Guava: Nature's Power House Of Nutrients

Guava is a common fruit found in most tropical and temperate regions of the world. The health benefits of guava include the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, cough, cold, skin care, high blood pressure, weight loss and scurvy. Many of you may have tasted this mouth-watering treat, or have at least seen or heard about it. Guava is very common in Asian countries, but is increasingly available in the western world, particularly as more of its health benefits are revealed. It is a somewhat round or pear-shaped seasonal fruit, and is light green, yellow, or maroon in color on the outside when it is ripe.

 This popular fruit is a powerhouse of nutrients. If the traditional adage says that “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” in Europe and Americas, the phrase is probably changed to “A few guavas in the season keeps the doctor away for the whole year” in Asia and places where guavas typically grow. Its scientific name is Psidium Guajava. What makes guava special is that protecting the fruit does not require excessive use of chemical pesticides as in the case of grapes, apple, and other so-called “exotic” fruits. It is one of the least chemically treated and sprayed fruits.

 Guava is very helpful for those who want to lose weight without compromising their intake of proteins, vitamins and fiber. Guava is very high in roughage and rich in vitamins, proteins and minerals, but it has no cholesterol and a low number of digestible carbohydrates. It is a very filling snack and satisfies the appetite very easily. Guava, especially raw guava, also has far less sugar as compared to apples, oranges, grapes, and other fruit.

 In a related benefit to blood pressure, an intake of guava can also help those patients who suffer from diabetes. The high level of dietary fiber in guava helps to regulate the absorption of sugar by the body, which decreases the chances of major spikes and drops in insulin and glucose in the body. Studies have shown that consuming guava can help prevent the appearance of type-2 diabetes.

 Guavas are extremely good sources of vitamin-A, which is well known as a booster for vision health. It can help slow down the appearance of cataracts, macular degeneration, and general health of the eyes. It can not only prevent degradation of eyesight, but even an improvement in eyesight once it has begun to degrade.  One of the most celebrated and important benefits of adding guava to your diet are its abilities to inhibit the growth and metastasis of cancerous cells.

 There have been numerous studies done in recent years on guava’s effects primarily on prostate cancer, breast cancer, and oral cancers. Guava leaf oil is extremely successful as an anti-proliferative substance, and has actually been shown to be more effective than some leading modern medicines in reducing cancerous growth. Guavas are also rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to be wildly successful in reducing prostate cancer risk. That same antioxidant has also shown to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells, although further human trials need to be done.

 Guava can outdo many other fruits, including orange and other citrus fruits, in terms of its concentration of vitamin-C. A  deficiency of vitamin-C can cause scurvy, and proper intake of vitamin-C is the only known remedy for that dangerous disease. In fact, guavas contain 5X more vitamin-C than oranges, which are often heralded as the absolute best source of that beneficial vitamin.

 Guava is very rich in astringents (compounds that make your gums feel tighter and fresher).  After you chew guava leaves, eat a raw guava, or use some guava-based toothpaste), your mouth feels healthier, and the astringent qualities also add substance to loose bowels and reduce symptoms of diarrhea. These astringents are alkaline in nature and have disinfectant and anti-bacterial properties, thus helping to cure dysentery by inhibiting microbial growth and removing extra mucus from the intestines.

 Guavas are a good source for copper, which is an important part of regulating thyroid metabolism by helping to control hormone production and absorption. The thyroid gland is one of the most important glands in the body for regulating hormones and organ system function, so guava can help balance your health in many ways. Guava is one of the richest sources of dietary fiber in terms of fruit. Its seeds, if ingested whole or chewed, serve as excellent laxatives.

 Juice of raw and immature guavas or a decoction of guava-leaves is very helpful in relieving coughs and colds by  reducing mucus, disinfecting the respiratory tract, throat and lungs, and inhibiting microbial activity with its astringent properties. Guava has one of the highest quantities of vitamin-C and iron among fruits, and both are proven to be preventive against colds and viral infections. In some areas of India, roasted ripe guava is used as a remedy against extreme cases of cough, cold, and congestion. Ripe guava should be avoided by people who are suffering from cough and cold, as it can exacerbate the problem. One should also avoid drinking water immedaitely after eating guava as it can lead to a sore throat. 

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Important Things To Know About Your Liver

Your liver is your go-to guy (or gal) for keeping you well. It actually performs over 400 functions in your body.  It sifts through every single thing that comes into your body and uses what it can and gets rid of what it can’t, so it’s important to keep things coming in that your body can use rather than things it has to filter out because it recognizes them as harmful invaders.

 Listen, no matter what those health claims around red wine may say, all booze is bad news for your little liver. It doesn’t like any of it, even the kind that’s packed with more antioxidants than the rest. Alcohol is a toxin in any form and your liver will use a large amount of energy trying to get rid of the alcohol so it can purify your blood. During this process, it can use up a good bit of metabolic energy, which often leads to weight gain, sluggishness, fatigue, and yes, sleepiness. 

 Your liver likes to be clean much like you do and what’s better than keeping it clean with fresh, alkalizing water? Water contains natural minerals when it comes from a healthy source (not from chlorinated tap waters). So use spring or well water when you can, or check with your city’s water to see if it’s environmentally safe (some areas are better than others). Also, use a water filtration system that removes the carbon and chlorine particles where possible. 

 Add a squeeze of lemon to your water to add even more alkalizing and cleansing properties. Lemon and all citrus fruits contain Vitamin C and minerals that boost bodily functions and enhance the cleansing process, sweeping out wastes. Flushing your liver is like giving your body a good pre-wash so your blood stays at optimal pH levels. Aim for as many glasses a day as you can or drink caffeine-free herbal tea as a second option.

 You needn’t count your calories to care for your liver but you do need to eat high-quality foods. This means eating organic, fresh foods whenever possible such as leafy greens packed with  magnesium, chlorophyll, Vitamins A and C, along with fresh vegetables and fresh fruits when possible. Buying organic is important, but is especially important for your liver since pesticides, herbicides and fungicides toxify the liver and can even cause cancer.

 Organic foods provide pure nutrients for your liver to cleanse and rebuild the blood to provide you with more energy and a healthy body. Organic fruits and vegetables also contain higher amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and sulfur, which all boost liver detoxification and cleansing. Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, collards, apples, onions, garlic, and squash are all great choices. 

 Your liver is responsible for producing bile that breaks down fats, so one area of your diet you want to be sure you don’t forget about is the type of fats you eat. Eating healthy fats like almonds, coconut, walnuts, hemp, chia, and flax, along with pumpkin and sunflower seeds, olives, and avocado are all the best sources of fat for your diet. Avoid animal fats that lead to artery-clogging inflammation and avoid vegetable oils (like corn and soy) at all costs.

 It’s also important to choose your supplements selectively. Don’t just swallow a pill that promises good health. High-quality B vitamins (choose a plant-based brand) and selenium are important since they help metabolize substances in the body that help keep your liver healthy. Herbs such as milk thistle and artichoke leaf also help cleanse the liver. You can purchase a whole foods, plant-base multivitamin, B supplement, or buy a specialized liver support formula. While not 100 percent necessary, certain B vitamins and herbs like those mentioned here have been found to support the liver outside a healthy diet.

 Your liver has two stages of detoxification, known as Phase 1 and Phase 2. All five of these tips will aid in both steps of detoxification without you feeling sick and like someone stole the life out of you in the process. There’s no need to go on crazy cleanses. Take care of your body with a whole foods, no junk, and booze-free vegan diet, and be sure you exercise and get some fresh sunlight whenever you can. 

 "The liver is an organ you could easily trash if you don't take good care of it," says Rohit Satoskar, MD, of the MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute. "And once you trash it, it's gone." The liver has several important things to do. It helps clean your blood by getting rid of harmful chemicals that your body makes. It makes a liquid called bile, which helps you break down fat from food. And it also stores sugar called glucose, which gives you a quick energy boost when you need it. 

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The Abundant Natural Benefits Of Grapes

From red, green and purple grapes to seedless grapes, grape jelly, grape jam and grape juice. And don't forget wine and raisins! This popular fruit's history goes back as far as 8,000 years, when grape vines were first cultivated in what is now the Middle East. It may surprise you to hear that the humble grape is actually considered to be a berry. Seventy-two million tons of these berries are grown each year worldwide, with most of them being used to produce wine - 7.2 trillion gallons of wine per year, to be exact.

 The portability, texture, flavor and variety of grapes have made them a popular finger food in countries all over the world. The potential health benefits of consuming grapes are numerous, with past studies associating them with prevention of cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and constipation. Though not as sweet tasting to the buds as their relatives - oranges and tangerines - grapes are consumed by most people in the world chiefly for their health benefits. 

 Grapes contain powerful antioxidants known as polyphenols, which may slow or prevent many types of cancer, including esophageal, lung, mouth, pharynx, endometrial, pancreatic, prostate and colon. The resveratrol found in red wine famous for heart health is a type of polyphenol found in the skins of red grapes.

 The flavonoid quercetin is a natural anti-inflammatory that appears to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and protect against the damage caused by low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in animal studies. Quercetin may have the additional bonus of anti-cancer effects; however more studies are needed using human subjects before these results can be confirmed. The high polyphenol content in grapes may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) by preventing platelet build-up and reducing blood pressure via anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

 The fiber and potassium in grapes also support heart health. An increase in potassium intake along with a decrease in sodium intake is the most important dietary change that a person can make to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease, according to Mark Houston, MD, MS, an associate clinical professor of medicine at Vanderbilt Medical School and director of the Hypertension Institute at St Thomas Hospital in Tennessee. In one study, those who consumed 4069 mg of potassium per day had a 49% lower risk of death from ischemic heart disease compared with those who consumed less potassium (about 1000 mg per day).

 Potassium has many benefits for the body. It may be that a low potassium intake is just as big of a risk factor in developing high blood pressure as a high sodium intake. Because of their high potassium content, grapes are recommended to those with high blood pressure to help negate the effects of sodium in the body. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, fewer than 2% of US adults meet the daily 4700 mg recommendation for potassium.

 Eating foods that are high in water content like grapes, watermelon and cantaloupe can help to keep you hydrated and your bowel movements regular. Grapes also contain fiber, which is essential for minimizing constipation. Because of the anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin, consuming grapes may help to alleviate symptoms of allergies including runny nose, watery eyes and hives. There have been no human studies done to prove this theory. 

 A few studies have shown promise that resveratrol can protect against diabetic neuropathy and retinopathy, conditions caused by poorly controlled diabetes where vision is severely affected. One study in which diabetic rats were treated with resveratrol for two weeks found that it reduced the effects of neural changes and damage associated with diabetic neuropathy.

 The average serving size for grapes is about one cup, or 32 grapes. As a useful measure, you can use the size of your fist to estimate the proper portion size for grapes. One cup of red or green grapes contains 104 calories, 1.09 grams of protein, 0.24 grams of fat, 1.4 grams of fiber, 4.8 milligrams of vitamin C, 10 micrograms of vitamin A, 288 milligrams of potassium, 0.54 milligrams of iron and 3 micrograms of folate.

  Grapes are high in water content and good for hydration. High water-content fruits and vegetables are nutrient dense, meaning they provide a large amount of essential nutrients while containing few calories. Grapes contain 70 mgs of fluid per cup. Grapes are high in antioxidants important for eye health such as lutein and zeaxanthin, and red grapes contain the phytochemical resveratrol in their skins, the antioxidant synonymous with wine known to lend protection from several chronic diseases and conditions. 

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What Are The Natural Ways Of Caring For The Heart?

cardiovascular system can be a gentle, effective method of preventing heart problems and maintaining good health throughout a lifetime. But for those who already have heart conditions, herbs can be an excellent alternative, or (in more serious cases) an addition to drug therapy. The key to using herbs for the cardiovascular system is to choose wisely, with purpose. Although choosing the wrong herb for a cold or a viral bug may not cause any problems, choosing the wrong herbs for the cardiovascular system may leave a person without the protection they had counted on.

 Many people have diets that are lacking in basic nutrients needed for good heart health. Of all the essential minerals for the cardiovascular system, perhaps the most important is magnesium. Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant, and a critical component in keeping the heart pumping normally. Magnesium is found in dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and soy. If you choose magnesium supplements, they should be the type that are easily absorbed, or else they will be of little benefit.

 Carotenoids are another important nutrient for good heart health. Carotenoids are bioflavonoid compounds that give vegetables their red, orange or yellow colors. Carotenoids not only have a very strong antioxidant effect, they also protect the arteries against artherosclerosis. In addition, they help to maintain a healthy flow of blood. In nature, you will find lutien, beta-carotene, lycopene and a whole range of carotenoids. 

 Mild to moderate heart failure will usually respond positively to the use of herbs. The herb that is most effective for this is hawthorn, since it is mild acting but effective, and strengthens the heart. It does not have the strong effect of digitalis drugs, nor does it have the side effects. In most cases, drugs containing digitaloids are not used in cases of arrhythmias. Hawthorn can be used in cases of heart failure, since it doesn’t have any negative effects on arrhythmias, and actually helps to prevent them. 

  In addition, reishi, which like hawthorn has cardio-protective activity, improves blood flow to the heart, and eases pain from angina. Astragalus, generally thought to be an immune herb, is used extensively in Chinese medicine for increasing cardiac output. In addition, it also reduces angina. One of the herbs that is always used for clogged arteries is garlic, which besides reducing cholesterol, has a very strong protective effect on the heart and circulatory system.

 Cardiac arrhythmia is a serious health concern where there is an irregular heartbeat, which can lead to heart attack. Hawthorn, CoQ10 and magnesium can all be used to normalize irregular heartbeat. Angelica Archangelica contains at least 14 different anti-arrhythmic compounds, one of which is said to be as active as Verapamil, a popular calcium channel blocker. Garlic is another potent anti-arrhythmic agent.

 It is important to remember that the roots causes of heart disease, generally speaking, are poor nutrition, “bad” dietary fat, stress, sugar and toxins. First of all, never eat fat derived from margarine, avoid products with palm oil and use coconut oil moderately.  Sesame seed, sunflower and flax oil are all preferable. Of course, do not overheat oils when cooking; never fry olive oil and other “low heat” oils.

 To reverse an existing condition, liberally use anti-inflammatory herbs in your diet such as turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, rosemary, parsley, cloves and oregano. Cooking with garlic is also beneficial for most heart conditions if it is suitable for your body-type and does not aggravate your intestines.  Eating raw garlic is much healthier for you than dried varieties so juicing with garlic can be very effective. Spice up your life with herbs, roots, and plants that benefit your health as much as they do your taste buds.

 Daily, drink herbal teas with hawthorn berries and hawthorn leaf to further prevent cardiovascular plaque from building and keep circulation strong. The ideal heart formula tea contains: organic Hawthorn leaf and flower, organic Lemon Balm, organic Rosehips, organic Dandelion leaf, organic Ginkgo, organic Oatstraw, organic Bilberry fruit, organic Hawthorn berries, organic Ginger, organic Lemon peel, organic Motherwort, and organic Meadowsweet flower.

 The first treatment for heart disease involves an extended period of rest or reduced activity, both physical and mental. Strain and worry should be set aside and a vacation is often recommended. The best method to calm the mind and relax the nerves is daily meditation. This involves, sitting still in a quite place, breathing deeply for 2- 5 minutes and then stilling the mind by focusing on an object, a phrase or even music for 10-15 minutes per day.  After daily practice, the mind will settle, the nerves will become more calm and blood pressure will gradually reduce. 

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Is Folic Acid Really Good For Pregnant Women?

    

Pregnant women are urged to take vitamin supplements with folic acid to prevent birth defects, but research out Wednesday suggests that too much may raise the risk of autism.

The findings were presented at a conference in Baltimore, Maryland, and have not yet been published or peer-reviewed, so researchers at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health called for caution in interpreting their results.

“This could be the case of too much of a good thing,” said lead author Ramkripa Raghavan, a researcher at the school.

“We tell women to be sure to get folate early in pregnancy. What we need to figure out now is whether there should be additional recommendations about just what an optimal dose is throughout pregnancy.”

 

Folate is a B vitamin that is naturally present in fruits and vegetables. A synthetic version, folic acid, is commonly used to fortify cereals, breads and is contained in vitamin supplements.

When pregnant women do not get enough folate, their babies face a higher risk of brain and spinal cord defects.

– Twice the risk –

The study tracked 1,391 mothers and their children from the Boston Birth Cohort, a predominantly low-income minority population.

The mothers’ blood folate was checked once only, and that measurement was taken within the first one to three days of delivery.

Mothers with very high folate right after giving birth faced twice the risk that the child would develop an autism spectrum disorder.

Women with high vitamin B12 levels saw triple the risk of autism in their offspring.

 

If both levels were extremely high, the risk that a child would develop the disorder increased 17.6 times, according to the research presented at the International Meeting for Autism Research in Baltimore.

Most of the mothers reported taking prenatal vitamin supplements.

Very few — one in 10 — had what researchers consider an excessive amount of folate in their blood, or more than 59 nanomoles per liter.

Six percent had an excess amount of vitamin B12 (more than 600 picomoles per liter).

 

The World Health Organization says the adequate amount of folate for a woman in her first trimester of pregnancy is between 13.5 and 45.3 nanomoles. Ideal vitamin B12 levels are not well established.

– Calls for caution –
Outside experts cautioned that the study measured folate at birth, while the crucial window for supplementation to prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida is in the first weeks and months of pregnancy.

“This research does not suggest any harmful effects of recommended folate supplements taken in early pregnancy which are beneficial,” said Andrew Shennan, a professor of obstetrics at King’s College London.

“Women should continue to take these,” added Shennan, who was not involved in the study.

James Cusack, research director of Autistica, agreed.

 

“Although this finding is striking, it is vital to remember that this research is at a very early stage. In fact, this information has simply come from a single poster at a conference,” Cusack said.

“It is far too early to say whether this finding is correct and so families should not be overly concerned.”

Craig Newschaffer, professor at the Drexel University School of Public Health, said the research calls for a better understanding of the role of folate throughout pregnancy.

“The role of folic acid supplementation in neurodevelopment may be quite complex,” he said.

 

About one in four women in the United States do not get enough folate in pregnancy, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects as many as one in 68 children in the United States.

Its causes remain poorly understood, but researchers say it is likely a result of some combination of genetic and environmental factors.

In Nigeria, Autism is prevalent even though it is still not properly understood in some quarters, especially in rural communities where it is attributed to the manipulation of evil forces.

 

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Why Plantain Has More Nutritional Values Than Banana

Plantain, also known as plátanos, are closely related cultivars of fruit or dessert banana. In general, they are treated as vegetables in the kitchen much like fellow tropical produces such as potatoes, taro, breadfruit, yam, sweet potatoes, etc. Indeed, plátano are one of the staple sources of carbohydrates for larger populations. Plantain is so rich that it is consumed in almost every part of the world.

 Plantain is quite different from dessert banana, being taller and larger and more drought tolerant. It is a perennial herbaceous plant that develops from the underground rhizome. Like bananas, it too flourishes well under tropical moisture-rich, humid low-lying farmlands. At maturity, the rhizome gives rise to flower (inflorescence) that is carried up along its smooth, elongated, un-branched stem, piercing through the center of pseudo-stem, finally emerging out at the top in between its leafy clusters.

 Plantain relatively has more calories weight for weight than that in the table bananas. 100 g plantain holds about 122 calories, while dessert banana has only 89 calories. Indeed, they are very reliable sources of starch and energy; ensuring food security for millions of inhabitants worldwide. It contains 2.3 g of dietary fiber per 100 g (6% of DRA per 100 g). Adequate amount of dietary-fiber in the food helps normal bowel movements, thereby reducing constipation problems.

 Fresh plátanos have more vitamin C than bananas. 100 g provide 18.4 mg or 31% of daily required levels of this vitamin. Consumption of foods rich in vitamin-C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful oxygen-free radicals. However, boiling and cooking destroys much of this vitamin in plantains. Plantains carry more vitamin A than bananas. 100 g fresh ripe plantains contain 1127 IU or 37.5% of daily required levels of this vitamin.

 As in bananas, they too are rich sources of B-complex vitamins, particularly high in vitamin-B6 (pyridoxine). Pyridoxine is an important B-complex vitamin that has a beneficial role in the treatment of neuritis, anemia, and to decrease homocystine (one of the causative factors for coronary artery disease (CHD) and stroke episodes) levels in the body. In addition, the fruit contains moderate levels of folates, niacin, riboflavin and thiamin.

 They also provide adequate levels of minerals such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorous. Magnesium is essential for bone strengthening and has a cardiac-protective role as well. Fresh plantains have more potassium than bananas. 100 g fruit provides 499 mg of potassium (358 mg per 100 g for bananas). Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure, countering negative effects of sodium.

 At maturity, plantains are generally harvested unripe and right away carried to the market for sale. Look for firm, mature, deep green, well-formed plantains that feel heavy in hand. Do not buy overripe, damaged, split fruits, as they stay poor. Once at home, store them open at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. Once ripen, plantains too, like bananas, are very fragile and show signs of decay in short time span.

 Plantains are inedible raw and should be eaten only after cooked. To prepare, just wash the raw fruit in cold water and mop dry using paper cloth. Using a paring knife, trim either ends. Then, cut the fruit into short lengths, split the skin superficially along the ridge and peel the skin gently away from the flesh to get firm flesh inside. Oftentimes, the whole fruit may be barbequed with its skin. Otherwise, its peeled flesh may be cut into thin slices, grated, chunks treated much like potatoes in many traditional African and West-Indian cuisine.

 Plantains make delicious savory recipes, used in place of potatoes in grills, mashed, bake, or fries. In South-Indian Kerala state, plantain chips (vaazhakka upperi) seasoned with salt and pepper, is a popular snack. Tostones (plátano, fried twice), prepared in a similar way are again a popular snacks in the Caribbean and Latin Americas. Its flower head (inflorescence) and interior icicle-white, tender stem (vazhai thandu in Malayalam) too are eaten in various kinds of recipes in South-Asian regions.

 Sopa de plátano is a popular Caribbean soup preparation that used green platanos, garlic, cilantro, and cheese. Mashed plantain served with fried onions is a national breakfast dish of Dominican Republic. Mashed platanos are served with rice, eggs, beans, poultry, fish, etc., in these regions. In some African communities, plantain is pounded into a form in which it is eaten with stews or soups such as egusi soup or okro soup.

  

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Mixing ""Agbo"" With HIV Medications Could Be Counter Productive - New Study

Herbal medicine permeates all of Africa, but agbo, a Yoruba word that describes a concoction of plant parts – bark, root, trunk, leaves – steeped or boiled in alcohol or water is shifting from its Yoruba origins.  And like plants, it is everywhere.

 

Agbo is natural; there is no doubt about it. And no matter the quantity of medicines, many people still never feel better until they “crown it” with herbal medicine, and that’s mostly for typhoid or malaria. But, taking a combination of HIV medications with agbo that contains scent leaves (efirin) for malaria, typhoid fever, pile or other infections is best avoided.

 

Experts, in a new study, suggest that combining agbo prepared with such plants like bitter leaves (ewuro), scent leaves (efirin) with zidovudine, lamivudine and nevirapine (ZLN), a combination of highly active antiretroviral therapy used in the treatment of HIV, will lower the effectiveness of these ARV medications.

 

Many people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) use traditional medicines to supplement dietary intake of nutrients, to boost energy levels, to alleviate side effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART), to cure opportunistic infections like malaria and to boost immune response.

 

The study had validated common plants used in the management of HIV infection and assessed plasma concentration of zidovudine, lamivudine and nevirapine (ZLN) in patients concurrently using antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) and scent leaf extract.

 

Zidovudine, lamivudine and nevirapine come as a combined fixed-oral antiretroviral drug to reduce HIV-associated morbidity, prolong survival and prevent HIV transmission.

 

This study included 60 herbalists from five different communities and 300 HIV/AIDS patients attending highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) clinic at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) Ilorin to obtain information on types of herbs used in the management of HIV/AIDS between September 2016 and February 2017.

 

A total of 23 plants were validated for use in the management of HIV infection by the herbalists and HIV-infected persons. Common plant parts used for the concoction were leaves (33.4 per cent barks (26.7 per cent), roots (16.7 per cent), and seeds (13.3 per cent). Scent leaf had the highest familiarity index of 43 per cent.

 

These plants included garlic, cheese wood (ahun in Yoruba), Calotropis procera (Bomubomu in Yoruba), bitter leaf, Moraceae Ficus (Epin in Yoruba or sand paper), Laganaria breviflorus (Itagiri in Yoruba), Jatropha curcas (Lapalapa in Yoruba), castor oil plant, Aframomum melegueta (Atare in Yoruba), Moringa oleifera (Ewele in Yoruba), clove, lime, scent leaf, onion, African mahogany and neem leaf.

 

Twenty patients were divided into two groups of 10. Group A was on fixed-dose of ZLN only twice daily for 28 days, while group B was on ZLN with three teaspoonfuls of scent leaf preparation twice daily for 28 days concurrently.

 

None of the patients took any other drug for at least two weeks before the commencement of the study and no other drug was allowed during the study period. They were also monitored to ensure adherence to the study protocol. The level of the ZLN in their blood samples in both groups was later assessed.

 

There was a reduction in the blood concentration of nevirapine in individuals that concurrently used scent leaf extract and ARV as against those that used ARVs alone, suggesting that individuals on the simultaneous use of these medications may experience ARVs drug treatment failure.

 

The 2020 study published in the University of Ilorin Centrepoint Journal (Science Edition), involved Anoka A. Njan, Olalekan Ahmed Yusuf, Azeezat Oyediran-Ahmad, Özlem Nazan Erdoğan, Mathew Ofigbele and Solomon O. Olaoye.

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Using Ginger To Help Pregnant Women With Gestational Diabetes

GESTATIONAL diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common complications of pregnancy.  Although diet therapy, lifestyle change and physical activity are some of its treatments, many pregnant women cannot change their style easily. On the other hand, diabetic drugs are not routinely used yet.

 

Now, experts say that ginger can be useful in lowering the glucose of women with gestational diabetes mellitus. They found that treatment with ginger for six weeks could improve glucose status in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and prevent its consequences in pregnancy and suggested that because of the safety of this herbal medicine it can be part of treatments in future

 

The experts had studied the effect of ginger on blood glucose and insulin resistance in 70 women with gestational diabetes mellitus, who were in 24 to 28 weeks of pregnancy, in a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.  It was at the Prenatal Section of Arash Hospital in Tehran, Iran.

 

Gestational diabetes, also called diabetes during pregnancy, is a form of high blood sugar affecting pregnant women. It can induce complications with labour and delivery, including having a stillbirth. Those who develop gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

 

In most cases, there are no symptoms. A blood sugar test during pregnancy is used for diagnosis. Treatment strategies include daily blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet, exercise and monitoring of the baby. If blood sugar is too high, medication is required.

 

Ginger is a common ingredient that has long been used in various home remedies to treat and manage health conditions since time immemorial. Apart from being a staple ingredient in teas, ginger is used commonly as a herbal treatment for ailments like nausea, arthritis, migraine, lowering blood cholesterol level and indigestion.

 

In recent years, ginger has been used for the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes in human subjects. It increases insulin release and sensitivity.

 

In this study, the women were assigned to two groups of ginger or placebo. The ginger group received 126 tablets of ginger, and the placebo group received 126 tablets of placebo in three meals (after breakfast, lunch, and dinner) with their dietary regimen order for six weeks. At the first visit, a detailed history including demographic data and history of pregnancy was also obtained.

 

The blood sugar level two hours post-prandial (BS2hpp), fast blood sugar and insulin, as well as resistance to insulin, were determined before and six weeks after intervention.  This was in the 2020 edition of the BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.

 

They found that the average fast blood sugar, fasting insulin and level of resistance to insulin reduced significantly in the ginger group six weeks after intervention in comparison to the placebo group. But, the average blood sugar level two hours post-prandial did not show any significant reduction in the two groups.

 

According to them, a decrease in fasting blood sugar could reduce the number of women who needed to commence insulin therapy; this can be an improved outcome of pregnancy.

 

There was no significant difference between the ginger and placebo groups regarding the distribution of age, gestational age, Body Mass Index (BMI), housing situation, educational status, physical activity, daily dietary intake and occupation status at the beginning and end of the study.

 

Experts say that the beneficial effects of ginger on improving blood glucose level of pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus could be because it inhibits enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and insulin sensitivity as a whole, thereby leading to greater glucose absorption in the muscles.

  

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Water Melon: Nature's Formidable Defence Against A Host Of Diseases

                Watermelon intake has demonstrated effects on blood pressure regulation along with other health benefits. Even consuming watermelon frequently as a dessert, fruit salad and in garnishing drinks could remediate metabolic complications that come with junk foods and a Western-style diet high in fat.

 

Experts, in a new study, said supplementing a diet high in fat with watermelon as a dessert, fruit salad and in garnishing drinks diet improved fasting blood glucose, circulating insulin concentrations in the blood, and changes in liver metabolite accumulation.

 

Even with a modest level of supplementation, the fiber-rich additives further improved glucose breakdown and energy efficiency. It was in the March 2020 edition of The Journal of Nutrition.

 

Watermelon is an unusual fruit source of the lycopene and an excellent source of water. It contains unusual amounts of the amino acids and citrulline. Also, watermelon is an excellent source of immune-supportive vitamin C and vitamin A (9.0 mg), potassium (11.2 mg) and magnesium (10.2 mg).

 

A plethora of evidence shows that it can be effective for weight loss because of its fewer quantities of fats.  As a result, the consumption of watermelon provides long-term health benefits such as reduced risk of heart disease, improved blood pressure in hypertension patients and decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation.

 

The researchers had assessed the intake of watermelon in high-fat–fed male mice. Ten-week-old male mice were provided either a low-fat diet or a high fat diet with watermelon skin or watermelon skin and rind were added at 2.25 per cent of diet. Body weights, food intake and glucose tolerance were determined.

 

The final body weight of the low fat control group was significantly lower than that of the high fat-fed control group. Mice in treatment groups fed high fat supplemented with watermelon products had final body weights similar to those of the high fat-fed control mice.

 

 

Insulin concentrations in the blood were reduced by approximately 40 per cent in mice fed a high fat diet with watermelon rind supplementation compared with mice fed a high fat diet alone. Depending on the individual species or group, microbiome populations changed significantly.

 

Moreover, in another study researchers had corroborated the antidiabetic potential of watermelon juice in alloxan-induced diabetic rats and declared that its juice may have a useful clinical application in the management of diabetes mellitus and its metabolic complications if developed as adjuvant therapy.  It was in the April 2020 edition of the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders.

 

Diabetes was induced in the rats and these animals were randomly grouped into five groups of normal control, untreated diabetic control, diabetic rats administered 200 mg/kg body weight of metformin, diabetic rats administered 500 mg/kg body weight of watermelon juice and diabetic rats administered 1000 mg/kg body weight of watermelon juice. The rats were sacrificed on the 14th day of the experiment and various parameters were also evaluated in their blood and body tissues.

 

The watermelon juice exhibits anti-oxidant properties in a dose-dependent manner. Added to this, the administration of different doses of the watermelon juice significantly reduced the fasting blood glucose level, level of fat in the blood and glucose-6-phosphatase in these rats made to develop diabetes under laboratory conditions.

 

Also, watermelon-starfruit Juice is also used traditionally for reducing blood pressure of hypertension in Indonesia. Expert’s in a test to determine the best therapeutic juice in reducing hypertension found watermelon, starfruit, and watermelon-starfruit mixture all have the same ability to reduce blood pressure. But the watermelon-star fruit juice was the best in reducing high blood pressure.

 

A sample of 33 people was selected and divided into three equal groups, namely drinking watermelon juice, drinking star fruit juice, and drinking watermelon-star fruit juice mixture group. It was in the 2020 edition of the SRP journal.

 

According to the study, the mean systolic blood pressure of the three groups before and after drinking juice showed a significant difference. Likewise, the mean diastolic blood pressure of the three groups before and after drinking juice showed a significant difference.

 

 

They added “all three groups have the same ability to reduce blood pressure, but the watermelon-star fruit juice group can reduce high blood pressure (hypertension) to become normal (norm tension).”

                  

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New Findings On Herbal Cure For Snake Bite

Snakes have always been a major pest posing a potential threat to humans from time immemorial. Plant-based repellents like lemongrass, bitter kola seeds, tobacco leaf, scent leaf and chilli pepper seeds have been used for generations as protective measures against snakes within homestead and other environments.

 

Despite these, ill health and deaths from snake infestation have continued to be a challenge, with heavy reliance on the use of synthetic antisnake venom. This has proved to be costly and in short supply. Some anti-venom medications also have adverse effects like shortness of breath, weak pulse, muscle tenderness, dizziness, fainting, and, in some cases, death due to bleeding.

 

On the other hand, traditional medicine in many countries employs the extracts of certain plants to provide protection against snake bites. They are cheap, easily available, and stable at room temperature and could neutralize a wide range of venom antigen without side effects.

 

For instance, Mucuna pruriens, (commonly referred to as velvet bean, agbala or agbaloko in Ibo and werepe in Yoruba) is well known for its anti-snake venom properties.  Eating few of its seeds is claimed to confer protection against snake bite in an individual for at least a year.

 

Now, researchers, investigating the extracts of Mucuna pruriens seed and Mimosa pudica root on venoms of Naja nigricollis (black-necked spitting cobra) and Bitis arietans (puff adder), said they may also be considered as promising anti-venom agents for people living in a snake-bite prone environment. Anti-venom acts by neutralizing snake venom that has entered the body.

 

Mimosa pudica is commonly called ‘touch-me-not’, kpakochuku in Igbo, patanmo in Yoruba.

 

In mice, at a concentration of 50 mg/ml, both plant extracts were found to neutralize the fibrinolysis (preventing blood clots occurring naturally and so causing problems) effect of the Naja nigricollis venom, but 400 mg/ml was required to neutralize the fibrinolysis effect of Bitis arietans.

 

Also, 50 mg/ml concentration of M. pruriens extract suppressed the haemolysis (breaking down of blood cells) caused by N. nigricollis venom by 70 per cent but at the same concentration, M. pudica extract reduced haemolysis by 49.4 per cent.

 

The 2020 study, in the journal, Recent Patents on Biotechnology, involved Matthew P. Ameh, Mamman Mohammed, Yusuf P. Ofemile, Magaji G Mohammed  and Ada Gabriel at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in conjunction  with Akefe O. Isaac at the Queensland Brain Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.

 

Before now, experts had suggested that the protective activity of Mucuna pruriens seeds protects against snake bite through the stimulation of antibodies that cross-react with venom toxins, thus the merit of the idea that its seed consumption can provide long-term protection against snake bite.

 

The study in the Journal of Biological Chemistry had identified a specific protein, MP-4, as that which reacts with antibodies the body had developed against Echis carinatus (saw-scaled viper) venom, thus strengthening the idea that the protective function is immunological.

 

Furthermore, mice immunized with MP-4, they found, showed significantly higher rates of survival than unimmunized mice when challenged with Echis carinatus venom.

 

Moreover, in another study, researchers reported the protective effect of M. pruriens seed extract against cobra (Javan spitting cobra) venom causing permanent damage to the heart.  In the journal, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, they suggested that the extract renders the heart more resistant to the toxic effect of the venom as well as help to boost the body’s immunity against the deadly venom.

 

Recent studies have found that Mucuna pruriens leaves are more effective than the standard drug, anti-venin, for curing snakebite. The study published in the International Journal of Biochemistry Research & Review investigated the anti-venom activity of Mucuna pruriens leaves extract against cobra (Naja hannah) venom.

 

 

However, scientists have recently validated some local plant as herbal medicines for snakebite management. These include English wild custard apple (Annona senegalensis), turmeric (Curcuma longa) and plantain (Musa paradiasica).

 

Annona senegalensis is commonly called English wild custard apple, tàllàfà màraàyú in Hausa; uburu-ọcha in Ibo; àbo and arere in Yoruba.

 

Researchers at the University of Maiduguri, Borno State, said in the Journal of Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences that the root extract of Annona senegalensis possesses potent snake venom-neutralising capacity against the Bitisarietans venom and could be used for therapeutic purposes in case of snakebite. 

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Why Pregnant Women Should Avoid Moringa Leaves

Moringa leaf is used to tackle malnutrition, boost the immune system and enhance breast milk production in resource-limited settings. Now, experts have warned that it is not safe at conception and during pregnancy because it can be inimical to fetal development.

 

In a new study, researchers investigated the effect of the intake of low amounts of moringa leaves before conception attempts as well as its effect during conception under laboratory conditions and found it can cause contraction of the womb with varying intensities.

 

According to the study, both the cold and hot moringa leave extracts significantly produced contraction of the womb with varying intensities. It also indicated that it had anti-infertility properties.

 

For the study, the researchers assessed both the cold and hot moringa leave extracts on samples of womb obtained from non-pregnant female animals as well as female Wistar rats in the laboratory. The contractile force of the muscles strips from the womb of the non-pregnant female animals was measured. Also, pregnancy length, delayed labour, mortality and birth complications in the Wistar rats were monitored.

 

Cold moringa leaf extract administered before and after mating, respectively produced 100 per cent and 80 per cent inhibition of conception, while 96.6 per cent and 58 per cent effect was comparatively produced by its hot extracts.

 

The 2019 study entitled, “Aqueous extract of Moringa oleifera leaf used in Nigerian ethnomedicine alters conception and some pregnancy outcomes in Wistar rat,” was published in the South African Journal of Botany. It involved A.F. Attah; J.O. Moody; M.A. Sonibare; H.H. Salahdeen; O.O. Akindele; P.O. Nnamani; O.A. Diyaolu and Y. Raji.

 

In this study, none of the extracts prevented the animals from mating and this suggests that the animals’ cycles contained at least one estrus during the two weeks of mating although this does not supply any information about the regularity of the cycle.

 

 

Studies in the recent past have shown that about 50 per cent of human conception get aborted or do not result in successful delivery. Standard methods that have been frequently used to detect early gestational evidence have demonstrated that between 32 per cent and 42per cent of pregnancies do not progress to parturition as a result of a miscarriage. Many factors may be tied to this including the consumption of unknown plants that can cause abortion.

 

The leaf of the plant has additionally been reported to be used in the Central African Republic to induce uterine contraction and facilitate childbirth. Also, in northern Nigeria, its fresh leaves are a component of a local meal made up of powdered groundnut cake, chilli, sweeteners, and local roasted beef called “Suya”.

 

Likewise, Nigerian women, especially those from northern geopolitical extraction is known for its intake to increase breast milk. Moreover, there limited scientific documentation of lactating women not getting pregnant during the period of its accelerated intake despite unprotected sexual activity, and raising the question about its potential usefulness as nutritional cum child-spacing supplement.

 

The high nutritional content of Moringa leaves has also attracted much interest due to the levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium and adequately high protein quality which contends with that of milk and eggs.

 

The researchers, however, declared that the cold extract seemed to have a more adverse effect on the maintenance of pregnancy possibly because of the presence of unfriendly metabolites which have not been inactivated partially or completely by heat. The pups born to the hot extract group had severely altered morphometry which suggests that the growth and development of these pups have been compromised during the gestation period.

 

They suggested that the interference with the physiology and the function of the reproductive system may have been triggered by an alteration in the synthesis of hormones, storage, liberation, transport or excretion.

 

Several indigenous plant extracts have been described to possess chemical substances that can alter the smooth release of reproductive hormones culminating in the inhibition of conception or the contraction of the womb. 

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The Effects Of Corona Virus On Men's Infertility

Corona virus infection may lead to infertility in men even if they only suffer a mild form of the disease. This development came about after an Israeli study found that the sperm counts of infected men halved 30 days after they were diagnosed with COVID-19. The study conducted at the Sheba Medical Centre in Tel Aviv, also alleged sperm motility—or its ability to move by itself—was also hampered. But scientists insist the truth on whether Covid-19 permanently damages fertility is still unclear and that even flu causes a temporary drop in sperm counts. According to the report in the journal of Fertility and Sterility, the claims that the changes were seen in men with mild cases did not address how many people were involved. Scientists studying the effect of coronavirus on fertility have made similar claims in the past, but doctors insist reports of men having lower sperm counts are likely down to them having had a fever which is a tell-tale symptom of coronavirus, which makes it harder for the body to produce sperm. They also argue that production can bounce back after an infection has passed. Professor Allan Pacey, an andrologist at the University of Sheffield and former chair of the British Fertility Society said coronavirus may cause a temporary drop in sperm production. But it is not confirmed whether or not the effect could be long-lasting, harming the fertility of men. Pacey said people who get coronavirus are probably quite unwell, and that even influenza will cause a decline in sperm count temporarily, but that the question is whether it is permanent and whether it is recoverable. Research is yet to reveal whether long-term damage can be caused to testicles by coronavirus, and it could take several years before scientists have the answer. Previous research has indicated, however, that any damage caused to the testes by an infection is not long-term. Pacey cautioned against the finding in the new Israeli research that coronavirus can damage cells in the testicles responsible for making semen and the male hormone testosterone.

                 

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How Consumption Of Fruit Juice At Young Age Benefits Children Later In Life

New research has shown that consumption of 100 per cent fruit juice by children aged two to 18 years is closely linked to improved nutrient adequacy during their formative years.

 

Drinking 100 per cent fruit juices play an important role in the diets of young children by supplying them with the important nutrients during these crucial years of growth and development.

 

The research found that young children who regularly consumed 100 per cent fruit juice at a young age went on to eat more fruits and vegetables and were more likely to develop healthier diets and eating habits in their teenage years than their peers who drank much less fruit juice when they were younger.

 

The study titled ‘A longitudinal study of fruit juice consumption during the preschool years and subsequent diet quality and BMI’ was carried out by Boston University and published online at BMC Nutrition in May 2020.

 

The results of the study encouraged the inclusion of 100 per cent fruit juice as part of an overall balanced diet, whilst stressing that contrary to previous research, regular consumption of fruit juices did not put children at a greater risk of being overweight in later years.

 

The study also mentioned the required daily quantity, calling out that it is also important for pre-school and nursery age children to drink at least one and a half cups of 100 per cent pure fruit juice every day.

 

The study stated that 100 per cent fruit juice can help meet recommended daily goals for fruit intake because it is a nutrient-dense drink that provides vitamins, minerals (folic acid, thiamine and magnesium) and beneficial plant nutrients like polyphenols.

 

Lead researcher, Dr Lynn Moore from Boston University, U.S.A., said, “Fruit consumption, particularly whole fruit consumption, has many health benefits throughout one’s lifespan. Avoiding fruit juice during these early formative years may have unintended effects on evolving dietary behaviours. Fruit juice drinking in young children may promote better diet quality and higher intakes of whole fruit,” he said.

 

He added that the benefits associated with moderate intake of 100 per cent fruit juice were not accompanied by any adverse effects on childhood weight.

 

In Nigeria, one brand that is at the forefront of promoting the nutritional benefits of 100 per cent fruit juice is Chivita which is renowned for its high quality, nourishing benefits and refreshing taste.  It contains no added sugar, no preservatives, and no artificial colours or artificial flavours.

 

A 100ml glass of its Apple variant contains 99 per cent of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Vitamin B1. A 100ml glass of its Orange variant contains 21 per cent of the RDA for Vitamin C. These juice variants also contain various quantities of Vitamin B3, Calcium, Iron, and Magnesium, key nutrients required for maintaining a healthy life. 

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Corona Virus Can Survive On Surfaces For 28 Days - New Study

            

The novel corona virus (SARS-CoV-2) that causes COVID-19 can survive on banknotes, mobile phone screens, and stainless steel for up to 28 days under laboratory conditions, according to a new study conducted by researchers at Australia’s National Science Agency who said the finding reinforced the need for disinfecting surfaces and washing hands. Until now, laboratory tests showed SARS-Cov-2 could survive for between two and three days on glass, currency notes and glass, and a maximum of 6 days on stainless and plastic.

The researchers said that at room temperature, the virus was particularly “robust,” surviving on glass surfaces such as a phone screen and on plastic banknotes but was less robust on porous surfaces such as cotton. The study was carried out in the dark as research has shown that ultraviolet light can kill the virus. The corona virus also survived for fewer days at temperatures exceeding 30 or 40 degrees Celsius.

lia’s  National Science Agency’s chief executive, Dr Larry Marshall noted: “Establishing how long the virus really remains viable on surfaces enables us to more accurately predict and mitigate its spread, and do a better job of protecting our people.” In April, the World Health Organization, WHO, had said that the corona virus could survive for 72 hours on plastic and steel and 24 hours on cardboard. But experts say people are more likely to contract the virus from someone an infected person through sneezing, coughing, and talking close to each other rather than from a surface.

According to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, in rare cases, the corona virus can linger in the air for hours and infect people more than two metres apart. According to the research published in Virology Journal similarly discovered that SARS-Cov-2 remained alive at a shorter live span under hotter temperatures than cooler temperatures; it became non-infectious in 24 hours at 40C on some surfaces.

Previous research has proven that the virus might be infectious in airborne particles for over three hours but did not confirm the extent to which it can spread through surfaces like banknotes and touchscreens. 

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Burantashi Is Good For Sexual Performance But Also Has Side Effects - Researchers

It is sold by many Hausa traders in major cities across Nigeria, especially in areas with heavy traffic.  Funny enough, these “abokis” are patronised by many high society ladies who buy it for their partners. Men also patronise them and keep these aphrodisiac hawkers in business.

 

In Lagos for example, burantashi and other aphrodisiacs are hawked near big malls and at almost all the petrol filling stations, cinemas, hotels, street corners, post offices within the metropolis.

 

Some call it Hausa Viagra or Hausa paraga because they claim it helps them to last longer in bed, relieves impotence in men, cures erectile dysfunction and weak erection, brings sexual satisfaction and is a good cure for low sperm count. And it is natural, so with less side effects.

 

Now, researchers at the University of Benin, Benin City, say although it enhances sexual performance, it could have a negative impact on the quality of sperm produced.

 

Test in animals showed that although burantashi does not affect sperm concentration and motility, its continuous usage, can increase the number of abnormal sperm per ejaculate and as such may also pose a threat on fertility.

 

Derived from the bark of the African tree Pausinystalia johimbe (Yohimbe in English), burantashi reputed as a herbal aphrodisiac or sex enhancer is called agbo idagbon in Yoruba.  It is also sprinkled on suya, a peppery beef barbecue.

 

The burantashi tree was nicknamed “love tree” and the bark extract was inserted into delicious little candies. These “love candies” as they were appropriately named, were a popular gift among European lovers.

 

Apart from its aphrodisiac properties, it is also used to treat fever, cough, exhaustion or as an energy booster, chest pain, skin disorders and inflammations.

 

Burantashi is also used as a mild stimulant to prevent drowsiness, a general tonic, a remedy to increase the clarity of the voices of singers during long festivals and as a treatment to increase the resilience of hunting dogs.

 

The researchers in the 2020 edition of the journal, Acta Scientific Pharmaceutical Sciences, had studied the impact of burantashi on the structure of the sperm in adult male Wister rats and mice.

 

For the study, 54 male Wister rats broken down into six rats in each group with the control group as a model of comparison. Burantashi was administered orally to the rats at 200mg and 400mg concentrations for 14 days, 28 days and 48 days respectively.

 

Afterwards, the rats were killed and their sperms extracted and assessed for any possible abnormalities in their structure.

 

Noticeable significant changes in the sperm were observed with 200mg and 400mg of day 14, 28 and 48 even as the concentration and dose of burantashi used increased.

 

The abnormal changes ranged from headless, tailless, short tail, big head and double tail sperm cells. However, headless and tailless sperms occurred more.

 

They declared, “The fact that burantashi enhances sexual performance doesn’t mean it does not have any effect on the sperm cell quality as observed in this study.”

 

Due to the widespread usage of burantashi amongst the males in Nigeria, there seems to be a connection between its usage and infertility, as some studies portend its usage and the link with infertility and sperm cell quality amongst sexually active males.

 

In comparison with previous studies, the researchers said that although burantashi may not affect the sperm cell concentration and motility at a short exposure, its prolonged use and at high doses causes extensive damage to the sperm’s structure.

 

Conversely, in another study, researchers suggested that indiscriminate consumption of burantashi for a long duration is able to cause liver damage.

 

In 2014, the researchers in the Nigerian Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology had examined the effects of burantashi on the liver of albino rats at varying concentrations. They found that it caused impaired liver function with increased amount used. 

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Venom From Bees Can Destroy CancerCells- New Study

   

       Bees are generally known for their honey and its natural health benefits to humans. But according to a new study, it’s not just the honey that makes the bee a special organism to man; the venom from bees also has amazing natural health benefits. In laboratory studies, the active component of honeybee venom rapidly killed two types of breast cancer cells that are particularly difficult to treat. Crucially, the toxin left healthy cells unharmed.

 

For thousands of years, humans have used honey properties, and venom from the honeybee Apis mellifera as medicines.

 

More recently, scientists have discovered that honeybee venom and its active component, melittin, are toxic to a wide range of tumors - including melanoma, lung, ovarian, and pancreatic cancers -  in laboratory tests.

 

Melittin is the molecule that creates the painful sensation of a bee’s sting. Scientists do not fully understand how it kills cancer cells, however.

 

For the first time, researchers have investigated the effect of melittin and honeybee venom on a range of breast cancers, including two of the most aggressive and hard-to-treat types.

 

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. The two aggressive types, known as triple-negative breast cancer and HER2-enriched breast cancer, are associated with the poorest outcomes. They tend to develop resistance to existing treatments.

 

Scientists at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research in Perth, Australia, and the University of Western Australia, also in Perth, found that melittin and honeybee venom rapidly kill these cancer types, with negligible effects on normal cells.

 

“The venom was extremely potent,” says Dr. Ciara Duffy, who led the research. “We found that melittin can completely destroy cancer cell membranes within 60 minutes.”

 

The study also showed that venom from bumblebees, which contains no melittin, did not kill the cancer cells — even at high concentrations.

 

The scientists report their work in the journal npj Precision Oncology.

 

He adds: “Significantly, this study demonstrates how melittin interferes with signaling pathways within breast cancer cells to reduce cell replication. It provides another wonderful example of where compounds in nature can be used to treat human diseases.”

 

Because melittin creates holes in cell membranes, it may also allow existing chemotherapy drugs to penetrate and kill cancer cells.

 

To test this possibility, the researchers treated a mouse model of triple-negative breast cancer with a combination of melittin and a drug called docetaxel. This proved more effective at shrinking the tumors than either docetaxel or melittin alone.

 

Doctors could potentially use this strategy to increase the efficacy or reduce the dosage of chemotherapy drugs, thereby reducing harmful side effects.

 

The study authors note that honeybee venom is relatively cheap and easily obtainable, making it a good option for cancer treatment in countries with poorly resourced health services.

 

They write:“Honeybee venom is available globally and offers cost effective and easily accessible treatment options in remote or less developed regions. Further research will be required to assess whether the venom of some genotypes of bees has more potent or specific anticancer activities, which could then be exploited.”

 

This line of research is in its infancy, with researchers yet to perform clinical trials in humans to assess the safety and efficacy of melittin for treating breast cancer.

 

Although this particular study found no evidence of harm to noncancerous cells, other studies suggest otherwise. Therefore, healthcare professionals may need to carefully target melittin to tumors to prevent collateral damage to healthy tissue.

 

  

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