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Traditional Research on the Fruits in

BLUEBERRY SOLID

 

David Winston's Specific Indications*
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Blueberry (Vaccinium spp.)* Blueberries increase circulation to the capillaries of the eyes, which results in improved eyesight and reduced oxidation in these tissues. It is useful for preventing diabetic retinopathy as well as treating night blindness, macular degeneration and cataracts. Blueberry concentrate is also beneficial for strengthening all other capillaries, arteries and veins. It can also be used for reducing capillary fragility and permeability in conditions such as varicose veins. An antioxidant/anti-inflammatory, it reduces free radical- caused inflammation and histamine release (allergies). Recent studies in animals have shown that as little as 1/2 cup of Blueberries per day can reduce symptoms of aging (memory loss, cognitive and motor impairment) and may help to prevent cancer, heart disease and arthralgias. Blueberries, like other Vaccinium species (Bilberry, Huckleberry, Cranberry) contain flavonoids such as anthocyanins which are potent antioxidants. Blueberries had the highest antioxidant capacity of 40 fruits and vegetables tested by the USDA. These berries have a powerful ability to protect against free radical damage, inhibit enzymes which may promote cancer, reduce histamine production and act as an anti-inflammatory nutrient to connective tissue.
Apple (Malus pumila)* Apples contain Vitamin A and potassium. They also contain boron, a trace mineral necessary for proper absorption of calcium for healthy bone growth and maintenance. Apple procyanidins inhibit proliferation of animal melanoma cells and human metastatic colon cancer cells in laboratory studies
Bibliography:

Bomser, Madhavi, et al. In Vitro Anti-cancer Activity of Fruit Extracts from Vaccinium species, Planta Medica 62 (3) pp. 212-6, 1996.

Joseph, Shukitt-Hale, et al. Reversals of Age-Related Declines in Neuronal Signal Transduction, Cognitive and Motor Behavioral Deficits with Blueberry, Spinach or Strawberry Dietary Supplementation, Journal of Neuroscience 19 (18), pp. 8114-8121, 1999.

Murray, M., ND, Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus), American Journal of Natural Medicine, 4 (1), pp. 18-22, 1997.

Prior, Cao, Martin, et al. Antioxidant Capacity as Influenced by Total Phenolic and Anthocyanin Content, Maturity and Variety of Vaccinium Species, Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry Vol 46, pp. 2686-2693, 1998

Miura, T, Chiba, M, Kasai, K, et al. Apple Procyanidins Induce Tumor-Cell Apoptosis Through Mitochondrial Pathway Activation of Caspase-3. Carcinogenesis Sept 7, 2007.

Gossé, F, Guyot, S, Roussi, S, et al. Chemopreventative Properties of Apple Procyanidins on Human Colon Cancer-Derived Metastatic SW620 Cells and in a Rat Model of Colon Carcinogenesis. Carcinogenesis 26 (7), pp 1291-1295, 2005.

*Herbal Therapeutics Research Library

Author: David Winston (RH) AHG

 

©2007 Herbal Therapeutics Research Library. All rights reserved

 Disclaimer: The information on historical, ethnobotanical and phytotherapeutic uses of herbs and traditional formulas contained herein is based on the experience and research of the author. It is not intended as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Any attempt to diagnose and treat an illness should be done under the direction of a health care professional. The publisher and author are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the information discussed. Should you have any questions concerning the appropriateness of any preparation mentioned, the author strongly suggests consulting a professional health care advisor.