herbals

[radeck]

I got my hands on some "Cordyceps". When I first opened the pack, something smelt very familiar. NOW i have realized that the capsules smell like chocolate cake mix!

Do you have a plan as to what you're going to do with it?

Also, have we settled on whether Cordyceps=Mycelia sterilia=Fingolimod?

Radeck

[radeck]

Has anybody bought from this source?

<shortened url>

[CureOrBust]

Has anybody bought from this source?
<shortened url>

I remember I found this "source" as well. The interesting thing with this source is that its actually FTY720, and not just Cordycreps; which does not have any true FTY720 chemical in it.

Two problems / issues with this source are that its not for human consumption, and the price is very inhibitive. In a previous study (at the time I found it) they used a 5mg/day dose (now not thought to be the optimal dose), so from these guys it would be $126 / day (if you bought it in the 5mg doses). Not to mention you would have no medical supervision.

[radeck]

OK, this is interesting. I did some more research and think that Cordyzeps is a group of fungii (i.e. the group that grows from dead insects), but there are many. The higher up in the Himalaya's you go the more expensive they apparently get. They're used in Chinese medicine, and I think people usually have the opinion that things are best if consumed in tea form. Obviously Novartis should get the money they invested into researching this back, however I just think it would be wonderful if one could discover an alternative way of getting to this for those who don't have health insurance. Over $100/day sounds prohibitive for most such individuals, but perhaps the needed dose is smaller?

[gibbledygook]

I have for the last few days been trying to measure as objectively as possible my responses to horsechestnut, butcher's broom, quercetin, ginkgo and salvia. There is a log in my regimen section. So far the best walking has been done on 600mg horsechestnut, 600mg hesperidin and 333mg of quercetin AND that was after a night of 3/4 bottle of red wine. So maybe the horsechestnut is a viable treatment...however I still have to test the ginkgo/salvia/quercetin alone and in different doses....

I was definitely taking way too much of salvia/ginkgo before christmas. So previous assessments of horsechestnut may have been very wide of the mark.

A recent test of 1.2mg horsechestnut, 500mg butcher's broom, 600mg hesperidin and 333mg of quercetin left me with very poor walking. After a few weeks now on either butcher's broom or horsechestnut a pain in my left foot that disappeared towards the end of last year under heavy salvia/gingko doses has now reappeared. So maybe this herb isn't so useful after all...

[gibbledygook]

I've become quite interested in this herb.

1: J Pharm Pharmacol. 1988 Jul;40(7):501-2.Links
Effects of an extract of feverfew on endothelial cell integrity and on cAMP in rabbit perfused aorta.Voyno-Yasenetskaya TA, Loesche W, Groenewegen WA, Heptinstall S, Repin VS, Till U.
Institute of Experimental Cardiology, USSR Cardiology Research Centre, Moscow.

Extracts of feverfew inhibit platelet aggregation and secretion of granular contents from platelets and other cells. They also modify the interaction of platelets with collagen substrates: feverfew extracts inhibit both platelet spreading and formation of thrombus-like platelet aggregates on the collagen surface. We have now investigated the effect of an extract of feverfew on the vessel wall using rabbit aortas that were perfused with a physiological salt solution in-situ. Addition of feverfew extract to the perfusion medium protected the endothelial cell monolayer from perfusion-induced injury and led to a reversible increase in the cAMP content of aorta segments. The results indicate that feverfew may have a vasoprotective effect in addition to its effects on platelets.

PMID: 2904991 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE

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1: Folia Haematol Int Mag Klin Morphol Blutforsch. 1988;115(1-2):181-4.Links
Feverfew--an antithrombotic drug?Loesche W, Mazurov AV, Voyno-Yasenetskaya TA, Groenewegen WA, Heptinstall S, Repin VS.
Institute of Pathological Biochemistry, Medical Academy of Erfurt, GDR.

The effects of an extract of the plant feverfew on the interaction of platelets with surfaces coated with human collagens of type III and IV (CIII, CIV), and on the integrity of the endothelial cell (EC) monolayer in perfused rabbit aorta were studied. It was shown that feverfew extract (FE) inhibited the deposition of [51Cr]-labelled platelets on both CIII and CIV in a dose-dependent way. Similar concentrations of FE were needed to inhibit formation of surface-bound aggregates in CIII and platelet spreading on CIV in both platelet-rich plasma and GFP. When aorta segments were perfused in situ with a physiological salt solution, the addition of FE to the solution protected the EC monolayer from spontaneous injury. The results indicate that feverfew may have antithrombotic potential in addition to its claimed benefit in fever, migraine and arthritis.

PMID: 2459017 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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1: J Pharm Pharmacol. 1987 Jun;39(6):466-70.Links
The activity of compounds extracted from feverfew on histamine release from rat mast cells.Hayes NA, Foreman JC.
An extract of the plant feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) produces a dose-dependent inhibition of histamine release from rat peritoneal mast cells stimulated with anti-IgE or the calcium ionophore A23187. Greater inhibition of anti-IgE-induced histamine release was achieved with feverfew compared with the inhibition of A23187-induced release. Inhibition of anti-IgE-induced histamine release by feverfew extract was observed when the drug was added simultaneously with anti-IgE and the inhibitory activity increased only slightly when the drug was preincubated with the cells for 5 min before anti-IgE stimulation. In this respect feverfew differs from cromoglycate and quercetin. Feverfew extract inhibited anti-IgE-induced histamine release to the same extent in the absence and presence of extracellular glucose. It is concluded that feverfew extract contains a novel type of mast cell inhibitor.

PMID: 2441022 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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mmm:

1: J Pharm Pharmacol. 1992 Sep;44(9):737-40.Links
Feverfew extracts and parthenolide irreversibly inhibit vascular responses of the rabbit aorta.Barsby RW, Salan U, Knight DW, Hoult JR.
Pharmacology Group, King's College London, UK.

Samples prepared from chloroform extracts of fresh leaves of feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) strongly inhibited responses of rabbit aortic rings to phenylephrine, 5-hydroxytryptamine, thromboxane mimetic U46619 (9,11-dideoxy-11 alpha,9 alpha-epoxy-methano-PGF2 alpha), and angiotensin II, but the inhibition to contractions induced by potassium depolarization was much less. The inhibition was concentration- and time-dependent, non-competitive, and irreversible, and also occurred in endothelium-denuded preparations. The feverfew extracts also caused a progressive loss of tone of pre-contracted aortic rings and appeared to impair the ability of acetylcholine to induce endothelium-dependent relaxations of the tissue. These effects were mimicked by a purified preparation of an alpha-methylenebutyrolactone, parthenolide, obtained from the extract. Our results demonstrate a nonspecific and potentially toxic response to feverfew on the vasculature.

PMID: 1360525 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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1: Biochem Pharmacol. 1992 Jun 9;43(11):2313-20. Links
Inhibition of 5-lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase in leukocytes by feverfew. Involvement of sesquiterpene lactones and other components.Sumner H, Salan U, Knight DW, Hoult JR.
Pharmacology Group, King's College London, U.K.

Leaves or infusions of feverfew, Tanacetum parthenium, have long been used as a folk remedy for fever, arthritis and migraine, and derived products are widely available in U.K. health food shops. Previous reports have suggested interactions with arachidonate metabolism. Crude chloroform extracts of fresh feverfew leaves (rich in sesquiterpene lactones) and of commercially available powdered leaves (lactone-free) produced dose-dependent inhibition of the generation of thromboxane B2 (TXB2) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4) by ionophore- and chemoattractant-stimulated rat peritoneal leukocytes and human polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Approximate IC50 values were in the range 5-50 micrograms/mL, and inhibition of TXB2 and LTB4 occurred in parallel. Isolated lactones (parthenolide, epoxyartemorin) treated with cysteine (to neutralize reactive alpha-methylene butyrolactone functions of the sesquiterpenes). Inhibition of eicosanoid generation appeared to be irreversible but not time-dependent. We conclude that feverfew contains a complex mixture of sesquiterpene lactone and non-sesquiterpene lactone inhibitors of eicosanoid synthesis of high potency, and that these biochemical actions may be relevant to the claimed therapeutic actions of the herb.

PMID: 1319159 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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1: Inflammopharmacology. 2009 Feb;17(1):42-9.Links
Anti-inflammatory activity of parthenolide-depleted Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium).Sur R, Martin K, Liebel F, Lyte P, Shapiro S, Southall M.
Preclinical Pharmacology, Johnson and Johnson Skin Research Center, CPPW, a unit of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc., Skillman, NJ 08558, USA.

Extracts of Tanacetum parthenium (L.) Sch. Bip., a plant known under the common name "Feverfew", contains the sesquiterpene lactone parthenolide, a potent skin sensitizer. To eliminate the risk of skin sensitization from Feverfew, we developed a parthenolide-depleted extract of Feverfew (PD-Feverfew) and determined its effectiveness as an anti-inflammatory agent. We confirmed that PD-Feverfew was sufficiently depleted of parthenolide since PD-Feverfew did not inhibit TNF-alpha induced-NF-kappaB activity unlike parthenolide containing whole Feverfew. PD-Feverfew directly inhibited the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes 5-lipoxygenase, phosphodiesterase-3 and phosphodiesterase-4. PD-Feverfew inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory mediators nitric oxide, PGE(2) and TNF-alpha from macrophages and TNF-alpha, IL-2, IFN-gamma and IL-4 from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Additionally, PD-Feverfew inhibited TPA-induced release of PGE(2) from human skin equivalents. In vivo, PD-Feverfew inhibited oxazolone-induced dermatitis, and was more potent than whole Feverfew in reducing TPA-induced dermatitis. Finally the efficacy of PD-Feverfew was confirmed clinically by a reduction in erythema in a methyl nicotinate-induced vasodilation model. In conclusion, our results indicate that PD-Feverfew extracts have potent anti-inflammatory activity suggesting that this botanical would be efficacious in relieving inflammation without inducing immune sensitization.

PMID: 19112586 [PubMed - in process]

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1: Pharmacol Rep. 2007 Mar-Apr;59(2):233-7. Links
Antiproliferative activity of parthenolide against three human cancer cell lines and human umbilical vein endothelial cells.Parada-Turska J, Paduch R, Majdan M, Kandefer-Szerszeń M, Rzeski W.
Department of Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Medical University, Jaczewskiego 8, PL 20-090 Lublin, Poland. jolanta.turska@am.lublin.pl

Parthenolide is a major sesquiterpene lactone derived from feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) with known anti-inflammatory activity. Moreover, the anticancer potential of this compound was suggested. In this study, we determined the effect of parthenolide on proliferation of three human cancer cell lines: human lung carcinoma (A549), human medulloblastoma (TE671), human colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro. Cell proliferation was assessed by means of 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The IC(50) value (the concentration of drug necessary to induce 50% inhibition) together with confidence limits was calculated. Parthenolide inhibited proliferation of all three types of cancer cells (A549, TE671, HT-29) and HUVEC with the following IC(50) values (in muM): 4.3, 6.5, 7.0 and 2.8, respectively. Thus, the antiproliferative potential of parthenolide was confirmed.

PMID: 17556802 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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1: Clin Drug Investig. 2006;26(5):287-96.Links
Tanacetum parthenium and Salix alba (Mig-RL) combination in migraine prophylaxis: a prospective, open-label study.Shrivastava R, Pechadre JC, John GW.
Naturveda - Vitro-Bio Research Institute, ZAC de Lavaur, Issoire, France.

BACKGROUND: Tanacetum parthenium (feverfew) has been used traditionally to treat migraine, and although its mechanism of action is not fully understood, serotonin 5-HT receptor blocking effects have been suggested. T. parthenium and Salix alba (white willow) either alone or in combination (Mig-RL) were recently shown to inhibit binding to 5-HT(2A/2C) receptors; T. parthenium failed to recognise 5-HT(1D) receptors, whereas S. alba or the combination did. It was hypothesised that S. alba in combination with T. parthenium may provide superior migraine prophylactic activity compared with T. parthenium alone. METHODS: A prospective, open-label study was performed in 12 patients diagnosed with migraine without aura. Twelve weeks' treatment with T. parthenium 300 mg plus S. alba 300 mg (Mig-RL) twice daily was administered to determine the effects of therapy on migraine attack frequency (primary efficacy criterion), intensity and duration (secondary efficacy criteria), and quality of life, together with tolerability for patients. RESULTS: Attack frequency was reduced by 57.2% at 6 weeks (p < 0.029) and by 61.7% at 12 weeks (p < 0.025) in nine of ten patients, with 70% patients having a reduction of at least 50%. Attack intensity was reduced by 38.7% at 6 weeks (p < 0.005) and by 62.6% at 12 weeks (p < 0.004) in ten of ten patients, with 70% of patients having a reduction of at least 50%. Attack duration decreased by 67.2% at 6 weeks (p < 0.001) and by 76.2% at 12 weeks (p < 0.001) in ten of ten patients. Two patients were excluded for reasons unrelated to treatment. Self-assessed general health, physical performance, memory and anxiety also improved by the end of the study. Mig-RL treatment was well tolerated and no adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION: The remarkable efficacy of Mig-RL in not only reducing the frequency of migraine attacks but also their pain intensity and duration in this trial warrants further investigation of this therapy in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled investigation involving a larger patient population.

PMID: 17163262 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE

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[jimmylegs]

an interesting beastie for sure.
i haven't looked for any references to support the following BUT:

Feverfew contains high amounts of the minerals iron, niacin, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and selenium. It also contains smaller levels of the minerals silicon, sodium and zinc. Feverfew also contains the Vitamins A and C. Parthenolide is the active ingredient in Feverfew and helps red blood cells [RBC's] to move through the smaller blood vessels in the head to maintain proper circulation and fluid balance. Feverfew contains properties that work with the body to regulate normal body function.

[gibbledygook]

Hi Jimmylegs!

Wow, you are quick on the chemical breakdowns! The blood flow properties induced allegedly by feverfew look good. Anything which makes the blood thin like omega 3, aspirin, feverfew are next on my list of herbs to try. In fact I've been taking omega 3 all along without noticing much so aspirin and feverfew are next!

[jimmylegs]

heya GG i just google. found this too, googling parthenolides:

"feverfew works for about two-thirds of those who use it consistently. My sister-in-law's experience is typical. Before she tried feverfew, she averaged about one migraine a week and spent about $200 a year trying to counteract the pain. If we assume that the estimated 25 million Americans who suffer from migraines on a regular basis spend in the same way that my sister-in-law did, that would be an incredible $5 billion a year for migraine medication. I don't think the purveyors of modern pharmaceuticals would be pleased to see feverfew replace the many profitable drugs that are now prescribed for treating migraine. That's partly why I'm so interested in promoting this herbal alternative. I'm not the only one. Studies published in the British Medical Journal agree that taking feverfew regularly prevents migraine attacks. And according to the Harvard Medical School Health Letter "Eating feverfew leaves has become a popular method for preventing migraine attacks in England. Some people for whom conventional treatments for migraine have not worked have turned to feverfew with good results." It's nice to know that I'm in such good company on this one. People who use feverfew often use fresh leaves, typically ingesting one to four leaves a day to prevent migraines. If you have access to the fresh herb, you might try this approach, but don't expect the leaves to taste good. And some 10 to 18 percent of the people who use fresh feverfew develop mouth sores and/or inflammation of the mouth and tongue. The good news is that you don't have to eat the leaves to get the full benefits of this herb. You may be able to avoid the side effects by making a tea with about two to eight fresh leaves. Steep them in boiling water, but do not boil them, as boiling may break down the parthenolides. You can also take this herb in capsules, which is really the easiest way to do it. Depending on the potency of the herb, doses may vary from one capsule a day (60 milligrams) to six capsules a day (about 380 milligrams) of fresh, powdered leaf or two daily 25-milligram capsules of freeze-dried leaf. Feverfew capsules are sold at many herb shops and health food stores. By all means discuss the herb with your doctor if you have a hard time arriving at an appropriate dose. One caveat: Pregnant women should not take feverfew because of a remote possibility that it might trigger miscarriage. And women who are nursing should not use it because of the possibility of passing the herb to infants in breast milk. Finally, long-term users often report a mild tranquilizing or sedative effect, which may be welcome or unwelcome, depending on your temperament."

[CureOrBust]

Feverfew contains high amounts of the minerals iron, niacin, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and selenium. It also contains smaller levels of the minerals silicon, sodium and zinc. Feverfew also contains the Vitamins A and C.

I would hazard a guess, if you compare it to a multi-vitamin pill, it wouldn't be all that high.

Parthenolide is the active ingredient in Feverfew...

that on the other hand probably wont be in your average pill.

[jimmylegs]

who pissed in your shreddies today?

[catfreak]

Hey,

I grew some Feverfew in my herb garden last year but I did not know what to do with it. Any suggestions and I may plant some more this year.

CF

[DIM]

Feverfew is an all-purpose ancient herb used here in Greece more than any other herb say tea, mint, sage etc, there is no mediteranean kitchen without it!

[catfreak]

DIM,

What does it taste like or what kind of flavor does it give the dish it is used in? I love greek food.

CF

[DIM]

DIM,

What does it taste like or what kind of flavor does it give the dish it is used in? I love greek food.

CF

Sorry if you misunderstood I mean it is used as decoction not as seasoning!
Is is very mild so you can use it to skin, mouth, tonsils, eyes, vaginal etc, it has soothing action, tastes like mixed sage - rooibos tea!