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Health-promoting properties of common herbs.

W J Craig1

  • 1Department of Nutrition, Andrews University, Berrien Springs, MI 49104-0210, USA. wcraig@andrews.edu

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|September 9, 1999
PubMed
Summary

Herbs contain phytochemicals that offer protection against chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and cancer. These compounds exhibit antioxidant, hypolipidemic, and antitumor properties, making herbs valuable in disease prevention.

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Area of Science:

  • Phytochemistry
  • Nutraceuticals
  • Herbal Medicine

Background:

  • Herbs have a long history of use in food and medicine.
  • Interest is growing in herbs for their potential to reduce risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer.
  • Various herbs contain diverse phytochemicals with potential health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the phytochemical constituents of various herbs.
  • To explore the biochemical activities and health benefits of these phytochemicals.
  • To highlight the role of herbs in disease prevention, particularly cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Identification of active phytochemicals in herbs, including flavonoids, terpenoids, lignans, and polyphenolics.
  • Investigation of biochemical activities such as inhibition of nitrosation, DNA adduct formation, and stimulation of Phase II enzymes like glutathione transferase (EC 2.5.1.18).
  • Focus on specific plant families (Allium sp., Labiatae, Umbelliferae, Zingiberaceae) and sources like flaxseed, licorice root, and green tea.

Main Results:

  • Phytochemicals identified possess antioxidant properties, protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidation and inhibiting lipid peroxidation.
  • Compounds demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes.
  • Volatile essential oils from herbs and spices inhibit mevalonate synthesis, suppressing cholesterol synthesis and tumor growth.

Conclusions:

  • Herbs are rich sources of potent compounds with significant protective effects against chronic diseases.
  • Phytochemicals in herbs contribute to reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer through various mechanisms.
  • Herbal medicine and culinary herbs offer a natural approach to enhancing health and preventing disease.

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