Black Horehound (Ballota nigra)

What is Black Horehound?

Black horehound is best known for its offensive odour — which resembles stale sweat.

Despite the unfortunate smell of this mint-relative, it has a lot to offer therapeutically.

Black horehound is one of the oldest medicinal herb species from Europe. It has a long history of use for infectious diseases including rabies and parasites, as well as for nausea and vomiting caused by neurological disorders.

This herb is a bit of a jack of all trades — but master of none. It offer reliable nervine, antispasmodic, antimicrobial, and anticholesterolaemic effects — all thanks to five unique phenylpropanoid glycosides contained in the leaves, stems, and roots of the herb.

What is Black Horehound Used For?

Many of the tradition uses of the herb have yet to be validated. The primary traditional uses for the herb that still stand today are for treating motion sickness or other causes of nausea or vomiting of neurological origin.

This herb is also still used as an antimicrobial for the digestive tract and topically on the skin.

Newer applications for the herb are aimed towards high cholesterol levels and diabetes.

Traditional Uses of Black Horehound

Black horehound was used for a lot of different applications. It was also a common remedy for motion sickness or any vomiting caused by neurological origins (rather than digestive).

Topically, the leaves were used to treat wounds, burns, and infection. Some herbalists even gave the herb as an enema for parasitic worms.

In Europe, where the herb originated from, the flowering tops were used to treat rabies after getting bitten by a rabid dog.

Herb Details: Black Horehound

Herbal Actions:

• Antibacterial
• Anticholesterolaemic
• Antiemetic
• Antifungal
• Antioxidant
• Antiprotozoal
• Antispasmodic
• Expectorant
• Hypoglycaemic
• Nervine
• Sedative

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  10 20 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

Flowering Tops

Family Name

Lamiaceae

Distribution

Europe & North America

Constituents of Interest

• Verbascoside
• Forsythoside B
• Arenarioside
• Ballotetroside
• Malic Acid

Common Names

• Black Horehound
• Black Stinking Horehound
• Fetid Horehound
• Stinking Roger

CYP450

• Unknown

Pregnancy

• Avoid black horehound if pregnant or breastfeeding

Duration of Use

• insert

Botanical Information

Black horehound originated from Europe but is now widespread across North America as well. The herb can grow over 1 meter tall and tends to grow on the side of the road in rural areas.

What this plant is best known for is its disagreeable odor — which can be described as stale sweat. The Greek name, ballo translates to “getting rid of”, or “throwing away”. This smell protects the herb by repelling both animals and humans.

Pharmacology & Medical Research

+ Anticholesterolaemic

One of the major causes of atherosclerosis is the result of oxidization of low-density lipoproteins LDL) [1].

Some of the phenolic compounds in black horehound (verbascoside, forsythoside B, arenarioside, and ballotetroside) were found to inhibit LDL oxidation through Cu2+ pathway [2].

+ Antimicrobial

Five phenolic compounds from black horehound were investigated to explore their antimicrobial potential. Of these five, three (verbascoside, forsythoside B, arenarioside) were found to have moderate activity against Proteus mirabilis, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus [3, 4].

Another study looked at the antimicrobial effects of each part of the plant (leaves, roots, and stems). The results suggested the crude extract of the roots had the best inhibitory activity on the strains tested (Enterococcus faecalis, Escherichia coli, Klensiella pneumonia, Proteus miribalis, Salmonella typhi, and Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus fumigates, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani, and Leishmania) [5]. The leaf and stem chloroform extracts had similar antimicrobial action.

+ Sedative

Phenylpropanoid compounds from black horehound were found to bind to benzodiazepine, dopaminergic, and morphinic receptors in animals [6, 4]. This provides a mechanism of action for the traditional sedative uses of the herb — but more research is needed to further elucidate these findings.

Phytochemistry

The flowering tops (the part used medicinally) are rich in diterpenoid lactones (labdane type) — such as ballotenol, ballotinone, 7alpha-acetoxymarrubiin, hispanolone, and preleosibirin.

The tops are also rich in phenolic compounds (luteolin-7-lactate, luteolin-7-glucosyl-lactate), phenylpropanoid glycosides (verbascoside, forsythoside B, arenarioside, ballotetroside), organic acids (quinic acid), and volatile oils.

Cautions & Safety Information:

Black horehound is considered a safe herb, with little chances of experiencing any side effects.

Allergies to the herb have been noted, so caution is advised if using the herb for the first time. Always start with a small amount first to see how you react before using a full dose.

Black horehound may interact with the following medication classes:

• Antipsychotic medications (overlap in receptor activation)

• Anti-Parkinson’s disease medications (overlap in dopaminergic action)

• Sedatives (overlap in sedative effects and benzodiazepine receptor activation)

• Iron supplements (black horehound has been suggested to prevent the absorption of iron)

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated March 2020)

Recent Blog Posts:

Featured Herb Monographs

References:

[1] — Steinberg, D. (1997). Low density lipoprotein oxidation and its pathobiological significance.

[2] — Seidel, V., Verholle, M., Malard, Y., Tillequin, F., Fruchart, J. C., Duriez, P., ... & Teissier, E. (2000). Phenylpropanoids from Ballota nigra L. inhibit in vitro LDL peroxidation.

[3] — Didry, N., Seidel, V., Dubreuil, L., Tillequin, F., & Bailleul, F. (1999). Isolation and antibacterial activity of phenylpropanoid derivatives from Ballota nigra.

[4] — Al-Snafi, A. E. (2015). The Pharmacological Importance of Ballota nigra–A review.

[5] — Ullah, N., Ahmad, I., & Ayaz, S. (2014). In vitro antimicrobial and antiprotozoal activities, phytochemical screening and heavy metals toxicity of different parts of Ballota nigra.

[6] — Daels-Rakotoarison, D. A., Seidel, V., Gressier, B., Brunet, C., Tillequin, F., Bailleul, F., ... & Cazin, J. C. (2000). Neurosedative and antioxidant activities of phenylpropanoids from Ballota nigra.

Cryptolepis (Cryptolepis sanguinolenta)

What is Cryptolepis?

Cryptolepis is a potent antibmicrobial herb originating from Africa and Southeast Asia. It’s become one of the go-to herbal species for treating resistant bacteria and malaria.

The active constituents of the plant are a group of alkaloids, each of which have been proven effective against a wide variety of bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and parasitic organisms (specific strains listed below).

The roots also contain a rich yellow pigment that makes the herb useful for dying fabrics and leather a deep yellow color.

What is Cryptolepis Used For?

Cryptolepis is almost exclusively used as an antimicrobial against parasitic, bacterial, amoebic, and fungal infections. This herb is very useful for infections of all kinds. It’s a popular herb for digestive disorders and infection, topically for skin infections, or orally for urinary tract infections.

Outside of medicine cryptolepis is used as a source of yellow dye — lending to one of its common names, yellow dye root.

Brewing a Decoction of Cryptolepis

Traditional Uses of Cryptolepis

+ Africa

Cryptolepis originates from Africa, where it was primarily used to treat malaria, amoebic dysentery, and both urinary and respiratory infection.

The herb’s success with malaria patients is what made the plant so popular today, and there is now large plots of land dedicated to its cultivation to meet the demand for the herb within Africa, as well as elsewhere in the world.

+ Asia & Indonesia

A closely related species — Cryptolepis buchanii — grows throughout Indonesia, Thailand, China, India, and Nepal.

This species was used in Thailand for treating systemic inflammation, arthritis, and muscle pain.

In India, this species was used to treat diarrhea, bacterial infection, ulcers, and for treating rickets in children.

Herb Details: Cryptolepis

Herbal Actions:

• Antiamoebic
• Antibacterial
• Anticancer
• Antifungal
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiparasitic
• Antipyretic
• Antiviral (Mild)

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  30 100 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

Roots

Family Name

Apocynaceae

Distribution

Africa & Southeast Asia

Constituents of Interest

• Cryptolpine
• Norcyptolepine
• Cryptospirolepine
• Isocryptolepine

Common Names

• Cryptolepis
• Yellow Dye Root
• Delboi
• Gangamau
• Ghanian Quinine
• Kadze
• Koli Mekari
• Kpokpo-Yangolei
• Nibima
• Nombon
• Nurubima
• Ouidoukoi
• Paran Pupa

CYP450

• Unknown

Pregnancy

• Avoid cryptolepis if pregnant or breastfeeding

Duration of Use

• High-dose use of cryptolepis (4-6mL per day) should be limited to 60 days. Low-doses (1-2 mL per day) is considered safe for long-term use.

Botanical Information

Cryptolepis is a member of the Apocynaceae (dogbane) family — which contains roughly 348 genera of trees, shrubs, vines, and herb succulents. members of this family can be found throughout the tropics.

Another notable species in this family is Vinca major (periwinkle)

Most of the species in this family grow in dense tropical rainforests, but a select few prefer harsh, dry environments — including cryptolepis, which prefers dry savanah forests. You’re more likely to find the herb growing near a source of water, however.

You can find cryptolepis wild in dry grassy or forested regions from Senegal east to Nigeria. The plant can also be found sporatically in Camaroon and the Congo.

Some related species grow in Australia as well.

Within the cryptolepis genus there are roughly 42 species — with the primary studied species being Cryptolepis sanguinolenta.

Cultivation, Harvesting & Preparation

Both the roots and stems of the plant have been used as medicine, but the roots contain nearly twice as much of the active alkaloids than the stem — so most people tend to just use the roots instead.

Pharmacology & Medical Research

+ Antibacterial

Cryptolepis is well-known for its antibacterial activity — and is considered by many herbalists to be one of the most reliable systemic antimicrobial herbs available.

Cryptolepis has been tested agains many different strains of bacteria, amoeba, fungi, parasites, and virus.

The most active inhibitory effects of the herb are towards bacteria and parasites, with mild anti-fungal and antiviral activity.

These alkaloids work by inhibiting growth, breaking down cell membranes (lysis), causing morphological changes to the cell, and direct bactericidal activities [1, 2, 3].

One study in particular tested the effects of various cryptolepis extracts (water, ethanol, petroleum ether, chloroform, and ethyl acetate extracts) agains antibiotic-resistant bacteria [1]. The herb was effective agains 75% of the strains tested.

The study found cryptolepis extracts to be effective against the following bacteria:

• Staphylococcus saprophyticus

• Staphylococcus aureus

• Salmonella typhi

• Proteus mirabilis

• Excherichia coli

• Proteus mirabilis

• Pseudomonas aeruginosa

• Klebsiella pneumoniae

Cryptolepis has also been shown to inhibit other organisms, including:

• Neisseria gonorrhoeae [4]

• Shigella dysenteriae [2]

• Salmonella typhimurium [2]

• Vibrio cholerae [2]

• Enterococcus faecalis [2]

• Campylobacter jejuni (65 strains) [5]

• Campylobacter coli (41 strains) [5]

• Bacillus cerues [7]

• Streptococcus pyogenes [7]

• Enterobacter cloacae [7]

• Klebsiella pneumonia [7]

• Proteus vulgaris [7]

• Mycobacterium fortuitum [6]

• Mycobacterium phlei [6]

• Mycobacteriumaurum [6]

• Mycobacterium smegmatis [6]

• Mycobacterium bovis [6]

• Mycobacterium abcessus [6]

The herbs effectiveness agains Escherichia coli, Proteus miribalis, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus provide a mechanism of action for the herbs traditional uses for urinary tract infection.

it should be noted that in most of the studies cited above, the ethanolic extract was by far the most effective. Water extracts were the least effective overall unless decocted for several hours.

+ Antifungal

Many of the same alkaloids active agains bacterial strains are also effective agains fungal infection.

Cryptolepine and neocryptolepine have both been shown to have antifungal activity against the following species:

• Candida albicans [7]

• Aspergillus niger [4]

• Microsporum canis [7]

• Epidermophyton floccosum [7]

• Trichopyton rubrum [7]

• Trichopyton mentagrophytes [7]

• Saccharomyces cerevisiae [7]

+ Anti-Parasitic

This herb has a long history of use for malaria and other parasitic infections. As a result, there’s ben a lot of study to elucidate these effects further.

A preclinical trial using an aqueous extract of the root found the herb, as well as isolated fractions of cryptolepine and isocryptoleopine had direct antiplasmoidial activity [8]. I’s important to note that all strains of plasmodium falciparum used in this study were already resistant to chloroquine — suggesting alternate mechanisms for cryptolepine and isocryptolepines antimalarial effects.

These results have been replicated at least four more times using different alkaloid fractions of the plant, different administration methods (injection), and different strains of plasmodium — all showed varying levels of improvement from the application of cryptolepis [8, 9, 10].

One study noted a synergistic effect against plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium berghei with artimisinins — which is a compound found in the Artemesia annua (Qing Hao). These same results were noted from a semi-synthetic analog of artemisinin called artesunate without producing any toxic side effects. [11].

Clinical Trials

In one trial [12], 44 patients with uncomplicated malaria were given cryptolepis root tea (2.5 gram equivalent) three times per day for five days. The effects were considered positive if the parasites were undetectable in the blood by day seven, and remained undetectable at a 28 day followup.

By the end of the study, 50% of patients were considered cleared of malaria after 2 days of treatment. Chills, vomiting, and nausea were cleared in all patients by day three. By the end of the trial, 93.5% of patients had undetectable levels of plasmodium in the blood, and no symptoms. These improvements are consistent with the pharmaceutical application chloroquine.

Phytochemistry

The primary group of medicinal compounds in cryptolepis are the alkaloids. The primary active alkaloids in the herb include:

• Cryptolepine (the primary bioactive compound)

• Norcryptolepine

• Cryptospirolepine

• Isocryptolepine

• Hydroxycryptolepine

• Cryptoheptine

• Biscryptolepine

• Neocryptolepine

• Cryptoquindoline

The primary active ingredient is cryptolepine — which is also the primary ingredient in another well-known systemic antimicrobial plant, Sida (Sida acuta).

Cryptolepine is an indoloquinoline alkaloid with significant antimicrobial activity. This compound has been shown to have direct antimalarial, antibacterial, anticancer, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory activities [2, 13, 14, 15].

A separate alkaloid, cryptohepine, has also been shown to posess significant antibacterial activity against both gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria [5, 20]. Other alkaloids including neocryptolepine and biscryptolepine have also shown activity agains gram-positive bacteria, but aren’t as well studied as cryptohepine or cryptolepine. Neocryptine is reported to provide more bacteriostatic activity than bacteriocidal [7].

Cautions & Safety Information:

Cryptolepis has been used for thousands of years without any evidence of toxic side effects. One clinical trial gave patients 80 mL of cryptolepis extract for six days (a very high dose), with no side effects reported [16].

in rats, the LD50 of cryptolepis was over 5000 mg/kg — an incredibly potent dose [17, 18].

Some mild side effects have been noted when using isolated cryptolepis alkaloids that aren’t noted in whole-plant extracts. Side effects from this may include a rise in ALP and uric acid [12].

One animal study found cryptolepis leaf extract resulted in a decreased sperm count in rats [19].

Avoid using cryptolepis in combination with antidiabetic medications and central nervous system depressants (such as phenobarbitone).

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated March 2020)

Recent Blog Posts:

Featured Herb Monographs

References:

[1] — Mills-Robertson, F. C., Tay, S. C., Duker-Eshun, G., Walana, W., & Badu, K. (2012). In vitro antimicrobial activity of ethanolic fractions of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta. Annals of clinical microbiology and antimicrobials, 11(1), 16.

[2] — Paulo, A., Duarte, A., & Gomes, E. T. (1994). In vitro antibacterial screening of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta alkaloids. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 44(2), 127-130.

[3] — Sawer, I. K., Berry, M. I., & Ford, J. L. (2005). The killing effect of cryptolepine on Staphylococcus aureus. Letters in applied microbiology, 40(1), 24-29.

[4] — Boakye-Yiadom, K. (1979). Antimicrobial properties of some West African medicinal plants II. Antimicrobial activity of aqueous extracts of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Lindl.) Schlechter. Quarterly Journal of Crude Drug Research, 17(2), 78-80.

[5] — Paulo, A., Pimentel, M., Viegas, S., Pires, I., Duarte, A., Cabrita, J., & Gomes, E. T. (1994). Cryptolepis sanguinolenta activity against diarrhoeal bacteria. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 44(2), 73-77.

[6] — Gibbons, S., Fallah, F., & Wright, C. W. (2003). Cryptolepine hydrochloride: a potent antimycobacterial alkaloid derived from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta. Phytotherapy Research, 17(4), 434-436.

[7] — Cimanga, K., De Bruyne, T., Pieters, L., Totte, J., Tona, L., Kambu, K., ... & Vlietinck, A. J. (1998). Antibacterial and antifungal activities of neocryptolepine, biscryptolepine and cryptoquindoline, alkaloids isolated from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta. Phytomedicine, 5(3), 209-214.

[8] — Grellier, P., Ramiaramanana, L., Millerioux, V., Deharo, E., Schrével, J., Frappier, F., ... & Pousset, J. L. (1996). Antimalarial activity of cryptolepine and isocryptolepine, alkaloids isolated from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta. Phytotherapy Research, 10(4), 317-321.

[9] — Cimanga, K., De Bruyne, T., Pieters, L., Vlietinck, A. J., & Turger, C. A. (1997). In vitro and in vivo antiplasmodial activity of cryptolepine and related alkaloids from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta. Journal of natural products, 60(7), 688-691.

[10] — Whittell, L. R., Batty, K. T., Wong, R. P., Bolitho, E. M., Fox, S. A., Davis, T. M., & Murray, P. E. (2011). Synthesis and antimalarial evaluation of novel isocryptolepine derivatives. Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry, 19(24), 7519-7525.

[11] — Forkuo, A. D., Ansah, C., Boadu, K. M., Boampong, J. N., Ameyaw, E. O., Gyan, B. A., ... & Ofori, M. F. (2016). Synergistic anti-malarial action of cryptolepine and artemisinins. Malaria journal, 15(1), 89.

[12] — Bugyei, K. A., Boye, G. L., & Addy, M. E. (2010). Clinical efficacy of a tea-bag formulation of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta root in the treatment of acute uncomplicated falciparum malaria. Ghana medical journal, 44(1).

[13] — Ntie-Kang, F., Lifongo, L. L., Simoben, C. V., Babiaka, S. B., Sippl, W., & Mbaze, L. M. A. (2014). The uniqueness and therapeutic value of natural products from West African medicinal plants. Part I: uniqueness and chemotaxonomy. RSC Advances, 4(54), 28728-28755.

[14] — Bierer, D. E., Fort, D. M., Mendez, C. D., Luo, J., Imbach, P. A., Dubenko, L. G., ... & Zhang, P. (1998). Ethnobotanical-directed discovery of the antihyperglycemic properties of cryptolepine: its isolation from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, synthesis, and in vitro and in vivo activities. Journal of medicinal chemistry, 41(6), 894-901.

[15] — Paulo, A., Gomes, E. T., & Houghton, P. J. (1995). New alkaloids from Cryptolepis sanguinolenta. Journal of Natural Products, 58(10), 1485-1491.

[16] — Luo, J., Fort, D. M., Carlson, T. J., Noamesi, B. K., nii‐Amon‐Kotei, D., King, S. R., ... & Waldeck, N. (1998). Cryptolepis sanguinolenta: an ethnobotanical approach to drug discovery and the isolation of a potentially useful new antihyperglycaemic agent. Diabetic medicine, 15(5), 367-374.

[17] — Ansha, C., & Mensah, K. B. (2013). A review of the anticancer potential of the antimalarial herbal Cryptolepis sanguinolenta and its major alkaloid cryptolepine. Ghana medical journal, 47(3), 137-147.

[18] — Ansah, C., Mfoafo, E. A., Woode, E., Opoku-Okrah, C., Owiredu, W. K. B. A., & Duwiejua, M. (2008). Toxicological evaluation of the anti-malarial herb Cryptolepis sanguinolenta in rodents. J Pharmacol Toxicol, 3, 335-43.

[19] — Ajayi, A. F., & Akhigbe, R. E. (2012). Antifertility activity of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta leaf ethanolic extract in male rats. Journal of human Reproductive sciences, 5(1), 43.

[20] — Paulo, A., Gomes, E. T., Steele, J., Warhurst, D. C., & Houghton, P. J. (2000). Antiplasmodial activity of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta alkaloids from leaves and roots. Planta medica, 66(01), 30-34.

Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

What is Lion's Mane?

Lion's mane is a medicinal wood-rotting fungus with a characteristic growth pattern that resembles the shaggy mane of a lion.

The fungus prefers temperate forests in North America, Europe, and Asia where it thrives on living oak, beech, or conifer trees.

The medicinal benefit of lions mane primarily involve the nervous system. Modern applications use the mushroom for general cognitive health and as a natural nootropic substance.

This mushroom is also eaten as a delicacy — with a flavor similar to lobster when cooked with butter.

In recent years lion's mane has caught the eye of the nootropic community for its ability to up-regulate nerve growth factor.

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How Is Lion's Mane Used?

Lion's mane is mainly used for neurodegenerative disorders like dementia and multiple sclerosis. It's also popular as a nootropic agent for supporting optimal cognitive function long term.

Most of the people using this fungus take it in the form of a powdered capsule or tincture on a daily basis. Like most medicinal mushrooms, the biggest benefit comes from using the herb on a regular basis over long periods of time — rather than short bursts for quick impact of effects.

Traditional Use of Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane mushrooms have a long history of use in Eastern Asia — including China, Korea, and Japan. Each of these regions used the mushroom for treating neurological disorders, including neurasthenia, and age-related cognitive decline, as well as for general health.

Herb Details: Lion's Mane

Herbal Actions:

• Antibacterial
• Anticancer
• Antidiabetic
• Antioxidant
• Cardioprotective
• Hepatoprotective
• Nervine
• Immunomodulator

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  20-60 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Fruiting Body

Family Name

• Hericiaceae

Distribution

• North America, Europe, Russia, Mountainous regions of Asia

Constituents of Interest

• Hericnones
• Erinacines
• Lactones
• Polysaccharides

Common Names

• Lion's Mane
• Monkey's Head
• Hedgehog Fungus
• Pom Pom
• Houtou (China)
• Shishigashira (China)
• Yamabushitake (Japan)

Pregnancy

• Safe during pregnancy.

Duration of Use

• Long term use acceptable and recommended.

Mycological Information

The Hericiaceae family of fungi are saprophytic (consumes dead wood), yet can be found growing on living trees as well. Many experts believe the mushroom has a mutualistic relationship with the tree for some time — helping it resist disease and infection, but will eventually consume the tree after it dies.

Hericium mushrooms normally grow in cooler, mountainous regions across the globe. It contains a number of species used medicinally and nutritionally.

Hericium spp. has characteristic "tooth" structures on its fruiting body, giving it a hair-like appearance.

Pharmacology & Medical Research

+ Neuroprotective

Lion’s mane offers several different mechanisms to produce its overall neuroprotective benefits:

1. Antioxidant and free-radical scavenging activity [6]
2. Anti-inflammatory activity
3. Nerve-growth factor stimulation (hericium and erinacenes)
4. Reduction of endoplasmic reticulum stress-dependant cell death (dilinoleolyl-phosphatidylethanolamine (DLPE) [7]
5. Attenuation of beta-amyloid-related cognitive decline in animals (dementia model) [8]
6. Enhance mylenation of neurons [9, 10, 11]

In animal studies, lion’s mane has been shown to reduce the severity of damage after a stroke — effectively protecting the sensitive neurons from ischemic damage [6].

Clinical Trials:

Study: Mori et al., 2009 — Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial. [5]

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 30 Japanese men and women with mil cognitive impairment found that after 16 weeks, the lion’s mane group had significantly increased cognitive scores. These improvements were noted as early as the 8 week checkup, and continued to improve compared to placebo over the rest of the 16-week trial.

The dose of lion’s mane used in this study was 1 gram of dried lion’s mane taken three times per day.

Unfortunately, 4 weeks after the trial concluded, the scores had significantly decreased — indicating that these effects are not permanent and the mushroom needs to be continued to remain effective.

+ Nootropic

A nootropic is a substance that improves cognition without causing harm. There are a lot of nootropic substances that range from herbs like lion’s mane or rhodiola, to synthetic or prescription drugs like Modafinil or Noopept.

Lion’s mane is thought to be a nootropic through its ability to promote nerve-growth factor (NGF) in the brain. NGF is the most potent growth factor for the cholinergic neurons. it influences everything from the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of neuronal cells in the brain [8, 12].

Reductions in NGF has been considered a major implication in conditions such as depression, substance abuse, Alzheimer’s disease, and Huntington’s disease [12].

There have been a lot of studies looking at the role of lion’s mane and nerve growth factor — most of which have concluded that lion’s mane applications directly lead to an increase in NGF. This research has been done both in vivo and in vitro [13, 14, 15, 16].

This effect is very important. We can give peptides like NGF to people to treat these neurodegeneration, but these peptides rarely cross the blood brain barrier [9]. Therefore, finding alternative ways to boost NGF or other peptides in the brain are of the utmost importance in the treatment, prevention, and management of neurodegenerative disorders.

+ Immunomodulation

Like many other medicinal mushrooms, lion’s mane contains a high concentration of polysaccharides with immunomodulatory effects.

A lot of this study has been done in vitro with dendritic immune cells. These cells serve as the antigen-presenting cells that act as central mediators for the immune response as a whole. They’re responsible for a lot of the tolerance formed by the immune system to help maintain homeostasis.

Studies involving lions mane extracts have shown the fungus can stimulate the maturation of dendritic cells, induce dendritic cell activation, and modulate key T-helper (Th1) immune responses [17].

+ Anti-Inflammatory

Lion’s mane has been shown to influence a variety of inflammatory mediators, including:

Induces IL-1β expression through Nf-kB, NF-IL6, and activator protein 1 (AP-1) [18]

Induces iNOS gene expression to increase nitric oxide (NO) production in macrophages

Inhibits toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-JNK signalling on macrophages [19]

Phytochemistry of Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

Lion’s mane fruiting body and myclelia contain an exceptionally diverse range of unique bioactive substances — including polysaccharides, meroterpenoids (hericinones), cyathane diterpenoids (erinacines), steroids, alkaloids, and lactones.

The most significant constituents in terms of the mushrooms medicinal action are the hericenones and erinacines. Both of these substances have been shown to stimulate nerve growth factor in the central nervous system. This is thought to be the primary mechanism for which the fungus an improve the health and function of the nervous system.

Clinical Applications Of Lion's Mane:

Lion's mane has many uses, but the most well-known is as a neuroprotective, and nootropic benefits. It's useful for neurodegenerative disorders including multipple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease.

Other uses include depression and anxiety, cancer, diabetes, gastrointestinal infection, and fatigue.

Cautions & Safety

Lion’s mane is a culinary mushroom that’s been used for both food and medicine by countless individuals over several hundreds of years. There are no expected short-term or long-term side effects from using the fungus.

Throughout the clinical research there have been no reports of serious side effects from using the fungus — including very high-potency extracts and long-term durations of use.

Caution advised with any blood clotting conditions or medications due to possible agonistic interactions — including haemophilia or other bleeding disorder, thrombocytopenia, or post-surgery. Lion’s mane may interact with blood thinners or anti-platelet medications.

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated April 2020)

Recent Blog Posts:

References

[1] — Friedman, M. (2015). Chemistry, nutrition, and health-promoting properties of Hericium erinaceus (lion’s mane) mushroom fruiting bodies and mycelia and their bioactive compounds. Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, 63(32), 7108-7123.

[2] — Liu, J., Du, C., Wang, Y., & Yu, Z. (2015). Anti-fatigue activities of polysaccharides extracted from Hericium erinaceus. Experimental and therapeutic medicine, 9(2), 483-487.

[3] — Thongbai, B., Rapior, S., Hyde, K. D., Wittstein, K., & Stadler, M. (2015). Hericium erinaceus, an amazing medicinal mushroom. Mycological progress, 14(10), 91.

[4] — Wong, K. H., Naidu, M., David, R. P., Bakar, R., & Sabaratnam, V. (2012). Neuroregenerative potential of lion's mane mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers.(higher Basidiomycetes), in the treatment of peripheral nerve injury. International journal of medicinal mushrooms, 14(5).

[5] — Mori, K., Inatomi, S., Ouchi, K., Azumi, Y., & Tuchida, T. (2009). Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double‐blind placebo‐controlled clinical trial. Phytotherapy Research, 23(3), 367-372.

[6] — Lee, K. F., Chen, J. H., Teng, C. C., Shen, C. H., Hsieh, M. C., Lu, C. C., ... & Huang, W. S. (2014). Protective effects of Hericium erinaceus mycelium and its isolated erinacine A against ischemia-injury-induced neuronal cell death via the inhibition of iNOS/p38 MAPK and nitrotyrosine. International journal of molecular sciences, 15(9), 15073-15089.

[7] — Nagai, K., Chiba, A., Nishino, T., Kubota, T., & Kawagishi, H. (2006). Dilinoleoyl-phosphatidylethanolamine from Hericium erinaceum protects against ER stress-dependent Neuro2a cell death via protein kinase C pathway. The Journal of nutritional biochemistry, 17(8), 525-530.

[8] — Mori, K., Obara, Y., Moriya, T., Inatomi, S., & Nakahata, N. (2011). Effects of Hericium erinaceus on amyloid β (25-35) peptide-induced learning and memory deficits in mice. Biomedical Research, 32(1), 67-72.

[9] — Phan, C. W., David, P., Naidu, M., Wong, K. H., & Sabaratnam, V. (2015). Therapeutic potential of culinary-medicinal mushrooms for the management of neurodegenerative diseases: diversity, metabolite, and mechanism. Critical Reviews in Biotechnology, 35(3), 355-368.

[10] — Kolotushkina, E. V., Moldavan, M. G., Voronin, K. Y., & Skibo, G. G. (2003). The influence of Hericium erinaceus extract on myelination process in vitro. Fiziol Zh, 49(1), 38-45.

[11] — Moldavan, M., Grygansky, A. P., Kolotushkina, O. V., Kirchhoff, B., Skibo, G. G., & Pedarzani, P. (2007). Neurotropic and trophic action of lion's mane mushroom Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers.(Aphyllophoromycetideae) extracts on nerve cells in vitro. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 9(1).

[12] — Chao, M. V., Rajagopal, R., & Lee, F. S. (2006). Neurotrophin signalling in health and disease. Clinical science, 110(2), 167-173.

[13] — Zhang, C. C., Yin, X., Cao, C. Y., Wei, J., Zhang, Q., & Gao, J. M. (2015). Chemical constituents from Hericium erinaceus and their ability to stimulate NGF-mediated neurite outgrowth on PC12 cells. Bioorganic & medicinal chemistry letters, 25(22), 5078-5082.

[14] — Samberkar, S., Gandhi, S., Naidu, M., Wong, K. H., Raman, J., & Sabaratnam, V. (2015). Lion's Mane, Hericium erinaceus and Tiger Milk, Lignosus rhinocerotis (Higher Basidiomycetes) medicinal mushrooms stimulate neurite outgrowth in dissociated cells of brain, spinal cord, and retina: an in vitro study. International journal of medicinal mushrooms, 17(11).

[15] — Lai, P. L., Naidu, M., Sabaratnam, V., Wong, K. H., David, R. P., Kuppusamy, U. R., ... & Malek, S. N. A. (2013). Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms, 15(6).

[16] — Mori, K., Obara, Y., Hirota, M., Azumi, Y., Kinugasa, S., Inatomi, S., & Nakahata, N. (2008). Nerve growth factor-inducing activity of Hericium erinaceus in 1321N1 human astrocytoma cells. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 31(9), 1727-1732.

[17] — Sheu, S. C., Lyu, Y., Lee, M. S., & Cheng, J. H. (2013). Immunomodulatory effects of polysaccharides isolated from Hericium erinaceus on dendritic cells. Process biochemistry, 48(9), 1402-1408.

[18] — Son, C. G., Shin, J. W., Cho, J. H., Cho, C. K., Yun, C. H., & Han, S. (2006). Induction of murine interleukin‐1 beta expression by water‐soluble components from Hericium erinaceum 1. Acta Pharmacologica Sinica, 27(8), 1058-1064.

[19] — Mori, K., Ouchi, K., & Hirasawa, N. (2015). The anti-inflammatory effects of lion's mane culinary-medicinal mushroom, hericium erinaceus (higher basidiomycetes) in a coculture system of 3t3-L1 adipocytes and raw264 macrophages. International journal of medicinal mushrooms, 17(7).

Horopito (Pseudowintera colorata)

What is Horopito?

Horopito is commonly known as New Zealand pepperwood for its mild spicy flavor and exclusivity to the cooler islands of the south pacific ocean — including New Zealand.

This herb has a lot of traditional uses as medicine but went largely noticed by the international herbal medicine community. Recently there’s been a surge in interest in the plant after a series of studies were done to assess the medical value of traditional New Zealand herbs.

Horopito is used for skin and digestive conditions largely due to the plant’s potent antifungal actions. This plant has been shown to kill candida, as well as a number of parasitic worms.

The mild spicy nature of the plant also brings some circulatory stimulant and analgesic activity.

This plant has a lot of practical applications, especially for infectious fungal or parasitic conditions. It’s likely this plant will become much more commonplace in western herbal medicine within the next 5 to 10 years.

What is Horopito Used For?

The primary uses of horopito in modern herbal medicine is for fungal, bacterial, and parasitic infections.

A liquid extract of the herb is the most common form used today, but you can also find capsules and topical applications of the herb. For skin infections, such as ringworm or eczema, a poultice of the leaves can be applied directly, but a liniment is more common as the plant can be difficult to grow outside New Zealand.

Traditional Uses of Horopito

The Maori of New Zealand have been using horopito for a long time and have a long list of applications for its leaves.

The Maori use horopito in the following ways:

• As a flavoring agent (spicy flavor profile)

• For sexually transmitted infection

• Ringworm

• Chaffed or damaged skin

When the early Europeans colonized New Zealand many of them began using the herb as a source of vitamin C to prevent or treat scurvy.

Herb Details: Horopito

Herbal Actions:

• Analgesic
• Anti-Allergy
• Antibacterial
• Antifungal
• Anti-Inflammatory
• Astringent
• Circulatory Stimulant
• Gastroprotective
• Insecticidal
• Nutritive
• Rubefacient

Weekly Dose

• 10 – 30 mL (1:2 Extract)
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

Leaves & Inner Bark

Family Name

Winteraceae

Distribution

Cooler Tropical islands Around new Zealand

Constituents of Interest

• Anthocyanins
• Dialdehyde polygodial
• Sesquiterpenes
• Eugenol

Common Names

• Horopito
• New Zeland Pepper Tree
• Maori Painkiller
• Ramarama

CYP450

• Unknown

Quality

• Warm

Pregnancy

• Safety during pregnancy not well established, avoid use while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Duration of Use

• Long-term use is acceptable and common

Botanical Information

Horopito is a member of the Winteraceae family of plants — which consists of about 90 species of trees and shrubs nearly exclusive to the Southern hemisphere.

The leaves of horopito have a characteristic red color as a result of the sesquiterpene content of the leaves — which are also one of the main medicinal compounds in the plant.

Cautions & Safety Information:

There have been very few reports of side effects from using horopito — however, some reports of allergic reactions have been reported.

Horopito should be avoided by epileptics due to a possible increase in extracellular glutamate found in some animal studies.

Avoid larger doses of the herb with acute gastritis or peptic ulcers.

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated March 2020)

Recent Blog Posts:

References:

1. insert

Fish Mint (Houttuynia cordata)

What is Houttuynia?

Houttuynia is a Southeast Asian herb that’s spread all over the world as an invasive species. It’s common name “fish mint” refers to the strong fish-like aroma of the essential oil content. This characteristic flavor makes the herb useful as a flavoring in various dishes.

The fishy roots of the herb are also eaten as a vegetable in some Asian dishes.

Houttuynia is one of the most relevant herbs at the moment in the search for potential sources of medicine against the COVID-19 virus.

This herb has potent antiviral activity — shown to be active against SARS, as well as other coronaviruses, influenza, herpes type I and II, HIV, Dengue, and Chikungunya virus.

What is Houttuynia Used For?

Houttuynia is primarily used for bacterial and viral infections of the respiratory tract. It’s considered most effective if taken prophylactically, but may provide use during infection as well to slow the spread of the disease.

Other applications of the herb are for its diuretic effects, anti-allergic effects, anti-inflammatory actions, and for diabetes.

Traditional Uses of Houttuynia

In Southeast Asia, where houttuynia thrives, the leaves are used in a lot of local culinary dishes. The leaves have a characteristic “fishy” flavor and aroma that lend itself to some dishes as a garnish or spice. In parts of China, the roots are eaten in a dish called Zhé'ěrgēn.

Medicinally, fish mint has had a long history of use in Japan, Korea, China, and Vietnam for a wide range of conditions.

The leaves of the fish mint plant were traditionally used for the following:

• Digestive issues

• Insect bites

• Hypertension

• Constipation

• Hyperglycemia

• Influenza or other viral infections

• Pneumonia

• Kidney disorders

• Inflammation of the urinary tract

• Cough

• Insect repellant

Topically, the herb was used for sores, carbuncles, and inflammation.

In traditional Chinese medicine the herb was used to reduce heat.

Herb Details: Houttuynia

Herbal Actions:

• Antiviral
• Diuretic
• Antibacterial
• Anti-Anaphylactic
• Anti-Allergy
• Antinflammatory
• Febrifuge

[1, 2]

Weekly Dose

• (1:30 Decoction)
  15 – 30 Grams
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

Aerial Parts

Roots Are Eaten as a Vegetable

Family Name

Saururaceae

Distribution

Southeast Asia

Constituents of Interest

• β-myrcene
• 2-undecanone

Common Names

• Fish Mint
• Chameleon Plant
• Houttuynia
• Chinese Lizard Tail
• Bishop's Weed
• Diếp cá (Vietnam)
• Yu Xing Cao (China)

CYP450

• Unknown

Quality

• Cold

Pregnancy

• Avoid houttuynia if pregnant or breastfeeding

Taste

• Pungent

Duration of Use

• Long-term use should be avoided (more than 2 months)

Botanical Information

Houttuynia is a member of the Saururaceae family of plants — which is often referred to as the lizards table family because of the characteristic tail-like appearance of the flower spikes.

There are only two members of the Houttuynia genus — Houttuynia cordata and Houttuynia emeiensis.

Despite the common name “fish mint” houttuynia has no relation to the mint family of plants.

All parts of the plant posess a unique flavor and aroma — which is best described as having a raw fish aroma, with some hints of citrus, lemon, sandalwood, or coriander.

There are reportedly two varieties of fish mint:

• Japanese Fish Mint — has more of a citrus aroma & flavor

• Chinese Fish Mint — has a fishy and coriander aroma & flavor

The leaves of the fish mint plant are heart-shaped, which can range from being dark green to light pink. The underside of the leaves has a purple hue. Some of the ornamental cultivars come in a wide variety of different color combinations.

Cultivation, Harvesting & Preparation

Houttuynia prefers growing in shady, moist environments and can even grow while slightly submerged in water. You can often find this herb growing nearby streams, and in deep forests. This herb is very resourceful and can be very difficult to get rid of.

Once houttuynia finds an area it likes it will take over completely — causing many regions to classify it as a potential threat to the environment.

It’s considered an invasive weed in places such as the United States, Australia, various pacific islands, and South America. It reportedly thrives in USDA Zones 5a to 9b.

In Asia, the herb can be found growing anywhere from sea level to around 2500 meters in altitude.

Fish mint loves water, so make sure to keep this one wet at all times. As long as the leaves remain above the water-level the plant will continue to thrive.

This herb is a perennial, growing up to 1 meter in height and spreading out in a 1 meter radius. It primarily spreads with the help of adventitious roots that creep along the moist soil of the rainforest bottom.

propagating the plant is best done from cuttings. The seeds of the plant are usually sterile.

Pharmacology & Medical Research

+ SARS-CoV 1 & 2

SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) is a life-threatening form of pneumonia caused by the SARS-CoV-1 virus. It began spreadin in late 2002 to 2003 from patient 0 in China. The disease eventually spread to over 8000 people around the world. As the world scrambled to find treatment, houttynia was shortlisted by Chinese researchers.

During this research, houttuynia was found to increase the proportion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells [5].

CD4+ T-helper cells play a critical role in the adaptive immune system when dealing with bacterial or viral infections. These cells then pass along information to CD8 cytotoxic cells that can use three separate mechanisms to attack and kill the infection once identified.

The same study also showed houttuynia extract increased IL-2 and IL-10 activity — both of which are critical components in the adaptive immune response necessary to fight viral infection.

This study also looked at the direct effects of houttuynia extract on the SARS virus. The study found the extract had an inhibitory effect on SARS-CoV 3C-like protease (3CLpro) and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp).

3C-like protease and SARS-CoV are both critically important for the life-cycle of the virus. These are two areas deemed critically important target in the search for potential prevention or treatment of the virus.

Now, in 2020, another closely related virus is currently causing a pandemic around the globe — SARS-CoV-2 (AKA COVID-19). As a result, houttuynia is being re-investigated as the world seeks to find a potential cure for the new and deadly virus.

+ Other Antiviral Activity

Houttuynia has been the subject of study for dozens of human and animal viruses — many of which the herb has shown primising inhibitory effects:

• Chikungunya virus [9]
• Human Immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) [10]
• Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1) [10]
• Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2)
• Influenza Virus [10]
• Enterovirus-71 [11]
• Dengue Virus Type 2 [12]

+ Antibacterial Activity

Houttuynia has a long history of use for treating respiratory tract infections of both viral and bacterial causes. This has prompted a lot of researcher to look at the effects of the herb on bacterial infections — particularily those developing resistance to antibiotics such as multi-drug resistant staphylococcus aureaus (MRSA).

One study found houttuynia posessed anti-bacterial effects against MRSA through direct bacteriocidal activity (inhibition of biofilm formation) and an induction of IL-8 [6] — which is one of the first responses triggered by the body during bacterial infection.

+ Cytotoxic Effects

There are five bioactive alkaloids isolated from houttuynia that have been shown to have cytotoxic effects agains human cancer cell lines (in vitro) [1]. This was only a preliminary study but offers evidence for further investigation.

The alkaloids used in the study included:

• A-549
• SK-OV-3
• SK-MEL-2
• XF-498
• HCT-15

+ Anti-Allergic Effects

A mice study investigated the anti-allergic effects of houttuynia by exploring the potential effects of the herb to prevent anaphylaxis — a severe allergic reaction [2].

The study found hoouttuynia water extract was able to inhibit induced systemic anaphylaxis in mice, as well as local allergic reactions by reducing the degranulation of mast cells, histamine release, and calcium uptake.

The study concluded by stating that "[houttuynia] may be beneficial in the treatment of mast cell-mediated anaphylactic responses.

Another animal study showed a houttuynia water-extract had an inhibitory effect on inhibited IgE-mediated systemic passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (in mice) [4].

+ Anti-Inflammatory Effects

An animal study exploring the anti-inflammatory effects of houttuynia found the volotile oil extract of the plant had an inhibitory effect on PGE2 — a potent inflammatory cytokine produced via the COX-2 enzyme [3]. This is the main inflammatory mediator inhibited by such medications as acetyl-salycilic-acid (Aspirin).

The same study also found houttuynia volotile oil reduced other key inflammatory messengers including nitric oxide (NO) and TNF‐α.

+ Effects of Houttuynia on Diabetes

An animal study on diabetic rats given houttuynia found the herb had protective effects on the pancreatic beta-cells through an upregulation of GLUT-4 and potential antioxidant activity [7].

The beta-cells are tasked with producing the body's insulin supply. As blood glucose levels rise, the glucose can damage sensitive tissues such as the beta-cells in the pancrease — leading to a further reduction of insulin activity and worsening of hyperglycemia.

GLUT-4 is the insulin-mediated transporter on the surface of our cells. Insulin binds to GLUT-4 to pull glucose molecules inside where they're converted into energy.

Phytochemistry

+ Essential Oil Content

• 2-undecanone (methyl nonyl ketone)
• Myrcene
• Houttuynin (decanoyl acetaldehyde/3-oxo-dodecanal)
• Decanal
• (E)-caryophyllene
• Decanoic ac id
• Camphene
• β-pinene
• Lauraldehyde
• Bornyl acetate
• α-pinene
• Limonene
• 4-terpineol
• Caryophyllene oxide
• Nonanol
• linalool
  

Source: [8]

Cautions & Safety Information:

Houttuynia has been reported to cause severe allergic reactions in some people.

Avoid using this herb if pregnant or breastfeeding. There is not enough evidence to prove the herb is safe during pregnancy.

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated March 2020)

Recent Blog Posts:

References:

1. Kim, S. K., Ryu, S. Y., No, J., Choi, S. U., & Kim, Y. S. (2001). Cytotoxic alkaloids fromHouttuynia cordate. Archives of pharmacal research, 24(6), 518-521.

2. Li, G. Z., Chai, O. H., Lee, M. S., Han, E. H., Kim, H. T., & Song, C. H. (2005). Inhibitory effects of Houttuynia cordata water extracts on anaphylactic reaction and mast cell activation. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 28(10), 1864-1868.

3. Li, W., Fan, T., Zhang, Y., Fan, T., Zhou, P., Niu, X., & He, L. (2013). Houttuynia cordata Thunb. Volatile Oil Exhibited Anti‐inflammatory Effects In Vivo and Inhibited Nitric Oxide and Tumor Necrosis Factor‐α Production in LPS‐stimulated Mouse Peritoneal Macrophages In Vitro. Phytotherapy Research, 27(11), 1629-1639.

4. Han, E. H., Park, J. H., Kim, J. Y., & Jeong, H. G. (2009). Houttuynia cordata water extract suppresses anaphylactic reaction and IgE-mediated allergic response by inhibiting multiple steps of FcεRI signaling in mast cells. Food and chemical toxicology, 47(7), 1659-1666.

5. Lau, K. M., Lee, K. M., Koon, C. M., Cheung, C. S. F., Lau, C. P., Ho, H. M., ... & Tsui, S. K. W. (2008). Immunomodulatory and anti-SARS activities of Houttuynia cordata. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 118(1), 79-85.

6. Sekita, Y., Murakami, K., Yumoto, H., Mizuguchi, H., Amoh, T., Ogino, S., ... & Kashiwada, Y. (2016). Anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory effects of ethanol extract from Houttuynia cordata poultice. Bioscience, biotechnology, and biochemistry, 80(6), 1205-1213.

7. Kumar, M., Prasad, S. K., Krishnamurthy, S., & Hemalatha, S. (2014). Antihyperglycemic activity of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Advances in pharmacological sciences, 2014.

8. Verma, R. S., Joshi, N., Padalia, R. C., Singh, V. R., Goswami, P., Kumar, A., ... & Saikia, D. (2017). Chemical Composition and Allelopathic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, and Antiacetylcholinesterase Activity of Fish‐mint (Houttuynia cordataThunb.) from India. Chemistry & biodiversity, 14(10), e1700189.

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

What is Reishi?

Reishi is a medicinal forest-grown fungus. It's revered in traditional medical systems across Asia for its powerful immune-enhancing and longevity-promoting benefits.

Medicinal mushrooms are notorious for their complex effects on the immune system — often working in both directions (stimulation and inhibition), depending on what’s needed.

Reishi is no different — it's one of the most important medicinal herbs for longevity and immune health in the world.

This saprophytic (tree-eating) fungus is often used for the prevention and treatment of immune-related illness — including cancer, autoimmunity, infection, inflammation, and allergic reaction.

Reishi is also used for anxiety, depression, insomnia, and as a general adaptogen for overall health and wellbeing.

What is Reishi Used For?

Reishi has the unique ability to act bidirectionally on the immune system — which means it can increase immune activity, and decrease immune activity. It appears it will push the immune system in whatever direction it needs to go. In patients with low immunity or cancer, reishi up-regulates the immune response.

however, in patients with hyperactive immune activity — such as autoimmune disease or allergic reaction — reishi has an opposite effect, toning down the immune response.

This is an effect not well understood to this day, but gives the mushroom an incredibly versatile set of benefits.

Traditionally, reishi is considered a shen tonic — which is used to calm the nerves, ease anxiety, and promote healthy sleep (without being directly sedative).

Most people use reishi as a general health and immune tonic. It’s used by people with known immune-related illness — such as frequent infection, autoimmunity, chronic inflammation, cancer, and more.

Others use the herb as a prophylactic against common infections like colds and flus, or to keep chronic viral infection at bay (such as herpes or shingles).

Traditional Uses of Reishi

+ Traditional Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine this fungus has been used for (altitude sickness and is often combined with chrysanthemum, rhodiola, and safflower seed.

Taste:

Sweet [5]

Energy:

Neutral [5]

Channels:

Heart, liver, lung [5]

Actions:

Tonifies, the heart, calms and anchors the Shen, stops cough, stops wheezing, dislodges phlegm, tonifies the spleen, tonifies the Qi, tonifies blood [5]

Indications:

Suitable during pregnancy [5].

Dose:

3-15g decocted20 mins [5]

Considered to be warming, astringent, nourishing, detoxifying, and tonifying. Protects qi of the heart, used to repair a knotted, tight chest. Traditionally in this system, it was recommended to take this herb over long periods to reap the benefits of longevity.

The spores are suggested to contain high amounts of jing and considered an elixir of life [1].

Other uses include Hashimoto's disease, in foot baths for gout, altitude sickness prevention, and immune regulation. [1].

+ Ayurveda

A related species — Ganoderma applanatum — has been used extensively in Ayurvedic systems in the pine region of India. Its uses include stopping excessive salivation in the mouth, as a styptic.

+ Other Historical Uses

Reishi has been used medicinally in Asian countries for at least 4000 years and is the most widely depicted mushroom in Japan, Korea, and China, which can be found on temples, tapestries, statues, and paintings.

Reishis rarity and subsequent value made it most accessible to the privileged like emperors and royalty. It has long been associated with longevity and was included in many ancient medical texts for this purpose.

Used to treat liver ailments, lung conditions, kidney disease, nerve pain, hypertension, gastric ulcers, and insomnia. The antler growth pattern is considered very rare and is the most desired for promoting sexual function in both men and women.

Other uses include its use as a means to ward off evil by hanging dried specimens over the door. Similarly, it has been placed on the graves of shamans to protect from evil souls or spirits.

Reishi has been used in nearly every format imaginable including tinctures, teas/decoctions, powdered preparations, brewed into beers and wines, and eaten raw.

Herb Details: Reishi

Herbal Actions:

• Adaptogen
• Immunomodulator
• Analgesic
• Muscle relaxant
• Nervine Relaxant
• Hepatoprotective
• Pulmonary trophorestorative
• Cardiotonic
• Chemoprotective
• Anti-Cancer
• Antiviral
• Antibacterial

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  30-60 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Fruiting body, Spores, Mycelium

Family Name

• Ganodermataceae

Distribution

• Asia, Europe, and North America

Constituents of Interest

• Beta-glucans
• Ergosterol
• Triterpenoids
• Polysaccharides

Common Names

• Reishi
• Ling Zhi
• Saiwai-Take
• Kishiban

CYP450

• Unknown

Quality

• Neutral

Pregnancy

• No adverse reactions expected.

Taste

• Bitter

Duration of Use

• Suitable for long term use.

Mycological Information

There are about 80 different species of Ganoderma, many of which are used as medicine. The Ganodermataceae contains 8 genera and roughly 300 different species.

Reishi is a saprophyte, meaning it only eats dying or decaying organic matter such as wood. It's mainly found growing on dying trees, stumps, and fallen logs.

Ganoderma spp. is long-lived — releasing approximately 30 billion spores everyday for up to 6 months or a year [1].

Habitat Ecology, & Distribution:

Wild Ganoderma lucidum is rare but is indigenous to forested regions of Asia including Japan, China, and Russia. Other species are found in North America and Europe.

It grows on Elm (Ulmus spp.), alder (Alnus spp.), oak (Quercus spp.), maple (Acer spp.) and some strains on conifers. Other species of Ganoderma such as G. tsugae or G. oregonense grow better and almost exclusively on conifers. G. lucidum, however, prefers hardwoods.

G. lucidum can be found very rarely in the Pacific Northwest, and a similar species (G. curtisii), is seen more commonly in eastern Canada around the great lakes region [1]. This species is actually a yellow form of the red G. lucidum.

Most reishi products on the market are cultivated in a sterile environment on logs or sawdust in large laboratories.

Harvesting Collection, & Preparation:

Both the mycelium, fruiting body, and spores are used medicinally. The red and purple varieties are considered the most valuable. These phenotypes are also thought to be the most potent in their effects [1].

The spores can be either taken raw or can be cracked. This basically involves the germination, then drying of the spores and is suggested to provide stronger medicinal effects after this germination process has taken place.

Another, much more expensive way of ingesting the spores it to run it through a supercritical CO2 extractor. This method creates a product that is roughly equivalent to 20-40 of the raw spore capsules [1].

A mushroom oil can also be extracted from the fruiting body waxes, can be used as is topically, or added to lotions, and salves.

Cosmetically it is useful as a sunscreen due to its radio-protective effects, as well as in anti-aging creams, and to remove warts [1].

As with most hard, polypores, chop the fungus into strips (better when wet or a saw may have to be used), and crumble into small pieces.

Decoct in water, then strain and freeze the leftover mush, doing this will cause the cell walls to burst and allow more constituents to be extracted during the next process. Next, after it has been frozen for 24 hours or so, de-thaw, and mix with 95% alcohol for at least 2 weeks.

In the end, strain, and combine with the decoction made earlier to a standardized amount.

Pharmacology & Medical Research

+ Antibacterial

Ganoderma applanatum is an effective inhibitor of:

• Bacillus cereus
• Cornybacterium diphtheria
• Escherichia coli
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa
• Staphylococcus aureus
• Streptococcus pyogenes

Gram-positive bacteria were more affected than gram-negative [1].

It has been suggested that the polysaccharides in Ganoderma spp. are more antibacterial — while the triterpenoids are more antiviral.

More research is needed to elucidate on this further.

+ Anti-diabetic

Ganoderma has been reported to produce potent lens aldose reductase inhibition, and significant inhibition of serum glucose and sorbitol accumulation in the lens of the eye, red blood cells, and sciatic nerves in diabetic rats (based on earlier studies) [1]. This shows potential as a treatment for diabetic induced retinopathy and other diabetes-related damage in the body.

Has been shown to lower blood sugar levels in hyperglycemic models (fruiting body), and involved the ganoderan B and C [1].

In a study on type 2 diabetics not on insulin, were given reishi extracts, and compared to the placebo control group, were found to have significantly decreased glycosylated hemoglobin (8.4%-7.6%), in as little as 12 weeks. Fasting insulin levels, 2-hour -post-prandial insulin, fasting C-peptide, and post-prandial C-peptide all showed significant improvement in the reishi group [1].

Spores have also shown evidence for anti-diabetic effects [1].

+ Antioxidant

Methanol extracts of G. tsugae were found to be more potent in antioxidant effects that alpha-tocopherol, and exhibited significant inhibition of lipid peroxidation as such.

The antioxidant effects are not considered as reliable as G. lucidum but are very close. It is the phenol content that has been deemed responsible for these effects. [1].

G. tsugae fruiting body extract was shown to increase intracellular glutathione levels, which in turn protect against oxidative damage [1].

+ Antiulcer effects:

Polysaccharides from Ganoderma spp. protects the gastric mucosa by improving PGE2. This backs up some of its uses in the form of tea for treating ulcers.

+ Antiviral

G. lucidum fruiting body extracts have been shown to inhibit HIV, and HPV [1].

Rogers, (2011) reports that Ganaderiol-F, ganodermadiol, ganoderic acid beta, and lucidumol have all been identified as antiviral agents.

G. resinaceum (and most likely G. tsugae, and G. lucidum as well), have been shown to inhibit punta toro, pichinde, and H1N1 [1].

+ Blood Tonic

Reishi been shown to enhance the production of interleukin-1 in vitro, and increase white blood cell and haemoglobin levels in mice [1].

+ Cardiotonic

Reishi has been shown to improve symptoms of coronary heart disease [1].

G. lucidum has been shown to provide anti-cholesterol, anti-diabetic, reduced platelet aggregation, anti atherosclerotic, and antihypotensive effects, which all play a role in the development of cardiovascular disease.

Suggested to produce angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition through its ganoderic acid B, C2, D, and F [1].

+ Chemoprotective

Has been shown to increase natural killer cell activity of splenocytes by up to 52% [1]

+ Hepatoprotective

The triterpenoids contained in the mycelium of G. tsugae have shown hepatoprotective activity [1].

Ganodereic acid B has shown hepatoprotective effects [1].

+ Immunomodulatory

The polysaccharides from the mycelium were found to be both anti-inflammatories, and immune-stimulating, Rogers, (2011), suggests contradiction from these two effects suggest bi-directional (immunomodulatory) effects on immune response, rather than just stimulating. This appears to be dose-dependent and may be through modulation of cytokine production.

Reishi has been shown to both reduce inflammation and increase immune response — which is contradictory in that an increased immune response should correlate with inflammation. It's has been suggested that G. lucidum produces this apparent modulatory effect through the enteric mucosal pathway. Its effects on the immune system do not appear to be through IgE antibody synthesis, rather through a modulating effect on immunoglobulin levels [1].

+ Sedative

The spores are suggested to produce sedative and hypnotic effects in mice [1].

+ Other

There's some evidence to support the effects of reishi towards bronchitis and other lung disorders . The chemicals suggested to be responsible for these effects are gonoderic acids A, B, C1, and C2 [1].

Phytochemistry

+ Compounds by Anatomy

Fruiting Body

Carbohydrates, amino acids (including adenosine), steroids (ergosterols), protease, lysosomes, lipids, triterpenes, alkaloids, vitamins B2 and C, minerals (zinc, manganese, iron, copper, germanium), beta-glucans (up to 40.6%), [1].

Mycelium

Sterols, alkaloids, lactones, erogone, polysaccharides, triterpinoids,

Spores

choline, triterpenes, betaine, palmitic acid, stearic acid, ergosta7,22-dien-3b-ol, tetracosanoic acid, behenic acid, nonadecanoic acid, ergosterol, beta sitosterol, pyrophosphatidic acid, hentriacontane, tetracosane, ganodermasides (A and B) [1].

+ Species Specific Breakdown

Ganoderma tsugae

3 α-acetoxy-5α-lanosta-8,24-dien-21-oic acid, 2β,3α,9α-trihydroxy-5α-ergosta-7,22-dien, 3alpha-acetoxy-16alpha-tsugarioside B and C, ganoderic acid C2, ganoderic acid B, lucidone A, and glycans (various) [1].

Ganoderma applanatum

Ergosterol (and its peroxide), ergosta-7,22-dien-3b-ol, ergasta-7,22-dien-3-one, β-D-glucan, fungisterol, alnusenone, friedelin, triterpenoids (including ganoderenic, furanoganoderic, ganoderic acids), applanoxidic acids (A, B, C, and D), lanostandoid triterpenes E-H, lucidone A, ganoderma aldehyde, 3 linoleic acid steryl esters. To compare with G. lucidum, ganoderenic acid, and ganoderic acid is found in both [1].

Ganoderma lucidum

Still compiling research.

Clinical Applications Of Reishi:

Reishi is used as a supportive agent for cancer, autoimmune conditions, cardiovascular dysfunctions, respiratory dysfunctions, viral and bacterial infection, and hypertension. It's rarely used on its own, but makes for a great addition to herbal formulations.

Cautions:

Caution advised in combination with ACE inhibitor medications due to potential drug interactions.

Synergy

For altitude sickness: Combines well with rhodiola for this purpose.

It has been suggested that vitamin C helps absorb this mushroom, however, more research is needed to confirm this. Pineapple and ginger may also increase the absorption of reishi constituents.

Author:

Justin Cooke

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated May 2019)

Recent Blog Posts:

References:

1. Rogers, R. D. (2011). The fungal pharmacy: The complete guide to medicinal mushrooms and lichens of North America [Adobe Digital Editions version].

2. Berovic, M., J. Habijanic, I. Zore, B. Wraber, D. Hodzar, B. Boh and F. Pohleven. Submerged cultivation of Ganoderma lucidum biomass and immunostimulatory effects of fungal polysaccharides. J. Biotechnol. 103: 77–86, 2003

3. Jiang, Y., H. Wang, L. Lu and G.Y. Tian. Chemistry of polysaccharide Lzps-1 from Ganoderma lucidum spore and anti-tumor activity of its total polysaccharides. Yao. Xue. Xue. Bao. 40: 347–350, 2005.

4. Cheng, K.C., H.C. Huang, J.H. Chen, J.W. Hsu, H.C. Cheng, C.H. Ou, W.B. Yang, S.T. Chen, C.H. Wong and H.F. Juan. Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharides in human monocytic leukemia cells: from gene expression to network construction. BMC Genomics 8: 411, 2007.

5. Hempen, C. H., & Fischer, T. (2009). A Materia Medica for Chinese Medicine: Plants, Minerals, and Animal Products. (Pg. 436-437).

6. Thyagarajan, A., J. Jiang, A. Hopf, J. Adamec and D. Sliva. Inhibition of oxidative stress-induced invasiveness of cancer cells by Ganoderma lucidum is mediated through the suppression of interleukin-8 secretion. Int. J. Mol. Med. 18: 657–664, 2006.

7. Xie, J.T., C.Z. Wang, S. Wicks, J.J. Yin, J. Kong, J. Li, Y. C. Li and C.S. Yuan. Ganoderma lucidum extract inhibits proliferation of SW 480 human colorectal cancer cells. Exp. Oncol. 28: 25–29, 2006.

8. Paterson, R.R. Ganoderma — a therapeutic fungal biofactory. Phytochemistry. 67: 1985–2001, 2006.

9. Lin, Y.L., Y.C. Liang, S.S. Lee and B.L. Chiang. (2005). Polysaccharide purified from Ganoderma lucidum induced activation and maturation of human monocyte-derived dendritic cells by the NFkappaB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. J. Leukoc. Biol. 78: 533–543.

Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium)

What is Manuka?

In New Zealand, where manuka trees grow, the Maori consider male tea tree plants "Kanuka" and the female plants "Manuka". The plant is regarded very highly in this culture as a medicinal species.

The most well-known form of manuka is in manuka honey. This is a honey made by bees feasting primarily on manuka bushes. The honey has an impressive antibacterial profile when made from these plants. This is also reflected in the herb itself, which has been shown to have potent antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral activity.

Most of the medicinal benefits of the plant come from its essential oil content, which can vary a lot depending on the region the plant was grown in.

What is Manuka Used For?

Internally, manuka is used to treat gastrointestinal conditions like diarrhea, colic, inflammatory bowel syndrome, and dysentery. It's also used for urinary tract infection, anxiety, and cold/flu infections.

Manuka is used topically for its antibacterial, and vulnerary actions. It's used to treat slow healing skin and bone injuries, bacterial infections, candida, and eczema. It can be gargled for gingivitis, or for general oral hygiene.

Manuka honey is another common form of the plant. It's become so popular worldwide, it's been standardised by the phenol content. This is expressed as a unique manuka factor (UMF) value set by the Active Manuka Honey Association (AMHA). Anything over UMF 5 is considered strong enough to kill MRSA.

Herb Details: Manuka

Herbal Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antibacterial
• Antifungal
• Antispasmodic
• Anxiolytic
• Diaphoretic
• Diuretic
• Febrifuge
• Sedative
• Astringent

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  20-65 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Leaves, Flowers, Bark

Family Name

• Myrtaceae

Distribution

• New Zealand

Constituents of Interest

• Leptospermone
• Sesquiterpenes
• Tannins
• Citronellal

Common Names

• Manuka
• Tea Tree
• New Zealand Tea Tree

Quality

• Neutral-Warm

Pregnancy

• Unknown

Taste

• Spicy

Duration of Use

• Long term use is acceptable, but should be taken away from food.

Botanical Information

Manuka is a member of the Myrtaceae family of plants. This family contains as many as 133 different genera, and around 3800 different species, many of which are medicinally relevant.

Clinical Applications Of Manuka:

Manuka is useful both internally and topically. It's been shown to be an effective antibacterial agent for various forms of bacteria (including Staphylococcus). It's also an effective anti-fungal and antiviral (including HSV). The antibacterial effects were the most notable, with only some chemotypes of Manuka showing potent anti-fungal benefits.

Manuka can be used for nearly any form of bacterial infections both topically and internally, as well as wounds, ulcers, and gastrointestinal inflammation or infection. It's also useful for skin inflammation like eczema or psoriasis. The muscle relaxant effects make it useful for injuries, muscle tension, colic, and insomnia.

Cautions:

Manuka is widely considered safe and there are no common side effects of the herb.

+ Contraindications

Avoid long-term use alongside food. Tannins may impede mineral absorption.

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated November 2018)

Recent Blog Posts:

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Mullein

Mullein is considered a staple in herbal medicine. It wasn't native to North America and was brought over by European settlers. Despite the new introduction of the herb, it was quickly adopted into use by the local native Americans and is even referred to commonly as Indian Tobacco.

Mullein is a very safe herb and offers benefits to a number of different systems in the body.

Out of all systems, mullein is most commonly used for respiratory and digestive system conditions. It's popular as an anti-catarrhal and for both soothing dry coughs, and eliminating catarrh with productive coughs. Although the entire plant can be used for either one, the leaves are generally preferred for dry coughs and the roots for productive coughs.

Mullein is as useful topically as it is internally for inflammation, muscle spasms, and infection.

What Is Mullein Used For?

Mullein is mainly used for treating respiratory infections and persistent coughs. Somewhat ironically, it's often smoked for its soothing effect on the lungs. It tends to increase moisture in the lungs, especially the leaves, making it especially useful for unproductive, dry coughs.

It's also used for gastrointestinal inflammation, parasitic infection, and muscle aches. It tends to have a humidifying effect throughout the body, providing a soothing effect, especially with dryness.

One of the most well-known uses for the herb is in the form of an infused oil for ear infections.

Herb Details: Mullein

Main Herbal Actions:

• Anthelmintic
• Anti-catarrhal
• Antispasmodic
• Astringent
• Expectorant
• Lymphatic
• Antibacterial

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  20-60 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Leaf, root, and flower

Family Name

• Scrophulariaceae

Distribution

• Originates from Europe around the Mediterranean, but has spread all around Europe & North America

Constituents of Interest

• Iridoid glycosides

Common Names

• Mullein
• Lady's Flannel
• Gordolobo
• Punchón
• Candelaria

Quality

• Root: Neutral, drying
  Leaf: Cool, moistening
  Flower: Cool

Pregnancy

• Unknown

Taste

• Salty

Duration of Use

• Long term use is acceptable.

Botanical Information

Mullein belongs to the figwort family (Scrophulariaceae) — a family consisting or roughly 65 different genera and 1800 species.

The Verbascum genus itself contains around 250 different species.

Verbascum is a popular garden plant for its ability to thrive in dry, nutrient-poor soils, and for their incredibly long flower duration.

The herb is biennial — the first season growing in a rosette leaf pattern, the second with a large velvety flower spike. Some mullein plants can grow up to three meters tall.

Clinical Applications Of Mullein:

Although there are many ways to use mullein, it excels with treating respiratory tract conditions. The leaves are excellent for treating dry coughs, while the root is much better for productive wet coughs.

Mullein is useful as a topical treatment for skin irritations, and as an oil for ear infections, especially the more drying flower of the plant.

Mullein also makes for an excellent lymphatic, both internally and externally.

Cautions:

Caution advised when working with the fresh leaf of this plant, as it can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated November 2018)

Recent Blog Posts:

Magnolia (Magnolia officinalis)

What is Magnolia?

Magnolia is one of the oldest flowering plants in existence, dating back as far as 95 million years ago. The first angiosperm is thought to have originated 130 million years ago. this is long before bees first appeared. To no surprise then, magnolia have evolved to be pollinated by beetles instead, which have been around for much longer.

Magnolia is a common herb in traditional Chinese medicine for treating Qi stagnation and removing obstructions.

It remains popular for reducing sinus infection and congestion, sinus headaches, asthma, coughs, and catarrh as well as anxiety and heightened cortisol levels.

+ Indications

• Abdominal pain
• Alzheimer's Disease
• Amoebic dysentery
• Anxiety
• Asthma
• Bloating
• Catarrh
• Coughs
• Diarrhea
• Gas
• Gastroenteritis
• Menstrual cramps
• Nausea/vomiting
• Poor appetite
• Poor digestion
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Rhinitis
• Sinus infection
• Stress
• Typhoid
• Ulcers
  

+ Contraindications

Avoid use during convalescence.

How Is Magnolia Used?

Magnolia is used for its anxiolytic and digestive effects.It's often combined with Phellodendron for treating both acute and chronic stress.

Magnolia is also commonly used for upper respiratory tract infection, sinus congestion, and catarrh.

Herb Details: Magnolia

Herbal Actions:

• Antioxidant
• Antiallergic
• Antiasthmatic
• Anxiolytic
• Antibacterial
• Antifungal
• Antispasmodic
• Aphrodisiac
• Emmenagogue
• Expectorant

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  15-100 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Bark

Family Name

• Magnoliaceae

Distribution

• Eastern Asia, North America, Central America

Constituents of Interest

• Honokiol
• Magnolol

Common Names

• Magnolia
• Ch'Uan Pu (China)
• Chinese Magnolia
• Choon Pok
• Hou Pu

Quality

• Warm

Pregnancy

• Unknown

Taste

• Bitter

Duration of Use

• Long term use acceptable, but should be monitored by a professional.

Botanical Information

Magnolia officinalis is a medium sized tree, ranging from 5 to 15 m in height. It's deciduous, with purple brown bark.

Magnolia is a member of the Magnoliaceae family of plants. There are 2 subfamilies in this family, including Magnollioideae and Liriodendroideae. The latter of which only includes Liriodendron (Tulip trees). In The Magnoliaceae family there are approximately 219 species, distributed into 17 genera. The vast majority are included in the Magnolia genus, which has about 210 different species.

One interesting note is that it appears magnolia appeared before bees did. The flowers are instead evolved to be pollinated by beetles, due to the extremely tough carpels on the flower. There have also been fossils discovered with plants contained in the Magnoliaceae family as far back as 95 million years ago, making Magnolia one of the oldest remaining angiosperms.

Clinical Applications Of Magnolia:

Magnolia increases the activity of GABA receptors, as well as the muscarinic receptors. This is why Magnolia is useful for both its sedative effect, as well as some mild stimulating effects. While most anxiolytic herbs have a particular effect on the parasympathetic nervous system (through GABAergic effects), Magnolia also increases the activity of the sympathetic nervous system through the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in a similar way to GABA.

Magnolia is especially useful for eliminating nasal congestion, sinus infections, coughs, and catarrh. It's used to improve indigestion and dysentery, though it is not commonly used for bacterial or fungal infections alone.

Magnolia is also used for reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety. It can reduce cortisol levels in stressed individuals, especially in combination with Phellodendron. Its primary actions for this involves GABAergic activities, and have been shown to lower salivary cortisol levels in stressed individuals.

Magnolia should be avoided in those who are chronically fatigued, or who are suffering from convalescence. Traditional Chinese medicine suggests that magnolia should be avoided with any condition involving yin deficiency.

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated November 2018)

Recent Blog Posts:

Graviola (Annona muricata)

What is Graviola?

Graviola is a large tropical tree with a rich history of traditional use for conditions like cancer, parasitic infection, insomnia, and dysentery. Modern use remains very similar, mainly focusing on tension headaches and muscle aches, insomnia, diabetes, cancer, hypertension, and parasitic infection.

Although the entire plant has been used as medicine by various traditional medical systems, the most common form the plant is available in today is as a leaf extract, and raw leaves intended for tea.

Graviola is gaining in popularity outside worldwide as a general health supplement, blood sugar regulator, and anticancer agent. As a result, it's getting easier to find the herb as time goes on. It is likely this tea will become a staple in Western herbal medicine in the coming years.

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How Is Graviola Used?

Graviola is mainly used as an adjunctive treatment for cancer, especially leukemia and other haematological cancers, as well as prostate, colon, and breast cancers.

Graviola is also popular as an anti-diabetic herb, and can be used to reduce hypertension, especially in combination with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Graviola is a potent anti-parasitic, useful for a wide range of different parasitic species, including worms, protozoa, and bacterial parasites.

Traditional Uses of Graviola

+ South America

Graviola originated from South America and/or the Carribean. All parts of the plant were used as medicine for a wide range of conditions.

The most common use of the plant appears to involve cancer treatment and parasitic infection.

The darkest leaves on the plants were used primarily as a sedative or antispasmodic. They were used to treat insomnia, arthritic pains, colic, dysentery, muscle aches, headaches, and diabetes. The leaves were often placed inside a pillow or bedsheets to improve sleep.

In Brazil, the leaves were made into a tea for treating various liver conditions. The oil of the leaves and unripe fruits were used topically for treating neuralgia, and arthritis.

In Peru, the leaves were used to treat excess catarrh, and the bark and root were used for treating diabetes, insomnia, and muscle aches.

In Guyana, the leaves were used as a heart tonic.

+ Southeast Asia

In Southeast Asia, graviola was an important treatment for malaria. It was made into candies, ice cream, and syrups for treating malaria and other parasites.

Herb Details: Graviola

Herbal Actions:

• Anticancer
• Antinflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Antispasmodic
• Anticonvulsant
• Antidepressant
• Antidiabetic
• Antibacterial
• Antiarthritic
• Antilithic
• Antimalarial
• Bradycardic
• Digestive stimulant
• Febrifuge
• Hepatoprotective
• Hypotensive
• Sedative
• Vasodilator

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  40-80 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Leaves

Family Name

• Annonaceae

Distribution

• North & South America, The Caribbean, Indonesia, Western Africa, Pacific Islands

Constituents of Interest

• Acetogenins
• Alkaloids (reticulin, coreximine, coclarine and anomurine)
• Essential oils (β-caryophyllene, δ-cadinene, epi-α-cadinol and α-cadinol)
• Quercetin

Common Names

• Graviola
• Custard Apple Tree
• Soursop
• Annona
• Guanabana (South America)

Quality

• Cool*

Pregnancy

• Unknown

Taste

• Sour

Duration of Use

• Avoid long term use.

Botanical Information

Graviola is a large tree, growing to a height of 10m. It requires high humidity, warm weather, and high annual rainfall in order to thrive. It produces large, edible fruits with an acidic taste (hence the common name soursop).

There are over 130 different genera in the Annonaceae family, and around 2300 different species. The Annona genus itself has about 70 different species. Annona muricata is the most commonly grown worldwide.

Phytochemistry

There are over 100 annonaceous acetogenins in the plant, which are considered to be the primary active constituents of the plant. Structurally these chemicals are derivatives of long chain (C35 or C37) fatty acids. These compounds are cytotoxic against tumour cell lines, and molluscicidal.

Graviola is also rich in alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, flavonoids, coumarins, lactones, anthraquinones, tannins, cardiac glycosides, phenols, and phytosterols.

+ Complete Phytochemical Makeup

Annonaceous Acetogenins

The leaves contain annomuricins A and B, gigantetrocin A, annonacin-10-one, muricatetrocins A and B, annonacin, goniothalamicin, muricatocins A and B, annonacin A, (2,4-trans)-isoannonacin, (2,4-cis)-isoannonacin, annomuricin C, muricatocin C, gigantetronenin, annomutacin, (2,4-trans)-10R-annonacin-A-one, (2,4-cis)-10R-annonacin-A-one, annopentocins A, B and C, cis- and trans-annomuricinD-ones, annomuricine, muricapentocin, muricoreacin and murihexocin C and annocatacin A and B.

Alkaloids

Graviola contains reticulin, coreximine, coclarine and anomurine.

Essential Oils

Graviola contains β-caryophyllene, δ-cadinene, epi-α-cadinol and α-cadinol.

Clinical Applications Of Graviola:

Graviola is useful for parasitic infection, including protozoan, and helminth parasites. It's used as a mild sedative and antispasmodic, and can be very useful for gastrointestinal inflammation and dysbiotic conditions.

Graviola is also a popular treatment for diabetes by slowing lipid per-oxidation, and restoring islet beta-cells in the pancreas.

It's commonly used as an adjunctive treatment of cancer, especially haematological cancers and colon cancer.

Cautions:

Graviola has been reported to increase symptoms of Parkinson's Disease.

Caution advised in combination with other hypoglycaemic drugs due to potential additive effect.

+ Contraindications

• May exacerbate Parkinson's Disease symptoms (Acetogenin content)
• Caution advised in combination with other hypoglycemic drugs due to potential additive effect.
  

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated November 2018)

Recent Blog Posts:

References:

1. Moghadamtousi, S. Z., Fadaeinasab, M., Nikzad, S., Mohan, G., Ali, H. M., & Kadir, H. A. (2015). Annona muricata (Annonaceae): a review of its traditional uses, isolated acetogenins and biological activities. International journal of molecular sciences, 16(7), 15625-15658.

2. De Sousa, O. V., Vieira, G. D. V., De Pinho, J. D. J. R., Yamamoto, C. H., & Alves, M. S. (2010). Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethanol extract of Annona muricata L. leaves in animal models. International journal of molecular sciences, 11(5), 2067-2078.

3. Torres, M. P., Rachagani, S., Purohit, V., Pandey, P., Joshi, S., Moore, E. D., ... & Batra, S. K. (2012). Graviola: a novel promising natural-derived drug that inhibits tumorigenicity and metastasis of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro and in vivo through altering cell metabolism. Cancer letters, 323(1), 29-40.

4. Coria-Tellez, A. V., Montalvo-Gónzalez, E., Yahia, E. M., & Obledo-Vázquez, E. N. (2016). Annona muricata: A comprehensive review on its traditional medicinal uses, phytochemicals, pharmacological activities, mechanisms of action and toxicity. Arabian Journal of Chemistry.

5. Gavamukulya, Y., Abou-Elella, F., Wamunyokoli, F., & AEl-Shemy, H. (2014). Phytochemical screening, anti-oxidant activity and in vitro anticancer potential of ethanolic and water leaves extracts of Annona muricata (Graviola). Asian Pacific journal of tropical medicine, 7, S355-S363.

6. Arroyo, J., Martínez, J., Ronceros, G., Palomino, R., Villarreal, A., Bonilla, P., ... & Quino, M. (2009, September). Efecto hipoglicemiante coadyuvante del extracto etanólico de hojas de Annona muricata L (guanábana), en pacientes con diabetes tipo 2 bajo tratamiento de glibenclamida. In Anales de la Facultad de Medicina (Vol. 70, No. 3, pp. 163-167). UNMSM. Facultad de Medicina.

7. Adewole, S., & Ojewole, J. (2009). Protective effects of Annona muricata Linn.(Annonaceae) leaf aqueous extract on serum lipid profiles and oxidative stress in hepatocytes of streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats. African journal of traditional, complementary and alternative medicines, 6(1).

8. Adeyemi, D. O., Komolafe, O. A., Adewole, O. S., Obuotor, E. M., Abiodun, A. A., & Adenowo, T. K. (2010). Histomorphological and morphometric studies of the pancreatic islet cells of diabetic rats treated with extracts of Annona muricata. Folia morphologica, 69(2), 92-100.

9. Adewole, S. O., & Caxton-Martins, E. A. (2006). Morphological changes and hypoglycemic effects of Annona muricata linn.(annonaceae) leaf aqueous extract on pancreatic β-cells of streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats. African Journal of Biomedical Research, 9(3).

Chickweed (Stellaria medica)

What is Chickweed?

Chickweed is a small herbaceous plant found growing throughout North America and Europe. It has naturalized on nearly every continent and thrives in colder climates.

Although there is not much modern research involving chickweed, it has a rich history in traditional medicine.

Chickweed was used internally for lung infections and irritations, and topically for skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

The herb was mainly used as a succas, or consumed whole in fresh form.

How Is Chickweed Used?

Chickweed is used internally for lung conditions, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, or asthma. Topically, it's made into creams and salves for skin irritations. This can include psoriasis, eczema, skin ulcers, or rashes. It's also consumed as a food in many Northern climates where it grows naturally.

Herb Details: Chickweed

Herbal Actions:

• Demulcent
• Refrigerant
• Emollient
• Antibacterial
• Antitussive
• Expectorant

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  20-40 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Aerial Parts

Family Name

• Caryophyllaceae

Distribution

• Found on every continent on earth except Antarctica

Constituents of Interest

• Carotenoids
• Linalool
• Caryophyllene
• Borneol

Common Names

• Chickweed
• Starweed
• Alsine Media
• Passerina
• Mouse Ear Star
• Satinflower
• Starwort
• Stellaria
• Winterweed

CYP450

• Unknown

Quality

• Cold

Pregnancy

• No adverse effects expected.

Taste

• Unknown

Duration of Use

• May be used long term.

Botanical Information

Chickweed is known for its creeping nature, and ability to grow in very cold weather. It's even been found growing underneath the snow in mountainous regions of North America.

Chickweed is a member of the Caryophyllaceae family, which contains as many as 2625 species distributed into 81 genera.

The Stellaria genera itself contains between 90 and 120 different species.

Clinical Applications Of Chickweed

There is little research on chickweed — however, it was shown to have high levels of carotenoids and a handful of antibacterial compounds like caryophyllene, menthol, and linalool.

Chickweed also contains saponins — which are thought to have a soothing effect on the skin. This is likely the mechanisms behind chickweeds popularity as an ointment for skin inflammation and infection.

For this application, chickweed is generally used as a fresh succas or made into salves, oils, and creams.

The traditional use for lung conditions is thought to be due to the saponin content, which is well known to have mucus membrane irritant effects, promoting the excretion of mucus.

+ Contraindications

• Skin irritation and allergies may occur from topical application.
  

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated November 2018)

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Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

What is Lavender?

Lavender is one of the most famous herbs known to man. It's cultivated on a massive scale throughout Europe and North America and is a popular flavoring and aromatic agent for household products.

Medicinally lavender is best known for its ability to promote sleep. It's often sold as aromatherapy, in salves and creams, and incense for this purpose. Lavender is also great for internal use, where it interacts with the GABA system to produce relaxation and sleep.

Lavender essential oil can be used as a topical agent for insect bites, rashes, and infection.

What is Lavender Used For?

Lavender is mainly used in topical applications for rashes, skin irritations, mild infections, sunburn, and insect bites. Internally it's mainly used for anxiety-related conditions, GIT inflammation and discomfort, and insomnia.

Herb Details: Lavender

Herbal Actions:

• Analgesic (mild)
• Antibacterial
• Anti-cancer
• Anticonvulsant
• Antidepressant
• Antifungal
• Antioxidant
• Anxiolytic
• Antiparasitic
• Carminative
• Nervine Relaxant
• Neuroprotective
• Antispasmodic

Weekly Dose

• (1:2 Liquid Extract)
  15–30 mL
• View Dosage Chart

Part Used

• Leaves and flowers

Family Name

• Lamiaceae

Distribution

• Mediterranean and Southern Europe
  Northern and Eastern Africa

Constituents of Interest

• Monoterpene Alcohols
• Athocyanins

Common Names

• Lavender
• Laventelit (Finland)
• English Lavender

Pregnancy

No adverse reactions expected.

Duration of Use

• This herb is generally regarded as safe for long term use.

Botanical Information

Lavender is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae). In the genus Lavandula, there are approximately 47 species — most of which are perennials, or small shrubs.

There are a number of lavenders used medicinally

• Lavandula angustifolia (English Lavender)

• Lavandula stoechas (French Lavender)

• Lavendula dentata (Spanish Lavender)

This list is disputed by many taxonomists, suggesting that French lavender may be Lavandula stoechas or Lavandula dentata, and that Spanish lavender could be either Lavandula dentata, or Lavandula lanata, or Lavandula dentata.

Clinical Applications Of Lavender:

Lavender is useful topically for female conditions including dysmenorrhoea and PMS due to its antispasmodic and analgesic effects. It's also useful topically for its anti-fungal and antibacterial effects. Internally lavender can be used for gastrointestinal complaints, including bloating, flatulence, and colic.

Lavender is a reliable nervine for its GABAergic activity. Additionally it has been shown to reverse the stimulating effects induced by caffeine, and inhibits acetylcholine release.

Cautions:

Lavender has been proven to be a very safe herb with a low incidence of adverse effects.

Avoid use with pharmaceutical sedatives due to the possibility of agonistic synergy.

Author:

Justin Cooke, BHSc

The Sunlight Experiment

(Updated May 2019)

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