Grape Seed Pharmacological Effects and Diseases

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Grape seed extract (GSE) is derived from the ground seeds of red wine grapes. Grape seed extract is especially rich in a very strong flavonoid called OPCs (Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins). When taken with bioflavonoids and  OPC the life of vitamin C is greatly extended.

Grape Seed Pharmacological Effects and Benefits

Polyphenols in grape seed extract are primarily flavonoids, including gallic acid, the monomeric flavan-3-ols catechin, epicatechin, gallocatechin, epigallocatechin, and epicatechin 3-O-gallate, and procyanidin dimers, trimers, and more highly polymerized procyanidins. Various researches have shown that proanthocyanidins help to protect the body from sun damage, to develop vision, to improve flexibility in joints, arteries, and body tissues such as the heart, and to increase blood circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries, and veins.

Antioxidant Activity

Grape Seed ExtractFree radicals have been implicated in over a hundred disease conditions in humans, including atherosclerosis, advancing age, ischemia and reperfusion injury of many organs, arthritis, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer disease, gastrointestinal dysfunctions, tumor promotion and carcinogenesis, and AIDS. Grape seed contains antioxidants, which help avoid cell damage caused by free radicals. In lab experiments, researchers have showed that grape seed can help fight free radicals.

The antioxidative effects of grape seed extracts are found to be much stronger than vitamin C and vitamin E. A study conducted in 2003, found grape seed extract “provides superior antioxidant efficacy as compared to vitamin C, vitamin E and Beta-carotene.” One of the most bioavailable and strong forms of antioxidant, oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes appear to be synergistic with vitamins, and in especially they protect the free radical scavenging effect of vitamin C. An study, conducted by Boston University of Medicine and USANA Health Sciences, demonstrated that the combination of grape seed extract plus vitamin C improved antioxidant status and vascular function in people with clinically proven cardiovascular disease.

Circulatory System

Grape seed promotes a healthful circulatory system by strengthening capillary walls and reducing leakage. Oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs) avoid capillary leakage in the legs, eyes and skin reducing fluid retention. In a double-blind study, a group of elderly participants with either spontaneous or drug-induced low capillary resistance were treated with 100-150 mg OPCs from GSE (grape seed extract) per day or placebo. 53% of patients in the treated group showed noticeable improvement in capillary resistance after 2 weeks. All patients in this group reached the maximum attainable result after 3 weeks.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency

Grape seed extract (GSE) strengthens weak and swollen blood vessels in the legs. Several studies have shown that oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes from grape seed can lessen symptoms. In a double-blind study, 71 participant with peripheral venous insufficiency received 300 milligrams OPCs from grape seed per day. A important decrease in functional symptomatology was observed in 75 % of the treated patients compared to 41 % of the patients given a placebo.

Edema

Breast cancer surgery frequently leads to swelling of the arm. In a placebo-controlled study of 63 female breast cancer patients, postsurgical edema of the upper extremities was tested using 300 milligrams per day OPCs in the treated group for 6 months. At 6 months the OPC-treated group’s functional score was important improved. In especially there was a disappearance of pain in 59 % of the treated patients compared to 13 % taking the placebo. Another double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 32 participant who had received facial surgery, edema disappeared much faster in the group treated with grape seed OPCs.

Eye Diseases

Grape seed extract (GSE) improves blood flow in the eye’s tiny vessels, where some eye diseases can cause blockages and impairments that result in vision damage. Grape seed often recommended to combat macular degeneration, cataracts, and eye strain. Researches have shown that 300 mg daily reduces eye strain from prolonged computer use in 60 days. Also researches have shown that GSE may slow macular degeneration, improve vision stressed by computer screens or glare, and lessen myopia.

Dental Health

GSE helped avoid cavity formation and promoted remineralization of teeth in a laboratory study reported in the July 2012  edition of the Journal of  Contemporary Dental Practice. In a study new  performed at the “University at Buffalo’s Periodontal Research Center“, researchers  demonstrated that smokers who took a supplement containing vitamin C, vitamin E and grape seed extract were able to improve their response to gum disease therapy.

High Blood Pressure

The antioxidants in grape seed extract have a protective effect on blood vessels, which can help avoid high blood pressure. A study published in the Dec 2009 edition of the journal Metabolism reported blood pressure-lowering positive effects of both 150 mg and 300 mg per day for 4 weeks.

Heart

Grape seed helps improve cardiovascular health. Japanese scientists found that proanthocyanidin was able to inhibit thrombus formation in the carotid artery. In a study reported in the Feb 2003 edition of  Mutation Research  found that grape seed extract improved cardiac function including ventricular function, reduced myocardial infarct size, reduced ventricular fibrillation and tachycardia, as indicated by reduction levels of homocysteine.

Chinese scientists proved that grape seed extract directly boosted antioxidant activity in heart cells, ın turn protecting heart cells from free radical induced death. Dr. Kendall, (University of Birmingham), introduced findings from his clinical research using standardized grape seed extract. His study showed measurable changes in serum antioxidant activity in the patients receiving the extract, leading him to conclude antioxidants may play a role in sudden death prevention, referring to the fact that for many patients with coronary artery disease, sudden death may be the first and only indication of the disease.

Researches show that grape seed extract may  have the ability to block PAF (platelet activating factor), thus lengthening the time it takes for the blood to form clots. The inhibitory effect of  Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins on thromboxane biosynthesis may explain the platelet aggregation inhibiting activity. A study demonstrated that grape seed extract significantly reduced the platelet stickiness in male smokers. A new study of 38 smokers indicates that oligomeric proanthocyanidin may function as effectively as aspirin in keeping blood cells from sticking together and forming blood clots. In a study of 22 smokers found that 100 mg of OPCs had an equivalent blood thinning effect as 500 mg of aspirin.

Skin

Extreme sun exposure, especially to UV rays, has a host of unfavorable effects on skin and health in general. The sun light can kill 50% skin cells of human, oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes functions strongly avoid 85% skin cells from this horrible damage. In a study published in “Molecular Nutrition and Food Research” June 2008, showed that the in vitro and in vivo studies of the potential protecting effect of grape seed extract (GSE) proanthocyanidins and the molecular mechanism for these effects in SKH-1 hairless mice produced a decreased UVB-induced skin tumor development in terms of tumor incidence, tumor multiplicity, and a reduce in the malignant transformation of papillomas to carcinomas.

Immune Function

Chemicals in grape seeds known as proanthocyanidins have strong antioxidant and immune-boosting activities. In lab experiments, proanthocyanidins increased the power of natural killer cells, enhanced the production of IL-2, and decreased production of IL-6. In experiment by Zhang et al in 2005 concluded that proanthocyanidins from GSE, in combination with doxorubicin, inhibited tumor-growth by a proposed enhancement of immune function, including lymphocyte stimulation. Oral administration of oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes in an experimental model effectively increased natural killer cell cytotoxicity and modulated ex vivo levels of interleukin-1, interleukin-6, and interleukin-10 in immune-compromised animals.

Antiviral

Researches of grape seed extract indicate antiviral activity against HIV. According to a study reported in Biological Research in 2002, GSE has anti-HIV effects because it interferes with HIV receptors and co-receptors. A new study found that grape seed extract (GSE) could reduce the infectivity of  Norovirus surrogates. “This provides evidence grape seed extract could effectively damage the (norovirus) capsid protein, which could reduce viral binding ability and infectivity accordingly,” according to the researchers. The research is reported in the Nov 2012 edition of “Applied and Environmental Microbiology”.

Anticancer

Grape seed extract has shown anticancer effect in studies using  breast, stomach, colon, lung, skin and prostate cancer cell lines. 35,239 males were followed over 10 years since 2000 in the VITAL cohort study Men, with “high average use” over 10 years of an individual grape seed extract experienced a 62%  reduced risk of prostate cancer compared to non-users.

In a lab experiment reported in 2004 in the journal Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, grape seed extract was effective in blocking division of breast cancer cells in culture, reducing their growth rate by up to 72%. A study reported in 2010 in “Pharmaceutical Research” found that GSE (grape seed extract) stopped tumor growth in mice after clinically induced exposure to UVB radiation.

An article reported on Dec 2012 in the journal “Cancer Letters” reveals a strong effect for grape seed extract against colorectal cancer in experiments involving cultured cancer cells. Colon and intestinal cancer was inhibited in mice fed 0.5 % GSE for 6 weeks, in a 2010 study published in the journal Neoplasia. At the end of the research, observed a 40 % lessen in the total number of intestinal polyps.

A study reported in the journal “Carcinogenesis” shows that in both cell lines and mouse models, grape seed extract  kills head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells, while leaving healthy cells unharmed. A study performed out by Maryam Asargi involving 830 people compared various combinations of vitamins like A, C, E and multivitamins. The group taking grape seed extract (GSE) had an 74 % decrease in squamous cell carcinoma.

In a study published in the March 2005  edition of the Chinese Medical Journal reported that GSE (grape seed extract) promotes the death of human acute myeloid leukemia cells in the lab. An extract from grape seeds effects laboratory leukemia cells to commit cell suicide, according to scientists from the University of Kentucky. In a study, administered varying concentrations of a commercially available grape seed extract (GSE) to leukemia cell cultures. Researchers found that higher doses of the extract resulted in 76% of the leukemia cells undergoing apoptosis within 24 hours following exposure, while healthy cells remained unharmed. “These results could have implications for the incorporation of agents such as grape seed extract into prevention or treatment of hematological malignancies and possibly other cancers,” Dr Xianglin Shi, explained. In a study reported by “Carcinogenesis”, Agarwal (investigator at the University of  Colorado Cancer Center) explained that grape seed creates conditions that are unfavorable to cancer cell growth. The grape seed extract both damages cancer cells’ DNA and stops the pathways that allow cancer cell repair.

Dosage

Grape seed extract (GSE) should contain 90-95% OPC. GSE is used in capsules mostly containing 50 mg or 100 mg. Doses of between 100-300 mg/day have been used in studies and are prescribed in several European countries.

Alpha Lipoic Acid Therapeutic Benefits and Studies

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Alpha-lipoic acid (also known as lipoic acid, thioctic acid, or ALA) is a vitamin-like chemical called an antioxidant. Researchers discovered the importance of alpha-lipoic acid in the 1950s, and recognized it as an antioxidant in 1988. In humans, Alpha lipoic acid is synthetized by the liver and other tissues with high metabolic activity; heart, kidney. ALA is absorbed from the small intestine and distributed to the liver via the portal circulation and to other tissues in the body via the systemic circulation. Alpha Lipoic Acid is not to be confused with the alpha-linolenic acid (called ALA) found in flax and canola oil.

Food Sources

Yeast, beef, and organ meats, broccoli, spinach, and potatoes are good sources of alpha-lipoic acid.

Alpha Lipoic Acid Therapeutic Benefits

ALA has 2 important functions in body. First, it serves as a coenzyme  in several metabolic pathways. Second, it is an powerful antioxidant.Alpha Lipoic acid is a coenzyme for a group of enzymes responsible for the eventual conversion of fats, carbohydrates and proteins in to biological energy. The body needs ALA to produce energy. It plays a very important  role in the energy-producing structures in cells. Alpha lipoic acid is essential for the production of cellular energy in the form of ATP, therefore delivers a boost of energy. ALA increases the formation of glutathione. Glutathione is an important antioxidant that helps the body eliminating deleterious substances. ALA was effectively used to treat children exposed to radiation from the Chernobyl accident in the former Soviet Union.

Energy

Alpha-lipoic acid is a naturally occurring dithiol compound that functions as a cofactor for many mitochondrial enzymes involved in energy metabolism. ALA is part of 2 enzyme systems;  alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase and pyruvate dehydrogenase. Functions as a co-enzyme cofactor in the alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase and pyruvate dehydrogenase  mitochondrial enzyme complexes in the production of energy.

Antioxidant Activity

Thioctic AcidAlpha-Lipoic acid possesses strong antioxidant activity. The reduced form dihydrolipoic acid (DHLA) is more potent than lipoic acid. ALA protects mitochondria by removing free radicals and improves the recycling of other antioxidants. Unlike other antioxidants which are either fat soluble or water soluble, Alpha-lipoic acid simultaneously acts as both a fat and a water-soluble antioxidant in the body. Because of its two-fold interactions with both water-soluble (vitamin C) and fat-soluble (vitamin E) substances, Alpha-lipoic acid has been shown to avoid lack of both vitamins in both human and animal studies. ALA administration has been shown to be useful in a number of oxidative stress models such as diabetes, ischemia-reperfusion injury,  cataract formation, HIV activation, neurodegeneration, and radiation injury.

Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes is a condition characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood. ALA has the potential to prevent diabetes, influence glucose control, and avoid chronic hyperglycemia-associated complications such as neuropathy. A placebo-controlled study of 72 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus found that oral administration of Alpha-lipoic acid  at doses of 600 mg/day, 1,200 mg/day or 1,800 mg/day improved insulin sensitivity by 25% after 4 weeks of therapy.

In a study of a controlled-release form of oral Alpha lipoic acid, 15 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus took 900 mg/day for 6 weeks and 1,200 mg/day for another 6 weeks, in addition to their current drugs. At the end of 12 weeks, plasma fructosamine concentrations decreased by approximately 10% from baseline. A clinical trial in 13 people with type 2 diabetes mellitus found that a single intravenous infusion of 1000 mg of Alpha-lipoic acid improved insulin-stimulated insulin sensitivity by 50% compared to a placebo infusion. In a study of 20 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, intravenous infusion of 500 mg/day of  Alpha lipoic acid for 10 days also improved insulin sensitivity when measured 24 hours after the last infusion.

Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition characterized by pain and numbness in the hands and feet that occurs in people with diabetes, nerve pressure, vitamin deficiency, kidney or liver disease and alcoholism. More than 20% of diabetic patients develop peripheral neuropathy. Oral and Intravenous (IV) alpha-lipoic acid has been used for years to treat peripheral neuropathy in Germany. The current studies, suggests therapy with 600 mg/day of intravenous Alpha-lipoic acid for 3 weeks significantly reduces the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

In a study diabetic individuals suffering from peripheral neuropathy who were given 200 mg of Alpha-lipoic acid intravenously for 21 days reported a decrease in pain. A study in Austria found that more than half of the cancer patients who took Alpha-lipoic acid after getting the chemotherapy drug oxaliplatin reported an reduction in neuropathy symptoms. In a study, oral with 1,200 mg/day of Alpha-lipoic acid for 6 weeks improved a measure of capillary perfusion in the fingers of eight diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 181 patients with diabetic neuropathy found that oral with 600 mg/day, 1,200 mg/day, or 1,800 mg/day of Alpha-lipoic acid for 5 weeks significantly improved neuropathic symptoms. In this study, the 600 mg/day dose was as effective as the higher doses. A meta-analysis that combined the results of 4 randomized controlled trials, including 1,258 diabetic patients, found that therapy with 600 mg/day of intravenous Alpha-lipoic acid for 3 weeks significantly reduced the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy to a clinically meaningful degree.

Liver

Alpha lipoic acid was used in the 1970s as a therapy for various forms of  hepatitis. The scientists administered ALA intravenously to 79 people with acute and serious liver damage at medical centers across the United States, and 75 recovered full liver function. According to a study ALA inhibits the expression of matrix metalloproteinase in cancer cells, which may play a role in liver cancer invasion and metastasis. In a study, published in a 2008 issue of  “Hepatology”, determined that Alpha-lipoic acid prevented fatty liver disease and may be used to prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in insulin-resistant patients. Amanita is a extremely poisonous mushroom that causes liver damage. ALA infusions were used in the therapy of amanita mushroom poisoning in 75 patients between 1974 and 1978. Normally, up to 50% of patients recover without intervention; but, 89 % recovered after ALA infusion.

This combination of Alpha lipoic acid, silymarin, and selenium replenishes glutathione stores, promotes liver cell regeneration, and puts the brakes on viral replication. Dr. Berkson has utilized an antioxidant protocol consisting of alpha-lipoic acid 300mg, twice a day; oral selenium, 200 mcg, twice a day; and oral silymarin, 300 mg per day. Dr. Berkson  reported his triple-antioxidant protocol in 1999, in the content of a pilot study involving 3 patients with cirrhosis, portal hypertension, and esophageal varies related to HCV. All 3 were candidates for liver transplant. After a year on Alpha lipoic acid, silymarin, and selenium, all were healthy, demonstrated improved hepatic function. (Also to the Alpha-lipoic acid, selenium and silymarin, Dr. Berkson recommends a B vitamin complex because high dose Alpha-lipoic acid will deplete thiamine, niacin and riboflavin.)

Brain

Animal-based study shows that animals treated with ALA suffered less brain damage and had 4-times greater survival rate after a stroke than animals who didn’t receive Alpha-lipoic acid.

Alpha-lipoic acid is one of the antioxidants that can pass the blood brain-barrier, which enables it to protect brain tissue and prevent free-radical damage. ALA  may have a favorable effect on patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of memory dysfunction secondary to trauma or cerebral vascular accident. By decreasing oxidative damage in the central nervous system, Alpha-lipoic acid  may reduce the severity of central nervous system disorders. ALA reduces amyloid-beta-induced inflammation and improves brain cells production of the chemical signaling molecules called neurotransmitters.

Researchers believe that Alpha-lipoic acid may increase the production of acetylcholine, an essential nervous system messenger that is deficient in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease patients. A 2007 research in Journal of Neural Transmission showed that high doses of Alpha-lipoic acid slowed Alzheimer’s progression to a greater degree than standard therapy. A small study involving 9 patients showed that there might be a positive effect in using Alpha-lipoic acid in Alzheimer’s disease. Six-hundred milligrams per day of Alpha-lipoic acid for as many as 14 months has reportedly allowed Alzheimer’s patients to maintain scores on neuropsychological tests commonly used to assess Alzheimer’s disease patients.

According to Dr. Lester Packer at the University of  California in Berkeley, ALA may have a role in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, head injuries, and spinal cord damage. Multiple sclerosis is a neurodegenerative and demyelinating disease of central nervous system. Alpha-lipoic acid has been examined as an effective treatment in a rat model of multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Alpha-lipoic acid dose dependently prevented the development of clinical signs in this model.

Eye Health

Alpha-lipoic acid may support healthy vision and help prevent and treat glaucoma and cataracts. The efficacy of ALA was analyzed in a study involving patients with open-angle glaucoma. Notable improvements were observed with respect to both the biochemical measures and visual function as compared with the control group receiving only local hypotensive treatment.

A study revealed that the combination of Alpha-lipoic acid and vitamin E helped prevent retinal cell death in animals with retinitis pigmentosa. The enzyme aldose reductase plays an substantial role in the development of cataracts in diabetes. ALA inhibited aldose reductase activity in the rat lens. In other animal study, Alpha lipoic acid inhibited cataract formation experimentally induced by buthionine sulfoximine, an inhibitor of glutathione  synthesis. ALA was administered to 75 participant with open-angle glaucoma at dosages of either 75 mg  daily for 2 months or 150 mg daily for one month. The important improvements in the biochemical parameters of glaucoma and visual function were observed in the group receiving  150 mg ALA.

HIV

Alpha-lipoic acid inhibits replication of  HIV by reducing the activity of reverse transcriptase, the enzyme responsible for manufacturing the virus from the DNA of lymphocytes. Experimental results show that lipoic acid is an effective inhibitor of human immuno-deficiency virus (HIV-1) replication. In one study, it was found that therapy of immune system cells called the T cells with ALA significantly increased their glutathione levels. HIV patients are known to have low tissue levels of glutathione.

ALA blocks the activation of a substance called NF-kappa B, which is essential for the transcription of the HIV virus. ALA may play an important therapeutic role for HIV-infected people. In a study with HIV-infected participants, with ALA provided a variety of advantages related to antioxidant status, T-helper lymphocytes, and the T-helper/ suppressor cell ratio .One small study demonstrated a combination of effects from supplementation with ALA including increases in CD4 cells, increases in blood levels of vitamin C and glutathione, and reduction in the body compounds that result from oxidative stress. Other a study was carried out in 33 HIV-infected individuals with a history of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) unresponsiveness to test the hypothesis of whether supplement with  Alpha-lipoic acid would increase blood total glutathione and improve immune T-cell function. After six months of therapy, the mean whole blood total glutathione level in the ALA-treated group increased significantly compared with placebo. In response to the CD3 monoclonal antibody, lymphocyte proliferation decreased 66% in the placebo group over 6 months, compared with  a 3.7-fold enhancement in the anti-CD3 response in the ALA-therapy group.

Metal Chelation

ALA appears capable of chelating certain metals. In vitro and animal studies suggest ALA might be a useful component in the therapy of heavy metal toxicity, particularly toxicity involving cadmium, lead, copper, or mercury. In animal-based studies, Alpha lipoic acid has been shown to provide protection against arsenic poisoning and to safeguard the liver against the effects of cadmium exposure. Other study demonstrated that ALA helped protect the delicate nervous system against the deleterious effects of mercury poisoning.

A study on mercury  intoxication revealed an injection of 10 mg/kg/day Alpha-lipoic acid in rats inoculated with 1 mg/kg/day mercuric chloride prevented damage to nerve tissue caused by lipid peroxidation. In one study an intraperitoneal injection of 25 mg/kg Alpha-lipoic acid given to rats for 7 days was  able to significantly alter the oxidative stress induced by lead toxicity.

Dosage

Recommended oral therapeutic dosages of ALA range from 600 mg-1800 mg daily. Since taking Alpha-lipoic acid with a meal decreases its bioavailability, it is usually recommended that ALA be taken on an empty stomach.

Ginger Root Medicinal Importance and Facts

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The ginger (Zingiber Officinale), is a perennial herb that is native to India, Asia and West Africa. This plant is an very good source of several bioactive phenolics, including non-volatile pungent compounds such as gingerols, paradols, shogaols and gingerones. Shogaols and gingerols stimulate production of saliva, bile and fluids made by your stomach, and reduce stomach contractions and develop muscle tone in your intestines.

Ginger Root Medicinal Importance and Benefits

Active components are volatile oils and different pungent chemicals called shogaols and gingerols. Ginger root has a long history of medicinal use for the therapy of a variety of diseases including common colds, fever, gastrointestinal complications, motion sickness, diabetes and rheumatic disorders. The basic pharmacological actions of ginger root and compounds isolated therefrom include anti-emetic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-lipidemici immuno-modulatory, anti-tumorigenic, anti-inflammatory actions.

Antioxidant

Ginger is a powerful anti-oxidant substance and may either reduce or avoid generation of free radicals. Total antioxidant strength measured in terms of  ORAC of ginger is 14840 µmol TE/100 g. A study reported in the Nov 2003 edition of “Life Sciences” show that at least one reason for ginger’s useful properties is the free radical protection afforded by one of its phenolic constituents, 6-gingerol.

Nausea and Vomiting

In a comprehensive review of ginger as a therapy for nausea and vomiting reported in British Journal of Anaesthesia in Ginger Root 2000, the authors examined 6 study in which ginger was used to treat these problems. Researchers concluded that ginger root was more effective than a placebo in all cases and equally efficacious as anti-nausea medications in some situations. The antiemetic action of ginger root is attributed to its constituents, gingerol and and shogaol their interactions with 5HT-3 receptors. Ginger root has been approved by German Commission E (an official government agency similar to the  FDA) for indigestion and to help prevent motion sickness.

Clinical studies show that ginger root can effectively lessen nausea and vomiting following surgery and that associated with pregnancy and motion sickness. A double blind study aboard a ship demonstrated ginger was equally as efficacious as various drugs in controlling seasickness, in a large study of 1489 individuals. In a study of thirty pregnant women with severe vomiting, those who took 1 g of ginger root every day for 4 days reported more relaxation from vomiting than those who took placebo. A double-blind placebo-controlled study of 79 Swedish naval cadets demonstrated that 1 grams of ginger root could reduce nausea and vertigo at sea. A 2006 meta-analysis evaluating the use of ginger root for postoperative nausea and vomiting demonstrated that, in five randomized trials with a total of 363 people, ginger root was more effective than placebo.

In a study, of over 600 cancer patients found that a ginger root extract lessen chemotherapy-induced nausea by 40%. The Phase II/III placebo-controlled, double-blind study included 644 cancer patients who would receive at least 3 chemotherapy. Patients were divided into four arms that received placebos, 0.5 g of ginger, 1 g of ginger, or 1.5 g of ginger along with antiemetics. They took the ginger supplements 3 days prior to chemotherapy and 3 days following therapy. Patients reported nausea levels at different times of day during following their chemotherapy and those who took the lower doses had a 40%decrease.

Menstrual Pain

Ginger root pain-killing properties may help if have painful periods. One study shows that taking a certain ginger root extract 250 mg 4 times daily for three days at the beginning of the menstrual period reduces pain symptoms in as many as 62% of women.

Arthritis

Experimental studies suggest that ginger root inhibits the synthesis of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins, by inhibiting both the cyclo-oxygenase and 5-lipoxygenase enzymes. Also, findings revealed that an extract of ginger root inhibits several genes that contribute to inflammation. In vitro a study, 6-gingerol was shown to significantly inhibit the production of nitric oxide, a highly reactive nitrogen molecule that quickly forms a very damaging free radical called peroxynitrite. According to a study reported in “Arthritis and Rheumatism”, Nov 2001, ginger root  can lessen the pain and suffering of people who have osteoarthritis as well as conventional medications or painkillers. In a study, a special ginger root extract combined with glucosamine worked as well as the anti-inflamatory drug diclofenac slow release 100 mg daily plus glucosamine sulfate 1 g daily.

In a study of 56 people, ginger root extract was effective in reducing pain and inflammation in three-quarters of the arthritis patients and all of the patients with muscular discomfort. Ginger root is efficacious as a therapy for pain and inflammation, according to a 2005 research reported in Archives of Iranian Medicine. Scientists found that pain fell approximately 50% for people in the ginger and ibuprofen groups. In a study of 261 participant with osteoarthritis of the knee, those who took a ginger root extract twice daily had less pain and needed fewer pain-killing drugs than those who received placebo. Another study compared the effects of a ginger root extract to placebo in 247 people with osteoarthritis of the knee. The ginger root reduced pain and stiffness in knee joints by 40% over the placebo. Found that ginger root, like the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), inhibits the enzyme cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2. Common types of NSAIDs include Aspirin, Advil, Aleve and Motrin. Ginger root suppresses prostaglandin synthesis through inhibition of COX-1 and COX-2.

Antitumor

Ginger root contains compounds that inhibit a certain enzyme that metabolizes a substance that is necessary for prostate cancer proliferation. Some researches demonstrate that ginger root may help reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer, kill cancerous cells. A study out of  “Georgia State University” demonstrated  ginger root extract was able to shrink prostate tumor size by 56 % in mice.Tumour tissue from ginger root extract -treated mice demonstrated reduced proliferation index and widespread apoptosis compared with controls, as determined by immunoblotting and immunohistochemical methods.  Therapy with (6)-gingerol, has been found to have the activity to kill cancerous cells according to a study reported in March 2007 edition of  Molecular Nutrition and Clinical Research. Detailed studies have approved that  ginger root extract perturbed cell-cycle progression, impaired reproductive capacity, modulated cell-cycle and apoptosis regulatory molecules and induced a caspase-driven, mitochondrially mediated apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells.

Researchers at the “University of Michigan” have showed that ginger root  kills ovarian cancer cells by inducing apoptotic and autophagic cell death. “In multiple ovarian cancer cell lines, we found that ginger induced cell death at a similar or better rate than the platinum-based chemotherapy drugs typically used to treat ovarian cancer,” says Jennifer Rhode, M.D. a gynecologic oncology fellow at the U-M Medical School. Ginger root has been identified in one study to help lessen colon inflammation markers such as PGE2, so indicating a measure that might affect colon cancer. Researchers at the “University of Minnesota” evaluated the effect of ginger on lab mice injected with human bowel cancer tumour cells. Twenty mice were fed the ginger before receiving therapy. A control group of mice was also injected with cancer but not fed the spice. After 2 weeks, 13 tumours had appeared among the control mice, but just 4 among the ginger-treated animals. Ginger root reduced markers of colon inflammation in a select group of patients, according to a study  reported in “Cancer Prevention Research“. By researchers at the University of  Michigan Medical School, enrolled 30 patients and randomly assigned them to 2 g of ginger per day or placebo for 28 days.After 28 days, the scientists measured standard levels of colon inflammation and found statistically significant decrease in most of these markers, and trends toward significant decrease in others.

Dosage

Would have to consume 3.5 ounces of whole ginger in a daily diet to get the favorable effects. Ginger, 500 mg,  2–4 times per day for nausea, vomiting, motion sickness has been used. Studies show that if used as a single anti-inflammatory intervention that the daily dosage can range from 1000 milligrams  to 4,000 milligrams per day, based upon the dose required to lessen symptoms. Research findings, ginger root should be standardized to contain at least 5% gingerols per dose. Pregnant women should ask their physician before taking ginger, and should be careful not take more than 1g per day.

Aloe Vera Juice Therapeutic Effects and and Medical Uses

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Most commonly found in Africa and the Caribbean, aloe vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) is a plant that belongs to the succulent species, it holds liquid to survive in hot, dry climates. The outer leaf parts include a yellow-green sap (aloe latex) that can have a laxative, irritant property. The inner parts of the leaf include, polysaccharide-rich gel that helps to relieve the digestive system and support immune system. Aloe vera juice contains 20 minerals, 12 vitamins, 18 amino acids, 200 specific compounds.

Aloe Vera Juice Therapeutic Effects and Benefits

Aloe Vera is a stimulant to the immune system, a strong, anti-inflammatory, an analgesic and is able to speed up cell growth. Scientific researches have shown that a complex carbohydrate in aloe vera, acemannan, combines antiviral action, antibacterial properties and stimulates the immune system. Though aloe vera is 99% water, aloe gel includes polysaccharides and glycoproteins. Glycoproteins speed the healing process by stopping inflammation and pain, while polysaccharides stimulate skin growth and repair.

Skin

Aloe vera contains phytochemicals that enhances the rate of healing of skin lesions and damaged epithelial cells of the Aloe Barbadensis Millergastrointestinal tract. Studies have shown that aloe gel might be helpful in treating psoriasis, dandruff, seborrhea, and minor burns and skin abrasions, as well as radiation-induced skin injuries. The gel acquired from the leaf is useful for treating different skin diseases such as dermatitis, burns and other skin disorders.

“The Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Cosmetology” at the University in Belgrade, reported research in 2011 noting that gel from aloe vera is believed to promote and assist the growth of new cells. One study found that aloe gel displayed anti-inflammatory properties superior to 1 percent hydrocortisone cream or a placebo gel. In a study, 27 participant with moderate burn wounds were treated with  aloe vera gel or vaseline. The burns improved more fast in the aloe vera group, with an healing time of 12 days compared to 18 days for the group using vaseline. Aloe cream was shown to be superior to silver sulfadiazine cream for the therapy of second-degree burns. Burn sites treated with aloe vera improved fully in less than 16 days compared to 19 days for sites treated with silver sulfadiazine. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study reported in “Tropical Medicine and International Health“, 60 people with chronic psoriasis were given a 0.5% aloe vera extract in a mineral oil creme. When participants were checked after 8 months, far more psoriasis skin lesions had improved in the aloe vera group (82.8%) than in the placebo group (7.7%).

Digestive System

Aloe vera is known to soothe and cleanse the digestive tract and help develop digestion. Specific components in aloe vera have a anti inflammatory activity on the enzymes responsible for damaging the intestinal wall. Mucopolysaccharides found in the aloe vera role in the body by lining the colon to keep out toxins. Mucopolysaccharides expedite the absorption of water, electrolytes and nutrition in the gastrointestinal tract, and help to maintain fluid movement thus the digestive system can work healthy and alleviate indigestion.

Aloe vera may help improve gastric ulcers, according to a study reported in the April 2006 edition of the World Journal of  Gastroenterology. A study performed in Japan demonstrated that the compounds in aloe juice decreased the formation of lesions and secretion of gastric juices that can cause the pain associated with ulcers. Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the membrane of the colon and rectum.Some researches shows that aloe vera can help relieve ulcerative colitis which is a painful inflammation of the colon. In a study reported in Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics, half of the subjects (47%) had complete remission of mild to moderate ulcerative colitis in four weeks by ingesting aloe vera  twice a day. Aloe latex and aloe leaves include chemicals with laxative effects. German Commission E (an official government agency similar to the FDA) has approved aloe for treating constipation. A typical dose is 50 to 200 mg of aloe latex, taken in liquid or capsule form once a day for up to 10 days.

Inflammation

Aloe vera reduces inflammation. Various researches have showed that aloe vera consists of Lupeol or phyto-steroids, Campesterol and B-Sitosterol. These substances work in the similar manner as conventional steroids. Aloe contains small levels of salicylic acid and salicylates. Salicylic acid has pain relief effects and relieves inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandin hormones- which encourage inflammation. Also, in researches, aloe vera has been shown to possess anti-bradykinin effect. Bradykinin is part of the body’s complex mechanism that causes painful inflammation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications ease swollen joints and improve mobility, however may trigger stomach upsets or peptic ulcers. Steroids suppress inflammation, however can cause brittle bones and weak skin. Aloe vera can alleviate inflammation, help to regenerate new cells and disperse damaged tissue with no adverse effects. According to the article reported in Dec 1994 in the “Journal of the American Podiatric Association“, aloe has a natural COX-2 inhibiting effect which relieves pain, fever and inflammation in the muscle without the unfavorable effects of the COX-2 inhibiting drugs. In a study animals were injected with a bacterium to cause arthritic symptoms. Further, aloe vera (150mg/kg body weight) was injected under the skin daily for 13 days. Aloe vera reduced inflammation by 79 % and suppressed the autoimmune response by 42 %.

Immunomodulatory

Researches show that polysaccharides found in aloe have immunomodulatory and antitumor activities. Research reported in the “Journal of  Environmental Science and Health” that aloe vera contains anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal effects that aid the immune system to cleanse the body of toxins and invading pathogens. Aloe vera, a important immune stimulant, includes 90 percent rhodium and iridium in the acemannan which is one of the polysaccharides which dramatically enhances the white blood cells or macrophages and T cells.

A compound made from aloe vera, di 2-ethyl hexyl phthalate, has been found to stop the development of leukaemia cells in test tubes. One study demonstrated that an aloe extract (aloe emodin) can block the growth of head and neck cancer cells in test tubes. Aloe-emodin (chemical component of Aloe), inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in human liver cancer cell lines through p53-and p21-dependent pathways. An in vitro study has showed aloeride, (a polysaccharide obtained from aloe vera), as a strong immunostimulator by increasing NF-kappa B activities. In a study researchers found that a compound from aloe vera, when injected directly into tumors, activated the immune system to attack the cancer. Natural killer T cells, white blood cells that bind to invading cells and destroy them, began to attack the tumor cells.

Aloe polysaccharides application have been shown to develop helper lymphocytes in AIDS patients and inhibit the reproduction of HIV. In a study, for 4 months, 29 participant were given pure aloe  juice along with an essential fatty acid supplement and other supplement containing vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. After ninety days, all of the patients had lesser occurrences of opportunistic infections, fatigue,  thrush, and diarrhea, as well as increased white blood cell counts. 14 HIV patients were given acemannan (aloe vera extract) orally at 800 mgs per day. A important boost in the number of circulating monocytes and macrophages were noted, which increased infection fighting capacities.

Panax Ginseng Pharmacological Effects and Researches

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Panax ginseng (the Araliaceae family), also known as Korean Ginseng or Red Ginseng, is an plant famous for its capability to help the body adapt to stress. Generally, starts flowering at its fourth year and the roots take 4 to 6 years to reach maturity. Panax ginseng includes triterpene glycosides, and saponins, known as ginsenosides. Ginsenosides, the saponin glycosides, are thought responsible for Panax ginseng pharmacological activities. There are dozens of ginsenosides (At least 30 ginsenosides have been identified in Panax ginseng). Different ginsenosides appear to have differing effects, and the exact mixture of the ginsenosides in a given ginseng product may play a important role in its efficacy. The root  has higher ginsenoside content. According to Germany Commission E (an official government agency similar to the  FDA), ginseng root contains at least 1.5% ginsenosides, calculated as ginsenoside Rg1.

Panax Ginseng Pharmacological Effects and Benefits

Panax GinsengPanax ginseng is used for  concentration, memory, depression, anxiety, loss of appetite, vomiting, physical stamina, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), fibromyalgia, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), premature ejaculation, and for boosting the immune system. Animal-based and in vitro studies show that Panax ginseng increases phagocytosis, natural killer cell activity, and the production of interferon. Panax ginseng is widely used as a adaptogen for fighting stress. There is some findings that it might work against stress by affecting the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Helps the body modify adrenal and thyroid imbalances and “adapt” to stress.

Adaptogenic

Ginseng is known to be an adaptogen. Adaptogens, that has the ability to bring the body back into a healthy, balanced state. Panax ginseng helps to support the healthy functioning of the hypothalamic pituitary-adrenal axis, which may be helpful for the reduce of fatigue and the effects of stress. Saponin triterpenoid glycosides, provide the adaptogenic activities that enable to balance and counter the effects of stress. These steroid-like ingredients appear to act on the adrenal glands, helping to avoid adrenal hypertrophy and excess corticosteroid production in response to physical, chemical or biological stress. Russian researchers report that ginseng normalizes the level of arterial pressure and is effective in the treatment of both hypotension and hypertension.

In a double-blind study, participants taking a daily combination of a multivitamin-mineral supplement with 40 mg of ginseng extract for 12 weeks reported important improvements in quality of  life measured with a questionnaire compared with a group taking just multivitamin-mineral supplement. A study reported in the “Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness” found that korean ginseng can enhance the body’s capacity to cope with physical and mental stress by eliminating symptoms of fatigue. Commission E has approved Panax ginseng for use as a “tonic for invigoration and strengthening at times of fatigue and debility, for declining capacity for work and concentration, also during convalescence.”

Erectile Dysfunction

The vasodilating activities of panax ginseng have been shown to develop sexual function in men with. The use of panax ginseng encourages the flow of blood to the penis and improves the response of the nervous system thereby improving the quality of erections. In a study of 90 men with erectile dysfunction,60% of the subjects reported development in their symptoms compared with 30 % of those using the placebo. The findings was published in the “International Journal of Impotence Research”. In 1996, the Journal Panminerva Medica reported a study in which infertile men demonstrated improved sperm count and motility after being treated with 4 grams of red ginseng for 3 months. A study reported in November 2002 in The Journal o f Urology indicates that panax ginseng is an effective therapy for erectile dysfunction. As published in Jan 2003 edition of  The Journal of Family Practice, supplement with panax ginseng offers a safe and effective alternative for achieving and maintaining erection, even in severe cases of erectile dysfunction.

Libido

Experiments have shown  results, indicating that Korean ginseng promotes the growth of male reproductive organs, increases sperm and testoterone levels, and enhances sexual activity in lab animals. According to a 1999 “World Health Organization” examination, ginseng saponins are thought to reduce serum prolactin, therefore increasing libido in male impotence. In a study found that 4 g of panax ginseng per day for 3 months led to an development in sperm count and sperm motility.

Mental Performance

This plant stimulates the formation of blood vessel and develops blood circulation in the brains, thus improving memory and cognitive abilities. Several findings have showed that panax ginseng improves mental performance, especially during times of stress. In a study at a hospital in 1982, a group of nurses were given ginseng or placebo for 3 consecutive days before switching to night duty. The ginseng therapy group reported better scores for competence, mood, general well-being and performance on tests for speed and coordination compared to the placebo group. In one study of 112 healthy participants older than 40 years, the application of 400 mg per day of the standardized panax ginseng extract for 8 weeks resulted in better and faster simple reactions and abstract thinking. In a 2006 study reported in the “Journal of  Psychopharmacology“, 27 healthy young participants completed a 10 minute “cognitive demand” test. Use of ginseng demonstrated an enhanced performance.

Brain

The most commonly known ginsenosides Rb1 and Rg1 are known to have an activity on brain functioning. Rg1 is thought to be a slight central nervous system stimulant, hypertensive, anti-fatigue agent, anabolic, and mental acuity and intellectual performance enhancer. Researches done in China demonstrated that ginsenosides enhance protein synthesis and activity of neurotransmitters in the brain. According to a study published in February 2012 in the “Biochimica et Biophysica Acta“; ginseng component Rg1 induces neuroprotection through ameliorating amyloid pathology, modulating APP process, improving cognition, and activating PKA/CREB signaling.

Heart

Experiments have shown that panax ginseng slows the heart rate and reduces the heart’s demand for oxygen. Panax ginseng stimulates optimal blood circulation and supplies the stamina and energy necessary for a body. An intravenous formulation of ginseng seems to enhance ejection fraction in patients with Congestive heart failure (CHF). This plant might improve hemodynamics and might work synergistically with digoxin. Shenmai injection (Panax ginseng, Schizandra fruit, Ophiopogon) may have antiarrhythmic activity. Shengmai San is a widely used formula in modern China, usually given as a prepared liquid  a decoction, or as an intravenous drip. This formula is administered to patients who have suffered a serious disease, particularly heart attack, congestive heart failure, or severe bronchitis, and to treat a sudden drop in blood pressure associated with cardiogenic or septic shock.

Diabetes

Animal-based studies have shown that panax ginseng can facilitate the release of insulin from the pancreas and enhance the number of insulin receptors in the body. There is some findings that taking panax ginseng, 200 mg daily, can lessen fasting blood glucose levels and hemoglobin HbA1c in patients with type 2 diabetes. Ginseng can lessen insulin requirements and prolong the effect of  injected insulin. Patients with type 2 diabetes mostly find that after 2 weeks of taking ginseng tea, their blood-sugar levels go down by between 40 and 50 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). In the “Journal of Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases” (January 2008), it was reported that panax ginseng improves glucose and insulin regulation in well-controlled, type 2 diabetes.

Liver Damage

Panax ginseng is thought to avoid liver damage in people who have been exposed to drugs and toxins. “The Journal of Hazardous Materials” November 2011 edition reported the protective activity of Korean ginseng against serum biochemical changes and apoptosis in liver of rats treated with carbon tetrachloride. This study demonstrated that ginseng therapy may play a protective role by enhancing liver enzyme activities and recovering biochemical parameters, and improving the changes in histological structure against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damages in rats.

Immune System

Panax ginseng acts on the immune system by producing higher activity levels of natural killer cells, increasing total lymphocyte count and raising levels of  T-helper cells. In vitro studies reveal enhanced  natural killer cell activity and increased immune cell phagocytosis after ginsenoside exposure. Korean Red Ginseng contains a polysaccharide called ginsan that stimulates natural killer cell activity, according to a study  reported in the Aug t 2011 edition of the journal Immunology Letters. Researchers have found that a combination of echinacea and ginseng increases the activity of natural killer cells, an substantial immune system component, in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome.

A clinical trial in 60 healthy participants demonstrated enhanced chemotaxis, phagocytosis, increased total lymphocyte count, and increased numbers of  T helper cells in those who received ginseng extract in a dosage of 100 mg twice daily for 8 weeks. A study of 227 healthy participants showed that daily administration of 100 mg standardized Panax ginseng extract, for 12 weeks enhanced the efficacy of polyvalent influenza vaccine. The people who received panax ginseng had a lower incidence of colds and influenza, higher antibody titers, and higher natural killer cell activity levels.

In a study found that steamed then dried panax ginseng had favorable effects in individuals infected with HIV, and increased the effectiveness of the anti-HIV medication, AZT. Cho YK, Lee, Oh and Kim report on a study comparing 5.4 g of panax ginseng daily on 16 HIV+ patients versus 10 people who took no anti-HIV drugs for 3 – 4 years. In the group using this form of  Korean Red Ginseng, the average CD4 count increased from baseline of 301 to 359. In the control group, the baseline CD4 count of 352 decreased  to 156. Researchers concluded that “Korean Red Ginseng has definite long-term immune modulating effect without adverse effects on HIV-infected patients”. A study reported in Aug 2009 in the journal “Clinical and Vaccine Immunology,” indicates that panax ginseng may have favorable effects against HIV when combined with HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy). HIV-1 (Human immunodeciency virus type 1 is a virus that causes AIDS, a condition in which the immune system fails due to the destruction of CD4+ helper T cells macrophages, and dendritic cells. Owing to the introduction of  highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) and the improvement of many anti-retroviral medications the rates of mortality and morbidity related to HIV-1 disease have lessen significantly. But, anti-retroviral drug-resistant mutants are incessantly occurring and limit the availability of effective medications. Korean red ginseng has been shown to exert favorable effects on HAART by maintaining CD4+ T cell counts and delaying the development of resistance mutations in HIV-1 patients treated with HAART.

Anticancer

Panax ginseng reduce the production of tumor necrosis factor, lessen DNA strand breakage, and inhibit the formation of induced skin tumors. Studies on human breast cancer cells indicate that ginseng, particularly its constituent ginsenoside-Rb1, acts as a phytoestrogen. A prospective study investigated non-organ specific cancer prevention of ginseng. A study conducted in South Korea followed 4,587 women and men aged thirty-nine years and older from 1987 to 1991. People who consumed panax ginseng regularly were compared with similar people who did not. It was documented that in that time, those who used ginseng had a 60 % lower incidence of death from cancer, particularly stomach and lung cancer. An epidemiological study analyzed the preventive activity of Panax ginseng on 3,974 patients with various types of cancer compared to case-matched controls for 67 weeks. Patients  taking panax ginseng showed a 50% lower risk of cancer recurrence compared to patients not taking ginseng. Cancer incidence reduced by 36 and 69 % in people taking ginseng for 1 year or 5 years, respectively. A greater protective effect was seen in cancers of the esophagus, pharynx, liver and lung .

Dosage

The general recommended daily dosage of ginseng is 1 g to 2 g of raw herb, or 200 mg daily of an extract standardized to contain 4% to 7% ginsenosides. German Commission E approves a dosage of 1 to 2 grams per day of dried root, or preparations providing the equivalent. The Pharmacopoeia of the People’s Republic of China officially lists 3 to 9 grams as the dosage for ginseng in decoction form. The doses for different problems; Preventing Cold and Flu; 100 mg daily. Immune System; 100 mg twice a day. Memory Enhancing; 400 mg. Type 2 Diabetes: 200 mg daily. Erectile dysfunction; 900 mg three times daily.