A compound found in an herb used in traditional Chinese medicine can change gene function in a model of Alzheimer’s disease, researchers report. The compound, found in the herb Polygonum multiforum Thunb, causes a reduction in a certain kind of protein that is linked to neurogeneration, the study found, using a mouse model of the… [Continue Reading]
Active Compound in Chinese Herbal Medicine May Be Effective to Ease Alzheimer’s Plaques
February 19, 2013 By Leave a Comment
Literature Supports Positive Effect of Acupuncture on Exercise, But More Studies Required
January 14, 2013 By Leave a Comment
A review of current literature has found that while research supports the idea that acupuncture can have a positive impact on exercise training, bigger and better-controlled studies are necessary to confirm this. The effects of acute acupuncture applied during exercise on performance factors such as power and blood pressure and on the body’s ability to… [Continue Reading]
Some Herbal Sunscreens Effective to Block Effects of UV
August 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment
A review of sunscreens based on herbal components has found that the products are effective at preventing sunburn. Supplements including golden serpent fern and ginseng can prevent skin damage, and there is evidence that topical application of products including green tea may also be effective. Recent research supports the ability of some herbal agents, taken… [Continue Reading]
Botanical Extract Acts As An Anti-Inflammatory
July 25, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Inflammation in the digestive tract or lungs is behind some of the harm caused by the flu virus. Researchers have discovered that a particular plant compound, abscisic acid, can reduce this inflammation, and could help save lives. Building on previous work with the botanical abscisic acida, researchers in the Nutritional Immunology and Molecular Medicine Laboratory… [Continue Reading]
Algae Extract Increases Levels of Good Cholesterol
July 13, 2012 By Leave a Comment
A liquid extract from algae has a healthful effect on cholesterol levels in the body, a new study has found. Using the hamster as an animal model, researchers report that consumption of the extract increases the levels of the protein that helps clear cholesterol from the blood, a protein which is commonly called “good cholesterol”…. [Continue Reading]
Frankincense Contains Anti-Inflammatories, Could Have Medicinal Uses
July 10, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Frankincense is the resin of a particular species of tree, and in addition to its ceremonial and historical uses, contains anti-inflammatory compounds. Researchers are probing the substance, and have found that it blocks a particular enzyme in the body that promotes inflammation and mediates the immune system. It was one of the gifts of the… [Continue Reading]
Meditation Reduces the Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
June 6, 2012 By Leave a Comment
For at-risk groups, such as those with high blood pressure, meditation can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. A new study reports that in teens with hypertension, a meditation practice twice daily has a significant effect on heart health. Regular meditation could decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease in teens who are most at… [Continue Reading]
Consuming Probiotics Relieves Antibiotic Side Effects
May 8, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Disturbances of the gut, notably diarrhea, can be a side effect of treatment with antibiotics. New research shows that consuming probiotics can ease symptoms, likely by repopulating the gut with healthful bacteria. Consumption of probiotics (live microorganisms, which may occur naturally in foods such as yogurt, intended to confer a health benefit when consumed) is… [Continue Reading]
Compounds in Licorice Fight Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
January 5, 2012 By Leave a Comment
Researchers studying the properties of licorice, a traditional ingredient in Chinese medicine, report that two components can kill the bacteria that cause cavities and gingivitis. The study suggests that the compounds could be used as an anti-bacterial treatment for oral health. Scientists are reporting identification of two substances in licorice — used extensively in Chinese… [Continue Reading]
Idea of Vitamin B12 Therapy For Stroke and Heart Attack Revisited
December 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Previously, vitamin therapy with vitamin B12 was thought to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack, but the idea had fallen out of mainstream medical thought. The idea isn’t dead, though, with some calling for research to revisit the issue. A commentary by Dr. David Spence of The University of Western Ontario and Dr…. [Continue Reading]