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| esteemed for its power to enhance health and reverse the aging process. Amla is a rich source of other antioxidants, including bioflavonoids, vitamin E, polyphenols, the vitamin B complex, and carotenoids. Studies have shown that amla can elevate levels of the important antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD). Beyond its curative powers, its reputation as a powerful enhancer of health is being demonstrated in clinical research. Clinical effects include accelerated repair and regeneration of connective tissue, enhanced interferon and corticosteroid secretion, and increased lean body mass. 44 |
| Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) |
| Andrographis was traditionally used to treat a host of illnesses in China, Thailand, and India. It was used to fight both bacterial and viral infections, reduce fever, control diarrhea, reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, relieve pain, treat ulcers, induce abortions, protect vital organs such as the liver, and lower blood sugar. It contains a group of unique active principals called andrographolides. Andrographolides have important immune-activating and cancer-inhibiting abilities, making this an important medicinal herb in cancer therapies. Andrographis extract (as opposed to pure andrographolide isolate) has been shown to inhibit the proliferation of cancer by causing differentiation-inducing activity upon dividing cells. Some of the tumor-cell lines that have been inhibited by andrographis include stomach cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, lymphocytic leukemia, melanoma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphomas. Many studies have confirmed andrographis extract as a potent nontoxic plant extract having cytotoxic effects against a number of cancers. |
| A study reported in the Journal of Chinese Medicine in 1977 found andrographis inhibited skin cancer even after it became metastatic. It also demonstrated antiprostate tumor effects by lowering PSA counts and by inhibiting in vitro tumor growth. Another study, involving breast cancer, demonstrated andrographis's tumor-inhibiting ability to be equal to that of tamoxifen. Andrographis is safe and free of side effects; however, it is contraindicated for pregnant women. Besides being cytotoxic, it provides liver and kidney protection; acts as an effective antidiarrhetic; helps to regulate immune functions against second-line pathogenic infections that could otherwise be life-threatening to a person with cancer; and strengthens the nervous system, which enhances vitality.45 |
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