Triglyceride Health Dictionary

An excess of fat in the blood, characterising a group of metabolic disorders. The two most important fats circulating in the blood are CHOLESTEROL and TRIGLYCERIDE. Raised blood levels of cholesterol predispose to ATHEROMA and coronary artery disease (see HEART, DISEASES OF); raised triglycerides predispose to pancreatitis (see PANCREAS, DISORDERS OF). Six types of hyperlipidaemia have been identi?ed, and diagnosis of the di?erent types depends upon blood tests to discover lipid levels. Some of the hyperlipidaemias are familial, and some are secondary to other diseases such as hypothyroidism (see THYROID GLAND, DISEASES OF), DIABETES MELLITUS, nephrotic syndrome and alcoholism.

Treatment There is evidence that therapy which lowers the lipid concentration reduces the progression of premature atheroma, particularly in those who suffer from the familial disorder. Treatment should include appropriate diets, usually food that is low in cholesterol and saturated fats. There are a number of drugs available for lowering the lipid content of the plasma, but these should be reserved for patients in whom severe hyperlipidaemia is inadequately controlled by weight reduction. Anion-exchange resins – clo?brate, beza?brate and gem?brozil, for example – and statins such as atorvastatin and simvastatin, as well as nicotinic acid, all lower plasma cholesterol and plasma triglyceride concentration through their e?ect on reducing the hepatic production of lipoproteins. Cholestyramine and colestipol, both of which are anion-exchange resins, bind bile salts in the gut and so decrease the absorption of the cholesterol that these bile salts contain – hence lowering plasma cholesterol concentrations. Probucol lowers plasma cholesterol concentrations by increasing the metabolism of low-density lipoproteins.

The statins (atorvastatin, cerivastatin, ?uvastatin, pravastatin and simvastatin) inhibit an enzyme involved in synthesising cholesterol, especially in the liver. They are more e?ective than anion-exchange resins in lowering LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol – a form of low-density cholesterol carried in the bloodstream, high levels of which are believed to be the main cause of atheroma. Statins are, however, less e?ective than the clo?brate group in reducing triglycerides and raising HDL (highdensity lipoprotein) cholesterol (high-density cholesterol).... hyperlipidaemia

A descriptive term, rather than chemical one, for fats. Broadly, it means true fats (like triglycerides), lipoids (like phospholipids) and sterols (like cholesterol).... lipid

A group of lipid-lowering drugs used to treat high blood levels of triglycerides or cholesterol.... fibrates

Avocado (Persea americana).

Plant Part Used: Leaves, seed, fruit.

Dominican Medicinal Uses: The leaves are traditionally prepared as an infusion and taken orally for diabetes, diarrhea, inducing abortion, intestinal worms, menstrual cramps, parasites and vaginal infections, and the seed decoction is taken for contraception. The fruit is typically used for nutritional and culinary purposes.

Safety: No data on the safety of the leaf or the seed in humans has been identified in the available literature; animal toxicity studies have shown equivocal results. The fruit is commonly consumed as food and generally regarded as safe.

Contraindications: Oral use of the leaves is contraindicated during pregnancy (due to emmenagogue and uterine muscle stimulating effects) and lactation (due to potential for harmful effects based on case reports in goats). No information on the safety of the leaves in children has been identified in the available literature.

Drug Interactions: Warfarin: fruit may inhibit anticoagulant effect. Monoamine-oxidase inhibitors (MAOI): one case of hypertension crisis has been reported due to concomitant ingestion of the fruit and MAOI.

Clinical Data: The following effects of this plant have been investigated in human clinical trials: fruit: cholesterol and lipid-lowering, treatment of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus and triglyceride-lowering; avocado/soybean unsaponifiables: treatment of osteoarthritis; and oil: treatment of plaque psoriasis.

Laboratory & Preclinical Data: The following biological activities of this plant have been investigated in laboratory and preclinical studies (in vitro or animal models): analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antihemorrhage, hepatoprotective, immuno-modulating, uterine muscle stimulant, trypanocidal, uterine stimulant and vasorelaxant.

* See entry for Aguacate in “Part 3: Dominican Medicinal Plant Profiles” of this book for more information, including references.... aguacate

(Bieb.) Desv.

Synonym: A. camelorum Fisch. ex DC.

A. maurorum Medic.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: The drier parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

English: Camel Thorn, Persian Manna Plant.

Ayurvedic: Yavaasaka, Yavaasa, Yaasa, Duhsparshaa, Duraalab- haa, Kunaashak. Substitute for Dhanvayaasa. Yaasa-sharkaraa (Alhagi-manna).

Unani: Jawaansaa. Turanjabeen (Alhagi-manna).

Siddha/Tamil: Punaikanjuri, Kan- chori.

Action: Laxative, antibilious, diuretic, diaphoretic, expectorant. Leaves—used for fever, headache, rheumatism. Flowers—blood coagulant, used for piles. Alhagi- manna—expectorant, antiemetic, laxative.

Along with other therapeutic applications, The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicates the use of dried whole plant in gout and haemorrhagic disorders.

The aerial parts contain flavonoids, tannins, sterols, triterpenes, saponins and anthroquinones.

The proanthocyanidins derived from the plant possess hypolipidemic and antiatherosclerotic properties. The compounds prevented an increase in rat serum cholesterol and triglycerides, and they decreased the manifestation of atherosclerosis.

A polymeric proanthocyanidin, extracted from the plant, improved energy metabolism and increased the work capacity in rats.

Ethanolic extract of the aerial parts produced positive inotropic effect on rabbit heart.

Dosage: Whole plant—20-50 g for decoction. (API Vol. II.) Decoction—50-100 ml. (CCRAS.)... alhagi pseudalhagi

Promoting anabolism. Specifically, an agent or function that stimulates the organization of smaller substances into larger ones. Examples: making a starch out of sugars, a protein out of amino acids, or making triglycerides out of fatty acids are anabolic functions. Anabolic steroids are internal or external substances that will induce increased body size or mass. The opposite of CATABOLIC.... anabolic

Labill.

Family: Fabaceae; Papilionaceae.

Habitat: Highlands of Asia Minor, Iran, Greece, Syria and Russia.

English: Tragacanth Gum.

Unani: Katiraa, Kataad (Gum)

Action: Demulcent, emollient (used for irritation of the internal mucosa, colitis, dry coughs), laxative. Mucilage used as an application to burns.

The gum contains polysaccharides and proteinaceous polysaccharides.

Tragacanthin is water-soluble, consisting of an arbinogalactan and traga- canthic acid. Bassorin is an insoluble methylated fraction (gel). The polysac- charides have been shown to have im- munostimulating activity (stimulation of phagocytosis and an increase in plasma cell counts of T-lymphocytes.

Although tragacanth increases weight of stool and decreases gastrointestinal transit time, it does not appear to affect cholesterol triglyceride or phospholipid levels as other soluble fibres do. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

Tragacanth has been shown to be active against a variety of tumours. It appears to inhibit growth of cancer cells.... astragalus gummifer

A drug of value in the treatment of the PRURITUS, or itching, which occurs in association with JAUNDICE. It does this by ‘binding’ the bile salts in the gut and so preventing their being reabsorbed into the bloodstream, where their excess in jaundice is responsible for the itching. It reduces the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and thereby, like clo?brate and STATINS, helping to reduce the incidence of coronary artery heart disease. (See HEART, DISEASES OF; HYPERLIPIDAEMIA.)... cholestyramine

Glycerin, or glycerol, is an alcohol, C3H8O3, which occurs naturally in combination with organic acids in the form of fats or triglycerides. It is a clear, colourless, thick liquid of sweet taste. It dissolves many substances, and absorbs water e?ectively.

Uses Glycerin has many and varied uses. Numerous substances, such as carbolic acid, tannic acid, alum, borax, boric acid and starch, are dissolved in it for application to the body. It is frequently applied along with other remedies to in?amed areas for its action in extracting ?uid and thus diminishing in?ammation.... glycerin

(Linn.) O. Kuntze.

Family: Ranunculaceae.

Habitat: Western temperate Himalayas from 2,500 to 4,000 m.

English: American cowslip, Marsh Marigold, Water Buttercup.

Folk: Mamiri (Punjab).

Family: Theaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Assam, Darjeeling, Travancore, the Nilgiris, Malabar, Bengal, Dehra Dun and Kumaon.

English: Tea.

Unani: Chaai, Shaahi, Shaayi.

Siddha/Tamil: Thaeyilai.

Action: Stimulant, diuretic, astringent. In China, used for diarrhoea and dysentery (causes gastrointestinal upsets and nervous irritability when consumed in excess). Green tea: anticancer effects have been observed in Chinese green tea, Camellia thea, extract; the extract of Japanese green tea showed antihepatotoxic effects.

Important constituents of leaf buds and very young leaves are: caffeine, with a much smaller amount of other xanthines (theophylline and theo- bromine); tannins (the main tannin in green tea is (-)-epigallocatechin); flavonoids, quercetin, kaempferol. The stimulant and diuretic are due to caffeine content, the astringency due to the tannins.

Drinking tea lowers thiamine and thiamine diphosphate losses in urine and blood serum respectively but increases niacin losses. Hot water extract of black tea facilitates Ca absorption in the body experimentally. Tea may decrease zinc bioavailability.

The tea, if added to the meal, significantly lower the availability of iron. Milk is as effective as ascorbic acid in countering the depressing effect of tea on iron availability (in vitro).

The green tea catechin inhibited car- cinogenesis in small intestines when given during or after carcinogen treatment to experimental rats. (-)-epi- gallocatechin gallate and theaflavin di- gallate from green tea inhibited the in- fectivity of both influenza A and B virus (in vitro).

Green tea, when added to a lard- cholesterol diet, decreased the cholesterol and triglyceride levels in fowls. Tea polyphenols exhibit hypocholes- terolaemic activity.

Tea polyphenols—(-)-epicatechin gallate, (-)-epigallocatechine galate, theaflavin monogallate A or B, and or theaflavin digallate—are used for treating hyperglycaemia.

Saponins from tea are used as an- tiulcer agents.

Concurrent use of tea and beta- adrenergic agonists may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. Caffeine, a component of tea, may increase insulin resistance. (Sharon M. Herr.)... camellia sinensis

(Linn.) Urban.

Hydro cotyle asiatica

Family: Umbelliferae; Apiaceae.

Habitat: In marshy places throughout India up to 200 m.

English: Asiatic Pennywort, Indian Pennywort.

Ayurvedic: Manduukaparni, Manduukaparnikaa, Maanduuki, Saraswati, Brahma-manduuki.

Siddha/Tamil: Vallaarai.

Action: Adaptogen, central nervous system relaxant, peripheral vasodilator, sedative, antibiotic, detoxifier, blood-purifier, laxative, diuretic, emmenagogue. Used as a brain tonic for improving memory and for overcoming mental confusion, stress, fatigue, also used for obstinate skin diseases and leprosy.

Key application: Extracts orally to treat stress-induced stomach and duodenal ulcers; topically to accelerate healing, particularly in cases of chronic postsurgical and post trauma wounds; also to treat second and third degree burns. Patients suffering from venous insufficiency were treated with a titrated extract of the drug. (WHO.)

Used in Indian medicine as a brain tonic and sedative. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.)

Major constituents of the plant are: triterpenoid saponins—brahmoside, asiaticoside, thankuniside; alkaloids (hydrocotyline); bitter principles (vel- larin).

Brahmoside, present in the plant, is reported to exhibit tranquilizing and anabolic activity. Raw leaves are eaten or plant decoction is drunk to treat hypertension.

Asiaticoside, extracted from leaves, gave encouraging results in leprosy. It dissolves the waxy covering of Bacillus leprae. Centelloside has also been found useful in leprosy. Asiaticoside reduced the number tubercular lesions in the liver, lungs, nerve ganglia and spleen in experimental animals. Another derivative of asiaticoside, oxyasi- aticoside, inhibits growth of Tubercle bacillus at a concentration of 0.15 ml/ml Asiaticosides are also hyperglycaemic.

The asiatic acid acts against resistant bacteria, particularly Mycobacterium tuberculosis and M. leprae as well as Gram-positive cocci.

Asiaticosides elevate blood glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol levels. They seem to decrease blood urea nitrogen and acid phosphatase levels. (Pharmacological findings. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

Boiled leaves are eaten for urinary tract infections, and unfiltered juice for scrofula and syphilis.

Extract of the fresh plant significantly inhibits gastric ulceration by cold restraint stress in rats.

In research, using rats, the herb exhibited protective effect against alcohol-induced and aspirin-induced ulcers. (JExp Biol, 2001, Feb, 39(2), 13742.)

Dosage: Whole plant—3-6 g (API Vol. IV.)... centella asiatica

Green Tea comes with such a host of health benefits, that it’s called the ‘wonder herb’ by tea drinkers and medical practitioners alike. Drinking green tea lowers cancer risk and also inhibits carcinogenic in cigarettes and other compounds when imbibed. Green Tea contains potent antioxidants called polyphenols, which help suppress free radicals. Green tea also stops certain tumors from forming. Green tea lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels and thereby promotes heart health. Green tea also lowers blood pressure, prevents and fights tooth decay and dental issues, and inhibits different viruses from causing illnesses.... green tea

Also hyperglyconeogenesis. The state of excessive synthesis of glycogen (storage starch) or glucose by the liver, derived from non-sugar sources, such as amino acids, lactate and the glycerol remnants from triglyceride breakdown. In strictly subclinical terms it signifies a yinny, catabolic excess, wherein building materials are less desirable than FUEL, and it is singularly difficult to buff up in any way. There are disease states where this can occur...starvation would induce it as well, but I am not addressing this aspect, since I don’t consider this to be the realm of alternative approaches.... hypergluconeogenesis

These are organized blobs of fats, synthesized in the submucosa of the small intestine out of dietary fats, phospholipids, specialized proteins and cholesterol, carried out of the intestinal tract by the lymph, and slowly released into the bloodstream. In the capillaries, the triglycerides inside the chylomicrons, recognized by their protein markers, are absorbed into the tissues for fuel or storage, and the outside cholesterol and phospholipid transport-cover continues through the blood to be absorbed by the liver for its use. This sideways approach takes (ideally) a large part of dietary fats into the lymph back alleys, spreading their release into the bloodstream out over many hours, thereby avoiding short-term blood fat and liver fat overload. To synthesize the maximum amount of dietary fats into chylomicrons, you need well-organized emulsification and digestion of lipids by the gallbladder and pancreas.... chylomicrons

(Linn.) Schott.

Synonym: C. antiquorum Schott.

Family: Araceae.

Habitat: Cultivated throughout India.

English: Taro, EdibleYam.

Ayurvedic: Pindaaluka, Aaluki.

Siddha/Tamil: Chaembu, Shaeppam- kizhangu.

Folk: Arvi, Ghuiyaa.

Action: Juice from petiole—styptic, rubefacient. Juice of corn—used in alopaecia.

The leaves contain flavones, api- genin and luteolin, also anthocyanins. Leaves cause severe irritation in mouth. Cooked leaves are a source of dietary fibre for diabetics helping in lowering post-prandial blood glucose level. A significant increase in total lipids, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels was observed in hypercholesterolaemic rats when fed with dried leaf powder.

The pressed juice of the petioles is used as an astringent and styptic. All parts of the plant show an acridity. The acridity is removed by boiling and by addition of baking soda.

From the tubers two dihydroxys- terols, besides beta-sitosterol and stig- masterol, have been isolated. Five novel aliphatic compounds have been reported. Trypsin inhibitors are isolated from the tubers.

The total amino acids recorded in the tubers range from 1380 to 2397 mg/ 100 g. The lysine concentration was relatively low. Besides starch, the tubers contain natural polysaccharides with 56% neutral sugars and 40% anionic components. Steamed corms contain 30% starch and 3% sugar.... colocasia esculenta

Linn.

Family: Iridaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Kashmir up to 2,000 m and in Chaubattia in Uttar Pradesh.

English: Saffron, Crocus.

Ayurvedic: Kumkuma, Rudhira, Vadrika, Kaashmira, Kaashmiraka, Vaalhika, Agnishikhaa, Ghrusrrn, Rakta, Kshataja. Keshara (usually Keshara indicates Naagakeshara, Mesuaferrea Linn.)

Unani: Zaafraan.

Siddha/Tamil: Kumgumappoo (dried stigma).

Action: Stigma and style—nervine tonic, sedative, antispasmodic expectorant (in dry cough, whooping cough, bronchitis), stomachic, diaphoretic, emmenagogue.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India indicated the use of the stigma and style in migraine, chronic sinusitis, and in urinary obstruction, inflammation of the urinary tract.

The saffron is used in Chinese medicine for melancholia, depression, shock and menstrual disorders.

Saffron contains a volatile oil composed of terpenes, terpene alcohols and esters. The herb also contains crocin, picrocrocin, crocetin, carotenoids and riboflavin and thiamine.

Preliminary evidence suggests that crocetin may improved atherosclerosis by increasing plasma oxygen diffusion and decreasing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In addition, cro- cetin binds to albumin, potentially increasing oxygen diffusion and improving atherosclerosis. (Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, 2007.)

The stigma showed remarkable inhibitory effect on blood coagulation due to the presence of platelet aggregation inhibitor containing adenosine. It accelerated in vitro fibrinolytic activity of urokinase and plasmin.

Small amounts of Saffron stimulate gastric secretion; larger amounts stimulate uterine smooth muscle and exhibit emmenagogue and abortifacient effects.

Saffron extract showed cytotoxic and antimutagenic activity and antitu- mour activity against ascites tumours in mice. Chemical analysis indicated that the naturally occurring crocin may be the active principle responsible for the observed anticancer activity.

A xanthone, carotenoid glycosidic conjugate, mangi-crocin, isolated from saffron, showed significant adapto- genic activity. A natural antioxidant, isolated from saffron stem callus, showed better antioxidant activity than vitamin E. Saffron bulbs are toxic, stigmas in overdoses narcotic.

The dose of stigma and styles at 1.55.0 g is toxic. (Recommended dose : 0.5-1.5 g per day).

Dosage: Dried style and stigma—20-50 mg (API Vol. IV.)... crocus sativus

These drugs reduce the amount of low-density LIPOPROTEINS, which transport CHOLESTEROL and triglycerides (see TRIGLYCERIDE) in the blood, or raise the concentration of high-density lipoproteins. The aim is to reduce the progression of ATHEROSCLEROSIS and therefore help prevent coronary heart disease (see HEART, DISEASES OF). These drugs should be combined with reducing other risk factors for raised lipid concentrations, such as a high-fat diet, smoking and obesity. Lipid-regulating drugs include STATINS, ?brates, anion-exchange resins, and NICOTINIC ACID, which may be used singly or in combination under careful medical supervision (see HYPERLIPIDAEMIA).... lipid-regulating drugs

The most common of naturally occurring fatty acids, being present in most fats and oils in the form of triglyceride. It is used in the preparation of OINTMENTS, but not eye ointments.... oleic acid

Roxb.

Family: Zingiberaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in Gujarat; wild in parts of West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

English: Mango-ginger, Wild Turmeric.

Ayurvedic: Aamra Haridraa, Aam- ragandhi Haridraa, Surabhidaaru, Karpuraa.

Unani: Aambaa Haldi, Daarchob.

Siddha/Tamil: Mangaiinji.

Action: Carminative, stomachic, appetizer, expectorant, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory. Specific in rheumatism and inflammation of liver; rheumatism; in contusions and sprains.

Presence of curcumin and a phytos- terol is reported in the rhizome. The essential oil exhibited antimicrobial, antifungal and anthelmintic activity against tape worms.

Significant decrease was observed in liver total lipids and serum triglycerides of adult female rat when fed 10% Mango-ginger or 10% curcumin along with normal diet or a surcose- based hypertriglyceridaemic diet.

Dosage: Rhizome—3-5 g powder; 10-20 ml juice. (CCRAS.)... curcuma amada

Gaertn.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: A grain crop of Karnataka; also grown on large scale in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra.

English: Finger Millet, African millet, Ragi.

Ayurvedic: Madhuuli, Markata- hasta-trna.

Siddha/Tamil: Ragi, Kezhvaregu.

Action: Seeds—cooling, astringent. Nutritive value of ragi is higher than that of rice and equal to that of wheat. White ragi is superior to the pigmented type. A nourishing food for infants, growing children, expectant mothers and aged people. Ragi is considered an ideal food for diabetics because of slow release of sugars to the body. A decoction of leaves and stems is drunk to ease vaginal bleeding.

The protein content of ragi is 813%, with P 250, Fe 7.6, thiamine 0.18— and riboflavin 0.1 mg/100 g. Ragi has high glycemic index value. It reduced plasma cholesterol, total serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol by 9% each, and triglycerides by 15%, and increased HDL cholesterol, thus exhibited a sig- nificantbeneficial effect on plasma profile. The lipemic index for ragi is 55, taking isocaloric wheat-supplemented background diet (control) at 100.... eleusine coracana

Moench.

Family: Polygonaceae.

Habitat: Native to Central Asia; now grown as minor grain-crop in hilly regions of North India and the Nilgiris.

English: Buckwheat.

Ayurvedic: Kotu.

Folk: Kutu, Phaapar.

Action: Used for treating fragile capillaries, chilbains and for strengthening varicose veins. Used at a supporting herb for treating high blood pressure. Rutin is obtained from fresh or dried leaves and flowers. (Rutin is used in a variety of haemorrhagic conditions.)

The seed are commonly used in colic, choleraic diarrhoea and abdominal obstructions. Root decoction is used in rheumatic pains, lung diseases and typhoid; juice in urinary disorders. In China, used in pulmonary sepsis.

The plant is used as a venous and capillary tonic, and for alleviating venous stasis and vericose veins.

It is a potential source of rutin (yield 3-5%). The leaves and blossoms contain most of the rutin (80-90%).

Quercetin caused significant decrease in ulcer index in acute gastric ulcer with respect to control group in rats. Quercetin, rutin or kaempferol inhibited, in dose-dependent manner, gastric damage produced by acidified- ethanol in rats.

The plant also gave hyperoside and anthracene derivatives.

Buckwheat is a good source of lysine and other amino acids. The flour is reported to repress exogenous hy- percholesterolemia and promotes accumulation of triglyceride in the liver of rats.

Seed oil exhibits antimicrobial activity against Bacillus anthrasis, E.coli and Salmonella paratyphi.

Whole plant, dried or green, can cause photosensitization.... fagopyrum esculentum

Very Low Density Lipids. These are blood transport fats, consisting mainly of triglycerides (made from sugar by the liver) and loosely covered in specialized proteins and phospholipids so they don’t dissolve in the blood and the target tissues can recognize them. Chronic elevation occurs when the tissues cannot absorb them or the liver is overwhelmed by carbohydrates...such as in alcoholism, some hepatitis, and diabetes.... vldl

A lipid-lowering drug that reduces levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood and is a treatment for some types of hyperlipidaemia.... clofibrate

A product occurring naturally in some species of oily fish such as mackerel. Fish-oil preparations, which are rich in omega-3 triglycerides, are used as lipid-lowering drugs.... fish oil

A colourless syrupy liquid that has a sweet taste. Glycerol is prepared from fats and oils; it is an essential constituent of triglycerides (simple fats).

In rectal suppositories, glycerol relieves constipation by softening hard faeces.

Glycerol is used in moisturizing creams. It is also used in eardrops to soften earwax and in cough remedies to help soothe a dry, irritating cough.... glycerol

A general term for fats and oils. Lipids include triglycerides (simple fats), phospholipids (important constituents of cell membranes and nerve tissue), and sterols, such as cholesterol.... lipids

Gaertn.

Synonym: Phyllanthus emblica Linn.

Family: Euphorbiaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical Southeast Asia; distributed throughout India; also planted in public parks.

English: Emblic, Indian gooseberry.

Ayurvedic: Aaamalaki, Aaamalaka, Dhaatri, Kaayasthaa, Amoghaa, Amritaphala, Amla, Aaamalaa, Dhaatriphala, Vayasyaa, Vrshya, Shiva, Hattha.

Unani: Aamalaa, Amlaj.

Siddha/Tamil: Nellikkaai, Nelli.

Action: Fruit—antianaemic, anabolic, antiemetic, bechic, astringent, antihaemorrhagic, antidiarrhoeal, diuretic, antidiabetic, carminative, antioxidant. Used in jaundice, dyspepsia, bacillary dysentery, eye trouble and as a gastrointestinal tonic. Juice with turmeric powder and honey is prescribed in diabetes insipidus. Seed—antibilious, antiasthmatic. Used in bronchitis. Bark—astringent. Leaf—juice is given in vomiting.

A decoction of powdered pericarp is prescribed for paptic ulcer.

Key application: As an antacid. (Indian Herbal Pharmacopoeia.).

The fruit is an important source of vitamin C, minerals and amino acids. The edible fruit tissue contains protein concentration threefold and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) concentration 160-fold than those of apple. The fruit also contains considerably higher concentration of most minerals and amino acids than apple.

The fruit gave cytokinine-like substances identified as zeatin, zeatin ribo- side and zeatin nucleotide; suspension culture gave phyllembin. Phyllem- bin exhibits CNS depressant and spasmolytic activity, potentiates action of adrenaline and hypnotic action of Nembutal.

The leaves contain gallic acid (10.8 mg/g dry basis), besides ascorbic and music acid. The methanol extract of the leaves is found to be effective in rat paw inflammation.

The bark contains tannin identified as mixed type of proanthocyanidin.

The fruit contains superoxide dis- mutase 482.14 units/g fresh weight and exhibits antisenescent (anti-aging) activity. Fruit, juice, its sediment and residue are antioxidant due to gallic acid. EtOH (50%) extract—antiviral.

Aqueous extract of the fruit increases cardiac glycogen level and decreases serum GOT, GPT and LDH in rats having induced myocardial necrosis.

Preliminary evidence suggests that the fruit and its juice may lower serum cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides and phospholipids without affecting HDL levels and may have positive effect on atherosclerosis. (Eur J clin Nutr, 42, 1988, 939-944; PhytotherRes, 14, 2000, 592-595.)

An aqueous extract of the fruit has been reported to provide protection against radiation-induced chromosomal damage in both pre-and postirradiation treatment. The fruit is reported to enhance natural killer cell activity and antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity in mice bearing Dalton's lymphoma ascites tumour. The extract of the fruit and ascorbic acid prevented hepatotoxic and nephrotoxic effects induced by lead and aluminium. The toxicity could be counteracted to a great extent by the fruit extract than by an amount of ascorbic acid alone equivalent to that contained in fruits. (The fruit can be used as a dietary supplement to counteract prolonged exposure to metals in population in industrial areas.)

The fruits are reported to activate trypsin (proteolytic enzyme) activity.

The fruits can be used as coagulant in the treatment of water and can purify low turbidity water.

The fruits can be consumed safely all round the year.

Dosage: Fresh fruit—10-20 g; pulp juice—5-10 ml. (API Vol. I.)... emblica officinalis

Linn.

Family: Moraceae.

Habitat: Sub-Himalayan tract and Peninsular India. Planted along roadsides, and in gardens.

English: Banyan tree.

Ayurvedic: Vata, Nyagrodha, Bahupaada, Dhruv.

Unani: Bargad, Darakht-e-Reesh.

Siddha/Tamil: Aalamaram.

Action: Infusion of bark—used in diabetes, dysentery, and in seminal weakness, leucorrhoea, menorrhagia, nervous disorders, erysipelas, burning sensation. Milky juice and seeds—applied topically to sores, ulcers, cracked soles of the feet, rheumatic inflammations. Buds—a decoction in milk is given in haemorrhages. Aerial roots— antiemetic, topically applied to pimples. Leaves—a paste is applied externally to abscesses and wounds for promoting suppuration.

Along with other therapeutic applications, The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India recommends the aerial root in lipid disorders.

Phytosterolin, isolated from the roots, given orally to fasting rabbits at a dose of 25 mg/kg, produced maximum fall in blood sugar level equivalent to 81% of the tolbutamide standard after 4 h. The root bark showed antidiabetic activity in pituitary diabetes and alloxan-induced diabetes.

The alcoholic extract of the stem bark also exhibited antidiabetic activity on alloxan-induced diabetes in albino rats, and brought down the level of serum cholesterol and blood urea. This activity is attributed to a glucoside, bengalenoside and the flavonoid glycosides, leucocyanidin and leucopelargonidin. Bengalenoside is half as potent as tolbutamide. The leucopelargonidin glycoside is practically nontoxic and may be useful in controlling diabetes with hyperlipi- demia. The leucocyanidin, when combined with a low dose of insulin, not only equalled in response the effects brought about by a double dose of insulin, but also excelled in amelioration of serum cholesterol and triglycerides.

(Additional references: Indian J Physiol Pharmacol, 1975, 19(4), 218220; J Ethnopharmacol, 1989, 26(1), 155; Indian J Physiol Pharmacol, 1994, 38(3), 220-222.)... ficus benghalensis

n. an alkaline milky liquid found within the *lacteals after a period of absorption. It consists of lymph with a suspension of minute droplets of digested fats (triglycerides), which have been absorbed from the small intestine. It is transported in the lymphatic system to the *thoracic duct. See also ascites.... chyle

n. a *lipoprotein particle present in the blood after digested fat has been absorbed from the small intestine. The lipid portion consists largely of triglycerides, which are released by the action of *lipoprotein lipase.... chylomicron

Linn.

Family: Rubiaceae.

Habitat: Native to tropical America; occurs in tidal forests of South India and in Andaman Islands. (An extract of flowers, resembling rose-water, in sold in Travancore markets.)

Action: Bark—used in chronic dysentery; also applied to wounds and abscesses.

Siddha/Tamil: Pey Ellu, Uch Ellu.

Folk: Raam-til, Kaalaa Til, Sargujaa.

Action: Oil from seed—an- tirheumatic.

The seeds yield an oil (33%), a mixture of triglycerides, lauric, palmitic, palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and arachidic acids. The unsaponifiable matter is a mixture of stigmasterol, n- triacontane and lupeol. Seeds contain lysine.... guettarda speciosa

B. Br.

Family: Asclepiadaceae.

Habitat: Central and Peninsular India.

English: Australian Cow Plant, Ipecacuanha (Indian).

Ayurvedic: Meshashringi, Meshav- ishaanikaa, Meshavalli, Chhaagal- shrngi. Ajashringi (also equated with Dolichandrone falcata and Pergularia extensa).

Unani: Gurmaar Buuti.

Siddha/Tamil: Kannu Minnayam- kodi, Passaam, Shirukurinja.

Action: Leaf—antidiabetic. Stimulates the heart and circulatory system, activates the uterus. Used in parageusia and furunculosis. Plant—diuretic, antibilious. Root— emetic, expectorant, astringent, stomachic.

Gymnemagenin, the main sapoge- nin in the leaves, yielded 3.9-4.6% of total gymnemic acids.

Gymnemic acids are antisweet principles and exhibit inhibitory effect on levels of plasma glucose.

The extract of dried leaves, given to diabetic rats at a dose of 20 mg/day per rat for 8 weeks, was found to bring about blood glucose homoeostasis by increasing serum insulin levels. Increased glycoprotein level and the resultant nephropathy, retinopathy and micro-and macro-angiopathy were also controlled.

The leaf extract (25-100 mg/kg), when orally administered to experimentally induced hyperlipidaemic rats for 2 weeks, reduced the elevated serum triglyceride and total cholesterol in a dose-dependent manner. The efficacy and antiatherosclerotic potential of the extract (100 mg/kg) were comparable to that of a lipid lowering agent, clofibrate.

In homoeopathy, a drug obtained from the leaves and roots is prescribed for both diabetes mellitus and insipidus Gymnemic acid is reported to inhibit melanin formation in vitro. It also inhibits dental plaque formation.

Dosage: Root, leaf-3-5 g powder; 50-100 ml decoction. (CCRAS.)... gymnema sylvestre

n. a substance that contains one or more *fatty acids in the form of *triglycerides and is the principal form in which energy is stored by the body (in *adipose tissue). It also serves as an insulating material beneath the skin (in the subcutaneous tissue) and around certain organs (including the kidneys). Fat is one of the three main constituents of food (see also carbohydrate; protein); it is necessary in the diet to provide an adequate supply of *essential fatty acids and for the efficient absorption of fat-soluble vitamins from the intestine. Excessive deposition of fat in the body leads to *obesity. See also brown fat; lipid.... fat

an organic acid with a long straight hydrocarbon chain and an even number of carbon atoms. Fatty acids are the fundamental constituents of many important lipids, including *triglycerides. Some fatty acids can be synthesized by the body; others, the *essential fatty acids, must be obtained from the diet. Examples of fatty acids are palmitic acid, oleic acid, and stearic acid. See also fat; saturated fatty acid; unsaturated fatty acid.... fatty acid

Lam.

Family: Myristicaceae.

Habitat: Western Ghats, Kanara and Malabar.

English: Malabar Nutmeg, False Nutmeg, Bombay Nutmeg, Bombay Mace.

Ayurvedic: Paashikaa, Raamapatri, Ku-Jaavitri. Pashupaashi (Kerala).

Siddha/Tamil: Pathiri, Kattu Jhadi.

Action: Topically stimulant; applied to indolent ulcers.

The fruit rind yielded diarylno- nanoids and a lignin, malabaricanol. Leaves gave beta-sitosterol, myristic acid and its triglyceride, trimyristin.

Fat and resin are the major constituents of the Bombay mace. The crude fat (Pundi oil) is used as an embrocation in rheumatism. The bark yields a kino. Ripe fruits form the source of Bombay Nutmeg and Bombay Mace, used as adulterant of Myristica fragrans.

Dosage: Seed kernel—1.5 g powder; oil—1-3 drops. (CCRAS.)... myristica malabarica

Linn.

Family: Papaveraceae.

Habitat: Kashmir and throughout the plains of North India; cultivated in gardens.

English: Corn Poppy, Red Poppy.

Ayurvedic: Rakta Posta.

Siddha/Tamil: Sivappu, Kasakasa.

Folk: Laal Posta, Laal Kaskas.

Action: Latex from capsules— narcotic. Petal—expectorant, antitussive, sudorific. Used for diseases of the respiratory tract, for disturbed sleep and as a sedative for the relief of pain. (Included among unapproved herbs by German Commission E.)

The petals contain cyanidine derivatives. An alkaloid rhoeadine is present in leaves and flowers (0.031%), unripe capsules (0.035%) and in roots

Family: Papaveraceae.

Habitat: Native to Asia; now grown in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

English: Opium Poppy.

Ayurvedic: Ahiphena, Aaphuuka. Post-daanaa (seed).

Unani: Afyum. Tukhm-e- khashkhaash (seed).

Siddha/Tamil: Kasakasa (seeds).

Action: Opium is obsolete as a drug. Narcotic, sedative, hypnotic, analgesic, sudorific, anodyne, antispasmodic. Crushed poppyheads were in use as a topical poultice for crippling pain in terminal diseases. Poppy seed—nutritive, demulcent, emollient, spasmolytic, devoid of narcotic properties. Specific against obstinate constipation, also used in catarrh of the bladder. Poppy seed oil is also free from narcotic properties. Used against diarrhoea, dysentery and scalds.

Opium contains isoquinoline alkaloids; the major one is morphine with narcotine, codeine, papaverine and thebaine. Poppy seeds, used in Indian medicine, do not contain alkaloids. The seeds contain thiamine 420, riboflavin 49, folic acid 30, pantothenic acid 2667 and niacin 1877 mcg/100 g. The seed oil (from Turkey) contains gamma-tocopherol 220, alpha-toco- pherol 40 and beta-tocopherol 20 mcg/ 100 g. Some low-molecular proteins (15% of total protein) have been isolated, along with cysteine, glutamic acid and arginine. The seeds yield a fatty oil (45%) containing palmitic, stearic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids.

The extract of seeds showed highly significant antisecretory (antidiarr- hoeal activity) against E. coli entero- toxin-induced secretory responses in experimental animals.

The triglycerides isolated from seeds showed anti-tumour activity against Ehrlichs ascites in mice.

The aqueous extract of seeds showed marked hypoglycaemic activity when administered to glucose-loaded and al- loxan diabetic rats.

The seeds were found to increase the activity of carcinogen detoxifying enzyme, glutathione-S-transferase by more than 78% in the stomach, liver and oesophagus in mice.

Following Papaver sp. are found in India:

P. argemone Linn. (indigenous to the Mediterranean region; commonly grown in gardens in India) contains 0.15% of alkaloids including rhoeadine, protopine, and anthocyanins. Petals are sudorific.

P dubium Linn. (North-western Himalaya form Kashmir to Garhwal; as a winter weed in North Indian plains) contains rhoeagenine as the principal alkaloid, besides rhoeadine, protopine. Petals contain cyanidin B and pelargonidin C. Petals are sudorific.

P. hybridum Linn. (gardens of Punjab and Uttar Pradesh) is diaphoretic (petals). Plant latex contains alkaloids including berberine, coptisine, pahybrine, papaverrubines A, B, D and E and sanguinarine. Plant also gave glaucine and glucamine.

P. nudicaule Linn. (Gulmarg, Kashmir, at altitudes of 3,300-3,600 m), known as Iceland Poppy, gave alkaloids including papaverrubines B and D; leave gave cyanogenic glycosides including dhurrin and triglochinin. The flower and fruit are mild diaphoretic.

P. orientale Linn. (indigenous to Mediterranean region; grown in Indian gardens), known as Oriental Poppy, contains 0.16% of alkaloids including thebaine, isothebane, protopine, glaucidine and oripavine. Latex from poppy capsule is narcotic.... papaver somniferum

n. a *lipid consisting of glycerol (an alcohol) combined with one or more fatty acids. See also triglyceride.... glyceride

(HDL) the smallest and densest of the *lipoproteins that carry cholesterol and triglycerides around the body, which is derived mainly from precursors produced in the liver. HDL has an important role in reverse cholesterol transfer, i.e. the removal of cholesterol from the circulation and the blood vessel walls and its transfer to the liver. Higher levels of HDL have been shown to be associated with lower levels of cardiovascular disease.... high-density lipoprotein

n. an excess of *triglyceride lipids in the serum, which can be caused by a genetic predisposition with or without a high-fat diet (see also lipoprotein lipase), excessive alcohol intake, or poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. The condition can predispose to cardiovascular disease and, in its extreme form, to acute pancreatitis. Lipid-lowering drugs, including *fibrates, are used in treatment.... hypertriglyceridaemia

Linn.

Family: Plumbaginaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated in gardens throughout India; also found wild in Peninsular India.

English: Ceylon Leadwort, Leadwort.

Ayurvedic: Chitraka, Agni, Vahni, Jvalanaakhya, Krshaanu, Hutaasha, Dahana, Sikhi.

Unani: Sheetraj Hindi. Siddha/Tamil: Chittramoolam.

Action: Root—intestinal flora normalizer, stimulates digestive processes; used for dyspepsia. Root paste is applied in order to open abscesses; a paste prepared with milk, vinegar or salt and water, is used externally in leprosy and other obstinate skin diseases. A cold infusion is used for influenza and black-water fever.

Key application: In sprue, malabsorption syndrome, piles and inflammatory diseases of ano-rectum. (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.)

The root yielded naphthoquinone derivatives, plumbagin being the most important active principle.

The root extract, after processing for plumbagin enhancement, has been used in a number of drug formulations for liver ailments. Experimentally, plumbagin prevented the accumulation of triglycerides in liver and aorta and regressed atheromatous plaques and abdominal aorta. The chloroform extract of the root showed significant activity against pencillin-resistant (also non-pencillin resistant) strains of Neisseria gonorrhoea. (The root is used for treating sexually transmitted diseases in traditional Indian medicine.)

In Siddha medicine, in Tamil Nadu, the plant is an ingredient in a number of drug formulations for treating cancers of the uterus, breast, lungs and oral cavity, in addition to haemorrhoids.

Plumbagin is abortifacient, antiovu- latory; causes selective testicular lesions in dogs; in lower doses it behaves like a spindle poison, in higher concentration exhibits radiomimetic nu- cleotoxic and cytotoxic effects.

Dosage: Detoxified root—1-2 g powder. (API, Vol. I.)... plumbago zeylanica

Roxb.

Family: Papilionaceae; Fabaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the tropical zones of India in the hilly regions.

English: Indian Kino tree, Malabar Kino tree.

Ayurvedic: Asana, Bijaka, Priyaka, Pitashaala.

Unani: Bijaysaar.

Siddha/Tamil: Vengai.

Action: Bark-kino—astringent, antihaemorrhagic, antidiarrhoeal. Flowers—febrifuge. Leaves—used externally for skin diseases.

Key application: Heartwood— in anaemia, worm infestation, skin diseases, urinary disorders, lipid disorders and obesity. Stem bark—in diabetes. (The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.)

The heartwood and roots contain isoflavonoids, terpenoids and tannins. Tannins include the hypoglycaemic principle (-)-epicatechin. Stilbenes, such as pterostilbene; flavonoids, including liquiritigenin, isoliquiritige- nin, 7-hydroxyflavanone, 7,4-dihy- droxyflavanone, 5-deoxykaempferol and pterosupin; a benzofuranone mar- supsin and propterol, p-hydroxy-ben- zaldehyde are active principles of therapeutic importance.

The gum-kino from the bark provides a non-glucosidal tannin, Kino tannic acid (25-80%).

The (-)-epi-catechin increases the cAMP content of the islets which is associated with the increased insulin release, conversion of proinsulin to insulin and cathepsin B activity.

Oral administration of ethylacetate extract of the heartwood and its fla- vonoid constituents, marsupin, ptero- supin and liquiritigenin, for 14 consecutive days to rats exhibited a significant reduction of serum triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL- and VLDL-cholesterol levels, but it did not exert any significant effect on HDL- cholesterol.

The ethanolic and methanolic extracts of the heartwood exhibited significant in vitro antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gramnegative bacteria and some strains of fungi.

Kino is powerfully astringent. The therapeutic value of kino is due to Kino tannic acid.

Dosage: Heartwood—50-100 g for decoction. (API, Vol. I); stem bark—32-50 g for decoction (API, Vol. III).... pterocarpus marsupium

n. the process by which lipids, particularly triglycerides in fat, are broken down into their constituent fatty acids in the body by the enzyme *lipase. —lipolytic adj.... lipolysis

n. one of a group of compounds, found in blood plasma and lymph, each consisting of a protein (see apolipoprotein) combined with a lipid (which may be cholesterol, a triglyceride, or a phospholipid). Lipoproteins are important for the transport of lipids in the blood and lymph (see also lipoprotein lipase). See chylomicron; high-density lipoprotein; low-density lipoprotein; very low-density lipoprotein. See also hyperlipidaemia.... lipoprotein

an enzyme that catalyses the hydrolysis of triglycerides in *chylomicrons and *very low-density lipoproteins to free fatty acids, which are absorbed from the capillaries into local tissues. Deficiency of this enzyme results in severe *hypertriglyceridaemia.... lipoprotein lipase

(VLDL) a *lipoprotein that is the precursor of *low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Containing triglycerides and cholesterol, it is produced in the liver and circulates in the bloodstream, where its triglycerides are hydrolysed to free fatty acids by *lipoprotein lipase. The remaining lipoprotein becomes progressively denser and richer in cholesterol to form LDL.... very low-density lipoprotein

(Bartram) Small.

Synonym: Sabal serrulata (Michaux) Nichols.

Family: Palmae.

Habitat: Southeastern North America.

English: Sabal, Saw Palmetto.

Action: Ripe fruit—diuretic, urinary antiseptic, antiandrogenic, and antiexudative.

The fruit contains fatty acids, especially capric, caproic, caprylic, lau- ric, myristic, oleic, linoleic, linolenic, stearic and palmitic acids; sterols, principally beta-sitosterol and its 3-gluco- side (and fatty acid derivatives), cam- pesterol and stigmasterol; triglycerides; triterpenes; alkanols; polysaccharides; flavonoids; essential oil and anthranilic acid.

Key application: In urination problems due to benign prostatic hyperplasia stages I and II (German Commission E, ESCOP, WHO.) (The lipophilic extracts of Saw Palmetto berries are used in France and Germany for the treatment of BPH. In a study (1999), shrinkage of the epithelial tissue in the transition zone of the prostate has been recorded. (Expanded Commission E Monographs.) (For Clinical studies, see ESCOP.)

In India, Sabal palmetto Lodd. Ex Roem. & Schult (Sabal or Cabbage Palm) is planted in gardens for ornament. The sweet drupes are eaten as such or cooked for preparing a syrup. Other species of Sabal introduced into Indian gardens are: S. mauritiiformis Griseb. & Wendl., S. mexicana Mart., S. umbraculifera Mart., and S. minor Pers. The leaves of S. mexicana contain cyanidin. The leaves of S. minor contain caffeic, p-coumaric and sinapic acids.... seronoa repens

A group of LIPID-lowering drugs used to treat primary hypercholesterolaemia – a condition in which the concentrations of LIPOPROTEINS in the blood plasma are raised, increasing the likelihood of affected individuals developing coronary heart disease. Statins act by competitively inhibiting an ENZYME called 3-hydroxy-3methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase. This enzyme plays a part in the synthesis of CHOLESTEROL, particularly in the LIVER. Statins are more e?ective than other classes of drugs in lowering body concentrations of LDL-cholesterol but less e?ective than ?brates in reducing triglyceride concentration. Their use results in signi?cant reductions in heart attacks (myocardial infarctions) and other adverse cardiovascular events, such as STROKE. Recent research shows that drugs which reduce lipid concentrations may prevent as many as one-third of myocardial infarctions and deaths from coronary disease. Statins are valuable in preventing coronary events in patients at increased risk of those conditions. They should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures such as low-fat diets, reduction in alcohol consumption, taking exercise and stopping smoking. Among statin drugs available are atorvastatin, cerivastatin sodium, ?uvastatin, pracastatin sodium and simvasatin. (See HEART, DISEASES OF; HYPERLIPIDAEMIA.)... statins

Linn.f.

Family: Loganiaceae; Strychnaceae.

Habitat: Forests of West Bengal, Central and South India, up to 1,200 m.

English: Clearing Nut tree.

Ayurvedic: Kataka, Katakaphala, Payah-prasaadi, Chakshushya, Nirmali.

Unani: Nirmali.

Siddha/Tamil: Thettran, Thetrankot- tai.

Action: Seed—antidiabetic, antidysenteric, emetic.

Mannogalactan from seeds reduces cholesterol and triglycerides (one-tenth and one-fifth when compared to clofi- brate). Seeds are also applied to abscesses, and venereal sores (internally in gonorrhoea). Fruits—antidiabet- ic; antidysenteric, expectorant. (Pulp is used as a substitute for ipecacuanha.)

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the seed in dysuria, polyuria, urolithiasis, also in epilepsy.

The seeds, leaves and trunk bark gave diabolin (major alkaloid) and acetyldiabolin. Seeds also gavebrucine, strychnine, novacine, icajine, oleanolic acid and its glycoside. Leaves and bark gave isomotiol, stigmasterol, campes- terol and sitosterol. Diabolin exhibits hypotensive activity.

A decoction of seeds is given to treat stammering.

The seeds resemble those of Nux- vomica but are non-poisonous. The ripe seeds are used for clearing muddy water.

Dosage: Seed—3-6 g. (API, Vol. IV.)... strychnos potatorum

(Roxb.) W. & A.

Family: Combretaceae.

Habitat: Throughout the greater part of India, also grown as an avenue tree.

English: Arjun Terminalia.

Ayurvedic: Arjuna, Dhananjaya, Kaakubha, Kakubha, Aartagala, Indravriksha, Paartha, Virataru, Viravriksha.

Unani: Arjun

Siddha: Marudam.

Action: Bark—used as a cardiopro- tective and cardiotonic in angina and poor coronary circulation; as a diuretic in cirrhosis of liver and for symptomatic relief in hypertension; externally in skin diseases, herpes and leukoderma. Powdered bark is prescribed with milk in fractures and contusions with excessive ec- chymosis, also in urinary discharges and strangury. Fruit—deobstruent.

The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia ofIn- dia recommends the powder of the stembark in emaciation, chest diseases, cardiac disorders, lipid imbalances and polyuria.

The bark extract contains acids (ar- junolic acid, terminic acid), glyco- sides (arjunetin, arjunosides I-IV), and strong antioxidants—flavones, tannins, oligomeric proanthocyani- dins.

The bark extract (500 mg every 8 h) given to (58 male) patients with stable angina with provocable ischemia on treadmill exercise, led to improvement in clinical and treadmill exercise parameters as compared to placebo therapy.

These benefits were similar to those observed with isosorbide mononitrate (40 mg/day). (Indian Heart J. 2002, 54(4), 441.)

Arjunolic acid exhibited significant cardiac protection in isoproterenol- induced myocardial necrosis in rats.

T (Mol Cell Biochem, 2001, 224 (1-2), 135-42.) A study demonstrated that the alcoholic extract of Terminalia arjuna bark augmented endogenous antioxi- dant compounds of the rat heart and prevented from isoproterenol-induced myocardial ischemic reperfusion injury. (Life Sci. 2003, 73 (21), 27272739.) Cardiac lipid peroxidation in male Wistar rats was reduced by 38.8% ± 2.6% at a dose of 90 mg/kg, in a study based on aqueous freeze-dried extract ofthebark. (PhytotherRes. 2001,15(6), 510-23.)

Oral administration of bark powder (400 mg/kg body weight) for 10 days produced significant increase in circulating histamine, a little increase in 5-HT, catecholamines and HDL cholesterol, and decrease in total lipid, triglycerides and total cholesterol in normal rats.

Casuarinin, a hydrolyzable tannin, isolated from the bark, exhibited antiherpes virus activity by inhibiting viral attachment and penetration. 50% ethanolic extract of the bark exhibited significant increase in the tensile of the incision wounds.

Dosage: Stembark—3-6 g powder. (API, Vol. II.)... terminalia arjuna

Linn.

Family: Gramineae; Poaceae.

Habitat: Cultivated as a food crop mainly in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh., Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar and Rajasthan.

English: Wheat.

Ayurvedic: Godhuuma.

Folk: Gehun.

Action: Wheat germ oil is rich in tocopherol (vitamin E) content, total tocopherols 1897 mcg/g, alpha tocopherol 67%. The presence of ergosterol (provitamin D) has also been reported.

Wheat germ is also used for its minerals, proteins and lipid contents. Germ proteins are rich in lysine (5.285.55 g/100 g protein) and possess high biological value (94%) and protein efficiency ratio (2.9).

Wheat germ contains haemaggluti- nating and antipyretic factors, but these are destroyed by toasting. It also contains haemoproteins, possessing per- oxidase activity.

In adult rats, addition of wheat germ (7%) to a high fat (cholesterol) diet significantly decreased VLDL-cholesterol and VLDL-triglycerides and increased the HDL-cholesterol after-7 weeks of feeding.

Bran oil contains tocopherols, but major part of them (68%) is in epsilon form; alpha-tocopherol forms only 11% of the total.

Gluten lipids, associated with gluten, contain a high percentage of linoleic acid; lowering of serum cholesterol level has been observed in experiments (lipid-free gluten is devoid of cholesterol-lowering effect).

Sensitivity to gluten has also been reported (even when whole wheat flour was used).... triticum aestivum

It is now widely accepted that changes in diet and lifestyle can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease. Use DIET – GENERAL as a base.

Unsaturated fatty acids, as in vegetable oils, should replace animal fats (saturated fatty acids) that increase deposits of cholesterol on the inner coat of arteries and encourage hardening. Vegetable oils contain lecithin – a homogeniser which thins and separates the cholesterol, sweeping it along through the bloodstream and preventing deposits to form on walls of the arteries.

A study on the European population has shown a strong link between oily fish consumption and a reduced risk of heart disease. Populations that eat a lot of fish, such as Greenland Eskimos (about 400g a day) and Japanese fishermen (about 200g a day) have low rates of heart disease.

Another study, by the Leiden University of the Netherlands, has found that men who ate more than 30g of fish per day were less than half as likely to die from coronary heart disease as those who ate no fish. A diet high in fish lowers plasma cholesterol, triglyceride and very low density lipoprotein levels and is of value in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia (abnormally high concentration of fats in the blood).

Indicated: Magnesium-containing foods, lecithin, Evening Primrose oil for gamma linoleic acid which is converted into prostaglandin E1 in the body and helps reduce high blood pressure and prevents platelet clumping. Coffee carries a risk factor and should be taken sparingly – alternatives: herbal teas Rutin, Lime flowers and others as available in bulk or tea-bags. Green grapes.

Supplements, daily: Vitamin C 1g; Vitamin E 400iu; Magnesium 300mg – 450mg for pregnant women and nursing mothers. Iodine. Chromium, Selenium. Garlic tablets/capsules – 2-3 at night.

Flora margarine is high in essential polyunsaturated fats – made from sunflower seed oil. Hay diet: good results reported. ... diet - heart and circulation

It is now accepted that oily fish is good for the heart, arthritis, skin disorders and some cases of chronic headache.

In Greenland, where much oily fish is eaten, heart disease is scarcely known. Each year over 200,000 people in Britain alone die of heart disease. Western affluence-diseases from a diet of excess saturated fat (from meat, butter, etc) may be reduced by modest amounts of oily fish.

A daily intake of 800 milligrams of essential fatty acids as contained in herring, mackerel, cod, etc., can play a decisive role in cardiac treatments. Such fish may be eaten twice weekly. On days when not taken, supplement with pure fish oil or fish oil capsules. As little as 1oz (30 grams) of mackerel, herring or other similar fish is sufficient.

When eating oily fish only twice a week a teaspoon of pure fish oil or dessertspoon cod liver oil daily is sufficient.

Labels of fish oils should be carefully studied for their DHA and EPA content in milligrams. Add together to a total 800 milligrams – average daily dose.

Fish oils can lower the level of triglycerides and reduce ‘stickiness’ of the blood – its tendency to clot and possibly block coronary vessels. As fish oil Vitamin A contains 10,000iu of Retinol, it should not be taken for extended periods without the advice of a practitioner. ... fish oils

Balsamodendron myrrh. Commiphora molmol, Engl. German: Echter Myrrhenbaum. French: Arbre a? myrrhe. Spanish: Arbol de Mirra. Italian: Albero del mirra. Indian: Bal. Arabian: Mukala. Gum resin. Keynote: purification.

Constituents: Myrrhol (volatile oil).

A leuco-cytogenic agent – increases number of white cells in the blood. “From the days of Moses to the time of Christ and since then to the 20th century, Myrrh has proven over and over again to be one of the finest antibacterial and antiviral agents placed on earth.” (John Heinerman, in Science of Herbal

Medicine)

Action: bacteriostatic against staphylococcus aureus and other gram-positive bacteria. Perhaps the most widely used herbal antiseptic. Bitter, astringent, anti-inflammatory, carminative, vulnerary, antifungal, expectorant, diaphoretic, deodorant, emmenagogue, anti-thrush.

Uses: The whole body feels its influence. Internal and external ulceration; especially of mouth, throat, pharynx, spongy gums, pyrrhoea, etc (mouth wash and gargle). Candida – 5-10 drops emulsified in yoghurt. Suppurating wounds that refuse to heal, boils, abscesses. Fungal infections. Myrrh is effective in lowering blood fats and therefore useful for reducing deposits of cholesterol and triglycerides in coronary heart disease. Powerful antiseptic combination: equal parts powders or tinctures: Echinacea, Goldenseal and Myrrh.

Capsicum and Myrrh. Capsicum enhances its action. The two are synergistic and capillary stimulants. Both may be used with impressive effect for chronic conditions along the alimentary canal.

Preparations: Thrice daily.

Tincture Myrrh BPC 1973: 1:5, 90 per cent alcohol. Dose: 5 to 15 drops.

Thomson’s Tincture of Myrrh Co (as once used by members of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists). 1 part Tincture Capsicum BPC to 4 parts Tincture Myrrh. Dose: 1 to 2 and a half ml. Powders: Fill number 00 capsules. 1 capsule thrice daily. May be used as a dusting powder on wounds. Enema. Add 20-30 drops Tincture Myrrh to 2 pints boiling water; allow to cool, inject warm. Contra- indications: pregnancy. ... myrrh

Nutrients that provide the body with its most concentrated form of energy. Fats, which are also called lipids, are compounds containing chains of carbon and hydrogen with very little oxygen. Chemically, fats consist mostly of fatty acids combined with glycerol. They are divided into 2 main groups, saturated and unsaturated, depending on the proportion of hydrogen atoms. If the fatty acids contain the maximum possible quantity of hydrogen, the fats are saturated. If some sites on the carbon chain are unoccupied by hydrogen, they are unsaturated; when many sites are vacant, they are polyunsaturated. Monounsaturated fats are unsaturated fats with only one site that could take an extra hydrogen. Animal fats, such as those in meat and dairy products, are largely saturated, whereas vegetable fats tend to be unsaturated.

Fats are usually solid at room temperature; oils are liquid. The amount and types of fat in the diet have important implications for health. A diet containing a large amount of fat, particularly saturated fat, is linked to an increased risk of atherosclerosis and subsequent heart disease and stroke.

Some dietary fats, mainly triglycerides (combinations of glycerol and 3 fatty acids), are sources of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K and of essential fatty acids. Triglycerides are the main form of fat stored in the body. These stores act as an energy reserve and also provide insulation and a protective layer for delicate organs. Phospholipids are structural fats found in cell membranes. Sterols, such as cholesterol, are found in animal and plant tissues; they have a variety of functions, often being converted into hormones or vitamins.

Dietary fats are first emulsified by bile salts before being broken down by lipase, a pancreatic enzyme. They are absorbed via the lymphatic system before entering the bloodstream.Lipids are carried in the blood bound to protein; in this state they are known as lipoproteins. There are 4 classes of lipoprotein: very low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs), low-density lipoproteins (LDLs), high-density lipoproteins (HDLs), and chylomicrons. LDLs and VLDLs contain large amounts of cholesterol, which they carry through the bloodstream and deposit in tissues. HDLs pick up cholesterol and carry it back to the liver for processing and excretion. High levels of LDLs are associated with atherosclerosis, whereas HDLs have a protective effect. (See also nutrition.)... fats and oils