Excessive intake can cause kidney stone. People with untreated kidney and gallbladder disease should consult with their doctor before eating high amount of Shiitake mushroom.

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Use The Revolutionary Findings To Achieve
Optimal Health And Loose Weight

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Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22028957
(2) http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jbb/2011/507908/
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21941428
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10601791
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21106932
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19827270
(7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11205205
(8) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12834276
(9) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22001064
(10) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21598420

Popular #Herbs - Shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

Sheperd's purse is a common weed, in the genus Capsella, belonging to the family Brassicaceae, native to Eastern Europe and the western two thirds of the Asian part of Turkey. The herb has been used in traditional medicine to treat Rheumatic joints, ecchymosis, bruises, strained parts, stomach troubles, such as diarrhea, dysentery, gastritis, gall bladder, kidney and bladder trouble, liver colics, disturbed metabolism, venereal disease, lung tuberculosis, bleeding lungs, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Antitumor and anti-intoxication activities
Fumaric acid, isolated as the active component of Capsella bursa-pastoris herb was found to reduce markedly the growth and viability of Ehrlich, MH134, and L1210 mouse tumor cells in culture at concentration of 0.3 approximately 1.2 mg/ml and exhibited activity to enhance the recovery of the cells from the toxic effects of mitomycin C, aflatoxin B1, N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine, and potassium 1-methyl-7-[2-(5-nitro-2-furyl) vinyl]-4-oxo-1,4-dihydro-1,8-naphthyridine-3-carboxylate, according to "Antitumor and anti-intoxication activities of fumaric acid in cultured cells" by Kuroda K, Akao M.(1)

2. Antimicrobial effects
In the investigation of 11 weeds collected from the Menoufeya district for phytochemical compounds effective against several representatives of bacteria and yeasts, found that that Soxhlet benzene extracts, especially those of Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik., were the most effective. Alkaloids and flavonoids of Capsella gave the highest antibiotic potencies and had the broadest antimicrobial spectra, according to "Preliminary screening of some Egyptian weeds for antimicrobial activity' by El-Abyad MS, Morsi NM, Zaki DA, Shaaban MT.(2)

3. Uterotonic effect
In evaluation of Water extracts (infusions) from a group of medicinal plants in terms of their activity enhancing the uterine tonus in a series of experiments with a preparation of an isolated rabbit and guinea pig uterine horn, found that the combined preparation 'Antiinflamin', consisting of a pooled freeze-dried extract from three plants and chemotherapeutic agents produced a good enhancing effect, in the form of 'comprets' for intrauterine application at the rate of one compret per 2500 cm3, according to "[Uterotonic action of extracts from a group of medicinal plants].[Article in Bulgarian]" by Shipochliev T.(3)

4. Anti- Ehrlich solid tumor
in the determination of the treatment of ICR mice with i.p. injections (0.14 g/kg/day) of the extract of Capsella bursa-pastoris herb in solid growth of Ehrlich tumor cells, found that the acidic substance was identified as fumaric acid and was effective in inhibiting the growth of Ehrlich solid tumor at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day. The 50% lethal dose (i.p.) of this acid was 266 mg/kg, according to "Inhibitory effect of Capsella bursa-pastoris extract on growth of Ehrlich solid tumor in mice" by Kuroda K, Akao M, Kanisawa M, Miyaki K.(4)

5. Infertility?Capsella bursa-pastoris ('Shepherd's Purse'), dried and ground, was added at rates of 20 and 40% to the stock diet of male and female mice, found that at the 40% level, both materials impeded ovulation and produced temporary infertility in males and females. 20% Capsella did not affect female fertility, and previous experiments had shown that an equivalent amount of grass meal was harmless, according to 'THE EFFECT OF CERTAIN PLANT PREPARATIONS ON THE FERTILITY OF LABORATORY MAMMAL" by JUNE EAST(5)

6. Multiple sclerosis
In the evaluation of Fumarates (found abundantly in Shepherd's purse) and its improvemant of multiple sclerosis (MS) and psoriasis, found that In mice, fumarates also generate type II DCs that induce IL-4-producing Th2 cells in vitro and in vivo and protect mice from experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Type II DCs result from fumarate-induced glutathione (GSH) depletion, followed by increased hemoxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression and impaired STAT1 phosphorylation. Induced HO-1 is cleaved, whereupon the N-terminal fragment of HO-1 translocates into the nucleus and interacts with AP-1 and NF-κB sites of the IL-23p19 promoter, according to"Fumarates improve psoriasis and multiple sclerosis by inducing type II dendritic cells" by Ghoreschi K, Brück J, Kellerer C, Deng C, Peng H, Rothfuss O, Hussain RZ, Gocke AR, Respa A, Glocova I, Valtcheva N, Alexander E, Feil S, Feil R, Schulze-Osthoff K, Rupec RA, Lovett-Racke AE, Dringen R, Racke MK, Röcken M.(6)

7. Etc.

Side effects
1. Overdose can cause gastrointestinal discomfort such as stomach upset.
2. Shepherd's purse may cause allergic effects such as skin redness and swelling
3. Do not use the herb in new born or children, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding with out approval from the related field specialist.
4. If you are taking high blood pressure, thyroid gland, or heart related medication, please consult with your doctor before taking the herb.
5. Shepherd`s purse may interact with other medication including coagulation medicine
6. Etc.

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Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7327376
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2336037
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7314446
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1268843
(5) http://joe.endocrinology-journals.org/content/12/4/267.abstract
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21987655

Popular #Herbs - Schizandra

Schizandra is a shrub of the genus Schizandra, belonging to the family Schisandraceae, native to East Asia. The herb has been used in traditional medicine as adaptogen and sedative agent and to treat insomnia, irritation, palpitation, coronary heart disease, cognitive disorders, enhance immune system, reduce stress, etc.

Health Benefits 1. Visceral hyperalgesia
In the investigation of the effect of Schisandra chinensis on visceral hyperalgesia induced by neonatal maternal separation (NMS) in an IBS rat model, found that S. chinensis can reverse visceral hypersensitivity induced by neonatal-maternal separation, and the effect may be mediated through colonic 5-HT pathway in the rat, according to "Schisandra chinensis reverses visceral hypersensitivity in a neonatal-maternal separated rat model" by

Yang JM, Xian YF, Ip PS, Wu JC, Lao L, Fong HH, Sung JJ, Berman B, Yeung JH, Che CT.(1)

2. Immunomodulatory effects
In the evaluation of the immuno-modulating effect of a water-soluble polysaccharide named SCP-IIa of the fruit of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.), using the immunosuppressed model induced by cyclophosphamide, found that SCP-IIa was involved in immunomodulatory effects leading to the exploration for SCP-IIa as a potential immunostimulant, according to "An immunostimulatory polysaccharide (SCP-IIa) from the fruit of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill" by Chen Y, Tang J, Wang X, Sun F, Liang S.(2)

3. Antioxidant activity
In the identification of the chemical compounds of the essential oils of Schisandra chinensis seeds and berries without seeds extracts and their antioxidant effect found that the antioxidant activity of essential oil of berries without seeds (EOB) was higher than essential oil of seeds (EOS. The IC(50) values of EOB and EOS were 8.4 and 15.8 mg/mL, respectively. This study concluded that EOB and EOS were not only different in extraction yield but also in chemical composition and antioxidant activity, according to "Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of essential oil from berries of Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill' by Liu CJ, Zhang SQ, Zhang JS, Liang Q, Li DS.(3)

4. Anti-HIV-1
In the investigation of isolation of the fruits of Schisandra wilsoniana. The structures of 1-3 were elucidated by spectroscopic methods to determine their effects on HIV-1, found that compounds 1-3 were also evaluated for their anti-HIV-1 activities and showed bioactivity with EC(50) values of 3.26, 6.18, and 2.87 microg/ml, respectively, according to "Dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans from the fruits of Schisandra wilsoniana and their anti-HIV-1 activities" by Yang GY, Li YK, Wang RR, Xiao WL, Yang LM, Pu JX, Zheng YT, Sun HD.(4)

5. Colon cancer
In the determination of Schizandra chinensis and its anti-cancer activity on colon carcinoma HCT-116 cells found that an active compound was found and identified to be Gomisin A. It displayed apoptotic activity through caspase-7 cleavage in colon carcinoma HCT-116 cells. In addition, we further assessed the effects of this compound using long-term survival clonogenic assay with HCT116 cells, according to "A compound isolated from Schisandra chinensis induces apoptosis" by Hwang D, Shin SY, Lee Y, Hyun J, Yong Y, Park JC, Lee YH, Lim Y.(5)

6. Leukemia
In the comparison of the pro-apoptotic effect of two dibenzocyclooctadiene lignans, gomisin A and gomisin N, isolated from Schizandra chinensis Baill, in U937 human promyelocytic leukemia cells in vitro, found that the cytotoxic effects and apoptotic characteristics induced by gomisin N were significantly inhibited by z-DEVD-fmk, a caspase-3 inhibitor, demonstrating the important role that caspase-3 plays in the process. We conclude that gomisin N induces the apoptosis of U937 cells through a signaling cascade of mitochondria-mediated intrinsic caspase pathways and gomisin N may be a useful chemotherapeutic agent, according to "Apoptosis induction of human leukemia U937 cells by gomisin N, a dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan, isolated from Schizandra chinensis Baill" by Kim JH, Choi YW, Park C, Jin CY, Lee YJ, Park da J, Kim SG, Kim GY, Choi IW, Hwang WD, Jeong YK, Kim SK, Choi YH.(6)

7. Cardioprotective effects
An aqueous extract of Schizandra chinensis (ScEx) was examined for its cardioprotective effects,
found that ScEx treatment restored endothelial function in rats that underwent balloon-induced carotid artery injury, and it reduced serum cholesterol levels in OVX rats. Similar to E2, ScEx exhibited hypotensive effects in OVX SHR. Therefore, ScEx and E2 exhibited similar cardioprotective effects, thereby suggesting that ScEx is a potential candidate to replace estradiol in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, according to "Cardioprotective effects of aqueous Schizandra chinensis fruit extract on ovariectomized and balloon-induced carotid artery injury rat models: effects on serum lipid profiles and blood pressure" by Kim EY, Baek IH, Rhyu MR.(7)

8. Atopic Dermatitis
In the investigation of Schizandra chinensis Baillon (SC) and its effects on atopic dermatitis (AD) is an allergic inflammatory skin disease caused by aberrant and over-reactive immune responses, found that SCE lessened DNCB-induced histamine receptor mRNA expression in skin tissue and the splenic expressions of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and high-affinity IgE receptor B protein. Conclusion: SCE appears useful for suppression of AD, even though the active pathway(s) remain unknown, according to "Inhibitory effects of Schizandra chinensis extract on atopic dermatitis in NC/Nga mice" by Kang YH, Shin HM.(8)

9. Relaxant effects
In the investigation schisandrin, schisandrol B, schisandrin A and schisandrin B, major lignans of Schisandra chinensis, and the ethanol extract contained higher amount of these lignans than the aqueous extract and theirs relaxant effect, found that schisandrin A also concentration-dependently inhibited ACh-induced contractions in Ca(2+)-free buffer. This study demonstrates that Schisandra chinensis exhibited relaxant effects on agonist-induced contraction in guinea pig ileum, with schisandrin, schisandrol B, schisandrin A and schisandrin B being the major active ingredients. The antispasmodic action of schisandrin A involved inhibitions on both Ca(2+) influx through L-type Ca(2+) channels and intracellular Ca(2+) mobilization, rather than specific antagonism of cholinergic muscarinic receptors, according to "Relaxant effects of Schisandra chinensis and its major lignans on agonists-induced contraction in guinea pig ileum" by Yang JM, Ip PS, Che CT, Yeung JH.(9)

10. Gastrointestinal effects
In the evaluation of the effects of Schisandra lignan extract (SLE) with short- and long-term pretreatment on regulating rat hepatic and intestinal CYP3A for a comprehensive evaluation of metabolism-based herb-drug interaction found that this study provides a comprehensive map for showing the complicated effects of SLE and its components on regulating rat CYP3A. The important findings are that SLE possesses a much stronger inducing than inhibiting effect on CYP3A, as well as a more intensive regulating effect on intestinal than hepatic CYP3A, according to "Effects of short-term and long-term pretreatment of Schisandra lignans on regulating hepatic and intestinal CYP3A in rats" by Lai L, Hao H, Wang Q, Zheng C, Zhou F, Liu Y, Wang Y, Yu G, Kang A, Peng Y, Wang G, Chen X.(10)

11. Cognitive function
In the Pretreating mice with schisandrin B (Sch B), an active dibenzocyclooctadiene derivative isolated from the fruit of Schisandra chinensis, at a daily dose of 0.125-0.5 mmol/kg for 3 days protected against the THA/bis(7)-THA induced hepatic oxidative damage in a dose-dependent manner, found that Sch B treatment (0.025-0.5 mmol/kg/day x 5) also enhanced the passive avoidance-response in mice as assessed by the step-through task experiment. The ensemble of results suggests that Sch B may be useful for reducing the potential hepatotoxicity of THA/bis(7)-THA in anti-Alzheimer's therapy, according to "Schisandrin B protects against tacrine- and bis(7)-tacrine-induced hepatotoxicity and enhances cognitive function in mice" by Pan SY, Han YF, Carlier PR, Pang YP, Mak DH, Lam BY, Ko KM.(11)

12. Etc.

Popular #Herbs - Saw Palmetto Berry

Saw Palmetto Berry is a fruit from a small palm like tree of the genus in the genus Serenoa, belonging to the family, native to o southeastern North America. The herb has been used in The North American Seminole Indians for infertility, PMS, reproductive or urinary tract problems, urinary tract infections, stomach aches, indigestion and dysentery, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
In the comparison of the effects of Saw Palmetto (extract and whole berry) and Cernitin on prostate growth found that All treatments decreased the size of the prostate to roughly the same size as in the non-castrated rats, a size that was significantly smaller than castrated rats treated with testosterone in the same manner (p < 0.01). A second study examining non-castrated rats treated with very high doses of testosterone showed similar results. In both studies, the nutraceuticals generally decreased body weight. In conclusion, these studies show the ability of Saw Palmetto (whole berry and extract) and Cernitin to influence prostatic hyperplasia via effects on androgen metabolism, according to "Comparison of Saw Palmetto (extract and whole berry) and Cernitin on prostate growth in rats" by Talpur N, Echard B, Bagchi D, Bagchi M, Preuss HG.(1)

2. Lower urinary tract symptoms
In the investigation of the mechanism of action and clinical results of saw palmetto in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia was performed., found that saw palmetto may have a significant effect on urinary flow rates and symptom scores compared to placebo in men with lower urinary tract symptoms. However, large scale, placebo controlled trials are needed to assess the efficacy of saw palmetto, according to "Saw palmetto for the treatment of men with lower urinary tract symptoms" by Gerber GS.(2)

3. Prostate cancer
In evaluation of Saw Palmetto Berry Extract (SPBE) and its cytotoxicity of a set of prostatic cell lines; 267B-1, BRFF-41T and LNCaP, found that Proliferation of these prostatic derived cell lines is inhibited to different degrees when dosed for 3 days with SPBE. The amount of SPBE required to inhibit 50% growth (IC50) of these cell lines was 20-30 nl equivalents of SPBE per ml of medium for cell lines 267B-1 and BRFF-41T and approximately 10-fold more for the LNCaP cell line. The effect of SPBE dosing on these cell lines is not irreversible, since a 30 min treatment with SPBE at an IC50 concentration does not inhibit their growth."Saw palmetto berry extract inhibits cell growth and Cox-2 expression in prostatic cancer cells" by

Goldmann WH, Sharma AL, Currier SJ, Johnston PD, Rana A, Sharma CP.(3)

4. Anti cancers
In the examination of the effect of an ethanolic extract of S. repens (10-1000 microg/ml) was tested in hormone-sensitive LNCaP, MCF-7 and hormone-insensitive DU 145, MDA MB231 prostate, breast carcinoma cell lines, renal Caki-1, urinary bladder J82, colon HCT 116 and lung A 549 cancer cells, found that the antiproliferative effect exerted by the ethanolic extract of S. repens is at least triggered by induction of apoptosis. These in vitro data provide some information that may be useful for clinical use and render S. repens extract an interesting tool for new applications, according to "Evaluation of cell death caused by an ethanolic extract of Serenoae repentis fructus (Prostasan) on human carcinoma cell lines" by

Hostanska K, Suter A, Melzer J, Saller R.(4)

5. Antiandrogenic effects
In the evaluation of the biological effects of Serenoa repens extract (Prostasan®) on prostate cells, found that Prostasan® inhibited epidermal growth factor (EGF) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced proliferation of the prostatic epithelial, androgen independent cell line PC-3. At effective concentrations of 50 µg/mL, according to "Androgen-independent Effects of Serenoa repens Extract (Prostasan®) on Prostatic Epithelial Cell Proliferation and Inflammation" by Iglesias-Gato D, Carsten T, Vesterlund M, Pousette A, Schoop R, Norstedt G.(5)

6. Anti inflammatory effects
In the Investigate the antiinflammatory activity of Serenoa repens (SeR), LY, and) on proinflammatory phenotype in rat peritoneal macrophages (Ms) found that the Ly-Se-SeR association caused a greater inhibitory effect on the expression of COX-2, 5-LOX, and iNOS. The Ly-Se-SeR association showed a higher efficacy in reducing the loss of IκB-α, the increased NF-κB binding activity, the enhanced mRNA levels of TNF-α, the elevated MDA, and nitrite content, according to "Effect of Serenoa repens, lycopene, and selenium on proinflammatory phenotype activation: an in vitro and in vivo comparison study" by Bonvissuto G, Minutoli L, Morgia G, Bitto A, Polito F, Irrera N, Marini H, Squadrito F, Altavilla D.(6)

7. Edema
In the evaluation of an acidic polysaccharide from Sabal serrulata Roem. et Schult (Serenoa repens, [Bart] Small), found that at extremely low doses inhibiting activity on the carrageenin paw oedema and pellet test of the rat, but did not influence the proliferative phase of inflammation, according to "[A New Antiphlogistic Principle from Sabal serrulata, II].[Article in German]" by Wagner H, Flachsbarth H, Vogel G.(7)

8. 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

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