May 23, 2016

Pathways of Inflammation

Mechanisms of Anti-inflammatory Action*

Boswellia Serrata

Inhibits TNF-alpha-induced inflammatory response
Inhibit enzymes (MMP) which catalyze connective tissue breakdown
Acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) inhibits NF-kappaB which activates many genes involved in inflammatory responses.
Inhibits the formation and release of certain inflammatory leukotrienes.
Inhibits conversion of arachidonic acid to inflammatory leukotrienes.
Reduces complement activity, known to trigger inflammatory mediators.
Prevents the breakdown of connective tissue in inflammatory arthritic conditions by reducing glycosaminoglycan (GAG) degradation
Reduces enzymes that are elevated in inflammatory conditions like arthritis (such as glutamic pyruvic transaminase, glycohydrolase, and beta-glucuronidase)

Horsetail

Horsetail possesses weak diuretic properties, and therefore reduces the swelling of inflamed tissues, thereby reducing pressure on adjacent nerves

Stinging Nettle

Potently suppresses human leukocyte elastase (HLE), one of the most destructive enzymes released by certain white blood cells during the inflammatory process
Inhibits TNF-alpha, NF-Kappa B, Leukotiene and Prostaglandin synthesis
Lowers levels of interleukin-6 and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)

Celery

Inhibits mRNA expression of COX-2 in inflammatory responses
Suppresses inflammatory mediator release by blocking nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB activation pathways
Reduces LPS-induced interleukin (IL)-6 production in the brain
Celery possesses weak diuretic properties, and reduces iNOS, an inflammatory mediator

Garlic

Enhances phagocytosis, white blood cell production, natural killer cell activity and prevents immune suppression

*Above based on Natural Standard database, and a review by Clarke and Mullin, which investigated the immunomodulatory effects of various alternative and complementary therapies, including Boswellia, and the variety of mechanisms by which they disrupt the pro-inflammatory cascade.