•Clinical research suggests it helps support healthy glucose balance

•Nopal aids the body in energy production and sugar balance

•Very rich in insoluble and especially soluble dietary fiber

•Natural rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6 and minerals; especially Magnesium, [...]]]> •Mexican prickly pear cactus, consumed as a source of food

•Clinical research suggests it helps support healthy glucose balance

•Nopal aids the body in energy production and sugar balance

•Very rich in insoluble and especially soluble dietary fiber

•Natural rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Riboflavin, Vitamin B6 and minerals; especially Magnesium, Potassium, Manganese, Iron and Copper

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

VitAloe

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Aloe Vera Benefits

Aloe vera is one of the only known natural vegetarian sources of Vitamin B12, and it contains many minerals vital to the growth process and healthy function of all the body’s systems. Numerous studies worldwide indicate that aloe vera is a general tonic for the immune system, helping it to [...]]]>

Aloe Vera Benefits

Aloe vera is one of the only known natural vegetarian sources of Vitamin B12, and it contains many minerals vital to the growth process and healthy function of all the body’s systems. Numerous studies worldwide indicate that aloe vera is a general tonic for the immune system, helping it to fight illness of all kinds. Various research studies are underway to explore the potential of aloe vera components to boost immunity and combat the HIV virus, and to treat certain types of cancer (particularly leukemia). It may even have a role to play in managing diabetes.

Over 200 worldwide scientific research papers have been published on the effects of Aloe vera. The three main categories of research include anti-inflammatory, anti- bacterial, and anti-viral actions of Aloe vera. The juice is said to soothe digestive tract irritations such as colitis, ulcers and irritable bowel syndrome. Aloe’s ability to encourage the release of pepsin (a gastric juice enzyme necessary for digestion) when the stomach is full is a possible reason for its ulcer-healing effects (Journal of the American Osteopathic Society, 1963, vol.62). In one study, oral use of Aloe for six months helped mitigate asthma symptoms in almost half of the participants. Eleven of twenty-seven patients studied who drank Aloe reported feeling better at the end of the study. Researchers think that results might be due to stimulation of the immune system, as well as naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agents in Aloe vera.

A colour illustration of an Aloe vera plant. In 1994, the US Food and Drug Administration approved Aloe vera for the treatment of HIV. On-going studies worldwide show that Aloe taken in highly concentrated doses can stimulate the production of white blood cells that may help fight viruses and also tumours. Latin Name: L. Aloe vera, Aloe barbadensis var miller, Aloe vera var. chinensis, Aloe vulgaris, Aloe vera var. lanzae, Aloe indica, Aloe barbadensis var. chinensis, Aloe vera var. wratislaviensis, Aloe elongata, Aloe vera var. littoralis, Aloe perfoliata var. vera, Aloe perfoliata var. barbadensis, Aloe flava, Aloe chinensis, Aloe barbadensis, Aloe lanzae.

Aloe vera contains protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamins A, B12 and E, essential fatty acids and is naturally rich in:

Vitamin C which helps maintain tone of blood vessels and promotes good circulation and is essential to the health of the adrenal gland which supports our body in times of stress.

Amino acids which are chains of atoms constructing protein in our body.

Enzymes, which are the life-principle in every live, organic atom and molecule of natural raw food, rejuvenate aged tissues and promote healthy skin.

Germanium which is a mineral that some health authorities claim therapeutic benefits for: immunodeficiency, pain, cardiac disorders, circulatory disturbances and eye problems.

Aloe vera juice is said to be one of the finest body cleansers, cleaning morbid matter from the stomach, liver, kidneys, spleen, bladder, and is considered the finest, known colon cleanser. Studies have shown that it is healing and soothing in the relief of indigestion, stomach distress and ulcers. People claim relief from arthritis, bladder and kidney infections; leg cramps, constipation, hemorrhoids, insomnia, and for vaginitis, it is said to be an excellent vaginal douche. An excellent internal tonic for energy and well being Aloe juice may add greatly to the strength of the food fed, digestive tract, skin, and overall good health and happiness.

It is also used to ease heartburn, ulcers, diverticular disorders, and other types of digestive upset. It is used as an anti-inflammatory and may be taken internally as a remedy for certain digestive complaints. European folk medicine calls for using Aloe vera juice to relieve heartburn and ulcers. Preliminary research has shown promising results. Clinical trials in Japan indicate that certain compounds in Aloe vera reduce the secretion of stomach juices and the formation of lesions.

Animal studies and anecdotal reports claim that drinking Aloe vera juice or taking it as a tablet or capsule can reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritic joints. Drinking Aloe vera juice may also help those asthmatic patients who are not dependent on cortico-steroids.

In 1997, University of San Antonio researcher Jeremiah Herlihy, Ph.D., conducted a study to observe any negative effects of drinking Aloe daily. Rather than exhibiting negative effects, however, test animals receiving daily Aloe showed a remarkable reduction in leukemia, heart disease, and kidney disease. Dr. Herlihy concluded, “We found no indication of harm done to the rats even at high levels.” In fact, the Aloe-drinking animals actually lived 25 percent longer than those in the control group (IASC Conference, Texas, 1997).

There is no single ingredient that makes Aloe vera potent and healthful. Researcher Robert Davis, Ph.D., an endocrinologist-biologist, explains that fifteen different compound groups of nutrients work together to make the plant effective. This means that Aloe vera’s effects cannot be synthesized easily in a laboratory. On the upside, this makes the plant useful across a wide spectrum of circumstances. And because the various elements that make Aloe effective are nutrients rather than drugs, Aloe juice may complement medical treatments. In fact some cancer patients state that Aloe vera seems to reduce nausea, increase energy, and may help to minimize low blood counts caused by chemotherapy or radiation.

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

OliViva, TruAloe, Vitaloe, AloeMannan

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

molecule made up of smaller sugar molecules)

•Beta glucan is found in several mushrooms

•Believed to stimulate the immune system and activate certain

cells, including macrophages, T-cells, natural killer cells, and

interleukin-1 and -2

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

Immune [...]]]> •Contain polysaccharides (A polysaccharide is a large and complex

molecule made up of smaller sugar molecules)

•Beta glucan is found in several mushrooms

•Believed to stimulate the immune system and activate certain

cells, including macrophages, T-cells, natural killer cells, and

interleukin-1 and -2

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

Immune 360, VitAloe

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Ellagic acid is a phytochemical, or plant chemical, found in raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, walnuts, pecans, pomegranates, and other plant foods.

Overview

Research in cell cultures and laboratory animals has found that ellagic acid may slow the growth of some tumors caused by certain carcinogens. While this is promising, at this time there is [...]]]> Description

Ellagic acid is a phytochemical, or plant chemical, found in raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, walnuts, pecans, pomegranates, and other plant foods.

Overview

Research in cell cultures and laboratory animals has found that ellagic acid may slow the growth of some tumors caused by certain carcinogens. While this is promising, at this time there is no reliable evidence available from human clinical studies showing that ellagic acid can prevent or treat cancer. Further research is needed to determine what benefits it may have.

How is it promoted for use?

Ellagic acid seems to have some anti-cancer properties. It can act as an anti-oxidant, and has been found to cause cell death in cancer cells in the laboratory. In other laboratory studies, ellagic acid seems to reduce the effect of estrogen in promoting growth of breast cancer cells in tissue cultures. There are also reports that it may help the liver to break down or remove some cancer-causing substances from the blood.

Some supporters have claimed these results mean that ellagic acid can prevent or treat cancer in humans. This has not been proven. Unfortunately, many substances that show promise against cancer in laboratory and animal studies are not found to be useful in people.

Ellagic acid has also been said to reduce heart disease, birth defects, liver problems, and to promote wound healing.

What does it involve?

The highest levels of ellagic acid are found in raspberries, strawberries, and pomegranates, especially when they are freeze-dried. Extracts from red raspberry leaves or seeds, pomegranates, or other sources are said to contain high levels of ellagic acid and are available as dietary supplements in capsule, powder, or liquid form. The best dose of these preparations is not known.

What is the history behind it?

Ellagic acid was studied in the 1960s mainly for its effects on blood clotting. Early published research on ellagic acid and cancer first appeared in the 1970s and 1980s. With the publication of several small laboratory studies in the mid-1990s, ellagic acid began to be promoted on the Internet and elsewhere as a means of preventing and treating cancer.

What is the evidence?

Almost all studies conducted on ellagic acid to date have been done in cell cultures or laboratory animals. Several animal studies have found that ellagic acid can inhibit the growth of tumors of the skin, esophagus, and lung, as well as other tumors caused by carcinogens. Other studies have also found positive effects. A recent study in cell cultures found that ellagic acid may act against substances that help tumors to form new blood vessels. Further studies are needed to determine whether these results apply to humans.

In the only study reported thus far in humans, Italian researchers found that ellagic acid seemed to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy in men with advanced prostate cancer, although it did not slow disease progression or improve survival. The researchers cautioned that more research would be needed to confirm these results.

The interaction between phytochemicals like ellagic acid and the other compounds in foods is not well understood, but it is unlikely that any single compound offers the best protection against cancer. A balanced diet that includes 5 or more servings a day of fruits and vegetables along with foods from a variety of other plant sources such as nuts, seeds, whole grain cereals, and beans is likely to be more effective in reducing cancer risk than eating one particular food, such as raspberries, in large amounts. However, some studies suggest that foods high in ellagic acid might be useful additions to a balanced diet. For example, one nonrandomized clinical study of men with prostate cancer reported that pomegranate juice slowed the increase in blood levels of prostate-specific antigen, a substance that is routinely measured to estimate growth of prostate cancer.

References

Ahn D, Putt D, Kresty L, Stoner GD, Fromm D, Hollenberg PF. The effects of dietary ellagic acid on rat hepatic and esophageal mucosal cytochromes P450 and phase II enzymes. Carcinogenesis. 1996;17:821-828.

Falsaperla M, Morgia G, Tartarone A, Ardito R, Romano G. Support ellagic acid therapy in patients with hormone refractory prostate cancer (HRPC) on standard chemotherapy using vinorelbine and estramustine phosphate. Eur Urol. 2005; 47:449-454.

Harttig U, Hendricks JD, Stoner GD, Bailey GS. Organ specific, protocol dependent modulation of 7,12-dimethylbenz-[a]anthracene carcinogenesis in rainbow trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss) by dietary ellagic acid. Carcinogenesis. 1996;17:2403-2409.

Kresty LA, Morse MA, Morgan C, et al. Chemoprevention of esophageal tumorigenesis by dietary administration of lyophilized black raspberries. Cancer Res. 2001;61:6112-6119.

Labrecque L, Lamy S, Chapus A, et al. Combined inhibition of PDGF and VEGF receptors by ellagic acid, a dietary-derived phenolic compound. Carcinogenesis. 2005;26:821-826.

Mandal S, Stoner GD. Inhibition of N-nitrosobenzylmethylamine-induced esophageal tumorigenesis in rats by ellagic acid.Carcinogenesis. 1990;11:55-61.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. About herbs: Ellagic acid. 2005. Accessed at: www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/11571.cfm?RecordID=644&tab=HC on June 10, 2008.

Mertens-Talcott SU. Lee JH. Percival SS. Talcott ST. Induction of cell death in Caco-2 human colon carcinoma cells by ellagic acid rich fractions from muscadine grapes (Vitis rotundifolia). Journal of Agricultural & Food Chemistry.2006;54:5336-5343.

Mukhtar H, Del Tito BJ, Marcelo CL, Das M, Bickers DR. Ellagic acid: a potent naturally occurring inhibitor of benzo[a]pyrene metabolism and its subsequent glucuronidation, sulfation and covalent binding to DNA in cultured BALB/C mouse keratinocytes. Carcinogenesis. 1984;5:1565-1571.

Narayanan BA, Re GG. IGF-II down regulation associated cell cycle arrest in colon cancer cells exposed to phenolic antioxidant ellagic acid. Anticancer Res. 2001;21:359-364.

Pantuck AJ, Leppert JT, Zomorodian N, Aronson W, Hong J, Barnard RJ, Seeram N, Liker H, Wang H, Elashoff R, Heber D, Aviram M, Ignarro L, Belldegrun A. Phase II study of pomegranate juice for men with rising prostate-specific antigen following surgery or radiation for prostate cancer. Clin Cancer Res. 2006;12:4018-4026.

Papoutsi Z. Kassi E. Tsiapara A. Fokialakis N. Chrousos GP. Moutsatsou P. Evaluation of estrogenic/antiestrogenic activity of ellagic acid via the estrogen receptor subtypes ERalpha and ERbeta. Journal of Agricultural & Food Chemistry.2005; 53:7715-7720.

Thresiamma KC, George J, Kuttan R. Protective effect of curcumin, ellagic acid and bixin on radiation induced genotoxicity. J Exp Clin Cancer Res. 1998;17:431-434.

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

Immune 360, 24Seven

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Ellagic Acid is a naturally occurring polyphenolic found in 46 different fruits and nuts such as blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and cranberries. Ellagic acid:

Practitioners of Chinese medicine use astragalus root to enhance the body’s energy, known to [...]]]> Astragalus root is derived from a perennial plant that grows in northern China and Mongolia. The herb is a staple of Chinese medicine, where it has been used for centuries to boost the immune system and treat a variety of ailments.

Practitioners of Chinese medicine use astragalus root to enhance the body’s energy, known to them as “qi” (pronounced as “chee”). Ancient people used it to enhance strength and regulate metabolism. The herb has only recently gained popularity among herbalists and practitioners of alternative medicine in the West.

The major chemical components of astragalus root are polysaccharides, flavonoids saponins and a series of triterpene glycosides known as “astragalosides”. Some of these are known to be biologically active, and may play roles in preventing/treating certain diseases.

In-vitro and rodent studies conducted in America support the assertion that astragalus root can enhance the immune system. For example, it may reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis and asthma. Nonetheless, human clinical trials are lacking, so the benefits of astragalus supplementation for these conditons are unclear at this time.

A great deal of research on astragalus has been conducted in China. Chinese studies indicate that astragalus may ameliorate the effects of cancer chemotherapy and improve the quality of life. Astragalus root appears to induce production of interferon, a chemical that is an essential part of the immune system and has been widely studied for its ability to fight the development of cancer.

Some interesting, albeit speculative, in-vitro research also suggests that astragalus compounds may be useful in the fight against diseases such asAIDS and lupus; not to mention aging.

Beyond the above, astragalus and/or individual components may exert cardioprotective effects, by improving blood flow, reducing inflammation and preventing myocardial injury.

Astragalus is also a mild diuretic, and increases natiuresis (sodium excretion). It may even prove useful for treating insulin resistance and chronic fatigue syndrome.

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

Immune 360, VitAloe

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Composition

Astragalus root has [...]]]> Astragalus herb is used by Chinese doctors to stimulate the immune system and to improve cardiovascular health. This plant is native to Northern China and Mongolia and inhabits mostly pine forests and sandy soils. Chinese doctors have used astragalus herb to fight the common cold and the flu.

Composition

Astragalus root has polysaccharides that have a role in influencing the immune system. Astragalus root also contains saponins called astragalosides and astramembranosides, along with flavonoids and triterpenes. Three major flavonoids are ononin, formononetin, and demethylhomopterocarpin.

Aplastic anemia

Clinical study on effect of Astragalus Injection and its immuno-regulation action in treating chronic aplastic anemia.

Chin J Integr Med. 2007. TCM Hospital of Langfang City, Chinese Hemopathic Therapeutic Center of TCM, Hebei, China.

Sixty patients with aplastic anemia were randomly assigned to two groups equally, both were treated with Stanozolol three times a day, 2 mg each time through oral intake, but astagalus was given additionally to the patients in the treated group once a day via intravenous dripping. All were treated for 15 days as one therapeutic course and the whole medication lasted for more than 4 months totally, with follow-up adopted. Astragalus injection could promote the recovery of hemopoietic function, which might be through improving T-lymphocyte subsets and reducing the release of negative regulatory factors such as TNF-alpha and IL-2 to alleviate the inhibition on hemopoietic function.

Blood sugar

Hypoglycemic effect of polysaccharide enriched extract of Astragalus membranaceus in diet induced insulin resistant C57BL/6J mice and its potential mechanism.

Phytomedicine. 2009. Department of Pathophysiology, Medical College of Wuhan University, Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Allergy and Immune-Related Diseases, Wuhan, China.

Astragalus polysaccharide exerts insulin-sensitizing and hypoglycemic activities in type 2 diabetic rats. The present study was designed to confirm the hypoglycemic effect of Astragalus polysaccharide and to investigate its possible mechanism underlying the improvement of insulin resistance in vivo and in vitro. We found Astragalus polysaccharide could alleviate insulin resistance induced by high glucose. The hyperglycemia, hypolipemia, and hyperinsulinemia status were controlled with Astragalus polysaccharide therapy. Insulin action in the liver of insulin resistant mice was restored significantly with Astragalus polysaccharide administration. The anti-obesity effect and hypolipidemia effects of Astragalus polysaccharide were probably due partly to decreasing the leptin resistance of mice, which would positively couple with the normalization of plasma insulin levels. We have shown that Astragalus polysaccharide has beneficial effects on insulin resistance and hyperglycemia.

Cancer and use with chemotherapy drugs
Astragalus membranaceus has been used to ameliorate the side effects of anti-neoplastic drugs.

Astragalus membranaceus prevents daunorubicin-induced apoptosis of cultured neonatal cardiomyocytes: role of free radical effect of Astragalus membranaceus on daunorubicin cardiotoxicity. Phytother Res. 2009. Shanghai Institute of Hematology, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.

Anthracyclines are antitumor antibiotics with significant activity against solid and hematologic malignancies. One problem preventing more widespread use has been the development of cardiotoxicity. To determine whether antioxidant agents can reduce the cardiotoxicity of anthracyclines, Astragalus membranaceus was introduced. Pre-treatment with Astragalus membranaceus significantly attenuated the daunorubicin-induced increases of reactive oxygen species, apoptosis and the secretions of LDH in cultured neonatal cardiomyocytes. Compared with Astragalus membranaceus, N-acetyl-l-cysteine had similar effects on daunorubicin-induced cell injury. Our results suggested that Astragalus membranaceus is potentially protective against daunorubicin cardiotoxicity by decreasing free radical release and apoptosis in cultured neonatal cardiomyocytes.

Fatigue

Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids (AMF) ameliorate chronic fatigue syndrome induced by food intake restriction plus forced swimming.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2009; National Research Institute of Chinese Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan, ROC.

Alteration of immune function may be associated with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and this study reveals the immunoregulatory effect of Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids. Rats were induced by food intake restriction plus forced swimming for 6 weeks. An atrophied spleen associated with a significantly decreased spleen/body weight ratio and a reduced spleen cells proliferation was found in these rats when compared with home cage controls.

Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids given orally at 20, 50 and 100mg/kg body weight once a day consecutively for 6 weeks recovered the reduced cell proliferation. A switch to Th1-dominated immune regulation was observed in these rats as the cultured splenocytes produced more interleukin-2 (IL-2) but less IL-4 when compared with controls. Supplementation with Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids counteracted the aberrant cytokine production and rats receiving Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids exhibited higher endurance capacity to swim when compared with those without the herb. Alterations of immune function may be associated with CFS and the tonic effects of Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids against CF may be attributable to balance the abnormal cytokine level by isoflavones.

Heart failure
Astragalus has protective effect on heart tissue and may be helpful in congestive heart failure.

Study on effect of Astragalus injection in treating congestive heart failure.
Zhou ZL, Yu P.Third People’s Hospital, Hangzhou.

To observe the clinical efficacy and side-effects of Astragalus Injection in treating congestive heart failure (CHF). Eighty-three CHF patients with heart function of II-IV grade assessed by New York Heart Association classification were randomly divided into 2 groups. The 42 patients in the treated group were treated with astragalus 40 ml (equivalent to 80 g crude drug) by adding in 5% glucose solution 500 ml for intravenous dripping, once a day and the 41 patients in the control group were treated by nitrolingual injection. The therapeutic course in both groups was 2 weeks and the patients were followed-up for 1- 6 months. The clinical heart function improvement rate and the total effective rate in the astragalus treated group after 1 month treatment were 26% and 78%, and after 6 months were 34% and 81% respectively, which were superior to those in the control group significantly. The levels of left ventricular ejection fraction, fractional shortening of left ventricular short axis, stroke volume, cardiac output  and the cardiac index were all improved in both groups, but better improvement was shown in the astragalus group. Follow-up study showed that the incidence of cardiac event was lower in the astragalus group than that in the control group. Astragalus can be viewed as one of the important auxiliary drugs for treatment of CHF especially in severe cases. 

Immune system

Astragalus improves certain parts of the immune system, and may have some anti-HIV activity. It’s not clear whether astragalus would have anti-HIV activity when ingested as a supplement.

Astragalus and kidney disease

Astragalus may be helpful in diabetic nephropathy. This herb may also act as a diuretic.

Protective effects of Astragalus saponin I on early stage of diabetic nephropathy in rats.
J Pharmacol Sci. 2004.

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) has become the leading cause of end stage failure, but no renoprotective treatment has been very available for use in DN. Astragalus saponin I, a component extracted from Astragalus membranaceus, was studied in experimental DN induced by administration of streptozotocin in male rats. The early DN rats were treated with 3 doses of astragalus for 8 weeks to analyze its efficacy with different parameters. By comparison with vehicle-treated DN rats, the renal hypertrophy, the oxidative stress intensity, and the blood glucose level of DN rats were ameliorated by astragalus. Also, the microalbuminuria level, advanced glycated end-products either in serum or in kidney cortex, and the aldose reductase activity were significantly reduced. The results suggest that astragalus has therapeutic effects on several pharmacological targets in the progress of DN and is a potential drug for prevention of early stage DN.

Aqueous extract of Astragali Radix induces human natriuresis through enhancement of renal response to atrial natriuretic peptide.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2008; Department of Nephrology & Rheumatology, Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, Tongji University, Shanghai, China.

The diuretic effect of astragalus root in humans was described in ancient books, but its mechanism has not been identified. To evaluate its diuretic / natriuretic effect, we conducted a double-blind, randomized, crossover study in 12 healthy men. They were randomized to receive either placebo or a single oral dosage of 0.3g/kg body weight of aqueous extract of astragalus root. Compared with placebo, astragalus root treatment markedly increased urinary sodium excretion, fractional sodium excretion, and urinary excretion of chloride during the first 4h. No significant changes of these parameters were observed during 12h or 24h. We show here that astragalus root induces a marked natriuresis in healthy men, which is attributed to enhanced renal responses to endogenous A-type Natriuretic Peptide. The Astragaloside IV in the astragalus root is not the active component for natriuresis.

Effect of Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica sinensis combined with Enalapril in rats with obstructive uropathy.
Phytother Res. 2009. Wojcikowski K, Wohlmuth H, Johnson DW, Gobe G. Molecular and Cellular Pathology, School of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.

ACE inhibitors (ACEi) reduce renal tubulointerstitial fibrosis but are not completely effective. Combined extract of Astragalus membranaceus and Angelica sinensis (A&A) is a traditional antifibrotic agent in China. The present investigation aimed to determine whether an ACEi (Enalapril) and A&A together have a better antifibrotic effect in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) than monotherapy with either agent. Male Sprague-Dawley rats had either sham operation or UUO alone, with A&A (combined aqueous and ethanol extract equivalent to 2.1 g dried herbs), with Enalapril (in drinking water at 200 mg/mL) or with both treatments. Kidney and liver were collected for protein extraction or fixed for histologic stains, immunohistochemistry (IHC), microscopy. Enalapril or A&A individually were antifibrotic. Transforming growth factor-beta1, fibroblast activation, collagen deposition, macrophage accumulation and tubular cell apoptosis were all decreased. The combination of the two drugs was significantly more effective than Enalapril alone in reducing tumor necrosis factor-alpha, collagen accumulation, activation of fibroblasts, and tubular cell apoptosis. In conclusion, Enalapril with A&A significantly decreased tubulointerstitial fibrosis to a greater extent than treatment with Enalapril alone.

Skin and melanin

Inhibitory effects of calycosin isolated from the root of Astragalus membranaceus on melanin biosynthesis.
Biol Pharm Bull. 2009; Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Daejeon, Korea.

Tyrosinase is a key enzyme for melanin biosynthesis, and hyperpigmentation disorders are associated with abnormal accumulation of melanin pigments, which can be reduced by treatment with depigmenting agents. A methanol extract of Astragalus membranaceus showed inhibitory activity against mushroom tyrosinase. The active compound was purified from the methanol extract of Astragalus membranaceus and, following several chromatographic methods, was identified as calycosin. The results showed that calycosin exhibited tyrosinase inhibitory activity. Calycosin showed a melanin biosynthesis inhibition zone in a culture plate of Streptomyces bikiniensis, which is commonly used as an indicator organism. Furthermore, calycosin dramatically reduced melanin synthesis of Melan-a cells without any apparent cytotoxicity and reduced expression of melanogenic enzyme, tyrosinase. These results suggest that calycosin may be an effective skin-lightening agent that regulates the expression of melanogenic enzymes.

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

Immune 360, VitAloe

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Also Known As

Astragalus membranaceus, milk vetch, huang qi (Chinese), ogi (Japanese), and hwanggi (Korean).

Introduction

Astragalus is the chief energy tonic of traditional Asian medicine. A graceful, flowing plant with long stems bearing paired, pointed leaves and purple flowers, the astragalus is harvested for its roots that are white when dug out [...]]]>

Ashwagandha root is a herb of the ages. It is the ‘ginseng’ of Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medicine of India and is considered an ‘adaptogen’, a term used to describe herbs that improve physical energy and athletic ability, increase immunity to colds and infections and increase sexual capacity and fertility.

One reason for [...]]]> Overview:

Ashwagandha root is a herb of the ages. It is the ‘ginseng’ of Ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medicine of India and is considered an ‘adaptogen’, a term used to describe herbs that improve physical energy and athletic ability, increase immunity to colds and infections and increase sexual capacity and fertility.

One reason for ashwagandha’s reputation as a general energy-promoting, disease-preventing tonic may be its effect on the immune system. A number of studies have shown significant increases in white blood cell counts and other measures of strengthened immunity in rodents given ashwagandha or certain chemicals extracted from the herb. Ashwagandha may also have a mild sedative effect on the central nervous system and in animal studies it has been shown to be a muscle relaxant. It is commonly used to increase vitality, particularly when recovering from chronic illnesses and pain management for arthritic conditions. Ashwagandha may also help regulate blood sugar which aids in suppressing sugar cravings.

Research shows ashwagandha may be a promising alternative for cancer treatment and prevention. Ashwagandha seems to show positive effects on the endocrine, cardio, and central nervous systems. It is one herb that could help your body produce it’s own thyroid hormones.

Ashwagandha is used to restore male libido, cure impotence and increase male fertility. It is widely used in southern Asia as a male sexuality tonic.

Preliminary studies indicate that the herb helps to reduce the negative effects of stress, slow tumour growth, treat anxiety and insomnia, and reduce cholesterol in addition to increasing sexual performance.

Ashwaghanda is generally safe at the doses recommended on the packaging. In high doses it may have steroidal activity similar to Creatine.
Research on ashwagandha has concluded that extracts of the plant has a direct spermatogenic influence on the seminiferous tubules of immature rats presumably by exerting a testosterone-like effect. It is could also a potential source of hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic agents2.

Because ashwagandha has traditionally been used to treat various diseases associated with nerve tissue damage related to the destructive molecules known as free radicals, some researchers have speculated that the herb may have antioxidant properties. Free-radical damage plays a role in normal ageing and in such neurological conditions as epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

Immune 360

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

It grows as a short shrub (35-75 cm) with a central stem from which branch extend radially in a star pattern (stellate) and covered with a dense matte of wooly hairs (tomentose).[2] The flowers [...]]]> Withania somnifera, also known as Ashwagandha, Indian ginseng, Winter cherry, Ajagandha, Kanaje Hindi, Amukkara in Tamil and Samm Al Ferakh, is a plant in the Solanaceae or nightshade family.

It grows as a short shrub (35-75 cm) with a central stem from which branch extend radially in a star pattern (stellate) and covered with a dense matte of wooly hairs (tomentose).^[2] The flowers are small and green, while the ripe fruit is orange-red and has milk-coagulating properties.^[2] The plant also has long brown tuberous roots that are used for medicinal purposes. It is cultivated in many of the drier regions of India such as Manasa, Neemuch, and Jawad tehsils of the Mandsaur District of Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Sind. and Rajasthan.^[2]

Medicinal uses

In Ayurveda, the roots of W. somnifera are used to prepare medicinal Ashwagandha. It is claimed to possess aphrodisiac, sedative, rejuvenative and life prolonging properties. It is traditionally used to treat the following symptoms and conditions, although there are few scientific studies of the health benefits of Ashwagandha:^[2][3]

• chronic fatigue^[2][3]
• dehydration^[2][3]
• bone weakness^[2][3]
• muscle weakness and tension^[2][3]
• loose teeth^[2][3]
• thirst^[2][3]
• impotency^[2][3]
• premature ageing^[2][3]
• emaciation^[2][3]
• debility^[2][3]
• constipation^[2][3]
• senility^[2][3]
• rheumatism^[2][3]
• nervous exhaustion^[2][3]
• memory loss^[2][3]
• neurodegenerative disorders^[4]
• spermatorrhoea^[2][3][5]

The berries can be used as a substitute for rennet, to coagulate milk in cheese making.^[2] The berries and leaves are traditionally used a topical treatment for tumors and tubercular glands, carbuncles and ulcers.^[2][6][7]

While Ashwagandha is claimed to have a wide variety of health benefits, there have been few clinical trials to test these claims. Studies completed so far support that W. somnifera may possibly be beneficial for:

• easing drug withdrawal symptoms^[8]
• reducing anxiety ^[9]
• reducing arthritis pain in the knee ^[10][11]

In addition, there are registered clinical trials in progress to determine if W. sominifera is useful for treating:

• Tuberculosis^[12]
• Parkinsons Disease^[13]
• Bone Cancer^[14]
• Bipolar disorder^[15]
• Diabetes^[16][17]
• improve the well-being of the elderly and breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy^[18][19]

Naturopathy

In a randomized control trial examining the use of naturopathic care for anxiety^[20], a “naturopathic care” group who received W. somnifera (along with “dietary counseling, deep breathing relaxation techniques, a standard multi-vitamin”) showed significant improvements in anxiety (as measured by the Beck Anxiety Inventory) compared to a psychotherapy group (who received “psychotherapy, and matched deep breathing relaxation techniques, and placebo”) after 8 weeks. No attempt was made to examine the differing contributions of W. somnifera, dietary counselling and a “standard multi-vitamin” in the first group, or psychotherapy in the second group, toward the outcomes for each group.

Recent Research

Shown to increase semen quality and reduce oxidative stress.^[21]

Withaferin-A (WA) is a bioactive compound derived from Withania somnifera, which inhibits Notch-1 signaling and downregulates prosurvival pathways, such as Akt/NF-κB/Bcl-2, in three colon cancer cell lines (HCT-116, SW-480, and SW-620)^[22]

Potential preventive or therapeutic drug for stress induced neurological disorders^[23]

Withania somnifera extract protects from the structural changes induced by morphine withdrawal^[24]

Other

Ashwagandha in Sanskrit means “horse’s smell,” probably originating from the odor of its root which resembles that of a sweaty horse. In Tamil, it is called Amukkrang Kilangu (அமுக்கராங்கிழங்கு) and is used in several medicines. The species name somnifera means “sleep-inducing” in Latin, indicating that to it are attributed sedating properties.Some herbalists refer to ashwagandha as Indian ginseng, since it is used inayurvedic medicine in a way similar to that ginseng is used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Seven American and four Japanese firms have filed for grant of patents on formulations containing extracts of the herb Ashwagandha. It is also found in Nepal

Phytochemical investigations of multiple shoot cultures of selected accessions AGB002 and AGB025 of Withania somnifera. established in vitro utilizing shoot tip apices cultured on Murashige and Skoog’s medium supplemented with BAP (1 mg/L) have been carried out. This has led to isolation of four glycowithanolides viz. Withanoside IV (WSG-3), Withanoside VI (WSG-3A), Physagulin D (WSG-P) and Withastraronolide (WSC-O).The structures of these have been confirmed on the basis of spectroscopic data. Multiple shoot cultures could be an alternative renewable resource for production of these biologically active molecules^[25]

Active constituents

The main constituents of ashwagandha are alkaloids and steroidal lactones. Among the various alkaloids, withanine is the main constituent. The other alkaloids are somniferine, somnine, somniferinine, withananine, pseudo-withanine, tropine, pseudo-tropine, cuscohygrine, anferine and anhydrine. Two acyl steryl glucoside viz. sitoindoside VII and sitoindoside VIII have been isolated from root. The leaves contain steroidal lactones, which are commonly called withanolides. The withanolides have C28 steroidal nucleus with C9 side chain, having six membered lactone ring.

 

Withaferin A

Pharmacological effects

Ashwagandha is reported to have anti-carcinogenic effects in animal and cell cultures by decreasing the expression of nuclear factor-kappaB, suppressing intercellular tumor necrosis factor, and potentiating apoptotic signalling in cancerous cell lines.^[26]

References

The Following RBC Life products contain this ingredient:

Immune 360

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.