Silymarin, the active ingredient in milk thistle (Silybum marianum), is a flavonoid commonly used to treat liver disorders. But a recent study suggests that silymarin can also be used to reduce the harmful side effects of chemotherapy. In a recent study, researchers from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences (MUMS) in Iran found that topical application of silymarin can reduce the … Continue reading Silymarin from milk thistle can prevent hand-foot syndrome, a common side effect of chemotherapy, reports study
Hepatoprotective activity of Limnophila repens (creeping marshweed) protects against paracetamol-induced toxicity
Researchers from India assessed the hepatoprotective activity of Limnophila repens (creeping marshweed) against paracetamol. They reported their findings in a study published in the International Journal of Green Pharmacy. The liver plays a central role in all metabolic processes inside the body. It is responsible for metabolizing a number of xenobiotics.Because of its function, the liver is … Continue reading Hepatoprotective activity of Limnophila repens (creeping marshweed) protects against paracetamol-induced toxicity
Analysis of broccoli florets reveals what phytochemicals are present in young and mature broccoli
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) is a cruciferous vegetable closely related to Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and kale. A rich source of essential vitamins and minerals, broccoli is also known for its abundance of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and prevent chronic disease. But the most notable compounds present in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables are the sulfur-containing … Continue reading Analysis of broccoli florets reveals what phytochemicals are present in young and mature broccoli
The therapeutic effects of ginseng against Alzheimer’s disease
Panax ginseng, commonly known as Asian ginseng or Korean ginseng, is one of the most widely used and extensively studied species of ginseng. Sometimes referred to as the “true ginseng,” Asian ginseng has been a staple herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and is still used today to boost immunity, increase strength and blood volume, lower blood … Continue reading The therapeutic effects of ginseng against Alzheimer’s disease
Add antiviral to the list of benefits aloe vera can provide
Aloe vera is a popular plant with many uses. A common ingredient in modern cosmetic products, aloe vera is well-known for its many skin benefits. But this versatile plant, whose leaves and gel also have culinary uses, has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. While the Ancient Greeks considered it a universal panacea, the Ancient Egyptians … Continue reading Add antiviral to the list of benefits aloe vera can provide
Common herbal plants like holy basil leaf and sesame seed have therapeutic effects against inflammation
Inflammation has been linked by many studies to the development of chronic diseases. Under normal circumstances, inflammation facilitates the elimination of pathogens and promotes tissue repair and recovery. But depending on the severity of this immune response and whether it is local or systemic, inflammation can trigger metabolic and neuroendocrine changes. These changes enable the body … Continue reading Common herbal plants like holy basil leaf and sesame seed have therapeutic effects against inflammation
Hottentot fig, a medicinal plant from South Africa, can treat common ailments without causing blood toxicity
Hottentot fig, scientifically known as Carpobrotus edulis, is an edible ground cover plant native to South Africa. Cultivated as an ornamental and a soil-stabilizing plant, Hottentot fig is also harvested from the wild for its edible fruit and medicinal uses. In fact, this flowering plant is one of the most common plants used in traditional medicine … Continue reading Hottentot fig, a medicinal plant from South Africa, can treat common ailments without causing blood toxicity
Capsaicin from chili peppers reduces liver and abdominal fat and protects against oxidative damage
Capsaicin is an active compound found in different types of hot peppers. It is responsible for their spiciness, as well as for the health benefits associated with them. One of the most notable things capsaicin is known for is its ability to relieve pain. Several studies have shown that capsaicin can decrease the intensity of pain … Continue reading Capsaicin from chili peppers reduces liver and abdominal fat and protects against oxidative damage
Components of aloe vera extracts show antiviral activity against influenza A
Researchers at the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine investigated the antiviral activities of the bioactive components of Aloe vera. They reported their findings in an article published in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine. Previous studies have found that the ethanolic extract of Aloe vera (AVE) has significant anti-influenza activity, but the mechanisms underlying this activity and the constituents responsible for … Continue reading Components of aloe vera extracts show antiviral activity against influenza A
Scientists explore the effects of certain phenolic compounds on sirtuins and hepatic inflammation
Resveratrol is a powerful natural compound that’s known for its heart benefits. Found abundantly in the skins and seeds of grapes, peanuts, cocoa and berries, resveratrol has cardioprotective, antiviral, neuroprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to studies. Piceatannol is a natural derivative of resveratrol that’s also found in fruits and vegetables. Reports suggest that piceatannol has anti-cancer … Continue reading Scientists explore the effects of certain phenolic compounds on sirtuins and hepatic inflammation
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 