All articles tagged with #traditional medicine
A Brazilian research team found that the Joseph's Coat plant (Alternanthera littoralis) is safe and effective in reducing inflammation and protecting joints in experimental models, supporting its traditional use for inflammatory conditions like arthritis, though further studies are needed before clinical application.
Brazilian researchers have found that the coastal plant Alternanthera littoralis, traditionally used for infections, shows promising anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in preclinical models, with a good safety profile, suggesting potential for future arthritis treatments, though further studies are needed.
Scientists have discovered that the desert berry Nitraria roborowskii, traditionally used in Chinese medicine, shows promising potential to treat diabetes by restoring metabolic balance and improving insulin sensitivity in mice, through activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, suggesting a natural, holistic approach to managing the disease.
Scientists have discovered that the desert shrub Nitraria roborowskii's fruit extract can significantly improve metabolic health and insulin sensitivity in diabetic mice, suggesting potential for a natural, holistic approach to diabetes treatment that addresses root causes rather than just symptoms.
Sadhguru advocates using half a teaspoon of warm castor oil at night as a natural way to cleanse the colon, improve digestion, and boost vitality by supporting the body's natural detox processes rooted in traditional Indian wellness practices.
A small study suggests that blowing into a conch shell, a traditional breathing practice, may help reduce symptoms of sleep apnea by strengthening airway muscles, offering a low-cost alternative to CPAP machines, with further research planned to confirm these findings.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered that cordycepin, a compound from the parasitic fungus Cordyceps militaris, can block critical pathways for cancer cell growth. This compound, traditionally used in Chinese medicine, converts into cordycepin triphosphate, which inhibits cancer cell activity by targeting two signaling pathways. The findings, published in FEBS Letters, suggest potential for developing new cancer treatments that minimize damage to healthy tissue, though further research is needed.
Researchers at the University of Nottingham have discovered that cordycepin, a compound found in the parasitic fungus Cordyceps militaris, can disrupt tumor cell growth by blocking pathways that control cell growth. This compound, used in traditional Chinese medicine, shows potential as a cancer treatment, with derivatives already in human trials. The study, published in FEBS Letters, highlights cordycepin's ability to activate specific genes, offering a promising starting point for developing new cancer therapies.
Certain lesser-known drinks such as barley water, okra water, fenugreek seed tea, bitter melon juice, and cactus juice may contribute to lowering the risk of diabetes by regulating blood sugar levels and improving insulin sensitivity. These beverages contain properties that have potential benefits for managing blood sugar levels, but it's important to note that they are not a guaranteed prevention for diabetes and should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.
According to a Chinese medicine expert, regular sex is essential for good health, with specific frequency recommendations based on age from a 2,000-year-old sexology text. People in their 20s should aim for sex every four days, while those in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and 60s should have sex every eight, 16, 21, and 30 days, respectively. Solo sex is also beneficial, as long as orgasms are achieved. Research suggests that frequent orgasms can have health benefits, including reducing the risk of prostate cancer for men and providing stress relief, pain relief, and other benefits for women.
Bay leaf, a popular flavouring agent in Indian cuisine, has been used since ancient times in traditional and folk medicines to treat digestive disorders, lower cholesterol levels, and provide various health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and fiber, and has anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and anti-diarrheal properties. Bay leaves can be used to flavor dishes, treat stomach upsets, respiratory conditions, and improve heart health. However, individuals allergic to plants in the Lauraceae family should avoid consuming bay leaves.
Scientists in the Philippines have discovered that a sea cucumber species, known as stichopus cf. horrens, which resembles dog poop, contains bioactive compounds that could potentially be effective in fighting cancer. The researchers found chemicals such as terpenoid glycosides and saponins in the sea cucumber, which are known to have anti-cancer properties. The species is also believed to promote the growth of neural processes and contains a chemical with anti-inflammatory properties. However, further research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of these compounds for human use. Sea cucumbers have long been valued in traditional Chinese medicine as an aphrodisiac, although scientific evidence supporting this claim is lacking.
Ayurvedic herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda to promote health and boost immunity. Some popular Ayurvedic herbs include Amla, which is rich in vitamin C and helps reduce blood glucose levels; Ashwagandha, known for its stress-relieving and muscle-strengthening properties; Turmeric and curcumin, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects; Holy Basil, which supports liver protection and reduces stress levels; and Shilajit, a rejuvenating compound with cognitive-enhancing and immune-boosting properties. It is important to source herbs from organic suppliers and consult a qualified practitioner for personalized guidance.
Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar fought against a patent filed in the U.S. for using turmeric to heal wounds, as it was a well-known remedy in traditional Indian medicine. This led him to uncover other instances of traditional knowledge being claimed as intellectual property, sparking a mission to create a digital fortress to protect against biopiracy.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has held its first summit dedicated to traditional medicine, aiming to explore how to integrate traditional medicines into conventional healthcare and collaborate scientifically to understand their use more thoroughly. The summit, co-hosted by the Indian government, brings together participants from various regions, Indigenous communities, traditional-medicine practitioners, and policy, data, and science specialists. While some researchers are skeptical about the summit's outcomes, others believe it is an opportunity to gather evidence for traditional healing systems and improve the quality and quantity of research in this field. The WHO emphasizes the need for rigorous scientific validation and global standards for traditional medicines, while also recognizing the importance of cultural and contextual considerations in holistic interventions.