Herbs: A medication prepared from plants, including most of the world’s traditional remedies for disease. Most think of herbal remedies as products sold over the counter as “supplements”, such as saw palmetto extract or some type of ointment. However, many over- the-counter and prescription drugs are based on ingredients derived from plants, including aspirin and digoxin. Lab tests show that some herbal remedies are effective against illness. An Individual should use these drugs as carefully as prescription medicines, using caution in order to avoid overdose, interactions with other medications, and misuse. Herbal medicines are one type of dietary supplement. They are sold as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. People use herbal medicines to maintain or improve health. Many believe that products labeled “natural” are safe to use. This is not true as herbal medicines do not have to go through the testing that drugs do. Some herbs, such as comfrey and ephedra, can cause serious harm. Certain herbs interaction with prescription or over-the-counter medicines can work well with other medicines but can also be dangerous. Before using herbal medicines, first get information from reliable sources and make sure to tell your health care provider about any herbal medicines you are taking. For Answers to any questions you may have please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900
Do digestive problems subside with rest or relaxation?
Stomach pains, burning, or aching 1-4 hours after eating?
Redden skin?
Nausea or vomiting?
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then you might be experiencing some digestive stress. Try some chamomile to reduce that stress and anxious mind.
Chamomile and its products are well known for promoting a relaxed state of mind and for improving sleep quality for anyone. This white and yellow flower, however, has many more impressive health benefits that are beneficial with anyone that is feeling stressed in their daily, hectic lives.
What is Chamomile?
Chamomile is an ancient medicinal plant from the Asteraceae family and is often referred to as the “star among medicinal species.” Its flowers have unusual properties that can boost a person’s health and provide impressive benefits. This plant is native to southern and eastern Europe and has been around for thousands of years. Chamomile has been used in herbal remedies in Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The plant has thin spindly shaped roots, erect stem, and a flower head that looks similar to daisies. Since chamomile is a therapeutic and medicinal plant, it contains a wide variety of health-supportive compounds that can combat some of the ailments that a person can get.
Chamomile Benefits
Chamomile’s compounds can act as antioxidants in the body. As a result, consuming chamomile products can help prevent the common cold from coming, hay fever, inflammation, muscle spasms, menstrual disorders, insomnia, ulcers, wounds, gastrointestinal disorders, rheumatic pain, and hemorrhoids. The two most common types of chamomile are used for therapeutic purposes are the German chamomile (chamomillarecutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum Nobile). The flower is processed to create chamomile capsules and chamomile tea, while the plant can be extracted to be used as essential oils. These products can help the individual feel relaxed and eased their anxious minds.
Reducing Pain
The anti-inflammatory effects of the chamomile flower and the essential oil can help to reduce the physical pain that the body has encountered. Since chamomile has been used for hundreds of years, it has helped individuals reduce the pain from headaches, back pain, toothaches, and other inflammatory-related symptoms they might be experiencing.
A 2013 study from the University College in Dublin, stated that individuals drinking a herbal beverage that is composed of chamomile, meadowsweet, and willow bark saw that their mechanical joint functions were improving. Their lower back and knee pain was reduced with chamomile. The flavonoid apigenin is one of the main anti-inflammatory compounds that is found in chamomile that is contributing to reducing pain in the joints and the body.
A 2015 study also stated that chamomile oil had been shown as an increase in physical function when it is used as a topical oil for patients with knee osteoarthritis.
Heals Wounds and Promotes Skin Health
Chamomile can help reduce irritated skin. The essential oil from chamomile can be mixed with carrier lotion or oil and be applied directly to the irritated area. It can also provide a positive effect to reduce breakouts and calm down the red or dry skin, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Chamomile products can also reduce symptoms that may be associated with gout, eczema, hemorrhoids, and ulcers that a person may encounter.
In some instances, research has stated that chamomile is more effective than hydrocortisone cream for healing wounds. A 2011 Iranian study has compared that German chamomile solution that is being applied with a topical steroid on peristomal skin lesions on patients found that the wounds were healing faster with the chamomile solution than with the medical hydrocortisone cream.
A 2016 study that was published in the Journal of Supportive Care in Cancer has compared that water cryotherapy and the cryotherapy made with a chamomile infusion has helped with the prevention and the reduction of oral mucositis. The individuals that took the chamomile infused cryotherapy were presented with less mouth pain and had no ulcerations.
Improving Digestion
Another widespread use for chamomile, especially when it is brewed in a tea, is reducing unwanted symptoms that are associated with poor digestion in the digestive system. With chamomile tea, it can soothe an upset stomach, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhea. The therapeutic compounds that are found in chamomile can act as a digestive relaxant.
Improves Sleep and Relaxation
Chamomile, when it is brewed into a tea, can improve sleep quality and can promote a relaxing state of mind. Many individuals found that drinking chamomile tea before going to bed has helped them relax more and have a better night’s sleep. The sedative effects from chamomile tea are due to the flavonoid, apigenin that is bind with the benzodiazepine receptors in the brain. This effect can help reduce anxiety and promotes a good night’s sleep.
A 2017 study has found that sleep quality from older adults has improved after consuming chamomile extract before going to bed, while another study from the University of Fooyin in Taiwan found that postnatal women that are experiencing difficulty sleeping. They consumed chamomile tea for two weeks, and their sleep quality and mood improved drastically.
Boosting Mental Wellness
Using chamomile products can benefit a person’s mental wellness. Since chamomile can help the individual relax, it can also help reduce the feeling of anxiety and depression. Studies have stated that long term chamomile consumption is safe and can significantly reduce moderate to severe GAD symptoms. Even using chamomile oil for aromatherapy, can be considered as an alternative for antidepressant treatments.
Conclusion
So chamomile is a safe and productive plant that has been used for centuries to support individuals that have been experiencing a variety of unwanted symptoms. Chamomile is excellent for reducing pain, have better skin, healing wounds, improve digestion, sleep, and mental wellness. Whether it is taken in the form of tea, supplements, or used in aromatherapy, chamomile is a natural remedy for the anxious mind. Some products combined with chamomile are designed to offer support to the gastrointestinal tract and make sure that sugar metabolism is functioning properly.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or chronic disorders of the musculoskeletal system. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
References:
Abdullahzadeh, Mehrdad, et al. “Investigation Effect of Oral Chamomilla on Sleep Quality in Elderly People in Isfahan: A Randomized Control Trial.” Journal of Education and Health Promotion, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, 5 June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28616420.
Chang, Shao-Min, and Chung-Hey Chen. “Effects of an Intervention with Drinking Chamomile Tea on Sleep Quality and Depression in Sleep Disturbed Postnatal Women: a Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Advanced Nursing, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26483209.
Charousaei, Firuzeh, et al. “Using Chamomile Solution or a 1% Topical Hydrocortisone Ointment in the Management of Peristomal Skin Lesions in Colostomy Patients: Results of a Controlled Clinical Study.” Ostomy/Wound Management, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21617262.
Dos Reis, Paula Elaine Diniz, et al. “Chamomile Infusion Cryotherapy to Prevent Oral Mucositis Induced by Chemotherapy: a Pilot Study.” Supportive Care in Cancer: Official Journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27189615.
Drummond, Elaine M, et al. “An in Vivo Study Examining the Antiinflammatory Effects of Chamomile, Meadowsweet, and Willow Bark in a Novel Functional Beverage.” Journal of Dietary Supplements, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24237191.
Kong, Yingying, et al. “Inhalation of Roman Chamomile Essential Oil Attenuates Depressive-like Behaviors in Wistar Kyoto Rats.” Science China. Life Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28527112.
Mao, Jun J, et al. “Long-Term Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla L.) Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” Phytomedicine: International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 Dec. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27912875.
Miraj, Sepide, and Samira Alesaeidi. “A Systematic Review Study of Therapeutic Effects of Matricaria Recuitta Chamomile (Chamomile).” Electronic Physician, Electronic Physician, 20 Sept. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5074766/.
Shoara, Ruhollah, et al. “Efficacy and Safety of Topical Matricaria Chamomilla L. (Chamomile) Oil for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.” Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26256137.
Singh, Ompal, et al. “Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla L.): An Overview.” Pharmacognosy Reviews, Medknow Publications Pvt Ltd, Jan. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3210003/.
Srivastava, Janmejai K, et al. “Chamomile: A Herbal Medicine of the Past with Bright Future.” Molecular Medicine Reports, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Nov. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/.
Chronic pain is one of the most prevalent conditions in the United States, affecting an estimated 100 million Americans each year. To put that into perspective, that’s more than the number of people suffering from cancer, heart disease, and diabetes, combined.
Many of these chronic pain sufferers are looking for relief beyond pharmaceuticals which can have unpleasant and even harmful side effects. This has brought them to natural pain management methods like chiropractic care as well as natural substances like curcumin. For many people, these treatment options have brought them relief from the pain and help them return to a more normal lifestyle.
How does it work though? And, more importantly, can it work for you?
What is Curcumin?
Natural herbal turmeric capsules with fresh herb leaves and dry curcumin in paper
Curcumin is a spice that is a relative of ginger and is a component of turmeric. Often in the U.S., the terms curcumin and turmeric are used interchangeably. However, curcumin is what gives turmeric its bright yellow color.
While it is often found in curries and other traditional Indian food, it has also long been used to treat a variety of health issues including inflammation that causes pain in the body. These claims have been backed up by several studies that show the tasty spice has tremendous health benefits to offer.
These studies have shown that curcumin has strong anti-inflammatory properties although why it works is not yet completely understood. This information has prompted further studies to determine the efficacy of curcumin in treating a wide range of conditions including chronic pain.
One study examined the spice’s effects on people suffering from arthritis or joint pain. The results determined that turmeric extract (curcumin) supplements were just as effective as ibuprofen in relieving the pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis. It helped to reduce the inflammation that was causing the pain, bringing the patients much-needed relief.
Taking Curcumin for Better Health
You can get curcumin or turmeric supplements, but there is no standard dosage information available. Your chiropractor can advise you on how much to take and which supplement brands are the best.
You can also use the spice in the foods you eat and gain a good bit of the health properties that way. However, it may be more efficient and more comfortable to take curcumin or turmeric supplements, especially when you are treating inflammation and pain.
Curcumin is generally safe with very few side effects. As with any medication or supplement, some people are sensitive to the spice and may experience diarrhea and nausea.
However, that usually occurs at higher doses or after the patient has been using it for a long time. High doses could also pose a risk if the person has ulcers. It can also irritate the skin is applied topically.
If you are considering incorporating curcumin into your daily diet as a health supplement, you should first talk to your doctor or chiropractor to make sure it is safe for you. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take the supplements.
People with conditions like diabetes, gallbladder issues, bleeding disorders, kidney disease, or immunity problems should take special care when using the supplement. Also, it can interact with medications like NSAIDs, aspirin, diabetes drugs, statins, blood thinners, and blood pressure medications so talk to your health professional, such as your chiropractor, before taking. They may adjust your dosage or recommend certain nutritional therapies to better support the supplement.
Your chiropractor can help you live a more natural, pain-free life and supplements like curcumin may be a part of that plan. They can help put you on the path to a life well lived.
The nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway, best known as Nrf2, is a protective mechanism which functions as a “master regulator” of the human body’s antioxidant response. Nrf2 senses the levels of oxidative stress within the cells and triggers protective antioxidant mechanisms. While Nrf2 activation can have many benefits, Nrf2 “overexpression” can have several risks.
It appears that a balanced degree of NRF2 is essential towards preventing the overall development of a variety of diseases in addition to the general improvement of these health issues. However, NRF2 can also cause complications. The main cause behind NRF2 “overexpression” is due to a genetic mutation or a continuing chronic exposure to a chemical or oxidative stress, among others. Below, we will discuss the downsides of Nrf2 overexpression and demonstrate its mechanisms of action within the human body.
Cancer
Research studies found that mice that don’t express NRF2 are more inclined to develop cancer in response to physical and chemical stimulation. Similar research studies, however, showed that NRF2 over-activation, or even KEAP1 inactivation, can result in the exacerbation of certain cancers, particularly if those pathways have been interrupted. Overactive NRF2 can occur through smoking, where continuous NRF2 activation is believed to be the cause of lung cancer in smokers. Nrf2 overexpression might cause cancerous cells not to self-destruct, while intermittent NRF2 activation can prevent cancerous cells from triggering toxin induction.
Additionally, because NRF2 overexpression increases the human body’s antioxidant ability to function beyond redox homeostasis, this boosts cell division and generates an unnatural pattern of DNA and histone methylation. This can ultimately make chemotherapy and radiotherapy less effective against cancer. Therefore, limiting NRF2 activation with substances like DIM, Luteolin, Zi Cao, or salinomycin could be ideal for patients with cancer although Nrf2 overactivation should not be considered to be the only cause for cancer. Nutrient deficiencies can affect genes, including NRF2. This might be one way as to how deficiencies contribute to tumors.
Liver
The overactivation of Nrf2, can also affect the function of specific organs in the human body. NRF2 overexpression can ultimately block the production of the insulin-like growth factor 1, or IGF-1, from the liver, which is essential for the regeneration of the liver.
Heart
While the acute overexpression of Nrf2 may have its benefits, continuous overexpression of NRF2 may cause long-term harmful effects on the heart, such as cardiomyopathy. NRF2 expression can be increased through high levels of cholesterol, or the activation of HO-1. This is believed to be the reason why chronic elevated levels of cholesterol might cause cardiovascular health issues.
Vitiligo
NRF2 overexpression has also been demonstrated to inhibit the capability to repigment in vitiligo as it might obstruct Tyrosinase, or TYR, action which is essential for repigmentation through melaninogenesis. Research studies have demonstrated that this process may be one of the primary reasons as to why people with vitiligo don’t seem to activate Nrf2 as efficiently as people without vitiligo.
Why NRF2 May Not Function Properly
Hormesis
NRF2 has to be hormetically activated in order to be able to take advantage of its benefits. In other words, Nrf2 shouldn’t trigger every minute or every day, therefore, it’s a great idea to take breaks from it, by way of instance, 5 days on 5 days off or every other day. NRF2 must also accomplish a specific threshold to trigger its hormetic response, where a small stressor may not be enough to trigger it.
DJ-1 Oxidation
Protein deglycase DJ-1, or just DJ-1, also called the Parkinson’s disease protein, or PARK7, is a master regulator and detector of the redox status in the human body. DJ-1 is essential towards regulating how long NRF2 can perform its function and produce an antioxidant response. In the case that DJ-1 becomes overoxidized, the cells will make the DJ-1 protein less accessible.
This process induces NRF2 activation to expire too fast since DJ-1 is paramount for maintaining balanced levels of NRF2 and preventing them from being broken down in the cell. In case the DJ-1 protein is non-existent or overoxidized, NRF2 expression will probably be minimal, even using DIM or alternative NRF2 activators. DJ-1 expression is imperative to restore impaired NRF2 action.
Chronic Illness
If you have a chronic illness, including CIRS, chronic infections/dysbiosis/SIBO, or heavy metal build up, such as mercury and/or that from root canals, these can obstruct the systems of NRF2 and phase two detoxification. Rather than oxidative stress turning NRF2 into an antioxidant, NRF2 will not trigger and oxidative stress can remain in the cell and cause damage, meaning, there is no antioxidant response. This is a significant reason why many people with CIRS have several sensitivities and reach to numerous factors. Some people believe they may be having a herx response, however, this reaction may only be damaging the cells farther.
Treating chronic illness, however, will permit the liver to discharge toxins into the bile, gradually developing the hormetic response of NRF2 activation. If the bile remains toxic and it’s not excreted from the human body, it will reactivate NRF2’s oxidative stress and cause you to feel worse once it’s reabsorbed from the gastrointestinal, or GI, tract. For example, ochratoxin A may block NRF2. Aside from treating the problem, histone deacetylase inhibitors can block the oxidative reaction from a number of the factors which trigger NRF2 activation but it might also prevent NRF2 from triggerring normally, which might ultimately fail to serve its purpose.
Fish Oil Dysregulation
Cholinergics are substances which boost acetylcholine, or ACh, and choline in the brain through the increase of ACh, particularly when inhibiting the breakdown of ACh. Patients with CIRS often have problems with the dysregulation of acetylcholine levels in the human body, especially in the brain. Fish oil triggers NRF2, activating its protective antioxidant mechanism within the cells.
People with chronic illnesses might have problems with cognitive stress and acetylcholine excitotoxicity, from organophosphate accumulation, which might cause fish oil to create inflammation within the human body. Choline deficiency additionally induces NRF2 activation. Including choline into your diet, (polyphenols, eggs, etc.) can help enhance the effects of cholinergic dysregulation.
What Decreases NRF2?
Decreasing NRF2 overexpression is best for people that have cancer, although it may be beneficial for a variety of other health issues.
Diet, Supplements, and Common Medicines:
Apigenin (higher doses)
Brucea javanica
Chestnuts
EGCG (high doses increase NRF2)
Fenugreek (Trigonelline)
Hiba (Hinokitiol / β-thujaplicin)
High Salt Diet
Luteolin (Celery, green pepper, parsley, perilla leaf, and chamomile tea – higher doses may increase NRF2 – 40 mg/kg luteolin three times per week )
Metformin (chronic intake)
N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine (NAC, by blocking the oxidative response, esp at high doses)
Orange Peel (have polymethoxylated flavonoids)
Quercetin (higher doses may increase NRF2 – 50 mg/kg/d quercetin)
Salinomycin (drug)
Retinol (all-trans retinoic acid)
Vitamin C when combined with Quercetin
Zi Cao (Purple Gromwel has Shikonin/Alkannin)
Pathways and Other:
Bach1
BET
Biofilms
Brusatol
Camptothecin
DNMT
DPP-23
EZH2
Glucocorticoid Receptor signaling (Dexamethasone and Betamethasone as well)
GSK-3β (regulatory feedback)
HDAC activation?
Halofuginone
Homocysteine (ALCAR can reverse this homocysteine induce low levels of NRF2)
IL-24
Keap1
MDA-7
NFκB
Ochratoxin A(aspergillus and pencicllium species)
Promyelocytic leukemia protein
p38
p53
p97
Retinoic acid receptor alpha
Selenite
SYVN1 (Hrd1)
STAT3 inhibition (such as Cryptotanshinone)
Testosterone (and Testosterone propionate, although TP intranasally may increase NRF2)
Trecator (Ethionamide)
Trx1 (via reduction of Cys151 in Keap1 or of Cys506 in the NLS region of Nrf2)
Trolox
Vorinostat
Zinc Deficiency (makes it worse in the brain)
Nrf2 Mechanism Of Action
Oxidative stress triggers through CUL3 where NRF2 from KEAP1, a negative inhibitor, subsequently enters the nucleus of these cells, stimulating the transcription of the AREs, turning sulfides into disulfides, and turning them into more antioxidant genes, leading to the upregulation of antioxidants, such as GSH, GPX, GST, SOD, etc.. The rest of these can be seen in the list below:
Increases AKR
Increases ARE
Increases ATF4
Increases Bcl-xL
Increases Bcl-2
Increases BDNF
Increases BRCA1
Increases c-Jun
Increases CAT
Increases cGMP
Increases CKIP-1
Increases CYP450
Increases Cul3
Increases GCL
Increases GCLC
Increases GCLM
Increases GCS
Increases GPx
Increases GR
Increases GSH
Increases GST
Increases HIF1
Increases HO-1
Increases HQO1
Increases HSP70
Increases IL-4
Increases IL-5
Increases IL-10
Increases IL-13
Increases K6
Increases K16
Increases K17
Increases mEH
Increases Mrp2-5
Increases NADPH
Increases Notch 1
Increases NQO1
Increases PPAR-alpha
Increases Prx
Increases p62
Increases Sesn2
Increases Slco1b2
Increases sMafs
Increases SOD
Increases Trx
Increases Txn(d)
Increases UGT1(A1/6)
Increases VEGF
Reduces ADAMTS(4/5)
Reduces alpha-SMA
Reduces ALT
Reduces AP1
Reduces AST
Reduces Bach1
Reduces COX-2
Reduces DNMT
Reduces FASN
Reduces FGF
Reduces HDAC
Reduces IFN-γ
Reduces IgE
Reduces IGF-1
Reduces IL-1b
Reduces IL-2
Reduces IL-6
Reduces IL-8
Reduces IL-25
Reduces IL-33
Reduces iNOS
Reduces LT
Reduces Keap1
Reduces MCP-1
Reduces MIP-2
Reduces MMP-1
Reduces MMP-2
Reduces MMP-3
Reduces MMP-9
Reduces MMP-13
Reduces NfkB
Reduces NO
Reduces SIRT1
Reduces TGF-b1
Reduces TNF-alpha
Reduces Tyr
Reduces VCAM-1
Encoded from the NFE2L2 gene, NRF2, or nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2, is a transcription factor in the basic leucine zipper, or bZIP, superfamily which utilizes a Cap’n’Collar, or CNC structure.
It promotes nitric enzymes, biotransformation enzymes, and xenobiotic efflux transporters.
It is an essential regulator at the induction of the phase II antioxidant and detoxification enzyme genes, which protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress and electrophilic attacks.
During homeostatic conditions, Nrf2 is sequestered in the cytosol through bodily attachment of the N-terminal domain of Nrf2, or the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein or Keap1, also referred to as INrf2 or Inhibitor of Nrf2, inhibiting Nrf2 activation.
It may also be controlled by mammalian selenoprotein thioredoxin reductase 1, or TrxR1, which functions as a negative regulator.
Upon vulnerability to electrophilic stressors, Nrf2 dissociates from Keap1, translocating into the nucleus, where it then heterodimerizes with a range of transcriptional regulatory protein.
Frequent interactions comprise with those of transcription authorities Jun and Fos, which can be members of the activator protein family of transcription factors.
After dimerization, these complexes then bind to antioxidant/electrophile responsive components ARE/EpRE and activate transcription, as is true with the Jun-Nrf2 complex, or suppress transcription, much like the Fos-Nrf2 complex.
The positioning of the ARE, which is triggered or inhibited, will determine which genes are transcriptionally controlled by these variables.
When ARE is triggered:
Activation of the synthesis of antioxidants is capable of detoxifying ROS like catalase, superoxide-dismutase, or SOD, GSH-peroxidases, GSH-reductase, GSH-transferase, NADPH-quinone oxidoreductase, or NQO1, Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase system, thioredoxin, thioredoxin reductase, and HSP70.
Activation of this GSH synthase permits a noticeable growth of the GSH intracellular degree, which is quite protective.
The augmentation of this synthesis and degrees of phase II enzymes like UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, N-acetyltransferases, and sulfotransferases.
The upregulation of HO-1, which is a really protective receptor with a potential growth of CO that in conjunction with NO allows vasodilation of ischemic cells.
Reduction of iron overload through elevated ferritin and bilirubin as a lipophilic antioxidant. Both the phase II proteins along with the antioxidants are able to fix the chronic oxidative stress and also to revive a normal redox system.
GSK3β under the management of AKT and PI3K, phosphorylates Fyn resulting in Fyn nuclear localization, which Fyn phosphorylates Nrf2Y568 leading to nuclear export and degradation of Nrf2.
NRF2 also dampens the TH1/TH17 response and enriches the TH2 response.
HDAC inhibitors triggered the Nrf2 signaling pathway and up-regulated that the Nrf2 downstream targets HO-1, NQO1, and glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit, or GCLC, by curbing Keap1 and encouraging dissociation of Keap1 from Nrf2, Nrf2 nuclear translocation, and Nrf2-ARE binding.
Nrf2 includes a half-life of about 20 minutes under basal conditions.
Diminishing the IKKβ pool through Keap1 binding reduces IκBα degradation and might be the elusive mechanism by which Nrf2 activation is proven to inhibit NFκB activation.
Keap1 does not always have to be downregulated to get NRF2 to operate, such as chlorophyllin, blueberry, ellagic acid, astaxanthin, and tea polyphenols may boost NRF2 and KEAP1 at 400 percent.
Nrf2 regulates negatively through the term of stearoyl CoA desaturase, or SCD, and citrate lyase, or CL.
Genetics
KEAP1
rs1048290
C allele – showed a significant risk for and a protective effect against drug resistant epilepsy (DRE)
rs11085735 (I’m AC)
associated with rate of decline of lung function in the LHS
MAPT
rs242561
T allele – protective allele for Parkinsonian disorders – had stronger NRF2/sMAF binding and was associated with the higher MAPT mRNA levels in 3 different regions in brain, including cerebellar cortex (CRBL), temporal cortex (TCTX), intralobular white matter (WHMT)
NFE2L2 (NRF2)
rs10183914 (I’m CT)
T allele – increased levels of Nrf2 protein and delayed age of onset of Parkinson’s by four years
rs16865105 (I’m AC)
C allele – had higher risk of Parkinson’s Disease
rs1806649 (I’m CT)
C allele – has been identified and may be relevant for breast cancer etiology.
associated with increased risk of hospital admissions during periods of high PM10 levels
rs1962142 (I’m GG)
T allele – was associated with a low level of cytoplasmic NRF2 expression (P = 0.036) and negative sulfiredoxin expression (P = 0.042)
A allele – protected from forearm blood flow (FEV) decline (forced expiratory volume in one second) in relation to cigarette smoking status (p = 0.004)
rs2001350 (I’m TT)
T allele – protected from FEV decline (forced expiratory volume in one second) in relation to cigarette smoking status (p = 0.004)
rs2364722 (I’m AA)
A allele – protected from FEV decline (forced expiratory volume in one second) in relation to cigarette smoking status (p = 0.004)
rs2364723
C allele – associated with significantly reduced FEV in Japanese smokers with lung cancer
rs2706110
G allele – showed a significant risk for and a protective effect against drug resistant epilepsy (DRE)
AA alleles – showed significantly reduced KEAP1 expression
AA alleles – was associated with an increased risk of breast cancer (P = 0.011)
rs2886161 (I’m TT)
T allele – associated with Parkinson’s Disease
rs2886162
A allele – was associated with low NRF2 expression (P = 0.011; OR, 1.988; CI, 1.162–3.400) and the AA genotype was associated with a worse survival (P = 0.032; HR, 1.687; CI, 1.047–2.748)
rs35652124 (I’m TT)
A allele – associated with higher associated with age at onset for Parkinson’s Disease vs G allele
C allele – had increase NRF2 protein
T allele – had less NRF2 protein and greater risk of heart disease and blood pressure
rs6706649 (I’m CC)
C allele – had lower NRF2 protein and increase risk for Parkinson’s Disease
rs6721961 (I’m GG)
T allele – had lower NRF2 protein
TT alleles – association between cigarette smoking in heavy smokers and a decrease in semen quality
TT allele – was associated with increased risk of breast cancer [P = 0.008; OR, 4.656; confidence interval (CI), 1.350–16.063] and the T allele was associated with a low extent of NRF2 protein expression (P = 0.0003; OR, 2.420; CI, 1.491–3.926) and negative SRXN1 expression (P = 0.047; OR, 1.867; CI = 1.002–3.478)
T allele – allele was also nominally associated with ALI-related 28-day mortality following systemic inflammatory response syndrome
T allele – protected from FEV decline (forced expiratory volume in one second) in relation to cigarette smoking status (p = 0.004)
G allele – associated with increased risk of ALI following major trauma in European and African-Americans (odds ratio, OR 6.44; 95% confidence interval
AA alleles – associated with infection-induced asthma
AA alleles – exhibited significantly diminished NRF2 gene expression and, consequently, an increased risk of lung cancer, especially those who had ever smoked
AA alleles – had a significantly higher risk for developing T2DM (OR 1.77; 95% CI 1.26, 2.49; p = 0.011) relative to those with the CC genotype
AA alleles – strong association between wound repair and late toxicities of radiation (associated with a significantly higher risk for developing late effects in African-Americans with a trend in Caucasians)
associated with oral estrogen therapy and risk of venous thromboembolism in postmenopausal women
rs6726395 (I’m AG)
A allele – protected from FEV1 decline (forced expiratory volume in one second) in relation to cigarette smoking status (p = 0.004)
A allele – associated with significantly reduced FEV1 in Japanese smokers with lung cancer
GG alleles – had higher NRF2 levels and decreased risk of macular degeneration
GG alleles – had higher survival with Cholangiocarcinoma
rs7557529 (I’m CT)
C allele – associated with Parkinson’s Disease
Oxidative stress and other stressors can cause cell damage which may eventually lead to a variety of health issues. Research studies have demonstrated that Nrf2 activation can promote the human body’s protective antioxidant mechanism, however, researchers have discussed that Nrf2 overexpression can have tremendous risks towards overall health and wellness. Various types of cancer can also occur with Nrf2 overactivation.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Sulforaphane and Its Effects on Cancer, Mortality, Aging, Brain and Behavior, Heart Disease & More
Isothiocyanates are some of the most important plant compounds you can get in your diet. In this video I make the most comprehensive case for them that has ever been made. Short attention span? Skip to your favorite topic by clicking one of the time points below. Full timeline below.
Key sections:
00:01:14 – Cancer and mortality
00:19:04 – Aging
00:26:30 – Brain and behavior
00:38:06 – Final recap
00:40:27 – Dose
Full timeline:
00:00:34 – Introduction of sulforaphane, a major focus of the video.
00:01:14 – Cruciferous vegetable consumption and reductions in all-cause mortality.
00:02:12 – Prostate cancer risk.
00:02:23 – Bladder cancer risk.
00:02:34 – Lung cancer in smokers risk.
00:02:48 – Breast cancer risk.
00:03:13 – Hypothetical: what if you already have cancer? (interventional)
00:03:35 – Plausible mechanism driving the cancer and mortality associative data.
00:04:38 – Sulforaphane and cancer.
00:05:32 – Animal evidence showing strong effect of broccoli sprout extract on bladder tumor development in rats.
00:06:06 – Effect of direct supplementation of sulforaphane in prostate cancer patients.
00:07:09 – Bioaccumulation of isothiocyanate metabolites in actual breast tissue.
00:08:32 – Inhibition of breast cancer stem cells.
00:08:53 – History lesson: brassicas were established as having health properties even in ancient Rome.
00:09:16 – Sulforaphane’s ability to enhance carcinogen excretion (benzene, acrolein).
00:09:51 – NRF2 as a genetic switch via antioxidant response elements.
00:10:10 – How NRF2 activation enhances carcinogen excretion via glutathione-S-conjugates.
00:10:34 – Brussels sprouts increase glutathione-S-transferase and reduce DNA damage.
00:11:20 – Broccoli sprout drink increases benzene excretion by 61%.
00:13:31 – Broccoli sprout homogenate increases antioxidant enzymes in the upper airway.
00:15:45 – Cruciferous vegetable consumption and heart disease mortality.
00:16:55 – Broccoli sprout powder improves blood lipids and overall heart disease risk in type 2 diabetics.
00:19:04 – Beginning of aging section.
00:19:21 – Sulforaphane-enriched diet enhances lifespan of beetles from 15 to 30% (in certain conditions).
00:20:34 – Importance of low inflammation for longevity.
00:22:05 – Cruciferous vegetables and broccoli sprout powder seem to reduce a wide variety of inflammatory markers in humans.
00:36:32 – Sulforaphane improves learning in model of type II diabetes in mice.
00:37:19 – Sulforaphane and duchenne muscular dystrophy.
00:37:44 – Myostatin inhibition in muscle satellite cells (in vitro).
00:38:06 – Late-video recap: mortality and cancer, DNA damage, oxidative stress and inflammation, benzene excretion, cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, effects on the brain (depression, autism, schizophrenia, neurodegeneration), NRF2 pathway.
00:40:27 – Thoughts on figuring out a dose of broccoli sprouts or sulforaphane.
00:41:01 – Anecdotes on sprouting at home.
00:43:14 – On cooking temperatures and sulforaphane activity.
00:43:45 – Gut bacteria conversion of sulforaphane from glucoraphanin.
00:44:24 – Supplements work better when combined with active myrosinase from vegetables.
00:44:56 – Cooking techniques and cruciferous vegetables.
00:46:06 – Isothiocyanates as goitrogens.
According to research studies, Nrf2, is a fundamental transcription factor which activates the cells’ protective antioxidant mechanisms to detoxify the human body. The overexpression of Nrf2, however, can cause health issues. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal health issues. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Many current research studies on cancer have allowed health professionals to understand the way the body detoxes. By analyzing upregulated genes in tumorous cells, researchers discovered the nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway, best known as Nrf2. NRF2 is an important transcription factor which activates the human body’s protective antioxidant mechanisms in order to regulate oxidation from both external and internal factors to prevent increased levels of oxidative stress.
Principles of Nrf2
NRF2 is essential towards maintaining overall health and wellness because it serves the primary purpose of regulating how we manage everything we’re exposed to on a daily basis and not become sick. NRF2 activation plays a role in the phase II detoxification system. Phase II detoxification takes lipophilic, or fat soluble, free radicals and converts them into hydrophilic, or water soluble, substances for excretion while inactivating exceptionally reactive metabolites and chemicals as a consequence of phase I.
NRF2 activation reduces overall oxidation and inflammation of the human body through a hormetic effect. To trigger NRF2, an inflammatory reaction due to oxidation must occur in order for the cells to produce an adaptive response and create antioxidants, such as glutathione. To break down the principle of Nrf2, essentially, oxidative stress activates NRF2 which then activates an antioxidant response in the human body. NRF2 functions to balance redox signaling, or the equilibrium of oxidant and antioxidant levels in the cell.
A great illustration of how this process functions can be demonstrated with exercise. Through every workout, the muscle adapts so that it can accommodate another workout session. If NRF2 becomes under- or over-expressed due to chronic infections or increased exposure to toxins, which may be observed in patients who have chronic inflammatory response syndrome, or CIRS, the health issues may worsen following NRF2 activation. Above all, if DJ-1 becomes over-oxidized, NRF2 activation will end too quickly.
Effects of NRF2 Activation
NRF2 activation is highly expressed in the lungs, liver, and kidneys. Nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2, or NRF2, most commonly functions by counteracting increased levels of oxidation in the human body which can lead to oxidative stress. Nrf2 activation can help treat a variety of health issues, however, over-activation of Nrf2 may worsen various problems, which are demonstrated below.
Periodic activation of Nrf2 can help:
Aging (ie Longevity)
Autoimmunity and Overall Inflammation (ie Arthritis, Autism)
Cancer and Chemoprotection (ie EMF Exposure)
Depression and Anxiety (ie PTSD)
Drug Exposure (Alcohol, NSAIDs )
Exercise and Endurance Performance
Gut Disease (ie SIBO, Dysbiosis, Ulcerative Colitis)
Cancer (ie Brain, Breast, Head, Neck Pancreatic, Prostate, Liver, Thyroid)
Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)
Heart Transplant (while open NRF2 may be bad, NRF2 can help with repair)
Hepatitis C
Nephritis (severe cases)
Vitiligo
Furthermore, NRF2 can help make specific nutritional supplements, drugs, and medications work. Many natural supplements can also help trigger NRF2. Through current research studies, researchers have demonstrated that a large number of compounds which were once believed to be antioxidants were really pro-oxidants. That’s because nearly all of them need NRF2 to function, even supplements like curcumin and fish oil. Cocoa, for example, was shown to generate antioxidant effects in mice which possess the NRF2 gene.
Ways To Activate NRF2
In the case of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke or even autoimmune diseases, it’s probably best to have Nrf2 upregulated, but in a hormetic fashion. Mixing NRF2 activators may also have an additive or synergistic effect, as occasionally it can be dose-dependent. The top ways to increase Nrf2 expression are listed below:
HIST (Exercise) + CoQ10 + Sun (these synergize very well)
Broccoli Sprouts + LLLT on my head and gut
Butyrate + Super Coffee + Morning Sun
Acupuncture (this is an alternative method, laser acupuncture may also be used)
Fasting
Cannabidiol (CBD)
Lion’s Mane + Melatonin
Alpha-lipoic acid + DIM
Wormwood
PPAR-gamma Activation
The following comprehensive listing containing over 350 other ways to activate Nrf2 through diet, lifestyle and devices, probiotics, supplements, herbs and oils, hormones and neurotransmitters, drugs/medications and chemicals, pathways/transcription factors, as well as other ways, is only a brief guide as to what can trigger Nrf2. For the sake of brevity in this article, we have left out over 500 other foods, nutritional supplements and compounds which can help activate Nrf2. The following are listed below:
Diet:
Acai Berries
Alcohol (Red wine is better, especially if there is a cork in it, as protocatechuic aldehyde from corks can also activate NRF2. In general, alcohol is not recommended, although acute intake increases NRF2. Chronic intake may decrease NRF2.
Algae (kelp)
Apples
Black Tea
Brazil Nuts
Broccoli Sprouts (and other isothiocyanates, sulforaphane as well as cruciferous vegetables like bok choy that have D3T)
Blueberries (0.6-10 g/day)
Carrots (falcarinone)
Cayenne Pepper (Capsaicin)
Celery (Butylphthalide)
Chaga (Betulin)
Chamomile Tea
Chia
Chinese Potato
Chokeberries (Aronia)
Chocolate (Dark or Cocoa)
Cinnamon
Coffee (such as chlorogenic acid, Cafestol and Kahweol)
Cordyceps
Fish (and Shellfish)
Flaxseed
Garlic
Ghee (possibly)
Ginger (and Cardamonin)
Gojiberries
Grapefruit (Naringenin – 50 mg/kg/d naringenin)
Grapes
Green Tea
Guava
Heart Of Palm
Hijiki/Wakame
Honeycomb
Kiwi
Legumes
Lion’s Mane
Mahuwa
Mangos (Mangiferin)
Mangosteen
Milk (goat, cow – via regulation of microbiome)
Mulberries
Olive Oil (pomace – hydroxytyrosol and Oleanolic Acid)
Omega 6 Fatty Acids (Lipoxin A4)
Osange Oranges (Morin)
Oyster Mushrooms
Papaya
Peanuts
Pigeon Peas
Pomegranate (Punicalagin, Ellagic Acid)
Propolis (Pinocembrin)
Purple Sweet Potatoes
Rambutan (Geraniin)
Onions
Reishi
Rhodiola Rosea (Salidroside)
Rice Bran (cycloartenyl ferulate)
Riceberry
Rooibos Tea
Rosemary
Sage
Safflower
Sesame Oil
Soy (and isoflavones, Daidzein, Genistein)
Squash
Strawberries
Tartary Buckwheat
Thyme
Tomatoes
Tonka Beans
Turmeric
Wasabi
Watermelon
Lifestyle and Devices:
Acupuncture and Electroacupuncture (via collagen cascade on ECM)
Exercise (Acute exercise like HIST or HIIT seems to be more beneficial for inducing NRF2, while longer exercise doesn’t induce NRF2, but does increase glutathione levels)
High Fat Diet (diet)
High Heat (Sauna)
Hydrogen Inhalation and Hydrogen Water
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Infrared Therapy (such as Joovv)
Intravenous Vitamin C
Ketogenic Diet
Ozone
Smoking (not recommended – acutely smoking increase NRF2, chronically smoking decreases NRF2. If you choose to smoke, Holy Basil may help protect against downregulation of NRF2)
Sun (UVB and Infrared)
Probiotics:
Bacillus subtilis (fmbJ)
Clostridium butyricum (MIYAIRI 588)
Lactobacillus brevis
Lactobacillus casei (SC4 and 114001)
Lactobacillus collinoides
Lactobacillus gasseri (OLL2809, L13-Ia, and SBT2055)
Lactobacillus helveticus (NS8)
Lactobacillus paracasei (NTU 101)
Lactobacillus plantarum (C88, CAI6, FC225, SC4)
Lactobacillus rhamnosus (GG)
Supplements, Herbs, and Oils:
Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR) and Carnitine
Allicin
Alpha-lipoic acid
Amentoflavone
Andrographis paniculata
Agmatine
Apigenin
Arginine
Artichoke (Cyanropicrin)
Ashwaganda
Astragalus
Bacopa
Beefsteak (Isogemaketone)
Berberine
Beta-caryophyllene
Bidens Pilosa
Black Cumin Seed Oil (Thymoquinone)
Boswellia
Butein
Butyrate
Cannabidiol (CBD)
Carotenioids (like Beta-carotene [synergy with Lycopene – 2 × 15 mg/d lycopene], Fucoxanthin, Zeaxanthin, Astaxanthin, and Lutein)
Chitrak
Chlorella
Chlorophyll
Chrysanthemum zawadskii
Cinnamomea
Common Sundew
Copper
Coptis
CoQ10
Curcumin
Damiana
Dan Shen/Red Sage (Miltirone)
DIM
Dioscin
Dong Ling Cao
Dong Quai (female ginseng)
Ecklonia Cava
EGCG
Elecampane / Inula
Eucommia Bark
Ferulic Acid
Fisetin
Fish Oil (DHA/EPA – 3 × 1 g/d fish oil containing 1098 mg EPA and 549 mg DHA)
Galangal
Gastrodin (Tian Ma)
Gentiana
Geranium
Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgolide B)
Glasswort
Gotu Kola
Grape Seed Extract
Hairy Agrimony
Haritaki (Triphala)
Hawthorn
Helichrysum
Henna (Juglone)
Hibiscus
Higenamine
Holy Basil/Tulsi (Ursolic Acid)
Hops
Horny Goat Weed (Icariin/Icariside)
Indigo Naturalis
Iron (not recommended unless essential)
I3C
Job’s Tears
Moringa Oleifera (such as Kaempferol)
Inchinkoto (combo of Zhi Zi and Wormwood)
Kudzu Root
Licorice Root
Lindera Root
Luteolin (high doses for activation, lower doses inhibit NRF2 in cancer though)
Magnolia
Manjistha
Maximowiczianum (Acerogenin A)
Mexican Arnica
Milk Thistle
MitoQ
Mu Xiang
Mucuna Pruriens
Nicotinamide and NAD+
Panax Ginseng
Passionflower (such as Chrysin, but chyrisin may also reduce NRF2 via dysregulation of PI3K/Akt signaling)
Resveratrol (Piceid and other phytoestrogens essentially, Knotweed)
Rose Hips
Rosewood
Rutin
Sappanwood
Sarsaparilla
Saururus chinensis
SC-E1 (Gypsum, Jasmine, Licorice, Kudzu, and Balloon Flower)
Schisandra
Self Heal (prunella)
Skullcap (Baicalin and Wogonin)
Sheep Sorrel
Si Wu Tang
Sideritis
Spikenard (Aralia)
Spirulina
St. John’s Wort
Sulforaphane
Sutherlandia
Tao Hong Si Wu
Taurine
Thunder God Vine (Triptolide)
Tocopherols (such as Vitamin E or Linalool)
Tribulus R
Tu Si Zi
TUDCA
Vitamin A (although other retinoids inhibit NRF2)
Vitamin C (high dose only, low dose does inhibit NRF2)
Vitex/Chaste Tree
White Peony (Paeoniflorin from Paeonia lactiflora)
Wormwood (Hispidulin and Artemisinin)
Xiao Yao Wan (Free and Easy Wanderer)
Yerba Santa (Eriodictyol)
Yuan Zhi (Tenuigenin)
Zi Cao (will reduce NRF2 in cancer)
Zinc
Ziziphus Jujube
Hormones and Neurotransmitters:
Adiponectin
Adropin
Estrogen (but may decrease NRF2 in breast tissue)
Melatonin
Progesterone
Quinolinic Acid (in protective response to prevent excitotoxicity)
Serotonin
Thyroid Hormones like T3 (can increase NRF2 in healthy cells, but decrease it in cancer)
Vitamin D
Drugs/Medications and Chemicals:
Acetaminophen
Acetazolamide
Amlodipine
Auranofin
Bardoxolone methyl (BARD)
Benznidazole
BHA
CDDO-imidazolide
Ceftriaxone (and beta-lactam antibiotics)
Cialis
Dexamethasone
Diprivan (Propofol)
Eriodictyol
Exendin-4
Ezetimibe
Fluoride
Fumarate
HNE (oxidized)
Idazoxan
Inorganic arsenic and sodium arsenite
JQ1 (may inhibit NRF2 as well, unknown)
Letairis
Melphalan
Methazolamide
Methylene Blue
Nifedipine
NSAIDs
Oltipraz
PPIs (such as Omeprazole and Lansoprazole)
Protandim – great results in vivo, but weak/non-existent at activating NRF2 in humans
Probucol
Rapamycin
Reserpine
Ruthenium
Sitaxentan
Statins (such as Lipitor and Simvastatin)
Tamoxifen
Tang Luo Ning
tBHQ
Tecfidera (Dimethyl fumarate)
THC (not as strong as CBD)
Theophylline
Umbelliferone
Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA)
Verapamil
Viagra
4-Acetoxyphenol
Pathways/Transcription Factors:
α7 nAChR activation
AMPK
Bilirubin
CDK20
CKIP-1
CYP2E1
EAATs
Gankyrin
Gremlin
GJA1
H-ferritin ferroxidase
HDAC inhibitors (such as valproic acid and TSA, but can cause NRF2 instability)
Heat Shock Proteins
IL-17
IL-22
Klotho
let-7 (knocks down mBach1 RNA)
MAPK
Michael acceptors (most)
miR-141
miR-153
miR-155 (knocks down mBach1 RNA as well)
miR-7 (in brain, helps with cancer and schizophrenia)
Notch1
Oxidatives stress (such as ROS, RNS, H2O2) and Electrophiles
PGC-1α
PKC-delta
PPAR-gamma (synergistic effects)
Sigma-1 receptor inhibition
SIRT1 (increases NRF2 in the brain and lungs but may decrease it overall)
SIRT2
SIRT6 (in the liver and brain)
SRXN1
TrxR1 inhibition (attenuation or depletion as well)
Zinc protoporphyrin
4-HHE
Other:
Ankaflavin
Asbestos
Avicins
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (used in agriculture)
Carbon Monoxide
Daphnetin
Glutathione Depletion (depletion of 80%–90% possibly)
Gymnaster koraiensis
Hepatitis C
Herpes (HSV)
Indian ash tree
Indigowoad Root
Isosalipurposide
Isorhamentin
Monascin
Omaveloxolone (strong, aka RTA-408)
PDTC
Selenium Deficiency (selenium deficiency can increase NRF2)
Siberian Larch
Sophoraflavanone G
Tadehagi triquetrum
Toona sinensis (7-DGD)
Trumpet Flower
63171 and 63179 (strong)
The nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway, best known by the acronym Nrf2, is a transcription factor which plays the major role of regulating the protective antioxidant mechanisms of the human body, particularly in order to control oxidative stress. While increased levels of oxidative stress can activate Nrf2, its effects are tremendously enhanced through the presence of specific compounds. Certain foods and supplements help activate Nrf2 in the human body, including the isothiocyanate sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts. Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Sulforaphane and Its Effects on Cancer, Mortality, Aging, Brain and Behavior, Heart Disease & More
Isothiocyanates are some of the most important plant compounds you can get in your diet. In this video I make the most comprehensive case for them that has ever been made. Short attention span? Skip to your favorite topic by clicking one of the time points below. Full timeline below.
Key sections:
00:01:14 – Cancer and mortality
00:19:04 – Aging
00:26:30 – Brain and behavior
00:38:06 – Final recap
00:40:27 – Dose
Full timeline:
00:00:34 – Introduction of sulforaphane, a major focus of the video.
00:01:14 – Cruciferous vegetable consumption and reductions in all-cause mortality.
00:02:12 – Prostate cancer risk.
00:02:23 – Bladder cancer risk.
00:02:34 – Lung cancer in smokers risk.
00:02:48 – Breast cancer risk.
00:03:13 – Hypothetical: what if you already have cancer? (interventional)
00:03:35 – Plausible mechanism driving the cancer and mortality associative data.
00:04:38 – Sulforaphane and cancer.
00:05:32 – Animal evidence showing strong effect of broccoli sprout extract on bladder tumor development in rats.
00:06:06 – Effect of direct supplementation of sulforaphane in prostate cancer patients.
00:07:09 – Bioaccumulation of isothiocyanate metabolites in actual breast tissue.
00:08:32 – Inhibition of breast cancer stem cells.
00:08:53 – History lesson: brassicas were established as having health properties even in ancient Rome.
00:09:16 – Sulforaphane’s ability to enhance carcinogen excretion (benzene, acrolein).
00:09:51 – NRF2 as a genetic switch via antioxidant response elements.
00:10:10 – How NRF2 activation enhances carcinogen excretion via glutathione-S-conjugates.
00:10:34 – Brussels sprouts increase glutathione-S-transferase and reduce DNA damage.
00:11:20 – Broccoli sprout drink increases benzene excretion by 61%.
00:13:31 – Broccoli sprout homogenate increases antioxidant enzymes in the upper airway.
00:15:45 – Cruciferous vegetable consumption and heart disease mortality.
00:16:55 – Broccoli sprout powder improves blood lipids and overall heart disease risk in type 2 diabetics.
00:19:04 – Beginning of aging section.
00:19:21 – Sulforaphane-enriched diet enhances lifespan of beetles from 15 to 30% (in certain conditions).
00:20:34 – Importance of low inflammation for longevity.
00:22:05 – Cruciferous vegetables and broccoli sprout powder seem to reduce a wide variety of inflammatory markers in humans.
00:36:32 – Sulforaphane improves learning in model of type II diabetes in mice.
00:37:19 – Sulforaphane and duchenne muscular dystrophy.
00:37:44 – Myostatin inhibition in muscle satellite cells (in vitro).
00:38:06 – Late-video recap: mortality and cancer, DNA damage, oxidative stress and inflammation, benzene excretion, cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, effects on the brain (depression, autism, schizophrenia, neurodegeneration), NRF2 pathway.
00:40:27 – Thoughts on figuring out a dose of broccoli sprouts or sulforaphane.
00:41:01 – Anecdotes on sprouting at home.
00:43:14 – On cooking temperatures and sulforaphane activity.
00:43:45 – Gut bacteria conversion of sulforaphane from glucoraphanin.
00:44:24 – Supplements work better when combined with active myrosinase from vegetables.
00:44:56 – Cooking techniques and cruciferous vegetables.
00:46:06 – Isothiocyanates as goitrogens.
According to many current research studies, the nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 signaling pathway, best known as Nrf2, is a fundamental transcription factor which activates the cells’ protective antioxidant mechanisms to detoxify the human body from both external and internal factors and prevent increased levels of oxidative stress. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal health issues. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Oxidative stress is a major contributor in the development of a variety of health issues, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, accelerated aging and neurodegeneration. Antioxidant rich foods, herbs and supplements can be utilized to protect the human body from high levels of oxidative stress. Recent research studies have demonstrated that the Nrf2 gene pathway can help amplify the effects of antioxidants. The benefits of Nrf2 are described below.
Protects the Body Against Toxins
NRF2 is an intrinsic substance which can protect the cells from harmful, internal and external compounds. NRF2 may help enrich the human body’s reaction to drugs/medications and toxins, improving the production of proteins that help eliminate compounds from the cell, known as multidrug resistance-associated proteins, or MRPs. By way of instance, NRF2 is triggered upon cigarette smoke inhalation to allow the lungs to detox.
Additionally, it is essential for the lungs to protect themselves against allergens, viral diseases, bacterial endotoxins, hyperoxia, and various environmental pollutants. The constant trigger of Nrf2 however, can decrease the levels of a substance known as glutathione throughout the human body. NRF2 may also protect the liver from toxicity and it can protect the liver from arsenic hepatotoxicity. Moreover, NRF2 protects the liver and brain from alcohol consumption. By way of instance, Nrf2 can protect against acetaminophen toxicity.
Fights Inflammation And Oxidative Stress
NRF2 activation can help battle against inflammation by diminishing inflammatory cytokines, such as those present in psoriasis. NRF2 may also decrease inflammation associated with a variety of health issues like arthritis and fibrosis of the liver, kidney, and lungs. NRF2 may also help control allergies by lowering Th1/Th17 cytokines and raising TH2 cytokines. This can be beneficial for ailments like asthma.
NRF2 additionally protects against cellular damage from blue light and from UVA/UVB found in sunlight. Nrf2 deficiencies can make it a whole lot easier to get sunburnt. One rationale behind this is because NRF2 is capable of regulating collagen in response to UV radiation. Advanced Glycation End-Products, or AGEs, contribute to the development of many health issues, including diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases. NRF2 can decrease the oxidative stress of AGEs within the body. NRF2 may also protect the human body from higher levels of heat-based stress.
Enhances Mitochondria And Exercise Performance
NRF2 is a mitochondrial booster. NRF2 activation contributes to a rise in ATP energy for mitochondria, in addition to enhanced use of oxygen, or citrate, and fat. With no NRF2, mitochondria would just have the ability to function with sugar, or glucose, rather than fat. NRF2 is also essential for mitochondria to develop through a process known as biogenesis. NRF2 activation is vital in order to take advantage of the benefits of exercise.
Because of Nrf2’s activity, exercise raises mitochondrial function, where this result may be amplified with CoQ10, Cordyceps, and Caloric Restriction. Moderate exercise or acute exercise induces mitochondrial biogenesis and an elevated synthesis of superoxide dismutase, or SOD, and heme-oxygenase-1, or HO-1, through NRF2 activation. Alpha-Lipoic Acid, or ALA, and Dan Shen can boost NRF2 mediated mitochondrial biogenesis. Furthermore, NRF2 can also improve exercise tolerance where NRF2 deletion makes exercise harmful.
Protects Against Hypoxia
NRF2 also helps protect the human body from cellular oxygen loss/depletion, a health issue called hypoxia. Individuals with CIRS have reduced levels of oxygen since their NRF2 is obstructed, resulting in reduced levels of both VEGF, HIF1, and HO-1. Ordinarily, in healthy individuals with hypoxia, miR-101, which is required for the creation of stem cells, are overexpressed and enhance amounts of NRF2/HO-1 and VEGF/eNOS, therefore preventing brain damage, but that does not appear to occur in CIRS.
Hypoxia, characterized by low HIF1, in CIRS can also result in a leaky blood brain barrier due to an NRF2 imbalance. Salidroside, located in the Rhodiola, functions on NRF2 activation and assists with hypoxia by increasing levels of VEGF and HIF1 within the human body. NRF2 can also ultimately protect against lactate buildup in the heart. NRF2 activation may also stop hypoxia-induced Altitude Motion Sickness, or AMS.
Slows Down Aging
Several compounds which may be fatal in massive quantities may increase longevity in rather tiny quantities due to xenohormesis through NRF2, PPAR-gamma, and FOXO. A very small quantity of toxins raises the cell’s ability to become better equipped for the next time it’s challenged with a toxin, however, this is not an endorsement to consume poisonous chemicals.
A good illustration of this process is with caloric restriction. NRF2 can improve the lifespan of cells by raising their levels of mitochondria and antioxidants as well as lowering the cells’ capability to die. NRF2 declines with aging because NRF2 prevents stem cells from dying and assists them to regenerate. NRF2 plays a part in enhancing wound healing.
Boosts the Vascular System
Done correctly with the production of sulforaphane, NRF2 activation may protect against heart diseases like high blood pressure, or hypertension, and hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis. NRF2 can enhance Acetylcholine’s, or ACh, relaxing activity on the vascular system whilst reducing cholesterol-induced stress. Nrf2 activation may strengthen the heart, however, over-activated Nrf2 can raise the probability of cardiovascular disease.
Statins may prevent or lead to cardiovascular disease. NRF2 also plays a major part in balancing iron and calcium which may shield the human body from having elevated levels of iron. By way of instance, Sirtuin 2, or SIRT2, can regulate iron homeostasis in cells by activation of NRF2 which is believed to be required for healthy levels of iron. NRF2 can also help with Sickle Cell Disease, or SCD. NRF2 dysfunction might be a reason behind endotoxemia like with dysbiosis or lectins induced hypertension. Nrf2 may also protect the human body against amphetamine induced damage to the vascular system.
Fights Neuroinflammation
NRF2 can shield against and assist with inflammation of the brain, commonly referred to as neuroinflammation. Furthermore, NRF2 can help with an Assortment of Central Nervous System, or CNS, disorders, including:
Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) – reduces amyloid beta stress on mitochondria
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Huntington’s Disease (HD)
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Nerve Regeneration
Parkinson’s disease (PD) – protects dopamine
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
Stroke (ischemic and hemorrhagic) – aids hypoxia
Traumatic Brain Injury
NRF2 has revealed a decrease of neuroinflammation in teens with Autism Spectrum Disorders or ASD. Idebenone pairs properly with NRF2 activators contrary to neuroinflammation. NRF2 may also improve the Blood Brain Barrier, or BBB. By way of instance, NRF2 activation with carnosic acid obtained from rosemary and sage can cross the BBB and cause neurogenesis. NRF2 has also been demonstrated to raise Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor, or BDNF.
NRF2 also modulates some nutritional supplements capacity to cause Nerve Growth Factor, or NGF as it can also aid with brain fog and glutamate-induced issues by modulating N-Methyl-D-Aspartate, or NMDA receptors. It may also lower the oxidative stress from quinolinic acid, referred to as QUIN. NRF2 activation can protect against seizures and large doses can decrease the brink of a seizure. At regular doses of stimulation, NRF2 can enhance cognitive abilities following a seizure by lowering extracellular glutamate in the brain and by it’s ability to draw cysteine from glutamate and glutathione.
Relieves Depression
In depression, it’s normal to notice inflammation in the brain, especially from the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, as well as decreased BDNF. In some versions of depression, NRF2 can improve depressive symptoms by lowering inflammation within the brain and increasing BDNF levels. Agmatine’s capability to decrease depression by raising noradrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, and BDNF in the hippocampus depends upon NRF2 activation.
Contains Anti-Cancer Properties
NRF2 is equally a tumor suppressor as it is a tumor promoter if not managed accordingly. NRF2 can protect against cancer caused by free radicals and oxidative stress, however, NRF2 overexpression can be found in cancer cells as well. Intense activation of NRF2 can assist with a variety of cancers. By way of instance, the supplement Protandim can reduce skin cancer by NRF2 activation.
Relieves Pain
Gulf War Illness, or GWI, a notable illness affecting Gulf War Veterans, is a collection of unexplained, chronic symptoms which may include tiredness, headaches, joint pain, indigestion, insomnia, dizziness, respiratory ailments, and memory issues. NRF2 can improve symptoms of GWI by diminishing hippocampal and general inflammation, in addition to decreasing pain. NRF2 can additionally assist with pain from bodily nerve injury and improve nerve damage from diabetic neuropathy.
Improves Diabetes
High glucose levels, best referred to as hyperglycemia, causes oxidative damage to the cells due to the disruption of mitochondrial function. NRF2 activation may shield the human body against hyperglycemia’s harm to the cell, thereby preventing cell death. NRF2 activation can additionally protect, restore, and enhance pancreatic beta-cell function, while reducing insulin resistance.
Protects Vision And Hearing
NRF2 can protect against harm to the eye from diabetic retinopathy. It might also avoid the formation of cataracts and protect photoreceptors contrary to light-induced death. NRF2 additionally shield the ear, or cochlea, from stress and hearing loss.
Might Help Obesity
NRF2 may help with obesity primarily due to its capacity to regulate variables that operate on fat accumulation in the human body. NRF2 activation with sulforaphane can raise inhibit of Fatty Acid Synthesis, or FAS, and Uncoupling Proteins, or UCP, resulting in less fat accumulation and more brown fat, characterized as fat which includes more mitochondria.
Protects The Gut
NRF2 helps protect the gut by safeguarding the intestine microbiome homeostasis. By way of instance, lactobacillus probiotics will trigger NRF2 to guard the gut from oxidative stress. NRF2 can also help prevent Ulcerative Colitis, or UC.
Protects Sex Organs
NRF2 can shield the testicles and keep sperm count from harm in people with diabetes. It can also assist with Erectile Dysfunction, or ED. Some libido boosting supplements like Mucuna, Tribulus, and Ashwaganda may enhance sexual function via NRF2 activation. Other factors that boost NRF2, such as sunlight or broccoli sprouts, can also help improve libido.
Regulates Bones And Muscles
Oxidative stress may result in bone density and strength reduction, which is normal in osteoporosis. NRF2 activation could have the ability to improve antioxidants in bones and protect against bone aging. NRF2 can also prevent muscle loss and enhance Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, or DMD.
Contains Anti-Viral Properties
Last but not least, NRF2 activation can ultimately help defend the human body against several viruses. In patients with the dengue virus, symptoms were not as intense in individuals who had greater levels of NRF2 compared to individuals who had less degrees of NRF2. NRF2 can also help people who have Human Immunodeficiency-1 Virus, or HIV. NRF2 can protect against the oxidative stress from Adeno-Associated Virus, or AAV, and H. Pylori. Finally, Lindera Root may suppress Hepatitis C virus with NRF2 activation.
Nrf2, or NF-E2-related factor 2, is a transcription factor found in humans which regulates the expression of a specific set of antioxidant and detoxifying genes. This signaling pathway is activated due to oxidative stress as it enhances numerous antioxidant and phase II liver detoxification enzymes to restore homeostasis in the human body. Humans are adapted to function throughout a state of homeostasis or balance. When the body is confronted with oxidative stress, Nrf2 activates to regulate oxidation and control the stress it causes. Nrf2 is essential to prevent health issues associated with oxidative stress. Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Sulforaphane and Its Effects on Cancer, Mortality, Aging, Brain and Behavior, Heart Disease & More
Isothiocyanates are some of the most important plant compounds you can get in your diet. In this video I make the most comprehensive case for them that has ever been made. Short attention span? Skip to your favorite topic by clicking one of the time points below. Full timeline below.
Key sections:
00:01:14 – Cancer and mortality
00:19:04 – Aging
00:26:30 – Brain and behavior
00:38:06 – Final recap
00:40:27 – Dose
Full timeline:
00:00:34 – Introduction of sulforaphane, a major focus of the video.
00:01:14 – Cruciferous vegetable consumption and reductions in all-cause mortality.
00:02:12 – Prostate cancer risk.
00:02:23 – Bladder cancer risk.
00:02:34 – Lung cancer in smokers risk.
00:02:48 – Breast cancer risk.
00:03:13 – Hypothetical: what if you already have cancer? (interventional)
00:03:35 – Plausible mechanism driving the cancer and mortality associative data.
00:04:38 – Sulforaphane and cancer.
00:05:32 – Animal evidence showing strong effect of broccoli sprout extract on bladder tumor development in rats.
00:06:06 – Effect of direct supplementation of sulforaphane in prostate cancer patients.
00:07:09 – Bioaccumulation of isothiocyanate metabolites in actual breast tissue.
00:08:32 – Inhibition of breast cancer stem cells.
00:08:53 – History lesson: brassicas were established as having health properties even in ancient Rome.
00:09:16 – Sulforaphane’s ability to enhance carcinogen excretion (benzene, acrolein).
00:09:51 – NRF2 as a genetic switch via antioxidant response elements.
00:10:10 – How NRF2 activation enhances carcinogen excretion via glutathione-S-conjugates.
00:10:34 – Brussels sprouts increase glutathione-S-transferase and reduce DNA damage.
00:11:20 – Broccoli sprout drink increases benzene excretion by 61%.
00:13:31 – Broccoli sprout homogenate increases antioxidant enzymes in the upper airway.
00:15:45 – Cruciferous vegetable consumption and heart disease mortality.
00:16:55 – Broccoli sprout powder improves blood lipids and overall heart disease risk in type 2 diabetics.
00:19:04 – Beginning of aging section.
00:19:21 – Sulforaphane-enriched diet enhances lifespan of beetles from 15 to 30% (in certain conditions).
00:20:34 – Importance of low inflammation for longevity.
00:22:05 – Cruciferous vegetables and broccoli sprout powder seem to reduce a wide variety of inflammatory markers in humans.
00:36:32 – Sulforaphane improves learning in model of type II diabetes in mice.
00:37:19 – Sulforaphane and duchenne muscular dystrophy.
00:37:44 – Myostatin inhibition in muscle satellite cells (in vitro).
00:38:06 – Late-video recap: mortality and cancer, DNA damage, oxidative stress and inflammation, benzene excretion, cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, effects on the brain (depression, autism, schizophrenia, neurodegeneration), NRF2 pathway.
00:40:27 – Thoughts on figuring out a dose of broccoli sprouts or sulforaphane.
00:41:01 – Anecdotes on sprouting at home.
00:43:14 – On cooking temperatures and sulforaphane activity.
00:43:45 – Gut bacteria conversion of sulforaphane from glucoraphanin.
00:44:24 – Supplements work better when combined with active myrosinase from vegetables.
00:44:56 – Cooking techniques and cruciferous vegetables.
00:46:06 – Isothiocyanates as goitrogens.
When the human body is confronted with harmful internal and external factors like toxins, the cells must rapidly trigger their antioxidant abilities to counteract oxidative stress. Because increased levels of oxidative stress have been determined to cause a variety of health issues, it’s important to use Nrf2 activation to take advantage of its benefits. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal health issues. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
For people struggling to control their blood glucose levels, the most common concern is, how can you regulate blood sugar levels? Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels can be complicated and unyielding. Along with food and beverages, our blood sugar levels fluctuate in response to a huge variety of unique factors. Exercise, psychological stress, the previous night’s rest, and genetics all play a role in the human body’s effort to closely regulate the degree of glucose circulating in the blood. Additionally, no matter whether or not somebody has a blood glucose dysregulation problem or full-blown diabetes, that morning meal we call breakfast actually sets the stage for your day.
What is often known as the “Dawn Phenomenon” occurs between 4:00 AM to 8:00 AM when the human body produces sufficient amounts of glucagon, cortisol and epinephrine to boost blood glucose as a natural procedure before waking up in the morning. And science supports those people who prefer to eat a hearty breakfast as soon as they wake up. One study that monitored the sugar profiles of healthy people during the day saw that the largest increase in blood glucose occurs right after breakfast. Just about every nutritionist, dietitian and endocrinologist recommends eating a high-protein breakfast so as to restrain the naturally-occurring spike in sugar during the daytime. As mentioned previously, these meals, as well as other variables, will dictate the difference in blood glucose levels throughout the day, which directly impacts the way the human body works and an individual’s overall awareness of their health and wellness.
When Maintaining Healthy Blood Sugar Levels is Difficult
A consistently higher blood sugar level has a deleterious impact on organ function. Risks for diabetes, further heart disease, stroke, kidney disorders, vision impairment and cardiovascular issues that can result in infections and amputation of recurrence increase when blood sugar is uncontrolled. Intense oscillations in blood sugar may stem from many hormonal imbalances, specifically where there is a lack of insulin manufacturing, as in the case of type I diabetes, or an inability to use insulin correctly, commonly referred to as insulin resistance. Either type of diabetes is recognized and monitored with many evaluations, but the most prevalent one is the HbA1C. As a mark of longer-term glucose levels, the HbA1C suggests the average proportion of the particular hemoglobin subtype A1C that has glucose bound to it, glycated or glycosylated, producing a glycoprotein. Since hemoglobin cells normally die off after 120 days, this process firmly reflects the typical plasma glucose level over in the past 90 days. This diagnostic tool proves more helpful than a diagram of blood sugar, which shows great vacillations through the day. Individuals with diabetes or more lengths of hyperglycemia, as noticed in patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, have increased HbA1C levels. It’s projected that in 2015 over 7 million cases of diabetes and insulin resistance went undiagnosed. The famed incidence of those conditions is alarming as the trend is nearing 10 percent of the populace.
Regulating Blood Glucose Levels with Nutrition
Though genetics are not something people can control, nutrition, diet and other lifestyle variables are within your reach. Eating a balanced diet of low-glycemic, high fiber, and also low-saturated fat meals is recommended for individuals with glycemic control health issues. Combining foods which contain all three macronutrients, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, can also be valuable in regulating blood glucose levels. This list of foods provides a wonderful start to a healthy diet and a platform for preventing those wild swings in sugar throughout the day:
All colors and varieties of fresh fruits and vegetables
Legumes, such as kidney beans, black beans, chickpeas, and lentils
Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, barley, and millet
Olive oil
Tomatoes
Fermented, organic and raw dairy
Cold-water wild fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines
Tempeh, tofu and natto
Cage-free, organic eggs
Green and black tea
Supplemental nutrients and botanicals to help encourage wholesome glucose levels and supply a hypoglycemic effect are currently being studied and comprise of:
Magnesium
Chromium, as chromium picolinate
Vanadium
Alpha lipoic acid
Gymnema sylvestre
Fenugreek
Bitter melon
Cinnamon
Berberine
Berberine functions on multiple fronts. It was found to substantially improve glucose levels by an average of 9.5 percent down to 7.5 percent, as effective as metformin from 9.15 percent down to 7.7 percent, in a research study to find out its effectiveness and safety in type 2 diabetes patients. Furthermore, it had the effect of enhancing both entire cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in the evaluation and analysis.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Diabetes has become one of the fastest growing diseases in the United States, where it is prevalent among both children and adults. With the increase in cases each year, the numbers of individuals seeking treatment and a potential cure are also rising. Fortunately, research studies have found that maintaining healthy blood sugar levels can help stabilize a case of diabetes. Proper nutrition, as well as natural remedies and botanicals, including alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, have been determined to help regulate healthy blood glucose levels, improving an individual’s quality of life.
While there are many other ways in which healthy blood sugar levels can be achieved, recent research studies have also determined that chiropractic care may be able to control blood sugar levels, potentially regulating type 2 diabetes. According to these, the key to managing blood glucose levels can be found in the connection between the central nervous system and blood sugar levels in the human body. Chiropractic care focuses on the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations to correct spinal misalignments, or subluxations. It has been demonstrated that spinal misalignments, or subluxations, can interfere with important communications signals from the brain to the spinal chords as well as the rest of the body. By carefully restoring the natural integrity of the spine, chiropractors can help regulate healthy blood sugar levels and improve overall health and wellness.
Sleep disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea, commonly related to obesity and metabolic syndrome, can hinder good quality sleep, and also have been considered as a risk factor for diabetes. Although there isn’t any clearly defined correlation between sleep and glucose control, there are multiple pathways involved together with a cascade of metabolic functions which could result in metabolic derangements when disturbed.
To remain steady on what could be a roller coaster ride of blood sugars, a high priority should be given to a well-balanced diet plan, replete with proper nutrition and supplementation, and the close observation of lifestyle and genetic aspects. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
How important is nutrition for our brain health? In the current work force, we are continuously stressed, often forced to finish tasks faster in order to meet ever so demanding deadlines. In addition, we are expected to maintain our optimal mental health, as this can be an essential part towards delivering quality work. When our mental health is being affected by our hectic lifestyles, however, several practices which can help you start thinking more clearly can include sleeping properly, controlling stress, and even taking nutritional supplements for your brain health.
One nutritional supplement which has been widely recognized for its ability to boost brain health is curcumin, the active ingredient found in turmeric. Well-known for its antioxidant properties and its capacity to control inflammation in the human body, this powerful herb can also promote good mood and cognition. Another specific group which has reported significant benefits with the increased use of curcumin, is the elderly population. Below, we will discuss how curcumin can help boost brain health as well as demonstrate additional benefits this golden gem can have on our overall health and wellness.
Curcumin: a Golden Gem for Brain Health
In accordance with the Journal of Pharmacology, curcumin is made-up of a variety of substances which can encourage biological mechanisms that counteract age-related cognitive decline, dementia, or mood disorders. One randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial analyzed the acute, of approximately 1 and 3 hours following a single dose, chronic, of approximately 4 weeks, and acute-on-chronic, of approximately 1 and 3 hours after one dose subsequently after chronic treatment, consequences of a curcumin formulation on cognitive function, mood, and blood biomarkers in 60 healthy adults ranging from the 60 to 85 years of age. After about one hour of application, the curcumin had considerably enhanced the participant’s functionality on attention and working memory tasks, in comparison with the placebo. Working memory and mood, which included general fatigue, change in calmness, contentedness and fatigue triggered by emotional strain were fundamentally improved following chronic therapy.
Curcumin boosts BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), the brain hormone which helps boost the development of new neurons that are in charge of improving memory and learning as well as supplying a substantial option for countering the aging brain. Additionally, this powerful ingredient increases blood circulation to the brain, also providing a much better attention span for greater work productivity.
Appreciating its anxiolytic effects can be one of the greatest benefits of carrying curcumin. According to the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, a randomized double-blinded and double-blind trial with 60 subjects experiencing stress-related symptoms, including exhaustion, were to get routine curcumin nutritional supplements, and placebo for 30 days. The results indicated a greater quality of life, and diminished stress and fatigue for those receiving regular curcumin intakes. This progressive compound is believed to be able to help alleviate depression by altering the release of dopamine and serotonin, two powerful hormones which help keep the human mind and body at ease. Curcumin also promotes the optima health and wellness of inflammation pathways from the brain, which ultimately will help improve energy, mood, and production levels.
Curcumin may additionally promote cognition via its powerful antioxidant action which improves the bioavailability of DHA, the potent omega-3 fatty acid demonstrated to boost brain health. A research study in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry revealed that curcumin really does protect the brain from neurodegeneration. The evaluation and analysis included 40 participants ranging from the ages of 51 to 84 years of age. Each individual subject consumed 90mg of curcumin twice per day or placebo for 18 weeks. The results indicated enhanced long-term healing, visual memory, and focus. With its tremendous medicinal properties, curcumin can also support neuroplasticity, which empowers the brain to change and fortify itself even through the natural degeneration with aging.
Curcumin can also promote anti-seizure action. With its antioxidant properties, this golden gem can help slow down reactive astrocyte expression, which helps cells survive within the mind. According to the Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, the antioxidant properties of curcumin helped alleviate migraines, cognitive impairment, and cognitive stress in rats. A dental pre-treatment of curcumin was given to male rats which were additionally treated together with Pentylenetrazole, or PZT, every other day. The study demonstrated that curcumin enhanced the seizure score and indicated a diminished amount of myoclonic jerks. Furthermore, the outcome measures of the research study demonstrated that curcumin restructures seizures, oxidative stress, and brain function. Moreover, it helps protect memory function which may also be jeopardized by seizure activity.
Using its capability to strengthen fatty acids in the mind, curcumin helps athletes achieve better physical performance by boosting critical thinking, improving problem solving, and developing improved choices. The neuroprotective properties in curcumin also help regenerate tissues. In reality, based on Stem Cell Research and Therapy, a research study was conducted between the effects of curcumin on endogenous stem cells which were impartial. The study demonstrated that curcumin played an essential role in the healing of cells from combating the activation of microglia cells. Scientists in the Institute of Neuroscience and Medicine in Julich, Germany, observed the effects of impartial stem cell generation. During a 72-hour period, the evaluation and analysis demonstrated and indicated that the turmeric curcumin improved cellular generation by up to 80 percent. This shows how powerful curcumin could be for successful brain health function.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Nutrition is a fundamental factor in overall health and wellness. In today’s stressful world, however, it can often become difficult to eat a proper meal, let alone making sure we are taking in all the necessary nutrients we require on a regular basis. That, plus the added pressure of the workforce can have detrimental effects on our brain health. Dietary supplements, such as curcumin, have been demonstrated to have tremendous benefits on brain health. Although we may not always have the “free time” to sit down and have a properly balanced meal, taking nutritional supplements like curcumin, among others, can help improve the human body’s general well-being.
While many research studies have found that natural remedies and botanicals, such as dietary supplements apart from vitamins and minerals, continue to be the most common complementary health approach in the United States today, more and more alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, have started to incorporate these into their practices. As a matter of fact, a majority of chiropractors give nutritional advice, as well as recommendations for other lifestyle recommendations, as a general part of their treatment plan. Because chiropractic care is based on the notion of naturally treating the human body as a whole, enhancing it’s own healing properties without the use of drugs and/or medications as well as other invasive procedures, this healthcare profession relies on offering the necessary health maintenance components for optimal health and wellness. These components can include nutrition, water, rest, exercise, and clean air. Many chiropractors also offer curcumin supplements to help promote recovery.
This exceptional nutritional supplement, curcumin, helps improve mental clarity, improve cognition, improve endurance, and supplies anxiolytic benefits. Whether it’s more work fabricating, or a much better disposition, curcumin is a hidden golden gem for health. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
A majority of individuals today are aware about the gut-brain connection and how approximately 90 percent of their body’s serotonin is really generated in the gastrointestinal, or GI, tract as well as the way the gut-brain axis is associated with depression. Overall gut health involving a healthy population of gut microbiota can affect many facets of our well-being, therefore, it’s no mystery that the connection between the gut and chronic health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases, are also significantly strong.
Berberine, an ancient mixture frequently utilized in a variety of medicinal herbs throughout several traditional treatments has been demonstrated to benefit as well as link the gut and the heart. Berberine is an isoquinoline derivative alkaloid found in numerous herbs. Although these berberine-containing herbs aren’t traditionally utilized in food preparations, the active ingredient has been identified and may be isolated from a variety of plant sources, such as Coptis chinensis, or Coptis or Goldthread, Hydrastis canadensis, or goldenseal, Berberis aquifolium, or Oregon grape, Berberis aristata, or Tree Turmeric, Berberis vulgaris, or Barberry, and Arcangelisia flava.
Berberine is most favorably known for its function in gut health, demonstrating activity which can help support gut microbial balance. In fact, scientists have shown a growing interest in many plant-derived compounds which affect bacterial direction and berberine is a pioneer in the group. Additionally, its a botanical proven to influence blood glucose, blood lipids and also the immune system. Researchers today have learned how berberine can provide these tremendous benefits.
Gut Health Equals Heart Health
According to evidence from a 2016 research study, the gut’s immune system is fundamental towards preventing a variety of diseases and it may often contribute to metabolic disorders. However, it might also help provide a treatment goal when observing systemic inflammation in insulin resistance. Moreover, modified gut immunity has been linked with changes to the gut microbiota, intestinal barrier function, gut-residing immune cells, and resistance to antigens which enter the gastrointestinal, or GI, system. Although this has been previously believed to raise the danger of esophageal ailments including, pathogenic infections and chronic inflammation, which may ultimately lead to chronic health issues.
In our currently hectic and stressful world, a growth in the numbers of chronic disease has begun to negatively affect our overall health health. The best instance of this increase in chronic illness is type 2 diabetes, abbreviated in this article as T2DM, which often coexists with hypertension and causes individuals to pursue nutritional advice in order to achieve healthy blood sugar levels. The information viewing T2DM alone are shocking. As of 2015, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention reported that over 30 million people in the United States had diabetes, where approximately three times as many had pre-diabetes. According to statistics, 70 percent of individuals with pre-diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes.
Natural remedies and botanicals utilized as herbal treatments which have been previously used to promote healthy blood sugar levels have been strongly evaluated in order to determine their safety and effectiveness. Numerous berberine research studies are being conducted, though these are mostly in vitro, or in cell cultures. A majority of in vivo research studies have used animals for the analysis. Despite the quality and size of those research studies, virtually all of the outcome measures throughout the last two decades are positive. One research study from 2012 looked at in vitro results to thoroughly assess the assumed mechanism of action by which berberine affects fat storage. The outcome measures using clinical therapeutics of berberine to observe participants with metabolic syndrome appeared promising.
Another research study evaluated and analyzed the use of berberine in human cell cultures to ascertain how it influenced preadipocyte, a precursor to fat cells, comparison and fat hormone as well as cell activity in patients with metabolic disease. The researchers demonstrated that preadipocyte differentiation was restricted by berberine, while leptin, adiponectin, PPARγ2, or the nuclear receptor known as the master regulator of fat cell biology and target of many diabetes drugs and/or medications, and C/EBPα, a protein necessary for fat cell differentiation, diminished. After several months, participants demonstrated a drop in their BMI and leptin/adiponectin ratio, showing that berberine could boost insulin sensitivity by limiting fat storage, which may also have beneficial effects in the regulation of blood lipid levels.
Concerning how berberine affects cardiovascular biomarkers, many assessments can be found in the literature. The administration of berberine in one analysis generated a substantial decrease in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, with a marked rise in high-density lipoprotein. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of this anti-diabetic, hypolipidemic and anti-inflammatory effects of berberine were reviewed in twenty-seven randomized controlled clinical trials. The researchers have concluded that berberine is safe and effective due to its support of the cardiovascular system and the maintenance of healthy blood sugar levels, without any severe adverse reactions found in some of the other research studies. Berberine has also been demonstrated to restrict complex I of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, leading to a growth of 5′ adenosine monophosphate, or AMP and 5′ adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, or AMPK activation. This seems to have a direct impact on energy metabolism as well as that in other structures and functions.
The neurological health effects of berberine have also been considered, particularly from the modulation of the dopaminergic system. Berberine has also demonstrated a possibility in the successful management of seizures, diabetes-induced memory malfunction and hyperexcitability. One animal research study investigating obsessive-compulsive disease found that berberine can promote anti-compulsive and/or anxiolytic effects because of its ability to boost brain monoamine levels. Another review from 2016 demonstrated berberine’s ability to reduce oxidative stress and supply neuroprotective benefits. The review further cites research studies which examine the botanical’s function in the evolution of amyloid plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles. Berberine has found its function in the gastrointestinal, cardiovascular as well as brain worlds. Truly offering a wholesome dose of gut-heart-brain link, berberine is definitely one to consider.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Research studies have found that the relationship between a healthy gut, brain and heart is fundamental towards overall well-being. Natural remedies and botanicals, such as berberine, can help promote as well as support this gut-brain-heart connection, while other alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can restore balance and encourage the human body’s natural healing abilities by correcting spinal misalignments of the spine. Furthermore, by establishing the proper relationship between the brain, the spinal chord and the rest of the body, chiropractic care can help regulate the proper structure and function of each system in the human body.
With the increasing number of gut health issues, it’s become a priority to find safe and effective treatment options to properly address these common problems. More and more research studies have found a connection between the gut, brain and heart. As previously mentioned, by both supporting and promoting the well-being of the gastrointestinal, or GI, system, the structure and function of a variety of other systems can be sustained. Natural remedies and botanicals, such as berberine, have been utilized for centuries as herbal treatments, however, other alternative treatment options can also be used to help improve gut health. Chiropractic care is a well-known, alternative treatment option which has been demonstrated to help promote the natural healing of the human body through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations as well as other therapeutic techniques to correct spinal misalignments, or subluxations. Moreover, a doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, can recommend a series of lifestyle modifications, including exercise and nutritional advice, in order to help further improve the overall health and wellness of the human body. Maintaining the well-being of the gut can help boost brain and heart health as well.
Berberine Warnings
In large doses, berberine may lead to gastrointestinal irritation. Thus, it’s typically administered in divided doses and taken with a meal. In addition, researchers have revealed that berberine can limit particular cytochrome enzymes that also target a lot of different kinds of drugs and/or medications, including certain antibiotics. Inhibiting cytochrome enzymes influences the liver’s detoxification system, which will be required to metabolize and, finally, clear drugs and/or medications. For this reason, it’s essential to carefully monitor those patients that are using berberine if other medicines are used concomitantly. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Envision yourself waking up entirely rested, prepared to deal with any obstacle and adopt all the joys of the world with gratitude. The majority of us know what a good night’s sleep resembles, but are we really getting the proper rest we should be getting? Within this stressful universe, it’s tough to achieve the sleep schedule that our brains and bodies require to operate to its fullest potential.
Proper sleep hygiene and the application of organic herbs and botanicals can help promote a healthy amount of sleep. The outcome could result in a wide array of benefits, including an improvement in problem solving and work performance, weight management, and even promote the prevention of chronic health issues, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mood disorders like depression. You may find numerous products and information regarding how to manage proper sleep. A research study from 2016 indicated that individuals in the United States alone spent over $41 billion on sleeping treatments, where it is expected to rise up to $52 billion by the year 2020.
What Natural Remedies or Botanicals Can Help Promote Sleep?
The German Commission E, globally recognized for its understanding information on the role of medicinal herbs, additionally recommends the frequent utilization of certain botanicals, such as valerian, lavender, lemon balm, and hops, to promote the right level of relaxation and support proper sleep. There are several other well-known options which have sedative qualities, such as passion flower, chamomile, and kava kava. Nearly all of those relaxant natural remedies and botanicals are available commonly in teas, but they are also found in supplement form. Nearly always found in specialized mixes, these herbs have various mechanisms of action, and, therefore, behave synergistically when mixed together.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a very popular floral herb utilized in fundamental oil form, teas, extracts and in other botanical combinations to promote relaxation as well as to relieve stress and anxiety. Recent research studies have identified that lavender works by antagonizing NMDA-receptors and serotonin transporters. Doses of about 80 milligrams every day of lavender from gel cap type for up to ten weeks were utilized in a research study where participants had previously been diagnosed with an unspecified type anxiety disorder. Both quality and length of sleep seemed to have been enhanced in those subjects without them experiencing the sedative side-effects as demonstrated in pharmaceutical sleep treatments. Other uses of lavender include 1 to 2 tsp in hot water as a tea every day, or its key oil diluted in a carrier oil used for massage or in a hot bath. Lavender is generally considered safe, however it’s also believed to be toxic if ingested orally in large quantities.
Hops (Humulus lupulus), aside from its frequently enjoyable pronunciation and serving as the main ingredient in a variety of beers, this is one of the herbs which is most commonly mixed in teas or supplements to achieve as well as maintain an overall calming effect. Researchers haven’t completely discovered how hops causes this effect, however, it’s been demonstrated to bind to serotonin and melatonin receptors. Valerian-hops blend products have also become the most widely researched in placebo-controlled, double-blind randomized controlled trials comparing them to benzodiazepine-class sleep drugs and/or medications with varying results. Like lemon balm, signs for its use as a herbal treatment for relaxation or insomnia includes an extended background in history.
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is basically another botanical utilized to remedy stress, anxiety and insomnia. Researchers have discovered that passionflower works by increasing levels of GABA, achieving a comforting effect. In a Japanese research study from 2017, scientists discovered that passionflower extract modulates the amounts of the receptors as well as the genetic expression of the related enzymes in vivo and in vitro. This ultimately resulted in favorable effects on circadian rhythms.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Natural remedies and botanicals are a natural option for promoting sleep. While various herbs taken in numerous forms can help provide a good night’s rest, other alternative treatment options can also be considered to get you through a full night of rest. Chiropractic care can help promote sleep by carefully correcting spinal misalignments, or subluxations, through spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, among other techniques. Spinal misalignments, or subluxations, can cause tension and stress along the back, causing pain and discomfort which can contribute to poor sleep. Regular chiropractic care can solve a variety of health issues which may be causing you sleepless nights, thus helping you sleep better and improving quality of life.
Proper Sleep Hygiene Advice
Dr. Michael Polsky, a board-certified sleep physician, recommends contemplating proper sleep hygiene for improving sleep. Sleep hygiene is a phrase utilized to refer to how we prepare our bodies and minds for sleep, beginning hours before we actually have to sleep. In fact, the window of 2 to 3 hours before sleeping proves to be significantly the most essential when attempting to get a good night’s rest. Below, are several notes of advice for achieving and maintaining proper sleep hygiene:
At least 2-3 hours before bedtime, have a light, balanced meal and also reduce fluids
Make a strategy to avoid the use of electronic devices 1 to 2 hours before bed
Do a little mild activity, like walking or yoga; avoid a hard workout or some other action which is too stimulating
Reduce or eliminate caffeine, commonly from coffee, tea, or chocolate, drink no more than 1 to 2 cups of coffee or tea before lunch
Keep a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends
A Simple Tea Recipe
Blend a batch of 2 parts peppermint leaf, 1 piece lemon balm, 1 part passionflower, and 1 part lavender. Steep one heaping teaspoon in a teacup of hot water for 5 minutes and enjoy only as a relaxing drink.
Sleep deprivation is one of the most common behaviors which can lead to a variety of health issues. While the natural remedies and botanicals mentioned above can be utilized to help promote sleep, other alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, have been reported to help provide a better good night’s rest. Chiropractic care focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a variety of musculoskeletal and nervous system injuries and/or conditions, through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations. A spinal misalignment, or subluxation, can cause pain and discomfort when trying to get proper sleep. Through chiropractic care, a chiropractor can help promote sleep by carefully correcting any spinal misalignment which may be causing painful symptoms. By treating symptoms of pain and discomfort, chiropractic care can help promote sleep, naturally, without the need for drugs and/or medications as well as surgical interventions.
In conclusion, proper sleep and rest are essential elements towards achieving and maintaining overall health and wellness. Through the use of natural remedies and botanicals, by practicing good sleep hygiene tips, and by receiving chiropractic care, the average American can begin to experience the benefits of proper sleep. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Curcumin is the main active ingredient found in turmeric, a bright yellow aromatic powder obtained from the rhizome of a plant in the ginger family commonly utilized for flavoring and coloring in a variety of Asian cuisines, as well as a very strong antioxidant which additionally has powerful anti-inflammatory effects. While turmeric has been consumed for generations due to its medicinal properties, it’s curcumin content is actually not that high. Therefore, if you want to experience its full benefits, it may be best to take a supplement that contains significant amounts of curcumin, or better yet, a supplement specially formulated to bring out the benefits of this naturally occurring chemical compound.
Curcumin is ultimately found in turmeric, the key ingredient in curry, and as a powerful antioxidant that offers numerous health benefits, curcumin helps support joint health and cardiovascular function, and it helps maintain a normal inflammatory reaction in the human body. Individuals throughout Asia have benefited from the healthful effects of curcumin for centuries. Whether taken as a nutritional supplement or from meals, however, curcumin is usually poorly absorbed into the bloodstream.
Fortunately, global experts in botanical extract technologies have uncovered the key to curcumin absorption: phytosome technology. Meriva curcumin phytosome is an exceptional curcumin extract that’s significantly better absorbed than other curcumin extracts. Curcumin nutrients which have previously been remarkable in “test tube” experiments are extremely poorly absorbed when taken orally by people. The product Curcumin Phytosome comprising Meriva® unites curcumin with another bioactive nutrient, thereby dramatically improving its absorption and releasing its overall health and wellness potential. Meriva is a unique, patented, time-release curcumin product.
Meriva Product Overview
Phytosomes are plant extracts bound to phosphatidylcholine, or PC, an important component of individual cells. The human body can create PC, or phosphatidylcholine, but it can even be obtained from food and/or supplements. When taken orally, PC is very well absorbed. PC is a significant building block for membranes, the most metabolically dynamic zones of our cells. PC most likely transfers the curcumins in the bloodstream until they arrive in cell membranes. Researchers found a way to attach a curcumin extract to PC for superior absorption, leading to Meriva. Curcumin phytosome is a curcumin molecule bonded to a molecule of PC. Unlike curcumin alone, PC is excellently absorbed orally.
When consumers utilize Meriva curcumin phytosome, the body absorbs the PC as well as the attached curcumin, leading to more curcumin reaching the cells which can benefit more from it. After the curcumin phytosomes are accepted as a dietary supplement, PC protects its connected curcumin and economically transports it across the intestinal lining and into the circulating blood. Curcumins at phytosomes are over 29 times better absorbed than curcumin alone. PC itself has proven benefits for the liver, intestines, and lungs, and its existence in the Meriva curcumin phytosome amplifies the benefits available from the curcumin alone.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
Turmeric contains four major curcuminoids: curcumin, demethoxycurcumin, bisdemethoxycurcumin and cyclocurcumin. These chemical compounds have been demonstrated to have tremendous benefits, which is why turmeric has been a fundamental addition in Asian cooking. However, curcumin, as well as all the other curcuminoids, are poorly absorbed by the human body when taken orally. Researchers developed Meriva curcumin phytosome, a curcumin compound which is bonded to the molecule phosphatidylcholine, or PC, which promotes the proper absorption of curcumin. Meriva curcumin phytosome can provide a variety of health benefits, including vision and eye health, joint health and even prostrate benefits, among other medicinal properties.
Meriva Curcumin Phytosome Research
Curcumin phytosome with Meriva® is a powerful antioxidant which protects cells and tissues by fighting free radicals. It’s also known to support healthy joint function, eye health and small vessel circulatory health. The curcumin is extracted from turmeric and provides a curcumin complex including, curcumin, bisdemethoxy curcumin and demethoxy curcumin. Meriva® curcumin phytosome is made utilizing the patented Phytosome® technology that enhances the absorption of those curcumins. Comprehensive research over the previous quarter of a century suggests that curcumin helps counter toxins, in addition to influencing cell survival through other means.
Although curcumins are poorly absorbed, Phytosome® technology helps improve bioavailability. The technology evolves every curcumin molecule with one or more atoms of the nutrient phosphatidylcholine, or PC, to create molecular complexes called phytosomes. Curcumin molecules at the Meriva® phytosome complexes are more stable against breakdown and combine far better into water in order for them to be better absorbed when taken orally. The PC molecules in the phytosomes serve as a “delivery vehicle” or even “chaperone”, which not only chemically protects the curcumin molecules but also markedly increases their absorption. A human absorption research discovered that the curcumins were absorbed when taken as Meriva® curcumin phytosomes, in comparison to their basic molecular forms.
The numerous beneficial effects attributed to turmeric root are linked to the antioxidant properties of the curcumins it contains. This antioxidant activity can neutralize free radicals which threaten the integrity of mobile structures. Free radicals may lead to “oxidative stress,” a process that can activate cell damage. In addition, oxidative stress is considered to play a role in the development of a variety of diseases. Because curcumins are poorly absorbed when taken orally, this can tremendously restrict their biological actions. The Phytosome® technology used with Meriva® curcumin phytosome creates phytosome complexes which are proven to be absorbed better.
A 2007 study published in the journal, Cancer Chemotherapy and Pharmacology, revealed Meriva’s exceptional bioavailability in contrast to ordinary curcumin. Liver levels of curcumin were also higher with Meriva supplementation. A recent human research study also demonstrated that Meriva curcumin phytosome has 29-times higher bioavailability. Meriva supplementation also resulted in higher plasma concentrations of curcumin from a much smaller dose compared to ordinary curcumin. In a recent eight-month human trial, Meriva was shown to encourage a healthy inflammatory reaction. People experienced improvements in clinical and biochemical end-points associated with joint health.
Several studies have shown curcumin’s hepatoprotective effects, causing researchers to suggest its use in protecting the liver from exogenous insults due to environmental toxins. Curcumin also has the capacity to increase both the circulation and solubility of bile. Curcumin’s hepatoprotective effects are due in part to lead free-radical scavenging; however, curcumin also enhances the body’s natural antioxidant system, which raises glutathione levels, thus aiding in hepatic detoxification and inhibiting nitrosamine formation. Furthermore, research studies have demonstrated several other health benefits of Meriva curcumin phytosome, including its support in joint health, eye health, vision and circulation, as well as several prostrate benefits, among others.
Supports Joint Health – Two Clinical Trials
In two double-blind trials with subjects having knee problems, Meriva, taken at about 1,000 mg/day, enhanced treadmill walk space by 345 percent after eight months. It improved joint pain, stiffness, swelling and joint work. Intakes of over-the-counter medications fell 63 percent and their adverse effects dropped by 67 percent. The subjects’ medical prices fell 45 percent after 8 months. C-Reactive Protein, or CRP, levels were reduced into a more healthy variety. After eight months, the Karnofsky Scale of well-being moved into “able to perform ordinary activity.”
Supports Eye Health, Vision, Circulation – Three Clinical Trials
One frequent eye problem is a really persistent redness that keeps coming back even when it is cleared. At a clinical trial, 106 patients obtained Meriva, taken at about 1,200 mg/day, for a single year. There were 86 percent fewer returns of this reddening, and in 82 percent of these patients, approximately 87 from 106, it didn’t return at all. In another study, Meriva, taken at about 1,000 mg/day, improved retinal blood circulation, retinal swelling, and eyesight. In only four weeks, visual sharpness improved from an initial average of 20/122-155 to 20/32-78. Meriva also improved circulation elsewhere in the body. In areas with foot blood circulation issues, it substantially reduced immunity, increased oxygen consumption, and enhanced nerve control over the capillary networks. The subjects’ Karnofsky Score of well-being improved, from “normal activity, with effort” into “normal activity.”
Breakthrough Prostate Benefits with Meriva
In a clinical trial on middle-aged men with prostate troubles, Meriva, taken at 1,000 mg/day, significantly enhanced: sense of incomplete bladder emptying, urination frequency, flow stop/start, feeble stream, straining and getting up at night, urinary block, and PSA levels. Quality of life and sexual activity were also considerably improved. The Meriva curcumin phytosome breakthrough guarantees that curcumins are effectively delivered to human cells, in functional mix with PC, or phosphatidylcholine. Multiple effective clinical trials have established curcumin phytosome comprising of Meriva® as the “gold standard” one of curcumin supplements.
In conclusion, Meriva curcumin phytosome is bound to phosphatidylcholine, or PC, for increased absorption and bioavailability, ultimately protecting DNA against damage by free radicals and reactive oxygen species, among providing a variety of other health benefits. With its enhanced absorption through an improved curcumin absorb delivery system, Meriva curcumin phytosome is clinically documented to promote joint health, eye health, vision and circulation, and even has prostrate benefits. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
CBD research currently being conducted is showing its medical potential. This has opened doors for antipsychotic, anticancer and anti-inflammatory treatmentoptions among a variety of others. Scientists from all over are publishing studies that are proving CBD is one of the most effective and favorable cannabinoids that promotes proper function of the body’s systems.
Five Properties Of CBD
CBD Medical Benefits
1. Inhibits Cancer Cell Growth
Studies have supported this claim. By way of Proapoptotic action or apoptosis, Cannabidiol, Tetrahydrocannabinol, Cannabigerol and Cannabichromene in this order are extremely effective in tumor growth reduction in rats and cancerous human prostate cells. Research is still ongoing, but understanding that these cannabinoids stimulate the body’s process of killing cells that no longer function properly or at their optimal level. In traditional chemotherapy both healthy and cancerous cells are destroyed and only works when the cancer cells are replicating more frequently than healthy cells. CBD treatment promotes the body’s natural immune response to cells that are not functioning properly, which eradicates tumors.
2. Pain Reducer
The most common reason people start using marijuana despite its psychoactive affects, is that it also functions, as a pain reliever! People with chronic pain that are tired of taking pain killing opiates, rely on cannabinoid products to deal with pain and eliminate its source, commonly inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury, which floods the injured area with blood and nutrients to aid in rehabilitation. But inflammation creates secondary problems, among them pain and discomfort. Through stimulation of nutrients in the area that is injured, CBD creates negative feedback to inflammatory reactions, as the nutrients that came with the inflammation are already there.
3. Treats Anxiety
Anxiety along with PTSD affects over 40 million adults in the U.S. Valium and Xanax is what is normally used to treat these conditions. However, CBD products are becoming the preferred treatment, as they have none of the side effects or dependency issues. The effects of CBD have been observed thoroughly by experts and studies have proved its effectiveness, as a dependable alternative for mental disorders. Two receptors in the human brain responsible for sending out Adrenaline and Serotonin are the α2-adrenergic receptor agonist and 5-HT1A receptor antagonist. These receptors both are related to anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other mental disorders when imbalanced.
4. Strengthens The Immune System
Phytocannabinoids are able to balance, reinforce and strengthen the immune system. Cannabinoid products taken daily, work in regulating the immune system. This increases the body’s detection of foreign and potentially dangerous organisms, which include cancer cells.
5. Prevents Muscle Spasms
CBD contains chemically antispasmodic properties. Athletes from all sports love CBD and what it can do. It is a preferred supplement and these oils have proven to prevent muscle spasms and soreness. This is done through lubricating the potassium and calcium pumps within the muscle tissue.
CBD is finding its place, slowly, but surely. It is one of natures own medicines and it is our job to discover and figure how to utilize these properties. Consult a doctor before beginning any treatment of diagnosed or undiagnosed diseases with CBD. For the more severe diseases like diabetes, schizophrenia, epilepsy, which, CBD can treat, but only when used properly.
Turmeric: Let us ease your mind a bit. As with any dietary supplement, there are right ways to take turmeric root that could best benefit your health. We review things to keep in mind to limit any potential side effects.
Potential Benefits Of Turmeric Root
The compound that gives turmeric root its signature bright yellow hue is also the compound that packs the potential health benefits punch: curcumin. Curcumin – and therefore turmeric root – is believed to provide some pretty attractive health benefits, including support of joint and muscle comfort, promotion of healthy aging of the brain, support of a healthy digestive tract, and maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels already in the normal range.
But that doesn’t mean that taking 10 turmeric root supplement capsules at once would give you 10 times the potential benefit. Quite the opposite. There are right – and wrong – ways to consume the supplement in an effort to reduce possible side effects.
Avoiding Turmeric Root Side Effects
According to MentalHealthDaily.com, if you’re supplementing with turmeric root, especially at high doses, it is possible that you may encounter some unwanted side effects at one point or another. The two most common side effects associated are diarrhea and nausea. High on the list of possible side effects are also:
Thinning of the blood. Some research shows that curcumin may have anticoagulant effects which can slow blood clotting. If you’re already taking a blood thinner, speak to your doctor about your desire to add a turmeric root supplement, and discontinue use at least two weeks before any surgery.
Some estimates indicate that one in four turmeric root users will notice an increase in bloating and passing gas. To reduce the likelihood of experiencing this particular side effect, consider a dose less than 6 grams per day, and avoid taking your supplement on an empty stomach.
Low blood sugar. Especially in those with health concerns related to blood glucose, turmeric root supplements may yield this unwanted effect. Some experts believe that the curcumin may even act to amplify pre-existing blood sugar issues.
Less common side effects may also include facial flushing, fever, headaches, skin rash and even low testosterone.
But as with any supplement or medication, remember that the severity and number of side effects you experience is likely subject to a variety of causes and factors. Keep in mind that some individuals may not experience any side effects at all.
Recommendations And Dosages
As with all medications and supplements, we encourage you to consult with your healthcare professional before adding a turmeric root supplement to your regimen. He or she can personalize dosing recommendations for you based on your desired outcomes and other factors – like other medications and supplements you are taking. That said, WebMD.com offers a few general guidelines for using turmeric and avoiding possible side effects:
This root is likely safe when applied to the skin appropriately for up to eight months.
It should only be considered as a mouthwash for short-term use.
For high cholesterol levels: 1.4 grams of turmeric extract in two divided doses each day for three months has been used for those 15 years or older.
Let’s Get Technical
While there are still many studies to be done and results to be reported, BCM-95 – a highly-absorbent form of curcumin, which is the active ingredient in turmeric root – has been clinically proven to help temporarily relieve minor pain. When used at a dosage of 2 grams per day, volunteers participated in the study without any mild adverse reactions. To try BCM-95 out for yourself, we recommend CuraMed and other daily supplements from Terry Naturally. And as always, we’re proud to provide you with free shipping anywhere in the U.S.
It is very well known that spices and herbs have a great many positive healthy qualities. But often we get confused as to how many, how much and which of the ingredients we must use as a supplement to boost our body.
We have zeroed in on three basic but power house spices from your kitchen that can help you stay healthy. It goes without saying that in today’s times of excessive pesticide use, using organic varieties of these spices is the best and only way to go.
Ginger
Ginger root, which is a staple in every Indian Kitchen can work many wonders.
Ginger has been known for over two thousand years as a medicinal herb effective in treating digestive problems, nausea, hangover and gases. Modern studies have found that it is effective in the treatment of vomiting, protects the gastric mucosa and improves inflammatory conditions.
Turmeric
Turmeric has anti-aging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is the magical substance, which gives turmeric its golden color and its many health benefits. Pure extracts of Curcumin are also available in the market these days.
Many studies have revealed that turmeric has low absorption and rapid metabolism. This helps in cleansing your system of toxins and also to help in absorption of nutrients. it is a front runner for fighting infections.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one of the most versatile spices of all. With its sweet and spicy notes, it is a favourite that can be easily used for a wide variety of preparations. This spice is also very high on antioxidants and can help with heart health, fights diabetes and protects brain function.
It is great as a mouth freshener.
A simple drink can be made using a teaspoon full of each of these ingredients mixed with a cup of hot water. Adding a drop of honey and a squeeze of lime makes it even better. You can use ether the powdered version of the spices or them fresh and grate them as per your requirements.
Other than consuming it as a drink, you can incorporate a pinch of each spice in almost everything you cook. Get creative and think about using more of these ingredients in your salads and even smoothies.
Once a day, right at the start of the day, having a cup of this booster will make your body thankful to you.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss options on the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
Additional Topics: Lower Back Pain After Auto Injury
After being involved in an automobile accident, neck injuries and aggravated conditions, such as whiplash, are some of the most commonly reported types of injuries, due to the force of the impact. A study discovered, however, that the seat of a vehicle can often lead to injuries as well, causing lower back pain and other symptoms. Lower back pain is also among one of the most common types of automobile accident injuries in the U.S. alone.
Turmeric is native to India and Southeast Asia. In India, turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicines due to its therapeutic properties, as a disinfectant and treatment for laryngitis, bronchitis, and diabetes. Turmeric is derived from the rhizomes (underground stems) of the plant Curcuma longa, a member of the ginger family.
Curcumin is the most active constituent of turmeric, making up between 2-6% of this spice. It has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The major constituents of turmeric includes:
Essential oils such as cineole, termerone and cymene
Curcuminoids such as curcumin and desmethoxycurcumin
Important body minerals such as potassium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc and magnesium
Vitamins B3, B6, C, E and K
Soluble and insoluble dietary fiber
Turmeric is used for inflammatory disorders, including arthritis, tendonitis, and autoimmune conditions. Take 400-600mg of turmeric extract 3 times per day or as directed on the product label. Look for products standardized for 95% curcuminoids. Neither curcumin nor turmeric taken orally is well absorbed unless taken with black pepper or piperine. When shopping for supplements, make sure that the one you choose contains black pepper extract or piperine. Be patient when taking turmeric supplements, the full benefits may not be apparent for eight weeks.
Some health benefits of turmeric:
Chronic Inflammation and Pain
In 2009, a study was published in the Journal of Alternative and Complimentary Medicine, which compared the pain relieving effects of curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric) and ibuprofen. It was found that the curcumin provided equally effective or better results as the ibuprofen. In 2006, a study showed turmeric was more effective at preventing joint inflammation and reducing joint inflammation than NSAIDS.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Due to its high anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is highly effective at helping people manage rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A recent study out of Japan evaluated its relationship with interleukin (IL)-6, the inflammatory cytokine known to be involved in the RA process, and discovered that curcumin “significantly reduced” these inflammatory markers. This suggests that regular turmeric use could be a potent strategy to prevent the onset of RA from developing. In 2010 a clinical trial found that a turmeric supplement called Meriva (standardized to 75 percent curcumin combined with phosphatidylcholine) provided long-term improvement in pain and function in 100 patients with knee OA.
Depression
Researchers from the Government Medical College (Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India) published the results of the first study this past April to evaluate curcumin’s ability to manage depression in a controlled setting. Taking 60 volunteers diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) and diving the group to determine how patients treated by curcumin compared against fluoxetine (Prozac) and a combination of the two, researchers discovered that that the principal curcuminoid in turmeric is not only as effective as Prozac in managing depression but that it doesn’t carry with it all the dangerous side effects found with anti-depressive drugs. According to the paper, “This study provides first clinical evidence that curcumin may be used as an effective and safe modality for treatment in patients with MDD.”
Diabetes
Turmeric is shown to lower blood glucose levels and reverse insulin resistance. For instance, an article published in Biochemistry and Biophysical Research Communications shared a study out of Auburn University that discovered curcumin suppresses glucose production in the liver. Fascinatingly, researchers proved that it’s actually 400 times more potent than Metformin (a common diabetes drug) in activating AMPK and its downstream target acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). Turmeric acted as an anti-diabetic and antioxidant in diabetes, especially type 1 diabetes, improved metabolic function and reduced the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries of type 2 diabetes patients.
Cancer
Recent studies show turmeric is a powerful adversary to cancer. Curcumin shows a marked ability to inhibit cancer cell growth, boost antioxidant levels and the immune system, and kill cancer cells. It seems to work on improving mitochondrial function at a cellular level, and it improves metabolism. Even against drug-resistant strains of leukemia, curcumin caused cell death of cancer cells.
Skin and Aging
Turmeric has many healing properties for skin. It’s a natural anti-inflammatory so it reduces redness or other skin irritations. It’s antibacterial, so it’s great for blemishes, acne and skin balance. Turmeric is wonderful at improving the texture of the skin because it is an exfoliant but also rich in antioxidants. It’s a wonderful natural treatment inside and out!
Brain Health and Memory
By taking turmeric, you can improve the oxygen intake of the brain, which helps in all of the brain’s functions and processes. Turmeric is extremely healing for the brain and for increasing memory function. Not surprisingly, when your brain functions at its best, then you increase the uptake of hormones, such as seratonin and melatonin. So, by healing the basic functioning of the brain, you can also heal other mental illnesses.
Cholesterol
According to a study published in the Journal Atherosclerosis on 2004, it was noted that turmeric extract can be used to help reduce the susceptibility of LDL cholesterol to oxidation, an all important step in the development of heart disease and atherosclerosis. In an experiment, controlled dosages of turmeric were fed to hypercholesterolemia rabbits and the effects on LDL oxidation analyzed. The experiment found that turmeric efficiently extracts and reduces the levels of cholesterol in the blood along with the prevalence of atherosclerosis with time.
In 2005, a study published in the Medical Science Monitor titled the International Medical Journal of Experimental and Clinical Research investigated the antioxidant and hypolipidemic benefits of curcumin in rats. The researchers induced hypercholesterolemia in the rats by feeding them with a high-cholesterol rich diet for 7 days. They then later added 0.5% curcumin to the animals’ diet. The study results showed; reduced serum total cholesterol by 21%, reduced serum LDL cholesterol by 42.5%, and increased serum HDL cholesterol by 50%. The researchers concluded that curcumin in turmeric is the phytochemical responsible for the reduction of cholesterol levels. Additionally, they noted that curcumin reduced the levels of lip by interfering with the metabolism, absorption and excretion of cholesterol rather than by antioxidant mechanisms. An earlier study published in the Journal of Nutrition in 1970 had reached similar conclusions. The researchers determined that the cholesterol-lowering effect by curcumin was as a result of increased fecal excretion of bile acids and cholesterol.
A study published in 2006 on the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry sought to study the effects of curcumin on human liver cell line. The researchers showed that the effect of curcumin on cholesterol metabolism extends deep to the genetic levels. By treating human liver cells with curcumin, the researchers were able to show that turmeric phytochemical raised the LD-receptor mRNA seven times. This shows that curcumin raises the up-take of cholesterol by the liver and thus helps with its removal from the plasma. Therefore, by increasing the population of LDL receptors in the liver, curcumin hastens the break-down of LDL cholesterol.
Things to keep in mind
Avoid consuming turmeric if you have gallstones or bile duct dysfunction. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or taking medication. Piperine can slow the elimination of some prescription drugs including phenytoin (Dilantin), propranolol (Inderal), and theophylline. Some evidence also suggests that curcumin can interfere with certain chemotherapy drugs used to treat breast cancer, so if you’re being treated for this disease, be sure to discuss the advisability of taking curcumin with your physician. Turmeric may interfere with anti-coagulants like aspirin, clopidogrel and warfarin. It also can affect medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
The herb ashwagandha is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda, a form of natural Indian folk medicine. It has been used for more than 3,000 years to boost energy and ease stress. And modern research is discovering that this ancient herb can treat a host of modern illnesses.
Ashwagandha’s Latin name, somnifera, means sleep-inducing, and a new Japanese study found that the herb truly does improve sleep.
Researchers at the University of Tsukumba used a neurological test (EEG) to record activity in the brains of mice that were given ashwagandha. They found that an extract of ashwagandha leaf, which was rich in the component triethylene glycol (TEG), significantly increased non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep.
The sleep induced by TEG was similar to normal sleep, and researchers believe that ashwagandha could revolutionize the natural plant-based therapies for insomnia and sleep-related disorders, producing natural sleep without side effects.
An earlier study published in Alternative Medicine Review found that volunteers reported an improvement of 66.9 percent in sleep quality. Participants also reported a 42 percent improvement in emotional health and a 45.8 percent improvement in their social life and activities.
In addition to inducing sleep, ashwagandha also provides the following health benefits:
Inhibits Alzheimer’s. Herbal doctors have been using ashwagandha for centuries as a remedy for memory loss, and scientists at the U.K.’s Newcastle University may have discovered why it is effective. They found that ashwagandha inhibits the formation of the beta-amyloid plaques that accumulate in the brains of Alzheimer’s victims.
The study, which was published in Phytotherapy Research examined the effects of water-based ashwagandha extracts on beta-amyloid peptides in test tubes, and found that the herb prevented them from forming clumps, a main characteristic of Alzheimer’s.
In a study conducted at India’s National Brain Research Center on mice with Alzheimer’s, their brain function returned to normal after 30 days of treatment, and the amyloid plaques in their brains decreased.
Another study published in the Chemical Pharmacy Bulletin found that ashwagandha inhibits acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. (Neurotransmitters are chemicals made by nerve cells that send signals to other cells.) Current drugs prescribed to treat Alzheimer’s disease target this mechanism.
Reduces stress. A 2012 Indian study of people with chronic stress found that taking ashwagandha supplements for two months lowered stress by 44 percent and eased depression and anxiety by 72 percent. Tests showed that blood levels of cortisol — the stress hormone — were reduced substantially.
The study, which was published in the Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine concluded that the herb was safe and “effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.”
Aids weight loss. A 2016 double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of stressed volunteers found that ashwagandha reduced stress and food cravings and also helped subjects lose weight. The eight-week study was published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine.
Fights cancer. Studies show that ashwagandha slows the growth of many types of cancer cells. It works in multiple ways to prevent or slow cancer. In a study published in PLoS One, mice with ovarian cancer that were treated with ashwagandha either alone or with an anti-cancer pharmaceutical reduced tumor growth by 70 to 80 percent and also prevented the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.
A 2011 study published in Biochemical Pharmacology found that ashwagandha was effective against four types of cancer — lung, colon, breast, and central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma — and a steroidal component of the herb called withaferin A showed a stronger effect on breast and colon cancer cell lines than the chemotherapy drug Adriamycin.
Other studies have found that ashwagandha also protects normal cells against cancer, shelters normal cells from being harmed by chemotherapy, and stops the growth of new blood vessels that help cancer grow and spread.
Recommendations And Dosages
