Neurodegeneration is the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, including death of neurons. Many neurodegenerative diseases – including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, fatal familial insomnia, and Huntington's disease – occur as a result of neurodegenerative processes. Such diseases are incurable, resulting in progressive degeneration and/or death of neurons. As research progresses, many similarities appear that relate these diseases to one ...

neurodegenerative diseases

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

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Researchers from the University of Florida have discovered a new mechanism of signal transmission between the nerve cells in the brain and the intestinal microbiome. In their study, they also showed how this mechanism can be modulated from a compound, called fenchol, that is abundant in basil and some other plants and can reduce neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's disease&nbsp; <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2021.735933/full" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.1]</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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In this article we will first look at what causes Alzheimer's disease, what causes it and then we will look in detail at whether basil can help fight the disease.

What-is-Alzheimer's-disease?

What is Alzheimer's disease?

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Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disease that is associated with memory loss (dementia). Usually it begins with a slight degree of forgetfulness, but over time it can progress to the inability to maintain conversation and cope with daily activities and needs. The disease is more characteristic of the elderly, although it is known that pathological changes in the brain begin long before the appearance of the first symptoms.

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Science still cannot give a full explanation of the causes of the onset of the disease, but usually patients experience increased deposition of the so-called amyloid-beta plaques in the brain. <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Neuronal_heparan_sulfates_promote_amyloid_pathology_by_modulating_brain_amyloid_clearance_and_aggregation_in_Alzheimer_s_disease_27030596" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2]</a>. This process leads to pathological changes, which include neurotoxicity and the dying of nerve cells, as a result of which dementia appearsas well as a decrease in the ability to communicate.&nbsp;

Is-there-a-link-between-Alzheimer's-and-our-gut-microbiome?

Is there a link between Alzheimer's and our gut microbiome?

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There is already data in the literature that show that patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease have a different composition of their intestinal microbiome. What does it mean?

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The human microbiome is a complex ecosystem containing over 100 trillion micro-organisms, which is proving crucial to our existence. In addition, many nerve cells that form a direct connection to our brain, called the gut-brain axis, can also be found in our guts. This two-way communication with the central nervous system also takes place through our immune system, the vagus nerve and various metabolites, which are a product of the metabolism of microorganisms living in the intestine. An important group of such substances are short-chain fatty acids. Recent studies suggest that this may be directly related to the development of pathological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/the_impact_of_the_microbiota_gut_brain_axis_on_alzheimer_s_disease_pathophysiology_33246175" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&nbsp;[ref.3]</a>. Indeed, the amount of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA)&nbsp;found in Alzheimer's patients is much less than in healthy patients with a well-balanced microflora.

How-does-our-brain-sense-the-presence-of-SCFAs?

How does our brain sense the presence of SCFAs?

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This is a very logical question that science has an answer to. The nerve cells of our central nervous system have a sensor (receptor) on its surface that is called&nbsp;free fatty acid receptor . It is also found in many other tissues of the human body and its functions generally include regulation of energy metabolism and the&nbsp;immune system.&nbsp;In addition, researchers at the University of Florida, whose study is the subject of this article, show that the activity of these receptors may play a positive role in protecting brain cells from the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques in Alzheimer's disease.

The-role-of-basil

The role of basil

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A mong144,000 compounds in search of natural products that can have a stimulating effect on free fatty acid receptors in the brain, the researchers came across a substance called fenchol.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Fenchol is found in abundance in basil leaves and gives them the specific aroma that we all know. It has the ability to bind specifically to fatty acid receptors in the brain and activate them. This in turn reduces the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and their neurotoxicity on cells, as scientists have shown in living cells and in model animals.

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Continuing the study, they managed to get into greater depth of the exact cellular processes that are affected by fennel. They identify two processes that help reduce neurotoxicity.

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One is related to the breakdown of unnecessary proteins in the cell by the so-called proteasome. It seems that fenchol manages to stimulate it and thus break down the amyloid-beta plaques, which are of a protein nature.&nbsp;

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The other mechanism concerns the aging of nerve cells. Fenchol treatment reduces this process and this allows the cells to regenerate faster and not accumulate malfunctioning cells in the tissue, called zombie cells - cells that accumulate in diseased tissues and cause inflammation in them.

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"Fenhall affects two interconnected mechanisms - aging and proteolysis", says Yadav, project leader, "It reduces the formation of semi-dead zombie nerve cells and also increases the breakdown of pathological amyloid-beta plaques so that they clear faster than the brain"<a href="https://www.genengnews.com/news/alzheimers-disease-pathology-curbed-using-aromatic-compound-in-basil/?utm_medium=newsletter&amp;utm_source=GEN+News+Highlights+of+the+Week&amp;utm_content=01&amp;utm_campaign=GEN+News+Highlights+of+the+Week_20211009&amp;oly_enc_id=3770G6149945C3X" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.4]</a>.

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In the future, researchers will focus on the treatment and prevention options of Alzheimer's with fenchol. Their idea is to compare the effectiveness of taking fenchol directly as a drug or taking basil.

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&nbsp;

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Basil in the fight against Alzheimer's disease

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 Basil in the fight against Alzheimer's disease

Силвия Маринова

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

During germination, chemical processes occur in the seeds, which make macro- and microelements in them more accessible to our organism when consumed. It is similar to digestion.

Sprouts are rich in antioxidants and biologically active substances, they bring health benefits and enrich our diet. They are affordable, the seeds are cheap and easy to germinate at home. Sprouts may replace the need to take vitamins and minerals in the form of dietary supplements and pills.

Brown-rice-sprouts-(Oryza-sativa)

Brown rice sprouts (Oryza sativa)

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Brown rice sprouts are the most studied ones (white rice is the same plant, but with the hull removed). They have many benefits:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">improve blood sugar levels,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">correct blood lipid levels (cholesterol),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">have activity against oxidative stress and others.</li>
</ul>

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These effects can not be attributed to a single bioactive compound, but rather to a synergistic interaction between all compounds induced by the germination process (i.e. GABA, oryzanol, phenols, dietary fiber, etc.), so their effect is greatest when sprouts are consumed whole rather than in the form of extracts. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Sprouted_Grains_A_Comprehensive_Review_30781547" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

Tatary-buckwheat-sprouts-(Fagopyrum-tataricum)

Tatary buckwheat sprouts (Fagopyrum tataricum)

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Tatary buckwheat is also known as green buckwheat, ku qiao, Tatar buckwheat, or bitter buckwheat. Its sprouts can be used for the preparation of pasta (containing 30% buckwheat sprouts and 70% durum wheat semolina) - its consumption has been found to reduce cardiovascular risk and metabolic disorders, such as hypertension in laboratory animals.

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Fresh-wheat-leaves-juice-(Triticum-aestivum)

Fresh wheat leaves juice (Triticum aestivum)

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The juice of the first green leaves of sprouted wheat is considered a superfood. It has been found that its intake by people suffering from <a href="/p/vidovie_talasiemiia_simptomi_i_liechieniie_afa4d9df_f99e_4122_bba7_329dd33442e4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">thalassemia</a> reduces the need and frequency of blood transfusions without negatively affecting hemoglobin levels.

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The possibilities for use in the treatment of ulcerative&nbsp;colitis are also explored, since it has a high <a href="/p/maghdanozt_tsielinata_i_drughi_bilki_koito_pomaghat_v_borbata_s_raka_431f42b9_91a1_4cb7_b9d4_e633b827af78" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">apigenin content</a>.

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This juice is rich in many healthy substances: iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamins A, C, E, K and B complex, etc.

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It has an antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect.

Broccoli-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-Italica)

Broccoli sprouts (Brassica oleracea  var. Italica)

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Broccoli sprouts are rich in a variety of biologically active substances [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Sorting_out_the_Value_of_Cruciferous_Sprouts_as_Sources_of_Bioactive_Compounds_for_Nutrition_and_Health_30791362" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]: the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol, the phenolic acids synapine and ferrulic acid, glucosinolates and isotiocyanates.

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These substances are associated with a decreased risk of cancer, degenerative diseases, metabolic disorders associated with obesity, suppression <a href="/p/siennata_khriema_kakvo_ia_prichiniava_i_ima_li_iefikasno_liechieniie_8d03ed12_7efb_4591_802c_8d89e97f3607" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">of allergic rhinitis/hay fever</a>, decreased inflammation, pain suppression and antioxidant effects.

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In human studies, broccoli sprouts have shown the ability to modulate inflammation and vascular events, suppress inflammation in those suffering from obesity and diabetes, regulate bowel functions in constipation.

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Broccoli sprouts also have an impact on the skin. May provide protection against inflammation, swelling and carcinogens in humans.

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It has been established that broccoli sprout extract can improve the condition of asthma sufferers.

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They also showed an effect against the causative agent of gastric ulcer - Helicobacter pylori.

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Turnip-sprouts-(Raphanus-sativus)

Turnip sprouts (Raphanus sativus)

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Turnip sprouts also contain quercetin, ferulic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids, glucosinolates and the isothiocyanates sulforaphene, sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol.

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They lower the risk of cancer, <a href="/p/bilki_za_zdravo_srtsie_chast_1_bdd3a061_589a_402f_846f_042cbc215d6e" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">heart disease</a>, <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> and have <a href="/p/kakvi_sa_polzitie_ot_antioksidantitie_za_zdravieto_i_koi_khrani_sa_nai_boghati_na_tiakh_0376155d_ea0c_4218_8ed2_114aed9f37c5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">antioxidant activity</a>.

Kale-sprouts-(Brassica-oleracea-var.-acephala)

Kale sprouts (Brassica oleracea  var. acephala)

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Kale sprouts contain quercetin and cyanidin, chlorogenic and ferulic acids and glucosinolates.

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Their consumption is associated with a reduced risk of oncological and heart disease, a reduced risk of diabetes and high antioxidant activity.

Bok-choy-sprouts-(Brassica-rapa-var.-chinensis)

Bok choy sprouts (Brassica rapa  var. chinensis)

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Bok choi sprouts, also known as pichay/petsay, or pok choi, contain kaempferol, quercetin, ferulic, caffeic and p-coumaric acids and glucosinolates.

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Their consumption is associated with a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease, diabetes and have antioxidant activity.

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Other-seeds-and-nuts-suitable-for-the-preparation-of-sprouts

Other seeds and nuts suitable for the preparation of sprouts

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Many other seeds and nuts are suitable for germination and readily available:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Peas, lentils, mung beans, soybeans;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Wheat, oats;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Beetroot, mustard seeds, clover;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Sunflower, pumpkin seed, alfalfa, almond, sesame.</li>
</ul>

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It is better to avoid the consumption of sprouts from kidney beans and quinoa, since they contain irritant substances and in some people have an adverse effect.

What-to-watch-out-for

What to watch out for

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Sprouts are very rich in nutrients. They can be consumed raw or lightly cooked, in salads and sandwiches. Therefore, it is important to wash the seeds as thoroughly as possible, as there is a risk of contamination with bacteria (e.g. E. coli and Salmonella) or parasites, which can make the consumption of raw sprouts dangerous.

What-to-watch-out-for_8_1

When ingesting contaminated sprouts, the first symptoms appear after 12 to 72 hours: diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain.

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This can be particularly dangerous for children, immunocompromised people, older people and pregnant women. It is recommended that they avoid consuming raw sprouts or sprouts at all.

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How-to-prepare-sprouts-at-home

How to prepare sprouts at home

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You need a large jar, a lid with holes, or gauze and an elastic band, instead of a lid. First, the seeds are soaked in cool water for several hours, depending on their type (most often 8 hours, but sesame and sunflower are soaked for 1 hour only). [<a href="https://wholefully.com/sprouting-101/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.3</a>]

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Then the water is drained, the seeds are rinsed with fresh cool water, which is also drained away. Drain the seeds well, and the jar can be placed with the lid down and tilted to drain.

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This rinsing and draining is repeated twice each day, until the desired length of the sprouts is reached.

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It is not needed to put the jar in direct sunlight or in the dark.

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When ready, rinse the sprouts one last time and distribute them on a paper tissue to dry. Otherwise, moisture will lead to their moulding. Then the sprouts can be stored for 2-3 days to 1 week in a box, paved with a clean cloth or paper against moisture retention.

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If the sprouts develop mold, don't eat them! Discard them and try again.

Q&amp;A

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Do I need a special device or a machine to always have fresh sprouts at home?

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As we described above, the process of producing sprouts at home is very easy and you do not need a special appliance or machine for this purpose. However, various appliances are available on the market which require compliance with the same steps - soaking the seeds and watering them with water twice a day or according to the indication. These appliances are also called a sprouting machine or system.

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Where to buy sprouting seeds from?

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You can buy seeds for germination from specialized seed stores, explicitly telling them for what purpose you buy the seeds (for germination and consumption of raw sprouts) or you can simply buy seeds and nuts from the local store (from here you can buy raw sunflower, almonds and much more).

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Are there any special jars for germination, or can I use whatever I have?

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Although you can safely use the jars available at home, special jars for the production of sprouts are also sold on the market. They have a suitable for draining cap, as well as a special stand to keep the jar in a position for better draining, while allowing proper airing of seeds and sprouts.

The 7 most useful sprouts and how to prepare them at home - easy and tasty

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 The 7 most useful sprouts and how to prepare them at home - easy and

Rositsa Tashkova-Kacharova

Tea is the most common drink after water. Tea, which is prepared from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant is 3 types: green, oolong and black - depending on the degree of oxidation of the leaves.

Black tea is consumed much more often than green tea - about 78% of consumption falls on it, and only 20% - on the green.

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The less oxidized the leaves, the more valuable substances are preserved in tea, so green tea is much more healthy than black tea. It is extremely rich in antioxidants and the polyphenol epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) - the most common catechin in tea, which holds most of its healthy qualities.

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Green tea is traditionally used in China and India, but has already gained great popularity worldwide and is easily accessible. Epigalloatechin gallate is also used as an ingredient in a number of dietary supplements.

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In this article, we will consider what are the health benefits of green tea.

How-to-prepare-the-best-cup-of-green-tea

How to prepare the best cup of green tea

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Before we focus on the health benefits of green tea, let's first learn how to properly prepare it.

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If you use green tea leafs (not bag tea) - the required amount is only one pinch for 250 ml of hot water, no more.

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After the water boils, allow it to cool for 2 minutes, then pour it over the tea. Otherwise the catechines may break down by the boiling water. If you do not like it bitter, let it soak for just 2 minutes.

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Add lemon to the tea - this will improve the absorption of useful substances. But do not add milk.

Green-tea-for-a-healthy-heart

Green tea for a healthy heart

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According to a 2016 study among the Chinese population, even low consumption of green tea is associated with a severely reduced risk of atrial fibrillation [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Low_dose_green_tea_intake_reduces_incidence_of_atrial_fibrillation_in_a_Chinese_population_27683043" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>].

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In addition, it was found that the long-term daily use (6 months) of black or green tea lowers blood pressure. The effect of green tea is even greater. This is probably due to the catechins contained in it, as they dilate blood vessels and therefore - lower the pressure.

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Green tea can also lower bad cholesterol (LDL), which also lowers the risk of developing cardiovascular disease due to atherosclerosis - people who regularly drink green tea have a 30% lower risk of death caused by cardiovascular disease (heart attack and stroke). [<a href="https://academic.oup.com/jn/article/138/8/1548S/4750815" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

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Green tea can also have a beneficial effect in arrhythmia sufferers.

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Green-tea-protects-your-brain

Green tea protects your brain

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One of the most important active compounds in green tea - epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is attributed to the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of this plant. EGCG inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 (interleukins) and exerts protection on the nervous system.

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Green tea has anti-inflammatory effects that can protect the CNS from neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis. In addition, it regulates energy consumption in the body, which can relieve fatigue - a common symptom of multiple sclerosis.

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More about multiple sclerosis read in the article <a href="/p/17_dostpni_bilki_v_pomoshch_na_stradashchitie_ot_mnozhiestviena_sklieroza_e283f90a_9560_4d6e_9921_d3260c14b70c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">17 affordable herbs to help sufferers of multiple sclerosis</a>.