Friday, April 27, 2012

Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

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A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/25/12 5:43 AM ET

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Wednesday, April 25, 2012

6 grams of licorice root. peony | slsabyrd.com

wife says to me,The doctor said seriously your wife must immediately hospitalized or fetus and mother may appear dangerous, after relining progress check hole has no bottom material attachment is not difficult. Bo three oral as you are summarized as follows: First: secondary caries the filling material loosening, 6 grams of licorice root. peony,impotence ,Your health experts !All materials into the pot ,Chicken abluent,lymphatic infection and direct spread this several different ways invading into the prostate .drinking , a desire to be healthy, so take a valuable treatment time, syphilis.

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Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

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A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/24/12 5:42 AM ET

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Tuesday, April 24, 2012

Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

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A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/23/12 5:43 AM ET

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Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

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A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/20/12 5:42 AM ET

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Monday, April 23, 2012

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A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/22/12 5:42 AM ET

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Licorice root found to contain anti-diabetic substance - TuDiabetes

Article in R&Dmag.com

4/17/2012

Licorice root found to contain anti-diabetic substance

It provides the raw material for liquorice candy, calms the stomach and alleviates diseases of the airways: liquorice root. The root has been treasured in traditional healing since ancient times.

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin have now discovered that liquorice root also contains substances with an anti-diabetic effect. These amorfrutins not only reduce blood sugar, they are also anti-inflammatory and are very well tolerated. Thus, they may be suitable for use in the treatment of complex metabolic disorders.

Natural substances have a surprising and often largely unexploited potential in the prevention and treatment of common diseases. For example, liquorice root Glycyrrhiza contains different substances that help to alleviate disorders of the airways and digestive system. It has been used for millennia in traditional healing and is mainly administered in the form of tea. A team of researchers working with Sascha Sauer from the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin has now discovered that the plant from the papilionaceae or leguminous family might also be effective in the treatment of adult (type 2) diabetes. The scientists identified a group of natural substances with an anti-diabetic effect, the amorfrutins, in the plant’s edible root.

The substances, which have a simple chemical structure, are not only found in liquorice root, but are also in the fruit of the Amorpha fruticosa bush. The new anti-diabetic agents were named after this plant, which is native to the US, Canada and Mexico. As the researchers demonstrated using diabetic mice, the amorfrutins not only have characteristics that reduce blood sugar, they are also anti-inflammatory in their effect. Moreover, they also prevent fatty liver—a common disease caused by excessively fat-rich nutrition.

Read more...

Tags: blood sugar, diabetes, herbs, licorice, management, supplements

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Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

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A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/21/12 5:43 AM ET

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She Said Beauty – Inside Your Ingredient: Licorice Extract

It seems like every year there’s a new darling ingredient of the Skincare industry – acai berries, chia seeds, argan oil… Some are wonderfully effective and stick around for good, while others are little more than trends that fade quickly without any impact. This year’s popular addition, seen in all matter of skincare lines and brands, is the extract of Glycyrrhiza Glabra, commonly known as licorice root  – though it’s only new to us here in the western hemisphere, having been a staple of Eastern medicine for centuries, prized since ancient times for its broad range of health and beauty benefits.

The potent extract is made from the small, rough brown licorice root, which smells and tastes like the candy but shares little else with its sweet cousin. A brilliant inclusion to a skincare regime, licorice has a gentle brightening and soothing action. Used in cleansers, serums, moisturisers and spot treatments, it helps fade sun damage and hyper-pigmentation safely for all skin tones, while blocking melanin production to prevent more from forming. Skin is left brighter, clearer and hydrated. Full of potent antioxidants with powerful anti-inflammatory effect, licorice root extract is particularly soothing and effective for inflamed, red, and acne-prone skin, as well as tired, dull and dehydrated complexions. The root even contains a compound that works as a mild sunscreen, shielding from UVA/UVB rays, so that your newly bright and rejuvenated skin stays that way.

Want to try a little licorice flavour in your routine? Look for products that contain the extract (sometimes listed as Glycyrrhetinic acid) amongst the first half of the listed ingredients – this means that there’s an active amount in the formula, enough to really benefit your skin. The products listed below all use licorice as an active ingredient, and are a great way to try out the sweet treat for your skin.

Dull, splotchy, sun-damaged? Try the Alpha H Liquid Gold line, which fuses the power of licorice with glycolic acid for a glowing, exfoliated and brightened visage. Super by Perricone, First Aid Beauty and Jurlique also offer great, natural brightening lines that use licorice as an active ingredient.

Red, irritated, Rosacea-prone? Jurlique’s Herbal Recovery, Eucerin’s Anti-Redness and Murad’s Redness Therapy use licorice to soothe and protect inflamed and sensitive skin.

Breakouts, unbalanced, oily? Murad and Super by Perricone both offer acne-prone skin relief with lines that use the antiseptic, balancing and healing properties of licorice to gently help treat and prevent breakouts.

Won’t it be nice to feel a little less guilty next time you eat a jumbo sized bag of licorice laces in one sitting? Just tell yourself you’re doing it for your skin…….

Sunday, April 22, 2012

The Plain Truth's: Your Health Today: Licorice Root May Treat ...

A new German study has found that licorice root may contain anti-diabetic properties.

In addition to having anti-inflammatory properties, substances called amorfrutins from the plant’s root were found to reduce blood sugar levels in mice.

Furthermore, the study, published online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences this week , found the substance helped prevent the mice from developing a fatty liver and improved insulin resistance, leading scientists to suggest that licorice root could be used in the treatment of complex metabolic disorders.

In their study, the amorfrutins worked by activating various genes that reduced the plasma concentration of certain fatty acids and glucose, researchers said. The reduced glucose level, in turn, prevented the development of insulin resistance.

But before you go tucking into a bag of black licorice candy, scientists point out that the concentration of amorfrutins is too low to be effective in sweets or tea.


Read more: Study: Licorice Root May Treat Diabetes
Important: At Risk For A Heart Attack? Find Out Now.

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

It seems we can’t find what you’re looking for. Perhaps searching, or one of the links below, can help.

Try looking in the monthly archives. :)

Licorice root found to contain anti-diabetic substance

It provides the raw material for liquorice candy, calms the stomach and alleviates diseases of the airways: liquorice root. Chosen as the "Medicinal plant 2012", the root has been treasured in traditional healing since ancient times. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin have now discovered that liquorice root also contains substances with an anti-diabetic effect. These amorfrutins not only reduce blood sugar, they are also anti-inflammatory and are very well tolerated. Thus, they may be suitable for use in the treatment of complex metabolic disorders.

Natural substances have a surprising and often largely unexploited potential in the prevention and treatment of . For example, liquorice root Glycyrrhiza contains different substances that help to alleviate disorders of the airways and . It has been used for millennia in traditional healing and is mainly administered in the form of tea. A team of researchers working with Sascha Sauer from the Institute for in Berlin has now discovered that the plant from the papilionaceae or leguminous family might also be effective in the treatment of adult (type 2) diabetes. The scientists identified a group of with an anti-diabetic effect, the amorfrutins, in the plant's edible root.

The substances, which have a simple , are not only found in liquorice root, but are also in the fruit of the Amorpha fruticosa bush. The new anti-diabetic agents were named after this plant, which is native to the US, Canada and Mexico. As the researchers demonstrated using , the amorfrutins not only have characteristics that reduce blood sugar, they are also anti-inflammatory in their effect. Moreover, they also prevent fatty liver – a common disease caused by excessively fat-rich nutrition.

"The health-beneficial effects are based on the fact that the amorfrutin molecules dock directly onto a receptor in the nucleus called PPARγ," explains Sascha Sauer. PPARγ plays an important role in the cell's fat and glucose metabolism. The binding of the amorfrutin molecules activates various genes that reduce the plasma concentration of certain fatty acids and glucose. The reduced glucose level prevents the development of insulin resistance – the main cause of adult diabetes.

"Although there are already drugs on the market that affect the PPARγ receptor receptor, they are not selective enough in their effect and cause side effects like weight gain and cardio-vascular problems," says Sascha Sauer. In contrast, as demonstrated by the studies carried out to date, the amorfrutins are very well tolerated. "However, drinking liquorice tea or eating liquorice will not help to treat diabetes," explains the scientist. "The concentration of the substances in the tea and liquorice is far too low to be effective." The researchers therefore developed special extraction processes to obtain the amorfrutins from the plant in sufficient concentrations. This could be used to produce amorfrutin extracts on an industrial scale.

The newly discovered active substances not only seem to hold great promise for the treatment of complex , they may also be suitable for prophylactic use. "The amorfrutins can be used as functional nutritional supplements or as mild remedies that are individually tailored to the patient," says Sascha Sauer. "In view of the rapid spread of metabolic diseases like diabetes, it is intended to develop these substances further so that they can be used on humans in the future." To do this, the researchers must now test the effect of the substances and the plant amorfrutin extracts in clinical studies on diabetes patients.

More information: Amorfrutins are potent anti-diabetic dietary natural products, PNAS, published online before print April 16, 2012, doi: 10.1073/pnas.1116971109

Provided by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft (news : web)

Licorice root found to contain anti-diabetic substance

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

It provides the raw material for liquorice candy, calms the stomach and alleviates diseases of the airways: liquorice root. Chosen as the "Medicinal plant 2012", the root has been treasured in traditional healing since ancient times. Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin have now discovered that liquorice root also contains substances with an anti-diabetic effect. These amorfrutins not only reduce blood sugar, they are also anti-inflammatory and are very well tolerated. Thus, they may be suitable for use in the treatment of complex metabolic disorders.

Natural substances have a surprising and often largely unexploited potential in the prevention and treatment of common diseases. For example, liquorice root Glycyrrhiza contains different substances that help to alleviate disorders of the airways and digestive system. It has been used for millennia in traditional healing and is mainly administered in the form of tea. A team of researchers working with Sascha Sauer from the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin has now discovered that the plant from the papilionaceae or leguminous family might also be effective in the treatment of adult (type 2) diabetes. The scientists identified a group of natural substances with an anti-diabetic effect, the amorfrutins, in the plant's edible root.

The substances, which have a simple chemical structure, are not only found in liquorice root, but are also in the fruit of the Amorpha fruticosa bush. The new anti-diabetic agents were named after this plant, which is native to the US, Canada and Mexico. As the researchers demonstrated using diabetic mice, the amorfrutins not only have characteristics that reduce blood sugar, they are also anti-inflammatory in their effect. Moreover, they also prevent fatty liver – a common disease caused by excessively fat-rich nutrition.

"The health-beneficial effects are based on the fact that the amorfrutin molecules dock directly onto a receptor in the nucleus called PPARγ," explains Sascha Sauer. PPARγ plays an important role in the cell's fat and glucose metabolism. The binding of the amorfrutin molecules activates various genes that reduce the plasma concentration of certain fatty acids and glucose. The reduced glucose level prevents the development of insulin resistance – the main cause of adult diabetes.

"Although there are already drugs on the market that affect the PPARγ receptor receptor, they are not selective enough in their effect and cause side effects like weight gain and cardio-vascular problems," says Sascha Sauer. In contrast, as demonstrated by the studies carried out to date, the amorfrutins are very well tolerated. "However, drinking liquorice tea or eating liquorice will not help to treat diabetes," explains the scientist. "The concentration of the substances in the tea and liquorice is far too low to be effective." The researchers therefore developed special extraction processes to obtain the amorfrutins from the plant in sufficient concentrations. This could be used to produce amorfrutin extracts on an industrial scale.

The newly discovered active substances not only seem to hold great promise for the treatment of complex metabolic disorders, they may also be suitable for prophylactic use. "The amorfrutins can be used as functional nutritional supplements or as mild remedies that are individually tailored to the patient," says Sascha Sauer. "In view of the rapid spread of metabolic diseases like diabetes, it is intended to develop these substances further so that they can be used on humans in the future." To do this, the researchers must now test the effect of the substances and the plant amorfrutin extracts in clinical studies on diabetes patients.

###

Christopher Weidner, Jens C. de Groot, Aman Prasad, Anja Freiwald, Claudia Quedenau, Magdalena Kliem, Annabell Witzke, Vitam Kodelja, Chung-Ting Han, Sascha Giegold, Matthias Baumann, Bert Klebl , Karsten Siems, Lutz Müller-Kuhrt, Annette Schürmann, Rita Schüler, Andreas F. H. Pfeiffer, Frank C. Schroeder, Konrad Büssow and Sascha Sauer

Amorfrutins are potent anti-diabetic dietary natural products

PNAS, published online before print April 16, 2012, doi: 10.1073/pnas.1116971109

Max-Planck-Gesellschaft: http://www.mpg.de

Thanks to Max-Planck-Gesellschaft for this article.

This press release was posted to serve as a topic for discussion. Please comment below. We try our best to only post press releases that are associated with peer reviewed scientific literature. Critical discussions of the research are appreciated. If you need help finding a link to the original article, please contact us on twitter or via e-mail.

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Friday, April 20, 2012

The Wonders of Licorice Root Extract « Skin Care Treatment, Tips ...

Article written by on April 20th 2012 Acne, Adult acne, Everything Skin Care, Rosacea, Rosacea treatments

Licorice root is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra. It contains glycyrrhizin which is sweet syrup.

The licorice plant is a legume which is part of the pea and bean family. It is native to Southern Europe and certain parts of Asia. Licorice root extract has been known for many years to have medicinal properties.

To obtain the licorice root extract the root of the plant needs to be pounded, it then needs to be boiled in water, partial evaporating of the water results in a syrup and if the water continues to evaporate then this results in a brown crystalline powder. The plant has small spikes of lilac-colored flowers with bean-like pods; these contain three or four seeds.

Licorice root helps support your adrenal gland; it also cleanses the colon and supports lung health. Licorice root is used to treat stomach and intestinal ulcers.  It is also used to relieve rheumatism and arthritis. Licorice root is also great for treating menopause and relieving menstrual cramps

Licorice root extract is used to reduce inflammation and help soothe irritated skin.  It contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that are used in the successful treatment of eczema and rosacea. It will help soothe your skin from the effects of both of these skin conditions.

anti-redness mask

A product that I would highly recommend is ZENMED Anti-Redness Mask. It is such an excellent product in the treatment against rosacea. It helps minimize the redness and calms down any flushing that you may be experiencing.  It is a very gentle product and can even be used on your eyelids. You won’t find any aggressive chemicals in this product that will irritate your skin further.

Licorice root extract can provide so many benefits to your skins health and research is constantly confirming how effective it is for problem skin.

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Benefits of Licorice Root Extract | ArticleCube.com

Licorice root and its extracts have been used as a medicinal product for many years. It is consumed in providing relief from various stomach problems and aches. With the help of its anti-inflammatory properties, it can also be used to clear up skin problems like acne. Licorice roots are available throughout Asia and in some European countries. If you are thinking of using Licorice root extract for various skin problems, it can surely work wonders for you.

Today, many people are beauty conscious and all would like to have a beautiful and perfectly glowing skin without any flaws. Many are trying their level best to follow rigorous tips to attain perfect skin. But being perfect and to have a smooth skin without any problem is not an easy task. Several people have noticed that Licorice root extract needs much attention. The roots must receive the necessary care to give you the glowing skin. The fact is that everyone is affected with some kind of skin problem which makes their skin imperfect.

Acne and acne scarring are some common skin problems which go hand in hand. These skin problems can affect both men and women of all ages. Acne usually starts with the hormonal imbalances during puberty. This is a skin problem which most of the time disappears when you reach your twenties. However, in most of the cases, this problem sticks to the skin for life. So to combat this you can choose to acquire licorice tablets as a remedy for this issue. Acne scars are common consequences which almost everyone has to face. As this also affects your self-esteem to a great extent, you have to think about it and choose some effective solution to address it as soon as possible.

The extract of a Licorice root is the best herbal treatment which is available for acne problem. Being rich in natural anti-inflammatory agents, the extract soothes down the affected skin and makes it glow once again. The Licorice root extract also reduces the irritation in the body that aggravates acne. You must know that licorice is useful if and only if you consume them in the right amount. Therefore, you should be sure that you do not devour the extract in excess. This is because over consumption can have serious side effects which can range from lethargy to paralysis.

Many people have pointed out that Licorice root extract is the best acne fighting product which is widely available to consumers. You can also get the necessary prescription from your family doctor. You can get help regarding the availability and usage of the root extracts on the internet. So, you can easily find the licorice supplements that you are seeking with the help of online websites. But you should make sure about the products and conduct researches before trying to acquire any of the supplements online. Hence, you can be sure that the product you are about to attain is of the highest quality. Many online stores offer attractive deals and discounts too.

Article Directory : http://www.articlecube.com

William Toner is the author of this article on licorice root extract. Find more information, about licorice tablets here

Licorice Root Reduces Blood Sugar, Other Anti-Diabetes Effects ...

Licorice Root Reduces Blood Sugar, Other Anti-Diabetes Effects
eMaxHealth
Various foods have also been suggested, such as fenugreek seeds, broccoli, buckwheat, and peas, all of which are rich in fiber. Sauer noted that “The amorfrutins can be used as functional nutritional supplements or as mild remedies that are ...

and more »

Thursday, April 19, 2012

From The Herbalist: Licorice Root | Botanic Choice

Licorice RootAn ancient herb, Licorice Root has medicinal properties still used in modern days. In fact, Japanese healers have been known to use licorice routinely to prevent certain viral conditions, and the Chinese culture has used this remedy to support healthy respiratory function. Even back in the early 1900′s, our founder, Joseph Meyer, knew about the healthy powers of this common plant. This is an excerpt from Mr. Meyer’s flagship book, “The Herbalist.”

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)
Common Name: Sweet Wood
Part Used: The dried root

Description: Licorice is a perennial herb, 2 to 5 feet high. Leaflets in pairs of 4 to 7, ovate, smooth, glutinous, beneath, dark green; flowers yellowish white or purplish, pulse shapes racemes, fruit legume 1 inch long, brown, ovate, flat. 1 to 6 seeded; root grayish brown or dark brown, wrinkled lengthwise, internally yellow, taste sweetish.

Properties: Licorice is a demulcent, expactorant, and laxative.

Dose:  A teaspoonful of the dried root to a cup of boiling water. Drink cold one or two cupfuls a day, a large mouthful at a time.; of the tincture, 1/2 to 1 fl. dr.

Today, you can enjoy from Botanic Choice our Licorice Root Herbal Tea. Not only does it taste great, but it’s great for digestive support, respiratory health, and even immune support because of its antioxidants. It should be noted that excessive use of licorice tea has been reported to raise blood pressure, but the withdrawal of the consumption of this tea may reverse the effects. Studies suggest that no more than 100 mg of licorice be consumed daily.

Licorice Root Reduces Blood Sugar, Other Anti-Diabetes Effects ...

Licorice Root Reduces Blood Sugar, Other Anti-Diabetes Effects
eMaxHealth
Various foods have also been suggested, such as fenugreek seeds, broccoli, buckwheat, and peas, all of which are rich in fiber. Sauer noted that “The amorfrutins can be used as functional nutritional supplements or as mild remedies that are ...

and more »

Benefits of Licorice Root Extract | ArticleCube.com

Licorice root and its extracts have been used as a medicinal product for many years. It is consumed in providing relief from various stomach problems and aches. With the help of its anti-inflammatory properties, it can also be used to clear up skin problems like acne. Licorice roots are available throughout Asia and in some European countries. If you are thinking of using Licorice root extract for various skin problems, it can surely work wonders for you.

Today, many people are beauty conscious and all would like to have a beautiful and perfectly glowing skin without any flaws. Many are trying their level best to follow rigorous tips to attain perfect skin. But being perfect and to have a smooth skin without any problem is not an easy task. Several people have noticed that Licorice root extract needs much attention. The roots must receive the necessary care to give you the glowing skin. The fact is that everyone is affected with some kind of skin problem which makes their skin imperfect.

Acne and acne scarring are some common skin problems which go hand in hand. These skin problems can affect both men and women of all ages. Acne usually starts with the hormonal imbalances during puberty. This is a skin problem which most of the time disappears when you reach your twenties. However, in most of the cases, this problem sticks to the skin for life. So to combat this you can choose to acquire licorice tablets as a remedy for this issue. Acne scars are common consequences which almost everyone has to face. As this also affects your self-esteem to a great extent, you have to think about it and choose some effective solution to address it as soon as possible.

The extract of a Licorice root is the best herbal treatment which is available for acne problem. Being rich in natural anti-inflammatory agents, the extract soothes down the affected skin and makes it glow once again. The Licorice root extract also reduces the irritation in the body that aggravates acne. You must know that licorice is useful if and only if you consume them in the right amount. Therefore, you should be sure that you do not devour the extract in excess. This is because over consumption can have serious side effects which can range from lethargy to paralysis.

Many people have pointed out that Licorice root extract is the best acne fighting product which is widely available to consumers. You can also get the necessary prescription from your family doctor. You can get help regarding the availability and usage of the root extracts on the internet. So, you can easily find the licorice supplements that you are seeking with the help of online websites. But you should make sure about the products and conduct researches before trying to acquire any of the supplements online. Hence, you can be sure that the product you are about to attain is of the highest quality. Many online stores offer attractive deals and discounts too.

Article Directory : http://www.articlecube.com

William Toner is the author of this article on licorice root extract. Find more information, about licorice tablets here

Licorice Root Reduces Blood Sugar, Other Anti-Diabetes Effects

If you have enjoyed licorice root for its tummy soothing qualities—and even if you haven’t—you may be interested to know that a team of scientists have uncovered another benefit of this ancient herbal remedy. Licorice root has been shown to possess substances that can reduce blood sugar levels and offer other anti-diabetes advantages.

Over the years, researchers have uncovered several substances in licorice root that may offer health benefits. In the fight against gum disease, for example, a recent study in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Natural Products reported that licoricidin and licorisoflavan A were effective against bacteria that cause cavities and have roles in gum disease.

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Other studies have suggested licorice oil may help with weight loss, while other researchers have suggested substances in licorice possess anti-inflammatory properties and provide anti-ulcer and stomach-soothing benefits.

Licorice root and diabetes
At the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin, researchers have now uncovered substances in licorice root that have anti-diabetes benefits. These substances are called amorfrutins, and the scientists have shown they have an ability to lower blood sugar levels and fight inflammation without causing undue side effects. Amorfrutins may also prevent a disease caused by a diet rich in fat called fatty liver.

The amorfrutins were named after the fruit of the Amorpha fruticosa bush, which also harbors these beneficial substances. Amorpha fruticosa, also known as desert false indigo and bastard indigobush, is a flowering plant in the legume family and grows wild in the United States, northern Mexico, and southeastern Canada. Licorice is also in the leguminous family.

According to one of the study’s researchers, Sascha Sauer, the anti-diabetes benefits of amorfrutin are related to the ability of its molecules to attach directly onto a certain receptor in the nucleus called PPARy, which has a key role in fat and glucose metabolism. “Although there are already drugs on the market that affect the PPARy receptor, they are not selective enough in their effect and cause side effects like weight gain and cardiovascular problems,” noted Sauer.

Licorice teas and other licorice products currently on the market are not potent enough to treat diabetes, explained Sauer, because the concentration of the important substances is too low. To get around this issue, Sauer and his team developed a special extraction process that allows them to get sufficient concentrations of amorfrutins from licorice.

Natural ways to control blood sugar
Given the epidemic of type 2 diabetes in the United States and around the world, it’s no surprise there has been considerable research into natural, complementary ways to control blood sugar levels. Thus far, many of the studies have yielded conflicting results and no firm recommendations for their use in managing diabetes.

Among the natural approaches studied are chromium, magnesium, and vanadium, as well as the herbs garlic, ginger, ginseng, hawthorn, and stinging nettle. Various foods have also been suggested, such as fenugreek seeds, broccoli, buckwheat, and peas, all of which are rich in fiber.

Sauer noted that “The amorfrutins can be used as functional nutritional supplements or as mild remedies that are individually tailored to the patient.” Perhaps licorice root and its amorfrutins will make the list of effective anti-diabetes remedies once it has been tested more rigorously in clinical studies in diabetes patients.

SOURCES:
Aly AM et al. Licorice: a possible anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer drug. AAPS PharmSciTech 2005 Mar; 6(1): E74-E82
Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics

Image: Wikimedia Commons

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Wednesday, April 18, 2012

A Study Conducted in Molecular Genetics Suggests a Simple Root ...

by editor on April 18, 2012

A study conducted by the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics suggests
that licorice root may protect against diabetes.

Licorice root provides the raw
material for licorice candy. Licorice root has been used for centuries to treat
a variety of symptoms such as calming the stomach and relieving diseases of the
airways.

However, researchers
have discovered that a substance in it called amorfrutins that in addition to
reducing blood sugar, are also anti-inflammatory and are very well
tolerated.

The researchers explained that
the binding of the amorfrutin molecules activates various genes that reduce the
plasma concentration of certain fatty acids and glucose. The reduced glucose
level prevents the development of insulin resistance which is the main cause of
adult diabetes.

While the researchers say that
eating licorice or drinking a licorice tea (a common way the supplement is
ingested) is not concentrated enough to be a full treatment of
diabetes.

However, consumed in modest
quantities it may offer a variety of health benefits including some protection
against diabetes as a result of it’s blood sugar reducing
qualities.

If you’re interested in the
prevention of the development of insulin resistance and the other
anti-inflammatory benefits of licorice root you might want to look into if it’s
something you could add to your diet.

Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

Post navigation

A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/17/12 5:44 AM ET

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Licorice root contains anti-diabetic substances

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Licorice root contains substances called amorfrutins that have an anti-diabetic effect, according to researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics in Berlin.

Amorfrutins reduce blood sugar and are anti-inflammatory. The substances also prevent fatty liver, a disease caused by an excessively fat-rich diet.

The amorfrutin molecules dock directly onto cells and activate genes that reduce the concentration of certain fatty acids and glucose in the blood. The reduced blood sugar inhibits insulin resistance, the main cause of type 2 diabetes.

Licorice root has been used traditionally as a natural remedy to alleviate digestive and airway disorders. The edible root of the licorice plant Glycyrrhiza is mainly administered as tea.

Amorfrutins are also found in the fruit of the Amorpha fruticosa bush, a plant native to the US, Canada and Mexico. These anti-diabetic substances were named after this plant.

Amorfrutins are well tolerated, making it a potential candidate for use in the treatment of complex metabolic disorders or as nutritional supplements.

Drinking licorice tea or eating licorice will not help treat diabetes, according to the researchers. The concentration of amorfrutins in tea or licorice is not sufficient to be effective. Special extraction processes are required to extract sufficient concentrations of amorfrutins.

Diabetes on the rise
An estimated 25.8 million Americans, or 8.3 percent of the US population, lives with diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes. About 95 percent of those cases are type 2 diabetes.

The diabetes epidemic is forecast to reach one in ten adults throughout the world by 2030 if current trends continue, according to the International Diabetes Federation.

In type 2 diabetes, the body does not produce enough insulin or the cells ignore the insulin. Insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells. Excessive blood glucose levels lead to diabetes complications.

Risk factors for type 2 diabetes include advanced age over 45 years, a family history of diabetes, overweight and obesity, lack of regular exercise, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides and high blood pressure, ethnicity, and a personal history of gestational diabetes.

Sources: Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, American Diabetes Association

Flavescent sophora root (Kushen)-Sophora flavescens Ait.

Flavescent sophora root (Kushen)


Sophora flavescens Ait.

Pharmaceutical Name: Radix Sophorae flavescentis

Botanical Name: Sophora flavescens Ait.

Common Name: Flavescent sophora root

Source of Earliest Record: Shennong Bencao Jing

Part Used & Method for Pharmaceutical Preparations: The roots are dug in spring or autumn. After the fibrous roots have been removed, the roots are cleaned, cut into slices and dried in the sun.

Properties & Taste: Bitter and cold

Meridians: Heart, liver, stomach, large intestine and urinary bladder

Functions: 1. To clear heat and dry dampness; 2. To promote urination; 3. To disperse wind and stop itching

Indications & Combinations:

1. Damp-heat syndrome: a) damp-heat jaundiceFlavescent sophora root (Kushen) is used with Phellodendron bark (Huangbai), Capejasmine (Zhizi), Chinese gentian (Longdancao) and Oriental wormwood (Yinchenhao); b) damp-heat diarrhea and dysenteryFlavescent sophora root (Kushen) is used with Costus root (Muxiang) and Licorice root (Gancao); c) damp-heat leukorrhea and eczema of the genitalsFlavescent sophora root (Kushen) is used with Phellodendron bark (Huangbai), Cnidium fruit (Shechuangzi) and Chinese gentian (Longdancao).

2. Skin diseases, including itching of the skin, scabies and impetigo. Flavescent sophora root (Kushen) can be used internally and externally. The herb is combined with Chinese angelica root (Danggui), Dittany bark (Baixianpi), Broom cypress fruit (Difuzi) and Red peony (Chishao).

3. Painful urination caused by damp-heat. Flavescent sophora root (Kushen) is used with Dandelion herb (Pugongying) and Pyrrosia leaf (Shiwei).

Dosage: 3-10 g

Cautions & Contraindications: This herb should never be used with the herb Black false bellebore (Lilu). It is contraindicated in cases with weakness and cold in the spleen and stomach.

Licorice Root May Cut Cavities, Gum Disease | FYI BeHealthy

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A substance we all know as the main ingredient of a classic candy may actually be good for your teeth: licorice.

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Posted 04/16/12 5:46 AM ET

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Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Licorice root found to contain anti-diabetic substance | Diabetes ...

Natural substances have a surprising and often largely unexploited potential in the prevention and treatment of . For example, liquorice root Glycyrrhiza contains different substances that help to alleviate disorders of the airways and . It has been used for millennia in traditional healing and is mainly administered in the form of tea. A team of researchers working with Sascha Sauer from the Institute for in Berlin has now discovered that the plant from the papilionaceae or leguminous family might also be effective in the treatment of adult (type 2) diabetes. The scientists identified a group of with an anti-diabetic effect, the amorfrutins, in the plant’s edible root.

The substances, which have a simple , are not only found in liquorice root, but are also in the fruit of the Amorpha fruticosa bush. The new anti-diabetic agents were named after this plant, which is native to the US, Canada and Mexico. As the researchers demonstrated using , the amorfrutins not only have characteristics that reduce blood sugar, they are also anti-inflammatory in their effect. Moreover, they also prevent fatty liver ? a common disease caused by excessively fat-rich nutrition.

“The health-beneficial effects are based on the fact that the amorfrutin molecules dock directly onto a receptor in the nucleus called PPAR?,” explains Sascha Sauer. PPAR? plays an important role in the cell’s fat and glucose metabolism. The binding of the amorfrutin molecules activates various genes that reduce the plasma concentration of certain fatty acids and glucose. The reduced glucose level prevents the development of insulin resistance ? the main cause of adult diabetes.

“Although there are already drugs on the market that affect the PPAR? receptor receptor, they are not selective enough in their effect and cause side effects like weight gain and cardio-vascular problems,” says Sascha Sauer. In contrast, as demonstrated by the studies carried out to date, the amorfrutins are very well tolerated. “However, drinking liquorice tea or eating liquorice will not help to treat diabetes,” explains the scientist. “The concentration of the substances in the tea and liquorice is far too low to be effective.” The researchers therefore developed special extraction processes to obtain the amorfrutins from the plant in sufficient concentrations. This could be used to produce amorfrutin extracts on an industrial scale.

The newly discovered active substances not only seem to hold great promise for the treatment of complex , they may also be suitable for prophylactic use. “The amorfrutins can be used as functional nutritional supplements or as mild remedies that are individually tailored to the patient,” says Sascha Sauer. “In view of the rapid spread of metabolic diseases like diabetes, it is intended to develop these substances further so that they can be used on humans in the future.” To do this, the researchers must now test the effect of the substances and the plant amorfrutin extracts in clinical studies on diabetes patients.

More information: Amorfrutins are potent anti-diabetic dietary natural products, PNAS, published online before print April 16, 2012, doi: 10.1073/pnas.1116971109

Provided by Max-Planck-Gesellschaft (news : web)

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Article source: http://phys.org/news/2012-04-licorice-root-anti-diabetic-substance.html

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