Indian J Med Res, 2013 Dec;138(6):1020-1
We read with interest the article by Singh and colleagues
which showed that Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium) ameliorated experimentally
induced reflux oesophagitis (RE) in rats in a dose dependent manner. This study
shows that the Ginseng offers protection against experimentally induced RE in
rats by subsiding the inflammatory responses and oxidative stress. Honey has
been used as a nutrient and a medicine since ages, and has cytoprotective
function and is also used for wound healing. This is likely to be due to its
anti-inflammatory activity and stimulation of local wound responses. Honey has
phenolic compounds and flavonoids, and has been used in chronic sinusitis6.
Antimicrobial activity of honey is due to its osmotic effect. Honey leads to
fast healing in patients with oral mucositis and is used in treating
otorhinolaryngeal infections.
Oxygen derived free radicals are likely to be mediators in
generation of RE. Honey has antioxidant and radical scavenging activity; it
reduces intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and restores
intracellular glutathione. Honey may reduce inflammation by inhibiting nitric
oxide and prostaglandin E2 production. Honey has high density, high viscosity,
and low surface tension, and therefore, can stay longer in the oesophagus as a
coating on the mucus membrane. Honey is useful in treatment of RE because of
non peroxide antibacterial activity. Honey can be used in treating reflux
oesophagitis along with conventional therapy.
Mahantayya V. Math*, Rita M. Khadkikar
& Yashoda R. Kattimani
MGM Medical College, Kamothe,
Navi Mumbai 410 209, India
*For correspondence:
mathmv@rediffmail.com
mathmv@hotmail.com
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