Will curry leaves prevent Cancer?

Curry leaf is an essential ingredient in Indian cooking but we all remove it from our food the moment we see it. Actually, it has got numerous health benefits which we need to consider. These curry leaves are obtained from a tropical tree of the family ‘Rutaceae’ which is a native tree of India.  They are capable of treating many illnesses in Ayurveda. In fact, the ancient medical science of Ayurveda used curry leaves in treating of different health conditions like gastric disturbances, kidney disorders, indigestion and bruises.

Composition and dosage: Curry leaves contain phosphorus, calcium, vitamin C, B3 and iron. These leaves are having steam distillation which yields volatile oils and compounds like koenigin as it is responsible for the medicinal value. They are available as dried leaves, poultice, juice and powder. Indeed, the dose of the curry leaves will be based on the age of the patient and the condition of the treatment.

Effect on Cancer cells: Compounds like murrayacoumarin B in curry leaves inhibits the growth of Cancer cells and many studies have shown this. They also have important anti-tumor properties which help in preventing stomach and skin cancer. Curry leaves reduce the incidence of cancer cells in the stomach and skin tissues. They increase the body’s own antioxidants like superoxide dismutase which prevents cancer. The chemical agent called, Mahanin which is considered to be fatal for cancer cells in our body. They are even used as medicines in treating of prostate cancer patients. 

Other Health benefits:

Diabetes: Curry leaves are used in the treatment of diabetes because it reduces the weight and reduces the level of sugar in blood.

Kidney disorders: The juice of the roots of curry leaves is useful for the treatment of kidney disorders.

Eyesight: Its juice is very essential in improving the eyesight and prevention of cataract.

Hair: Coconut oil along with the boiled curry leaves are useful for hair tonic, growth and the natural pigmentation of hair.

Burns: Curry leaves can be applied as a poultice for the effective treatment of burns and skin eruptions.

Note: You must consult the doctor before using the curry leaves in the prevention of Cancer. Tell him/ her also about any pre-existing conditions and any other medicines you are using currently.       

The important vegetables that boost your immune system

Cruciferous vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables are the gold standard in immune-boosting vegetables. While all the vegetables have nutrients and some defensive powers, for these vegetables. Cruciferous vegetables have a special chemical composition. In fact, they have sulfur-containing compounds that are liable for their pungent flavors. But, when they’re broken down by biting, chopping or blending and a chemical reaction occurs that converts these sulfur-containing compounds into isothiocyanates (ITCs). Thus, ITCs prevent and kill cancer and have infinite proven immune-boosting capabilities.

Garlic

Garlic is certainly one of the world’s most strong medicines and its effective smell is what makes it so potent. Indeed, the active ingredient allicin turns into oregano sulfurs which are the mixtures that keep your cells safe from all the damaging cellular processes that can cause major chronic diseases. Moreover, Garlic is a natural antiseptic as it stops cancer and avoids colds and fights infection. Even, research also states that garlic may decrease chronic diseases related with age, such as stroke, cancer, atherosclerosis, brain aging, cataracts, immune disorders and arthritis.

          Onions

Onions are annoying in quercetin and a potent antioxidant that may decrease the risk of cancer. In fact, like garlic, onions also have the incredible compound allicin. But, red and purple onions contain anthocyanins and the same antioxidants that create berries so healthy in remedial powers. But, the quercetin contained in onion makes them a harmless therapy for allergies and it also aids avoid heart disease and decrease high blood pressure.

      Mushrooms

The power of mushrooms comes from their capability to improve the activity of natural killer T cells (NKT). Hence, these NKTs attack and take out cells that are damaged or diseased by a virus. But, mushrooms are related with reducing most cancers and considerably decreasing the risk of breast cancer in women. Thus, they prevent DNA damage and slow cancer or tumor growth and stop tumors from obtaining a blood supply.

    Tomatoes

Tomatoes are also the annoying source of the extraordinarily powerful antioxidant lycopene because an ingredient that avoids cancer, mainly cancer of the prostate. Indeed, tomatoes also have great levels of beta carotene as an antioxidant that helps the immune system. However, they have high nutritional fiber and taste delightful raw or cooked. 

   Beets

Beets are an astonishing blood purifier. Because, beets are annoying in iron and produce the disease-fighting white blood cells. In fact, they also encourage red blood cells and increase the supply of oxygen to the cells. Moreover, beets kill cancer and heart disease and the cleansing properties make them good for your organs. Hence, beets are also rich in fiber and beneficial for gastric health.

  Spinach 

Spinach is high in beta carotene which the body converts into vitamin A and activating your immune response to keep you well. Certainly, spinach stops cancer and heart disease and is high in the disease-fighting mineral zinc. But, the vitamin C benefits you fight colds and infection and keeps your skin healthy; the B vitamins keep you calm and more active.

 Red bell Pepper

Red bell pepper is full with vitamin C, creating it a potent immune builder. In fact, red bell pepper’s rich level of beta carotene turns into vitamin A and creating it a strong defense against disease. While green and yellow peppers are definitely healthy and although they both have related amounts of vitamin C and red bell peppers have quite a bit more of the superstar beta carotene.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are extreme superior to the run-of-the-mill white potato. Certainly, the orange variety includes beta carotene which makes them occupied with robust antioxidant, antiviral and anticancer abilities. Hence, they’re also filled with fiber and the vitamin E they have is healthy for the skin.

Asparagus

Asparagus’s biggest talent is its capacity to boost the body to flush out toxins due to its natural diuretic abilities. Definitely, asparagus is both emptying and anti-inflammatory to the body. Thus, it has the antioxidant glutathione which can reduce your risk factor for heart disease and cancer. Even, it’s valuable for all inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and petulant bowel syndrome.

The essential fruits that boost our Immune system

There are different varieties of fruits which boost our Immune system like:

     Lemons  

                           

Lemons are super versatile and contain numerous health benefits. Lemons naturally cleanse the body, and the antifungal and antiseptic qualities help kill germs. Lemons provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including lots of vitamin C, and have been shown to slow the rate of cancer growth. Lemons also help balance the acidity in your body, which is great for boosting your immune system.

       Apples

        

Eating apples is like giving your body a mini-cleanse. Apples are rich in the fiber pectin, which binds cholesterol, toxins, and heavy metals to move them out of your body. Apples clean out your colon, keeping it healthy, which makes your skin glow.

Oranges

Oranges contain beta sitosterol, which has been shown to prevent tumor growth and lower blood cholesterol. The versatility of oranges allows you to enjoy this high-fiber fruit on its own or in some savory dishes or drinks!

      Mango 

      Mango is a delicious tropical fruit that’s loaded with beta carotene; the precursor to vitamin A. Vitamin A is antiviral and important for immune function. Mango is also one of the only fruit sources of vitamin E, which protects against cell damage and boosts disease-fighting antibodies.

     

     Cantaloupe

      The healing ability of cantaloupe comes from its beta carotene. Vitamin A plays a big hand in producing white blood cells to fight disease. Also rich in vitamin C, this fruit helps protect against colds, cancer, and heart disease.

     Pomegranates

      Pomegranates have antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory abilities. The juice and the seeds of this fruit stop tumor cells from growing, spreading, or creating blood supplies. Pomegranates lower blood pressure, improve heart health, reverses atherosclerosis, and improve depression.

      

     Grapes

        Grapes strengthen your capillaries, so they’re a powerful natural remedy to improve circulation and prevent heart disease. Grapes are high in antioxidants, keeping your cells healthy and free from the damage that causes disease. Grapes are another detoxifying immune-building fruit, detoxifying the skin, liver, kidney, and intestines. When you buy grapes, reach for the red grapes instead of the white. Red grapes contain more anthocyanins, which are the antioxidants found in grapes that make them so immune building.

     Cherries

      Cherries contain a powerful compound that blocks cancer cells from developing. Rich in antioxidants, cherries help you fight disease, viruses, and bacteria. The anti-inflammatory nature of cherries provides relief to inflammatory diseases like arthritis.

     Pineapple

       The protein-digesting enzyme in pineapple called bromelain is responsible for all pineapple’s wonderful qualities. Bromelain’s power comes from reducing inflammation. Injuries, digestive discomforts, sinusitis, arthritis, as well as any inflammatory condition are supported by the use of pineapple. It tastes good, too!

   

    Berries: 

         

      Berries like blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, blackberries, cherries, and strawberries are the top immune-boosting fruits. These fruits contain phytochemicals (natural plant chemicals) that give them their vibrant colors, called anthocyanins. Berries are flooded with antioxidants, are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, and are also high in fiber. They provide all this nutrition and are low in natural sugars to boot! They suppress the growth of several cancers and colds, reduce high blood pressure, and prevent strokes, arthritis, and osteoporosis.

You need to know -Use of Neem in treating cancer

Neem is a tree that is very versatile as far as medical benefits are concerned. It can be used to treat various conditions ranging from ulcers to arthritis in humans. The most important property of a neem tree, though is to help in treating cancer.

Recent research in use of neem in treating cancer:
A protein found in the neem leaf has been found to boost the immune response and helps to kill colon cancer cells. The neem has also been found to produce antibodies. Some researchers have even gone on to say that the presence of these benefits in the neem leaf may pave the way to produce a vaccine for cancer.

The unique properties of the neem leaf are due to the presence of various types of compounds with diverse chemical structure that is found in the neem leaf. There are also various cosmetic products in the market that make use of these properties. Usually the use of cosmetic products based on chemicals can lead to various skin problems and may even predispose to cancer. The use of neem in making cosmetic products can prevent all these complications.

Uses of neem in Cancer treatment:

1. Cancer cells: Neem has been used and also tested on various cancers. The neem promotes programmed cell death in which cancer cells are directly killed.

2. Immune system: The body's immune system cells start identifying and destroying the cancer cells along with the chemicals present in the neem leaf.

3. Detoxification: Neem produces glutathione which is a carcinogen detoxifying enzyme. This is also one of the antioxidants that neem produces.

4. Protection against cancer: Other than the actual treatment of cancer using neem, it can also be used as a pre-treatment to protect against cancer. Neem has also been found to reduce the size of the tumour. In a study done, it was found that an injection of neem extract around the tumour showed a sudden decrease in the size within a few weeks.

5. Other treatment: Neem can be used as a standalone treatment in cancer. It has also been found to reduce the side effects of traditional cancer treatments.

6. Skin cancer: Neem based creams have been found to be effective in treating and curing skin cancers.

7. Leukemia: The various parts of the neem tree including the bark, seeds and neem oil have been found to be effective against lymphocytic leukemia. This is because of the polysaccharides and limonoids found in the neem.

8. Spread: The spread of cancer from one part of the body to other parts of the body is also reduced and prevented because of neem. This is because the neem leaf extracts because the prevention of the cancer cells from sticking to other cells in the body. So the malignancy of cancer is reduced by using neem leaf extracts.

9. The antioxidants present in the neem causes prevention of cancer. It also helps by causing toxic chemicals to enter the invading cancer cells and killing them or neutralizing them. This prevents the occurrence and also the spread of cancer.


These are the various natural health benefits that are got from the regular intake of neem and neem leaf extracts. These benefits may be more effective if they supplement the medical management in people who are taking treatment for cancer. Neem leaf can be said to be one of the most important natural protection against cancer.

How does Basil (Tulsi) helps in preventing Cancer?

The king of herbs, basil herb is one of the oldest and popular herbal plants rich in much notable health benefiting Phyto-nutrients. This highly prized plant is revered as "holy herb" in many traditions all around the world. Basil is a common herb in most of our kitchens, but did you know that, besides tasting good in our chicken and pasta dishes, it can be of use toward having more healthy bodies? It is an excellent alternative health treatment for many minor ailments. Grown originally in Asia and the Middle East, basil travelled the world along the spice trail. It has been grown and used for 5000 years and has hundreds of varieties and is now cultivated in many countries. All of its varieties have unique and individual chemical make-ups; and yet the base medicinal properties remain consistent from one strain to another.

Many Naturopathic doctors prescribe basil in treatment of diabetes, respiratory disorders, allergies, impotence, and infertility. This may be because basil contains cinnamanic acid, which has been found to enhance circulation, stabilize blood sugar, and improve breathing in those with respiratory disorders. It is also know that basil is very high in antioxidants, especially when it is used as an extract or oil. These antioxidants can protect your body against free radical damage associated with aging, some skin ailments, and most forms of cancer. Antioxidants have become an important part of keeping our bodies healthy, and basil may be among the safest and most effective sources of these life-giving compounds.

Additional scientific research has shown that the volatile oils in basil, combined with their antioxidant effects, make it a great health boost for our immune systems. Fresh basil leaves and basil oil have antibacterial properties. They can be used to disinfect surfaces. Leaves, applied to wounds, may eliminate infections. Basil used in your cooking or taken as a nutritional supplement can assist in combating common viruses like colds, flu, and the herpes family of viruses – in a manner similar to that of Echinacea. 

The major health benefits of Basil (Tulsi):

Beats cancer: With strong anti-oxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties tulsi has been found to help stop the progression of breast cancer and oral cancer (caused due to chewing tobacco). This is because its compounds restrict the flow of blood to the tumour by attacking the blood vessels supplying it. Have the extract of tulsi every day to keep these conditions at bay. Preliminary evidence suggests that tulsi can help to treat some forms of cancer, including breast cancer. Tulsi constricts the blood vessels that "feed" tumours, thereby slowing their growth. Until more is known, tulsi should not be used as a sole or primary treatment for cancer.

Antioxidant: Like many medicinal herbs, tulsi leaves possess powerful antioxidant properties. It can help to protect the body from damage associated with free radicals-- compounds that have been linked to serious conditions like heart disease and cancer.

Immune Support: People taking tulsi supplements recover from wounds more quickly than people who are not taking tulsi leaves. One benefit of tulsi is its traditionally renowned ability to combat viral infections and fevers.

Basil Protects the heart: Tulsi has got a powerful anti-oxidant component called as Eugenol. This compound helps protect the heart by keeping one’s blood pressure under control and lowering his/her cholesterol levels. Chewing a few leaves of tulsi on an empty stomach everyday can both prevent and protect any heart ailments.

Tulsi helps to quit smoking: Tulsi is known to have very strong anti- stress compounds and is great to help one quit smoking. It helps by lowering the stress that may be involved in trying to quit smoking, or stress that leads to the urge to smoke. It also has a cooling effect on the throat just like menthol drops and helps control the urge to smoke by allowing the person to chew on something. Ayurveda relies heavily on tulsi leaves as a smoking cessation device. Keep some leaves with you and chew it whenever the urge to smoke arises. Another plus is that the antioxidant property of the leaves will help fight all the damage that arises out of years of smoking.

Tulsi dissolves kidney stones: The holy basil being a great diuretic and detoxifier is great for the kidneys. Tulsi helps reduce the uric acid levels in the blood (one of the main reasons for kidney stones is the presence of excess uric acid in the blood), helps cleanse the kidneys, the presence of acetic acid and other components in its essential oils helps in breaking down kidney stones and its painkiller effect helps dull down the pain of kidney stones. To relieve kidney stones one must have the juice of tulsi leaves with honey, every day for six months to help wash out the stone from the kidney.

Do you know the important health benefits of Basil (Tulsi) ?

The king of herbs, basil herb is one of the oldest and popular herbal plants rich in much notable health benefiting Phyto-nutrients. This highly prized plant is revered as "holy herb" in many traditions all around the world. Basil is a common herb in most of our kitchens, but did you know that, besides tasting good in our chicken and pasta dishes, it can be of use toward having more healthy bodies? It is an excellent alternative health treatment for many minor ailments. Grown originally in Asia and the Middle East, basil travelled the world along the spice trail. It has been grown and used for 5000 years and has hundreds of varieties and is now cultivated in many countries. All of its varieties have unique and individual chemical make-ups; and yet the base medicinal properties remain consistent from one strain to another.

 Many Naturopathic doctors prescribe basil in treatment of diabetes, respiratory disorders, allergies, impotence, and infertility. This may be because basil contains cinnamanic acid, which has been found to enhance circulation, stabilize blood sugar, and improve breathing in those with respiratory disorders. It is also know that basil is very high in antioxidants, especially when it is used as an extract or oil. These antioxidants can protect your body against free radical damage associated with aging, some skin ailments, and most forms of cancer. Antioxidants have become an important part of keeping our bodies healthy, and basil may be among the safest and most effective sources of these life-giving compounds.

Additional scientific research has shown that the volatile oils in basil, combined with their antioxidant effects, make it a great health boost for our immune systems.

Fresh basil leaves and basil oil have antibacterial properties. They can be used to disinfect surfaces. Leaves, applied to wounds, may eliminate infections. Basil used in your cooking or taken as a nutritional supplement can assist in combating common viruses like colds, flu, and the herpes family of viruses – in a manner similar to that of Echinacea.

Treatments Using Basil:

1.      Healing: Sharpen memory, use as a nerve tonic, and remove phlegm from your bronchial tubes. Repeat up to once an hour. Leaves can strengthen the stomach and induce perfuse sweating. The seeds can be used to rid the body of excess mucus.

2.      Fevers: Basil leaves are used for quenching fevers, especially those related to malaria and other infectious, eruptive fevers common in tropical areas. Boiling leaves with some cardamom in about two quarts of water, then mixed with sugar and milk, brings down the temperature. An extract of basil leaves in fresh water should be given every 2 to 3 hours; between doses you can give sips of cold water. This method is especially effective for reducing fevers in children.

3.      Coughs: Basil is an important ingredient in cough syrups and expectorants. It can also relieve mucus in asthma and bronchitis. Chewing on basil leaves can relieve colds and flu symptoms.

4.      Sore Throat: Water boiled with basil leaves can be taken as a tonic or used as a gargle when you have a sore throat.

5.      Respiratory Disorders: Boiling basil leaves with honey and ginger is useful for treating asthma, bronchitis, cough, cold, and influenza. Boiling the leaves, cloves, and sea salt in some water will give rapid relief of influenza. These combinations should be boiled in about two quarts of water until only half the water remains before they are taken.

6.      Kidney Stones: Basil can be used to strengthen your kidneys. In cases of stones in your kidney, the juice of basil leaves mixed with honey and taken daily for 6 months will expel them through the urinary tract.

7.      Heart Problems: Basil can be used to strengthen those weakened by heart disease. It can also reduce your cholesterol.

8.      Children’s Illnesses: Pediatric complaints like colds, coughs, fever, diarrhea, and vomiting have been known to respond to treatment with the juice of basil leaves. Also if the rash associated with chicken pox is delayed, basil leaves with saffron will bring them to the surface more quickly.

9.      Stress: Basil leaves can be used as an anti-stress agent. Chewing 12 basil leaves twice a day can prevent stress. It will purify the blood and help prevent many other common ailments.

10. Mouth Infections: Chewing a few leaves twice daily can cure infections and ulcerations of the mouth.

11. Insect Bites: Basil can be used preventatively and as a curative. A teaspoonful of the basil leaf juice taken every few hours is preventative. Rubbing the bites with juice can relieve the itching and swelling. Also a paste of the root is effective for treating the bites of insects and leeches.

12. Skin Disorders: Basil juice applied directly to the affected area is good for ringworm and other common skin ailments. Some naturopaths have used it successfully in the treatment of Leucoderma (patches of white or light-colored skin).

13. Tooth Problems: Dry basil leaves in the sun and grind into powder for a tooth cleansing powder. You can also mix with mustard oil to make herbal toothpaste. Both of these methods will counter bad breath and can be used to massage the gums, treat pyorrhea, and other dental health problems.

14. Headaches: Basil is a good headache remedy. Boil leaves in half a quart of water, cooking until half the liquid remains. Take a couple of teaspoons an hour with water to relieve your pain and swelling. You can also make a paste of basil leaves pounded with sandalwood to apply to your forehead to relieve headache and provide coolness in general.

15. Eye Disorders: Basil juice is a good for night-blindness and sore eyes. Two drops of black basil juice in each eye at bedtimes each day is soothing.