Oregano essential oil can effectively prevent blue mold rot in pears without compromising fruit quality. The oil works by damaging the fungal cell membrane, causing it to leak and die. Additionally, the treatment helps pears stay fresher longer by reducing water loss and maintaining firmness, while naturally boosting the fruit’s own defense systems against damage.
This review examines how scientists can predict which patients will benefit most from psychedelic-assisted therapy for depression by measuring biological markers in the brain and blood. Researchers found that certain brain changes and protein levels—particularly involving the amygdala, specific brain regions, and inflammation markers—appear linked to treatment success. While the current studies are small, they suggest that measuring these biological markers could eventually help doctors personalize psychedelic treatments for depression.
This study examined how two medicinal mushrooms, lion’s mane and Reishi, affect nerve cells in the brain. The researchers found that metabolites from these mushrooms don’t harm brain cells and actually boost protective proteins that support cell health and survival. The mushrooms appear to work through a cellular receptor called AhR, which helps facilitate communication between the gut and the brain. These findings suggest that these mushrooms may help support brain function and protect against neurological problems.
This review examines how quinoa and its protein-derived peptides can improve gut health by changing the balance of bacteria in the digestive system. Research shows that quinoa helps boost beneficial bacteria, increases diversity of microbial communities, and promotes production of butyrate, a beneficial compound that supports intestinal health. Different disease conditions show specific improvements, such as reduced harmful bacteria in colitis and better metabolic balance in obesity, suggesting quinoa could be tailored for personalized health interventions.
Sea buckthorn is an ancient medicinal plant containing hundreds of bioactive compounds that show promise in treating digestive diseases like stomach ulcers, colitis, and liver problems. This comprehensive review of 85 scientific studies found that sea buckthorn’s active ingredients work through multiple mechanisms including reducing inflammation, fighting harmful bacteria, protecting the intestinal lining, and balancing gut bacteria. The research suggests sea buckthorn could become a valuable natural supplement for digestive health, though more clinical trials are needed to confirm optimal doses and long-term effectiveness in humans.
This study developed a nano-sized formulation of lemongrass oil stabilized with naturally-derived rhamnolipid surfactant to fight plant fungal diseases. The formulation successfully inhibited the growth of three major plant pathogens and remained stable during storage. This bio-based approach offers farmers an environmentally-friendly alternative to synthetic chemical fungicides for protecting crops.
This study examined four types of edible mushrooms to see if they could protect against aging and fight harmful bacteria. Researchers gave mice an aging-inducing substance and then treated them with mushroom extracts. The mushrooms, particularly Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus), helped prevent brain and liver damage, reduced inflammation, and showed antibacterial effects against multiple bacterial strains. These findings suggest mushrooms could be useful natural supplements to promote health and combat age-related decline.
Researchers extracted polysaccharides from peach-shaped bamboo fungus (Dictyophora indusiata) and discovered they contain beneficial beta-glucans. When tested on human immune cells triggered to become inflamed, these polysaccharides reduced inflammatory markers and messenger proteins. The compounds were found to be chemically stable under various conditions, suggesting potential use as a natural anti-inflammatory supplement or food ingredient.
Researchers tested a supplement called Slim containing natural compounds like berberine, coenzyme Q10, and beet pulp on obese mice. After 4 weeks, the supplement improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels, increased beneficial gut bacteria, and strengthened the intestinal barrier. The results suggest this combination of natural ingredients works together synergistically to improve gut health and metabolic function in obesity.
Researchers tested a mushroom extract from Cordyceps militaris to see if it could protect mice from lung injury caused by bacterial toxins. The extract successfully reduced inflammation, prevented excessive mucus production, and decreased immune cell buildup in the lungs. These findings suggest that this mushroom extract could potentially be used as a natural supplement to help prevent respiratory diseases and support lung health.