HELEN KEMPTON, Mercury, October 31, 2017
A NATIONAL campaign spearheaded by a honey producer in Tasmania’s North-West is gaining wings as beekeepers band together to stop New Zealand producers trademarking the word Manuka.
Manuka honey, derived from the tea tree (leptospermum) native to Tasmania, can retail for as much as $120 a jar and is deemed a health product because of its antibacterial properties.
There are five commercial Manuka honey producers in Tasmania and a number of smaller operations that provide them with the liquid gold.
In response to the trademark application in NZ, the Australian honey industry has collectively formed the Australian Manuka Honey Association to formally oppose any attempts to monopolise international naming or market rights...
Tuesday, October 31, 2017
Monday, October 30, 2017
Nutritional and Medicinal Properties of Honey
Honey - ancient, golden wonder
Sunday, October 29, 2017
HONEY is the world's oldest natural unprocessed sweetener. It's a power bank of health benefits and a key to health and wealth. If you're not taking full advantage of the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey, it's time to begin because honey is a remarkable healing agent for all sorts of ailments.
A quick search on its health benefits shows it contains flavonoids, antioxidants which help reduce the risk of some cancers and heart disease as well as reduce ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders. Honey is known for its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal properties for healing since ancient times. The Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians documented the healing properties of honey as early as Aristotle's mention of it in 384 BC. Even King Solomon said in the Bible: "My son, eat thou honey, for it is good."
Even doctors apply honey on wounds to speed up healing and diabetics use honey as their sugar replacement...
Sunday, October 29, 2017
HONEY is the world's oldest natural unprocessed sweetener. It's a power bank of health benefits and a key to health and wealth. If you're not taking full advantage of the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey, it's time to begin because honey is a remarkable healing agent for all sorts of ailments.
A quick search on its health benefits shows it contains flavonoids, antioxidants which help reduce the risk of some cancers and heart disease as well as reduce ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders. Honey is known for its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal properties for healing since ancient times. The Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians documented the healing properties of honey as early as Aristotle's mention of it in 384 BC. Even King Solomon said in the Bible: "My son, eat thou honey, for it is good."
Even doctors apply honey on wounds to speed up healing and diabetics use honey as their sugar replacement...
Sunday, October 29, 2017
Manuka Honey as Cancer-Fighting Agent
UAEU research into curative properties of Manuka honey reaches new breakthrough
The National
A UAE University team has found that Manuka honey effectively inhibits the growth of a variety of cancerous cells. Rich-Joseph Facun / The National
The beneficial health effects of high-quality honey have long been documented by researchers.
As Philip McCabe, president of the world beekeeping federation likes to say, “Honey was a medicine before medicine was even invented.”
Scholars at the United Arab Emirates University recently reached a new breakthrough in their years-long study of Manuka honey as a cancer-fighting agent.
The research team, led by Dr Basel Al-Ramadi, professor of cancer immunology at UAEU, discovered that Manuka honey — when injected as part of a medical concoction — helped combat the growth of several types of cancer cells....
The National
A UAE University team has found that Manuka honey effectively inhibits the growth of a variety of cancerous cells. Rich-Joseph Facun / The National
The beneficial health effects of high-quality honey have long been documented by researchers.
As Philip McCabe, president of the world beekeeping federation likes to say, “Honey was a medicine before medicine was even invented.”
Scholars at the United Arab Emirates University recently reached a new breakthrough in their years-long study of Manuka honey as a cancer-fighting agent.
The research team, led by Dr Basel Al-Ramadi, professor of cancer immunology at UAEU, discovered that Manuka honey — when injected as part of a medical concoction — helped combat the growth of several types of cancer cells....
Saturday, October 28, 2017
Bee Venom May Help Treat Internal Parasites
Low virulence potential and in vivo transformation ability in the honey bee venom treated Clinostomum complanatum
Exp Parasitol. 2017 Oct 22. pii: S0014-4894(17)30456-3
The helminth parasites possess great capabilities to adapt themselves within their hosts and also develop strategies to render the commonly used anthelmintics ineffective leading to the development of resistance against these drugs. Besides using anthelmintics the natural products have also been tested for their anti-parasitic effects.
Therapeutic efficacy of honey bee venom (HBV) has been tested in various ailments including some protozoal infections but very little is known about its anthelmintic properties.
To investigate the anthelmintic effect of HBV the excysted progenetic metacercariae of Clinostomum complanatum, a heamophagic, digenetic trematode with zoonotic potential, infecting a wide variety of hosts, were obtained from Trichogaster fasciatus, a forage fish, which serves as the intermediate host. The metacercarial worms were in vitro incubated in RPMI-1640 medium containing HBV along with the controls which were devoid of HBV for the analysis of worm motility, enzyme activity, polypeptide profile and surface topographical changes. The motility of the worms was significantly reduced in a time dependent manner with an increase in the concentration of HBV.
Following incubation of worms the release of cysteine proteases was inhibited in the presence of HBV as revealed by gelatine substrate gel zymography. As well as the polypeptide profile was also significantly influenced, particularly intensity/expression of Mr 19.4 kDa, 24 kDa and 34 kDa was significantly reduced upon HBV treatment. The HBV treatment also inhibited antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) significantly (p < 0.05) in the worms.
The scanning electron microscopy of the HBV treated worms revealed tegumental disruptions and erosion of papillae as well as spines showing vacuolation in the tegument. The HBV treated worms also showed a marked decline in the transformation rate when introduced into an experimental host which further reflect the anthelmintic potential of HBV.
Exp Parasitol. 2017 Oct 22. pii: S0014-4894(17)30456-3
The helminth parasites possess great capabilities to adapt themselves within their hosts and also develop strategies to render the commonly used anthelmintics ineffective leading to the development of resistance against these drugs. Besides using anthelmintics the natural products have also been tested for their anti-parasitic effects.
Therapeutic efficacy of honey bee venom (HBV) has been tested in various ailments including some protozoal infections but very little is known about its anthelmintic properties.
To investigate the anthelmintic effect of HBV the excysted progenetic metacercariae of Clinostomum complanatum, a heamophagic, digenetic trematode with zoonotic potential, infecting a wide variety of hosts, were obtained from Trichogaster fasciatus, a forage fish, which serves as the intermediate host. The metacercarial worms were in vitro incubated in RPMI-1640 medium containing HBV along with the controls which were devoid of HBV for the analysis of worm motility, enzyme activity, polypeptide profile and surface topographical changes. The motility of the worms was significantly reduced in a time dependent manner with an increase in the concentration of HBV.
Following incubation of worms the release of cysteine proteases was inhibited in the presence of HBV as revealed by gelatine substrate gel zymography. As well as the polypeptide profile was also significantly influenced, particularly intensity/expression of Mr 19.4 kDa, 24 kDa and 34 kDa was significantly reduced upon HBV treatment. The HBV treatment also inhibited antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) significantly (p < 0.05) in the worms.
The scanning electron microscopy of the HBV treated worms revealed tegumental disruptions and erosion of papillae as well as spines showing vacuolation in the tegument. The HBV treated worms also showed a marked decline in the transformation rate when introduced into an experimental host which further reflect the anthelmintic potential of HBV.
Friday, October 27, 2017
Bee Pollen, Propolis Boost Immune Response
Blood Hematological and Biochemical Constituents, Antioxidant Enzymes, Immunity and Lymphoid Organs of Broiler Chicks Supplemented with Propolis, Bee Pollen and Mannan Oligosaccharides Continuously or Intermittently
Poult Sci. 2017 Oct 10
This study investigate the effect of bee pollen (BP) and/or propolis (Pro) as an alternative to Mannan oligosaccharides (Bio-MOS, a hydrolyzed yeast with natural and artificial flavors Alltech Inc) when given continuously or intermittently on antioxidant enzymes, immunity, weight and morphology of lymphoid organs of broilers.
Thus, 324 unsexed one-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly distributed into nine treatment groups, each replicated 6 times of 6 birds per replicate. The chicks were kept in wire cages and fed the same basal diet and were submitted to the following treatments: control without supplementation (control) or supplemented with BP at 300 mg, Pro at 300 mg, BP+Pro at 300 mg each and Bio-MOS at 0.5 g/kg diet.
Each supplemented group was subdivided into two subgroups in which the additives were supplied continuously or intermittently. In the continuously supplemented groups, supplementations were given from one till 36 days of age, and in the intermittently supplemented groups, the administration was only three days before, on the day of and day after vaccination. The BP and Pro supplied continuously or intermittently was equally potent for improving immunity, antioxidant enzymes similar to Bio-MOS. All supplements supplied either continuously or intermittently resulted a significantly higher thymus (P < .04) and bursa weights (P < .001) than the control group.
Combining BP with Pro resulted in a further increase in thymus weights and small follicle diameter compared to the control group. In addition, thymus percentage in the group received BP+Pro showed a further increase compared to the control and Pro supplemented intermittently. Bio-MOS, when supplied continuously or intermittently, resulted in the greatest response in splenic lymphoblasts.
Supplementation with either BP or Pro intermittently, is adequate to promote health and immune response of broiler chicks, with 40% saving of supplementation costs.
Poult Sci. 2017 Oct 10
This study investigate the effect of bee pollen (BP) and/or propolis (Pro) as an alternative to Mannan oligosaccharides (Bio-MOS, a hydrolyzed yeast with natural and artificial flavors Alltech Inc) when given continuously or intermittently on antioxidant enzymes, immunity, weight and morphology of lymphoid organs of broilers.
Thus, 324 unsexed one-day-old Arbor Acres broilers were randomly distributed into nine treatment groups, each replicated 6 times of 6 birds per replicate. The chicks were kept in wire cages and fed the same basal diet and were submitted to the following treatments: control without supplementation (control) or supplemented with BP at 300 mg, Pro at 300 mg, BP+Pro at 300 mg each and Bio-MOS at 0.5 g/kg diet.
Each supplemented group was subdivided into two subgroups in which the additives were supplied continuously or intermittently. In the continuously supplemented groups, supplementations were given from one till 36 days of age, and in the intermittently supplemented groups, the administration was only three days before, on the day of and day after vaccination. The BP and Pro supplied continuously or intermittently was equally potent for improving immunity, antioxidant enzymes similar to Bio-MOS. All supplements supplied either continuously or intermittently resulted a significantly higher thymus (P < .04) and bursa weights (P < .001) than the control group.
Combining BP with Pro resulted in a further increase in thymus weights and small follicle diameter compared to the control group. In addition, thymus percentage in the group received BP+Pro showed a further increase compared to the control and Pro supplemented intermittently. Bio-MOS, when supplied continuously or intermittently, resulted in the greatest response in splenic lymphoblasts.
Supplementation with either BP or Pro intermittently, is adequate to promote health and immune response of broiler chicks, with 40% saving of supplementation costs.
Thursday, October 26, 2017
Ultrasound Treatment is Recommended Over Thermal Processing of Honey
Effects of ultrasound and high pressure on physicochemical properties and HMF formation in Turkish honey types
Journal of Food Engineering
Volume 219, February 2018, Pages 129-136
In industrial production, thermal processing of honey at 50 °C commonly induces liquefaction, i.e. it reduces the crystal count and viscosity and delays any subsequent crystallization. Unfortunately, thermal treatment can generate toxic 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), thereby resulting in quality reduction.
Considering this, the present work aims at evaluating the influence of (two) processing technologies as alternatives to thermal processing of honey, namely high hydrostatic pressure (HHP; P = 220–330 MPa, T = 50/60 °C, t = 23/106 min), and ultrasound processing (US; at 24 kHz). The quality parameters evaluated for honey included liquefaction time, HMF content, diastase number, colour and viscosity. The best process conditions for maximising liquefaction were found to be P = 220 MPa, T = 50 °C, t = 106 min for HHP, and a 7 mm probe with 0.5 cycles (batch) for US treatment.
US treatment is recommended over thermal processing owing to the convenience, shorter processing times, and less quality loss. Likewise, HHP treatment was shorter and with lower HMF values than thermal processing. In conclusion, ultrasound and HHP are both potential alternatives to thermal processing for liquefaction of honey crystals.
Journal of Food Engineering
Volume 219, February 2018, Pages 129-136
In industrial production, thermal processing of honey at 50 °C commonly induces liquefaction, i.e. it reduces the crystal count and viscosity and delays any subsequent crystallization. Unfortunately, thermal treatment can generate toxic 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), thereby resulting in quality reduction.
Considering this, the present work aims at evaluating the influence of (two) processing technologies as alternatives to thermal processing of honey, namely high hydrostatic pressure (HHP; P = 220–330 MPa, T = 50/60 °C, t = 23/106 min), and ultrasound processing (US; at 24 kHz). The quality parameters evaluated for honey included liquefaction time, HMF content, diastase number, colour and viscosity. The best process conditions for maximising liquefaction were found to be P = 220 MPa, T = 50 °C, t = 106 min for HHP, and a 7 mm probe with 0.5 cycles (batch) for US treatment.
US treatment is recommended over thermal processing owing to the convenience, shorter processing times, and less quality loss. Likewise, HHP treatment was shorter and with lower HMF values than thermal processing. In conclusion, ultrasound and HHP are both potential alternatives to thermal processing for liquefaction of honey crystals.
Tuesday, October 24, 2017
Propolis, Honey Component May Help Treat Parkinson's Disease
Protective role of chrysin on 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neurodegeneration a mouse model of Parkinson's disease: Involvement of neuroinflammation and neurotrophins
Chem Biol Interact. 2017 Oct 17. pii: S0009-2797(17)30601-4
Chrysin is a natural flavonoid which is found in bee propolis, honey and various plants, and neuroprotective effect of chrysin in mice was previously demonstrated by our group. Neuroinflammation, neurotrophic factors and neuronal recovery factors associated with the neuroprotective effect of this flavonoid require further investigations.
Thus, now we investigated the possible involvement of inflammatory cytokines, neurotrophic factors and neuronal recovery in the effect of chrysin in 6-hydroxidopamine (6-OHDA), a well-established model of Parkinson's disease, in striatum of mice. The 6-OHDA microinjection induced behavioral alterations on the rotarod test and apomorphine-induced circling behavior in mice. 6-OHDA administration elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-gamma, interleukin-1β, interleukin-2, interleukin-6 and nuclear factor-kappa B and decreased the interleukin-10 levels, total reactive antioxidant potential and total antioxidant reactivity in striatum, as well as, modified the calcium-binding protein B (S100B), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor levels. The intrastriatal injection of 6-OHDA also induced an decrease of dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, homovanylic acid levels and tyrosine hydroxylase content. Oral treatment with chrysin (10 mg/kg, 28 days), culminated with the prevention of these alterations occasioned by 6-OHDA.
These results corroborated with the neuroprotective effect of chrysin in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and, indicated the mechanism involved throught the inflammatory cytokines, neurotrophic factors and recovery of dopaminergic neurons in striatum.
Chem Biol Interact. 2017 Oct 17. pii: S0009-2797(17)30601-4
Chrysin is a natural flavonoid which is found in bee propolis, honey and various plants, and neuroprotective effect of chrysin in mice was previously demonstrated by our group. Neuroinflammation, neurotrophic factors and neuronal recovery factors associated with the neuroprotective effect of this flavonoid require further investigations.
Thus, now we investigated the possible involvement of inflammatory cytokines, neurotrophic factors and neuronal recovery in the effect of chrysin in 6-hydroxidopamine (6-OHDA), a well-established model of Parkinson's disease, in striatum of mice. The 6-OHDA microinjection induced behavioral alterations on the rotarod test and apomorphine-induced circling behavior in mice. 6-OHDA administration elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, interferon-gamma, interleukin-1β, interleukin-2, interleukin-6 and nuclear factor-kappa B and decreased the interleukin-10 levels, total reactive antioxidant potential and total antioxidant reactivity in striatum, as well as, modified the calcium-binding protein B (S100B), brain-derived neurotrophic factor, nerve growth factor and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor levels. The intrastriatal injection of 6-OHDA also induced an decrease of dopamine, 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, homovanylic acid levels and tyrosine hydroxylase content. Oral treatment with chrysin (10 mg/kg, 28 days), culminated with the prevention of these alterations occasioned by 6-OHDA.
These results corroborated with the neuroprotective effect of chrysin in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and, indicated the mechanism involved throught the inflammatory cytokines, neurotrophic factors and recovery of dopaminergic neurons in striatum.
Monday, October 23, 2017
Propolis Can Be Used as a Natural Additive Agent in Orange Juice or Other Fruit Juices
Preservation of orange juice using propolis
J Food Sci Technol. 2017 Oct;54(11):3375-3383
Orange juice is one of the most popular and the most consumed fruit juices all over the world, especially in Europe and the chemical food preservatives, such as sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate and their mixtures, have long been used in orange juice sold on the market. Excessive consumption of these preservatives may be hazardous to human health. Propolis, composed of resins collected from plant buds and exudates and mixed with salivary gland secretions and beeswax by honey bee workers, has been used as a human medicine and natural food preservative.
We hypothesis that propolis, without alcohol, can serve as an alternative and non-synthetic preservative of orange juice. In this study, the preservative effect of propolis emulsion on orange juice was determined up to 35 days. Propolis emulsion (0.02 g/mL propolis, 12 mL), emulsion control (12 mL containing Tween-80, hydrophilic phospholipid and polyethylene glycol 400), sodium benzoate (0.4 g) and potassium sorbate (0.4 g) was each added to 388, 388, 400 and 400 mL orange juice respectively.
Propolis emulsion showed significant inhibition of bacteria growth and l-ascorbic acid degradation. Orange juice pH value, titratable acidity, total phenolic content, color and antioxidant capacity were effectively maintained by propolis emulsion. A control solution with all the same emulsifying agents without propolis did not show these properties.
It was concluded that propolis can be used as a natural additive agent in orange juice or other fruit juices as an alternative to chemical preservatives.
J Food Sci Technol. 2017 Oct;54(11):3375-3383
Orange juice is one of the most popular and the most consumed fruit juices all over the world, especially in Europe and the chemical food preservatives, such as sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate and their mixtures, have long been used in orange juice sold on the market. Excessive consumption of these preservatives may be hazardous to human health. Propolis, composed of resins collected from plant buds and exudates and mixed with salivary gland secretions and beeswax by honey bee workers, has been used as a human medicine and natural food preservative.
We hypothesis that propolis, without alcohol, can serve as an alternative and non-synthetic preservative of orange juice. In this study, the preservative effect of propolis emulsion on orange juice was determined up to 35 days. Propolis emulsion (0.02 g/mL propolis, 12 mL), emulsion control (12 mL containing Tween-80, hydrophilic phospholipid and polyethylene glycol 400), sodium benzoate (0.4 g) and potassium sorbate (0.4 g) was each added to 388, 388, 400 and 400 mL orange juice respectively.
Propolis emulsion showed significant inhibition of bacteria growth and l-ascorbic acid degradation. Orange juice pH value, titratable acidity, total phenolic content, color and antioxidant capacity were effectively maintained by propolis emulsion. A control solution with all the same emulsifying agents without propolis did not show these properties.
It was concluded that propolis can be used as a natural additive agent in orange juice or other fruit juices as an alternative to chemical preservatives.
Sunday, October 22, 2017
Propolis, Royal Jelly, and Bee Venom May Help Treat High Blood Pressure
Anti-hypertensive and cardioprotective effects of a novel apitherapy formulation via upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α and -γ in spontaneous hypertensive rats
Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences
Available online 10 October 2017
Ventricular remodeling is associated with many heart diseases, and ventricular remodeling induced by hypertension can be fatal independent of hypertension. In this study, we prepared a novel apitherapy formulation, designated Bao-Yuan-Ling (BYL), which contained propolis, royal jelly, and bee venom, to treat spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs). We then evaluated the pharmacology of BYL and the potential mechanisms through which BYL affects hypertension and ventricular remodeling.
We found that BYL treatment could reduce blood pressure in SHRs. Thereafter, we found that BYL treatment reduced serum levels of angiotensin II, endothelin 1, and transforming growth factor-β and improved the myocardial structure. Moreover, the results of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction indicated that BYL treatment could upregulate the mRNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and PPAR-γ.
Thus, we could conclude that BYL had hypotensive and cardioprotective effects in SHRs, potentially through improvement of myocardial energy metabolism.
Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences
Available online 10 October 2017
We found that BYL treatment could reduce blood pressure in SHRs. Thereafter, we found that BYL treatment reduced serum levels of angiotensin II, endothelin 1, and transforming growth factor-β and improved the myocardial structure. Moreover, the results of quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction indicated that BYL treatment could upregulate the mRNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α and PPAR-γ.
Thus, we could conclude that BYL had hypotensive and cardioprotective effects in SHRs, potentially through improvement of myocardial energy metabolism.
Saturday, October 21, 2017
Propolis Solution Helps Treat Chronic Periodontitis
One-stage Full Mouth Disinfection Using 20% Propolis Hydroalcoholic Solution: A Clinico-microbiologic Study
Contemp Clin Dent. 2017 Jul-Sep;8(3):416-420
BACKGROUND:
Propolis is a resinous substance produced by honeybees which has many therapeutic properties because of its unique composition. It has been widely used since many years for different medicinal purposes.
AIM:
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of one-stage full mouth disinfection (OSFMD) using 20% propolis hydroalcoholic solution in chronic periodontitis patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Thirty patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis and presenting three or more nonadjacent teeth with deep pockets were selected for the study. Clinical parameters including gingival index, plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level were recorded at baseline in all the patients followed by subgingival plaque sampling. All the thirty patients were randomly allocated into two groups; 15 patients (control group) were subjected to scaling and root planning (SRP) alone, and in remaining 15 patients (test group), SRP was done followed by OSFMD using 20% propolis hydroalcoholic solution after 24 h. All the patients were kept at periodic recall, and clinical and microbiological parameters were again taken at 4 weeks and 12 weeks.
RESULTS:
There was a significant improvement for all the clinical parameters, with higher probing depth reduction and attachment gain in the test group when compared to the control group. Furthermore, the microbiological counts of the periodontopathogens were found to decrease considerably more in the test group.
CONCLUSION:
SRP followed by OSFMD with propolis extract after 24 h was more effective than SRP alone in chronic periodontitis patients.
Contemp Clin Dent. 2017 Jul-Sep;8(3):416-420
BACKGROUND:
Propolis is a resinous substance produced by honeybees which has many therapeutic properties because of its unique composition. It has been widely used since many years for different medicinal purposes.
AIM:
The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of one-stage full mouth disinfection (OSFMD) using 20% propolis hydroalcoholic solution in chronic periodontitis patients.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Thirty patients diagnosed with chronic periodontitis and presenting three or more nonadjacent teeth with deep pockets were selected for the study. Clinical parameters including gingival index, plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth, and clinical attachment level were recorded at baseline in all the patients followed by subgingival plaque sampling. All the thirty patients were randomly allocated into two groups; 15 patients (control group) were subjected to scaling and root planning (SRP) alone, and in remaining 15 patients (test group), SRP was done followed by OSFMD using 20% propolis hydroalcoholic solution after 24 h. All the patients were kept at periodic recall, and clinical and microbiological parameters were again taken at 4 weeks and 12 weeks.
RESULTS:
There was a significant improvement for all the clinical parameters, with higher probing depth reduction and attachment gain in the test group when compared to the control group. Furthermore, the microbiological counts of the periodontopathogens were found to decrease considerably more in the test group.
CONCLUSION:
SRP followed by OSFMD with propolis extract after 24 h was more effective than SRP alone in chronic periodontitis patients.
Friday, October 20, 2017
Medical-Grade Honey Dressing Use in Developing Countries
Adv Skin Wound Care. 2017 Nov;30(11):1-3
Compared with other medical honeys, SurgihoneyRO (H&R Healthcare Ltd, Southmoor, Abingdon, United Kingdom), a bioengineered medical-grade honey, delivers low concentrations of reactive oxygen to wounds over a sustained period.
This article describes how one provider, Dr Jill Brooks, has successfully used this new antimicrobial dressing in Africa and examines the potential positive impact this dressing could have on wound care in developing countries.
Compared with other medical honeys, SurgihoneyRO (H&R Healthcare Ltd, Southmoor, Abingdon, United Kingdom), a bioengineered medical-grade honey, delivers low concentrations of reactive oxygen to wounds over a sustained period.
This article describes how one provider, Dr Jill Brooks, has successfully used this new antimicrobial dressing in Africa and examines the potential positive impact this dressing could have on wound care in developing countries.
Thursday, October 19, 2017
Honey Eye Drops Reduce Symptoms of Dry Eye in Contact Lens Wearers
Treatment of contact lens related dry eye with antibacterial honey
Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2017 Oct 9. pii: S1367-0484(17)30017-6
AIM:
Contact lens induced dry eye affects approximately 50% of contact lens wearers. The aim was to assess the effects of Manuka (Leptospermum sp.) honey eye drops (Optimel, Melcare, Australia) on dry eye in contact lens wearers. The safety of the honey eye drops in contact lens wear and contact lens wearers' compliance were also evaluated.
DESIGN:
Prospective, randomised, cross over study, examiner masked, pilot treatment trial.
METHODS:
Twenty-four participants aged 20 to 55 years with contact lens related dry eye were recruited and randomised to two treatment groups; 20 completed the study. One group used Optimel eye drops twice a day for two weeks followed by conventional lubricant (Systane Ultra, Alcon) therapy for two weeks; the other group completed the treatments in the reverse order. Before and after each treatment dry eye symptomology, ocular surface inflammation, and tear quantity and quality were assessed. Participants completed a daily log detailing their usage of treatments and any issues.
RESULTS:
Dry eye symptoms improved significantly after Optimel treatment. Patients with more severe symptoms at baseline showed a greater improvement in symptoms. No significant differences were observed in the objective signs of dry eye; presumably because of the short treatment duration. Seventy-five% of contact lens wearers reported good adherence to Optimel treatment and 95% reported no issues using this product.
CONCLUSIONS:
Optimel Eye Drops reduce the symptoms of dry eye in contact lens wearers and are safe to use. A longer treatment period to assess the effect on clinical signs of dry eye is required.
Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2017 Oct 9. pii: S1367-0484(17)30017-6
AIM:
Contact lens induced dry eye affects approximately 50% of contact lens wearers. The aim was to assess the effects of Manuka (Leptospermum sp.) honey eye drops (Optimel, Melcare, Australia) on dry eye in contact lens wearers. The safety of the honey eye drops in contact lens wear and contact lens wearers' compliance were also evaluated.
DESIGN:
Prospective, randomised, cross over study, examiner masked, pilot treatment trial.
METHODS:
Twenty-four participants aged 20 to 55 years with contact lens related dry eye were recruited and randomised to two treatment groups; 20 completed the study. One group used Optimel eye drops twice a day for two weeks followed by conventional lubricant (Systane Ultra, Alcon) therapy for two weeks; the other group completed the treatments in the reverse order. Before and after each treatment dry eye symptomology, ocular surface inflammation, and tear quantity and quality were assessed. Participants completed a daily log detailing their usage of treatments and any issues.
RESULTS:
Dry eye symptoms improved significantly after Optimel treatment. Patients with more severe symptoms at baseline showed a greater improvement in symptoms. No significant differences were observed in the objective signs of dry eye; presumably because of the short treatment duration. Seventy-five% of contact lens wearers reported good adherence to Optimel treatment and 95% reported no issues using this product.
CONCLUSIONS:
Optimel Eye Drops reduce the symptoms of dry eye in contact lens wearers and are safe to use. A longer treatment period to assess the effect on clinical signs of dry eye is required.
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
New Findings on Biological Actions and Clinical Applications of Royal Jelly: A Review
J Diet Suppl. 2017 Oct 13:1-19
Royal jelly (RJ) is a natural bee product with great potential for use in medicine. The chemical composition of RJ indicates the presence of various bioactive substances including 10-hydroxydecanoic acid and 24-methylenecholesterol. In addition, a number of biological and pharmacological activities of RJ have been documented.
The aim of this study was to review the biological and medical effects of RJ. The search was conducted in articles from electronic and scientific literature databases such as Pub Med, Science Direct, Scopus, Medline, and ISI Web of Science published from 1990 to 2017 using keywords of pharmacological, biological, and clinical effects and royal jelly. Data were chosen after the primary survey of all abstracts and selected full articles. Comparison among related data was done by the authors. Literature has shown that RJ possesses many beneficial effects on biological systems. For example, the therapeutic uses of RJ have been reported in several diseases such as hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, hypertension, and cancers. It was also found to possess neurotrophic, hypotensive, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihypercholesterolemic, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Owing to the broad spectrum of biological effects and valuable clinical trials, evaluating the beneficial pharmaceutical effects of RJ in animal and human models seems to be important.
Royal jelly (RJ) is a natural bee product with great potential for use in medicine. The chemical composition of RJ indicates the presence of various bioactive substances including 10-hydroxydecanoic acid and 24-methylenecholesterol. In addition, a number of biological and pharmacological activities of RJ have been documented.
The aim of this study was to review the biological and medical effects of RJ. The search was conducted in articles from electronic and scientific literature databases such as Pub Med, Science Direct, Scopus, Medline, and ISI Web of Science published from 1990 to 2017 using keywords of pharmacological, biological, and clinical effects and royal jelly. Data were chosen after the primary survey of all abstracts and selected full articles. Comparison among related data was done by the authors. Literature has shown that RJ possesses many beneficial effects on biological systems. For example, the therapeutic uses of RJ have been reported in several diseases such as hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, hypertension, and cancers. It was also found to possess neurotrophic, hypotensive, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihypercholesterolemic, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Owing to the broad spectrum of biological effects and valuable clinical trials, evaluating the beneficial pharmaceutical effects of RJ in animal and human models seems to be important.
Tuesday, October 17, 2017
Research Project Looks at Anticancer Effect of Manuka and Strawberry Tree Honeys
Evaluation of the anticancer potential of Manuka and strawberry tree honey on a 3D model of colon cancer cells
Università Politecnica delle Marche
Italy
October 16 2017
The research project has the aim to evaluate in vitro the possible anticancer effect of two different kind of honey (Manuka and Strawberry tree honeys) in a 3D model of colon cancer cells. There should be evaluated markers of cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell proliferation, cell migration and of cell metabolism; further studies will regards the role played by oxidative stress with special focus on the molecular mechanisms involved.
Università Politecnica delle Marche
Italy
October 16 2017
The research project has the aim to evaluate in vitro the possible anticancer effect of two different kind of honey (Manuka and Strawberry tree honeys) in a 3D model of colon cancer cells. There should be evaluated markers of cytotoxicity, apoptosis, cell proliferation, cell migration and of cell metabolism; further studies will regards the role played by oxidative stress with special focus on the molecular mechanisms involved.
Monday, October 16, 2017
Lip Balm Containing Propolis Better Than Aciclovir Cream in Treating Cold Sores
Comparative Study with a Lip Balm Containing Propolis Special Extract GH 2002 0,5 % vs. Aciclovir Cream 5 % in Patients with Herpes labialis in the Papular / Erythematous stage. A Single-blind, Randomized Two-arm Study
Current Therapeutic Research
Available online 14 October 2017
Background and Objectives
This controlled single-blind trial compared the efficacy of a lip balm with propolis special extract GH 2002 at a concentration of 0.5 % in the treatment of episodes of Herpes labialis with that of aciclovir 5% cream.
Patients and Methods
Patients in the erythematous/papular stage were randomized to two groups: 189 patients were treated with propolis cream, 190 patients with aciclovir (ITT population). Application was five times daily. The primary parameter was the difference in median time to complete encrustation or epithelization of lesions. Secondary parameters were the development of typical Herpes symptoms (pain, burning and itching, tension and swelling), the global assessment of efficacy, and the safety of application.
Results
The predefined clinical situation was reached after a median of four days with propolis and after five days with aciclovir (p < 0.0001). Significant differences in favor of the study preparation were also found with all secondary parameters and symptoms. No allergic reactions, local irritations or other adverse events were observed.
Conclusions
Propolis GH 2002 extract lip balm 0.5 % was found superior in the treatment of episodes of Herpes labialis over aciclovir cream 5 % in patients in the papular/erythematous phase upon inclusion.
Current Therapeutic Research
Available online 14 October 2017
Background and Objectives
This controlled single-blind trial compared the efficacy of a lip balm with propolis special extract GH 2002 at a concentration of 0.5 % in the treatment of episodes of Herpes labialis with that of aciclovir 5% cream.
Patients and Methods
Patients in the erythematous/papular stage were randomized to two groups: 189 patients were treated with propolis cream, 190 patients with aciclovir (ITT population). Application was five times daily. The primary parameter was the difference in median time to complete encrustation or epithelization of lesions. Secondary parameters were the development of typical Herpes symptoms (pain, burning and itching, tension and swelling), the global assessment of efficacy, and the safety of application.
Results
The predefined clinical situation was reached after a median of four days with propolis and after five days with aciclovir (p < 0.0001). Significant differences in favor of the study preparation were also found with all secondary parameters and symptoms. No allergic reactions, local irritations or other adverse events were observed.
Conclusions
Propolis GH 2002 extract lip balm 0.5 % was found superior in the treatment of episodes of Herpes labialis over aciclovir cream 5 % in patients in the papular/erythematous phase upon inclusion.
Sunday, October 15, 2017
Pollen Diversity of Bee Bread Is Linked to Its Nutrient Content
Nutritional composition of honey bee food stores vary with floral composition
Oecologia, First Online: 14 October 2017
Sufficiently diverse and abundant resources are essential for generalist consumers, and form an important part of a suite of conservation strategies for pollinators. Honey bees are generalist foragers and are dependent on diverse forage to adequately meet their nutritional needs. Through analysis of stored pollen (bee bread) samples obtained from 26 honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) hives across NW-England, we quantified bee bread nutritional content and the plant species that produced these stores from pollen.
Protein was the most abundant nutrient by mass (63%), followed by carbohydrates (26%). Protein and lipid content (but not carbohydrate) contributed significantly to ordinations of floral diversity, linking dietary quality with forage composition. DNA sequencing of the ITS2 region of the nuclear ribosomal DNA gene identified pollen from 89 distinct plant genera, with each bee bread sample containing between 6 and 35 pollen types. Dominant genera included dandelion (Taraxacum), which was positively correlated with bee bread protein content, and cherry (Prunus), which was negatively correlated with the amount of protein. In addition, proportions of amino acids (e.g. histidine and valine) varied as a function of floral species composition.
These results also quantify the effects of individual plant genera on the nutrition of honey bees. We conclude that pollens of different plants act synergistically to influence host nutrition; the pollen diversity of bee bread is linked to its nutrient content. Diverse environments compensate for the loss of individual forage plants, and diversity loss may, therefore, destabilize consumer communities due to restricted access to alternative resources.
Oecologia, First Online: 14 October 2017
Sufficiently diverse and abundant resources are essential for generalist consumers, and form an important part of a suite of conservation strategies for pollinators. Honey bees are generalist foragers and are dependent on diverse forage to adequately meet their nutritional needs. Through analysis of stored pollen (bee bread) samples obtained from 26 honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) hives across NW-England, we quantified bee bread nutritional content and the plant species that produced these stores from pollen.
Protein was the most abundant nutrient by mass (63%), followed by carbohydrates (26%). Protein and lipid content (but not carbohydrate) contributed significantly to ordinations of floral diversity, linking dietary quality with forage composition. DNA sequencing of the ITS2 region of the nuclear ribosomal DNA gene identified pollen from 89 distinct plant genera, with each bee bread sample containing between 6 and 35 pollen types. Dominant genera included dandelion (Taraxacum), which was positively correlated with bee bread protein content, and cherry (Prunus), which was negatively correlated with the amount of protein. In addition, proportions of amino acids (e.g. histidine and valine) varied as a function of floral species composition.
These results also quantify the effects of individual plant genera on the nutrition of honey bees. We conclude that pollens of different plants act synergistically to influence host nutrition; the pollen diversity of bee bread is linked to its nutrient content. Diverse environments compensate for the loss of individual forage plants, and diversity loss may, therefore, destabilize consumer communities due to restricted access to alternative resources.
Saturday, October 14, 2017
VIDEO: Gerard Butler Almost Had A Fatal Overdose...Of Bee Venom
By James McClure | Oct 13, 2017
Gerard Butler is lucky to be alive after nearly suffering a fatal overdose...of bee venom. No, the Scottish actor wasn't partying too hard near an apiary when he decided to shoot up with stingers. He turned to venom to cope with the strain of working on the set of 'Geostorm,' which opens next weekend.
"I had a lot of inflammation," Butler told Seth Meyers yesterday. "I was hanging a lot on wires in this 65 pound space suit, and that's fine for a couple hours, but after five weeks, you're hurting."
So he turned to his nutritionist, who recommended taking bee venom, which supposedly has anti-inflammatory compounds that could've helped Butler battle through the gruelling shoot if it'd been injected properly. But the bee-venom dealer that he flew in wasn't very good at his job. And yes, Butler realizes how sketchy this whole situation sounds in retrospect...
Gerard Butler is lucky to be alive after nearly suffering a fatal overdose...of bee venom. No, the Scottish actor wasn't partying too hard near an apiary when he decided to shoot up with stingers. He turned to venom to cope with the strain of working on the set of 'Geostorm,' which opens next weekend.
"I had a lot of inflammation," Butler told Seth Meyers yesterday. "I was hanging a lot on wires in this 65 pound space suit, and that's fine for a couple hours, but after five weeks, you're hurting."
So he turned to his nutritionist, who recommended taking bee venom, which supposedly has anti-inflammatory compounds that could've helped Butler battle through the gruelling shoot if it'd been injected properly. But the bee-venom dealer that he flew in wasn't very good at his job. And yes, Butler realizes how sketchy this whole situation sounds in retrospect...
Friday, October 13, 2017
Beeswax Helps Treat Burns
The effect of a beeswax, olive oil and Alkanna tinctoria (L.) Tausch mixture on burn injuries: An experimental study with a control group
Complement Ther Med. 2017 Oct;34:66-73
OBJECTIVES:
This study was planned to investigate the effect of a mixture of beeswax, olive oil and A. Tinctoria (L.) Tausch on burn wounds to determine the impact on burn healing, pain during dressing changes and duration of hospital stay.
METHODS:
The study was conducted between May 2014 and August 2015 in the Burn Unit of Ataturk University Research Hospital. The sample of this experimental study consisted of 64 patients (31 experimental group and 33 control group) who met its inclusion criteria. While the specially prepared dressing material was applied to the experimental group, the control group was administered the clinic's routine dressing. The injuries were photographed before each dressing. Each picture was uploaded to a computer for measurement with ImageJ software...
When a beeswax, olive oil and A. tinctoria (L.) Tausch mixture was applied to second degree burns, this accelerated epithelization, reduced the pain experienced during dressing changes and shortened the hospital stay durations of the patients.
Complement Ther Med. 2017 Oct;34:66-73
OBJECTIVES:
This study was planned to investigate the effect of a mixture of beeswax, olive oil and A. Tinctoria (L.) Tausch on burn wounds to determine the impact on burn healing, pain during dressing changes and duration of hospital stay.
METHODS:
The study was conducted between May 2014 and August 2015 in the Burn Unit of Ataturk University Research Hospital. The sample of this experimental study consisted of 64 patients (31 experimental group and 33 control group) who met its inclusion criteria. While the specially prepared dressing material was applied to the experimental group, the control group was administered the clinic's routine dressing. The injuries were photographed before each dressing. Each picture was uploaded to a computer for measurement with ImageJ software...
When a beeswax, olive oil and A. tinctoria (L.) Tausch mixture was applied to second degree burns, this accelerated epithelization, reduced the pain experienced during dressing changes and shortened the hospital stay durations of the patients.
Thursday, October 12, 2017
Honey Helps Treat Contact Lens Induced Dry Eye
Treatment of contact lens related dry eye with antibacterial honey
Contact Lens and Anterior Eye
Available online 9 October 2017
Aim
Contact lens induced dry eye affects approximately 50% of contact lens wearers. The aim was to assess the effects of Manuka (Leptospermum sp.) honey eye drops (Optimel, Melcare, Australia) on dry eye in contact lens wearers. The safety of the honey eye drops in contact lens wear and contact lens wearers’ compliance were also evaluated.
Design
Prospective, randomised, cross over study, examiner masked, pilot treatment trial.
Methods
Twenty-four participants aged 20 to 55 years with contact lens related dry eye were recruited and randomised to two treatment groups; 20 completed the study. One group used Optimel eye drops twice a day for two weeks followed by conventional lubricant (Systane Ultra, Alcon) therapy for two weeks; the other group completed the treatments in the reverse order. Before and after each treatment dry eye symptomology, ocular surface inflammation, and tear quantity and quality were assessed. Participants completed a daily log detailing their usage of treatments and any issues.
Results
Dry eye symptoms improved significantly after Optimel treatment. Patients with more severe symptoms at baseline showed a greater improvement in symptoms. No significant differences were observed in the objective signs of dry eye; presumably because of the short treatment duration. Seventy-five% of contact lens wearers reported good adherence to Optimel treatment and 95% reported no issues using this product.
Conclusions
Optimel Eye Drops reduce the symptoms of dry eye in contact lens wearers and are safe to use. A longer treatment period to assess the effect on clinical signs of dry eye is required.
Contact Lens and Anterior Eye
Available online 9 October 2017
Contact lens induced dry eye affects approximately 50% of contact lens wearers. The aim was to assess the effects of Manuka (Leptospermum sp.) honey eye drops (Optimel, Melcare, Australia) on dry eye in contact lens wearers. The safety of the honey eye drops in contact lens wear and contact lens wearers’ compliance were also evaluated.
Design
Prospective, randomised, cross over study, examiner masked, pilot treatment trial.
Methods
Twenty-four participants aged 20 to 55 years with contact lens related dry eye were recruited and randomised to two treatment groups; 20 completed the study. One group used Optimel eye drops twice a day for two weeks followed by conventional lubricant (Systane Ultra, Alcon) therapy for two weeks; the other group completed the treatments in the reverse order. Before and after each treatment dry eye symptomology, ocular surface inflammation, and tear quantity and quality were assessed. Participants completed a daily log detailing their usage of treatments and any issues.
Results
Dry eye symptoms improved significantly after Optimel treatment. Patients with more severe symptoms at baseline showed a greater improvement in symptoms. No significant differences were observed in the objective signs of dry eye; presumably because of the short treatment duration. Seventy-five% of contact lens wearers reported good adherence to Optimel treatment and 95% reported no issues using this product.
Conclusions
Optimel Eye Drops reduce the symptoms of dry eye in contact lens wearers and are safe to use. A longer treatment period to assess the effect on clinical signs of dry eye is required.
Wednesday, October 11, 2017
Propolis May Help Cure nail Fungus
Antibiofilm activity of propolis extract on Fusarium species from onychomycosis
Future Microbiol. 2017 Oct 4
AIM:
The present study evaluated the capacity of three species of Fusarium isolated from onychomycosis to form biofilms and the antibiofilm effect of propolis extract on these biofilms.
MATERIALS & METHODS:
The biofilms and antibiofilm effects were evaluated by quantifying the colony-forming units, mitochondrial metabolic activity assays, total biomass by crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopy.
RESULTS:
Propolis extract demonstrated significant antibiofilm efficiency on Fusarium spp. isolates and reduced F. solani, F. oxysporum and F. subglutinans mature biofilms.
CONCLUSION:
Propolis extract can be an alternative topical treatment of onychomycosis caused by Fusarium spp.
Future Microbiol. 2017 Oct 4
AIM:
The present study evaluated the capacity of three species of Fusarium isolated from onychomycosis to form biofilms and the antibiofilm effect of propolis extract on these biofilms.
MATERIALS & METHODS:
The biofilms and antibiofilm effects were evaluated by quantifying the colony-forming units, mitochondrial metabolic activity assays, total biomass by crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopy.
RESULTS:
Propolis extract demonstrated significant antibiofilm efficiency on Fusarium spp. isolates and reduced F. solani, F. oxysporum and F. subglutinans mature biofilms.
CONCLUSION:
Propolis extract can be an alternative topical treatment of onychomycosis caused by Fusarium spp.
Tuesday, October 10, 2017
Propolis Boosts Immunity
Propolis supplementation attenuates the negative effects of oxidative stress induced by paraquat injection on productive performance and immune function in turkey poults
Poultry Science
Published: 05 October 2017
Paraquat (PQ) is used as a herbicide in agriculture and causes oxidative and inflammatory damage to animal tissues. The current study was conducted to investigate the positive effects of dietary propolis (PR), as a potent naturally produced antioxidant, on growth performance and immune function of turkey poults exposed to oxidative stress induced by PQ injection.
Native male turkey poults (n = 120, 49-d-old) were randomly assigned into 4 groups: poults received a basal diet with a daily subcutaneous PQ injection of 5 mg/kg BW for 7 consecutive days (PQ group), an experimental diet containing 1 g/kg PR with a daily subcutaneous PQ injection for 7 days (PR+PQ group), or received the experimental PR diet with a daily subcutaneous injection of 0.5 mL sterile saline for 7 days (PR group); while the control poults received a basal diet with a daily subcutaneous saline injection for 7 consecutive days (C group). The productive performance in the PQ group showed a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the weight gain (WG) and feed intake (FI), and impaired feed conversion ratio (FCR). Propolis supplementation in the PR+PQ group significantly ameliorated the PQ effects on WG and FCR. Turkey poults of the PQ and PR+PQ groups had a significant augmentation in the blood malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), and corticosterone levels, and in contrast, a significant reduction in the triiodothyronine (T3), when compared to the C group.
While propolis significantly reduced the MDA and corticosterone, and increased the T3 levels in the PR+PQ group compared to the PQ group. Furthermore, the dietary PR supplementation significantly limited the PQ-suppressive effects on cell- and humoral-mediated immunity and lymphocyte proliferation of turkey poults. In addition, propolis supplementation in the PR and PR+PQ groups markedly reversed the PQ-induced DNA fragmentation and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) over-expression in blood cells.
It can be concluded that PR could improve turkey immunity and performance, particularly under inflammation and oxidative stress induced by PQ exposure.
Poultry Science
Published: 05 October 2017
Paraquat (PQ) is used as a herbicide in agriculture and causes oxidative and inflammatory damage to animal tissues. The current study was conducted to investigate the positive effects of dietary propolis (PR), as a potent naturally produced antioxidant, on growth performance and immune function of turkey poults exposed to oxidative stress induced by PQ injection.
Native male turkey poults (n = 120, 49-d-old) were randomly assigned into 4 groups: poults received a basal diet with a daily subcutaneous PQ injection of 5 mg/kg BW for 7 consecutive days (PQ group), an experimental diet containing 1 g/kg PR with a daily subcutaneous PQ injection for 7 days (PR+PQ group), or received the experimental PR diet with a daily subcutaneous injection of 0.5 mL sterile saline for 7 days (PR group); while the control poults received a basal diet with a daily subcutaneous saline injection for 7 consecutive days (C group). The productive performance in the PQ group showed a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the weight gain (WG) and feed intake (FI), and impaired feed conversion ratio (FCR). Propolis supplementation in the PR+PQ group significantly ameliorated the PQ effects on WG and FCR. Turkey poults of the PQ and PR+PQ groups had a significant augmentation in the blood malondialdehyde (MDA), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), and corticosterone levels, and in contrast, a significant reduction in the triiodothyronine (T3), when compared to the C group.
While propolis significantly reduced the MDA and corticosterone, and increased the T3 levels in the PR+PQ group compared to the PQ group. Furthermore, the dietary PR supplementation significantly limited the PQ-suppressive effects on cell- and humoral-mediated immunity and lymphocyte proliferation of turkey poults. In addition, propolis supplementation in the PR and PR+PQ groups markedly reversed the PQ-induced DNA fragmentation and heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) over-expression in blood cells.
It can be concluded that PR could improve turkey immunity and performance, particularly under inflammation and oxidative stress induced by PQ exposure.
Monday, October 09, 2017
Manuka Honey May Be Effective in Treating Atopic Dermatitis Lesions
Manuka honey tested as AD treatment
Pilot study shows evidence of healing in atopic dermatitis
Dermatology Times, October 06, 2017
An open-label, pilot study has found that the topical application of manuka honey may be effective in treating atopic dermatitis lesions.
Abdullah A. Alangari M.D., the study’s lead author and an allergist at King Saud University in Saudi Arabia, says he was prompted to investigate the impact of honey after receiving anecdotal reports from patients saying they benefited from using honey to treat atopic dermatitis lesions. The study appears in a recent issue of Immunity, Inflammation and Disease.
Honey is well-recognized for its medicinal qualities and is currently being employed in wound care and as a burn treatment. Other studies have shown that it can provide antibiotic resistance to specific strains of bacteria. It's health properties are continually under study throughout the world.
In this study, investigators recruited 16 individuals (8 female, mean age 33), but two withdrew due to worsening symptoms. “We asked patients with bilateral atopic dermatitis lesions to place honey topically on one site overnight and leave the contralateral site untreated. We noted that on average the lesions treated with honey improved more than lesions that were untreated,” he said...
Sunday, October 08, 2017
Is the buzz around honey water here to stay?
Verdict, 10/6/2017
The latest addition to the list of wonder ingredients — honey — is being used for health, beauty, and even sport and as an alternative to refined sugar.
In the Venn diagram of health, beauty and sports trends, honey is firmly in the centre as a powerhouse of an ingredient.
The latest addition to the list of wonder ingredients — honey — is being used for health, beauty, and even sport and as an alternative to refined sugar.
In the Venn diagram of health, beauty and sports trends, honey is firmly in the centre as a powerhouse of an ingredient.
Saturday, October 07, 2017
Royal Jelly May Help Treat Milk Allergy
Preventive effects of royal jelly against anaphylactic response in a murine model of cow's milk allergy
Pharm Biol. 2017 Dec;55(1):2145-2152
CONTEXT:
Royal jelly (RJ) has long been used to promote human health.
OBJECTIVE:
The current study investigated the preventive effects of RJ against the development of a systemic and intestinal immune response in mice allergic to cow's milk proteins.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Balb/c mice treated orally for seven days with RJ at doses of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 g/kg were sensitized intraperitoneally with β-lactoglobulin (β-Lg). Serum IgG and IgE anti-β-Lg were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Plasma histamine levels, symptom scores and body temperature were determined after in vivo challenge to β-Lg. Jejunums were used for assessment of local anaphylactic responses by an ex vivo study in Ussing chambers and morphologic changes by histological analysis.
RESULTS:
RJ significantly decreased serum IgG (31.15-43.78%) and IgE (64.28-66.6%) anti-β-Lg and effectively reduced plasma histamine level (66.62-67.36%) (p < 0.001) at all the doses tested. Additionally, no clinical symptoms or body temperature drops were observed in RJ-pretreated mice. Interestingly, RJ significantly reduced (p < 0.001) intestinal dysfunction by abolishing the secretory response (70.73-72.23%) induced by sensitization and prevented length aberrations of jejunal villi by 44.32-59.01% (p < 0.001).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS:
We speculate that using RJ may help prevent systemic and anaphylactic response in allergic mice. These effects may be related to its inhibitory effects on the degranulation of mast cells.
Pharm Biol. 2017 Dec;55(1):2145-2152
CONTEXT:
Royal jelly (RJ) has long been used to promote human health.
OBJECTIVE:
The current study investigated the preventive effects of RJ against the development of a systemic and intestinal immune response in mice allergic to cow's milk proteins.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Balb/c mice treated orally for seven days with RJ at doses of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 g/kg were sensitized intraperitoneally with β-lactoglobulin (β-Lg). Serum IgG and IgE anti-β-Lg were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Plasma histamine levels, symptom scores and body temperature were determined after in vivo challenge to β-Lg. Jejunums were used for assessment of local anaphylactic responses by an ex vivo study in Ussing chambers and morphologic changes by histological analysis.
RESULTS:
RJ significantly decreased serum IgG (31.15-43.78%) and IgE (64.28-66.6%) anti-β-Lg and effectively reduced plasma histamine level (66.62-67.36%) (p < 0.001) at all the doses tested. Additionally, no clinical symptoms or body temperature drops were observed in RJ-pretreated mice. Interestingly, RJ significantly reduced (p < 0.001) intestinal dysfunction by abolishing the secretory response (70.73-72.23%) induced by sensitization and prevented length aberrations of jejunal villi by 44.32-59.01% (p < 0.001).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS:
We speculate that using RJ may help prevent systemic and anaphylactic response in allergic mice. These effects may be related to its inhibitory effects on the degranulation of mast cells.
Friday, October 06, 2017
Honey Better than Phenytoin for Healing Episiotomy Wounds
Comparison of honey and phenytoin (PHT) cream effects on intensity of pain and episiotomy wound healing in nulliparous women
J Complement Integr Med. 2017 Oct 5
Background
This study investigates and compares the effect of phenytoin and honey cream on intensity of pain and episiotomy wound healing in nulliparous women.
Methods
This research was conducted by double-blinded randomized clinical trial method on 120 nulliparous women in three groups of phenytoin, honey and placebo. After delivery and episiotomy, mothers used a knuckle of the prescribed creams on their episiotomy area, every night until 10-night. Evaluation of wound healing using REEDA scale and pain intensity with numerical rating scale of pain took place within the first 24 h and after 7 and 14 days of delivery.
Results
Results showed significant differences between healing scores of the three groups for the seventh day after delivery. Healing score in the honey group was lower than that in placebo group. On the fourteenth day after delivery, the healing scores showed no significant differences between the three groups. Measuring pain intensity did not show any significant difference in the three groups after 7 and 14 days of delivery.
Conclusions
Both honey and phenytoin led to episiotomy wound healing; however, honey caused the wound healing better than the phenytoin. Honey and phenytoin did not reduce episiotomy pain.
J Complement Integr Med. 2017 Oct 5
Background
This study investigates and compares the effect of phenytoin and honey cream on intensity of pain and episiotomy wound healing in nulliparous women.
Methods
This research was conducted by double-blinded randomized clinical trial method on 120 nulliparous women in three groups of phenytoin, honey and placebo. After delivery and episiotomy, mothers used a knuckle of the prescribed creams on their episiotomy area, every night until 10-night. Evaluation of wound healing using REEDA scale and pain intensity with numerical rating scale of pain took place within the first 24 h and after 7 and 14 days of delivery.
Results
Results showed significant differences between healing scores of the three groups for the seventh day after delivery. Healing score in the honey group was lower than that in placebo group. On the fourteenth day after delivery, the healing scores showed no significant differences between the three groups. Measuring pain intensity did not show any significant difference in the three groups after 7 and 14 days of delivery.
Conclusions
Both honey and phenytoin led to episiotomy wound healing; however, honey caused the wound healing better than the phenytoin. Honey and phenytoin did not reduce episiotomy pain.
Thursday, October 05, 2017
Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA) and Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) Isolates Sensitive to Honey
Antimicrobial Activity of Honey with Special Reference to Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA)
J Clin Diagn Res. 2017 Aug;11(8):DC05-DC08
INTRODUCTION:
Antimicrobial agents are essentially important in reducing the global burden of infectious diseases. With the irrational and excessive use of antibiotics in underdeveloped and developing countries, there may be chances to develop and spread resistant pathogens in the community. As a result, the effectiveness of the antibiotics is diminishing. Therefore, the need for novel alternative antimicrobial strategies has renewed interest in natural products like turmeric, honey, ginger and others exhibiting antibacterial properties. This situation has led to a re-evaluation of the therapeutic use of ancient remedies like honey as no other studies are available in the state of Andhra Pradesh with the locally available honey.
AIM:
To find out the efficacy of antibacterial activity of locally available honey against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA) and Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) isolates.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A prospective study on the antibacterial activity of Bharat multi floral pasteurised honey which was locally available in the state of Andhra Pradesh, further it was conducted and evaluated against the bacterial strains of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Their antibacterial sensitivity pattern was tested using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion susceptibility testing technique of CLSI along with other commonly used antimicrobials.
RESULTS:
Both MRSA and MSSA isolates were sensitive to honey. But MRSA were resistant to all antimicrobials tested except linezolid where as MSSA were sensitive to all except penicillin.
CONCLUSION:
It is definitely worthy to consider honey as a promising future antimicrobial to be tested and studied. Honey, may be elaborately used in future with some more molecular studies on its method of action as an antimicrobial agent.
J Clin Diagn Res. 2017 Aug;11(8):DC05-DC08
INTRODUCTION:
Antimicrobial agents are essentially important in reducing the global burden of infectious diseases. With the irrational and excessive use of antibiotics in underdeveloped and developing countries, there may be chances to develop and spread resistant pathogens in the community. As a result, the effectiveness of the antibiotics is diminishing. Therefore, the need for novel alternative antimicrobial strategies has renewed interest in natural products like turmeric, honey, ginger and others exhibiting antibacterial properties. This situation has led to a re-evaluation of the therapeutic use of ancient remedies like honey as no other studies are available in the state of Andhra Pradesh with the locally available honey.
AIM:
To find out the efficacy of antibacterial activity of locally available honey against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcusaureus (MRSA) and Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) isolates.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A prospective study on the antibacterial activity of Bharat multi floral pasteurised honey which was locally available in the state of Andhra Pradesh, further it was conducted and evaluated against the bacterial strains of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. Their antibacterial sensitivity pattern was tested using Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion susceptibility testing technique of CLSI along with other commonly used antimicrobials.
RESULTS:
Both MRSA and MSSA isolates were sensitive to honey. But MRSA were resistant to all antimicrobials tested except linezolid where as MSSA were sensitive to all except penicillin.
CONCLUSION:
It is definitely worthy to consider honey as a promising future antimicrobial to be tested and studied. Honey, may be elaborately used in future with some more molecular studies on its method of action as an antimicrobial agent.
Wednesday, October 04, 2017
Evaluation of bioactive compounds potential and antioxidant activity of brown, green and red propolis from Brazilian northeast region
Food Res Int. 2017 Nov;101:129-138
The aim of the present study was to determine the contents of bioactive compounds present in brown, green and red species of propolis cultivated in the Brazilian northeast states of Alagoas and Sergipe. The contents of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS+, FRAP, ORAC) were determined. Identification and quantification of phenolic and flavonoid compounds were performed by using UHPLC-QqQ-MS/MS system. The results revealed high contents of total phenolics and flavonoids. Among the three species, the antioxidant potential had higher capacity in the red propolis. The presence of some of bioactive compounds viz. acacetin, artepellin C, eriodictyol, gallic acid, isorhamnetin, protocatechuic acid, vanillin and vanillic acid in Brazilian red propolis is reported for the first time in this work. Positive correlation between total phenolics versus the FRAP and ORAC methods was established which led to conclusion that antioxidant activity of propolis is mainly due to its phenolic compounds.
Tuesday, October 03, 2017
Propolis Component May Help Treat Oral Cancer
Apoptosis induced by caffeic acid phenethyl ester in human oral cancer cell lines: Involvement of Puma and Bax activation
Arch Oral Biol. 2017 Sep 25;84:94-99
OBJECTIVE:
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a natural honeybee product exhibits a spectrum of biological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor actions. The purpose of this research was to investigate the anticancer potential of CAPE and its molecular mechanism in human oral cancer cell lines (YD15, HSC-4 and HN22 cells).
DESIGN:
To determine the apoptotic activity of CAPE and identify its molecular targets, trypan blue exclusion assay, soft agar assay, Western blot analysis, DAPI staining, and live/dead assay were performed.
RESULTS:
CAPE significantly suppressed transformation of neoplastic cells induced by epidermal growth factor (EGF) and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) without inhibiting growth. CAPE treatment inhibited cell growth, increased the cleavages of caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), and augmented the number of fragmented nuclei in human oral cancer cell lines. CAPE activated Bax protein causing it to undergo a conformational change, translocate to the mitochondrial outer membrane, and oligomere. CAPE also significantly increased Puma expression and interestingly Puma and Bax were co-localized.
CONCLUSION:
Overall, these results suggest that CAPE is a potent apoptosis-inducing agent in human oral cancer cell lines. Its action is accompanied by up-regulation of Bax and Puma proteins.
Arch Oral Biol. 2017 Sep 25;84:94-99
OBJECTIVE:
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), a natural honeybee product exhibits a spectrum of biological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antitumor actions. The purpose of this research was to investigate the anticancer potential of CAPE and its molecular mechanism in human oral cancer cell lines (YD15, HSC-4 and HN22 cells).
DESIGN:
To determine the apoptotic activity of CAPE and identify its molecular targets, trypan blue exclusion assay, soft agar assay, Western blot analysis, DAPI staining, and live/dead assay were performed.
RESULTS:
CAPE significantly suppressed transformation of neoplastic cells induced by epidermal growth factor (EGF) and 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) without inhibiting growth. CAPE treatment inhibited cell growth, increased the cleavages of caspase-3 and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP), and augmented the number of fragmented nuclei in human oral cancer cell lines. CAPE activated Bax protein causing it to undergo a conformational change, translocate to the mitochondrial outer membrane, and oligomere. CAPE also significantly increased Puma expression and interestingly Puma and Bax were co-localized.
CONCLUSION:
Overall, these results suggest that CAPE is a potent apoptosis-inducing agent in human oral cancer cell lines. Its action is accompanied by up-regulation of Bax and Puma proteins.
Monday, October 02, 2017
Royal Jelly Slows Rate of Muscle Strength Decrease in the Elderly
Effects of protease-treated royal jelly on muscle strength in elderly nursing home residents: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-response study
Sci Rep. 2017 Sep 12;7(1):11416
Although we have found that protease-treated royal jelly (pRJ) benefit for the skeletal muscle mass and strength in the aged animals, the potential beneficial effects have not been evaluated in humans.
The aim of this study was to determine whether pRJ intake had beneficial effects on muscle strength in elderly nursing home residents. One hundred and ninety-four subjects enrolled into this multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Subjects received either placebo(Group 1), pRJ 1.2 g/d(Group 2), or 4.8 g/d(Group 3). Data through 1 year are reported for 163 subjects.
The primary outcome measure is handgrip strength. Secondary outcomes include several physical performance tests (six-minute walk test, timed up and go test, and standing on one leg with eyes closed). The dropout rate was 16.0%. The means (95% confidence interval) of change in handgrip strength for placebo, low-dose, and high-dose groups are -0.98(-2.04,0.08), 0.50(-0.65,1.65) and 1.03(-0.37,2.44) kg (P = 0.06, P for trend = 0.02), respectively. No significant effects of the interventions were observed for physical performances.
These findings suggest that pRJ treatment might not improve, but rather attenuate the progression of decrease in muscle strength in elderly people. In addition, we have not found that pRJ intervention can achieve improvement or attenuating the decrease in physical performance.
Sci Rep. 2017 Sep 12;7(1):11416
Although we have found that protease-treated royal jelly (pRJ) benefit for the skeletal muscle mass and strength in the aged animals, the potential beneficial effects have not been evaluated in humans.
The aim of this study was to determine whether pRJ intake had beneficial effects on muscle strength in elderly nursing home residents. One hundred and ninety-four subjects enrolled into this multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Subjects received either placebo(Group 1), pRJ 1.2 g/d(Group 2), or 4.8 g/d(Group 3). Data through 1 year are reported for 163 subjects.
The primary outcome measure is handgrip strength. Secondary outcomes include several physical performance tests (six-minute walk test, timed up and go test, and standing on one leg with eyes closed). The dropout rate was 16.0%. The means (95% confidence interval) of change in handgrip strength for placebo, low-dose, and high-dose groups are -0.98(-2.04,0.08), 0.50(-0.65,1.65) and 1.03(-0.37,2.44) kg (P = 0.06, P for trend = 0.02), respectively. No significant effects of the interventions were observed for physical performances.
These findings suggest that pRJ treatment might not improve, but rather attenuate the progression of decrease in muscle strength in elderly people. In addition, we have not found that pRJ intervention can achieve improvement or attenuating the decrease in physical performance.
Sunday, October 01, 2017
Magnolia Berry (Five-Flavor-Fruit) Bee Pollen May Protect Liver, Kidneys From Damage
Protective effect of Schisandra chinensis bee pollen extract on liver and kidney injury induced by cisplatin in rats
Biomed Pharmacother. 2017 Sep 25;95:1765-1776
Cisplatin (CP) has been used to cure numerous forms of cancers effectively in clinics, however, it could induce some toxic effects. Bee pollen is a natural compound, produced by honey bees. It is obtained from collected flower pollen and nectar, mixed with bee saliva.
Bee pollen produced from Schisandra chinensis plants is described to exert potent antioxidant effects and to be a free radical scavenger. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of therapeutic treatment with Schisandra chinensis bee pollen extract (SCBPE) on liver and kidney injury induced by CP. The rats were intragastrically administrated with different doses of SCBPE (400mg/kg/day, 800mg/kg/day, 1200mg/kg/day) and vitamin C (400mg/kg/day, positive control group) for 12days, and the liver and kidney injury models were established by single intraperitoneal injection of CP (8mg/kg) at seventh day.
The effect of SCBPE on CP toxicity was evaluated by measuring markers of liver and kidney injury in serum, levels of lipid peroxidation and antioxidants in liver and kidney, observing pathological changes of tissue, and quantified expression of NFκB, IL-1β, IL-6, cytochrome C, caspase3, caspase9, p53 and Bax in liver and kidney. Compared with the model group, the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and the content of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) in serum all decreased in SCBPE high dose group.
Meanwhile, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) in liver and kidney increased, and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) decreased. In addition, the histopathologic aspects showed that the pathological changes of liver and kidney were found in the model group, and SCBPE group reduced to varying degrees. Moreover, the expression of NFκB, IL-1β, IL-6, cytochrome C, caspase3, caspase9, p53 and Bax in liver and kidney decreased.
Therefore, SCBPE could reduce the damage of liver and kidney caused by CP by reducing the level of oxidative stress, and improving the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic capacity of the body.
Biomed Pharmacother. 2017 Sep 25;95:1765-1776
Cisplatin (CP) has been used to cure numerous forms of cancers effectively in clinics, however, it could induce some toxic effects. Bee pollen is a natural compound, produced by honey bees. It is obtained from collected flower pollen and nectar, mixed with bee saliva.
Bee pollen produced from Schisandra chinensis plants is described to exert potent antioxidant effects and to be a free radical scavenger. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of therapeutic treatment with Schisandra chinensis bee pollen extract (SCBPE) on liver and kidney injury induced by CP. The rats were intragastrically administrated with different doses of SCBPE (400mg/kg/day, 800mg/kg/day, 1200mg/kg/day) and vitamin C (400mg/kg/day, positive control group) for 12days, and the liver and kidney injury models were established by single intraperitoneal injection of CP (8mg/kg) at seventh day.
The effect of SCBPE on CP toxicity was evaluated by measuring markers of liver and kidney injury in serum, levels of lipid peroxidation and antioxidants in liver and kidney, observing pathological changes of tissue, and quantified expression of NFκB, IL-1β, IL-6, cytochrome C, caspase3, caspase9, p53 and Bax in liver and kidney. Compared with the model group, the activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and the content of blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) in serum all decreased in SCBPE high dose group.
Meanwhile, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and the content of reduced glutathione (GSH) in liver and kidney increased, and the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) decreased. In addition, the histopathologic aspects showed that the pathological changes of liver and kidney were found in the model group, and SCBPE group reduced to varying degrees. Moreover, the expression of NFκB, IL-1β, IL-6, cytochrome C, caspase3, caspase9, p53 and Bax in liver and kidney decreased.
Therefore, SCBPE could reduce the damage of liver and kidney caused by CP by reducing the level of oxidative stress, and improving the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic capacity of the body.