In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Natural Toxins and Animal Venoms Tested Against Burkholderia Pseudomallei
BMC Infect Dis., 2006 Jun 20;6(1):100
BACKGROUND: Burkholderia pseudomallei are the causative agent of melioidosis. Increasing resistance of the disease to antibiotics is a severe problem in treatment regime and has led to intensification of the search for new drugs. Antimicrobial peptides are the most ubiquitous in nature as part of the innate immune system and host defense mechanism.
METHODS: Here, we investigated a group of venoms (snakes, scorpions and honey bee venoms) for antimicrobial properties against two strains of Gram-negative bacteria Burkholderia pseudomallei by using disc diffusion assay for in vitro susceptibility testing…
RESULTS: The studied venoms showed high antimicrobial activity…
Friday, June 30, 2006
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Bee Products Entrepreneur Honored
Beehive Botanicals President Named Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year
NPIcenter, 6/28/2006
In April 2006 Beehive Botanicals president Linda Graham of Hayward, WI received the Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year Award from the National Association of Women Business Owners Greater Milwaukee Chapter.
The Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year Award is presented annually to a Wisconsin woman whose ingenuity and hard work have created a successful business, and who best demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit through her business, personal and community accomplishments. Nominees are accepted on behalf of business women from across the state.
Beehive Botanicals entered the natural products industry in 1972 as a manufacturer of dietary supplements, hair care products and skin care products using the highest quality bee propolis, pollen, and royal jelly...
NPIcenter, 6/28/2006
In April 2006 Beehive Botanicals president Linda Graham of Hayward, WI received the Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year Award from the National Association of Women Business Owners Greater Milwaukee Chapter.
The Entrepreneurial Woman of the Year Award is presented annually to a Wisconsin woman whose ingenuity and hard work have created a successful business, and who best demonstrates the entrepreneurial spirit through her business, personal and community accomplishments. Nominees are accepted on behalf of business women from across the state.
Beehive Botanicals entered the natural products industry in 1972 as a manufacturer of dietary supplements, hair care products and skin care products using the highest quality bee propolis, pollen, and royal jelly...
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
Bee-Collected Pollen Recommended for Pets
Herbal Solutions for Pet Ailments
Chat Alejandro, Manila Bulletin (The Philippines), 6/25/2006
For animal lovers, their pets' health comes as a main concern. Fortunately, a handful of animal ailments can be treated with herbal preparations which are less expensive than medicines but are as effective...
If you want your pets to slow down its aging process, restore hormonal balance, regulate digestion and calm symptoms of allergy, give A1/4 teaspoon of bee pollen for every 15 lb animal 2 or 3 times weekly. Provide the bee pollen daily during time of stress or illness.
Chat Alejandro, Manila Bulletin (The Philippines), 6/25/2006
For animal lovers, their pets' health comes as a main concern. Fortunately, a handful of animal ailments can be treated with herbal preparations which are less expensive than medicines but are as effective...
If you want your pets to slow down its aging process, restore hormonal balance, regulate digestion and calm symptoms of allergy, give A1/4 teaspoon of bee pollen for every 15 lb animal 2 or 3 times weekly. Provide the bee pollen daily during time of stress or illness.
Monday, June 26, 2006
Antioxidative Capacity of Bee Pollen Very High
Antioxidative Properties Of Bee Pollen In Selected Plant Species
Food Chemistry, Volume 100, Issue 1 , 2007, Pages 237-240
Abstract: Phenolic constituents (total phenols, phenylpropanoids, flavonols and anthocyanins) and antioxidant ability were determined in bee pollen of 12 plant species…Great variability of phenolic contents was observed in the pollen of investigated species. Total antioxidant activity differed considerably (0.886.4% inhibition of lipid peroxidation), however, in most of the examined pollens, it was high and corresponded with the phenylpropanoid level.
Great differences in the radical-scavenging activity (8.691.5% of DPPH neutralization) and in the hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity (10.598% inhibition of deoxyribose degradation) were observed and were not correlated with the content of phenolic compounds.
In most of the investigated plant species, antioxidative capacity of bee pollen was very high.
Food Chemistry, Volume 100, Issue 1 , 2007, Pages 237-240
Abstract: Phenolic constituents (total phenols, phenylpropanoids, flavonols and anthocyanins) and antioxidant ability were determined in bee pollen of 12 plant species…Great variability of phenolic contents was observed in the pollen of investigated species. Total antioxidant activity differed considerably (0.886.4% inhibition of lipid peroxidation), however, in most of the examined pollens, it was high and corresponded with the phenylpropanoid level.
Great differences in the radical-scavenging activity (8.691.5% of DPPH neutralization) and in the hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity (10.598% inhibition of deoxyribose degradation) were observed and were not correlated with the content of phenolic compounds.
In most of the investigated plant species, antioxidative capacity of bee pollen was very high.
Antioxidative Capacity of Bee Pollen Very High
Antioxidative Properties Of Bee Pollen In Selected Plant Species
Food Chemistry, Volume 100, Issue 1 , 2007, Pages 237-240
Abstract: Phenolic constituents (total phenols, phenylpropanoids, flavonols and anthocyanins) and antioxidant ability were determined in bee pollen of 12 plant species…Great variability of phenolic contents was observed in the pollen of investigated species. Total antioxidant activity differed considerably (0.886.4% inhibition of lipid peroxidation), however, in most of the examined pollens, it was high and corresponded with the phenylpropanoid level.
Great differences in the radical-scavenging activity (8.691.5% of DPPH neutralization) and in the hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity (10.598% inhibition of deoxyribose degradation) were observed and were not correlated with the content of phenolic compounds.
In most of the investigated plant species, antioxidative capacity of bee pollen was very high.
Food Chemistry, Volume 100, Issue 1 , 2007, Pages 237-240
Abstract: Phenolic constituents (total phenols, phenylpropanoids, flavonols and anthocyanins) and antioxidant ability were determined in bee pollen of 12 plant species…Great variability of phenolic contents was observed in the pollen of investigated species. Total antioxidant activity differed considerably (0.886.4% inhibition of lipid peroxidation), however, in most of the examined pollens, it was high and corresponded with the phenylpropanoid level.
Great differences in the radical-scavenging activity (8.691.5% of DPPH neutralization) and in the hydroxyl radical-scavenging activity (10.598% inhibition of deoxyribose degradation) were observed and were not correlated with the content of phenolic compounds.
In most of the investigated plant species, antioxidative capacity of bee pollen was very high.
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Mesh Method Propolis Collection Reduces Lead Content
The Effect of Different Propolis Harvest Methods on its Lead Contents
Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2006 May 16
Argentinean propolis is exported to different countries, specially Japan. The market demands propolis quality control according to international standards. The analytical determination of some metals, as lead in food, is very important for their high toxicity even in low concentrations and because of their harmful effects on health. Flavonoids, the main bioactive compounds of propolis, tend to chelate metals as lead, which becomes one of the main polluting agents of propolis. The lead found in propolis may come from the atmosphere or it may be incorporated in the harvest, extraction and processing methods. The aim of this work is to evaluate lead level on Argentinean propolis determined by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ET AAS) and UV-vis spectrophotometry (UV-visS) methods, as well as the effect of harvest methods on those contents...
The results obtained in the present test would allow us to conclude that mesh methods are more advisable than scraped ones in order to obtain innocuous and safe propolis with minor lead contents. A statistical comparison of lead determination by both, ET AAS and UV-visS methods, demonstrated that there is not a significant difference in the results achieved with the two analytical techniques employed.
Journal of Hazardous Materials, 2006 May 16
Argentinean propolis is exported to different countries, specially Japan. The market demands propolis quality control according to international standards. The analytical determination of some metals, as lead in food, is very important for their high toxicity even in low concentrations and because of their harmful effects on health. Flavonoids, the main bioactive compounds of propolis, tend to chelate metals as lead, which becomes one of the main polluting agents of propolis. The lead found in propolis may come from the atmosphere or it may be incorporated in the harvest, extraction and processing methods. The aim of this work is to evaluate lead level on Argentinean propolis determined by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (ET AAS) and UV-vis spectrophotometry (UV-visS) methods, as well as the effect of harvest methods on those contents...
The results obtained in the present test would allow us to conclude that mesh methods are more advisable than scraped ones in order to obtain innocuous and safe propolis with minor lead contents. A statistical comparison of lead determination by both, ET AAS and UV-visS methods, demonstrated that there is not a significant difference in the results achieved with the two analytical techniques employed.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Honey, Beeswax Popular Ingredients in Beauty Products
Store Shelves are Swarming with Beauty Products that Contain Honey and Beeswax
Christine Laue, Omaha World-Herald (USA), 6/22/2006
http://www.omaha.com/
The bath and beauty industry is abuzz about bees.
Honey and beeswax are the ingredients du jour in everything from lotions and body scrubs to hand soaps and body mists.
More people are buying honey- and beeswax-based products, and more products are available in wider distribution. Nebraska beekeepers even are jumping on the bee byproducts bandwagon.
Honey is a hygroscopic material, meaning it retains moisture. Honey doesn't spoil because its high concentration of glucose and fructose prevents growth of microorganisms…
A recent survey by market research publisher Packaged Facts showed that over the past four years, the number of people with honey in their household for some type of nonfood purpose increased 10 percent -- from 59 percent in 2002 to 69 percent in 2006.
Many of those people are doing it themselves, mixing honey with ingredients such as avocados for a moisturizer based on recipes from books or the Internet, said Bruce Wolk of the National Honey Board, a promotional and research board funded by the honey industry…
Christine Laue, Omaha World-Herald (USA), 6/22/2006
http://www.omaha.com/
The bath and beauty industry is abuzz about bees.
Honey and beeswax are the ingredients du jour in everything from lotions and body scrubs to hand soaps and body mists.
More people are buying honey- and beeswax-based products, and more products are available in wider distribution. Nebraska beekeepers even are jumping on the bee byproducts bandwagon.
Honey is a hygroscopic material, meaning it retains moisture. Honey doesn't spoil because its high concentration of glucose and fructose prevents growth of microorganisms…
A recent survey by market research publisher Packaged Facts showed that over the past four years, the number of people with honey in their household for some type of nonfood purpose increased 10 percent -- from 59 percent in 2002 to 69 percent in 2006.
Many of those people are doing it themselves, mixing honey with ingredients such as avocados for a moisturizer based on recipes from books or the Internet, said Bruce Wolk of the National Honey Board, a promotional and research board funded by the honey industry…
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Use of Wound-Healing Honey Common in Australia
Honey, It Shrinks The Pain
By Fran Molloy, The Sydney Morning Herald (Australia), 6/22/2006
'There is no way I would let anyone treating me or my loved ones put anything except honey on our wounds," says Dr Shona Blair, a post-doctoral microbiology researcher at the University of Sydney.
Blair, who has been researching the properties of honey for more than six years, says there have been a large number of worldwide clinical trials showing that honey applied to various wounds has impressive healing properties.
Blair found that some types of honey are highly effective in killing many bacteria, including golden staph, (Staphylococcus aureus) - a major problem in hospitals because it is resistant to most antibiotics.
Honey also leaves infected wounds very clean, because of its ability to break down the "biofilm" found in many wounds. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pain, particularly in burns and ulcers. It also can reduce scarring.
Honey has been used as a remedy for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians wrote about its curative properties when applied to wounds; similar references have been found in texts from ancient Greeks, Romans, Mesopotamians, Chinese and Indians. But, ironically, it could be honey's history of long-term use and natural origins that have prevented it from being widely used in hospitals, despite the overwhelming scientific evidence of its efficacy.
Dozens of clinical trials and more than 150 medical journal articles have been published, involving thousands of patients using honey as a wound dressing. Findings have shown that honey is effective in quickly clearing existing infection, protects wounds from further infection, minimises scarring and also reduces wound odours.
Various studies show medical honey to be effective in treating a huge range of injuries, including surgical wounds, burns, infectious wounds, ulcers and pressure sores as well as eczema, dry eye, dental wounds and even nappy rash…
By Fran Molloy, The Sydney Morning Herald (Australia), 6/22/2006
'There is no way I would let anyone treating me or my loved ones put anything except honey on our wounds," says Dr Shona Blair, a post-doctoral microbiology researcher at the University of Sydney.
Blair, who has been researching the properties of honey for more than six years, says there have been a large number of worldwide clinical trials showing that honey applied to various wounds has impressive healing properties.
Blair found that some types of honey are highly effective in killing many bacteria, including golden staph, (Staphylococcus aureus) - a major problem in hospitals because it is resistant to most antibiotics.
Honey also leaves infected wounds very clean, because of its ability to break down the "biofilm" found in many wounds. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing pain, particularly in burns and ulcers. It also can reduce scarring.
Honey has been used as a remedy for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians wrote about its curative properties when applied to wounds; similar references have been found in texts from ancient Greeks, Romans, Mesopotamians, Chinese and Indians. But, ironically, it could be honey's history of long-term use and natural origins that have prevented it from being widely used in hospitals, despite the overwhelming scientific evidence of its efficacy.
Dozens of clinical trials and more than 150 medical journal articles have been published, involving thousands of patients using honey as a wound dressing. Findings have shown that honey is effective in quickly clearing existing infection, protects wounds from further infection, minimises scarring and also reduces wound odours.
Various studies show medical honey to be effective in treating a huge range of injuries, including surgical wounds, burns, infectious wounds, ulcers and pressure sores as well as eczema, dry eye, dental wounds and even nappy rash…
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Apitherapy in Nigeria
Gospel of the Busy Bee
By Oluwatoyin Malik, Nigerian Tribune, 6/21/06
To many people, the bee is a stinging insect that is dangerous to mankind and has no special attribute except the production of honey. However, this is not the case for Ayodele Ambali Salako, a popular apitherapist.
For Salako, the gospel of bees and honey goes beyond eating and extends to treatment of various kinds of ailments. Ailments like migraine, cancer, obesity, diabetes, infertility, fibroid, fallopian tube blockage and all types of fever-like jaundice, malaria, hay and others are included in diseases that can be treated with apiterapy.
A visit to the office of Ambali Salako, the man in charge of Salako - Oniluofeotu beekeeping Apiherapist revealed that quite a number of people are embracing the treatment of ailments through bee products known as Apitherapy.
Midweek Tribune gathered from him that apitherapy is natural healing and it is supported by the holy scriptures. Salako quoted from the Holy Quran to back his claim. He said, “the Holy Quran 16:68-69 says, the lord inspired the bees to put their nest (combs) in mountains, rocks, trees and in men habitations and the bees to eat the produce of the earth and release a product in varying colours which will be healing for mankind and the lord will make their way smooth. In this is a sign for those who think and give thoughts.”
Explaining this verse, Salako said the Lord has given the bee free access to produce materials that are beneficial to man. He added that, it also indicates that only men of thought who can do research, can understand these uses.
Salako also explained that the Holy Bible in Proverbs 24:13-14 also extols the virtues of honey. Using honey for treatment in various forms is becoming an household issue but what stands Salako out is the bee venom therapy; the art of using bees to sting humans for the purpose of curing them of various ailments. This is also known as the bee injection…
By Oluwatoyin Malik, Nigerian Tribune, 6/21/06
To many people, the bee is a stinging insect that is dangerous to mankind and has no special attribute except the production of honey. However, this is not the case for Ayodele Ambali Salako, a popular apitherapist.
For Salako, the gospel of bees and honey goes beyond eating and extends to treatment of various kinds of ailments. Ailments like migraine, cancer, obesity, diabetes, infertility, fibroid, fallopian tube blockage and all types of fever-like jaundice, malaria, hay and others are included in diseases that can be treated with apiterapy.
A visit to the office of Ambali Salako, the man in charge of Salako - Oniluofeotu beekeeping Apiherapist revealed that quite a number of people are embracing the treatment of ailments through bee products known as Apitherapy.
Midweek Tribune gathered from him that apitherapy is natural healing and it is supported by the holy scriptures. Salako quoted from the Holy Quran to back his claim. He said, “the Holy Quran 16:68-69 says, the lord inspired the bees to put their nest (combs) in mountains, rocks, trees and in men habitations and the bees to eat the produce of the earth and release a product in varying colours which will be healing for mankind and the lord will make their way smooth. In this is a sign for those who think and give thoughts.”
Explaining this verse, Salako said the Lord has given the bee free access to produce materials that are beneficial to man. He added that, it also indicates that only men of thought who can do research, can understand these uses.
Salako also explained that the Holy Bible in Proverbs 24:13-14 also extols the virtues of honey. Using honey for treatment in various forms is becoming an household issue but what stands Salako out is the bee venom therapy; the art of using bees to sting humans for the purpose of curing them of various ailments. This is also known as the bee injection…
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Bee Venom Allergens May Help Produce Preventive Allergy Vaccine
Researchers from Japan, Brazil and Switzerland Report Recent Findings in Allergies
Science Letter, 6/23/2006
Allergies research advances have been reported from Japan, Brazil and Switzerland…
Study 3: A recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes prevents allergy attacks.
According to recent research published in the European Journal of Immunology, "Novel approaches for the prevention of allergy are required, because of the inevitably increasing prevalence of allergic diseases during the last 30 years."
Fariba Karamloo at the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research and collaborators throughout the world announced, "A recombinant chimeric protein, which comprises the whole amino acid sequences of three bee venom major allergens has been engineered and used in prevention of bee venom sensitization in mice."...
Karamloo and associates published their study in the European Journal of Immunology (Prevention of allergy by a recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes. Eur J Immunol, 2005;35(11):3268-3276).
For additional information, contact Fariba Karamloo, Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Obere Strasse 22, CH-7270 Davos, Switzerland. karamlooflory@compuserve.de.
Science Letter, 6/23/2006
Allergies research advances have been reported from Japan, Brazil and Switzerland…
Study 3: A recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes prevents allergy attacks.
According to recent research published in the European Journal of Immunology, "Novel approaches for the prevention of allergy are required, because of the inevitably increasing prevalence of allergic diseases during the last 30 years."
Fariba Karamloo at the Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research and collaborators throughout the world announced, "A recombinant chimeric protein, which comprises the whole amino acid sequences of three bee venom major allergens has been engineered and used in prevention of bee venom sensitization in mice."...
Karamloo and associates published their study in the European Journal of Immunology (Prevention of allergy by a recombinant multi-allergen vaccine with reduced IgE binding and preserved T cell epitopes. Eur J Immunol, 2005;35(11):3268-3276).
For additional information, contact Fariba Karamloo, Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Obere Strasse 22, CH-7270 Davos, Switzerland. karamlooflory@compuserve.de.
Monday, June 19, 2006
Florida: Trace Amounts of Antibiotics Found in Honey from China
State Threatens Fines Over Contaminated Honey
By Jim Ash, Tallahassee Democrat (USA), 6/15/2006
State investigators are threatening fines after finding trace amounts of antibiotics in honey imported from China.
Not found on store shelves but in processed foods, the honey is not considered to be an eminent health risk, said Terry McElroy, a spokesman for the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The Department recently sent letters to distributors warning them they face fines of up to $5,000 if follow-up testing shows any more of the substance, "fluoroquinolones," which is banned in the United States.
Earlier this year, the department began testing nearly 50 samples of honey from domestic and foreign sources, including 14 samples from honey imported from China. Four of the 14 Chinese samples showed levels of the substance ranging from 5 ppb, or parts per billion, to 93 ppb. The testing was done after officials received an anonymous tip, McElroy said…
By Jim Ash, Tallahassee Democrat (USA), 6/15/2006
State investigators are threatening fines after finding trace amounts of antibiotics in honey imported from China.
Not found on store shelves but in processed foods, the honey is not considered to be an eminent health risk, said Terry McElroy, a spokesman for the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
The Department recently sent letters to distributors warning them they face fines of up to $5,000 if follow-up testing shows any more of the substance, "fluoroquinolones," which is banned in the United States.
Earlier this year, the department began testing nearly 50 samples of honey from domestic and foreign sources, including 14 samples from honey imported from China. Four of the 14 Chinese samples showed levels of the substance ranging from 5 ppb, or parts per billion, to 93 ppb. The testing was done after officials received an anonymous tip, McElroy said…
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Mesitran: New Honey-Based Wound Treatment Product
Medicinal Honey Products
Tania Alexander, Daily Mail (UK), 6/13/2006
Mesitran Ointment, 15g, Pounds 8.99
THIS product is made with medical-grade honey and is designed to treat pressure ulcers, burns, grazes and wounds…
Product Data Sheet
Tania Alexander, Daily Mail (UK), 6/13/2006
Mesitran Ointment, 15g, Pounds 8.99
THIS product is made with medical-grade honey and is designed to treat pressure ulcers, burns, grazes and wounds…
Product Data Sheet
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Palestinians Praise Medicinal Value of Thyme Honey
Palestinian Women Become Beekeepers
Reuters, 6/16/2006
A new beekeeping project launched by the East Hebron Area Development Programme (ADP) will allow 80 local women to establish their own business and help support their families.
Bani Naim is located 55 kilometers south of Jerusalem and is home to 10,000 people. The town was always famous for its honey, and the special medicinal value it has.
Beekeeping is usually a profession for men in the Palestinian territories, but the ADP that is interested in improving the status of women in the local community has decided to help women enter this profession to support their families…
The Italian hybrid bees purchased for the project are well known for their ability to live in areas where there are drastic temperature changes can collect nectar from a variety of plants especially the wild thyme that covers the hills around Bani Naim in the spring.
The wild thyme gives the Bani Naim honey a special flavour and medicinal values…
Reuters, 6/16/2006
A new beekeeping project launched by the East Hebron Area Development Programme (ADP) will allow 80 local women to establish their own business and help support their families.
Bani Naim is located 55 kilometers south of Jerusalem and is home to 10,000 people. The town was always famous for its honey, and the special medicinal value it has.
Beekeeping is usually a profession for men in the Palestinian territories, but the ADP that is interested in improving the status of women in the local community has decided to help women enter this profession to support their families…
The Italian hybrid bees purchased for the project are well known for their ability to live in areas where there are drastic temperature changes can collect nectar from a variety of plants especially the wild thyme that covers the hills around Bani Naim in the spring.
The wild thyme gives the Bani Naim honey a special flavour and medicinal values…
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Honey Prevents Antibiotics-Resistant Bacteria ‘Biofilms'
Eat Your Way To Health
Fay Burstin, Herald Sun (Australia), 6/15/2006
EVERYDAY foods found in most kitchen pantries and fridges could be leading a quiet household medical revolution.
Honey, lemons, ginger and orange juice are among some of the regular foods -- in ordinary doses, not extracts, essences or supplements -- whose remarkable healing properties are being discovered by doctors and scientists.
Honey is set to become the new medical champion in hospitals after researchers at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, found it could help fight potentially lethal antibiotics-resistant bacteria that protect themselves from attack by forming slimy clumps.
Biofilms prevent wounds from healing and cause chronic ulcers.
But the Cardiff team found biofilms on laboratory-grown bacteria from patients' injuries treated with manuka honey were disrupted, making them more susceptible to antibiotic treatment.
The research, which included impregnating dressings with manuka honey, could also have a big impact in developing countries where honey is cheap, available, easy to use and without side effects but where modern pharmaceuticals are difficult to get hold of…
Fay Burstin, Herald Sun (Australia), 6/15/2006
EVERYDAY foods found in most kitchen pantries and fridges could be leading a quiet household medical revolution.
Honey, lemons, ginger and orange juice are among some of the regular foods -- in ordinary doses, not extracts, essences or supplements -- whose remarkable healing properties are being discovered by doctors and scientists.
Honey is set to become the new medical champion in hospitals after researchers at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, found it could help fight potentially lethal antibiotics-resistant bacteria that protect themselves from attack by forming slimy clumps.
Biofilms prevent wounds from healing and cause chronic ulcers.
But the Cardiff team found biofilms on laboratory-grown bacteria from patients' injuries treated with manuka honey were disrupted, making them more susceptible to antibiotic treatment.
The research, which included impregnating dressings with manuka honey, could also have a big impact in developing countries where honey is cheap, available, easy to use and without side effects but where modern pharmaceuticals are difficult to get hold of…
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Study: Honeydew, Thyme Honey Contain High Levels of Phenol
Honey – There’s More to It Than You Think
By Janette Busch, Scoop Independent News (New Zealand), 6/14/2006
While honey has the reputation of being a healthy food to consume, nevertheless, some people choose not to eat it because they consider it to be only a source of sugars that give no special health benefits.
Researchers in the Agriculture and Life Sciences Division at Lincoln University have recently completed the first study of the health promoting compounds of a range of honeys and honeydew produced in New Zealand. They discovered that some honeys contain health promoting compounds such as antioxidants and that the colour of the darker honeys may be an indication that they also contain high levels of minerals…
The honey studied all came from single varieties of flowers (mono-floral) and included: manuka, clover, rata, vipers bugloss, kamahi, nodding thistle, honeydew, rewarewa, tawari and thyme provided by Airborne Honey Limited of Canterbury…
Honeydew and thyme honey contained the highest levels of phenol compared to the other honeys, while thyme and rewarewa had the highest antioxidant activity of the ten honeys giving them the potential to play an important role in providing antioxidants to humans in a pleasant from…
By Janette Busch, Scoop Independent News (New Zealand), 6/14/2006
While honey has the reputation of being a healthy food to consume, nevertheless, some people choose not to eat it because they consider it to be only a source of sugars that give no special health benefits.
Researchers in the Agriculture and Life Sciences Division at Lincoln University have recently completed the first study of the health promoting compounds of a range of honeys and honeydew produced in New Zealand. They discovered that some honeys contain health promoting compounds such as antioxidants and that the colour of the darker honeys may be an indication that they also contain high levels of minerals…
The honey studied all came from single varieties of flowers (mono-floral) and included: manuka, clover, rata, vipers bugloss, kamahi, nodding thistle, honeydew, rewarewa, tawari and thyme provided by Airborne Honey Limited of Canterbury…
Honeydew and thyme honey contained the highest levels of phenol compared to the other honeys, while thyme and rewarewa had the highest antioxidant activity of the ten honeys giving them the potential to play an important role in providing antioxidants to humans in a pleasant from…
NY Times Describes Growth in Use of Single-Source Honeys
Blossom to Table: Honey Grows Up
By Dana Bowen, The New York Times (USA) 6/14/2006
TED DENNARD, founder of the Savannah Bee Company, says 2004 produced the best orange blossom honey the South has seen in decades.
But you never know. "Last year was an awful year for basswood," said Zeke Freeman, owner of Bee Raw Honey, blaming an early summer drought in New York.
And Neal Rosenthal, who imports Mario Bianco brand honeys from Italy, in rare flavors like dandelion, lime blossom and eucalyptus, wistfully recalled, "We still talk about the remarkable chestnut honey of 1983."…
By Dana Bowen, The New York Times (USA) 6/14/2006
TED DENNARD, founder of the Savannah Bee Company, says 2004 produced the best orange blossom honey the South has seen in decades.
But you never know. "Last year was an awful year for basswood," said Zeke Freeman, owner of Bee Raw Honey, blaming an early summer drought in New York.
And Neal Rosenthal, who imports Mario Bianco brand honeys from Italy, in rare flavors like dandelion, lime blossom and eucalyptus, wistfully recalled, "We still talk about the remarkable chestnut honey of 1983."…
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Japan's Tough New Rule Victimizes China's Royal Jelly
People’s Daily (China), 6/13/2006
China's royal jelly industry may become the first victim of Japan's tough new rules governing additives and quality of food products it imports, sources with a chamber of commerce told Xinhua on Tuesday.
Liu Zhaolin, secretary-general of the Royal Jelly chapter of the China Chamber of Commerce of Medicines and Health Products Importers and Exporters, warned that Japan may get tough on China's royal jelly exports. Royal Jelly is a substance harvested from bees and is claimed to have many medicinal benefits.
He said that Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has issued a statement specifically addressing the revised standards for royal jelly. It's a rare move that could indicate there will be more inspections of China-made royal jelly products.
Under Japan's new requirements for allowable chemical residues, which came into effect on on May 29, the allowable amount of an antibiotic found in royal jelly has been cut from 0.05 PPM to 0.0005 PPM.
Japanese laws stipulate that an import ban will be imposed once three of sixty batches of imported goods are found not to meet the country's product standards.
Liu warned Chinese companies, especially small ones, not to take a chance exporting royal jelly of poor quality as they might threaten China's royal jelly industry…
Monday, June 12, 2006
Apitherapy Meeting in Connecticut (USA)
Featuring speakers on subjects such as “Therapeutic Products of the Hive”
WHEN: June 24, 2006, 11 a.m.
WHERE: 99 Northwood Drive, Easton, CT, 06612
CONTACT: honeybee7@optonline.net
WHEN: June 24, 2006, 11 a.m.
WHERE: 99 Northwood Drive, Easton, CT, 06612
CONTACT: honeybee7@optonline.net
Studies: Use of Propolis for Treating Cancer, Respiratory Infections
Brazilian Natural Dietary Components (Annatto, Propolis And Mushrooms) Protecting Against Mutation And Cancer
Human and Experimental Toxicology, 2006 May;25(5):267-72
This review summarizes some of our studies conducted to verify the anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic potential of some Brazilian natural dietary constituents (annatto, mushrooms, and propolis). Overall data have shown a clear role for these compounds in preventing mutation and specific preneoplastic lesions. Taken together, these agents indicate a favorable side-effect profile and may prove to be a promising alternative for cancer prevention strategies, although more investigation is needed to fully explore this issue.
Antibacterial Activity of Propolis and its Active Principles…Against Microorganisms Responsible for Respiratory Infections
Journal of Chemotherapy, 2006 Apr;18(2):164-71
In this study the in vitro activity of both an alcoholic solution and a hydroglyceric extract of propolis, as well as its active principles, was tested against bacteria responsible for respiratory infections (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Streptococcus pyogenes). We also evaluated the in vitro activity of a combination of propolis and its active principles and some beta-lactams, macrolides and fluoroquinolones. Our results, though not demonstrating a clearly synergistic activity between antibiotics and propolis and its constituents, show the possibility of using natural preparations, due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, to enhance antibacterial therapy.
Human and Experimental Toxicology, 2006 May;25(5):267-72
This review summarizes some of our studies conducted to verify the anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic potential of some Brazilian natural dietary constituents (annatto, mushrooms, and propolis). Overall data have shown a clear role for these compounds in preventing mutation and specific preneoplastic lesions. Taken together, these agents indicate a favorable side-effect profile and may prove to be a promising alternative for cancer prevention strategies, although more investigation is needed to fully explore this issue.
Antibacterial Activity of Propolis and its Active Principles…Against Microorganisms Responsible for Respiratory Infections
Journal of Chemotherapy, 2006 Apr;18(2):164-71
In this study the in vitro activity of both an alcoholic solution and a hydroglyceric extract of propolis, as well as its active principles, was tested against bacteria responsible for respiratory infections (Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Streptococcus pyogenes). We also evaluated the in vitro activity of a combination of propolis and its active principles and some beta-lactams, macrolides and fluoroquinolones. Our results, though not demonstrating a clearly synergistic activity between antibiotics and propolis and its constituents, show the possibility of using natural preparations, due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, to enhance antibacterial therapy.
Sunday, June 11, 2006
Recipes for Honey-Beeswax Lip Treatments
DIY Beauty
Carla Oates, The Sunday Mail (Australia), 6/11/2006
You can easily make your own protective lip balm using 12g beeswax, 8g cocoa butter, 21/2 tbs almond oil, 1/2 tsp honey. Melt all the ingredients in a bain marie (I sit a pyrex jar in a pot of boiling water on the stove). When melted, mix well and pour into little jars. Once they have cooled, put the lids on. I prefer to use calendula-infused almond oil as calendula helps repair cracked or chapped skin and is full of antioxidants. (All ingredients available at The Sydney Essential Oil Company)…
If you are prone to cold sores, be very gentle as irritation may cause an outbreak. As they tend to erupt when the body and lips are run down, it's a good idea to have a few remedies on hand during winter. Myrrh tincture, available at health food stores, works well as a spot treatment for cold sores, as does manuka honey, which boasts potent anti-bacterial properties.
Lip masks help nourish, balance and repair your lips. Rub in vitamin E or unrefined vegetable oil each night into and around your lips (over smile lines) before bed. Following is an excellent lip treatment that can be used day or night. Vitamin C is reputed to stimulate collagen production and helps to repair damage. Milk has refining acids and nourishing proteins to keep your lips smooth and replenished, while honey is anti-bacterial and softening.
Vitamin C Lip Booster Treatment Mask
1/8 tsp soluble vitamin C powder (preferably with bioflavonoids)
1/2 tsp water
3/4 tsp organic milk
1 tsp runny honey
1/2 tsp citrus pectin (available at health food stores)
Dissolve the vitamin C powder in the water. Add the milk and honey. Stir to a smooth consistency. Whisk in the citrus pectin to make a smooth paste. Apply over and around the lips. Leave for 15 minutes and remove with a flannel and warm water. Perform a patch test on the inside of your arm before applying to the face to check for irritation.
Carla Oates, The Sunday Mail (Australia), 6/11/2006
You can easily make your own protective lip balm using 12g beeswax, 8g cocoa butter, 21/2 tbs almond oil, 1/2 tsp honey. Melt all the ingredients in a bain marie (I sit a pyrex jar in a pot of boiling water on the stove). When melted, mix well and pour into little jars. Once they have cooled, put the lids on. I prefer to use calendula-infused almond oil as calendula helps repair cracked or chapped skin and is full of antioxidants. (All ingredients available at The Sydney Essential Oil Company)…
If you are prone to cold sores, be very gentle as irritation may cause an outbreak. As they tend to erupt when the body and lips are run down, it's a good idea to have a few remedies on hand during winter. Myrrh tincture, available at health food stores, works well as a spot treatment for cold sores, as does manuka honey, which boasts potent anti-bacterial properties.
Lip masks help nourish, balance and repair your lips. Rub in vitamin E or unrefined vegetable oil each night into and around your lips (over smile lines) before bed. Following is an excellent lip treatment that can be used day or night. Vitamin C is reputed to stimulate collagen production and helps to repair damage. Milk has refining acids and nourishing proteins to keep your lips smooth and replenished, while honey is anti-bacterial and softening.
Vitamin C Lip Booster Treatment Mask
1/8 tsp soluble vitamin C powder (preferably with bioflavonoids)
1/2 tsp water
3/4 tsp organic milk
1 tsp runny honey
1/2 tsp citrus pectin (available at health food stores)
Dissolve the vitamin C powder in the water. Add the milk and honey. Stir to a smooth consistency. Whisk in the citrus pectin to make a smooth paste. Apply over and around the lips. Leave for 15 minutes and remove with a flannel and warm water. Perform a patch test on the inside of your arm before applying to the face to check for irritation.
Local Honey Recommended for Allergies
Bees May Help With Allergies
By Joel C. Thompson, Connecticut Post (USA), 6/11/2006
When trees and flowers blossom and bees busily gather pollen, some people begin suffering from pollen-related allergies.
Reflecting on the work of the bees and adverse reactions to pollen, beekeeper Jerry Soltisiak, of North Street in Easton, said allergy sufferers may actually find relief from eating honey.
"People who eat honey produced by local beekeepers in the area of their homes can build up a resistance to allergies," Soltisiak said in a recent interview. "But they may need to consume the honey all winter long before the pollen season begins. A lot of people come to me to buy honey for their allergies."
Soltisiak, who has kept bees for about 12 years and now has about 20 hives, said the secret lies in how the honey is produced by local beekeepers like himself.
"Commercial honey is filtered, meaning all the pollen granules are removed from it," he said. "I just strain my honey to remove bits of wax and other debris, but some pollen is left."
He said the small amount of pollen remaining in the honey allows people to gradually build resistance to allergies, making them less prone to experience stuffed-up noses and sinuses, itchy eyes and other cold-like symptoms when spring gets underway…
By Joel C. Thompson, Connecticut Post (USA), 6/11/2006
When trees and flowers blossom and bees busily gather pollen, some people begin suffering from pollen-related allergies.
Reflecting on the work of the bees and adverse reactions to pollen, beekeeper Jerry Soltisiak, of North Street in Easton, said allergy sufferers may actually find relief from eating honey.
"People who eat honey produced by local beekeepers in the area of their homes can build up a resistance to allergies," Soltisiak said in a recent interview. "But they may need to consume the honey all winter long before the pollen season begins. A lot of people come to me to buy honey for their allergies."
Soltisiak, who has kept bees for about 12 years and now has about 20 hives, said the secret lies in how the honey is produced by local beekeepers like himself.
"Commercial honey is filtered, meaning all the pollen granules are removed from it," he said. "I just strain my honey to remove bits of wax and other debris, but some pollen is left."
He said the small amount of pollen remaining in the honey allows people to gradually build resistance to allergies, making them less prone to experience stuffed-up noses and sinuses, itchy eyes and other cold-like symptoms when spring gets underway…
Saturday, June 10, 2006
Honey, Pollen Recommended for Dog's 'Summer Eczema'
'Summer Eczema' Uncomfortable
The Norman Transcript (USA) 6/8/2006
Dear Dr. Fox: Would you please write an article on summer eczema, which also is called itchy, dry skin? For the last three years, my dog has had this...
Dear G.C.: "Summer eczema" is a generic term for seasonal dermatitis in dogs...Many dogs develop itchy skin and red eruptions with secondary bacterial infections as a result of allergies to flowers, grass and tree pollen...
Many dogs respond well when their diets are supplemented with honey, preferably locally made, and bee pollen, which is available in health-food stores and farmers markets. Use a dosage of 1 teaspoon per 30 pounds of body weight daily in the dog's food.
The Norman Transcript (USA) 6/8/2006
Dear Dr. Fox: Would you please write an article on summer eczema, which also is called itchy, dry skin? For the last three years, my dog has had this...
Dear G.C.: "Summer eczema" is a generic term for seasonal dermatitis in dogs...Many dogs develop itchy skin and red eruptions with secondary bacterial infections as a result of allergies to flowers, grass and tree pollen...
Many dogs respond well when their diets are supplemented with honey, preferably locally made, and bee pollen, which is available in health-food stores and farmers markets. Use a dosage of 1 teaspoon per 30 pounds of body weight daily in the dog's food.
Friday, June 09, 2006
South African Journal Outlines Healing Properties of Bee Products
Bee Products
South African Journal of Natural Medicine, 6/8/2006
Bee products constitute one of the most widely applied groups of natural products used by human beings from ancient times. Honeybees are master chemists and chemical engineers. Their success in the animal kingdom is largely due to the chemistry and application of their products: honey, beeswax, bee venom, propolis, pollen, and royal jelly are chemically synthesised by the bees themselves. Honey, propolis and pollen are derived from plants and are modified and engineered for the bees' own use.
Use of these products explains the amazing honeybee success. Honey is used as a stable, reliable food source that serves during times of shortage, enables the bees to warm up their nest during cold weather, and has allowed them to become perennial species that can exploit virtually any habitat in the world. Beeswax is used as a pliable, stable and moisture-proof material with which to construct nests, to store honey safely, and to rear broods. Venom gives honeybees the advantage of a formidable defence that is capable of stopping or deterring all except the most determined and capable of predators; while propolis is an outstandingly good caulking used to seal the nest cavity and is also one of the best anti-microbial agents known. Like honey, pollen is a nutrient-rich food that can be stored in the hive indefinitely to serve as a reserve during times of shortage; and royal jelly is a balanced food source that does not spoil readily and is used to feed bee larvae. Without these unique products it is likely that honeybees would be different from their ancestors, namely solitary bees with each female bee, during a brief season, providing a few cells with pollen and nectar for the next generation...
Conclusion
Bee products are natural, and although originally produced to be used by the bees themselves, humans use them successfully in a wide spectrum of applications. This is clear-cut proof that in nature we can find all we need for our life, health and the curing of illness.
South African Journal of Natural Medicine, 6/8/2006
Bee products constitute one of the most widely applied groups of natural products used by human beings from ancient times. Honeybees are master chemists and chemical engineers. Their success in the animal kingdom is largely due to the chemistry and application of their products: honey, beeswax, bee venom, propolis, pollen, and royal jelly are chemically synthesised by the bees themselves. Honey, propolis and pollen are derived from plants and are modified and engineered for the bees' own use.
Use of these products explains the amazing honeybee success. Honey is used as a stable, reliable food source that serves during times of shortage, enables the bees to warm up their nest during cold weather, and has allowed them to become perennial species that can exploit virtually any habitat in the world. Beeswax is used as a pliable, stable and moisture-proof material with which to construct nests, to store honey safely, and to rear broods. Venom gives honeybees the advantage of a formidable defence that is capable of stopping or deterring all except the most determined and capable of predators; while propolis is an outstandingly good caulking used to seal the nest cavity and is also one of the best anti-microbial agents known. Like honey, pollen is a nutrient-rich food that can be stored in the hive indefinitely to serve as a reserve during times of shortage; and royal jelly is a balanced food source that does not spoil readily and is used to feed bee larvae. Without these unique products it is likely that honeybees would be different from their ancestors, namely solitary bees with each female bee, during a brief season, providing a few cells with pollen and nectar for the next generation...
Conclusion
Bee products are natural, and although originally produced to be used by the bees themselves, humans use them successfully in a wide spectrum of applications. This is clear-cut proof that in nature we can find all we need for our life, health and the curing of illness.
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Japan May Reject Chinese Royal Jelly
China's Royal Jelly Suffered Japan's Rejection
SinoCast China Business Daily News, 6/7/2006
BEIJING, June 07, SinoCast -- On May 29, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan introduced a Positive List System for agricultural chemicals remaining in foods, a system to prohibit the distribution of foods that contain agricultural chemicals above a certain level. Influenced by this Positive List, China's exports of royal jelly to Japan suffered Japan's rejection.
The Positive List System makes some harsh rules about agricultural chemicals remaining in exported food to Japan; this exerts a nearly disastrous influence on China's exports of food and agricultural products. What is worth mentioning, Japan raises the maximum limit of chloromycetin contained in royal jelly from the former 0.05PPM to 0.0005PPM.
Presently, above 70% of China's royal jelly is exported to Japan, and companying implementation of the new measure, the Chinese enterprises are easily inclined to suffer Japan's rejection. Another problem bothering the Chinese government is that some enterprises infest China's exports of royal jelly with sub-quality products…
SinoCast China Business Daily News, 6/7/2006
BEIJING, June 07, SinoCast -- On May 29, the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare of Japan introduced a Positive List System for agricultural chemicals remaining in foods, a system to prohibit the distribution of foods that contain agricultural chemicals above a certain level. Influenced by this Positive List, China's exports of royal jelly to Japan suffered Japan's rejection.
The Positive List System makes some harsh rules about agricultural chemicals remaining in exported food to Japan; this exerts a nearly disastrous influence on China's exports of food and agricultural products. What is worth mentioning, Japan raises the maximum limit of chloromycetin contained in royal jelly from the former 0.05PPM to 0.0005PPM.
Presently, above 70% of China's royal jelly is exported to Japan, and companying implementation of the new measure, the Chinese enterprises are easily inclined to suffer Japan's rejection. Another problem bothering the Chinese government is that some enterprises infest China's exports of royal jelly with sub-quality products…
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
Neurologist Recommends Health Benefits of Honey, Bee Venom Therapy
No Rest For Busy Bees
Diane Stoneback, Knight Ridder-Tribune Newspapers (USA), 6/7/06
"Honey's role in health and nutrition keeps expanding, too," observes Dr. Robert Roeshman, an Allentown, Pa., neurologist who also is a master beekeeper and tends 20 hives as a hobby.
"Eating a teaspoon of honey a day can help ease allergies," Roeshman says. "Just make sure you buy a local honey (not processed honey) containing local pollens or buy some pollen from an area beekeeper." He explains, "Eating either will desensitize a person to local pollens."
Roeshman considers a bee sting to be good luck and adds, "Bee venom therapy is used to treat arthritis, multiple sclerosis and pain problems. Some honeys have healing properties. Manuka honey from New Zealand is used to treat peptic ulcer disease and burn patients' ulcers. Honey also helps control bacteria that causes peptic ulcer disease."
Diane Stoneback, Knight Ridder-Tribune Newspapers (USA), 6/7/06
"Honey's role in health and nutrition keeps expanding, too," observes Dr. Robert Roeshman, an Allentown, Pa., neurologist who also is a master beekeeper and tends 20 hives as a hobby.
"Eating a teaspoon of honey a day can help ease allergies," Roeshman says. "Just make sure you buy a local honey (not processed honey) containing local pollens or buy some pollen from an area beekeeper." He explains, "Eating either will desensitize a person to local pollens."
Roeshman considers a bee sting to be good luck and adds, "Bee venom therapy is used to treat arthritis, multiple sclerosis and pain problems. Some honeys have healing properties. Manuka honey from New Zealand is used to treat peptic ulcer disease and burn patients' ulcers. Honey also helps control bacteria that causes peptic ulcer disease."
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Hygienic Production Could Reduce C. Botulinum in Honey
Contamination Routes of Clostridium Botulinum in the Honey Production Environment
Environmental Microbiology, 2006 Jun;8(6):1085-94
Factors influencing Clostridium botulinum contamination in the honey production environment were evaluated in a 3-year survey…
The high prevalence of C. botulinum in soil and in samples associated with beeswax suggests the accumulation of soil-derived botulinal spores in wax. Additionally, according to Spearman's rank order correlation and multivariate analysis, production hygiene-dependent factors have a significant influence on the contamination, and thus the number and frequency of C. botulinum spores in honey could possibly be diminished by increasing hygienic level in honey production.
Environmental Microbiology, 2006 Jun;8(6):1085-94
Factors influencing Clostridium botulinum contamination in the honey production environment were evaluated in a 3-year survey…
The high prevalence of C. botulinum in soil and in samples associated with beeswax suggests the accumulation of soil-derived botulinal spores in wax. Additionally, according to Spearman's rank order correlation and multivariate analysis, production hygiene-dependent factors have a significant influence on the contamination, and thus the number and frequency of C. botulinum spores in honey could possibly be diminished by increasing hygienic level in honey production.
Manuka Honey Associated With Positive Wound-Healing
Case Series of Use of Manuka Honey in Leg Ulceration
International Wound Journal, 2005 Mar;2(1):10-5
Abstract: The aims of the study were to gain insight into the practical use of Manuka honey in wound management. The objective was to test the feasibility of further rigorous research into the use of honey in the management of chronic wounds. Instrumental case series were used to examine the use of Manuka honey in eight cases of leg ulceration…
The conclusions drawn were that the use of Manuka honey was associated with a positive wound-healing outcome in these eight cases.
International Wound Journal, 2005 Mar;2(1):10-5
Abstract: The aims of the study were to gain insight into the practical use of Manuka honey in wound management. The objective was to test the feasibility of further rigorous research into the use of honey in the management of chronic wounds. Instrumental case series were used to examine the use of Manuka honey in eight cases of leg ulceration…
The conclusions drawn were that the use of Manuka honey was associated with a positive wound-healing outcome in these eight cases.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Honey Effective Against Candida
Honey Has an Antifungal Effect Against Candida Species
Medical Mycology, 2006 May;44(3):289-91
The incidence of Candida infections is escalating worldwide. The serious nature of these infections is compounded by increasing levels of drug resistance. We report that certain honeys have significant antifungal activity against clinical isolates of Candida species. Importantly, the minimum inhibitory concentration of these honeys would be achievable in a clinical setting.
Medical Mycology, 2006 May;44(3):289-91
The incidence of Candida infections is escalating worldwide. The serious nature of these infections is compounded by increasing levels of drug resistance. We report that certain honeys have significant antifungal activity against clinical isolates of Candida species. Importantly, the minimum inhibitory concentration of these honeys would be achievable in a clinical setting.
Ethyl Acetate Extract of Bee-Collected Pollen Rich in Flavonoids
Chemical Composition and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Pollen Loads from Stingless Bee Melipona Subnitida Ducke
Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 5/15/06
Abstract: Bee-collected pollen (“bee pollen”) is promoted as a health food with a wide range of nutritional and therapeutic properties. In order to evaluate the chemical composition, botanical origin and free radical scavenging activity of this food, two sample pollen loads from stingless bee Melipona subnitida were studied…
The free radical-scavenging activities of different solvent extracts of pollen were determined using a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) assay. This activity decreases in the order: ethyl acetate>ethanol>hexane extract, which suggests that the ethyl acetate extract of the pollen, rich in flavonoids, is a good scavenger of active oxygen species.
Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 5/15/06
Abstract: Bee-collected pollen (“bee pollen”) is promoted as a health food with a wide range of nutritional and therapeutic properties. In order to evaluate the chemical composition, botanical origin and free radical scavenging activity of this food, two sample pollen loads from stingless bee Melipona subnitida were studied…
The free radical-scavenging activities of different solvent extracts of pollen were determined using a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) assay. This activity decreases in the order: ethyl acetate>ethanol>hexane extract, which suggests that the ethyl acetate extract of the pollen, rich in flavonoids, is a good scavenger of active oxygen species.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Apitherapy Used to Treat Liver Diseases in Egypt
Liver Impairment: An Integrated Natural Therapeutic Approach
Yousry Abdel-Sabour and Ahmed G. Hegazi
National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
E-Mail: ahmedgaffer@mailer.eun.eg and ahmedhegazi1@gmail.com
Sixteen patients aged from 30 to 55 years suffering from liver dysfunction with variable causes: two HBV positive (one also schistosomiasis positive), 8 HCV positive (four schistosomiasis positive). Four patients were suffering from schistosomiasis only. The remaining two patients had no definite detectable causes. All patients were subjected to full clinical examination, dental examination, abdominal sonography, laboratory assessment including: albumin, prothrombin concentration, gamma GT, ALT, AST, a-fetoprotein, CBC, antischistosomal egg antibody, viral markers and lastly quantitative PCR for positive marker cases.
The main outlines of therapy included: dental cleanse, bowel cleanse with diet regulations, colon cleanse, parasitic cleanse, blood and liver cleanse, bio-electric therapy and Apitherapy. The course of treatment was 6 months and more 6 months for follow up.
Symptoms of liver dysfunction as fatigue, apathy, digestive disorders improved markedly even ascites and lower limb oedema. Also, laboratory liver functions returns to normal limits without reversal during the follow up period. Hepatitis B (two cases) patients recovered completely (PCR negative). Hepatitis C (8 cases) patients, 5 of them recovered completely (negative PCR), while other 3 cases (combined HCV and. schistosomiasis) showed decrease in viral load and they are still under treatment.
Egyptian Propolis
Ahmed G. Hegazi
National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
E-Mail: ahmedgaffer@mailer.eun.eg and ahmedhegazi1@gmail.com
Propolis (bee glue) is a resinous hive product. It consists of exudates from plants mixed with bees wax and used by bees as glue in general-purpose as sealer and draught-excluder for beehives. Propolis has been long used in folk medicine of different nations as early in Egypt as 3000 BC. Now Egyptian propolis has recently become a subject of increasing attentions for biologists and chemists.
Evaluation of Egyptian propolis as immunostimulants, antioxidant, anti-tumor, antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal agents were done and showed that the Egyptian propolis has such activities and it showed significant differences in its chemical composition.
Yousry Abdel-Sabour and Ahmed G. Hegazi
National Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt
E-Mail: ahmedgaffer@mailer.eun.eg and ahmedhegazi1@gmail.com
Sixteen patients aged from 30 to 55 years suffering from liver dysfunction with variable causes: two HBV positive (one also schistosomiasis positive), 8 HCV positive (four schistosomiasis positive). Four patients were suffering from schistosomiasis only. The remaining two patients had no definite detectable causes. All patients were subjected to full clinical examination, dental examination, abdominal sonography, laboratory assessment including: albumin, prothrombin concentration, gamma GT, ALT, AST, a-fetoprotein, CBC, antischistosomal egg antibody, viral markers and lastly quantitative PCR for positive marker cases.
The main outlines of therapy included: dental cleanse, bowel cleanse with diet regulations, colon cleanse, parasitic cleanse, blood and liver cleanse, bio-electric therapy and Apitherapy. The course of treatment was 6 months and more 6 months for follow up.
Symptoms of liver dysfunction as fatigue, apathy, digestive disorders improved markedly even ascites and lower limb oedema. Also, laboratory liver functions returns to normal limits without reversal during the follow up period. Hepatitis B (two cases) patients recovered completely (PCR negative). Hepatitis C (8 cases) patients, 5 of them recovered completely (negative PCR), while other 3 cases (combined HCV and. schistosomiasis) showed decrease in viral load and they are still under treatment.
Egyptian Propolis
Ahmed G. Hegazi
National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
E-Mail: ahmedgaffer@mailer.eun.eg and ahmedhegazi1@gmail.com
Propolis (bee glue) is a resinous hive product. It consists of exudates from plants mixed with bees wax and used by bees as glue in general-purpose as sealer and draught-excluder for beehives. Propolis has been long used in folk medicine of different nations as early in Egypt as 3000 BC. Now Egyptian propolis has recently become a subject of increasing attentions for biologists and chemists.
Evaluation of Egyptian propolis as immunostimulants, antioxidant, anti-tumor, antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal agents were done and showed that the Egyptian propolis has such activities and it showed significant differences in its chemical composition.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Honey Recommended to Treat Typhoid Fever
Aloe-Vera, Honey, Cure For Typhoid Fever
By SADE OGUNTOLA, Nigerian Tribune, 5/19/2006
ONE of the commonest diseases in sub-Sahara Africa is fever and millions of people both young and old become victims of it. A report once said that 2 to 3 million children die of malaria every year in sub-Sahara Africa. However due to the warm tropical nature of our continent, many Africans are said to be prone to fever and one of the commonest fever in this part of the world is typhoid fever.
Both typhoid and paratyphoid fevers are easy to treat and cure according to submissions of many medical experts. The uncountable number of lives lost either by act of omission or commission or even as a result of share ignorance on the disease need not be. One of the reasons, highlighted for the fatal nature of both typhoid and paratyphoid fevers is inability of many patients to properly diagnose them at the appropriate time once they are plagued with fever. Many take it for ordinary malaria and in the process of trying to treat what many do refer to as either relapsing or stubborn fever ,have had to answer the divine call untimely.
Typhoid and paratyphoid fever occur most often in environments with poor sanitation and any unhygienic individual should realise that he is a potential candidate for typhoid fever…
To use the Aloe-Vera and pure honey to prevent and cure typhoid fever, the naturopath said pure honey, Aloe-Vera and the white part of egg should be properly mixed together, stressing that the mixture is even more effective than many antibiotic popularly used for anti-typhoid orthodox drugs. The naturopath said that to make the herbal remedy very effective, only the white part of the egg from a local chicken should be used to prepare the anti-typhoid and paratyphoid therapy.
Also, the herbal medicine practitioner said one table spoon of gin could also be mixed with the combination. If Aloe-Vera is not available, Onifade said egg white, pure honey and a minimum of three pieces of small size dry pepper can be grinded and mixed together for the therapy to be more effective. “The small dry pepper would be grinded , sieved and then poured into pure honey. The pepper to be used is the small red type which is very pungent and called Capsicum frutescens. Garlic, he emphasised could also be mixed with pure honey containing this egg white. But the garlic would have to be grinded before it is mixing with the anti-typhoid therapy.
This remedy can be taken in the morning and night or thrice a day with just two spoonful of it at a dose. This therapy kills the salmonella organism responsible for typhoid fever. The herbal practitioner advised people to make good hygiene their priority also counseling that people should always wash their hands after visiting the toilet.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Molan: Honey Can Combat MRSA 'Superbug'
Stuck On Manuka Honey: Biochemist Sees Medicinal Possibilities
Marco Ursi, CanWest News Service (Canada), 6/1/2006
VICTORIA - Honey has long been used as a herbal remedy, but biochemist Peter Molan, of the University of Waikato in New Zealand, has discovered a kind of honey he says could sweeten the taste of medicine around the world.
Molan says he has discovered that honey made from the manuka bush in New Zealand contains higher levels of anti-bacterial activity than honey sold at grocery stores. It's so high that clinical trials conducted by Molan and his team have suggested that direct application can effectively heal cuts, burns, sores and even combat the superbug methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, also known as MRSA.
"Manuka honey has worked in very desperate cases where nothing else has worked," Molan told CNN in 2000.
Antibiotic resistance is "rapidly getting worse," Molan says, and the manuka honey provides an effective alternative in dealing with bacterial wound infections. Independent studies conducted at the University of Cardiff in Wales and at University of Sydney in Australia showed good results, while preliminary tests by the Waikato team suggest that ingesting the honey might be useful for treating stomach ulcers, sore throats and acne.
Despite these results, Dr. Pamela Kibsey, the Vancouver Island Health Authority's head of microbiology and infection, warns that health-food products are not regulated by Health Canada, and consumers can't be sure that what they're getting has value…
Sebastien and Catherine Martin, the Chemainus, B.C.-based couple behind Wedderspoon Organic, are trying to get funding to bring manuka honey to clinical trials in Canada…
Marco Ursi, CanWest News Service (Canada), 6/1/2006
VICTORIA - Honey has long been used as a herbal remedy, but biochemist Peter Molan, of the University of Waikato in New Zealand, has discovered a kind of honey he says could sweeten the taste of medicine around the world.
Molan says he has discovered that honey made from the manuka bush in New Zealand contains higher levels of anti-bacterial activity than honey sold at grocery stores. It's so high that clinical trials conducted by Molan and his team have suggested that direct application can effectively heal cuts, burns, sores and even combat the superbug methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, also known as MRSA.
"Manuka honey has worked in very desperate cases where nothing else has worked," Molan told CNN in 2000.
Antibiotic resistance is "rapidly getting worse," Molan says, and the manuka honey provides an effective alternative in dealing with bacterial wound infections. Independent studies conducted at the University of Cardiff in Wales and at University of Sydney in Australia showed good results, while preliminary tests by the Waikato team suggest that ingesting the honey might be useful for treating stomach ulcers, sore throats and acne.
Despite these results, Dr. Pamela Kibsey, the Vancouver Island Health Authority's head of microbiology and infection, warns that health-food products are not regulated by Health Canada, and consumers can't be sure that what they're getting has value…
Sebastien and Catherine Martin, the Chemainus, B.C.-based couple behind Wedderspoon Organic, are trying to get funding to bring manuka honey to clinical trials in Canada…
Some 'Irish' Honey Not the Real Thing
The Irish Times, 6/1/2006
Consumers who thought they were buying locally produced honey are likely to be left with a bitter taste in their mouths on foot of a Food Safety Authority of Ireland honey investigation, writes Seán MacConnell, Agriculture Correspondent.
It has discovered that a quarter of randomly selected Irish honeys sourced from manufacturers and shops around the country were not Irish at all and bore misleading labels of origin.
Instead of buying Irish, the consumers were eating Spanish, South American, eastern European and even Chinese produced honey…
Consumers who thought they were buying locally produced honey are likely to be left with a bitter taste in their mouths on foot of a Food Safety Authority of Ireland honey investigation, writes Seán MacConnell, Agriculture Correspondent.
It has discovered that a quarter of randomly selected Irish honeys sourced from manufacturers and shops around the country were not Irish at all and bore misleading labels of origin.
Instead of buying Irish, the consumers were eating Spanish, South American, eastern European and even Chinese produced honey…
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Honey-Based Skin Care Remedies
Natural Skin Care –The Buzz from the Bees
The Open Press, 5/30/2006
Several skin care product manufacturers are now including honey as a main ingredient. Honey is nourishing for the skin, but the products on the shelves often also contain other substances that will dry the skin, defeating the purpose of using the honey. Fortunately, you can concoct honey-based remedies in your own kitchen or bathroom, and they make a great adjunct to your basic natural skin care routine.
For basic cleansing, you can make your own soap from honey, oatmeal, and bee propolis – the waxy anti-bacterial, anti-fungal substance bees use to seal and protect their hives. The honey attracts and retains moisture, the propolis protects against bacteria and fungi, and the oatmeal exfoliates. The overall effect is clean, smooth and supple skin.
After cleansing, a toner made from honey and rosewater gets rid of residual dead skin, impurities and excess oil, and restores the pH balance. You can use cotton balls to apply it, making sure they look totally clean before you stop the toning process. If you have oily skin, you may want to include a little witch hazel.
A honey facial mask, used about once a week, is also beneficial for natural skin care. First open the pores with a warm, damp cloth, smooth the honey on your face and neck, leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water. Splash you face with cold water afterwards to close the pores...
The Open Press, 5/30/2006
Several skin care product manufacturers are now including honey as a main ingredient. Honey is nourishing for the skin, but the products on the shelves often also contain other substances that will dry the skin, defeating the purpose of using the honey. Fortunately, you can concoct honey-based remedies in your own kitchen or bathroom, and they make a great adjunct to your basic natural skin care routine.
For basic cleansing, you can make your own soap from honey, oatmeal, and bee propolis – the waxy anti-bacterial, anti-fungal substance bees use to seal and protect their hives. The honey attracts and retains moisture, the propolis protects against bacteria and fungi, and the oatmeal exfoliates. The overall effect is clean, smooth and supple skin.
After cleansing, a toner made from honey and rosewater gets rid of residual dead skin, impurities and excess oil, and restores the pH balance. You can use cotton balls to apply it, making sure they look totally clean before you stop the toning process. If you have oily skin, you may want to include a little witch hazel.
A honey facial mask, used about once a week, is also beneficial for natural skin care. First open the pores with a warm, damp cloth, smooth the honey on your face and neck, leave it on for 15 to 30 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water. Splash you face with cold water afterwards to close the pores...