Showing posts with label antioxidant. Show all posts
Showing posts with label antioxidant. Show all posts

Propolis Makes Good Root Canals, Better!

What more could you ask for in a single ingredient? Propolis has antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Naturally, this study found propolis to be alternative root canal medication. Of course, using a good propolis toothpaste everyday could avoid letting things get to this point...

Histopathological Analysis of Corticosteroid-Antibiotic Preparation and Propolis Paste Formulation as Intracanal Medication after Pulpectomy: An in vivo Study
J Appl Oral Sci, 2012 February

Intracanal medication in pulpectomy therapy is used between appointments with the objective of reducing pain and inflammatory processes in pulp and periapical tissues. Propolis has been known as a natural antibiotic and has been subject of medical and dental research due to its therapeutic properties such as antibiotic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.

OBJECTIVE:
The aim was to carry out an in vivo evaluation of the periapical tissue response to propolis paste when used as an intracanal medication in the teeth of dogs after pulpectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:
72 dog's incisors were selected for the experiment. After biomechanical preparation the root canal was filled with a corticosteroid-antibiotic preparation, experimental propolis paste, non-medicament (negative control) or non-pulpectomy at all (positive control). The medications were left inside the root canal for 7, 14 or 28 days. At the end of the experimental period histological sections were prepared and all laboratories processes for Harris hematoxylin and eosin staining was proceeded followed by the analysis using an optical microscope. Sections were classified according to a score representing the inflammatory events observed: the presence of polymorphonuclear neutrophils, polymorphonuclear eosinophils, lymphocytes and plasma cells, macrophages and/or giant cells, fibrous condensation and abscesses.

RESULTS:
There were statistically significant differences between the tissue reactions caused by the two substances being tested, after different experimental periods, with the periapical tissue that was in contact with propolis paste exhibiting fewer inflammatory reactions in comparison to corticosteroid-antibiotic preparation.

CONCLUSIONS:
The low tissue responses from propolis paste suggest that this material could be considered as an option for root canal medication after pulpectomy... Furthermore, the propolis paste was more effective at controlling the inflammatory response over the 28-day experimental period.

Propolis Protects Against Chemo & Radio Therapy-Induced Toxicity

Propolis protects prophylactically and preventatively ... an amazing feature that also modulates the immune system by boosting or balancing the production of healthy cells...


The Potential Usage of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE) Against Chemotherapy-Induced and Radiotherapy-Induced Toxicity
CellBiochem Funct, 2012 March 20

Protection of the patients against the side effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy regimens has attracted increasing interest of clinicians and practitioners.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), which is extracted from the propolis of honeybee hives as an active component, specifically inhibits nuclear factor κB at micromolar concentrations and show ability to stop 5-lipoxygenase-catalysed oxygenation of linoleic acid and arachidonic acid. CAPE has antiinflammatory, antiproliferative, antioxidant, cytostatic, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and antineoplastic properties.

The purpose of this review is to summarize in vivo and in vitro usage of CAPE to prevent the chemotherapy-induced and radiotherapy-induced damages and side effects in experimental animals and to develop a new approach for the potential usage of CAPE in clinical trial as a protective agent during chemotherapy and radiotherapy regimens.

Cuban Monofloral Honey Shows High Antioxidant Activity

We need more studies on the advantages of monofloral honeys. This is precisely what was done for Manuka Honey and we now see its worldwide acceptance into main stream medical and veterinary usage...

Radical-Scavenging Activity, Protective Effect Against Lipid Peroxidation and Mineral Contents of Monofloral Cuban Honeys

Several monofloral Cuban honeys were analyzed to determine their free radical-scavenging activity and from this the total antioxidant content was estimated. The protective effect against lipid peroxidation in an in vitro model of rat liver homogenates was evaluated and, lastly, the mineral content of the honeys, which can be related to the maintenance of intracellular oxidative balance, was determined.

The scavenging capacities against hydroxyl and superoxide radicals were determined using the spin-trapping technique and the hypoxanthine/xanthine oxidase assay, respectively. Lipid peroxidation was evaluated through the production of TBARS and hydroperoxides. All honeys tested showed potential antioxidant activity with Linen vine displaying the highest scavenging capacity towards the DPPH, hydroxyl and superoxide radicals, while the least efficient was Christmas vine honey. Honeys also inhibited, in a concentration-dependent mode, lipid peroxidation in rat liver homogenates, with Linen vine resulting the best while the least effective was Christmas vine honey.

The ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against lipid peroxidation may contribute to the ability of certain Cuban honeys to help in preventing/reducing some inflammatory diseases in which oxidative stress is involved. A total of eight minerals were identified and quantified as follows: cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel, iron, manganese, lead, and zinc. Minerals found in higher concentrations were iron, zinc and manganese.

Propolis, Abundant Source of Beneficial Effects for Human Health

A molecular review on the rich spectrum of beneficial properties found in Propolis... 


Beneficial Effects of Propolis on Human Health and Neurological Diseases
Frontiers in Bioscience (Elite Ed), 2012 Jan 4

Propolis is a natural product, collected by honeybees Apis mellifera, from various plant sources. Propolis is extensively used in foods and beverages because it improves human health. It contains more than 300 natural compounds such as polyphenols, phenolic aldehydes, sequiterpene-quinones, coumarins, amino acids, steroids and inorganic compounds.

Propolis exhibits a broad spectrum of biological and pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antitumor, anticancer, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective actions. The chemical composition and beneficial properties of propolis vary greatly depending on the phytogeographical areas, seasonal collection time, and botanical source. Polyphenols found in fruits and vegetables are beginning to receive increased attention due to their vital role in protecting neural cells from oxidative stress and neuroinflammation associated with normal aging and chronic age-related diseases.

Propolis is one of the most abundant sources of polyphenols (mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids). This overview is an attempt to discuss the molecular mechanism underlying the potential beneficial effects of propolis on human health and neurological diseases...

Propolis Protects Against Liver Damage

The natural protector, Propolis, proves once again it's an undeniably healthy choice to consume regularly...

Protective Effects of Propolis Extract on Allyl Alcohol-Induced Liver Injury in Mice
Phytomedicine, Volume 4, Issue 4, December 1997, Pages 309-314

Potential protective effects of ethanolic extract of Cuban red propolis against toxicity induced by allyl alcohol in mice was investigated.

Propolis at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg/i.p. significantly decreased the activity of alanine amino transferase (EC 2.6.1.2) in serum and the levels of mal-ondialdehyde in mouse liver after induction with a dose of 64 mg/kg of allyl alcohol. However, propolis did not increase the concentration of reduced glutathione in mouse liver which is depleted by allyl alcohol. Propolis also reduced liver damage induced by allyl alcohol in mice. This effect was observed by electron microscopy.

The hepatoprotective effects of propolis were dose-dependent and they were produced when propolis was administered 30 min before allyl alcohol administration.

It is indicated that the ethanolic extract of red propolis exerts potential hepatoprotective effects in this experimental model which is probably caused by antioxidative properties (e.g. scavenging action against oxygen radicals) of this extract.

Propolis Exhibits Cytotoxic Effect on Cervical Tumor Cells

Propolis always thrives in protecting the mucuous linings of the body from bacteria, viruses, fungi, inflammation and even tumor cell growth...

Chemical composition of the ethanolic propolis extracts and its effect on HeLa cells.



ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE:
Propolis is a resinous hive product collected by honeybees from various plant sources. It is widely used in traditional medicine and is reported to have a broad spectrum of pharmacological effects (antibacterial, antihepatoxic, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, etc.). Thus the aim of this study was to assess cytotoxic effect of various ethanol propolis extractions on the cervical tumor cell line (HeLa) and compare it with their phenolic acids and flavonoids composition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Twenty samples of raw propolis were collected from 17 localities of Croatia (I-XVII), 2 of Bosnia and Hercegovina (XVIII, XIX) and 1 of Macedonia (XX). Reverse phase HPLC was used to determine the chemical composition of polyphenols. Biological experiments were carried out in vitro on cervix adenocarcinoma cell line (HeLa).

RESULTS:
Phenolic acids (ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid) and flavonoids (tectochrysin, galangin, pinocembrin, pinocembrin-7-methylether, chrysin, apigenin, kaempferol, quercetin) have been determined using HPLC analysis in 20 ethanolic propolis extracts. All samples contain tectochrysin in ranges of 0.1988 mg/g (XVIII) to 1.2004 mg/g (III), while caffeic acid and quercetin have not been found. Flavonoid that is most abundant is galangin in ranges from 0.3706 mg/g (XVII) to 47.4879 mg/g (IX). The samples of propolis numbers I, VI and X applied in the investigated concentration range manifested significant reduction of cell growth. GI₅₀ value as indicator of cytotoxicity among propolis samples showed that propolis number VII is the most effective (GI₅₀=76 μg/ml) followed by propolis nos. XV, XVIII and I.

CONCLUSION:
Antiproliferative and cytotoxic effect of propolis on the HeLa cells is not correlating with the concentration of particular components but on establishing the possible synergistic antiproliferative activity of individual phenolic acid and flavonoids. Differences in the chemical composition lead to diversity in biological activity of propolis samples.

Mexican Honeys Prove Antioxidant, Antibacterial Action

It's reassuring to see Mexican researchers contributing to the body of science confirming the antibacterial and antioxidant properties in honey. Nutritionally speaking, I've often found Mexican Honey to be very flavorful, aromatic and with lots of tropical notes.  


Quality Parameters and Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties of Some Mexican Honeys
J Food Science, 2011 Dec 2

A total of 14 Mexican honeys were screened for quality parameters including color, moisture, proline, and acidity. Antioxidant properties of complete honey and its methanolic extracts were evaluated by the DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. In addition, the antimicrobial activity of complete honeys against Bacillus cereus ATCC 10876, Listeria monocytogenes Scott A, Salmonella Typhimurium ATCC 14028, and Sthapylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 was determined.

Most of honeys analyzed showed values within quality parameters established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission in 2001. Eucalyptus flower honey and orange blossom honey showed the highest phenolic contents and antioxidant capacity. Bell flower, orange blossom, and eucalyptus flower honeys inhibited the growth of the 4 evaluated microorganisms. The remaining honeys affected at least 1 of the estimated growth parameters (increased lag phase, decreased growth rate, and/or maximum population density). Microorganism sensitivity to the antimicrobial activity of honeys followed the order B. cereus; L. monocytogenes; Salmonella Typhimurium; S. aureus.

The monofloral honey samples from orange blossoms, and eucalyptus flowers demonstrated to be good sources of antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds. All the Mexican honey samples examined proved to be good sources of antioxidants and antimicrobial agents that might serve to maintain health and protect against several diseases


Practical Application
The results of the study showed that Mexican honeys display good quality parameters and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Mexican honey can be used as an additive in the food industry to increase the nutraceutical value of products.

Propolis Extract May Prevent Prostate Cancer

The anti-inflammatory action of Propolis is incredibly effective. You'll find it improving respiratory ailments, stimulating immune systems and Propolis is incredible. You'll find it improving respiratory ailments, stimulating immune systems and eliminating viruses or fungi. It can be safely applied to any part of the body of mammals, amphibians and reptiles. Best of all, it's truly a complementary addition to any protocol...  

Effect of Turkish Propolis Extracts on Proteome of Prostate Cancer Cell Line

Proteome Science 2011, Published: 2011, 7-December

Background:
Propolis is a natural, resinous hive product that has several pharmacological activities. Its composition varies depending on the vegetation, climate, season and environmental conditions of the area from where it was collected. Surface enhanced laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF MS) is a proteomic approach which has been used in cancer proteomics studies. Prostate cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in men. It has shown that nutritional supplements rich in polyphenolic compounds such as propolis play a significant role in prostate cancer chemoprevention. The aim of this study is to evaluate if protein expression profile in PC-3 prostate cancer cell lines could be differentiated when incubated with dimethyl sulfoxide and water extracts of Turkish propolis.

Results:
The antioxidant potentials of dimethyl sulfoxide and water extracts of propolis were found in correlation with the amount of total phenolic compounds of them. Dimethyl sulfoxide and water extracts of propolis of 20 ug/mL reduced the cell viability to 24.5% and 17.7 %, respectively. Statistically significant discriminatory peaks between control PC-3 cells and dimethyl sulfoxide extract of propolis-treated PC-3 cells were found to be the proteomic features at m/z 5143, 8703, 12661, 20184 and 32794, detected by CM10 ProteinChip, and the peak at m/z 3772, detected by Q10 ProteinChip. Between control PC-3 cells and water extract of propolis-treated PC-3 cells, statistically significant discriminatory peaks were found to be the proteomic features at m/z 15846, 16052 and 24658, detected by CM10 ProteinChip and the peaks at m/z 10348, 10899 and 11603, detected by Q10 ProteinChip.

Conclusions:
It was concluded that dimethyl sulfoxide and water extracts of Turkish propolis may have anti-proliferative activity through differentiating protein expression profile in PC-3 prostate cancer cell lines along with their antioxidant capacity.

Propolis Alleviates Oxidative Stress from Carcinogens

Possessing anti-tumor, anti-carcinogenic properties, Propolis can help humans, mammals and even aquatic animals! Wikipedia states, "...chromium is recognized as a human carcinogen... exposure known to occur among workers who handle chromate-containing products as well as those who perform welding, grinding or brazing on stainless steel"...

Antioxidant Effect of Propolis Against Exposure to Chromium in Cyprinus carpio

The aim of the present study was to investigate the ameliorative properties of propolis against the toxic effects of chromium (VI) by examining oxidative damage markers such as lipid peroxidation and the antioxidant defence system components in carp (Cyprinus carpio).

The fish were exposed to sublethal concentrations of chromium. Propolis was simultaneously administered to chromium-exposed fish. Treatment was continued for 28 days, and at the end of this period, blood and tissue (liver, kidney, spleen, and gill) samples were collected. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities were determined in blood and tissues for measurement of oxidant-antioxidant status.

The levels of MDA, as an index of lipid peroxidation, increased in blood and tissues. Antioxidant enzyme activities in blood and tissues were modified in chromium groups compared to controls. Simultaneous administration of propolis ameliorated these parameters.

The present results suggest that administration of propolis might alleviate chromium-induced oxidative stress.

Honey: The 'Bee Penicillin' That Could Even Beat MRSA

a well-researched author with concise references to the latest discoveries of the benefits of honey...



Honey: The 'Bee Penicillin' That Could Even Beat MRSA
By Gloria Havenhand, Daily Mail (UK), 11/19/2011

It is often hailed as a natural, healthy sweetener – but in most cases, honey bought from supermarkets today is simply sugar syrup with no nutritional value at all. To reap the true benefits of what was dubbed ‘the food of the gods’ by the Ancient Greeks, you have to look for the raw variety.

Perfectly clear honey has usually undergone a process of ultrafiltration and pasteurisation, which involves heating and passing it through a fine mesh, to ensure it remains runny at any temperature. This strips away many of the unique chemicals and compounds that make it a nutritious and healing health food…

Raw honey is particularly high in polyphenols, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of cancer, lowering blood cholesterol and combating heart disease. The darkest varieties of honey include heather and hedgerow honey, which have a polyphenol content of 201mg per gram. In contrast, rapeseed oil honey, known in supermarkets as ‘blossom honey’, trails behind at just 71mg per gram.

The white ring of pollen on the top contains B vitamins, Vitamins C, D and E as well as minerals and 31 other antioxidants, although to get close to your recommended daily amounts of each nutrient you need a pollen supplement…

The University of Waikato in New Zealand found that when raw honey was applied to MRSA infected antibiotic-resistant wounds, they became sterile and healed so quickly that patients could leave hospital weeks earlier. Scarring was minimised because peeling back a dressing glazed in honey – as opposed to a dry bandage – did not disturb the new tissue underneath. If you suffer a minor wound or burn, glaze a bandage with raw honey and cover. Change the glazed bandage every 24 hours and any cuts or signs of infection should disappear within a week (if not, see a doctor).

While manuka honey – a variety produced using only nectar and pollen from the manuka bush in New Zealand – gets the majority of press for being antibacterial, a good-quality raw UK honey will also be powerfully antibacterial and can kill E.coli and MRSA…

Raw honey’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe chronic skin conditions. Cleopatra famously bathed in milk and honey because of their skin-softening qualities – honey is a natural emollient as it is humectant (it attracts water). Melting half a jar of raw honey into a warm bath will promote healing in patients suffering with skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema, too. Mixed with olive oil, raw honey applied to the scalp is also a great tonic for those suffering with a seborrheic dermatitis (a flaky scalp condition).

Propolis Takes the Sting out of Mouth Ulcers

Propolis heals wounds, especially in the mucous linings of the body, which is a very complementary addition to any treatment protocol.  In fact, products are trending towards phyto-apitherapy formulas for even greater appeal...

Bees Take the Sting out of Mouth Ulcers
ScienceDaily (Nov. 17, 2010) 
The healing properties of propolis -- a mixture of resin and wax made by honey bees to seal and sterilize their hives -- have been known for many years. But its use in medicine and food supplements has been limited because the sticky substance is not water soluble and has a strong, off-putting smell.

Now researchers at the University of Bradford's Centre for Pharmaceutical Engineering Science have developed a way of purifying propolis that retains its medicinal properties, but makes it dissolve in water and eliminates its pungent smell. The technique has already led to the development of a new mouth ulcer gel and opens the door to a huge range of other pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications for the substance.

"Propolis is a complex chemical mix and a very useful natural product," explains Centre Director, Professor Anant Paradkar, who led the research. "Propolis has been shown to be anti-microbial, anti-fungal, a strong anti-oxidant, non-allergenic and can boost the immune system. It also promotes wound healing and has anaesthetic properties.

"There is a substantial market for propolis-based products -- particularly in China, the USA and South Asia. The main stumbling block in developing products has been the solubility and odor issues, which our formulation overcomes."

Professor Paradkar's team has been developing the new technique to purify propolis in collaboration with natural medicine manufacturer, Nature's Laboratory. The researchers have helped the company develop a new propolis-based mouth ulcer gel, which has better anaesthetic, anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties than gels already on the market and is safe for use in children.

"A problem for mouth gels is that adhesion to the skin membrane inside the mouth is difficult -- because of the nature of the surface, the gel can simply slide off," says Professor Paradkar. "As propolis retains some of its stickiness even in a water soluble formulation, when it is applied to specific areas in the mouth, it adheres more effectively."

The Centre has gained funding for a Knowledge Transfer Partnership with Nature's Laboratory, to further develop the purification system for use at a larger scale and support the creation of new propolis-based products. The aim is, through the KTP, that the company will be able to set up a purification process to increase its own manufacturing capacity.

Propolis Extracts May Allow Inexpensive Cancer Treatment

a very concise peer-reviewed article, confirming ONCE AGAIN, that propolis has very real potential to save lives. In the meantime, take your propolis regularly!!!

Cytotoxic Constituents of Propolis Inducing Anticancer Effects: A Review
J Pharm Pharmacol, 2011 Nov;63(11):1378-86

Objectives:
Propolis is a honeybee product used extensively in traditional medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anticancer effects. Propolis exhibits a broad spectrum of biological activities because it is a complex mixture of natural substances. In this review, the antitumour effects of propolis extracts and its constituents (e.g. flavonoids, terpenes and caffeic acid phenethyl ester) are discussed.

Key findings:
The effect of propolis on experimental carcinogenesis is discussed, as well as its possible mechanisms of action against tumours, involving apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and interference on metabolic pathways. Propolis seems to be efficient against different tumour cells both in vitro and in vivo, which suggests its potential in the development of new anticancer drugs.

Summary:
Propolis extracts may be important economically and would allow a relatively inexpensive cancer treatment. Preclinical investigations are needed to further elucidate the benefits of propolis and its anti-tumour properties.

Royal Jelly Beneficial for Hypertension, Cholesterol, Bone Loss & Male Infertility

Royal Jelly continues its climb upwards as a respected product for treating important human conditions...


Clinical Advisor, 4-Oct 2011
 …Royaljelly contains a complex mixture of proteins, vitamins, minerals andcarbohydrates. The B vitamins are found in the largest quantity, followedclosely by an assortment of 20 different amino acids, calcium, zinc, iron andmanganese.

A detailedbreakdown of the constituents of royal jelly reveals lipids (3%-7%),carbohydrates (10%-12%), proteins (12%-15%), water (60%-70%) and traces ofminerals and vitamins. Of particular medical interest is the presence of gammaglobulin, one of a group of specific proteins studied for theirimmune-modulating potential and pro-estrogenic compounds...

Science
Due to itsrich content of antioxidants, proteins and other nutrients, royal jelly isreportedly good for whatever ails you. It is specifically recommended fortreatment of hypertension, hyperlipidemia and inflammation, and is beingstudied for a possible anti-tumor effect as well as a treatment for maleinfertility.

In a smalltrial, patients were assigned to the royal jelly intervention or placebo. Treatment-groupparticipants were given 6 g daily of royal jelly formulation for four weeks. Atthe end of the trial, the treatment group's total cholesterol level was reduced6%, and LDL was reduced more than 9%.

Egyptianresearchers investigated the effect of royal jelly on conception rates amongcouples with known male asthenozoospermia... At the end of three monitoredcycles, the successful conception rate of the treatment group was 8.1% comparedwith only 2.6% of the IUI couples. The researchers are still studying themechanism of action in this usage beyond the nutrition-dense composition ofroyal jelly.

The growthand development of bone cells is another area of focus for royal jellyresearch. Scientists monitored tibial bone density in ovariectomized rats forseven weeks until clinical measurements indicated significant loss of bonedensity. At this point, the treatment group was given a royal jelly supplementand the active control group was given a 17 beta-estradiol treatment.

At the endof treatment, the active control group had 100% reversal of tibial bone loss,and the royal jelly group showed 85% bone recovery. Enhanced gastric absorptionof calcium was found in this and other studies and could account for a synergisticeffect on bone maintenance.
..

Red Propolis Extract Kills More Leukemia Cancer Cells

the unrelenting power of propolis, proving once again its anti-carcinogenic properties...

Comparisonof Effects of the Ethanolic Extracts of Brazilian Propolis on Human LeukemicCells As Assessed with the MTT Assay

Propolis isa resinous product collected by honey bees. It was also reported that propolishas a wide variety of biological actions, including antimicrobial activity andantioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and suppressive effects of dioxin toxicity activities.

The aim ofthis study was to compare the in vitro cytotoxic activities of green propolis(G12) and red propolis (G13) in human leukemia cells. These cells wereincubated with different concentrations of propolis and 48 hours after the IC50was calculated for each cell.

The resultsshowed that the red propolis has cytotoxic effect in vitro higher than greenpropolis. Red propolis was showed to be cytostatic in K562 cells and caused thesame amount of apoptosis as its control Gleevec.

Inconclusion, these results showed that red propolis is more cytotoxic than thegreen propolis in a variety of human cell lines of leukemia. Red propolis maycontain drugs capable of inhibiting cancer cell growth. Therefore, furtherisolation of respective chemical ingredients from the red propolis (G13) foridentification of the activities is necessary.

Royal Jelly Protects Kidneys, Liver from Anti-Cancer Treatments

New research from Turkish researchers confirm the protective properties of Royal Jelly against damage caused by anti-cancer therapies. Could this be new ground towards complementary alternative therapies? 

Royal Jelly Modulates Oxidative Stress and Apoptosisin Liver and Kidneys of Rats Treated with Cisplatin

Abstract:
Cisplatin (CDDP) is one of the most active cytotoxicagents in the treatment of cancer and has adverse side effects such asnephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. The present study was designed to determinethe effects of royal jelly (RJ) against oxidative stress caused by CDDP injuryof the kidneys and liver, by measuring tissue biochemical and antioxidantparameters and investigating apoptosis immunohistochemically.

Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats were divided into fourgroups, group C: control group received 0.9% saline; group CDDP: injected i.p.with cisplatin (CDDP, 7 mg kg(-1) body weight i.p., single dose); group RJ:treated for 15 consecutive days by gavage with RJ (300 mg/kg/day); group RJ +CDDP: treated by gavage with RJ 15 days following a single injection of CDDP.Malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) levels, glutathione S-transferase(GST), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD)activities were determined in liver and kidney homogenates, and the liver andkidney were also histologically examined.

RJ elicited a significant protective effect towardsliver and kidney by decreasing the level of lipid peroxidation (MDA), elevatingthe level of GSH, and increasing the activities of GST, GSH-Px, and SOD. In theimmunohistochemical examinations were observed significantly enhanced apoptoticcell numbers and degenerative changes by cisplatin, but these histologicalchanges were lower in the liver and kidney tissues of RJ + CDDP group. Besides,treatment with RJ lead to an increase in antiapoptotic activity hepatocytes andtubular epithelium.

In conclusion, RJ may be used in combination withcisplatin in chemotherapy to improve cisplatin-induced oxidative stressparameters and apoptotic activity...

excerpt:
Recently, royal jelly (RJ) has received particularattention because of studies that have reported that it is a highly efficientantioxidant and has free radical scavenging capacity [4, 15]. Royal jelly is asecretion produced by the hypopharyngeal and mandibular glands of workerhoneybees (Apis mellifera). It contains many important compounds withbiological activity such as free amino acids, proteins, sugars, fatty acids,minerals, and vitamins [16]. So far, RJ has been demonstrated to possessseveral physiological activities in experimental animals, includingvasodilative and hypotensive activities [17], the induction of decrease inserum cholesterol levels [18], antimicrobial [19], antiallergic [20],anti-inflammatory [21], immunomodulatory [22, 23], and antioxidant properties[16]. In addition, Kanbur et al. [24] revealed the protective effect of RJagainst paracetamol-induced liver damage in mice.

Mexican Propolis Exhibits Strong Anti-Pancreatic Cancer Effect

Congratulations Mexico! With more than 38 components identified in Propolis, you've discovered 2 more...



Two New Cytotoxic Phenylallylavanones from Mexican Propolis
Institute of Natural Medicine, Univ. of Toyama, Japan, College of Medical Science, China Three Gorges Univ., China; Chem Pharm Bulletin, June 30, 2011

Summary:
Two new phenylallylflavanones, (2R,3R)-6-[1-(4 -hydroxy-3 -methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-yl]pinobanksin (1) and (2R,3R)-6-[1-(4 -hydroxy-3 -methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-yl]pinobanksin 3-acetate (2) were isolated from a methanolic extract of Mexican propolis. Their structures were elucidated with spectroscopic analysis. Both compounds (1, 2) exhibited preferential cytotoxic activity against PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cells in a nutrient-deprived medium with the concentration at which 50% cells died preferentially in NDM (PC50) values of 17.9 M and 9.1 M, respectively.

Propolis is the resinous substance collected by bees from various plants, and used for hive construction and repairs as well as for defense purposes. 1) Humans have used propolis as a natural remedy for thousands of years because of its numerous health benefits. 1) Propolis has been reported to have anticancer, 2,3) antiviral, 4) antifungal, 4,5) antibacterial, 4,6) antioxidant, 7) immunomodulatory, 8) and anti-inflammatory activity. 9) Today, propolis is widely used in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries as a health supplement. 10) As acontinuation of our previous research on propolis from different geographic locations, 11—19) we previously reported two new flavonoids, 8-[1-(4[1]-hydroxy-3[1]-methoxyphenyl)prop- 2-en-1-yl]galangin (3) and 8-[1-(4[1]-hydroxy-3[1]-methoxyphenyl)prop-2-en-1-yl]chrysin (4), possessing a unique structural feature with a phenylallyl moiety attached to their flavone skeleton, from a methanol (MeOH) extract of Mexican propolis. 19) Interestingly, they showed strong preferential cytotoxic activity against PANC-1 human pancreatic cancer cells (PANC-1) in a nutrient-deprived medium (NDM). Further work on the extract resulted in the isolation of two new phenylallylflavanones (1, 2), shown in Chart 1...


Propolis Protects Liver From Diabetes-Induced Damage

The importance of Propolis is its capacity to be complementary, enhancing the effects of antibiotics and other medication, while at the same time healing damaged tissue.

Protective effects of Chineseand Brazilian propolis treatment against hepatorenal lesion in diabetic rats
College of AnimalSciences, Zhejiang University; Hum Exp Toxicol Sept 2011 vol. 30

Abstract
Diabetes mellitus promoted an overproduction of freeradicals and an increased incidence of both diabetic nephropathy and liverdisease. In this report, we evaluated the effects of Chinese and Brazilianpropolis on streptozotocin-induced hepatorenal injury in rats.

The results demonstrated that Chinese propolis-treatedrats had a 7.4% reduction in the glycated hemoglobin (HbAlc) level comparedwith untreated diabetic rats. Additionally, Chinese propolis induced anincrease in the serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) level significantly whileBrazilian propolis raised serum SOD and reduced level of malonaldehyde (MDA)and nitric synthetase (NOS). Of the measurable decrease in serum alanine transaminase(ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and microalbuminuria demonstrated thepropolis-mediated improvement of hepatorenal function, which was furtherconfirmed by histological examination.

We also observed that Chinese and Brazilian propolisincreased hepatorenal glutathione peroxidase (GSH-px) level and inhibited MDAproduction significantly. These results suggested that propolis may preventhepatorenal injury by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and enhancing theactivities of antioxidant enzymes.

The Super Antioxidant Duo - Cinnamon & Honey

The antioxidant properties of honey and cinnamon are well-known, but when combined, they're even more potent and provide remedies for numerous symptoms. Interesting facts about this dynamic-duo, aka phtyo-apitherapy.


Honey and Cinnamon - Mother Nature's Powerful Healing Combination 
by Beatrice Dexter; published Jan 17 1995; Weekly World News


Honey is well known around the world as one of Mother Nature's miracle weapons in the war against disease and aging. Now, new research reveals it can be twice as effective -- it it's combined with ordinary cinnamon!


A Weekly World News in-depth survey of medical researchers, herbalists and health and nutrition journals has come up with dozens of useful honey and cinnamon facts, plus some fascinating prescriptions for good health.
Here they are:

ARTHRITIS: Arthritis patients may take daily, morning and night, one cup of hot water with two spoons of honey and one small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. If taken regularly even chronic arthritis can be cured.

In a recent research conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon powder before breakfast, they found that within a week out of the 200 people so treated practically 73 patients were totally relieved of pain and within a month, mostly all the patients who could not walk or move around because of arthritis started walking without pain.

HAIR LOSS: Those suffering from hair loss or baldness, may apply a paste of hot olive oil, one tablespoon of honey, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder before bath and keep it for approx. 15 min. and then wash the hair. It was found to be effective even if kept on for 5 minutes.

ATHLETE’S FOOT: Mix one tablespoon of honey with two teaspoons of cinnamon. Massage the mixture into the affected foot area nightly for half an hour, then wash with soap and water. Your problem should be cleared up within a week.

INSECT BITES: Take one part honey to two parts of lukewarm water and add a small teaspoon of cinnamon powder, make a paste and massage it on the itching part of the body slowly. It is noticed that the pain recedes within a minute or two.

BLADDER INFECTIONS: Take two tablespoons of cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the bladder.

TOOTHACHE: Make a paste of one teaspoon of cinnamon powder and five teaspoons of honey and apply on the aching tooth. This may be applied 3 times a day till the tooth stops aching.

CHOLESTEROL: Two tablespoons of honey and three teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea water, given to a cholesterol patient, was found to reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10% within 2 hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, if taken 3 times a day, any Chronic cholesterol is cured. As per information received in the said journal, pure honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of cholesterol.

COLDS: Those suffering from common or severe colds should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4 spoon cinnamon powder daily for 3 days. This process will cure most chronic cough, cold and clear the sinuses.

INFERTILITY: Yunani and Ayurvedic Medicine have been using honey for thousands of years to strengthen the semen of men. If impotent men regularly take two tablespoon of honey before going to sleep, their problem will be solved.

In China, Japan and Far-East countries, women, who do not conceive and need to strengthen the uterus, have been taking cinnamon powder for centuries. Women who cannot conceive may take a pinch of cinnamon powder in half teaspoon of honey and apply it on the gums frequently throughout the day, so that it slowly mixes with the saliva and enters the body.

A couple in Maryland, USA, had no children for 14 years and had lost hope of having a child of their own. When told about this process, husband and wife started taking honey and cinnamon as stated above; the wife conceived after a few months and had twins at full term.

UPSET STOMACH: Honey taken with cinnamon powder cures stomachache and also clears stomach ulcers from the root.

GAS: According to the studies done in India & Japan, it is revealed that if honey is taken with cinnamon powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

HEART DISEASE: Make a paste of honey and cinnamon powder, apply on bread, chappati, or other bread, instead of jelly and jam and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol in the arteries and saves the patient from heart attack. Also those who already had an attack, if they do this process daily, they are kept miles away from the next attack.

Regular use of the above process relieves loss of breath and strengthens the heartbeat. In America and Canada, various nursing homes have treated patients successfully and have found that as age the arteries and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and cinnamon revitalizes the arteries and veins.

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE: High blood pressure and its accompanying symptoms of chest pain and dizziness disappeared in many patients just weeks after Italian researchers gave them regular doeses of honey mixed with cinnamon. The patients’ blood pressure readings improved markedly and all 137 subjects reported that they felt much better after a few weeks of the miracle cure.

IMMUNE SYSTEM: Daily use of honey and cinnamon powder strengthens the immune system and protects the body from bacteria and viral attacks. Scientists have found that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts. Constant use of honey strengthens the white blood corpuscles to fight bacteria and viral diseases.

IMPOTENCE: Honey has a long history as an aphrodisiac as well as a powerful cure for impotence. Because of its potency as an “arousal agent” honey was banned for the celibate clergy of some Eastern religions. Last year Austrian researchers found that honey was effective in stimulating hormonal secretions, as is cinnamon. In Africa and the South Seas, men apply honey externally to their private parts to enhance their sexual stamina!

INDIGESTION: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of honey taken before food, relieves acidity and digests the heaviest of meals.

INFLUENZA: A scientist in Spain has proved that honey contains a natural ingredient, which kills the influenza germs and saves the patient from flu.

LONGEVITY: Tea made with honey and cinnamon powder, when taken regularly arrests the ravages of old age. Take 4 spoons of honey, 1 spoon of cinnamon powder and 3 cups of water and boil to make like tea. Drink 1/4 cup, 3 to 4 times a day. It keeps the skin fresh and soft and arrests old age.

Life spans also increases and even a 100 year old, starts performing the chores of a 20-year-old.

PIMPLES: Three tablespoons of Honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. If done daily for two weeks, it removes pimples from the root.

POISON IVY: Apply honey-cinnamon mix directly to affected area and reapply whenever itching becomes uncomfortable. Repeat until eruptions disappear.

SKIN INFECTIONS: Applying honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema, ringworm and all types of skin infections.

WEIGHT LOSS: Daily in the morning 1/2 hour before breakfast on an empty stomach and at night before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled in one-cup water. If taken regularly it reduces the weight of even the most obese person.

Also, drinking of this mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in the body even though the person may eat a high calorie diet.

CANCER: Recent research in Japan and Australia has revealed that advanced cancer of the stomach and bones have been cured successfully. Patients suffering from these kinds of cancer should daily take one tablespoon of honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder for one month 3 times a day.

FATIGUE: Recent studies have shown that the sugar content of honey is more helpful rather than being detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens, who take honey and cinnamon power in equal parts, are more alert and flexible.

Dr. Milton who has done research says that a half tablespoon honey taken in a glass of water and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, taken daily after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3.00 p.m. when the vitality of the body starts to decrease, increases the vitality of the body within a week.

SORE FEET: Rub warm honey and cinnamon on sore feet after a long day at work or too much exercise. Repeat in the mornings, then bathe feet in cool water before putting on shoes.

BAD BREATH: People of South America, first thing in the morning gargle with one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot water. So their breath stays fresh throughout the day. Experts believe that bacteria-killing components in the honey actively combat bad breath.

HEARING LOSS: Daily morning and night honey and cinnamon powder taken in equal parts restores hearing, according to ancient Greek folklore.

Clover Honey: Strongest Antibacterial Activity against E-Coli & Staphylococcus A.

all honeys possess antibacterial and antioxidant properties; its good to note which ones are the most potent...


Antioxidative, antibrowning and antibacterial activities of sixteen floral honeys

Xin Chang, Jiehua Wang, Shaohui Yang, Shan Chen and Yingjin Song; Food & Function; 22 AUG 2011

Journal Cover:Food Funct., 2011, Advance ArticleCommonly consumed honeys from sixteen different single floral sources were analyzed for their in vitro antioxidant capacities by several methods including DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, SASR and MDA assays. 

The total polyphenol contents varied among the tested honeys and were highly correlated to their antioxidant capacity values. The antioxidant capacity of Chinese milk vetch flower honeys was significantly higher than those of other flower honeys. 

All honeys tested were active in inhibiting the browning of apple homogenate and linden honey displayed the highest inhibition rate as 85%. When the antimicrobial activity of the investigated honeys was screened using Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), clover honey exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity as 2.2 mg mL−1 kanamycin equivalent inhibition.

Graphical abstract: Antioxidative, antibrowning and antibacterial activities of sixteen floral honeys
 
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