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Monday, 14 August 2017

Bawang (Allium sativum L.) Herbal Medicine

Bawang uses, health benefits, side effects, warnings.

Garlic or Bawang (Allium sativum L.) has been used as a spice, food, and medicine for over 5,000 years, and is one of the earliest documented herbs utilized for the maintenance of health and treatment of disease. Under its name, numerous list of traditional health benefits are claimed. This article discusses these traditional health benefits and provides evidence based studies as support and suggests its proper use and warnings.

Bawang

Scientific name: Allium sativum L.

Common name: garlic (English); ajo (Spanish); ail (French); arishtha, lashuna (Sanskrit); lasan (Hindu and Gujarat); vellaipundu (Tamil).

Bawang or garlic, is a specie in the onion family Alliaceae. Bawang is a close relative of onion (sibuyas), the shallot, the leek and the chive. Bawang has been used throughout recorded history for both culinary and medicinal purposes.
Bawang is a low herb, growing to up to 2 feet high. Bawang is widely popular for its bulbs. Bawang bulbs are broadly ovoid, 2 to 4 cm in diameter, consisting of several cloves. Bawang leaves are linear and flat. Umbels are globose, many flowered. Sepas are oblong, greenish white, slightly tinged with purple.
Bawang has a characteristic pungent, spicy flavor that mellows and sweetens considerably with cooking. Bawang cloves are used as seed, for consumption (raw or cooked), and for medicinal purposes. The leaves, stems (scape) and flowers (bulbils) on the head (spathe) are also edible and most often consumed while immature and still tender.

Bawang (Allium sativum L.) Medicinal Uses

Bawang in Traditional and Folkloric Medicine

Bawang has long been used in traditional medicne by various cultures, Widely known health benefits include the folliwng:

In ancient Rome bawang was fed to the athletes for increasing stamina
In ancient Chinese and Indian medicine, bawang is used to aid respiration and digestion and to treat leprosy and parasitic infestation
Bawang is also used to treat arthritis, toothache, chronic cough, constipation, parasitic infestation, snake and insect bites,
Bawang is also used for gynecologic diseases, as well as in infectious diseases (as antibiotic).
Bawang consumption is known to lower blood pressure
Consumption of bawang prevents heart diseases
Bawang is believed to help treat cancer.

Science Based Health Benefits from Bawang

Bawang Mechanism of action in disease prevention

Bawang contains antibacterial compound known as Allicin, Because of this bawang or garlic is known as nature's antibiotic. Bawang juice inhibits the growth of fungi and viruses thus prevents viral yeast and viral infections. Preliminary test shows Bawang to have some positive results in the treatment of AIDS.
The Philippine Department of Health has endorsed Bawang as an alternative herbal medicine for its anti bacterial properties and its efficacy for controlling hypertension, blood cholesterol and blood sugar for diabetics among others.
The following are a number of studies that suggests the medicinal value of bawang in treating various diseases:

Garlic for the common cold

A study published in Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews tried to determine whether garlic (Allium sativum) is effective for the prevention or treatment of the common cold, when compared to placebo, no treatment or other treatments. Results showed that a single trial suggested that garlic may prevent occurrences of the common cold but more studies are needed to validate this finding. Claims of effectiveness appear to rely largely on poor‐quality evidence.

Antimicrobial properties of allicin from garlic.

Allicin, one of the active principles of freshly crushed garlic homogenates, has a variety of antimicrobial activities. Allicin in its pure form was found to exhibit

antibacterial activity against a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including multidrug-resistant enterotoxicogenic strains of Escherichia coli;
antifungal activity, particularly against Candida albicans;
antiparasitic activity, including some major human intestinal protozoan parasites such as Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia; and
antiviral activity.

The main antimicrobial effect of allicin is due to its chemical reaction with thiol groups of various enzymes, e.g. alcohol dehydrogenase, thioredoxin reductase, and RNA polymerase, which can affect essential metabolism of cysteine proteinase activity involved in the virulence of E. histolytica. Source : Microbes and Infection (1999, Feb)

Potential of garlic (Allium sativum) in lowering high blood pressure:

Garlic supplements have shown promise in the treatment of uncontrolled hypertension, lowering blood pressure (BP) by about 10 mmHg systolic and 8 mmHg diastolic, similar to standard BP medication. Hypertension could be alleviated with supplementation of organosulfur compounds derived from garlic Source: Journal of Integrated Blood Pressure Control Hypertension (2014, Jul)

Bawang Preparations, Usage and Side Effects

Bawang Preparation, Availability and Usage

Bawang - Antiinfectious: Antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic. Bawang juice is applied to the afflicted area. Scientifically ajoene 0.4% cream when applied topically, has been found 70% effective in certain dermatologic fungal infections. A 0.6% gel was effective in tinea corporis and tinea cruris.
Bawang - Antiinflammatory and antioxidant activity when included in diet.
Bawang - Hypertension: Bawang when eaten or chewed raw. Studies suggest ingestion of Bawang has beneficial antihypertensive effect but blood-lowering effects probably not dramatic. Other studies show a vascular benefit through improvement of aortic elasticity and possible slowing of the rate of atherosclerosis progression
Bawang - Hyperlipidemia: Bawang eaten or chewed raw is found to lower blood cholesterol. Though still controversial, but probably has beneficial effect on serum cholesterol and LDL levels. Some studies have shown a 4% to 12% lowering of total cholesterol. Bawang seems to have no effect on high density lipoprotein (HDL).
Bawang - Anti-cancer: Bawang is studied to have possible anticarcinogenic properties, specifically for colon, stomach and prostate cancers. In stomach cancers, probably through its inhibitory effect on H. pylori. In epidemiologic studies on stomach and colorectal cancer prevention, the garlic use was 3.5 grams to 30 grams of fresh or cooked garlic per week.

Other folkloric uses of Bawang as herbal medicine that needs further studies for verification:

Arthritis, rheumatism, toothaches: Crush several Bawang cloves and rub on affected areas.
Headaches: Crush one Bawang clove and apply to both temples as poultice.
Insect bites: Crush Bawang or cut clove crosswise and rub directly to affected area.
Athlete's foot.Crush Bawang or cut clove crosswise and rub directly to affected area.
Fever, Decoction of boiled Bawang leaves and bulbs set to luke warm and applied to the head and body.
Colds, cough, sore throat, hoarseness, asthma and bronchitis; Nasal congestion steam inhalation of chopped Bawang and a teaspoon of vinegar in boiling water.
Fresh Bawang has been used as a complement herbal medicine to INH therapy for tuberculosis.
Digestive problems and gastrointestinal spasms. drink an infusion of a peeled bawang clove or can also be used as suppository.

Bawang Warnings and Side Effects

Known adverse effects of bawang include halitosis (non-bacterial bad breath), indigestion, nausea, emesis and diarrhea.
Bawang may interact with warfain, antiplatelets, saquinavir, antihypertensives, calcium channel blockers, hypoglycemic drugs, as well as other medications. Consult a health professional before taking bawang supplement or consuming excessive amounts of bawang.
Bawang can thin the blood similar to the effect of aspirin.
While culinary quantities of bawang are considered safe for consumption, very high quantities of bawang and garlic supplements have been linked with an increased risk of bleeding, particularly during pregnancy and after surgery and child birth. Some breastfeeding mothers have found their babies slow to feed and have noted a garlic odour coming from their baby when they have consumed garlic or bawang. The safety of bawang supplements had not been determined for children.
The side effects of long-term bawang supplementation, if any exist, are largely unknown and no FDA-approved study has been performed. However, garlic or bawang has been consumed for several thousand years without any adverse long-term effects, suggesting that modest quantities of bawang pose, at worst, minimal risks to normal individuals. Possible side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, sweating, dizziness, allergic reactions, bleeding, and menstrual irregularities.
Some degree of liver toxicity has been demonstrated in rats, particularly in extremely large quantities exceeding those that a rat would consume under normal situations.
There have been several reports of serious burns resulting from bawang or garlic being applied topically for various purposes, including naturopathic uses and acne treatment, so care must be taken to test a small area of skin using a very low concentration of bawang.On the basis of numerous reports of such burns, including burns to children, topical use of bawang, as well as insertion of bawang into body cavities is discouraged. In particular, topical application of bawang to young children is not advisable.
Garlic or bawang and onions might be toxic to cats or dogs. If you wish to feed them to your pet, first use only one flake or a pinch.

Bawang Herbal Medicine: Useful References

Auer W, Eiber A, Hertkorn E, Hoehfeld E, Koehrle U, Lorenz A, Mader F, Merx W, Otto G, Schmid-Otto B, et al. Hypertension and hyperlipidaemia: garlic helps in mild cases. Br J Clin Pract Suppl. 1990;69:3–6. [PubMed]
Avicenna A. In: Al Qanoon Fil Tib. Sharafkandi, S, translator. IV. Tehran, Iran: Soroosh Press; 1988. pp. 122–178.
Aviello G, Abenavoli L, Borrelli F, Capasso R, Izzo AA, Lembo F, Romano B, Capasso F. Garlic: empiricism or science? . Nat Prod Commun. 2009;4:1785–1796. [PubMed]
Bakhshi M, Taheri JB, Shabestari SB, Tanik A, Pahlevan R. Comparison of therapeutic effect of aqueous extract of garlic and nystatin mouthwash in denture stomatitis. Gerodontology. 2012;29:e680–684. [PubMed]

Avocado Herbal Medicine

Avocado Health Benefits, Dosage, Side effects and Warnings.

Scientific Name: Persea americana

Common Name: Avocado, Alligator Pear (English); Aguacate, Palta (Spanish)

The fruit of Persea americana, commonly known as avocado, is an edible fruit from Central America which is easily adaptable in tropical regions. The avocado has an olive-green peel and thick pale yellow pulp that is rich in fatty acids such as linoleic, oleic, palmitic, stearic, linolenic, capric, and myristic acids. Avocado is normally used for human consumption, but it also known to provide many health benefits thus it is used in herbal medicine in Mexico and elsewhere in the world
The Avocado tree (Persea Americana) is an evergreen tree that is native to Central and South America. Avocado is classified as a flowering plant of Lauraceae family. Avocado can grow to heights of 40 to 80 feet and is well branched forming a broad tree.
Avocado is highly valued for its fruit and oil. Avocado is widely cultivated in southern American regions and was introduced in other countries with tropical climates.
The popular variety in the Untied States are grown in California and Florida. Other popular varieties are from Mexico, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Brazil and from west India. Avocado is commercially cultivated in Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Malyasia, Sri Lanka, Japan, China, Spain, Palestine, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand,, and Hawaii.
Avocado leaves are alternate, glossy, elliptic or oval in shape, 3 to 10 inches long and dark green with paler veins. The Guatemalan and Mexican varieties are anise scented and are used for its medicinal properties, while other varieties are scentless. Avocado leaves contains high level of oil, shed its leaves every 2 to 3 years.
Avocado flowers are small, greenish, and perfect (has both male and female parts). Avocado flowers appear in January - March before the first seasonal growth. The pale-green or yellow-green flowers are borne profusely in racemes near the branch tips. They lack petals but have 2 whorls of 3 perianth lobes, more or less pubescent, and 9 stamens with 2 basal orange nectar glands.
The avocado fruit is oblong resembling a pear shape, that is about 10 to 30 cm long and about 12 to 16 cm wide. The skin of the avocado fruit may vary in texture and color. The skin may be yellow-green, deep-green, reddish-purple, purple or almost black, and sometimes speckled with tiny yellow dots.. The skin may be pliable to woody, smooth to rough, The flesh of the fruit is greenish yellow to bright yellow when ripe with buttery consistency. In some varieties of avocado the flesh may be fibrous. The avocado fruit has one large oblate, round or conical ovoid seed which constitutes 15 to 25% of the fruit weight. Avocado seed is coated with two brown thin papery layer that is lightly attached to its ivory colored core.. Avocado fruits range from 150 grams to more than a kilo in weight.

Avocado Traditional Medicinal Uses and Health benefits

Avocado in Traditional and Folkloric Medicine For Skin Problems

Avocado has long been used in traditional medicine by various cultures, Widely known health benefits include the following:

Avocado pulp is used to treat wounds with pus,
Decoction from avocado seeds is used as mouthwash and to relieve toothaches,
Avocado pulp is used to treat small cuts and wounds,
Decoction from pulp, bark and leaves are used to promote menstruation,
Avocado ointment from pulverized seeds used to treat skin irritation,
Grounded avocado seeds and bark are mixed with oil to relieve pain associated with rheumatism,
Avocado flesh us used to relieve pain and itchiness caused by sunburn.

Science Based Studies and Research

Avocado Mechanism of action in disease prevention

Health Benefit of Avocado for Osteoarthritis
In a study published in “Arthritis & Rheumatism - American College of Rheumatology, 1998”, suggests that avocado/soybean unsaponifiables treatment showed significant symptomatic efficacy over placebo in the treatment of symptomatic osteoarthritis of the knee and hip. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9433873

Health Benefits of Avocado In Cancer Prevention
In a study published in “The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2005”, it has been found that avocado contains bioactive subtances that include carotenoids, which has cancer preventive properties. In this study the avocado variety “California Haas (Persea americana Mill.)” was the subject of interest because it is the most common variety consumed in the United States. A unique characteristic of avocado is that it contains monounsaturated fat and has numerous bioactive carotenoids that acts synergistically with other phytochemicals that contribute to the significant cancer risk reduction associated with a diet of fruits and vegetables. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15629237
Avocado can Improve Cholesterol level in Blood
In a study published in “Archives of Medical Research, 1996”, it has been reported that an avocado enriched diet can improve the lipid profile in a healthy and especially mild hypercholesterolemic patients even if hypertriglyceridemia and hyperlipidemia is present. Avocado contains oleic acid and linoleic acid that is effective in lowering the bad LDL cholesterol level in the blood while increasing the good HDL cholesterol level thereby improving the LDL to HDL ratio. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8987188
Avocado has weight reducing, appetite depressant health benefit
In a study published in “Journal of Nutrition, 2002”, it is reported that the defatted avocado pulp is rich in dietary fiber where 75% was insoluble and the other 25% is soluble. The defatted avocado pulp has the ability to reduce the body weight. Although when the study group has been administered with high level of cholesterol, the hepatic fat or fat in the liver has been reduced while the cholesterol level in the blood remained high. This study has suggested that avocado has an appetite depressant and that it can also interfere in the liver’s ability to metabolize fat. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12097685
Avocado has Antioxidant Health Benefit
In the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry”, it has been reported that extracts of avocado peel, pulp and seed contains phenolic compounds such as catechins, procyanidins, hydroxycinnamic acid and hydroxybenzoic acid. These phenolic compounds exhibit antioxidant activity in vitro.
Their antimicrobial potential was also studied. Peels and seeds had higher amounts of phenolics and a more intense in vitro antioxidant potential than the pulp. Peels and seeds were rich in catechins, procyanidins, and hydroxycinnamic acids, whereas the pulp was particularly rich in hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids and procyanidins. The total phenolic content and antioxidant potential of avocado phenolics was affected by the extracting solvent and avocado variety.

Avocado has Antimicrobial Activity
The extracts from avocado peel, pulp and seed also displayed moderate antimicrobial effects against Gram-positive bacteria.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21480593

How to Get and How to Use

Where can I get or buy Avocado?

Avocados are available in most grocery stores, supermarkets and fruit stores. In buying ripe ready to eat avocado, select those that are slightly soft, have no sunken dark spots, and have no cracks. Select avocados that have a slight neck shape as these are better since they are probably tree ripened.

Avocado

Avocados can also be bought unripe and can be ripened at home for later consumption. Unripe avocados are firmer and the skin has a lighter color. Unripe avocados can be stored in a basket or paper bag at room temperature. Do not refrigerate unripe avocados. As the avocado ripens the skin color will darken and the texture softer.

It is best to store ripe avocado in a refrigerator. Just like any other fruits, when an avocado is sliced open and exposed to air, the avocado flesh will soon oxidize and turn brownish in color. To store sliced avocado, sprinkle lemon juice, wrap with plastic and keep in refrigerator.

Dosage, Warnings and Side Effects

Avocados and Latex Allergy
Avocado contains enzyme called chitinases that are associated with the latex-fruit allergy syndrome. There has been a report that consumption of avocado containing food can cause anaphylaxis in latex sensitized patients. It is therefore recommended to avoid avocado if latex allergy is suspected.

Avocado Herbal Medicine: Useful References

Ramos MR, Jerz G, Villanueva S, López-Dellamary F, Waibel R, Winterhalter P. Two glucosylated abscisic acid derivates from avocado seeds (Persea americana Mill. Lauraceae cv. Hass) Phytochemistry. 2004;65(7):955–962. [PubMed]
Rodríguez-Carpena J-G, Morcuende D, Andrade M-J, Kylli P, Estevez M. Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) phenolics, in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, and inhibition of lipid and protein oxidation in porcine patties. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2011;59(10):5625–5635. [PubMed]
Anaka ON, Ozolua RI, Okpo SO. Effect of the aqueous seed extract of Persea americana Mill (Lauraceae) on the blood pressure of Sprague-Dawley rats. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 2009;3(10):485–490.
Pahua-Ramos ME, Ortiz-Moreno A, Chamorro-Cevallos G, et al. Hypolipidemic effect of avocado (Persea americana Mill) seed in a hypercholesterolemic mouse model. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition. 2012;67(1):10–16. [PubMed]

Featured Articles

Akapulko (Cassia alata) Herbal Medicine

Akapulko Health Benefits, Dosage, Side effects and Warnings.

Scientific Name: Cassia alata

Other names:

bayabas-bayabasan,kapurko, katanda, katandang aso, pakagonkon, sonting (Tag.); andadasi, andadasi-a-dakdakel, andadasi-bugbugtong (Ilk.); adadisi (Ting.); ancharasi (Ig.); andalan (Sul.); bayabasin, bikas-bikas (Bik., Tag., Bis.,); kasitas (Bik., Bis.); sunting, palo china (Bis.); pakayomkom kastila (Pamp.); ringworm bush or shrub (Engl.), Acapulco (Engl)

The Akapulko leaves contain chrysophanic acid, a fungicide that is used to treat fungal infections, like ringworms, scabies and eczema.. Akapulko leaves are also known to be sudorific, diuretic and purgative, usedto treat intestinal problems including intestinal parasites. Akapulko is also used as herbal medicine to treat bronchitis and asthma. Because of Akapulko’s anti-fungal properties, it is a common ingredient in soaps, shampoos, and lotions in the Philippines. The Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) has helped develop the technology for a Akapulko herbal medicine lotion.

Akapulko is an erect, shrubby legume with dark green compound leaves. Akapulko leaves have orange rachis that has 16-28 leaflets. Akapulko produces an axis of golden yellow flowers that has 4-winged pods containing 50-60 flattened, triangular seeds. Akapulko flowers are enclosed by yellow-orange bracts that are later shed in time.

Ampalaya / Bitter Melon Herbal Medicine

Momordica Charantia, Uses, Health Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects

Scientific Name: Momordica charantia

Other names:

Ampalaya, Bitter melon, papailla, melao de sao caetano, bittergourd, sorosi, a'jayib al maasi, assorossie, balsam apple, balsam pear, chin li chih, ejinrin gule khandan, fu-kua, karela, k'u kua kurela, kor-kuey, ku gua, lai p'u t'ao, pava-aki, salsamino, sorci, sorossi, sorossie, sorossies, pare, peria laut, peria

Ampalaya Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) also known as Bitter Melon is a tropical and subtropical vine of the family Cucurbitaceae, widely grown in the Amazon, Carribean, South east Asia such as Philippines for its edible fruit. Ampalaya or bitter melon also known as bitter gourd as the name implies has a bitter taste due to the presence of momordicin, and is believed to be among the most bitter of all vegetables.
Ampalaya Bitter Melon is a climbing vine that grows up to 5m, with tendrils up to 20cm. long. Amplaya leaves are heart-shaped, 5-10 cm across, cut into 5-7 lobes. Each Ampalaya Bitter Melon plant bears separate yellow male and female flowers. Ampalaya bears fleshy green fruit, oblong shaped with pointed ends, ribbed and wrinkled, bursting when mature to release seeds. Ampalaya seeds are flat with ruminated margins.

Ampalaya Traditional Medicinal Uses and Health benefits

Ampalaya has a long history of medical usage and has a long list of folkloric health benefits for the following conditions.
Diabetes. Ampalaya or bitter gourd is a widely used herbal remedy to lower the blood sugar levels for diabetic patients.

Analgesic. The juice of Amplaya is used to alleviate symptoms of fever, headache and body pains.

Eye problems. Amplaya juice is also used to treat eye related problems that include sty and sore eyes. It is thought to improve eyesight and prevents the development of cataract.

Respiratory ailments. The juice from amplaya fruit and leaves are used to treat various respiratory problems that may include, asthma, wheezing cough, bronchitis and pharyngitis.

Hair and scalp problems. Ampalaya or bitter gourd has been used to treat various hair and scalp problems that may include hair loss, dry scalp, lice and pimples on the scalp.

Weight loss. Ampalaya is also used to promote body metabolism and the burning of fats thus it is valued as a weight loss supplement.

Source of energy. The vitamins and mineral found in ampalaya is considered as a stamina builder that combats fatigue.

Antioxidant. Amplaya is also considered as a potent anti-oxidant acitivity that counters the oxidation of free radicals that is the cause of cancer.

Stomach problems. Ampalaya leaf extract is a folkloric remedy for various stomach ache and problems that include indigestion, dyspepsia, parasite infestation, diarrhea and constipation.

Hepatoprotection activity. Ampalaya is used as a herbal remedy to protect the liver from damage due to intake of alcohol and other harmful substances.

Skin problems. Ampalaya is crushed or rubbed over the skin to alleviate symptoms of psoriasis, ringworm, athlete’s foot, wounds, burns and ulcers.

Boosts the immune system. Ampalaya is also used to boost the immune system and as a supplement to build body resistance during sickness.

HIV virus. Ampalaya is also being considered as treatment ot viral diseases that include HIV, malaria, chicken fox and measles.

Menopause. Ampalaya tea is taken as a remedy for pain and discomfort associated to menopause.

Anti-inflammatory activity. Ampalaya leaf extract combined with coconut oil is used to alleviate inflammation and pain associated to gout, arthritis, rheumatism and other body pains.

Cholesterol control. Ampalaya is also widely consumed to lower the cholesterol level in the blood that helps to prevent the build up of plaque along the arterial walls.

Hemorrhoids. Ampalaya is used as astringent to treat hemorrhoids.

Contraceptive. Ampalaya has been used in folkloric medicine as an abortificient and as a contraceptive to prevent pregnancy.

Science Research: Momordica charantia Health Benefits

Antioxidant properties of Momordica Charantia (bitter gourd) seeds on Streptozotocin induced diabetic rats.
The aim of the present study is to investigate the antioxidant activities of the aqueous extract of seeds of Momordica charantia in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats. Oral administration of seed extracts at a concentration of 150 mg/kg b.w for 30 days showed a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose, hepatic and renal thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and hydroperoxides. The treatment also resulted in a significant increase in reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-s-transferase in the liver and kidney of diabetic rats. The results clearly suggest that seeds of Momordica charantia treated group may effectively normalize the impaired antioxidant status in streptozotocin induced-diabetes than the glibenclamide treated groups. The extract exerted rapid protective effects against lipid peroxidation by scavenging of free radicals there by reducing the risk of diabetic complications. Source : Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2015..
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15927932
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract inhibits breast cancer cell proliferation by modulating cell cycle regulatory genes and promotes apoptosis.
In this study, we have used human breast cancer cells, and primary human mammary epithelial cells as an in vitro model to assess the efficacy of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract as an anticancer agent. The bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extract treatment of breast cancer cells resulted in a significant decrease in cell proliferation and induced apoptotic cell death. Subsequent studies showed that bitter melon extract treatment of breast cancer cells inhibited survivin and claspin expression. Further studies revealed that bitter melon extract treatment enhanced p53, p21, and pChk1/2 and inhibited cyclin B1 and cyclin D1 expression, suggesting an additional mechanism involving cell cycle regulation. Together, these results show that bitter melon extract modulates signal transduction pathways for inhibition of breast cancer cell growth and can be used as a dietary supplement for prevention of breast cancer. Source: Cancer Research March 2010
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20179194
Momordica charantia for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Momordica charantia (bitter gourd) is not only a nutritious vegetable but it is also used in traditional medical practices to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus. Experimental studies with animals and humans suggested that the vegetable has a possible role in glycaemic control. The study assessed the effects of mormodica charantia for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Source: Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Aug
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22895968
Momordica charantia and type 2 diabetes: from in vitro to human studies.
This review describes anti-diabetic effects of bitter gourd reported in the literature and discusses what still needs to be clarified for developing an evidence-based and safe use of the bitter gourd for diabetes. Analyses of bioactive compounds have shown that bitter gourd is rich in nutrients and phytochemicals of which some have anti-diabetic effects. Juices, powders, extracts, and isolated compounds have been tested in vitro and in vivo. Bitter gourd increases insulin secretion of the pancreas, decreases intestinal glucose uptake, and increases uptake and utilization of glucose in peripheral tissues. Although human studies with type 2 diabetics are weak in their design and/or results, some of the studies do indicate anti-diabetic effects in patients and safety for bitter gourd treatment in humans. In the future, well designed studies with rodents will help to understand what kind of bitter gourd variety, dosage, preparation, and duration of administration is optimal. Such results will help to design human studies which are necessary to prove the effectiveness of bitter gourd in patients. Source: Current Diabetes Reviews. 2014 Jan.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24295371
Momordica charantia Extract Induces Apoptosis in Human Cancer Cells through Caspase- and Mitochondria-Dependent Pathways.
The study evaluated and explored the potential effectiveness of Momordica charanti. , Methanol extract of Momordica charantia was used to evaluate the cytotoxic activity on four human cancer cell lines, in this study. Methanol extract of Momordica charantia showed cytotoxic activity towards all cancer cells tested, with the approximate IC(50) ranging from 0.25 to 0.35 mg/mL at 24 h. MCME induced cell death was found to be time-dependent in these cells. Methanol extract of Momordica charantia activated caspase-3 and enhanced the cleavage of downstream DFF45 and PARP, subsequently leading to DNA fragmentation and nuclear condensation. The apoptogenic protein, Bax, was increased, whereas Bcl-2 was decreased after treating for 24 h in all cancer cells, indicating the involvement of mitochondrial pathway in MCME-induced cell death. These findings indicate that CME has cytotoxic effects on human cancer cells and exhibits promising anti-cancer activity by triggering apoptosis through the regulation of caspases and mitochondria. Source: Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2012.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23091557
Influence of Momordica charantia on oxidative stress-induced perturbations in brain monoamines and plasma corticosterone in albino rats
The objective of this study was to evaluate the antistress activity of Momordica charantia fruit extract on stress-induced changes in albino rats and also to explore attenuating effects of MC on in vitro lipid peroxidation in rat brain. Results have showed that pretreatment with MC at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg p.o. significantly countered AS-induced changes and a similar effect was exhibited by PQ at 100 mg/kg p.o. This study reveals the antistress activity of MC as it significantly reverted the stress-induced changes, and the activity might be attributed to its antioxidant activity since stress is known to involve several oxidative mechanisms. Source: Indian Pharmacological Society. 2011 Jul-Aug
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3153706/

How to Get and How to Use Ampalaya

Where can I get or buy Ampalaya?

Amplaya or Bitter Melon for Cooking. Ampalaya fruits and leaves are usually available in Asian or Chinese markets. They can be bought fresh by the kilo, per piece or by bundles.
Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Capsules, Bitter melon, as its name implies, is quite bitter, which is why many often prefer to take capsules and tablets.Ready-made bitter melon extracts are available in capsules and tablets in many Asian markets, herb shops, and in the supplement department of health food stores.
The internet is full of online stores that sells ampalaya extracts, tablets or capsules, When you do, look for standardized extracts (to 10% charantin for instance) or concentrated whole fruit extracts (4:1 or 5:1) to help insure sufficient activity. If you are in US, Canada or UK, where Asian or Chinese health shops may not be available. Amazon.com provides an alternative. Look for products that have favorable customers reviews such as Bitter Melon GOLD. We are not affiliated with this brand and give this only as a sample reference. There are numerous to pick from, but be sure to review the manufacturer and the comments to ensure quality and safety.

How to Use Ampalaya Herbal Medicine

Cooking. Green fruit and young leaves of Ampalaya are cooked mixed with meat. To lessen the bitterness of the ampalaya fruit, wash or even boiled in water with salt.
Poultice. Grounded ampalaya leaves, seeds and root are prepared as poultice applied externally over the affected area to alleviate pain and symptoms of inflammation. It is usually mixed with other herbal oils such as olive and coconut oil.
Ampalaya herbal tea. Decoction of tea may be prepared from the powdered Ampalaya or Bitter Melon leaves, seeds and flower.

Ampalaya herbal tea or decoction

Cut or crush a cup of Ampalaya seeds, leaves and flowers
Steep in 4 cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes
Let it cool and strain
drink a cup three times a day.

Ampalaya herbal tea is good to last for one day. Make new Ampalaya herbal tea as needed.
Dried ampalaya leaves, flowers and seeds are more potent, use at half dosage.

Ampalaya or Bitter Melon Juice. Ampalaya Bitter melon leaves and fruit (without the seeds) are pounded and juiced to extract concentrated juice. The juice can be taken at a spoonful for adults while teaspoonful for chilren. Ampalaya bitter melon juice can also be added to other plesant tasting juice for drinking. Dosage is 1 tablespoon 2 times a day until symptoms improve.

Dosage, Warnings and Side Effects of Ampalaya

Ampalaya fruit and young leaves are considered safe for consumption as found in food. Herbal medicine preparations should be taken as recommended for most adults. Just lilke any other herbal medicine, the key is moderation of use.
Counter indications:
When under medications for diabetes, hypertension, heart problems, etc., Taking Ampalaya in medicinal dosages may counter-act or aggravate its effectiveness. It is advised to consult your doctor before using this herb.

Pregnancy and Breast feeding. There is a study that suggests the abortive action of Momordica charantia in large doses during pregnancy. It is recommended to avoid its use more than what is found in food.

Momordica Charantia, Uses, Health Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects

Scientific Name: Momordica charantia

Other names:

Ampalaya Traditional Medicinal Uses and Health benefits

Science Research: Momordica charantia Health Benefits

How to Get and How to Use Ampalaya

Where can I get or buy Ampalaya?

How to Use Ampalaya Herbal Medicine

Ampalaya herbal tea or decoction

Cut or crush a cup of Ampalaya seeds, leaves and flowers
Steep in 4 cups of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes
Let it cool and strain
drink a cup three times a day.

Ampalaya herbal tea is good to last for one day. Make new Ampalaya herbal tea as needed.
Dried ampalaya leaves, flowers and seeds are more potent, use at half dosage.

Dosage, Warnings and Side Effects of Ampalaya

Wednesday, 9 August 2017

22+ Real Online Survey Companies that Pays Cash

Everyday companies pay big bucks just to know what people like you are thinking. They are eager to understand how you think while shopping and why you buy certain products. After completing the survey you get paid by cash, PayPal, gift cards, or other rewards. Feel free to sign up on as many sites as possible to maximize your earning potential.

Real Online Surveys that Actually Pay for Your Opinion

Many of the panels below are only open to US residents. If you do not live in the US, you can view this list of global survey panels separated by country here.

1. Pinecone Research

This company is owned by Nielson and has been around since 1999 and usually pays around $3 for every survey you complete. The payment options are by check, PayPal, or reward gift cards.

2. Toluna

Toluna is a market research company that pays members to take surveys online and “on the go”. You will earn $1-$5 for each online survey you qualify for and get paid via PayPal. In addition, members are paid to test free products.

3. Swagbucks

Get paid to take short online surveys, watch movie trailers, play games and much more! Swagbucks is open to everyone worldwide and payment is made via PayPal or reward gift cards.

4. Homescan Consumer Panel

Earn valuable points, which are redeemable for FREE electronics, household items, jewelry, toy, gift cards, and more. Paid survey opportunities are also available for residents in the US, Canada, Australia and Hong Kong.

5. Mindspay

Get paid to review products and take online surveys. Registration is completely free.

6. Survey Savvy

Survey Savvy is one of my favorite survey panels that you must join. All members are paid by check for participating in online surveys. No minimum amount is needed to cash out. If you are interested in seeing my payment proof, click here.

7. Cash Crate

Get paid to take online surveys, shop online, play games and more. Once you sign up, click on the “Daily Surveys” section to start earning .50 per survey. Cash out at $20 through PayPal.

8. Global Test Market

This is a trusted online survey panel that pays you to test and give your opinion on various products. Global Test Market is also open to residents in countries such as Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. Pay is via check, PayPal or gift cards.

9. Opinion Outpost

Opinion Outpost is one of the most popular market research companies that have been around for many years. No fees are required to sign up and members are paid cash for sharing their opinion. Payments are made via PayPal.

10. Survey Spot

Survey Spot pays you to take online surveys and you will also have a chance to be entered into the $25,000 sweepstakes.

11. Inbox Dollars

This site has a variety of ways to earn money and completing surveys is one of them. Inbox Dollars pays panelists to read e-mails, take surveys, shop online and more.

12. Ipsos Panel

Join the Ipsos I-Say Panel where you will earn reward points for taking online surveys.

13. iPoll Surveys

14. E- Poll Surveys

Get paid to express your opinion after you sign up for free on the site. This survey panel is only open to US residents.

15. Mindswarms

Get paid $50 to participate in research studies online using your web cam by answering seven questions. The majority of the online surveys take less than 20 minutes to complete and payment is made through PayPal.

16. VIP Voice

Join VIP Voice and earn cash and prizes for giving your opinion.

17. Surveys for Moms

These are paid online surveys that are tailor made for moms, with payments being made through PayPal once you accumulate $20 or more.

50 Companies That Pay $16/Hr (or More) to Work from Home

Tired of finding work from home jobs that pay minimum wage?
Companies these days are expanding their office boundaries to incorporate the idea of working from home. These companies offer employees flexible working hours, better pay and freedom from office walls. Even though the internet is flooded with many online jobs, there are some that offer better pay.
Here is a list of companies that pay $16 per hour or more to work from home.

I also recommend FlexJobs. The company has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, along with a money-back policy if you are unhappy with the website. FlexJobs guarantees that every single job is 100% legitimate.

Phone Work

Please Note: Some of these companies hire only in specific regions. However, most are open to the idea of foreign global contractors.
#1 – Brighten Communications Brighten Communications contracts telemarketers based in U.S. and pays up to $18 per hour. As an independent contractor for the company, you require a landline phone to carry all the business calls as well as a long-distance phone service.

Loving this Content? Pin This Image on Pinterest! Big List of 50 Companies That Pay $16 (up to $80) per hour to Work from Home

#2 – Working Solutions is a company that offers diverse services including telemarketing, remote agents and CRM solutions. Successful applicants/Agents receive free training and can work from any location. Payment is per project and can reach up to $30 per hour.
#3 – Arise is a renowned company that contracts work at home customer service agents in the U.S. Their pay depends on the kind of client you are assigned to work with, but usually, ranges from $10-$20 per hour. The great thing about this job is flexibility. You can work as much as you want.

#4 – American Express (review) (review)only hires work at home customer service agents from selected U.S. States. You must be ready to work a minimum of 40 hours every work. The beginners pay is $16 per hour but as you progress you stand to earn $28 per hour.

#5 – NexRep (review) hires sales and customer service agents to work from home. Your job description comprises of taking inbound and outbound calls. The pay is up to $25 per hour and commissioned based.
#6 – ACD Direct is a call center company that provides work-at-home jobs, which involves answering calls from pledge campaigns organized by Non-profit organizations. They pay rate range from $0.25-0.30 per minute, which translates to $18 per hour.
#7 – Contract world is a recruitment company for businesses such as KFC, Pizza Hut, Shopping Network and more. The pay ranges from $11-$16 per hour with deposits made directly twice a month. Requirements include a dedicated phone line, high-speed internet connection, and a web camera.

#8 – Pleio is a call service company that seeks to hire workers who can call patients and remind them to take their medications. The process of hiring involves undergoing a screening process, taking a test and doing a mock call. Pay is $15-$20 per hour.
#9 – Blue Zebra Appointment hires appointment setters to work from home in the USA and Canada residents. It is a cold calling work from home company that pays employees up to $25 per hour, depending on their level of expertise and experience.
#10 – Neiman-Marcus is a customer service company that employs home-based workers from Dallas only. Nonetheless, plans are already underway to expand to other locations. Pay is $11-$16 per hour.

Transcription

#11- TranscribeMe, a company that pays up to $20 per hour for an audio transcription. As a requirement, you must pass their short transcription test for you to be shortlisted for transcription projects. TranscribeMe pays weekly via PayPal for every completed order. I recommend checking out Janet’s FREE 4-day transcription course to help you turn your passion into a full-time career.
#12 – Rev is a transcription company that requires you to work as much or little as you want. As a qualification, you need to pass the skill test for you to access the transcription assignments. The pay ranges between $24-$39 per audio hour made every week through PayPal.
#13 – Quicktate (review) hires newbie transcriptionists once you pass the skill test. Mostly, you will be handling short voicemail messages. The company pays one cent for every four words and payment is on a weekly basis through PayPal.
#14 – Time Etc. offers you the chance to work as a virtual assistant to different clients. You are required to work a minimum of 5 hours per week. The pay is estimated to be up to $16 per hour.
#15 – 3 Play Media relies solely on home-based transcriptionist to transcribe audio files. Just like most transcription companies, you must pass the skill test before accessing audio assignments. The company prefers you to use a foot pedal or transcription software. The job pays up to $25 per hour.
#16 – SpectraMedi is an online company that offers multiple part-time and full-time positions for Medical Billers and Transcriptionists. Since the position requires certification, the salary is much more than $16 per hour.

Search Evaluator

#17 – Appen Butler Hill – This international company contracts social media evaluators to work for home. Once you are done with the train you stand to receive over $13 per hour.
#18 – LeapForce hires independent contractors to assess search engines with a weekly pay of $13-$16 per hour. Posts are only open to those living in the United States, Canada, Norway, Brazil, Denmark and Norway. You are required to pass a two-part evaluation exam before becoming Leap Force contractor.

Online Tutoring

#19 – Chegg is an online tutoring company allows you to work according to your terms. Chegg pays tutors $20 an hour. Some of the company’s top earners get $1000 per month.
#20 – InstaEdu is an online company hiring work at home tutors to teach online students different school topics. Payment is usually $20 per hour made using PayPal. Teaching sessions take place through Skype, text message, video chats or even whiteboards.
#21 – A Pass Educational Group offers you the chance to work at home as an educational subject matter expert. These positions pay a range of $20 to $30 per hour.
#22 – Manhattan Prep offers individual posts the option of work at home. Such positions pay as much as $100 an hour.
#24 – Magoosh – If you are good at GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, SAT, and ACT, and tests, Magoosh is looking to hire online test prep experts to help students prepare for these papers. As a requirement, you must be an experienced BA or BS holder with high scores in GRE, SAT, GMAT. The standard pay for weekdays is $20 an hour and shoots up to $25 an hour over the weekends.
#25 – Verdant is a company that occasionally hires virtual raters to evaluate how well Chinese students speak English. You stand to earn $15-24 per hour.

Virtual Assistant

#26 – Worldwide 101 pays Virtual Assistants up to $20 per hour. Contractors are required to work a minimum of 20 hours per week.
#27– Virtual Office Temps is open to all virtual assistants and it offers services such as clerical support, administration, management and sales support among many other professional business services. Pay is $10 to $35 per hour depending on the task.
#28 – ShowMojo is dedicated to streamlining the real estate business with solutions to home owners and managers. The company currently is hiring particular work at home positions to help with scheduling and showing process of rentals. Posts such as sales manager, call center manager and automation expert pay about $20 an hour.

Web Designing

#29 – 10UP is a web development company that gives employees the chance to work remotely. There are seasonal openings for web designers, developers, and engineers. Employees get roughly $20 per hour pay equivalent to 85k monthly salary.
#30 – Art Logic – If you are great at coding at willing to work from home, try applying for an Art Logic job online vacancy. The company occasionally hires system developers who earn $20 per hour respective of the job.
#31 – SitePen – For tech enthusiasts looking for a remote work experience, SitePen is hiring JavaScript engineers, web developers, project managers, software engineers. These positions pay $80k annual which rounds up to $20 an hour.
#32 – Github – This software company allows its employees to work remotely. The company has regular openings for techy posts such as developers, with an annual salary of $60k.

Medical

#33 – Carenet – For a nurse looking to make some extra bucks from the comfort of your home, try Carenet. This is an online company that hires registered nurses for telephone triage. Carenet pays $25 for every hour.
#34 – CircleLink Health hires only licensed health practitioners looking to make extra cash online. CircleLink Health pays $20 per hour to every work at home employee.
#35 – Amphion Medical requires its contracted medical coders to be certified with at least one year of experience. While working from home you can make $25 per hour.
#36 – Precyse – This fantastic company hires remote coders familiar with medical programming. Your earns lie in the neighborhood of $20 to $30 per hour.
#37 – Humana – This well-known company hires Customer Service Specialists by responding to questions and providing guidance to internal and external customers. You can make anywhere from $15-$18 per hour.

Proofreading/Editing

#38 – American Journal Experts has occasional openings for remote translators and editors. It is estimated that a translator gets roughly $20 an hour.
#39 – Book in a Box – This company has virtual posts for various positions that pay $20 per hour. The company occasionally looks for editors, book jacket designers, and proofreaders so you have to keep tabs on the company site to see if there are any openings.

Translation

#40 – Language Service Associates hires interpreters and translators with U.S jurisdiction. The average pay for their contractors is $20 per hour.
#41 – Rosetta Stone is a language and translation company that hires language coaches. To secure employment, you must be fluent in numerous languages apart from American English. The pay ranges up to $17 per hour.

Social Media

#42 – Buffers is a corporation offering web-based social media administration solutions. The company from time to time recruits web developers, engineers, product or customer support team. Each employ works remotely and is entitled to $20 per hour.

Website Testing

#43 – Testing Time is a business opened to global audience looking for an opportunity to share their opinions and get paid $50 per study made. You must have access to a Skype account and work a minimum of 90 minutes. They payment takes almost a week to process.
#44 – User Testing employs home-based workers to carry out tests on various websites. To qualify as a tester, potential testers must undertake and pass a sample test. Successful testers earn up to $15 per 20 minutes. This translates to more than $45 per hour.

Writing

#45 – CyberEdit, Inc. offers highly advanced services in resume writing, technical writing, and text editing. It hires competent freelance essay writers with remuneration ranging from $15-30 per hour.
#46 – Crawford Media Services hires independent contractors to carry out metadata writing, SE optimization, and tagging. However, most of their projects are seasonal or occasional. Pay can go up to $18 per hour depending on the task.

Miscellaneous Jobs

#47 – CrowdSource hires individuals to complete various tasks ranging from marketing, profile verification, writing and text editing. Freelancers receive payment after completing various tasks. Payment ranges from $15 for simple tasks to $30 per hour for more complex tasks.
#48 – Stitch Fix – If you are a fashionista with a creative eye, try Stitch Fix a company that allows you to share fashion tips with clients on the site. For work at home stylist, Stitch Fix offers a $16+ an hour pay. As a requirement, you must be 18 years of age or more and be ready to attend their offsite training before starting the job.
#49 – ETS is a testing company that pays you to score various tests for different educational institutions. The pay can go up to $20 per hour depending on the tests. Payment is twice a month via check and is tax deductible.
#50 – Snuggle Buddies – You can become a professional cuddle and make anywhere from $40-$80 per hour. All you have to do is cuddle someone or hold someone’s hands. Yes, that’s right, a professional cuddler.