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Spice Science
Acacia • Anise • Basil • Bush Tea • Caraway • Cardamom • Cayenne • Cinnamon • Clove • Cocoa • Coconut • Fennel • Garlic • Ginger • Grains of Paradise • Myrrh • Nigella • Nutmeg • Oregano • Rosemary • Turmeric
ACACIA:
Summary medicinal properties supported by scientific studies: Anti-hypertensive, antispasmodic, antibacterial (STD's), anti-viral, general stimulant and mood enhancer, stool consistency (helps with both diarrhea and constipation), liver protective, anticancer and anti-mutagenic.
Egypt - Asyut:
Only date palms outnumber Acacia trees along the shores of the Nile. A veterinary study using goats from Egypt found that the more acacia leaves the goats were eating, the less bacteria found in their fecal samples - indicating an antibacterial mechanism in acacia.3
India - Jaipur:
Another animal study from India found anti-tumor properties4 in acacia, suggesting possible cancer preventative abilities. Ayurvedic practitioners have long used acacia to rid the body of worms and parasites, treat wounds, nose bleeds (powdered gum), sore nipples, as food for diabetics (since it does not convert into sugar), and for the treatment of coughs. A study from Mumbai, presented at the 8th International Congress on Drug Therapy in HIV Infection, indicated that the aqueous extract of acacia pods as effective in-vitro against the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase.5
Kenya - Masai:
The Masai call acacia nilotica 'olkiloriti', and a UNESCO sponsored study found acacia to be the most frequently used soup plant. The root or stem bark is boiled in water and the decoction drunk alone or added to soup.6 The moran, young circumcised unmarried Masai men, apparently prefer taking acacia leaves as a stimulant before going on hunts. This may be due to the psychoactive compound DMT found in the acacia leaf.
Saudi Arabia - Riyadh:
Scientists from Riyadh have found in animal models that gum Arabic/acacia has a strong protective effect when given five days prior to exposure to acetaminophen overdoses, which normally result in liver failure and death.7 Furthermore, another study suggests that gum Arabic/acacia contains cardio-protective properties by the means of superoxide scavengers, potent anti-oxidants.8
US - New York:
This study suggests that gum Arabic/acacia improves intestinal absorption in the cases of infant diarrhea.9
US - Minneapolis:
Acacia improves stool consistency and reduces the occurrence of fecal incontinence10 in adults. Some alternative practitioners in the U.S. have begun to use the highly soluble fiber to ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Further studies are under way to determine the mechanism whereby acacia appears to reduce sugar-induced weight gain.
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ANISE:
Summary medicinal properties supported by scientific studies: Anise protects against gastric ulcers, gastro-intestinal difficulties (gas, cramps, bloating), and halitosis (bad breath); used as an antibacterial, expectorant, bronchodilator, anti-spasmotic, mosquito repellant, antifungal (candida); and used for its estrogen receptor modulator-like properties that produce bone-cell formation without causing breast and cervical cancer cell proliferation.
Brazil:
A University of São Paulo study justified the use of anise as an antispasmotic agent.1 Scientists noted the Brazilian curandeiros' age-old herbal medicinal practices in which anise cured digestive difficulties resulting from gas, overeating, cramps and nervous stomach.
Croatia - Zagreb:
The University of Zagreb2 tested the effectiveness of anise's fluid extracts and essential oils against several strains of candida in laboratory Petri dishes. Both tested effective for inhibiting fungal growth, although the essential oils proved to contain stronger antifungal properties.
Cuba:
Doctors find the fruit (fresh or dried) effective as an antibacterial and expectorant. It is used to treat coughs and sore throats as well as general low immunity. This Caribbean nation also employs anise's properties for poor digestion, flatulence, hypochondria and panic attacks.
Greece - Athens:
Greek herbalists have used anise and fennel to promote menstruation, increase breast milk production, facilitate birth and enhance libido. University of Athens' scientists have taken a closer look at anise in the context of finding a safe alternative to estrogen replacement therapies in preventing osteoporosis. Anise exhibited estrogen receptor modulator-like properties that produce bone-cell formation without causing breast and cervical cancer cells to proliferate.3
Iran - Mashhad:
Iranian scientists discovered a possible mechanism that explains why many traditional healers have been using anise extracts and oils in the treatment of certain respiratory ailments. Anise extracts and essential oils possess bronchodilatory (opens the upper airways) qualities derived from possible antihistamine-like properties.4 This makes anise oil (or extract) a possible natural allergy treatment or relaxant for upper airway constrictions.
Pakistan - Karachi:
The Indian use of aniseed as a mouth freshener earned scientific merit from a Karachi University study. Scientists describe the oral antibacterial properties against a wide variety of bacteria taken from more than 200 human saliva samples.5
Saudi Arabia - Riyadh:
Since ancient times anise has been used safely in Unani medical tradition, made famous over a 1000 years ago by Hakim Ibn Sina aka Aviciena, to prevent and treat stomach ulcers and other gastro-intestinal complaints. A 2007 King Saud University study confirmed the anti-ulcer properties of a water-based anise solution.6 The anise solutions, fed to rats at doses of 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg, were noted to provide significant protection against cell-killing agents.
Turkey - Antalya:
Scientists from the Akdeniz University looked at the value of anise seeds' essential oils as a mosquito repellent. A study determined the oils possessed the ability to repel and protect from mosquito bites.7
German Commission E:8
Approved as an expectorant, antispasmodic agent and antibacterial.
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BASIL:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Antimicrobial (giardia), dyspepsia, high blood pressure (diuretic), potentially effective against cholera toxin induced diarrhea, anti-viral activity against herpes virus I and II, adenoviruses, hepatitis B virus and the RNA viruses (coxsackievirus B1 and enterovirus 71), anti-bacterial (middle ear infection) and anti-inflammatory.
Brazil - Rio de Janeiro:
The essential oil of basil, used in a mouse model, proved an effective agent in the destruction of the common parasite, giardia.1
Cuba's clinical uses:
An infusion of basil tea relieves symptoms of abdominal discomfort due to gas. As a diuretic, it treats high blood pressure.
German Commission E:
In 1992, the commission gave basil a negative rating, when a benefit-risk analysis revealed insufficient data for recommending treatment. However, the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products wrote in its position 2004 paper on herbal products containing estragole that the dose needed to produce a carcinogenic result would most likely be much higher than at the recommended therapeutic or food based dosages.2
Iceland - Reykjavik:
Essential oil of basil or some of its isolated components relieved otitis media (middle ear infection) in a rat-based placebo control study when placed topically into the infected ear canals of the rodents.3
India - New Delhi:
This albino mice study investigated basil, used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine, and discovered that dosages between 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg of a mixed alcohol/water (80:20) based extract had significant positive impact on anti-oxidant modulation mechanisms. The basil thwarted chemical attempts to produce stomach cancer in the rodents.4 While conditions, dosages and conclusions of most animal studies cannot be directly translated into a meaningful treatment for humans, the longstanding use of basil in traditional medicine from around the world offers interesting preventative and possible treatment options. In another rodent study, basil demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory properties affecting the skin surfaces and lining of the intestines.5
Mexico:
Scientists tested various botanical extracts' effectiveness in treating diarrhea in a model using rodents. They determined that the water-based extract of basil was highly effective against cholera toxin-induced intestinal secretions.6
Morocco - Oujda:
This study looked at basil, a commonly used culinary herb and therapeutic agent of traditional healers in Morocco, with regards to its anti-oxidant properties, and its possible role in reducing cholesterol.7
Taiwan - Kaohsiung:
Basil has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. Now researchers from the island have taken a closer look at the possible anti-viral properties of basil extract and several of basil's specific compounds against DNA viruses, herpes virus, adenoviruses, hepatitis B virus and the RNA viruses (coxsackievirus B1 and enterovirus 71). The results showed that ": …crude aqueous and ethanolic extracts of basil (ocimum basilicum) and selected purified components, namely apigenin, linalool and ursolic acid, exhibit a broad spectrum of antiviral activity. Of these compounds, ursolic acid showed the strongest activity against HSV-1 … whereas apigenin showed the highest activity against HSV-2…"8
Thailand - Pathumtani:
Basil is a cornerstone in Thai cooking and common in Traditional Thai Medicine. Considered a sacred form of healing, Thai monks have been the unbroken link between the origin of Thai healing to the practices of today. Massage, prayer, spiritual intervention and the use of nutrition and herbs are used to bring about health and healing. Now biotechnologists have confirmed the promising and time-proven antibacterial properties of basil.9 But, is it the herb alone?
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BUSH TEA:
Medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Bush tea protects against certain cancers such as skin cancers and mutations, hyperactive gastrointestinal problems, respiratory difficulty, and high blood pressure. It nurtures and restores the liver and reduces cholesterol.
Japan - Shizuoka:
The Japanese have explored Bush tea's estrogen-based compounds.1
Korea - Daejeon:
Laboratory studies have found DNA protective2 and antimutagenic properties. Studies on animals have indicated immune-controlling properties.
Pakistan - Karachi:
A recent study from Karachi determined why Bush tea is effective in treating hyperactive gastrointestinal problems3, respiratory difficulty and high blood4 pressure. Bush tea is a bronchodilator, antispasmodic and has blood pressure-lowering properties. It apparently achieves this by Portassium (ATP) channel activation with a selective bronchodilatory effect.
Slovak Republic - Dunaji:
Using an animal study, Eastern European scientists demonstrated further therapeutic effects on liver damage such as cirrhosis5, and a simultaneous reduction in cholesterol by using the plant.
South Africa - Tygerberg:
South African researchers who found that topical Bush tea application inhibits skin tumor formation have confirmed the antimutagenic properties of rooibos.6 Is Bush Tea an 'herbal umbrella' that enables the Ju'hoansi to live and traverse the Kalahari, one of the hottest places on earth?
United States (Boston):
Researchers at the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging confirmed Bush tea to have antimutagenic abilities, which makes it a potential cancer prevention plant.7
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CARAWAY:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: May prevent mutation, may be useful in the treatment of colon cancer, hypertension, water retention, diabetes and may be helpful in fat metabolism.
German Commission E:1
Indicates that sufficient scientific evidence exists to safely use caraway for its antimicrobial and antispasmodic properties.
India - Tamil Nadu:
Caraway has been used in an experimental model on rats to determine if the spice, commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for gastro-intestinal difficulties, has any impact in the development of chemically induced (with 1,2-dimethylhydrazine) colon cancer. The researchers determined that dietary caraway (at a dose of 60mg/kg) indeed has properties that are able to control lipid peroxidation and antioxidant homeostasis, thereby preventing the development of chemically induced colon cancer lesions.1 Another rodent-based study confirmed these results and further determined that the most optimal dose of the various amounts used in the study was 60mg/kg.2
Japan:
In a Department of Molecular Bacteriology study at the Institute of Health Biosciences at the University of Tokushima Graduate School, scientists tested the international awareness placed on caraway as a potential agent to protect against cellular mutations. These scientists believed that a specific compound from caraway called Ogt-O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase might be responsible in the antimutagenic activity of caraway.3
Morocco - Fez:
North African traditional healers use caraway as a diuretic when water retention, passing urine and, in some cases, high blood pressure need attention. Through an animal study, these Moroccan scientists have now determined that caraway does have strong diuretic properties,4 which apparently work similarly to the commonly used anti-hypertensive pharmacological drugs Lasix and Hydrochlorthiazide (HCTZ).
What is it about caraway that can bring about water homeostasis and the deeper meaning lying therein?
Morocco - Errachidia:
Another rat-based study from Errachidia looked at the role of caraway (aqueous extract) on fat metabolism, finding that caraway has a significant lipid lowering ability.5
Morocco - Errachidia:
Errachidia scientists determined from another animal-based study that caraway has the apparent ability to lower blood sugar levels without increasing the body's production of insulin.6
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CARDAMOM:
Summary of medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: May protect against platelet aggregation, lipid peroxidation, and colon cancer. Functions as an anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral (genital herpes - HSV-2) and analgesic.
India - Mysore:
Scientists from the city of Mysore, famous for silk, ivory and sandalwood, have discovered that cardamom extract protects platelets2 from aggregation3 and lipid peroxidation4.
India - Kolkata
Nearby, in the city of Kolkata, researchers at the Chittaranjan National Cancer Institute published results of another cardomom study5: "These results suggest that aqueous suspensions of cardamom have protective effects on experimentally induced colon carcinogenesis." These findings echo the time-proven Unani and Ayurvedic application of cardamom as a treatment in certain gastrointestinal diseases.
German Commission E:
Cardamom is an approved drug by the German Commission E in the treatment of dyspepsic complaints (digestive difficulty).
Saudi Arabia - Riyadh:
Researchers at King Saud University uncovered pharmacological abilities of cardamom oil on mammals and determined that cardamom oil exerts its gastrointestinal antispasmodic activity through muscarinic receptor blockage6. Moreover, scientists determined that cardamom oil contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
United States - Cincinnati:
At the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine7 scientists looked at cineole, a major constituent of cardamom, in the context of treating vaginal herpes infections in mice and determined that sufficient evidence exists to warrant more research using this compound as a possibly promising natural treatment modality.
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CAYENNE:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Used to: enhance circulation where applied, balance fat and sugar metabolism, protect the stomach lining, can produce significant prostate cancer apoptosis (death), analgesic (for chronic pains such as arthritis, lumbago, rheumatism), anti-venom, anti-tumor, a treatment for shingles, anti-fungal (inc. C. albicans) and anti-bacterial.
Canada - Toronto:
In a meta-analysis of studies, University of Toronto doctors determined that cayenne cream used as a topical ointment was able to better treat the symptoms of chronic back pain than a placebo.1
Colombia - Medellin:
Dozens of herbal extracts have been found to either completely or moderately neutralize snake poison when injected together with the poisonous pit viper (Bothrops atrox) venom. Cayenne has a moderately neutralizing effect.2 Columbian healers showed scientists how cayenne acts as an extract when used in traditional medicine as a poultice, drawing out the poison from snake and scorpion bites.
Cuba's clinical uses:
Cayenne stimulates peripheral circulation. In Cuba, a topical tincture and cream produces circulatory benefits when used to treat specific chronic aches and pains as in lumbago, arthritis and rheumatism.
Germany - Frankfurt:
The fat and sugar balancing effects of cayenne (among other herbs) have been documented at the Johann Wolfgang Goethe University. A present study provides rationale for the use of cayenne in diabetic treatment.3
German Commission E:
Approved as an external application for painful muscle spasms. Not to be used for longer than two days on the same region of tissue in order to avoid local skin inflammation.
Singapore:
For years, people have believed that spicy foods such as cayenne caused stomach ulcers. However, a recent study indicates that cayenne pepper actually protects the stomach mucosa.4 Presently, allopathic medicine believes that most ulcers are caused by a bacterium called helicobacter pylori and/or from the use of anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen.
Spain - Madrid:
After studying cayenne and prostate cancer in the laboratory and in patients, scientists concluded that capsaicin in cayenne "is a promising anti-tumor agent in hormone-refractory prostate cancer, which shows resistance to
many chemotherapeutic agents."5
Thailand - Bangkok:
Doctors noted an increase in metabolic rates and a slowing down of sugar (glucose) uptake after giving 5gm of fresh cayenne to a group of Thai women.6 This, in turn, may provide scientists with more reasons why traditional healers world-wide have been using cayenne as a means to treat certain forms of diabetes.
United States - Farmington:
Injecting capsaicin directly into a tumor resulted in the retardation not just of the injected tumor but also of other similar tumors nearby.7 Although tested in an animal model, scientists know from prior discoveries that dendrite cells (tree-like extensions of nerve cells) have receptors that when engaged by capsaicin produce significant chemical changes which enhance the body's own immunity. The FDA approved a cream, under the brand name Zostrix, which contains concentrated capsaicin. The company markets the cream mostly to arthritis sufferers to reduce pain, but also to reduce the pain that often lingers after an attack of shingles (a herpes-caused skin infection). A tube of Zostrix cream usually sells for about fifteen to twenty dollars. A homemade cayenne pepper cream costs pennies in comparison.
United States - New Orleans:
Scientists, from the 'Big Easy', probably no strangers to wonderfully spicy foods, have determined that an isolated compound made from cayenne is effective in the laboratory against a variety of fungus, including Candida albicans.8
United States - Athens:
Ohio University scientists looked at the use of cayenne in Mayan traditional medicine and confirmed its anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.9
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CINNAMON:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: May improve fat and sugar metabolism; may reduce high blood pressure may work as an antioxidant; includes broad-spectrum antibiotics properties; may enhance sugar and fat metabolism; and, cures mite infestation in animals.
Canada - Calgary & Laval:
Canadian researchers have determined that cinnamon may be a valuable candidate for new anti-diabetic medications.1 A Quebec study has determined cinnamon's effectiveness in the treatment of gastrointestinal difficulties in traditional cultures wherever it is grown or traded. The Quebec study also found that cinnamon oil increases acidity inside the cells of E. coli, thereby damaging the invading bacteria cell's membrane, causing its death.2
China - Hongkong:
Barefoot doctors in rural China use cinnamon sticks to prepare a decoction, which is used in the treatment of: aching joints, male sexual dysfunction, the unusual absence of menstruation, diarrhea, and bed-wetting. A Hong Kong study also suggests that cinnamon possesses broad-spectrum antibiotic properties.3
Cuba's clinical uses:
A cinnamon infusion is prescribed to stimulate appetite and the immune system in patients with tendencies toward bacterial and fungal infections.
India - Mysore:
Cinnamon is widely used in Ayurvedic medicine in the treatment of diabetes. Similar to their Canadian colleagues, Tamil Nadu studies indicate that cinnamon contains hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties4 and improves glucose metabolism.5 Another Indian study in Mysore revealed that a cinnamon fruit powder water extract contains potent antioxidant properties.6
Italy - Pisa:
A veterinary study conducted in Italy found that the essential oil of cinnamon was 100% effective in the treatment of mite-infested rabbits.7
United States - Chicago:
Neurologist Alan Hirsch, Director of Chicago's Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, established that male sexual stimulation increases with exposure to the scent of cinnamon. Furthermore, researchers from Washington concluded that cinnamon might also play a beneficial role in lowering high blood pressure.8
8 Preuss HG, Echard B, Polansky MM, Anderson R. Whole cinnamon and aqueous extracts ameliorate sucrose-induced blood pressure elevations in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Department of Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA. J Am Coll Nutr. 2006 Apr;25(2):144-50.
Commission E:
Approved for the treatment of: "Loss of appetite, dyspeptic complaints such as mild spasms of the gastrointestinal tract, bloating, flatulence."9
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CLOVE:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Essential oil of clove has been found to work as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-viral (herpes simplex –HSV I&II and hepatitis C), anti-bacterial (including a several of the multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis), anti-cancer, cancer protective (skin and lung), anti-diabetic, and insect repellant. It contains aphrodisiac properties. A cream from clove works as an effective treatment for chronic anal fissures.
Austria - Vienna:
This study discovered more about the mechanism of how the essential oil of clove's potent anti-oxidant properties work.1
China - Harbin:
Scientists confirmed the anti-microbial activity of clove's essential oil against a variety of bacterial and fungal pathogens, including those of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans.2
Egypt - Mansoura:
In an enrolled study, patients suffering from chronic anal fissures were given a clove oil 1% cream preparation. Healing occurred in five times as many patients as in the control group. The 1% clove cream patients also had a greater reduction in resting anal pressure than those in the control group.3
German Commission E:
Approved for oral inflammations.
India - Gujarat & Kolkata:
Aspergillus niger, a "black fungus", can become a serious health threat to humans when inhaled in large quantities and over prolonged periods of time. Essential oil of clove has been found to inhibit its growth and spore formation making it a potential treatment possibility for patients suffering from aspergillosis.4 One study from Kolkata looked at the properties of aqueous solution of clove and found it to produce apoptosis of lung cancer cells in mice as well as having other possible cancer protective properties.5 Another Indian study determined that aqueous solution of clove might also have protective properties against skin papillomas (skin tumor).6 Clove has long had a standing reputation in the Unani traditions as an aphrodisiac for males. Now, an Aligarh Muslim University study may provide further clues as to why it works in the treatment of male sexual dysfunctions. Researchers noted that normal male rats given a 50% alcoholic extract of clove (between 100mg/kg to 500mg/kg) registered significantly enhanced sexual appetites without any noticeable side effects.
Japan - Tokyo:
Clove preparations given orally to mice infected with oral and gastro-intestinal Candida albicans (fungus) overgrowth showed a marked reduction of fungal spread and a reduction of symptoms.7 In a series of experiments, Virologists from the Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University in Sugitani determined that eugeniine, a compound purified from the extracts of clove, inhibits viral DNA synthesis in several strains of herpes (I & II), including acyclovir-phosphonoacetic acid-resistant HSV-I.8
Pakistan - Karachi:
Scientists from the Department of Pharmacology at the Aga Khan University Medical College reported the result of their study: "…clove oil is inhibitory of platelet aggregation and thromboxane synthesis and may act as anti-thrombotic agent." 9
Tunisia - Africa:
A study reported in the National Library of Medicine determined essential oil of clove extracts to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-viral (herpes simplex –HSV and hepatitis C), anti-bacterial (including several of the multi-drug resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis) and insect repellant properties.10
United States – Nashville:
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine scientists explored clove's ability to act as an insulin-like substance, which may prove beneficial in the treatment of diabetes.11 The data apparently revealed that clove, much like insulin, stimulates a certain gene sequence expression and thereby sets in motion chemical reactions important in effective sugar metabolism.
United Kingdom – London:
The single major active ingredient in the essential oil of clove is eugenol, which comprises almost 80% of the oil.12 This study also determined that the oil had cytotoxic (toxic to cells) properties against fibroblasts (cells in the connective tissue producing collagen) and endothelial cells (cells that form the lining of organs) in the laboratory.
Brazil – Botucatu:
This study determined that the essential oil of clove, among several other plant extracts, had a significant synergistic effect along with 13 anti-microbial drugs used by doctors to treat contagious bacterial (Staphylococcus aureus strains) diseases.13
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COCOA:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: May balance low levels of serotonin and dopamine, enhances sexual appetite, rich in antioxidants, may play a role in the prevention of cancer, aids in atherosclerosis and heart disease, antitussive (stops cough), prevents lipid oxidation and may play a role in cholesterol homeostasis, reduces high blood pressure, photo protection, improved blood circulation, increased skin density and hydration and a decrease in skin roughness and scaling, immunomodulatory (balances immunity), inhibiting primary hemostasis (stopping the flow of blood) and pathways associated with platelet (a blood clotting component) activation and aggregation. A naturally occurring, cocoa-derived pentameric procyanidin has been shown to destroy human breast cancer cells. Cocoa bean husk extracts reduce dental plaque.
Canada - Quebec:
Scientists at the McGill University School of Dietetics and Human Nutrition cautiously suggest that the consumption of dark chocolate may have protective impact on heart and vascular illness and their connection to oxidized bad cholesterol (LDL).2
England - London:
A London study looked at cocoa's component, theobromine, in the context of treating a persistent cough and determined it to be effective as an antitussive.3
Germany - Köln:
A meta-analysis series of similar studies looking at dietary intake of cocoa and the reduction in blood pressure suggests that food rich in cocoa may contribute to a reduction of high blood pressure.4
Germany - Witten-Herdecke:
German scientists at the University concluded that the long-term ingestion of cocoa with a high content of flavanols provides for several markers of healthy skin: photo protection, improved blood circulation, increased skin density and hydration, and a decrease in skin roughness and scaling.5
German Commission E:
By 1991 the Commission examined the available studies on cocoa shells as therapeutic agents and determined that, at that time, there existed insufficient evidence to recommend cacao shells as a therapeutic agent.
Japan - Tokyo & Osaka
The results of this Ochanomizu University study has suggested that substances derived from cocoa powder may contribute to a reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL), an elevation of good cholesterol (HDL), and the suppression of oxidized LDL.6 Private Tokyo researchers found that cacao bean extract, among other compounds, has protective properties against UV-light caused wrinkle formation.7 Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry researchers found that cacao bean husk extract significantly reduces plaque build up on teeth. The study confirmed the same results in vitro and in vivo.8
Malaysia - Selangor:
Although traditional practitioners used cocoa to work with diabetic patients, cocoa's exact working mechanism remains a mystery. However, University Putra scientists have confirmed that cocoa extract may indeed possess dose-dependent hypoglycemic and hypocholestrolemic properties.9
Switzerland - Zürich:
University Hospital doctors have summarized therapeutic properties as: antioxidant, immunomodulatory, inhibiting primary hemostasis (stopping the flow of blood) and pathways associated with platelet (a blood clotting component) activation and aggregation.10
United States - Chicago:
Neurologist Dr. Alan Hirsch, Director of Chicago's Smell and Taste Treatment and Research Foundation, found that people's sexual stimulation increases when exposed to the scent of chocolate.
United States - Georgetown:
Researchers at the Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington examined a cocoa-derived compound called pentameric procyanidin (pentamer) and discovered that it arrested human breast cancer cells.11
United States - Tuscon:
These scientists reported in a study called 'Chocolate: Food or Drug?" that it is likely to be involved in increasing low levels of serotonin and dopamine (neurotransmitters involved in 'mood regulation.')12
Poland – Warsaw:
This mouse study indicated that pregnant mice fed 400mg of chocolate daily produced offspring with shorter than usual limb sizes. According to their calculation a human equivalent amount of chocolate would be 200gm daily.13 The Polish scientists advise caution when consuming large amounts of chocolate during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. It was not noted what kind of chocolate was used.
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COCONUT:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Anti-bacterial (e.g. gonorrhea, staphylococcus aureus, chlamydia), anti-fungal (Candida albicans), anti-viral (e.g. herpes, visna virus), an aide in cholesterol homeostasis, possible weight loss agent, possible protective against ischemic heart disease, protects liver from alcohol-induced damage and may also protect against endotoxemia (the presence of toxic material from the inside of bacteria in the blood that can lead to organ failure, shock and even death).
Iceland – Reykjavík:
'In this study from Iceland researchers discovered in a laboratory experiment that medium chain fatty acids, but especially capric acid (C10H20O2), worked effectively in killing all strains of Neisseria gonorrhea.'1 Another laboratory study from the island determined how well medium chain fatty acids destroy or inhibit the growth of other groups of bacteria. Both lauric acid and capric acid showed strong antibacterial abilities.2 Again researchers demonstrated another aspect of lauric and capric acids broad anti-microbial properties in the laboratory; this time against a fungus associated with yeast infections.3 Lauric acid and capric acid were also found to effectively inactivate Chlamydia in the laboratory. This suggests, that these two fatty acids, found in relatively high concentrations in coconut milk and fat, may play a role in the prevention of this particular bacterial infection as well.4
United States – Staten Island:
The authors of this study state: "Lipids can inactivate enveloped viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa." By adding medium chain fatty acids (MCFA) to HIV-infected blood products the researchers learned that they could reduce the virus concentration by a very large number. Furthermore, the scientists expect that MCFA "…may potentially be used as combination spermicidal and virucidal agents."5
Sri Lanka – Ragama:
The people of the island nation Sri Lanka, like many other tropical islanders, use coconut oil as a main source for their oil and fat needs. Different than other saturated fats, the medium chain fatty acids in unprocessed virgin coconut oil are easily digested and quickly converted into energy.6
India – Kerala:
This interesting study found that cholesterol-fed rats that were given coconut water from either tender or mature coconuts significantly reduced general cholesterol and bad cholesterol (LDL), but increased good cholesterol (HDL).7 The authors of another combination laboratory-animal study from the same university wrote that: "…The results demonstrated the potential beneficiary effect of virgin coconut oil in lowering lipid levels in serum and tissues and LDL oxidation by physiological oxidants."8
Japan – Yamanashi:
Based on the well-established observation that MCFA (present in coconut) are able to prevent alcohol induced liver damage, these researchers established that eating MFCA might also protect the liver from endotoxins9 (toxic material inside of bacteria which are released when the bacteria is destroyed, sometimes called 'die-off' reaction).
North Carolina – USA:
Mary L. Moore, an associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, discovered in recent meta-analysis research on the benefits of breast feeding that babies who are breast fed have a reduced level of total and LDH cholesterol in their later adult life.10
Canada – Quebec:
These nutritional scientists examined the ability of medium chain fatty acids to convert quickly into energy. They concluded, based on their laboratory examinations and meta-analysis in animal and human trials, that MCFA 'may be used as a means to produce weight loss.'11
United States – New York:
Researcher Hans Kaunitz correlates the data from several laboratory animal studies with the findings from the United Nations and reports on some possible reasons that death from ischemic heart disease is lowest where the coconut fat intake is the highest.12
United States – Princeton:
This meta-analysis led these researchers to note that: "The safety of human dietary consumption of medium chain triglycerides up to levels of 1g/kg has been confirmed in several clinical trials."13
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FENNEL:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Anti-oxidant, anti-ulcer (stomach), dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain and difficulties), colic (in infants) and hirsutism (females growing hair like a male).
Cuba's clinical uses:
Promotes appetite, relieves discomfort from gas and flatulence.
German Commission E:
Fennel seeds and oil are approved for the treatment of: "Dyspepsia such as mild, spastic gastrointestinal afflictions, fullness, flatulence. Catarrh of the upper respiratory tract."
India - Karnataka:
This study looked at the pharmacological basis for employing fennel extract in the treatment of cognitive dysfunction associated with dementia and Alzheimer's. A mouse model's results indicated that fennel extract: "…ameliorated the amnesic effect of scopolamine (0.4 mg/kg) and aging-induced memory deficits in mice."1 These results perhaps warrant more studies using fennel extract as a therapeutic agent for such conditions.
Iran - Kerman:
Fennel extract was found to be a more potent pain relief agent than mefenamic acid (such as Ponstel) in primary dysmenorrhea of high-school girls whose age averaged 13. In fact, it proved so effective that 80% of the fennel group no longer needed to rest in order to cope with the aches and pains.2 Fennel is a safe plant to use, while mefenamic acid can produce serious side effects.
Iran - Shiraz:
Fennel has been used as an estrogenic agent by traditional healers for centuries. Now scientists are looking at fennel's ability to help women who have developed hirsutism (growing hair like a male) even though they have normal menstrual cycles and normal levels of sex hormones. Researchers noted significant male type hair growth reduction when compared to the placebo. Of the two tested formulas (1% and 2%) 2% topical fennel extract proved most effective.3
Italy - Torino:
This study concluded that fennel extract aided with breast fed infants who had developed colic. When compared to the placebo group, those infants who had received the plant extract had a significant reduction in crying time. No side effects were noted.4
Turkey - Afyon:
These veterinary scientists confirmed some of fennel's time proven applications. Researchers confirmed its beneficial use as a treatment for digestive problems by exploring fennel's ulcer protective properties, which might be due in part to anti-oxidant properties that reduce lipid peroxidation.5 Another study from Turkey concluded that the essential oil of fennel protected rats from chemically induced liver damage,6 lending credibility to fennel's reputation as a useful agent for gastro-intestinal disorders.
Switzerland – Geneva:
This study examined three patients who had developed seizure activities apparently after using essential oils. Among the oils considered as a possible culprit for the seizures was essential oil of fennel.7 It is thought that perhaps the intense monoterpene ketones contained in the essential oils of several different kinds of plants might be able to induce a neurological event such as a seizure.
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GARLIC:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies from 2006-2007: Possesses cardiovascular protective agents. May reduce risk of heart attacks in diabetic patients by contributing to better metabolic control involving blood sugar and triglycerides. Acts as an anti-oxidant, possible radioprotection (protects against damage from ionizing radiation). Able to reduce blood glucose level and reduce memory loss in Alzheimer's. Garlic is anti-microbial, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-parasitical (including malaria) and anti-fungal. In addition, garlic has shown that it can produce the destruction of various cancer cells in vitro and vivo.
Cuba's clinical uses:
Garlic is one of Cuba's most versatile herbs, used for the treatment of asthma to bring up phlegm, to prevent and treat infections caused by bacteria, and decrease water retention, spasms and thrombophlebitis. Used to treat fungal infections, garlic also works as a tonic, promotes healthy veins, and prevents parasites, inflammation, hemorrhoids, bacterial infections, viral infections, hypertension, muscular pains, back pains, synovitis (inflammation of a membrane in the knee joint) and varicose veins.
German Commission E:
Approved as a treatment for: "Supportive to dietary measures at elevated levels of lipids in blood. Preventative measures for age-dependent vascular changes."
Hong Kong:
Using a rodent model, scientists reported for the first time the high level of success obtained in inhibiting primary tumor formation of the prostrate and a reduction of secondary tumor formation. In this study garlic has shown to have potent anti-metastasis (spreading of cancer to other than the primary site) properties, which these scientists believe may also apply to other types of cancer.2
India – New Delhi:
In this 1996 study, scientists discovered that orally administered garlic extract for 5 consecutive days at dosages of 125, 250 and 500 mg kg-1 body weight reduced the damage to the rodents' chromosomes from gamma rays, a potent mutagenic or cancer producing agent.3
Italy – Ferrara:
Allicin (allylthiosulfinate, diallyl disulfide-S-monoxide), a potent, well known and researched anti-microbial and anti-fungal is an active ingredient in garlic. This laboratory study determined that concentrations of spray-dried garlic (1.5 g per 10 mL) had the strongest fungicidal reaction of those tested.4
Japan – Tokyo & Sakuyo:
For the first time, Japanese scientists have been able to scientifically prove what many traditional practitioners have suspected, that garlic, or specifically allicin, has potent antioxidant properties.5 Another study from Japan suggests that odorless garlic powder can play a beneficial role in preventing destructive thrombus (clod) formation such as in heart attacks. It apparently does so, according to the researchers, by suppressing the formation of clots and by destroying fibrin, a protein involved in the clotting of blood.6
Poland – Gdask:
This study summarizes how certain compounds contained in garlic prevent and protect against cancer in vivo and in vitro. The anticancer effect of garlic is attributed to its organosulfuric compounds.7 Furthermore, this study noted that population based case studies indicate that a relatively high garlic intake reduces the risk of developing certain cancers.
Russia – Moscow:
Scientists at the Russian Academy of Medical Sciences conducted a live double-blind placebo-controlled study on 60 type-2 diabetic patients.8 They used time controlled garlic powder tablets and found that garlic produced a better metabolic control in patients due to lowered blood glucose and triglyceride levels. These scientists now recommend garlic in conjunction with dietary control and other measures in the treatment of adult onset diabetes. Scientists believe the garlic helps obtain a more efficient glucose and fat metabolism, thereby contributing to the prevention of long-term complications such as heart attacks.
Singapore:
Various traditional healing traditions have long known about garlic's potent heart protective properties. A Singapore study determined that S-allylcysteine (SAC), an organosulphur-containing compound produced from garlic, is protective in myocardial infarction (heart attacks).9
Taiwan – Taipei:
Diallyl disulfide, a well-known component of garlic, has been demonstrated repeatedly to induce apoptosis (destruction) of many different cancer cells. Now the mechanism, according to these Taiwanese scientists, may be associated with signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) expression.10
United States – Chicago:
This study, which used a rodent experiment to examine garlic on Alzheimer's disease, concluded that aged garlic extract has a potential for preventing the progression of Alzheimer's disease.11
United States – New York:
In this study, scientists examined garlic's ability in preventing the infestation of the malaria parasite. Interestingly, given the extensive stories on how garlic protects against blood-suckers (vampires – 'mosquitoes'), they found that allicin, a well-known compound in garlic is also a cysteine protease inhibitor. These scientists learned that the malaria parasite uses an enzyme (cysteine protease) to manipulate its own surface protein membrane along with the protective membranes of host cells (human or other mammals) in order to gain entry. Garlic constituent allicin inhibits the parasitical protein membrane (made from circumsporozoite protein) manipulation and thereby prevents or reduces invasion in vitro and in vivo in two of the four life cycles of the parasites' sporozoites (stage of parasite when initially entering the bloodstream) and merozoits (stage of parasite when it asexually reproduces inside the red blood-cell).12
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GINGER:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Anti-emetic (morning sickness, sea sickness, post surgery sickness), analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial (Helicobacter pylori), cardio tonic, may enhance sperm motility and count, stomach ulcer preventative, hepa-protective, DNA protective, and may be protective against various breast cancer lines in vitro. Ginger may also be useful in treating certain diabetic conditions due to its ability to lower serum glucose, cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels.
Austria – Graz:
These researchers point out that while the properties of ginger and cannabis in the reduction of nausea and vomiting are well established by a series of scientific studies, the focus on special receptor sites involved in producing the very nausea and vomiting is still not very well understood and more research is suggested.1
China – Jinan:
Components of ginger have been found to protect the epithelium (tissue lining inside the arteries) when exposed to an environment of high fat diets. This rodent based study confirmed that ginger was able to reduce the thickening of the artery wall as measured by intima-media thickness of the aorta.2
German Commission E:
Approved for the treatment of: "Dyspepsia, prevention of motion sickness."
India – Mysore:
According to this study and echoing an allopathic consensus, physical conditions that can produce an environment conducive to ulcer formations are the presence of Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria involved in ulcer production, oxidative stress, stomach irritability (due to increased gastric cell proton potassium ATPase activity (PPA) or perturbation of mucosal defense) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's) such as vioxx, ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen. These Indian scientists determined that ginger protects the body from stomach ulcer formation by multiple means: inhibiting Helicobacter pylori, exhibits ability to scavenge free radicals (strong anti-oxidant), inhibiting lipid peroxidation and by displaying DNA protection. The study concludes that ginger may be an inexpensive and multi-pronged approach to protect against stomach ulcer formation.3
Kuwait – Safat:
The effectiveness of ginger to alleviate the difficulties of diabetic rats to breakdown sugar and convert it to usable energy was examined in this study, which discovered that ginger at 500mg/kg was able to lower blood glucose, cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels when compared to the control group of rats not receiving the treatment.4
Saudi Arabia – Riyadh:
Ginger has long been in Unani traditional medicine to enhance sexual function in males. Scientists used a rodent experiment to test the influence of ginger as part of their diet. The results showed that ginger significantly increased sperm motility (movement) and content without any toxic side effects.5
South Africa – Durban:
This researcher supports the time-proven use of ginger by traditional African healers as an effective means to treat painful and chronic arthritic inflammatory conditions and its use to achieve better metabolic control in patients with type-2 adult-onset diabetes.6
South Korea – Seoul:
Ginger, a spice commonly used in Korean traditional medicine and cuisine, has been proven by researchers to have the ability to protect and strengthen the heart and liver, function as an anti-inflammatory and now has been examined with regards to its potential to inhibit breast cancer cell growth.7
Switzerland – Zürich:
In this study, thousands of volunteers, participated to determine how well seven different commonly used prophylactic of seasickness worked. The data was gathered during whale watching tours in Norway. In the control group, not receiving any prophylactic, 80% showed signs of seasickness, namely nausea with vomiting and malaise. In the group receiving a prophylactic amongst seven various agents, only about 4 – 10% of the individuals experienced nausea with vomiting; about 16 – 23% experienced malaise independent of which prophylactic they took, thus indicating a similar effectiveness in preventing seasickness. The agents were: ginger root, cinnarizine, cinnarizine with domperidone, cyclizine, dimenhydrinate with caffeine, meclozine with caffeine, and scopolamine, which seemed the least effective.8
Thailand – Bangkok:
In this double-blind placebo controlled study ginger has proven to be effective in preventing nausea and vomiting associated with female patients receiving major gynecological surgery. The patients in the treatment group received two capsules of ginger taken one hour before the procedure (one capsule containing 0.5 gram of ginger powder).9 Another study discovered that 650mg of ginger given three times daily for a total of 4 days to pregnant women experiencing morning sickness worked even better than vitamin B-6 (another commonly used natural supplement to reduce nausea and vomiting during early pregnancies).10
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GRAINS OF PARADISE:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Promoting wound healing by cell membrane support, anti-oxidant, and analgesic when inflammation present, molluscicidal, anti-diarrhea, anti-microbial, may enhance sexual interest and function.
Cameroon – Buea:
Scientists tested several African plants' abilities to rid bodies of water of their snail population.4 The spice proved highly capable of ridding the waterways of snails carrying parasites such as schistosomiasis.
Cameroon – Yaoundé:
Researchers, using a rodent model, discovered that 115mg/kg of a water-based extract of grains of paradise significantly increased male arousal and sexual function.5
Ghana – Kumasi:
This study offers an overview of several local Ghanaian herbs and spices,6 which have been known traditionally to exhibit anti-microbial properties. Results reaffirm the age-old practice of using grains of paradise for wound healing.
Holland – Wageningen:
Dutch scientists looked at a variety of medicinal plants used by hunters on the island of Trinidad. Hunters used grains of paradise for themselves and their dogs7 as part of the traditional Trinidadian treatment repertoire in addressing wounds and venomous bites (scorpions or snakes).
Nigeria – Lagos:
Water-based extracts made from seeds of grains of paradise were found to have a significant ability to reduce diarrhea. In addition, they appeared to possess inhibitive actions on prostaglandins (hormone like fatty acids) productions8.
Nigeria – Lagos:
Rodents receiving 100-500mg of the water-based extract of the spice experienced a significant reduction of castor oil-induced diarrhea.9
Nigeria – Ibadan:
Scientists discovered several potential observable explanations for the usage of the spice in age-old wound healing practices. The spice has the ability to stabilize the cell membrane10 of injured tissue sites thus possibly reducing the need and speed for reconstruction. Furthermore, it has also been noted to have strong anti-oxidant properties enabling the body to more effectively scavenge free radicals common in injuries.
Nigeria – Ibadan:
Another study from the same university shows that the analgesic (pain reducing) properties of the spice are specific to sites with inflamed tissue only. They do not reduce the pain perceptions of non-inflamed tissue sites.11
Nigeria – Uturu:
This investigation suggested a possibly mild and transient side-effect of blurred vision.12
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MYRRH:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Antimicrobial, human heterophyiasis (intestinal fluke), schistosoma mansoni (flatworm), dicrocoeliasis dendriticum (small liver fluke), antiseptic, anesthetic, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, arthritis, apoptosis (destruction of various cancer cells), human fascioliasis (liver fluke – trematode Fasciola hepatica).
Egypt – Alexandria:
This study confirms the time-proven practice of using myrrh as an antimicrobial agent for a host of different diseases.2
Egypt – Cairo:
Another intestinal parasite, human heterophyiasis, has been destroyed with a 98% success rate using Mirazid (Commiphora molmol). Two capsules were given for a period of nine days before breakfast on an empty stomach.3 According to this study, it would appear that myrrh could also be effective against another common parasite, schistosoma mansoni. Mice infected with this flatworm were given extract of myrrh (Mirazid), which in turn produced a significant reduction in worm and worm eggs.4 In yet another study Mirazid was tested against the parasite, trematode Fasciola hepatica, a liver fluke causing human fascioliasis, which is spread to herbivores and humans alike through consuming infested aquatic plants or water. The infestations can produce abdominal pain (especially on the right upper abdomen - liver), generalized weakness, fever and nausea. More than 1,000 individuals were tested for the parasite. Those who tested positive were given two capsules with mirazil before breakfast for six days. The authors of the study reported: "The parasitological cure rate, two and three months after treatment, was 88.2% and 94.1% with an overt clinical cure without any side-effects."5
Egypt – El Mansurah:
Praziquantel has been the pharmaceutical drug of choice in the treatment of schistosomiasis. However, the parasite has become increasingly tolerant of the drug, which is also relatively expensive (eight tablets cost about $50). In addition, it can produce serious side effects such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, generalized weakness, headaches, fevers, muscle pains, cardiac arrhythmias and seizures. In this study, myrrh was given to 204 infected patients at a dose of 10mg/kg for a period of 3 days, which induced a cure rate of over 90% with mild and temporary side effects in some cases.6 One hundred (500 – 600mg) capsules of myrrh costs about $4 – 6 in the U.S. and is most likely less expensive in countries closer to myrrh sources.
German Commission E:
Approved for the topical treatment of mucus membrane inflammation such as in sore throats.
Saudi Arabia – Jeddah:
Dicrocoeliasis dendriticum, or small liver fluke, is a parasite that most commonly affects sheep but to a lesser degree also humans. This study discovered that myrrh extract (600mg) from Commiphora molmol (syn. with C. myrrha) given before breakfast on an empty stomach for a period of six days produced a 100% success rate.7 A stool analysis conducted as a follow up for all patients showed no signs of the fluke.
United States – Bethesda:
Based on traditional practice and evidence-based discoveries this researcher reported that myrrh's significant antiseptic, anesthetic, and antitumor properties are most likely attributed to a specific alkene called furanosesquiterpene, present in essential oil of myrrh.8
United States – Cincinnati:
This study discovered some of the potential physiological reasons why myrrh has been used for thousands of years in the treatment of arthritis. Among the compounds tested, myrrh was able to modulate inflammatory responses.9
United States – Houston:
Scientists discovered that naturally occurring steroids (guggulsterone) from a closely related species called Commiphora mukul was able to produce apoptosis (destruction of cancer cells); "…including leukemia, head and neck carcinoma, multiple myeloma, lung carcinoma, melanoma, breast carcinoma, and ovarian carcinoma. Guggulsterone also inhibited the proliferation of drug-resistant cancer cells (e.g., gleevac-resistant leukemia, dexamethasone-resistant multiple myeloma, and doxorubicin-resistant breast cancer cells)."10
Sudan – Khartoum:
Department of Veterinary Medicine scientists tested various dosages of myrrh on goats. They discovered that a usage of 250mg/kg daily was nontoxic to the goats, while dosages of more than 1gm/kg daily and 5 gm/kg daily caused "grinding of teeth, salivation, soft feces, inappetence (lack of appetite), jaundice, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), ataxia (difficulty walking) and recumbency. Death occurred between 5 and 16 days. Organ examination found toxicity at kidneys and liver."11
India –Mumbai:
Scientists determined in this study that a common Ayurvedic product, guggul lipid used to lower cholesterol, reduces the bioavailability of propranolol and diltiazem (valium). Patients receiving such beta-blockers and hypnotics should consider consulting with their respective healthcare professional.12
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NIGELLA:
Summary of medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies 2004 - 2007: Possible prophylactic effect in asthma patients, bronchodilator, antihistaminic, relaxant, anticholinergic, anti-inflammatory, antiarthritic, antitumor, antidiabetic, may prevent kidney stones, anti-hypertensive, antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic, cardiac tonic, may destroy prostate cancer cells, may prevent prostate cancer, may prevent and treat colon cancer, protects against ionizing radiation, possible treatment and prevention of Schistosomiasis, and a possible anti-convulsant (seizure).
Egypt – Dokki:
Schistosomiasis (snail fever) is a parasitical disease caused by a flatworm carried by certain snails living in dammed waters or natural ponds. This common tropical illness affects millions of people worldwide. Egyptian scientists examined the possible role of black seeds in the treatment of Schistosomiasis and found that it possessed a strong ability to destroy the parasite in all stages of its life cycle. In addition, it created a hostile environment in the body for the parasitical egg implantation.1 The study found a reduced production rate of oxidative enzymes. Is it this function that allows the body's own defense against parasites - cellular hydrogen peroxide - to destroy the worm?
Iran – Mashhad:
Doctors evaluated the extracts from boiled nigella seeds on asthmatic adults and determined that those patients using the extract reported a reduction in all asthma symptoms, including improved pulmonary function tests. Furthermore, patients experienced a reduced need for inhalers.2 In this rodent-model study from Mashad, scientists determined that alcoholic extracts of nigella sativa reduced calcium oxalate deposits (a main cause for kidney stone formation).3 While more research is needed to determine if similar reduction occurs in humans it is a possible promising prophylactic especially in people familiar with the extreme pain of passing a kidney stone. Another rodent study from Mashad determined that black seed had the ability to suppress epileptic seizures, in both reoccurence and severity, thus considering the possible anti-convulsant properties of the plant.4
Saudi Arabia – Dammam:
Two kinds of cardiac hypertrophy exist. One is pathological and produces a variety of heart problems; and the other is physiological, usually brought on by regular exercise, enhancing overall heart functions. King Faisal University scientists discovered that rats, when fed 800mg/kg black seed over a period of two months, developed physiological cardiac hypertrophy. This, to date, is the first such study examining the potential of nigella for overall heart function and health.5
Turkey - Zonguldak:
Human parathyroid hormone, a treatment for osteoporosis (an especially serious problem in patients with insulin dependent diabetes), has been found to significantly enhance its therapeutic abilities when combined with nigella extract.6
Turkey - Yüzüncü Yıl University:
Another study from Turkey demonstrated that the volatile oil of nigella can suppress artificially induced arthritis in rats, adding a bit more understanding as to the time-proven use of nigella in the treatment of arthritis and other similar chronic inflammatory conditions.7
Turkey - Afyon:
Ionizing radiation is used to treat many human cancer patients. However, the radiation does not discriminate between cancer cells and healthy cells, and, as a result, massive tissue damage across the board occurs. This study from Turkey, using a rodent model, found that the radiation damage to the healthy tissue might be minimized by nigella sativa oil ingestion (1ml/kg body weight) and injections of glutathione. The study reports: "These results clearly show that NS and GSH treatment significantly antagonize the effects of radiation. Therefore, NS and GSH may be a beneficial agent in protection against ionizing radiation-related tissue injury."8
Morocco – Béni-Mellal:
Injecting nigella essential oil into the tumor sites significantly reduced solid tumor development, inhibited metastasis, and improved the overall survival of the test mice.9
United States – Detroit:
Scientists at the Henry Ford Hospital noted that a body of international reports, mostly from the Middle East and Asia, found nigella to have an antineoplastic (abnormal growth of cells of benign or cancerous tumors) effect in both the laboratory and real patients. They isolated a component of nigella called thymoquinone and tested it in a rodent model. They discovered that the nigella based compound produced apoptosis – the destruction of cancer cells without notable side effects. They also concluded that thymoquinone may also help prevent prostate cancer.10
United States – Jackson:
In a University of Mississippi Medical Center Jackson study, Mississippi scientists were following the reported time-proven threads from the Middle East. They examined the possible therapeutic effects of catechin, found in green tea, and thymoquinone, a major compound from black seed (nigella sativa), on specific colon cancer cells. They compared both natural products with the effectiveness of the current chemotherapeutic drug of choice - 5-fluorouracil - against colon cancer cell lines. Scientists determined that both the green tea – catechin - and the thymoquinone from nigella sativa "have demonstrated incredible chemotherapeutic responses,11 thus suggesting that both may have similar chemotherapeutic effects as their pharmacological counterpart 5-fluorouracil, which has known serious side effects including cardiac toxicity."
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NUTMEG:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Acts as a male aphrodisiac, possible anti-depressant and mood enhancer, possible memory enhancer, possible memory loss protector; is radio-protective, anti-bacterial, cholesterol lowering, a heartburn inhibitor, anti-thrombotic (reduces blood clotting); may enhance insulin metabolism, prevent tooth decay (anti caries); has psychoactive components (various alkaloids); and, is possibly helpful in type 2 diabetes associated with obesity.
India – Aligarh:
Unani traditions boast nutmeg's long-standing reputation as a male aphrodisiac. Now an Aligarh Muslim University study may provide further clues into why nutmeg aides in the treatment of male sexual dysfunctions. The researchers noted that when rats were given a 50% alcoholic extract of nutmeg as well as clove (500mg/kg), male rats experienced an increased sexual appetite without any noticeable side effects.1
India – Hisar:
An extract of nutmeg seeds (10mg/kg) has been found - in a mouse model - to have anti-depressant properties similar to those of pharmacological anti-depressants like imipramine (15 mg/kg) and fluoxetine (20 mg/kg). The researchers from Guru Jambheshwar University in Hisar state: "The antidepressant-like effect of the extract seems to be mediated by interaction with the adrenergic, dopaminergic, and serotonergic systems."2 Various constituents of nutmeg were extracted from the dried powder of the seed and applied against a variety of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Researchers from the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University, in Hisar, determined that all extracted constituents exhibited good anti-bacterial activities, which could be used to replace synthetic preservatives.3 This particular study presents more of nutmeg's potentially mind-affecting properties. A mouse model revealed that an extract from the plant's seed given at 5mg/kg over a period of 3 days could enhance memory function in the rodents. In addition, the extract protected the mice from the impairment, which the scientists had tried to produce in them with doses of scopolamine and diazepam.4
India – Jaipur:
University of Rajasthan scientists evaluated a completely different therapeutic property of nutmeg, which may protect against the damaging effects of gamma radiation.5 Gamma radiation resembles x-ray emissions - the major difference being its source. Both are ionizing radiations that penetrate the skin, possibly producing changes in the DNA of each cell. These permutations can result in a variety of cancers and congenital conditions, which may be passed on to following generations. In this study, scientists fed rabbits an alcoholic extract of nutmeg at 500mg/kg for a period of 60 days. Rabbits significantly experienced reduced cholesterol in the heart and liver and improved ability in reducing blood clots.6
Korea - Yusong-gu:
Korean scientists explored the use of an isolated nutmeg extract in the treatment of Type 2 Diabetes and obesity. Scientists discovered that the extract inhibited a certain protein expression, thereby enhancing insulin signals inside the cells.7
Korea - Seoul:
In this study, Korean scientists isolated a nutmeg compound called macelignan, which has strong anti-bacterial properties especially when tested against caries (tooth decay). The compound also produced the bacteria Streptococcus mutans.8
Pakistan - Saidu Sharif
In a study from Pakistan, scientists found that Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker used to slow down prolonged rapid heartbeats as well as high blood pressure, also functions similarly to cimetidine in reducing gastric juices.9 These same scientists found nutmeg to perform similarly. A separate study from this same Saidu Department of Pharmacology determined that nutmeg also reduced gastric juices, but without the side effects.10
Germany – Homburg:
Psychotropic experiences at high doses have been reported. Nutmeg overdoses cannot be detected in urine.11 It is thought that the main suspected psychotropic ingredients (elemicin, myristicin and safrole) contribute to the formation of an amphetamine-like derivative as part of the body's metabolic process.
United States – Austin:
Poison control centers in Texas received 17 calls involving nutmeg ingestion between 1998 and 2004. Reports stipulate that the majority were intentional nutmeg abuse ingestions or that of intentional and unintentional use: "None of the ingestions resulted in more than moderate clinical effects or death."12
Sweden – Uppsala:
This study suggests that human intoxication has been reported at approximately 5gm of nutmeg seed, which corresponds to about 1-2 mg myristicin/kg body weight.13 Myristicin is the principal aromatic constituent of nutmeg's volatile oil.
German Commission E:
As of 1986, nutmeg was considered an unapproved drug due to the risk versus benefit analysis. The Commission reports that high doses can cause abortions. It urges caution.
According to the German Commision E, nutmeg acts as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) blocking prostaglandin synthesis.14 While currently no studies exist to determine nutmeg's interaction with pharmaceutical medications, it may be possible that nutmeg interferes with a group of anti-depressant drugs also containing MAOI. Monoamine oxidase is a naturally occurring enzyme in the human body. It is responsible for the break down of presently no longer needed neurotransmitters, such as serotonin or norepinepherine. MAOIs suppress this enzyme, which in turn extends the time interval of neurotransmitters such as serotine, norepinepherine and dopamine in the circulation. This allows for a prolonged effect of physiological and emotional impacts, such as mood elevation. It may be possible for MAOI's action to be fortified and enhanced by using MAOI drugs and nutmeg, thus allowing for decreased risk of side effects. Some common side effects: dizziness, dry mouth, sensation of drunkenness, constipation, hypotension and reduced sexual interest. Some serious side effects of MAOIs: severe anxiety, dizziness, rapid heartbeats, diaphoresis (sweating), panic attacks, seizures, fever, hallucinations, and shortness of breath.
Inhibition of prostaglandin production may lead to a wide variety of biological functions related to prostaglandin. Different tissue experiences caused varied affects from prostaglandin, making it a versatile substance in controlling pain, inflammation and glandular secretion. Prostaglandin, which has hormone-like effects, is involved in: smooth muscle contraction, lowered blood pressure, and stimulated uterine contractions and blood vessels in the intestines. This may explain the age-old belief in nutmeg being able to abort a pregnancy.
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OREGANO:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Anti-parasitical (Chagas disease), anti-oxidant, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial (including several drug resistant strains), may reduce hyperglycemia, may support the immune system, and may be effective against leukemia (cancer).
Brazil – Rio de Janeiro:
Oregano essential oil was used effectively in the laboratory against Trypanosoma cruzi, the parasite responsible for Chagas disease (T. cruzi infection) affecting humans and animals alike.1 The CDC states that: "It is estimated that as many as 8 to 11 million people in Mexico, Central America, and South America have Chagas disease, most of whom do not know they are infected. If unrecognized and untreated, even silent infection is lifelong and can be life threatening."2
Bulgaria – Varna:
Scientists from the Department of Pharmacology and Biochemistry at the University of Medicine conducted studies following the model of traditional Bulgarian herbalists. Using a tea preparation of oregano to treat respiratory illness, gastrointestinal problems and other inflammatory disorders, they discovered that tea of oregano has a high phenolic content as well as high anti-oxidant properties. This may account for its effectiveness for hundreds of years.3
China – Nanning:
Thymol and carvacrol were found by Chinese researchers to be the main compositions of the volatile oil of oregano.4
Italy – Bologna:
Veterinarians studied the effects of several essential oils including oil of oregano against candida fungal infections. They found it to have "maximum inhibitory activity"5 of which the most active phenol component (acidic chemical compound with antiseptic properties) was carvacrol.
Mexico – Cuernavaca:
In this Mexican study scientists took samples from pediatric patients who were severely infected by gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria, which showed resistance to common antibiotics. These bacteria were then exposed in the laboratory to the commonly available essential oil of oregano, which recorded amongst the highest and broadest antibacterial activity.6
Morocco – Errachidia:
Endocrinologists in Northern Africa examined the potential of a water-based extract of oregano as a therapeutic agent to treat hyperglycemia. They found in an animal model that the extract has the ability to reduce sugar levels without increasing the blood insulin concentrations.7
Russia:
This Russian study confirmed the anti-oxidant activity of extract of oregano.8
Spain – Madrid:
Scientists tested the antioxidant activity of oregano leaves extracted with a new process. This apparently environmentally friendly method called subcritical water extraction uses different temperatures. They determined that while all extract variants produced antioxidant capable solutions, those extracted at the highest temperature (200C°) offered the highest amount as well as the highest yield from the leaves.9
Switzerland – Dübendorf:
Good news for farmers from a recent study, which showed that adding oregano into the feed of growth-retarded pigs stimulates their immune system10 thereby possibly allowing them to survive at a higher rate. This resulted in deeming oregano's therapeutic ability worthy of future exploration where immune improvement is required.
United States – Orlando:
Chemists at the University of Central Florida isolated several compounds from oregano. Studies showed that aristolochic acid I, and aristolochic acid II possessed cancer-fighting abilities, specifically against leukemia.11
Germany:
As of 1988, 'the German Commission E' considered oregano an unapproved drug due to the lack of documented efficacy at that time.
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ROSEMARY:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies: Anti-microbial (bacteria, fungi), dyspepsia (digestive complaints), promotes circulation, radio protective, may be effective in skin cancer tumor prevention, may prevent other kinds of tumors, anti-inflammatory, may help in the prevention and treatment of diabetic, cardiovascular, and other neurodegenerative diseases.
China - Harbin:
Scientists confirmed the anti-microbial activity of the essential oil of rosemary against a variety of bacterial and fungal pathogens including those of Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans.1
Cuba's clinical uses:
An infusion of rosemary leaves is used in Cuba to treat liver and gall bladder complaints, and is also used to reduce spasms due to gas, as well as flatulence itself. Furthermore, it is also used as a tonic for hair.
German Commission E:
Approved for: "Internal: Dyspeptic complaints. External: Supportive therapy for rheumatic diseases, circulatory problems."
India – Jaipur:
In this controlled study researchers uncovered rosemary's ability to protect laboratory animals from the damage of ionizing radiation.2 A mouse model was used to determine the anti-tumor properties of rosemary in the case of chemically induced skin cancer formation. Those mice fed 1gm/kg of rosemary extract by weight sustained an average of approximately 50% reduction of tumor formation when compared to the untreated control group.3
Taiwan – Taichung Hsien:
Scientists from this island nation conducted a set of experiments using a super critical fluid extraction technique and identified several biologically active constituents from rosemary determining that it: "…can be considered an herbal anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor agent."4
Taiwan – Taichung Hsien:
In another experiment from the same University scientists concluded that: "…rosemary is an excellent multifunctional therapeutic herb; by looking at its potentially potent antiglycative bioactivity, it may become a good adjuvant medicine for the prevention and treatment of diabetic, cardiovascular, and other neurodegenerative diseases."5
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TURMERIC:
Summary medicinal uses and properties supported by scientific studies 2004-2007: Anti-parasitical (schistosomiasis); anti-bacterial; pulmonary protective; digestive difficulties; prevents relapse in cases of ulcerative colitis; Crohn's disease; stomach ulcers; cancer preventative; cancer treatment; promoter of wound-healing and diabetes. A therapeutic agent in Alzheimer's, Parkinson disease, cardio-vascular disease, pulmonary disease, arthritis, adenomatous polyposis (multiple polyps in the large intestines – precursor to colon cancer), inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), ulcerative colitis (colon inflammation with ulcers), arthritis, atherosclerosis, pancreatitis, psoriasis, chronic anterior and uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye). Anti-inflammatory, immune modulator, allergies, atherosclerosis, heart disease, and diabetes.
Egypt – Cairo:
Scientists compared the effectiveness of turmeric and praziquantel, the paharmacological treatment of choice, in destroying the parasite schitosomiasis. They discovered that turmeric was better at lowering parasitical egg counts while praziquantel was better able to reduce actual worm presence.1
England – London:
Scientists examined the antibacterial properties of the extract against Helicobacter pylori (the bacteria held responsible for contributing to stomach ulcers) and found that of the 25 plants tested turmeric had the strongest antibacterial properties. It not only destroyed the bacteria, it also prevented it from attaching to the stomach walls, which scientists suggested could provide an effective alternative to antibiotic resistant strains of the microbe.2
France – Vandoeuvre-Lès-Nancy
Based on the evidence of numerous laboratory and animal trials these scientists contend "…that curcumin plays a protective role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, acute lung injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and allergic asthma, its therapeutic action being on the prevention or modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress." Furthermore, and based on the substance of these studies, "these scientists suggest the beginning of clinical trials using turmeric to treat human patients with a variety of chronic and acute lung disorders."3
German Commission E:
Turmeric was approved in the treatment of digestive difficulties with a dose range of 1.5 – 3gm daily.
Japan – Hamamatsu:
In this double-blind randomized placebo controlled human study scientists examined turmeric's ability to assist patients with a history of dormant ulcerative colitis from relapsing. They concluded that curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric, seemed to be a safe medication for maintaining remission from ulcerative colitis.4
Thailand – Bangkok:
In a study conducted in Thailand patients with peptic ulcers were given 2 capsules filled with turmeric (300 mg each) orally, 5 times daily. The result after 4 weeks of treatment showed that ulcers were absent in 48% of the cases treated with turmeric.5
United States – Dallas:
In this meta-study scientists give an overview of decades of scientific studies on turmeric. They summarize a long list of turmeric's potential therapeutic properties: cancer and diabetic preventative, cancer treatment, promoter of wound-healing, therapeutic agent in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cardio-vascular, and pulmonary disease, arthritis, adenomatous polyposis (multiple polyps in the large intestines – precursor to colon cancer), inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), ulcerative colitis (colon inflammation with ulcers), atherosclerosis, pancreatitis, psoriasis, chronic anterior and uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye).6
United States – Houston:
Research over the past five decades, time-proven records from other traditions, and numerous case studies have indicated that turmeric can prevent and treat some forms of cancer. Turmeric has the ability to diminish the creation, production and spread of a wide variety of tumor cells.7 A University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center study confirms time-proven traditional knowledge boasting turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, they discovered that turmeric modulates the immune system by activating natural killer cells. When used in low doses, turmeric reduces the body's tendency to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines by enhancing antibody response. In cases of asthma, arthritis, allergies, atherosclerosis, heart disease, Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and cancer researchers suggest that curcumin's (yellow-orange colored part of turmeric) reported beneficial effects may be related to this immune modulating property.8 In another study from the Cancer Center scientists stated that one of the problems with turmeric is the low bioavailability due to rapid elimination and poor absorption. But, they also realized that even while they are trying to overcome this hurdle turmeric, in its current bioavailability, is able to produce therapeutic effects in cases of different diseases such as "…cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, arthritis, neurological diseases and Crohn's disease…"9 Another study focused on the combined results of the past decades of scientific study using turmeric as a means to enhance immunity by the activation of '… T cells, B cells, macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells…on one hand and on the other to be able to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines (chemical messengers inducing inflammation).'
United States – San Francisco:
Scientists at the University of California determined in this study that turmeric also has potent anti-inflammatory properties.10
W.H.O. Monographs on selected Medicinal Plants:
"Uses supported by clinical data: The principal use of Rhizoma Curcumae Longae is for the treatment of acid, flatulent, or atonic dyspepsia." Uses described in pharmacopoeias and in traditional systems of medicine: "Treatment of peptic ulcers, and pain and inflammation due to rheumatoid arthritis and of amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, diarrhoea, epilepsy, pain, and skin diseases."
Untied States – Houston:
Dried herb: Suggested dose for prevention and treatment is 1 gm twice a day. Human clinical trials are indicated safe for doses up to 12 gm/day.11 Also available as a tincture, extract, powder, paste, ointment, essential oil, oil, lotion, and as an inhalant depending in which country you live. Good quality turmeric should have a red-orange colored look to it.
India Mumbai:
Allergic contact dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) has been noted in some people. Liver toxicity has been reported with the use of the spice and alcohol extracts in experiments with mice.12
Saudi Arabia – Riyadh:
Indocin is a NSAID commonly prescribed to treat swelling and pains due to arthritis. A common side effect is stomach ulcers. Reserpine, an anti-psychotic drug, also commonly produces stomach ulcers. In 1990, scientists from King Saud University discovered that turmeric extract given to rats at the dose of 500mg/kg was enough to: "…produce significant anti-ulcerogenic activity."13
South Korea:
These scientists conducted further experiments to determine the exact physiological mechanism of how turmeric prevents the formation of stomach ulcers and found that "the extract from C. longa specifically inhibits gastric acid secretion by blocking H(2) histamine receptors in a competitive manner."14
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