A compound found in the spice turmeric, which is added to curries, boosts the immune system, according to new research. The compound increases the level of a particular molecule that helps fight infections. Scientists have just identified a new reason why some curry dishes, made with spices humans have used for thousands of years, might… [Continue Reading]
Turmeric Compound Helps Extend Life in Animal Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
February 15, 2012 By Leave a Comment
In a model of Alzheimer’s disease using fruit flies as a model, researchers have found that the compound curcumin, a component of the spice turmeric, can extend lifespan and mobility. While scientists saw no reduction in protein plaques in the brain, thought to be a significant cause of symptoms, they reduced the quantities of a… [Continue Reading]
Saffron Compound May Protect Cells that Insulate Neurons in the Brain
November 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment
A compound isolated from the spice saffron could be a potent protector of an essential cell type in the brain, researchers say. A study conducted in brain cells grown in the laboratory has found that that compound, crocin, prevents the degeneration of myelin, a material that helps electrically insulate brain cells, so they can communicate… [Continue Reading]
Saffron Effective in Fighting Liver Cancer in Animal Models
August 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Saffron, a yellow spice used often in Indian cuisine, contain compounds that are effective in fighting liver cancer in mouse models of the disease. Researchers treated mice with tumors with the spice, and found that cancer cell replication was reduced, and cell death increased. The research group is continuing the work by trying to determine… [Continue Reading]
Cinnamon Extracts Could Have Medicinal Uses Against Infection, Alzheimer’s
June 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Treating a mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease with an extract of cinnamon is effective at slowing disease progression, new research suggests. Scientists have found that a particular compound found in the spice also has antiviral properties. Alzheimer’s, the degenerative brain disorder that disrupts memory, thought and behavior, is devastating to both patients and loved ones…. [Continue Reading]
Spices and Herbs Can Boost Sex Life
March 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment
A new review of the scientific literature highlights the foods that can help boost sex drive and performance. Although drugs for sexual problems are highly marketed, researchers suggest that many people could benefit from the effects of foods like ginseng and saffron, which don’t have any side effects. Looking to spice up your sex life?… [Continue Reading]
Active Ingredient in the Spice Turmeric Could Help Fight Cancer
March 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment
A compound isolated from turmeric could help battle cancer, new research suggests. The compound may help relieve inflammation, scientists say, which could help relieve side effects of other anti-cancer therapies and ease side effects. Turmeric, a bright yellow spice from south Asia belonging to the ginger family, is the main ingredient in curries — and… [Continue Reading]
Turmeric Compound Helps Stroke Recovery in Animal Models
December 15, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Researchers working to discover new drugs naturally found in plants have found that a compound in the spice turmeric that has a strongly protective effect on the brain. The compound can prevent damage and death of brain cells, and improves memory in animal models. Scientists have shown that the compound improves the outcome of stroke… [Continue Reading]
The Health Benefits of Cloves
September 17, 2008 By 4 Comments
Brief History of Cloves The clove (Eugenia aromatica) is a pink flower bud of the clove tree that turns brown when dried. Cloves have a warm, sweet, and aromatic flavor and an oily compound that is vital to their medicinal and nutritional properties. Cloves are indigenous to the Moluccas volcanic islands of Indonesia previously known… [Continue Reading]
The Health Benefits of Cayenne Pepper
June 10, 2008 By 3 Comments
Brief History of Cayenne Cayenne (Capsicum frutenscens) is a chili pepper native to Central and South America, and it was named after the capital city of French Guinea, South America. Christopher Columbus introduced these peppers to Europe after finding them in the Caribbean. Cayenne peppers were soon taken to Africa and Asia where they became… [Continue Reading]