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In Weight Lossby

Managing Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining normal, healthy blood sugar levels is a vital part of our physiology, as important as blood lipid management and weight management. Blood sugar is closely linked to the global obesity epidemic we are experiencing, because obese people are at a higher risk of developing diabetes with all its ensuing complications.

In fact, the single best predictor of type 2 diabetes is being overweight or obese. Almost 90 percent of people having type 2 diabetes are obese or overweight. Those who are obese or overweight have greater pressure placed on their body’s pancreatic beta cells to make enough insulin to control blood sugar levels, and this causes the higher risk of developing diabetes.

The reported diabetes cases in the U.S. increased 30% during the 1990’s and greater increases in reported diabetes cases are expected because of the growing rate of obesity.

The next most important factor in blood sugar management is diet, including what we drink. Soda pop manufacturers and the canned foods industry have switched to high fructose corn syrup in the late 1970’s and the beginnings of the obesity rise can be traced back to that time. The reason that fructose or high fructose corn syrup increases obesity is that fructose stimulates lipogenesis in the liver, the formation of new fat cells to a much greater extent than cane sugar (sucrose) does.

Fructose also has a ten times greater potential than glucose itself for causing early glycation products which can then be transformed into Advanced Glycation Endproducts, or AGE’s.

AGE’s are the cross-linking of body proteins, including DNA by aldehydes, compounds that act like a pair of handcuffs that cross-bind proteins in an unnatural, unscheduled way. Scheduled cross-linkage is a natural process of metabolism that is controlled by enzymes.

Scheduled glycation occurs when fructose or glucose molecules are split open by metabolic enzymes so they can be used as fuel for metabolism, but this also exposes two aldehydes in the glucose or fructose molecule that can then cross-link with nearby body proteins.

Unscheduled glycation takes place over a much greater time-period and is the direct, slow direct reaction of glucose with body proteins.

Glycation causes a stiffening of collagen and muscle fibers which we experience during normal aging. This process is accelerated in diabetes. The most serious cross-links occur in endothelial cells, which line the circulatory system and help contribute to atherosclerosis. Cross-linkage of endothelial receptor cells where LDL-cholesterol docks to transport cholesterol, causes a loss of these receptors and an age-related rise in circulating LDL-cholesterol.

Diabetics and persons with elevated blood sugar also have an elevated HbA1c, the measure of how much hemoglobin is glycated.

Blood sugar management strategies include maintaining a normal body weight, which is also measured as body mass index, the ratio of height to weight.

Another important strategy is to limit or eliminate soda pop, sweets, candies and other calorie-dense sugars from the diet.

Several versions of high protein diets have appeared in recent decades and all are based on limiting complex carbohydrate and sugar intake.
 

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance appears to be central to obesity and developing hyperglycemia.

There is a large 79% variance in insulin sensitivity in the general population. There is a well-established relationship between insulin resistance, central fat and abdominal adiposity. These factors are a strong marker and may be a major determinant of insulin resistance in both men and women.

Insulin resistance is also attributed to peripheral insulin resistance, which is the percentage of fat to muscle ratio in the arms and legs. This would seem to indicate that weight training which would increase muscle to fat ratio in favor of muscle, would be a good strategy to decrease insulin resistance.

Drugs like metformin of the biguanide class, are the most widely prescribed oral antidiabetic drugs in the world and are the main line treatment for type 2 diabetes.

However, there are numerous natural compounds that have been used successfully to treat diabetes and hyperglycemia.

Berberine, from the protoberberine family of alkaloids, is mainly obtained from the Berberis aristata plant species, and is widely used in China to treat hyperglycemia. Berberine has been used successfully in 22 clinical trials, only a few of which have been translated and published in Western journals.

Chromium salts, include chromium picolinate and chromium polynicotinate have a large body of clinical trials in hyperglycemia and diabetic studies. More recently, studies using chromium polynicotinate, have had better results in lowering insulin resistance and blood sugar than chromium picolinate, which in two studies, actually increased insulin resistance compared to a control or pretreatment group.

Cinnamon extracts or cinnamon powder from Cinnamomum cassia have considerable clinical data showing a lowering of insulin resistance and blood sugar except in postmenopausal women. The mechanism of action of cinnamon and what active principle or principles are responsible for insulin resistance have not yet been identified.

Ayurvedic traditional medicine has identified several plants and their extracts that have been used to treat diabetes and hyperglycemia.

Pterocarpus marsupium heartwood carved out, filled with water and left standing for some time has been used to treat diabetes described in Ayurveda by the symptoms of thirst and weakness. Modern research has identified (-)-catechin and pterostilbene as active constituents of the plant.  (-)-catechin has the unique ability to stimulate the growth of new beta cells on the isle of Langerhans.

Pterostilbene, a close relative of resveratrol, has clinical data supporting healthier body composition in athletes, selective lowering of COX-2 inflammatory enzyme and lowering blood glucose levels.

Other Ayurvedic plant extracts that have hypoglycemic activity include Terminalia chebula, Tribulus terrestris, Shirishadi and Curcuma longa.

 

In Curcumin, Turmericby

Phytonutrients That Make a Difference in the Way You Feel

Curcuminoids are plant nutrients (also called phytonutrients) that are found in turmeric root (Curcuma longa) — the chief ingredient in curry powder that gives the mixture its yellowish-orange color. Curcuminoids are antioxidants; this means that they neutralize free radicals. The most prominent of the curcuminoids is curcumin.

Free radicals are reactive molecules that are produced by cell deterioration and accelerate the aging processes within the body. Think of them as tiny, invisible sharks zipping around in our cellular seas, taking small electrical bites out of muscle tissue, nerves, and glands. Curcuminoids act as nutritional “police” by deactivating these free radicals so they don’t wreak further havoc in our systems.

The Curcuminoids originate in a herbaceous plant, Curcuma longa that is a member of the ginger family (Zingiberaceae). The best source of this spice comes from Kerala, India. The underground root of turmeric is widely used in culinary dishes throughout the world. Only until very recently, have some of its main components been shown to have medicinal applications as well.

The real strength in turmeric lays in the curcuminoids. There are basically three that we know of right now: curcumin, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin.

Besides their already mentioned antioxidants properties, these compounds also manifest anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagen, and anti-cancer activities as well. Inflammation is often due to physical trauma or disease. Numerous experiments conducted on animal models and human volunteers have repeatedly demonstrated wonderful anti-inflammatory action of these curcuminoids. The development of cancer, on the other hand, is a more complex, multifaceted process. Any number of environmental agents, dietary factors, and irregular social behavior initiate chemical stresses of different sorts within the human body. This commences on a cellular level, where such stresses trigger the production of abnormal cells. Curcuminoids have shown the ability to correct this production mistake and soon healthy cells are being formed again.

Curcuminoids have also manifested definite action within the liver several different ways. For one thing, they protect this vital organ from swelling, hardening, and infection. For another, they keep blood which constantly passes through it, flowing evenly which allows better detoxification of the entire organism. Bear in mind that the liver is our major detoxifying organ in the body.

The antibacterial, antiviral, and antiparasitic effects of turmeric root’s principal constituents have also been looked at as well. Interestingly enough, the main curcuminoid, curcumin, has its activities in these areas significantly enhanced with exposure to sunlight. Aflatoxins from ingested moldy food have been significantly neutralized by some of these curcuminoids before they could harm the liver. And intestinal parasites don’t like to stay around very long, on account of curcuminoids presence.

So, what may we deduce from all this information? Simply that curcuminoids help keep us young, cancer-free, and protect against inflammatory disorders like arthritis. Our vital organs, such as the heart and liver are reinvigorated with the strengthening properties of the curcuminoids.

Recent studies by Sabinsa Corporation at leading university in the US revealed that the unique composition of curcuminoids present in Sabinsa’s Curcumin C3 Complex product demonstrated the ability to not only scavenge and neutralize harmful existing free radicals, it was also able to prevent their formation in the first place. An ingredient with such capabilities should perhaps be thought of as more than just another antioxidant. Features such as these merit the term bioprotectant.

To keep your internal self in great shape, the inclusion of Curcumin C3 Complex into product formulations is recommended. Think of curcuminoids as giving your body a whole “new lease on life.” They are readily available, safe to use, and stronger in their effects than many of the other standard antioxidants. No human biological system should be without them.

Curcumin C3 Complex is a registered trademark of Sabinsa Corporation

Patent pending

Disclaimer:

This product overview was written for the sole purpose of giving a brief history along with educational insights into the product listed above. It is not designed, in whole or in part, as advice for self-diagnosis or self-treatment and should not be construed as such.

 

In Ginger Root Extractby

The Finest Herbal Help For Peptic Ulcers

For many years the routine medical approach in treating peptic ulcers has been to reduce gastric acidity with antacids or strong drugs which block stomach acid secretion. Two of the world’s best-selling medications for this are Zantac and Tagamet. They are now available in OTC (over-the-counter) versions at somewhat weaker strengths. In prescription form, however, they are much stronger but also more expensive: Zantac at $48.00 for 30 tablets, and Tagamet at $29.00 for 30 tablets. A relatively new third anti-ulcer medication that made its debut in late 1995 is called Prilosec. It is extremely potent and terribly expensive at $104.00 for 30 tablets or a month’s supply.

While they do work for the purpose they’re chiefly intended, namely to halt stomach acid production and thereby give relief to ulcers, all three have some nasty side effects if taken for very long. The number involved reads like a bad laundry list of health dilemmas: nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, some vitamin and mineral deficiencies, liver damage, hair loss, male breast enlargement, dizziness, allergies, headaches, osteoporosis, depression, insomnia, and impotence.

This is why it is much better to use something natural — an agent that is simple but safe and effective, and inexpensive. The compound referred to is DGL or Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice. The glycyrrhizinic acid component of the root has been removed since it can aggravate hypertension, irritate the kidneys, and induce gout if accumulated in the body for very long. DGL is the preferred form of licorice throughout Europe, much of Asia, and India. But, oddly enough, it is hardly used by herb companies in North America.

A 1982 clinical study tested Tagamet (1 gram daily) and DGL (in the form of Caved-S at six tablets daily) for up to 12 weeks on 100 patients suffering from gastric ulcers. Doctors confirmed that the DGL preparation was “as effective as cimetidine [Tagamet] in gastric ulcer therapy.”

But what would happen if DGL were tested against Zantac and Tagamet? In several head-to-head comparison studies, it was amply demonstrated that DGL was more effective than either Zantac or Tagamet in both short term treatment and maintenance therapy of peptic ulcers. Furthermore, DGL yielded none of the untoward side-effects that the other two drugs did, and did the job of ulcer healing at just a fraction of the cost.

Ulcer sufferers can obtain outstanding help at a fabulous price: two 380 mg chewable tablets of DGL 20 minutes before a meal at less than $25.00 per month! Now that’s a savings worth considering, not only for your pocket book but also for your body as well.

 

Disclaimer:

This product overview was written for the sole purpose of giving a brief history along with educational insights into the product listed above. It is not designed, in whole or in part, as advice for self-diagnosis or self-treatment and should not be construed as such.

 

In Coleus Forskohliiby

Understanding Coleus Forskohlii Extract (95% forskolin)

Coleus forskohlii extract (standardized to contain 95% forskolin) is potentially useful in skin care formu-lations, particularly as a conditioning agent. Coleus forskohlii  belongs to the Natural Order Labiatae (Lamiaceae), a family of mints and that grows wild in the warm sub-tropical temperate areas in India, Burma and Thailand.   In India, it is cultivated for use as a condiment1. In traditional Indian systems of medicine, the roots of Coleus forskohlii are used as a tonic.  Other therapeutically relevant properties include anthelmintic action and efficacy in the management of skin infections and eruptions.  The plant is also used traditionally in veterinary practice2.

Introduction

Coleus forskohlii  is the only known natural source of the unique adenylate cyclase activating phytonutrient, forskolin3.  Adenylate cyclase is the enzyme involved in the production of Cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate (cAMP), a significant biochemical agent in metabolic processes.  Cyclic AMP is a “second messenger” hormone signaling system. In many hormone sensitive systems the hormone itself does not enter the target cell but binds to a receptor and indirectly affects the production of another molecule within the cell which then diffuses intracellularly to the target enzymes or a receptor inside the cell to produce the response.  This intracellular mediator is called the second messenger.  cAMP and therefore forskolin have marked physiological effects through such “second messenger” actions on various biochemical processes in the body. A recently patented application includes the potentiation of lean body mass and benefits in the management of mood disorders4. Potential topical applications include its role as a skin-conditioning agent to support localized fat loss on topical application5.

Phytochemistry

Pharmacological effects

Research carried out over the last few decades has revealed the multi-faceted pharmacological effects of forskolin.  Most of these effects have been linked to the role of forskolin as an activator of adenylate cyclase7.

The spectrum of potential therapeutic activities is represented in

Adenylate cyclase is also involved in the regulation of lipolysis or enzymatic breakdown of fat in the adipocytes (fat cells).   Hormone sensitive lipase mediates lipolysis and this enzyme is activated through phosphorylation by protein kinase A that in turn is activated by cAMP.

Cosmeceutical applications

Topical fat reduction in specific areas of the body is a common concern for women. Ronsard8 popularized the term “cellulite” to describe the dimpling and “orange peel” external appearance of the thighs, the cause of which was attributed to the aging process by later researchers9.   The structure of subcutaneous adipose tissue accounts for the development of the “orange peel” appearance. Groups of fat cells are attached to the underside of the dermis by fibrous connective tissue. As fat cells enlarge, the fibers are stretched and pull down on the underlying skin.  This causes the indentation or dimpling of the skin called cellulite.
The adrenoreceptors play important roles in the regulation of lipolysis. Adrenoreceptors are neurons that are activated by adrenaline (epinephrine) or similar substances.  The relative number of b-2 and a-2 adrenoreceptors on the surface of the fat cells determine the  balance of lipolysis in those cells. Hormones such as estrogen influence the number of a-2 and b-2 adrenergic receptors in the fat cells.  Through the effects of estrogen, women more a-2 adrenergic receptors in fat cells in the hip and thigh region12.   The a-2 adrenoreceptors and the adenosine receptors in fat cells stimulate specific proteins [GTP inhibitory binding proteins (Gi proteins)] that inhibit adenylate cyclase thereby inhibiting lipolysis. A healthy balance of lipolysis is maintained through the simultaneous action of the b-2receptors that activate specific proteins [GTP binding proteins (Gs proteins)] which in turn activate adenylate cyclase (and thereby cAMP), stimulating lipolysis.    Due to the increased number of a-2 adrenergic receptors in the hip and thigh region in women, fat mobilizaton becomes more difficult from these areas5.  b-adrenergic stimulation and a-2-adrenergic inhibition has been reported to increase lipolysis from fat cells13.
It has been demonstrated that adipose tissue metabolism varies from one region of the body to another, for example, in severely obese women losing weight after the jejuno-ileal bypass surgery, fat was seen to be absorbed more slowly in the thigh region than the abdominal region10.  These differences lead to the hypothesis that localized application of agents that trigger lipolysis or fatbreakdown could help in cases of fat accumulation at specific subcutaneous sites4.  Forskolin accelerates lipolysis through the activation of hormone-sensitive lipase11

Forskolin bypasses the adrenoreceptors, increasing cAMP levels directly, thereby stimulating lipolysis.  The beneficial effects of forskolin, therefore, do not depend upon the sensitivity of the adrenergic receptors, which can often decreases with age and other physiological factors. Forskolin has also been shown to counteract the decreased response of fat cells to epinephrine, associated with aging.

Clinical studies:

A clinical study performed in 198713 established that regional fat loss from the thigh in obese women could be effected through adrenergic modulation. In this study, twenty eight obese women were placed on a calorie-restricted diet and subjected to one of five topical treatments to one thigh three to five times per week for four weeks: (1) isoproterenol injections; (2) cream containing forskolin, aminophylline, and yohimbine; (3) yohimbine cream; (4) forskolin cream; or (5) aminophylline cream. The opposite thigh was treated with a placebo (injection or cream), serving as the control. The treated thighs lost significantly more girth after treatment (both by injection and by cream). Additionally, no adverse reactions were observed that could be attributed to either the cream or the injections. The authors of this study concluded that local fat reduction from the thigh could be safely accomplished, using agents that affect the adrenergic mechanisms.

In a double–blind clinical trial5, five overweight women were treated with an ointment containing forskolin (1.2 X 10-5 mol/L), yohimbine (2.5 X 10-4 mol/L) and aminophylline (1.3 X 10-2 mol/L) in an aquaphor base on one thigh or the base alone (placebo) on the other thigh, for four weeks, five days per week. The subjects’ thighs were wrapped with warm 600 to 900 mOsm/L magnesium sulfate solutions for 30 minutes prior to each application to maximize transcutaneous absorption.  An occlusive plastic wrap was placed over the area to which the ointment was applied for the entire study period.

Measurements of girth two-thirds of the way between the knee and the greater trochanter were used to measure fat loss at the end of the study period.  Treated thighs showed significant decrease in girth fat loss as compared to untreated thighs with no significant changes in total body weight

The decrease was attributed to the combined actions of forskolin, aminophylline and yohimbine that effected localized fat loss by different mechanisms – forskolin through cAMP and b-2 adrenoreceptor activation; aminophiline through adenosine receptor antagonistic action and inhibition of phosphodiesterase and yohimbine through a-2 adrenoreceptor antagonistic action.

A subsequent trial5 studied the effects of the individual components of the ointment.   Eighteen women were divided into three groups of six each, each group receiving one of the active compounds. The women were placed on a 800 kcal/day diet and encouraged to engage in a walking   program.  As before, the warm wraps with magnesium sulfate were applied, but the occlusive plastic wrap was not used.  Six women had one thigh treated with an ointment containing 25 X 10-5 mol/L forskolin in aquaphor base while the other thigh was treated with the base alone. Thigh girth measurements were taken as before. Four of the six women completed the study and showed significant decrease in treated thigh girth (p < 0.05)  as compared to the untreated thigh (Figure 4).

The authors of this study concluded that  localized fat loss could be effected through topical  application of  substances like forskolin that stimulate lipolysis.

The subcutaneous fat cells are stimulated first, the dimpling on the skin of the thigh is lost as tension is relieved on the connective tissue that attached to the under surface of the dermis.

Based on these clinical studies reported in literature, Coleus forskohlii extract 95% is potentially useful in dislodging localized fat deposits immediately under the skin, when applied topically. The recommended levels of use as a skin conditioning agent : 0.1 to 0.5% of a topical formulation, such as an ointment, cream or lotion.   To improve transdermal penetration of the extract, 0.01-0.1% CosmoperineÒ (a standardized preparation derived from black pepper, a registered trademark of Sabinsa Corporation)14 may be added to the formulation.

 

References

  1. Bruneton, Jean.  (1995)  Coleus forskohlii. in  Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, Medicinal Plants, Lavoisier publishing Company, 521.
  2. Abraham, Z. In ” Glimpses of Indian Ethnobotany” , S.K. Jain, ed., Oxford & IBM Publishing Co., Bombay, 1981; 315.
  1. de Souza, N.J. (1991) Coleus forskohlii Briq.- The Indian plant source for forskolin. Recent Advances in Medicinal, Aromatic & Spice Crops, (ed: S..P. Raychaudhuri.) Today and Tomorrow’s printers and Publishers, New Delhi, India, Vol I: 83-91.
  1. U.S. Patent # 5, 804, 596. Method of preparing forskolin composition from forskolin extract and use of forskolin for promoting lean body mass and treating mood disorders, assigned to Sabinsa Corporation.
  2. Greenway, F.L. et al. (1995) Topical fat reduction. Obesity Res. 3 Suppl. 4: 561S-568S.
  3. Ammon, H.P.T. and Muller (1989) Forskolin: from an Ayurvedic Remedy to a Modern Agent Planta Medica. Vol 51, 475-476.
  4. Rupp, R.H. et al. ed. (1985) Forskolin: Its chemical biological and medical potential. Proc of the International Symposium, Hoechst India Ltd, Bombay.
  5. Ronsard, N. Cellulite: Those Lumps, Bumps and Bulges You Couldn’t Lose Before. New York: Beauty and Health Publishing Co. 1973.
  6. Bayard, E. The Thin Game: Dieting, Scams and Dietary Sense. New York Avon Books. 1979.
  7. Kral, G. et al. (1977) Body composition in adipose tissue cellularity before and after jejuno-ileostomy in several obese subjects. Eur. J. Clin. Invest. 7:414-419.
  8. Allen, D.O. et al. (1986) Relationships between cyclic AMP levels and lipolysis in fat cells after isoproterenol and  forskolin stimulation. The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. 238(2): 659-664.
  9. Arner, P. (1992) Adrenergic receptor function in fat cells. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 55:228S-236S.
  10. Greenway, F.L. et al (1987) Regional fat loss from the thigh in obese women after adrenergic modulation. Clin. Ther. 9(6):663-669.
  11. Badmaev, V. and Majeed, M. (2001) Skin as a delivery system for nutrients, nutraceuticals and drugs. Tetrahydropiperine, (THP) a natural compound with potential to enhance bioavailability of drugs and nutrients throught he skin. Agro-Industry Hi-Tech. January-February, 6-10.
In Ginger Root Extractby

Ginger Root Extract Is More Than Just For Flavoring and Taste

Ginger is a well known spice and flavoring agent which has also been used in traditional medicine in many countries. This large seasonal plant is cultivated in Southeast Asia and China, India, and some parts of Africa. Ginger and turmeric plants have several similar characteristics – both possess pale green flowers and are surrounded by long lanceolate leaves.

Ginger, a source of valuable phytonutrients, is characterized as having an aromatic odor and a pungent taste1. The part of the ginger plant that is used is the root, which is botanically the rhizome. The flat surfaces of the rhizome are removed, leaving the remains of the underground stem2. Ginger contains essential oils including gingerol and zingiberene. It also contains pungent principles such as zingerone, gingerol and shogaol3.

For centuries, in Ayurvedic and Tibetan systems of medicine, ginger has been used in the management of headache, nervous diseases, nausea, and vomiting. Ginger has been noted to treat migraine headaches without side-effects4. In addition, it is also recommended in the management of rheumatic disorders and muscular pain5.

Chemistry

The ginger rhizome has the following chemical composition:

  • 60% starch,
  • 10% proteins,
  • 10% fats,
  • 5% fibers,
  • 6% inorganic material,
  • 10% residual moisture,
  • 1-4% essential oil5.

The percentage of essential oil varies with geographic origin. However, its chief elements, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, remain constant. These include (-)-zingiberene, (+)-ar-curcumene, (-)-ß-sesquiphellandrene, E, E- a -farnesene, and b -bisabolene. These essential oils occur alongside monoterpene alcohols and aldehydes present as glycosides. A mixture of many terpenes and some non-terpenoid compounds make up the essential oil.1 It has been speculated that since there are a variety of chemical classes that these compounds can belong to, it is likely that ginger can eliminate symptoms associated with a variety of illnesses, such as arthritis, by interfering with the production and release of metabolic products from lipid membranes, peptides, proteins and amino acids.

Experimental data reveal that ginger may be a dual inhibitor of eicosanoid synthesis, inhibiting the synthesis of both prostaglandins and leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators produced from arachidonic acid5.

The rhizome contains a variety of chemicals called gingerols which provide its distinctive taste and characteristic pharmacological effects. The chemical constituents responsible for the pungent taste of ginger are 1-(3’ –methoxy –4’-hydroxypheny1)-5-hydroxyalkan- 3-ones, also known as [3-6]-,[8]-,[10]-,and [12]-gingerols.1

Biological Effects and Clinical Uses

In recent years, researchers have scientifically validated many of the therapeutic uses of ginger.

    • One study indicates that ginger is effective in reducing inflammation in arthritic conditions. In a study conducted with 56 patients experiencing either rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or muscular discomfort, 75% experienced relief in pain and swelling after using powdered ginger. Furthermore, none of the patients complained of any side effects while using ginger to treat their symptoms. It is suggested that ginger works as an inhibitor of prostaglandin and leukotriene biosynthesis to produce its ameliorative effects.5

 

    • Another case study presented ginger as a preventive agent for migraine headache. In this application, one subject was given non-steroidal antiinflammatory medication to permit her migraine headaches to subside. However, even though her headache was eliminated in time, other side effects including depression and redness of the eyes appeared. The subject was then given ginger. With 500-600 mg of powdered ginger mixed with water, the migraine headaches ceased within 30 minutes. In addition, after the cessation of the migraine attack, the subject did not experience any side effects. Migraine headaches are an accumulation of pain syndromes.

 

Many anitihistamines are used to treat migraines. Ginger has been shown to contain antihistamine and antioxidant factors as well as possess anti-inflammatory action4.

    • The effect of ginger on stimulation of bile secretion was studied to identify the basis of its action as a metabolism enhancer. Results of this specific study reported that the acetone extracts of ginger, comprised of the essential oils and the pungent principles, produce an increase in bile secretion. The two pungent principles that were chiefly accountable for the cholagogic effect of ginger include [6]-gingerol and [10]-gingerol. Bile acids facilitate absorption of fat and electrolytes and peristalsis of the small intestine. Since ginger has been reported to increase bile secretion, it may be beneficial in the excretion of gallstones.3

 

    • Furthermore, a study was done on 20 healthy male individuals that were given 50 g of butter and 5g of ginger a day for seven days. Addition of five grams of ginger with a fatty meal inhibited the platelet aggregation induced by adenosine diphosphate and epinephrine to a large extent. Ginger has been reported to inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in It has been reported that dietary fat content affects platelet aggregation by modifying prostaglandin metabolism. Inhibiting the transformation of arachidonic acid to thromboxane and decreasing the sensitivity of platelets to many aggregating agents may be possible with the administration of ginger in a fatty diet.6

 

    • In view of the fact that ginger root has been used in several parts of the world in the management of motion sickness, researchers attempted to elucidate the mechanism of action. In one of the earlier studies, it was proposed that ginger constituents may increase gastric motility and prevent the accumulation of toxic substances, thereby blocking the gastrointestinal reactions which trigger the nausea feedback8. A more recent study addressed the role of ginger in preventing the nausea feedback at the nerve receptor level. In motion sickness, nausea and vomiting are mediated by specific receptors in the central and peripheral nervous system. These receptors are activated by the chemical messengers, acetylcholine and histamine. Ginger produces antimotion sickness action probably through anticholinergic and antihistaminic effects9.

 

The above studies indicate the inhibitory effects of ginger on synthesis of inflammatory mediators and the beneficial effects of powdered ginger as well as the isolated gingerols on digestion and metabolism. In view of these effects, ginger is a potential herbal alternative in the management of digestive disorders, migraine, painful arthritic conditions and motion sickness. The herb may be potentially useful in improving blood circulation as well, on account of its inhibitory effects on platelet aggregation. When used as a spice or therapeutically at the recommended levels, [for motion sickness: 300 mg of the extract (containing 5% gingerols) daily in divided doses; for digestive distress: (75 mg of the extract daily in divided doses)], ginger does not have any reported side effects7.

References

  1. Bruneton, Jean. (1995) Ginger. Pharmacognosy, Phytochemistry, Medicinal plants, Lavoisier publishing Co.Inc. 258-261.
  2. Bisset, N.G. (Ed.). Max Wichtl. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals: A Handbook for practice on a scientific basis. Stuttgart: Medpharm Scientific Publishers CRC, 1994,537-539.
2a. Mowrey, D.B., Clayson, D.E.(1982) Motion Sickness, ginger, and psychotropics.  Lancet: 655-657.
2b. Shoji, N. et al. (1982) Cardiotonic principles of ginger. Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences 71 (10): 1174-1175,.
2c. Tyler, V. The Honest Herbal: A Sensible Guide to the Use of Herbs and Related Remedies. Birmingham, New york: Pharmaceutical products, Press,1993. 147-148.
  1. Yamahara, J. et al. (1985) Cholagogic Effect of Ginger and Its Active Constituents. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 13: 217-225.
  2. Mustafa, T. and Srivastava K.T. (1990) Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) in Migraine Headache. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 29: 267-273.
  3. Srivastava, K.C. and Mustafa, T. (1992) Ginger (Zingiber Officinale) in Rheumatism and Musculoskeletal Disorders. Medical Hypothesis, 39: 342-348.
  4. Verma, S.K. et al. (1993) Effect of Ginger on Platelet Aggregation in Indian Journal of Med Res, 98: 240-242.
  5. Zingiber officinale in Selected Medicinal Plants of India (A Monograph of Identity, Safety and Clinical Usage), CHEMEXIL, 1992,pp 362.
  6. Mowrey, D.B.(1982)Motion sickness, ginger and psychophysics. The Lancet, March 20, 656.
  7. Qian, DS and Liu ZS (1992) Pharmacologic Studies of Antimotion Sickness Actions of Ginger. Chung Ho Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih, 12 (2): 95-8,70.

 

In Uncategorizedby

Glucosamine For Therapeutic Use, Mainly as an Antiarthritic Agent

Glucosamine (chemically 2-amino-2-deoxyglucose), commonly known as chitosamine is currrently recognized as a safe and effective antiarthritic agent1. It is found in mucopolysaccharides and mucoproteins, which form the frame work of vertebrate connective tissues. It occurs extensively as chitin in the exoskeleton of invertebrates, including arthropods and marine organisms. Microbes such as yeast and other fungi also contain chitin. Chitin is a biopolymer made up of units of N-acetyl-glucosamine. Glucosamine can be isolated from chitin or prepared synthetically. For pharmaceutical use as an antiarthritic agent, glucosamine is supplied in the form of products such as glucosamine sulfate.

Glucosamine sulfate is the preferred form of glucosamine for therapeutic use, mainly as an antiarthritic agent. It is an effective means of providing glucosamine orally, as a building block for the regeneration of cartilage glycosaminoglycans, lost during the progression of osteoarthritis.

Chemistry of glucosamine sulfate:

Each unit of glucosamine sulfate contains two molecules of glucosamine as below:

In vivo, glucosamine sulfate breaks down into glucosamine and sulfate ions.

Pharmacological action:

Cartilage glycosaminoglycans are formed from glucosamine. Glucosamine is biochemically generated in the body from fructose-6-phosphate, a product of glycolysis. The glucosamine formed is converted to galactosamine, which is then incorporated into glycosaminoglycans and glycoproteins, the building blocks of cartilage tissue.

During the progression of osteoarthritis, there is substantial degeneration of cartilage glycosaminoglycans. The availability of glucosamine, a critical intermediate in the synthesis of mucopolysaccharides in cartilage tissue, is rate limiting for proteoglycan production. Glucosamine administration could therefore be expected to induce the formation of glycosaminoglycans, thereby restoring the depleted glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans. The anti-inflammatory activity of glucosamine sulfate have also been reported by several researchers. The following effects of glucosamine sulfate have been proven in several detailed studies:

  1. Biosynthesis of glycosaminoglycans
  2. Stimulation of the synthesis of proteoglycans
  3. Antireactive action

 

Preclinical studies:

Preclinical studies were directed at understanding the mechanism of action of glucosamine sulfate as an antiarthritic agent and its safety during subacute or chronic administration.

  1. The antireactive properties were studied in rats and mice. Inflammation was induced in these animal models with several non specific agents (carrageenin, dextran, formalin and acetic acid) and specific agents (serotonin, bradykinin and histamine). The spectrum of activity was shown to be restricted to the inflammatory processes provoked by non specific agents.
  2. Glucosamine was shown to have no analgesic activity but was able to reduce the generation of superoxide radicals by macrophages and inhibit lysosomal enzymes.

The antiarthritic effects of glucosamine sulfate are best described as being linked to its antireactive properties. The mechanism of action is therefore thought to be different from that of conventional non steroidal antiinflamatory drugs. Unlike conventional NSAIDs, Glucosamine sulfate acts by stimulating the synthesis of proteoglycans which stabilize the cell membranes and the intercellular substance. In view of this mechanism of action, glucosamine sulfate can be said to have antireactive rather than antiinflammatory properties. Glucosamine sulfate has cyclooxygenase-independent antireactive properties and no analgesic action.

The comparative protective effects of glucosamine sulfate and indomethacin are shown in Table 1:

Table 1 : Inhibitory concentrations on mediators of inflammation (concentrations able to inhibit the investigated mediator by 25% (IC25) or by 50% (IC50) 1

 

Model

Glucosamine sulfate

IC (mmol/l)

Indomethacin

IC (mmol/l)
Rat : proteolytic enzymes in inflamed paw IC25 > 3 IC25 0.33
Rat : lysosomal enzymes of

the liver

 IC25 3 IC25 0.27
Superoxide generation IC25 > 3 IC25 0.07
Inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis

¾ Stimulated by arachidonic acid

 IC50 > 660 IC50 0.50
¾ Stimulated by histamine IC50 > 660 IC50 0.53

From the above table, it may seem that glucosamine sulfate shows a very low potency as compared to indometacin. However, glucosamine sulfate has very low toxicity making it more suitable for long term administration. The LD50 values for oral administration of glucosamine sulfate, indometacin and acetyl salicylic acid are shown in Table 2:

Table 2 : LD50 values by oral route

Substance LD50 values (mg/kg) by oral route
Rat Mouse
Glucosamine > 8000 > 8000
Indometacin 12.3 12.8
Acetyl salicylic acid 1435 1050

 

The antireactive activity of glucosamine sulfate was tested in rats8 with experimental models such as:

a) sponge granuloma and croton oil induced granuloma (subacute inflammation)
b) kaolin arthritis (subacute mechanical arthritis)
c) Immunological reactive arthritis
d) Generalized inflammation (adjuvant arthritis)

Glucosamine sulfate was found to be effective in oral daily doses of 50 to 800 mg/kg. The potency of glucosamine sulfate in comparison with that of indometacin in the same tests was found to be 50-300 times lower. However, toxicity of indometacin in chronic toxicity experiments was found to be 1000 to 4000 times larger. The therapeutic margin with regard to prolonged treaments required for inflammatory disorders results 10-30 times more favorable for glucosamine sulfate than for indometacin. Based on these observations in animal models, glucosamine sulfate is evidently the drug of choice for prolonged treatment of inflammatory disorders8.

Additionally, the anti-viral properties and anti-cancer properties of glucosamine have been investigated and its inhibitory effects on a carcinoma have been demonstrated5. Currently, however, the focus is on the use of glucosamine sulfate in the management of rheumatic disorders.

Clinical studies:

  1. In one of the early double blind placebo controlled clinical studies , 80 patients found significant pain relief and improved motility with a daily dose of 1.5 g of glucosamine for 30 days. Histological examinations in these patients revealed restoration of healthy cartilage after treatment, lending credence to the fact that glucosamine sulfate helps build cartilage tissue7.
  2. A number of independent double blind studies performed over the last fifteen years indicate that glucosamine sulfate may be superior to some non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs and placebos in the treatment of osteoarthritis5.
  3. Intramuscular glucosamine sulfate was found to be effective with negligible side effects in the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee, in a randomized placebo-controlled double blind study2. The results of this study are summarized in Figure 1. The Lequesne index is a measure of the severity of the symptoms of osteoarthritis. A significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the index was observed for glucosamine sulfate as compared to placebo.
EFFICACY OF GLUCOSAMINE SULFATE (INTRAMUSCULAR, 400 mg, twice a week for six weeks) IN THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS OF THE KNEE AS COMPARED TO PLACEBO
  1. Other similar studies revealed improved joint functions and reduced pain in patients treated with glucosamine as compared with those treated with a placebo7.
  2. One study compared the effects of glucosamine and ibuprofen in patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee. A 1.5 g oral daily dose of glucosamine for eight weeks was more effective than ibuprofen in reducing pain6.

Rationale behind the preferential use of Glucosamine sulfate over Glucosamine hydrochloride:

  1. Glucosamine sulfate occurs naturally in the human body and is almost devoid of toxicity, making it suitable for long term clinical use1.
  2. The chondrometabolic, antireactive and antiarthritic properties of this form have been investigated extensively and are supported by controlled clinical trials2.
  3. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that close to 90% of orally administered glucosamine sulfate is absorbed3.
  4. Glucosamine sulfate, in vivo, breaks down into glucosamine and sulfate ions. Glucosamine hydrochloride, on the other hand, breaks down into glucosamine and free hydrochloric acid. The acid would increase gastric acidity and produce the associated disturbances in vivo.
  5. The sulfate ions produced from glucosamine sulfate, on the other hand, participate in chondrometabolic processes. They influence the incorporation of glucosamine and sulfate into the tissues. In a study with gastric mucosal segments, a sulfate content of 300 mmole was found to induce maximum incorporation4. Chlorate was found to inhibit glycosylation and induce the formation of low molecular weight mucin polymer both undesirable and negative effects for the effectiveness of administered glucosamine. The results of this study revealed that sulfate availability is essential for the formation of high molecular weight mucin polymer. The presence of sulfate ion would therefore enhance the antiarthritic properties of glucosamine.

 

References:

  1. Rovati, L.C., (1992) Antireactive properties of chondroprotective drugs. Int. J. Tissue Reactions, 14(5): 253-261.
  2. Reichelt.A. et al. (1994). Efficacy and safety of intramuscular glucosamine sulfate in osteoarthritis of the knee, a randomised, placebo-controlled double blind study. Arzneim -Forsch Drug Res. 44(I), No. 1, 75-80.
  3. Setnikar, I. et al. (1993). Pharmacokinetics of glucosamine in man. Arzneim -Forsch Drug Res. 43(II), No. 10, 1109-1113.
  4. Liau, Y.H. et al. (1992). Role of sulfation in post-translational processing of gastric mucins. Int. J. Biochem. 24(7), 1023-1028.
  5. November 1996. The review of natural products – Monograph on Glucosamine
  6. Vajaradul, Y. (1981). Clin. Ther., 3(5), 336-43.
  7. Drovanti, A. et al. (1980), Therapeutic activity of oral Glucosamine sulfate in osteoarthrosis: A placebo-controlled double-blind investigation, Clin. Ther. 3(4), 260-72.
  8. Setnikar, M.A. et al. (1991) Antiarthritic effects of glucosamine sulfate studied in animal models. Arzneim -Forsch Drug Res. 41(I), No. 5, 542-545.

 

In Uncategorizedby

Green tea : The cheerful way to good health

Tea is an infusion of flavorful leaves that has been consumed for centuries as a beverage and is valued for its medicinal properties. Today, scientific research has validated its healthful effects and the cup that cheers has gained recognition as the cup that heals.

The tea shrub (genus Camellia, family Theaceae) is a perennial evergreen with its natural habitat in the tropical and sub tropical forests of the world.  Cultivated varieties are grown widely in its home countries of South and South East Asia, as well as in parts of Africa and the Middle East.  The young shoots or flushes are plucked and processed into green (unfermented), black (fermented), oolong (red, partially fermented) or yellow (partially fermented) teas. In fermented teas, the action of leaf oxidizing enzymes, (mainly aka polyphenol oxidase) convert the tannins and catechins in tea leaves into brown/red colored products1.

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) has  been acclaimed for its antioxidant properties, attributed to the presence of catechins such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These compounds promote health by preventing lipid oxidation and have been proven to possess antibacterial and antiviral action as well as  anticarcinogenic and antimutagenic properties.
 

Chemistry

The catechins in green tea are responsible for its medicinal properties2.

Other biologically active compounds present in green tea include the methylxanthines, theophylline, theobromine and caffeine. Theophylline has been used as a bronchial smooth muscle relaxant in the treatment of asthma and bronchitis.
 

Biological effects of the catechins in green tea

The biological benefits associated with green tea catechins especially epigallocatechin gallate,  are generally attributed to their antioxidant activity2. They are also reported to scavenge free radical oxygen3.  In studies with lard or vegetable oil, the tea catechins were found to reduce the formation of peroxides more effectively than dl-a-tocopherol or BHA. The antioxidative activity increased in the following order: EC<ECG<EGC<EGCG.  In view of these results, the potential use of the catechins in green tea as effective natural antioxidants in foods has also been explored.

 Tea catechins are believed to act as anticancer agents by detoxifying cancer causing substances in vivo 4,5. In vitro studies revealed that catechin gallates selectively inhibit 5 a-reductase. This enzyme is responsible for the conversion of testosterone to 5-a dihydrotestosterone6. 5-a dihydrotestosterone at high levels, has been implicated in the etiology of prostate cancer and male pattern baldness.
 

Anticancer effects:

The anticarcinogenic effect of green tea extract was studied on mouse skin.  Green tea catechins, especially EGCG inhibited each step in the conversion of a cancer to malignancy. Tea was also found to offer protection against chemically induced tumor initiation, promotion and progression to malignancy as well as inhibit skin cancer induced by ultraviolet radiation7.

In mouse models of chemically induced lung and stomach cancer, there was significant inhibition of tumor incidence and proliferation when green tea catechins were orally administered.  Oral administration of  0.012-1.25% of EGCG or green tea extract to mice or rats with chemically induced oesophegal, intestinal, colon, liver and mammary tumors was found to have a potent inhibitory effect on carcinogenesis.

Recent studies showed that tea drinking reduced the risk of oesophageal cancer in Chinese women; oral cancer in northern Italians; gastric cancer in Swedish adolescents; pancreatic cancer in elderly Poles and residents of a retirement community in the U.S.; and colon cancer amongst retired male self-defense officials in Japan. It is now generally accepted that tea drinking has chemopreventive effects8.
 

Antimutagenic effects:

Green tea catechins have been shown to be antimutagenic, lowering the formation of heterocyclic amines9 (formed during the cooking of meat and fish and proven to be mutagenic). They have also been shown to reduce the occurrence of chromosome aberrations during mutagen exposure10.
 

Protection against atherosclerosis and hypertension:

Lipid peroxidation especially the oxidation of LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) has been implicated in the etiology of atherosclerosis. In vitro studies confirmed the inhibition of lipid peroxidation induced by cupric ions, by green tea catechins. Green tea extract was found to prevent the increase in serum cholesterol in mice fed high fat diets. A recent cross-sectional study also revealed that in people consuming more than ten cups of green tea per day, there was decrease in serum cholesterol levels, decrease in LDL, VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein) and triglycerides, increase in HDL and reduction in atherogenic index.  In the same study, tea consumption was also found to decrease the levels of  serum markers of  liver damage11. In a study on an elderly group in the Netherlands suffering from coronary heart disease, tea  (probably not green tea) was found to reduce the risk of death from this condition12.

The catechins in green tea were also found to inhibit hypertension in mice (resulting from chronic psychosocial causes) through enhanced sedative action of the brain neurotransmitter GABA 13,  gamma amino benzoic acid. Green tea was also found to lower the incidence of stroke in the elderly14.
 

Protection against infectious diseases

The tea catechins (particularly EGCG and EC) were found to have bactericidal properties. They are believed to damage bacterial membranes. Tea has been used in the treatment of diarrheal diseases and infections such as cholera and typhus15.  Green tea is also believed to have protozoacidal and virucidal16 (including  HIV18)  properties.  However, the effectiveness of tea catechins in the treatment of human viral diseases needs to be confirmed. EGCG has also been shown to stimulate the immune response,  in studies on mice. In this case, the galloyl group in EGCG was postulated to stimulate mouse splenic B-cell proliferation19.
 

Protection against tooth deca

Green tea catechins are believed to offer protection against tooth decay by three mechanisms:

  1. a) By killing the causative bacteria, such as Streptococcus mutans17.
  2. b) By inhibiting the collagenase activity of the bacteria resident below the gum line20
  3. c) By increasing the resistance of tooth enamel to acid induced erosion21

 

Promotion of longevity

Tea drinking may promote longevity, as evidenced by the low mortality rates amongst Japanese females who are traditional practioners of the tea ceremony22.

Green tea by virtue of its scientifically validated healthful effects has potential utility in the management of a variety of disorders. This ancient herb, associated with wakefulness and harmony in Buddhist legend, has now found its rightful place in modern alternative medicine as a versatile healer.

 

References

  1. Bokuchava, M.A. and Skobeliva, N.I. (1980). The biochemistry and technology of tea manufacture. Crit. Rev. Food Sci. & Nutr. 12 : 303-370.
  2. Prophylactic functions of tea catechins : Information brochure, Food Research Laboratories, Mutsui Norin Co. Ltd., Japan.
  3. Zhao, B. et al. (1989) Scavenging effect of extracts of green tea and natural antioxidants on active oxygen radicals. Cell Biophysics, 14 : 175-185.
  4. Fujiki, M.D. et al. (1992) Anticarcinogenic effects of (-) epigallocatechin gallate. Preventive Medicine, 21, 503-509.
  5. Bu-Abbas et al. (1995) Stimulation of rat hepatic UDP-glucuronosyl transferase activity following treatment with green tea. Food Chem. Toxicol., 33: 27-30
  6. Shatsung, L., Hiipakka, R.A. (1995). Selective inhibition of steroid 5-a-reductase isoenzymes by tea epicatechin 3-gallate and EGC3-gallate. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 214 : 833-838.
  7. Mukhtar, H. et al. (1992) Anticarcinogenic effects of (-) epigallocatechin gallate. Preventive Medicine, 21, 351-360.
  8. Schwarz, B. et al. (1994) Coffee, tea and lifestyle. Prev. Med. 23 : 377-384.
  9. Weisburger, J.H.et al. (1994). Prevention of heterocyclic amine formation by tea and tea catechins. Cancer Lett. 83 : 143-147.
  10. Sasaki, Y.F. et al. (1993) The aclastogen-suppressing effects of green tea, Po-lei tea and Rooi bos tea in CHO cells and mice. Mutat. Res. 286 : 221-232.
  11. Imai, K. And Nakachi, K. (1995). Cross-sectional study of the effects of drinking green tea on cardiovascular and liver diseases.Brit. Med. J., 310 : 693-696.
  12. Hertog, M.G. et al. (1993) Dietary antioxidant flavonoids and risk of coronary heart disease: The Zutphen elderly study, Lancet, 342: 1007-1011.
  13. Henry, J.P. and Stephens-Larsen, P. (1984) Reduction of chronic psychosocial hypertension in mice by decaffeinated tea. Hypertension, 6:437-444.
  14. Sato, Y. et al. (1989) Possible contribution of green tea drinking tothe prevention of stroke. Tohuku . Exptal Med. 157 : 337-343.
  15. Shetty, M. et al (19940 Antibacterial activity of tea (Camellia sinensis) and coffee (Coffee arabica) with special reference to Salmonella typhimurium. J. Commun. Dis. 26 : 147-150.
  16. Ryu, E. (1982) Prophylactic effect of tea on pathogenic microorganism infection to animals and humans. Int. J. Zoonoses. 9 : 126-131.
  17. Horiba, N. et al. (1991) A pilot study of Japanese green tea as a medicament: Antibacterial and bactericidal effects. J. Endod. 17: 122-124.
  18. Nakane, H. and Ono,K. (1989) Differential inhibition of HIV-reverse transcriptase and various DNA and RNA polymerases by some catechin derivatives. Nucleic Acids Research, Symposium series 21, 115.
  19. Hu, Z. (1992) Mitogenic activity of (-) epigallocatechin gallate on B-cells and investigation of structure-function relationship. Int. J. Immunopharmacol. 14 : 1399-1407.
  20. Makimura,M. et al. (1993) Inhibitory effect of tea catechins on collagenase activity. J. Periodontol. 64: 630-636.
  21. Yu, H. Et al. (1995) Effects of several tea components on acid resistance of human tooth enamel. J. Dent. 23: 101-105.
  22. Sadakata, S. Et al. (1995). Mortality among female practitioners of Chanyou (Japanese tea ceremony). Tohoku J. Exp. Med. 166:475-477.
In Natural Remedies, Uncategorizedby

Gugulipid | Reduce Cholesterol and ‘Burn’ More Body Fat with This Plant Extract

If you are looking to burn more body fat, gugulipids could be the plant extract for you.

Stroke is the third leading cause of death in North America and Europe, just behind coronary heart disease and cancer. When it happens, it can either be a little one (actually a series of undetected petite strokes over a given period of time) or else, more often than not, one of major consequence that can leave in its wake temporary paralysis and partial amnesia, among other things.

A stroke is initiated with the formation of a blood clot. A clot forms when blood platelets become too sticky and start clustering together like a bunch of grapes. When this happens, the flow of blood starts slowing down in a process similar to 5:00 p.m. traffic backup on the freeway systems of many of America’s major cities.

Gugulipid also has demonstrated in more than two dozen clinical trials, its incredible lipid-lowering properties. It not only lowers total serum cholesterol and plasma triglycerides, but also greatly reduces “bad” cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol), while at the same time increasing “good” cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol). This should come as welcomed news to those who worry about their heart arteries or livers becoming clogged up with too many fat deposits.

Another remarkable accomplishment of Gugulipid is its ability to accelerate the chemical “burning” away of stored fat, by simply converting it into more physical energy. This is done by resetting the body’s own “fat thermostat” a few degrees higher (not to be confused with an unhealthy rise in body temperature). All of this action takes place in the thyroid, that butterfly-shaped gland that sits atop the windpipe at the base of the neck. When Indian scientists administered an isolated ketosteroid from gum guggul to animal models, they noticed, according to their report, “a significant increase in all the thyroid functions” of these rodents. And slightly accelerated thyroid activity with Gugulipid means an increase in the body’s overall metabolic rate, or heightened internal combustion of stored fat.

Gugulipid, in combination with several other plant ingredients of Ayurvedic origin, was studied in humans also. The results of the various formula combinations showed positive effects for weight loss. Gugulipid was the main ingredient in all four combinations studied.

Gugulipid is safer than much of the water we drink or air we breathe these days. It is extremely user-friendly to all body systems and will do our internal vital organs much good if taken in moderate amounts (2 capsules or tablets) each day with a meal of some kind.

 

 

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Ocimum Sanctum (Holy Basil) To Help With Stress & Immunological Function

Ocimum sanctum (holy basil), called Tulsi in India, is ubiquitous in Hindu tradition. Perhaps its role as a healing herb was instrumental in its sacred implication. Ayurvedic practice recommends Tulsi in several formulations to enhance immunity and metabolic functions as well as in the management of respiratory problems1.

A variety of biologically active compounds have been isolated from the leaves including ursolic acid, apigenin and  luteolin.  Pharmacological studies have validated the myriad healthful properties of Tulsi. Extracts from the plant have been found to reduce stress, modulate immunological functions and alleviate ulcers in experimental animals2.  Ursolic acid  was found to have anti-allergic properties. When administered to laboratory animals, the compound was found to inhibit  mast cell degranulation and histamine release in  the presence of allergen3.  These studies reveal the potential role of Ocimum sanctum extracts in the management of immunological disorders including allergies and asthma. Recent studies have also revealed the chemopreventive effects of Tulsi extract  in animal models. These effects are mediated through enhanced  carcinogen-metabolizing enzyme activities and raised glutathione levels, facilitated by the active constituents in the extract, such as ursolic acid4.  Researchers have also confirmed the  efficacy of Ocimum sanctum extract in lowering elevated blood sugar levels5.

 

Phytochemistry

One of the major biologically active compounds in Ocimum sanctum is the triterpene compound ursolic acid.  The structural resemblance of this compound to steroids is believed to be responsible for some of its pharmacological actions3. Ursolic acid is also one of the major constituents of  a well known antioxidant herb, rosemary.

The leaves of Ocimum sanctum yield an essential oil, which contains several biologically active compounds including eugenol, eugenal, carvacrol, mathychavicol, limatrol, and caryophylline. The essential oil has been known to demonstrate antimicrobial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Staphylococcus aureus in vitro.  Furthermore, a study performed on mice and rats indicated that eugenol and methyleugenol possess adaptogenic (antistress) activity1.

The seeds and mucilage also contain oils with biologically important components.  The seed oil contains fatty acids and sitosterol while the mucilage is made up of xylose and polysaccharides1. The fixed oil of Ocimum sanctum was found to possess anti-inflammatory activity in carrageenan and other mediator-induced paw edema in rats1a.

 

Clinical Studies

A controlled clinical study validated the role of Ocimum sanctum (Tulsi) as an adjunct in the management of  a  critical metabolic disorder in recent times – diabetes.   A randomized, placebo-controlled  cross-over single blind trial on 40 human volunteers suffering from Type II diabetes was performed.  During the eight week trial, subjects received a daily dose of 2.5 g of Tulsi leaves powder or a placebo for four week periods.  The results of the trial showed a 17.6 % reduction in fasting blood glucose and a 7.3% decline in postprandial blood glucose on treatment with Tulsi as compared to the blood glucose levels during treatment with placebo5

Another study was conducted on rats and mice to observe the anti stress activity of Ocimum sanctum.  To examine this anti stress activity, two groups of 20 mice each were used in a swimming endurance test.  One group was treated with 100 mg/kg of Ocimum sanctum extract while the other group served as the control. The mice were allowed to swim in separate tanks.  The endpoint was noted when each mouse drowned.    The animals treated with Ocimum sanctum showed a significantly  greater physical endurance  than the control group (on an average, the treated animals swam for 1080 minutes as compared to the animals from the control group which swam for 385 minutes).

The effect of Ocimum sanctum extract was explored in another study against ulcers induced by cold stress, restraint ulcers, and aspirin administration in rats.  Cold stress induced ulcers were produced by tying all four of the rat’s limbs and keeping them in a B.O.D. incubator for 2 hours.  Restraint ulcers were created by tying the four legs in a back position.  Aspirin-induced ulcers were produced by the injection of 200mg/(kg of body weight) of aspirin.  In each case, one group served as a control and the other was given Ocimum sanctum extract (100 mg/kg  i.p.).  The stomach of each animal was examined for the presence of ulcers.   After the experiment was complete, it was evident that restraint-stress and chemically induced gastric ulcers were absent in Ocimum sanctum.  The results of these studies indicate that the administration of Ocimum sanctum produces a nonspecific increased resistance against a variety of stress-induced pathological changes in animals2.

The effects of Ocimum sanctum on immunological functions has also been studied. In a study performed on rats immunized by sheep red blood cells (SRBC), it became apparent that pretreatment of Ocimum sanctum enhanced the production of antibodies, including IgE antibody and anti-SRBC.  In addition, the in vitro effect of Ocimum sanctum  on antigen-induced histamine release was studied by sensitizing rats to antigen.  Ocimum sanctum significantly inhibited antigen induced histamine release from mast cells. Based on these results, the authors concluded on the beneficial effects of Ocimum sanctum on  the immune mechanism at various levels, such as on antibody production6.

Experiments also show that Ocimum sanctum possess protective properties against gamma radiation.  The water and aqueous ethanol extracts of Ocimum sanctum were given in single doses and multiple doses before a whole body exposure to gamma radiation in mice.  It was found that the water extract of the plant was more effective and less toxic than the ethanol extract.  Also, an optimum dose of 50 mg/(kg of body weight) of the water extract, at 10 mg/kg of body weight/day for five consecutive days gave the best protection against the effects of radiation7.

In summary, Ocimum sanctum is a safe adjunct to conventional therapy in the management of diabetes and immunological as well as stress-related conditions.  Its record of use in Ayurvedic tradition spans several centuries. Studies performed on animal models to date using levels as high as 100 mg/kg of the extract administered intra-peritoneally, did not reveal untoward side effects2.  Human diabetic subjects receiving 2.5 g of Ocimum sanctum leaves powder  for four weeks also reported  no unfavorable side effects5.

References

  1. Selected Medicinal Plants of India: Chemexcil, 1992, 225-227.
1a. Singh, S. et al. “Evaluation of Anti-inflammatory Potential of the Fixed Oil of Ocimum sanctum and Its Mode of Action”. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 1996, 54(1), 19-26.
  1. Bhargava, K.P. and Singh, H. “Anti-stress Activity of Ocimum sanctum Linn”.  Indian Journal of Medical Research:  March, 1981, (73) 443-451.
  2. Rajasekaren, M., et. al. “Mast Cell Protective Activity of Ursolic Acid-A Triterpene from the Leaves of Ociumum Sanctum L.  Journal of Drug Development:  1989, 2(3), 179-182.
  3. Banerjee, S., et. al. “Modulatory Influence of Alcoholic Extract of Ocimum Leaves on Carcinogen-Metabolizing Enzyme Activities and Reduced Glutathione Levels in Mouse”.  Nutrition and Cancer:  1996, 25(2), 205-217.
  4. Agrawal, P., et. al. “Randomized Placebo-Controlled, Single Blind Trial of Holy Basil Leaves in Patients with Noninsulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus.  International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics:  Sept. 1996,  34 (9), 406-409.
  5. Bhattacharya, S.K., et. al. “Effect of Ocimum Sanctum Linn. on Humoral Immune Responses”.  Indian Journal of Medical Research:  April, 1988, (87), 384-386.
  6. Devi, P. Uma and Ganasoundari, A.  “Radioprotective Effect of Leaf Extract on Indian Medicinal Plant Ocimum Sanctum”.  Indian Journal of Experimental Biology:  March, 1995, (33) 205-208.
In mucuna pruriensby

Stay Fit and Youthful with Mucuna Pruriens

Mucuna pruriens, from the botanical family Fabaceae, commonly known as velvet bean or cowitch is a plant indigenous to India. Ayurvedic practitioners have used the seeds for centuries, in the management of Parkinson’s disease and nervous debility. The herb has also been used in formulations to control depression and improve mental alertness1. The long record of safe and effective use prompted detailed research into the phytochemistry and pharmacological effects of this plant.

The endocarp of the beans were found to contain about 5% levodopa (L-dihydroxy-phenylalanine, L-DOPA) which is used in conventional medical practice in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease2.
 

Botanical description

The plant is a slender climbing annual. The flowers are racemes with purplish corolla and the seeds are about 1 cm in diameter, bean shaped and white in color3.
 

Chemistry

The seeds yield a red viscous oil which contains stearic, palmitic, myristic, arachidic, oleic and linoleic acids and a sterol. The alkaloids mucunine, mucunadine, prurienine and prurienidine are reported to have been isolated from the seeds. Besides a significant amount of L-DOPA (3-5), the seeds have also been found to contain tannins, sitosterol and lecithin3. Suspension cultures of Mucuna pruriens are proven to biotransform L- tyrosine to L-DOPA4. Four indole-3-alkylamines and choline have been isolated from different parts of the plant3. Recent studies revealed that the levodopa content (dry weight) of a whole Mucuna bean is 4.02%, with the majority contained in the endocarp2.
 

Pharmacological effects

A 12-week study with 60 patients suffering from Parkinson’s disease evaluated the effectiveness of a stable standardized preparation made from the endocarp of M. pruriens beans in the treatment of the disease. An average daily dose of 22.5 grams was gradually increased to 45 grams of the extract per day at the end of 12 weeks. This treatment produced significant reduction in symptoms as determined using Unified parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS). The authors of this study concluded that the standardized extract of Mucuna pruriens offers an effective low cost approach to the management of Parkinson’s disease. As opposed to synthetic drugs, the combination of phytonutrients in the extract could contribute to its low toxicity and superior efficacy2.

In addition to efficacy in the management of Parkinson’s disease, the seeds were found to reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels in experimental models5. Mucuna pruriens has been prescribed as an aphrodisiac by Ayurvedic practitioners. A recent study revealed that the herb is useful in improving sexual performance in normal male animal models. A suspension of Mucuna pruriens seed powder in distilled water administered orally once a day for 7 days, at the level of 1 g/kg, to male rats produced significant improvement in sexual performance as compared to control rats receiving distilled water. The authors of this study concluded that the effects on mating behavior and sexual performance in the male rats involved in this study could be partially attributed to the androgenic effect of Mucuna pruriens and partially to the inhibition of hyperexcitation of the regulatory centers by the herb6. Androgenic effects are associated with increased testosterone production. Testosterone is known to play a key role in sperm cell production and immune functions and is often used to increase fertility and recovery. From a sports nutrition point of view, androgenic compounds are particularly promising since increased testosterone levels increase the deposition of protein in the muscles, leading to increased muscle mass and strength7.

In view of the traditional use of the plant as a remedy for snake bites, one group of researchers recently investigated the effect of an aqueous extract of Mucuna pruriens on isolated smooth and skeletal muscle preparations. These studies revealed the capability of the extract to assist in the inhibition of cholinesterase and facilitate acetylcholine accumulation leading to reversal of neurotoxic effects8. The positive effects of Mucuna pruriens extract in improving mental alertness, probably through enhanced neuromuscular transmission.

The combination of mental alertness improvement, L-Dopa production, aphrodisiac properties, cholesterol lowering action and nerve toning effects indicate the potential use of Mucuna pruriens extract in sports nutrition. The extract could be useful in strength building and to provide anabolic effects. The positive effects of the seed extract on neuromuscular transmission could help in honing the reflexes as well as in promoting muscular coordination thereby optimizing athletic performance. In light of these multifaceted effects, Mucuna pruriens extract is a valuable phytonutrient.
 

References

  1. Singh,.R.H., Nath.S.K., Behere.P.B.(1989) Depressive illness-a therapeutic evaluation with herbal drugs. Journal of Research in Ayurveda and Sidha; 1(1): 1-6.
  2. Manyam, B.V. et al. (1995). An Alternative Medicine treatment for Parkinson’s Disease: Results of a Multicenter Clinical Trial. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 1(3): 249-255.
  3. Mucuna pruriens. In Selected Medicinal plants of India, CHEMEXIL, (1992), 215.
  4. Pras, N. et al. (1993) Mucuna pruriens: Improvement of the Biotechnological production of the Anti-parkinson Drug L-dopa by plant Cell Selection. Pharmacy World & Science. 15(6): 263-8
  5. Akhtar, M.S. et al. (1990). Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, 40(7): 147-50.
  6. Amin, K.M.Y. et al. (1996). Sexual function improving effect of Mucuna pruriens in sexually normal male rats. Fitoterapia, 67, 53-58.
  7. Bhasin, S. et al. (1996). The effects of supraphysiologic dose of testosterone on muscle size and strength in normal men. New England Journal of Medicine, 335: 1-7
  8. Aguiyi, J.C. et al. (1997) Effects of Mucuna pruriens seed extract on smooth and skeletal muscale preparations. Fitoterapia, 67, 366-370.

 

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