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Licorice, an Effective Breast Cancer Fighter?

The AHA! Team — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:45:08 +0000

Dr. Veronique Desaulniers via NaturalHealth365 – Licorice has been proven in numerous studies to stop cancer in its tracks, especially when it comes to breast cancer tumors. But this humble yet powerful herb has also gotten a bad rap for its association with heart arrhythmias, drops in potassium levels, and even heart attacks in some individuals. What is the real deal about licorice? Is it a healer or a health threat? Keep reading for the true facts that every cancer patient needs to know. Licorice: Don’t overdo it, and stay away from the candy! Let’s cut right to the chase and first talk about what all the fuss is about. The FDA and others warn that you can overdose on too much licorice – and for some individuals, this is absolutely true. According to the FDA: “…black licorice contains the compound glycyrrhizin, which is the sweetening compound derived from licorice root. Glycyrrhizin can cause potassium levels in the body to fall. When that happens, some people experience abnormal heart rhythms, as well as high blood pressure, edema (swelling), lethargy, and congestive heart failure.” Researchers at the University of Massachusetts add that too much licorice may have an effect on adrenal hormones and can lead to a condition called pseudoaldosteronism. For these reasons, most experts recommend that healthy individuals interested in using the vast healing power of licorice utilize deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or DGL, where the glycyrrhizin has been removed (although glycyrrhizin itself is considered to be one of the healing substances in the root). Many also recommend not using any licorice product or supplement for more than four weeks at a time. Of course, if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, stop using it right away. I would add that if you are on any kind of cancer-healing protocol, stay away from the candy version. This is not a healthy way to utilize the healing effects of this powerful herb. The “candy” version often contains more sugar than the actual herbal extract, and science has confirmed that cancer feeds on sugar. In addition, many commercially processed licorice candies are created using ammonium chloride. Although no tests have been done as yet to determine this chemical’s carcinogenic effects, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control have found that chronic exposure to ammonium chloride can lead to acute respiratory problems. What are the powerful cancer-killing properties? Interestingly, the University of Massachusetts researchers and others in Western medicine recommend that individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers (such as breast, ovarian, uterine, and prostate cancer) avoid using licorice altogether. However, this advice is in direct contrast to recent studies that have found specific tumor-reducing, immune-boosting, and hormone-regulating factors within the root. Researchers at the University Sains School of Medical Sciences in Kelantan, Malaysia, discovered eight different bioactive immunomodulators within herbs such as licorice, curcumin, apricot, ginseng, and a host of others. Of these eight, four of them can be found in licorice, including: Ajoene, an anti-fungal Arctigenin, a lignan with anti-cancer effects β-carotene, a powerful anti-oxidant; and Glabridin acid can also prevents DNA damage caused by oxidation. Other studies have found similar connections between the properties of licorice and breast cancer healing and prevention: Researchers at Rutgers University were able to isolate a particular polyphenol molecule, ß-hydroxy-DHP (BHP), extracted from licorice root. This molecule has the ability to kill breast and prostate cancer tumor cells while leaving healthy cells unaffected. The Chinese have long used licorice root as a hormone balancer and for complications associated with menopause. A study conducted by Nanjing Medical University in Nanjing, China, looked specifically at the Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) content found in licorice root and its effect on estrogen-positive breast cancer. The researchers found that licorice extract had an effect on estrogen levels that was breast cancer-preventative in a dose-dependent manner: the DMSO stunted cancer cell proliferation in high doses yet had the opposite effect at low doses. Other studies have found that licorice root helps to positively balance testosterone metabolism, decrease serotonin re-uptake, and reduce cortisol levels, all three of which are important to breast cancer prevention and healing. Finally, licorice has proven to be a powerful immune system regulator. Isoliquiritigenin and Naringenin found in the root can promote T cell growth. Glycyrrhizin and other flavonoids found in licorice can help reduce inflammation in the body overall. Consider licorice as part of your breast cancer healing toolbox There are so many powerful herbs found in nature that contain powerful cancer-healing properties. With over 400 compounds in one small root, licorice can definitely be considered among them. Ancient cultures from India to Greece knew this; licorice has been used all over the world for thousands of years as a hormone-balancer, immune system booster, aid for oral health, digestive aid, and more. Now, modern science is discovering the exact mechanisms that make it a true healer. If you are considering using this herbal wonder as part of your breast cancer healing protocol, be sure to do so with the help of a qualified healthcare provider. In addition, certain tests, such as the Research Genetics Cancer Center (RGCC) Test, may be able to pinpoint if licorice supplementation is right for your breast cancer journey. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to stop cancer cell growth naturally, own the Stop Cancer Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Sciencedirect.com Lifeextension.com NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Rgcc-group.com To read the original article click here.

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Internationally, 80% of People Use Herbs as Their Healthcare

AHA Publisher — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 07:22:46 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – In the United States, medicinal plants don’t get the respect they do in other parts of the world. Around the globe, about 80% of people use herbal remedies as a primary source of their healthcare.1In the U.S., that number drops down to less than 35%.2 It boils down to one thing: Big Pharma is firmly in control of your health care with its mass production of synthetic drugs. Because that’s where the big money is. You see, Big Pharma can’t get patents on herbs or other natural remedies. So they can’t profit from them. But They Found a Way Around That… They modify them — ever so slightly.. add artificial ingredients.. and manipulate molecules. And they come up with a new synthetic (fake) compound they can patent. The latest example comes from a biopharmaceutical company called Neuropathix. They’re manipulating CBD to turn it into a pain-relieving “analog drug.” Analog drugs are “substantially similar to controlled substances listed in federal or state drug schedules.” Oxycontin is the perfect example of this type of Big Pharma “designer drug.” The opioid epidemic that killed 500,000 people proves what a bad idea it is. The chemists at Neuropathix don’t deny the pain-relieving properties of CBD. But according to the company’s CEO, CBD in its natural form is not as easily absorbed as their analog drug. So, they synthesized cannabis compounds to develop a new molecule that they claim is roughly 5 times more water-soluble and therefore more absorbable than CBD. But they didn’t make it better. You see, you don’t need a pharmaceutical drug to get all of CBD’s benefits and bioavailability. It’s true that a lot of CBD users are only getting a small fraction of this healing herb’s benefits. That’s because most CBD doesn’t reach its intended destination – the cell receptors that make up the body’s endocannabinoid system. In fact, the most common kind of CBD delivery system – oil – doesn’t reach the cell membrane. That means you’re not getting all of the real benefits of CBD. But you can access all of CBD’s healing benefits – naturally – by choosing an oral CBD spray that uses nanotechnology to allow the CBD molecules to pass through your body’s cells. This delivery method gets 150% more CBD past your cell membranes.3 And because it’s not a pill or capsule, it avoids being broken down in the liver. And that means you get the full intended dose without having to resort to Big Pharma’s drug. 3 More Ways to Increase Bioavailability Look for an emulsified product. Some products emulsify their CBD using nanotechnology. This breaks CBD down into even smaller molecules. The smaller and more dispersed the molecules are, the more bioavailable they are, because they pass more easily through cell membranes and into the bloodstream than larger CBD particles.4 Take it with healthy fats. CBD is a fat-soluble compound, meaning it dissolves in fats. This breaks CBD down into smaller molecules that are more easily absorbed by the body. One way to increase CBD’s bioavailability is to mix it with a healthy high-fat snack or meal. A recent study found that people who took CBD with high-fat foods increased their absorption up to 14 times more than those who took it on an empty stomach.5 Look for full-spectrum CBD. Terpenes are fatty oils found in the essential oils of almost all plants. They occur naturally in hemp and are extracted along with CBD and other compounds to create full-spectrum CBD products. These compounds work together and amplify each other’s benefits, a synergy known as the “entourage effect.” Terpenes increase CBD bioavailability and enhance the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Ekor M. The growing use of herbal medicines: issues relating to adverse reactions and challenges in monitoring safety. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 2014;4. doi:10.3389/fphar.2013.00177 2. Rashrash M, Schommer JC, Brown LM. Prevalence and Predictors of Herbal Medicine Use Among Adults in the United States. Journal of Patient Experience. 2017;4(3):108-113. doi:10.1177/2374373517706612 3. Cherniakov I, et al. “Piperine-pro-nanolipospheres as a novel oral delivery system of cannabinoids: Pharmacokinetic evaluation in healthy volunteers in comparison to buccal spray administration.” J Control Release. 2017;266:1-7. 4. Bruni N, et al. “Cannabinoid delivery systems for pain and inflammation treatment.” Molecules. 2018;23(10). 5. Birnbaum AK, et al. “Food effect on pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol oral capsules in adult patients with refractory epilepsy.” Epilepsia. 2019;60(8):1586-15 To read the original article click here.

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9 Herbs to Improve Blood Circulation and Heart Function

AHA Publisher — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 07:00:49 +0000

Michelle Marks via NaturalHealth365 – Herbs have been used for centuries as a tonic and as a remedy for certain heart conditions. It is only in recent years that scientists have begun to acknowledge the power of herbs in reversing disease. Keep in mind, to improve heart function, these herbs should be used as a part of a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle – not a replacement. Is There a “Magic Pill” to Overcome Heart Disease? The answer is obvious: of course not. But let’s take a closer look at 9 of our favorite herbal remedies for heart health. 1. Hawthorn berry leaf and flowers can strengthen the heart and improve circulation. These berries are packed with heart-healthy compounds like flavonoids, rutin, epicatechin, vitexin, catechin, proanthocyanidins, quercetin hyperoside. These compounds help dilate blood vessels, prevent damage to blood vessels, improve blood flow, and improve heart function. And, yes, they are even considered safe to use with conventional drugs. 2. Bilberry will strengthen blood vessels and capillaries throughout the body. In Europe, bilberry is used as a part of approved treatment to improve certain heart conditions. Studies indicate that bilberries are rich in anthocyanosides, plant pigments, and vitamin C – all of which have excellent antioxidant properties. In Europe, bilberries have been used to eliminate varicose veins and to improve blood circulation. A 2009 study on rat models showed that bilberry extracts caused a significant decrease in plaque formation and prevented the progression of heart damage. 3. Butcher’s broom tones circulatory tissues throughout the body. It is widely used in the treatment of varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and other circulatory disorders. The major components of butcher’s broom are anthocyanins and ruscogenin – which exhibit significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects crucial for heart health. 4. Ginkgo leaf improves oxygenation and strengthens the cardiovascular system. The active components of ginkgo leaves are the polyphenol flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, and terpene trilactones. According to many studies, ginkgo leaves help treat intermittent claudication or poor circulation in the legs. A meta-analysis of eight randomized studies showed that people taking ginkgo showed improvement in their ability to walk farther when compared to placebo. This study was published in the American Journal of Medicine (2000). 5. Gotu kola leaf improves blood circulation and acts as a heart tonic. Gotu kola has been a mainstay of both the Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) healing systems. Gotu kola is rich in antioxidants, terpenoids, sesquiterpenes, quercetin, kaempferol, and other flavones. The terpenoids are the active constituents in Gotu kola – which exert significant anti-inflammatory effects. A 2000 study clearly demonstrated that Gotu kola leaves improved the blood circulation in tiny capillaries and improved the conditions of vascular insufficiency in patients. 6. Motherwort leaf improves cardiac function and circulation. Motherwort has been used since ancient times to alleviate anxiety and improve heart health. Motherwort is rich in the phytonutrient alkaloid leonine, which offers significant benefits to the heart. Leonine is a mild vasodilator, meaning it increases the size of the blood vessels, which improves the blood flow to the heart and various organs of the body. It is also a diuretic that effectively decreases water retention in the body and naturally lowers high blood pressure. 7. Pleurisy root is a heart tonic, reduces spasms and congestion. The botanical name of the herb is “Asclepias tuberosa” – it is called “pleurisy root” because of its ability to treat pleurisy effectively. It relieves inflammation in the lining of the lungs and thorax and relieves bronchial and pulmonary trouble. Pleurisy root is rich in cardenolides, the flavonoids rutin and quercetin, kaempferol and lupeol. These compounds have antispasmodic, diuretic, and vasodilation effects throughout the body. 8. Prickly ash bark improves blood flow. It is used as traditional medicine by the Native Americans to treat intestinal cramps, nerve disorders, and inflammatory conditions. The berries have also been used to treat circulatory problems and intermittent claudication. Prickly ash bark was originally used as an effective remedy for toothaches. 9. Shepherd’s purse leaf supports healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Shepherd’s purse leaves provide vitamins C, A, and K; minerals iron, calcium, sulfur, potassium, and sodium; the flavonoid rutin; and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. But Wait, That’s Not All! Ginger and Turmeric Also Protect Your Heart Health in Multiple Ways For example, turmeric and ginger root support healthy cholesterol levels. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) plant and ginger (Zingiber officinale) root are botanically related. They are used as spices in cooking and are also used as a natural remedy to help reduce inflammation. A 2000 study on mice showed that ginger root effectively brought down high cholesterol levels and exerted heart-protective effects. A recent 2013 study showed that turmeric root was able to improve age-associated artery stiffening, decreased oxidative stress, and collagen formation in mice. Researchers concluded that the active compound curcumin might act as a novel therapy in treating aging arteries in humans and provide heart-protective effects. As always, we strongly recommend you consult a trusted healthcare provider with experience in herbalism. Bottom line You can prevent, even reverse heart disease with a comprehensive change in lifestyle and eating habits. No doubt, changing habits are never easy … but, the results are worth the effort. Sources for this article: NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Oregano Benefits for Inflammation, Infections & More

AHA Publisher — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 08:00:36 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Although many people think of it as the herb that’s sprinkled on top of pizza or into pasta sauces, oregano has been considered a precious plant for over 2,500 years in folk medicines around the world. It’s one of the top herbs for healing because of its antioxidant and antibacterial activity. With powerful antioxidants and components that help fight bacterial and viral infections, this common herb holds important space in both your kitchen and medicine cabinets. Although oregano oil is much more concentrated and has greater therapeutic potential, cooking with oregano has its health benefits, too. What Is Oregano? Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an herb that’s a member of the mint(Lamiaceae) family. It has been used for thousands of years in folk medicines to treat upset stomach, respiratory complaints and bacterial infections. Oregano leaves have a strong aroma and slightly bitter, earthy flavor. The spice was used in ancient Egypt and Greece to flavor meats, fish and vegetables. The herb got its name from the Greeks, where “oregano” means “Joy of the Mountain.” Types/Varieties There are several types of oregano offered across the globe. Common oregano is known as “origanum vulgare” and is also called “wild marjoram.” The varieties that are most popular for cooking are Greek oregano and Italian oregano. The Greek variety is more pungent, while the Italian type has a sweeter aroma. Some other varieties include: Syrian oregano Golden oregano Curan oregano Mexican oregano There are also varieties that are not consumed but used for decorative purposes. This includes pilgrim oregano, amethyst falls oregano and hop-flower oregano. These types have colorful flowers and grow easily in gardens. Benefits The leaves and dried versions are excellent sources of antioxidants and antibacterial compounds. Most studies involving the herb are done with its essential oils, which is a more concentrated form and has greater efficacy for promoting overall wellness and healthy aging. Research shows that this herb has the following benefits: 1. Antioxidant Powerhouse Oregano is jam-packed with health-promoting antioxidants, including limonene, thymol, carvacrol and terpinene. In fact, it’s one of the top antioxidant foods with an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) score of 159,277. (That’s high!) There are numerous benefits of eating foods high in antioxidants. They help slow the effects of aging by reducing free radical damage, which can contribute to many health issues and premature aging. Antioxidants positively impact your skin, eyes, heart, brain and cells as well. Studies on oregano extracts show that the herb’s antioxidant effects are likely attributed to carvacrol and thymol, two components that have therapeutic and preventative purposes in folk medicine. 2. Has Antibacterial Properties Several studies indicate that oil of oregano has antibacterial effects against a range of bacterial strains. There’s even research supporting the use of the oil as an alternative to harmful antibiotics for a number of health concerns. One study found that oil of oregano possesses the highest antibacterial activity against E. coli, suggesting that the extract can be used to promote gastrointestinal health and prevent food poisoning. What does this mean about the oregano leaves you add to your pasta sauce? They contain two important compounds, thymol and carvacrol, which help fight bacterial infections. That said, using the more concentrated essential oil is far more effective for killing bacteria. 3. Reduces Inflammation Cooking with this health-promoting herb, whether it’s dry or fresh, may help reduce inflammation. Studies on the herb’s essential oils show that it contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This is due to the plant’s antioxidant activity, which helps improve chronic inflammation and a long list of diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Oregano products are used to relieve inflammatory conditions including allergies and rheumatoid arthritis. Herbal extracts are also used topically to reduce issues like insect bites, psoriasis, acne and muscle pain. 4. Fights Viral Infections Carvacrol, one of the main components in oregano, has been shown to possess antiviral properties. This enables oregano oil to delay viral disease progression and improve resistance to infections. Again, these studies use the herb’s essential oil, which is far more concentrated than consuming fresh or dried leaves. However, they does highlight the beneficial compounds that are present in the plant. Nutrition One teaspoon (about a gram) of oregano leaves contains approximately: 3.1 calories 1.9 carbohydrates 0.1 grams protein 0.1 grams fat 0.4 grams fiber 6.2 micrograms vitamin K (8 percent DV) On teaspoon (about 2 grams) of dried oregano contains approximately: 5.4 calories 3.4 carbohydrates 0.2 grams protein 0.2 grams fat 0.7 grams fiber 10.9 micrograms vitamin K (14 percent DV) 0.8 milligrams iron (4 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams manganese (4 percent DV) 27.6 milligrams calcium (3 percent DV) How to Add to Diet (Recipes) It’s easy to add oregano spice and leaves into your everyday diet. It’s commonly added to Mediterranean dishes and serves as a versatile spice for sauces, stuffings, soups and salads. It can be sprinkled on homemade pizzas, soups and doughs too. Need some recipe ideas that incorporate this health-promoting herb? Try these: Homemade Chicken Marsala with ghee and Paleo flour Zesty Turkey Salad with beans, walnuts and fresh herbs Olive Tapenade Recipe with olives, fresh herbs and sun-dried tomatoes Need some tips on optimizing freshness when cooking with this herb? Chopping or crushing the leaves provides more flavor, and add it in at the end of the cooking process for the best results. Using fresh leaves gives you more flavor too. Thankfully, the herb is super easy to grow at home and even thrives in a pot on your windowsill. Risks and Side Effects Consuming dried or fresh oregano is safe in normal amounts, when added to recipes. People who are allergic to herbs within the Lamiaceae family, like mint and basil, should be cautious when eating it for the first time. The oil is much more concentrated and should only be consumed for short periods of time, at a maximum of two weeks. It should also be diluted with water or coconut oil when taken internally. The essential oil should also be diluted when applied topically to fight infections or reduce inflammation. Conclusion Oregano has been used for thousands of years for therapeutic and culinary purposes. The herb has powerful antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Although the herb’s essential oils are more potent and provide greater therapeutic benefits, adding dried or fresh leaves to recipes is an excellent way to consume the plant’s antioxidants. It’s easy to cook with the herb. It goes well in any Mediterranean recipe, including sauces, fish and meat dishes, soups and salads. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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