he studies follow on from other studies that linked an increase in prostate conditions to consumption of meats, milk and cheese.
Important Points From The Studies
Much has been studied on the impact of diet on prostate cancer, including whether certain foods increase or decrease the overall risk, rate of progression, level of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and more. One food that has been highlighted in these analyses are eggs, so a question that has risen is, can eggs increase prostate cancer risk?
In a Harvard study, investigators evaluated the diets of 1,294 men who had early stage prostate cancer. The two-year study included men who had participated in the Cancer of the Prostate Strategic Urologic Research Endeavor. The authors discovered that while red meat, fish, total poultry, and skinless poultry were not associated with the recurrence or progression of prostate cancer, egg intake was. When compared with men who rarely ate eggs at all, those who consumed eggs daily had a twofold increase in the risk of prostate cancer progression.
Related: Do Eggs, Dairy, Red Meat, and Poultry Increase Prostate Cancer Risk?
The reason for this increased risk was postulated to be the choline in eggs, which is present in significant amounts (although cholesterol also has been suggested). In fact, eggs are the richest source of choline. Previous research has shown that this water-soluble, vitamin-like nutrient has been associated with a higher risk of developing prostate cancer. Therefore, it could be extrapolated that the choline in eggs may increase the chances of both getting the disease and spreading it.
But the dangers of consuming eggs if you have prostate cancer doesn’t end there. Other research has shown that choline also significantly increases the risk of dying of prostate cancer; a “70% increased risk of lethal prostate cancer” to be exact. Another study quoted an even higher percentage: 81 percent higher risk of deadly prostate cancer among men who ate 2.5 or more eggs weekly.
Choline and Cancer
The association between choline and cancer exists on several levels. One is the research showing that eggs, milk, and meat—all of which contain choline–have been linked to advanced prostate cancer. Another factor is that dietary choline is transformed into trimethylamine (TMAO) in the gut. The Harvard investigators suggested that the trimethylamine produced from high levels of dietary choline intake “may increase inflammation, and this may promote progression of prostate cancer to lethal disease.”
Further evidence pointing to the role of choline in prostate cancer was seen in a Cleveland Clinic study in which participants were fed hard-boiled eggs. This resulted in a significant rise in TMAO, and the researchers also noted a link between TMAO levels and heart attack, stroke, and death, even in individuals with low-risk levels of cholesterol.
Therefore, it appears that consuming eggs may increase risk even if cholesterol is not an issue, and the reason seems to be the presence of choline.
References
Gregor M. Eggs, choline and cancer. NutritionFacts.org. 2013 October 14 Richman EL et al. Egg, red meat, and poultry intake and risk of lethal prostate cancer in the prostate-specific antigen-era: incidence and survival. Cancer Prevention Research (Phila) 2011; 4(12): 2110-21
Richman EL et al. Intakes of meat, fish, poultry and eggs and risk of prostate cancer progression. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2010; 91(3): 712-21
Richman EL et al. Choline intake and risk of lethal prostate cancer: incidence and survival. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2012; 96(4): 855-63
Tang WHW et al. Intestinal microbial metabolism of phosphatidylcholine and cardiovascular risk. NEJM 2013 Apr 25; 368(17): 1575-84
Before Dr, Eric Z dives into a sample Essential Oil Protocol for Cancer Patients, it’s important to keep in mind this truth about cancer and essential oils… It’s important to realize that natural therapies can and, in his opinion, SHOULD be used in conjunction with conventional medicine (unless obvious contraindications are present). It’s not an all-or-nothing thing. Meaning this – people oftentimes tell me they feel that they only have two options:
Either go the “all-natural” route,
Or, follow the allopathic model.
But this is NOT the case! Many don’t realize that a balanced-approach works well too, and may even be more effective than one or the other. In the words of a 2014 article in the journal BioMed Research International, (1) EOs have also been reported to improve the quality of life of the cancer patients by lowering the level of their agony [2]. EOs-mediated therapy cannot be a substitute to the standard chemotherapy and radiotherapy but can be used in combination with cancer therapy to decrease the side effects of the drugs. Hence, EOs can be used for improving the health of the cancer patients and as a source of novel anticancer compounds….Use of the EOs as dietary supplements and coadministration with drugs can enhance the response to the treatment.
This last sentence is REALLY important! Like I always say, everything is better with oils. Even chemo! My personal recommendation is to work with an oncologist who is open-minded to alternative therapies, and find the right protocol for YOU!
An Important Note
Essential oils are transdermal and work at the cellular level, and each species has distinct properties that can help cancer patients. Also, please recognize that specific species that a given company sells will NOT be addressed in this protocol, and we cannot correlate these data to species that your favorite brand(s) may sell. However, the chemical constituents in various species are so similar, that it is quite possible that all of the species will contain similar properties.
Also, let’s remember peer-reviewed articles discuss the success clinical researchers have experienced in using various essentials oils to prevent, stop and even reverse the growth of various cancer lines in animal and human cell studies. It is important to keep in mind that a vast majority of these studies are based off of cells in a petri dish. Subsequently, many experts and critics of using essential oils for cancer therapy insist that we cannot extrapolate the data from these studies to live, in vivo cancer patients. Even though there is merit to what these people say, let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water.
In my opinion, the burden of proof is on the critic in this case. Thousands of thousands of testimonials and case studies alone should awaken us to the realization that EOs can be quite effective in helping cancer patients.
Essential Oil Protocol for Cancer Patients
(Focusing on Tumor Apoptosis and Immunity Enhancement)
Below is an easy-to-follow essential oil protocol based off of several peer-reviewed clinical studies that I have researched, as well as countless hours of helping cancer patients all over the globe. In addition, you may be interested to read some information that I put together with my friend Dr. Josh Axe, 10 Natural Cancer Treatments Revealed. Here are some key takeaways about the article:
To learn more about the Gerson Therapy, click HERE.
Before you proceed, the Gerson Institute directly cautions following the protocol for chemotherapy and brain metastases patients without first consulting Charlotte Gerson’s book, Healing the Gerson Way, or without the supervision of a Gerson doctor.
You may want to consider doing a “modified” Gerson/Budwig combination protocol by employing the Gerson juicing protocol, plant-based diet and coffee enema detoxification along with the Beyond Budwig Therapy as Dr. Axe recommends HERE.
As Dr. Axe also mentions in his article, the significance of essential oils cannot be underestimated.
“Frankincense essential oil was recommended by Dr. Budwig especially when it comes to fighting brain tumors. Rub this essential oil on your body (neck area) 3x daily and take 3 drops internally 3x daily.” As many experts claim, cancer cannot thrive in an environment where the body’s immune system is functioning at 100%. The underlying theme of any good natural cancer protocol, therefore, is to systematically enhance immune function and capitalize on the body’s God given ability to heal itself.
After combing through the research, I have found that several oils in addition to frankincense have the ability to trigger tumor apoptosis (“programmed cell death”) and enhance immunity. You will find some ways to use oils below. Be sure to consult with your physician before following these suggestions, particularly if you’re taking chemotherapy or any other pharmaceutical medications.
Topical
Apply diluted Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend directly on tumor location, and bottoms of feet and along the spine twice daily.
Remember to mix it up – we want to keep the cancer guessing and we don’t want to promote resistance. Consider mixing up the protocol every other week.
Always be sure to dilute at least 3% with a carrier oil using these conversions:
1% dilution: 6 drops of EO per oz of carrier oil (1% of 600 drops is 6)
2% dilution: 12 drops of EO per oz of carrier oil (2% of 600 drops is 12)
3% dilution: 18 drops of EO per oz of carrier oil (3% of 600 drops is 18)
If working with tablespoons are more comfortable for you, 1 oz. = 2 tablespoons. So, there are 300 drops of EO in a tablespoon.
1% dilution: 3 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier oil (1% of 300 drops is 3)
2% dilution: 6 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier oil (2% of 300 drops is 6)
3% dilution: 9 drops of EO per tablespoon of carrier oil (3% of 300 drops is 9)
Oral
Ingest 2 drops of your personalized Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend in a capsule twice daily with food.
Find what works best for you. Listen to your body, and see how you react to varying mixtures.
For extra added frankincense benefit, apply undiluted frankincense directly under the tongue – being sure that you don’t experience any sensitivity. If you do, discontinue use immediately.
Aromatherapy
Diffuse 3-5 drops Immunity / Cellular RejuvenationBlend to promote immune function
Diffuse 1 drops each Lavender, Chamomile, and Sandalwood at night to promote healthy sleep.
Diffuse 3-5 drops of your personalized Joyful Blend (see below) throughout the day.
Be sure to include Melissa, which has been shown clinically to help with brain tumors like glioblastoma. (2, 3)
Promotes positive mood. As the ancient proverb goes, “A happy heart does good like medicine,” and we cannot discount the psychogenic aspects of health and wellness
Miscellaneous Useful Tips
Anti-Inflammatory — Consume 1 drop of lemon oil diluted in a teaspoon of carrier oil like coconut, or in a gel capsule (depends on your esophageal sensitivity)
“Liquid Morphine”/Anti-Inflammatory — Consume 1 drop frankincense, lemongrass, marjoram in gel cap.
Healthy Gut Function — Consume1 drop a personalized Digestion Blend(see below), and 1 drop lemon diluted in a teaspoon of carrier oil like coconut, or in a gel capsule (depends on your esophageal sensitivity).
Colds/Flus — Consume 1 drop of oregano and tea tree in a gel capsule twice daily.
Colds/Flus — Take 2 drops of Immunity / Cellular RejuvenationBlend twice daily in a gel capsule.
Immune Support — Apply 2 drops Immunity / Cellular RejuvenationBlend to bottoms of feet diluted. Diffuse 3-4 drops Immunity / Cellular RejuvenationBlend throughout the day. Take drops of Immunity / Cellular RejuvenationBlend in gel capsule.
Respiratory Support — Diffuse 3-5 drops of diluted, personalized Respiratory Support Blend (see below), and apply directly on chest.
Pain Relief — Apply 1-2 drops personalized Muscle Soothing Blend (see below), topically as needed to ease sore muscles, arthritic joints and for headaches.
DIY Blends
To make an Immunity / Cellular Rejuvenation Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You’ll need to find something that works for you.
To make a Joyful Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You’ll need to find something that works for you.
To make a Digestion Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You’ll need to find something that works for you.
To make a Respiratory Support Blend, combine equal parts of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You’ll need to find something that works for you.
To make a Muscle Soothing Blend, combine equal parts of several of the oils below. There is no “magic formula.” You’ll need to find something that works for you.
The gifts of the Magi – gold, frankincense, and myrrh – were carried a great distance specifically for the new King that their star-watching indicated. In the past, scholars and health researchers have mused and debated over them. Who were the Magi? What was the significance of the gifts? Were they for the infant Jesus or for a much bigger purpose? Did they give Him frankincense oil or just the resin?
In 2013, the University of Leicester conveniently published just before Christmas that has rekindled this theory. According to their press release, the Omani government-funded research has (for the first time) uncovered that frankincense has the ability to target cancer cells in late-stage ovarian cancer patients. And this all appeared to be due to AKBA (acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid).(1) According to lead researcher Kamla Al-Salmani,
“After a year of studying the AKBA compound with ovarian cancer cell lines in vitro, we have been able to show it is effective at killing the cancer cells. Frankincense is taken by many people with no known side effects. This finding has enormous potential to be taken to a clinical trial in the future and developed into an additional treatment for ovarian cancer.”
Boswellic Acid and Beta-Elemene
It has become glaringly obvious that boswellic acid (BA) is a compound fit to kill cancer cells, and researchers have tested frankincense essential oil to determine if it should role to play in oncology.
Although there is some debate whether or not BA is too large a compound to survive conventional essential oil filtration systems, there are studies in the literature that claim they are indeed part of frankincense oil; as we will see below. Subsequently, the jury is still out as to the exact mechanism(s) explaining why frankincense essential oil is so beneficial to cancer patients. However, advances in recent research suggest that Beta-elemene – a cancer fighting terpene found in frankincense and myrrh with the ability to cross the blood brain barrier – may be partly responsible.
As stated by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center,
“Beta-elemene is a compound found in plants such as celery, mint, and in many others used in traditional medicine. Although the pure form is not used as dietary supplement, some cancer patients use herbs high in beta-elemene as treatment. Beta-elemene was shown to prevent growth of cancer cells in laboratory cells by different mechanisms. A few poorly designed studies done in humans showed that it may improve quality of life in cancer patients. It is unclear if raw herbs containing beta-elemene have the same effects in humans. More research is needed.” (2)
Some even suggest that the amount of β-elemene that frankincense and myrrh contain could very well explain why so many people claim that both oils have been instrumental to them beating cancer God’s way. (3) At the end of the day, once we know the basic properties of an herb, root and resin we are able to determine the best ways to utilize it. Let’s take a closer look at what the components of frankincense mean for our daily lives…
Frankincense Cancer Research
Used because of its anti-inflammatory properties, the various Boswellia species have been a “go-to” or natural healers for centuries because of its ability to help with a myriad of health concerns like learning disorders, gastrointestinal dysfunction and skin conditions. New cancer research, has uncovered that the medicinal uses of frankincense can reach well beyond this.
While we do know that the various forms of frankincense (essential oils, extracts, pure resin, etc.) have the potential to fight cancer, much is left to be understood, making this a controversial topic in the natural health and research world.
Current research demonstrates anti-mutagenic and apoptotic (programmed cell death) abilities. Though the results have occurred in lab tests and we have yet to see how to best replicate these results in active cancer in humans, the demonstrated results remain. Researchers found that boswellic acids are “cytotoxic to ovarian cancer cells at pharmacologically achievable concentrations” and “may form the basis of a novel anticancer treatment for ovarian cancer, perhaps alongside conventional chemotherapy.” (4)
Studies continue to emerge, demonstrating similar effects on bladder (5), breast (6), colon (7), skin (8), stomach (9), and pancreatic cancers. (10)
For those who have added frankincense essential oil to their cancer care plan, the benefits may go beyond anti-tumor effects. Conventional treatment is often still required, but can be more painful and difficult than the symptoms of cancer itself. Brain cancer patients, for example, sometimes experience swelling in the head called cerebral edema after their tumors have been removed. Steroid treatment is common but also associated with difficult side effects and complications.
Frankincense, on the other hand, has shown remarkable effects against this particular problem. In 2011, a clinical trial evaluating 44 individuals monitored frankincense as a remedy for cerebral edema. In 60% of the patients, the swelling was reduced by 75% or more. The concluding remarks called for frankincense to be prescribed for cerebral edema in these circumstances, avoiding the struggles of steroid therapy. (11)
Overshadowed the past several hundred years by its role in the “Christmas Story,” frankincense is finally getting the attention it deserves as one of the most viable healing agents on the planet. The journal Oncology Letters published an article late last year that highlights the ability of this Biblical tree to kill cancer cells; specifically the MCF-7 and HS-1 cell lines, which cause breast and other tumors. (12) The essential oil has also been used with much success to treat issues related to digestion, the immune system, oral health, respiratory concerns and stress/anxiety.
Another promising property of frankincense is its potential to fight cancer. In several studies, frankincense has demonstrated anti-cancer properties and the ability to mitigate many different kinds of cancer cells. (13) As more studies are conducted, the implications of this ability will be exciting to watch unfold!
Arguably the most potent medicinal EO out there, recent research studies suggest that frankincense not only kills cancer cells, but it also promotes health and vitality in neighboring non-cancerous cells! To help prevent getting sick and boost your immune system, simply follow the advice below and take some frankincense with a carrier oil!
An Important Note
Essential oils are transdermal and work at the cellular level, and each species has distinct properties that can help cancer patients. Also, please recognize that specific species that a given company sells will NOT be addressed in this article, and we cannot correlate these data to species that your favorite brand(s) may sell. However, the chemical constituents in various species are so similar, that it is quite possible that all of the species will contain similar properties.
Also, let’s remember peer-reviewed articles discuss the success clinical researchers have experienced in using various essentials oils to prevent, stop and even reverse the growth of various cancer lines in animal and human cell studies. It is important to keep in mind that a vast majority of these studies are based off of cells in a petri dish. Subsequently, many experts and critics of using essential oils for cancer therapy insist that we cannot extrapolate the data from these studies to live, in vivo cancer patients. Even though there is merit to what these people say, let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water. The burden of proof is on the critic in this case. Thousands of thousands of testimonials and case studies alone should awaken us to the realization that EOs can be quite effective in helping people with cancer.
In addition to being an Associate Professor Department of Urology (University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center), Dr. Lin is quickly becoming the essential oil research guru of the 21st century. He’s actually a pretty big deal. His research on frankincense essential oil is unparalleled and he’s been able to uncover some pretty profound findings such as:
Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia carteri induces bladder tumor cell and Boswelliasacra does the same with breast cancer cells; meaning that they target cancerous cells by killing them and leave the healthy cells alone.
Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia sacra represses signaling pathways and cell cycle regulators that have been proposed as therapeutic targets for cancer.
Suppression of cellular network formation and disruption of spheroid development of cancercells, suggests that frankincense oil derived from Boswellia sacramay be effective for advanced breast cancers as well as for cancer prevention.
Having already published several articles supporting the cancer-fighting characteristics of essential oils, Dr. Lin has set out to change the course of healthcare by developing scientific evidence to support the use of essential oils to fight cancer and other diseases.
Recently, Dr. Lin reached out to me via email with this message:
Dr. Zielinski, I just want to let you know we had a bladder cancer case report published by Integrative Cancer Therapies early this week. (14)
Based on university policy, I cannot be affiliated with any commercial company and cannot endorse any commercial product, I used a generic name in this report.
Along with our previous publications on frankincense oil, we have reported the following observations:
Frankincense oil induces potent cytotoxicity in various types of cancer cells but not their normal counterparts.
Unlike chemotherapy drugs, frankincense oil specifically targets tumor cells but not fast-growing cells. This might be “no observable adverse effects” using frankincense oil.
Frankincense oil prevents cellular network formation of tumor cells.
Frankincense oil causes the breakdown of multicellular tumor spheroids, which might be the cause of drug resistant.
Frankincense oil simultaneously activates multiple signaling pathways including the caspase pathway leading to apoptosis. Is this similar to the use of “drug cocktails” in complicate diseases?
Based on we reported human case studies so far, we described the following observations in humans:
Frankincense oil induces apoptosis of tumor cells.
Frankincense oil does not have no noticeable adverse effects when appropriate dose is applied.
Frankincense oil attracts infiltration of inflammatory cells to the tumor site with unknown mechanism.
A few months ago, the federal government announced a “Cancer Moonshot Cancer program” led by Vice President Biden. They vowed to conquer cancer using lots of resources and modern technologies. Unfortunately, no one is, or willing to, pay any attention on any botanical product; there is just no resource in this “forgotten” field.
All participants involved in the Cancer Moonshot Program described that they will have “solutions” for cancers few years later. However, my main concern is how about the people who are fighting against cancers now. Can we provide anything to do the help while they are dealing with the deadly disease?
Interesting, huh?
More Than Just Cancer
People who have added Boswellia into their natural health cancer care plan may find themselves experiencing double-benefits from this miracle essential oil.
For many cancer patients, there’s a time when the treatment becomes worse than the cancer itself. It is as this point that quality of life and symptom suppression is the focal point for many diagnosed with this deadly disease. Debilitating in-and-of itself, these cancer treatment side effect can make having cancer absolutely miserable.
Take, for instance, brain cancer patients who experience cerebral edema (swelling in the head) after having their tumors irradiated. Typically, these people are treated with dexamethasone and other corticosteroids to control the swelling, but this is done at a great cost because the deadly complications of steroids are limitless. Unfortunately, these people suffer toxic overload from the drugs that are supposed to help them in the first place and get headaches, migraines, and may even deal with blurred vision because of the steroid treatments.
Thankfully, frankincense offers a natural, viable solution to this horrible issue. Back in 2011, the journal Cancer published the results of a 44 person clinical trial evaluating how brain edema fared in brain cancer patients that were randomly assigned to radiotherapy. Astoundingly, 60% of the patients displayed 75% reduction or greater in cerebral swelling after being treated with 4200 mg/day of frankincense! (15) These results are so significant that scientists are urging the medical community to consider prescribing this potent essential oil instead of steroids for cancer patients assigned to radiotherapy.
We hope this spreads like wildfire within cancer treatment circles. Who knows what could happen if more people utilized this approach. As we’ve seen above, if Boswellia serrata can kill cancer cells and prevent tumors from growing, the sky’s the limit for folks who follow natural health guidelines.
Frankincense and Immune Function
A growing body of research has recently unlocked the doors to our understanding of why frankincense is so beneficial to our health. In a study published by Phytotherapy Research, for instance, when mice took 1-10 mg of Boswellia serrata orally it was discovered that multiple levels of their immune systems were stimulated including: (16)
Cytokines (interferon gamma, interleukin-4, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha)
T-cell interactions (i.e. CD4/CD8, which are generally low in AIDS patients)
In layman’s terms, frankincense can boost the immune system like no other! Two fundamental ways this is accomplished is by proliferating lymphocytes (white blood cells, which are the body’s primary defense team) and by keeping inflammation at bay (which is arguably the primary risk factor for most chronic diseases). This may also explain why Boswellia serrata is so effective in treating autoimmune conditions like bronchial asthma, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and ulcerative colitis.
Implement frankincense into your natural health regimen today. The essential oil can be used in vaporizers with ease to treat respiratory conditions. A salve is effective for skin issues. And, an all-natural, organic supplement is fantastic for everything in between!
Frankincense Oil Recommendations
To help boost immunity and as a cancer prevention technique:
Add 1 drop of frankincense oil in 1 teaspoon of carrier oil (like coconut), and consume first thing in the morning.
Put the oil in a soft gel capsule to prevent esophageal irritation.
Add 3 drops each of frankincense and myrrh oils to a diffuser.
To address tumor and malignant growths consider:
Applying diluted frankincense on the tumor directly, and on the bottoms of your feet. 2 drops of carrier oil per drop of frankincense is a popular approach
References:
Ammon HP. Boswellic acids in chronic inflammatory diseases. Planta Med 2006; 72(12): 1100-16.
Khajuria A, et al. Immunomodulatory activity of biopolymeric fraction BOS 2000 from Boswellia serrata. Phytother Res 2008; 22(3): 340-8.
Kirste S, et al. Boswellia serrata acts on cerebral edema in patients irradiated for brain tumors: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot trial. Cancer 2011; 117(16): 3788-95.
Park B, et al. Boswellic acid suppresses growth and metastasis of human pancreatic tumors in an orthotopic nude mouse model through modulation of multiple targets. PLoS One. 2011; 6(10): e26943 [epub].
Suhail MM, et al. Boswellia sacra essential oil induces tumor cell-specific apoptosis and suppresses tumor aggressiveness in cultured human breast cancer cells. BMC Complement Altern Med 2011; 11: 129.
Takahashi M, et al. Boswellic acid exerts antitumor effects in colorectal cancer cells by modulating expression of the let-7 and miR-200 microRNA family. Carcinogenesis 2012; 33(12): 2441-9.
Yuan Y, et al. Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) prevents human colonic adenocarcinoma growth through modulation of multiple signaling pathways. Biochim Biophys Acta 2013; 1830(10): 4907-16.
Zhang YS, et al. Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA) inhibits human gastric carcinoma growth through modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Biochim Biophys Acta 2013; 1830(6): 3604-15.
Dr. Lin’s Publications:
Frank, M. B., Yang, Q., Osban, J., Azzarello, J.T., Saban, M.R., Saban, R., Ashley, R.A., Welter, J.C., Fung, K.-M., and Lin, H.-K.: Frankincense oil derived from Boswellia carteri induces tumor cell specific cytotoxicity. BMC Comple. Altern. Med. 9: 6, 2009. PMID: 19296830.
Suhail, M.M., Wu, W., Cao, A., Mondalek, F.G., Fung, K.-M., Shih, P.-T., Fang, Y.-T., Woolley, C., Young, G., and Lin, H.-K.:Boswellia sacra essential oil induces tumor cell-specific apoptosis and suppresses tumor aggressiveness in cultured human breast cancer cells. BMC Comple. Altern. Med. 11: 129, 2011. PMID: 22171782.
Woolley, C.L., Suhail, M.M., Smith, B.L., Boren, K.E., Taylor, L.C., Schreuder, M.F., Chai, J.K., Casabianca, H., Haq, S., Lin, H.-K., Al-Shahri, A.A., Al-Hatmi, S., Young, D.G.:Chemical differentiation of Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carterii essential oils by gas chromatography and chiral gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A. 1261, 158-163, 2012. PMID: 22835693.
Ni, X., Suhail, M.M., Yang, Q., Cao, A., Fung, K.-M., Postier, R.G.,Woolley, C., Young, G., Zhang, J., and Lin, H.-K.: Frankincense essential oil prepared from hydrodistillation of Boswellia sacra gum resins induces human pancreatic cancer cell death in cultures and in a xenograft murine model. BMC Comple. Altern. Med. 12, 253, 2012. PMID: 23237355.
Fung, K.-M., Suhail, M.M., McClendon, B., Woolley, C.L., Young, D.G., and Lin, H.-K.:Management of basal cell carcinoma of the skin using frankincense (Boswellia sacra) essential oil: A case study. OA Altern. Med. 1, 14,
Lin, H.-K., Suhail, M. M., Fung, K.-M., Woolley, C.L., and Young, D.G: Extraction of biologically active compounds by hydrodistillation of Boswellia species gum resins for anti-cancer therapy. OA Altern. Med. 1, 4, 2013.
As more research is being conducted on natural therapies, it is becoming more than obvious that people do not need to use conventional practices like chemotherapy and radiation to eradicate cancer. Holistic remedies abound and a cursory glance on “Dr. Google” will rank several on the top of most people’s list. Of all the popular natural solutions out there, essential oils for cancer research has gained significant fanfare and for good reason.
The truth about essential oils for cancer is four-fold.
First – the research suggests that oils can help prevent and treat cancer at the cellular level. Additionally, and oftentimes overlooked, essential oils have been shown to be exceptionally effective at managing the side effects related to cancer itself and the side effects people suffer at the hands of medical interventions.
Second – it is critical to recognize that this is not an all-or-nothing approach. Just because you’re taking chemo doesn’t mean that you can’t use oils. The same is true on the flip side of that coin. Far too many patients and healthcare practitioners dichotomize natural from allopathic therapies, and do not give enough emphasis on the practicality of using both together.
Third – we need to put things into proper perspective and remember that the peer-reviewed articles we have that evaluate the ability of essential oils for cancer to prevent, stop and even reverse the growth of various malignant lines are in vitro. In other words, we don’t many live human trials with hundreds or thousands of participants, we have studies that are testing human cells in a petri dish. This is not to say that these studies are useless. The point we need to take from this is that essential oils for cancer is still experimental.
Fourth – with this said, there are literally thousands upon thousands of testimonials of people on the Internet claiming that EOs cured them of cancer. And this cannot be disputed because a vast majority of them are your normal, not-trying-to-make-a-buck kind of people who are not trying to sell a product. These are legitimate medical “miracles,” which are ultimately going to be the basis for further research.
Of all of the studies in the medical literature, this is just a sample of those that suggest essential oils for cancer therapy can benefit patients.
The most prominent and noteworthy component of citrus oils is d-limonene, confirmed to be a potent cancer-fighting agent. In the words of the U.S. National LIbrary of Medicin’s open chemisry database, PubChem,
“D-Limonene is an oral dietary supplement containing a natural cyclic monoterpene and major component of the oil extracted from citrus peels with potential chemopreventive and antitumor activities. Although the mechanism of action has yet to be fully elucidated, limonene and its metabolites perillic acid, dihydroperillic acid, uroterpenol and limonene 1,2-diol may inhibit tumor growth through inhibition of p21-dependent signaling and may induce apoptosis via the induction of the transforming growth factor beta-signaling pathway. In addition, they inhibit post-translational modification of signal transduction proteins, resulting in G1 cell cycle arrest as well as differential expression of cell cycle- and apoptosis-related genes.”
Sclareol, the primary component of clary sage essential oil, has promising anti-cancer effects in laboratory evaluations. During studies dating back to 1999 to just last year, it has been shown to impact the way that cancer cells proliferate by literally killing through a process known as apoptosis. (1, 2)
Apoptosis is interesting because it literally triggers the cell to commit “suicide,” more formally known as programmed cell death, which suggests that clary sage oil could have profound effects on the prevention and treatment of cancer lines.
This discovery is particularly promising for clary sage, because it also contains phytoestrogens, which are commonly avoided in people with estrogen-induced cancers. Further research will hopefully help reshape the current medical recommendation that cancer patients avoid specific oils because of their phytoestrogen compounds, which can (in theory) feed into cancer.
Of all the cancer-fighting essential oils, frankincense (Boswellia sacra, B. carterii, B. frereana, and B. serrata) is the most controversial. The research out there has been scrutinized because of its industry-bias, and some claim that there are no chemical compounds in frankincense oil that can kill cancer. With that said, just do a search on the Internet and healing stories abound. It is hard to dispute with the thousands of people who state their cancer was cured after using frankincense.
The biggest issue some chemists and Aromatherapists have is regarding boswellic acids (BAs), which have been proven to be “cytotoxic to ovarian cancer cells at pharmacologically achievable concentrations” and “may form the basis of a novel anticancer treatment for ovarian cancer, perhaps alongside conventional chemotherapy.” (3) A known compound in frankincense resin, the issue is that boswellic acids are too large and heavy to be included in the volatile (evaporated) components that make up essential oils.
In other words, BA’s are not in the essential oils, but why who cares? Studies continue to emerge demonstrating the anti-cancer effects of frankincense essential oil on bladder (13), breast (14) and skin (15) cancers!
Additionally, adding frankincense essential oil for cancer to a healthcare protocol goes well beyond the anti-tumor effects. For people utilizing conventional medical treatments, the pain and other side effects can be worse than the cancer itself! This is especially true for brain cancer patients who oftentimes experience cerebral edema (swelling in the head) after their tumors have been surgically removed or at the hands of radiation therapy. To make matters worse, steroid treatment is commonly administered, complicate the side effects even more.
Frankincense extract, which contains the essential oil, can possibly help this particular problem. A clinical trial published in 2011 evaluated 44 patients with cerebral edema and, after taking 4200 mg/day of a Boswellia serrata (BS) extract was administered, the swelling was reduced by 75% or more in 60% of the participants. The researchers conclude that, “BS could potentially be steroid-sparing for patients receiving brain irradiation. (10)
Also shown to help manage depression, pain and boost the immune system. (11, 12)
A popular theme in the natural health discussion is that antioxidants are the super healers that we all need. Free radicals created by chemicals, pollutants, stress and toxins are the culprits for a cascade of cellular damage, immune inhibition, and limitless unforeseen health risks – including cancer and chronic illness.
Suffice it to say that, if free radicals are the super villains, antioxidants are the super heroes.
The body itself creates antioxidants in the form of the enzymes catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) among others. Unfortunately, our bodies are exposed to a constant onslaught of free radicals that drain our naturally occurring antioxidants and we are forced to supplement.
Believe it not, lavender essential oil for cancer joins the ranks as an effective natural antioxidant support.
Of the major antioxidant enzyme mentioned above, Chinese researchers observed that lavender essential oil can upregulate levels of all three in mice within the first day of treatment and protect brain cells again stroke and injury! (13) Romanian researchers noted similar activity by simply inhaling lavender for an hour each day. According to the study, “Taken together, our results suggest that antioxidant and antiapoptotic activities [of healthy brain cells] of the lavender essential oils are the major mechanisms for their potent neuroprotective effects against scopolamine-induced oxidative stress in the rat brain,” that can lead to cancer and other illnesses. (14)
Several studies have evaluated the potential cancer-fighting properties of lemongrass essential oil. (15)
In 2009, an article was published that evaluated the essential oil of Cymbopogon flexuosus (a variety of lemongrass) for its in vitro cytotoxicity ability against 12 human cancer cell lines; as well as its anticancer effects on mice in vivo. The results were remarkable. Researchers discovered that the essential oil triggers a variety of mechanisms that kill cancer cells. “Our results indicate that the oil has a promising anticancer activity and causes loss in tumor cell viability by activating the apoptotic process as identified by electron microscopy.” (16)
The role that myrrh essential oil plays in natural cancer therapies is a becoming a popular topic in the scientific community. Particularly, with how it interacts with frankincense essential oils. In 2013, one of the most thorough studies on the topic was published in the journal Oncology Letters, and this is what researcher discovered:
“The effects of the two essential oils, independently and as a mixture, on five tumor cell lines, MCF-7, HS-1, HepG2, HeLa and A549, were investigated using the MTT assay. The results indicated that the MCF-7 and HS-1 cell lines showed increased sensitivity to the myrrh and frankincense essential oils compared with the remaining cell lines. In addition, the anticancer effects of myrrh were markedly increased compared with those of frankincense, however, no significant synergistic effects were identified.” (17)
Don’t think that researchers are evaluating frankincense and myrrh together as complementary therapies because of the Christmas story. Oh, no. The resins from frankincense and myrrh trees have been traditionally prescribed simultaneously in Chinese medicine for years. Used primarily to treat inflammatory diseases, blood stagnation, frankincense and myrrh therapy is exceptionally effective to relieve swelling and pain. (18) Even though researchers have not observed a synergistic effect regarding cancer, “A previous study identified that the combination of frankincense and myrrh oils exhibited synergistic effects on harmful bacterial infections Cryptococcus neoformans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.” (19, 20)
In 2014, the journal BioMed Research International published an article uncovering that peppermint and spearmint is highly effective at managing common side effects people that suffer at the hands of medical cancer therapies; especially vomiting and nausea. Taken directly from the study we find that these oils, as well as some others, can help with a variety of conditions cancer patients suffer from:
“Cancer patients suffer from different side effects which can be preferentially reduced by alternative methods. EOs are used in the aromatherapy for reducing the agony of brain cancer patients [21]. EO is efficient in depression and reduction of anxiety in cancer patients [22]. Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, one of the most frequently used treatment method in cancer, are prone to various side effects [23]. These are nausea and vomiting.
Mentha spicata [spearmint] and M. piperita [peppermint] have been found to be effective in overcoming these emetic conditions (chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, CINV) along with the reduction of expenditure on treatment in the cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy [24].
EOs of Leptospermum scoparium [Manuka myrtle] and Kunzea ericoides [Karo Greenfingers] were reported to prevent mucositis in the head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy when used in the preparation of mouthwash [25].
Some cancer patients having metastatic tumorigenic ulcers of skin develop necrosis and malodour [26]. Patients suffering from such malodour were reported to have improvement in their state on treatment of these ulcers with the mixture of EOs having eucalyptus, melaleuca, lemongrass, lemon, clove leaf, and thyme on a 40% ethanol base [27].
Lavender EO is widely used in aromatherapy and is found to be beneficial in reducing the distress in cancer patients [28]. Hence, EOs serve as the valuable preparations in amelioration of the side effects and sufferings of the cancer patients.”
The journal Molecules published a study in 2010 that evaluated how cancer cells were evaluated could stand up against ten powerful essential oils. Included was thyme and it stood out from the crowd as the most beneficial against prostate, lung carcinoma, and breast cancers. (29)
As one of the primary herbs to facilitate estrogen binding, thyme oil can help balance and regulate hormones. (30) Like we noted above with clary sage, thyme is not the only potential estrogenic essential oil noted for its anticancer potential. It should be interesting to note that, because cancer frequently holds receptors for estrogen and can theoretically be “fed” by any compound that is estrogenic, people at risk of developing certain cancer lines are oftentimes advised to avoid estrogen.
With the potent anticancer properties that we have seen in just the few studies noted above, it is more than likely that we will soon discover that the so-called “cancer-causing” plants and foods people are avoiding actually hold the key that our bodies need to unlock the cancer-fighting potential we all contain!
Vitamin C may potentially be a cancer treatment according to research from the University of Salford in Manchester. Researchers found that Vitamin C is up to 10x more effective at stopping the growth of cancer cells than certain drugs.
Previous research has shown that Vitamin C can reduce mortality in breast cancer patients, but this latest piece of research provides evidence that indicates Vitamin C can target and kill cancer stem cells.
These are the cells believed to inhibit chemotherapy treatment, resulting in the recurrence of disease and metastasis. In this experiment, researchers measured the impact of several substances including Vitamin C for its effects on cancer stem cells. While a natural antibiotic and one experimental drug performed better than Vitamin C, the latter was found to be 10x more effective at stopping cell growth than when compared with another drug.
While research from the National Cancer Institute has shown that high doses of Vitamin C can be a treatment option for cancer since the 1970s, new lab research indicates that large amounts of this nutrient could potentially slow the growth of several types of cancer cells and this includes cancer of the colon, liver, pancreas and prostate.
This is exciting research as it means that Vitamin C can potentially provide a cheap, convenient and natural solution in the fight against cancer. Unfortunately, Vitamin C doesn’t receive a lot of funding into its cancer-killing potential and in the 1980s the Mayo Clinic found that there were actually no anti-cancer benefits. However, researchers argued that the tests were flawed as the Vitamin C was taken orally instead of intravenously where it’s more readily absorbed by the gut and excreted by the kidneys.
A more efficient way to take Vitamin C is in the form of Liposomal Vitamin C which is much more absorbable than tablets. Liposomes act as a vehicle to transport Vitamin C into the body more efficiently and in this way, virtually all of the vitamin gets into the bloodstream and any issues of bowel discomfort that may be associated with oral vitamin C tablets are completely avoided.
Eating a healthy diet is one strategy that is completely in our control and this includes eating healing foods, vegetable juices, taking probiotic foods, immune boosting supplements, relieving stress and practicing healing prayer. All of these can encourage you to feel empowered and hopeful in the process of battling a disease.
Studies have suggested that 30-40% of cancers can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle and taking the right dietary measures. Some sources claim that this number is much higher but it is believed that around 75% of cancer cases are lifestyle related.
Foods that are believed to increase inflammation and that of cancer risk include sugars, refined oils, refined carbohydrates, conventional dairy products and farm raised meats.
Foods that are known to lower inflammation include plenty of cancer-fighting foods with high levels of antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory phytonutrients. Put simply, this means avoiding foods with dangerous phthalates and concentrating on foods that do not contain any antibiotics, chemicals or toxins. Choosing to buy foods that are grass-fed, organic, pasture-raised along with being additive-free can lower the toxic load within your diet.
2010 findings from the EPIC (European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) found that dietary factors associated with high cancer risks showed there were significant associations between cancer risk a low intake of certain nutrients. Data from this investigation was published in The European Journal of Cancer and also showed an inverse association between a high intake of Vitamin C, a-tocopherol, carotenoids, retinol and fiber with overall cancer risk.
Research into over 519, 978 participants in 10 European nations has also shown that those following a lifestyle similar to the Mediterranean diet were more likely to be protected. It was also shown that eating plenty of cancer fighting foods such as vegetables, fresh fruits, fish, calcium rich food and those high in fiber were also associated with a decreased risk of colorectal, lung and breast cancers. Eating red and processed meat, alcohol and having an unhealthy BMI meanwhile were all associated with an increased risk.
Here are 10 of the best cancer fighting foods to consider…
Cruciferous vegetables. Known to be a powerful cancer killer and high in Vitamin C, many of these foods have high free-radical scavenging abilities. Along with being a nutrient rich source of phytochemicals called isothiocyanates linked with cancer prevention, cruciferous vegetables also contain sulforaphanes and indoles, two kinds of antioxidants that can stimulate the detoxifying enzymes protecting the DNA structure. Eating plenty of cruciferous vegetables is a good way to lower your cancer risk.
Dark berries. The ORAC score for dark berries is high, meaning they are a high antioxidant food and this includes blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries, goji berries and strawberries. Berries are rich in proanthocyanidin antioxidants and have also been observed to have anti-aging properties that several studies have shown are capable of lowering free radical damage. The high amounts of phenols, lutein, lycopene, cryptoxanthin, polysaccharides and zeaxanthin have many other benefits of eating berries.
Leafy green vegetables. Kale, Collard Greens, Spinach, Romaine, Arugula Salad and Watercress are rich in antioxidants that can help to combat cancer along with providing plenty of Beta-Carotene (a kind of Vitamin A) and Vitamin C. There are natural sources of glucosinolates as they also contain antibacterial and antiviral properties that can inactivate carcinogens while reprogramming the cancer cells to die off and preventing the formation of tumors and metastasis. These are powerful chemicals that can help to break down the chewing and digestive process into biologically active compounds that can prevent cancer cells from growing and these are referred to as indoles, thiocyanates and isothiocyanates. The Isothiocyanates (ITCs) that are found in leafy greens have been reported to help detox the body at a cellular level.
Brightly orange colored fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids such as alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein and cryptoxanthin are all derivatives of Vitamin A and this is found in citrus fruits, berries, sweet potatoes, pumpkin and squashes. An essential nutrient, this can support immune function and this includes detoxification, liver health and fighting cancers of the eyes, skin and organs. Two nutrients in particular can give these foods a signature dark hue and this include lutein and zeaxanthin that can help to prevent eye and skin related disorders. These act as antioxidants that can filter any harmful high-energy blue wavelengths, while protecting the healthy cells in the process. Carbohydrate rich vegetables have shown in studies that as complex carbs, this includes carrots, beets, sweet potatoes, tubers and other whole grain foods. This is related to a reduced risk of several types of cancer especially in the upper digestive tract. This is most likely because fiber plays an important role, although this is still open to being discussed. High glycemic load foods are also associated with an increased risk of different types of cancer and this includes breast and colorectal cancer.
Wild Caught Fish. Higher fish consumption has been seen as an indicator of improved immune function. The 2004 study conducted by the Richerche Institute of Pharmacology also investigated the cancer-fighting effects of following the Mediterranean diet and that people who were reported as eating less fish and frequently eating red meat were shown to have several common neoplasms in their blood, therefore suggesting higher susceptibility. Fish such as mackerel, salmon and sardines contain inflammatory omega-3 foods that have been associated with improved brain, healthy hormones and nervous system health. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory effects and recent studies have connected this with preventing cancer.
Fresh Herbs and Spices. Turmeric in particular has been shown to contain curcumin, an active ingredient that can decrease tumor size and fight breast and colon cancer according to various studies. Absorption of turmeric has been shown to enhance and fight inflammation. Herbs such as oregano, basil, thyme, raw garlic, ginger, parsley and cayenne pepper can all act as immune system boosters and are ideal when added to recipes such as smoothies, dressings and juices.
Nuts and Seeds. Hemp seeds, walnuts, almonds, brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, are full of healthy fatty acids. Chia seeds and flaxseeds are nutrient-dense and a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and various important minerals.
Healthy Unrefined Oils such as Coconut Oil, Cod Oil, Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Flax Oil can help to nourish the gut while promoting better immune function that also helps with weight maintenance, and essential Omega-3 fatty acids that can help to energize cells. The brain and nervous system controls the function of the body and 60% of the nervous system which is made up of fatty acids.
Cultured Dairy Products. Considered to be a rich source of “good bacteria” probiotics, microorganisms can promote a natural bacterial balance within the body while increasing immunity. As 80% of the immune system is housed within the gut, it’s therefore unsurprising that probiotic foods can help to prevent tumor growth and help with cell renewal. Probiotics such as raw milk products like cheese, kefir, yogurt are recommended. It’s important to avoid dairy foods as they are loaded with hormones, antibiotics and painkillers that can create pesticide residue. For this reason, buying organic produce is highly recommended. Taking probiotic yogurts or increasing foods such as cultured vegetables, kimchi, coconut kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut or natto are all good ways to increase probiotic food intake.
Mushrooms can vary in their nutritional benefits and species but they are known to be immune enhancers and these have been used for centuries to fight cancer. Mushrooms such as Reishi, maitake and cordyceps can improve the immune system’s functioning and promote cell regeneration. Taking a capsule or tincture form or even cooking with mushrooms, preferably whole, is the ideal recommendation
Everyone knows the advantages of staying active, but new research is providing further evidence for how its scope of benefits can be expanded. A comprehensive new study reported in The New York Times found that in addition to its known benefits, exercise also has the potential to significantly reduce any risk of developing 13 types of cancer. The study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine involved scientists within the Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics at the National Cancer Institute, along with Harvard Medical School and a number of institutions worldwide that have a large amount of epidemiological health studies conducted throughout the United States or Europe.
Each of these institutions looked at 12 large scale studies and this involved around 1.44 million participants. The researchers examined the type of exercise, along with how often and how vigorously it was performed. They also looked at the study’s start, on whether and when the participant had been diagnosed with cancer. After using the elaborate statistical methods, they found that the role of exercise in particular along with brisk walking, jogging or other forms of vigorous activity could also play an important role in people’s risk of cancer.
What the researchers found is that those who exercised moderately even if this wasn’t done regularly, became significantly less likely to be at risk of developing 13 types of cancer, as compared to those who didn’t partake in exercise. There was found to be a decreased association with breast, colon and lung cancers, along with reduced risk of tumors in other areas such as the blood, bladder, bone marrow, endometrium, esophagus, kidney, stomach, head, neck and rectum. The researchers discovered that the more exercise that was involved, the more the risk of getting cancer was reduced, from the top 10% to the bottom 10% of exercisers – showing a risk reduction of about 20%. This is further supported by a researcher from the National Cancer Institute along with a study leader who found that factors playing a significant role in the risk of cancer included digestion, energy balance, hormone levels and inflammation.
Physical activity is vital to improving health and well being in the long term and keeping your body in an alkaline state. When accompanied by a healthy diet consisting of whole living foods on a daily basis, this is when the real change can begin and lasting positive changes start to become evident. It doesn’t have to be strenuous either – walking every day, cycling a couple of times a week, choosing to take the stairs instead of the elevator – all of these activities can have a beneficial impact on our physical health. The key is to get started and to get moving daily.
Ashwagandha is a powerful herb primarily used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote general wellness and general health. It has many amazing properties that can promote strength and good health and its name even means ‘smell of a horse’ in Sanskrit. This refers to the strength and stamina of those who take this medicine.
This is because Ashwagandha is an adaptogen and they enable the body to better handle stress, which is why they are often given to people who are feeling weak and run down as it can give them an extra energy boost.
Ashwagandha is similar to Indian Ginseng in its properties although perhaps not as potent, it can have relatively calming properties and this is why it’s often suggested for people who are suffering with anxiety or insomnia. It is a very powerful herb for promoting clarity, clear thinking and concentration so is ideal if anyone wants to reduce their stress levels and improve their learning and memory capabilities.
Ashwaganda Health Benefits
Eases Anxiety and Stress. Studies have indicated that Ashwagandha has anti-stress properties and could help with easing any feelings of anxiety. It does this by reducing the concentrated levels of cortisol and providing an immunosuppressive effect on stress.
Promotes Fertility. Ashwagandha can address many fertility issues and improve reproductive abilities. For women it can ease any painful symptoms of menstruation and can stimulate a low libido when it’s combined with Shatavari, another Ayurvedic herb. Ashwagandha can also strengthen the uterus in women who have suffered with miscarriages, although it’s not suggested for pregnancy. For men, it can address impotence, problems with premature ejaculation, while improving the quality and quantity of sperm. All of this means it’s an excellent herb for anyone who is looking to improve their fertility and start their own family.
Anti-Cancer. Certain lab tests have shown that Ashwagandha could slow down the growth of cancer cells, while animal studies have shown that Ashwagandha could boost the effects of radiation therapy. These are early results however and more research may be required to determine its wide range of benefits. Although several studies are indicating that Ashwagandha can make chemotherapy and radiation therapies more effective.
Supports a Low Thyroid or Adrenal Burnout. Ashwagandha is a chemical complex that is full of vitamins, minerals and alkaloids along with phytochemicals that can act as hormonal precursors within the body. This makes Ashwagandha beneficial for anyone who is currently undergoing a lot of stress or who wishes to ease the effects and lower their cortisol levels. Eventually this can ease any stressful effects and lower cortisol and this can help to bring the cortisol levels back into balance. This is one of the reasons why Ashwagandha is often used in herbal adrenal formulas for maximum effectiveness.
Ashwagandha is a powerful herb primarily used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote general wellness and general health. It has many amazing properties that can promote strength and good health and its name even means ‘smell of a horse’ in Sanskrit. This refers to the strength and stamina of those who take this medicine.
This is because Ashwagandha is an adaptogen and they enable the body to better handle stress, which is why they are often given to people who are feeling weak and run down as it can give them an extra energy boost.
Ashwagandha is similar to Indian Ginseng in its properties although perhaps not as potent, it can have relatively calming properties and this is why it’s often suggested for people who are suffering with anxiety or insomnia. It is a very powerful herb for promoting clarity, clear thinking and concentration so is ideal if anyone wants to reduce their stress levels and improve their learning and memory capabilities.
Ashwagandha Health Benefits
Eases Anxiety and Stress. Studies have indicated that Ashwagandha has anti-stress properties and could help with easing any feelings of anxiety. It does this by reducing the concentrated levels of cortisol and providing an immunosuppressive effect on stress.
Promotes Fertility. Ashwagandha can address many fertility issues and improve reproductive abilities. For women it can ease any painful symptoms of menstruation and can stimulate a low libido when it’s combined with Shatavari, another Ayurvedic herb. Ashwagandha can also strengthen the uterus in women who have suffered with miscarriages, although it’s not suggested for pregnancy. For men, it can address impotence, problems with premature ejaculation, while improving the quality and quantity of sperm. All of this means it’s an excellent herb for anyone who is looking to improve their fertility and start their own family.
Anti-Cancer. Certain lab tests have shown that Ashwagandha could slow down the growth of cancer cells, while animal studies have shown that Ashwagandha could boost the effects of radiation therapy. These are early results however and more research may be required to determine its wide range of benefits. Although several studies are indicating that Ashwagandha can make chemotherapy and radiation therapies more effective.
The extract has been shown to help inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells – specifically breast, lung, stomach, and colon cancer cells which are among some of the leading types of cancers in the world. It’s believed that ashwagandha helps to prevent the growth of cancer cells mostly due to its immune boosting and antioxidant abilities. Supplementing with ashwagandha is correlated with an increase in white blood cells within the body, which indicate that the immune system is better able to protect the body from disease and harmful invaders Another way that ashwagnadha helps prevent cancer is due to its ability to stop blood vessels around cancer cells from feeding into the growth of cancerous tumors.
In addition to preventing cancer cells from growing, studies have shown that ashwagandha can be a very useful addition to chemotherapy in treating existing cancer. Taking the extract seems to be effective in halting the immune system from becoming suppressed during chemotherapy.
Ashawagandha is able to counteract one of the biggest concerns with chemotherapy- the count of white blood cells in the body becoming lowered, which puts cancer patients as much higher risk for things like infection. Many cancer experts are now recommending ashwagandha extract be both a cancer prevention method as well as an addition to typical cancer treatments. In fact some studies have shown that some patients are even able to reverse signs of cancer using ashwagandha alone over other standard treatment methods
Supports a Low Thyroid or Adrenal Burnout. Ashwagandha is a chemical complex that is full of vitamins, minerals and alkaloids along with phytochemicals that can act as hormonal precursors within the body. This makes Ashwagandha beneficial for anyone who is currently undergoing a lot of stress or who wishes to ease the effects and lower their cortisol levels. Eventually this can ease any stressful effects and lower cortisol and this can help to bring the cortisol levels back into balance. This is one of the reasons why Ashwagandha is often used in herbal adrenal formulas for maximum effectiveness.
Animal studies reveal ashwagandha has a thyroid hormone balancing effect. In a 20 days study mice were give ashwagandha and their T3 and T4 levels were analyzed along with lipid peroxidation (anti-oxidant protection). Significant increases in serum T4 were found which indicates this herb has a stimulatory effect on a sluggish thyroid.
Also, ashwagandha may benefit thyroid function because it greatly reduced lipid peroxidation by promoting scavenging of free radicals that cause cellular damage. These results prove ashwagandha can be useful in treating hypothyroidism.
There are currently millions of people who struggle with thyroid problems (many who don’t even know it) and ashwagandha may just be the solution they are searching for.
Ashwagandha Adrenal Rejuvenation
Ashwagandha has also been proven effective in supporting adrenal function helping you overcome adrenal fatigue and chronic stress.
Your adrenal glands are endocrine glands that are responsible for releasing hormones (cortisol and adrenaline) in response to stress on your body.
If your adrenals are overtaxed due to an overabundance of emotional, physical and mental stress, it can lead to a condition known as adrenal fatigue. As you can see from this chart below, if your adrenals become exhausted it can also disrupt your other hormones, including progesterone, which can cause infertility and lower DHEA — which can cause you to age faster.
Medical studies have shown that ashwagandha improves cortisol levels, improves insulin sensitivity and naturally balances hormones. A case study reported a case of a 57-year-old woman with non-classical adrenal hyperplasia. She was treated with ashwagandha for six months, and after her treatment she saw improvements in four adrenal hormone markers, including corticoosterone and 11-deoxycortisol, which decreased by 69 percent and 55 percent respectively — a major improvement!
This hormonal improvement was also accompanied by a noticeable reduction in hair loss
Benefits Brain Health
Emotional, physical, and chemical stress can all have damaging effects to the brain and nervous system. Recent research has proven ashwagandha is more than a stress reliever, it also protects the brain from degeneration and improves symptoms of Alzheimer’s, depression, and anxiety.
One of the main reasons ashwagandha is so effective at healing the brain has to do with its powerful antioxidants that destroy free radicals that cause aging. A study published in Phytotherapy Research explains these benefits:
“Several studies have revealed that natural antioxidants, such as vitamin E, vitamin C and beta-carotene, may help in scavenging free radicals generated during the initiation and progression of this [Alzheimer’s] disease. But we found Ashwagandha afforded lipid peroxidation inhibitory effects more potent than commercial antioxidants.”
Researchers at the National Brain Research Centre found that mice with Alzheimer’s were unable to retain what they learned, but after 20 days of supplementing with ashwagandha, this improved significantly. The results of the study found a reduction in amyloid plaques (these cause degradation of the brain).
Improves Mood
There is also now evidence that ashwagandha is effective at treating both anxiety and depression. In fact, in a recent study its results were comparable to common pharmaceutical drugs lorazepam and imipramine without the side effects.
In the 12-week controlled study, 87 participants with anxiety were given 300mg of ashwagandha two times a day or two placebo pills two times per day. The group treated with ashwagandha resulted in much greater improvements in anxiety as well as focus, reduced stress, and decreased fatigue than the placebo group.
The other major benefit of ashwagandha is that there are no adverse reactions by taking it compared to anti-depressant and anti-anxiety medications which can have terrible side effects.
Increases Stamina and Endurance
Studies have shown that ashwagandha can boost endurance during physical activity by sharpening brain function and reducing bodily pain. Due to its positive calming, yet energizing, effects on the brain and ability to lower stress hormones, ashwagandha showed improvements in concentration, motivation, and stamina in conducted studies.
One particular study found that when lab rats were given ashwagandha, they actually were able to swim twice as long compared to the same type of rats that were not given the supplements. Researchers believe that similar effects take place in humans due to the extract’s ability to balance adrenal hormones that are involved in physical activity. The extract was also shown to reduce bodily pain in the muscles and joints while at the same time keeping energy levels more steady, which is another reason why it could be a promising supplement for athletes, or for those who find it difficult to be physically active due to pain.
Is Ashwagandha safe to take?
Yes, everyone from children to the elderly can take Ashwagandha to receive its benefits. While there is no standard dose to take, it’s suggested that 1-6 grams of the herb taken daily is recommended for best results.
Is Ashwagandha safe to take?
Yes, everyone from children to the elderly can take Ashwagandha to receive its benefits. While there is no standard dose to take, it’s suggested that 1-6 grams of the herb taken daily is recommended for best results.
Up until recently, the true significance of vitamin D has been relatively uncovered. Traditionally, because it is well known for assimilating calcium from the foods that we eat, vitamin D is usually associated with being essential for bone health. Today, however, researchers are discovering that it can help protect against a host of other, more serious health problems such as: type 1 and type 2 diabetes, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and even multiple sclerosis!
Common Causes of Vitamin D Deficiency
Relatively unheard of 100 years ago when people regularly spent time outdoors (regardless of the temperature or weather conditions!) vitamin D deficiency is quickly becoming an epidemic.
According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), hypovitaminosisD (low vitamin D levels) is usually a result of:
Lack of sunlightexposure– Your body makes vitamin D when your skin is exposed to direct sunlight.
Lack of dietary vitamin D – Mostly affecting vegans, vitamin D is naturally rich in foods like grass-fed dairy and beef as well as wild caught fish.
Kidney diseases – Your kidneys convert 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25-OHD) to its “active form” in the kidneys, which basically means that it can be used by the body for certain functions like absorbing calcium in the GI tract.
Poor food absorption – GI disorders like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis and others can prevent proper vitamin D assimilation.
Use of certain medicines – Phenytoin, phenobarbital, rifampin and other barbiturates are the main culprits of stealing your body’s ability to convert 25-OHD to active vitamin D.
Also, because of the high content of melanin in their skin, hypovitaminosis D is also commonly seen in African-American children (especially during the the winter).
Common Signs of Vitamin D Deficiency
Many people with hypovitaminosis D experience bone and joint pain in addition to muscle weakness, yet the symptoms can be very subtle. Nonetheless, low levels have been associated with a wide range of health conditions including:
Cancer
Chronic fatigue
Cognitive impairment
Hair loss
Hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels)
Hypophosphatemia (low blood phosphate levels)
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Rickets (bone softening in children)
Osteomalacia (bone softening in adults)
Severe asthma
Weight gain
Additionally, “sub clinical” vitamin D deficiency, defined as a lower-than-normal vitamin D levels without visible signs or symptoms, is also relatively common.
Medical Research
To say that vitamin D has been “thoroughly evaluated” is an understatement. More than 60,000 studies have referenced this critical nutrient in scientific journals! When I was reviewing the literature, I found that the most recent research focused on the following key health concerns:
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) – Being the #1 cause of death world wide, it may seem unbelievable that regular sun exposure can help prevent a heart attack, but it can! Low vitamin D has been associated with CVD because of its effects on oxidative stress, lipid metabolism and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Moreover, an interesting study published this past year in the highly regarded journal Circulation, highlighted vitamin D’s anti-inflammatory and vascular regenerative properties. Truth is, science is just literally tapping into this vitamin’s heart healing power. Only time will tell how far-reaching it really is!
Pain and Quality of Life – Oftentimes going hand-in-hand, enjoying a high level of quality of life while suffering from a pain condition is extremely challenging. Thankfully, it looks like vitamin D can help. Rheumatology International just published a study confirming that hypovitaminosis D is directly related to higher pain intensity, which can lead to lower quality of life scores in patients with chronic widespread pain. On the flip side, normal or elevated vitamin D levels can help mitigate pain, which will enhance quality of life!
Prostate Cancer – According to an article published this past August in the journal, Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention, “Plasma 25-OHD levels were associated with a linear decrease in prostate cancer risk for high-grade cancers in African American men.” In other words, as vitamin D levels went up, the risk for prostate cancer went down and vice versa.
In an effort to dig a little deeper, researchers from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, set out to determine exactly which type of prostate cancer is affected by low vitamin D levels, and uncovered that Gleason 8-10 prostate cancers responded most dramatically. The Gleason System is the most common prostate grading system used today, and the fact that these types of cells are susceptible should encourage most men because Gleason 8-10 are the “poorly differentiated” or “undifferentiated” cells that generally require more intensive treatments. In other words, these are the deadly cancers.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) – Low vitamin D levels has long been seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, so it shouldn’t surprise us to learn that kids with JIA are affected as well. A team of Italian researchers recently evaluated 152 patients with JIA and discovered that these children had “significantly reduced” 25-OHD levels compared to the control group. In addition, those patients with “active” juvenile idiopathic arthritis (and/or frequent relapses) were measured with the lowest levels compared to the children with no active JIA or infrequent flare-ups. This last point is critical because it suggests that regular vitamin D supplementation and sunbathing can, at the very least, make rheumatoid arthritis less debilitating for people.
Vitamin D Recommendations
It is well-known that vitamin D supplementation can help prevent osteoporosis, rickets, osteomalacia, cardiovascular disease and various myopathies. The National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF) currently recommends that:
Adults 50 years or older should supplement with 400-800 IU of vitamin D.
Adults 50 years or younger should supplement with 800-1000 IU of vitamin D.
For patients taking chronic steroids, the American College of Rheumatology recommends 400 to 800 IU of vitamin D to prevent osteoporosis.
Increase Your Vitamin D Intake Naturally
It seems that the NOF’s recommendations are actually quite low. Studies have shown that the best ways to naturally optimize vitamin D levels are to get significantly more IU’s:
The most effective and natural way to do this is to simply get sun exposure everyday. This is best done:
Between 10 am and 2 pm,
for 20 – 30 minutes.
while enjoying the sun with 40% of your entire body exposed to the sun.
During those cold, dark winters, you can also boost your vitamin D by taking an oral supplement containing around 8,000 IU’s of D3 every day. Because they are fat-soluble, make sure that you take them with some healthy “fatty” foods containing coconut oil or some probiotic-rich drink like kefir.
Sources:
Schwartz GG, et al. Vitamin d in blood and risk of prostate cancer: lessons from the selenium and vitamin e cancer prevention trial and the prostate cancer prevention trial. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2014 Aug;23(8):1447-9. doi
Stagi S, et al. Determinants of Vitamin D Levels in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis. J Rheumatol. 2014 Aug 1.
Schenk JM, et al. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin d concentrations and risk of prostate cancer: results from the prostate cancer prevention trial. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2014 Aug;23(8):1484-93.
Kuru P, et al. Hypovitaminosis D in widespread pain: its effect on pain perception, quality of life and nerve conduction studies. Rheumatol Int. 2014 Aug 2. [Epub ahead of print].
Wong MS, et al. Vitamin D Promotes Vascular Regeneration. 2014 Jul 11. pii: CIRCULATIONAHA.114.010650. [Epub ahead of print].
The latest superfood on the block is cactus [Photo: Rex Features]
Move over kale there’s a new superfood on the health block and it’s every bit as good for you. While you might think twice about plucking a prickly cactus leaf from the manky old plant languishing on your bathroom shelf, restaurants nationwide are serving up cactus leaves, stems and fruit in everything from salads, smoothies and even sandwiches (egg and cactus sarnie anyone?) And forget coconut water, for the health set it’s all about cactus juice these days.
So why exactly is a prickly plant fast becoming the go-to superfood of choice for healthistas?
It reduces blood sugar
We know the sugar drill, high blood sugar can lead to diabetes, heart disease and even strokes, according to the National Institutes of Health. But did you realize that cactus leaves can have a positive effect on blood sugar levels? Researchers at the University of Vienna tested nopal cactus leaf on 24 non-obese subjects who were suffering from high cholesterol. The results of the eight-week study, not only showed a reduction in cholesterol, but an 11 percent reduction in blood sugar levels which is attributed to the high fiber and pectin content in cacti.
Cactus smoothie anyone? [Photo: Rex Features]
It helps lower cholesterol
Nopal cactus, AKA prickly pear cactus has been linked to reducing cholesterol levels in the body. A 2007 French study tested the impact of cactus leaf on 68 patients suffering from metabolic syndrome. After four weeks, “bad cholesterol” and triglyceride levels decreased, while “good cholesterol” increased. Researchers concluded that cactus leaf helps decrease cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.
It can help with weight loss
If you’re struggling to shift a few excess pounds, cactus extract supplements could help with weight loss by acting as a diuretic. A 2010 study found that cactus extract reduced weight gain in rats by almost 20 percent. The rats were divided into three groups: one group was administered the cactus extract at a dose of 240 milligrams (mg) a day for seven days, the second group was given the pharmaceutical diuretic hydrochlorothiazide at a dose of 10 mg a day, and the third group acted as the control. The research concluded that the cactus extract did not deplete the body’s minerals and exerted an antioxidant effect.
health benefits of cactus [Photo: Rex Features]
Reduce Inflammation
Cactus contains a range of nutrients and antioxidants, including vitamins C, E, A, iron, calcium, and carotenoids, which help reduce inflammation in the body. Plus, cacti contain a lot of water, which makes them hydrating. At just 14 calories per cacti cup, they’re super low calorie too.
It fights cancer cells
Cactus leaf contains phenolics and flavonoids, plant compounds that credited for its antioxidant properties. The National Cancer Institute believes that antioxidants protect healthy cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are byproducts of oxidation. Free radical damage can lead to illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and cancer. A 2009 issue of “Plant Foods for Human Nutrition” concludes that when tested against colon, liver, breast and prostate cancer, cactus pear’s phytochemical compounds helped prevent the growth of cells in all four cancers without affecting healthy cells. Pretty amazing huh?
Marie Claire Dorking
How To Use Cactus Pear In A Green Smoothie
Both the cactus pear fruit and the cactus “leaves” or nopals can be used in green smoothies. The fruit is delicious and accents many other tropical flavors. The green nopal leaves can take the place of leafy greens by providing a fresh green flavor and minerals.
Two things you need to watch out for are spines and seeds. Cactus pears have seeds that do not pulverize in a blender – not even a high-powered Vitamix. Instead, you’ll end up with jagged bits of broken seed that could get caught in your throat or irritate your digestive tract. While it can be a pain, it’s best to remove the seeds prior to blending.
A trick for removing the seeds of cactus pear is to cut the fruit in half and scoop the seeds into a strainer. With a spoon, mash the seedy fruit pulp into the strainer held over a bowl. The juice will drain through the mesh of the strainer, and the fruit will be easier to separate from the seeds. I recommend using a metal bowl under the strainer to catch the fruit juice as it will stain plastic (clothing and skin, too).
As for the spines, be sure to check cactus fruit over carefully to be sure all of the spines have been removed. I recommend pealing the fruit before eating, that way you get even the tiny, hard to see spines close to the skin.
When selecting a ripe cactus pear look for one with a rich red color. It should also be slightly soft to the touch. Watch out for tiny spines that may not have been removed!
The cactus pear is a summer fruit, and is harvested from June to September. The cactus pear is a sweet fruit with a flavor reminiscent of watermelon and kiwifruit.
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