Whether it’s brewing a cup of tea, adding some cumin to a lentil recipe or throwing a sprig of rosemary into a marinade, herbs and botanicals are an important part of our daily lives.
Some herbs boast a long list of mechanisms, which means we can target numerous areas of health with just one ingredient. Still others have been shown to combine synergistically together, making powerful formulas that are just now being recognized in the scientific literature.
For example, different herbs can fight oxidation and free radical damage, reduce chronic inflammation, kill bacteria, fungi and viruses, and even prevent the cell migration associated with metastatic cancer. Others promote wound healing and protect the brain.
As interest in botanical medicine grows, research continues to validate the numerous medicinal properties of some of nature’s most powerful healers. Some of these properties have been passed down by traditional herbal healers; others have been discovered unexpectedly by researchers searching for cures to our most critical health conditions.
Here are a few common botanicals that have been the subject of numerous scientific studies in recent years, demonstrating key benefits for health and longevity…
Tumeric
This spice is commonly used in Indian food, but it also has a great medicinal resume. Tumeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to help control inflammation, a major contributor to many diseases including cancer. Because of its powerful anti-inflammatory actions, it’s also shown benefit in degenerative diseases such as dementia, cardiovascular disease, metabolic diseases, asthma and many others. In addition, curcumin supports the immune system, particularly innate immunity, our first line of defense against disease.
Green Tea
Tumeric is not the only thing that works against inflammation. Green tea also has significant anti-inflammatory effects. In fact, this herb seems to modulate a number of genes associated with inflammation, including COX-2. It also contains L-theanine, which is shown to produce calming and relaxing effects on the brain. It has been shown to offer protective effects against cancer, stimulating apoptosis and inhibiting tumor cell proliferation.
Grapes
Red grape skins contain a compound called resveratrol, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Resveratrol has also been associated with extended longevity in animal studies. The compound inhibits inflammatory proteins, such as COX-1 and 2, as well as reducing levels of nitric oxide, which can damage cells and even interfere with DNA.
Pomegranate
This common fruit has a wide variety of positive health impacts, particularly against cancer. Like the other items above, pomegranate exerts anti-inflammatory effects. But it has also been shown to limit blood vessel growth, which tumors need to invade other tissues. Studies have also shown that pomegranate juice can slow increases in prostate specific antigen (PSA), a widely used prostate cancer diagnostic.
Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables are rich in a compound called indole-3-carbinol, which also helps reduce nitric oxide. In addition, these vegetables contain another molecule called DIM that balances hormones. Because of their anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, these foods have a strong record against cancer. In one study conducted in Britain a few years ago, a combination of pomegranate, turmeric, broccoli and green tea extract significantly reduced PSA levels in prostate cancer patients.
Synergistic botanicals
One of the main strategies in promoting cellular and overall health is to combine synergistic approaches for increased benefits. This is particularly true when applying botanicals to encourage prostate health. By providing broad-spectrum support with a diverse selection of natural ingredients, we can effectively promote long-term prostate health and function.
Some nutraceutical formulas take advantage of this natural synergistic approach. ProstaCaid®, for example, contains several powerful antioxidant nutrients, medicinal mushrooms and a variety of herbal extracts that work together synergistically to help maintain prostate cellular health and healthy prostate and urinary function.*
There’s no way to overstress how important diet is to good health. This is particularly true of many fruits, vegetables and herbs, which offer powerful phytochemicals for longevity and vitality. They boost immunity and overall wellness, while helping transform a collection of foods into a meal.
In other words, come for the exciting flavors, but stay for the even more exciting health benefits.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
