Health Articles

The World Most Popular Herbs – Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 27, 2012 by kylenorton

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” bySeely 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

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The World Most Popular Herbs – Skullcap (Scutellaria) Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 27, 2012 by kylenorton

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” byKróliczewska 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)” byZhang 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” byAwad R, Arnason JT, Trudeau V, Bergeron C, Budzinski JW, Foster BC, Merali Z.(13)

14. Etc.

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The World Most Popular Herbs -Shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 26, 2012 by kylenorton

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” byKuroda 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” byGhoreschi 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.

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

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The World Most Popular Herbs – Schizandra Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 26, 2012 by kylenorton

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” byYang 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” byLai 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.

Side effects
1. Overdose may cause nervous depression
2. Overdose may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as stomach pain
3. Schizandra may cause allergic effect.
4. The herb may interact with other medication (a)
5. Etc.

Posted in Schizandra | Tagged Popular Herbs, Schizandra Health Benefits | Leave a comment

The World Most Popular Herbs – Saw Palmetto Berry Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 25, 2012 by kylenorton

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” byIglesias-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.

Side Effects
1. Overdose can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including dizziness, headaches, nausea, vomiting, etc.
2. The herb may cause allergic effect, including hives, itching, rash, etc.
3. Not not use the herb in new born, children or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist.
4. Etc.

Sources
(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12962139
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10751846
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11913955
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17465214
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21656602
(6) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21109292
(7) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17401849

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The World Most Popular Herbs – Sarsaparilla Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 25, 2012 by kylenorton

Sarsaparilla is a perennial, trailing vine, in the genus Smilax, belonging to the family Smilacaceae, native to the Central America. The herb has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin inflammation, psoriasis, arthritis, herpes, and leprosy, reduce symptoms of eczema, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Anti-mycobacterial effects
In the identifyication ofantimycobacterial constituents from Aralia nudicaulis rhizomes, a wild sarsaparilla, found that Falcarinol and panaxydol were identified as the principal constituents responsible for the antimycobacterial activity of Aralia nudicaulis rhizomes validating an ethnopharmacological use of this plant by the Canadian First Nations, according to “Anti-mycobacterial diynes from the Canadian medicinal plant Aralia nudicaulis” by Li H, O’Neill T, Webster D, Johnson JA, Gray CA.(1)

2. Anti-cancer effects
In the investigation of Smilax glabra Roxb. (SGR)inhibited growth of human breast cancer cell line MCF7, colon carcinoma cell line HT-29, and gastric cancer cell line BGC-823 in a dose-dependent manner, found that the changes in expression profiles of genes related to apoptosis, proliferation and cell cycle control in the cells treated with SGR. Our results demonstrated the mitochondrial regulation of apoptosis by which SGR exerts the anti-cancer effect, according to “Mitochondrial apoptosis contributes to the anti-cancer effect of Smilax glabra Roxb” by Gao Y, Su Y, Qu L, Xu S, Meng L, Cai SQ, Shou C.(2)

3. Hyperuricemia and nephropathy
In the study of astilbin, a flavonoid compound isolated from the rhizome of Smilax china L. and its effects on hyperuricemia and nephropathy rats found that astilbin significantly decreased the serum uric acid (Sur) level by increasing the urinary uric acid (Uur) level and fractional excretion of urate (FEUA) but not inhibiting the xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity. In addition, kidney function parameters such as serum creatinine (Scr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were recovered in astilbin-treated hyperuricemic rats. Further investigation indicated that astilbin prevented the renal damage against the expression of transforming growth factor- β1 (TGF-β1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and also exerted a renal protective role by inhibiting formation of monosodium urate (MSU) and production of prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) and interleukin-1 (IL-1), according to “Astilbin attenuates hyperuricemia and ameliorates nephropathy in fructose-induced hyperuricemic rats” by Chen L, Lan Z, Zhou Y, Li F, Zhang X, Zhang C, Yang Z, Li P.(3)

4. Anticonvulsant activity and neurotoxicity
In the determination of the anticonvulsant activity and neurotoxicity of ethanolic extract and ethyl acetate fraction of the rhizome of Smilax china (EESC and EAF, respectively) in mice, found that MES test was reduced significantly (P < 0.001) by EESC at a dose level of 400 mg/kg and EAF at both higher dose levels (200 and 400 mg/kg). In PTZ model, the seizure latency was prolonged by all the test groups, according to ” Anticonvulsant and neurotoxicity profile of the rhizome of Smilax china Linn. in mice” byVijayalakshmi A, Ravichandiran V, Anbu J, Velraj M, Jayakumari S.(4)

5. Lung cancer
In the study of furostanol saponins and theirs cytotoxicity effect, found that The isolated furostanol saponins were evaluated for cytotoxic activity against human normal amniotic and human lung carcinoma cell lines using neutral red and MTT assays. In vitro experiments showed significant cytotoxicity in a dose dependent manner with IC(50) values in the range of 32.98-94.53 µM, according to ‘New furostanol saponins from Smilax aspera L. and their in vitro cytotoxicity” byIvanova A, Mikhova B, Batsalova T, Dzhambazov B, Kostova I.(5)

6. Breast cancer
In the investigation of the breast tumor cell toxic components in S. china L. continuously and systematically, found that among these six polyphenols, five (1, 3-6) were reported for the 1st time with in vitro activities on anti-breast tumor cell. It is likely that these polyphenols are the active components of S. china L. responsible for the anti-breast tumor cell activities, according to ‘Cytotoxic polyphenols against breast tumor cell in Smilax china L” by Wu LS, Wang XJ, Wang H, Yang HW, Jia AQ, Ding Q.(6)

7. Diabetes
In the investigation of the efficacy of astilbin on experimental diabetic nephropathy (DN) in vivo and in vitro and its possible mechanisms, found that astilbin inhibition of CTGF may be a potential target in diabetic nephropathy (DN) therapy. This work provides the first evidence for astilbin as a new candidate of DN therapeutic medicine, according to “Effect of astilbin on experimental diabetic nephropathy in vivo and in vitro” by Li GS, Jiang WL, Yue XD, Qu GW, Tian JW, Wu J, Fu FH.(7)

8. Anti-inflammatory activities
In the identification of Smilax china Linn. used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as well as in Pakistan for its effect on anti inflammatory disorders, found that Sieboldogenin seems to be a potential new anti-inflammatory compound responsible for anti-inflammatory activities of Smilax china Linn. Its in vitro and in vivo inflammatory activities are in good agreement with the folk medicinal use of Smilax china Linn. in inflammatory disorders, according to “Anti-inflammatory activities of Sieboldogenin from Smilax china Linn.: experimental and computational studies” by Khan I, Nisar M, Ebad F, Nadeem S, Saeed M, Khan H, Samiullah, Khuda F, Karim N, Ahmad Z.(8)

9. Anti Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)
In the evaluation of the glycoproteins possessing antiviral and anti-proliferative activities were isolated from the Chinese medicinal herb Smilax glabra, found that the glycoprotein potencies for antiviral activity appeared to depend on the molecules’ binding affinity for fetuin, that is, the fetuin-binding protein was more potent than the non-fetuin binding proteins, according to “Antiviral and anti-proliferative glycoproteins from the rhizome of Smilax glabra Roxb (Liliaceae)” by Ooi LS, Wong EY, Chiu LC, Sun SS, Ooi VE.(9)

10. Liver cancer and disease
In the determination of the raw SGR plant extracted with Accelerate Solvent Extractor anti-proliferative effect on the human hepatoma cell lines, HepG2 and Hep3B, found that SGRE inhibited HepG2 and Hep3B cell growth by causing cell-cycle arrest at either S phase or S/G2 transition and induced apoptosis, as evidenced by a DNA fragmentation assay. SGRE-induced apoptosis by alternation of mitochondrial transmembrane depolarization, release of mitochondrial cytochrome c, activation of caspase-3, and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase, according to “Anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effect of Smilax glabra Roxb. extract on hepatoma cell lines” by Sa F, Gao JL, Fung KP, Zheng Y, Lee SM, Wang YT.(10)

11. Dermatitis
In the assessment of astilbin for the treatment of human immune diseases, found that 3′-O-methylated astilbin, a new metabolite of astilbin and isolated it from the culture solution nhibited picryl chloride-induced ear swelling in mice and suppressed the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma, similarly to astilbin, according to “Identification of a new metabolite of astilbin, 3′-O-methylastilbin, and its immunosuppressive activity against contact dermatitis” by Guo J, Qian F, Li J, Xu Q, Chen T.(11)

12. Adjunctive arthritis(AA)
In the evaluation of the therapeutic action of decoction of Smilax china L. on adjunctive arthritis(AA) mouse and its mechanism, found that The decoction (90, 180 g.kg-1) intragastric injection (ig) could significantly inhibit AA mouse’s secondary inflammatory swelling, reduce thymus and spleen weights, decrease CD4/CD8, but had little influence on B Cell, according to ‘[Effect of Smilax china on adjunctive arthritis mouse].[Article in Chinese]” by Lü Y, Chen D, Deng J, Tian L.(12)

13. Etc.

Side effects
1. Overdoses of sarsaparilla can cause nausea and kidney damage.
2. Do not use the herb in new born or children or if you are pregnant and breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist
3. The herb may cause allergic effects, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, hives or a rash
4. Etc.

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The World Most Popular Herbs – St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 25, 2012 by kylenorton

St John’s wort is a yellow flower plant in the genus Hypericum belonging to the family Hypericaceae, native to the regions of North America, Europe, Turkey, Russia, India, China and Brazil. The herb is best known for its anti depression property and has been used in traditional medicine as a sedative agent and to treat mental and cognitive disorders, including depression, anxiety, and/or sleep disorders and nerve pain, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Influenza A virus
In the assessment of efficacy of an extract of H. perforatum (HPE) against influenza A virus (IAV) in mice, found that HPE has significant therapeutic efficacy for mice infected with IAV. The possible reasons for these results were concluded to be pertaining to up-regulating the expression of IL-10 and IFN-γ, and down-regulating the secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α in lung and serum, according to “Therapeutic efficacy of Hypericum perforatum L. extract for mice infected with an influenza A virus” by Xiuying P, Jianping L, Ruofeng S, Liye Z, Xuehong W, Yan L.(1)

2. Inflammatory effects
In the evaluation of the impact of H. perforatum extract and the 4 compounds on inflammatory mediators and cytokines (SOCS1-4) found that the 4 compounds inhibited LPS-induced PGE2 and NO through SOCS3 activation. The reduction of PGE2 can be partially attributed to COX-2 enzyme activity, which was significantly elevated with SOCS3 knockdown. At the same time, these results also suggest that constituents in H. perforatum extract were alleviating LPS-induced macrophage response through SOCS3 independent mechanisms, according to “The inhibition of lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophage inflammation by 4 compounds in Hypericum perforatum extract is partially dependent on the activation of SOCS3″ by Huang N, Rizshsky L, Hauck CC, Nikolau BJ, Murphy PA, Birt DF.(2)

3. Antidepressant
In the analyzing the effects of a chronic hyperforin of of the medicinal plant Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort).treatment on brain cell, found that Hyperforin stimulated the expression of TRPC6 channels and TrkB via SKF-96365-sensitive channels controlling a downstream signalling cascade involving Ca2+, protein kinase A, CREB and p-CREB. In vivo, hyperforin augmented the expression of TrkB in the cortex but not in the hippocampus where hippocampal neurogenesis remained unchanged. In conclusion, this plant extract acts on the cortical BDNF/TrkB pathway leaving adult hippocampal neurogenesis unaffected. This study provides new insights on the neuronal responses controlled by hyperforin, according to “The antidepressant hyperforin increases the phosphorylation of CREB and the expression of TrkB in a tissue-specific manner” by Gibon J, Deloulme JC, Chevallier T, Ladevèze E, Abrous DN, Bouron A.(3)

4. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities
In the study of the fatty acid components of the hexane extracts of flower, leaf, stem, and seed of Hypericum scabrum, found that The antimicrobial activity of the extracts of those samples were determined against seven Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae), as well as three fungi (Candida albicans, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and Aspergillus niger). The bioassay showed that the oil exhibited moderate antimicrobial activity. This study reveals that the all parts of this plant are attractive sources of fatty acid components, especially the essential ones, as well as of effective natural antioxidants, according to “Antioxidant, antimicrobial activities and fatty acid components of flower, leaf, stem and seed of Hypericum scabrum” by Shafaghat A.(4)

5. Sleep deprivation-induced anxiety-like behavior and oxidative damage
In the exploration of the therapeutic potential of Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort) on behavioral alterations and oxidative damage induced by sleep deprivation in mice found that Co-administration of John’s wort (200 mg/kg, P. O.) with imipramine (10 mg/kg, I. P.) further improved body weight, locomotor activity, antianxiety effect as well as reduced oxidative damage in sleep-deprived animal as compared to their effect per se (P < 0.05). The present study suggests that there is therapeutic potential of St. John’s wort in the management of sleep deprivation-induced anxiety-like behavior and oxidative damage.”Protective effect of St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) extract on 72-hour sleep deprivation-induced anxiety-like behavior and oxidative damage in mice” by Kumar A, Singh A.(5)

6. Insulin resistance
In the identification of St. John’s Wort (SJW) extracts as inhibitors of adipogenesis of 3T3-L1 cells and demonstration of the effect against insulin-sensitive glucose uptake in mature fat cells,
found that the profound effects of SJW on adipogenesis, IRS-1 activation, and insulin-stimulated glucose uptake are not mediated by HI and/or HF. Nonetheless, we propose that extracts of SJW may contribute to adipocyte related diseases by limiting differentiation of preadipocytes and significantly inducing insulin resistance in mature fat cells, according to “St. John’s Wort inhibits insulin signaling in murine and human adipocytes” by Richard AJ, Amini ZJ, Ribnicky DM, Stephens JM.(6)

7. Antimicrobial properties
In demonstration the antimicrobial properties of Hypericum, found that Hypericum prolificum, and Hypericum punctatum as inhibitors of bacterial growth and biofilm production. Assays were conducted against Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, clinical methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, and Acinetobacter baumannii. Five of the seven compounds demonstrated growth inhibition against the Gram-positive bacteria with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 1.95 µg/mL to 7.81 µg/mL, according to “Inhibition of Bacterial Growth and Biofilm Production by Constituents from Hypericum spp” by Sarkisian SA, Janssen MJ, Matta H, Henry GE, Laplante KL, Rowley DC.(7)

8. Neuroprotective effects
In the observation of the neuroprotective effects and mechanism of hyperin on CoCl2-induced hypoxic/ischemic PC12 cells, found that Hyperin could inhibit CoCl2-induced cytotoxicity and apoptosis on PC12 cells, show neuroprotective effects on hypoxic/ischemic neural injuries, according to “[Protective effects and mechanism of hyperin on CoCl2-induced PC12 cells].[Article in Chinese]” by Zeng K, Wang X, Fu H, Liu G.(8)

9. Hypolipidemic and Antiobesity-Like Activity
In the investigation of the effect of Hypericum perforatum in a battery of animal models for metabolic disorder, found that Hypericum significantly lowered total cholesterol and low-density cholesterol in normal rats. Hypericum significantly inhibited weight gain in high-fat-fed rats. In fructose-fed rats, Hypericum normalised the dyslipidemia induced by fructose feeding and improved the insulin sensitivity, according to “Hypolipidemic and Antiobesity-Like Activity of Standardised Extract of Hypericum perforatum L. in Rats” by Husain GM, Chatterjee SS, Singh PN, Kumar V.(9)

10. Malignant gliomas (Aggressive brain tumor)
In the determination of the efficacy of p38SJ, a novel member of the DING family of proteins, derived from Hypericum perforatum calluses, on the growth of malignant glioma cell lines,
found that p38SJ reduces glioma cell viability and arrests cell cycle progression at G0/G1. The observed growth inhibitory effect of p38SJ is likely mediated by the downregulation of several cell cycle gatekeeper proteins, including cyclin E, Cdc2, and E2F-1, according to “Growth inhibition of malignant glioblastoma by DING protein” by Bookland MJ, Darbinian N, Weaver M, Amini S, Khalili K.(10)

11. Menopausal symptoms
In the study of the sample included 59 menopausal women who had the conditions for entering into the study. The individuals were selected via simple sampling and were assigned randomly into two groups of Hypericum Perforatum treatment group (30 women) and Passion Flower group (29 women), concluded that With regard to the effects of Hypericum Perforatum and Passion Flower on treating menopause precocious symptoms (vasomotor signs, insomnia, depression, anger, headache, etc.), these two herbs can be used as an alternative treatment for individuals who cannot, whatsoever, use hormone therapy, according to “A comparative study on the effects of Hypericum Perforatum and passion flower on the menopausal symptoms of women referring to Isfahan city health care centers’ byFahami F, Asali Z, Aslani A, Fathizadeh N.(11)

12. Etc.

Side effects

1. The herb may interact with other medicine, including anti depressants, birth control pills, anticoagulants, etc., please consult with your doctor if you are currently taking any types of prescription medicine(a)
2. Do not use the herb in new born, children, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approvals of the related field specialist.
3. Long term uses of St. John wort may increase the risk of iron and other minerals deficiency.
4. Overdoses can increase the risk of intermenstrual bleeding, delirium or mild serotonin
syndrome, etc.
5. The herb may cause certain side effects including headaches, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, etc.
6. Etc.

Posted in St John's wort | Tagged Hypericum perforatum, Popular Herbs, St John's wort Health Benefits | Leave a comment

The World Most Popular Herbs – Sage Health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 24, 2012 by kylenorton

Sage is a ornamental plant of the genus Salvia, belonging to family Lamiaceae, native to the Central and South America, Central, Eastern Asia and Mediterranean. The herb has been used in traditional medicine as carminative, antiperspirant, antispasmodic, astringent, antiseptic, and antibiotic agent and to calm the central nervous system, treat spasms in smooth and skeletal muscles, relieve digestive problems, regulate menstruation, etc.

Health Benefits
1. Cognitive effects
In the observation of the cholinesterase inhibitory properties and phytochemical constituents of a S. lavandulaefolia essential oil, with a double-blind, placebo-controlled, balanced crossover study assessing the effects of a single dose on cognitive performance and mood, found that oral consumption lead to improved performance of secondary memory and attention tasks, most notably at the 1-h post-dose testing session, and reduced mental fatigue and increased alertness which were more pronounced 4-h post-dose. These results extend previous observations of improved cognitive performance and mood following AChE inhibitory sage extracts and suggest that the ability of well-tolerated terpenoid-containing extracts to beneficially modulate cholinergic function and cognitive performance deserves further attention, according to “Monoterpenoid extract of sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) with cholinesterase inhibiting properties improves cognitive performance and mood in healthy adults” by Kennedy DO, Dodd FL, Robertson BC, Okello EJ, Reay JL, Scholey AB, Haskell CF.
(1)

2. Antioxidants
In the investigation of sage teas prepared from commercially available products were chemically analyzed for polyphenolic content using liquid chromatography, for antioxidant potential, found that The FC index also showed a high correlation to these polyphenols, and could therefore be used as a screening parameter for sage tea quality. The considerable differences in polyphenolic composition and antioxidant capacity between the brands lead to a demand for quality standardization, especially if these sage teas are to be used for therapeutic purposes, according to “Antioxidant Capacity and Polyphenolic Composition as Quality Indicators for Aqueous Infusions of Salvia officinalis L. (sage tea)” by Walch SG, Tinzoh LN, Zimmermann BF, Stühlinger W, Lachenmeier DW.(2)

3. Anti diabetes
In the deiermination of The use of thujone, a monoterpene ketone often present in sage (Salvia officinalis L.) or wormwood (Artemisia absinthium L.), for the treatment of diabetes mellitus found that after oral treatment with thujone (5 mg/kg bodyweight (bw)/day for 28 days), the cholesterol and triglyceride levels were significantly adjusted to normal levels when compared to diabetic, untreated rats. While these results sound promising and worthy of further investigation, the well-defined profile of the adverse properties of thujone demands a cautious interpretation of these results, according to “The choice of thujone as drug for diabetes” by Lachenmeier DW, Walch SG.(3)

4. Anti cancers
In the identification of the cytotoxicity of the essential oil from sage on the squamous human cell carcinoma cell line of the oral cavity (UMSCC1) was assessed with the XTT assay
found that for the first time the ability of Salvia officinalis essential oil to inhibit human HNSCC cell growth. The therapeutic potential of sage essential oil might exceed that of its common use in otorhinolaryngology, according to “[Anticancer activity of Salvia officinalis essential oil against HNSCC cell line (UMSCC1)]. [Article in German]“ by Sertel S, Eichhorn T, Plinkert PK, Efferth T.(4)

5. Alzheimer’s disease
In the searching for the extracts of plants and their effect on the amelioration of AD symptoms, found that these effects are induced by extracts of a few plants of different origin like Yizhi Jiannao, Moringa oleifera (Drumstick tree), Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo/Maidenhair tree), Cassia obtisufolia (Sicklepod), Desmodium gangeticum (Sal Leaved Desmodium), Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm), and Salvia officinalis (Garden sage, common sage), according to “Effect of plant extracts on Alzheimer’s disease: An insight into therapeutic avenues” by Obulesu M, Rao DM.(5)

6. Menopause symptoms
In the determination od the effect of Sage (Salvia officinalis) used traditionally to treat sweating and menopausal hot flushes, as well as to alleviate associated menopausal symptoms and as a general tonic, found that a fresh sage preparation demonstrated clinical value in the treatment of hot flushes and associated menopausal symptoms, according to “First time proof of sage’s tolerability and efficacy in menopausal women with hot flushes” by Bommer S, Klein P, Suter A.(6)

7. Antihyperlipidemic effects
In the investigation of the effect of sage a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial with 67 hyperlipidemic (hypercholesterolemic and/or hypertriglyceridemic) patients aged 56.4 ± 30.3 years (mean ± SD), found that The extract lowered the blood levels of total cholesterol (p < 0.001), triglyceride (p = 0.001), LDL (p = 0.004) and VLDL (p = 0.001), but increased the blood HDL levels (p < 0.001) without any significant effects on the blood levels of SGOT, SGPT and creatinine (p > 0.05) compared with the placebo group at the endpoint. No adverse effects were reported, according to “Antihyperlipidemic effects of Salvia officinalis L. leaf extract in patients with hyperlipidemia: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial” by Kianbakht S, Abasi B, Perham M, Hashem Dabaghian F.(7)

8. HIV-1 infection
In the assessment of the effects of the mint family (Lamiaceae), including sage (Salvia spp.), on antiviral activity, found that the ability of P. vulgaris aqueous extracts to inhibit early events within the HIV life cycle suggests that these extracts, or purified constituents responsible for the antiviral activity, are promising microbicides and/or antivirals against HIV-1, according to ‘Inhibition of HIV-1 infection by aqueous extracts of Prunella vulgaris L” by Oh C, Price J, Brindley MA, Widrlechner MP, Qu L, McCoy JA, Murphy P, Hauck C, Maury W.(8)

9. Antioxidant and antimicrobial activities
In the evaluation the anti oxidant and microbal actinities of Salvia officinalis L. oils found that the oils isolated for 2 and 3 h were stronger free radical scavengers, while with the a thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) method, the highest antioxidant values were obtained in the oils isolated for 30 min, 2 and 3 h. Hydroxyl radical scavenging and lipoxygenase activity assays showed the best results with oils isolated for 1 and 3 h. With the deoxyribose method, sage oils at concentrations <1000 mg L(-1) showed better activity than mannitol. The essential oil of S. officinalis showed very weak antimicrobial activity, according to “Salvia officinalis L. essential oils: effect of hydrodistillation time on the chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities” by Miguel G, Cruz C, Faleiro ML, Simões MT, Figueiredo AC, Barroso JG, Pedro LG.(9)

10. Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects
In the investigation of The analgesic effects of the aqueous extract (10, 31.6, 100, 316, 1000 mg/kg) and butanol extract (10, 31.6, 100, 316 mg/kg) were studied using the hot-plate test for mice and the formalin-induced paw licking in rats, found that the sage leaf aqueous and butanol extracts have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, confirming the traditional use of this plant for pain alleviation, according to “The antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of Salvia officinalis leaf aqueous and butanol extracts” by Qnais EY, Abu-Dieyeh M, Abdulla FA, Abdalla SS.(10)

11. Etc.

For the world most popular herbs list, visit http://theworldmostpopularherbs.blogspot.com/2011/10/world-most-popular-herbs-health.html
other health articles, please visit http://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com
Side Effects
1. Do not use sage in new born(a) and children, or if you are pregnant or breast feeding without approval from the related field specialist.
2. The herb may cause allergic effect to people who are allergic to plants of the mint family
3. Long term use of the herb may increase the risk of iron or other minerals deficiency.
4. Etc.

Posted in Sage | Tagged Popular Herbs, Sage Health Benefits | Leave a comment

The World Most Popular Herbs – Rosemary Heakth Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 24, 2012 by kylenorton

Rosemary is a perennial herb with fragrant, evergreen, needle-like leaves, the genus Rosmarinus, belonging to the family Lamiaceae. Its fresh and dried leaves has been used frequently in traditional Mediterranean cuisine and as flavor foods while barbecuing. Rosnary has been used in traditional medicine as an antiseptic, antioxidant, and antispasmodic agent to treat circulatory problem, eczema, rheumatism, muscle pain, etc.

Health benefits
1. Anti-angiogenic properties
In the investigation of Carnosol and carnosic acid extracted from rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) leaves as a source of dietary antioxidants and flavoring agents found that the anti-angiogenic activity of carnosol and carnosic acid could contribute to the chemopreventive, antitumoral and antimetastatic activities of rosemary extracts and suggests their potential in the treatment of other angiogenesis-related malignancies, according to “Anti-angiogenic properties of carnosol and carnosic acid, two major dietary compounds from rosemary” byLópez-Jiménez A, García-Caballero M, Medina MA, Quesada AR.(1)

2. Antibacterial activity
In the assessment of the volatile compounds obtained by hydrodistillation of the aerial parts of Rosmarinus tournefortii De Noé and its antibacteria effect found that the essential oil exhibited strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and P. aeruginosa, and was also active against Staphylococcus aureus, according to “Essential oil analysis and antibacterial activity of Rosmarinus tournefortii from Algeria” byBendeddouche MS, Benhassaini H, Hazem Z, Romane A.(2)

3. Anti-colitic activity
In the observation of the effects of rosemary leaves hydroalcoholic extract (RHE) and essential oil (REO) and their effect on inflammatory bowel diseases found that RHE and REO are both effective to possess anti-colitic activity, and reinforce the use of this plant as a remedy for inflammatory bowel diseases in traditional medicine, according to “Effects of extract and essential oil of Rosmarinus officinalis L. on TNBS-induced colitis in rats” by
Minaiyan M, Ghannadi AR, Afsharipour M, Mahzouni P.(3)

4. Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects
In the evaluation of the effects of rosemary essential oil (REO) on experimental models of nociception and inflammation in animals found that REO administration (125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) showed unremarkable effects on response latency, whereas control injection of meperidine induced significant antinociceptive effects. REO at doses of 70, 125, and 250 mg/kg had a significant antinociceptive effect in the acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing test compared with control animals. These data suggest that REO possesses anti-inflammatory and peripheral antinociceptive activity, according to “Anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil in experimental animal models” by
Takaki I, Bersani-Amado LE, Vendruscolo A, Sartoretto SM, Diniz SP, Bersani-Amado CA, Cuman RK.(4)

5. Cancer prevention
In the research of intake of vegetables and certain plant components and their major role in cancer risk reduction indicated that literature evidence from animal and cell culture studies demonstrates the anticancer potential of rosemary extract, carnosol, carnosic acid, ursolic acid, and rosmarinic acid and concluded the different molecular targets modulated by rosemary and its active constituents are useful indicators of success in clinical cancer chemo-prevention trials, according to “Rosemary and cancer prevention: preclinical perspectives” by
Ngo SN, Williams DB, Head RJ.(5)

6. Free radicals
Rosemary contains high amount of carnosic acid, a natural benzenediol diterpene which has found to reduce the risk of free radical cause of cancers, according to “Inhibitory effects of rosemary extracts, carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid on the growth of various human cancer cell lines” by Yesil-Celiktas O, Sevimli C, Bedir E, Vardar-Sukan F.(6)

7. Immune system
Since it also contains high amount of vitamin A, C and E, the team of common antioxidant scavengers that help to promote the immune function in fighting against irregular cell growth and virus cause of inflammation due to counter reaction in the attack of free radicals, Part C. Common antioxidants (scavengers) -Antioxidants – Cancers and Diseases (7)

8. Prostate Cancer
In scientific studies, carnosol, a phenolic antioxidant extracted from the herb rosemary found have antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic activity against prostate cancer, according to “Carnosol, a dietary diterpene, displays growth inhibitory effects in human prostate cancer PC3 cells leading to G2-phase cell cycle arrest and targets the 5′-AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway” by Johnson JJ, Syed DN, Heren CR, Suh Y, Adhami VM, Mukhtar H.(8)

9. Antimicrobial activity
Carnosic acid and carnosol, natural phenol antioxidant acid found in rosemary have an antiviral, antibacterial, antiinflammatory properties, according to “Antimicrobial activity of Rosmarinus officinalis against oral pathogens: relevance of carnosic acid and carnosol” by Bernardes WA, Lucarini R, Tozatti MG, Souza MG, Silva ML, Filho AA, Martins CH, Crotti AE, Pauletti PM, Groppo M, Cunha WR.(9)

10. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester
Caffeic acid found in rosemary is a hydroxycinnamic acid that has been shown to have the immunoregulatory effects on cytokine secretion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from asthmatic children, according to “The immunoregulatory effects of caffeic Acid phenethyl ester on the cytokine secretion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from asthmatic children” by Sy LB, Yang LK, Chiu CJ, Wu WM.(10)

11. Etc.

Side effects
1. Rosemary essential oil is potentially toxic if ingested
2. May cause allergic effect to certain people
3.Overdose of rosemary leaves can cause adverse reactions
4. Etc.

Posted in Rosemary | Tagged Popular Herbs. Rosemary Heakth Benefits | Leave a comment

The World Most Popular Herbs – Rooibos health Benefits and Side Effects

Posted on January 23, 2012 by kylenorton

Rooibos is legume plant in the genus Aspalathus, belonging to the family Fabaceae, native to South Africa’s fynbos. The herb has been used as herbal tea to treat irritability, headaches, disturbed sleeping patterns, insomnia, nervous tension, mild depression or hypertension, etc.

Health Benefits 1. Sperm Quality and quantity
In the comparison of compares the modulation of OS by rooibos, Chinese green tea and commercial rooibos and green tea supplements in rat sperm, found that both rooibos extracts could offer a measure of protection against induced oxidative damage by increasing the antioxidant defence mechanisms and thereby improving the sperm quality and function, according to “The Effects of Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) and Commercial Rooibos and Green Tea Supplements on Epididymal Sperm in Oxidative Stress-induced Rats” by Awoniyi DO, Aboua YG, Marnewick J, Brooks N.(1)

2. Anti diabetes
In the assessment of the efficacy of rooibos tea as a natural source of a wide scale of antioxidants on the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, found that rooibos tea as a commonly used beverage can be recommended as an excellent adjuvant support for the prevention and therapy of diabetic vascular complications, particularly for protecting ocular membrane systems against their peroxidation by reactive oxygen species, according to “Rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis) partially prevents oxidative stress in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats” by Ulicná O, Vancová O, Bozek P, Cársky J, Sebeková K, Boor P, Nakano M, Greksák M.(2)

3. Cardiac protection
In the observation of the main polyphenolic compounds in both fermented/traditional and unfermented/”green” rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and its cardioprotective effects against ischaemia/reperfusion injury, found that the rooibos extracts did not cause significant change in the levels of the pro-survival PKB/Akt (threonine 308 and serinet 473). The GSH/GSSG ratio in the hearts of the green tea supplemented group was significantly (p<0.05) lower when compared to RF (37.78±28.63), RU (33.20±4.13) and C (45.50±14.96). The results clearly demonstrate the cardio-protective properties of aqueous rooibos extracts via the inhibition of apoptosis which can possibly be related to the flavonol content of this unique South African herbal tea, according to “Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) offers cardiac protection against ischaemia/reperfusion in the isolated perfused rat heart” by Pantsi WG, Marnewick JL, Esterhuyse AJ, Rautenbach F, van Rooyen J.(3)

4. Cardiovascular disease
In the analyzing the effect of rooibos on biochemical and oxidative stress parameters in adults at risk for cardiovascular disease, found that Confirming its popular use, consumption of fermented, traditional rooibos significantly improved the lipid profile as well as redox status, both relevant to heart disease, in adults at risk for developing cardiovascular disease, according to “Effects of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) on oxidative stress and biochemical parameters in adults at risk for cardiovascular disease” byMarnewick JL, Rautenbach F, Venter I, Neethling H, Blackhurst DM, Wolmarans P, Macharia M.(4)

5. Antioxidants
In the investigation of the anti-oxidative effect of RTE on oils and fats in autoxidation or thermal oxidation, found that RTE has a very strong anti-oxidative effect on emulsifying oils owing to the water-soluble polyphenols such as rutin and quercetin contained in RTE, according to “Anti-oxidative effects of rooibos tea extract on autoxidation and thermal oxidation of lipids” byFukasawa R, Kanda A, Hara S.(5)

6. Anti-inflammatory effects
In the study of the anti-inflammatory effects of Rooibos tea on rat colitis model, found that after dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) administration, the serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were significantly higher in the Rooibos group compared to the controls (P < 0.05). As a result, a decreased hemoglobin level, observed in the control group, was prevented in the Rooibos group after the DSS challenge, according to “Studies of anti-inflammatory effects of Rooibos tea in rats” by Baba H, Ohtsuka Y, Haruna H, Lee T, Nagata S, Maeda M, Yamashiro Y, Shimizu T.(6)

7. Anti-wrinkle
In the comparison of Herbal anti-wrinkle cosmetics formulated from ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), a mixture of tea and rooibos (Camellia sinensis and Aspalathus linearis) and soybean (Glycine soja) found that The ginkgo preparation increased skin moisturization (27.88%) and smoothness (4.32%) and reduced roughness (0.4%) and wrinkles (4.63%), whereas the formula containing tea and rooibos showed the best efficacy on wrinkle reduction (9.9%). In comparison to the tea and rooibos formula, gingko significantly improved skin moisturization (P = 0.05), according to “Clinical efficacy comparison of anti-wrinkle cosmetics containing herbal flavonoids” by Chuarienthong P, Lourith N, Leelapornpisid P.(7)

8. Anti Tumors
In the comparison of the effect of prepared from methanolic extracts of processed and unprocessed rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia), green (Camellia sinensis) teas in a two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis assay, found that 2-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), on ICR mouse skin initiated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) suppressed skin tumorigenesis significantly (P<0.001) with the green tea E/A fraction exhibiting a 100% inhibition, unprocessed honeybush 90%, processed honeybush 84.2%, processed rooibos 75% and unprocessed rooibos 60%, according to “Inhibition of tumour promotion in mouse skin by extracts of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia), unique South African herbal teas” by Marnewick J, Joubert E, Joseph S, Swanevelder S, Swart P, Gelderblom W.(8)

9. Anti cancers
In the investigation of the chemoprotective properties of unfermented and fermented rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) and honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) herbal teas, and green and black teas (Camellia sinensis), found that Unfermented rooibos and honeybush significantly (P<0.05) to marginally (P<0.1) reduced the total number of foci (>10microm), respectively, while all the teas reduced the relative amount of the larger foci. Fermentation seems to reduce the protective effect of the herbal teas. Differences in the major polyphenolic components and certain FB1/polyphenolic/tissue interactions may explain the varying effects of the different teas on the oxidative parameters, hepatotoxic effects and cancer promotion in rat liver, according to “Chemoprotective properties of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis), honeybush (Cyclopia intermedia) herbal and green and black (Camellia sinensis) teas against cancer promotion induced by fumonisin B1 in rat liver” by Marnewick JL, van der Westhuizen FH, Joubert E, Swanevelder S, Swart P, Gelderblom WC.(9)

10. Immune function
In the evaluation of the effects of Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos tea) and Camellia sinensis (Black tea) on biomarkers of specific immune pathways, found that Rooibos and Black tea addition to unstimulated whole blood cultures induced higher Interleukin-6, Interleukin-10, and Interferon gamma secretion. Addition of Rooibos tea to stimulated whole blood cultures induced higher Interleukin-6, lower Interleukin-10, and had no effect on Interferon gamma secretion. Black tea addition to stimulated whole blood cultures inhibited Interleukin-6, Interleukin-10, and Interferon gamma production, according to “The in vitro effects of Rooibos and Black tea on immune pathways” by Hendricks R, Pool EJ.(10)

11. Antibody production
In the examination of he effects of Rooibos tea extract on antigen-specific antibody production and cytokine generation in vitro and in vivo, found that Rooibos tea extract may facilitate the antigen-specific antibody production through selective augmentation of IL-2 generation both in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, Rooibos tea intake may be of value in prophylaxis of the diseases involving a severe defect in Th1 immune response such as cancer, allergy, AIDS, and other infections, according to “Effects of rooibos tea extract on antigen-specific antibody production and cytokine generation in vitro and in vivo” by Kunishiro K, Tai A, Yamamoto I.(11)

12. Central nervous system (CNS)
In the investigation of the protective effects of Rooibos tea (RT), Aspalathus linearis, against damage to the central nervous system (CNS) found that no significant increase of TBARS was observed in RT-administered aged rats. When MR images of the brains of 24-month-old rats with and without RT as well as 5-week-old rats were taken, a decrease of the signal intensity was observed in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum in MR images of aged rats without RT, whereas little change of the signal intensity was observed in MR images of the same regions of 24-month-old rats treated with RT, whose images were similar to those of young rats, according to “The suppression of age-related accumulation of lipid peroxides in rat brain by administration of Rooibos tea (Aspalathus linearis)” by Inanami O, Asanuma T, Inukai N, Jin T, Shimokawa S, Kasai N, Nakano M, Sato F, Kuwabara M.(12)

13. Etc.

Side Effects
1. Overdoses may cause chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, swollen chest, etc.
2. Rooibos tea may cause allergic effect, including skin irritation
3. Do not use the herb in children or if you are pregnant without approval from the related field specialist.
4. Prolonged period of using the herb may cause iron deficiency due to the presence of chemical compound tannin
5. Etc.

Posted in Rooibos | Tagged Popular Herbs, Rooibos health Benefits | Leave a comment

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