Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain. The severity can be variable with symptoms including headache, fever, confusion, a stiff neck, and vomiting. Complications may include seizures, hallucinations, trouble speaking, memory problems, and problems with hearing.Causes of encephalitis include viruses such as herpes simplex virus and rabies as well as bacteria, fungi, or parasites. Other causes include autoimmune diseases and certain medications. In many cases the cause remains unknown. Risk factors ...

encephalitis

Traditional-Chinese-Medicine-for-Respiratory-Viruses

Traditional Chinese Medicine for Respiratory Viruses

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The outbreak and spread of coronavirus infection (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused huge losses of lives and property around the world. Globally, as of 24 January 2023, there were 664,097,132 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 6,716,108 deaths reported to the World Health Organization (WHO). &nbsp;<a href="https://covid19.who.int/" target="_blank" data-ref="WHO Coronavirus (COVID-19) Dashboard" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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SARS-CoV-2 is a wrapped, single-stranded, positive, β-coronavirus RNA virus that belongs to the subfamily Coronavirinae, family Coronavirdiae, order Nidovirales. SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets, a high concentration of aerosols, and sometimes through feces or urine. Currently, no approved specific antiviral drug is recommended to deal with COVID-19. Infection with it in more severe cases can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), and even death.&nbsp;

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It is well documented that traditional Chinese medicine has accumulated abundant clinical experience and effective prescriptions for the control and treatment of infectious diseases in about 500 epidemics that have occurred in China for more than 3,000 years in the past. &nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11655-020-3192-6?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=fe04f653-1cd7-469c-a455-8ebe8038b5f9" target="_blank" data-ref="Can Chinese Medicine Be Used for Prevention of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)? A Review of Historical Classics, Research Evidence and Current Prevention Programs - Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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The combination therapy of traditional Chinese medicine and Western medicine significantly reduces mortality, shortens the duration of fever, reduces abnormalities of chest X-rays, and relieves secondary fungal infections among patients receiving glucocorticoids in the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.liebertpub.com/action/cookieAbsent" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref. 3</a>] There is also evidence on the positive role of traditional Chinese medicine&nbsp; in the treatment of previous coronavirus pneumonias such as SARS, MERS and other epidemic diseases. <a href="https://www.worldscientific.com/doi/10.1142/S0192415X05002965" target="_blank" data-ref="Using Herbal Medicine as a Means of Prevention Experience During the SARS Crisis | The American Journal of Chinese Medicine" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;4]&nbsp;&nbsp;

Traditional-Chinese-medicine-in-the-treatment-of-COVID-19

Traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of COVID-19 

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From the perspective of this medical system, the different stages of COVID-19 disease can be divided into mild, moderate, severe and critical. The main models in the mild stage include balancing the lungs and removing pathogenic factors. The main models in the moderate stage include elimination of heat and moisture, detoxification and invigoration of the spleen. The main heavy-stage models focus on toning qi and yin, ventilating qi on the lungs, co-healing the lungs and intestines. Finally, critical stage models require toning qi and preventing exhaustion, cooling blood and nourishing yin and restoring consciousness. Distinguishing each stage is one of the most important principles of TCM for the treatment of COVID-19.&nbsp;

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Traditional Chinese medicine's recommended remedies for each stage of COVID-19 treatment include more than 18 natural remedies. Among them, highly recommended Chinese herbs are Scutellaria baicalensis (Huangqing), Rheum palmatum (Da Huang), Bupleurum&nbsp; chinense&nbsp; (Chai Hu), Gingko Biloba (Ping Yin), Artemisia annua (Huanghua Hao), Glycyrrhiza glabra&nbsp; (Gan Cao)&nbsp; and Zingiber officinale&nbsp; (Shen Jian).

Potential-mechanisms-of-the-most-commonly-used-Chinese-herbs-with-proven-antiviral-effect

Potential mechanisms of the most commonly used Chinese herbs with proven antiviral effect

Scutellaria-baicalensis-(Huangqing)

Scutellaria baicalensis (Huangqing)  

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Scutellaria baicalensis, commonly known as Shlenmnik Baikal or Chinese helmet, is a type of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae. &nbsp; The main bioactive compounds extracted from the root of S. baicalensis are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Baikalin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Vogonozide</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Baikalein Vogonin&nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S209592731630024X" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul>Each of these active components is known to have physiological effects as well as cytotoxic or side effects when used in high concentrations. These flavones have been reported to have different pharmacological functions, including anticancer, hepatoprotective, antibacterial and antiviral, antioxidant, anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects.&nbsp;

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Lung Fufang, a type of traditional recipe using Huangqing, has been found to be able to prolong the survival rate of patients with primary bronchial lung squamous cell carcinoma and has a similar effect in patients with NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer). &nbsp;<a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?journal=J+Tradit+Chin+Med+Pharm&amp;title=Reports+for+80+patients+with+bronchial+lung+squamous+carcinoma+(Mid+or+Late+Stage)+treated+Lung+FuFang+and+chemotherapy&amp;author=MQ+Pan&amp;author=YH+Li&amp;author=JA+Liu&amp;author=YX+Tan&amp;volume=5&amp;publication_year=1990&amp;pages=19-21&amp;" target="_blank" data-ref="Sorry..." rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

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The plant exerts an antiviral effect and inhibits the activity of 3CLpro. It has a beneficial effect on the proper activity of the nervous system, favors the normal processes of sleep, nervous system, immune system and cardiovascular system.&nbsp;

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It is not recommended for people suffering from liver diseases, as well as those using anti-weight loss drugs and some painkillers.

Rheum-palmatum-(Da-Huang)

Rheum palmatum (Da Huang) 

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Rheum palmatum (Dahuang) - Rheum palmatum is a species of flowering plant in the family Polygonaceae. It is commonly called Chinese rhubarb and contains the active ingredient emodin, which is thought to be able to block the pinning of the spiked protein to&nbsp; ACE2 in the case of COVID-19 infection.&nbsp;

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Emodin is a naturally occurring derivative of anthraquinone, found in the roots and leaves of various plants, fungi and lichens. It has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine as an active ingredient in herbs. Emodin has a wide range of biological actions, including diuretic, antibacterial, anti-ulcer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer. <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/17/9522" target="_blank" data-ref="The Health Benefits of Emodin, a Natural Anthraquinone Derived from Rhubarb&mdash;A Summary Update" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;7]&nbsp;

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The use of Rheum palmatum&nbsp; (Da Huang) is also recommended for bacterial infections, overactive immune system, cough, tumors and high blood pressure.&nbsp;

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In rare cases, Rheum palmatum can irritate the digestive tract.

Bupleurum-chinense-(Chai-Hu)

Bupleurum chinense (Chai Hu)  

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Radix Bupleuri (Chaihu) is derived from Bupleurum chinense and has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine for more than 2,000 years in China, Japan, Korea and other Asian countries. Phytochemical studies have shown that this plant contains essential oils, triterpenoid saponins, polyacetylenes, flavonoids, lignans, fatty acids and sterols.&nbsp;

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Crude extracts and pure compounds isolated from Radix Bupleuri showed various biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antipyretic, antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects.

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However, Radix Bupleuri can also lead to hepatotoxicity, especially in high doses and with long-term use. Pharmacokinetic studies have shown that the main bioactive compounds in Chai Hu are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">saicosaponini a</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Saicosaponi B2</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">saicosaponini c</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">saicosaponini d</li></ul>According to scientific data, Radix Bupleuri extract has a significant antiviral effect in acute respiratory tract infections with H1N1 and inhibits influenza virus-induced RANTES secretion in H1N1-infected A549 cells at concentrations of 100 and 200 μg/ml. This suggests that Radix Bupleuri may be beneficial for the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions, followed by a viral infection.&nbsp;

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In another study, the antiviral activity of saicosaponins (a, b2, c and d) and their mode of action was investigated. The results showed that all saicosaponines exhibited antiviral activity on human coronavirus-229E at concentrations of 0.25–25 μm, and the strongest activity was observed for saicosaponin b2 with an IC50 of 1.7 μm. <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1440-1681.2006.04415.x" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref.</a> &nbsp;8]&nbsp;

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At high doses, it can have the opposite effect on the liver.

Gingko-Biloba-(Pin-Yin)

Gingko Biloba (Pin Yin) 

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Ginkgo biloba, the oldest tree on the planet, originated in China and has been cultivated for thousands of years for various purposes. Ginkgo biloba is rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. It may also be beneficial for heart health, brain function, and eye health, along with several other conditions.

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Ginkgo biloba may reduce the risk of infection due to the content of quercetin and other ingredients such as ginkgolic acid (GA), which have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, acting by reducing concentrations of pro-inflammatory cytokines. &nbsp; The antiviral effect of ginkgo extract is mediated by various mechanisms, including blocking SARS-CoV-2 3-chymotrypsin-like protease. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ardp.202200188" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 9]</a>&nbsp;

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Ginkgo Biloba, in addition to viral infection, is also recommended for inflammation, cough, tumors and stomach ulcers.&nbsp;

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In rare cases, the following side effects can be caused: nausea, diarrhea, dizziness.

Artemisia-annua-(Huanghua-Hao)

Artemisia annua (Huanghua Hao)

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Artemisia annua (Qinghao) is the plant Sweet wormwood, which contains the active ingredient artemisinin - a natural bioactive sesquiterpene lactone. It inhibits viral replication, inflammation, and certain cancers as described in studies. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/57/3/217" target="_blank" data-ref="Antiviral and Immunomodulation Effects of Artemisia" rel="noopener">[ref. 10]</a>&nbsp;

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Artemisinin may exhibit anti-cancer properties, according to a scientific review noting that many studies have been done on the anti-cancer effects of sweet wormwood. The researchers note that this impact is due to artemisinin's ability to stop cell growth or disrupt steps in the cell cycle through proliferation pathways. Human clinical trials are needed to confirm the promising potential effects.

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There has also been a lot of research looking at the benefits of traditional herbs to help against COVID-19. Different constituents in A. annua may inhibit SARS-CoV-2 attachment, internalization in host cells, and inhibit viral replication and transcription process. Clinical trials are needed to test whether these effects are possible in humans. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S2095496421000637" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 11]</a>&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(Gan-Cao)

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Gan Cao)  

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Licorice root is a famous aphrodisiac that is considered one of the oldest herbal remedies in the world. Historical sources for the use of Glycyrrhiza species include ancient manuscripts from China, India, and Greece. All of them mention its use in symptoms of viral infections of the respiratory tract and hepatitis.&nbsp;

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Animal studies have shown reductions in mortality and viral activity in encephalitis caused by herpes simplex virus and pneumonia caused by influenza A virus. In vitro studies reveal antiviral activity against HIV-1 associated with SARS coronavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, arboviruses, and others. <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2295" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;12]&nbsp;

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The glycyrrhizin found in Glycyrrhiza glabra has been shown to be effective in viral hepatitis, bronchitis, gastritis and jaundice. Other main ingredients of licorice root are:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhetinic acid</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Flavonoids</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hydroxyl coumarins</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Β-sitosterol.&nbsp;</li></ul>Very high doses of intake can increase stress, which can lead to a decrease in potassium levels, high blood pressure, muscle weakness or arrhythmia. It is contraindicated for use by people with a history of ascites, hypertension or kidney failure or who are currently using Digitalis.

Zingiber-officinale-(Shen-Jian)

Zingiber officinale (Shen Jian) 

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Ginger is a powerful antioxidant, supports the function of the urinary system and protects the functions of the brain. It has been found to be able to exert anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects and prevent inflammation. Ginger contains various components, including oils, proteins, carbohydrates, crude fiber, ash, water and volatile oil. Chemically, ginger contains over 400 different compounds, but its pharmacological effects are largely due to its terpene and phenolic compounds.&nbsp;

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The terpene ingredients of ginger include:&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiberen</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bisabolen</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Farnesen</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sesquiphelandrene</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Limonene</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cineole</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Linalool</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Borneol</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Geranial</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Turmeric</li></ul>Phenolic compounds derived from ginger include:&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gingeroli</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paradols</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Shogaoli</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingeroni.</li></ul>The listed active ingredients of ginger have anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antidiabetic, gastroprotective and neuroprotective effects, described in a large number of studies. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095754821000661" target="_blank" data-ref="ScienceDirectScience DirectScienceDirect helpElsevierRELX Group" rel="noopener">[ref. 13]</a>&nbsp;

How-to-Make-Tea-With-These-Herbs

How to Make Tea With These Herbs 

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If you have all the necessary herbs in the form of loose tea, brew a teaspoon of the herbal mixture in 200 ml. boiling water for 7 minutes at room temperature. Strain through gauze. Drink 200 ml. up to 2 times a day.

The potential mechanisms of herbs of traditional Chinese medicine may be beneficial in multiple viral infections. Many of the active ingredients of these herbs have been scientifically documented and studied for their antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anticancer, and replication-inhibiting effects. The integration of available clinical and fundamental evidence into the treatment approach provides more opportunities to address various respiratory viruses, in which Chinese traditional medicine may also be useful.

7 Chinese herbs with proven antiviral effect

Бетина Цветкова

The-most-important-thing-about-olive-oil-(olive-oil)

The most important thing about olive oil (olive oil) 

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Olive oil is a type of vegetable oil extracted from the flesh of the ripe fruit of the olive tree, Olea europaea. The color of olive oil varies from transparent yellow to golden; Some varieties obtained from unripe fruits have a greenish tint. Oils with different characteristics and qualities are produced by almost every country that grows olives, with variations depending on the area and maturity of the fruit. Among the best types of olive oil are those produced in Italy, Greece and other countries.&nbsp;

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Pure olive oil is mainly used for culinary purposes and for preserving foods, especially canned fish. It is also used in the textile industry, in the production of toilet preparations and cosmetics, in the pharmaceutical industry for medical purposes, in the production of high-quality Castilian soap and as a lubricant. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.723040/full" target="_blank" data-ref="Olive Oil: Nutritional Applications, Beneficial Health Aspects and its Prospective Application in Poultry Production" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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Ripe olive fruits with the removed pit contain 20 to 30 percent oil depending on the climate and care of cultivation. Olive oils obtained by the first mechanical pressing without further processing are called untreated, and their quality depends on the condition of the fruit. Only oils of the best fruits are edible without further processing. They are rarely exported without processing, but can be used as a basis for export oil or consumed locally.&nbsp;

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To prevent the formation of free fatty acids, the best quality edible oil should be removed from the pulp as soon as possible. After the initial pressing, the residual slurry is repressed with hot water and from this second pressing an oil with a higher acid content is obtained. This oil, along with lower-quality virgin oils, makes up the oil, called lampante, due to its use as a fuel in lamps. This species is further refined to remove acid, color, and odor, and is sold as refined olive oil.

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Olive oil is a central component of the so-called Mediterranean diet, which is considered particularly beneficial for cardiovascular health. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31243760/" target="_blank" data-ref="Mediterranean diet and health status: Active ingredients and pharmacological mechanisms - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols, and in healthy monounsaturated fatty acids.&nbsp; Studies of olive oil have shown that consumption of oil, especially in the form of extra virgin olive oil, is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus, and with a reduction in brain inflammation and amyloid-beta plaque formation. These plaques are characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.&nbsp;

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Animal and human studies have also shown that a diet rich in olive oil may help protect against memory loss and dementia-related damage. These beneficial and health-promoting effects of olive oil are due to the content of polyphenols, which have powerful antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic and antiallergic effects. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28973999/" target="_blank" data-ref="Effects of Olive Oil Phenolic Compounds on Inflammation in the Prevention and Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Types-of-olive-oil-(olive-oil)

Types of olive oil (olive oil)

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Olive oil is generally classified into four categories:&nbsp;

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Extra virgin - oil obtained from first pressing, which has excellent taste and smell; has a free fatty acid content, expressed as oleic acid, of not more than 0,8 grams per 100 grams;&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Virgin olive oil - Untreated oil obtained from first pressing, which has a good taste and smell; has a free fatty acid content of not more than 2.0 grams per 100 grams;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pure olive oil - Pure or edible mixture of refined and untreated;&nbsp; it is rich in vitamin E and is used only for cooking, body massages and therapies.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Refined olive oil - It is considered an oil of medium quality. Refined olive oil is mainly used only for cooking. It is suitable for all cooking techniques, but even more so when cooking at high temperature. It has the same fat content as the above two oils.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pomace olive oil - The Pomace type is the lowest quality olive oil. Oilcake is obtained from the residues after the fruit pressing is completed. After the fruits are pressed, oil and water residues still remain. This oil is extracted and mixed with high quality oils to improve its quality.</li></ol>

Anticancer-effects-of-olive-oil

Anticancer effects of olive oil

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There is scientific evidence that olive oil provides protection against leukemia in children and many cancers, such as colon cancer and squamous cell cancer of the esophagus. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29850614/" target="_blank" data-ref="Regulation of Immune Function by Polyphenols - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp; Consuming olive oil reduced the number of cancer lesions and the number of tumors, as shown in several studies. It has been observed that fatty acids present in olive oil can reduce the production of prostaglandins, which in turn can potentially inhibit the development and production of tumors.&nbsp;

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The anticancer properties of olive oil are reassociated with its phenolic content, including hydroxytyrosol (3, 4-dihydroxyphenylethanol), (p-hydroxyphenylethanol) tyrosol and phenolic alcohols, as well as their secondary derivatives p-HPEA-EDA (oleocanthal), oleuropein, p-HPEA-EA (ligstroside aglycone), 3,4-DHPEA-EA (oleuropein aglycone) and 3,4-DHPEA-EDA. In addition, polyphenols have been shown to slow the development and progression of cancer. These polyphenols can alter the immune system by proliferation of white blood cells, as well as by the synthesis of cytokines and other factors that contribute to immunological resistance. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24250402/" target="_blank" data-ref="Selective COX-2 Inhibitors: A Review of Their Structure-Activity Relationships - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

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Oleocanthal, a type of natural phenolic compounds present in extra virgin olive oil, is a strong anti-inflammatory agent. It occupies a major place in cancer prevention programs, as it can be used as a powerful inhibitor of natural cyclooxygenase (COX). Oleocantal has the ability to interrupt the inflammatory cascade by reducing the secretion of COX inflammatory enzymes. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-019-47904-z?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=130dc9d9-992f-4e16-932b-bfb993a324ae" target="_blank" data-ref="Extra virgin olive oil diet intervention improves insulin resistance and islet performance in diet-induced diabetes in mice - Scientific Reports" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

Other-important-health-benefits-of-olive-oil

Other important health benefits of olive oil 

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Supports-heart-health

Supports heart health 

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Olive oil protects against inflammation, reduces the oxidation of LDL (bad cholesterol) and improves the function of the endothelium lining the blood vessels. Manages blood clotting and lowers blood pressure.

Relieves-pain-and-inflammation

Relieves pain and inflammation 

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The main cause of inflammation in the body is C-reactive protein. Also, this protein increases during conditions such as arthritis. Olive oil contains oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory properties and acts similarly to ibuprofen.

Improves-bone-health

Improves bone health 

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Regular intake of olive oil is good for bone health. There is calcium to build bones and vitamin D. Daily consumption of olive oil stimulates the formation of bone tissue and prevents its breakdown.

Balances-blood-sugar-and-protects-against-diabetes

Balances blood sugar and protects against diabetes 

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Olive oil contains healthy fats that are crucial for managing type 2 diabetes. The good fats in olive oil help slow down the absorption of glucose into the blood, thereby controlling blood sugar levels.

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Studies have shown that olive oil has a positive effect on insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels. The preventive properties of olive oil in this direction have been considered in a large number of studies in animals and a smaller number - in humans.&nbsp;

Olive oil is widely recognized as one of the healthiest oils in the world. In fact, people tend to live longer and healthier lives in regions where olive oil is a major part of the diet. It is also a major component of the Mediterranean diet, along with other foods rich in healthy fats. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest quality olive oil available, extracted from the fruit of the olive without the use of heat or chemicals. There are four other types of olive oil, which are also used in cooking, cosmetics and other areas. The many benefits of olive oil and its wide application make it a preferred vegetable oil in many countries around the world.

5 types of olive oil and its benefits

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What-is-curcumin

What is curcumin

What-is-curcumin_0_0

Like many spices, turmeric (Curcuma longa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine. Its main ingredient is curcumin, which is a natural antioxidant with anti-inflammatory benefits as well as potential benefits associated with slowing down the aging process and preventing Alzheimer's disease. Ayurvedic medicine - a traditional Indian treatment system, recommends turmeric for various health conditions that proceed with chronic pain and inflammation because of the strong anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin and other active compounds in turmeric.&nbsp;

What-is-curcumin_0_1

With regard to inflammatory conditions, natural compounds such as curcumin have shown a beneficial effect on the progression of inflammatory diseases due to their numerous mechanisms of action: antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, antiplatelet and cytoprotective. These and many other effects of curcumin make it a promising tool in the adjuvant treatment of COVID-19.

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The antiviral effects of curcumin have been widely studied - it prevents the binding of influenza A virus, dengue virus, Zika virus and human norovirus (HuNoV) to host cells. In addition, curcumin inhibits the replication of the viral genome and transcription of the respiratory syncythial virus (RSV) and Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), interferes with the translation and assembly of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human cytimegalovirus (HCMV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

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The potential of curcumin as a medicinal agent for COVID-19

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A team of scientists found in in vitro analyses the antiviral action of curcumin against the SARS-CoV virus in Vero-E6 cells, and this natural polyphenol can inhibit viral replication at concentrations of 3-10 &mu;M. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.675287/full" target="_blank" data-ref="Curcumin as a Potential Treatment for COVID-19" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> Based on such data on antiviral activity, researchers using in silico prediction models evaluated the potential of curcumin against SARS-CoV-2 binding proteins and its cell receptors. The results showed that curcumin has a high affinity for interaction with S glycoprotein by establishing six hydrogen bonds and realizes higher scores than control compounds such as nafamostat and hydroxychloroquine. In addition, curcumin shows an affinity for ACE2. In addition, curcumin interacts with the active part of the protein, in addition to the formation of two hydrogen bonds. Similarly, curcumin demonstrates a better affinity for ACE2 than control compounds.

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Another interesting result in this study is related to the main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2, which is mandatory in maturation and viral replication and is a promising target in the treatment of SARS-CoV-2. Among the compounds tested, including chloroquine, entecavir, hydroxychloroquine and remdesivir, curcumin surprisingly formed the most stable complex with SARS-CoV-2 Mpro, and the affinity result was comparable to that of the N3 control.

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The researchers also found that curcumin in low doses inhibits the mTORC1-Raptor interaction, leading to inhibition of the mTORC1 complex. Curcumin also promotes interruption of mTORC2-Rictor interaction at higher doses, thereby inhibiting mTORC2. the mTOR route is a central regulator of mammalian metabolism and physiology, including humans. The signaling path of mTOR, which is often activated in tumors, not only regulates gene transcription and protein synthesis to regulate cell proliferation and differentiation of immune cells, but also plays an important role in tumor metabolism &nbsp;<a href="https://pnas.org/doi/full/10.1073/pnas.1716173114" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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Another team of researchers looked at oral intake of curcumin in combination with piperine as adjuvant therapy for the treatment of COVID-19 in a randomized clinical trial. Patients with COVID-19 with mild, moderate and severe symptoms who received curcumin/piperine treatment showed early symptomatic recovery, less deterioration, fewer signs of serious pathology, better ability to maintain oxygen saturation above 94% with free breathing, better clinical outcomes compared to patients in the control group (who received only probiotics twice a day). The results were collected in a double-blind, randomized, controlled study conducted in two groups of 70 people each, a total of 140 people. <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.669362/full" target="_blank" data-ref="Oral Curcumin With Piperine as Adjuvant Therapy for the Treatment of COVID-19: A Randomized Clinical Trial" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

In vitro results for the antiviral action of curcumin on SARS-CoV and data from in silico analyses confirm the hypothesis of potential activity against SARS-CoV-2. A limited number of studies also consider oral intake of curcumin as a potential cure for coronavirus infection. This information can be used by the scientific community to further assess the effect of curcumin on cells infected with SARS-CoV-2 and virus replication using in vitro and in vivo models and in randomised clinical trials.

Curcumin as a potential treatment for COVID-19

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Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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Nothing spoils the mood in spring and summer as annoying biting insects - which seem to fly on swarms to draw on our blood. However, itching is our smallest problem - mosquitoes and ticks are insidious in that they transmit dangerous diseases.

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Ticks carry the following dangerous (deadly) diseases:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lyme disease;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tick encephalitis;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Q-fever;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hemorrhagic fever with kidney syndrome;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Marseilles fever and others.</li>
</ul>

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Mosquitoes carry very dangerous diseases such as:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Malaria;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">West Nile fever;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dengue;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Yellow fever.</li>
</ul>

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Among the most effective repellents against these insects are chemical ones containing the substances DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide, formerly known as N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) or icaridin (picaridin), but they are not always suitable for use.

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DEET may show neurotoxicity in its use in combination with sunscreen and is not recommended in pregnant women unless it is extremely necessary and the risks of infection are greater than the risk of the chemical's effects on the foetus. It cannot be used in children under 2 years of age.

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Plant-based repellents are the alternative to chemical repellents (although their action, of course, is also due to chemicals ;) ). In the following lines we will consider which plants and substances from them offer protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and in some cases flies and biting midges. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Chemical_and_Plant_Based_Insect_Repellents_Efficacy_Safety_and_Toxicity_26827259" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

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