Stomatitis is inflammation of the mouth and lips. It refers to any inflammatory process affecting the mucous membranes of the mouth and lips, with or without oral ulceration.In its widest meaning, stomatitis can have a multitude of different causes and appearances. Common causes include infections, nutritional deficiencies, allergic reactions, radiotherapy, and many others.

When inflammation of the gums and the mouth generally presents itself, sometimes the term gingivostomatitis is used, though ...

stomatitis

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

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Smoketree is one of the best known plants in Bulgaria. You will hear botanists call it by the Latin name Cotinus coggygria, and grandmothers in some regions - forest oak or tetra. Its popularity is not at all random, since besides being a very beautiful bush, it also has healing properties that can benefit anyone.

How-to-recognize-the-Smoketree

How to recognize the Smoketree

How-to-recognize-the-Smoketree_0_0

Smoketree belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, along with other well-known species such as cashews, pistachios and mangoes.

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The plant is found as a shrub or a small tree with a reddish bark. The leaves range from green to purple-bluish in color, and its name in English (Smoke tree) comes from the word for smoke.&nbsp;This is because the flower stalks are covered with enchanting thin hairs, accepting extremely beautiful pink, greenish or red-violet colors, which cover the plant and give it a specific look in summer.

Smoketree-compunds-with-phytochemical-properties

Smoketree compunds with phytochemical properties

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Many biologically active substances are isolated from different parts of the herb. Extracts and essential oil from them are widely studied due to their ability to influence health.

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The three main groups of compounds to which smoketree owes its properties are tannins, phenols and flavonoids <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4890191/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.1]</a>. Among the tannins, gallotannins have a large share, which are derivatives of gallic acid, which in turn is also isolated in free state from the plant.

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With regard to flavonoids, we can say that almost all subclasses of such are isolated from the smoketree, which is an impressive fact in itself, since this group of substances are very potent antioxidants.&nbsp;The richest in flavonoids are the stem and branches.

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Read more in the article <a href="../../eng/p/what_are_free_radicals_and_antioxidants" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What </a><a href="../../eng/p/what_are_free_radicals_and_antioxidants" target="_blank" rel="noopener">are free radicals and antioxidants.</a>

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The essential oil is also rich in components that emit a pleasant odor, and for this reason is largely used in perfumery. The main compounds contained in it are monoterpenes. It is interesting to mention that Bulgaria is among the producers of smoketree essential oil. The main substance that is isolated from it is alpha-pinene <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10412905.1993.9698202" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2].</a>

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In the next part of the article we will turn to both the properties and practical applications of the herb. Here it is important to note that it is used mainly externally.

Smoketree-as-a-powerful-antioxidant-and-antibacterial-agent

Smoketree as a powerful antioxidant and antibacterial agent

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One of the most well-known uses of smoketree is as an antibacterial and antifungal <a href="https://hrcak.srce.hr/index.php?show=clanak&amp;id_clanak_jezik=100475" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a> agent.&nbsp;There are studies that show its effect against various types of microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Micrococcus lysodeikticus, and the fungus Candida albicans<a href="https://hrcak.srce.hr/index.php?show=clanak&amp;id_clanak_jezik=100475" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.3]</a>. In addition, the herb is a powerful antioxidant. Through these properties we can explain most of the applications of smoketree.

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Fungal infections on the legs and nails respond well to herbal baths and compresses with a decoction of smoketree.

Smoketree-for-gastrointestinal-problems

Smoketree for gastrointestinal problems

Smoketree-for-gastrointestinal-problems_3_0

In Bulgarian folk medicine, the herb is used in gastritis, ulcers, inflammations of the intestine. It has the property of strengthening the regeneration of mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, similar to the external application of the herb.

Smoketree-for-gastrointestinal-problems_3_1

Attention!&nbsp;Internal use should be done only after consulting a doctor or pharmacist to determine the exact method of administration.

Wound-healing-properties

Wound-healing properties

Wound-healing-properties_4_0

Wound-healing-properties_4_1

Another well-known property of tetra in traditional medicine is for the treatment of wounds. This is due to both the antiseptic and the blood-stopping action of the herb. We can explain the wound healing properties in that some substances in the tannins group have the ability to interact with collagen in the skin <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/integrating_ethnobotany_phytochemistry_and_pharmacology_of_i_cotinus_coggygria_i_and_i_toxicodendron_vernicifluum_i_what_predictions_can_be_made_for_the_european_smoketree_33953688" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.4]</a>.

Wound-healing-properties_4_2

A 2016 study provides clarity on this process by showing that placing an alcohol extracted compress from smoketree leaves on wounds leads to an increase in levels of hydroxyproline (necessary for collagen synthesis) and antioxidant substances, resulting in faster healing of damaged tissue <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13880209.2016.1181660" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.5]</a>.

Treatment-of-hemorrhoids

Treatment of hemorrhoids

Treatment-of-hemorrhoids_5_0

Hemorrhoids are a condition that can cause serious discomfort or pain. Here again, the smoketree comes to the rescue in the form of water baths with a decoction of it. It relieves symptoms by reducing bleeding, as well as pain. &nbsp;

Treatment-of-hemorrhoids_5_1

Herbal baths are made by preparing a decoction with 1 tablespoon of the herb per 1 liter of water.&nbsp;The smoketree is placed in boiling water, allowed to cool and then filtered. The decoction is poured into a large basin and sit for 15-20 minutes in it.

Treatment-of-hemorrhoids_5_2

Read more in the articles <a href="../../eng/p/what_are_hemorrhoids_and_when_to_call_the_doctor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">What </a><a href="../../eng/p/what_are_hemorrhoids_and_when_to_call_the_doctor" target="_blank" rel="noopener">are hemorrhoids and when to call a doctor</a> and <a href="../../eng/p/hemorrhoids_how_to_get_rid_of_them_with_conventional_and_herbal_treatment" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hemorrhoids - how to get rid of them with conventional and herbal treatment</a>

Treatment-of-hemorrhoids_5_3

&nbsp;

Reduces-acne

Reduces acne

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The action of smoketree is miraculous when we have to fight acne. This application is again due to its strong antiseptic properties.

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In case of acne problems, folk medicine recommends a steam bath with the herb. This helps the pores to expand and so the herb increases its action.

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Another method of applying the decoction is topically on inflamed skin areas. Therefore, it is no coincidence that it is part of some cosmetic products such as lotions that are applied in the morning and evening to cleanse the skin, or creams for red and inflamed skin.

Smoketree-protects-the-liver

Smoketree protects the liver

Smoketree-protects-the-liver_7_0

We know from traditional Chinese medicine that the herb has a hepatoprotective function (protects the liver). This function is also the subject of extensive research, which evaluates the effectiveness on the one hand, and on the other hand studies the mechanisms of action.

Smoketree-protects-the-liver_7_1

For example, it has been shown in rodents that smoketree methanol extract, which contains mainly myricetin, significantly reduces liver damage induced by the substance pyrogalol [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Methanol_extract_from_the_stem_of_Cotinus_coggygria_Scop_and_its_major_bioactive_phytochemical_constituent_myricetin_modulate_pyrogallol_induced_DNA_damage_and_liver_injury_23830930" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.6]</a>.

Smoketree-helps-us-take-care-of-our-oral-hygiene

Smoketree helps us take care of our oral hygiene

Smoketree-helps-us-take-care-of-our-oral-hygiene_8_0

Smoketree-helps-us-take-care-of-our-oral-hygiene_8_1

Smoketree is an extremely good means of strengthening the gums . In addition, it refreshes the breath and promotes oral hygiene.&nbsp;Also splattering with an extract of it is recommended as a prevention of stomatitis and cold sores and sores in the mouth. The taste is strong and bitter. It should not be swallowed.

Smoketree-helps-us-take-care-of-our-oral-hygiene_8_2

More read in the article <a href="../../eng/p/natural_remedies_for_bleeding_gums_which_herbs_to_use" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Natural remedies for bleeding gums - which herbs to use</a>

Smoketree-helps-us-take-care-of-our-oral-hygiene_8_3

If you have not yet tried using smoketree and suffer from some of the above problems, it is definitely worth trying the action of this gift from nature, but only after you have consulted your doctor or pharmacist.

Smoketree-helps-us-take-care-of-our-oral-hygiene_8_4

Smoketree - a natural antiseptic

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 Smoketree - a natural antiseptic

Силвия Маринова

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

Bee venom has been used for more than 5,000 years for the treatment of various diseases. Today it belongs to alternative methods of treating rheumatoid arthritis, chronic pain, etc. You will find it in various moisturizers, serums, in the form of extracts or even as an supplement, but its traditional application consists in injecting bee venom or direct bee stings.

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The idea of using bee venom in the field of medicine is born out of the belief that beekeepers almost do not suffer from rheumatism or joint problems.

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Treatment and prevention of diseases with bee products is called apitherapy. It is a branch of <a href="/p/kakvo_priedstavliava_altiernativnata_mieditsina_i_kakvi_sa_polzitie_ot_nieia_e2ecb339_f300_472f_a460_f58ef33f08ee" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"> alternative medicine</a> that <a href="/p/oshchie_7_ghrupi_zaboliavaniia_koito_miedt_liekuva_6b2f7c31_1862_4ec9_a361_a9e7fb4094e1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a>relies on the use of honey, pollen, propolis, royal jelly and mainly bee venom, also called apitoxin.

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Chemical-composition-of-bee-venom

Chemical composition of bee venom

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Bee venom contains many active components. These include:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">peptides such as melittin, apamin,&nbsp; mast cell degranulating (MCD) peptide and adolapin;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">enzymes such as phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and hyaluronidase;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">amino acids and volatile compounds.</li>
</ul>

Chemical-composition-of-bee-venom_0_2

Chemical-composition-of-bee-venom_0_3

According to studies, these substances have therapeutic potential for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, as well as diseases of the central nervous system, such as Parkinson's disease, <a href="/p/altskhaimier_i_diemientsiia_6_bilki_koito_pomaghat_sporied_kitaiskata_traditsionna_mieditsina_c66a2085_1e30_40d8_9347_9fa3d0ac5bd2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a> <a href="/p/altskhaimier_i_diemientsiia_6_bilki_koito_pomaghat_sporied_kitaiskata_traditsionna_mieditsina_c66a2085_1e30_40d8_9347_9fa3d0ac5bd2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">Alzheimer's disease</a> and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, as well as many other conditions.

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Bee venom has the highest amount of melittin - it represents 40-60% of its dry matter. It is also the most studied component of apitoxin and it is believed that most of the effects of bee poison are due to melittin, especially antibacterial, antiviral and anticancer.

Chemical-composition-of-bee-venom_0_5

Apamin and adolapine are also toxins, but according to some studies they also have a painkiller and anti-inflammatory effect. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/To_bee_or_not_to_bee_The_potential_efficacy_and_safety_of_bee_venom_acupuncture_in_humans_30268393" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

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The enzyme phospholipase A2 is a strong allergen that causes inflammation and cell damage, and these actions are enhanced by melittin. But according to some studies, the enzyme may also have anti-inflammatory and immunoprotective effects against asthma [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Bee_venom_phospholipase_A2_suppresses_allergic_airway_inflammation_in_an_ovalbumin_induced_asthma_model_through_the_induction_of_regulatory_T_cells_26734460" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.3</a>], Alzheimer's disease [<a href="https://jneuroinflammation.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12974-016-0476-z" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.4</a>] and Parkinson's disease [<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2019.00080/full" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.5</a>].

Does-bee-venom-have-anticancer-properties

Does bee venom have anticancer properties

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Interestingly, bee venom, like other animal poisons, has also shown anticancer and antiviral potential.

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Both bee venom and melittin separately demonstrated an antitumor effect in various studies in the following cancers [<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41698-020-00129-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.6</a>]:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Melanoma</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Non-small cell lung cancer,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glioblastoma,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Leukemia</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ovarian cancer,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Breast cancer,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cervical cancer,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pancreatic cancer.</li>
</ul>

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Bee venom and melittin have had a stronger impact on cancer cells than on normal cells in the body.

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In addition, according to some studies on cancer cells, bee venom can complement the action of some chemotherapists, for example, in combination with cisplatin in malignancies of the larynx and cervix [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Combined_antitumor_effects_of_bee_venom_and_cisplatin_on_human_cervical_and_laryngeal_carcinoma_cells_and_their_drug_resistant_sublines_25493319" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.7</a>] and with docetaxel in lung cancer cells.

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A 2020 study [<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41698-020-00129-0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.6</a>], published in Nature, has found that bee venom and melittin are extremely effective in inducing cell death of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and hormone-receptor negative, HER2 positive breast cancer (HER2-enriched breast carcinoma), while the negative effects on normal cells were negligible.

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Does-bee-venom-have-anticancer-properties_1_8

These data give hope that in the future bee venom and its active ingredients may find use in the treatment of such a severe disease as cancer, alone or adjuvant to&nbsp;chemotherapy.

Anti-inflammatory-properties-of-bee-venom-and-rheumatoid-arthritis

Anti-inflammatory properties of bee venom and rheumatoid arthritis

Anti-inflammatory-properties-of-bee-venom-and-rheumatoid-arthritis_2_0

Chronic inflammation can lead to the development of certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, <a href="/p/5_bilki_poliezni_za_diabietitsi_i_khora_izlozhieni_na_risk_ot_boliestta_a1be3113_4acb_48b7_98d1_885314093e78" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">diabetes</a>, <a href="/p/bilki_za_zdravo_srtsie_chast_1_bdd3a061_589a_402f_846f_042cbc215d6e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">cardiovascular</a> <a href="/p/zatlstiavanie_i_nadnormieno_tieghlo_ima_li_iefiektivni_bilki_srieshchu_tiakh_16acb63a_1ecd_478f_934e_390046386fc6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a>diseases, obesity, asthma, skin diseases and <a href="/p/liesni_rietsiepti_ot_ruskata_narodna_mieditsina_za_liechieniie_na_kozhni_zaboliavaniia_chast_2_aknie_diermatit_rozatsieia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a> neurodegenerative diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

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When melittin is administered in high doses, it causes local pain, itching and inflammation. But low doses show good anti-inflammatory effects.

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There is particular interest in its application in rheumatoid arthritis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Its effects are due to suppression of inflammatory substances - cytokines: interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-8, tumor necrotizing factor-α (TNF-α) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ). This leads to reduced inflammation in the skin, liver, joints and nerve tissue&nbsp;[<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Antiarthritic_effect_of_bee_venom_inhibition_of_inflammation_mediator_generation_by_suppression_of_NF_kappaB_through_interaction_with_the_p50_subunit_15529353" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.8</a>].<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Antiarthritic_effect_of_bee_venom_inhibition_of_inflammation_mediator_generation_by_suppression_of_NF_kappaB_through_interaction_with_the_p50_subunit_15529353" target="_blank" rel="noopener"></a>

Anti-inflammatory-properties-of-bee-venom-and-rheumatoid-arthritis_2_3

Anti-inflammatory-properties-of-bee-venom-and-rheumatoid-arthritis_2_4

The anti-inflammatory properties of bee venom are also due to some observations that it suppresses the manifestation of atopic dermatitis - the most common allergic chronic inflammatory skin disease.

Antiviral-and-antibacterial-properties-of-bee-venom

Antiviral and antibacterial properties of bee venom

Antiviral-and-antibacterial-properties-of-bee-venom_3_0

It is well known that melittin and phospholipase A2 have strong antibacterial properties, since they lead to the formation of pores in the cell walls of bacteria and therefore to their death.

Antiviral-and-antibacterial-properties-of-bee-venom_3_1

A study [<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2Fs12275-016-6376-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.9</a>] has found that in laboratory conditions bee venom, and in particular melittin, have significant antiviral effects against a variety of viruses - those with a shell and without one.

Antiviral-and-antibacterial-properties-of-bee-venom_3_2

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">vesicular stomatitis virus,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">influenza A virus,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">herpes simplex virus,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">enterovirus-71,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">coxsackievirus.</li>
</ul>

Antiviral-and-antibacterial-properties-of-bee-venom_3_3

Antiviral-and-antibacterial-properties-of-bee-venom_3_4

The same team of scientists exposed mice to lethal doses of influenza A H1N1 virus and found that melittin also had a protective effect against this virus. It is not yet known what the mechanism of action is, but it has been confirmed that bee venom interacts directly with the viral surface.

Concerns-about-bee-venom-treatment

Concerns about bee venom treatment

Concerns-about-bee-venom-treatment_4_0

The most dangerous side effect of applying bee venom is the violent allergic reaction manifested as anaphylactic shock. This condition is life-threatening and needs to be approached with great care by both the patient and the treating specialist.

Concerns-about-bee-venom-treatment_4_1

Other serious adverse effects associated with this therapy are: hyperventilation, fatigue, loss of appetite, severe pain, increased risk of bleeding and vomiting.

Concerns-about-bee-venom-treatment_4_2

Topical, external application of products containing bee venom can lead to side effects such as itching, urticaria and redness in people sensitive to it.

Concerns-about-bee-venom-treatment_4_3

Bee venom is an alternative means of treating some serious conditions, and science is trying to confirm or reject the benefits of apitoxin. Only time will tell if we have really found another ally in the fight against insidious oncological, immunological and neurodegenerative diseases.

Q&amp;A

Q&amp;A_5_0

In what kind of products can you find apitoxin?

Q&amp;A_5_1

Bee venom is available in the form of ampoules with aqueous and oily solutions for subcutaneous injections, creams, ointments, gels, liquids for rubbing into the skin (liniments), tablets.

Q&amp;A_5_2

What's the price of bee venom?

Q&amp;A_5_3

Bee venom prices may vary from $30 US (or much cheaper if quality is not good) up to $300 US per gram.

Q&amp;A_5_4

Can bee venom do you any harm?

Q&amp;A_5_5

The following side effects may occur with subcutaneous injection of bee venom: itching, anxiety, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, palpitations, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, confusion, fainting and low blood pressure. These effects are more common in people with severe allergies to bee stings, in people treated with bee venom, and in women. The most severe possible reaction is anaphylactic shock (a life-threatening condition).

Q&amp;A_5_6

Apitherapy is not recommended for use in pregnant women, as the histamine released in response may cause miscarriage. Bee venom can activate an immune response that worsens the condition of people suffering from autoimmune diseases, so it is advisable for them to avoid treatment with apitoxin.

Bee venom - has it got anticancer and other beneficial properties according to science

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 Bee venom - has it got anticancer and other beneficial properties

Rositsa Tashkova-Kacharova

Cancer is extremely prevalent and is one of the leading causes of death in the world. The most common treatments are chemotherapy and radiation therapy. But unfortunately, they have many and severe side effects that worsen, albeit temporarily, the quality of life of patients and are a major reason for refusing treatment.

Fortunately, some natural products can alleviate the side effects induced by chemotherapy and radiation therapy:

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">oral mucositis (inflammation and mouth ulcers),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">gastrointestinal toxicity (nausea, vomiting),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">hepatotoxicity (liver),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">nephrotoxicity (kidneys),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">damage to the hematopoietic system (blood formation),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">cardiotoxicity (heart),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">neurotoxicity (nervous system).</li>
</ul>

In this article, you will find information on the topic based on research. We hope it will be useful for you or your relatives and acquaintances suffering from oncological disease.

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Mechanisms-behind-herbs-ability-to-suppress-side-effects

Mechanisms behind herbs ability to suppress side effects

Mechanisms-behind-herbs-ability-to-suppress-side-effects_0_0

Natural products, including raw extracts enriched with bioactive components and pure compounds derived from herbs, as well as herbal formulas, can effectively reduce the strength of chemotherapy and radiation therapy induced side effects mainly due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions.

Mechanisms-behind-herbs-ability-to-suppress-side-effects_0_1

In addition, certain natural products are able to [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Natural_Product_Interventions_for_Chemotherapy_and_Radiotherapy_Induced_Side_Effects_30459615#B109" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]:

Mechanisms-behind-herbs-ability-to-suppress-side-effects_0_2

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">suppress the oral mucositis induced by chemotherapy and radiation therapy by not allowing the occurrence of an infection,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">mitigate gastrointestinal toxicity by regulating the intestinal microflora,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">limit liver damage by protecting mitochondria,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">suppress kidney damage by modulating immunity,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">reduce damage to the blood-creating process by improving the hematopoietic microenvironment,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">reduce cardiotoxicity by balancing energy metabolism,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">prevent neurotoxicity by protecting the nervous system.</li>
</ul>

Mechanisms-behind-herbs-ability-to-suppress-side-effects_0_3

Herbs-against-oral-mucositis

Herbs against oral mucositis

Herbs-against-oral-mucositis_1_0

Oral mucositis is a common negative side effect of chemo and radiation therapy, especially at larger doses or in the treatment of cancerous formations in the head area. It is characterized by edema, soreness and the appearance of ulcers in the mouth, and can alter the course of treatment if it worsens.

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It is due to oxidative stress and inflammation caused by theset herapies.

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Medicinal plants, which are evidenced to help with oral mucositis, are:

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<ul>
<li>Broadleaf plantain (Plantago major) - is effective in the treatment of wounds as it has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant properties. A randomised triple-blind phase III clinical trial shows that broad-field plantain extract, in combination with sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) solution 5%, can effectively control oral mucositis in cancer patients [<a href="https://www.ejoncologynursing.com/article/S1462-3889(17)30258-2/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>].</li>
</ul>

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