By: Pearle T. Pagunsan, M.D. and
Hazel Chua-Pagunsan, M.D.
There are recently discovered plant foods scientifically tested to strengthen the function of the immune system. Let us mention a few:
1. Ganoderma Mushroom
 | ||
|
In the Oriental countries, Ganoderma lucidum has been referred to for centuries
as a symbol of success and well being. Referred to as "Marvelous
Herb" or "Mushroom of Immortality," ganoderma is widely used as
food and tonic medicine. Because of its popularity, modern science conducted
experimental studies on its content and beneficial effects on certain diseases.
In cancer management, ganoderma is used (1) as supplement; (2) to reduce side
effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy; (3) to prolong survival and minimize
metastasis; (4) to help improve the patient's quality of life; and (5) to help
prevent the occurrence and recurrence of cancer growth due to its
immunopotentiation property. Ganoderma extracts were found active against HIV.
Results of studies in Malaysia showed that Ganoderma lucidum is effective in
the treatment of Hepatitis B. It is beneficial against hepatic necrosis and
acts as a liver detoxicant and protectant. Other beneficial effects include:
reducing blood sugar among diabetics and lowering high blood pressure. Recent
reports from the US indicate that ganoderma has good anti-inflammatory
properties.
2. Shiitake (Lentinus edodes mycelia)
 |
| bfeedme.com |
To most Americans, mushrooms are simply delicious food, but
in Asia, mushrooms have been recognized as powerful medicines for thousands of
years. Lignins are the active factors after enzymatic breakdown of lentinus
edodes. Beneficial effects include: 1) regulation of endocrine function helping
in bringing the body into homoestasis; 2) anti-Hepatitis B properties; 3)
anti-cancer properties; 4) and an immune booster, known to increase the levels
of natural killer cells, our defenses against tumor cells.
3. Soy Beans
 |
| writingcompany.blogs.com |
Known as the "magic bean" and "yellow
jewel." Although many foods and supplements claim to lower the risk of
cancer, soy compounds appear to be the most promising. Extensive research
identified an estrogen-like substance called isoflavone found in soy that
lowers the risk of breast, lung, and colon cancer; lowers blood cholesterol
levels, reduces bone loss after menopause; and enhances defense against
diseases. Studies in healthy subjects have shown that soy proteins have lower
workload for the filtering structures of the kidneys compared to animal
proteins in the form of meat eggs, and dairy products. With patients in renal
failure, animal protein is not adequately eliminated. This leads to
accumulation of wastes in the blood. The results of the study recommend soy
protein-based diet in patients with kidney failure.
4. Cassia Tora
 |
| explorepharma.wordpress.com |
The Chinese call this plant "bright eyes." This
is used in the treatment of several eye ailments including cataracts,
conjunctivitis, and glaucoma. Extracts from the seeds of Cassia tora have been
discovered by scientists to possess specific anti-tumor properties, cleanse the
liver and kidneys, have antibiotic effects, and lower cholesterol levels.
5. Cactus
 |
| royalhigh.edin.sch.uk |
Most people think of a cactus as a prickly weed that grows
in the desert. However, there are many uses for the cactus. The gel inside the
thick covering of the plant is a very nutritious food. Studies have shown that
cactus has properties that help normalize blood sugar levels, therefore, it has
been used to treat non-insulin dependent diabetic patients in certain parts of
the world. Experiments have also proven that cactus has properties that can
hasten wound healing, decrease inflammation, and enhance the ability of the
immune system to respond to invading foreign bodies and abnormal growing cells
such as cancer cells.
6. Ji-lin
Ginseng
 |
| english.cri.cn |
Known throughout the world as the "King of
Herbs", ginseng has been used to reduce physical, mental, and emotional
stress by increasing oxygen-carrying red blood cells and immune-stimulating
white blood cells. Researchers have shown that ginseng is effective in reducing
the risk of cardiovascular diseases and preventing the development of cancer.
The root is also used to treat amnesia, anorexia, asthma, cough, diabetes, and
high blood pressure. With all these beneficial effects, no wonder ginseng is a
highly priced plant both in eastern and western world.
7. Grape Seed
Extract (Vitis vinifera)
 |
| asia.ru |
This contains proanthocyanidin (OPC), which is known to be
a very powerful antioxidant. This bioflavonoid complex was recently discovered
to be 20 times more potent than vitamin C and 50 times more potent than vitamin
E. These antioxidants provide electrons that neutralize "free
radicals," molecules with unpaired electrons, unstable in form and causing
damage to cells and deposition of bad cholesterol. Free radicals have the power
to cause degenerative and life-threatening diseases. They are produced from
normal oxygen metabolism within the body and from exposure to chemicals,
environmental pollutants, sunlight, radiation, burns, cigarette smoke, drugs,
alcohol, germs, dietary fats, and more. Antioxidants are the ones that trap
these reactive molecules. Grape seed extract has been scientifically documented
to:
· Enhance capillary strength and vascular function, which is
helpful for the heart, and decrease pre-menstrual syndrome problems, bruising,
edema from injury or trauma, varicose veins, leg swelling, and
retinopathy.
· Enhance immune resistance
· Increase peripheral circulation and improve vision
· Reduce adverse allergic and anti-inflammatory responses
· Reduce skin aging and loss of elasticity
Source: Pagunsan, P., et.al. (2003). Caring for the Kidneys. Why do
some kidneys fail. Manila, Philippines: Philippine Publishing House.
P.S.
Know more about the authors by clicking this link
About
the Authors
No comments:
Post a Comment