Green tea and prostate cancer

Recent scientific articles highlight the green tea possibilities to control prostate cancer. Abstracts of these articles are quoted.

.- Chemoprevention of prostate cancer: what can be recommended to patients?

Curr Urol Rep. 2009 May;10(3):165-71.

Colli JL, Amling CL.

University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1530 3rd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA. 

Prostate cancer is third to lung and colon cancer as the cause of cancer-related deaths in American men. It is estimated that there will have been more than 28,000 deaths and 186,000 new cases in 2008 that will impose a significant burden on national health care costs. Chemoprevention aims to reduce both incidence and mortality through the use of agents to prevent, reverse, or delay the carcinogenic process. This study provides clinicians with information on some chemoprevention agents that have been considered to reduce prostate cancer risks, including 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors; statins (a class of compounds used to reduce cholesterol); NSAIDs; selenium; vitamins E and D; lycopene; allium vegetables (garlic, scallions, onions, chives, and leeks); soy/isoflavones; and green tea polyphenols. The evidence to support prostate cancer risk reduction benefits for each chemoprevention agent based on a review of the literature is provided.

.- Green tea: nature's defense against malignancies.

Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2009 May;49(5):463-73.
Butt MS, Sultan MT.

National Institute of Food Science and Technology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. 

The current practice of introducing phytochemicals to support the immune system or fight against diseases is based on centuries old traditions. Nutritional support is a recent advancement in the domain of diet-based therapies; green tea and its constituents are one of the important components of these strategies to prevent and cure various malignancies. The anti-carcinogenic and anti-mutagenic activities of green tea were highlighted some years ago suggesting that it could reduce the prevalence of cancer and even provide protection. The pharmacological actions of green tea are mainly attributed to polyphenols that includes epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), epicatechin, epicatechin-3-gallate, epigallocatechin. Green tea and its components effectively mitigate cellular damage arising due to oxidative stress. Green tea is supposed to enhance humoral and cell-mediated immunity, decreasing the risk of certain cancers, and may have certain advantage in treating inflammatory disorders. Much of the cancer chemopreventive properties of green tea are mediated by EGCG that induces apoptosis and promotes cell growth arrest, by altering the expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins, activating killer caspases, and suppressing nuclear factor kappa-B activation. Besides, it regulates and promotes IL-23 dependent DNA repair and stimulates cytotoxic T cells activities in a tumor microenvironment. It also blocks carcinogenesis by modulating the signal transduction pathways involved in cell proliferation, transformation, inflammation and metastasis. The review is intended to highlight the chemistry of green tea, its antioxidant potential, its immunopotentiating properties and mode of action against various cancer cell lines that showed its potential as a chemopreventive agent against colon, skin, lung, prostate, and breast cancer.

Plants that could control high cholesterol

Herbie Latino has published another interesting article on the potential of plants in controlling high cholesterol in humans. This is not a full review but a summary of the main plants that have demonstrated effectiveness. "Given the repeated queries about food and plants that could lower blood cholesterol levels, I include a list of the most effective species, although I stress, the majority of research in humans reported decreases of no more than 25% after several weeks of continuous consumption. Most of plant fibers have shown cholesterol-lowering properties. Fiber is present in most fruits and vegetables. The betaglucans are a type of soluble fiber apparently responsible for this activity. Barley (Hordeum vulgare), beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and oat bran (Avena sativa) contain significant amounts. Pectin is another soluble fiber that can lower blood cholesterol levels. Carrots (Daucus carota), apples (Malus domestica) and citrus rinds white (Citrus spp) contain large amounts. Fruits should be eaten as such or liquefied with their rinds. The citrus juice contains very little fiber. Mucilage-containing plants, algae (several species), linseed (Linum usitatissimum), mallow roots (Malva sylvestris), the quince (Cydonia oblonga), lichens, fungi and some other plants, have shown decreasing blood cholesterol activity. Celery (Apium graveolens) has proven to lower cholesterol in laboratory animals. No conclusive results in studies with humans were achieved. Garlic (Allium sativum) and onion (Allium cepa) have been shown to lower cholesterol by around 10%, in people who consume a clove of garlic or half an onion, per day. Phytosterols lower blood cholesterol levels through direct action, combining with cholesterol and remove it from bloodstream. Sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) contain appreciable quantities, besides lettuce (Lactuca sativa), sunflower seeds (Helianthus annuus), asparagus (Asparagus acutifolius), the cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var bothr.) Figs (Ficus carica), soybean (Glycine max) and several other vegetables. I can also refer to lentinan a betaglucan of shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) which in addition to many other properties has demostrated to low blood cholesterol in humans." Herbie Latino also has the good habit of including scientific names, given the large variations of common names in different Latino communities.

Heartburn and medicinal plants

Heartburn occurs when muscular opening that connects the esophagus to the stomach (cardias) is not functioning properly and does not hinder the passage of stomach contents into the esophagus. Stomach contents, usually acid "burn" the inside walls of the esophagus producing the well known burning sensation. Heartburn occurs more often when you eat in a hurry, without chewing food properly. Another important factor is the type of food, fried foods, saturated fats, sugar, alcohol and coffee somehow increases gastric reflux. Smoking is also associated with the occurrence of heartburn. Opinions are divided as to a possible cure of the sphincter functioning and an evolution to normal and proper passage closure of stomach contents to the esophagus. What is generally controlled by treatments is the acidity degree of stomach contents, so that these will not damage the esophagus walls and do not worsen any existing lesions of the esophagus in patients with a heartburn history. As I said, I am or was one of the heartburn "sufferers" and I decided (or we decided with my family) to follow the medical doctor's advice. Lanzoprazol, one capsule of 30 mg. daily at mid-morning. It is a synthetic drug, I know. The favorable development of the ailment in just over 1 year says the doctor was right. Medicinal plants, I recommend to support a heartburn treatment. Angelica (Angelica archangelica). It has a curative action on the walls of the digestive tract, it is highly indicated and have been used for a long time. Other related plants such as celery, fennel, carrots and papaya also have similar effects. Congorosa (Maytenus ilicifolia). One of the most powerful acid neutralizer plants. As I have mentioned more than once, a leaves decoction, drank at regular intervals between meals, can bring an action similar to that of the synthetic selective blockers. The problem is that I can not recommend an exact dosage and it would be most desirable that a laboratory develop a controlled extract release medicine. Dill (Anethum graveolens). A decoction of this plant seeds has been used for many years to cure or control digestive problems. Not recommended for use by pregnant women. Fennel has similar qualities. Gentian (Gentiana officinalis). A decoction of the plant drank a while after each meal is a carminative and helps to prevent heartburn onset of symptoms. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). An infusion of chamomile flowers a few minutes after meal is and has been a very interesting solution for heartburn. It has a local shooting activity and a general calming effect. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Licorice extracts used moderately, due to its antispasmodic effects and hydrochloric acid reduction, are important. However, it must be borne in mind that it is not recommended for prolonged use, due to multiple side effects, including blood pressure elevation and fluids retention. Fruits such as kiwi, papaya and pineapple help to relieve digestive problems like gastric reflux. Also diets based on foods with white meats (poultry and fish), milk creams, fruits and vegetables, are beneficial.

Arthritis and medicinal plants

Arthritis are a number of joint ailments that generally produce joint tissues inflammation, with the consequent pain and the possible degeneration of those tissues. In fact, the most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which affects both hard and soft joint tissues. Except for the arthritis due to injuries, mostly are due to chronic slow development processes. Many herbal treatments have been tested, either with plant extracts administration or by including some of those on special diets. Broccoli (Brassica oleracea) and other plants that contain glutathione, an antioxidant compound that reduces the arthritis symptoms. This compound is also present in cauliflower, asparagus, potatoes, purslane and tomatoes. Avocado, peaches, oranges, grapefruit and watermelon also contain glutathione. Brazil nut and sunflower (Bertholettia excelsa and Helianthus annus) contain s-adenosil-methionine, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties similar to those of ibuprofen. The consumption of both seeds is highly recommended in cases of arthritis. Ginger and Turmeric (Zingiber oficinalis and Curcuma longa). Roots or rhizomes of these plants contain compounds that have shown high anti-inflammatory efficacy in relieving symptoms of osteoarthritis, this activity has been equally or more potent than that of ibuprofen, due to phytosteroids. Rosemary and Oregano (Rosmarinus officinalis and Origanum vulgare). Powerful antioxidants, apparently due to its Rosmarinic acid contents that interfere with free radicals involved in the inflammatory and degenerative arthritis processes . Their consumption as a condiment should be encouraged and also drink ing herbal teas or decoctions. Nettles (Urtica dioica). It is well known nettles extracts from leaves and roots anti-inflammatory activity and furthermore, the presence of the mineral boron help to low arthritis lesions. Herbal teas or tinctures have been successfully used. Peppers (Capsicum spp). The fruits contain capsaicin, which besides of being responsible for the pungent taste, is responsible for the decline of pain, due to release of endorphins stimulus. Pepper can be included in the diet, drinking herbal teas or include the alcoholic or aqueous extracts in creams for external use. Pineapples (Ananas comosus). Bromelain, existing in this plant fruit, has been linked with a decrease in arthritis inflammation. The mechanisms are related to their antigenic activity, preventing an autoimmune reaction and its fibrinolytic activity, which assists in the inflamed tissues dissolution. Willow (Salix spp). Especially the white willow contains salicin and salicylic acid in the bark, with anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of aspirin. The gastric effects are smaller than those of the known tablets but they still exists, and a moderate tendency to an increased blood pressure in prolonged use, so the addition of ginger and garlic in this preparation is highly recommended. These plants are used universally, here I add, because of its importance, the carqueja (Baccharis trimer, genisteloides) due to the potent anti-inflammatory activity of their extracts. It is a plant that is located in the southern temperate South America region but is also being exported to several countries.

Weight loss diets and cholesterol

Low in carbohydrates and high in protein diets, promoted for weight loss can be dangerous, according to a recent study in Israel and revealed in a Science Daily article. The work done on mice showed a significant increase in atherosclerosis, namely the existence of plaques in the arteries inner wall and a reduced ability of the body to form new vessels in an area deprived of blood flow, called neoangiogenesis, as happens after a heart attack or stroke in other body muscles. Another case that may be important for new blood vessels formation is when blood flow is diminished by the presence of plaques. Intermittent claudication is a clear example. The researchers propose that one reason for that type of diet increases heart risks is that a system called "vascular progenitor cells, that normally acts to cope with vascular injuries, is lessened with diets low in carbohydrates and high in protein. I bring this discussion because I think one of the best ways to combat obesity and overweight is a rational use of medicinal plants, which may act at different key points to help to control this problem.

Allergies and medicinal plants

Allergies are body abnormal reactions to substances that we are exposed in daily life. The immune system reacts excessively to substances that the body releases to control the presence of these substances.

Pollen, dust, fungal spores, microorganisms, suspended in dust, food, toxicns, are some of the agents that cause allergic reactions. They are called allergens.

Several plants have proven benefits in relieving the effects of some allergies that, as already mentioned, include inflammation of the tissues involved.

Garlic (Allium sativum) and onion (Allium cepa). Both plants contain quercetin, a potent anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic chemical. Garlic bulbs, one to two cloves per day, with food, would be sufficient and onion the skin or shell, prepare the broth with whole onions and then tañe the skin off or boil the skins and add the filtered decoction to the food.

Altamisa or Matricaria (Tanacetum parthenium). A plant that has been used very successfully in migraines and in recent times has been investigated for its antiallergic properties.

Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba). The leaves aqueous extract of this tree contains ginkgolides, which interfere with the platelet aggregation factor (PAF) produced by the body, one of the allergic reactions starters, as well as asthma and inflammatory processes. However extracts of ginkgo should be used with caution, especially in prolonged treatments, due to several side effects.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla). Several compounds found in the flowers of this plant, azulenes and chamazulenes have significant antiallergic and anti-inflammatory activities . They can be prepared as infusions for internal use or creams for external use .

Important, this plant and others of the same family have been described as responsible for causing allergies, so this must consider and the plant used with caution.

Nettles (Urtica dioica).Roots and leafs extracts have been used for many years for the treatment of various diseases including allergic reactions, mainly due to its antihistaminic properties. The extract of frozen dried leaves is particularly cited as one of the most effectives.

Cat's claw (Uncaria tormentosa). The roots aqueous extract of this vine is a powerful anti-inflammatory and may dramatically alleviate some allergies. Because some of confusion with plants of similar names, it is important to be sure to use the correct species.

Plants with high content of vitamin C. Citrus (though they can cause allergies), peppers, cayenne, guava, kiwi, watercress, and many other plants. Vitamin C is a powerful antihistaminic, one of the substances released when there is a contact with allergens in the body.

Health benefits of olive oil

Olive oil is known for its many benefits on health, antiinflamatory properties, bactericidal activity, blood pressure reduction, cancer supression, cholesterol reduction, coronary heart disease protection, multiple sclerosis symptoms reduction, obesity control.
Plasmatic concentration reduction of substances that promote inflammation, in the blood vessels walls.Phenolic compounds present in olive oil exert a strong bactericidal activity against Helycobacter pylori. This activity is a preventive of gastric cancer and ulcers.Oleic acid, alpha tocopherol and phenolic compounds present in olive oil, through a mediators control reduce blood pressure.Olive oil monoinsaturated fatty acids are responsible of olive oil protection against several types of cancer and ageing problems due to its antioxidative properties. They also protect against coronary heart disease.HDL cholesterol increase, LDL cholesterol reduction and oxidative stress reduction are due to biophenols that increase the corresponding RNA transcription.A reduction in fatigue symptoms present in multiple sclerosis was seen after a period of time in patients receiving olive oil.Olive oil oleic acid stimulates an intestinal cells reaction producing a satiety feeling, therefore reducing food intake.