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Health Benefits
Women's Health
Alpha-linolenic acid prevents breast cancer from spreading
TOURS, FRANCE. Medical doctors at the University Hospital in Tours have discovered that breast cancer victims who have a high content of alpha- linolenic acid (9,12,15-octadecatrienoic acid) in their breast tissue are less likely to develop metastases (cancer in distant organs such as the stomach, intestines, etc.).
The study involved 121 women who had been diagnosed with localised breast cancer. The researchers analyzed samples of adipose (fatty) tissue taken close to the tumor at the time of surgery. They found that the cancer was more likely to have spread to the lymph nodes in the armpits in women with a low level of alpha-linolenic acid in their tissue. They found no relationship between alpha-linolenic acid content and tumor size.
After an average follow up of 31 months, 21 of the women developed metastases. The researchers discovered that women who had a high adipose tissue content of alpha-linolenic acid at the time of surgery were five times less likely to have developed metastases than did women with a low content (less than 0.38 per cent). Original tumor size was also an important factor in predicting risk of metastasis which is the main cause of death among breast cancer patients. Women who had a tumor with a diameter greater than 5 cm had a 4.7 times greater risk of developing metastases than did women with smaller tumors.
The researchers conclude that dietary supplementation with alpha-linolenic acid might delay or prevent the development of metastases in breast cancer patients. They also point out that previous research has shown that a high intake of dietary fat originating from fish helps prevent breast cancer in the first place and also improves survival among breast cancer patients.
NOTE: Flax oil, pumpkin oil and purslane are good sources of alpha-linolenic acid. Bougnoux, P., et al. Alpha-linolenic acid content of adipose breast tissue: a host determinant of the risk of early metastasis in breast cancer. British Journal of Cancer, Vol. 70, No. 2, August 1994, pp. 330-34
Men's Health
Pumpkin Seed Latin name: Cucurbita pepo
A Remedy ForīgŽ Prostate enlargement
Pumpkin Seed relieves the urinary difficulties that develop when an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer obstructs the exit from the bladder. Although Pumpkin Seed promotes normal urination, it does not correct the underlying problem, so it's important to pursue other treatments for the condition.
Pumpkin Seed has been used for a variety of problems for which its effectiveness is unconfirmed, including kidney inflammation, intestinal parasites--especially tapeworm--and wounds. In Asian medicine it is used to treat worms, diabetes, and water retention. Homeopathic practitioners prescribe it for nausea and seasickness.
What It Is; Why It Works
Researchers do not know why Pumpkin Seed eases urinary problems, but clinical studies leave no doubt that it does. The seeds also exhibit antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory properties. Pumpkin originated in America, but is now grown worldwide. It shares its family tree with melons and cucumbers. Seeds of this group used to be ground into a paste and prescribed for fevers, bowel disorders, and urinary
complaints.
Avoid If...
No known medical conditions preclude the use of Pumpkin Seed.
Special Cautions
At customary dosage levels, Pumpkin seed poses no risks.
Possible Drug Interactions
No interactions have been reported.
Special Information
If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding - No harmful effects are known.
How To Prepare
Coarsely ground Pumpkin Seed is the usual preparation. Whole seeds may also be used.
Typical Dosage
Pumpkin Seed is taken orally. The usual daily dosage is 1 to 2 heaping teaspoonfuls of ground Pumpkin Seed with liquid in the morning and evening. Your total daily intake should average 10 grams. Store away from light and moisture.
Overdosage
No information is available
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