anti-fungal Archives - Amazing Health Advances

The Antimicrobial Properties of Tea Tree and Hemp Seed Oils

AHA Publisher — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 07:00:34 +0000

Suchandrima Bhowmik via News-Medical – There have been increased demands by consumers for natural compounds capable of enhancing food quality and safety. As a result, many have proposed the substitution of synthetic antioxidants with plant extracts. Bioactive tea tree oil (TTO) and hemp seed oil (HSO) are of particular interest due to their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Background TTO is obtained from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant of the Myrtle family and is well known for its antimicrobial properties. A tea tree is a tree or shrub that constitutes a papery bark and can grow up to 14 meters in height. This plant originated from Australia and can thrive in mostly warm temperatures. Steam distillation is commonly used for the extraction of active components of the tea tree plant, most of which are terpenes. Following harvest, cold pressing of hemp seeds allows for the extraction of HSO. Cannabidiol (CBD) content in HSO can be either low or high; however, no comparison regarding the bioactivity of HSOs with different CBD contents with that of TTO has been made. Along with the antibacterial properties associated with many plant oils, these extracts are also associated with anti-fungal properties. In fact, some plant oils can resist the adverse impact of harsh chemicals used to sanitize food-processing areas. This has led to an increased demand for improved antimicrobials used in the food industry. Therefore, discovering natural antimicrobials that are not associated with toxic effects is important. Antioxidants are synthetic or natural substances that aid in the neutralization of harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS). These agents help to avoid oxidative stress that arises due to an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants. Oxidative stress can be caused by external factors such as smoking, exposure to the sun without protection, or alcohol consumption. High levels of ROS for long periods can also lead to aging and many chronic diseases. Two plant extracts that are known for their antioxidant properties include sesame oil and vetiver oil. A new Applied Microbiology study compares the antimicrobial activity of HSO and TTO products against pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella enteritidis (S. enteritidis), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The researchers also assessed the antioxidant properties of these agents, as well as the existence of any interrelationship between their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. About the Study The current study utilized antimicrobial and antioxidant assays. The antimicrobial assays included time-kill studies, minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) evaluation, and the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method for evaluation of antimicrobial properties of the samples. Comparatively, the antioxidant assay was used to determine the concentration of antioxidants in the sample. This assay was done using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) radical-scavenging activity method. The antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of seven oils, including tea tree, sesame, rosehip, vetiver, pure hemp, organic hemp, and 5% CBD oil, were assessed. Study Findings The onset of bacteria was reported to be six hours, while the highest concentration was observed at 24 hours. The number of bacteria in the TTO group was lower than in the HSO groups. The MIC and disk diffusion method results indicated that out of all oils, TTO exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against all three pathogens. The MIC range for TTO was reported to be 8, 2, and 8 mg/mL for S. aureus, S. enteritidis, and E.coli, respectively. The inhibition zones were reported to be 2.19, 1.87, and 2.02 cm against S. enteritidis, S. aureus, and E.coli, respectively. Conversely, 5% CBD oil was found to produce the highest antioxidant activity that was 5.7 times more potent as compared to that of TTO. Pure hemp and organic hemp also showed promising antioxidant properties. Conclusions The current study determined TTO to be the most effective antimicrobial agent against E.coli, S. aureus, and S. enteritidis. Furthermore, the CBD content of HSOs was found to play an important role in their antioxidant properties. Substances with higher CBD exhibited better antioxidant properties. Therefore, both TTO and CBD plants can be useful in food science studies to make food products safe for consumers. Further research is needed to optimize the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of these oils for their use in the food and medical industries. To read the original article click here.

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Sweet Spice Supports Hormone Health, Improves Digestion and More

AHA Publisher — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 08:00:21 +0000

Wendy Miller via NaturalHealth365 – Star anise is one of many spices that is easy to recognize by both sight and flavor. It also has several health benefits that set it apart from other herbs and spices. The systemic benefits it offers are widespread and can support various bodily systems. The fact that it offers one of the most recognizable and well-known flavors across the world is a delicious plus. Let’s take a look at some of the benefits star anise offers. Help guard against pathogenic invaders by adding this spice to your diet Star anise has been proven to protect against the big three. As an antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal, star anise keeps bacteria, viruses, and fungi from overtaking the body and causing illness and disease. It has been used for centuries in medicines and herbal blends to eradicate the dangerous organisms that make their way into the body and break down our defenses. Star anise supports digestive health in multiple ways Star anise has been shown to promote better digestion. When the small fruits are eaten after a meal, the digestive system works more efficiently. Bloating is kept to a minimum and less gas is produced. There is also less cramping and discomfort. Star anise helps regulate the bacteria in the gut making it easier for nutrients to be absorbed and utilized by the body. Why should we strive to have a well-balanced gut flora? Because a balanced gut improves the body’s ability to get the most out of the foods you eat. An abundance of phytonutrients makes this spice a potent antioxidant The immune system uses inflammation to protect injured areas of the body from further damage. Star anise can be used in tonics or tea to aid in the reduction of inflammation and swelling that is associated with either injury or illness. The list of phytonutrients contained in star anise makes it a key antioxidant that protects cells and flushes toxins from the body. As a tea, it may support joints and muscles by reducing inflammation throughout the body. Unique chemical compound gives this sweet spice immune-boosting properties Star anise is one of the most powerful immune boosters in the world due to its incredibly high content of shikimic acid. With the amount of shikimic acid it contains and the high level of antioxidants, star anise is known for its ability to boost the immune system. When consumed in small amounts when you start to feel under the weather, it can provide your body with what it needs to work through the health crisis. Protect against seasonal and environmental threats one sip at a time Star anise can be consumed as a tea when you first start to experience scratchiness in your throat. Its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce swelling and discomfort. Its wide array of medicinal properties can help boost the immune system, which is only one part of the benefit. Anise also helps strengthen and repair cells that may be damaged by bacteria or a virus. But wait, there’s more! See how star anise may support hormone health Star anise and many of its licorice counterparts have a significant impact on hormones in both men and women. For men, it is beneficial as an energizer as well as boosting libido. For women, the benefits are many. From smoothing out mood swings to supporting menstrual cycles, balancing the hormones can alleviate many cycle-related troubles such as headaches, hot flashes, cramps, and nausea. What’s the Bottom Line? Whether you choose to consume star anise as a tonic, tea, or in capsule form, the list of benefits is quite lengthy. The fact is, it is one of the few spices that can have a positive effect on almost every system in the body. Understanding how it works and what it can do will help you use this vital and very potent spice to its fullest advantage. Sources for this article include: NaturalPedia.com OrganicFacts.net Dupischai.com To read the original article click here.

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DEADLY Cocktails: Pesticide Combinations Decimate Record Number of Bees, Far More Than Previously Thought

AHA Publisher — Mon, 20 Dec 2021 08:00:47 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – Honey bees have been under attack for over a decade, yet most people don’t know about it. Bees are threatened with extinction, and their complete disappearance would be catastrophic to life as we know it. Yet, mounting evidence suggests that pesticides are key factors in their decline. Considering the importance of bees, why do we keep using products and instituting practices that kill them off? That is the question the world must finally look in the face and answer, thanks to recent research regarding pesticides’ impact on bee populations. And it’s about time! Here Is Why Bees Are Critical to Maintain Our Food Supply The impact that bees have on our environment is immense. They are a crucial component in pollination which means the growth of flowers, trees, and other plants that provide food and shelter for animals and humans. They are major contributors to interconnected, complex ecosystems that support life for diverse species to coexist. They are master crop pollinators. Remove the bees, and our food supply will be threatened. No bees mean no food gardens, and that means empty plates. They also produce honey which possesses remarkable healing properties. High-quality, organic, raw honey works as an antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial making it as beneficial for the body as it is for making life a little sweeter. Yes, bees are that important. Pesticide Combinations Are Particularly Deadly to Bee Populations, Studies Suggest A study published in 2019 had several sobering conclusions: Since 1970 nearly half of all insect species have disappeared Currently, 41% of insect species are at risk of becoming extinct 1 in 6 species of bees have become locally extinct in at least one geographic area or region An August 2021 report published in Nature identified specific pesticide combinations that pose a substantial threat to bees, causing more damage than previously thought. When bees interact with multiple agrochemicals, it can increase bee mortality significantly. More importantly, it synergistically impacts bees, meaning that if one pesticide kills 10% of honeybees in a colony and a different pesticide kills another 10% in that same colony, a synergistic effect could lead to a mortality rate of up to 40% or greater. And this is what is currently happening and why our bees are dying. It’s Time For More Rigorous Regulations on Pesticides Researchers and environmental advocates are calling for more stringent regulations for pesticides as the ones currently in place are ineffective in protecting bees. Scientists recommend that not only should individual pesticides or chemicalsbe tested, but common combinations be tested as well. Many chemical companies sell a “cocktail” comprised of several different pesticides and chemicals designed for agricultural purposes. While the individual ingredients have undergone testing, there is no testing for the compounds formed when the chemicals are combined. Survival of Bees Are Affected by MANY Threats Pesticides are not the only threat bees face. Poor nutrition and parasites can also affect bees, but not in a synergistic manner that pesticides do. Invasive species, habitat loss, and pollution also factor into the decline of bees, but again, not to the magnitude that unregulated pesticide compounds do. Our bees are important, and as guardians of our world, it is our responsibility to protect them. More research is needed to study and address all of the threats that bee populations face and examine and analyze pesticide and chemical compounds used in agricultural settings and elsewhere. Keep in mind, the bees were here first … and they are vital to sustaining life as we know it and keeping our ecosystems in balance. Simply put, it’s time to show nature the respect it deserves. We can all benefit from that way of living. Sources for this article include: Nature.com EcoWatch.com NewsTarget.com Independent.co.uk To read the original article click here.

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Manuka Honey Fights Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Plus So Much More

AHA Publisher — Mon, 29 Nov 2021 08:00:58 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – The steadily worsening problem of antibiotic-resistant pathogens – cause for grave concern in the medical community – has researchers working overtime to discover solutions. But several studies raise hope that Manuka honey may hold the key to combating MRSA and other drug-resistant strains. In one study conducted at Cardiff Metropolitan University and published in 2012 in Microbiology, researchers moved closer to understanding the mechanisms by which honey inhibits the formation of biofilms – difficult-to-treat communities of bacteria – and helps to clear chronic wounds. Manuka honey Quickly Incapacitates Infection-Causing Bacteria Researchers found that Manuka honey produced in New Zealand and Australia has the ability to attack a common bacteria, Streptococcus pyogenes, often responsible for chronic infections, as well as the destruction of skin grafts. In fact, it took only modest concentrations of honey to kill 85 percent of the biofilms in a Petri dish – within two hours. And, S. pyogenes isn’t the only pathogen susceptible to honey – numerous studies demonstrate that Manuka honey is antiviral, antifungal, and active against 80 different species of bacteria, including E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. The team noted that there are no instances of any type of honey-resistant bacteria on record. Remarking that honey was both cheaper and safer than conventional drugs, they called for its use as a complementary therapy in conjunction with antibiotics. Manuka Honey Not Only Treats Bacterial Infections – It Can Prevent Them From Developing in the First Place Researchers discovered that honey disrupts the interaction between S. pyogenes and a protein called fibronectin, which exists on the surface of damaged cells. The fibronectin acts as a fixative or glue, allowing bacteria to stick to wounds. Honey disrupts the bond of two different types of fibronectin, known as Sof and Sfbl. But honey is not just a “one-trick pony” when it comes to its tools for fighting infection and healing long-standing wounds. According to research presented in 2014 at the 247th meeting of the American Chemical Society, honey also uses hydrogen peroxide, acidity, and antioxidant flavonoids and polyphenols – such as caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and ellagic acid – to inhibit bacteria. In addition, it employs an osmotic effect, in which its high percentage of sugar draws water from bacterial cells, dehydrating and then killing them. To form biofilms, bacteria use a communication system called quorum sensing; by interrupting this system, honey works as a signal jammer, preventing biofilms from developing. Honey Accelerates Wound Repair Plus So Much More Of course, Manuka honey can be used for more than wound healing. University of Maryland Medical Center reports that it may be taken to alleviate laryngitis, sore throats, pharyngitis, and cough. Honey has also been used in folk medicine and Ayurveda to promote digestion, relieve constipation, and soothe acid reflux. Naturally, you shouldn’t use honey to treat medical conditions unless under the guidance of a trusted medical professional. But, there’s no doubt, raw honey is highly-effective at promoting optimal health. With All the Different Brands and Varieties, How Do I Know Which Honey to Choose? Natural health experts all seem to agree: it’s best to opt for raw, unfiltered organic honey, available in health food stores and online. Manuka honey, of course, is considered the queen of healthful honeys and well worth the extra expense – but local, raw honey can be just as effective in many cases. Avoid filtered “supermarket” honey; many contain antibiotics and (surprise!) high fructose corn syrup. In addition, the bee pollen has been removed. Raw, organic honey, on the other hand, still retains all its vitamins, nutrients, antioxidants, and pollen. In addition to its potent germ-fighting properties and its value as a safe and trusted home remedy for minor ills, raw honey is a delicious alternative to refined white sugar. So, bottom line, always look for ‘raw’ honey – and buy as local a variety as you can get. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov ScienceDaily.com ScienceDaily.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Wow! New Study Shows Ginger Combats Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive Impairment

AHA Publisher — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 08:00:35 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Alzheimer’s disease, a neurodegenerative condition that impairs memory and cognitive abilities, currently affects over 6 million Americans – and causes the death of 83,000 people every year. Unfortunately, rates of the disease are soaring, with the Alzheimer’s Association predicting that this number will climb to 13 million by the year 2050. Conventional pharmaceutical drugs to address Alzheimer’s disease have shown disappointing results, and researchers are searching urgently for novel therapeutic agents to use against this debilitating condition. Now, recent research has provided a ray of hope. In a review published in January 2021, the authors reported that ginger combats the oxidative stress, inflammation, and neuron cell death that contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers: Neuroprotective Effects of Ginger Help Improve Memory and Cognition In a review published in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy in 2021, the authors used human, animal, and cell studies to evaluate the effects of ginger – and its bioactive constituents gingerol, shogaol, and borneal – on Alzheimer’s disease. Scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, ginger is an ancient herb that has been revered in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries for its ability to treat a host of ailments – including coughs, colds, infections,rheumatism, digestive problems, and fevers. (And yes, ginger has a long history of herbal use for memory problems as well!) The team noted that studies on fish, mice, and humans have consistently shown that ginger can improve memory and cognition. In one study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, researchers assessed the effects of ginger supplementation on cognitive tasks and working memory in middle-aged women. The reviewers reported that ginger improved scores for word recognition, spatial working memory, and numeric working memory. Researchers believe that ginger enhances memory by increasing the expression of a protein known as nerve growth factor (NGF). Encouragingly, ginger has also been shown to inhibit beta-amyloid peptides, which have been tied to “senile plaques” that trigger Alzheimer’s disease. And the effects can be dramatic. In one study, treatment with ginger reduced amyloid plaque-induced behavioral dysfunction – along with brain cell death. In addition, a compound in ginger known as 6-shogaol has been shown to help block inflammatory chemicals, or interleukins, involved in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. And, finally, ginger boosts levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter essential for memory and learning. The authors concluded that ginger possesses “great potency for improving memory functions” and is a “safe nutraceutical that can be applied to combat neurodegenerative diseases.” They called for more research to further explore the exciting neuroprotective effects of ginger. Destructive Free Radicals Spur Alzheimer’s Disease Scientists think that Alzheimer’s disease stems from age-related impairment in the cell mitochondria, which triggers the release of harmful free radicals. The subsequent oxidative damage causes all sorts of mischief – such as increasing the neurofibrillary tangles and beta-amyloid plaques, which contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Free radicals also cause the release of toxins such as malondialdehyde while affecting levels of antioxidants – including glutathione and superoxide dismutase – in the body’s natural defense system. By the way, Alzheimer’s disease is the leading form of dementia – a steady decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills. Sadly, experts say the incidence of dementia doubles every ten years after age 60. Ginger Has All the Right “Anti’s” to Prevent Disease Neuroprotection is not the only weapon in ginger’s arsenal against disease. The authors had high praise for ginger’s other therapeutic effects as well, noting that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers help it act against cancer and type 2 diabetes. Ginger is also antibacterial, antifungal, and antispasmodic – and can act as a natural fever reducer. As if that weren’t impressive enough, ginger may even promote weight loss, lower blood sugar and help decrease levels of harmful LDL cholesterol. Believe it or not, ginger is just getting started! The review authors also noted that a ginger constituent known as 6-gingerol could help protect against stomach ulcers, boost the immune system, protect the liver and alleviate allergic reactions. (In fact, it’s difficult to think of a condition that ginger doesn’t help!) Use Fresh or Powdered Ginger to Add Peppery, “Zippy” Flavor to Recipes While ginger is treasured in herbal healing, it has a multitude of culinary uses as well. You can utilize fresh ginger root or powdered ginger to enliven beef, poultry, and fish recipes – along with sauces, stews, vegetables, and salads. You can even steep ginger into a soothing, warming tea by thinly slicing an inch or two of ginger root and boiling it for 10 minutes. (Add honey and lemon juice for even more flavor and antioxidant punch!) Incidentally, ginger’s close relative, turmeric, is believed to have many of the same therapeutic effects as ginger – thanks to its content of a powerful antioxidant known as curcumin. So why not combine both of these flavorful spices in the same recipe? Ginger supplements are available in capsules and tablets, with natural health experts typically advising around 1,500 mg a day in divided servings. If you are interested in supplementing with ginger, check first with your trusted integrative healthcare provider. While ginger is generally recognized as safe when used in moderate quantities, excessive amounts can cause side effects such as heartburn and diarrhea. The new research reveals ginger’s potential as an important weapon in the decades-long battle against Alzheimer’s disease. Wouldn’t it be ironic if a lifesaving natural therapy was “hiding in plain sight” the whole time? Sources for this article include: NYDailyNews.com MayoClinic.org AlzheimersAssociation.org LifeExtension.com To read the original article click here.

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Spicy Food Choice Offers 5 SURPRISING Health Benefits

AHA Publisher — Mon, 03 May 2021 07:34:57 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – What is curry? Contrary to popular belief, curry is NOT native to India! Instead, modern-day foodies and historians assert that “curry” was introduced to the Western World in the 1700s by the British in an attempt to mimic the spicy and savory dishes explorers found in India. And while traditional Indian dishes are loaded with healthy spices, they don’t use curry powder — although you certainly might want to. From boosting heart health to promoting improved blood sugar control, it’s time to explore the possible health benefits of curry and the mix of spices it contains. Curry Contains Several Spices with Powerful Health Benefits Curry powder isn’t a single type of spice. Instead, it’s a blend of healthy spices, including turmeric, coriander, and chili pepper. Together and individually, the spices that make up this spice offer some impressive benefits to human health. Here are a few you might want to know about: Would you like to improve blood flow? One 2014 randomized trial published in Nutrition Journal found that consuming a meal containing this powder improved arterial blood flow in the arm, possibly due to the powder’s high antioxidant content. What about achieving better cholesterol levels? A 2016 review from Nutrition Research and Practice found that triglyceride levels appear significantly lower in people who regularly consume curry. This relationship remained even after the researchers adjusted for confounding factors like chronic disease, physical activity level, and smoking. A natural way to promote better blood sugar control. The same 2016 review concluded that blood sugar levels were consistently lower among people who ate curry anywhere from 2 or 3 times per month or once per week. If you feel like you eat too much … keep reading. A 2018 randomized controlled trial published in the peer-reviewed journal Foods found that eating 6 to 12 grams of curry powder with a meal was associated with reduced hunger and a reduced desire to eat among men. Reduce the risk of oxidative stress. In 2018, the journal Frontiers in Physiology published a study that found that consuming a meal with 6 to 12 grams of the powder was associated with lower levels of a compound called allantoin, a marker of oxidative stress. Individual spices in curry, including curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) and coriander, are also well known for their powerful antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial effects. Need Some Kitchen Inspiration? Check Out These Delicious Ways to Use Curry in Your Cooking Curry is a versatile powder that will taste a little different depending on where it’s made and what spices it contains. Once you find a brand you like — ideally, one that contains high-quality and sustainable ingredients — you can add it to a variety of dishes for enhanced flavor. Try it on: Eggs Potatoes Basmati, brown, or wild rice Chicken Fish Veggies Cashews, or almonds Fruit (try tart apples or pineapple!) Stews and soups As with any herb blend or dietary supplement, you often get what you pay for in terms of quality, so look for curry powder from reputable brands. And if you’ve had some curry powder in your pantry for a while, be sure to check the label — on May 21, 2020, the FDA issued a recall of certain bottles of Radhuni brand powder due to concerns of contamination with Salmonella. Sources for this article include: Standard.co.uk NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Purdue.edu Healthline.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Antifungal and Antidepressant Drugs Can Effectively Inhibit COVID-19 Virus

AHA Publisher — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 07:00:39 +0000

Wiley via News-Medical – New research published in the British Journal of Pharmacology indicates that two currently available medications–an antifungal drug and an antidepressant–can effectively inhibit the virus that causes COVID-19 in laboratory cells. Investigators found that the antifungal itraconazole and the antidepressant fluoxetine each blocked the production of infectious SARS-CoV-2 virus in cell culture lab tests. When either drug was used in combination with the antiviral drug remdesiver, the combination showed synergistic effects and inhibited the production of SARS-CoV-2 by more than 90%. “Preventive vaccination and therapeutic medicines against COVID-19 are both required to effectively combat pandemics caused by emerging zoonotic viruses such as SARS-CoV-2.” (Ursula Rescher, PhD, Study Senior Author, University of Muenster, Germany) To read the original article click here.

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5 INCREDIBLE Health Benefits of Tea Tree Oil You Should Know

AHA Publisher — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 08:00:19 +0000

Karen Sanders via NaturalHealth365 – For millennia, the indigenous people of Australia have prized the oil of the tea tree or Melaleuca alternifolia. The aromatic oil from this evergreen tree contains powerful antibacterial, anti-fungal, antiviral and anti-proliferative compounds known as phytochemicals. Why should I care about tea tree oil? These botanical elements offer a range of health benefits, from clearing acne and athlete’s foot to eliminating dandruff, alleviating periodontal disease’s effects to speeding up wound repair, and even preventing the growth spread of cancerous tumors. Concerned With the Overuse of Antibiotics? Could Tea Tree Oil Be Used as an Alternative? History would suggest the answer is yes. The tea tree’s name stems from 18th-century explorer Captain Cook, whose sailors made tea from the tree’s leaves while exploring the Australian coastline. Despite its name, however, the Melaleuca tree isn’t related to the plants commonly used to make black or green tea. Unfortunately, most conventionally-trained physicians have never learned about the healing properties of natural plant compounds. Perhaps shocking to most doctors, tea tree oil was commonly used as an antiseptic in surgery, burn, and dental care applications before the widespread use of antibiotics. Here Are the Top 5 Health Benefits of Tea Tree Oil 1. Acne According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one of the most common skin conditions, acne, affects as many as 50 million Americans – and 85 percent of people experience acne at least once in their lives. Tea tree oil contains high levels of terpenin-4-ol, a terpene alcohol that eliminate many common germs, bacteria, and fungi. Studies indicate that tea tree oil is just as effective at killing the microorganisms that cause acne as benzoyl peroxide, a commonly prescribed treatment. However, the tea tree works without all of the benzoyl peroxide’s unpleasant side effects, says the Linus Pauling Institute. 2. Athlete’s Foot The potent terpene alcohols in tea tree oil inhibit fungi’ growth, such as the types that cause athlete’s foot or Tinea pedis. Multiple studies indicate that this oil, both when applied alone and in combination with other essential oils, is effective at eliminating the fungi-yeast overgrowth that causes athlete’s foot. Studies also indicate that the oil is an effective treatment for the microbes that cause toenail fungal infections, according to the NYU Langone Medical Center. 3. Dandruff A 2002 study found that using a shampoo that contains a 5% concentration of tea tree oil effectively eliminated the growth of the yeast Pityrosporum ovale – a known cause of dandruff. Participants in the study reported a decrease in flaking, scaling, itchiness, and greasiness after 4 weeks of use. 4. Periodontal Disease Tea tree oil kills many of the bacteria associated with periodontal disease and gum inflammation, according to a 2011 study. So, for infected gums, you can try swishing a few drops of the oil in some warm water or put a drop or two in your toothpaste and brush for about 2 minutes. Either way, do not swallow any of the oil and it will help to reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth. By the way, another great oral health remedy is neem oil to boost immunity by killing pathogens. 5. Cancer According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, multiple studies indicate that the terpenin-4-ol in tea tree oil inhibits the growth of melanoma cancer cells. The oil’s cytotoxic effects have been shown to slow cancer cell proliferation, suggesting promise in the area of cancer treatment and prevention. Naturally, no one is suggesting to treat cancer with just this oil, but it’s good to know that nature provides many anti-cancer therapies without toxic side effects. Just to be perfectly clear, if you’re ever diagnosed with cancer and want to incorporate natural remedies, it’s essential to find a qualified (experienced) medical professional to help in the healing process. Tea tree oil is regarded as safe for topical use; though side effects are rare, they may include skin irritation or redness. Diluting it in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or avocado, may eliminate any skin irritation. Remember, this oil is not for internal use or consumption, as it is toxic in large amounts. This natural oil is available in various forms, from soap, toothpaste, and shampoo to lotions, creams, gels, and essential oil. So, I encourage you to learn more about these natural remedies and enjoy the self-empowering journey. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov AAD.org NIH.gov To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Topical Green Tea for Acne and Fungal Infections

AHA Publisher — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 07:00:56 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Which plant should we use for which skin disease? That’s the topic of my video Natural Treatment for Acne and Fungal Infections. Thousands of studies have been published to date about the health effects of green tea, but it wasn’t until fairly recently that researchers began to look at the possibility of using green tea for the prevention and treatment of infections. Patents have been taken out on the antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties of tea. Let’s review some of the evidence. In terms of fungal infections, green tea compounds have demonstrated “potent antifungal activity” against the primary cause of athlete’s foot, fungal nail infections, jock itch, and ringworm—comparable, in some cases, to powerful antifungal drugs like fluconazole. This was shown in a petri dish, though. How about a green tea footbath for athlete’s foot fungus between the toes? Evidently, tea leaves were once used as a folk remedy for the fungus, so why not put it to the test? Indeed, a once-a-day, 15-minute dilute green tea footbath led to a significant improvement in symptoms compared to controls. Green tea baths also appeared to help with fungus-associated atopic dermatitis, though there was no control group in that study, and a full-strength green tea may help clear candida yeast from poorly cleaned dentures. What about the bacteria that cause plaque and gingivitis? Even a 2% green tea mouthwash was found to be effective. Yes, you should be able to control plaque just with proper brushing and flossing—with an emphasis on “proper.” Most people don’t brush for the recommended four minutes a day, so a dilute green tea mouthwash may help. In terms of plaque bacteria-killing ability, green tea was beaten out by a “garlic with lime mouth rinse,” but I think I’ll just stick to green tea, especially when green tea appears to not only kill plaque bugs directly but also boost the antibacterial capacity of saliva after you drink it. What about green tea for acne? Six weeks of a 2% green tea lotion cut the number of pimples by more than half and significantly reduced the severity, as you can see at 2:48 in my video, making it a cheap, effective treatment for acne. Impetigo is another bacterial skin infection that can affect the face, but a tea ointment can affectan 80 percent cure rate, on par with antibiotics given topically or orally. What about bladder infections? We know a certain concentration of green tea compounds can killthe type of E. coli that causes urinary tract infections. The question then becomes how much tea do you have to drink to achieve those concentrations in your bladder? Not much, it turns out. Just one cup of tea might have an effect, but you may need to space out multiple cups over the day because it gets cleared out of your system within about eight hours, as you can see at 3:45 in my video. So, where do we stand now? The test tube data look promising, but there has yet to be a single study to put it to the test. At this point, green tea should just be used as an adjunct therapy for bladder infections. But, with emerging multidrug-resistant organisms, green tea certainly holdspotential. Wait a moment. If green tea is so good at killing bacteria, might we be killing the good bacteria in our gut when we drink it? No. That’s what’s so amazing. “It has also been shown that green tea has no effect over intestinal flora, which is a great advantage against other bactericidal [bacteria-killing] agents.” But that may not actually be true. Drinking green tea may actually boost the levels of our good bacteria by acting as a prebiotic, thereby improving the colon environment, so it may actually have some effect on our gut flora after all, but it appears to be all good. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Greger click here.

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