Cholestasis is a condition where bile cannot flow from the liver to the duodenum. The two basic distinctions are an obstructive type of cholestasis where there is a mechanical blockage in the duct system that can occur from a gallstone or malignancy, and metabolic types of cholestasis which are disturbances in bile formation that can occur because of genetic defects or acquired as a side effect of many medications.

Itchiness (pruritus). Pruritus is the primary symptom of cholestasis and is thought ...

cholestasis

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Possible-Diseases-and-Conditions:

Possible Diseases and Conditions:

Hepatitis

1. Hepatitis

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Hepatitis is a viral infection that affects the liver and can cause jaundice. There are several types of hepatitis, including hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. Hepatitis A and E are usually spread through contaminated food or water, while hepatitis B, C, and D are spread through blood-to-blood contact, such as through sharing needles or having unprotected sex. Symptoms of hepatitis include fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and jaundice. If you suspect you have hepatitis, it is important to consult with a gastroenterologist, who can perform blood tests to confirm the diagnosis and prescribe antiviral medications or other treatments as necessary.

Cirrhosis

2. Cirrhosis

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Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that can lead to jaundice. It occurs when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue, which can happen as a result of long-term alcohol abuse, chronic hepatitis B or C infection, or other conditions that damage the liver. Symptoms of cirrhosis include fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and jaundice. If you suspect you have cirrhosis, it is important to consult with a hepatologist, who can perform blood tests, imaging studies, or a liver biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatments such as medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Gallstones

3. Gallstones

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Gallstones are hardened deposits of bile that can block the bile duct and cause jaundice. They can form when there is an imbalance of cholesterol, bile salts, or other substances in the bile. Symptoms of gallstones include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. If you suspect you have gallstones, it is important to consult with a gastroenterologist, who can perform imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatments such as medication or surgery.

Pancreatitis

4. Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis_0_0

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to jaundice. It can occur as a result of gallstones, alcohol abuse, or other factors that damage the pancreas. Symptoms of pancreatitis include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. If you suspect you have pancreatitis, it is important to consult with a gastroenterologist, who can perform blood tests, imaging studies, or a pancreatic biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatments such as medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Cancer

5. Cancer

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Cancer of the liver, bile ducts, or pancreas can cause jaundice. It can occur as a result of chronic inflammation, exposure to toxins, or genetic factors. Symptoms of cancer include unexplained weight loss, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, and jaundice. If you suspect you have cancer, it is important to consult with an oncologist, who can perform imaging tests such as an MRI or PET scan, or a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis and recommend treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery.

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Herbal-and-natural-remedies

Herbal and natural remedies

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While it is important to consult with a medical professional if you suspect you have jaundice, there are also herbal and natural remedies that may help alleviate the symptoms. Some of these remedies include:

Milk-Thistle-(Silybum-marianum):

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum):

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&nbsp;Milk thistle is a herb that has been traditionally used to support liver function. It contains a compound called silymarin, which has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dandelion-(Taraxacum-officinale)

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion-(Taraxacum-officinale)_1_0

Dandelion is a herb that has been traditionally used to support liver and gallbladder function. It contains compounds that may help improve bile flow and reduce inflammation.

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)

Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

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Turmeric is a spice that contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help support liver function.

Andrographis-(Andrographis-paniculata)

Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata)

Andrographis-(Andrographis-paniculata)_1_0

Andrographis is a herb that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support liver function and reduce inflammation. It contains compounds called andrographolides, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Globe-Artichoke-(Cynara-scolymus)

Globe Artichoke (Cynara scolymus)

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Globe artichoke is a herb that has been traditionally used to support liver function and improve digestion. It contains compounds called cynarin and chlorogenic acid, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Schisandra-(Schisandra-chinensis)

Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis)

Schisandra-(Schisandra-chinensis)_1_0

&nbsp;Schisandra is a herb that has been traditionally used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to support liver function and reduce stress. It contains compounds called lignans, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Licorice-(Glycyrrhiza-glabra)

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice-(Glycyrrhiza-glabra)_1_0

Licorice is a herb that has been traditionally used to support liver function and reduce inflammation. It contains compounds called glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Medications,-allergies-and-foods-that-can-cause-jaundice

Medications, allergies and foods that can cause jaundice

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Medications that can cause jaundice:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Acetaminophen (active compound: N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Chlorpromazine (active compound: Chlorpromazine)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Erythromycin (active compound: Erythromycin)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nitrofurantoin (active compound: Nitrofurantoin)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Phenobarbital (active compound: Phenobarbital)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rifampin (active compound: Rifampin)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sulfonamides (active compound: Sulfonamides)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tetracycline (active compound: Tetracycline)</li></ul>Allergies that can cause jaundice:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Drug allergies (such as an allergy to penicillin)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Food allergies (such as an allergy to peanuts)</li></ul>Foods that can cause jaundice:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fava beans (due to their high content of a substance called vicine)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Soy products (due to their high content of phytoestrogens)</li></ul>It's important to note that jaundice can also be caused by various medical conditions such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and bile duct obstruction. If you experience symptoms of jaundice, it's important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause.

Jaundice is a symptom that can be caused by various medical conditions, some of which may be severe and life-threatening. If you suspect you have jaundice, it is important to consult with a medical professional. However, there are also herbal and natural remedies that may help alleviate the symptoms. With proper treatment and care, jaundice can be resolved, and your health can be restored.

Yellow Is Not Your Color: What Jaundice Could Mean for Your Health

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What-is-Snake-Milk-(Chelidonium-majus)

What is Snake Milk (Chelidonium majus)

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Contrary to expectations, snake milk has little to do with the cold-blooded animals that scare many people. Snake milk (Chelidonium majus) is a delicate, herbaceous two-year-old plant that reaches 30-80 centimeters in height. Its stems are ribbed and branched. When the branches or leaves are broken, you can see how to separate yellowish-orange juice, which slightly resembles snake venom. In larger quantities, this juice can be poisonous, and toxicity decreases significantly when drying the plant. This aspect will be analyzed later.

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<ol><li>Chelidonium&nbsp;Majus is native to Europe and is also found in the western and central part of Asia and North Africa. It is found from Portugal to the west, also in Central, Eastern and Northern Europe. The Asian range covers Turkey, Iran, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, the Caucasus and Siberia. In North America, it's an introverted plant.</li><li> majus has been known as a healing species since ancient times. The healing properties of C. majus are described by Dioscoride and Pliny the Elder in the first century BC. The main medical use of jaundice, described from ancient times to the sixteenth century, is the treatment of visual impairments and eye diseases with the help of herbal juice. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2018.00299/full" target="_blank" data-ref="Greater Celandine's Ups and Downs&minus;21 Centuries of Medicinal Uses of Chelidonium majus From the Viewpoint of Today's Pharmacology" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;Snake milk was used as a medicinal plant in the Middle Ages mostly for the treatment of eye diseases, throat cleansing, treatment of ulcers and skin eczema, as well as against colic and jaundice.&nbsp;</li><li>&nbsp;Chelidonium majus is one of the most famous tools in folk medicine for the treatment of jaundice and liver diseases, such as inflammations, spastic conditions and gallstones. In Poland, the piece of young jaundice leaves was used as a bile agent and to regulate the action of the digestive tract. In some parts of Europe it is taken as an infusion of herbs to alleviate liver problems &nbsp;<a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?author=A.+Szary+&amp;publication_year=2013&amp;title=Tajemnice+Bieszczadzkich+Ro%C5%9Blin+Wczoraj+i+dzi%C5%9B." target="_blank" data-ref="Sorry..." rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; </li></ol>

How-does-snake-milk-work?

How does snake milk work?

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How-does-snake-milk-work?_1_1

An interesting assumption is that chemicals in Chelidonium majus can slow the growth of cancer cells, but can also be harmful to normal cells. Preliminary research has shown that a larger amount of snake milk can increase the flow of bile. There is also evidence of suspected painkiller properties of snake milk.

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People use snake milk for digestive tract problems, liver and gallbladder disorders. Other possible areas of application include detoxification, relief of menstrual cramps, cough, chest pain (angina) and more. Despite the widespread use in folk medicine and in official phytotherapy, both in Europe and in traditional Chinese medicine, snake milk does not join the most popular herbal remedies such as chamomile, valerian, St. John's wort or ginseng. It is listed in pharmacopoeia and is available in pharmacies, but scientific evidence of the positive effects of Chelidonium majus is still limited.&nbsp;

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For therapeutic purposes, dried herb of C. majus (European Pharmacopoeia) is used. In some regions (Central and Eastern Europe), the roots are also exploited.&nbsp;

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The pharmacologically significant substances of C. majus are isoquinolin alkaloids. These are the components of latex produced in all parts of plants, except colors. Overall, five groups of alkaloids were found in C. majus. These are the derivatives of phenanthridine (3,4-benzoisoquinolin), protoberberin, protopine, quinolysidine, aporfin.&nbsp;

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Several flavonoids were found in the above-ground parts of C. majus in low quantities. Four diglycosides and five monoglycosides have been identified as derivatives of kempferol, ivercetin and isoramnetin. Organic acids, ingredients of essential oil, biogenic amines such as histamine, saponins, vitamins A, C, nicotinic acid are part of the other active compounds in snake milk.

Pharmacological-activities-and-clinical-evidence

Pharmacological activities and clinical evidence

Pharmacological-activities-and-clinical-evidence_2_0

To date, the majority of the pharmacological properties of C. majus studied refer to the complex mixture or individual alkaloids contained in it. The various pharmacological actions of Coptisine, one of the main ingredients of C. majus, as well as smaller amounts of berberine, are widely described in the literature, but usually as compounds derived from other sources, such as Coptis (Ranunculaceae). &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/14790" target="_blank" data-ref="Coptis" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Pharmacological-activities-and-clinical-evidence_2_1

From the growing evidence obtained both in vitro and in vivo, with several examples of ex vivo studies on isolated organs, it is clear that four types of medicinal properties predominate: antimicrobial and antiviral, liver and gastric, anti-inflammatory and finally anticancer:

Pharmacological-activities-and-clinical-evidence_2_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antibacterial and antifungal - Antimicrobial activity of C. majus is attributed mostly to alkaloids and flavonoids, which have an inhibitory effect against S. aureus, S. epidermidis, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella gallinarum and other bacteria. Extracts of the plant have been tested for the antifungal effect against a large number of pathogenic fungi for humans and plants, that is. Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, Candida sp. Cladosporium herbarum and others. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0378874102001435" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[Ref. 4]</a>&nbsp; </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antiviral action - Glucosamine glycan present in latex inhibits intracellular human immunodeficiency virus of HIV viral migration and blocks reverse transcriptase. In&nbsp; addition, individually tested five alkaloids of C. majus: helidonin, helleritrine, sanquinarine, coptizine and berberine, are able to inhibit the development of HIV-1. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0166354206000751" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp; </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antiparasitic properties - Extracts of herbs and water from roots, as well as sangvinarine (2&ndash;4 &mu;g/ml), are highly effective in the treatment of trichomoniasis caused by Trichomonas vaginalis.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liver and bile ducts - One of the most common and repeatedly mentioned indications for C. majus, both in European/Mediterranean and East Asian traditional medicine, is for various liver complaints. Some of the hepatoprotective and biliary activities could be explained by the presence of esters of hydroxycanelene (caffeinic) acid. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2015.00303/full" target="_blank" data-ref="Hepatoprotective and Anti-fibrotic Agents: It's Time to Take the Next Step" rel="noopener">[Ref. 6]</a>&nbsp; More and more in-depth research is needed on the action of snake milk to support liver and bile function.&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antiproliferative, proapoptotic and cytotoxicity to cancer cell lines - Unlike hepatoprotective properties, this type of properties are quite well documented in a large number of studies. Most of all, it is assumed that some of the main alkaloids may cause cell death or stop the proliferation of cancer cells. This is based on the ability of berberine, helleritrine, sangvinarine and other alkaloids in the plant. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0887233307002421" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[Ref. 7]</a>&nbsp; </li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory action - The ability to inhibit inflammation or, in some cases, to stimulate the immune response and mitigate excessive reactivity, can contribute to postulated anticancer properties and improve the symptoms of stomach disorders. Common extracts or isolated alkaloids have been tested, but scientists say there are other components, such as hydroxycanel derivatives, flavonoids and helidonic acid, presumably with a significant contribution. </li></ul>

Pharmacological-activities-and-clinical-evidence_2_3

Toxicity-and-safety-problems

Toxicity and safety problems

Toxicity-and-safety-problems_2_0

Given that one of the main spheres of application of the plant is for disorders of the liver and bile ducts, it should emphasize its toxicity in higher doses. Many messages from the 1990s have been documented in humans. The main symptoms include cholestasis and mild to severe liver damage with a fairly well-documented causal relationship in most cases. In total, more than 50 such cases have been reported from Europe, mainly from Germany.&nbsp;

Toxicity-and-safety-problems_2_1

However, no particular ingredient is directly related to the toxicity of the herb. On the contrary, it is assumed that drug interactions, not intrinsic toxicity, are responsible for the reported cases. In addition, individual hypersensitivity or allergy of a person to a compound should be considered.

A lot of effort has been made to recognize the bioactive compounds contained in C. majus extracts and the mechanisms of their action. Numerous reports have been published about its effectiveness in the treatment of various medical complaints, such as gastrointestinal and liver disorders or skin diseases caused by microbial or viral infection. In addition to the huge number of scientific reports indicating the beneficial effect of snake milk, there is also information about its potential toxic properties. Official recommendations do not exclude the use of C. majus as a traditional herbal medicinal product. Further studies on the mechanisms of action and its areas of usefulness should therefore be carried out.

Snake Milk (Chelidonium majus) - A Plant with Beautiful Colors and Benefits for the Digestive Tract

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Snake Milk (Chelidonium majus) - A Plant with Beautiful Colors and Ben

Бетина Цветкова

Translation and adaptation: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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The causes of multiple sclerosis have not yet been fully understood, but variations in dozens of genes are believed to play a role in increasing the risk of the disease. <a href="/p/kak_ghienitie_opriedieliat_prilikata_s_roditielitie_ni_2256bb0a_9ee8_4d00_8f3e_7ca44b90aa45" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a> Changes in the HLA-DRB1 and IL7R <a href="../p/kak_ghienitie_opriedieliat_prilikata_s_roditielitie_ni_2256bb0a_9ee8_4d00_8f3e_7ca44b90aa45" target="_blank" rel="noopener">genes</a> are the strongest genetic factors that determine the increased risk.

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Studies have shown that herbal medicines can be effective in the treatment of multiple sclerosis and associated symptoms, reducing demyelination, improving remyelination and suppressing inflammation in the central nervous system.

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This article is based on a 2018 overview on the topic. [<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6311642/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref. 1</a>]. According to the authors, it can be concluded that the anti-inflammatory effect is the main cause of the therapeutic effects of medicinal plants in the disease. Through them, medicinal plants reduce the severity of the disease and reduce neuropathological changes.

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Anti-inflammatory effects of medicinal plants are usually manifested by suppressing the entry of inflammatory cells into the central nervous system, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory and inflammatory cytokines.

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Medicinal plants and their derivatives, which are known in the scientific literature to have a beneficial effect on the condition of MS patients, are:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Ginkgo biloba,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Ginger (Zingiber officinale),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Turmeric (Curcuma longa),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Valerian (Valeriana officinalis),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Black cumin (Nigella sativa),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Kava (Piper methysticum),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Saffron (Crocus sativus),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Sudanese frankincense (Boswellia papyrifera),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">European wine vine (Vitis vinifera),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Gastrodia elata,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Green tea (Camellia sinensis),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Evening primrose (Oenothera biennis),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20694784/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">MS14</a> [ref. 2] - Iranian herbal-marine mixture consisting of 90% Penaeus latisculatus (shrimp), 5% <a href="/p/maghdanozt_tsielinata_i_drughi_bilki_koito_pomaghat_v_borbata_s_raka_431f42b9_91a1_4cb7_b9d4_e633b827af78" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a>celery (Apium graveolens) and 5% St. John'swort (Hypericum perforatum),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Cannabis (Cannabis sativa).</li>
</ul>

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Here we will consider in more detail each of these plants and the mechanisms by which they can support treatment and alleviate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS).

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New approaches to the treatment of multiple sclerosis in Europe

Ginkgo-biloba-has-neuroprotective-properties

1. Ginkgo biloba has neuroprotective properties

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Ginkgo biloba is one of the most ancient living tree species of the Ginkgoaceae family. It originated in Korea and China, but can now be found all over the world. Wood leaf extract has traditionally been used as a means of improving memory.

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Ginkgo-biloba-has-neuroprotective-properties_0_2

Studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory and platelet-activating factor (PAF) inhibitory properties of ginkgo extract (EGB761) have a beneficial effect in MS. The likely therapeutic role of this plant on multiple sclerosis appears to be due to the substances ginkolids that affect PAF. It in turn plays a role in the process of inflammation and ginkgo biloba extract may suppress it.

Ginkgo-biloba-has-neuroprotective-properties_0_3

In addition, the plant restores cognitive abilities, has neuroprotective properties and reduces fatigue in multiple sclerosis. The herb is safe, with no side or adverse effects, but in rare cases can cause dizziness, headaches and eye hemorrhages.

Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)-reduces-inflammation

2. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces inflammation

Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)-reduces-inflammation_1_0

Zingiber officinale (ginger), is an aromatic plant of the Zingiberaceae family. It originates&nbsp;from India and is usually grown in Asia, tropical Africa and Latin America. The ginger root is often used as an aromatic spice and as a cold medicine. Recent studies have shown the anti-cancer, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger.

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Ginger-(Zingiber-officinale)-reduces-inflammation_1_2

Ginger has anti-inflammatory effects, and this is the reason for its consumption by MS patients. Gingerols and their derivatives (shogaols) are the main components of ginger that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties.

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Positive effects of ginger and its active compounds (6-shogaol and 10-gingerol) have been observed in animal models of multiple sclerosis. They have had anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects in animals, but clinical studies on MS patients are still needed to confirm these results.

3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_2_0

Curcuma longa (turmeric) is a tropical plant originating in southern and southeast tropical Asia. It belongs to the ginger family - Zingiberaceae.

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_2_1

The yellow substance in the roots of turmeric is called curcumin. It is widely used as a spice and pigment, as well as as a folk remedy for the treatment of problems with bile, anorexia, cough, sinusitis and sore throat. Studies show that curcumin has a wide range of biological activities, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and antioxidant.

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Curcumin performs its anti-inflammatory role in two main ways:

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_2_4

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">inhibits Th17 differentiation and associated pathways.</li>
</ul>

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_2_5

Also, it inhibits the entry of inflammatory cells into the central nervous system. Curcumin modulates the inflammatory process, reducing the expression (production) of various pro-inflammatory and inflammatory cytokines.

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The side effects of curcumin are manifested when taking a high dose, which causes nausea and diarrhea. Although the therapeutic effects of curcumin have been demonstrated in various studies, studies in humans are certainly needed to confirm the recommendation for taking curcumin in patients with multiple sclerosis.

St.-John's-wort-(Hypericum-perforatum)-against-depression

4. St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) against depression

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Hypericum perforatum or better known as St. John's wort is a flowering plant of the Hypericaceae family. It is characteristic of Europe and Asia, but today it is distributed all over the world.

St.-John's-wort-(Hypericum-perforatum)-against-depression_3_1

Since ancient times, St. John's wort has been a popular plant and has been used in diseases such as anxiety, depression and menstrual cycle disorders. Currently, H. perforatum is used to treat diseases associated with inflammation, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

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St.-John's-wort-(Hypericum-perforatum)-against-depression_3_3

The use of St. John's wort in MS is associated with its antidepressant effects. The main antidepressant component of H. perforatum is hypericin, which stimulates capillary blood flow in the brain. Many studies focus on another component, hyperforin, for the therapeutic antidepressant effects of this plant.

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It should be taken into account that this plant may interact with certain drugs, and it is important that its use be discussed with a medical doctor.

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So, St. John's wort can be recommended to patients with multiple sclerosis due to its antidepressants, antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects.

Valerian-(Valeriana-officinalis)-against-insomnia-and-anxiety

5. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) against insomnia and anxiety

Valerian-(Valeriana-officinalis)-against-insomnia-and-anxiety_4_0

Valeriana officinalis grows in Europe, North America and parts of Asia. Valerian is a plant of the Caprifoliaceae family, and the roots of this herb are used for various healing purposes.

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In Ancient Greece, valerian has found various medicinal applications - for <a href="https://www.sanat.io/bul/p/7_bilki_koito_obliekchavat_loshoto_khranosmilanie_i_dispiepsiiata_60bc6c30_0949_4ed7_933c_460f9104d318" target="_blank" rel="noopener">digestive problems</a>, <a href="https://www.sanat.io/bul/p/iepiliepsiiata_koi_liechiebni_rastieniia_sa_izpolzvani_v_drievna_piersiia_d697132f_9082_456b_ac3a_9019ffa4be12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">epilepsy</a> and urinary tract infections. Today it is also used for <a href="https://www.sanat.io/bul/p/trievozhnost_i_biezsniie_kakvo_priedlagha_prirodata_eef882c6_b669_4aea_9d2d_1e11852fbcfe" target="_blank" rel="noopener">problems with sleep and anxiety</a>.

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Sleep disorders are the main cause of fatigue in MS patients. Clinical trials have shown that the main component of V. officinalis root extract, valerenic acid, is effective in treating mild to moderate sleep disorders.

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Limited adverse effects such as stomach pain and allergic reaction have been observed in patients treated with valerenic acid. The herb can be offered to patients with multiple sclerosis due to the relieving effects on insomnia and fatigue.

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6. American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) against urinary infections

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Vaccinium macrocarpon is also known as large cranberry and bearberry. It is a North American species of cranberry from the Ericaceae family. Cranberry juice is obtained from fruits. American cranberry is traditionally used for treatment of bladder and kidney diseases by Native Americans.

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Patients with multiple sclerosis are susceptible to bacterial colonization and urinary tract infections, as a result of dysfunction of the bladder due to the disease. Cranberry can suppress the adhesion of the bacterium Escherischia coli to the urethra.

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It contains two important compounds - fructose and proantocyanidine, which are attached to the fimbria (cilia for adhering to the mucous membrane) of E. coli and effectively hinder the ability of bacteria to attach to the urethra.

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There are several clinical studies that examine the preventive effects of American cranberry on urinary tract infections in MS patients. Various studies have found that it is effective against urinary tract infections, but in one clinical trial of patients with multiple sclerosis it did not show a good enough effect.

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