Hepatitis B is an infectious disease caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) that affects the liver; it is a type of viral hepatitis. It can cause both acute and chronic infection. Many people have no symptoms during the initial infection. In acute infection, some may develop a rapid onset of sickness with vomiting, yellowish skin, tiredness, dark urine and abdominal pain. Often these symptoms last a few weeks and rarely does the initial infection result in death. It may take 30 to 180 days for symptoms ...

hepatitis b

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Possible-Diseases-and-Conditions:

Possible Diseases and Conditions:

Hepatitis

1. Hepatitis

Hepatitis_0_0

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

Cirrhosis_0_0

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

Cancer_0_0

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.

Cancer_0_1

Herbal-and-natural-remedies

Herbal and natural remedies

Herbal-and-natural-remedies_1_0

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):

Milk-Thistle-(Silybum-marianum):_1_0

&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)

Turmeric-(Curcuma-longa)_1_0

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)

Globe-Artichoke-(Cynara-scolymus)_1_0

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.

Licorice-(Glycyrrhiza-glabra)_1_1

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:

Medications,-allergies-and-foods-that-can-cause-jaundice_2_2

<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:

Medications,-allergies-and-foods-that-can-cause-jaundice_2_3

<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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Екипът на Санацио

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?

Why are hepatitis viruses dangerous? 

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?_0_0

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?_0_1

Hepatitis viruses are a serious problem around the world. Hepatitis A, a major cause of acute hepatitis in many parts of the world, is in serious decline in the developed world as a result of the existence of an effective vaccine. The disease remains prevalent in the developing world. Hepatitis B is also significantly inhibited by vaccination in the developed world, but remains a major cause of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer in parts of Africa and Asia.

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?_0_2

It is important to suggest that viral hepatitis can be fatal. Viral hepatitis types A, B, C, D and E can cause infection and subsequent inflammation of the liver, which can lead to serious diseases, including liver cancer or even death. People infected with hepatitis A and E almost always recover and do not need treatment. In the case of viruses B, C and D, infection can become chronic and some patients may develop a more serious diagnosis, such as liver cancer or cirrhosis. However, if the infection is detected in time, it can be treated.

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?_0_3

In turn, people with the hepatitis C virus can make a full recovery, and there are vaccines that protect against viral hepatitis A, B, D and E.

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?_0_4

Herbal-treatment-for-different-subtypes-of-viral-hepatitis

Herbal treatment for different subtypes of viral hepatitis 

Herbal-treatment-for-different-subtypes-of-viral-hepatitis_1_0

We distinguish several main types of acute viral infections of the liver – these are hepatitis A, E, B and C. They correspond to the subtype of virus that is causative. As you will see from the article, there is a wide range of herbal remedies that can be applied to any type of hepatitis. It is advisable to do this after consulting a medical practitioner in case other drugs are taken or there are specifics in the person's condition.

Herbs-in-acute-hepatitis

Herbs in acute hepatitis  

Herbs-in-acute-hepatitis_2_0

Andrographis-paniculata

Andrographis paniculata 

Andrographis-paniculata_2_0

A hepatoprotective (providing a protective effect to the liver) and antiviral herb seems an ideal recommendation in case of acute infection with the hepatitis A virus. Andrographis paniculata (Andrographis stalk), a Southeast Asian herb of the Acanthaceae family, meets these criteria. The leaves are highly bitter and, according to traditional medicine, are used for liver-related problems. The leaves have been extensively studied and have been shown to be beneficial for people with acute upper respiratory tract viral infections, although most of the studies involved a major producer of extracts from the plant, and negative results may not be Published.&nbsp;

Silybum-marianum

Silybum marianum 

Silybum-marianum_2_0

The seeds of Silybum marianum (milk thistle), specifically the flavonolignan complex known as silymarin extracted from the seeds, have been studied in patients with acute viral hepatitis. The most recent and high-quality study involved patients with acute hepatitis A, B, C or E; cytomegalovirus; or associated with Epstein-Barr hepatitis virus in Egypt.&nbsp;

Silybum-marianum_2_1

Patients were treated with either 140 mg. Three times a day silymarin or multivitamins for 28 days. Jaundice decreases faster in silymarin than in the group of people taking the multivitamin, and tends to reduce other symptoms, such as fatigue and anorexia, more quickly in favor of silymarine. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19303273/" target="_blank" data-ref="A randomized controlled trial to assess the safety and efficacy of silymarin on symptoms, signs and biomarkers of acute hepatitis - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

Silybum-marianum_2_2

In a much smaller study, silymarin at a dose of 140 mg, three times a day, lowered serum transaminase and bilirubin levels more effectively than placebo in patients with acute hepatitis A or B. Although there is not enough evidence yet, at least we know that silymarin is extremely safe to use. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/353464/" target="_blank" data-ref="[Results of a double blind study on the effect of silymarin in the treatment of acute viral hepatitis, carried out at two medical centres (author's transl)] - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;2]&nbsp;

Herbal-formula-Liv.52-(Liv.52)

Herbal formula Liv.52 (Liv.52) 

Herbal-formula-Liv.52-(Liv.52)_2_0

Herbal-formula-Liv.52-(Liv.52)_2_1

An herbal formula known as Liv.52 has also been studied in people with viral hepatitis caused by hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis E virus. It is unclear whether this is a traditional formula or a modern recipe; the ingredients are as follows:

Herbal-formula-Liv.52-(Liv.52)_2_2

<ul><li aria-level="1">Capparis spinosa&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Cichorium intybus&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Terminalia arjuna</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Solanum nigrum</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Achillea millefolium&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Cassia occidentalis</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Tamarix gallica</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Ferric oxide calx&nbsp;</li></ul>Several double-blind studies conducted in India have suggested that Liv.52 is effective in patients with acute hepatitis. Most of the formulas were not originally published in English or were in non-mainstream publications. Given these data, it still appears that Liv.52 may clear symptoms and reduce serum bilirubin faster than placebo. The typical Liv.52 dose is 275-550 mg. three times a day in capsules or 5-10 ml. syrup three times a day. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0944711305000528" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Other-herbs-of-alternative-medicine

Other herbs of alternative medicine 

Other-herbs-of-alternative-medicine_2_0

Various other Western and Eastern herbs are widely used as antiviral drugs during other acute infections and should be considered clinically and for research projects to help people recover from acute viral hepatitis faster. These herbs include Ligusticum porteri root (Osha), Ligusticum grayi root, Lomatium dissectum root (Lomatium), herb Forsythia suspensa (Forsitia, Forsycia), herb Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) and Coptis chinensis (Golden thread).

Herbs-in-chronic-hepatitis

Herbs in chronic hepatitis 

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)

Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and G. uralensis (Ural liquorice) 

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_0

Chronic hepatitis C is an extremely common problem around the world. Hepatitis C is usually a very slow-growing disease and can have a wide range of manifestations. A large proportion of people with hepatitis C remain asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic. The main areas of therapeutic interest are to prevent progression of the disease to cirrhosis of the liver or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to reduce symptoms, if present.&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_1

Interferons and ribavirin are currently used for most patients to suppress viral load, but the drugs are expensive, cause many adverse effects and are not always effective enough. A very large HALT-C study recently found that treatment with IFN-a-2a for many years was not effective in preventing the progression of chronic hepatitis C. Therefore, other means, including herbal ones, should be sought.&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_2

Many long-term studies have looked at the triterpenoid saponin known as glycyrrhizin, found in the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and G. uralensis (Ural liquorice) for patients with chronic hepatitis C. Glycyrrhizin can also be given by intravenous injection together with glycine and cysteine as the drug Stronger Neo-Minophagen C. However, the effects of its administration have not been sufficiently studied in the laboratory.

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_3

More impressively, at least three studies in Japan have shown that SNMC may reduce the risk of developing cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis C. One of these studies was a retrospective analysis of 456 patients with chronic hepatitis C seen in hospitals, most of whom had not responded to interferon treatment. The risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients whose serum ALT fell below 1.5, the upper limit of normal, was 60% lower compared to patients who did not receive this reduction. The average duration of therapy was 4.1 years. <a href="https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/48283" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;4]&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_4

It is not known whether oral licorice products (Glycyrrhiza glabra) would be useful for people with chronic hepatitis C, although the herb is definitely a traditional remedy for liver problems. Assumptions about its potential value come from the use of the shosaiko-to formula in patients with chronic hepatitis B. This formula includes the following herbs:

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_5

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bupleurum falcatum - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paeonia lactiflora - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinellia ternata - rhizome, 14%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamomum cassia- bark, 11%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale - rhizome, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zizyphus jujuba &mdash;fruit, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Panax ginseng &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scutellaria baicalensis &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhiza uralensis &mdash;rhizome, 5%</li></ul>People taking licorice or glycyrrhizin in any form should be warned to regularly monitor their blood pressure and potassium levels in serum or urine. Doses should be reduced or treatment stopped if these parameters become imbalanced. Potassium-depleting diuretics enhance glycyrrhizin toxicity and should not be combined with it except under very close medical supervision.

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_6

Taraxacum-officinale-(Dandelion)-and-root-of-Arctium-lappa-(burdock)

Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) and root of Arctium lappa (burdock) 

Taraxacum-officinale-(Dandelion)-and-root-of-Arctium-lappa-(burdock)_3_0

Other traditional hepatoprotective herbs are Taraxacum officinale root (Dandelion) and Arctium lappa root (burdock). These herbs are commonly used by herbalists and naturopathic doctors in chronic hepatitis C and should be considered in research.

Taraxacum-officinale-(Dandelion)-and-root-of-Arctium-lappa-(burdock)_3_1

Another herb that counteracts inflammation is Curcuma longa (turmeric), which also has a strong history of use as a hepatoprotective agent and has been shown to reduce inflammation in hepatocytes and protect these cells against iron overload.&nbsp;

Chronic-hepatitis-B

Chronic hepatitis B  

Chronic-hepatitis-B_4_0

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an epidemic in Asia and Africa, although the availability of a vaccine is beginning to reduce the incidence of this disease. Unlike chronic hepatitis C, chronic hepatitis B is much more likely to progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, there is an acute need for an effective, safe alternative to drug therapies (to which the virus often develops resistance if taken long-term) for this complex and difficult disease.

Shosaiko-to-formula

Shosaiko-to formula 

Shosaiko-to-formula_4_0

The traditional formula, known in Chinese as Xiao Chai Hu Tang and in Japanese as shosaiko-to, which translates into English as Minor Bupleurum Decoction, was first recorded in the book Shang Han Lun. This treatise was written at least 2,000 years ago, and its postulates have been applied for at least as much.&nbsp;

Shosaiko-to-formula_4_1

The ingredients of the Xiao Chai Hu Tang formula are:

Shosaiko-to-formula_4_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bupleurum falcatum - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paeonia lactiflora- root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinellia ternatа - rhizome, 14%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamomum cassia&nbsp; - bark, 11%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale- rhizome, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zizyphus jujuba &mdash;fruit, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Panax ginseng &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scutellaria baicalensis &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhiza uralensis &mdash;rhizome, 5%</li></ul>Two randomized trials have evaluated the long-term potential of this formula for the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B in Japan. In the first study, 260 patients with cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis B were treated with conventional therapies, and some subjects were also randomized to take 7.5 g daily shosaiko-to for 34 months. The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma at the end of the follow-up period was significantly lower in the shosaiko-to group compared to patients in the control group. In what appears to be an extension of the original study to 60 months, HCC levels are still lower and survival is better in the shosaiko-to group than in the conventional therapy group. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8625175/" target="_blank" data-ref="Prospective study of chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinoma with Sho-saiko-to (TJ-9) - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;5]&nbsp;

Fuzheng-Huayu-formula

Fuzheng Huayu formula 

Fuzheng-Huayu-formula_4_0

Another formula based on herbs traditionally used for liver problems and experimentally proven to have antifibrotic action and benefits in patients with cirrhosis has been studied in patients with chronic hepatitis B. The ingredients of the formula are:

Fuzheng-Huayu-formula_4_1

<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salvia miltiorrhiza (Chinese sage) - root 33.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gynostemma pentaphyllum - root 25%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fermentation mycelium powder - 16.7%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Schisandra chinensis (Schisandra) - fruit 8.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Prunus persica (Peach)—seed 8.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinus spp. (Pine) - pollen 8,3%</li></ol>

There are many herbal remedies that can be used in the subtypes of viral hepatitis. Their role is to exert a hepatoprotective effect, that is, to protect the liver from or prevent damage. Herbal treatment for viral hepatitis can be carried out using a large number of herbs and herbal formulas, some of which come from Chinese or Indian traditional medicine, but also from other alternative healing&nbsp; systems.

Herbal treatment for viral hepatitis - which herbs support the liver

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Бетина Цветкова

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer

What is the potential of herbs and spices for the prevention and treatment of cancer

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer_0_0

There is no doubt that nutrition and health are closely related. For generations, people have argued that food provides greater benefits than just energy supply. Faith in the healing properties of food appears in very early writings of people. Hippocrates are often quoted as saying:&nbsp;

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer_0_1

"May food be your medicine and medicine be your food."&nbsp;

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer_0_2

Epidemiological, preclinical and clinical studies continue to provide fundamental information about the dynamic relationship between nutrients – defined here as any substance in the diet, resulting in a physiological effect – and health. Today, claims about the ability of foods, including spices, to reduce the risk of disease or improve quality of life continue to captivate our lives and amaze scientists. More in-depth analyses of three types of biomarkers - exposure, effect and sensitivity - are needed to assess the effects of spices in cancer prevention and therapy, as well as an assessment of&nbsp; some other factors such as:

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer_0_3

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Quantities of specific spices necessary to induce a reaction (effect);</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Interactions of spices with other components of the diet;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Composition of the microbiome in the gastrointestinal tract;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Environmental exposure;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Genetic characteristics.</li></ul>Different culinary herbs and spices have the ability to alter several cellular processes that are associated with the risk of cancer and/or tumor behavior of cells. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Phenolic_antioxidants_from_herbs_and_spices_11237173" target="_blank" data-ref="Phenolic antioxidants from herbs and spices." rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp; The ability of spices to serve as inhibitors of bioactivation of the carcinogen, to reduce the formation of free radicals, to suppress cell division and to promote apoptosis in cancer cells, to suppress microbial growth and to regulate inflammation and immunocompethability, are outlined as plausible mechanisms by which the selected spices can promote health and increased resistance to diseases. Low toxicity and widespread use of spices can make them especially useful by a slight change in diet, which can reduce the risk of several diseases. It has already been documented that adding only approximately 1 gram of herbs per day to the diet can significantly contribute to the total intake of antioxidants (1 mmol).&nbsp; These medicinal plants are also a better source of antioxidants compared to many food products. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92774/" target="_blank" data-ref="Page not available - NCBI Bookshelf" rel="noopener">[Ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer_0_4

Besides herbs, some spices are also effective antioxidants and can be especially important for reducing oxidative damage due to environmental stress. And stress is always a prerequisite for the development of diseases, and unfortunately our lives are filled with more and more sources of stress. Therefore, it is important to turn to nature to seek harmony in it and to take advantage of the gifts it offers us.

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer_0_5

Next, you can read about these herbs and spices with some of the more impressive biological properties reported in the scientific literature. You will find information about the amount of spices needed to induce a reaction and thus their physiological significance.

What-is-the-potential-of-herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer_0_6

Herbs-and-spices-for-the-prevention-and-treatment-of-cancer

Herbs and spices for the prevention and treatment of cancer

Bahar-(Pimenta-dioica)

Bahar (Pimenta dioica)

Bahar-(Pimenta-dioica)_1_0

The term "bahar" was introduced in 1600 by the English people, who believed that the herb combines the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. Bahar is also called "Jamaican pepper", "kurundu", "pepper myrtle", "pimenta". Ground bahar is not a mixture of spices, as some people believe, but is obtained from the dried unripe fruits of the Pimenta dioica tree.&nbsp;

Bahar-(Pimenta-dioica)_1_1

Bahar is said to possess antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, anticancer and antitumorigenic properties.&nbsp; <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/096032719601500205" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp; It contains numerous potential bioactive agents that can contribute to health promotion, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, catechins and several phenylpropanoids. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Anticancer_and_antioxidant_tannins_from_Pimenta_dioica_leaves_17913067" target="_blank" data-ref="Anticancer and antioxidant tannins from Pimenta dioica leaves." rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a> The antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of bahar may be associated with eugenol. In this regard, Billing and Sherman reported that bahar is as effective as garlic and onions in suppressing microbial growth. The importance of its antimicrobial properties has recently been underlined by evidence that bahar and eugenol are effective in lowering the virulence of Escherichia coli O157:H7. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/10.1086/420058" target="_blank" data-ref="Antimicrobial Functions of Spices: Why Some Like it Hot | The Quarterly Review of Biology: Vol 73, No 1" rel="noopener">[Ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

Bahar-(Pimenta-dioica)_1_2

The anticancer properties of bahar may also be partly due to its ability to affect the activity of cytochrome P450 (CYP) and thus affect carcinogenic bioactivation. A team of scientists was able to cultivate human cells from liver cancer and human adenocarcinoma cells of the colon and examined the ability of spice extract to activate mechanisms associated with phase I detoxification enzymes. Thus, the activation of transcription factors to connect to the elements of response seems like a plausible mechanism by which the bahar and potentially eugenol have an anticancer effect. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0891584906006630" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[Ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;

Basil-(Ocimum-basilicum)

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) 

Basil-(Ocimum-basilicum)_1_0

Basil is a culinary herb, most prominently seen in Italian and Southeast Asian cuisine. Although there are many varieties of basil, sweet basil is one of the most prevalent and most commonly studied herbs for its health benefits. Basil was originally found in Iran, India and other tropical regions of Asia, but is now widely available around the world. Antioxidant, antimutagenic, antitumorogenic, antiviral and antibacterial properties of basil probably stem from various components, including linalool, 1,8-cinol, estragol and eugenol. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/239314732_Ocimum_sp_Basil_Botany_Cultivation_Pharmaceutical_Properties_and_Biotechnology" target="_blank" data-ref="Please Wait... | Cloudflare" rel="noopener">[Ref. 7]</a>&nbsp;

Basil-(Ocimum-basilicum)_1_1

Several studies provide evidence that basil is an antimutagenic spice. They demonstrate that 50 &mu;g/mL basil largely blocks the formation of a DNA adduct caused by 1&prime;-hydroxyestagol in the cell line of the human hepatoma (HepG2), possibly by promoting phase II enzymes and thus conjugation and elimination of this carcinogen. These findings also likely explain the basil's ability to reduce the mutagenicity of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) and benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P). &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92774/" target="_blank" data-ref="Page not available - NCBI Bookshelf" rel="noopener">[ref. 8]</a>&nbsp;The anticancer properties of basil may also be related to its ability to influence viral infections, such as hepatitis B.

Kim-(Carum-carvi)

Kim (Carum carvi)

Kim-(Carum-carvi)_1_0

The kim, also known as "Meridian dill" or "Persian cumin," is found in West Asia, Europe and North Africa. It is believed that the main agents in kim oil are carvon or p-mint-1,8-dien-2-one and lemon or p-mint-1,8-diene, the ancestors of carvon and anetofuran. Scientists studied the effect of kim seed extract on mutagenesis induced by N-methyl-N-nitro-N'-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) in S. typhimurium strains that have a DNA MG deficiency. Their results indicate that the kim does not directly inactivate MNNG and O6-methylguanine-DNA MGMT may be involved in the response. In mouse studies, the number of carcinomas in those who received kim oil was significantly lower than in controls.&nbsp;

Kim-(Carum-carvi)_1_1

Induction of glutathione-S-transferase from anti-carcinogenic compounds is an important mechanism by which several spices, including cumin, can promote the detoxification of the carcinogen and thereby reduce the risk of cancer. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/us/eng/research/pubmed/Acaricidal_effect_and_chemical_composition_of_essential_oils_extracted_from_Cuminum_cyminum_Pimenta_dioica_and_Ocimum_basilicum_against_the_cattle_tick_Rhipicephalus_Boophilus_microplus_Acari_Ixodidae_20865426" target="_blank" data-ref="Acaricidal effect and chemical composition of essential oils extracted from Cuminum cyminum, Pimenta dioica and Ocimum basilicum against the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Acari: Ixodidae)." rel="noopener">[Ref. 9]</a>&nbsp;

Cardamom-(Elettaria-cardamomum)

Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum)

Cardamom-(Elettaria-cardamomum)_1_0

Cardamom refers to herbs of the genus Elettaria (green) and Amomum (black) from the ginger family Zingiberaceae. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/herb/16400" target="_blank" data-ref="Elettaria cardamomum" rel="noopener">[ref. 10]</a> Cardamom is a common ingredient used in Indian cuisine and in different parts of Europe. Extracts of different types of cardamom have been studied for their anticancer and antioxidant action in animals. For example,&nbsp; cardamom has been shown to reduce azoxymethane-induced carcinogenesis of the colon by virtue of its anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and proapoptotic actions. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18260732/" target="_blank" data-ref="Inhibition of lipid peroxidation and enhancement of GST activity by cardamom and cinnamon during chemically induced colon carcinogenesis in Swiss albino mice - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 11]</a>&nbsp;

Cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-verum)

Cinnamon  (Cinnamomum verum)

Phytotherapy, or so-called " herbal medicine", as well as the use of spices, can support important mechanisms of counteracting cancer processes. Research in a developing field of medicine, known as integrative oncology, is trying to figure out which additional therapies, including herbal medicines, are safe and effective to combine with conventional cancer treatments. The more effort is made in this direction, the more lives saved there might be. Therefore, let's put out trust in scientists, while informing ourselves about the latest developments in the field and always from trusted sources like Sanat.io. Second part of the topic is coming soon in our blog. Stay tuned!

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