Truth Korner: breast cancer

Showing posts with label breast cancer. Show all posts

Monday, September 11, 2017

Aluminum salts in deodorants caused CANCER, and Switzerland may be the first nation in the world to BAN them

Switzerland is slated to become the first country to ban deodorants that contain aluminum salts. This, following results of a 2016 study indicating that the toxic chemicals may play a role in breast cancer onset. The country’s National Councilvoted 126 to 58 in favor of approving a bill instructing the Federal Council to consider banning aluminum salts from being used in antiperspirant. The measure also urges that Federal Council to commission research that would prove a causal relationship between deodorant use and increased breast cancer risk.

Aluminum salts are the active ingredients used in the manufacturing of many antiperspirant and deodorant products in the market, which help prevent excessive sweating and stave off body odor. The toxic chemical works by dissolving in sweat and blocking the sweat gland. In turn, the chemical lessens the amount of moisture present in the skin. However, such an effect was also found to promote a build up in breast tissue. Most antiperspirant and deodorant products contain this cancer-causing chemical, researchers noted.

Breast cancer remains to be the most prevalent type of cancer among women worldwide, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported. According to WHO’s 2013 Global Health Estimates, more than 508,000 women all over the world died of breast cancer in 2011 alone. The organization also noted that while breast cancer was previously thought to be more prevalent in developed countries, nearly half of breast cancer cases and 58 percent of deaths occurred in less developed nations.

Details of the deodorant-breast cancer study

A study published in the International Journal of Cancer in September last year served as a primary catalyst for Switzerland’s latest move to ban the use of aluminum salts in deodorant production. As part of the study, a team of researchers from the University of Geneva examined the effects of the toxic chemicals on mice. The research team found that prolonged exposure to the hazardous chemical was associated with tumor growth in the animals’ breast tissue. This could also trigger cancer to metastasize to other parts of the body, the research team cautioned. A researcher warned that people, especially women, should avoid using products that contained aluminum salts. Likewise, he urged that the chemical be prohibited in the same manner as asbestos. (Related: Learn more about the different toxic chemicals found in personal care products at Toxins.news)

“I think we should avoid all deodorants containing aluminium salt. And it’s very difficult to be sure that the so-called ‘without aluminium’ brands really are without…Asbestos is cheap, has very attractive industrial potential, and it took 50 years to ban it. We hope it doesn’t take so long to ban aluminium salts,” study co-author André-Pascal Sappino was quoted in saying in TheLocal.ch.

However, an outside expert refuted the study’s claim, and pointed out a significant pitfall of the research: It being conducted in animal models. The expert also noted that the findings should not affect the use of deodorants and antiperspirants among women.

“This study looks specifically at mouse cells grown in the lab and in mice and we need to put its findings in the context of previous research looking at human breast cancer. Studies investigating antiperspirant or deodorant use in women have consistently shown no good evidence of a link to breast cancer. With the current evidence, there is no reason for women to be concerned about using them on account of their breast cancer risk. There are, however, established ways that all women can help reduce their risk of the disease, including cutting down on alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular exercise,” Breast Cancer Now chief executive Baroness Delyth Morgan said in HuffingtonPost.co.uk.

Sources include:

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Exposure to outdoor light at night can increase breast cancer risk, claim researchers

Women who reside in areas with plenty of outdoor lighting at night may want to reconsider their living situation. The researchers behind a recent Harvard study uncovered a link between higher levels of nighttime outdoor lighting and increased risk of breast cancer, reported the DailyMail.co.uk.

“In our modern industrialized society, artificial lighting is nearly ubiquitous. Our results suggest that this widespread exposure to outdoor lights during nighttime hours could represent a novel risk factor for breast cancer,” said Peter James, lead author and assistant professor at Harvard Medical School’s Department of Population Medicine at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute.

For the purposes of their study, the researchers examined data from almost 110,000 women who were enrolled in the Nurses’ Health Study II between the years 1989 and 2013. They then linked satellite images of the Earth at night to the residential addresses of each participant. The researchers made sure to take into consideration factors such as the socioeconomic standing and health of the participants, as well as night-shift work.

The results, which have been published on Environmental Health Perspectives, revealed that women who were exposed to the highest levels of outdoor light at night had a 14 percent greater risk of developing the disease when compared to women who had the lowest levels of outdoor light. Moreover, the likelihood of breast cancer was stronger among women who worked the night shift. This suggests that night-shift work and outdoor light nighttime exposure contributed jointly to the risk.

However, the association was only present among pre-menopausal women and women who were current or past smokers. The exact mechanisms behind this are still unknown, and the researchers acknowledged that further work is required.

The proposed explanation behind this lay in the production of melatonin. This hormone helps control sleep and wake cycles, and is influenced by the body’s internal clock or circadian rhythm. Light can affect melatonin production: Light at night can decrease melatonin levels, while darkness boosts it. Even artificial light can cause melatonin levels to dip. Age is another factor that affects the production of this vital hormone. In the study, the researchers noted that lower melatonin levels have been found to heighten the chances of breast cancer. (Related: Melatonin could help prevent growth of breast cancer tumors.)

Boosting melatonin production the natural way

Fortunately, there are simple and natural means of increasing melatonin levels that anyone can do. These include:

Turning off all LED lights – LED lights give off a moderate amount of blue light, which have been shown to block melatonin levels. Cellphones, televisions, and laptop screens all produce blue light, so place these away from your bed to decrease your exposure to blue light. If that isn’t possible, then cover these up.
Eat more melatonin-rich or melatonin-promoting foods – Certain foods can positively impact melatonin production, like pineapples, bananas, oranges, sweet corn, barley, and mangosteen. Tart cherries have a notable amount of melatonin in them, as does tart cherry juice.
Limit caffeine and alcohol intake – While caffeine is a stimulant, alcohol is a suppressant. Both of these beverages can reduce melatonin levels and should be consumed in limited amounts.

Go to Healing.news for more stories.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk
EHP.NIEGS.NIH.gov
NaturalLivingIdeas.com

Monday, June 19, 2017

Powerful anti-cancer compound in red onions found to “destroy” cancer tumors

A study published in Food Research International revealed that red onions contain powerful antioxidants that effectively kill cancer cells. As part of the study, a team of researchers at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, examined five varieties of onions and tested their anti-cancer compounds against lab-grown colon cancer cells. The health experts found that red onions effectively eliminated colon cancer cells. The team also noted that the “Ruby Ring” was the most potent onion variety to kill the malignant cells.

According to the research team, red onions contained significantly high concentrations of the flavonoid quercetin. The experts also noted that red onions were rich in anthocyanin, a compound that fortified quercetin’s scavenging properties. The study also revealed that red onions were equally potent in eliminating breast cancer cells.

“Anthocyanin is instrumental in providing colour to fruits and vegetables so it makes sense that the red onions, which are darkest in colour, would have the most cancer-fighting power. We found onions are excellent at killing cancer cells. Onions activate pathways that encourage cancer cells to undergo cell death. They promote an unfavourable environment for cancer cells and they disrupt communication between cancer cells, which inhibits growth. The next step will be to test the vegetable’s cancer-fighting powers in human trials,” lead author Abdulmonem Murayyan said in ScienceDaily.com.

However, outside expert Dr. Justine Alford was wary of the results. Dr. Alford currently serves as senior science information officer for Cancer Research U.K.

“The researchers found that extracts from certain types of onions could kill bowel cancer cells in a lab, but that doesn’t mean the same would happen in a person’s body which is much more complex. If scientists can tease out which molecules in onions have these apparently beneficial effects, then perhaps they could be investigated as a potential drug in the future,” Dr. Alford told DailyMail.co.uk.

Cornell study demonstrates onion’s anti-cancer properties

The recent findings were reflective of a 2004 study carried out by researchers at the Cornell University. As part of the study, the research team took extracts from 10 onion varieties and shallots and used them against colon cancer cells. The scientists found that the pungent yellow and Western Yellow onion varieties provided the strongest protection against colon cancer cell proliferation. The study also revealed that shallots, the pungent yellow, and Western Yellow onion varieties also offered the greatest protection versus liver cancer cell proliferation.

According to researchers, onions and shallots are excellent sources of phytochemicals called phenolics and flavonoids. The phytochemicals stave off cancer onset by eliminating free radicals and inhibiting the production of reactive compounds that may damage otherwise normal cells. In addition, the research team noted that onions and shallots contain varying levels of these phytochemicals. (Related: Follow more news on anti-cancer compounds at Anticancer.news.)

According to the team, shallots had six times higher phenolic content compared Vidalia onions. On the other hand, Western Yellow onions contain 11 times more flavonoids than Western White varieties.

“Our study of 10 onion varieties and shallots clearly shows that onions and shallots have potent antioxidant and antiproliferation activities and that the more total phenolic and flavonoid content an onion has, the stronger its antioxidant activity and protective effect,” lead author Dr. Rui Hai Liu told the Cornell Chronicle.

The findings were published in Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Sources include:

Sunday, June 11, 2017

CONFIRMED: Exposure to aldehyde chemicals found to trigger the degradation of BRCA2 breast cancer genes in women

Aldehydes, a common class of everyday chemicals, have been found to increase cancer risk by interfering with the body’s natural DNA repair mechanism, a new study reported. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Cambridge, looked into the effects that aldehydes can have on human health.

Aldehydes are made in our body in tiny amounts and can be found everywhere in the environment. Though our body usually eliminates these compounds without experiencing any issues, today we are increasingly exposed to these toxins and our body can no longer cope with the excess.

These chemicals are all over the place. Aldehydes are found in car exhausts, cigarettes, cosmetics, foods, alcoholic beverages, clothing, and furniture. Therefore, it is hard to say how much of these toxins are entering our body on a daily basis.

Aldehydes might trigger cancer in people with a faulty copy of the BRCA2 gene

Though aldehyde exposure impedes DNA repair in all cells, even the healthy ones, people who have inherited a faulty copy of the BRCA2 gene are particularly sensitive to such damage.

To seek an answer to the question whether aldehyde exposure could promote cancer, Ashok Venkitaraman, PH.D., director of the Medical Research Council Cancer Unit at the University of Cambridge, and his team examined genetically engineered human cells and cells from women bearing a faulty copy of the breast cancer gene BRCA2, which produces a protein that repairs DNA damage.

Though it is not the first time aldehyde exposure has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, scientists now believe they have discovered why this class of chemicals may cause the disease. (RELATED: Stay informed about common cancer-causing toxins at CancerCauses.news.)

Damage to our DNA occurs on a regular basis when our cells divide. Under normal circumstances, our body has its own defense mechanism that helps to repair faults in the DNA. Aldehydes, however, obstruct this vital process.

The body has two copies of the BRCA2 gene. Some people, however, inherit a single faulty copy of the BRCA2 gene, making them more susceptible to cancer. Though the mechanism is not fully understood, the Cambridge scientists think they might have found the answer.

Since the cells of people with a faulty BRCA2 gene should still be able to repair DNA using the BRCA2 protein made from the remaining, intact copy of the gene, something else must be at play. According to Professor Ashok Venkitaraman and colleges, aldehydes may be the culprit.

Their data showed that aldehydes trigger the degradation of BRCA2 protein in cells. People who inherit a faulty copy of the BRCA2 gene already have very low levels of the DNA repair protein, which is then further depleted in the presence of aldehydes, pushing the levels well below the amount required for DNA repair.

With no system in place to correct the mistakes or mutations, cells may spin out of control which could promote cancer formation. An estimated one in 100 people carries a faulty BRCA2 gene. Regular exposure to aldehydes via shampoos, alcohol, and household products could put these people at a higher risk of developing breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancer, reported Science Daily.

Professor Venkitaraman noted that his team’s findings may help with the prevention or treatment of cancers in the future.

To protect your family from unnecessary aldehyde exposure there a few things you can do at home. Always opt for cosmetics and household products with organic ingredients. Furthermore, be mindful of the clothes, foods, drinks, furniture, and building materials you buy. They may also contain aldehydes. And as if you needed another reason to say no to vaccines, formaldehyde is no stranger to their ingredients list.

Stay informed about vaccine ingredients. Read the vaccine manufacturers’ product inserts at NaturalNewsReference.com.

Sources:

ScienceDaily.com

Cell.com

Saturday, May 20, 2017

Studies Confirm: Bee Propolis May Have Anti-Cancer Effects

Bee propolis is the gummy substances collected by bees from the buds and sap of conifer trees and plants. Propolis was used for centuries by the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans as a safe remedy for a variety of maladies. Now modern research has discovered amazing antioxidant properties within propolis, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. In particular, recent studies have narrowed their investigations to a particular compound found in bee propolis called CAPE and the effect it seems to have on cancer.

Ground-Breaking NYU Study: CAPE and Bee Propolis for Breast Cancer

CAPE stands for caffeic acid phenethyl ester. It is a powerful natural biological compound (polyphenol) found in a number of plants and is acquired from propolis in honeybee hives. Studies have concluded that CAPE has not only antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, but cytotoxic properties as well when it comes to breast cancer and other cancer cells.

Of special interest to those with breast cancer or those wanted to prevent it is the amazing results of an in vitro study on bee propolis, CAPE and breast cancer conducted at New York University (NYU) in 2014.

The study report, published in the journal Cancer Science and Therapy, stated that “CAPE affects genes associated with tumor cell growth and survival, angiogenesis and chemoresistance.”

According to the NYU researchers, CAPE’s effectiveness on breast cancer is caused in part by its role as a “histone deacetylase inhibitor.” Histone inhibitors are enzymes which assist in the modulation of tumor suppressor genes; they have the ability to block harmful gene expression and prevent uncontrolled cellular replication, which is a hallmark of cancer growth. In fact, during cancer, tumor suppressor genes are systematically turned off.

Some synthetically-produced pharmaceutical drugs defined as “histone deacetylase inhibitors” are currently being used in chemotherapy for certain kinds of cancer such as lymphoma, as well as for some neurodegenerative diseases. Excitingly, the NYU study also found that propolis as a whole enhanced the healing potential of CAPE, restoring the normal functioning of DNA and “turning back on” mechanisms which can fight cancer. According to the NYU scientists,

“CAPE and propolis are naturally occurring epigenetic therapeutic agents.”

The obvious upside to using CAPE in whole propolis form is that when administered in this way, CAPE can be absorbed into the body naturally, enhanced by the over 300 other phytonutrients within propolis. And, of course unlike pharmaceutical drugs, it comes with it absolutely no toxic side effects.

The 2014 study dovetailed from previous NYU studies in which bee propolis was found to interfere with breast cancer stem cell-mediation in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. These studies also found propolis to inhibit the production of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). VEGF is a protein which promotes the growth of new blood vessels. VEGF is vital for fetuses and young children, who need it for their rapid development. It is also essential for repair after an injury. When VEGF occurs in cancer cells, however, its mechanisms can greatly contribute to unbounded tumor growth and metastasis.

Finally, similar cancer-stopping results have been duplicated using CAPE on lung, pancreatic, skin, gastric and glioma (inoperable brain) tumor cells. A 2004 study on lung cancer cells conducted in Taiwan and published in the Journal of Radiation Research found that within two days of administering CAPE from propolis, 46% of lung cancer cells had been eliminated and cancer tumors had shrunk by 60%. After three days, 67% of the lung cancer cells had been destroyed. Another study published in the journal Anticancer Drugs found that CAPE induced apoptosis “programmed cell death” of colon cancer cells in a similar fashion.

The Many Benefits of Bee Propolis

In addition to its proven effects on cancer, bee propolis has also been shown to be a powerful anti-microbial, to help prevent dental cavities and to promote healing of infections, including ear and respiratory infections.

Why take a pharmaceutical pill when research continues to point towards natural substances such as bee propolis that will do the same thing and more without the harsh side effects? Based on solid science of the last decade, it seems that bee propolis is definitely one natural substance that would be good to add to your cancer-prevention and overall natural healing toolbox.

Tuesday, May 2, 2017

Guava Leaf Tea Fights Cancer, Lowers Cholesterol and Treats Diabetes

Image result for images of guava leaf tea

You probably heard about Guava which is well known tropical fruit throughout the world. However, have you heard about its leaves which show even more benefits? The young leaves of the guava evergreen tree have been used for ages in traditional medicine in tropical countries for a variety of health conditions. The leaves of guava are even more beneficial than the fruit. In fact, according to research issued in the Journal of Food and Chemistry in 2007, the antioxidant properties of guava leaf extracts may be even greater than those of dried guava fruits.

People in Asian countries steep guava leaves in boiling water and drink the extract as a folk remedy for diabetes. These leaves contain many beneficial substances, including powerful antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids such as quercetin. It contains a number of other Phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, carotenoids (especially lycopene), essential oils, fatty acids, flavonoids, phenols, lectins, tannins, saponins and triterpenes, and vitamins.

Drinking a tea made by infusing guava leaves in boiling water may be helpful in treating diarrhea, cold and flu, lowering cholesterol, preventing diabetes, and it even exhibits anti-cancer properties. Herbalists around the world uses this tea to treat everything from diabetes and digestive problems to toothaches, acne, wrinkles, cough, inflammation, arthritis, gout but also to prevent hair loss. Traditional medicine recommends drinking a cup of guava leaf tea daily to develop protection against common colds and the flu.

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And now let’s take a look at top 8 Guava Leaf Tea Health Benefits:

1. ANTI-DIABETIC

The regular drinking of Guava Leaf Tea with every meal helps pre-diabetic and diabetic patients. Japan has approved guava leaf tea for specified health uses to aid in the treatment and prevention of diabetes. In fact, Japan has conducted several clinical trials that support guava tea’s anti-diabetic properties; drinking the tea frequently helped lower blood glucose (after-eating) in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Components in the tea hinder the absorption of two types of sugars, maltose, and sucrose, thus helping to control blood sugar levels after eating. Two studies were performed to explain the effects (both published in ‘Nutrition & Metabolism’).

In the first study, the patients drank guava leaf tea after eating white rice. They showed decreases in blood sugar levels that were greater after 30 minutes, 90 minutes and 120 minutes. The same study participants then drank only hot water after eating white rice again and showed no benefits.

There was a second, longer study conducted on patients diagnosed with prediabetes or mild diabetes Type 2. Their regular intake of guava leaf tea for the period of 12 weeks resulted in lower fasting blood-sugar levels than before they began drinking the tea.

Furthermore, A study published in the November 2008 issue of the journal Phytotherapy Research examined the impacts of guava leaf extracts in mice with type 2 diabetes and discovered that the intake of guava leaf extracts resulted in a significant decrease in the rats blood sugar levels. Another study from Taiwan conducted on rodents says that guava leaves intake results in alleviation of hypoglycemia in diabetes, thus recommending it as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of diabetes-associated hypoglycemia.

2. CANCER SUPPORT

Guava Leaf extracts, but also leaf oil, the seeds, and whole plant extracts have been evaluated for possible chemotherapeutic utilization. It displays activity against different human cancer cell lines including colon, prostate, and epidermal cancers, but also melanoma and leukemia. Specifically, guava leaves are able to inhibit different human carcinoma cell lines.

The leaves are quite high in two compounds, powerful antioxidant lycopene, and flavonoid quercetin. Numerous studies have shown that lycopene represents an important role in lowering the potential risk of cancer. Quercetin has anti-cancer properties as well. Guava leaves, in fact, may lower the risk of cancer; particularly breast, prostate and oral cancer.

In 2010, a human study was carried out by a group of medical scientist to discover the possible health benefits of guava on prostate cancer. The results of the research presented evidence that the size of a tumor in the case of prostate cancer can be in fact decreased through the guava extract.

In addition, a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2012 confirmed the Anticancer Activity in Human Prostate Cancer Cells.

A Recent study from 2016 demonstrates that guava leaf extracts play a substantial role in fighting cancer, thus once again, confirming its anti-cancer properties.

3. ANTI-VIRAL, ANTIBACTERIAL

Guava leaf tea presents strong anti-bacterial activities, and several studies confirm it. Also, traditional medicine uses dried leaves to treat viral infections such as common cold and flu. Furthermore, it helps with a critical condition such as Dengue Virus Infection.

A laboratory research published in the issue of the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 1999 proclaimed that extracts of dried guava leaves effectively restrained the growth of Staphylococcus aureus; Staph A. is a common cause of skin infections, respiratory diseases, and food poisoning. Actually, 90% of eczema victims are carrying Staph A on their skin. That is why guava leaves are so great for your skin problems as well, but more on this later.

Another study, this time from India, from 2008, came to a similar conclusion – ”Guava leaf extract appears efficient and safe in inhibiting multidrug resistant Staphylococcus aureus.”

A Pediatric Research from 2010 demonstrated that guava leaf extract might be used to treat dengue fever because it has an effect of increasing the thrombocyte and platelet level in blood serum. This makes guava leaves an efficient alternative home remedy to help with dengue fever. Another, even more powerful remedy, proved in studies are the leaves and seeds of papaya. Read more about it here: http://www.naturalnewsblogs.com/papaya-seeds-detoxify-liver-kidneys-fights-cancer-helps-digestion/

Guava is also herbal medicine for controlling epidemics of cholera. International Center for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, in Bangladesh 2010 came to a conclusion that Guava leaf and bark exhibit antibacterial activity against multi-drug resistance Vibrio cholerae, thus confirming its anti-Cholera activity.

4. CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS

According to a few studies and laboratory research, Guava leaf tea may benefit your whole cardiovascular system. The tea helps lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while keeping the good cholesterol in balance. Composites in the leaves may contribute to reducing blood pressure and heart rate, according to an article published in 2005 in “Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology.” They found that lab animals with high blood pressure fed guava leaf extract had reduced heart rates and blood pressure.

Regular drinking of guava leaf tea might also improve your blood lipids. Several small clinical studies reviewed in a 2010 paper in “Nutrition and Metabolism” say that guava leaf extracts may improve blood cholesterol and unhealthy triglycerides in human subjects. Study participants who drank guava leaf tea had lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein levels, and triglycerides after 8 weeks and their levels of beneficial HDL were not affected. Other experimental studies came to similar conclusions.

In addition, Guava leaves could serve as useful food for managing gout and hypertension and attenuating the oxidative stress associated with both diseases (mentioned in J Intercult Ethnopharmacol. 2016).

Furthermore, the tea leaves hinder an enzyme responsible for the onset of atherogenesis (fatty deposits and degeneration of arteries). This ailment can lead to various cardiovascular problems.

5. MENSTRUAL PAIN

Guava pain relieves pain in general, but it is particularly useful in dysmenorrhea, which is pain during menstruation, painful periods, or menstrual cramps. There was a larger study in Mexico in 2007 which shows a significant reduction in menstrual pain compared to ibuprofen.

”A double-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted in 197 women with primary dysmenorrhea. Four intervention groups were defined: two extract doses (3 and 6 mg/day); ibuprofen (1200 mg/day); placebo (3mg/day). Participants were followed-up individually for 4 months. At a dose of 6 mg/day, the standardized guava leaf extract reduced menstrual pain significantly compared with conventional treatment and placebo.”

6. INTESTINAL BENEFITS, DIARRHEA

Guava leaves are commonly used as an antidiarrheal globally. They contain specific compounds which have a natural antibiotic activity that helps kill certain types of pathogens. In fact, Guava leaf tea may help to inhibit a variety of diarrhea-causing bacteria. People with diarrhea who drink this type of tea may experience stools improvements, less abdominal pain, less watery stools and experience a faster recovery.

A common cause of diarrhea is bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Research published in the “Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo” in 2008 found that guava leaf extract hindered the growth of this bacteria. Several other studies and trials confirm this conclusion, as mentioned earlier.

Another study presented that this amazing leaf has the potential for use in the treatment of infectious diarrhea. The study was conducted on mice with a common mouse pathogen – Citrobacter rodentium, which is similar to human E. coli. The mice in the test group treated with leaf extract showed quicker clearance of infection as compared with the control group. (from J Ayurveda Integr Med., 2015, animal study).

In addition, another study states that Guava leaves are an effective antidiarrhoeal agent and exhibits anti-Cholera activity (BMC Complement Altern Med., 2010).

7. TOPICALLY – HAIR LOSS, SKIN HEALTH, ORAL CARE

Skin Health
The American Journal of Chinese Medicine published research which showed that guava leaves are helpful against specific bacteria causing acne. The leaves also alleviate itching. In addition, they are beneficial in enhancing the quality of the skin such as wrinkles. Another guava leaves use in skin problems includes treatments of blemishes such as dark and red spots on your face. And as mentioned earlier, it is even helpful in conditions like eczema.

Oral Health
Herbalists around the world recommend the use of guava leaves paste to maintain good oral hygiene. They exhibit anti-plaque properties and are effective in preventing and healing oral problems. Guava leaf tea works as a wonderful home remedy for a toothache, swollen gums, and also oral ulcers. You can grind the leaves into a paste and apply it to your teeth and gums to treat these problems.

Hair Health
Guava leaves are a popular natural remedy for Hair Loss. In fact, Guava leaves have taken the internet by storm with claims of it being a wonder remedy for hair loss. It is also gaining popularity as a hair thickening component that supports fast hair growth. There are no studies to back this up, so you can try it and see for yourself. Due to the potent compounds and vitamins in the guava leaves, I am quite sure your scalp can only benefit from this hair mask.

8. ANTI-INFLAMMATORY, ARTHRITIS

Guava leaf extract has potent anti-inflammatory properties thanks to its high flavonoid content, especially quercetin. Inflammation is at the core of most illnesses, particularly chronic diseases. In fact, Guava leaves are full of analgesic and anti-inflammatory attributes that have been shown to alleviate arthritis pain. Some folk medicine recipe advises to crush fresh guava leaves into a paste and apply to the swelling joints to reduce the swelling. Several published papers came to the same conclusion – guava leaf extract is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent and helps with arthritis and gout.

A Scientific study concluded that a guava leaf extract contains potential therapeutic agents, which regulate NF-κB activation for the treatment of inflammatory conditions (from In Vitro Study, Fish Shellfish Immunol., 2015).

Note – NF-κB is a protein complex that regulates transcription of DNA, cytokine creation, and cell survival. Incorrect regulation of NF-κB has been linked to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, cancer and abnormal immunity function. Thus, its correct regulation is vital for your health.

Tips, How to Take, Recipe:

Dried loose guava leaves, ready made tea bags, tinctures and extracts are available at health-food stores or online. Also, you can buy fresh guava leaves at a specialty food stores. Making the tea is simple; just steep the leaves in hot water for about 10 minutes and enjoy it up to three times daily. Start with 3-6 leaves.

When using for atopic dermatitis, you should use dried guava leaves. Crush them and mix with a container of water. This solution relieves redness and itching.

In other skin problems, boil some crushed guava leaves. Cook for about 15-20 minutes until the water turns brownish and becomes concentrated. Strain the extract and let it cool. Then, apply this solution onto the afflicted area with a cotton ball.

For your hair – Gently massage the solution (not warm) into your scalp for at least 10 minutes and make sure that you cover all your hair with it.

For oral issues – make a paste from guava leaves (by grinding the fresh leaves) and apply it to your teeth and gums.

Safety, Side Effects:

Guava leaf tea is generally safe and without significant side effects. An allergic reaction is, however, possible, but rare. Large amounts are not good. It might cause mild constipation in some people, and its safety is unknown during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The tea might also interact with some medications, especially for diabetes or anti-diarrhea pills.

When you add this herbal supplement to your diet in any way, start small and monitor your body’s response. As always, consult a medical professional or qualified herbalist before adding a powerful new components like this to your herbal regimen. In fact, It would be best to work with a natural medicine practitioner who is well-educated on using herbal medicine. It is especially important if you have any medical condition, taking any medications or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding woman; and if you plan to start giving herbs to your kids.

Final Words:

Guava leaf tea is a great addition to your herbal regimen. It is especially useful if you suffer from menstrual pain, diabetes or as an anti-diarrhea support. Also, you might want to enjoy a cup daily to boost your immune system and protect yourself against common colds and flu. Due to its high quercetin content which is a natural antihistamine content, it is even useful in allergies and bronchitis. Guava leaves have shown some hepatoprotective activity as well, meaning they are beneficial for your liver. It may even help with your sleep, says some natural doctors. Personally, I do not drink guava leaf tea on a daily basis, but I enjoy it from time to time. I hope you liked my article.

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