Your Bowels on Spices:Reasons for Seasonings

Essential oils from spices like these in Digest Zen for Doterra

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Pharmacol Physiol. 2012 Mar;39(3):283-99. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2011. 05648.x. Discovery of curcumin, a component of golden spice, and its miraculous biological activities. Gupta SC, Patchva S, Koh W, Aggarwal BB. Source Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. Abstract 1. Curcumin is the active ingredient of the dietary spice turmeric and has been consumed for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Modern science has shown that curcumin modulates various signalling molecules, including inflammatory molecules, transcription factors, enzymes, protein kinases, protein reductases, carrier proteins, cell survival proteins, drug resistance proteins, adhesion molecules, growth factors, receptors, cell cycle regulatory proteins, chemokines, DNA, RNA and metal ions. 2. Because of this polyphenol’s potential to modulate multiple signalling molecules, it has been reported to possess pleiotropic activities. First demonstrated to have antibacterial activity in 1949, curcumin has since been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, pro-apoptotic, chemopreventive, chemotherapeutic, antiproliferative, wound healing, antinociceptive, antiparasitic and antimalarial properties as well. Animal studies have suggested that curcumin may be active against a wide range of human diseases, including diabetes, obesity, neurological and psychiatric disorders and cancer, as well as chronic illnesses affecting the eyes, lungs, liver, kidneys and gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. 3. Although many clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of curcumin against human ailments have already been completed, others are still ongoing. Moreover, curcumin is used as a supplement in several countries, including India, Japan, the US, Thailand, China, Korea, Turkey, South Africa, Nepal and Pakistan. Although inexpensive, apparently well tolerated and potentially active, curcumin has not been approved for the treatment of any human disease. 4. In the present article, we discuss the discovery and key biological activities of curcumin, with a particular emphasis on its activities at the molecular and cellular levels, as well as in animals and humans. © 2011 The Authors. Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd. PMCID: PMC3288651 [Available on 2013/3/1] PMID: 22118895 [PubMed – in process] Related citations 2. J BUON. 2011 Jul-Sep;16(3):414-24. Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger) as an adjuvant in cancer treatment: a review. Pereira MM, Haniadka R, Chacko PP, Palatty PL, Baliga MS. Source Department of Pathology, Father Muller Medical College, Kankanady, Karnataka, India. Abstract Despite acquiring a strong understanding of the molecular basis and advances in treatment, cancer is the second major cause of death in the world. In clinics, the stagedependent treatment strategies may include surgery, radiotherapy and systemic treatments like hormonotherapy and chemotherapy, which are associated with side effects. The use of traditional herbal medicine in cancer patients is on a rise, as it is believed that these medications are non toxic and alleviate the symptoms of cancer, boost the immune system, or may tackle the cancer itself. Since antiquity the rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe commonly known as ginger (family Zingiberaceae) have widely been used as a spice and condiment in different societies. Additionally, ginger also has a long history of medicinal use in various cultures for treating common colds, fever, to aid digestion, treat stomach upset, diarrhoea, nausea, rheumatic disorders, gastrointestinal complications and dizziness. Preclinical studies have also shown that ginger possesses chemopreventive and antineoplastic properties. It is also reported to be effective in ameliorating the side effects of γ-radiation and of doxorubicin and cisplatin; to inhibit the efflux of anticancer drugs by P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and to possess chemosensitizing effects in certain neoplastic cells in vitro and in vivo. The objective of this review is to address observations on the role of ginger as adjuvant to treatment modalities of cancer. Emphasis is also placed on the drawbacks and on future directions for research that will have a consequential effect on cancer treatment and cure. PMID: 22006742 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 3. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Jul;51(6):499-523. Update on the chemopreventive effects of ginger and its phytochemicals. Baliga MS, Haniadka R, Pereira MM, D’Souza JJ, Pallaty PL, Bhat HP, Popuri S. Source Research and Development, Father Muller Medical College, Father Muller Hospital Road, Kankanady, Mangalore, 575002, Karnataka, India. msbaliga@gmail.com Abstract The rhizomes of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), commonly known as ginger, is one of the most widely used spice and condiment. It is also an integral part of many traditional medicines and has been extensively used in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Tibb-Unani, Srilankan, Arabic, and African traditional medicines, since antiquity, for many unrelated human ailments including common colds, fever, sore throats, vomiting, motion sickness, gastrointestinal complications, indigestion, constipation, arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, muscular aches, pains, cramps, hypertension, dementia, fever, infectious diseases, and helminthiasis. The putative active compounds are nonvolatile pungent principles, namely gingerols, shogaols, paradols, and zingerone. These compounds are some of the extensively studied phytochemicals and account for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and gastroprotective activities. A number of preclinical investigations with a wide variety of assay systems and carcinogens have shown that ginger and its compounds possess chemopreventive and antineoplastic effects. A number of mechanisms have been observed to be involved in the chemopreventive effects of ginger. The cancer preventive activities of ginger are supposed to be mainly due to free radical scavenging, antioxidant pathways, alteration of gene expressions, and induction of apoptosis, all of which contribute towards decrease in tumor initiation, promotion, and progression. This review provides concise information from preclinical studies with both cell culture models and relevant animal studies by focusing on the mechanisms responsible for the chemopreventive action. The conclusion describes directions for future research to establish its activity and utility as a human cancer preventive and therapeutic drug. The above-mentioned mechanisms of ginger seem to be promising for cancer prevention; however, further clinical studies are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of ginger. PMID: 21929329 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 4. Proc Nutr Soc. 2011 Aug;70(3):389-96. Plant secondary metabolites and gut health: the case for phenolic acids. Russell W, Duthie G. Source Molecular Nutrition Group, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK. Abstract Plant-based diets contain a plethora of secondary metabolites that may impact on health and disease prevention. Much attention has been focused on the potential bioactivity and nutritional relevance of several classes of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, carotenoids, phytooestrogens and glucosinolates. Less attention has been paid to simple phenolic acids that are widely found in fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices and beverages. Daily intakes may exceed 100 mg. In addition, bacteria in the gut can perform reactions that transform more complex plant phenolics such as anthocyanins, procyanidins, flavanones, flavonols, tannins and isoflavones into simple phenolic metabolites. The colon is thus a rich source of potentially active phenolic acids that may impact both locally and systemically on gut health. Both the small and large intestine (colon) contain absorption sites for phenolic acids but low post-prandial concentrations in plasma indicate minimal absorption early in the gastrointestinal tract and/or rapid hepatic metabolism and excretion. Therefore, any bioactivity that contributes to gut health may predominantly occur in the colon. Several phenolic acids affect the expression and activity of enzymes involved in the production of inflammatory mediators of pathways thought to be important in the development of gut disorders including colon cancer. However, at present, we remain largely ignorant as to which of these compounds are beneficial to gut health. Until we can elucidate which pro-inflammatory and potentially carcinogenetic changes in gene expression can be moderated by simple phenolic acids, it is not possible to recommend specific plant-based foods rich in particular phenolics to optimise gut health. PMID: 21781364 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 5. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol. 2011 Feb 15;2(1):1-14. Therapeutic potential of curcumin in gastrointestinal diseases. Rajasekaran SA. Source Sigrid A Rajasekaran, Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE 19803, United States. Abstract Curcumin, also known as diferuloylmethane, is derived from the plant Curcuma longa and is the active ingredient of the spice turmeric. The therapeutic activities of curcumin for a wide variety of diseases such as diabetes, allergies, arthritis and other chronic and inflammatory diseases have been known for a long time. More recently, curcumin’s therapeutic potential for preventing and treating various cancers is being recognized. As curcumin’s therapeutic promise is being explored more systematically in various diseases, it has become clear that, due to its increased bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract, curcumin may be particularly suited to be developed to treat gastrointestinal diseases. This review summarizes some of the current literature of curcumin’s anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer potential in inflammatory bowel diseases, hepatic fibrosis and gastrointestinal cancers. PMCID: PMC3097964 Free PMC Article PMID: 21607160 [PubMed] Related citations 6. J Med Food. 2010 Oct;13(5):1086-96. Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of black pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal disorders. Mehmood MH, Gilani AH. Source Natural Product Research Division, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan. Abstract Dried fruits of Piper nigrum (black pepper) are commonly used in gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this study was to rationalize the medicinal use of pepper and its principal alkaloid, piperine, in constipation and diarrhea using in vitro and in vivo assays. When tested in isolated guinea pig ileum, the crude extract of pepper (Pn.Cr) (1–10 mg/mL) and piperine (3–300 μM) caused a concentration-dependent and atropine-sensitive stimulant effect. In rabbit jejunum, Pn.Cr (0.01–3.0 mg/mL) and piperine (30–1,000 μM) relaxed spontaneous contractions, similar to loperamide and nifedipine. The relaxant effect of Pn.Cr and piperine was partially inhibited in the presence of naloxone (1 μM) similar to that of loperamide, suggesting the naloxonesensitive effect in addition to the Ca(2+) channel blocking (CCB)-like activity, which was evident by its relaxant effect on K+ (80 mM)-induced contractions. The CCB activity was confirmed when pretreatment of the tissue with Pn.Cr (0.03–0.3 mg/mL) or piperine (10–100 μM) caused a rightward shift in the concentration–response curves of Ca(2+), similar to loperamide and nifedipine. In mice, Pn.Cr and piperine exhibited a partially atropine-sensitive laxative effect at lower doses, whereas at higher doses it caused antisecretory and antidiarrheal activities that were partially inhibited in mice pretreated with naloxone (1.5 mg/kg), similar to loperamide. This study illustrates the presence of spasmodic (cholinergic) and antispasmodic (opioid agonist and Ca(2+) antagonist) effects, thus providing the possible explanation for the medicinal use of pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal motility disorders. PMID: 20828313 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 7. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2010 Apr;35(2):134-41. Gastrointestinal protective effect of dietary spices during ethanol-induced oxidant stress in experimental rats. Prakash UN, Srinivasan K. Source Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Mysore, India. Abstract Spices are traditionally known to have digestive stimulant action and to cure digestive disorders. In this study, the protective effect of dietary spices with respect to activities of antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa was examined. Groups of Wistar rats were fed for 8 weeks with diets containing black pepper (0.5%), piperine (0.02%), red pepper (3.0%), capsaicin (0.01%), and ginger (0.05%). All these spices significantly enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes–superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione-S-transferase–in both gastric and intestinal mucosa, suggesting a gastrointestinal protective role for these spices. In a separate study, these dietary spices were found to alleviate the diminished activities of antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa under conditions of ethanol-induced oxidative stress. The gastroprotective effect of the spices was also reflected in their positive effect on mucosal glycoproteins, thereby lowering mucosal injury. The amelioration of the ethanol-induced decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa by dietary spices suggests their beneficial gastrointestinal protective role. This is the first report on the gastrointestinal protective potential of dietary spices. PMID: 20383223 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 8. Br J Nutr. 2010 Jul;104(1):31-9. Epub 2010 Feb 24. Beneficial influence of dietary spices on the ultrastructure and fluidity of the intestinal brush border in rats. Prakash UN, Srinivasan K. Source Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute, CSIR, Mysore 570 020, India. Abstract The beneficial influence of three common spices was examined in experimental rats on: (i) the membrane fluidity of intestinal brush-border membranes (BBM), (ii) the activity of intestinal membrane-bound enzymes, and (iii) ultrastructural alterations in the intestinal epithelium. Groups of male Wistar rats were maintained on dietary black pepper (0.5 %), red pepper (3.0 %), ginger (0.05 %) and spice bioactive compounds piperine (0.02 %) and capsaicin (0.01 %) for 8 weeks. A membrane fluidity study using an apolar fluorescent probe showed increased BBM fluidity in all the spice-fed animals. This was corroborated by a decreased cholesterol:phospholipid ratio in the jejunal and ileal regions of the intestine. These dietary spices stimulated the activities of BBM enzymes (glycyl-glycine dipeptidase, leucine amino peptidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase) in the jejunal mucosa, suggesting a modulation in membrane dynamics due to the apolar spice bioactive compounds interacting with surrounding lipids and hydrophobic portions in the protein vicinity, which may decrease the tendency of membrane lipids to act as steric constraints to enzyme proteins and thus modify enzyme conformation. Scanning electronic microscopy of the intestinal villi in these spice treatments revealed alterations in the ultrastructure, especially an increase in microvilli length and perimeter which would mean a beneficial increase in the absorptive surface of the small intestine, providing for an increased bioavailability of micronutrients. Thus, dietary spices (black pepper, red pepper and ginger) were evidenced to induce alterations in BBM fluidity and passive permeability property, associated with the induction of an increased microvilli length and perimeter, resulting in an increased absorptive surface of the small intestine. PMID: 20178671 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 9. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:265-8. Traditional Indian spices and their health significance. Krishnaswamy K. Source National Institute of Nutrition , Taranaka, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. sri21kk@hotmail.com Abstract India has been recognized all over the world for spices and medicinal plants. Both exhibit a wide range of physiological and pharmacological properties. Current biomedical efforts are focused on their scientific merits, to provide science-based evidence for the traditional uses and to develop either functional foods or nutraceuticals. The Indian traditional medical systems use turmeric for wound healing, rheumatic disorders, gastrointestinal symptoms, deworming, rhinitis and as a cosmetic. Studies in India have explored its anti-inflammatory, cholekinetic and anti-oxidant potentials with the recent investigations focusing on its preventive effect on precarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti atherosclerotic effects in biological systems both under in vitro and in vivo conditions in animals and humans. Both turmeric and curcumin were found to increase detoxifying enzymes, prevent DNA damage, improve DNA repair, decrease mutations and tumour formation and exhibit antioxidative potential in animals. Limited clinical studies suggest that turmeric can significantly impact excretion of mutagens in urine in smokers and regress precancerous palatal lesions. It reduces DNA adducts and micronuclei in oral epithelial cells. It prevents formation of nitroso compounds both in vivo and in vitro. It delays induced cataract in diabetes and reduces hyperlipidemia in obese rats. Recently several molecular targets have been identified for therapeutic / preventive effects of turmeric. Fenugreek seeds, a rich source of soluble fiber used in Indian cuisine reduces blood glucose and lipids and can be used as a food adjuvant in diabetes. Similarly garlic, onions, and ginger have been found to modulate favourably the process of carcinogenesis. PMID: 18296352 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 10. J Nat Med. 2008 Oct;62(4):396-402. Epub 2008 May 21. Antidiarrhoeal activity of the standardised extract of Cinnamomum tamala in experimental rats. Rao CV, Vijayakumar M, Sairam K, Kumar V. Source Pharmacognosy and Ethnopharmacology Division, National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Post Box No. 436, Lucknow, 226 001, India. chvrao72@yahoo.com Abstract The present study was designed to investigate the antidiarrhoeal potential of 50% ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum tamala on experimentally induced castor oil diarrhoea, gastric emptying of phenol red meal, gastrointestinal transit of charcoal meal and in vitro mast cell degranulation activity. C. tamala extract (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, orally) produced a dosedependent reduction in the total amount of faecal matter in castor oil-induced diarrhoea. The mean distance travelled by charcoal meal at 50 and 100 mg/kg of extract showed a significant reduction in the secretion of gastrointestinal fluid accumulation by 32.5-65.0%. The Na(+) and K(+) concentrations on castor oil-induced fluid accumulation showed a greater inhibitory effect on Na(+) levels than on K(+) concentrations. C. tamala significantly reduced the lipid peroxidation (P <; 0.001) and increased the catalase (P <; 0.01) activity in comparison to the castor oil-induced groups. C. tamala leaf extract did not show any significant effect at a higher dose (15 mg/ml) on mast cell degranulation. However, the extract in the dose of 5 and 10 mg/ml conferred significant mast cell protective action (P <; 0.001). The percentage of eugenol in extract is 3.8% w/w, and total tannin is 247.5 mg/g. The result indicates the Indian spice C. tamala is useful for diarrhoea. PMID: 18493839 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 11. Cancer Lett. 2008 Aug 18;267(1):133-64. Epub 2008 May 6. Curcumin and cancer: an "old-age" disease with an "age-old" solution. Anand P, Sundaram C, Jhurani S, Kunnumakkara AB, Aggarwal BB. Source Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. Abstract Cancer is primarily a disease of old age, and that life style plays a major role in the development of most cancers is now well recognized. While plant-based formulations have been used to treat cancer for centuries, current treatments usually involve poisonous mustard gas, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. While traditional plant-derived medicines are safe, what are the active principles in them and how do they mediate their effects against cancer is perhaps best illustrated by curcumin, a derivative of turmeric used for centuries to treat a wide variety of inflammatory conditions. Curcumin is a diferuloylmethane derived from the Indian spice, turmeric (popularly called "curry powder") that has been shown to interfere with multiple cell signaling pathways, including cell cycle (cyclin D1 and cyclin E), apoptosis (activation of caspases and down-regulation of antiapoptotic gene products), proliferation (HER-2, EGFR, and AP-1), survival (PI3K/AKT pathway), invasion (MMP-9 and adhesion molecules), angiogenesis (VEGF), metastasis (CXCR- 4) and inflammation (NF-kappaB, TNF, IL-6, IL-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX). The activity of curcumin reported against leukemia and lymphoma, gastrointestinal cancers, genitourinary cancers, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, lung cancer, melanoma, neurological cancers, and sarcoma reflects its ability to affect multiple targets. Thus an "old-age" disease such as cancer requires an "age-old" treatment. PMID: 18462866 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 12. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2008 Sep;52(9):1010-30. Multi-targeted therapy by curcumin: how spicy is it? Goel A, Jhurani S, Aggarwal BB. Source Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA. Comment in Mol Nutr Food Res. 2009 Feb;53(2):308. Abstract Although traditional medicines have been used for thousands of years, for most such medicines neither the active component nor their molecular targets have been very well identified. Curcumin, a yellow component of turmeric or curry powder, however, is an exception. Although inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2, HER2, tumor necrosis factor, EGFR, Bcrabl, proteosome, and vascular endothelial cell growth factor have been approved for human use by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), curcumin as a single agent can down-regulate all these targets. Curcumin can also activate apoptosis, down-regulate cell survival gene products, and up-regulate p53, p21, and p27. Although curcumin is poorly absorbed after ingestion, multiple studies have suggested that even low levels of physiologically achievable concentrations of curcumin may be sufficient for its chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activity. Thus, curcumin regulates multiple targets (multitargeted therapy), which is needed for treatment of most diseases, and it is inexpensive and has been found to be safe in human clinical trials. The present article reviews the key molecular mechanisms of curcumin action and compares this to some of the single-targeted therapies currently available for human cancer. PMID: 18384098 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 13. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(8):735-48. Black pepper and its pungent principlepiperine: a review of diverse physiological effects. Srinivasan K. Source Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, India. ksri.cftri@gmail.com Abstract Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is one of the most widely used among spices. It is valued for its distinct biting quality attributed to the alkaloid, piperine. Black pepper is used not only in human dietaries but also for a variety of other purposes such as medicinal, as a preservative, and in perfumery. Many physiological effects of black pepper, its extracts, or its major active principle, piperine, have been reported in recent decades. Dietary piperine, by favorably stimulating the digestive enzymes of pancreas, enhances the digestive capacity and significantly reduces the gastrointestinal food transit time. Piperine has been demonstrated in in vitro studies to protect against oxidative damage by inhibiting or quenching free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Black pepper or piperine treatment has also been evidenced to lower lipid peroxidation in vivo and beneficially influence cellular thiol status, antioxidant molecules and antioxidant enzymes in a number of experimental situations of oxidative stress. The most far-reaching attribute of piperine has been its inhibitory influence on enzymatic drug biotransforming reactions in the liver. It strongly inhibits hepatic and intestinal aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and UDP-glucuronyl transferase. Piperine has been documented to enhance the bioavailability of a number of therapeutic drugs as well as phytochemicals by this very property. Piperine's bioavailability enhancing property is also partly attributed to increased absorption as a result of its effect on the ultrastructure of intestinal brush border. Although initially there were a few controversial reports regarding its safety as a food additive, such evidence has been questionable, and later studies have established the safety of black pepper or its active principle, piperine, in several animal studies. Piperine, while it is non-genotoxic, has in fact been found to possess anti-mutagenic and anti-tumor influences. PMID: 17987447 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 14. Biochem Pharmacol. 2008 Feb 15;75(4):787-809. Epub 2007 Aug 19. Curcumin as "Curecumin": from kitchen to clinic. Goel A, Kunnumakkara AB, Aggarwal BB. Source Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States. Abstract Although turmeric (Curcuma longa; an Indian spice) has been described in Ayurveda, as a treatment for inflammatory diseases and is referred by different names in different cultures, the active principle called curcumin or diferuloylmethane, a yellow pigment present in turmeric (curry powder) has been shown to exhibit numerous activities. Extensive research over the last half century has revealed several important functions of curcumin. It binds to a variety of proteins and inhibits the activity of various kinases. By modulating the activation of various transcription factors, curcumin regulates the expression of inflammatory enzymes, cytokines, adhesion molecules, and cell survival proteins. Curcumin also downregulates cyclin D1, cyclin E and MDM2; and upregulates p21, p27, and p53. Various preclinical cell culture and animal studies suggest that curcumin has potential as an antiproliferative, anti-invasive, and antiangiogenic agent; as a mediator of chemoresistance and radioresistance; as a chemopreventive agent; and as a therapeutic agent in wound healing, diabetes, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, and arthritis. Pilot phase I clinical trials have shown curcumin to be safe even when consumed at a daily dose of 12g for 3 months. Other clinical trials suggest a potential therapeutic role for curcumin in diseases such as familial adenomatous polyposis, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, hypercholesteremia, atherosclerosis, pancreatitis, psoriasis, chronic anterior uveitis and arthritis. Thus, curcumin, a spice once relegated to the kitchen shelf, has moved into the clinic and may prove to be "Curecumin". PMID: 17900536 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 15. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2007;595:453-70. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of curcumin. Sharma RA, Steward WP, Gescher AJ. Source Radiation Oncology & Biology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, UK. ricky.sharma@rob.ox.ac.uk Abstract Curcuma spp. contain turmerin, essential oils, and curcuminoids, including curcumin. Curcumin [1,7-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione] is regarded as the most biologically active constituent of the spice turmeric and it comprises 2-8% of most turmeric preparations. Preclinical data from animal models and phase I clinical studies performed with human volunteers and patients with cancer have demonstrated low systemic bioavailability following oral dosing. Efficient first-pass metabolism and some degree of intestinal metabolism, particularly glucuronidation and sulfation of curcumin, might explain its poor systemic availability when administered via the oral route. A daily oral dose of 3.6 g of curcumin is compatible with detectable levels of the parent compound in colorectal tissue from patients with cancer. The levels demonstrated might be sufficient to exert pharmacological activity. There appears to be negligible distribution of the parent drug to hepatic tissue or other tissues beyond the gastrointestinal tract. Curcumin possesses wideranging anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Many of these biological activities can be attributed to its potent antioxidant capacity at neutral and acidic pH, its inhibition of cell signaling pathways at multiple levels, its diverse effects on cellular enzymes, and its effects on cell adhesion and angiogenesis. In particular, curcumin's ability to alter gene transcription and induce apoptosis in preclinical models advocates its potential utility in cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy. With regard to considerable public and scientific interest in the use of phytochemicals derived from dietary components to combat or prevent human diseases, curcumin is currently a leading agent. PMID: 17569224 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 16. Gastroenterology. 2007 May;132(5):1890-901. Epub 2007 Feb 21. Enterochromaffin cells of the human gut: sensors for spices and odorants. Braun T, Voland P, Kunz L, Prinz C, Gratzl M. Source Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Munich, Germany. Abstract BACKGROUND & AIMS: Release of serotonin from mucosal enterochromaffin cells triggered by luminal substances is the key event in the regulation of gut motility and secretion. We were interested to know whether nasal olfactory receptors are also expressed in the human gut mucosa by enterochromaffin cells and whether their ligands and odorants present in spices, fragrances, detergents, and cosmetics cause serotonin release. METHODS: Receptor expression was studied by the reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction method in human mucosal enterochromaffin cells isolated by laser microdissection and in a cell line derived from human enterochromaffin cells. Activation of the cells by odorants was investigated by digital fluorescence imaging using the fluorescent Ca(2+) indicator Fluo-4. Serotonin release was measured in culture supernatants by a serotonin enzyme immunoassay and amperometry using carbon fiber microelectrodes placed on single cells. RESULTS: We found expression of 4 olfactory receptors in microdissected human mucosal enterochromaffin cells and in a cell line derived from human enterochromaffin cells. Ca(2+) imaging studies revealed that odorant ligands of the identified olfactory receptors cause Ca(2+) influx, elevation of intracellular free Ca(2+) levels, and, consequently, serotonin release. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that odorants present in the luminal environment of the gut may stimulate serotonin release via olfactory receptors present in human enterochromaffin cells. Serotonin controls both gut motility and secretion and is implicated in pathologic conditions such as vomiting, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. Thus, olfactory receptors are potential novel targets for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and motility disorders. PMID: 17484882 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 17. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2007 Jan;13(1):91-6. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in outpatients with inflammatory bowel disease using a food and beverage intolerance, food and beverage avoidance diet. MacDermott RP. Source Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208, USA. macderr@mail.amc.edu Abstract Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in the outpatient with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a difficult but important challenge to recognize and treat. It is very helpful to have effective treatment approaches for IBS that are practical and use minimal medications. Because of the underlying chronic inflammation in IBD, IBS symptoms occur with increased frequency and severity, secondary to increased hypersensitivity to foods and beverages that stimulate the gastrointestinal tract. This paper discusses how to treat IBS in the IBD outpatient, with emphasis on using a food and beverage intolerance, avoidance diet. The adverse effects of many foods and beverages are amount dependent and can be delayed, additive, and cumulative. The specific types of foods and beverages that can induce IBS symptoms include milk and milk containing products; caffeine containing products; alcoholic beverages; fruits; fruit juices; spices; seasonings; diet beverages; diet foods; diet candies; diet gum; fast foods; condiments; fried foods; fatty foods; multigrain breads; sourdough breads; bagels; salads; salad dressings; vegetables; beans; red meats; gravies; spaghetti sauce; stews; nuts; popcorn; high fiber; and cookies, crackers, pretzels, cakes, and pies. The types of foods and beverages that are better tolerated include water; rice; plain pasta or noodles; baked or broiled potatoes; white breads; plain fish, chicken, turkey, or ham; eggs; dry cereals; soy or rice based products; peas; applesauce; cantaloupe; watermelon; fruit cocktail; margarine; jams; jellies; and peanut butter. Handouts that were developed based upon what worsens or helps IBS symptoms in patients are included to help patients learn which foods and beverages to avoid and which are better tolerated. Free Article PMID: 17206644 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 18. Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2004 Nov;135(3):247-61. Epub 2004 Nov 3. Allergenic potency of spices: hot, medium hot, or very hot. Schöll I, Jensen-Jarolim E. Source Institute of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. Abstract Spices are the most attractive ingredients to confer an authentic taste to food. As they are derived from plants, they harbour allergenic potency and can induce symptoms ranging from mild local to severe systemic reactions. Due to the content of pharmacologically active substances of spices, the diagnosis of allergy and the differentiation from intolerance reactions may be difficult. Association with inhalative allergies via IgE cross-reactivity, but also direct gastrointestinal sensitization plays a role. This article is a botanical and allergological overview of the most important spices and molecules responsible for eliciting IgE-mediated reactions or cross-reactions. As no curative treatments are known at present, strict avoidance is recommended and, therefore, accurate labelling of pre-packed food is necessary. PMID: 15528928 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 19. Clin Cancer Res. 2004 Oct 15;10(20):6847-54. Phase I clinical trial of oral curcumin: biomarkers of systemic activity and compliance. Sharma RA, Euden SA, Platton SL, Cooke DN, Shafayat A, Hewitt HR, Marczylo TH, Morgan B, Hemingway D, Plummer SM, Pirmohamed M, Gescher AJ, Steward WP. Source Oncology Department, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom. ras20@le.ac.uk Abstract Curcumin, a polyphenolic antioxidant derived from a dietary spice, exhibits anticancer activity in rodents and in humans. Its efficacy appears to be related to induction of glutathione Stransferase enzymes, inhibition of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production, or suppression of oxidative DNA adduct (M(1)G) formation. We designed a dose-escalation study to explore the pharmacology of curcumin in humans. Fifteen patients with advanced colorectal cancer refractory to standard chemotherapies consumed capsules compatible with curcumin doses between 0.45 and 3.6 g daily for up to 4 months. Levels of curcumin and its metabolites in plasma, urine, and feces were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Three biomarkers of the potential activity of curcumin were translated from preclinical models and measured in patient blood leukocytes: glutathione S-transferase activity, levels of M(1)G, and PGE(2) production induced ex vivo. Dose-limiting toxicity was not observed. Curcumin and its glucuronide and sulfate metabolites were detected in plasma in the 10 nmol/L range and in urine. A daily dose of 3.6 g curcumin engendered 62% and 57% decreases in inducible PGE(2) production in blood samples taken 1 hour after dose on days 1 and 29, respectively, of treatment compared with levels observed immediately predose (P Shop Here

1. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol. 2012 Mar;39(3):283-99. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2011.
05648.x.
Discovery of curcumin, a component of
golden spice, and its miraculous biological
activities.
Gupta SC, Patchva S, Koh W, Aggarwal BB.
Source
Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of
Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
Abstract
1. Curcumin is the active ingredient of the dietary spice turmeric and has been consumed for
medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Modern science has shown that curcumin
modulates various signalling molecules, including inflammatory molecules, transcription
factors, enzymes, protein kinases, protein reductases, carrier proteins, cell survival proteins,
drug resistance proteins, adhesion molecules, growth factors, receptors, cell cycle regulatory
proteins, chemokines, DNA, RNA and metal ions. 2. Because of this polyphenol’s potential to
modulate multiple signalling molecules, it has been reported to possess pleiotropic activities.
First demonstrated to have antibacterial activity in 1949, curcumin has since been shown to
have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, pro-apoptotic, chemopreventive, chemotherapeutic,
antiproliferative, wound healing, antinociceptive, antiparasitic and antimalarial properties as
well. Animal studies have suggested that curcumin may be active against a wide range of
human diseases, including diabetes, obesity, neurological and psychiatric disorders and cancer,
as well as chronic illnesses affecting the eyes, lungs, liver, kidneys and gastrointestinal and
cardiovascular systems. 3. Although many clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of
curcumin against human ailments have already been completed, others are still ongoing.
Moreover, curcumin is used as a supplement in several countries, including India, Japan, the
US, Thailand, China, Korea, Turkey, South Africa, Nepal and Pakistan. Although inexpensive,
apparently well tolerated and potentially active, curcumin has not been approved for the
treatment of any human disease. 4. In the present article, we discuss the discovery and key
biological activities of curcumin, with a particular emphasis on its activities at the molecular
and cellular levels, as well as in animals and humans.
© 2011 The Authors. Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology © 2011 Blackwell
Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.
PMCID: PMC3288651 [Available on 2013/3/1]
PMID: 22118895 [PubMed – in process]
Related citations
2. J BUON. 2011 Jul-Sep;16(3):414-24.
Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger) as an
adjuvant in cancer treatment: a review.
Pereira MM, Haniadka R, Chacko PP, Palatty PL, Baliga MS.
Source
Department of Pathology, Father Muller Medical College, Kankanady, Karnataka, India.
Abstract
Despite acquiring a strong understanding of the molecular basis and advances in treatment,
cancer is the second major cause of death in the world. In clinics, the stagedependent
treatment strategies may include surgery, radiotherapy and systemic treatments like
hormonotherapy and chemotherapy, which are associated with side effects. The use of
traditional herbal medicine in cancer patients is on a rise, as it is believed that these
medications are non toxic and alleviate the symptoms of cancer, boost the immune system, or
may tackle the cancer itself. Since antiquity the rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe
commonly known as ginger (family Zingiberaceae) have widely been used as a spice and
condiment in different societies. Additionally, ginger also has a long history of medicinal use in
various cultures for treating common colds, fever, to aid digestion, treat stomach upset,
diarrhoea, nausea, rheumatic disorders, gastrointestinal complications and dizziness. Preclinical
studies have also shown that ginger possesses chemopreventive and antineoplastic properties.
It is also reported to be effective in ameliorating the side effects of γ-radiation and of
doxorubicin and cisplatin; to inhibit the efflux of anticancer drugs by P-glycoprotein (P-gp)
and to possess chemosensitizing effects in certain neoplastic cells in vitro and in vivo. The
objective of this review is to address observations on the role of ginger as adjuvant to
treatment modalities of cancer. Emphasis is also placed on the drawbacks and on future
directions for research that will have a consequential effect on cancer treatment and cure.
PMID: 22006742 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
3. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Jul;51(6):499-523.
Update on the chemopreventive effects of
ginger and its phytochemicals.
Baliga MS, Haniadka R, Pereira MM, D’Souza JJ, Pallaty PL, Bhat HP, Popuri S.
Source
Research and Development, Father Muller Medical College, Father Muller Hospital Road,
Kankanady, Mangalore, 575002, Karnataka, India. msbaliga@gmail.com
Abstract
The rhizomes of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), commonly known as ginger, is one
of the most widely used spice and condiment. It is also an integral part of many traditional
medicines and has been extensively used in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Tibb-Unani, Srilankan, Arabic,
and African traditional medicines, since antiquity, for many unrelated human ailments including
common colds, fever, sore throats, vomiting, motion sickness, gastrointestinal complications,
indigestion, constipation, arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, muscular aches, pains, cramps,
hypertension, dementia, fever, infectious diseases, and helminthiasis. The putative active
compounds are nonvolatile pungent principles, namely gingerols, shogaols, paradols, and
zingerone. These compounds are some of the extensively studied phytochemicals and account
for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and gastroprotective activities. A number of
preclinical investigations with a wide variety of assay systems and carcinogens have shown that
ginger and its compounds possess chemopreventive and antineoplastic effects. A number of
mechanisms have been observed to be involved in the chemopreventive effects of ginger. The
cancer preventive activities of ginger are supposed to be mainly due to free radical scavenging,
antioxidant pathways, alteration of gene expressions, and induction of apoptosis, all of which
contribute towards decrease in tumor initiation, promotion, and progression. This review
provides concise information from preclinical studies with both cell culture models and relevant
animal studies by focusing on the mechanisms responsible for the chemopreventive action. The
conclusion describes directions for future research to establish its activity and utility as a
human cancer preventive and therapeutic drug. The above-mentioned mechanisms of ginger
seem to be promising for cancer prevention; however, further clinical studies are warranted to
assess the efficacy and safety of ginger.
PMID: 21929329 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
4. Proc Nutr Soc. 2011 Aug;70(3):389-96.
Plant secondary metabolites and gut health:
the case for phenolic acids.
Russell W, Duthie G.
Source
Molecular Nutrition Group, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen,
Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK.
Abstract
Plant-based diets contain a plethora of secondary metabolites that may impact on health and
disease prevention. Much attention has been focused on the potential bioactivity and nutritional
relevance of several classes of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, carotenoids, phytooestrogens
and glucosinolates. Less attention has been paid to simple phenolic acids that are
widely found in fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices and beverages. Daily intakes may exceed 100
mg. In addition, bacteria in the gut can perform reactions that transform more complex plant
phenolics such as anthocyanins, procyanidins, flavanones, flavonols, tannins and isoflavones
into simple phenolic metabolites. The colon is thus a rich source of potentially active phenolic
acids that may impact both locally and systemically on gut health. Both the small and large
intestine (colon) contain absorption sites for phenolic acids but low post-prandial
concentrations in plasma indicate minimal absorption early in the gastrointestinal tract and/or
rapid hepatic metabolism and excretion. Therefore, any bioactivity that contributes to gut
health may predominantly occur in the colon. Several phenolic acids affect the expression and
activity of enzymes involved in the production of inflammatory mediators of pathways thought
to be important in the development of gut disorders including colon cancer. However, at
present, we remain largely ignorant as to which of these compounds are beneficial to gut
health. Until we can elucidate which pro-inflammatory and potentially carcinogenetic changes
in gene expression can be moderated by simple phenolic acids, it is not possible to recommend
specific plant-based foods rich in particular phenolics to optimise gut health.
PMID: 21781364 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
5. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol. 2011 Feb 15;2(1):1-14.
Therapeutic potential of curcumin in
gastrointestinal diseases.
Rajasekaran SA.
Source
Sigrid A Rajasekaran, Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital
for Children, Wilmington, DE 19803, United States.
Abstract
Curcumin, also known as diferuloylmethane, is derived from the plant Curcuma longa and is
the active ingredient of the spice turmeric. The therapeutic activities of curcumin for a wide
variety of diseases such as diabetes, allergies, arthritis and other chronic and inflammatory
diseases have been known for a long time. More recently, curcumin’s therapeutic potential for
preventing and treating various cancers is being recognized. As curcumin’s therapeutic promise
is being explored more systematically in various diseases, it has become clear that, due to its
increased bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract, curcumin may be particularly suited to be
developed to treat gastrointestinal diseases. This review summarizes some of the current
literature of curcumin’s anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer potential in
inflammatory bowel diseases, hepatic fibrosis and gastrointestinal cancers.
PMCID: PMC3097964 Free PMC Article
PMID: 21607160 [PubMed]
Related citations
6. J Med Food. 2010 Oct;13(5):1086-96.
Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use
of black pepper and piperine in
gastrointestinal disorders.
Mehmood MH, Gilani AH.
Source
Natural Product Research Division, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan
University Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan.
Abstract
Dried fruits of Piper nigrum (black pepper) are commonly used in gastrointestinal disorders.
The aim of this study was to rationalize the medicinal use of pepper and its principal alkaloid,
piperine, in constipation and diarrhea using in vitro and in vivo assays. When tested in isolated
guinea pig ileum, the crude extract of pepper (Pn.Cr) (1–10 mg/mL) and piperine (3–300 μM)
caused a concentration-dependent and atropine-sensitive stimulant effect. In rabbit jejunum,
Pn.Cr (0.01–3.0 mg/mL) and piperine (30–1,000 μM) relaxed spontaneous contractions, similar
to loperamide and nifedipine. The relaxant effect of Pn.Cr and piperine was partially inhibited in
the presence of naloxone (1 μM) similar to that of loperamide, suggesting the naloxonesensitive
effect in addition to the Ca(2+) channel blocking (CCB)-like activity, which was
evident by its relaxant effect on K+ (80 mM)-induced contractions. The CCB activity was
confirmed when pretreatment of the tissue with Pn.Cr (0.03–0.3 mg/mL) or piperine (10–100
μM) caused a rightward shift in the concentration–response curves of Ca(2+), similar to
loperamide and nifedipine. In mice, Pn.Cr and piperine exhibited a partially atropine-sensitive
laxative effect at lower doses, whereas at higher doses it caused antisecretory and antidiarrheal
activities that were partially inhibited in mice pretreated with naloxone (1.5 mg/kg), similar to
loperamide. This study illustrates the presence of spasmodic (cholinergic) and antispasmodic
(opioid agonist and Ca(2+) antagonist) effects, thus providing the possible explanation for the
medicinal use of pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal motility disorders.
PMID: 20828313 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
7. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2010 Apr;35(2):134-41.
Gastrointestinal protective effect of dietary
spices during ethanol-induced oxidant
stress in experimental rats.
Prakash UN, Srinivasan K.
Source
Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute,
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Mysore, India.
Abstract
Spices are traditionally known to have digestive stimulant action and to cure digestive
disorders. In this study, the protective effect of dietary spices with respect to activities of
antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa was examined. Groups of Wistar rats
were fed for 8 weeks with diets containing black pepper (0.5%), piperine (0.02%), red pepper
(3.0%), capsaicin (0.01%), and ginger (0.05%). All these spices significantly enhanced the
activities of antioxidant enzymes–superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and
glutathione-S-transferase–in both gastric and intestinal mucosa, suggesting a gastrointestinal
protective role for these spices. In a separate study, these dietary spices were found to alleviate
the diminished activities of antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa under
conditions of ethanol-induced oxidative stress. The gastroprotective effect of the spices was
also reflected in their positive effect on mucosal glycoproteins, thereby lowering mucosal
injury. The amelioration of the ethanol-induced decrease in the activities of antioxidant
enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa by dietary spices suggests their beneficial
gastrointestinal protective role. This is the first report on the gastrointestinal protective
potential of dietary spices.
PMID: 20383223 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
8. Br J Nutr. 2010 Jul;104(1):31-9. Epub 2010 Feb 24.
Beneficial influence of dietary spices on the
ultrastructure and fluidity of the intestinal
brush border in rats.
Prakash UN, Srinivasan K.
Source
Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute, CSIR,
Mysore 570 020, India.
Abstract
The beneficial influence of three common spices was examined in experimental rats on: (i) the
membrane fluidity of intestinal brush-border membranes (BBM), (ii) the activity of intestinal
membrane-bound enzymes, and (iii) ultrastructural alterations in the intestinal epithelium.
Groups of male Wistar rats were maintained on dietary black pepper (0.5 %), red pepper (3.0 %),
ginger (0.05 %) and spice bioactive compounds piperine (0.02 %) and capsaicin (0.01 %) for 8
weeks. A membrane fluidity study using an apolar fluorescent probe showed increased BBM
fluidity in all the spice-fed animals. This was corroborated by a decreased
cholesterol:phospholipid ratio in the jejunal and ileal regions of the intestine. These dietary
spices stimulated the activities of BBM enzymes (glycyl-glycine dipeptidase, leucine amino
peptidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase) in the jejunal mucosa, suggesting a
modulation in membrane dynamics due to the apolar spice bioactive compounds interacting
with surrounding lipids and hydrophobic portions in the protein vicinity, which may decrease
the tendency of membrane lipids to act as steric constraints to enzyme proteins and thus
modify enzyme conformation. Scanning electronic microscopy of the intestinal villi in these
spice treatments revealed alterations in the ultrastructure, especially an increase in microvilli
length and perimeter which would mean a beneficial increase in the absorptive surface of the
small intestine, providing for an increased bioavailability of micronutrients. Thus, dietary spices
(black pepper, red pepper and ginger) were evidenced to induce alterations in BBM fluidity and
passive permeability property, associated with the induction of an increased microvilli length
and perimeter, resulting in an increased absorptive surface of the small intestine.
PMID: 20178671 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
9. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:265-8.
Traditional Indian spices and their health
significance.
Krishnaswamy K.
Source
National Institute of Nutrition , Taranaka, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India.
sri21kk@hotmail.com
Abstract
India has been recognized all over the world for spices and medicinal plants. Both exhibit a
wide range of physiological and pharmacological properties. Current biomedical efforts are
focused on their scientific merits, to provide science-based evidence for the traditional uses
and to develop either functional foods or nutraceuticals. The Indian traditional medical systems
use turmeric for wound healing, rheumatic disorders, gastrointestinal symptoms, deworming,
rhinitis and as a cosmetic. Studies in India have explored its anti-inflammatory, cholekinetic
and anti-oxidant potentials with the recent investigations focusing on its preventive effect on
precarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti atherosclerotic effects in biological systems both
under in vitro and in vivo conditions in animals and humans. Both turmeric and curcumin were
found to increase detoxifying enzymes, prevent DNA damage, improve DNA repair, decrease
mutations and tumour formation and exhibit antioxidative potential in animals. Limited clinical
studies suggest that turmeric can significantly impact excretion of mutagens in urine in
smokers and regress precancerous palatal lesions. It reduces DNA adducts and micronuclei in
oral epithelial cells. It prevents formation of nitroso compounds both in vivo and in vitro. It
delays induced cataract in diabetes and reduces hyperlipidemia in obese rats. Recently several
molecular targets have been identified for therapeutic / preventive effects of turmeric.
Fenugreek seeds, a rich source of soluble fiber used in Indian cuisine reduces blood glucose
and lipids and can be used as a food adjuvant in diabetes. Similarly garlic, onions, and ginger
have been found to modulate favourably the process of carcinogenesis.
PMID: 18296352 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
10. J Nat Med. 2008 Oct;62(4):396-402. Epub 2008 May 21.
Antidiarrhoeal activity of the standardised
extract of Cinnamomum tamala in
experimental rats.
Rao CV, Vijayakumar M, Sairam K, Kumar V.
Source
Pharmacognosy and Ethnopharmacology Division, National Botanical Research Institute, Rana
Pratap Marg, Post Box No. 436, Lucknow, 226 001, India. chvrao72@yahoo.com
Abstract
The present study was designed to investigate the antidiarrhoeal potential of 50% ethanolic
extract of Cinnamomum tamala on experimentally induced castor oil diarrhoea, gastric
emptying of phenol red meal, gastrointestinal transit of charcoal meal and in vitro mast cell
degranulation activity. C. tamala extract (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, orally) produced a dosedependent
reduction in the total amount of faecal matter in castor oil-induced diarrhoea. The
mean distance travelled by charcoal meal at 50 and 100 mg/kg of extract showed a
significant reduction in the secretion of gastrointestinal fluid accumulation by 32.5-65.0%.
The Na(+) and K(+) concentrations on castor oil-induced fluid accumulation showed a greater
inhibitory effect on Na(+) levels than on K(+) concentrations. C. tamala significantly reduced
the lipid peroxidation (P <; 0.001) and increased the catalase (P <; 0.01) activity in comparison
to the castor oil-induced groups. C. tamala leaf extract did not show any significant effect at
a higher dose (15 mg/ml) on mast cell degranulation. However, the extract in the dose of 5
and 10 mg/ml conferred significant mast cell protective action (P <; 0.001). The percentage of
eugenol in extract is 3.8% w/w, and total tannin is 247.5 mg/g. The result indicates the Indian
spice C. tamala is useful for diarrhoea.
PMID: 18493839 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
11. Cancer Lett. 2008 Aug 18;267(1):133-64. Epub 2008 May 6.
Curcumin and cancer: an "old-age" disease
with an "age-old" solution.
Anand P, Sundaram C, Jhurani S, Kunnumakkara AB, Aggarwal BB.
Source
Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of
Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
Abstract
Cancer is primarily a disease of old age, and that life style plays a major role in the
development of most cancers is now well recognized. While plant-based formulations have
been used to treat cancer for centuries, current treatments usually involve poisonous mustard
gas, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. While traditional plant-derived
medicines are safe, what are the active principles in them and how do they mediate their
effects against cancer is perhaps best illustrated by curcumin, a derivative of turmeric used
for centuries to treat a wide variety of inflammatory conditions. Curcumin is a
diferuloylmethane derived from the Indian spice, turmeric (popularly called "curry powder")
that has been shown to interfere with multiple cell signaling pathways, including cell cycle
(cyclin D1 and cyclin E), apoptosis (activation of caspases and down-regulation of
antiapoptotic gene products), proliferation (HER-2, EGFR, and AP-1), survival (PI3K/AKT
pathway), invasion (MMP-9 and adhesion molecules), angiogenesis (VEGF), metastasis (CXCR-
4) and inflammation (NF-kappaB, TNF, IL-6, IL-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX). The activity of
curcumin reported against leukemia and lymphoma, gastrointestinal cancers, genitourinary
cancers, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, lung cancer,
melanoma, neurological cancers, and sarcoma reflects its ability to affect multiple targets.
Thus an "old-age" disease such as cancer requires an "age-old" treatment.
PMID: 18462866 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
12. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2008 Sep;52(9):1010-30.
Multi-targeted therapy by curcumin: how
spicy is it?
Goel A, Jhurani S, Aggarwal BB.
Source
Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A
Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center,
Dallas, TX, USA.
Comment in
Mol Nutr Food Res. 2009 Feb;53(2):308.
Abstract
Although traditional medicines have been used for thousands of years, for most such
medicines neither the active component nor their molecular targets have been very well
identified. Curcumin, a yellow component of turmeric or curry powder, however, is an
exception. Although inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2, HER2, tumor necrosis factor, EGFR, Bcrabl,
proteosome, and vascular endothelial cell growth factor have been approved for human
use by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), curcumin as a single agent can
down-regulate all these targets. Curcumin can also activate apoptosis, down-regulate cell
survival gene products, and up-regulate p53, p21, and p27. Although curcumin is poorly
absorbed after ingestion, multiple studies have suggested that even low levels of
physiologically achievable concentrations of curcumin may be sufficient for its
chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activity. Thus, curcumin regulates multiple targets
(multitargeted therapy), which is needed for treatment of most diseases, and it is inexpensive
and has been found to be safe in human clinical trials. The present article reviews the key
molecular mechanisms of curcumin action and compares this to some of the single-targeted
therapies currently available for human cancer.
PMID: 18384098 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
13. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(8):735-48.
Black pepper and its pungent principlepiperine:
a review of diverse physiological
effects.
Srinivasan K.
Source
Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute,
Mysore, India. ksri.cftri@gmail.com
Abstract
Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is one of the most widely used among spices. It is valued for its
distinct biting quality attributed to the alkaloid, piperine. Black pepper is used not only in
human dietaries but also for a variety of other purposes such as medicinal, as a preservative,
and in perfumery. Many physiological effects of black pepper, its extracts, or its major active
principle, piperine, have been reported in recent decades. Dietary piperine, by favorably
stimulating the digestive enzymes of pancreas, enhances the digestive capacity and
significantly reduces the gastrointestinal food transit time. Piperine has been demonstrated in
in vitro studies to protect against oxidative damage by inhibiting or quenching free radicals
and reactive oxygen species. Black pepper or piperine treatment has also been evidenced to
lower lipid peroxidation in vivo and beneficially influence cellular thiol status, antioxidant
molecules and antioxidant enzymes in a number of experimental situations of oxidative
stress. The most far-reaching attribute of piperine has been its inhibitory influence on
enzymatic drug biotransforming reactions in the liver. It strongly inhibits hepatic and
intestinal aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and UDP-glucuronyl transferase. Piperine has been
documented to enhance the bioavailability of a number of therapeutic drugs as well as
phytochemicals by this very property. Piperine's bioavailability enhancing property is also
partly attributed to increased absorption as a result of its effect on the ultrastructure of
intestinal brush border. Although initially there were a few controversial reports regarding its
safety as a food additive, such evidence has been questionable, and later studies have
established the safety of black pepper or its active principle, piperine, in several animal
studies. Piperine, while it is non-genotoxic, has in fact been found to possess anti-mutagenic
and anti-tumor influences.
PMID: 17987447 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
14. Biochem Pharmacol. 2008 Feb 15;75(4):787-809. Epub 2007 Aug 19.
Curcumin as "Curecumin": from kitchen to
clinic.
Goel A, Kunnumakkara AB, Aggarwal BB.
Source
Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A.
Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center,
Dallas, TX, United States.
Abstract
Although turmeric (Curcuma longa; an Indian spice) has been described in Ayurveda, as a
treatment for inflammatory diseases and is referred by different names in different cultures,
the active principle called curcumin or diferuloylmethane, a yellow pigment present in
turmeric (curry powder) has been shown to exhibit numerous activities. Extensive research
over the last half century has revealed several important functions of curcumin. It binds to a
variety of proteins and inhibits the activity of various kinases. By modulating the activation of
various transcription factors, curcumin regulates the expression of inflammatory enzymes,
cytokines, adhesion molecules, and cell survival proteins. Curcumin also downregulates cyclin
D1, cyclin E and MDM2; and upregulates p21, p27, and p53. Various preclinical cell culture
and animal studies suggest that curcumin has potential as an antiproliferative, anti-invasive,
and antiangiogenic agent; as a mediator of chemoresistance and radioresistance; as a
chemopreventive agent; and as a therapeutic agent in wound healing, diabetes, Alzheimer
disease, Parkinson disease, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, and arthritis. Pilot
phase I clinical trials have shown curcumin to be safe even when consumed at a daily dose of
12g for 3 months. Other clinical trials suggest a potential therapeutic role for curcumin in
diseases such as familial adenomatous polyposis, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative
colitis, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, hypercholesteremia, atherosclerosis, pancreatitis,
psoriasis, chronic anterior uveitis and arthritis. Thus, curcumin, a spice once relegated to the
kitchen shelf, has moved into the clinic and may prove to be "Curecumin".
PMID: 17900536 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
15. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2007;595:453-70.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of
curcumin.
Sharma RA, Steward WP, Gescher AJ.
Source
Radiation Oncology & Biology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, UK.
ricky.sharma@rob.ox.ac.uk
Abstract
Curcuma spp. contain turmerin, essential oils, and curcuminoids, including curcumin.
Curcumin [1,7-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione] is regarded
as the most biologically active constituent of the spice turmeric and it comprises 2-8% of
most turmeric preparations. Preclinical data from animal models and phase I clinical studies
performed with human volunteers and patients with cancer have demonstrated low systemic
bioavailability following oral dosing. Efficient first-pass metabolism and some degree of
intestinal metabolism, particularly glucuronidation and sulfation of curcumin, might explain
its poor systemic availability when administered via the oral route. A daily oral dose of 3.6 g
of curcumin is compatible with detectable levels of the parent compound in colorectal tissue
from patients with cancer. The levels demonstrated might be sufficient to exert
pharmacological activity. There appears to be negligible distribution of the parent drug to
hepatic tissue or other tissues beyond the gastrointestinal tract. Curcumin possesses wideranging
anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Many of these biological activities can
be attributed to its potent antioxidant capacity at neutral and acidic pH, its inhibition of cell
signaling pathways at multiple levels, its diverse effects on cellular enzymes, and its effects on
cell adhesion and angiogenesis. In particular, curcumin's ability to alter gene transcription and
induce apoptosis in preclinical models advocates its potential utility in cancer
chemoprevention and chemotherapy. With regard to considerable public and scientific interest
in the use of phytochemicals derived from dietary components to combat or prevent human
diseases, curcumin is currently a leading agent.
PMID: 17569224 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
16. Gastroenterology. 2007 May;132(5):1890-901. Epub 2007 Feb 21.
Enterochromaffin cells of the human gut:
sensors for spices and odorants.
Braun T, Voland P, Kunz L, Prinz C, Gratzl M.
Source
Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Munich, Germany.
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS:
Release of serotonin from mucosal enterochromaffin cells triggered by luminal substances is
the key event in the regulation of gut motility and secretion. We were interested to know
whether nasal olfactory receptors are also expressed in the human gut mucosa by
enterochromaffin cells and whether their ligands and odorants present in spices, fragrances,
detergents, and cosmetics cause serotonin release.
METHODS:
Receptor expression was studied by the reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction
method in human mucosal enterochromaffin cells isolated by laser microdissection and in a
cell line derived from human enterochromaffin cells. Activation of the cells by odorants was
investigated by digital fluorescence imaging using the fluorescent Ca(2+) indicator Fluo-4.
Serotonin release was measured in culture supernatants by a serotonin enzyme immunoassay
and amperometry using carbon fiber microelectrodes placed on single cells.
RESULTS:
We found expression of 4 olfactory receptors in microdissected human mucosal
enterochromaffin cells and in a cell line derived from human enterochromaffin cells. Ca(2+)
imaging studies revealed that odorant ligands of the identified olfactory receptors cause
Ca(2+) influx, elevation of intracellular free Ca(2+) levels, and, consequently, serotonin
release.
CONCLUSIONS:
Our results show that odorants present in the luminal environment of the gut may stimulate
serotonin release via olfactory receptors present in human enterochromaffin cells. Serotonin
controls both gut motility and secretion and is implicated in pathologic conditions such as
vomiting, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. Thus, olfactory receptors are potential novel
targets for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and motility disorders.
PMID: 17484882 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
17. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2007 Jan;13(1):91-6.
Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in
outpatients with inflammatory bowel
disease using a food and beverage
intolerance, food and beverage avoidance
diet.
MacDermott RP.
Source
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Albany Medical College,
Albany, New York 12208, USA. macderr@mail.amc.edu
Abstract
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in the outpatient with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
is a difficult but important challenge to recognize and treat. It is very helpful to have effective
treatment approaches for IBS that are practical and use minimal medications. Because of the
underlying chronic inflammation in IBD, IBS symptoms occur with increased frequency and
severity, secondary to increased hypersensitivity to foods and beverages that stimulate the
gastrointestinal tract. This paper discusses how to treat IBS in the IBD outpatient, with
emphasis on using a food and beverage intolerance, avoidance diet. The adverse effects of
many foods and beverages are amount dependent and can be delayed, additive, and
cumulative. The specific types of foods and beverages that can induce IBS symptoms include
milk and milk containing products; caffeine containing products; alcoholic beverages; fruits;
fruit juices; spices; seasonings; diet beverages; diet foods; diet candies; diet gum; fast foods;
condiments; fried foods; fatty foods; multigrain breads; sourdough breads; bagels; salads;
salad dressings; vegetables; beans; red meats; gravies; spaghetti sauce; stews; nuts; popcorn;
high fiber; and cookies, crackers, pretzels, cakes, and pies. The types of foods and beverages
that are better tolerated include water; rice; plain pasta or noodles; baked or broiled potatoes;
white breads; plain fish, chicken, turkey, or ham; eggs; dry cereals; soy or rice based
products; peas; applesauce; cantaloupe; watermelon; fruit cocktail; margarine; jams; jellies;
and peanut butter. Handouts that were developed based upon what worsens or helps IBS
symptoms in patients are included to help patients learn which foods and beverages to avoid
and which are better tolerated.
Free Article
PMID: 17206644 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
18. Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2004 Nov;135(3):247-61. Epub 2004 Nov 3.
Allergenic potency of spices: hot, medium
hot, or very hot.
Schöll I, Jensen-Jarolim E.
Source
Institute of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
Abstract
Spices are the most attractive ingredients to confer an authentic taste to food. As they are
derived from plants, they harbour allergenic potency and can induce symptoms ranging from
mild local to severe systemic reactions. Due to the content of pharmacologically active
substances of spices, the diagnosis of allergy and the differentiation from intolerance
reactions may be difficult. Association with inhalative allergies via IgE cross-reactivity, but
also direct gastrointestinal sensitization plays a role. This article is a botanical and
allergological overview of the most important spices and molecules responsible for eliciting
IgE-mediated reactions or cross-reactions. As no curative treatments are known at present,
strict avoidance is recommended and, therefore, accurate labelling of pre-packed food is
necessary.
PMID: 15528928 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
19. Clin Cancer Res. 2004 Oct 15;10(20):6847-54.
Phase I clinical trial of oral curcumin:
biomarkers of systemic activity and
compliance.
Sharma RA, Euden SA, Platton SL, Cooke DN, Shafayat A, Hewitt HR, Marczylo TH, Morgan B,
Hemingway D, Plummer SM, Pirmohamed M, Gescher AJ, Steward WP.
Source
Oncology Department, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom. ras20@le.ac.uk
Abstract
Curcumin, a polyphenolic antioxidant derived from a dietary spice, exhibits anticancer activity
in rodents and in humans. Its efficacy appears to be related to induction of glutathione Stransferase
enzymes, inhibition of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production, or suppression of
oxidative DNA adduct (M(1)G) formation. We designed a dose-escalation study to explore the
pharmacology of curcumin in humans. Fifteen patients with advanced colorectal cancer
refractory to standard chemotherapies consumed capsules compatible with curcumin doses
between 0.45 and 3.6 g daily for up to 4 months. Levels of curcumin and its metabolites in
plasma, urine, and feces were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography and mass
spectrometry. Three biomarkers of the potential activity of curcumin were translated from
preclinical models and measured in patient blood leukocytes: glutathione S-transferase
activity, levels of M(1)G, and PGE(2) production induced ex vivo. Dose-limiting toxicity was
not observed. Curcumin and its glucuronide and sulfate metabolites were detected in plasma
in the 10 nmol/L range and in urine. A daily dose of 3.6 g curcumin engendered 62% and 57%
decreases in inducible PGE(2) production in blood samples taken 1 hour after dose on days 1
and 29, respectively, of treatment compared with levels observed immediately predose (P <;
0.05). A daily oral dose of 3.6 g of curcumin is advocated for Phase II evaluation in the
prevention or treatment of cancers outside the gastrointestinal tract. PGE(2) production in
blood and target tissue may indicate biological activity. Levels of curcumin and its metabolites
in the urine can be used to assess general compliance.
Free Article
PMID: 15501961 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
20. Indian J Med Res. 2004 May;119(5):167-79.
Digestive stimulant action of spices: a myth
or reality?
Platel K, Srinivasan K.
Source
Department of Biochemistry & Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute,
Mysore, India.
Abstract
Spices have long been recognized for their digestive stimulant action. Several spices are also
employed in medicinal preparations against digestive disorders in traditional and Indian
systems of medicine. Earlier reports on the digestive stimulant action of spices are largely
empirical; only in recent years, this beneficial attribute of spices has been authenticated in
exhaustive animal studies. Animal studies have shown that many spices induce higher
secretion of bile acids which play a vital role in fat digestion and absorption. When consumed
through the diet also spices produce significant stimulation of the activities of pancreatic
lipase, amylase and proteases. A few of them also have been shown to have beneficial effect
on the terminal digestive enzymes of small intestinal mucosa. Concomitant with such a
stimulation of either bile secretion or activity of digestive enzymes by these spices, leading to
an accelerated digestion, a reduction in the food transit time in the gastrointestinal tract has
also been shown. Thus, the digestive stimulant action of spices seems to be mediated
through two possible modes: (i) by stimulating the liver to secrete bile rich in bile acids,
components that are vital for fat digestion and absorption, and (ii) by a stimulation of enzyme
activities that are responsible for digestion. This review highlights the available information on
the influence of spices on the digestive secretions and enzymes.
Free Article
PMID: 15218978 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
21. In Vivo. 2003 Nov-Dec;17(6):541-4.
Extracts of spice and food plants from Thai
traditional medicine inhibit the growth of
the human carcinogen Helicobacter pylori.
Bhamarapravati S, Pendland SL, Mahady GB.
Source
Department of Plant Science, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama IV Road, Bangkok,
Thailand 10400.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Helicobacter pylori (HP) is a gramnegative bacterium and well recognized as being the primary
etiological agent responsible for the development of gastritis, dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease
and gastric cancer. In developing countries, a high prevalence of HP infection is associated
with an increased incidence of gastric cancer. Thailand, however, while having a high
prevalence of HP infections, has a lower than expected gastric cancer rate than other
developing countries. It has been suggested that the diet and life style in Thailand may
explain this discrepancy.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The in vitro susceptibility of 18 strains of HP to 20 extracts of spice and food plants used in
Thai traditional medicine for the treatment of GI disorders was assessed.
RESULTS:
Methanol extracts of Myristica fragrans (aril) inhibited the growth of all HP strains with
minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 12.5 micrograms/ml; extracts from Barringtonia
acutangula (leaf) and Kaempferia galanga (rhizome) had an MIC of 25.0 micrograms/ml;
Cassia grandis (leaf), Cleome viscosa (leaf), Myristica fragrans (leaf) and Syzygium aromaticum
(leaf) had MICs of 50.0 micrograms/ml. Extracts with an MIC of 100.0 micrograms/ml
included Pouzolzia pentandra (leaf), Cycas siamensis (leaf), Litsea elliptica (leaf) and Melaleuca
quinquenervia (leaf).
CONCLUSION:
Plants used in Thai traditional medicine to treat gastrointestinal ailments inhibit the growth of
HP. These data indicate that these plants may have chemopreventative activities and thus may
partly explain the reduced incidence of gastric cancer in Thailand.
PMID: 14758718 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
22. Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd. 2001 Oct;8(5):263-73.
[Dyspeptic pain and phytotherapy–a
review of traditional and modern herbal
drugs].
[Article in German]
Saller R, Iten F, Reichling J.
Source
Abteilung Naturheilkunde, Departement Innere Medizin, Universitätsspital Zürich, Schweiz.
reinhard.saller@dim.usz.ch
Abstract
Gastrointestinal complaints rank among the most frequently reasons why people asking for
medical advice. About 15-30% of the adult patients suffer from different various functional
dyspeptic conditions. The therapy of functional gastrointestinal disorders is one of the
domains of phytotherapeutic treatments. From ancient times on, bitter herbal drugs played a
very important role in the therapy of patients with dyspeptic symptoms. The mechanisms of
action of the bitters are not completely understood. But there are indications that they
sensorially stimulate at even very small concentrations sensorially the secretion of the
stomach as well as the digestive glands and strengthen the smooth musculature of the
digestive tract (via the gustatory system, N. vagus and the enteric nervous system). Across the
enteral nervous system the strengthened digestive tract seems to stimulate the CNS, leading
to a general tonification. At higher dosages bitters probably directly affect the mucous
membranes of the stomach and the bowel. Bitters often are combined with essential oils
(some volatile oils as aromatic bitters, drug combinations of a volatile oil with a bitter).
Essential oils act primarily as spasmolytics, carminatives and local anesthetics. In the last
years several controlled studies were carried out with phytotherapeutic combinations (e.g.
with Iberis amara, caraway oil, peppermint oil, curcuma extract, ginger extract) in which the
herbal drugs proved to be superior compared to placebo and were as effective as prokinetics
(studies according to evidence-based medicine). The traditional phytotherapeutic approach is
based upon the illness- as well as the patient-related investigations referring to the
effectiveness of bitter, acrid- and essential-oil drugs. Such a treatment is supported by a rich
amount of various of kinds of individual empirical experience (experience-based
phytotherapy). Important traditional medical systems like the Traditional Chinese Medicine,
the Ayurvedic Medicine as well as the European 'Humoral Medicine' consider different aspects
of the sick human being, like the constitution of the patient (holistic approach), and take
qualities of herbal drugs, vegetarian food, and spices into account for therapeutic purposes.
Copyright 2001 S. Karger GmbH, Freiburg
PMID: 11694755 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
23. J Neurosci. 2001 Nov 1;21(21):8370-7.
The curry spice curcumin reduces oxidative
damage and amyloid pathology in an
Alzheimer transgenic mouse.
Lim GP, Chu T, Yang F, Beech W, Frautschy SA, Cole GM.
Source
Departments of Medicine and Neurology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles,
California 90095, USA.
Abstract
Inflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients is characterized by increased cytokines and
activated microglia. Epidemiological studies suggest reduced AD risk associates with longterm
use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Whereas chronic ibuprofen
suppressed inflammation and plaque-related pathology in an Alzheimer transgenic APPSw
mouse model (Tg2576), excessive use of NSAIDs targeting cyclooxygenase I can cause
gastrointestinal, liver, and renal toxicity. One alternative NSAID is curcumin, derived from the
curry spice turmeric. Curcumin has an extensive history as a food additive and herbal
medicine in India and is also a potent polyphenolic antioxidant. To evaluate whether it could
affect Alzheimer-like pathology in the APPSw mice, we tested a low (160 ppm) and a high
dose of dietary curcumin (5000 ppm) on inflammation, oxidative damage, and plaque
pathology. Low and high doses of curcumin significantly lowered oxidized proteins and
interleukin-1beta, a proinflammatory cytokine elevated in the brains of these mice. With lowdose
but not high-dose curcumin treatment, the astrocytic marker GFAP was reduced, and
insoluble beta-amyloid (Abeta), soluble Abeta, and plaque burden were significantly
decreased by 43-50%. However, levels of amyloid precursor (APP) in the membrane fraction
were not reduced. Microgliosis was also suppressed in neuronal layers but not adjacent to
plaques. In view of its efficacy and apparent low toxicity, this Indian spice component shows
promise for the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.
Free Article
PMID: 11606625 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
24. Altern Med Rev. 2001 Sep;6 Suppl:S62-6.
Curcuma longa (turmeric). Monograph.
[No authors listed]
Abstract
Curcuma longa, a perennial herb, is a member of the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family. The plant
grows to a height of three to five feet, and is cultivated extensively in Asia, India, China, and
other countries with a tropical climate. It has oblong, pointed leaves and bears funnel-shaped
yellow flowers. The rhizome is the portion of the plant used medicinally; it is usually boiled,
cleaned, and dried, yielding a yellow powder. Dried Curcuma longa is the source of the spice
turmeric, the ingredient that gives curry powder its characteristic yellow color. Turmeric is
used extensively in foods for both its flavor and color. Turmeric has a long tradition of use in
the Chinese and Ayurvedic systems of medicine, particularly as an anti-inflammatory agent,
and for the treatment of flatulence, jaundice, menstrual difficulties, hematuria, hemorrhage,
and colic. Turmeric can also be applied topically in poultices to relieve pain and inflammation.
Current research has focused on turmeric's antioxidant, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory,
anticarcinogenic, and antimicrobial properties, in addition to its use in cardiovascular disease
and gastrointestinal disorders.
Free Article
PMID: 11591174 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]
Related citations
25. Indian J Gastroenterol. 2000 Oct-Dec;19(4):161-4.
Effect of cold pressor test and a high-chilli
diet on rectosigmoid motility in irritable
bowel syndrome.
Shah SK, Abraham P, Mistry FP.
Source
Department of Gastroenterology, KEM Hospital, Mumbai.
Comment in
Indian J Gastroenterol. 2000 Oct-Dec;19(4):156-7.
Abstract
AIM:
Visceral hypersensitivity characterizes the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We evaluated the
effect of a cold pressor test (CPT)–hand immersion in ice water for 1 minute, which evokes a
sympathetic response–on rectosigmoid motility in patients with IBS and normal volunteers.
Since many Indian patients with IBS complain of worsening of symptoms following a spicy
meal, we also evaluated whether a high-chilli diet affects symptoms or changes rectosigmoid
motility.
METHODS:
Fifteen men with IBS and 13 normal volunteers (all men) were studied. Baseline rectosigmoid
manometry was done for 2 h, i.e., 1 h pre- and 1 h post-CPT. The subjects were then kept in
hospital on a regular diet (approximately 5 g chilli daily) for 3 days, following which
symptoms were reassessed and manometry repeated for 1 h. This was followed by a highchilli
diet (approximately 15 g/day) for 3 days, after which symptoms were reassessed and
manometry repeated for 1 h.
RESULTS:
There was no difference in the baseline study in the pre-CPT period between patients and
control subjects. CPT did not change rectosigmoid motility in either group. IBS patients had
varied effect on symptoms but no change in rectosigmoid motility after the high-chilli diet. In
the normal volunteers, there was increased activity in the low rectum after the high-chilli diet.
CONCLUSIONS:
Cold pressor test does not affect rectosigmoid motility in patients with IBS or normal subjects.
A high-chilli diet has varied effect on symptoms in patients with IBS and does not affect
rectosigmoid motility.

James Geiger MD

Essential oils from spices like these in Digest Zen for Doterra

<a title="Shop DoTERRA's Digest Zen " href="http:/1. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol. 2012 Mar;39(3):283-99. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2011. 05648.x. Discovery of curcumin, a component of golden spice, and its miraculous biological activities. Gupta SC, Patchva S, Koh W, Aggarwal BB. Source Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. Abstract 1. Curcumin is the active ingredient of the dietary spice turmeric and has been consumed for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. Modern science has shown that curcumin modulates various signalling molecules, including inflammatory molecules, transcription factors, enzymes, protein kinases, protein reductases, carrier proteins, cell survival proteins, drug resistance proteins, adhesion molecules, growth factors, receptors, cell cycle regulatory proteins, chemokines, DNA, RNA and metal ions. 2. Because of this polyphenol's potential to modulate multiple signalling molecules, it has been reported to possess pleiotropic activities. First demonstrated to have antibacterial activity in 1949, curcumin has since been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, pro-apoptotic, chemopreventive, chemotherapeutic, antiproliferative, wound healing, antinociceptive, antiparasitic and antimalarial properties as well. Animal studies have suggested that curcumin may be active against a wide range of human diseases, including diabetes, obesity, neurological and psychiatric disorders and cancer, as well as chronic illnesses affecting the eyes, lungs, liver, kidneys and gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. 3. Although many clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of curcumin against human ailments have already been completed, others are still ongoing. Moreover, curcumin is used as a supplement in several countries, including India, Japan, the US, Thailand, China, Korea, Turkey, South Africa, Nepal and Pakistan. Although inexpensive, apparently well tolerated and potentially active, curcumin has not been approved for the treatment of any human disease. 4. In the present article, we discuss the discovery and key biological activities of curcumin, with a particular emphasis on its activities at the molecular and cellular levels, as well as in animals and humans. © 2011 The Authors. Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd. PMCID: PMC3288651 [Available on 2013/3/1] PMID: 22118895 [PubMed – in process] Related citations 2. J BUON. 2011 Jul-Sep;16(3):414-24. Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger) as an adjuvant in cancer treatment: a review. Pereira MM, Haniadka R, Chacko PP, Palatty PL, Baliga MS. Source Department of Pathology, Father Muller Medical College, Kankanady, Karnataka, India. Abstract Despite acquiring a strong understanding of the molecular basis and advances in treatment, cancer is the second major cause of death in the world. In clinics, the stagedependent treatment strategies may include surgery, radiotherapy and systemic treatments like hormonotherapy and chemotherapy, which are associated with side effects. The use of traditional herbal medicine in cancer patients is on a rise, as it is believed that these medications are non toxic and alleviate the symptoms of cancer, boost the immune system, or may tackle the cancer itself. Since antiquity the rhizome of Zingiber officinale Roscoe commonly known as ginger (family Zingiberaceae) have widely been used as a spice and condiment in different societies. Additionally, ginger also has a long history of medicinal use in various cultures for treating common colds, fever, to aid digestion, treat stomach upset, diarrhoea, nausea, rheumatic disorders, gastrointestinal complications and dizziness. Preclinical studies have also shown that ginger possesses chemopreventive and antineoplastic properties. It is also reported to be effective in ameliorating the side effects of γ-radiation and of doxorubicin and cisplatin; to inhibit the efflux of anticancer drugs by P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and to possess chemosensitizing effects in certain neoplastic cells in vitro and in vivo. The objective of this review is to address observations on the role of ginger as adjuvant to treatment modalities of cancer. Emphasis is also placed on the drawbacks and on future directions for research that will have a consequential effect on cancer treatment and cure. PMID: 22006742 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 3. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Jul;51(6):499-523. Update on the chemopreventive effects of ginger and its phytochemicals. Baliga MS, Haniadka R, Pereira MM, D'Souza JJ, Pallaty PL, Bhat HP, Popuri S. Source Research and Development, Father Muller Medical College, Father Muller Hospital Road, Kankanady, Mangalore, 575002, Karnataka, India. msbaliga@gmail.com Abstract The rhizomes of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Zingiberaceae), commonly known as ginger, is one of the most widely used spice and condiment. It is also an integral part of many traditional medicines and has been extensively used in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Tibb-Unani, Srilankan, Arabic, and African traditional medicines, since antiquity, for many unrelated human ailments including common colds, fever, sore throats, vomiting, motion sickness, gastrointestinal complications, indigestion, constipation, arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, muscular aches, pains, cramps, hypertension, dementia, fever, infectious diseases, and helminthiasis. The putative active compounds are nonvolatile pungent principles, namely gingerols, shogaols, paradols, and zingerone. These compounds are some of the extensively studied phytochemicals and account for the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiemetic, and gastroprotective activities. A number of preclinical investigations with a wide variety of assay systems and carcinogens have shown that ginger and its compounds possess chemopreventive and antineoplastic effects. A number of mechanisms have been observed to be involved in the chemopreventive effects of ginger. The cancer preventive activities of ginger are supposed to be mainly due to free radical scavenging, antioxidant pathways, alteration of gene expressions, and induction of apoptosis, all of which contribute towards decrease in tumor initiation, promotion, and progression. This review provides concise information from preclinical studies with both cell culture models and relevant animal studies by focusing on the mechanisms responsible for the chemopreventive action. The conclusion describes directions for future research to establish its activity and utility as a human cancer preventive and therapeutic drug. The above-mentioned mechanisms of ginger seem to be promising for cancer prevention; however, further clinical studies are warranted to assess the efficacy and safety of ginger. PMID: 21929329 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 4. Proc Nutr Soc. 2011 Aug;70(3):389-96. Plant secondary metabolites and gut health: the case for phenolic acids. Russell W, Duthie G. Source Molecular Nutrition Group, Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK. Abstract Plant-based diets contain a plethora of secondary metabolites that may impact on health and disease prevention. Much attention has been focused on the potential bioactivity and nutritional relevance of several classes of phytochemicals such as flavonoids, carotenoids, phytooestrogens and glucosinolates. Less attention has been paid to simple phenolic acids that are widely found in fruit, vegetables, herbs, spices and beverages. Daily intakes may exceed 100 mg. In addition, bacteria in the gut can perform reactions that transform more complex plant phenolics such as anthocyanins, procyanidins, flavanones, flavonols, tannins and isoflavones into simple phenolic metabolites. The colon is thus a rich source of potentially active phenolic acids that may impact both locally and systemically on gut health. Both the small and large intestine (colon) contain absorption sites for phenolic acids but low post-prandial concentrations in plasma indicate minimal absorption early in the gastrointestinal tract and/or rapid hepatic metabolism and excretion. Therefore, any bioactivity that contributes to gut health may predominantly occur in the colon. Several phenolic acids affect the expression and activity of enzymes involved in the production of inflammatory mediators of pathways thought to be important in the development of gut disorders including colon cancer. However, at present, we remain largely ignorant as to which of these compounds are beneficial to gut health. Until we can elucidate which pro-inflammatory and potentially carcinogenetic changes in gene expression can be moderated by simple phenolic acids, it is not possible to recommend specific plant-based foods rich in particular phenolics to optimise gut health. PMID: 21781364 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 5. World J Gastrointest Pathophysiol. 2011 Feb 15;2(1):1-14. Therapeutic potential of curcumin in gastrointestinal diseases. Rajasekaran SA. Source Sigrid A Rajasekaran, Nemours Center for Childhood Cancer Research, Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children, Wilmington, DE 19803, United States. Abstract Curcumin, also known as diferuloylmethane, is derived from the plant Curcuma longa and is the active ingredient of the spice turmeric. The therapeutic activities of curcumin for a wide variety of diseases such as diabetes, allergies, arthritis and other chronic and inflammatory diseases have been known for a long time. More recently, curcumin's therapeutic potential for preventing and treating various cancers is being recognized. As curcumin's therapeutic promise is being explored more systematically in various diseases, it has become clear that, due to its increased bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract, curcumin may be particularly suited to be developed to treat gastrointestinal diseases. This review summarizes some of the current literature of curcumin's anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-cancer potential in inflammatory bowel diseases, hepatic fibrosis and gastrointestinal cancers. PMCID: PMC3097964 Free PMC Article PMID: 21607160 [PubMed] Related citations 6. J Med Food. 2010 Oct;13(5):1086-96. Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of black pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal disorders. Mehmood MH, Gilani AH. Source Natural Product Research Division, Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan. Abstract Dried fruits of Piper nigrum (black pepper) are commonly used in gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this study was to rationalize the medicinal use of pepper and its principal alkaloid, piperine, in constipation and diarrhea using in vitro and in vivo assays. When tested in isolated guinea pig ileum, the crude extract of pepper (Pn.Cr) (1–10 mg/mL) and piperine (3–300 μM) caused a concentration-dependent and atropine-sensitive stimulant effect. In rabbit jejunum, Pn.Cr (0.01–3.0 mg/mL) and piperine (30–1,000 μM) relaxed spontaneous contractions, similar to loperamide and nifedipine. The relaxant effect of Pn.Cr and piperine was partially inhibited in the presence of naloxone (1 μM) similar to that of loperamide, suggesting the naloxonesensitive effect in addition to the Ca(2+) channel blocking (CCB)-like activity, which was evident by its relaxant effect on K+ (80 mM)-induced contractions. The CCB activity was confirmed when pretreatment of the tissue with Pn.Cr (0.03–0.3 mg/mL) or piperine (10–100 μM) caused a rightward shift in the concentration–response curves of Ca(2+), similar to loperamide and nifedipine. In mice, Pn.Cr and piperine exhibited a partially atropine-sensitive laxative effect at lower doses, whereas at higher doses it caused antisecretory and antidiarrheal activities that were partially inhibited in mice pretreated with naloxone (1.5 mg/kg), similar to loperamide. This study illustrates the presence of spasmodic (cholinergic) and antispasmodic (opioid agonist and Ca(2+) antagonist) effects, thus providing the possible explanation for the medicinal use of pepper and piperine in gastrointestinal motility disorders. PMID: 20828313 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 7. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2010 Apr;35(2):134-41. Gastrointestinal protective effect of dietary spices during ethanol-induced oxidant stress in experimental rats. Prakash UN, Srinivasan K. Source Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Mysore, India. Abstract Spices are traditionally known to have digestive stimulant action and to cure digestive disorders. In this study, the protective effect of dietary spices with respect to activities of antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa was examined. Groups of Wistar rats were fed for 8 weeks with diets containing black pepper (0.5%), piperine (0.02%), red pepper (3.0%), capsaicin (0.01%), and ginger (0.05%). All these spices significantly enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes–superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione-S-transferase–in both gastric and intestinal mucosa, suggesting a gastrointestinal protective role for these spices. In a separate study, these dietary spices were found to alleviate the diminished activities of antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa under conditions of ethanol-induced oxidative stress. The gastroprotective effect of the spices was also reflected in their positive effect on mucosal glycoproteins, thereby lowering mucosal injury. The amelioration of the ethanol-induced decrease in the activities of antioxidant enzymes in gastric and intestinal mucosa by dietary spices suggests their beneficial gastrointestinal protective role. This is the first report on the gastrointestinal protective potential of dietary spices. PMID: 20383223 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 8. Br J Nutr. 2010 Jul;104(1):31-9. Epub 2010 Feb 24. Beneficial influence of dietary spices on the ultrastructure and fluidity of the intestinal brush border in rats. Prakash UN, Srinivasan K. Source Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute, CSIR, Mysore 570 020, India. Abstract The beneficial influence of three common spices was examined in experimental rats on: (i) the membrane fluidity of intestinal brush-border membranes (BBM), (ii) the activity of intestinal membrane-bound enzymes, and (iii) ultrastructural alterations in the intestinal epithelium. Groups of male Wistar rats were maintained on dietary black pepper (0.5 %), red pepper (3.0 %), ginger (0.05 %) and spice bioactive compounds piperine (0.02 %) and capsaicin (0.01 %) for 8 weeks. A membrane fluidity study using an apolar fluorescent probe showed increased BBM fluidity in all the spice-fed animals. This was corroborated by a decreased cholesterol:phospholipid ratio in the jejunal and ileal regions of the intestine. These dietary spices stimulated the activities of BBM enzymes (glycyl-glycine dipeptidase, leucine amino peptidase and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase) in the jejunal mucosa, suggesting a modulation in membrane dynamics due to the apolar spice bioactive compounds interacting with surrounding lipids and hydrophobic portions in the protein vicinity, which may decrease the tendency of membrane lipids to act as steric constraints to enzyme proteins and thus modify enzyme conformation. Scanning electronic microscopy of the intestinal villi in these spice treatments revealed alterations in the ultrastructure, especially an increase in microvilli length and perimeter which would mean a beneficial increase in the absorptive surface of the small intestine, providing for an increased bioavailability of micronutrients. Thus, dietary spices (black pepper, red pepper and ginger) were evidenced to induce alterations in BBM fluidity and passive permeability property, associated with the induction of an increased microvilli length and perimeter, resulting in an increased absorptive surface of the small intestine. PMID: 20178671 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 9. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2008;17 Suppl 1:265-8. Traditional Indian spices and their health significance. Krishnaswamy K. Source National Institute of Nutrition , Taranaka, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh, India. sri21kk@hotmail.com Abstract India has been recognized all over the world for spices and medicinal plants. Both exhibit a wide range of physiological and pharmacological properties. Current biomedical efforts are focused on their scientific merits, to provide science-based evidence for the traditional uses and to develop either functional foods or nutraceuticals. The Indian traditional medical systems use turmeric for wound healing, rheumatic disorders, gastrointestinal symptoms, deworming, rhinitis and as a cosmetic. Studies in India have explored its anti-inflammatory, cholekinetic and anti-oxidant potentials with the recent investigations focusing on its preventive effect on precarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti atherosclerotic effects in biological systems both under in vitro and in vivo conditions in animals and humans. Both turmeric and curcumin were found to increase detoxifying enzymes, prevent DNA damage, improve DNA repair, decrease mutations and tumour formation and exhibit antioxidative potential in animals. Limited clinical studies suggest that turmeric can significantly impact excretion of mutagens in urine in smokers and regress precancerous palatal lesions. It reduces DNA adducts and micronuclei in oral epithelial cells. It prevents formation of nitroso compounds both in vivo and in vitro. It delays induced cataract in diabetes and reduces hyperlipidemia in obese rats. Recently several molecular targets have been identified for therapeutic / preventive effects of turmeric. Fenugreek seeds, a rich source of soluble fiber used in Indian cuisine reduces blood glucose and lipids and can be used as a food adjuvant in diabetes. Similarly garlic, onions, and ginger have been found to modulate favourably the process of carcinogenesis. PMID: 18296352 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 10. J Nat Med. 2008 Oct;62(4):396-402. Epub 2008 May 21. Antidiarrhoeal activity of the standardised extract of Cinnamomum tamala in experimental rats. Rao CV, Vijayakumar M, Sairam K, Kumar V. Source Pharmacognosy and Ethnopharmacology Division, National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Post Box No. 436, Lucknow, 226 001, India. chvrao72@yahoo.com Abstract The present study was designed to investigate the antidiarrhoeal potential of 50% ethanolic extract of Cinnamomum tamala on experimentally induced castor oil diarrhoea, gastric emptying of phenol red meal, gastrointestinal transit of charcoal meal and in vitro mast cell degranulation activity. C. tamala extract (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg, orally) produced a dosedependent reduction in the total amount of faecal matter in castor oil-induced diarrhoea. The mean distance travelled by charcoal meal at 50 and 100 mg/kg of extract showed a significant reduction in the secretion of gastrointestinal fluid accumulation by 32.5-65.0%. The Na(+) and K(+) concentrations on castor oil-induced fluid accumulation showed a greater inhibitory effect on Na(+) levels than on K(+) concentrations. C. tamala significantly reduced the lipid peroxidation (P <; 0.001) and increased the catalase (P <; 0.01) activity in comparison to the castor oil-induced groups. C. tamala leaf extract did not show any significant effect at a higher dose (15 mg/ml) on mast cell degranulation. However, the extract in the dose of 5 and 10 mg/ml conferred significant mast cell protective action (P <; 0.001). The percentage of eugenol in extract is 3.8% w/w, and total tannin is 247.5 mg/g. The result indicates the Indian spice C. tamala is useful for diarrhoea. PMID: 18493839 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 11. Cancer Lett. 2008 Aug 18;267(1):133-64. Epub 2008 May 6. Curcumin and cancer: an "old-age" disease with an "age-old" solution. Anand P, Sundaram C, Jhurani S, Kunnumakkara AB, Aggarwal BB. Source Cytokine Research Laboratory, Department of Experimental Therapeutics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA. Abstract Cancer is primarily a disease of old age, and that life style plays a major role in the development of most cancers is now well recognized. While plant-based formulations have been used to treat cancer for centuries, current treatments usually involve poisonous mustard gas, chemotherapy, radiation, and targeted therapies. While traditional plant-derived medicines are safe, what are the active principles in them and how do they mediate their effects against cancer is perhaps best illustrated by curcumin, a derivative of turmeric used for centuries to treat a wide variety of inflammatory conditions. Curcumin is a diferuloylmethane derived from the Indian spice, turmeric (popularly called "curry powder") that has been shown to interfere with multiple cell signaling pathways, including cell cycle (cyclin D1 and cyclin E), apoptosis (activation of caspases and down-regulation of antiapoptotic gene products), proliferation (HER-2, EGFR, and AP-1), survival (PI3K/AKT pathway), invasion (MMP-9 and adhesion molecules), angiogenesis (VEGF), metastasis (CXCR- 4) and inflammation (NF-kappaB, TNF, IL-6, IL-1, COX-2, and 5-LOX). The activity of curcumin reported against leukemia and lymphoma, gastrointestinal cancers, genitourinary cancers, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, lung cancer, melanoma, neurological cancers, and sarcoma reflects its ability to affect multiple targets. Thus an "old-age" disease such as cancer requires an "age-old" treatment. PMID: 18462866 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 12. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2008 Sep;52(9):1010-30. Multi-targeted therapy by curcumin: how spicy is it? Goel A, Jhurani S, Aggarwal BB. Source Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA. Comment in Mol Nutr Food Res. 2009 Feb;53(2):308. Abstract Although traditional medicines have been used for thousands of years, for most such medicines neither the active component nor their molecular targets have been very well identified. Curcumin, a yellow component of turmeric or curry powder, however, is an exception. Although inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2, HER2, tumor necrosis factor, EGFR, Bcrabl, proteosome, and vascular endothelial cell growth factor have been approved for human use by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), curcumin as a single agent can down-regulate all these targets. Curcumin can also activate apoptosis, down-regulate cell survival gene products, and up-regulate p53, p21, and p27. Although curcumin is poorly absorbed after ingestion, multiple studies have suggested that even low levels of physiologically achievable concentrations of curcumin may be sufficient for its chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activity. Thus, curcumin regulates multiple targets (multitargeted therapy), which is needed for treatment of most diseases, and it is inexpensive and has been found to be safe in human clinical trials. The present article reviews the key molecular mechanisms of curcumin action and compares this to some of the single-targeted therapies currently available for human cancer. PMID: 18384098 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 13. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2007;47(8):735-48. Black pepper and its pungent principlepiperine: a review of diverse physiological effects. Srinivasan K. Source Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysore, India. ksri.cftri@gmail.com Abstract Black pepper (Piper nigrum) is one of the most widely used among spices. It is valued for its distinct biting quality attributed to the alkaloid, piperine. Black pepper is used not only in human dietaries but also for a variety of other purposes such as medicinal, as a preservative, and in perfumery. Many physiological effects of black pepper, its extracts, or its major active principle, piperine, have been reported in recent decades. Dietary piperine, by favorably stimulating the digestive enzymes of pancreas, enhances the digestive capacity and significantly reduces the gastrointestinal food transit time. Piperine has been demonstrated in in vitro studies to protect against oxidative damage by inhibiting or quenching free radicals and reactive oxygen species. Black pepper or piperine treatment has also been evidenced to lower lipid peroxidation in vivo and beneficially influence cellular thiol status, antioxidant molecules and antioxidant enzymes in a number of experimental situations of oxidative stress. The most far-reaching attribute of piperine has been its inhibitory influence on enzymatic drug biotransforming reactions in the liver. It strongly inhibits hepatic and intestinal aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase and UDP-glucuronyl transferase. Piperine has been documented to enhance the bioavailability of a number of therapeutic drugs as well as phytochemicals by this very property. Piperine's bioavailability enhancing property is also partly attributed to increased absorption as a result of its effect on the ultrastructure of intestinal brush border. Although initially there were a few controversial reports regarding its safety as a food additive, such evidence has been questionable, and later studies have established the safety of black pepper or its active principle, piperine, in several animal studies. Piperine, while it is non-genotoxic, has in fact been found to possess anti-mutagenic and anti-tumor influences. PMID: 17987447 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 14. Biochem Pharmacol. 2008 Feb 15;75(4):787-809. Epub 2007 Aug 19. Curcumin as "Curecumin": from kitchen to clinic. Goel A, Kunnumakkara AB, Aggarwal BB. Source Gastrointestinal Cancer Research Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center and Baylor Research Institute, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States. Abstract Although turmeric (Curcuma longa; an Indian spice) has been described in Ayurveda, as a treatment for inflammatory diseases and is referred by different names in different cultures, the active principle called curcumin or diferuloylmethane, a yellow pigment present in turmeric (curry powder) has been shown to exhibit numerous activities. Extensive research over the last half century has revealed several important functions of curcumin. It binds to a variety of proteins and inhibits the activity of various kinases. By modulating the activation of various transcription factors, curcumin regulates the expression of inflammatory enzymes, cytokines, adhesion molecules, and cell survival proteins. Curcumin also downregulates cyclin D1, cyclin E and MDM2; and upregulates p21, p27, and p53. Various preclinical cell culture and animal studies suggest that curcumin has potential as an antiproliferative, anti-invasive, and antiangiogenic agent; as a mediator of chemoresistance and radioresistance; as a chemopreventive agent; and as a therapeutic agent in wound healing, diabetes, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, and arthritis. Pilot phase I clinical trials have shown curcumin to be safe even when consumed at a daily dose of 12g for 3 months. Other clinical trials suggest a potential therapeutic role for curcumin in diseases such as familial adenomatous polyposis, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, hypercholesteremia, atherosclerosis, pancreatitis, psoriasis, chronic anterior uveitis and arthritis. Thus, curcumin, a spice once relegated to the kitchen shelf, has moved into the clinic and may prove to be "Curecumin". PMID: 17900536 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 15. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2007;595:453-70. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of curcumin. Sharma RA, Steward WP, Gescher AJ. Source Radiation Oncology & Biology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, UK. ricky.sharma@rob.ox.ac.uk Abstract Curcuma spp. contain turmerin, essential oils, and curcuminoids, including curcumin. Curcumin [1,7-bis-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl)-1,6-heptadiene-3,5-dione] is regarded as the most biologically active constituent of the spice turmeric and it comprises 2-8% of most turmeric preparations. Preclinical data from animal models and phase I clinical studies performed with human volunteers and patients with cancer have demonstrated low systemic bioavailability following oral dosing. Efficient first-pass metabolism and some degree of intestinal metabolism, particularly glucuronidation and sulfation of curcumin, might explain its poor systemic availability when administered via the oral route. A daily oral dose of 3.6 g of curcumin is compatible with detectable levels of the parent compound in colorectal tissue from patients with cancer. The levels demonstrated might be sufficient to exert pharmacological activity. There appears to be negligible distribution of the parent drug to hepatic tissue or other tissues beyond the gastrointestinal tract. Curcumin possesses wideranging anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Many of these biological activities can be attributed to its potent antioxidant capacity at neutral and acidic pH, its inhibition of cell signaling pathways at multiple levels, its diverse effects on cellular enzymes, and its effects on cell adhesion and angiogenesis. In particular, curcumin's ability to alter gene transcription and induce apoptosis in preclinical models advocates its potential utility in cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy. With regard to considerable public and scientific interest in the use of phytochemicals derived from dietary components to combat or prevent human diseases, curcumin is currently a leading agent. PMID: 17569224 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 16. Gastroenterology. 2007 May;132(5):1890-901. Epub 2007 Feb 21. Enterochromaffin cells of the human gut: sensors for spices and odorants. Braun T, Voland P, Kunz L, Prinz C, Gratzl M. Source Institute of Anatomy, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Munich, Germany. Abstract BACKGROUND & AIMS: Release of serotonin from mucosal enterochromaffin cells triggered by luminal substances is the key event in the regulation of gut motility and secretion. We were interested to know whether nasal olfactory receptors are also expressed in the human gut mucosa by enterochromaffin cells and whether their ligands and odorants present in spices, fragrances, detergents, and cosmetics cause serotonin release. METHODS: Receptor expression was studied by the reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction method in human mucosal enterochromaffin cells isolated by laser microdissection and in a cell line derived from human enterochromaffin cells. Activation of the cells by odorants was investigated by digital fluorescence imaging using the fluorescent Ca(2+) indicator Fluo-4. Serotonin release was measured in culture supernatants by a serotonin enzyme immunoassay and amperometry using carbon fiber microelectrodes placed on single cells. RESULTS: We found expression of 4 olfactory receptors in microdissected human mucosal enterochromaffin cells and in a cell line derived from human enterochromaffin cells. Ca(2+) imaging studies revealed that odorant ligands of the identified olfactory receptors cause Ca(2+) influx, elevation of intracellular free Ca(2+) levels, and, consequently, serotonin release. CONCLUSIONS: Our results show that odorants present in the luminal environment of the gut may stimulate serotonin release via olfactory receptors present in human enterochromaffin cells. Serotonin controls both gut motility and secretion and is implicated in pathologic conditions such as vomiting, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome. Thus, olfactory receptors are potential novel targets for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and motility disorders. PMID: 17484882 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 17. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2007 Jan;13(1):91-6. Treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in outpatients with inflammatory bowel disease using a food and beverage intolerance, food and beverage avoidance diet. MacDermott RP. Source Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York 12208, USA. macderr@mail.amc.edu Abstract Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in the outpatient with chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a difficult but important challenge to recognize and treat. It is very helpful to have effective treatment approaches for IBS that are practical and use minimal medications. Because of the underlying chronic inflammation in IBD, IBS symptoms occur with increased frequency and severity, secondary to increased hypersensitivity to foods and beverages that stimulate the gastrointestinal tract. This paper discusses how to treat IBS in the IBD outpatient, with emphasis on using a food and beverage intolerance, avoidance diet. The adverse effects of many foods and beverages are amount dependent and can be delayed, additive, and cumulative. The specific types of foods and beverages that can induce IBS symptoms include milk and milk containing products; caffeine containing products; alcoholic beverages; fruits; fruit juices; spices; seasonings; diet beverages; diet foods; diet candies; diet gum; fast foods; condiments; fried foods; fatty foods; multigrain breads; sourdough breads; bagels; salads; salad dressings; vegetables; beans; red meats; gravies; spaghetti sauce; stews; nuts; popcorn; high fiber; and cookies, crackers, pretzels, cakes, and pies. The types of foods and beverages that are better tolerated include water; rice; plain pasta or noodles; baked or broiled potatoes; white breads; plain fish, chicken, turkey, or ham; eggs; dry cereals; soy or rice based products; peas; applesauce; cantaloupe; watermelon; fruit cocktail; margarine; jams; jellies; and peanut butter. Handouts that were developed based upon what worsens or helps IBS symptoms in patients are included to help patients learn which foods and beverages to avoid and which are better tolerated. Free Article PMID: 17206644 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 18. Int Arch Allergy Immunol. 2004 Nov;135(3):247-61. Epub 2004 Nov 3. Allergenic potency of spices: hot, medium hot, or very hot. Schöll I, Jensen-Jarolim E. Source Institute of Pathophysiology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria. Abstract Spices are the most attractive ingredients to confer an authentic taste to food. As they are derived from plants, they harbour allergenic potency and can induce symptoms ranging from mild local to severe systemic reactions. Due to the content of pharmacologically active substances of spices, the diagnosis of allergy and the differentiation from intolerance reactions may be difficult. Association with inhalative allergies via IgE cross-reactivity, but also direct gastrointestinal sensitization plays a role. This article is a botanical and allergological overview of the most important spices and molecules responsible for eliciting IgE-mediated reactions or cross-reactions. As no curative treatments are known at present, strict avoidance is recommended and, therefore, accurate labelling of pre-packed food is necessary. PMID: 15528928 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE] Related citations 19. Clin Cancer Res. 2004 Oct 15;10(20):6847-54. Phase I clinical trial of oral curcumin: biomarkers of systemic activity and compliance. Sharma RA, Euden SA, Platton SL, Cooke DN, Shafayat A, Hewitt HR, Marczylo TH, Morgan B, Hemingway D, Plummer SM, Pirmohamed M, Gescher AJ, Steward WP. Source Oncology Department, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom. ras20@le.ac.uk Abstract Curcumin, a polyphenolic antioxidant derived from a dietary spice, exhibits anticancer activity in rodents and in humans. Its efficacy appears to be related to induction of glutathione Stransferase enzymes, inhibition of prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) production, or suppression of oxidative DNA adduct (M(1)G) formation. We designed a dose-escalation study to explore the pharmacology of curcumin in humans. Fifteen patients with advanced colorectal cancer refractory to standard chemotherapies consumed capsules compatible with curcumin doses between 0.45 and 3.6 g daily for up to 4 months. Levels of curcumin and its metabolites in plasma, urine, and feces were analyzed by high-pressure liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Three biomarkers of the potential activity of curcumin were translated from preclinical models and measured in patient blood leukocytes: glutathione S-transferase activity, levels of M(1)G, and PGE(2) production induced ex vivo. Dose-limiting toxicity was not observed. Curcumin and its glucuronide and sulfate metabolites were detected in plasma in the 10 nmol/L range and in urine. A daily dose of 3.6 g curcumin engendered 62% and 57% decreases in inducible PGE(2) production in blood samples taken 1 hour after dose on days 1 and 29, respectively, of treatment compared with levels observed immediately predose (P
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