Aloe rabaiensis is a succulent and dense shrub related to aloe vera. It is native to east tropical Africa, particularly southern Somalia, Kenya and northern Tanzania. Grown as an ornamental, A. rabaiensis is highly sought-after by succulent collectors and also produces a gel that’s rich in polysaccharides and lectins. And like its more famous cousin, the leaves, roots … Continue reading Researchers look at aloe rabaiensis – a lesser-known but equally medicinal aloe species
Study: Ashwagandha extract can be used to improve sleep quality and relieve stress
Finding it hard to fall asleep? Ashwagandha root may be for you. Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera or Indian ginseng, is a medicinal herb native to India and North Africa. It has been used for over 3,000 years to relieve stress, as well as to increase energy levels and improve concentration. A recent study published in the journal Cureus suggests it … Continue reading Study: Ashwagandha extract can be used to improve sleep quality and relieve stress
Researchers evaluate the antidiabetic activity of Mentha arvensis (wild mint)
In this study, Indian researchers investigated the ability of Mentha arvensis (wild mint) to inhibit postprandial hyperglycemia. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. Interest in the use of alternative medicines to control diabetes, oxidative stress and related disorders has increased in recent years.One promising therapeutic approach is to … Continue reading Researchers evaluate the antidiabetic activity of Mentha arvensis (wild mint)
Evaluating the cytotoxicity of plant-derived phenolic compounds toward human carcinoma cells
In this study, researchers from Kenya, Cameroon and Turkey evaluated the cytotoxicity of 11 naturally occurring compounds on human carcinoma cell lines and normal fibroblasts. Their findings were published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine. Cancer is a major health issue worldwide, and its treatment mainly relies on chemotherapy.In search of natural anti-cancer agents, … Continue reading Evaluating the cytotoxicity of plant-derived phenolic compounds toward human carcinoma cells
Study: Battling cancer and preventing cancer recurrence with cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables may hold the key to stopping the progression and recurrence of cancer. Researchers at South Dakota State University (SDState) reported that a compound from cruciferous vegetables called phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) can halt tumor formation and metastasis in mice bearing transplanted cancer stem cells (CSCs). PEITC can also stop the proliferation of cultured CSCs, which are heavily implicated in tumor … Continue reading Study: Battling cancer and preventing cancer recurrence with cruciferous vegetables
Protect your liver from drug-induced toxins with creeping marshweed herb
The liver plays a central role in all metabolic processes occurring inside the body. It is also responsible for metabolizing a number of xenobiotics, or synthetic chemicals. Because of its functions, the liver is more exposed to toxic chemical substances — particularly modern medications — than any organ in the body. Hepatoxicity, or liver damage caused by … Continue reading Protect your liver from drug-induced toxins with creeping marshweed herb
Exploring the inhibitory activity of Tinospora cordifolia (heart-leaved moonseed) against diabetes symptoms
Researchers at Osmania University in India investigated anti-diabetic efficiency of the leaf extract of Tinospora cordifolia (heart-leaved moonseed), a plant used in Ayurveda and traditional folk medicine. They reported their findings in an article published in the International Journal of Green Pharmacy. Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that affects many people around the world, according to the World Health Organization.Because … Continue reading Exploring the inhibitory activity of Tinospora cordifolia (heart-leaved moonseed) against diabetes symptoms
Warts: Causes and 10 natural remedies
Warts are noncancerous, rough bumps that form on the skin. In most cases, a pathogen known as the human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for warts, which it causes when it enters a cut or break on the skin. Most warts are harmless and will disappear on their own after a certain period. However, some people might choose to remove … Continue reading Warts: Causes and 10 natural remedies
Turmeric may be the key to preventing diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria
British and German researchers may have found the key to defeating antibiotic-resistant bacteria and preventing the diseases they cause. In their study, which appeared in the journal ACS Applied Bio Materials, the researchers said that their newly developed tiny capsules loaded with curcumin — the active compound in turmeric — can treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant strains of Helicobacter pylori. … Continue reading Turmeric may be the key to preventing diseases caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria
Researchers identify compound in bitter melon that can lower blood sugar effectively
Momordica charantia, or bitter melon, is a tropical vine whose fruit is commonly used in Asian cuisine. Despite its strong, bitter taste, many people still choose to eat this unusual vegetable because of its many health benefits. One of the best-known properties of bitter melon is its ability to lower blood sugar levels. This has been demonstrated in numerous studies and … Continue reading Researchers identify compound in bitter melon that can lower blood sugar effectively
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 