How Can Moringa Oleifera Help Cure Diabetes
Moringa or malunggay is great for people with diabetes because it is a highly nutritious food. In fact it is being called as the Elixir tree because the moringa leaves have tons of nutritional properties that can make the body strong and can even heal many diseases.
Moringa leaves and pods also contain more than 90 nutrients and 46 antioxidants. It also has the following nutrients:
• Beta Carotene- 4 times more than what one will get from carrots
• Calcium- 17 times more than what one will get from milk
• Iron- 25 times more than that of spinach
In short, moringa contains everything that a person needs to ensure proper body functioning. Also, a scientific research done in London confirmed that Vitamin D or calcium is required so that the pancreas can secrete insulin properly. The study also discovered that people with low calcium level in the body have the greatest potential to acquire diabetes because they cannot properly manage their blood sugar problems.
As moringa or malunggay contains Vitamin A, it helps reduce the incidence of blindness among diabetics. Another complication from diabetes- the neuropathy can also be cured by taking vitamin B12 supplements.
Regular intake of Vitamin C can also prevent cataracts which is another disease common among diabetics. Intake of Vitamin E promotes faster healing of wounds and also increases antioxidants in the body.
All the above nutrients keep the blood sugar level in the body in normal range so it can cure or prevent diabetes. To get all the above nutrients, one can eat MORINGO ORGANIC capsule.
Moringa Oleifera: A treatment for Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that is characterized by problems involving the hormone insulin. In healthy people, the pancreas releases insulin; insulin then works to help the body use and store the fat and sugar that is derived from the food that people eat. With diabetes, insulin can be compromised in a couple of different ways. In some cases, the pancreas doesn't produce any insulin at all. Other times, the body does not react in the right way to insulin - this is known as "insulin resistance." Finally, diabetes is sometimes characterized by a pancreas that produces an insufficient volume of insulin.
The Two Types of Diabetes
It's important to understand that diabetes is a disease that has no cure. Once a person develops diabetes, they will suffer from the condition for the rest of their life. Although diabetes may be triggered by a variety of different phenomena involving the pancreas and insulin production - or lack thereof - it can also be divided into two distinct types.
Type 1 Diabetes - Type 1 diabetes typically first arises in people under the age of 20, although it can happen at any age. Insulin-producing cells - known as beta cells - in the pancreas are completely destroyed by the body's immune system. In turn, the pancreas can no longer produce any insulin and insulin injections must be administered.
Type 2 Diabetes - With type 2 diabetes, a person's pancreas still produces insulin; the problem is that it either doesn't create enough insulin, or the person's body is resistant to the insulin that is produced. Type 2 diabetes commonly occurs in obese and overweight individuals - usually over the age of 40 - and is sometimes called "adult onset diabetes."
Managing Diabetes
There is no cure for diabetes. However, there are several ways to manage the condition in order to keep insulin at the proper level. There are several different techniques and strategies for managing diabetes. Some of them include:
- carefully monitoring one's diet in order to keep blood sugar levels in check;
- using insulin injections as needed to maintain optimal levels in those whose bodies don't produce the hormone;
- keeping a close eye on blood sugar levels by using special kits that measure insulin and sugar in the blood; and
- following an exercise routine in order to keep blood pressure levels in check.
Moringa Oleifera: A Natural Treatment for Diabetes
As with any disease or condition, doctors and researchers are constantly seeking new ways to treat and manage diabetes. People are more concerned about using harsh, synthetic medications than ever before, which is what makes the promise of a tree called Moringa Oleifera all the more exciting. Moringa Oleifera is a tree that is originally native to India, but is now grown across the globe. As it happens, people in many developing countries - particular in Africa - have been using Moringa Oleifera to treat and manage the symptoms of diabetes for years.
Why does Moringa Oleifera hold so much promise for those who suffer from diabetes?
Primarily because of its many amazing, natural benefits. Moringa Oleifera has been shown to naturally boost the immune system, which usually becomes compromised in those who suffer from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Moringa Oleifera has also been shown to possess many key anti-inflammatory benefits; diabetes often causes circulatory problems which can be managed through anti-inflammatory supplements. There are no negative side effects associated with Moringa Oleifera use, meaning that it is a safe, natural way for people to manage their blood sugarand care for their diabetes symptoms. It's just one more option for the many people who have to cope with this serious condition.
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Moringa Oleifera Medicinal Uses and Properties
AN OVERVIEW OF MODERN MEDICAL BENEFITS
"Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food"
~ Hippocrates 400 BC
Moringa oleifera has been used for centuries in traditional Indian Ayurvedic practices, but it has only recently come to the attention of the medical and pharmaceutical establishment. The chemical compounds present in the leaves, pods and other parts of the moringa plant can produce beneficial pharmacological effects and serve as treatments for a variety of conditions and diseases. Phytochemical studies have identified substances present in various parts of the plant that have proven effective against hypertension and high cholesterol, while its antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties are already well known to practitioners of both traditional and modern medicine. The functioning of nearly every physical system within the body can be enhanced or improved in some way by the phytochemicals present within the plant.
Read more about Moringa's medicinal uses:
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Nutritional value
The amino acids, proteins, vitamins and minerals present in the moringa plant are not strictly pharmaceutical medicine, but they can help to prevent diseases that are caused by malnutrition or lack of certain vitamins in the daily diet. The U.S. National Institute of Health has performed extensive research on the outstanding nutrition and health benefits derived from this useful and hardy plant.
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Antioxidant protection
Antioxidants including Vitamin C and beta carotene can help reduce the effects of aging in many individuals and may provide protection against certain forms of cancer. The natural medicine compounds present in the leaves of the moringa plant have been proven to reduce the incidence of tumors in laboratory animals. Niaziminin is a thiocarbamate found in the leaves of the moringa plant that inhibits the negative tumor-causing effects of the Epstein-Barr virus and reduces the chance of cancerous growths in patients suffering from the disease.
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Digestive system
The leaves of the plant contain an ethanol derivative that can offer relief to individuals suffering from gastrointestinal disorders and can protect against ulcers when ingested. Additionally, complex chemical compounds present in the leaves can reduce the severity of diarrhea and help prevent the consequent dehydration that can otherwise result. This is especially important in younger children who may suffer serious negative effects from prolonged dehydration due to persistent diarrhea, particularly in areas without access to modern medicine.
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Liver function
Found in the leaves and flowers of the plant, the chemical compound quercetin has been shown to provide significant benefits for tuberculosis patients. A number of medical studies have shown that liquid extracts from the leaves of the plant can help to regulate the function of the thyroid when taken regularly; this can prevent or reduce the effects of hyperthyroidism in some patients.
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Cardiovascular benefits
Moringa leaf extracts contain powerful diuretic medicine that can reduce high blood pressure; these diuretic effects are thought to be produced by thiocarbamate glycosides naturally produced and found throughout the plant. In laboratory testing, the fruit of the plant was shown to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol in the blood and to help the body flush these harmful substances more quickly and easily.
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Blood sugar levels
A study published in Phytotherapy Research in 1997 showed that the aqueous extract of moringa leaves could significantly reduce the blood sugar levels experienced by rabbits in the laboratory environment. These results may have major implications for treatment of certain forms of diabetes and may offer hope to those experiencing severe diabetic symptoms on a daily basis.
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Other uses
Some studies suggest that medicine developed from the leaves and roots of the plant may provide some protection against the herpes simplex virus. The antibiotic, antifungal and antimicrobial properties of the plant are already well known to modern medicine and produce results comparable to pharmaceutical grade antibiotics.
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Conclusions
The moringa plant offers a wide range of proven health and medical benefits now recognized by practitioners of modern medicine. Potential pharmaceutical uses include
Cardiovascular health
Control of high blood pressure
Relief from gastrointestinal distress, ulcers and persistent diarrhea
Lower blood sugar levels
Antibiotic properties
Antimicrobial action
Antifungal properties
Improved liver function
Enhanced overall health and nutrition
By incorporating moringa supplements into daily dietary choices, individuals can protect their health and improve their overall physical condition naturally and effectively.
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Moringa Oleifera:
Powerful Natural Antibiotics to Combat Bacterial Infection
Antibiotics and anti-bacterial drugs are valuable tools in combating infections, both in topical forms and when taken internally. The antimicrobial effects of these powerful medications can be used to treat a wide range of bacterial infections, including pneumonia, tuberculosis, meningitis, strep throat and many other diseases. Over 100 different compounds are classed as antibiotics, such as penicillin, erythromycin, tetracycline and many other major types of anti-bacterial agents. Some antibiotics are more effective against certain bacteria, while others can be used to treat a wider range of bacterial infections. These are sometimes referred to as broad-spectrum antibiotics.
HISTORY
The ancient Greeks and Egyptians used various types of mold to treat certain ailments. These primitive antibiotics provided some protection against the growth of bacteria within wounds or systemic infections. The Ayurvedic folk medicine tradition of India also incorporated the seeds of the Moringa oleifera plant into ointments and poultices to treat infections. It is now known that these seeds contain a natural antibiotic substance known as pterygospermin.
Modern antibiotic medicine has its roots in the 1870s, however, when the effects of antibiotics were first observed and recorded by Louis Pasteur, Robert Koch and others. Alexander Fleming’s experiments with bread mold led to the identification of penicillin, a powerful antibiotic that can be used to combat a wide range of bacteria types. Physicians and health care professionals utilize synthetic, semi-synthetic and naturally-occurring antibiotics, depending on the specific illness to be treated and the needs of the individual patient.
ANTIBIOTICS TODAY
Modern antibiotics are typically divided into two separate classes. Bacteriostatic antibiotics prevent the division and replication of bacteria, thus stalling the infection’s growth and spread. Bactericidal antibiotics, by contrast, work to destroy the bacteria directly and work more quickly as a result. Antibiotics can be further subdivided into various families, including:
- Cephalosporins – These antibiotics retard and prevent the formation of cell walls in most bacteria, preventing the spread of infection.
- Glycopeptides – By attacking the cell walls and preventing them from forming or reforming properly, glycopeptides slow the progress of bacteria.
- Quinolones – The antibiotic action of quinolones prevents the proper genetic replication of bacteria affected by these drugs.
- Macrolides – While not recommended for use by individuals with liver problems, the macrolide line of antibiotics is typically used to treat tuberculosis, Lyme disease and leprosy.
- Tetracyclines – One of the most popular families of antibiotics, these medications are used as broad-spectrum anti-bacterial drugs to fight a wide range of infections and diseases.
Additionally, natural antibiotics are available that can provide anti-bacterial benefits to patients suffering from infections.
ALLERGIES
In some cases, certain classes or families of antibiotics cannot be ingested by patients due to serious allergies. Penicillin allergies are the most common type of antibiotic allergy, with approximately ten percent of all people reporting some degree of allergic response when treated with the drug. The most common reaction is rash or discomfort, but serious allergic reactions are also possible, including anaphylactic shock and even death.
The seeds of the moringa plant include a natural antibiotic that can be used to treat or control infection. Pterygospermin can be used to counter the effects of a number of bacteria responsible for causing infections and also offers an anti-fungal effect for even more utility. Because pterygospermin occurs naturally in moringa seeds, it typically does not carry the same high risk of allergic response as more highly processed antibiotics. Additionally, a study conducted in 1981 and published in Planta Medica identified the presence of benzyl isothiocyanate within the seeds. This compound is also a highly effective antibiotic and can be used to treat bacterial infection, making moringa a valuable medicinal supplement in cases where bacteria may pose a threat to health or human life.
Moringa Oleifera as Anti-Inflammatory Treatment
In most cases, inflammation is the body’s response to another process rather than a disease or illness in its own right. Inflammation is a result of the body’s own natural immune response and is usually caused by the increased presence of plasma and white blood cells in the affected area. This response involves the vascular systems as well as the autoimmune response and is a necessary part of the healing process, but can cause serious problems when the inflammation becomes chronic or is extreme in its duration or extent. Inflammation is usually categorized as either acute or chronic and treatment for the condition is dependent in part on the cause of the inflammation and its acute or chronic status.
SYMPTOMS
There are five main symptoms of inflammation. These occur in both chronic and acute cases and are distinguishing characteristics of the condition. Not all symptoms are present in all cases of inflammation. The five primary symptoms are:
• Heat
• Redness
• Pain
• Reduced function
• Swelling
In most cases of inflammation, pain, swelling and reduced function are the most important symptoms and create the most difficulties for patients with the condition.
ACUTE INFLAMMATION
Typically, acute inflammation is the result of an injury or pathogenic substance that affects the body negatively. In these cases, the movement of white blood cells and plasma to the affected site or to combat the substance in the bloodstream is a necessary part of the immune system response to infection and injury. While medications are available to reduce the swelling and inflammation caused by the body’s reaction to pathogens or injuries, they typically are intended to reduce the pain and not to eliminate the inflammation caused by this helpful and necessary immune response.
CHRONIC INFLAMMATION
In some cases the body’s reaction to pathogens or other stimuli is far more extreme and prolonged than necessary. This is especially true in cases where the pathogens cannot be eliminated by the immune system or in cases where another factor is preventing the immune response from fully addressing the infection or combating the injury. Arthritis, atherosclerosis and diverticulitis are among the most common types of chronic inflammatory diseases. These illnesses can potentially be serious or life-threatening if the inflammation is not properly controlled and treated. The effects of chronic inflammation typically are of long duration and become worse over time if left untreated.
MORINGA AND INFLAMMATION
The moringa plant is well known for its therapeutic effects in both modern medicine and traditional practice. Formally known as Moringa oleifera, this versatile and nutritious plant is currently the subject of intense scrutiny by the medical establishment to determine its utility in treating and preventing a variety of diseases. One of the most promising uses for moringa extract is in the treatment of various types of acute and chronic inflammation. A 1996 research study published in Pharmaceutical Biology demonstrated the anti-inflammatory properties of moringa extract in the treatment of both acute and chronic forms of inflammation. The moringa extract was ingested by laboratory rats as a treatment for both edema and carrageenan-induced inflammation; while the results for the acute inflammation were markedly better than those obtained for the chronic variety, both types of inflammation were significantly reduced by the treatments in the course of the study. Side effects were minimal due to the exceptionally low toxicity of moringa even at high dosages.
CONCLUSIONS
Moringa extract supplements have been shown to reduce the level of inflammation in laboratory animals in both chronic and acute cases. Further studies are currently underway to assess the effectiveness of this treatment, but it can be safely assumed that a regular regimen of moringa supplements may produce safe, reliable reductions in inflammation for most individuals with chronic inflammatory diseases. Research found that the Moringa leaves posses substances that have antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities, in fact they found that it has high quantities of this substances. This means that Moringa Oleifera use in Indian traditional medicine as a treatment of ailments, particularly those related to pain and inflammation was just.
The effects of the Moringa is suppressing the COX-2enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for inflammation processes and pain. Usually the drugs used to suppress this enzyme are NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs),such as Voltaren, Nksin, Adoil, ARCOXIA, Kaspo etc. The side effects of these products include risk for stroke, kidney problems, blood vessels problems, stomach problems and the list goes on. Combine the risks from the side effects with the existing condition causing the need to take the NSAID and the the presence of pain combined with an inflammatory issue, and the risk for medical complication grows.
Moringa Oleifera is a pure natural tree that has been used as food and as medicine along history, this means that it is much safer to use than NSAID but with similar effectiveness and less toxicity
Moringa Leaf Supplements: Guarding Against the Effects of High Cholesterol
The Moringa oleifera plant has long been used in the Ayurvedic medical tradition of India to combat cardiovascular ailments and obesity-related issues. These treatments have proven effective in many cases, but it is only in recent years that the medical establishment has begun to investigate the scientific basis for these beneficial effects. A number of medical studies have shown marked reductions in the levels of bad cholesterol present in the bloodstream of laboratory test animals.
Cholesterol and health
Cholesterol is a necessary element in building and repairing cells within the body. There are two basic types of cholesterol. Low-density and high-density lipoproteins, known as LDLs and HDLs respectively, play very different roles in maintaining physical health. HDLs help to eliminate fatty deposits from the bloodstream, enhancing cardiovascular health and promoting healthy veins and arteries. These forms of cholesterol are typically denser and more compact than their low-density counterparts. LDLs are better known as bad cholesterol and have nearly the opposite effect on the body, causing lipid deposits to form in blood vessels and contributing to heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. White blood cells in the bloodstream attack LDL buildups, causing inflammation and worsening blockages caused by this form of cholesterol.
Elevated levels of bad cholesterol in the body are associated with an increased risk of atheroschlerosis and arteriosclerotic vascular disease as well as cardiovascular disease. Additionally, LDLs have been implicated in certain immune system deficiencies, making them a significant threat to health and wellness. Controlling the level of LDLs in the blood and circulatory system is crucial to extending life and improving overall physical condition, especially in largely sedentary or overweight individuals.
Increased intake of LDLs results in higher levels in the bloodstream. However, medical studies show that 80% of cholesterol results from production within the body itself, primarily within the liver during the breakdown of food. While maintaining a healthy, low-fat diet is helpful in reducing cholesterol, dietary changes alone are usually not sufficient to manage bad cholesterol levels effectively.
Moringa and cholesterol
A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2000 showed a significant reduction in the levels of bad cholesterol in laboratory rats when moringa supplements were added to their normal daily diet. This was true in rats fed a high-fat diet as well as a standard diet; the moringa leaves reduced cholesterol levels overall. The control groups were also fed normal and high-fat diets and exhibited no such reductions in LDLs present in blood serum, further confirming the significant effect moringa supplements can produce. These results offer concrete evidence for claims made by Ayurvedic medical personnel for centuries that moringa leaves offer measurable protection against the buildup of bad cholesterol in the blood.
Implications for health care
The results of the Lipid Research Clinics Primary Prevention Trial published in 1984 indicate that overall reduction in cholesterol levels had a direct and measurable effect on the number of new instances of heart disease and angina. In layman’s terms, reducing cholesterol also reduces the chance of serious cardiovascular illness. In fact, reducing the bad cholesterol levels by 25% can produce a correlating reduction in heart attacks, strokes and other cholesterol-related illnesses by as much as 50%, making cholesterol reduction a major goal in achieving improved outcomes for patients who may be predisposed to these conditions. Incorporating moringa supplements into the daily diets of individuals who are statistically likely to experience high cholesterol levels or who may have already been diagnosed with high LDL levels may provide significant protection, especially when combined with other prescription medications.
The evidence that moringa leaf supplements can combat high cholesterol is overwhelming. By incorporating these natural supplements into a healthy daily dietary plan, individuals can protect themselves against the effects of high cholesterol levels more effectively even in the absence of other major lifestyle changes.
Moringa Leaves: Potent Prevention for Alzheimer's Disease
The Moringa oleifera plant is highly regarded by dieticians and medical researchers and practitioners due to its superior nutritional content and numerous medical applications. The antioxidant properties of the moringa plant have been well established by previous medical studies and are believed to provide protection against the effects of free radicals that can cause aging and other negative health effects. Recent studies suggest that moringa leaves can also provide protection against the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and may even delay its onset.
ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
A form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease is believed to have a genetic component but can strike even those with no family history of the disease. Most cases of Alzheimer’s occur in individuals over 65 years of age, but the disease can strike much earlier in cases of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. As in other types of dementia, the patient experiences confusion, loss of normal brain function, unpredictable or aggressive tendencies and a gradual deterioration of the mental capacities. This degeneration of the nervous system eventually leads to death. While the exact causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not well understood, research studies seem to indicate that the disease is related to the build-up of fibrous protein compounds within the brain known as amyloids. These amyloids present within the brain as plaques or neurofibrillary tangles and are thought to disrupt the normal functioning of neural impulses within the brain.
TREATMENT
Because there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease, most treatments focus on delaying the progress of the disease and alleviating symptoms. Natural treatments including medical marijuana have produced impressive results in preventing continued degeneration. Other treatments focus on improving the emotional state of the patient and controlling any aggressive or violent tendencies that may occur due to the deteriorating mental condition.
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
Although the precise cases of Alzheimer’s disease are not yet known, a number of correlating factors have been identified that may be responsible for triggering or worsening Alzheimer’s in some patients. These factors include the age and gender of the patient, the use of cigarettes and alcohol, genetic factors, congenital conditions including Down’s syndrome and multiple sclerosis, and the overall level of fat intake by the patient. Most of these factors are not directly under the control of the individual at risk for the disease.
PREVENTION
Lifestyle changes are often recommended in order to help delay or prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. These include smoking cessation strategies, reduction of alcohol consumption and, especially, a reduction in fat intake. It is in the latter area that moringa leaves have been shown to be most useful in delaying or preventing Alzheimer’s in vulnerable individuals. A study published in the Annals of Neurosciences in 2005 showed a significant improvement in brain function in rats whose diets were supplemented by moringa leaves prior to their exposure to colchicine, a substance that mimics the action of Alzheimer’s in the brain. Despite the presence of this substance, rats retained much of their cognitive abilities and navigated a previously-completed maze far more accurately and quickly than the control group. These results were attributed to the antioxidant properties of moringa leaves, which served to scavenge free radicals from the system and to protect neural function.
CONCLUSIONS
Moringa leaves appear to delay or mitigate the effects of Alzheimer’s disease in laboratory rats due to the supplement’s antioxidant effects. The research indicates that moringa supplements may lessen the impact of Alzheimer’s in individuals already suffering from the disease and may delay or prevent its onset in those who are at risk of developing this devastating illness. By incorporating moringa leaf supplements into daily dietary plans, it is likely that most individuals can improve their chances of avoiding the worst effects of Alzheimer’s disease for themselves and their families.
Moringa Extract: Added Control of Herpes Symptoms
The herpes virus causes two distinct illnesses in humans. Known as herpes simplex virus 1 and herpes simplex virus 2, these ailments are usually not life-threatening and are typically more of an inconvenience than a threat to sufferers. Both types of herpes are extremely contagious and can be readily passed by physical contact, making them a significant health problem in most populated areas. The primary symptoms of the disease in both forms are the characteristic blisters and subsequent scabs that erupt on the skin, either around the mouth and nose or in the genital areas. The location of these watery, painful blisters is generally used to determine which type of herpes the patient has. Herpes simplex virus 1 is associated with cold sores that form around the mouth, while herpes simplex virus 2 is generally known as genital herpes. In rare cases, the virus responsible for one type of herpes can present in the area most usually associated with the other variety.
Diagnosis
Because the two types of herpes simplex virus are so genetically similar, blood tests can only detect the presence of the virus in the bloodstream. Blood tests cannot detect the specific variety responsible for the symptoms. Generally, patients become aware of the infection due to the blisters and scabs caused by the herpes virus and seek medical treatment based on these symptoms. Most pregnant women are tested for herpes at an early stage of the pregnancy. Active cases of herpes simplex 2 can be transmitted to babies during the delivery process unless significant measures are taken to prevent this. While herpes is typically not dangerous or life-threatening for adults, it can cause a wide range of medical problems when it is transmitted to babies. Some of the medical problems herpes inflicts on babies include encephalitis, delayed development and damage to the internal organs of the infant.
Vaccine
While no vaccine for either type of herpes simplex virus has yet been released, a number of different formulas are currently undergoing trials. If proven effective, these formulas may offer some relief for current sufferers, as well as provide protection against infection in those vaccinated against the disease. Formulations currently under review are the result of genetic design and, as a result, may not be available to the public until the consequences of this genetic manipulation are well understood and documented.
Treatment
Since there is no cure for either form of herpes at present, most treatment plans focus on controlling the symptoms of the disease. Anti-viral drugs have proven effective in many cases in reducing the number of outbreaks and providing relief from the worst effects of the herpes virus in affected individuals. Some natural products have also been used with good results, including soothing aloe vera treatments and other topical creams. One of the most effective natural remedies for herpes simplex 1 symptoms, however, is the versatile Moringa oleifera plant. In clinical studies published in Antiviral Research in November 2003, tests showed that a moderate dosage of Moringa extract produced significant effects in delaying the characteristic lesions associated with herpes. The studies also showed doses of Moringa extract prolonging the lives of mice infected with herpes simplex virus 1. Another study published in the Indian Journal of Comparative Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases in 2005 showed similar results in equine test subjects, indicating improved results when the Moringa extract was dissolved in alcohol rather than other liquids. The overall antimicrobial effects Moringa has against the herpes simplex virus 1 appear to show great promise in combating the disease. By supplementing other treatment regimens with Moringa extracts, it is likely that herpes sufferers can enjoy longer remission times and less severe outbreaks, allowing them to manage the disease more effectively and gain more enjoyment in daily life.
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Relief for Gastric Ulcers Through the Use of Moringa Leaf Supplements
Gastric ulcers are one of the most painful and debilitating forms of digestive system disorders. Also known as peptic ulcers, these inflammations and irritations of the stomach wall can cause painful symptoms and serious complications in affected individuals. The most common signs of gastric ulcer include pain before or after eating, heartburn, nausea, bloating and vomiting blood. In serious or advanced cases gastric ulcers can lead to perforation of the stomach wall that can in turn lead to acute peritonitis, a potentially life-threatening condition. The bleeding that usually occurs with gastric ulcers can cause significant blood loss that can create a health risk even in the absence of other complicating factors.
CAUSES OF GASTRIC ULCER
Most cases of gastric ulcer are caused by a breakdown in the immune system that allows Helicobacter pylori bacteria to infect the stomach, leading to severe inflammation and breaks in the tissue lining the stomach walls. Essentially the buildup of these bacteria within the stomach causes interference with the normal production and regulation of gastric acids, creating excessive acid that eats away at the stomach wall lining over time. Other contributing factors include changes in the blood chemistry that affect the acid resistance of the stomach, dietary choices, drinking and smoking and cancerous growths in the stomach. Stress can also cause gastric ulcers, either alone or in combination with the other factors.
DIAGNOSIS
Gastric ulcers are usually diagnosed based on the patient’s reported symptoms. In some cases, however, specialized X-ray and scanning procedures are necessary in order to ascertain the presence of gastric ulcers. These diagnostic aids include barium contrast X-rays and endoscopic assessment. While some physicians perform tests to detect the presence of Helicobacter pylori in the bloodstream, this is usually less than effective because the tests cannot distinguish between past build-ups and current conditions within the body. Breath tests, biopsies and stool samples can all be used to verify a diagnosis of gastric ulcer depending on the patient and the severity of the condition.
COMPLICATIONS OF GASTRIC ULCERS
Left untreated, gastric ulcers typically progress and worsen. This typically leads to heavier bleeding that can cause significant issues due to blood loss and drainage into the stomach cavity. Major scarring can occur as well as perforation of the stomach wall and the attendant peritonitis that can cause even more serious infections and potentially could cause death in some vulnerable patients.
MORINGA OLEIFERA AND ULCERS
The Moringa oleifera plant offers significant benefits to those suffering from gastric ulcers. A number of medical studies have identified the positive effects of moringa leaves in treating these dangerous digestive tract disorders; for example, a study entitled Phytochemical Screening and Antiulcerogenic Effect of Moringa Oleifera Aqueous Leaf Extract and published in 2006 in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines demonstrated the effectiveness of moringa leaves in relieving the symptoms and improving the prognosis of laboratory rats suffering from gastric ulcerations. The mechanism by which moringa leaf extract heals these ulcers is not fully understood. The supplements may work in a number of ways including reducing the inflammation caused by an excessive build-up of Helicobacter pylori, increasing capillary resistance to these bacteria and increasing the patient’s exposure to proven antioxidants that can eliminate free radicals in the system and improve the overall health of the individual.
CONCLUSIONS
The use of moringa leaves in treating ulcers and digestive tract orders has long been a staple element in the Ayurvedic medical tradition of India. With further research into the beneficial effects of moringa leaf extracts for patients, it is expected that these traditional medical uses will be validated for the modern medical community and that moringa supplements will be incorporated into the treatment regimen for patients suffering from this painful and dangerous digestive tract condition.
Treating Lupus with Moringa Oleifera
Lupus, an inflammatory, autoimmune disease, often affects the joints, skin, blood, and kidneys, and the exact cause of this chronic condition is unknown and cannot be easily defined. Authorities in the medical field indicate that it may result from a combination of factors, such as am individual’s genetic makeup along with certain unknown triggers of the disease, a bit like combining a lighted match and gasoline.
Those recently diagnosed with lupus will want to focus on reducing inflammation and managing the various symptoms that are related to the disease to maintain balance in their lives and avoid depression, panic, and fear.
There are also two essential steps they can take:
- Learn to avoid flare-ups – Direct sunlight is the most common cause for one, but they may also be triggered by certain skin and scalp products or some medication you are taking. This may mean that you will need to take a vitamin D supplement, and you will also want to discuss all of your medications with your primary care physician.
- Learn to live an anti-inflammatory lifestyle – This should include moderate exercise on a regular basis, giving up smoking if you are a smoker, following an anti-inflammatory diet, and taking nutritional supplements, especially omega-3s.
WHY LUPUS VICTIMS LOOK FOR ALTERNATIVE MEDICATIONS
The cost of the drugs generally used in treating lupus victims is prohibitive, and there is the possibility of serious side effects as well. Also, while they may alleviate some of the symptoms, research has yet to reveal that they actually hinder the process of the disease or help prevent damage to the organs.
Following an alternative treatment may help the patient cope with lupus or reduce the amount of stress endured by anyone who is dealing with a chronic illness. If the patient’s physician believes that one of the approaches has some merit and no negative factors, it can become part of that individual’s treatment plan, enabling him or to make an informed decision about how to proceed.
HOW MORINGA OLEIFERA HELPS LUPUS PATIENTS
Moringa (also known as the horseradish tree) is a purely natural extract found in tropical regions that has been widely used in the East as a medication for centuries. It is also considered to be much safer to use than the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are often prescribed for lupus patients, including Voltaren, Kaspo, Adoil, and others. The various side effects of these drugs include the risk of kidney, circulatory, and digestive problems, just to name a few, increasing the risk of serious medical complications. Moringa, on the other hand, is less toxic than the other remedies,—and at least as effective. moringa is easy to combine with most medication because there have been no adverse reactions to it, and it contains no known impurities.
HOW MORINGA WORKS IN THE BODY
The leaves used for making the Moringa extract contain large amounts of anti-inflammatory, anti-toxin, and anti-oxidant elements, and they are also rich in the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that bolster our immune system. Because of the many benefits of Moringa oleifera, the European Union (EU), World health Organization (WHO) and other NGOs now plant and support its cultivation in various locations, including Africa, in order to combat malnutrition.
Above all, Moringa suppresses the COX-2 enzyme, which causes both inflammation and the pain related to it. It seems that anyone, including children and senior citizens in particular, can experience the benefits of taking Moringa. Athletes report a surge in energy from using these capsules, and many users are amazed because they feel the results so quickly.
Moringa Oleifera as Treatment for Arthritis & Gout
For many centuries Moringa Oleifera was used in traditional medicine, such as the "Ayurveda", as a treatment Arthritis and Gout. It was believed that Moringa Leaf Powder reduce inflammations and pain caused by these conditions.
In 2008 the Faculty of Medicine Health Sciences of the Putra University in Malaysia, published a research aimed to test if Moringa poses any Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory activities, the same activities achieved by the drugs used in modern medicine such as NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). The research found that the Moringa leaves posses substances that have antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activitie; in fact they found that it has high quantities of these substances. This means that Moringa Oleifera use in Indian traditional medicine as a treatment Arthritis and Gout was just.
The effects of the Moringa is suppressing the COX-2 enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for inflammation processes and pain. Usually the drugs used to suppress this enzyme are NSAID such as Voltaren, Nksin, Adoil, ARCOXIA, Kaspo etc. The side effects of these products include risk for stroke, kidney problems, blood vessels problems, stomach problems and the list goes on. Combine the risks from the side effects with the existing condition causing the need to take the NSAID and the presence of pain combined with an inflammatory issue, and the risks for medical complications grow.
Moringa Oleifera in pure natural tree that has been used as food and as medicine along history, this means that it is much safer to use than NSAID but with similar effectiveness and less toxicity.
Moringa Oleifera: A treatment for Diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that is characterized by problems involving the hormone insulin. In healthy people, the pancreas releases insulin; insulin then works to help the body use and store the fat and sugar that is derived from the food that people eat. With diabetes, insulin can be compromised in a couple of different ways. In some cases, the pancreas doesn't produce any insulin at all. Other times, the body does not react in the right way to insulin - this is known as "insulin resistance." Finally, diabetes is sometimes characterized by a pancreas that produces an insufficient volume of insulin.
The Two Types of Diabetes
It's important to understand that diabetes is a disease that has no cure. Once a person develops diabetes, they will suffer from the condition for the rest of their life. Although diabetes may be triggered by a variety of different phenomena involving the pancreas and insulin production - or lack thereof - it can also be divided into two distinct types.
Type 1 Diabetes - Type 1 diabetes typically first arises in people under the age of 20, although it can happen at any age. Insulin-producing cells - known as beta cells - in the pancreas are completely destroyed by the body's immune system. In turn, the pancreas can no longer produce any insulin and insulin injections must be administered.
Type 2 Diabetes - With type 2 diabetes, a person's pancreas still produces insulin; the problem is that it either doesn't create enough insulin, or the person's body is resistant to the insulin that is produced. Type 2 diabetes commonly occurs in obese and overweight individuals - usually over the age of 40 - and is sometimes called "adult onset diabetes."
Managing Diabetes
There is no cure for diabetes. However, there are several ways to manage the condition in order to keep insulin at the proper level. There are several different techniques and strategies for managing diabetes. Some of them include:
- carefully monitoring one's diet in order to keep blood sugar levels in check;
- using insulin injections as needed to maintain optimal levels in those whose bodies don't produce the hormone;
- keeping a close eye on blood sugar levels by using special kits that measure insulin and sugar in the blood; and
- following an exercise routine in order to keep blood pressure levels in check.
Moringa Oleifera: A Natural Treatment for Diabetes
As with any disease or condition, doctors and researchers are constantly seeking new ways to treat and manage diabetes. People are more concerned about using harsh, synthetic medications than ever before, which is what makes the promise of a tree called Moringa Oleifera all the more exciting. Moringa Oleifera is a tree that is originally native to India, but is now grown across the globe. As it happens, people in many developing countries - particular in Africa - have been using Moringa Oleifera to treat and manage the symptoms of diabetes for years.
Why does Moringa Oleifera hold so much promise for those who suffer from diabetes?
Primarily because of its many amazing, natural benefits. Moringa Oleifera has been shown to naturally boost the immune system, which usually becomes compromised in those who suffer from type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Moringa Oleifera has also been shown to possess many key anti-inflammatory benefits; diabetes often causes circulatory problems which can be managed through anti-inflammatory supplements. There are no negative side effects associated with Moringa Oleifera use, meaning that it is a safe, natural way for people to manage their blood sugarand care for their diabetes symptoms. It's just one more option for the many people who have to cope with this serious condition.
Cancer Prevention & Supporting Treatment
As we learn more about cancer, we are empowered to use more of the tools which nature has created for us to help battle this terrible disease. The fight against cancer exists on many fronts, encompassing both prevention and treatment methods. In the past we have put all of our faith in pharmaceutical drugs, however these are not the only weapons we have at our disposal to do battle with cancer. Moringa Oleifera is a plant which is known to have many medicinal properties. It is becoming very clear that this natural resource is a helpful ally in a comprehensive treatment of cancer.
Moringa has been shown in studies to have an anti-tumor capacity. Moringa contains benzyl isothiocyanate. There are many studies that have shown this chemical and compounds derived thereof to have anti-cancer and chemoprotective capabilities. This chemoprotective aspect is critical for those who are battling cancer; this helps strengthen cells so that they can tolerate chemotherapy.
Moringa Oleifera has other characteristics which make it a good compliment to a cancer prevention or treatment plan. It contains an enormous amount of nutritional content; Moringa Oleifera contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids which are critical for good health. It is loaded with calcium, iron, potassium, protein, Vitamin A and C, and many more properties which promote a healthy body that has the tools to fight cancer. It is known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antioxidant, anti-allergenic, and pain relief uses. It has also been put to use to fight a variety of infections.
This incredibly useful tree has grown popular of late due to its ability to help sustain populations that have otherwise been fraught with nutritional problems. It tends to grow in areas where access to food and clean water are more complicated. The successes that many have had with Moringa Oleifera in promoting good health in some of the most devastated areas have lead many scientists to examine its properties closely. It is fast emerging as a means to prevent cancer. It is also gaining notoriety as a product which helps cancer patients who are currently undergoing pharmaceutical treatment.
Fighting cancer is about equipping your body with the tools to fight every day. While drug therapies are very useful in this fight, it is also key that naturally occurring dietary options are used as well. Total health will give a cancer patient the endurance to battle the disease with full energy. The anti-tumor properties in Moringa Oleifera will be of special interest to cancer patients. Also, for those undergoing chemotherapy, the chemoprotective properties associated with this wonderful plant will empower the patient to stand strong when using chemotherapy to fight cancer. Investigate the studies which show this plant to be useful in a comprehensive battle against cancer. Always be sure to discuss all of your treatments options with your doctor, including your choice of dietary supplements, as interactions between chemicals must always be closely monitored when undergoing drug treatment. Moringa Oleifera has exciting potential as an ally in the war against cancer.
Moringa: An Ally in Boosting Immune System Response
The immune system is the body’s first and last line of defense against pathogens and disease; without a well functioning immune system, even the most innocuous bacterial and viral infections could overwhelm physical systems and lead to serious illness or even death. In healthy individuals, the immune system consists of several different layers of protection including the physical barrier of the skin, the innate immune response that reacts to any pathogenic intrusion immediately, and the more specialized adaptive immune response.
COMPONENTS OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
The adaptive immune response is designed to combat specific pathogens; typically, specialized white blood cells called lymphocytes attack the infection or intrusion. The body produces three types of lymphocytes, known as B cells, T cells and natural killer or NK cells. T cells and B cells are tasked with identifying and responding to specific threats to the body. This process is called antigen representation and allows the cells to produce specific responses to pathogens that the body has previously encountered. NK cells use a slightly different process and can defend against some pathogens to which the individual may not previously have exposed.
IDENTIFYING THE THREATS
Healthy immune systems are necessary in order to fend off disease and protect the body against toxins and pathogens. The immune system also reacts to mutations and cancerous growths within the body, typically attacking these cells with cytotoxic granules that contain powerful cell-killing enzymes. In all these cases, the value of the immune system depends on its ability to distinguish between the organism’s own cellular structures and those of external pathogens. One way in which this is achieved is through immunological memory. Vaccinations are effective due to this ability of the immune system to remember and maintain active defenses against previously encountered bacteria and viruses, essentially destroying these pathogens before they can gain a foothold in the body.
DISORDERS OF THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Perhaps the best known disorder of the immune system is AIDS, but a number of other physical conditions can cause weakening of the immune system that can potentially lead to additional complications. Poor nutrition can cause depressed immune system responses, as can alcoholism and drug abuse. Young children and the elderly are also vulnerable due to a reduced immune capacity and often are more prone to contracting illnesses during these stages of life. A number of natural and pharmaceutical substances are used to boost the body’s ability to fight off disease. The Moringa oleifera plant shows outstanding promise in this regard with significant beneficial effects on the immune processes within the body; a study published in 2007 in the scientific journal Food Chemistry showed that moringa leaves contain powerful antioxidants that can supplement and support the body’s own natural immune functions.
The antioxidant properties of moringa leaves allow the immune system to fight off infections and cancers more effectively, providing the body with a secondary line of defense against pathogens and offering hope to those suffering from reduced immunity due to illness, congenital disorders and other factors. Moringa supplements offer very low risk of side effects, making them a valuable addition to dietary regimens among susceptible populations.
HIV and AIDS: Moringa's Role In Treatment
One of the most feared and least understood diseases, acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a degenerative illness that affects the immune system and is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, more commonly referred to as the HIV virus. AIDS is spread through fluid exchange and can be transmitted through sexual acts, shared medical syringes, breastfeeding, transfusions and other activities that allow bodily fluids to be introduced into the bloodstream. No vaccine or cure is available for HIV or AIDS, but a number of treatments can lessen the symptoms and extend the lives of patients infected with the disease.
The first known cases of AIDS were identified by the Center for Disease Control in 1981 in Los Angeles, California. The HIV virus had been reported in the Congo two decades earlier. A close genetic relative of the simian immunodeficiency virus found in African monkey populations, HIV is believed to have made the jump from chimpanzees to humans sometime in the early 1900s. This mutation allowed the HIV virus to infect humans and to be passed readily from person to person. Once exposed, individuals who carry the HIV virus are considered to be HIV-positive and are at significant risk of developing AIDS. Not all individuals who test positive for HIV will contract AIDS; it is not well understood what allows some HIV-positive persons to avoid developing the disease.
The suppression of the immune system produced by AIDS can cause a number of other ailments, many of which can prove debilitating or fatal. In poorer nations, tuberculosis is one of the most common side effects of AIDS, while candidiasis, Karposi’s sarcoma and cryptococcal meningitis affect AIDS sufferers worldwide. Two of the most damaging complications are the characteristic wasting of body tissues and musculature and the deterioration of the patient’s mental state into AIDS dementia complex as the disease progresses. These illnesses are related to the failure of the immune system rather than direct results of the HIV virus or AIDS itself and are typically referred to as opportunistic infections since they take advantage of the body’s weakened immune system.
There is no cure for AIDS, but a number of antiretroviral drugs offer significant protection against the opportunistic infections characteristic of the syndrome. These antiretroviral drugs are divided into five separate groups:
- Nucleoside and nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors
- Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors
- Protease inhibitors
- Entry inhibitors
- Integrase inhibitors
These drugs act in concert with each other to prevent the HIV virus from replicating and inserting copies of itself into other cells, thus slowing the spread of the disease and reducing its effects on the immune system. Antioxidants have also proven helpful both before and after the onset of AIDS symptoms in boosting the immune system, while proper nutrition is essential to maintain health in HIV-positive patients.
THE ROLE OF MORINGA POWDER IN TREATING HIV AND AIDS
Moringa oleifera is a versatile, highly nutritious plant that grows in a wide range of climates and can survive for extended periods in dry, near-drought conditions. A number of studies have recently been completed or are currently underway to investigate the utility of moringa powder in treating HIV-positive patients in areas where there is a critical shortage of medical supplies and antiretroviral drugs are prohibitively expensive or unavailable. Moringa leaves contain powerful antioxidants that can help prevent or delay some of the worst complications arising from AIDS, so it is a natural choice for areas where modern medical facilities are scarce and overcrowded. The proceedings of the 14th International AIDS Conference held in Barcelona, Spain in 2002 included a recommendation that moringa powder be considered as an alternative treatment to boost the immune systems of HIV-positive patients in Africa who would otherwise not receive antiretroviral drugs or, in fact, any treatments at all. Because moringa also provides superior nutritional value for patients it can also prove useful in preventing immune system breakdown due to malnutrition, thus offering even more help for poorer areas in Africa and around the globe. While moringa's antioxidant and nutritional benefits cannot directly compete with the superior results of modern antiretrovirals, it shows promise in providing reduced mortality rates and improved health for HIV-positive and AIDS patients in these less developed areas.
Hypertension and Moringa: A Comprehensive Treatment for High Blood Pressure
The role of the Moringa oleifera plant in treating high blood pressure has long been known to practitioners of Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of India and the surrounding areas. Recent scientific studies have provided solid evidence that moringa supplements can indeed reduce high blood pressure in patients and provide benefits to overall cardiovascular health as well. By maintaining a healthy blood pressure reading, patients can often reduce their risk of serious medical problems and improve their overall long-term prognosis.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a condition in which the blood in arteries and veins exerts higher than normal pressure on the walls of these blood vessels. Over time, high blood pressure can cause a variety of negative effects within the body including coronary disorders, stroke, kidney failure and heart attacks. A number of pharmaceutical treatments for hypertension are available, but most have serious side effects of their own and may not be effective in all cases. Left untreated, high blood pressure hastens the deterioration of the circulatory system and can cause serious illness or death. Primary hypertension is diagnosed when no underlying cause for the condition can be identified, while secondary hypertension is typically the result of another disease or disorder.
SYMPTOMS OF HYPERTENSION
Hypertension is estimated to affect 25% of the population, yet in many cases it produces no symptoms and may go unnoticed for years before the negative effects of this condition become evident. Risk factors for high blood pressure include age, obesity, alcoholism, smoking and genetic predisposition. In advanced or extreme cases of hypertension, patients may experience headaches, chest pain, vision problems, fatigue, irregular heartbeat or blood in the urine. In up to one-third of cases, patients experienced no symptoms at all before diagnosis. High blood pressure is usually diagnosed through a simple test in a doctor’s office and can be performed at home using a cuff and meter.
MORINGA AND HYPERTENSION
The moringa plant has been used in India for many years to control high blood pressure in patients. Modern medical research supports this use for moringa leaf extracts. A research study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2006 indicated that moringa leaf extract had a significant effect in reducing blood pressure levels of guinea pigs and rabbits under laboratory conditions. The article, entitled Pharmacological Studies on Hypotensive and Spasmolytic Activities of Pure Compounds from Moringa Oleifera, investigated the role of four chemical compounds found in moringa leaves in reducing hypertension and found that all had some utility in treating the condition.
NEW CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS FOR TREATING HYPERTENSION
The chemical makeup of moringa has been extensively studied in recent years in order to identify new uses for this versatile plant. The Journal of the Chemical Society, Perkin Transactions 1 published a study in 1994 describing four new chemical compounds found in the moringa plant that show promise in controlling and treating high blood pressure. Niazicin A1 and niazicin B3 are members of the carbamate glycosides, while niazicin A5 and niazicin B10 are thiocarbamates in the mustard oil glycosides. All four compounds demonstrated significant effects in reducing high blood pressure in laboratory testing. These are the first naturally occurring thiocarbamates discovered by scientists and are expected to offer new avenues of treatment for hypertension in medical practice.
ADDITIONAL STUDIES
Moringa supplements have also been shown to lower cholesterol readings for patients. While this does not directly affect blood pressure, it can help to reduce the damage caused by hypertension on blood vessels by helping to keep arteries and veins clear of the plaque produced by high levels of cholesterol in the bloodstream. As a result, moringa supplements are recommended by many physicians for their patients in order to better control hypertension and the negative effects it can cause throughout the body.
Moringa Extracts and Supplements: A New Weapon Against Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a life-threatening disease that can be difficult to detect in the early stages and is often mistaken for other illnesses. The fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women, ovarian cancer claims thousands of lives every year. Early detection and treatment are crucial in improving survival rates for women diagnosed with the illness. Over ninety percent of all cases of ovarian cancer are classified as epithelial ovarian cancers; this indicates that they originate on the surface of the ovary, rather than forming inside the reproductive organs.
DIAGNOSIS
Not all women experience symptoms of epithelial ovarian cancer during the early stages; those who do typically report bloating, abdominal pain and urinary tract problems as their main symptoms. The cause of these general symptoms can easily be misidentified, allowing the cancer to progress unchecked if not handled promptly. Ovarian cancers tend to grow quickly and can cause shortness of breath, inability to consume food normally due to a constricted space in the abdomen, pain or discomfort during sex and diarrhea or other intestinal tract disorders as a result of the displacement of organs by the growing tumors.
RISK FACTORS
Genetics plays a large part in determining who will contract epithelial ovarian cancer; there appears to be a strong correlation between certain genetic mutations of the chromosome chains that also determine susceptibility for breast cancer. About ten percent of all ovarian cancers are attributed to irregularities in this genetic marker, making it a good determinant for assessing the likelihood that a particular individual will contract epithelial ovarian cancer at some point during her lifetime. Estrogen replacement treatments may also put women at higher risk. Recent studies are inconclusive on the effects of alcohol, but show a definite correlation between drinking two or more glasses of milk per day and increased risk of ovarian cancer.
PROTECTIVE FACTORS
While the exact mechanism or triggering factors for epithelial ovarian cancer are not known, research studies suggest a link between certain conditions and the development of ovarian cancer at some stage during the woman’s life. Multiple pregnancies seem to offer some protection against ovarian cancer, while childless women are often at significantly higher risk. Women who have their first child at an early age or conceive and deliver later in life also enjoy added protection. Consistent use of oral contraceptives, colloquially referred to as The Pill, also provides some protection.
TREATMENT
Typically, treatment options focus on removing or shrinking the cancerous areas through surgery. These methods may require the complete removal of the affected ovary or ovaries. Pharmaceutical treatments to include chemotherapy are also used to manage the disease. The prognosis for patients is quite favorable when the disease is caught in the early stages. However, as the cancer progresses the chances for patient survival decrease dramatically.
MORINGA AS A TREATMENT FOR EPITHELIAL OVARIAN CANCER
A recent study published in 2007 and available through the National Institute of Health indicates that Moringa oleifera supplements may serve a valuable purpose in combating epithelial ovarian cancer cells while minimizing the negative effects commonly experienced by patients undergoing other types of chemical treatments for the disease. Moringa leaves and roots contain significant quantities of substances known as isothiocyanates and glucosinolates, both of which show promise in fighting ovarian cancer in the laboratory. Both of these chemical compounds are capable of causing apoptosis in cancer cells, a process that induces the natural death of these cells before they can reproduce themselves inside the body. Additionally, moringa supplements may help to level out hormonal disturbances that are sometimes linked to increased risk of ovarian cancer, making these supplements a solid choice for women who may be predisposed to develop ovarian cancer due to genetic or environmental factors. While testing is still required to ascertain the extent to which moringa extracts and supplements can be used in the treatment of this deadly disease, the moringa plant may offer new hope and increased protection for women against epithelial ovarian cancer.
Moringa as Potent Antioxidant: Protection Against Damaging Free Radicals
Oxidants, also known as free radicals, can cause serious damage to the body through the breakdown of cells. This breakdown can weaken the immune system and may be responsible for causing cataracts, some forms of cancer, arthritis, heart disease and other physical ailments; free radicals can cause accelerated aging of cells and physical systems as well.Free radicals are the result of oxygen reacting chemically with cells in the body during the breakdown of food or other substances. These chemical compounds can damage the DNA structures of other cells, creating mutations that can cause significant alterations to the cells and may serve as precursors to cancerous growths within the body.
Antioxidants can help to protect against this damage by breaking down free radicals into their constituent parts or chemically bonding with these harmful substances and removing them from the physical system. While the body naturally synthesizes some antioxidant enzymes including catalase and glutathione, other antioxidant materials are derived from dietary sources. Beta carotene and Vitamins A, E and C are considered to be among the most beneficial antioxidants in terms of controlling and eliminating free radicals from the body. Many antioxidant substances work to eliminate free radicals independently while others act as helpers in the process; for instance, Vitamin C acts directly to break down free radical compounds in the bloodstream, while selenium works with gluthathione to create enzymes capable of breaking down hydrogen peroxide into safe and manageable substances within the body. The Moringa oleifera tree, colloquially known as the drumstick tree, is an outstanding dietary source of antioxidants and provides a significant portion of the daily recommended allowances of beta carotene and other vitamins and nutrients that work to cleanse free radicals from the tissues and bloodstream. The antioxidant properties of the seeds, seed pods and leaves of the moringa plant can protect the body against the damaging effects of free radicals and may help to reduce the risk of certain cancers. Additionally, the plant can help keep cells healthier and prevent premature aging. A study by Nambiar, Guin, Parnami and Daniel published in 2010 in the Journal of Herbal Medicine and Toxicology (Read full research) showed that the antioxidant properties of moringa leaves can be highly beneficial for overweight individuals and those who have high levels of lipids in their systems. These hyperlipidemic patients showed reductions in the amounts of fatty materials in their bloodstreams; the reduction in cholesterol levels produced by the antioxidants in moringa leaves may help to protect against coronary disease and other damaging circulatory ailments.
Combined with the highly nutritive composition of moringa leaves and seeds, the high levels of antioxidant substances in the plant can provide superior health benefits and protection against the effects of free radicals on the body. While the antioxidant benefits of moringa leaves and seed pods are especially important in parts of the world where other types of healthy food are scarce, moringa can provide significant benefits as a dietary supplement even in technologically advanced societies. By incorporating these healthy products into everyday nutritional choices, individuals can enjoy the antioxidant benefits of moringa while continuing their normal diets.
Moringa Oleifera: Preserving Liver Function
The Moringa oleifera plant has been identified as an extremely useful medicinal plant with significant health benefits. Scientific studies have shown that moringa supplements can reduce damage to the liver caused by prescription and over-the-counter medications and, in some cases, may even repair the damage and protect against further injury to the liver from illness or the use of prescription and nonprescription drugs. The therapeutic effects of moringa supplements are still being investigated, but medical research has already proven several beneficial effects of this versatile herb in treating and protecting against liver dysfunction in sensitive patients.
LIVER DISEASE
Dysfunction of the liver can cause fluctuations in blood sugar, nervous disorders, and digestive problems and, in advanced cases, the buildup of toxins within the body that can prove damaging or fatal. Alcoholism, drug abuse, long-term prescription drug use, overdose and certain diseases can cause liver dysfunction, especially in sensitive individuals. Patients with advanced liver disease typically must maintain a strict diet and may require dialysis in order to purify the blood and provide the filtering function typically performed by the liver. In some cases, moringa supplements may help to reduce and reverse the effects of liver disease and restore improved functioning to the liver, allowing it to more effectively filter toxins from the body.
MORINGA AND ANTITUBERCULAR DRUGS
The drugs used to treat tuberculosis can cause significant liver damage in patients, in part due to the toxic properties of these drugs. A research study published in 2003 in the Journal of Medicinal Food outlined the protective effects of moringa supplements in preventing serious liver damage in vulnerable patients. The antioxidant properties of the moringa plant helped to flush these toxic chemicals from the liver before they caused serious damage, thus protecting the health of the patient without compromising the effectiveness of the course of treatment.
MORINGA AND ACETAMINOPHEN OVERDOSE
A study published in the August 2008 issue of Food and Chemical Toxicology indicated that moringa supplements offered significant protection against acetaminophen overdose and resulting liver damage in laboratory rats. The rats were fed moringa supplements in controlled doses before being administered a single overdose of acetaminophen. The supplements prevented a decrease in the level of glutathione, a necessary antioxidant compound that helps the liver process toxins and eliminate them from the body. By allowing the liver to maintain adequate levels of glutathione even when an overdose of acetaminophen was administered, moringa supplements provided solid protection against the negative effects and potential liver damage that typically results from such an overdose.
LIVER FIBROSIS
In January 2010, Food and Chemical Toxicology published a study that described the healing properties of moringa seed extract in cases of liver fibrosis. The researchers administered carbon tetrachloride to laboratory rats over the course of eight weeks in order to induce liver fibrosis, one of the most serious symptoms of advanced chronic liver disease. Liver fibrosis is caused by the buildup of proteins and collagens within the liver that reduce its ability to function; the disease typically requires dialysis or liver transplantation in its advanced stages. The research study showed significant reduction in the levels of collagens and proteins present in the liver over the course of the moringa treatments. Previously, medical researchers had believed that the course of liver fibrosis could only be slowed, not reversed. This study appears to present evidence to the contrary and provides new hope for patients suffering from advanced stages of liver fibrosis.
MORINGA AND ARSENIC POISONING
Arsenic is one of the most common pollutants in water supplies and can cause serious health problems if ingested in larger quantities. Moringa supplements have been proven to offer some protection against the damage caused by arsenic in the water supply; a study published in Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica – Drug Research showed that Moringa oleifera extracts protected the body against the worst effects of exposure to arsenic and helped eliminate the substance from the body more efficiently.
Moringa leaves and pods contain 90 + nutrients and 46 antioxidants. Moringa leaves have more antioxidants than the green leaves.
Researchers recently reported that
vitamin D is essential for the pancreas to be able to secrete insulin properly. The studies have shown that individuals with the lowest vitamin D levels experienced the worst blood sugar-handling problems and had a greater risk of developing diabetes. Moringa as a rich source of ascorbic acid helps in insulin secretion. It is interesting to note that certain nutrients like vitamins B1, B2, B12, pantothenic acid, vitamin C, protein and potassium - along with small frequent meals containing some carbohydrate - can actually stimulate production of insulin within the body.
Vitamin A as an antioxidant helps convert beta-carotene efficiently, which reduces the risk of blindness in diabetics. Vitamin B 12 is effective in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. High dose supplements of Vitamin C have been shown to prevent sorbitol accumulation and glycosylation of proteins, both of which are important factors in the development of diabetic complications such as cataracts. Studies have shown that a low vitamin E concentration was associated with a 3.9 times greater risk of developing diabetes. Vitamin E reduces oxidative stress, thus improving membrane physical characteristics and related activities in glucose transport. Magnesium helps in the metabolism of glycogen, Mg works closely with vitamin B 6 to help the metabolic process with in the cell. Moringa has all these nutrient and helps the diabetic patient to control their blood glucose level.
Malnutrition
In 1997-98, Alternative Action for Africa Development (AGADA) and church World Service tested the ability of Moringa leaf powder to prevent or cure malnutrition in pregnant or brestfeeding women and their children in southwestern Senegal. Malnutrition was a mayor problem in this area, with more than 600 malnourished infants treated every year.
Moringa Leaf Powder treating MalnutritionMoringa leaves contain high amounts of several essential disease-preventing nutrients such as:
- Vitamin A, which acts as a shield against eye disease, skin disease, diarrhea, any many more.
- Vitamin C, fighting a host of illnesses incluiding colds and flu.
- Calcium, which builds strong bones and teeth. and helps prevent osteoporosis.
- Potassium, essential for the functioning of the brain and nerves.
- Proteins, the basic building blocks of all our body cells.
This test found the following effects to be common among subjects taking Moringa leaf powder:
- Children maintained or increased their weight and improved overall health.
- Pregnant women recovered from anemia and has babies with higher birth weights.
- Breast-feeding women increased their production of milk.
Comparation with common foods
*from: Gopalan C, BV Rama Sastri and SC Balasubramanian.
Nutritive value of Indians foods. Hyderabad, India:
(National Institute of Nutrition), 1971
The nutritional contents of Moringa leaves compare very well to common foods:
Values below are per 100g edible portion. Moringa values are for fresh leaves*
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