Aveloz - Herbal Cancer Treatment

Aveloz

Other common name(s): pencil cactus, pencil tree, milkbush, petroleum plant

Scientific/medical name(s): Euphorbia tirucalli, Euphorbia viminalis, Euphorbia insulana

Description

Aveloz is the Spanish name for a succulent shrub that grows in the tropical areas of Africa, Brazil, and Madagascar. This relative of the poinsettia is sometimes grown as a houseplant. The sap, leaves, and root of various species of the shrub have been used in folk medicine for centuries.

Overview

Aveloz sap is promoted for use as an anticancer agent. However, laboratory and animal studies do not support this claim. In fact, they suggest that aveloz sap may actually suppress the immune system, promote tumor growth, and lead to the development of certain types of cancer.

The sap can burn the skin, damage the eyes, and even cause blindness. If taken internally, it can cause burning of the mouth and throat, vomiting, diarrhea, and other serious problems.

How is it promoted for use?

The sap of the aveloz shrub has been promoted as a tumor-killing agent for people with cancer. It is promoted for use on the skin or to be taken by mouth. It is said to burn off warts, cysts, and skin cancers, especially on the face. In various parts of the world, the plant is also used to treat leprosy, earache, abscesses, toothaches, asthma, colic, cough, rheumatism, and fractures.

What does it involve?

In the United States, aveloz is sold in liquid form by some health food stores and herbal practitioners. To treat cancer, benign tumors, warts, and cysts, practitioners recommend drinking five drops of the liquid dissolved in half a glass of water or tea. Aveloz is also sold as an ointment to be applied directly to warts, skin growths, and tumors.

What is the history behind it?

In some tropical areas of Africa, Euphorbia tirucalli has long been recognized as a fish poison. The plants are crushed and placed into rivers so that fish can be easily caught when they float to the surface.

Thousands of years ago, Amazon Indians in Brazil began applying the sap of the aveloz plant to warts and tumors on the skin. By the 1770s, it was used against cancerous tumors in African folk medicine. In the 1880s, a Brazilian physician introduced the plant to conventional medicine.

In the 1970s, some U.S. tabloids began proclaiming aveloz as a cure for cancer when taken internally, saying, "One drop of sap, diluted in a glass of distilled water and taken by the tablespoon every hour, eliminates cancerous growths in one week." The craze over aveloz as a cure for cancer peaked in the 1980s, but it is still sold at some Internet sites as an alternative treatment for cancer.

What is the evidence?

The effects of aveloz have only been studied in the laboratory and in animals, but the results suggest that aveloz may actually promote tumor growth. These early studies suggested that the sap and the plant itself may suppress the body's immune system, making it less resistant to infections and some types of cancer. This may lead to an activation of the Epstein-Barr virus (the same virus that causes mononucleosis) and the development of a type of cancer known as Burkitt lymphoma. In light of this information, no recent cancer studies in humans have been completed on this plant.

One study suggests that chemicals from Euphorbia tirucalli may enhance the immune system of mice with cancer. However, no human studies have been published. Some studies in the lab are still going on to find out how these chemicals affect human cells. Extensive testing will be necessary to determine whether any of these extracts might be suitable for human use. At present, research seems more focused on the use of the sap to kill mosquitoes in the larval stage.

There are many kinds of plants in the Euphorbia genus, some of which are being tested for use against leukemia. Certain extracts look promising in laboratory experiments.

Are there any possible problems or complications?

This product is sold as a dietary supplement. Unlike companies that produce drugs (which must be tested before being sold), the companies that make supplements are not required to prove to the US Food and Drug Administration that their supplements are safe or effective, as long as they don't claim the supplements can prevent, treat, or cure any specific disease.

Some such products may not contain the amount of the herb or substance that is on the label, and some may include other substances (contaminants). Actual amounts per dose may vary between brands or even between different batches of the same brand. In 2007, the FDA wrote new rules to improve the quality of manufacturing for dietary supplements and the proper listing of supplement ingredients. But these rules do not address the safety of the ingredients or their effects on health.

Most such supplements have not been tested to find out if they interact with medicines, foods, or other herbs and supplements. Even though some reports of interactions and harmful effects may be published, full studies of interactions and effects are not often available. Because of these limitations, any information on ill effects and interactions below should be considered incomplete.

Aveloz sap can cause chemical burns, making blisters or ulcers on skin and mucous membranes (the moist pink layer of cells that lines the eyes, nose, mouth, and other openings of the body). Sap from the plant can irritate skin and damage the eyes. Blindness has even been reported after untreated eye exposure.

If taken internally, the plant or its sap can cause burning of the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. It has been reported to have caused some deaths in eastern Africa. Children and pets may be harmed if they eat the plants or sap.

Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health consequences.

References

Eke T. Euphorbia sap keratouveitis. Br J Ophthalmol.1997;81:518.

Euphorbiaceae -10 euphorbia ramosissima- euphorbia virosa (spurge family). Botanical Dermatology Data Base Web site. Accessed at www.botanical-dermatology-database.info/BotDermFolder/EUPH-10.html on April 1, 2011.

Fürstenburger G, Hecker E. On the active principles of the Euphorbiaceae, XII. Highly unsaturated irritant diterpene esters from Euphorbia tirucalli originating from Madagascar. J Nat Prod. 1986;49:386-397.

Hsueh KF, Lin PY, Lee SM, Hsieh CF. Ocular injuries from plant sap of genera Euphorbia and Dieffenbachia. J Chin Med Assoc. 2004;67:93-98.

Imai S, Sugiura M, Mizuno F, et al. African Burkitt’s lymphoma: a plant, Euphorbia tirucalli, reduces Epstein-Barr virus-specific cellular immunity. Anticancer Res. 1994;14:933-936.

Llanes-Coronel DS, Gámez-Díaz LY, Suarez-Quintero LP, et al. New promising Euphorbiaceae extracts with activity in human lymphocytes from primary cell cultures. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. 2010 Jul 29.

MacNeil A, Sumba OP, Lutzke ML, et al. Activation of the Epstein-Barr virus lytic cycle by the latex of the plant Euphorbia tirucalli. Br J Cancer. 2003;88:1566-1569.

Neuwinger HD. Plants used for poison fishing in tropical Africa. Toxicon. 2004;44:417–430.

Osato T, Mizuno F, Imai S, et al. African Burkett’s lymphoma and an Epstein-Barr virus-enhancing plant Euphorbia tirucalli. Lancet. 1987;1:1257-1258.

Rahuman AA, Gopalakrishnan G, Venkatesan P, Geetha K. Larvicidal activity of some Euphorbiaceae plant extracts against Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae). Parasitol Res. 2008 Apr;102(5):867-73.

Tyler VA. Aveloz. Quackwatch Web site. Accessed at www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/DSH/aveloz.html on April 1, 2011.

Valadares MC, Carrucha SG, Accorsi W, Queiroz ML. Euphorbia tirucalli L. modulates myelopoiesis and enhances the resistance of tumour-bearing mice. Int Immunopharmacol. 2006;6:294–299.

van den Bosch CA. Is endemic Burkitt’s lymphoma an alliance between three infections and a tumour promoter?Lancet Oncol. 2004;5:738-748.

Note: This information may not cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is familiar with your medical situation.

Astragalus - Prevent and Treat Cancer Effectively

Astragalus

Other common name(s): milk vetch, huang qi, huang ch', ogi, hwanggi, bei qi, radix astragali, goat's horn, green dragon, locoweed

Scientific/medical name(s): Astragalus membranaceus

Description

Astragalus is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine taken from a plant known as Astragalus membranaceus, which is a type of bean (legume). The root is used in herbal remedies.

Overview

Animal studies and preliminary human clinical studies suggest that astragalus may improve immune system function and boost the effect of conventional immune therapy for some cancers. But available scientific evidence does not support claims that astragalus can prevent cancer, cure cancer, extend survival, or reduce side effects of conventional cancer treatment. There is some suggestion that it may enhance the effects of certain chemotherapy drugs, but this theory needs to be tested more thoroughly.

How is it promoted for use?

The herb is promoted to kill cancer cells, reduce the toxic effects of chemotherapy, help heal burns, protect against heart disease, fight the common cold, and help improve overall weakness. Proponents also claim astragalus can stimulate the spleen, liver, lungs, circulatory, and urinary system, and help treat arthritis, asthma, and nervous conditions. They further claim it can lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure.

What does it involve?

When dried, the root of the astragalus plant is sold in tea bags, tinctures, and capsules. It is also available as dried slices of the root and as a powder. In China, healers sometimes use the dried root in soups or roast the root in honey for use as a medicinal tonic. Astragalus is usually combined with other Chinese herbal remedies.

What is the history behind it?

For more than 2,000 years, Chinese herbalists have recommended astragalus to help the human body build up energy and resist diseases including cancer, heart disease, liver and kidney problems, and infections. It is the most commonly used herb in traditional Chinese medicine, though it is most often used with other herbs. Conventional medical researchers became interested in the possibility that astragalus might boost immune response and lessen the side effects of chemotherapy.

What is the evidence?

The scientific evidence for the ability of astragalus to enhance the immune system and fight diseases, including cancer and heart disease, comes mostly from lab and animal studies. Researchers at The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center found that astragalus extract boosted the cell-destroying ability, or cytotoxicity, of the conventional immune system drug interleukin-2 (IL-2) by helping cells of the immune system. (This study was done using cells in the lab, not in humans.)

Astragalus partly restored the immune function of cells in test tubes. Some studies have suggested that it can reduce the length of colds. Astragalus may stimulate the body to produce interferons, a group of substances used by the body to defend against viral infections.

Though animal and laboratory studies show promise, more study is needed to find out if the results apply to humans. A few human studies of astragalus have been done, mostly in China, and some suggest that this herb might help the immune system cells in people who have cancer. But most experts who have reviewed these studies said that flaws in the way the most of this research was designed, conducted, or analyzed make it difficult to say if their results are valid. If the herb is found to boost immune system effects and help fight tumors, it may be helpful as an adjunct to chemotherapy or other cancer treatments.

A 2006 review of the most reliable studies of astragalus and lung cancer found some evidence that this herb might enhance the effects of platinum-based chemotherapy drugs such as cisplatin. The reviewers recommended that more rigorously designed studies be conducted. A non-randomized clinical trial of patients with lung cancer found no evidence that astragalus increased the effectiveness of a different type of chemotherapy drug, docetaxel.

The consensus of available scientific evidence does not support claims that astragalus can prevent or cure cancer in humans or decrease the toxic effects of chemotherapy or other conventional cancer treatments. Large-scale human trials are needed to learn about the benefits, if any, of astragalus in people with cancer.

Are there any possible problems or complications?

This product is sold as a dietary supplement in the United States. Unlike companies that produce drugs (which must be tested before being sold), the companies that make supplements are not required to prove to the Food and Drug Administration that their supplements are safe or effective, as long as they don't claim the supplements can prevent, treat, or cure any specific disease.

Some such products may not contain the amount of the herb or substance that is on the label, and some may include other substances (contaminants). Actual amounts per dose may vary between brands or even between different batches of the same brand. In 2007, the FDA wrote new rules to improve the quality of manufacturing for dietary supplements and the proper listing of supplement ingredients. But these rules do not address the safety of the ingredients or their effects on health.

Most such supplements have not been tested to find out if they interact with medicines, foods, or other herbs and supplements. Even though some reports of interactions and harmful effects may be published, full studies of interactions and effects are not often available. Because of these limitations, any information on ill effects and interactions below should be considered incomplete.

Astragalus is generally thought to be safe. Reported side effects include belly bloating, loose stools, low blood pressure, and dehydration. People with autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus) or people taking drugs that suppress the immune system (such as corticosteroids or cyclosporin) should talk with their doctors before taking this herb.

There is some concern that astragalus might interfere with blood clotting, so some doctors say that it should not be taken before surgery or in people taking aspirin-like drugs or blood-thinning medicines. It may also affect blood pressure in some, so those taking blood pressure medicines may need to be watched more closely if they use this herb. There have also been reports of lowered blood sugar, which could be dangerous for those with diabetes or hypoglycemia.

Other potential interactions between herbs and medicines are possible, some of which may be dangerous. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about the herbs you are taking.

Allergic reactions are rare. People who are allergic to other legumes (peas and beans) may be more likely to be allergic to astragalus. Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health consequences.

References

Block KI, Mead MN. Immune system effects of echinacea, ginseng, and astragalus: a review. Integr Cancer Ther.2003 Sep;2(3):247-67.

Cassileth BR, Rizvi N, Deng G, Yeung KS, Vickers A, Guillen S, Woo D, Coleton M, Kris MG. Safety and pharmacokinetic trial of docetaxel plus an Astragalus-based herbal formula for non-small cell lung cancer patients.Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2009; 65(1):67-71.

Chu DT, Lepe-Zuniga J, Wong WL, LaPushin R, Mavligit GM. Fractionated extract of Astragalus membranaceus, a Chinese medicinal herb, potentiates LAK cell cytotoxicity generated by a low dose of recombinant interleukin-2. J Clin Lab Immunol. 1988;26:183-187.

Cui R, He J, Wang B, et al. Suppressive effect of Astragalus membranaceus Bunge on chemical hepatocarcinogenesis in rats. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol. 2003;51:75-80.

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 3rd ed. Montvale, NJ: Thomson PDR; 2004.

Khoo KS, Ang PT. Extract of Astragalus membranaceus and ligustrum lucidum does not prevent cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression. Singapore Med J. 1995;36:387-390.

Lau BH, Ruckle HC, Botolazzo T, Lui PD. Chinese medicinal herbs inhibit growth of murine renal cell carcinoma.Cancer Biother. 1994;9:153-161.

McCulloch M, See C, Shu XJ, Broffman M, Kramer A, Fan WY, Gao J, Leib W, Shieh K, Colfrod JM Jr. Astragalus-based Chinese herbs and platinum-based chemotherapy for advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: meta-analysis of randomized trials. J Clin Oncol. 2006:24:419-430.

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Astralagus (updated 8/17/09). Accessed at www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69128.cfm on April 8, 2010.

Miller AL. Botanical influences on cardiovascular disease. Altern Med Rev. 1998;3:422-431.

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM). Astragalus. Accessed at http://nccam.nih.gov/health/astragalus/ on April 9, 2010.

Rittenhouse JR, Lui PD, Lau BH. Chinese medicinal herbs reverse macrophage suppression induced by urological tumors. J Urol. 1991;146:486-490.

Taixiang W, Munro AJ, Guanjian L. Chinese medical herbs for chemotherapy side effects in colorectal cancer patients. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2005;(1):CD004540.

Wu P, Dugoua JJ, Eyawo O, Mills EJ. Traditional Chinese medicines in the treatment of hepatocellular cancers: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Exp Clin Cancer Res. 2009 Aug 12;28:112.

Zhao KS, Mancini C, Doria G. Enhancement of the immune response in mice by Astragalus membranaceus extracts.Immunopharmacology. 1990;20:225-233.

Note: This information may not cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is familiar with your medical situation.

Arnica - Cancer Treatment from Flower Garden

Arnica

Other common name(s): arnica root, common arnica, arnica flowers, mountain arnica, mountain tobacco, leopardsbane, wolfsbane

Scientific/medical name(s): Arnica montana

Description

Arnica is a perennial herb that grows in Europe, the northern United States, Canada, and eastern Asia. Its daisy-like flower and root, or rhizome, are often used in herbal medicines.

Overview

This herbal remedy is used on the skin for wounds, infections, and inflammation. It also is used to prepare a homeopathic medicine (see "Homeopathy"). Available scientific evidence does not support most of the claims about arnica's effectiveness.

If the herb is taken by mouth, it can be poisonous. It has caused a number of serious reactions, including allergies and at least one death.

How is it promoted for use?

Arnica is promoted for use on the skin to help soothe and heal wounds, sunburn, bruises, sprains, sore muscles, irritation from accidental injuries and burns, arthritis, ulcers, acne, eczema, chapped lips, sore throat, and irritated nostrils. Arnica contains organic chemicals such as sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoid glycosides that are claimed to reduce the swelling, redness, and pain linked to inflammation. It is also touted to help heal bacterial infections.

The herb is not usually recommended for internal use because it can irritate the stomach and may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and nosebleeds. Some homeopathic practitioners claim that a very diluted solution can be taken by mouth to treat low-grade fevers, colds, bronchitis, seasickness, inflammation of the mouth and throat, and epilepsy. (See our document, Homeopathy.)

Germany's Commission E has approved arnica only for use on the skin in treating injury and effects of accidents, inflammation of the mouth and throat area, and insect bites. It is considered unsafe for internal use.

Arnica is also an ingredient in some herbal skin care products and shampoos.

What does it involve?

Arnica is used as a whole or cut herb, powder, tea, liquid, gel, cream, ointment, oil, tincture, spray, or salve. The herb can be soaked with water and made into a poultice (a soft, moist mass of herbs) that is placed directly on the skin. Arnica ointments usually contain up to 15% of arnica oil or 25% of a tincture of arnica (the herb mixed with alcohol). Blistering and inflammation may be more likely if very strong solutions are used on the skin.

Homeopathic liquids reportedly contain little or no actual arnica and are usually placed under the tongue. Homeopathic tablets are also reported to contain extremely small or undetectable amounts of arnica, but the dose may vary.

What is the history behind it?

Herbal medicines made from arnica flowers and roots have been popular for hundreds of years. It has been said that the German poet and philosopher, Goethe (1749-1832), drank arnica tea to relieve chest pains. In some cases, the leaves may have been smoked, like tobacco. More recently, homeopathic and topical uses have been emphasized, mainly due to the possible harm in taking the herb by mouth.

What is the evidence?

Available scientific evidence does not support most of the claims about arnica's effectiveness. A 1998 review in the Archives of Surgery looked at 8 controlled human trials of arnica, and found that arnica worked no better in treating injuries than the placebo with which it was compared. The authors found that the studies they reviewed had serious flaws in the methods used to evaluate the effectiveness of arnica. They concluded that the human trials did not show that arnica was helpful or beneficial. One randomized clinical trial actually found that arnica appeared to increase pain and cause more swelling than the placebo in patients who had their wisdom teeth removed.

A 2003 study of 62 patients tested homeopathic arnica to find out whether it reduced pain and bruising in patients having surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. There were no differences in pain or bruising between the arnica and placebo groups.

A double-blind, randomized British study of 37 patients looked at homeopathic arnica in tablet and ointment form to learn whether it helped people having surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. A week after surgery, there were no differences in grip strength, wrist swelling, or pain between the group that was given arnica and the placebo group. Two weeks after surgery, the group that had arnica reported somewhat less pain than the other group, although there were still no differences in grip strength or swelling. Further studies are needed to find out whether this one difference is due to chance or to the effects of the arnica.

In 2002, a small Miami study looked at arnica gel to see whether it would reduce bruising after laser surgery to the face. No difference in bruising was noted between the patients who used plain gel and those who used the arnica gel.

In 2006, German researchers analyzed 3 studies on the use of arnica after knee surgery. Homeopathic arnica was given before and after surgery in all 3 studies. There were no significant differences in swelling after surgery between the arnica groups and the placebo groups in 2 out of 3 of the studies.

A 2007 controlled study looked at homeopathic arnica in patients who had their tonsils removed. One group received arnica and the other a placebo. Patients were surveyed afterward, with 111 out of 190 patients returning their questionnaires. The arnica group reported slightly lower pain levels than the placebo group, although there was no difference in how much pain medicine they needed, the period of time before they went back to work, and the number of visits they made to the doctor afterward. There was also no difference between the groups in bleeding and infection after surgery. A similar outcome was observed in a study published in 2010, in which patients got a mixture of arnica along with another homeopathic remedy after heart valve surgery. There was no difference between the placebo and homeopathic arnica groups in terms of blood loss, pain, fever, or lab results.

A toxicology assessment completed in 2001 concluded that there was not enough safety information on arnica to support allowing its use in cosmetics.

One 1994 study found that some of the chemicals extracted from arnica can kill colon and lung cancer cells growing in laboratory dishes. No follow-up studies in animals or humans have been published since then, possibly due to the side effects that can happen when arnica is taken internally.

Several laboratory studies suggest that arnica may reduce the activity of certain types of immune system cells. However, much more research in animals and humans would be needed to find out whether this effect is helpful or harmful to people with cancer or other diseases.

Are there any possible problems or complications?

Small, single doses of the herb are considered safe to use on the skin. Repeated use can cause skin reactions, severe inflammation, itching, blisters, skin ulcers, and other allergy-related skin problems. Use of very concentrated herb on the skin can increase the risk of irritation. Using the drug on broken skin or mucous membranes can irritate and increase the risk of more serious reactions.

Internal use is not recommended because arnica may cause vomiting, diarrhea, internal bleeding, rapid heartbeat, muscle weakness, nervousness, nosebleeds, and coma. At least one death has been reported. Arnica may reduce the effectiveness of medicines for high blood pressure and increase the risk of bleeding in people who take blood-thinning medications. People taking medicines that affect the heart's rhythm or function may have more serious effects from arnica.

People who are allergic to arnica may suffer runny nose, itching, hives, shortness of breath, and shock. Those with allergies to other members of the plant family Asteraceae, such as sunflowers, echinacea, marigolds, chamomile, or ragweed may be more likely to be allergic to arnica.

Effects on pregnant women and children are not well known. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use this herb. Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health consequences.

References

Alonso D, Lazarus MC, Baumann L. Effects of topical arnica gel on post-laser treatment bruises. Dermatol Surg.2002;28:686-688.

Berges C, Fuchs D, Opelz G, Daniel V, Naujokat C. Helenalin suppresses essential immune functions of activated CD4+ T cells by multiple mechanisms. Mol Immunol 2009; 46(15):2892-901.

Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines.Austin, TX: American Botanical Council; 1998.

Brinkhaus B, Wilkens JM, Lüdtke R, Hunger J. Witt CM, Willich SN. Homeopathic arnica therapy in patients receiving knee surgery: results of three randomised double-blind trials. Complement Ther Med. 2006;14:237-246. Epub 2006 Oct 13.

Bown D. New Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses. New York, NY: DK Publishing Inc; 2001.

Cornu C, Joseph P, Gaillard S, et al. No effect of a homoeopathic combination of Arnica montana and Bryonia alba on bleeding, inflammation, and ischaemia after aortic valve surgery. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2010 Feb;69(2):136-42.

Cosmetic Ingredient Review. Final report on the safety assessment of Arnica Montana extract and Arnica Montana. Int J Toxicol. 2001;20 Suppl 2:1-11.

Drug Digest Web site. Arnica. Accessed at www.drugdigest.org on April 7, 2010.

Ernst E, Pittler MH. Efficacy of homeopathic arnica: a systematic review of placebo-controlled clinical trials. Arch Surg. 1998;133:1187-1190.

Fetrow CW, Avila JR. Professional's Handbook of Complementary & Alternative Medicines. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004.

Gibson J, Haslam Y, Laurneson L, Newman P, Pitt R, Robins M. Double-blind trial of arnica in acute trauma patients.Homeopathy. 1991;41:54-55.

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 3rd ed. Montvale, NJ: Thomson PDR; 2004.

Jeffrey SL, Belcher HJ. Use of arnica to relieve pain after carpal-tunnel release surgery. Altern Ther Health Med.2002;8:66-68.

Kaziro GS. Metronidazole (Flagyl) and Arnica Montana in the prevention of post-surgical complications, a comparative placebo controlled clinical trial. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 1984;22:42-49.

Paulsen E, Chistensen LP, Andersen KE. Cosmetics and herbal remedies with Compositae plant extracts - are they tolerated by Compositae-allergic patients? Contact Dermatitis. 2008;58:15-23.

PDRhealth Web site. Arnica. Accessed at www.pdrhealth.com/drugs/altmed/altmed-mono.aspx?contentFileName=ame0009.xml&contentName=Arnica on April 7, 2010.

Reider N, Komericki P, Hausen BM, Fritsch P, Aberer W. The seamy side of natural medicines: contact sensitization to arnica (Arnica montana L.) and marigold (Calendula officinalis L.). Contact Dermatitis. 2001;45:269-272.

Robertson A, Suryanarayanan R, Banerjee A. Homeopathic Arnica montana for post-tonsillectomy analgesia: a randomised placebo control trial. Homeopathy. 2007;96:17-21.

Stevinson C, Devaraj VS, Fountain-Barber A, Hawkins S, Ernest E. Homeopathic arnica for prevention of pain and bruising: randomized placebo-controlled trial in hand surgery. J R Soc Med. 2003;96:60-65.

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. Plants Profile. Accessed at http://plants.usda.gov/index.html on April 8, 2010.

Verma N, Tripathi SK, Sahu D, Das HR, Das RH. Evaluation of inhibitory activities of plant extracts on production of LPS-stimulated pro-inflammatory mediators in J774 murine macrophages. Mol Cell Biochem 2010; 336(1-2):127-35.

Woerdenbag HJ, Merfort I, Passreiter CM, et al. Cytotoxicity of flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones from Arnica species against the GLC4 and the COLO 320 cell lines. Planta Med. 1994;60:434-437.

Note: This information may not cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is familiar with your medical situation.

Aloe - Good Herbal For Health

Aloe

Other common name(s): aloe vera, aloe vera gel, T-UP

Scientific/medical name(s): Aloe barbadensis, Aloe capensis

Description

The aloe plant, a member of the lily family, is a common household plant that was first found in northern Africa. The most common and widely-known species of aloe plant is aloe vera. Aloe vera plants have thick dark green leaves that look like small cacti but are soft and supple.

Aloe vera gel is the thin, clear, jelly-like substance that oozes from the fleshy inside of the aloe leaves. The extract taken from inside the outer lining of the leaves is called aloe latex, a bitter yellow liquid that is often dried into brownish granules. Aloe products made from the whole crushed leaves contain both gel and latex. Unprocessed aloe gel often contains some aloe latex.

Overview

Available scientific evidence does not support claims that aloe can treat any type of cancer. In fact, used as a cancer treatment, aloe may be dangerous and possibly even deadly.

The gel inside aloe leaves may help minor burns and skin irritations. There are safety concerns about taking aloe products by mouth as laxatives. Doctors around the world have reported hepatitis cases that were linked to taking aloe by mouth for a few weeks or more.

How is it promoted for use?

Aloe latex is used mostly for constipation, whereas aloe gel is used for skin problems. However, supporters of alternative treatments claim aloe also boosts the immune system and acts directly on abnormal cells, thus preventing or treating cancer.

The main aloe product promoted as a cancer cure was an unapproved drug called T-UP, which was sold in forms that could be swallowed or injected. Aloe proponents claimed it worked against all types of cancer, including liver and prostate cancer. Concentrated aloe products are still sold, but most no longer make these kinds of claims.

What does it involve?

Aloe vera gel is a common ingredient in many skin creams and lotions, cosmetics, and burn and wound ointments. When used on skin for minor burns or irritations, aloe gel is usually applied to the affected area three to five times a day. You can buy aloe gel, but many people apply it directly from a cut aloe leaf. Since some compounds in aloe gel break down quickly, some supporters recommend fresh aloe gel taken fresh from the leaf as the best source.

Commission E (Germany's regulatory agency for herbs) has approved aloe for treating constipation. A common dose is 50 to 200 milligrams of aloe latex, taken in liquid or capsule form once a day for up to ten days. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ruled that aloe products cannot be sold to treat constipation because there isn’t enough information on their safety and effectiveness. Aloe latex and aloe gel can be sold as dietary supplements in the United States.

T-UP, a concentrated liquid form of aloe, was promoted to be taken by mouth or injected directly into the tumor or bloodstream. Practitioners give injections of concentrated aloe to people with advanced cancer. Aloe injections are illegal in the United States but may be offered at clinics in other countries. Although T-UP is no longer sold in the United States, concentrated aloe can still be found under other names.

What is the history behind it?

The earliest known references to the medicinal use of aloe come from the ancient Egyptians, who used it as a treatment for cuts, burns, and skin irritations. Many other cultures have also used aloe for similar purposes. Since the 1930s, aloe has been used frequently for the treatment of minor skin ailments and skin reactions to radiation burns.

In 1996, a company based in Maryland began producing and selling a concentrated form of aloe called T-UP to be used orally and by injection for the treatment of cancer, AIDS, herpes, and other autoimmune disorders. In the summer of 1999, the U.S. Attorney's Office and the FDA indicted the makers of T-UP on twenty different charges including fraud, promoting and selling an unapproved drug, and conspiracy. The marketer of T-UP was charged with misleading cancer patients by making false claims, including claiming FDA approval for their drug when approval was never granted. He was sentenced to 46 months in prison and fined. A doctor who had given T-UP injections to patients was also imprisoned and fined.

What is the evidence?

Aloe contains many chemicals. Some of these chemicals called anthraquinones give aloe its stimulant laxative properties, and are mainly found in the aloe latex.

Preliminary studies of cell cultures (grown in laboratory dishes) and laboratory animals suggest that some of the chemicals found in aloe may have helpful effects on the immune system. However, the safety and effectiveness of most of these chemicals have not been tested in humans. The aloe products being promoted for internal use contain a wide variety of chemicals, some of which may cause serious side effects. However, aloe gel has been approved by the FDA as a natural flavoring, so small quantities may be used in foods.

Available scientific evidence does not support the claim that aloe is safe and effective in treating people with cancer. In fact, several people with cancer have died after getting aloe injections. Animal and laboratory studies have found mixed results. One study reported that aloe reduced the growth of liver cancer cells in rats but another found that it promoted the growth of human liver cancer cells in tissue culture. Another rat study reported aloe reduced pre-cancerous liver changes in rats treated with cancer-causing chemicals. Another recent laboratory study reported that aloe promotes the growth of endothelial (blood vessel) cells, raising the concern that it might promote angiogenesis (growth of blood vessels that help "feed" a cancer). Two studies published in 2010 reported opposite effects regarding skin cancer in mice. In one study of mice treated with chemicals that cause skin cancer, aloe products (applied to the skin and taken by mouth) reduced the number of skin cancers. However, in the other study, certain aloe products increased the number of skin cancers (especially in female mice) caused by ultraviolet light.

Although aloe has been used since the 1930s in the treatment of skin reactions resulting from radiation therapy, recent clinical trials found that an aloe vera gel did not protect against dermatitis (a skin reaction) caused by radiation therapy. Some studies suggest that aloe gel may help minor cuts and burns, but other studies report that aloe can delay healing of infected surgical wounds. People with severe skin trauma or deep injuries usually need other treatments.

Aloe leaves and aloe latex contain chemicals with laxative properties. These substances are classified as stimulant laxatives and can irritate the intestines. There are a number of dietary and medical approaches to treating constipation that are proven to be safer and work better than aloe products. Finally, there have been reports from doctors that aloe taken by mouth can cause hepatitis (serious liver inflammation) when taken for more than a few weeks.

Are there any possible problems or complications?

This product is sold as a dietary supplement in the United States. Unlike companies that produce drugs (which must be tested before being sold), the companies that make supplements are not required to prove to the Food and Drug Administration that their supplements are safe or effective, as long as they don't claim the supplements can prevent, treat, or cure any specific disease.

Some such products may not contain the amount of the herb or substance that is on the label, and some may include other substances (contaminants). Actual amounts per dose may vary between brands or even between different batches of the same brand. In 2007, the FDA wrote new rules to improve the quality of manufacturing for dietary supplements and the proper listing of supplement ingredients. But these rules do not address the safety of the ingredients or their effects on health.

Most such supplements have not been tested to find out if they interact with medicines, foods, or other herbs and supplements. Even though some reports of interactions and harmful effects may be published, full studies of interactions and effects are not often available. Because of these limitations, any information on ill effects and interactions below should be considered incomplete.

The use of aloe on the skin for the relief of minor cuts and burns appears to be safe. Some people who have used aloe gel on their skin for long periods of time have had allergic reactions such as hives and rashes. Those who are allergic to garlic, onions, tulips, and similar plants may be more likely to have an allergic reaction to aloe.

There are mixed reports about the safety of taking aloe internally. Part of the confusion is that safety outcomes may be different depending on whether a person took pure aloe gel, aloe latex, or used aloe leaves that contained both gel and latex. Not all reports single out which type of aloe preparation was used, so this information is limited.

One report suggested that aloe taken by mouth might increase cancer risk to humans. Side effects of taking aloe by mouth may include abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and electrolyte (chemical) imbalance in the blood, especially at high doses. It should not be used as a laxative. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take aloe by mouth.

Doctors around the world have reported a few cases of hepatitis (liver inflammation) in people who had taken aloe by mouth for a few weeks or longer. Some of these people had to be hospitalized, but no deaths were reported. Aloe injections are illegal in the United States, and may have caused or contributed to the deaths of several people with cancer. Taking aloe by mouth may cause dangerous interactions with prescription drugs and with other herbal supplements.

Relying on this type of treatment alone and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer may have serious health consequences.

References

Aloe Vera. Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Web site. Accessed at www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69116.cfm on March 29, 2011.

Blumenthal M, ed. The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines.Austin, TX: American Botanical Council; 1998.

Gruenwald J, Brendler T, Jaenicke C. PDR for Herbal Medicines. 4th ed. Montvale, NJ: Thomson Healthcare Inc; 2007. pp.19 26.

Heggie S, Bryant GP, Tripcony L, et al M, Heath J. A phase III study on the efficacy of topical aloe vera gel on irradiated breast tissue. Cancer Nurs. 2002;25:442-451.

James M. Doctor pleads guilty in scheme to market unapproved drug. Baltimore Sun, March 30, 2000.

Meadows M. Investigators' reports: Maryland man, Virginia physician sentenced for illegally marketing aloe vera 'treatments.' FDA Consumer: The Magazine of the US Food and Drug Administration. May-June 2002. Accessed at www.fda.gov/fdac/departs/2002/302_irs.html on June 4, 2008. Content no longer available.

National Toxicology Program. Photocarcinogenesis study of aloe vera [CAS NO. 481-72-1(Aloe-emodin)] in SKH-1 mice (simulated solar light and topical application study). National Toxicology Program Technical Report Series. (553):7-33, 35-97, 99-103 passim, 2010.

Olsen DL, Raub W Jr, Bradley C, Johnson M, Macias JL, Love V, Markoe A. The effect of aloe vera gel/mild soap versus mild soap in preventing skin reactions in patients undergoing radiation therapy. Oncol Nurs Forum. 2001;28:543-547.

Saini M, Goyal PK, Chaudhary G. Anti-tumor activity of Aloe vera against DMBA/croton oil-induced skin papillomagenesis in Swiss albino mice. Journal of Environmental Pathology, Toxicology & Oncology. 29(2):127-135, 2010.

US Food and Drug Administration. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Part 172: Food additives permitted for direct addition to food for human consumption. Accessed at http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&tpl=%2Findex.tpl on March 31, 2011.

US Food and Drug Administration. Status of certain additional over-the-counter drug category II and III active ingredients. May 9, 2002. 21 CFR Part 310. [Docket No. 78N-036L]. RIN 0910-AA01. Accessed at www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DevelopmentApprovalProcess/DevelopmentResources/Over-the-CounterOTCDrugs/StatusofOTCRulemakings/ucm094018.pdf on March 30, 2011.

Willis L. Man gets term of 46 months in aloe vera case: Concoction distributed as a treatment for cancer. Baltimore Sun, Dec 1, 2001.

Yang HN, Kim DJ, Kim YM, et al. Aloe-induced toxic hepatitis. J Korean Med Sci. 2010 Mar;25(3):492-5.

Note: This information may not cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is familiar with your medical situation.