Nutraceuticals

General aspects, Market, growth, scope and types of products available in the market. Health benefits and
role of Nutraceuticals in ailments like Diabetes, CVS diseases, Cancer, Irritable bowel syndrome and various
Gastro intestinal diseases. Study of following herbs as health food: Alfaalfa, Chicory, Ginger, Fenugreek,
Garlic, Honey, Amla, Ginseng, Ashwagandha, Spirulina.

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Introduction:

Health problems due to unhealthy eating habits along with sedentary life style and there is growing
awareness lead to increased incidence of diet and health related issues. Hippocrates said ‘let thy food be
medicine and medicine be thy food’. The meaning is to focus on prevention of disease.

The term Nutraceuticals was coined from “nutrition” and “pharmaceutical” by Stephen Defelice M
D, founder and chairman of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine (FIM) Cranford, New Jersey, in
1989. According to Defelice “Nutraceuticals are foods or part of a food that provides medical or health
benefits including the prevention and/or treatment of a disease”

As per Ministry of health, Canada Nutraceuticals are the products isolated or purified from the
food. They are generally sold in medicinal form, not associated with food, and demonstrated to have
physiological benefit and also provide protection against chronic disease. Nutraceuticals means NUTRITIVE
+ PHARMACEUTICAL: A food stuff (as a fortified food or dietary supplement) that provides health
benefits.

Phytonutrients basically is plant nutrients with particular biological activities in supporting human
health.The phytochemical work by following way: 1. Substrate for biochemical reactions. 2. Cofactors of
enzymatic reactions. 3. Inhibitors of enzymatic reactions. 4. Absorbents that bind to and eliminate
undesirable constituent in the intestine. 5. Enhance the absorption and/or stability of essential nutrients. 6.
Selective growth factor for beneficial bacteria. 7. Fermentation substrate for beneficial bacteria. 8. Selective
inhibitors of deleterious intestinal bacteria. 9. Scavengers of reactive or toxic chemicals. 10. Ligands that
agonize or antagonize cell surface or intracellular receptors.

Classification of Nutraceuticals:

They are classified as follows:

1. On the basis of market as dietary supplement and functional food

2. On the basis of action / mechanism as inorganic mineral, antioxidant, Probiotic, prebiotics, dietary
fibre, Poly unsaturated fatty acid.
3. On the basis of the nutrient as vitamins and minerals
4. On the basis of disease condition in it is used
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 5. On the basis of source as plant animal, mineral and microbial origin
6. As per chemical nature
Class Example
Inorganic mineral supplements Minerals
Vitamin supplements Vitamins
Digestive enzymes Enzymes
Probiotics Lactobacillus acidophilus
Prebiotics Digestive enzymes
Dietary fibers Fibers

Nutraceuticals also known as are Dietary supplements, functional food, multi-functional food, etc.
Dietary Supplement, according to Health and Education Act (DSHEA), United States Federal legislation,
are products intended to supplement the diet that bears or contains one or more of the following dietary
ingredients: a vitamin, a mineral, an herb or other botanical, an amino acid, a dietary substance for use by
man to supplement the diet by increasing the total daily intake, or a concentrate, metabolite, constituent,
extract or combinations of these ingredients. It may be taken in the form of pill capsule, tablet, or liquid
form. It is not represented for use as a conventional food or as the sole item of a meal or diet. It is labelled as
a “dietary supplement.” Under the DSHEA (1994), the manufacturer of a dietary supplement is responsible
for ensuring that the dietary supplement is safe before it is marketed.

The functional food concept can be defined as “Food products to be taken as part of the usual diet
in order to have beneficial effects that go beyond basic nutritional function”Functional foods are ordinary
foods that have components/ ingredients that incorporated into in them for specific medicinal or health
benefit moreover having nutritional effect. They have proven physical benefits and reduce the risk of chronic
disease. They are classified as -

1. Whole food (basic food), e.g. Oats, soya, fish, flaxseed, fruits, vegetables, nuts etc.
2. Fortified food: Food enhanced with nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, micro nutrients
Eg. Cereals fortified with micronutrients,
Wheat flour fortified with micronutrients,
Milk and dairy products fortified with vitamin D.
Fats and oils fortified with vitamin D and E.
Soft drinks and beverages fortified with fibre and calcium.
3. Enhanced food: They have functional components through traditional breeding, genetic engineering
E.g. Dairy products with probiotics,
Modified plant used to reduce respiratory allergy, diarrhoea dysentery or decrease cholesterol level
thus reducing the risk of heart disease.

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Antioxidants:
Antioxidants are substances which retard/prevent deterioration, damage or destruction caused by
oxidation. Antioxidants in nutraceuticals prevent chronic diseases such as CVS, diabetes, arthritis etc. An
antioxidant is used to prevent damage at cellular level by using the following mechanism, accordingly it’s
broadly divided into
1. True antioxidant: True antioxidant reacts with the free radical and blocks the chain reactions. They
may reduce the energy of the free radical : Phytochemical exert antioxidant action in-vivo or in food
by inhibiting generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS)
2. Reducing agents: They have lower redox potential and readily get oxidize and are found effective
against oxidizing agents. Preventing or suppressing the free radical formation or by directly
scavenging free radicals.
3. Synergists: They are substances with on their own have little antioxidant effect but may enhance the
effect of true antioxidants by reacting with heavy metal ions which catalyses auto-oxidation. Repair
damage or reconstitute the membrane. Certain compounds act in-vivo or as antioxidants by raising
the levels of endogenous antioxidant defences by up-regulating the expression of genes encoding
superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalyse and glutathione peroxidise.

Natural antioxidants are vitamins (Vit. C & Vit. E), caratenoids, and flavonoids. Flavonoids are the
largest group of antioxidants which are ubiquitous in nature in most of the fruits, vegetables and plants.
Rutin (Buckwheat, Tobacco), Quercetin (onion, apple skin), Narangine (Citrus peel), Catechin (Green Tea)
are the examples of flavonoids.

Caratenoids:

Plant derived caratenoids such as lycopene; lutein and zeaxanthin are currently commercially
available. Lycopene is present in the red fruits, and vegetables (tomatoes); lutein is present in spinach, peas
and watercress and foods that are yellow- maize, orange juice and honey dew melon, orange pepper.
Zeaxanthin co occurs with lutein in butter squash.

Flaxseed is abundant source of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) ,viscous fibre and Phyto chemical such lignan
and protein. Alpha linolenic acid (ALA) has broader health benefit. Dietary ALA may retard tumour growth
and plays an important role in metastasis. It has suggested that ALA is dietary essential for optimal
neurological development of human especially during fatal and neonatal life. GLA and its metabolite used in
suppression of inflammation,in the treatment of diabetic neuropathy , atopic eczema, and certain cancers like
malignant human brain glioma.The lignan of flax seed [secoisolacriciresinol diglycoside(SDG)] reported to
be protective against mammary and colon cancer.

Probiotics: (friendly Bactria from food)

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 Approximately 95% of bacteria found in human body are located in colon which is desirable. The
other 5% are considered harmful and the natural balance of (95:5 %) between these two groups of microbes
play important role in the health and functioning of large intestine.

Probiotics are live micro organisms which are ingested with or without food. They improve
intestinal microbial balance and consequently health and functioning of large intestine. Probiotics are
friendly bacteria present in diary food and promote gut health. Probiotics may help to reduces food allergy.
They only have a transient effect and regular daily intake is needed to bring health benefit.

E.g. Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus Cassei, Lactobacillus Johnsonii, Lactobacillus GG,

Bifidobacteria
Bifidobacteria may help to fight wide range of food poisoning bacteria which include potentially harmful E.
coli.
Bifidobacteria & Streptococcus thromophilus found to prevent diarrhoea in young children.
Lactobacillus GG is effective against antibiotic associated diarrhoea, traveller’s diarrhoea and rotavirus
infection which is the major cause of diarrhoea in children.

Prebiotics:
They are the food components which escape digestion by normal human digestive enzymes safely in
intact form reaches the colon after the passage through stomach and small intestine where they selectively
promote growth of probiotics.
Unlike probiotics, prebiotics are easier to formulate into regular foods and therefore offer a better
chance of success in restoring natural balance of colonic micro flora and enriching the health of the large
intestine. Probiotics alone can hardly survive the rigorous digestive enzyme and acid in the upper gut before
reaching the colon. Such difficulties initiated the alternative ways of boosting the levels of probiotics in the
large intestine.
E.g. Inulin (present in raw chicory) is the non fermentable dietary carbohydrate that selectively stimulates
the growth of certain bacteria residing in the colon. Eg. Bifidobacteria & Lactobacillus.Commercially from
Jerusalem artichoke tubers, helianthus tuberosus (Fam: compositae).Marketed formulation Yokult contain
L. Casei, L. Johnonii, L.GG
Other examples of probiotics are –
1. Fructo-olegosaccharide (FOS) are increasingly used in food supplements and can have more long
lasting effect as they encourage the growth of Bifidobactria already present in the gut. Daily need
atleast 10grams.
2. Gluco-olegosaccharide (GOS)
3. Galacto-olegosaccharide

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Digestive Enzymes:
Refluxes reduce in old ages & stomach cells responsible for the acid secretion slows down, as the
result transit time increases. Taking antacid worsen the problem. An enzyme helps to absorb and digest the
food material. Pepsin the principal digestive enzyme in gastric juice is digestive aid for protein.Pancreatine
and pancrilipase used for fat digestion and amylase for the carbohydrate and sugars digestion. Betanine Hcl
for the phase i digestion. Papain (Papaya) and Bromalain (Pineapple)
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs)
Human body is capable of synthesising most of the fatty acids it needs except two major
polyunsaturated fatty acids i.e. omega-3 fatty acid and omega-6 fatty acids. These fatty acids are required to
be supplemented from diet. The PUFAs are known as precursor for Arachidonic Acid (AA), Eicosa
Pentanoic acid (EPA), Docosa Hexanoic Acid (DHA). These fatty acids are important to regulate blood
pressure, heart rate, immune response.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in cold water fish, Tuna, Salmon, Macaerel. Also found in dark green
leafy vegetables, flax seed and vegetable oils. They cause vasodilatation, bronchodilator and reduce
platelets aggregation. They are prophylactic for asthma and heart disease. Chronic consumption of PUFAs
leads to lesser quantity of body fat and decreases obesity; regulate blood pressure and heart rate. Fatty acids
such as AA and DHA are essential for the development of foetus and also during the first six months after
birth. The deficiency results in poor development of foetus, causes premature birth and underweight babies.
The infant formula used as substitute of breast milk should be supplemented with DHA as per WHO.
Dietary fibre:
Dietary fibres play critical role in keeping good health in human and animals. Fibres are part of the
plant such as leaves, stem, and fruits, seeds which cannot be digested or absorbed.
Dietary fibres can be divided into two broad categories such as

1. Water insoluble fibres: They absorb water to certain extent and contribute to bulking of stool and
allows quick passage of waste through GIT. E.g. Whole grain cereal, whole wheat products, brown
rice, fruits and vegetables with peels.

2. Water soluble fibres: They get dissolved in water and form gel that binds to stool. It slows down
the absorption of glucose and reduces blood cholesterol levels. E.g. Oats, dried beans, legumes,
lentils. Fruits and vegetables without peel.

Dietary Supplements:

Dietary supplement can be defined as any vitamin, mineral, added chemical substances, botanical or herbal
products that is added to the diet to improve human health.

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Table: Vitamins and their health benefits.

Minerals.
Large number of minerals present in the diet but their deficiency may lead to health related problems and
diseases.

Calcium : Is important element in the treatment of bone loss and preventions. Ca deficiency is found in 25
% of women. Much higher percentage have osteopenia or osteoporosis. Pre-puberty is the best time to begin
supplement the diet with calcium. Sufficient intake of calcium and vit. D reduces risk of bone fracture.

Magnesium: It is essential element for more than 300 enzymatic processes. Many individual with calcium
deficiency are actually deficient in Magnesium.

Manganese: It is needed for enzymatic reaction, proper bone and cartilage formation.

Boron: It is helpful in supporting calcium and oestrogen level in post menopausal women.

Copper: It is essential element needed by all tissues of the body. Copper and Zinc must be in proper
proportion. Copper is best absorbed when bound with amino acid.

Zinc: It is trace mineral and supports body’s overall antioxidant system by scavenging free radicals.

Phosphorus is important in maintaining bone structure, modulating plasma and bone formation.

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Silicon: It is concentrated in active growth area of bone. It influences bone formation and calcification.

Growth of Nutraceuticals:

Scope and opportunity of Indian market:

Global Nutraceuticals market is expected to reach 302-306 million by 2022. Growing at

Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% (2016-2022). Nutraceuticals market share in different
countries: US (37%), Europe (33%) and Japan (18%) and rest of the world (12%).

The Indian Nutraceuticals market valued at $1,480 million in 2011 could grow to $2,731 million by
2016. Fictional foods will be quickest growing category followed by dietary supplements until 2015.they
the largest category accounting for 64% of Nutraceuticals market. This market is driven by pharmaceutical
sector in the form of vitamin and mineral supplements. Global market is estimated to be $149.5 billion in
2011 with US, Europe and Japan being the largest market accounting for 93% of global market. The
Nutraceutical market has been growing CAGR of 20% for the last three years. This is just about 2% of the
global market. The industry is anticipated to grow USD 6.1 Billion by 2019-2020. With the entry potential
competitors like Patanjali and Amway accelerated the growth. Increase in the public health consciousness is
rising due to doctor’s prescriptions, cheaper than pharmaceuticals, fancy looking, increased advertisements
and people feeling trendy and rich. Major players of the Nutraceuticals markets are GSK and Abbot
followed by Himalaya, Patanjali and Amway.

Nutraceuticals market can be divided by type and by geography.

By type:

1. functional food : such as prebiotics fortified food, unsaturated fatty acid fortified food, Branded
wheat flour market
2. Functional beverages: Fruits and vegetable juices ,Diary and diary ailments, Noncarbonated drinks
3. Dietary supplements: proteins and peptides, vitamins and minerals , herbals
4. Personal care products

By geography: North America, Europe, Asia pacific, India, Japan

Nutracueticals available in the market:

Brand name Components Function

Z-Trim Wheat Zero Calorie fat replacer
Linumlife Lignan Extract Flax Prostate Health
Fenulife Fenugreek, Galactomannon Control Blood Sugar

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Teamax Green tea extract Potent antioxidant
Marinol Omega-3 FA, DHA, EPA Heart health protection
Clarinol CLA Weight loss ingredient
Cholestaid Saponin Reduce cholesterol
Butatene Carotenoids Immune function
Xangold Lutein ester Eye health
Lipoec Alfa lipoic acid Potent antioxidant
Generol Phytosterol CHD Reduction
Premium probiotics Probiotics Intestinal disorder
Soylife Soyabean phytoestrogen Bone health

List of marketed Nutraceutical products.

Product Category Contents Manufacturer

Calcitrol D-3 Calcium supplement Calcium and Vitamins Cadila
GRD Nutritional Supplement Protein, vitamins, Zydus Cadila
minerals &
Carbohydrates
Proteinex Protein Supplement Pre-digested proteins, Pfizer
vitamins, minerals, and
carbohydrates
Coral calcium Calcium supplement Calcium and Minerals Natures answer,
Hauppauge NY. USA
Chyawanprash Immune booster Amla, Ashwagndha, Dabur India Ltd.
pippali
Omega Women Immun Supplement Antioxidants, vitamins Wassen, Surrey, UK
and phytochemicals (e.g.
lycopene and resveratrol)
Celestial Healthtone Immune booster Dry fruit extract Celestrial biolabs lts.
Amiriprash (Gold) Good immunomodulator Chyawanprash avaleha, Uap Pharma Pvt. Ltd.
swarnabhasma and Ras
Sindur

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Scope & health benefits of Nutraceuticals:

Diabetes:

DM is characterised by abnormally high levels of blood glucose either due to insufficient insulin
production or due to its ineffectiveness. Because of the increase level of glucose body cells become starved
for energy and high glucose level can damage nerve, eyes, heart and blood vessels. Diabetes mellitus type 2
is associated with high risk for developing cardiovascular complications.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) modulates insulin resistance and is also vital for neuro visual development.
This is especially important in women with gestational diabetes mellitus which foster the recommendation
for essential fatty acids during pregnancy.

Lipoic acid is a universal antioxidant, now used in Germany for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. It is
possible that lipoic acid may be more effective as a long-term dietary supplement aimed at the prophylactic
protection of diabetics from complications.

Dietary fibers from psyllium have been used extensively both as pharmacological supplements, food
ingredients, in processed food to aid weight reduction, for glucose control in diabetic patients and to reduce
lipid levels in hyperlipidemia.

Good magnesium status reduces diabetes risk and improves insulin sensitivity; chromium picolinate,
calcium and vitamin D appear to promote insulin sensitivity and improve glycemic control in some
diabetics;

A blend glucomannan, chitosan, fenugreek, Gymnema sylvestre and vit. C in the dietary supplements
significantly reduces body weight. Conjugated linolic acid, capsicine, Mamordia charantia (karela) possess
potential anti obese property. Herbal stimulants such as ephedrine, caffeine, chitosan and green tea help in
body weight loss. Extracts of bitter melon and of cinnamon have the potential to treat and possibly prevent
diabetes.

Spirulina: Spirulina is a blue-green micro-algae (Cyanobacterium). Spirulina is a rich source of

protein, vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and phycocyanins and has a very long history of use as a human
foodstuff with no apparent concerns over safety. Spirulina might be beneficial in controlling blood glucose
level in subject with diabetes mellitus type 2. Supplementation of 2 g/day for 2 months resulted in reduced
fasting blood glucose, postprandial blood glucose levels and HbA1c.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD)

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is the name for the group of disorders of the heart and blood vessels and
include hypertension (high blood pressure), coronary heart disease (heart attack), cerebrovascular disease

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(stroke), heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, etc. In 1999 CVD alone contributed to a third of global
deaths and by 2010 it would be the leading cause of death in developing countries. Majority of the CVD are
preventable and controllable. It was reported that low intake of fruits and vegetables is associated with a high
mortality in cardiovascular disease. Many research studies have identified a protective role for a diet rich in
fruits and vegetables against CVD. Nutraceuticals in the form of antioxidants, dietary fibers, omega-3
polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), vitamins, and minerals are recommended together with physical
exercise for prevention and treatment of CVD. It has been demonstrated that the molecules like polyphenols
present in grapes and in wine alter cellular metabolism and signalling, which is consistent with reducing
arterial disease.

Flavonoids are widely distributed in onion, cruciferous vegetables, black grapes, red wine, grapefruits,
apples, cherries and berries. Flavanoids in plants available as flavones (containing the flavonoid apigenin
found in chamomile); flavanones (hesperidins - citrus fruits; silybin- milk thistle flavonols (tea: quercetin,
kaempferol and rutin grapefruit; rutin buckwheat; ginkgo flavon glycosides - ginkgo play a major role in
curing the cardiovascular diseases. Flavonoids block the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) that raises
blood pressure; by blocking the "suicide" enzyme cyclooxygenase that breaks down prostaglandins, they
prevent platelet stickiness and hence platelet aggregation. Flavonoids also protect the vascular system and
strengthen the tiny capillaries that carry oxygen and essential nutrients to all cells. Flavonoids block the
enzymes that produce oestrogens, thus reducing the risk of oestrogens induced cancers.

It is common indeed the majority of adults above sixty years of age will experience some
manifestation of CVD. Risk factors for CVD can be categorized as modifiable and non-modifiable.
Modifiable risk factors include obesity, hypertension, hyper lipidemia, diabetes mellitus, metabolic
syndrome and lifestyle risk factors such as unhealthy diet, smoking and physical inactivity. Non modifiable
factor such as age, ethnicity and family history (genetics cannot be changed).

Plant sterols/stanols are phytosterols that have been identified in a range of plant products such as
fruits and vegetables, cereals, lugume seeds and nuts. Additionally, also found in beverages produced from
plant products such as tea, coffee, wine and cocoa. Polyphenols found in grapes and grape derivatives, cocoa
and tea are of interest in the prevention of CVD.
Derivatives of cocoa beans (Theobroma cacao) are widely consumed in cocoa and chocolate . A
variety of polyphenols have been identified in cocoa and its derivative. These include Catechin, flavonol
glycosides, anthocyanins and procyanidins. Cocoa-containing foods provide a higher content of flavonoids
per serving than other beverages such as red wine and tea. Flavonoids (onion, vegetables, grapes, red wine,
apples, and cherries) block the ACE and strengthen the small capillaries that carry oxygen and essential
nutrients.

Policosanol/octacosanol is present in sugar cane waste and leaves of alfalfa, wheat and wheat
germ. Most studies confirm effective lipid lowering effects at dose of 10-20mg/day. It lowers the low

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density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by 18-26%, total cholesterol by 13-17% and increase the HDL-c by
15-28%.it lowers the lipid level without the side effects of satin.

Coenzyme Q 10 widely occurs in vegetables particularly in spinach. It is powerful antioxidant and free
radical scavenger. It occur naturally in body and mainly located in mitochondria , liver, kidney cells, it has
an electron carrier in the mitochondrial synthesis of ATP, has membrane-stabilizing effects and used in
treatment of CVD including heart attack, hypertension and arrhythmias. Contradictory results been reported
in clinical trial which needs further study.

Spirulina supplementation has been associated with beneficial alterations to blood lipid profiles. Spirulina
maxima, given orally (4.5 g/day, for 6 weeks), was associated with significant changes in TC and LDL-C
concentrations. Some studies indicated that Spirulina maxima might exert an antihypertensive effect. Oral
Spirulina supplementation resulted in systolic and diastolic blood pressure reduction in a small clinical trial.

Cancer:

Phyto pharmaceuticals with hormonal activity are called phyto oestrogens. They prevent prostate and breast
cancer. Phyto oestrogens found in soya flour and linseed. Soya food is source of isoflavones along with
curcumin (turmeric) possesses cancer preventive properties lycopene concentrates (Tomato) help in the skin,
testis, adrenal and prostate cancer. Saponins (Peas, soyabean, spinach, tomato, potato, alfalfa and clover)
contains anti tumor and anti mutagenic activity. Curcumin (Diferuloyl methane) which is polyphenol,
possess anti carcinogenic, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory. Beet root, cucumber, spinach possess
antitumor activity. Coenzyme Q 10 deficiency shown in higher rate in cancer and asthmatic patient,
supplementation may be beneficial in these diseases.

Lycopene has antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity and serum levels shown protective against
Myocardial infarction (MI). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the main source of oxidative damage that
can generate structural alteration in DNA and decrease DNA repair by damaging essential protein ,
ultimately cause cancers .Number of clinical trial in oral cancer (pharynx, oesophagus and colorectal)
decreased by increasing level of lycopene intake. Its intake is less likely in ovarian and breast cancers. A
high intake of tomato products is associated with 35% lower risk of prostate cancer and 53% lowered risk of
advanced prostate cancer. Diet rich in tomatoes are associated with lower lung cancer this may be due to its
protection against oxidative damage.

Resveratrol found in leaves, skin and petals of Vitis vinifera, wines, grape juice. Resveratrol (3,5,4’-
trihydroxy-transstilbene) is the most extensively studied grape-derived stilbene contained mainly in grapes.
However, resveratrol is common in cranberries, blueberries, peanuts.

Number of stilbene derivatives are found in grape plant product. Peanut butter also contain resveratrol. It
has antioxidant activity, inhibition of platelet aggregation and modulation of hepatic apo lipoprotein and

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lipid synthesis. Red wine is major dietary source of reservetrol , reduce the risk of cancer in upper digestive
tract , lung and colon cancer.

Cancer associated with GI tract:

Natural agents like curcumin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), isoflavon regulate cellular

signaling and biological behavior of cancer cells. Phytoestrogens have been found to regulate gene
expression and control the DNA damaging factors in cancer cells and regulate DNA transcription in tumors.
Probiotic bacteria are also known to interfere with intracellular signal transduction pathways. Flavonoids
extracted from black tea induce apoptosis in human stomach cancer cells, whereas flavonoids from green tea
induce apoptosis in human colon cancer cells.

Stilbene from grapes, peanuts, and pines induces apoptosis in various cancer cells, including esophageal
carcinoma; whereas sulfur-containing compounds form Brassica plants induce apoptosis in various cancer
cells, including colon cells.

Curcumin and resveratrol from grapes have been shown to inhibit the expression of cyclooxygenase-2
(COX-2) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Various fruits containing antioxidants were found to be effective
in suppressing the growth of various colon cancer cells and other intestinal tumors. Carotenoids and their
metabolites have been found to be very useful in the treatment of colon cancer, mostly due to their free
radical scavenging activity.

Selenium and vitamin E-containing diets, Mediterranean diets (containing antioxidants in the form of
hemocyanins), and kombucha tea (free radical scavenging property) are also known to provide protection
against gastric, intestinal, and colon cancer.

Irrritable Bowel Syndrome:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder characterized by relapsing

inflammation and severe mucosal damage in the intestine. There are two common forms of IBD, namely,
ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), which are generally associated with diarrhoea, nausea,
abdominal pain, fatigue, rectal bleeding, weight loss, anxiety, etc.

Probiotics can reduce harmful microorganisms and maintain the microbial balance inside the gut by
blocking the site of adhesion, competing for nutrients, and killing pathogenic microorganisms. In addition,
probiotic bacteria can function as anti-inflammatory agents. Non-starch polysaccharides (NPS), classified as
dietary fibre and prebiotics, used as therapeutics against inflammation and other immune related problems.
Fat soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A and D have protective roles against the pathogenesis of IBD. Plant
and fruit extracts: The anti-inflammatory activities of the plant extracts derive mainly from their abilities to
modulate inflammatory cytokines. e.g. Ginger, pomegranate, berries.

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 Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are important nutrients that can exert therapeutic functions to
control inflammatory disorders by modulating the immune response. E.g. Omega-3 fatty acid, EPA and
DHA. A diet high in fibre and omega-3 fatty acids is protective for the development of IBD, whereas a diet
high in refined sugars, complex carbohydrates, and omega-6 fatty acids (i.e., red meat) increases the risk of
acquiring IBD. Nutrition therapies that directly influence the key steps and in the pathogenesis of IBD and
thus should be considered in the treatment of IBD.

Fish Oil: Essential fatty acids (EFAs) consist of omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids
(PUFAs).inhibiting pro inflammatory cytokine synthesis, reducing inflammatory cell decreasing the key pro
inflammatory transcription factor, and enhancing epithelial barrier function.

Gastritis and its treatment

Gastritis is inflammation of the lining of the stomach and it is the most common illness associated with the
stomach. It occurs due to infection with Helicobacter pylori and/or the effect of NSAIDs. It can also be
caused by irritation due to excessive alcohol, smoking, cocaine, severe illness, autoimmune problems,
radiation therapy, and Crohn’s disease.

Gastritis can be diagnosed in its acute phase, during which superficial inflammation of the stomach may
cause nausea, pain, and discomfort in the upper abdomen.

In the developed stage, it is termed “chronic gastritis,” which may present with symptoms like pain in the
upper abdomen, feeling of fullness, and loss of appetite. It may also present with edema, vasodilatation,
congestion of gastric lamina propria and a paucity of inflammatory cells.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole (OPZ) and its derivatives are most commonly used to
treat gastritis. OPZs are known to produce side effects and drug interaction and are also associated with
gastric gland toxicity. However, this toxicity can be reversed by vitamin C. Antiulcer drugs are used as co-
medications to protect the gastric mucosa from damage due to steroidal and non-steroidal drugs. This is
especially useful during long-term pain and anti-inflammatory therapies.

Curcumin: Curcumin has natural antiinflammatory properties acting on the arachidonic acid
immune suppressive effects to treat as well as prevent chemically induced colitis. Boswellia: Boswellia
serrata herb to treat inflammatory conditions by also acting on the arachidonic acid cascade leading to a
decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines. Aloe vera is well-known in traditional medicine to promote gut
epithelial healing and has been shown to be an antioxidant with possible anti-inflammatory.

Wheat grass juice (triticum aestivum) is also believed to have antioxidant properties and has been used for
the treatment of thalassemia, intestinal diseases and IBD.

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Pigenin, the major component of wheat grass, blocks production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Herbal
treatment consisting of myrrh, dry extract of chamomile flowers, and coffee charcoal has been shown to
have anti-inflammatory and ant diarrheal properties.

Phenolic Compounds: Phenolic compounds (known as flavonoids) are available in a variety of

drinks and edible plants such as straw berry, apple, tea, red wine, beer, and others. They have been reported
to exert biological properties like antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, antioxidant, and free-radical
scavenging abilities. The gastro-protective effect of flavonoids may also be attributed to its effectiveness in
increasing the endogenous PG, reduction in histamine secretion, scavenging oxygen-derived free radicals,
and even to gastric mucus stimulation.

Quercetin, a flavonoid commonly found in a variety of vegetables, fruits, and beverages such as tea
and red wines, is known for its potential to prevent gastric injuries in rats. It prevents gastric damage from
the deleterious effects of activated neutrophil infiltration by inhibiting the MPO activity.

Compounds targeting adhesin mucin interaction

Glycyrrhzia glabra L. root is a rich source of polysaccharides composed of arabinose, galactose,

glucose, and glucuronic acid and is able to interact with the outer membrane surface adhesins of H. pylori,
avoiding its adhesion to mucus.

Study of herbs as health food

Alfalfa: Alfalfa is dried leaves, dried seeds & whole flowering plant of Medicago sativa, Family:
Leguminosae

GS: PB, GJ, MH, UP, TN

Constituents: Saponins (Medicagenic acid, Hederagenin), Flavones, Isoflavones, Coumarin derivatives,

Medicagol, sativol, trifoliol, daphnoretin, and pectinmethylestrase, It also contains phenolic compound
coumestrol as well as L-Canavanine, Alkaloids: trigonilline (in seed), Stachydrine, Homostachydrine, Plant
acids: pantothanic acid, Vitamins B, C, E and K, Amino acids and plant pigments.

Uses: It is beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis, to prevent absorption of cholesterol, stimulating appetite and as
a general tonic to increase vitality and weight in humans. It is also used as galactogogue. There is no
reliable scientific evidence that alfalfa has any of these effects in human being. Monkeys fed quantities of
alfalfa or sprouts develop systemic lupus erythmatosus (SLE). Patients with clinically and serologically
quiescent SLE have had the diseases reactivated by ingesting alfalfa tablets. L-canavanine is present in all
parts of the plant but especially in the seeds (1%) replaces arginine in vital metabolic processes in the body
thus causing recurrence of SLE. Patients suffering from this disease should avoid consumption of alfalfa
products.
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Dose: 5-10 g dried herb three times daily

Chicory root: It is dried root and dried above ground parts of Chicorium intybus Family: Compositae,

GS: Europe and Asia

CC: It contains 60% inulin, sesquiterpene lactone (bitter principle), Lactucopikrin, Lactucin, Chicorin
(coumarin glucoside), taraxasterin, Maltol (Maltol is occurs in roasted malt and it has property of sweetness
of sugar).

It also contains pectin, fixed oil and choline.

Uses: Used in food products as flavors, bitter tonic to increase appetite and treat digestive problem
(prebiotics) usually in the form of herbal tea and juice. Roots used as diuretic and treatment of gall stone,
liver ailment and cancer. Ground roasted and powdered roots are mixed with coffee to impart richer flavor
and to decrease caffeine content of the coffee.

Ginger: It is fresh and dried roots and rhizomes of Zingiber officinalis , Family: Zingiberacae.

GS: Southern Asia (India, China), Jamaica, Nigeria

CC: Ginger oil contains contain sesquiterpene, Zingiberene and Bisabolene. Pungent principle Gingerol and
Shagoal, 6-8% lipid (triglycerides, phospotidic acid, lecithin) free fatty acids (lauric acid, palmitic acid,
stearic acid, linoleic acid), Protien, Vitamin (Niacin & Vit A), minerals, resins.

Uses: Used in many food preparation, prevents nausea, antioxidant, treat flu, cold, rheumatism and general
stimulant. Ginger oil contains oleoresin used in soft drinks, frozen diary deserts.

Garlic:: Fresh and dired bulbs of Allium sativum, Family: liliaceae

GS: Indigenous Asia

Uses: It is used as adjuent to diet management, treatment of hyperlipidaemia and in the prevention of
etherosclerotic vascular changes. Fresh and dried garlic juice and volatile oil lowers cholesterol, plasma
lipids, lipid metabolism, atherogenesis both in-vivo & in-vitro. The mechanism for anti-
hypercholestrolaemic and anti-hyperlipidaemic activity involves the inhibition of hepatic HMG-CoA
reductase and remodeling the plasma lipoprotein and cell membrane. The overall activity of garlic is due to
sulfur compound such as allin, allicin, ajoene. It prevents carcinoma of stomach, colon and lung. Garlic has
anti-hypertensive, hypoglycemic, antispasmodic activity. Ajoene is an anti-thrombotic factor isolated from
garlic.

Honey: Honey is saccharin secretion deposited in the honey comb by the honey bees (Apis melifera) of
family: Apidae

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Purified honey is prepared from the crude honey by heating at moderate temperature, skimming impurities
by decantation, diluting with water to 1.35-1.36 gm/ml at 20oC. Freshly prepared honey is clear syrupy
liquid of pale yellow or reddish brown color. On keeping it crystallizes and becomes opaque in appearance.

CC : Dextrose and Fructose, Sucrose (small quantity), volatile oils, pigments, pollen grains.

Uses: Honey is useful nutrient and sweetener. Also used as demulcent in cough preparation. There is no
scientific evidence for the support. It improves digestion, facilitates wound healing and has sedative, anti-
arthritic and anti-bacterial effect.

Amla: Consists of fresh and dried fruits of Emblica officianilis, Family: Euphorbiaceae

CC: It contains 5-6 % tannins (gallic acid, ellagic acid and phyllembelin), it is rich source of natural Vit. C,
pectin and minerals like phosphorus, iron and calcium.

Uses: antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and antioxidant.

Ginseng: Ginseng consists dried roots of Panax ginseng (China, Korea, Russia), Panax quinquefolium
(American), Panax notoginseng (Sanchi ginseng, China), Panax pseudoginseng (eastern Asia).

Family : AraliaceaeThe roots are gathered from 3-6 year old plant and carefully cleaned and dried. White
ginseng is usually peeled roots of red ginseng which is obtained by steaming the roots and this process
increases biological activity.

CC: Triterpenoid saponin kown as ginsenosides and panaxoside, protopanaxadiol, protopanaxatriol.

Uses: It has tranquilizing and ani-fatigue hypotensive, it used in anemia, diabetes, insomnia, gastritis and
sexual impotence. At present 5-6 million people use this drug in US alone. It is also classified as adaptogen
and helps body to adapt to stress and to correct adrenal and thyroid dysfunction. It is administered as
powders, extracts and teas. Symptoms observed in ginseng abuse mimic those of corticosteroid poisoning
suggesting the steroid mechanism of action operating through adrenal cortex or pituitary gland. Large
amount for long term ingestion should be avoided.

Dose.: 15gm of roots per day.

Spirulina: It is a blue green algae obtained from Spirulina maxima (Mexico) S. platensis (California,
Thailand) or harvested from fresh water lakes in bright sunlight after prolific growth and development,
harvested, rapidly dried and marketed as powder, tablets and capsules.

Family: Oscillatoriacea

CC: Spirulina contains 50-70% protein, it is inferior protein source compared to eggs, milk and beef. It is
ten times expensive compared to these sources of protein. Contains 5-6% lipid mostly essential fatty acids

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such as gamma-linoleic, linoleic and oleic acid. It also contains glycolipids, sulpholipids, Vit. B and beta
carotene. It contains 3-6% mineral mainly iron.

Uses: Reported to have immunosuppressant activity, shows promises for treatment of HIV and viral
infections such as herpes, influenza and measles. It acts as an antioxidant due to presence of enzyme
superoxide dismutase and thereby used in treatment of atherosclerosis, arthritis, cataract, diabetes and aging
process.

Fenugreek: It is obtained from dried seeds of Trigonella folium graecum, Family : Leguminoceae

CC: Seeds contain saponins which on hydrolysis yield 1-2% of sapogenin (Diosgenin) trigafoenoside,
foenugraecin and trigonellin. The seed contains volatile oil with main constitutents having sesquiterpine,
hydrocarbons and lactones. It contains protein (30%), lipids (7%), flavonoids, sterols, mucilage and soluble
galactomannan.

Uses: Used as ingredient in curry, spice blends. It is included in alcoholic and non-alcoholic breverages.
Frozen diary deserts, candy, baked goods, meat and meat products. It helps to facilitate weight gain. Also
used as demulcent, emollient and in treatment of indigestion, hyper-cholesterimia,

Ashwagandha: It consists of dried roots of Withania somnifera , Family: Solanaceae

CC: It contains steroidal lactones Withanolides I, II, III, A to M, PS, U. Withanolide D contains withanone
and withaferin A.

Uses: it is used as immune-modulator, tonic, Withaferin A & E has remarkable immune-suppressive effect in
human T-lymphocyte. It has antiarthritic and hepatoprotective activity. It possesses CNS depressant and
anti-stress activity. Root extracts exhibits hypotensive and respiratory stimulant effect.

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