A study published in the journal Frontiers in Plant Science shows that chemical compounds in green tea and other plant-based foods can block the activity of a key enzyme in the replication of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Researchers at North Carolina State University (NC State) found that many polyphenols in these foods are able to inhibit the function of “main protease” (Mpro) … Continue reading Green tea compounds block key enzyme that allows coronavirus to replicate – study
Can aloe vera help prevent diabetic nephropathy?
Aloe vera is one of the most well-known and widely grown medicinal plants on the planet. A succulent plant native to North Africa, Southern Europe and the Canary Islands, aloe vera is now also cultivated in tropical countries around the world. Aloe vera’s history of use as medicine can be traced back to the time of … Continue reading Can aloe vera help prevent diabetic nephropathy?
Researchers identify the compounds responsible for Anacardium occidentale’s (cashew) anti-asthma effects
Researchers from Nigeria investigated the bioactive constituents of Anacardium occidentale, also known as cashew, and evaluated its effects on histamine-induced paw edema and bronchoconstriction. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine. The leaves of A. occidentale have long been used for the treatment of inflammation and asthma, but the bioactive components responsible … Continue reading Researchers identify the compounds responsible for Anacardium occidentale’s (cashew) anti-asthma effects
Evaluating the safety and efficacy of Zataria multiflora (Shirazi thyme) as cough medicine
In this review, a researchers from Iran evaluated the potency of Zataria multiflora, also known as Shirazi thyme, as an alternative medicine for the management of acute cough. This article appeared in the Journal of Integrative Medicine. Cough is a defensive reflux mechanism that facilitates the removal of foreign objects and secretions from the bronchi and bronchioles.Z. … Continue reading Evaluating the safety and efficacy of Zataria multiflora (Shirazi thyme) as cough medicine
Exploring the beneficial effects of Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng on metabolic parameters
In this study, researchers at the University of Marilia in Brazil evaluated the effects of Rhodiola rosea (rose root) and Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) on metabolic profile and muscle damage parameters. Their findings were published in the Journal of Medicinal Food. Adaptogen-based formulations have been used not only in traditional medicine but also in medical practice to increase the resistance of individuals.R. … Continue reading Exploring the beneficial effects of Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng on metabolic parameters
How can TCM help with mild cognitive impairment?
In this article, researchers from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Australia evaluated clinical evidence for various Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) used to treat mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Their review was published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. It is estimated that MCI affects six to 12 percent of the population. Early treatment, however, … Continue reading How can TCM help with mild cognitive impairment?
Extracts from garlic, white onion and purple onion exert inhibitory effects against enzymes linked to diabetes and hypertension
Researchers at the Federal University of Technology in Nigeria evaluated the effects of the aqueous extract of garlic, white onion and purple onion on the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a-amylase and a-glucosidase in vitro. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements. Spices are used in cooking and serve as ingredients in several traditional … Continue reading Extracts from garlic, white onion and purple onion exert inhibitory effects against enzymes linked to diabetes and hypertension
Medicinal plants: Potent antiviral herbs to add to your diet
Congestion, fever and sore throat are all symptoms that could point to a viral infection. Fortunately, there are many potent herbs that have been used since ancient times to prevent a viral infection or reduce its severity. These herbs’ antiviral properties can be attributed to the numerous potent compounds they contain. These phytochemicals not only help fight harmful viruses, … Continue reading Medicinal plants: Potent antiviral herbs to add to your diet
CBD, turmeric and willow: 3 Natural and effective painkillers
Painkillers are succor to people experiencing acute pain. Unfortunately, pharmaceutical painkillers cause a lot of adverse side effects that can make you feel even worse. These medications can give you constipation and nausea, and some even lead to long-term side effects, like drug addiction and kidney damage. Fortunately, natural painkillers exist that can help soothe different kinds of pain. … Continue reading CBD, turmeric and willow: 3 Natural and effective painkillers
Exploring the appetite-enhancing effects of nutmeg oil
In this study, researchers from Kyoto University investigated the appetite-enhancing and locomotor-reducing effects of Myristica fragrans (nutmeg) oil and its active components. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Natural Medicines. M. fragrans is widely used to enhance the flavor of sweet and savory foods.In Asian countries, it also has a history of use as an … Continue reading Exploring the appetite-enhancing effects of nutmeg oil
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 