Abstract Objective: Quercetin, resveratrol and curcumin are plant derived natural products that are rapidly gaining popularity as supplements for a wide assortment of conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer, asthma, diabetes, neurodegeneration, aging and stress. Unfortunately the therapeutic potential of these compounds is limited by their poor intestinal and intracellular bioavailability.…
Abstract Objective: Lomatium dissectum is a plant native to the Western US traditionally used in the Native American culture to treat influenza, which remains a persistent threat to human health. Evidence suggests that dysregulation of cytokines and chemokines, including CXCL10, is the primary factor leading to poor prognosis in highly pathogenic…
Abstract This paper reviews the use of whole-plant Artemisia annua (sweet Annie) as it pertains to malaria including history, chemistry, clinical efficacy, pharmacokinetics, dosing, safety, and resistance. Artemisinin, the sesquiterpene lactone found in the plant, and various semi-synthetic variants of it used as critical drugs around the world for malaria…
Abstract Pulsatilla, Nepeta, and Rauvolfia are important therapeutic agents with nerve-calming effects. Although not as strong as anxiolytic drugs, these herbal remedies are gentle and safe treatments for anxiety and insomnia. They can improve sleep, reduce mood swings and irritability, and moderate the stress-induced ‘fight-or-flight’ state. Theoretical concerns regarding adverse…
Abstract Plant based natural products have been proposed as alternatives to the use of hormones for the treatment of menopausal symptoms, which has been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer and coronary artery disease. Specific herbal compounds such as Thai Kudzu root (Pueraria mirifica) have shown beneficial effects…
