A pine is any conifer in the genus Pinus () of the family Pinaceae. Pinus is the sole genus in the subfamily Pinoideae. The Plant List compiled by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden accepts 126 species names of pines as current, together with 35 unresolved species and many more synonyms. Pine may also refer to the lumber derived from pine trees; pine is one of the more extensively used types of wood used as lumber.

The modern English name 'pine' derives from Latin pinus, ...

pinus

The-most-important-thing-about-cancer

The most important thing about cancer

The-most-important-thing-about-cancer_0_0

The-most-important-thing-about-cancer_0_1

Cancer is a complex genetic disorder that catalyzes the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells throughout the body, leading to life-threatening consequences. Aging, differences in lifestyle, genetic factors, hormonal changes and environmental exposure to carcinogens constitute major factors leading to cancer activation in humans. 1

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According to 2020 statistics, cancer is the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, or nearly one in six deaths. Globally, about 17 million people are diagnosed with cancer each year, and this trend is forecast to intensify dramatically in the near future. About 36 types of cancer have already been identified in humans, and a significant association between sex and type of cancer has been observed. Men are usually more prone to colorectal cancer, liver, lung, prostate and stomach cancers, while women suffer more from breast, cervical cancer, colorectal cancer, lung and thyroid cancer. 2&nbsp;

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In general, the development of cancer can be divided into three stages:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Initiation in which exposure to a carcinogen induces DNA damage and mutations at the cellular level due to damage/error in DNA repair mechanisms;&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Initiation in which cell expansion leads to hyper proliferation, modification and inflammation of cells/tissues;&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Progression in which tumor formation occurs from preneoplastic cells by clonal expansion. 3</li></ul>DNA damage causes genomic instability, which is a major cause of cancer 4. Although some of the conventional methods such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and surgery are effective in treating cancer, they can lead to major side effects and toxicity.

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Given the lack of effective and safe approaches, as well as the complexity of cancers, the development of new and natural chemotherapeutic agents is strongly needed. In this respect, the pharmacological properties of certain essential oils may be available therapies to suppress cancer. 5

Essential-oils:-general-information-and-biological-effects

Essential oils: general information and biological effects

Essential-oils:-general-information-and-biological-effects_1_0

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The discovery of natural plant-based products is rightly recognized as a milestone in the history of healthcare, and their introduction to the market in combination with synthetic drugs helps to lead favorably in various health problems. As a result, the extraction of plant secondary metabolites, such as essential oils by steam or hydrodistillation processes, has made significant progress over the years. Stored in oil/resinous ducts, glands or trichomes of plants, these essential oils play an important role in protecting against extraneous agents and are involved in signal transduction pathways.&nbsp;

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Essential oils are a complex mixture of various chemical compounds, mainly characterized by volatility, aroma, low molecular weight and density. The diverse biological properties of essential oils stem from differences in their chemical composition and structure. At present, three main classes of components in essential oils have been identified, namely terpenes and terpenoids (with major contributions), phenols and aliphatic compounds.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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The data from the study on which this article is based are focused on studies dealing only with in vitro (non-living test)/in vivo (live testing) anticancer activities of essential oils in general. The analysis in Scopus was carried out for the last 10 years (2011–2020) on September 14, 2021, so the information is up to date as of that date.

Essential-oils-are-cytotoxic-in-nature

Essential oils are cytotoxic in nature

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Essential oils cause programmed cell death of cancer cells through apoptosis, necrosis, cell cycle arrest, and dysfunction of major cellular organelles. This is coordinated by an increase in membrane fluidity of the affected cell, decreased generation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a change in the pH gradient and loss of mitochondrial potential, which are the main precursors of cell death. All three main types of chemical components in oils, i.e. phenols, aldehydes and alcohols, have been described to fulfil this function.

Essential-oils-such-as-antimutagenic-and-antiproliferative-agents

Essential oils such as antimutagenic and antiproliferative agents

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Antioxidants are defined as compounds that can inhibit/slow the oxidation of free radicals when used in small amounts. Antioxidant action is one of the key biological properties of essential oils to cope with oxidative stress. For example, under in vivo conditions, increasing the activity of various antioxidant enzymes and oxidized glutathione from the components of the oil of Wedelia chinensis (Osbeck) Merr.&nbsp; provides protection against lung cancer in mice. 6

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With regard to the antimutagenic activity of essential oils, cancer can be inhibited by preventing the direct penetration of mutagens into the cell membrane, inactivating mutagens by direct clearance, trapping free radicals produced by mutagens, inhibiting the conversion of promutagens to mutagens by cytochrome P450 enzyme, enzymatic detoxification of mutagens, and efficient error-free DNA repair.&nbsp;

Antiproliferative-activity-of-essential-oils

Antiproliferative activity of essential oils

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Essential oils can exert an antiproliferative effect through multiple mechanisms, including cell membrane disruption (depolarization, increase in membrane permeability, or decrease in the activity of membrane-bound enzymes) and induction of apoptosis. 7

Essential-oils-and-their-constituents-in-different-cancer-cell-lines

Essential oils and their constituents in different cancer cell lines 

Essential-oils-and-their-constituents-in-different-cancer-cell-lines_5_0

Over the past few years, the chemoprevention of cancer using essential oils or their components has attracted a lot of attention among the scientific community. Many in vitro/in vivo studies have highlighted the anticancer activity of oils and, more precisely, their main constituents in various tumour cell lines. Next, we will look at who they are and in which types of cancer they can have the necessary effect.

Essential-oils-for-breast-cancer

Essential oils for breast cancer

Essential-oils-for-breast-cancer_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Silver fir (Abies alba Mill.)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Abies koreana (Pinaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Boswellia sacra (Burseraceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Casearia sylvestris Sw. (Salicaceae/Flacourtiaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cyperus articulatus L. (Cyperaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Garcinia atroviridis Griff. (Clusiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Garcinia celebica L. (Clusiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glandora rosmarinifolia (Boraginaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Helichrysum gymnocephalum (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Iryanthera polyneura (Myristicaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liquidambar styraciflua L. (Altingiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Myristica fragrans. (Myristicaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pituranthos tortuosus Apiaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Solanum spirale Roxb.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Essential-oils-in-human-breast-cancer

Essential oils in human breast cancer

Essential-oils-in-human-breast-cancer_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cedrelopsis grevei (Rutaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Melaleuca armillaris(Myrtaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Monodora myristica (Annonaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Origanum onites L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Satureja montana L. subsp. pisidica (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Varthemia iphionoides (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Xylopia aethiopica (Annonaceae)</li></ul>

Essential-oils-in-human-glioblastoma

Essential oils in human glioblastoma

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ageratum conyzoides (L.) L. (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Drimys angustifolia (Winteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Drimys brasiliensis (Winteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lippia multiflora (Verbenaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Piper cernuum (Piperaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scorodopholeus zenkeri (Fabaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale (Zingiberaceae)</li></ul>

Essential-oils-in-human-colon-carcinoma

Essential oils in human colon carcinoma

Essential-oils-in-human-colon-carcinoma_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Afrostyrax lepidophyllus Mildbr. (Huaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Artemisia campestris L. (Asteraceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Athanasia brownii Hochr. (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pistacia lentiscus L. (Anacardiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scorodopholeus zenkeri (Fabaceae)</li></ul>

Essential-oils-in-human-mammary-adenocarcinoma

Essential oils in human mammary adenocarcinoma

Essential-oils-in-human-mammary-adenocarcinoma_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Athanasia brownii (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nepeta ucranica L. spp. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Populus alba L. (Salicaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scorodopholeus zenkeri (Fabaceae)</li></ul>

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Afrostyrax lepidophyllus. (Huaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ageratum conyzoides (L.) L. (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Drimys angustifolia (Winteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lippia multiflora (Verbenaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Piper cernuum (Piperaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scorodopholeus zenkeri (Fabaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale (Zingiberaceae)</li></ul>

Essential-oils-for-prostate-cancer

Essential oils for prostate cancer

Essential-oils-for-prostate-cancer_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ageratum conyzoides (L.) (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bursera glabrifolia (Burseraceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Curcuma aromatica (Zingiberaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cymbopogon citratus (Poaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cymbopogon giganteus. (Poaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Iryanthera polyneura (Myristicaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lavandula angustifolia (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lippia multiflora (Verbenaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Varthemia iphionoides (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale (Zingiberaceae)</li></ul>

Essential-oils-for-colorectal-cancer

Essential oils for colorectal cancer

Essential-oils-for-colorectal-cancer_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Aquilaria crassna (Thymelaeaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Eucalyptus camaldulensis. (Myrtaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Thymus fallax (Lamiaceae)</li></ul>&nbsp;

Essential-oils-in-acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia

Essential oils in acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Essential-oils-in-acute-lymphoblastic-leukemia_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Juniperus excela (Cupressaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Juniperus oxycedrus L. (Cupressaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinus pinea L. (Pinaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cedrus libani (Pinaceae)&nbsp;</li></ul>

Essential-oils-for-lung-cancer

Essential oils for lung cancer

Essential-oils-for-lung-cancer_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Artemisia indica (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Curcuma aromatica (Zingiberaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Eucalyptus globulus(Myrtaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pluchea dioscoridis L. (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Populus alba L. (Salicaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber striolatum (Zingiberaceae)</li></ul>

Essential-oils-for-liver-cancer

Essential oils for liver cancer

Essential-oils-for-liver-cancer_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pituranthos tortuosus (Apiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Artemisia indica (Asteraceae)&nbsp;</li></ul>

Essential-oils-in-melanoma

Essential oils in melanoma

Essential-oils-in-melanoma_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Afrostyrax lepidophyllus (Huaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Athanasia brownii (Asteraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Casearia sylvestris&nbsp; (Salicaceae/Flacourtiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Curcuma aromatica (Zingiberaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Guatteria friesiana (Annonaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Myristica fragrans (Myristicaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Neolitsea variabillima (Lauraceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ocimum basilicum L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Origanum onites L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salvia officinalis L. (Lamiaceae)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pituranthos tortuosus (Apiaceae)</li></ul>

Essential-oils-for-ovarian-adenocarcinoma

Essential oils for ovarian adenocarcinoma

Essential-oils-for-ovarian-adenocarcinoma_5_0

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Mentha villosa Huds. (Lamiaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Xylopia frutescens Aubl. (Annonaceae)&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Guatteria pogonopus Mart. (Annonaceae)</li></ul>

Anticancer-effect-of-the-main-ingredients-of-essential-oils

Anticancer effect of the main ingredients of essential oils

Anticancer-effect-of-the-main-ingredients-of-essential-oils_6_0

D-limonene, monoterpene in the fruit peels of citrus essential oils (90–95%) exhibits cytotoxicity against stomach cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, colon cancer, bladder cancer, and melanoma. Similarly, carvacrol (phenolic monoterpenoid) can inhibit tumor growth in stomach cancer cells by increasing apoptotic proteins such as Bax (Bcl-2-linked X protein, apoptosis regulator) and caspases with concomitant reduction of Bcl-2 (B -cell lymphoma 2) expression. Citral showed antitumor effects in various cancer cell lines such as MDA-MB-231, Ishikawa, ECC-1, LNCaP, PC-3, SF-767, SF-763, LU134AM, LU135, LU165, MN1112, HCT116, HT-29, AGS, NB4, and A431.

Anticancer-effect-of-the-main-ingredients-of-essential-oils_6_1

A combined formula of citral (80 μM) and curcumin (40 μM) also acts synergistically in suppressing the growth of breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 by inducing apoptosis, DNA damage and cell cycle arrest in the G0/ G1 phase. In vitro/in vivo cytotoxic potential of citronellol has been reported against human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), breast cancer, and prostate cancer. Citronellol induced cell cycle arrest in NCI-H1299 (NSCLC cell line) due to the increased expression of cyclins (cyclin D and E) and CDK2 (cyclin-dependent kinase 2). There was a decrease in tumour volume in mice treated with increasing doses of citronellol (12.5, 25 and 50 mg kg-1). An antiproliferative effect of geraniol (monoterpenoid) was observed in cells A549 (IC50 = 797.2 μM) and tumor growth was suppressed in mice (at 50 and 75 mmol geraniol kg-1 food) due to apoptosis and cell death.

Anticancer-effect-of-the-main-ingredients-of-essential-oils_6_2

Globularifolin iridoid exhibits cytotoxicity against U87 glioma cells due to an increase in the number of apoptotic cells, cell cycle arrest, and inhibition of cancer cell migration and invasion.

Anticancer-effect-of-the-main-ingredients-of-essential-oils_6_3

In vitro cytotoxicity of quinocitiol (tropolone monoterpenoid) was observed (at 10 μM) in mouse melanoma cells (B16-F10); However, under in vivo conditions, mice treated with 10–20 μg michi-1 quinokitiol showed a decrease in tumor nodules. Increased expression of p53 (tumor suppressor), Bax, caspases, cytochrome c, and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) phosphatase-3 and downregulation of survivin (apoptosis inhibitor), MMPs, and phosphorylation of ERK has been reported to induce apoptosis in quinocitiol A549 and B16-F10-treated cells.&nbsp;

Anticancer-effect-of-the-main-ingredients-of-essential-oils_6_4

Similarly, treatment with linalool (monoterpene alcohol) reduces proliferation and cell viability in colorectal cancer, colon carcinoma, hepatocarcinoma, epidermoid carcinoma and prostate cancer. Diallyl disulfide (DADS), one of the main components of garlic essential oil, stops the division of human esophageal squamous cell cancer cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Myristicin, an active component of nutmeg oil (Myristica fragrans), exhibits cytotoxic activity by inducing apoptosis of K562 human leukemia cells.

Anticancer-effect-of-the-main-ingredients-of-essential-oils_6_5

Other constituents of essential oils, such as bacuiol (monoterpene), myrtenal (bicyclic monoterpene), oleuropein (secoiridoid), perylyl alcohol (menthane monoterpene), thymol (monocyclic phenolic monoterpene), α-bisabolol (monocyclic sesquiterpene alcohol), α-thujone (ketone monoterpene), camphene (bicyclic monoterpene), iatammanwaltrate P (iridoid ester), eugenol (phenylpropanoid), germakren D (sesquiterpene), nymbolide (terpenoid lactone), patchouli alcohol (sesquiterpene alcohol), α-Santalol (sesquiterpene), carveol (monocyclic monoterpenoid alcohol), carvone (monoterpene), isopulegol (monoterpene alcohol),&nbsp;&nbsp; β-caryophyllene oxide (bicyclic sesquiterpene) and β-elemen (sesquiterpenoid oxide)&nbsp; have also been reported as cytotoxic and antiproliferative compounds with anticancer effects.

It has been found that various essential oils possess countless biological activities and beneficial components that can affect the development of various forms of cancer. These essential oil constituents contribute to the potential anticancer, antitumor, and antiproliferative properties of essential oils. They are specific to each type of plant and can be the basis of anticancer therapy, as well as used in the form of liposomes/nanoemulsions/nanoparticles against various types of cancer.

Anti-cancer properties of essential oils and their components

Бетина Цветкова

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 

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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) 

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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;

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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;

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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.

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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;

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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:

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<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.

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

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

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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.

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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  

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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 

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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;

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The ingredients of the Xiao Chai Hu Tang formula are:

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<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 

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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:

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<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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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;

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.

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