antiviral Archives - Amazing Health Advances

7 Pine Bark Extract Benefits, Including for Skin, Hearing & Diabetes

The AHA! Team — Mon, 06 May 2024 18:04:27 +0000

Kyra Oliver via Dr. Axe – We all know the power of antioxidants to improve health and the high-antioxidant foods we should eat regularly. But did you know that pine bark extract, like pine oil, is one of nature’s super antioxidants? It’s true. What gives pine bark extract its notoriety as a powerful ingredient and super antioxidant is that it’s loaded with oligomeric proanthocyanidin compounds — OPCs for short. The same ingredient can be found in grapeseed oil, the skin of peanuts and witch hazel bark. While OPCs found in this extract are mostly known for their antioxidant-producing benefits, these amazing compounds exude antibacterial, antiviral, anticarcinogenic, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. As such, pine bark extract can help reduce muscle soreness and may help improve conditions relating to: poor circulation high blood pressure osteoarthritis diabetes ADHD female reproductive issues skin erectile dysfunction eye disease sports stamina It addition, the OPCs in this extract may “inhibit lipid peroxidation, platelet aggregation, capillary permeability and fragility, and to affect enzyme systems,” which basically means it may be a natural treatment for many serious health conditions, such as stroke and heart disease. What Is Pine Bark Extract? Pine bark extract comes from the inner bark of the Pinus pinaster tree, most commonly found in Europe. A popular variety is the pinus maritime or the maritime pine that grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France. In 1534, a French ship led by the famous explorer Jacques Cartier became stranded in ice near Quebec, Canada. The crew fell extremely ill from scurvy, an extreme lack of vitamin C. Cartier’s crew crossed paths with a Quebec Indian who encouraged them to drink a tea made from pine bark and needles. Four hundred years later, a French researcher named Jacques Masquelier did some studies to understand why this natural remedy was so effective. He learned about the seemingly omnipotent antioxidant within it and how those antioxidants increase the absorption of vitamin C. Continued research showed that the pine bark contained flavonols and bioflavonoids, which hold tissue-repairing properties. Masquelier was easily able to create a pine bark extract from materials that were otherwise known as waste. Health Benefits 1. Lowers Glucose Levels, Improving Diabetic Symptoms Pine bark extract has been studied in regard to its ability to help diabetic patients. A study was conducted by the Guang An Men Hospital of Chinese Medical Science Research Institute with 77 diabetes type II patients to determine if the extract of the French Maritime pine bark provided anti-diabetic effects. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol®, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. The effects of the pine bark extract showed significantly lower levels of blood glucose and improved endothelial function when compared to placebo, concluding that supplementation of Pycnogenol for treating conventional diabetes may be beneficial. 2. Helps Prevent Hearing Loss and Balance Ototoxicity is ear poisoning and can occur when exposed to certain drugs or chemicals, such as cisplatin, that damage the inner ear or the vestibulocochlear nerve. This nerve affects our balance and hearing by sending signals to the brain. This condition can be temporary or permanent — however, some studies have indicated that pine bark extract may help alleviate these symptoms due to its high presence of antioxidants. Thus, this powerful extract may work as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. 3. Staves Off Infections Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. These wounds occur most frequently in hospitals or in those with weakened immune systems, such as after surgery. However, healthy people are not immune and can also develop mild infections, in particular after being in improperly chlorinated hot tubs or swimming pools. In one particular study published in Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences, researchers investigated the antibacterial activity of pine bark extract essential oil on staph infections, E. coli and pseudomonas infections. The antibacterial activity was assessed indicating that the essential oil of pine bark, specifically the proanthocyanidins, were effective against P. aeruginosa, significantly inhibiting its growth. Additionally, the results showed that the extract has significant “anti-pseudomonas activity,” making it a potential natural remedy and possible preventive measure for infections. 4. Protects the Skin from Ultraviolet Exposure Who doesn’t want amazing skin? Pine bark extract may be the perfect treatment since it’s an antioxidant dynamo. There is a seemingly growing problem with skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation and the confusion of how to get vitamin D from the sun while avoiding these skin-damaging rays. A review was conducted of French maritime pine bark extract, specifically using the nutritional supplement Pycnogenol. The study provided clear evidence that Pycnogenol does, indeed, offer photoprotection — however, it came out even better than expected, showing that it may be used to reduce hyperpigmentation of human skin while improving the “skin barrier function and extracellular matrix homeostasis.” 5. Decreases Erectile Dysfunction If you knew you could resolve your erectile dysfunction and, therefore, naturally remedy impotence issues, wouldn’t you? Erectile dysfunction has increased over the past decade or two, creating a pathway for various medications to land on the shelves of numerous medicine cabinets, but as you know, going for the natural approach can make a huge difference in overall health. According to a Japanese study, the combination of Pycnogenolt and L-arginine may produce the results you’re looking for, making the bedroom a much happier place. Forty-seven Japanese men with mild erectile dysfunction were given supplements with L-arginine and French maritime pine bark extract over four months. The research revealed that the sperm concentration greatly increased after about eight to 16 weeks of treatment, to include improved orgasmic function. No side effects were noted, unlike its synthetic counterpart. 6. Reduces Inflammation Pine bark extract’s antioxidants scavenge damaging free radicals in an effort to eliminate them, ultimately preventing disease. Studies were conducted in Turkey on subjects who underwent abdominal surgery to determine if the pine bark extract could help reduce the inflammation. They were given Pycnogenol for a period of 10 days. The outcome showed significant healing compared to those subjects who were not given any drug or remedy, concluding that Pycnogenol may be an effective remedy for healing of surgery-related lesions. 7. Helps Increase Athletic Performance Pine bark extract has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and inflammation to body that has been imposed by exercise. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in endurance performance of trained athletes. It does this by improving the time it takes the body to reach a fatigued state through increased serum NAD+ levels. Additionally, athletes have endured less cramping and muscle pain when using the extract. It’s likely that muscle recovery time improved as well due to the high antioxidants pine bark extract contains. Risks and Side Effects While most studies do not indicate major side effects, pine bark extract may cause irritability and fatigue, and could interact with other drugs. Make sure to seek out the advice of your physician prior to using pine bark extract or the branded name, Pycnogenol. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. It’s been noted that taking OPCs and vitamin C supplements at the same time could increase blood pressure if you have hypertension. How to Use Pine bark extract can be found in liquid, tablet or capsule form containing 85 percent to 90 percent OPCs. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract. If you choose to use Pycnogenol, follow the dosage instructions on the label. It’s best to check with your doctor about the dosage, based on the symptoms you have and other possible conditions, prior to taking either pine bark extract or Pycnogenol. Final Thoughts Pine bark extract offers some amazing benefits since it’s so high in powerful antioxidants. From diabetes and sexual function to sports performance and beautiful skin, pine bark extract may be worth exploring to provide results you’re looking to achieve. Consider pine bark extract by having a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. Once you’re sure that you don’t have any negative reactions, you may be able to increase your dosage according to the label. To read the original article click here.

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Antiviral Substances Discovered Within Native Plants in South Korea

AHA Publisher — Mon, 14 Nov 2022 06:52:36 +0000

Institute for Basic Science via Newswise – Codonopsis lanceolata, more commonly referred to as “deodeok”, is used as a medicinal herb in South Korea. It is cultivated in large quantities and has been an integral part of Korean cuisine across history. Aster koraiensis, or Korean starwort, is a common flower that resembles a daisy, which is only found in the Korean peninsula. What can these two different types of plants have in common? A team of researchers led by Director C. Justin LEE from the Life Science Institute (Center for Cognition and Sociality) within the Institute for Basic Science (IBS), South Korea, recently announced the discovery of new antiviral compounds derived from these two Korean native plants. The researchers discovered that the saponins found within these plants were particularly effective at inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection by blocking membrane fusion, which allows the viruses to invade the host cells. These findings were published in Antiviral Research in October 2022 and Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy in November 2022. Coronaviruses are known to enter human cells via endosomes or fusion at the plasma membranes. In both of these two pathways, a process known as “membrane fusion” must occur between the coronavirus envelope and the cell membrane. The research team revealed that two saponins (astersaponin I and lansemaside A) found within the two beforementioned plants are capable of blocking this fusion of the membrane between the coronavirus and human cells, thereby effectively blocking all the ways that the virus can infect its host. The research team first made a SARS-CoV-2 infection model using human lung cells overexpressing ACE2 receptor protein and a pseudovirus that expresses the viral spike protein on its surface, which can be used in the relatively less restrictive biosafety level 2 research facility. The cells were treated with astersaponin I and lansemaside A to test the compounds’ inhibitory effect on virus infection. Both saponins were found to have an IC50 value (half maximal inhibitory concentration) of 2 μM, indicating that they were highly effective at stopping the coronavirus from entering the cell. The same results were confirmed in subsequent experiments using actual authentic coronaviruses, and infection was suppressed with almost the same efficiency. More importantly, the inhibitory effect was identical for all SARS-CoV-2 variants, such as the Omicron. Astersaponin I and lansemaside A are triterpenoid saponins. They both have central ringed hydrocarbon (or core) structures very similar to that of cholesterol, which is the main component of cell membranes. in addition to a polysaccharide chain attached to one side. The central part of these saponins readily binds to the cell membrane thanks to their similarity to cholesterol. When the molecule penetrates into the cell membrane, the long sugar chain on protrudes out of the cell membrane. It is believed that this protruding sugar is what blocks the cell membrane from fusing with the coronavirus envelope. SARS-CoV-2 variants such as Omicron are more infectious than original onedue to the mutations in the spike protein, which enhances their binding affinity with the ACE2 cell receptor. However, no matter how much the SARS-CoV-2 variants to increase its affinity, it will be unable to enter the cell if the whole membrane fusion process, which occurs after viral binding to the receptor, is blocked. That is, the membrane fusion inhibitor can effectively prevent the infection of SARS-CoV-2 variants regardless of the their affinity to human cell receptor. In the past, the IBS team worked jointly with Dr. KIM Seungtaek from Korea Pasteur Institute and discovered another natural triterpenoid saponin called platycotin D from the balloon flower. This saponin was also found to be effective against SARS-CoV-2 infection. This research was published in the journal Experimental & Molecular Medicine in May 2021. Armed with this knowledge, the IBS researchers in collaboration with Prof. HAN Sunkyu’s team from Korea Advanced Institute for Science and Technology (KAIST) explored the creation of synthetic saponins with potentially even more powerful effects. The joint team made and tested a dozen synthetic saponins possessing different polysaccharide chains with varying lengths and types of sugars. One of these saponins was found to have up to twice higher activity as that of platycodin D. This research was published in the 2022 October issue of the journal Bioorganic Chemistry. Director C. Justin LEE stated, “Natural saponins contained in these plants are major constituents in many foods and herbal medicines that are readily accessible in everyday life. When ingested, it can be delivered at high concentrations to the epithelial cells of the upper respiratory tract, which means it can be effective in an asymptomatic or early stage of COVID-19 infection.” He added, “While their effects have been confirmed only in vitro at the moment, clinical trials may be possible in the future if positive results are obtained in animal tests.” Senior Researcher KIM Taeyoung from the IBS said, “Historically, many important drugs such as penicillin, aspirin, or the antimalarial drug artemisinin have been derived from natural organisms. As these saponins’ mechanism of action relies on inhibiting membrane fusion, it may even be possible to develop broad-spectrum antiviral drugs based on this principle.” 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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Pfizer said Antiviral Pill is 89% Among High-Risk Adults

AHA Publisher — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 08:00:54 +0000

WASHINGTON (AP) via CBN News — Pfizer said Tuesday that its experimental pill to treat COVID-19 appears effective against the omicron variant. The company also said full results of its 2,250-person study confirmed the pill’s promising early results against the virus: The drug reduced combined hospitalizations and deaths by about 89% among high-risk adults when taken shortly after initial COVID-19 symptoms. Separate laboratory testing shows the drug retains its potency against the omicron variant, the company announced, as many experts had predicted. Pfizer tested the antiviral drug against a man-made version of a key protein that omicron uses to reproduce itself. The updates come as COVID-19 cases, deaths and hospitalization are all rising again and the U.S. topped 800,000 pandemic deaths. The latest surge, driven by the delta variant, is accelerating due to colder weather and more indoor gatherings, even as health officials brace for the impact of the emerging omicron mutant. The Food and Drug Administration is expected to soon rule on whether to authorize Pfizer’s pill and a competing pill from Merck, which was submitted to regulators several weeks earlier. If granted, the pills would be the first COVID-19 treatments that Americans could pick up at a pharmacy and take at home. President Joe Biden called Pfizer’s drug “another potentially powerful tool in our fight against the virus,” in a statement Tuesday. The U.S. government has agreed to purchase enough of Pfizer’s drug to treat 10 million people. But company executives have indicated that initial supplies will be limited, with only enough to treat tens of thousands of people before the end of the year. By March Pfizer hopes to ramp up production to provide millions of courses of treatment. Pfizer’s data could help reassure regulators of its drug’s effectiveness after Merck disclosed smaller-than-expected benefits for its drug in final testing. Late last month, Merck said that its pill reduced hospitalizations and deaths by 30% in high-risk adults. Both companies initially studied their drugs in unvaccinated adults who face the gravest risks from COVID-19, due to older age or health problems, such as asthma or obesity. Pfizer is also studying its pill in lower-risk adults — including a subset who are vaccinated — but reported mixed data for that group on Tuesday. In interim results, Pfizer said its drug failed to meet its main study goal: sustained relief from COVID-19 for four days during or after treatment, as reported by patients. But the drug did achieve a second goal by reducing hospitalizations by about 70% among that group, which included otherwise healthy unvaccinated adults and vaccinated adults with one or more health issues. Less than 1% of patients who got the drug were hospitalized, compared with 2.4% of patients who got a dummy pill. An independent board of medical experts reviewed the data and recommended Pfizer continue the study to get the full results before proceeding further with regulators. Across both of Pfizer’s studies, adults taking the company’s drug had a 10-fold decrease in virus levels compared with those on placebo. The prospect of new pills to fight COVID-19 can’t come soon enough for communities in the Northeast and Midwest, where many hospitals are once again being overloaded by incoming virus cases. Both the Merck and Pfizer pills are expected to perform well against omicron because they don’t target the coronavirus’ spike protein, which contains most of the new variant’s mutations. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky, appearing on NBC’s “Today” on Tuesday, said the best way for people to protect themselves against COVID-19 is to get vaccinated and get a booster shot. She said the Pfizer pill if authorized by the FDA, “will be another great tool, but we need to diagnose people early.” To read the original article click here.

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COVID-19 Infection Can Be Inhibited by Elements of the Human Microbiome

AHA Publisher — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 08:00:39 +0000

American Society for Microbiology (ASM) via Newswise – Washington, D.C. – December 1, 2021– Researchers have identified metabolites, intermediate or end products of metabolism, in the human microbiome that inhibit COVID-19 infection in cell-based models of the virus. The finding, reported this week in the journal mSphere, an open-access journal of the American Society for Microbiology, is yet another example of the wealth of information that can be gained by studying the human microbiome, the collection of microbes, bacteria, fungi and viruses that live on and inside the human body. The finding may also help in the development of new therapeutics that can battle COVID-19 infections. “We have found that bacteria that grow on and in you make specific molecules that can inhibit, at least in a laboratory setting, the cell based viral infection of SARS-CoV-2, and the molecules appear to do that by a number of different mechanisms,” said study principal investigator Sean Brady, Ph.D., professor and head of the Laboratory of Genetically Encoded Small Molecules, at the Rockefeller University, New York City. Brady said the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need to identify additional antiviral small molecules to complement existing therapies. While increasing evidence suggests that metabolites produced by the human microbiome have diverse biological activities affecting the human host, there is comparatively little information on the metabolites’ antiviral properties. In the new study, Brady and colleagues used a cell-based SARS-CoV-2 infection assay to screen metabolites from a sample of bacteria from the human microbiome. They identified 3 bacterial metabolites capable of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection: an adenosine analogue, tryptamine and a disubstituted pyrazine. The identified molecules display structural similarities to synthetic drugs that have been explored for the treatment of COVID-19. “It was intriguing that of all the chemistries available, the metabolites we uncovered from the microbiome all bore similarities to clinically-relevant antivirals,” said Frank Piscotta, Ph.D., lead author on the study and a post-doc in the Laboratory of Genetically Encoded Small Molecules. The researchers say these molecules could serve as starting points for the development of new antivirals. In addition, researchers could deliver the antiviral-producing bacteria as a therapeutic intervention. The researchers say they want to study the mechanisms by which the metabolites function and whether the bacteria producing these molecules have any effect on viral infection upon colonization of an animal. As more data becomes available, they also plan to examine whether the presence or absence of these antiviral-producing bacteria in humans can be linked to severity of viral infection. “Our discovery of structurally diverse metabolites with anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity from screening a small fraction of the bacteria reported to be associated with the human microbiome suggests that continued exploration of phylogenetically diverse human-associated bacteria is likely to uncover additional small molecules that inhibit SARS-CoV-2 as well as other viral infections,” said Brady. Brady says this is one of the first studies to show that molecules produced by the human microbiome can inhibit viral infections, particularly of coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2. To read the original article click here.

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Discover 5 Powerful Home Remedies for a Sore Throat

AHA Publisher — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 08:00:24 +0000

Wendy Miller via NaturalHealth365 – A sore throat is an unpleasant and painful symptom that normally is the first stage of a variety of health issues. For example, colds, flu, viral infections, and the drainage associated with allergies can cause sore throat pain. Of course, for many people, going to the doctor isn’t such a pleasant experience, as well. Thankfully, there are many home remedies that have been in use for hundreds of years that will relieve your pain. And, yes, many of these ingredients can easily be found inside your home. Try THESE Simple Home Remedies That Work Like a Charm Even though many people believe that homemade chicken soup is an old wives’ tale, it is quite beneficial for a sore throat when made correctly and with the freshest ingredients. Making soup stock by boiling a couple of chicken breasts keeps the natural oils and nutrients in the base. Add a small amount of onion and a sliced-up carrot or two, and you have the makings of healthy soup that will soothe your throat and boost your immune system in the process. If you want a little texture, mix in some cooked rice or noodles and add some shredded chicken back into the pot. Of course, if you don’t want to eat chicken soup, you can try some slippery elm or licorice root tea. A Powerful Virus-Fighter Often Overlooked by Doctors Olive leaf extract is one of nature’s most potent antivirals. It blocks a virus’ ability to replicate or reproduce. The antimicrobial and antioxidant properties boost the body’s own support mechanisms. Phagocytosis occurs when the immune cells (or phagocytes) surround and start to attack the pathogens, causing your sore throat pain. When taken at the earliest signs of a sore throat, olive leaf extract can clear away discomfort much faster. Olive leaf extract is considered one of the most effective natural remedies available, yet many doctors and other medical professionals tend to overlook it. Boost the Body’s Immune System Naturally Zinc is one of the most powerful nutrients in nature when strengthening soft tissues and shortening the duration of unwanted symptoms. Contrary to what doctors may say about using home remedies, zinc is one of many home remedies that have been proven to work. When combined with vitamins B and C, it offers the body what it needs to heal without the harsh side effects of conventional “therapies.” Keep in mind, if you’re not sure how much to take … be sure to talk to an integrative healthcare provider or health coach. Taking These Two Herbal Remedies Can Do Wonders for Your Health Echinacea and goldenseal are the dynamic duo of herbal remedies. Both are effective as antibacterials, but it’s the goldenseal’s antiviral properties that make them so beneficial when it comes to treating sore throats. Taking this particular blend of herbs immediately after you begin to feel the first signs of a sore throat will cut the duration of the virus by days. Like the antibiotics that your doctor prescribes, these herbs will destroy unwanted pathogens causing your symptoms without disrupting the delicate balance in your gut. Give Your Body What it Needs to Fight Off Viruses Vitamin C has been proven time and time again to be one of the most effective nutrients when it comes to fighting off ugly symptoms. In addition to supplements, it’s a good idea to consume organic foods that contain an abundance of vitamin C. Cherry juice, papayas, and strawberries offer an abundance of vitamin C without increasing mucus production. Even though oranges and tomatoes are rich in C, they may cause the body to produce extra mucus which can cause sore throats to worsen. Eating fresh cherries, strawberries, and papaya will soothe your sore throat and give your body what it needs to feel better fast. If you start to notice the first signs of a sore throat, be proactive and start taking control of the situation. Remember, some of the best medicine you will ever find is already in your kitchen or bathroom cabinets. Nature provides us with what we need to take care of many of our most common problems, in spite of what many medical professionals might try to tell us. So, take advantage of some of your grandmother’s old home remedies. You might just find out that you feel better much sooner and are able to get back into your routine in just a couple of days instead of a week or more. Sources used for this article: Herbs.news Healthline.com 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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Phenomenal: Brand-New Scientific Review Praises Astonishing Antiviral Abilities of Kimchi

AHA Publisher — Thu, 04 Nov 2021 07:00:02 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Kimchi – a mix of fermented, spiced vegetables that features cabbage as a key ingredient – is a traditional Korean specialty with a long history of culinary and medicinal use. In fact, experts say that people have been enjoying the benefits of kimchi for over 3,000 years! While kimchi has long been recognized for its nutritional and probiotic value, it is currently impressing medical researchers with its intriguing antiviral properties. In an important new reviewpublished in Trends in Food and Science Technology, the authors proclaimed kimchi one of the “five healthiest foods in the world” and praised it for its ability to prevent and treat an array of viruses, including those that cause life-threatening respiratory diseases. So let’s take a closer look at this highly promising research on the benefits of kimchi. Review: Benefits of Kimchi Include Boosting the Immune Response In the new review published in July of 2021, the authors focused on Korean functional foods – particularly fermented foods such as kimchi – and their potential for preventing viral infections. The research also shed light on the all-important relationship between nutrition, gut bacteria, and the immune system and showcased the ability of healthy eating patterns to strengthen the immune system – particularly important since the onset of the COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. The team found that a beneficial type of lactic acid bacteria in kimchi, Lactoplantibacillus Plantarum, not only stimulates the all-important immune response but increases levels of the natural virus-fighting proteins interferon and interleukin. In addition, L. Plantarum interferes with viral replication, combating the ability of viral infections to spread. In one awe-inspiring study cited by the authors, the scientists hypothesized that kimchi could be more effective than Tamiflu – a pharmaceutical antiviral drug considered the “gold standard” of medical treatment for the H1N1 influenza virus. The authors concluded that the regular consumption of kimchi and other traditional fermented foods could offer protection from some viral diseases. Acute respiratory infections (including H1N1) currently claim the lives of roughly 4 million children a year worldwide – a heartbreaking toll. Here Is Why the Gut Microbiome Is Essential for Health According to experts, the gut microbiome – or community of bacteria in the intestinal tract – contains an astonishing 100 trillion bacteria. However, this abundance of intestinal bacteria is no cause for alarm – as most of these microbes are “friendly.” In fact, it’s likely that we would not survive long without them. Among its other essential tasks, the gut microbiome breaks down dietary fiber, produces vitamins such as vitamin K and biotin, helps to regulate the metabolism, influences mood, and cognition, and boosts the immune system, thereby helping to ward off pathogens and disease. And, when necessary, gut bacteria can even help “put the brakes” on an excessive immune response. For example, recent animal research reveals that bacteria in the gut microbiome may help to prevent an overactive immune response by regulating levels of active vitamin A – findings that could play a vital role in the prevention and treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Kimchi’s Constituents Make Up a “Natural Medicine Chest” to Fight Disease It turns out that kimchi has all the right “anti’s” for promoting health. Studies have shown that the benefits of kimchi include antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and anticancer effects. When it comes to nutrition, kimchi is a powerhouse. Nutrient-rich Napa cabbage – high in vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, calcium, and potassium – is at the heart of most kimchi recipes, which are further enriched with the addition of garlic, onions, ginger, carrots, and chili peppers. The additional vegetables are fermented through saturation with generous amounts of salt, then further flavored with seasonings and spices. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a half-cup of kimchi contains a modest 20 calories, four grams of carbs, one gram of protein, a gram of dietary fiber, and zero fat. Satisfying, tasty, and nutritious, kimchi makes an excellent snack. Kimchi Is Rich in Bioactive Disease-Fighting and Anti-Inflammatory Antioxidants While individual kimchi recipes can vary, you can usually expect to see some seriously healthy ingredients in the mix. For instance, kimchi recipes featuring carrots will be high in carotenoids – natural plant pigments that fight disease – while chili peppers, another common ingredient in kimchi, yield capsaicin – a natural compound with antibacterial, antiviral, anti-obesity, and painkilling properties. Napa cabbage, a mainstay in kimchi, is a member of the super-healthy cruciferous family of vegetables – and features cancer-fighting molecules known as sulforaphanes and isothiocyanates. Ginger, another common kimchi ingredient, contributes powerful antioxidants called shagaols, while the garlic and onions that lend flavor to kimchi provide generous amounts of disease-fighting allicin as well. Additional studies have confirmed the benefits of kimchi and other fermented foods. In a recent study published in Cell, the scientists concluded that fermented foods might be “valuable in countering the decreased microbiome diversity and increased inflammation pervasive in industrialized society” – a strong testament to the benefits of kimchi. Clearly, it’s no accident that knowledgeable researchers have included kimchi in the ranks of the world’s top superfoods, alongside such nutritional superstars as spirulina, turmeric, miso and goji berries. (You knew we were going to eventually reveal the other four contenders)! So, maybe it’s time to make kimchi a regular part of your healthy daily diet. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov ScienceDaily.com VeryWellFit.com

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An Old Drug Saves Lives of COVID-19 Patients

AHA Publisher — Thu, 28 Oct 2021 07:00:02 +0000

McMaster University via Newswise – Hamilton, ON (Oct. 27, 2021) – An inexpensive repurposed drug called fluvoxamine can save the lives of COVID-19 patients and cut hospital admissions by up to 30 per cent, says a study co-led by McMaster University. McMaster researcher Edward Mills and his team treated 739 randomly selected Brazilian COVID-19 patients with fluvoxamine, with another 733 receiving a placebo, between Jan. 15 to Aug. 6 of this year. Every patient who received fluvoxamine during the trial was tracked for 28 days to determine their health outcomes and if they still need hospital treatment. Researchers found about a 30 per cent reduction in hospitalizations among those receiving fluvoxamine compared to those receiving the placebo. This effect went up to 65% among patients taking all of their drugs. The fluvoxamine trial formed part of the larger TOGETHER Trial that started in May 2020, aiming to test potential COVID-19 treatments in a community setting. “Fluvoxamine is, so far, the only treatment that if administered early, can prevent COVID-19 from becoming a life-threatening illness. It could be one of our most powerful weapons against the virus and its effectiveness is one of the most important discoveries we have made since the pandemic began,” said Mills, co-principal investigator for the TOGETHER Trial and a professor of McMaster’s Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact. TOGETHER Trial researchers published their findings in The Lancet on Oct. 27. “In addition, this cheap, easily-accessible pill is a massive boon to public health, both in Canada and internationally, allowing hospitals to avoid expensive and sometimes risky treatments.” Costing about $4 per 10-day course, fluvoxamine could be a game-changer for poorer countries with low vaccination rates and lacking access to more advanced COVID-19 therapies, he added. Fluvoxamine has been used since the 1990s for various conditions and its safety profile is well-known. It was identified early in the pandemic for its potential to reduce the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients. Cytokine storms are severe immune responses to COVID-19 that can cause potentially lethal organ damage. Joining McMaster’s scientists in the TOGETHER Trial were researchers from the CardResearch Cardiologia Assistencial e de Pesquisa LTDA in Brazil. The TOGETHER trial researchers have also submitted their research to the U.S.-based National Institutes of Health and the World Health Organization. External funding for the study was received from FastGrants and The Rainwater Foundation. To read the original article click here.

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