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Author: Sylvia Marinova, PhD student in the Laboratory "Genomic Stability" at BAS

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In the family of cruciferous crops (Brassicaceae) fall many of the vegetables that one could find on the market. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, curly cabbage (kale), turnips, arugula and Brussels sprouts are just some of them. Even wasabi and whiste mustard belong to that family. It is extremely rich in species - some of the most nutritious vegetables in our menu, often called "superfoods), belong to it."

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There are certain cases though where we need to be careful with the consumption of Brassicaceae vegetebles. We will examine the good and bad sides of them with focus on broccoli.

What-do-cruciferous-vegetables-contain

What do cruciferous vegetables contain

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Cabbages are among the vegetables with the highest protein content. Besides that they are a source of carbohydrates, fibers and many vitamins (folic acid, provitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E).

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100 g of fresh broccoli [<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464611000843" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>] are known to contain 2.8 g of protein, and in curly cabbage (kale) - as much as 3.2 g. Vegetables of this family also contain the microelements calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, manganese, copper, selenium and zinc.

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The healing properties of cruciferous vegetables are due to their secondary metabolites

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In plants secondary metabolites are compounds that are not vital to their existence, but have to do with their interaction with the environment and their response to external stimuli. It is the secondary metabolites produced by plants that are of medicinal interest . Many of them have healing properties and have been known to man since ancient times.

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Cabbage vegetables produce many secondary metabolites, which are are responsible for their health benefits, except, of course, their nutritional value and the variety of vitamins and minerals that cabbage crops offer to us.&nbsp;However, some of them have another side that needs to be approached with caution.

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A large class of secondary metabolites contained incruciferous vegetables are sulfur compounds. The most important of these are glucosinolates, which are broken down by enzymes either in the plants themselves, or from our <a href="../p/chrievniiat_mikrobiom_i_nashieto_zdravie_62aa84cd_b51a_41ac_a714_087565dd2382" target="_blank" rel="noopener">intestinal microflora</a> to active thiocyanates, isothiocyanates and nitriles. Glucosinolates are responsible for the specific bitter and sometimes spicy taste of these plants. Their functions include antibacterial, antifungal, and anticancer <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Chemical_and_biological_characterisation_of_nutraceutical_compounds_of_broccoli_16713696" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2</a>]. Unfortunately, as we will see below, these compounds are a double-edged sword and should be consumed with caution by people who suffer from thyroid dysfunction.

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Other important compounds we may find in broccoli and this family as a whole&nbsp; are the phenolic compounds such as tanins, phenolic acid, cumarins and flavonoids. For example some of the strong antioxidant properties of broccoli are due to the high phenolic acid content - in a dry mass of broccoli per gram, there are 8.69 mg it. From the flavonoids one could find quercetin and kaempherol, known for their strong antioxidant activity&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814605006758" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.3]</a> .

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Cabbage plants are also a good source of phytosterols, which are known for their cardioprotective (protecting the heart) and anticancer function.

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Health benefits of broccoli

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As we have seen in the above section, broccoli and cruciferous have a rich arsenal of active ingredients, the health benefits of which are a subject of extensive scientific research. Among the best studied effects on the body are:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anti-cancer - a series of studies as early as the 80s and 90s of the last century showed a decrease in the risk of developing various types of cancer such as colon, pancreas, lung, prostate, ovaries and breast cancer <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464611000843" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.1]</a>. The anti-cancer effects are mainly due to the isothiocyanate content like suphorane.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Improves digestion - broccoli, like other family representatives, is known to improve peristalsis (motility) of the intestine, which favors regular bowel movements <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Daily_intake_of_broccoli_sprouts_normalizes_bowel_habits_in_human_healthy_subjects_29371757" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.4]</a>. It is important to note that the cited study covers healthy people who do not suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or other disorders of the digestive system.</li>
</ul>

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reduces the risk of diabetes type 2 and cardiovascular diseases- there are numerous studies on the effects of diet on the risk of developing diabetes and diseases of the cardiovascular system, as well as on the overall conditioning of the body. Eating vegetables rich in fiber and nutrients such as broccoli is a highly recommended part of a healthy menu.</li>
</ul>

How-to-consume-broccoli

How to consume broccoli

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As mentioned above, isotiocyanates are activated compounds that are produced by their predecessors glucosinolates. This is done under the influence of the enzyme mirosinase contained in broccoli. It is released when the surface of the plant is injured, which means that broccoli must be cut or chewed when consumed in order to activates beneficial ingredients.

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Here we should keep in mind that heat processing inactivates myrosinase, which makes it difficult to absorb glucosinolates. Luckily, our little friends - bacteria in the gut - can also secrete enzymes that have a similar activating effect.&nbsp;If we choose the processed option, then steaming is the best solution, as it allows to preserve more of the useful ingredients in the vegetable itself.

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An interesting fact is that young broccoli sprouts contain 10 to 100 times more glucosinolates <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Broccoli_or_Sulforaphane_Is_It_the_Source_or_Dose_That_Matters_31590459" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.1]</a> <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464611000843" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a>, which makes them a much more concentrated source.&nbsp;For this reason, their use is becoming more widespread, and some classify them as "superfoods". It is also high in seeds <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Broccoli_or_Sulforaphane_Is_It_the_Source_or_Dose_That_Matters_31590459" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.5</a>] as well as in food supplements, of course.

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7 most useful sprouts and how to prepare them at home - cheap, easy and tasty

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When to be careful

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Despite the many benefits of glucosinolates and strong anticancer potential, they should be approached with caution.

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Activated glucosinolates can have a very strong antithyroid effect . This means that they suppress the action of the thyroid gland by interfering with the synthesis of iodine-containing hormones. If you have problems with thyroid function, it is mandatory to consult a medical person regarding changes in diet.

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Should we follow a gluten-free diet if we have Hashimoto

When-to-be-careful_4_3

On the other hand, broccoli and some other cabbage plants are known to cause symptoms that are associated with the Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Since they are gas-forming and difficult to digest , they often lead to deterioration of the condition. However, their undeniable positive effects should not be ignored, and people suffering from such disorders should find the balance in their consumption. Sometimes the amount or the thermal treatment may prove decisive.

Crucial facts about health benefits of popular cruciferous vegetables, 2012, Journal of Functional Foods

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Chemical_and_biological_characterisation_of_nutraceutical_compounds_of_broccoli_16713696" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chemical and biological characterisation of nutraceutical compounds of broccoli</a>, 2006, Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis

Antiradical activity and polyphenol composition of local Brassicaceae edible varieties, 2006, Food Chemistry

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Daily_intake_of_broccoli_sprouts_normalizes_bowel_habits_in_human_healthy_subjects_29371757" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily intake of broccoli sprouts normalizes bowel habits in human healthy subjects.</a> 2018, Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Broccoli_or_Sulforaphane_Is_It_the_Source_or_Dose_That_Matters_31590459" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Broccoli or Sulforaphane: Is It the Source or Dose That Matters?</a> , 2019, Molecules

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The Good and the Bad of Broccoli

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 The Good and the Bad of Broccoli

Силвия Маринова

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

Due to the adverse side effects of existing drugs for the treatment of cancer, scientists continue to look for chemotherapeutics, which are both safe and effective. Often such substances are sought in plants.

This is also the case with stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), which has been the subject of much research in this area and is one of the most studied herbs. In this article we will look at the results of these studies in recentyears. It is based on the article Therapeutic Perspectives of Molecules from Urtica dioica Extracts for Cancer Treatment, 2019, Molecules&nbsp;[<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Therapeutic_Perspectives_of_Molecules_from_Urtica_dioica_Extracts_for_Cancer_Treatment_31362429" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>].

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Healing Properties of Stinging Nettle

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The healing properties of nettle are associated with a number of its properties:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anti-inflammatory,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Against asthma,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Astringent,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Diuretic,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Causing the release of breast milk,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Improving&nbsp;<a href="/p/7_bilki_koito_obliekchavat_loshoto_khranosmilanie_i_dispiepsiiata_60bc6c30_0949_4ed7_933c_460f9104d318" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">digestion</a>,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Stimulating.</li>
</ul>

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Nettle leaves extract&nbsp;is used as an antihemorrhagic&nbsp;agent to reduce excessive menstrual flow and nosebleeds.

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The roots and green parts of the herb are used for different purposes:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Roots - against benign prostatic hyperplasia,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Green parts - in urinary tract disorders and rheumatic conditions, and fresh freeze-dried leaves are used to treat allergies.</li>
</ul>

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According to some studies, nettle also has an <a href="/p/liechiebni_rastieniia_i_bilki_s_obiezboliavashch_i_protivovzpalitielien_iefiekt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">analgesic</a> (pain relieving) potential and prevents blood clotting (it's an antiaggregation factor). <a href="/p/liechiebni_rastieniia_i_bilki_s_obiezboliavashch_i_protivovzpalitielien_iefiekt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a>

Healing-Properties-of-Stinging-Nettle_0_6

Its beneficial effects on <a href="/p/bilki_za_zdravo_srtsie_chast_1_bdd3a061_589a_402f_846f_042cbc215d6e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">cardiovascular</a> and smooth muscle activity are also described - as a hypotensive agent, that is, to lower blood pressure.

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How-Can-Substances-in-Nettle-Interfere-With-Cancer

How Can Substances in Nettle Interfere With Cancer

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This can be achieved through various biochemical and molecular mechanisms involved in the control and development of cancer. Plants contain a number of bioactive molecules that are capable of triggering cell protection and an appropriate response to stressors.

How-Can-Substances-in-Nettle-Interfere-With-Cancer_1_1

This protection and reaction may consist of:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">activation of antioxidant enzymes,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">induce programmed cell death in cancer cells (apoptosis),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">stop the cell cycle (otherwise cancer cells divide and multiply uncontrollably).</li>
</ul>

Antioxidant-Activity-of-Nettle-and-Its-Importance-for-Cancer

Antioxidant Activity of Nettle and Its Importance for Cancer

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It is known that oxidative stress (caused by an excessive amount of free radicals) can lead to the formation of mutagens, and they in turn - to the onset and development of cancer.

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Due to the presence of large amounts of antioxidants in the nettle (Urtica dioica), and in particular in the leaves, this herb is able to lower oxidative stress and manifest chemoprophylactic function.

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In addition, it has been found that some nettle extracts may increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes and thereby accelerate the fight against free radicals.

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What are the benefits of antioxidants for health and which foods are richest to them

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Cytotoxic-Effects-of-Nettle-or-Its-Ability-to-Kill-and-Suppress-Cancer-Cells

Cytotoxic Effects of Nettle or Its Ability to Kill and Suppress Cancer Cells

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One of the main properties of chemotherapeutics&nbsp;is their ability to kill cancer cells and stop their life cycle (that is, lead to apoptosis and suppress proliferation or division).

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These effects of various nettle extracts on human cancer cell lines or animal models have been studied and these extracts have been found to:

Cytotoxic-Effects-of-Nettle-or-Its-Ability-to-Kill-and-Suppress-Cancer-Cells_3_2

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Inhibit the proliferation or division of cancer cells in cervical, prostate, some types of breast, colon, stomach, lung and epidermoid cancer in laboratory conditions.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cause programmed cell death in the same cancer cells, except in those of cervical cancer and epidermoid carcinoma.</li>
</ul>

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Specific molecules contained in nettle have also been identified, to which these effects are due: scopollin, β-sytosterol, oxylypine.

Nettle-Extracts-and-Breast-Cancer

Nettle Extracts and Breast Cancer

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Breast cancer is one of the main causes of death in the world after cardiovascular disease. Invasiveness of the tumor and metastases are the main reason for this.

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Water and spirit extracts of nettle leaves are also being studied to assess their potential to be used as an accompanying or adjuvant treatment for this disease. The studies are mainly on the MCF-7, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines, as well as on mouse models of breast cancer.

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These studies show that extracts have the ability to suppress the proliferation of cancer cells, suppress metastasizing (the spread of cancer to other organs) and cause apoptosis (programmed cell death).

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It is important to note that these studies have not been conducted in human clinical trials and their results are not evidence that nettle cures cancer, but a ray of hope. Cancers are extremely complex and insidious, so we need to take a responsible approach to our health and follow the treatment prescribed by our doctor, and we can discuss with him the possibility of adding specific medicinal plants to accompany the main therapy or to alleviate the side effects of it.

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Medicinal plants that relieve the excruciating side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy

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Q&amp;A

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How to prepare nettle tea?

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1 tablespoon of dried nettle leaves are steamed in 200 ml of boiling water and allowed to stand for 60 minutes at room temperature. Than it's strained. The infusion has a durability of 12 hours in the refrigerator and 120 ml of it are taken during the day.

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When is nettle picked?

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Stalks and leaves are picked during flowering, that is, in May and June.

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Are there nettle doppelgangers?

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There are severalplant species in the nettle family with which you can confuse stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). Such are the white dead nettle (Lamium album), red dead nettle (Lamium purpureum) and false nettle (Boehmeria cylindrica). [<a href="https://www.ediblewildfood.com/stinging-nettle.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Therapeutic_Perspectives_of_Molecules_from_Urtica_dioica_Extracts_for_Cancer_Treatment_31362429" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Therapeutic Perspectives of Molecules from Urtica dioica Extracts for Cancer Treatment</a>, 2019, Molecules

Stinging nettle, ediblewildfood.com

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Healing Properties of Stinging Nettle and Its Potential in Cancer Treatment

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 Healing Properties of Stinging Nettle and Its Potential in Cancer

Rositsa Tashkova-Kacharova

Author: Elena Marinova, Master of Pharmacy

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