Exotic Fruits
    & Berries^™
            Acai, Noni, Goji, Mangosteen, Pomegranate
     Also Contains Resveratrol

           Extremely Potent Antioxidants & Nutrients

            For Energy, Immune Support, Weight Loss,

               Better Sleep, and Good Cholesterol & Blood Pressure

Exotic Fruits & Berries supplies a blend of the most powerful antioxidant foods in nature. These important nutrients help support optimal cognitive function, cardiovascular health, and the immune system by protecting the body from free radical damage.

Free radicals are naturally-occurring, highly reactive particles which can damage cells and destroy vital proteins and other compounds when present in high levels. Free radical damage may be a leading cause of aging, heart disease, cancer, high cholesterol, and dementia.

Environmental factors such as smoking, radiation, pollution, drugs, alcohol, and other toxins can increase free radical levels. Exotic Fruits & Berries is designed to shield the body from the harmful effects of free radical damage.

In addition, each ingredient in Exotic Fruits & Berries provides nutritional support for essential body functions. It is important to understand the role of every ingredient in this formula.

Details on the benefits of each ingredient, as well as supporting research, can be found below:

Exotic Fruits & Berries contains:


Acai Berry          300mg per capsule

Featured on the Oprah Winfrey show, this so-called “superfood” has quickly gained popularity as the incredibly abundant nutrients in the fruit are being recognized by scientists, leading nutritionists, and consumers. 

Acai berries (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) are believed to help maintain a strong cardio-vascular system, support healthy cholesterol, and combat natural aging processes.  Additional research performed at the University of Florida has discovered that acai berries may help combat some forms of cancer. (See below).


Acai Berry is an Antioxidant:

Acai berries contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants which also provide the fruit with its deep purple color.  These same antioxidants are found in red wine, long believed to be a powerful dietary supplement for maintaining a healthy heart.  Acai berries, however, contain a concentration of anthocyanins which is up to thirty times higher than red wine, and, lacking the harmful effects of alcohol, acai berries are a healthier alternative to red wine. 

Antioxidants from acai berries have also been responsible for inhibiting the reproduction of cancerous cells in cell cultures, an exciting find that suggests acai berries may play a beneficial role in cancer treatment.

Antioxidants are substances which protect cells from free radicals. Free radicals, the byproduct of the body's use of oxygen to make energy, are highly reactive particles which can damage important nutrients. When "bad" LDL cholesterol is oxidized by free radicals, it can cause plaque buildup in the cardiovascular system. These dangerous deposits of plaque can cause arterial blockages, risking heart attack and stroke and contributing to heart disease and other serious illnesses. Recent research suggests that antioxidants may help prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Acai berries are one of the richest sources of antioxidants in nature.

The ORAC scale is used to measure the potency of the various antioxidant substances. Click here to learn more about the ORAC scale and how acai berry scores.

Vitamin and Mineral Content of Acai Berry:

Acai berries also contain high amounts of protein and fiber, more so, in fact, than any other fruit in the world.  The high amounts of phytosterols present in acai berries can contribute to healthier cholesterol levels.  Brazilian studies have shown that among the other nutrients found in acai berries are Vitamins B1, B2, B3, E, and C; phosphorous; calcium; potassium; fiber; a wide range of amino acids; and the “good” fatty acids Omega-6 and Omega-9, also beneficial to cholesterol levels.

Acai berries are good for men and women of all ages, but particularly for adults over forty, due to their unshakeable reputation as an anti-aging wonder fruit.  Research into acai berries’ effects on cancerous cells is promising, particularly for leukemia patients.  While research concerning the berry’s extraordinary benefits is ongoing and inconclusive, tradition proves the substance to be a powerful one.

Hawaiian Noni Fruit Extract                 300mg per capsule

According to the Asian Journal of Andrology, Hawaiian Noni extract exhibits antibacterial, antiinflammatory, antitumor, and immune enhancing effects. For over 2,000 years, the Polynesians have been using Noni in folk remedies for the common cold, cancer, skin infections, and depression. Recently noni fruit has become popular as an antioxidant substance. It also inhibits the growth of the bacteria E. coli, protecting the intestinal tract from infections.

Noni in the fight against cancer:

Noni's antitumor properties are derived from the presence of Damnacanthal, a substance which inhibits tumor growth by preventing cell division. According to a study cited in Phytotherapy Research Noni was able to reverse the growth of cancerous tumors in 25%-45% of mice.

Warning - Noni may be hepatotoxic. Do not use Noni if you are undergoing dialysis or are at risk for liver damage.

Noni is a powerful nutrient for enhancing the immune system, for decreasing the risk of cancer, and for its antioxidant properties. To view a summary of the research performed on Noni, please click here.

Goji Berry            300mg per capsule

Goji was used in traditional Chinese medicine as an antiaging substance. In addition it was believed to alleviate inflammation, skin irritations, nosebleeds, and aches and pains. A polysaccheride in goji has been shown in one study to have anti-cancer effects (Dr. Ralph Moss).

In one clinical trial, goji extract was able to improve the body's response to immunotherapy (a form of cancer treatment) by up to 40%. To view the abstract from this trial, click here. Goji is often sold as a juice, but this form is very costly. Exotic Fruits & Berries provides the health benefits of Goji at a reasonable price.



Mangosteen           250mg per capsule

Mangosteen is a popular fruit from South America which, like Goji, is usually sold as an overpriced juice. Mangosteen contains a remarkably high concentration of xanthones, powerful antioxidants and the main healthy constituent of magosteen.

Studies have investigated mangosteen's role in fighting cancer. Results show that mangosteen is able to induce apoptosis (natural cell death) in tumors. These exciting finds offer hope that one day mangosteen and xanthones may become part of cancer treatments.



Resveratrol                20mg

Resveratrol is believed by many to be the primary constituent of grapes and red wine responsible for their health benefits. The "french paradox" is the apparent contradiction in the fact that although French cuisine is high in saturated fats, the total incidence of coronary heart disease amongst the French people is relatively low. One explanation may be the high dietary intake of red wine in France. Resveratrol may be the factor which helps lower the risk of heart disease in people who regularly consume red wine.

Studies show that resveratrol has some anticarcinogenic properties, as well as antifungal and antiinflammatory effects. These studies have concluded that resveratrol induces apoptosis, or natural death, in cancer cells, particulary in colon cancer.

According to Harvard biologist David Sinclair, resveratrol also prolongs the lifespan of yeast, a promising find which suggests that resveratrol may have some anti-aging effects. Below is a summary of the research performed on resveratrol. Exotic Fruits & Berries contains up to 30x as much resveratrol as one five-ounce glass of wine.



Pomegranate               250mg


Pomegranate contains punicosides and phenolic compounds. Together, these two nutrients provide strong antioxidant and cardiovascular support. 

While many pomegranate extracts are standardized simply to ellagic acid, increasing research indicates that some of the most beneficial constituents of the pomegranate may in fact be the ellagitannins. These ellagitannins can be found in relatively abundant quantities in pomegranate juice. One family of ellagitannins, known as punicalagins, has been shown to be especially important for supporting healthy cell growth and immune function. Click for more information.

The following section contains further information and research on the ingredients of Exotic Fruits & Berries:


Additional Information and Research on Acai Berry:

Acai Berry and Cancer:

Article featured in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry:

“Acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) polyphenolics in their glycoside and aglycone forms induce apoptosis of HL-60 leukemia cells.”
Authors: Del-Pozo-Insfran,-D; Percival,-S-S; Talcott,-S-T. J-Agric-Food-Chem. 2006 Feb 22; 54(4): 1222-9

The effects of acai polyphenolics on the antiproliferation and induction of apoptosis in HL-60 human leukemia cells were investigated. Interactions between anthocyanins and non-anthocyanin-polyphenolics in both their glycosidic and their aglycone forms were also investigated to determine additive or nonadditive responses. Polyphenolic fractions at 0.17-10.7 microM were found to reduce cell proliferation from 56 to 86% likely due to caspase-3 activation (apoptosis). Anthocyanin and polyphenolic fractions were nonadditive in their contribution to the cell antiproliferation activity. At equimolar concentrations, the glycosidic forms of phenolic acids and flavonoids induced a higher magnitude of change in cell parameters (proliferation and apoptosis) than their respective aglycone forms, while the opposite trend was observed for anthocyanin aglycones. This study demonstrated that acai offers a rich source of bioactive polyphenolics and confirmed the importance of investigating whole food systems when evaluating the potential health benefits of individual phytochemical compounds.


“Brazilian berry destroys cancer cells in lab, UF study shows”

Tom Nordlie, University of Florida

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — A Brazilian berry popular in health food contains antioxidants that destroyed cultured human cancer cells in a recent University of Florida study, one of the first to investigate the fruit’s purported benefits.

Published today in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the study showed extracts from acai (ah-SAH'-ee) berries triggered a self-destruct response in up to 86 percent of leukemia cells tested, said Stephen Talcott, an assistant professor with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

"Acai berries are already considered one of the richest fruit sources of antioxidants," Talcott said. "This study was an important step toward learning what people may gain from using beverages, dietary supplements or other products made with the berries."
He cautioned that the study, funded by UF sources, was not intended to show whether compounds found in acai berries could prevent leukemia in people.

"This was only a cell-culture model and we don’t want to give anyone false hope," Talcott said. "We are encouraged by the findings, however. Compounds that show good activity against cancer cells in a model system are most likely to have beneficial effects in our bodies."

About the ORAC scale…a UK Health Report:

ORAC Scale: The Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity (ORAC) assay measures the total antioxidant activity of a biological sample. It’s a test developed for the USDA by scientists at Tufts University to measure the antioxidant speed and power of foods and supplements. The ORAC scale is used in human, agricultural, food and pharmaceutical products, as well as food ingredients and is quickly becoming the accepted standard for comparing antioxidant potential in foods and supplements.

Acai Antioxidant Benefits: For the average person to cope with all the reactive oxygen species they will encounter, foods and beverages totaling an ORAC value of about 1,670 per day are needed. It’s been estimated that 80-90 percent of the world’s population fails to consume even half of this level. At 3,800 ORAC value per gram, Acai is reputed to be extremely high on the ORAC scale and provides levels multiple times that of other anthocyanin-rich fruits and vegetables, such as cherries, cranberries and mulberries.

Aging Population: As the population ages, 80% of older people in Western countries will develop at least one chronic metabolic disease. If the USDA says that high-ORAC foods may slow aging and prevent metabolic disease from occurring, isn't it about time you increased the amount of high ORAC foods in your diet to prevent this process from occurring in the first place?


Acai Berry Making for a Healthy Heart, by Harold James:

"Acai is a new fruit from Brazil that offers vital nutritional benefits for people over 40 years of age. The Acai berry contains 33 times the cholesterol fighting anthocyanin than a glass of red wine, a Daily Value (DVS) of calcium, twice the DVS at the antioxidant 'Vitamin E and a substantial amount of dietary fiber.

"Cardiovascular Maintenance, Anthocyanins are cholesterol regulating compounds with well researched data (indicating their value in Cardiovascular support Elevated blood cholesterol is one of the major modifiable risk factors for coronary heart disease and the leading cause of death in the US The fact is that 490,000 Americans die of Coronary Heart Diseases each year with cost of over $60 billion annually in medical expenses and lost productivity. Therefore, regulating and reducing cholesterol through dietary means can contribute to prolonging life
and reducing medical expenses.

"Low cholesterol foods and exercise are only a part of the natural program to prevent and mitigate cardiovascular diseases. The consumption of foods rich in compounds that reduce cholesterol, reduce blood pressure and curry antioxidant protection completes the program. Acai is an excellent example of such a functional food that is now accessible to food, beverage and supplement markets in an economical and convenient form.

"Calcium rich Acai also provides several cardiovascular health benefits. According to a research summary by the Just-Food.com editorial team. More than maintaining skeletal strength and reducing the impact of osteoporosis, studies have shown that people who suffer from high blood pressure often also have diets low in calcium, When calcium is added to their diet, blood pressure drops. Some research also suggest that calcium may help reduce LDL cholesterol levels. Also the lower risk of stroke, found in a study of 86,000 women, was attributed to calcium. Diets rich in calcium have also been linked to reduced occurrences of colon and breast cancer in various laboratory studies.

"The generous amount of Vitamin E in Acai, twice the D.V., (Daily Value), is essential for regeneration of damaged tissue and as a protective antioxidant. Cancer prevention and Intestinal function: "Acai" high fiber content is very favorable to the consumers proper intestinal function, " reports Dr. Herve Rogez , "Fiber accelerates the intestinal processes and has a very important role in avoiding colon cancer, The D.V. is 35g of fibers/adult a day, Acai consumers reach this dose very easily."

References Claire Madden, VP Marketing at MarketResearch.com, "Biochemical and Technical Studies on Acai" by Dr. Herve Rogez 2, Sofia Pascal 2, Jesus N.S. de Souza, Arlete R. Aquino & Raphaele Buxant Dept.. de Engenharia Quimica - Centro Tecnologico, Diaouiweir ria I niinnin, Beligica) National Contor for Health Statictice. Annual summary of births, marriages, divorces, and deaths United States, 1993, Monthly vital statistics report-, vol 42 no 13. Hyattsville, MD: Public Health Service, 1594. American Heart Association. Heart and stroke facts 1995 statistical supplement. Dallas, TX: American Heart Association, 1994, National Cholesterol Education Program. Second report of the Expert Panel on Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Cholesterol in Adults. Adult Treatment Panel II). BeM6sda National Heart, Lung

Polyphenols, Phytochemicals, Anthocyanins – what are they and what are the benefits of such compounds?

Phytochemicals characterize, or sum up the whole picture of the beneficial compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and certain teas. They are the protective living matter in which plants are able to thrive in some uncertain environments such as climate and insect infestations. When consumed by humans, these compounds act as antioxidants so vital to good health and longevity. Many studies suggest that the use of antioxidants may help in the fight against anti-aging, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and so many other age related degenerative diseases including ophthalmology.

Anthocyanins are some of the more potent forms of antioxidants. We have all heard of the "French Paradox", how the people of France with their high fat diets and not uncommon unhealthy lifestyles are still below the percentage of related deaths from cardiovascular disease than many of the populations which exist today.

One reason may be that they consume large amounts of red wine. Wine, made from grapes have very high levels of the antioxidant anthocyanins. The polyphenols (anthocyanins) in red wine, are believed to mitigate the effects of a fatty diet and smoking. Anthocyanin, a polyphenol which is proven to reverse, halt, and improve the conditions of many age related diseases inflicted on the general population. Anthocyanins (flavonoids) found in various fruits have a unique chemical structure that makes them 6 to 8 times more potent than vitamin C.
One particular fruit, known as Acai (ah-Sa-E) contains the most highly concentrated forms of anthocyanins known thus far through intense research. The anthocyanin content in the Acai is proven to be 3.5 times the amount of that present in a glass of red wine, volume to volume when tested in an ORAL analysis ( measure of capacity).

Anthocyanins and their protective properties: Inflammation and Collagen: Anthocyanins neutralize enzymes that destroy connective tissue. Their antioxidant capacity prevents oxidants from damaging connective tissues and repair damaged proteins in the blood-vessel walls.
The Nervous System: By preventing tyrosine nitration, the anthocyanin properties in Acai may help protect against neurological diseases.

The primary anthocyanins in Acai known as Cyanidin-3-glucoside have been found to help in the reversal of age related neurological deficits.

Large and Small Blood-Vessels: Anthocyanins ability to counter oxidants make them a powerhouse in the fight against arteriosclerosis. Even in trace amounts, anthocyanins effectively protect against LDL oxidation. Anthocyanins protect the integrity of the endothelial cells that line blood vessel walls and help to maintain micro capillary integrity.
Diabetes: One of the serious diabetic complications is retinopathy, which in most cases can cause blindness. This condition occurs when the body attempts to repair leaking, damaged capillaries, but does so by over producing abnormal proteins. The protection of anthocyanins may help prevent these capillaries from leaking and to help prevent abnormal protein proliferation.

Eyesight: Anthocyanins may also help improve eyesight by numerous mechanisms. In the Second World War, British fighter pilots were found to have improved night vision. These findings were thought to be contributed by the large amounts of bilberry in the pilot's diet. The effects of the improved night vision were not long lasting after the initial consumption of bilberry lasting just hours after initial consumption. With this new found advantage, the pilots would consume the bilberry fruits just prior to the mission.

Acai Berry – A Wellspring of Nutrients
This new berry is 100% all natural and it is harvested naturally from depths of the rainforests of Brazil, by the people who have been using it for over thousands of years. Acai is the only super berry on the market that has everything that you need, naturally from only the berry itself. It packs Vitamin B1, B2, B3, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Phosphorus, Calcium, Potassium, Fiber, Proteins, good fatty acids such as Omega 6, Omega 9 to helps you fight your cholesterol problems and many, many more; there is just too many to list.

Also as an added benefit is give you the highest level of anti-oxidant on the market, with studies showing up to 33 times the antioxidant as red wine grapes. With Acai it gives you the energy from your youth and opens up the vitality and increased stamina you had in your 20's. So try the new "Fountain of Youth" from this forbidden Amazon Berry and you too will feel the power of the Amazon.

Research on Acai has shown that these antioxidants are known to fight and regulate cholesterol levels in the body.

Acai has two essential fatty acids known as Omega 6 (Linoleic acid) and Omega 9 (Oleic acid). Research shows that Omega 6 helps lower LDL, which is the harmful cholesterol. Then you have Omega 9 fatty acids lower LDL and maintain HDL (beneficial cholesterol) levels.
Acai's antioxidant factors play a large role in maintenance of vascular cardiac system, which is important for better blood circulation.

The fruit is small, round and blackish purple, It looks like a grape, but smaller and darker. It has a big seed and very little pulp. Acai is widely used in energy drinks, ice cream, energy bars with granola, and now it is in it’s best form a powder extract that is more powerful and yet convenient to take.

In order to obtain a healthy Acai, the most important is the quickness in the time between the harvest and the processing. The Acai is very rich in antocianine, an antioxidation substance that helps to fight the cholesterol and free radicals. Have you ever heard that a glass of red wine everyday is good for the heart? This is because of the antocianine in the grape, It is not by accident that the color of the Acai is similar to the color of red wine, although the Acai has 33 times more anticianine than the grape.1 The antocianine is also a strong natural coloring, Besides being considered one of the “Richest foods in iron” the Acai is also rich In fibers which makes it strongly recommended for the elderly and/or for people with problems in the digestive organs, For its microbiological characteristics the Acai Is considered one of the most nutritive fruits in the Amazon, preceded only by the chestnut of Pera.
http://www.calcompnutrition.com/

UK HEALTH REPORT:
Acai Palm ( Euturpe oleracea)
Common Names: Acai Palm, Assai Palm, Cabbage Palm
Synonyms: Euterpe badiocarpa
Related species:  Eturpe edulis
Conservation Status: Not threatened

Distribution & Habitat: The Acai Palm is widely distributed and is very common throughout northern South America. The natural habit of the Acai Palm tends to be along river edges and seasonal flood plains and is mostly found along water courses of Brazil. Acai Palm is also cultivated extensively in the vast Amazon River estuary. Acai is a widely distributed, prolific palm and very widely grown because of the properties of the Acai fruit and the use of the heart of the palm for as a staple food in Brazil.

Background information: The Acai Palm belongs to a family of over 1200 species comprising 32 distinct generic groups and are widely regarded as one of the most useful plant families in the world. Palm trees have provided a range of food and products used by man for eons. Uses include food, clothing, oil for cooking, drinks, clothing, weapons, building materials, and containers.

Acai is an extremely common, slender, yet very tall palm and grows 15 to 25 m in height. Most mature Acai palm trees in the wild develop 4-8 stems from a single seed and root system. It isn't uncommon for the Acai palm to sprout up to 25 or more shoots all growing as individual Acai palms. Acai palm has adapted well to live and thrive in seasonally flooded areas in soils often waterlogged for months. The Acai Palm produces quite small male and female flowers of a brown to purple color.

The Acai Palm produces a highly nutritious edible berry which grows in dense bunches typical of many palms. The fruit is round and 1-2 cm in diameter, has an oily coating over a fibrous sheath covering a single large seed. Acai fruit ripens from a green color to a dark rich purple. Each Acai stem normally produces four to eight bunches of fruit throughout the year making it one of the most prolific fruiting palms in the forest. The bunches of ripe fruits are heaviest in the dry season (July to December) with individual bunches weighing up to 6 kg. One Acai palm stem usually yields an average of 24 kgs plus of fruit per year. The fruit is a favorite of rain forest animals and is actively sought out by birds and rodents. Seed disbursement from their droppings ensures continual propagation of the species. Found throughout the Amazon, Acai is very common in the Brazilian state of Pará. The Acai palm is perhaps the most common palm found throughout the lowland flood areas of northern South America.

Acai Berry: In Brazilian herbal medicine, the oil of the Acai fruit is used to treat diarrhea; an infusion of the grated fruit rind is used as a topical wash for skin ulcers; and, the fruit seeds are crushed and prepared in an infusion for fevers. In the Peruvian Amazon, an infusion of the toasted crushed seeds is used for fever. In Colombia, where the trees grow along the Pacific coast line, it is called naidí and the fruit is turned into a common and popular drink.
Acai Health Benefits: What is known about the Acai berry fruit health benefits, backed by scientific research into the fruits properties, is quite substantial.  Acai is a rich source of anthocyanins and other phenolics and phyto-nutrients. Acai berries are amongst the most nutritious foods of the Amazon, rich in B vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Acai also contain oleic acid (omega-9), a beneficial fatty acid (often mistakenly referred to as essential).

Minerals found in Acai Berry: Potassium is the mineral most abundant in the Acai, but it is also rich in copper, and unusually high in manganese. Only a small portion supplies far more than the body needs of this ultra-trace mineral.

Acai Phytonutrients: Anthocyanins are compounds that have potent antioxidant activity, allowing for the neutralization of potentially harmful free radicals. The famous research regarding the "French Paradox" attributes anthocyanins as being the antioxidant that protects the French from heart disease. The French are known to consume large amounts of coffee, nicotine, sugar, white flour and cheese and yet they have a very low rate of heart disease compared to neighboring countries like the UK and Denmark. The red wine grape, due to its anthocyanins is what is believed to be responsible for the very low incidence of heart disease. While red wine has good quantities of anthocyanins, the Acai berry has been show to contain up to 30 times the anthocyanins levels of red wine.

By neutralizing these free radicals, anthocyanins from the Acai berry may actually serve to maintain the healthy function of numerous systems and organs. Some of the anthocyanins that have been found in Acai include cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-glucoside-coumarate. Other phenolics include catechin and epi-catechin (the same compounds in green tea), quercetin derivatives and other flavonoids. It is likely that the synergistic effects of these compounds, as present in Acai fruit are responsible for its potent antioxidant activities.

Endorsement by Dr. Ray Sahelian, M.D.:
Acai berry benefit – “Apparently the dark purple skin of the acai berry has many times the anthocyanin content as red wine. The antioxidants in acai could be helpful for several health conditions. Acai also has plant sterols, essential fatty acids, and fiber.”

From the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry:

“Phytochemical composition and pigment stability of Acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.).”

Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Florida, P.O. Box 110370, Gainesville, Florida

Anthocyanin and polyphenolic compounds present in acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) were determined and their respective contribution to the overall antioxidant capacity established. Color stability of acai anthocyanins against hydrogen peroxide (0 and 30 mmol/L) over a range of temperatures (10-30 degrees C) was also determined and compared to common anthocyanin sources. Additionally, stability in a model beverage system was evaluated in the presence of ascorbic acid and naturally occurring polyphenolic cofactors. Cyanidin 3-glucoside (1040 mg/L) was the predominant anthocyanin in acai and correlated to antioxidant content, while 16 other polyphenolics were detected from 4 to 212 mg/L. Red grape anthocyanins were most stable in the presence of hydrogen peroxide, while acai and pigments rich in acylated anthocyanins displayed lower color stability in a temperature-dependent manner. In the presence of ascorbic acid, acylated anthocyanin sources generally had increased color stability. Acai was recognized for its functional properties for use in food and nutraceutical products.
J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Mar 24;52(6):1539-45. Del Pozo-Insfran D, Brenes CH, Talcott ST.

The Acai Berry and Its Nutrient Value
By Josh E. Thomas

Acai is an antioxidant rich berry that grows wild in the Brazilian Amazon and tropical forests in Central America and is considered to be one of the top Superfoods in the world. Acai has long been consumed in Brazil but is relatively new in other parts of the world.
Acai, like other fruits and herbs found in the rainforests on this planet holds the key to many of the unknown health benefits
.
A reason for acai's slow adoption in other countries is that the fruits can be had only for a short period post-harvest, before it quickly deteriorates. Hey good things don't last do they ? so the fruit is only available in juice or fruit pulp outside the growing region.
The juice and pulp of acai fruits are frequently used in various juice blends, smoothies, sodas, and other beverages, primarily in South America where such products are widely available.
Acai fruit flavor and texture The fruit pulp is very deep purple and is reminiscent of a blueberry sorbet or ice cream with a hint of chocolate flavor. Akai berries are produced by a palm tree known scientifically as Euterpe oleracea, common in floodplain areas of the Amazon River. When ripe, the berries take on a dark purple color and about the size of a blueberry. They contain a thin layer of fruit pulp surrounding a large seed.

Due to the high anti-oxidant content, the acai berry is known as one of the most powerful of the anti-aging foods.

About the Author:
Josh E. Thomas regularly writes about Health and Nutrition. He lives in California with his wife and daughter. This article can be freely re-published in any form, as long as the Author credit and links are included. Visit http://nutrition.smatix.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

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Additional Support for Noni Fruit Extract:


Morinda citrifolia (Noni): a literature review and recent advances in Noni research.

Author: Wang,-M-Y; West,-B-J; Jensen,-C-J; Nowicki,-D; Su,-C; Palu,-A-K; Anderson,- G Citation: Acta-Pharmacol-Sin. 2002 Dec; 23(12): 1127-41

Abstract: Morinda citrifolia L (Noni) has been used in folk remedies by Polynesians for over 2000 years, and is reported to have a broad range of therapeutic effects, including antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antitumor, antihelmin, analgesic, hypotensive, anti-inflammatory, and immune enhancing effects. In order to reveal the nutritional and medicinal value of the Noni plant, and to summarize scientific evidence that supports the Polynesians' claim, a literature review and recent advances in Noni research is given below.



Cancer preventive effect of Morinda citrifolia (Noni).

Author: Wan, M Y : Su, C Citation: Ann-N-Y-Acad-Sci. 2001 Dec; 952: 161-8

Abstract: Morinda citrifolia (Noni) has been extensively used in folk medicine by Polynesians for over 2,000 years. It has been reported to have broad therapeutic effects, including anticancer activity, in both clinical practice and laboratory animal models. The mechanism for these effects remains unknown. The hypothesis that Morinda citrifolia possesses a cancer preventive effect at the initiation stage of carcinogenesis was studied. Our preliminary data indicated that 10% Tahitian Noni Liquid Dietary Supplement or Tahitian Noni Juice (TNJ), made from Morinda citrifolia fruit by Morinda Inc, in drinking water for one week was able to prevent DMBA-DNA adduct formation. The levels of DMBA-DNA adducts were reduced by 30% in the heart, 41% in the lung, 42% in the liver, and 80% in the kidney of female SD rats. Even more dramatic results were obtained in male C57 BL-6 mice: 10% TNJ was able to reduce DMBA-DNA adduct formation by 60% in the heart, 50% in the lung, 70% in the liver, and 90% in the kidney. In order to explore the mechanism of this preventive effect, the antioxidant activity of TNJ was examined in vitro by lipid hydroperoxide (LPO) and tetrazolium nitroblue (TNB) assays. In the LPO assay, LPO oxidizes leucomethylene blue to methylene blue in the presence of hemoglobin. The resultant blue color was quantified at 660 nm spectrophotometrically. In the TNB assay, superoxide anion radicals (SAR) reduce TNB into formazan blue that was also measured by absorption at 602 nm. TNJ showed a dose-dependent inhibition of both LPO and SAR in our system. The antioxidant activity of TNJ was compared to the effects of vitamin C, grape seed powder (GSP), and pycnogenol (PYC) at the daily dose per serving level recommended by U.S.RDAs or manufacturers. The results suggest that prevention of carcinogen-DNA adduct formation and the antioxidant activity of TNJ may contribute to the cancer preventive effect of Morinda citrifolia.

New constituents from noni (Morinda citrifolia) fruit juice.

Author: Samoylenko,-V; Zhao,-J; Dunbar,-D-C; Khan,-I-A; Rushing,-J-W; Muhammad,-I Citation: J-Agric-Food-Chem. 2006 Aug 23; 54(17): 6398-402

Abstract: Morinda citrifolia L. (Rubiaceae), known as noni, has a long history of traditional use in the Hawaiian and Tahitian islands. More recently, an array of commercial noni fruit juice products are gaining popularity as dietary supplements, with claims of anticancer and immunostimulant activities. The biologically active principles of noni are not fully known. In continuation of work on the isolation of markers from dietary supplements, this paper reports the isolation of three new markers, namely, 1-O-(3'-methylbut-3'-enyl)-beta-D-glucopyranose (1), 1-n-butyl-4-(5'-formyl-2'-furanyl)methyl succinate (2), and 4-epi-borreriagenin (3), together with the known iridoid glycosides asperulosidic acid (4) and deacetylasperulosidic acid (5) and a mixture of 1-n-butyl-4-methyl-2-hydroxysuccinate (6a) and 1-n-butyl-4-methyl-3-hydroxysuccinate (6b), as well as a mixture of alpha- and beta-glucopyranose from noni fruit juice obtained from Puerto Rico. The structures of compounds were based on 1H and 13C NMR, mainly 2D NMR COSY, HMQC, HMBC, and NOESY experiments, and HRMS. Furthermore, samples from fresh-squeezed noni fruit juice from Japan revealed the presence of scopoletin (7), in addition to compounds 1-6, indicating no significant differences in the marker constituents of noni collected from Atlantic and Pacific regions.

Induction of extracellular matrix synthesis in normal human fibroblasts by anthraquinone isolated from Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit.

Author: Kim,-S-W; Jo,-B-K; Jeong,-J-H; Choi,-S-U; Hwang,-Y-I Citation: J-Med-Food. 2005 Winter; 8(4): 552-5

Abstract: In previous studies we found that Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruit extract up-regulated biosynthesis of type I collagen and glycosaminoglycans in primary cultures of normal human fibroblasts. The objective of this study was to identify the active ingredients in Noni fruit extract. An active single compound having a type I collagen-stimulating effect was isolated and identified as 1,4-dihydroxy-2-methoxy-7-methylanthraquinone by nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared, and mass analysis. It was revealed that anthraquinone showed significantly increased elaboration of procollagen type I C-terminal peptide and glycosaminoglycans and reduced expression of the collagenase matrix metalloproteinase-1 dose-dependently in human dermal fibroblasts. Furthermore, in a clinical trial, a nano-emulsion containing anthraquinone predominantly increased the dermal type I procollagen in nude mouse skin. These results suggest that anthraquinone derived from Noni extract is a good candidate for use as a new anti-wrinkle agent due to its strong induction of biosynthetic activity of extracellular matrix components.

Use of alternative medicine by patients with stage 5 chronic kidney disease.

Author: Burrowes,-J-D; Van-Houten,-G Citation: Adv-Chronic-Kidney-Dis. 2005 Jul; 12(3): 312-25

Abstract: The use of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) in the United States is growing at a remarkable speed. Herbal products and dietary supplements are CAM therapies that have grown faster than any other CAM treatments. Little information is available about herbs and dietary supplement use in the stage 5 chronic kidney disease population. These products contain a myriad of pharmacologically active compounds that, when used by people with kidney disease, may be hazardous. Members of the renal dietitian listserv were queried about herbs and dietary supplements reportedly used by dialysis patients. Up-to-date information on the use, safety, efficacy, adverse effects, and recommended dosages in the nondialysis population are presented for 24 products. In the dialysis population, Noni juice should be avoided because of its high potassium content. In addition, bulk-forming laxatives such as flaxseed should be used with caution because of the need for increased fluid intake. Dialysis practitioners should include specific questions about herbs and dietary supplement use in medical and nutrition histories, and they should increase their knowledge about these products to advise patients appropriately. A list of reliable sources of information for the health care provider on herbs and dietary supplements is also presented.

Chemical constituents of the fruits of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) and their antioxidant activity.

Author: Su,-B-N; Pawlus,-A-D; Jung,-H-A; Keller,-W-J; McLaughlin,-J-L; Kinghorn,-A-D Citation: J-Nat-Prod. 2005 Apr; 68(4): 592-5

Abstract: Purification of a n-BuOH-soluble partition of the MeOH extract of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) fruits led to the isolation of two new iridoid glucosides, 6alpha-hydroxyadoxoside (1) and 6beta,7beta-epoxy-8-epi-splendoside (2), as well as 17 known compounds, americanin A (3), narcissoside (4), asperuloside, asperulosidic acid, borreriagenin, citrifolinin B epimer a, citrifolinin B epimer b, cytidine, deacetylasperuloside, dehydromethoxygaertneroside, epi-dihydrocornin, d-glucose, d-mannitol, methyl alpha-d-fructofuranoside, methyl beta-d-fructofuranoside, nicotifloroside, and beta-sitosterol 3-O-beta-d-glucopyranoside. The structures of the new compounds were determined by spectroscopic data interpretation. Compound 4, borreriagenin, cytidine, deacetylasperuloside, dehydromethoxygaertneroside, epi-dihydrocornin, methyl alpha-d-fructofuranoside, and methyl beta-d-fructofuranoside were isolated for the first time from M. citrifolia. The antioxidant activity was evaluated for all isolates in terms of both DPPH and O NOO(-) bioassays. The neolignan, americanin A (3), was found to be a potent antioxidant in these assays.

Antitumour potential of a polysaccharide-rich substance from the fruit juice of Morinda citrifolia (Noni) on sarcoma 180 ascites tumour in mice.

Author: Furusawa,-E; Hirazumi,-A; Story,-S; Jensen,-J Citation: Phytother-Res. 2003 Dec; 17(10): 1158-64

Abstract: An immunomodulatory polysaccharide-rich substance (Noni-ppt) from the fruit juice of Morinda citrifolia has been found to possess both prophylactic and therapeutic potentials against the immunomodulator sensitive Sarcoma 180 tumour system. The antitumour activity of Noni-ppt produced a cure rate of 25%-45% in allogeneic mice and its activity was completely abolished by the concomitant administration of specific inhibitors of macrophages (2-chloroadenosine), T cells (cyclosporine) or natural killer (NK) cells (anti-asialo GM1 antibody). Noni-ppt showed synergistic or additive beneficial effects when combined with a broad spectrum of chemotherapeutic drugs, including cisplatin, adriamycin, mitomycin-C, bleomycin, etoposide, 5- fl uorouracil, vincristine or camptothecin. It was not beneficial when combined with paclitaxel, cytosine arabinoside, or immunosuppressive anticancer drugs such as cyclophosphamide, methotrexate or 6-thioguanine. Noni-ppt also demonstrated beneficial effects when combined with the Th1 cy tokine, interferon gamma, but its activity was abolished when combined with Th2 cytokines, interleukin-4 or interleukin-10, thereby suggesting that Noni-ppt induces a Th1 dominant immune status in vivo. The combination of Noni-ppt with imexon, a synthetic immunomodulator, also demonstrated beneficial effects, but not when combined with the MVE-2 copolymer, a high molecular weight immunomodulator. It was also not effective when combined with interleukin-2 or interleukin-12. Copyright 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Inhibition of angiogenic initiation and disruption of newly established human vascular networks by juice from Morinda citrifolia (noni).

Author: Hornick,-C-A; Myers,-A; Sadowska-Krowicka,-H; Anthony,-C-T; Woltering,-E-A Citation: Angiogenesis. 2003; 6(2): 143-9

Abstract: noni, the juice of the fruit from the Morinda citrifolia plant, has been used for centuries as a medicinal agent. We tested the effects of noni juice in a three-dimensional fibrin clot matrix model using human placental vein and human breast tumor explants as sources for angiogenic vessel development. Noni in concentrations of 5% (vol/vol) or greater was highly effective in inhibiting the initiation of new vessel sprouts from placental vein explants, compared with initiation in control explants in media supplemented with an equivalent amount of saline. These concentrations of noni were also effective in reducing the growth rate and proliferation of newly developing capillary sprouts. When used at a concentration of 10% in growth media, noni was able to induce vessel degeneration and apoptosis in wells with established capillary networks within a few days of its application. We also found that 10% noni juice in media was an effective inhibitor of capillary initiation in explants from human breast tumors. In tu mor explants which did show capillary sprouting, the vessels rapidly degenerated (2-3 days) in those exposed to media supplemented with 10% noni.

From Polynesian healers to health food stores: changing perspectives of Morinda citrifolia (Rubiaceae).

Author: McClatchey,-W Citation: Integr-Cancer-Ther. 2002 Jun; 1(2): 110-20; discussion 120

Abstract: Morinda citrifolia L (noni) is one of the most important traditional Polynesian medicinal plants. Remedies from isolated Polynesian cultures, such as that of Rotuma, illustrate traditional indications that focus upon leaves, roots, bark, and green fruit, primarily for topical ailments. Anecdotally collected Hawaiian remedies that employ noni fruit illustrate changing usage patterns with shifts in recent times to preparation of juice made of ripe or decaying fruit. Ralph M. Heinicke promoted a wide range of claims about noni, and these seem to have fueled much of the current commercial interest in the plant. Recent studies of the proliferation of commercial products have shown that noni product manufacturers are promoting a range of therapeutic claims. These claims are based upon traditional Polynesian uses, Heinicke's ideas, and fragments of recent scientific studies including the activity of noni in the treatment of cancer. A review is provided of recent studies of potential anticancer activity of noni fruit. While noni's anticancer potential is still being explored, it continues to be widely used by Polynesians and non-Polynesians alike for both traditional and newly hypothesized indications.

An immunomodulatory polysaccharide-rich substance from the fruit juice of Morinda citrifolia (noni) with antitumour activity.

Author: Hirazumi, A : Furusawa, E Citation: Phytother-Res. 1999 Aug; 13(5): 380-7

Abstract: The fruit juice of Morinda citrifolia (noni) contains a polysaccharide-rich substance (noni-ppt) with antitumour activity in the Lewis lung (LLC) peritoneal carcinomatosis model. Therapeutic administration of noni-ppt significantly enhanced the duration of survival of inbred syngeneic LLC tumour bearing mice. It did not exert significant cytotoxic effects in an adapted culture of LLC cells, LLC1, but could activate peritoneal exudate cells (PEC) to impart profound toxicity when co-cultured with the tumour cells. This suggested the possibility that noni-ppt may suppress tumour growth through activation of the host immune system. Concomitant treatment with the immunosuppressive agent, 2-chloroadenosine (C1-Ade) or cyclosporin (cys-A) diminished its activity, thereby substantiating an immunomodulatory mechanism. Noni-ppt was also capable of stimulating the release of several mediators from murine effector cells, including tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-10, IL-12 p70, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and nitric oxide (NO), but had no effect on IL-2 and suppressed IL-4 release. Improved survival time and curative effects occurred when noni-ppt was combined with sub-optimal doses of the standard chemotherapeutic agents, adriamycin (Adria), cisplatin (CDDP), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and vincristine (VCR), suggesting important clinical applications of noni-ppt as a supplemental agent in cancer treatment. Copyright 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

DANGERS----

Herbal hepatotoxicity: acute hepatitis caused by a Noni preparation (Morinda citrifolia).

Author: Millonig,-G; Stadlmann,-S; Vogel,-W Citation: Eur-J-Gastroenterol-Hepatol. 2005 Apr; 17(4): 445-7

Abstract: A 45-year-old patient was sent to our department because of highly elevated transaminases and elevated lactate dehydrogenase. His medical history was unremarkable and he took no medication on regular basis. Physical examination did not detect any abnormalities. There was no evidence for viral hepatitis, Epstein-Barr virus or cytomegalovirus, autoimmune hepatitis, Budd-Chiari syndrome, haemochromatosis or Wilson's disease. During the interview he admitted that for 'prophylactic reasons' he had been drinking the juice of Noni (Morinda citrifolia), a Polynesian herbal remedy made from a tropical fruit, during the preceding 3 weeks. This gave rise to the suspicion of herbal toxicity, which was confirmed by a liver biopsy. After ceasing the ingestion of Noni, transaminase levels normalized quickly and were within normal ranges 1 month after the first presentation. To our knowledge, this is the first report of hepatotoxicity caused by this herbal remedy, which has been highly praised in the tabloid press.




Those with liver problems should avoid Noni----

Hepatotoxicity of NONI juice: report of two cases.

Author: Stadlbauer,-V; Fickert,-P; Lackner,-C; Schmerlaib,-J; Krisper,-P; Trauner,-M; Stauber,-R-E Citation: World-J-Gastroenterol. 2005 Aug 14; 11(30): 4758-60

Abstract: NONI juice (Morinda citrifolia) is an increasingly popular wellness drink claimed to be beneficial for many illnesses. No overt toxicity has been reported to date. We present two cases of novel hepatotoxicity of NONI juice. Causality of liver injury by NONI juice was asses-sed. Routine laboratory tests and transjugular or percutaneous liver biopsy were performed. The first patient underwent successful liver transplantation while the second patient recovered spontaneously after cessation of NONI juice. A 29-year-old man with previous toxic hepatitis associated with small doses of paracetamol developed sub-acute hepatic failure following consumption of 1.5 L NONI juice over 3 wk necessitating urgent liver transplantation. A 62-year-old woman without evidence of previous liver disease developed an episode of self-limited acute hepatitis following consumption of 2 L NONI juice for over 3 mo. The most likely hepatotoxic components of Morinda citrifolia were anthraquinones. Physicians should be aware of potential hepatotoxicity of NONI juice.

From Phytochemical.info….


"Noni"


Other names: Indian mulberry, nono, nonu, cheese fruit, Ba Ji Tian


Description: The noni plant is a small evergreen shrub or tree that grows from three to six metres. The noni plant has a straight trunk, large elliptical leaves, white tubular flowers and ovoid yellow fruits of up to 12 cm in diameter. The ripe noni fruit has a not so pleasant taste and odour.


Parts used: All parts of the noni plant can be used: roots, stems, bark, leaves, and flowers and of course the fruits.


Phytochemicals: Octoanoic acid, Scopoletin, Damnacanthal, Terpenoids, Anthraquinones, Caproic acid, Ursolic acid, Rutin


Medicinal properties: Noni has been reported to have a range of health benefits for colds, cancer, diabetes, asthma, hypertension, pain, skin infection, high blood pressure, mental depression, atherosclerosis and arthritis. The noni contain the antibacterial compounds in the fruits (acubin, L-asperuloside and alizarin) and roots (anthrauinones).

Noni conatins scopoletin which inhibits the growth of Escherichia coli, which is responsible for intestinal infections, and Heliobacter pylori, which causes ulcers. Damnacanthal, which is found in the noni roots, inhibits the tyrosine kinase and gives noni antitumor activity.


Other facts: The medicinal properties of Noni were discovered, more than 2000 years ago, by the Polynesians, who imported the fruit from Southeast Asia. Today the noni fruits is eaten in many parts of the world, mainly in the Pacific Islands, Southeast Asia and Australia. Those who recovered from illness after eating the noni fruit called it "the fruit of God".

In 2003, noni juice was approved by the European Commission as a novel food and was allowed to be commercialized in the EU. A novel food is food or a food ingredient that was not used to a significant degree in the EU before May 15, 1997. Before any new food product can be introduced on the European market it must be rigorously assessed for safety. Abstracts: Noni Benefits Phytochemicals in Noni Juice

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More Information on Goji Berry:

Observation of the effects of LAK/IL-2 therapy combining with Lycium barbarum polysaccharides [Goji extract] in the treatment of 75 cancer patients [Article in Chinese]

Cao GW, Yang WG, Du P. Second Military Medical University, Department of Microbiology, Shanghai. Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi. 1994 Nov;16(6):428-31.

Seventy nine advanced cancer patients in a clinical trial were treated with LAK/IL-2 combining with Lycium Barbarum polysaccharides (LBP). Initial results of the treatment from 75 evaluable patients indicated that objective regression of cancer was achieved in patients with malignant melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, lung cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, malignant hydrothorax. The response rate of patients treated with LAK/IL-2 plus LBP was 40.9% while that of patients treated with LAK/IL-2 was 16.1% (P < 0.05). The mean remission in patients treated with LAK/IL-2 plus LBP also lasted significantly longer. LAK/IL-2 plus LBP treatment led to more marked increase in NK and LAK cell activity than LAK/IL-2 without LBP. The results indicate that LBP can be used as an adjuvant in the biotherapy of cancer. PMID: 7720497 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Goji:
A Friendly Skeptic Looks at Goji Juice

By Dr. Ralph Moss
from CancerDecisions.com Newsletter

At a popular cancer meeting in September I was assailed by sellers of a bottled drink made from goji. In my ignorance, I had never heard of this drink, but was assured by a bright-eyed young salesperson that it was more powerful and better tasting than yesterday's sensation, XanGo. So I tasted the goji juice blend she offered me, and guess what? It really was delicious! Sweet and sour. Complex and intriguing. If goji ever filters down to my supermarket, I definitely intend to buy some.

But apparently goji is more than just a refreshing beverage. According to one website it is the "number one-rated, third party tested and validated, patent-pending, single focus functional health tonic designed to deliver you incredible health benefits." The very name of the website, www.beyoungnow.com, gives some idea of the extravagant benefits they are talking about.
The hype for goji is way over the top. "If You Found The Fountain Of Youth...Would You Stop To

Take A Drink?" asks one website. Dr. Earl Mindell, a pharmacist who describes himself as "the world's leading nutritionist," wrote a pamphlet in which he tells the story of Li Qing Yuen, who supposedly lived to be 252 years old. The source of this longevity? You guessed it: goji. Dr. Mindell calls his story "a powerful testimony to [this] remarkable berry…" (Mindell 2003).

Dr. Mindell has formulated his own version of goji that, he says, is nearly identical to "the original Himalayan goji berries used for centuries by ancient healers!"

Another website calls its version of goji "the most nutritionally dense nutritional source on the planet," and calls it "among the most revered of sexual tonic herbs" in Asia. Echoing the classic movie "Doctor Strangelove," it promises to increase "sexual fluids and enhance fertility."

As with XanGo and noni juice, two earlier "functional juice" fads, the reason people are willing to pay this much money is not simply because of the product's exotic taste, but because they believe that these juices may do something extraordinary for their health. In addition to making you a stud at age 120, the alleged benefits of the juice include fighting cancer, improving the function of the immune system, and decreasing the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.


Effects on Cancer
Another website tells us that in China, "researchers claim that the goji berry is beyond a prevention for cancer, but reveal [sic] that it is a cure for cancer!"

"Tibetan Goji berries are now undergoing intense scrutiny as a cancer drug in Mongolia, China, Japan and Switzerland," says another.

"The Himalayan Goji Berry can add 20 years to your life, shut down cancer cells, supercharge your immune system and rev up your love life! Believe it or Not," says yet another website.

Alas, such "incredible health benefits" come at a price. In its current incarnation as a "functional food," goji is still expensive. A self-described "number-one rated" goji product sells for $44 per liter bottle, plus shipping. (Discounts are available for those who join a marketing network, and cheaper versions are available over the Internet.)


What is Goji?
The pitches I heard at the cancer meeting certainly promised patients that goji would impart great health benefits. But is this reasonable to expect?

Goji (gouqi or gou qi zi) is the Chinese name for a number of different species. It usually refers to varieties of Lycium, called in English wolfberry, matrimony vine, or Chinese boxthorn. Lycium is an evergreen shrub that is often spiny and grows in temperate and subtropical regions. The two species most commonly used in folk medicine are Lycium chinense or Lycium barbarum, both in the nightshade (Solanaceae) family.

The fruit is the main source of medicinal extracts, although the leaves are also sometimes consumed as food. Traditionally, in various cultures, goji has been used to treat inflammations, skin irritations, nosebleeds and aches and pains, and has also been used as a sedative (Dafni 1994). In China, it is often used in combination with other botanicals to treat poor vision, anemia, and cough (Bensky 1993). In the test-tube, a polysaccharide (complex sugar) isolated from goji has been shown to have anti-cancer effects (Gan 2001). It also has some immune enhancing properties (Gan 2003). Goji seems to be able to increase the therapeutic effects of radiation (i.e., to act as a radiosensitizer), at least in mice (Lu 1991).

Lycium chinense originates in Hebei province in China, the area around Beijing. Its berries are small, orange to light red in color and have many seeds. They are too sour to eat on their own, and so are added to other foods (Mindell 2003).

The more commonly utilized goji berry is Lycium barbarum. This plant originates in Tibet and Inner Mongolia. Apparently, various places compete for the title of "Goji Capital of the World." Some people say this is Ningxia, situated in northwest China along the Yellow River. According to Dr. Mindell, "Ningxia goji berries are a real treat. The fruits are large and plump, with a beautiful deep red color, few seeds and an exquisitely sweet taste and juicy texture."

According to Dr. Mindell, however, the best goji berries actually come from Xinjiang, a huge region at the very Western corner of China, bordering Tibet and Mongolia.

To view a drawing of goji, from Prof. Dr. OttoWilhelm Thomé's Flora von Deutschland Österreich und der Schweiz, click here.


The Evidence
There is plenty of charming folklore surrounding the goji berry. But the real question is whether there is compelling enough evidence to justify spending $44 for a bottle of fruit juice.


PubMed, the US government's comprehensive database of 15 million medical journal citations, lists a total of 102 articles on Lycium species. Fifty of these are on Lycium barbarum. Most of these concern laboratory tests, and only five articles even mention cancer. If we restrict our consideration to just clinical trials (structured studies involving human subjects) there are precisely two. One is irrelevant to our purposes, since it does not concern cancer (Breithaupt 2004).


A Single Report

This leaves a single report of a clinical trial in cancer using a goji extract. It was carried out by G.W. Cao and colleagues at the Second Military Medical University in Shanghai and published in a Chinese medical publication, the Chinese Journal of Oncology. Seventy-nine patients with advanced cancer were enrolled in a trial in which they were treated with lymphocyte-activated killer (LAK) cells + interleukin-2 (IL-2). But some of the patients also received polysaccharides (complex sugars) derived from Lycium barbarum (abbreviated LBP).

Initial results of the treatment from 75 evaluable patients indicated that "objective regression of cancer was achieved in patients with malignant melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, lung cancer, nasopharyngeal carcinoma." It also was supposedly effective in "malignant hydrothorax" (which presumably refers to pleural effusion, a collection of fluid within the chest cavity which frequently accompanies thoracic cancers).

According to this Chinese article, the response rate of patients treated with LAK + IL-2 alone was 16.1 percent. But when goji extract was given to some patients the response rate jumped to 40.9 percent. The authors also state that the remission in patients treated with LAK + IL-2 plus goji extract lasted significantly longer and led to a more marked increase in natural killer (NK) cell activity than LAK + IL-2 alone.

"The results indicate that LBP can be used as an adjuvant in the biotherapy [i.e., immunotherapy] of cancer," the authors concluded.

This is a potentially important finding. A juice that can double the response rate to standard cancer treatment would be worth many multiples of $44. However, there remain numerous questions about this clinical trial that might be difficult to answer, since all there is to go on is an abstract in PubMed. The full article is in a Chinese journal that does not maintain an English-language website. Dr. Gao is the co-author of just seven PubMed articles, none of which gives his contact information.

If, however, I could interview Dr. Gao here are some of the questions I would ask:

          How many patients were treated in each group?

          What exactly is your standard for an "objective regression"?

          How much longer did the remissions last in the goji-added
                    group than the control group?

          Was there any effect on disease-free or overall survival?

          Have there been any follow-up studies using goji with drugs in a
                    single form of the disease?

Additionally, this Chinese study uses a non-standard therapy for many of these cases, i.e. LAK + IL-2. This was a "hot" therapy in the 1980s and early 1990s, primarily because of the advocacy of Steven Rosenberg, MD, of the National Cancer Institute (Rosenberg 1993). But is rarely used today. Indeed, the NCI has stated that the addition of LAK to IL-2 has "not improved response rates or durable remissions sufficiently to merit the expense and complexity of this therapy" (NCI 2004).

Even the NCI's clinical trials database does not list a current clinical trial using these once popular treatments (Kimura 1997). So this small goji trial uses an outdated therapy. It would, however, be interesting to see what goji extract could do when added to the current treatment for a group of patients with biopsy-confirmed cancer of a single type.

Therefore, although I am intrigued by Dr. Gao's findings, I would still recommend that patients hold onto their $44 until there is better documentation of the drink's purported effects.

By comparison to goji, something as simple as green tea looks to have an equal or even better effect at about one-hundredth of the cost. Over 1,000 articles on tea and cancer have already been published in the medical literature, of which 19 refer to randomized, controlled trials. A study published in February, 2004, showed that when heavy smokers drank four cups of green tea per day for four months there was a significant decrease in a urinary marker of DNA damage (Hakim 2004). Green tea might also be beneficial for those undergoing conventional treatment for cancer, although that is far from proven.
The network marketeers are hoping we will go chasing after goji, in mankind's never ending quest for a magic potion to cure our most persistent ills. However, we would be far better off to let science be our guide. There are more effective, better proven, and certainly less expensive alternatives available to all.

Caution: Every indication is that goji is safe to drink in moderation. However, there is one exception to that rule. Like some other natural products, it may have anti-coagulant activity. While this is generally desirable, it could lead to a dangerous situation for anyone who is taking the prescription medication Warfarin (coumadin). One should therefore be careful about taking the two together, as this could lead to dangerous episodes of bleeding (Lam 2001).


References:

Breithaupt DE, Weller P, Wolters M, Hahn A. Comparison of plasma responses in human subjects after the ingestion of 3R,3R'-zeaxanthin dipalmitate from wolfberry (Lycium barbarum) and non-esterified 3R,3R'-zeaxanthin using chiral high-performance liquid chromatography. Br J Nutr. 2004;91:707-13.

Cao GW, Yang WG, Du P. [Observation of the effects of LAK/IL-2 therapy combining with Lycium barbarum polysaccharides in the treatment of 75 cancer patients] Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi. 1994;16:428-31.

Dafni A,.Yaniv Z. Solanaceae as medicinal plants in Israel. J Ethnopharmacol. 1994;44:11-8.

Gan L, Wang J, Zhang S. [Inhibition the growth of human leukemia cells by Lycium barbarum polysaccharide]. Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 2001;30:333-5.

Gan L, Zhang SH, Liu Q, Xu HB. A polysaccharide-protein complex from Lycium barbarum upregulates cytokine expression in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Eur J Pharmacol. 2003;471:217-22.

Hakim IA, Harris RB, Chow HH, Dean M, Brown S, Ali IU. Effect of a 4-month tea intervention on oxidative DNA damage among heavy smokers: role of glutathione S-transferase genotypes. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2004;13:242-9.

Huang Y, Tan A, Shen Y, Lu J. [Scavenging effect of total flavonoids of lycium barbarum L on active oxygen radicals and inhibitory effects on heat output from L1210 cells] Wei Sheng Yan Jiu. 1998;27:109-11, 115.

Kimura H, Yamaguchi Y. A phase III randomized study of interleukin-2 lymphokine-activated killer cell immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy or radiotherapy after curative or noncurative resection of primary lung carcinoma. Cancer. 1997;80:42-9.

Lam AY, Elmer GW, Mohutsky MA. Possible interaction between warfarin and Lycium barbarum L. Ann Pharmacother. 2001;35:1199-201.

Liu XL, Sun JY, Li HY, Zhang L, Qian BC. [Extraction and isolation of active component for inhibiting PC3 cell proliferation in vitro from the fruit of Lycium barbarum L.] Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi. 2000;25:481-3.

Lu CX, Cheng BQ. [Radiosensitizing effects of Lycium barbarum polysaccharide for Lewis lung cancer] Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi.
1991;11:611-2, 582.

Rosenberg SA, Lotze MT, Yang JC, et al. Prospective randomized trial of high-dose interleukin-2 alone or in conjunction with lymphokine-activated killer cells for the treatment of patients with advanced cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst. 1993 ;85:622-32.

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More Information on Mangosteen:

From mangosteen.com:

Nutrition
The table below comprises nutrition results performed at a US food testing lab that is fully certified and accredited. The fruit used were selected from the 2006 crop which was small and from young trees. The results may shift some as the trees mature but probably not much. The analysis below is from a batch of 32 fruits in total. The weight of each fruit was, on average, approximately 4 ounces or 28.349 grams. With the seeds included, the total of the edible part was 32.3% but I do not consider the seeds to be very palatable. Without the seeds, the total weight of just the edible portion of the mangosteen fruit was about 29% of the total whole fruit weight.

See the values in the table marked below with an asterisk

*pH The mangosteen pH is quite low. On its own this would make for an intensely sour fruit were it not for the offsetting effect of the high sugar content. This is at the heart of the popularity of the mangosteen and explains the fresh fruit is so intense in flavor.

**Brix This number was calculated using a refractometer in the field. The value is high and reflects the significant concentration of sugars. This in combination with strong acidity makes the fresh mangosteen such a memorable tasting experience.

***Potassium This is one of the nutrients that helps to make the fresh mangosteen fruit an excellent source of this important element. Potassium in the diet plays a vital role in energy levels and heart health.

Fructose 2.4%
Sucrose 10.0%
Glucose 2.2%
Maltose .1%
Lactose <0.1%
pH* 3.52
Moisture/VAC/70C/CWt 80.69%
Protein 0.50%
Brix** 18.8%
Fiber, total dietary 1.35%
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) <0.08% mg/100g
Thiamin Vitamin B1) 0.08 mg/100g
Vitamin A/B-carotene <50 IU/100g
Vitamin C 7.2 mg/100g
Vitamin E 0.6 IU/100g
Nitrogen (TKN) 0.08%
Phosphorus 9.21 mg/100g
Potassium*** 61.6 mg/100g
Calcium 5.49 mg/100g
Copper 0.06 mg/100g
Iron 0.17 mg/100g
Magnesium 13.9 mg/100g
Manganese 0.10 mg/100g
Sodium 6.43 mg/100g
Zinc 0.12 mg/100g

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More InformatIon on Pomegranate:

“Pomegranates: the fruity panacea”

By Jini Reddy 
Pomegranates are being hailed as a super-food which can protect the heart.
Scientists in Israel have shown that drinking a daily glass of the fruit's juice can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

"Pomegranate juice contains the highest antioxidant capacity compared to other juices, red wine and green tea," said Professor Michael Aviram, who led the team.

This is good news, for antioxidants are the naturally occurring substances in plants that protect the body from free radicals - 'bad' chemicals in the blood.

Free radicals alter cholesterol in a process known as oxidation, which is thought to speed up the hardening of the arteries.

In studies at the Rambam Medical Center in Haifa, the juice of the fruit was found to slow down cholesterol oxidation by almost half, and reduce the retention of LDL.

That is the 'bad' cholesterol which forms atherosclerotic lesions, the fatty deposits which narrow the arteries and lead to heart disease.

"Antioxidants can protect us against the oxidative stress in our industrialised world, such as pollution, chemicals, viruses and bacteria, and consequently cardiovascular diseases and cancer," said Professor Aviram.

The theme is being taken up by a team at London's Hammersmith Hospital, who are launching a study to see if they can replicate the Haifa findings
.
Their work will focus on people whose arteries are currently healthy.

Researcher Dr Richard Bogle said the fruit contained polyphenolics, tannins and anthocyanins - all compounds that could have a beneficial effect.

Dr Bogle said: "This study will test the idea that drinking a glass of pomegranate juice every day improves the function of blood vessels, reduces hardening of the arteries and improves heart health."

"Preliminary studies suggest that pomegranate juice may contain almost three times the total antioxidant ability compared to the same quantity of green tea or red wine."

Many vitamins
The round, leathery fruit is full of edible seeds nestled in tiny juice sacs
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Oxidative Stress and Heart Disease:
Free radicals are the products of normal cell processes. They wreak havoc in the body and are constantly controlled by the production of anti-oxidants. There is a fine balance between the oxidants and the anti-oxidants. Certain diseases tip the balance in favour of the free radicals.
When cholesterol is oxidised by free radicals it produces a type which triggers thickening of the arteries.Brimming with vitamins A, C, E and iron, the pomegranate has been cultivated since pre-historic times.

Thought to be native to Persia, the fruit is now grown everywhere from Spain to California.
It features richly in mythology, as a symbol of birth, eternal life, and death, owing to its abundance of seeds and ability to 'bleed'.

The deep red skin of the pomegranate was thought to link it to the blood of the earth, a taboo colour. Hence the fruit's association with forbidden desire.

"Iranians believe that Eve was tempted with a pomegranate in the Garden of Eden," said Margaret Shaida, culinary historian and author of The Legendary Cuisine of Persia.
"King Cyrus, who created the Persian Empire, was reputed to have wished for a number of good generals equal to the seeds of a pomegranate.

"Later again, the Prophet Mohammed is said to have urged his followers to eat the fruit in the belief that it purges the system of envy and hatred."

Ancient Egypt
The ancient Egyptians were buried with pomegranates in the hope of re-birth, while in Greek mythology, Persephone, the daughter of Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, was offered a seed of the fruit by Hades.

Tempted by its jewel-like appearance, she took it, thereby condemning herself to spending a portion of every year with Hades in the underworld.

These days, Greeks traditionally break a pomegranate at weddings, as a symbol of fertility.
In China, a sugared version of the seed is eaten on the day to bless the newlyweds.

The fruit has long been used in folk medicine in the Middle East, Iran and India. Healers have used the bark, leaves, skin and rind as well as the edible bits of the fruit to cure everything from conjunctivitis to haemorrhoids.

A boiled infusion of the rinds is said to soothe a sore throat, and a paste of the leaves, massaged into the scalp, can, apparently, reverse baldness.

"When I lived in Iran, I used to be given a bowl of pomegranates to recover from a bout of 'Tehran Tummy'," said Ms Shaida.

"Over there, pomegranate juice is recommended for pregnant mothers as it is rich in iron. It's also cooling and good for cleansing the system."

Asian cookery
Central Asian and Middle Eastern cooks always have a supply of the fruit on hand.
In Azerbaijan, a pomegranate sauce called Narsharab is served with sturgeon fillet, while Georgians use the seeds as a salad garnish or to flavour meat dishes.

In Iran, a dish known as Fesenjan is prepared with pomegranate concentrate.

"No Iranian kitchen will be without a bottle," said Ms Shaida.

"Fesenjan consists of ground walnuts, fried until brown, which are added to fried onions and duck, or chicken along with the pomegranate sauce. It has a wondrous flavour, but very rich."
In the West, the fruit is still regarded as a novelty, but food writers like Rosemary Stark are keen to change this.

She said: "I find it has one of the finest sweet/sour balances of any fruit. Try sprinkling some over your breakfast muesli, or lunchtime hummus."

Purdue University:

Pomegranate
Punica granatum L.

Steeped in history and romance and almost in a class by itself, the pomegranate, Punica granatum L., belongs to the family Punicaceae which includes only one genus and two species, the other one, little-known, being P. protopunica Balf. peculiar to the island of Socotra.
Despite its ancient background, the pomegranate has acquired only a relatively few commonly recognized vernacular names apart from its many regional epithets in India, most of which are variations on the Sanskrit dadima or dalim, and the Persian dulim or dulima. By the French it is called grenade; by the Spanish, granada (the fruit), granado (the plant); by the Dutch, granaatappel, and Germans, granatapfel; by the Italians, melogranato, melograno granato, pomo granato, or pomo punico. In Indonesia, it is gangsalan; in Thailand, tab tim; and in Malaya, delima. Brazilians know it as roma, romeira or romazeira. The Quecchi Indian name in Guatemala is granad. The Samoan name is limoni. The generic term, Punica, was the Roman name for Carthage from whence the best pomegranates came to Italy.

Description
An attractive shrub or small tree, to 20 or 30 ft (6 or 10 m) high, the pomegranate is much-branched, more or less spiny, and extremely long-lived, some specimens at Versailles known to have survived two centuries. It has a strong tendency to sucker from the base. The leaves are evergreen or deciduous, opposite or in whorls of 5 or 6, short-stemmed, oblong-lanceolate, 3/8 to 4 in (1-10 cm) long, leathery. Showy flowers are home on the branch tips singly or as many as 5 in a cluster. They are 1 1/4 in (3 cm) wide and characterized by the thick, tubular, red calyx having 5 to 8 fleshy, pointed sepals forming a vase from which emerge the 3 to 7 crinkled, red, white or variegated petals enclosing the numerous stamens. Nearly round, but crowned at the base by the prominent calyx, the fruit, 2 1/2 to 5 in (6.25-12.5 cm) wide, has a tough, leathery skin or rind, basically yellow more or less overlaid with light or deep pink or rich red. The interior is separated by membranous walls and white spongy tissue (rag) into compartments packed with transparent sacs filled with tart, flavorful, fleshy, juicy, red, pink or whitish pulp (technically the aril). In each sac, there is one white or red, angular, soft or hard seed. The seeds represent about 52% of the weight of the whole fruit.

Origin and Distribution
The pomegranate tree is native from Iran to the Himalayas in northern India and has been cultivated since ancient times throughout the Mediterranean region of Asia, Africa and Europe. The fruit was used in many ways as it is today and was featured in Egyptian mythology and art, praised in the Old Testament of the Bible and in the Babylonian Talmud, and it was carried by desert caravans for the sake of its thirst-quenching juice. It traveled to central and southern India from Iran about the first century A.D. and was reported growing in Indonesia in 1416. It has been widely cultivated throughout India and drier parts of southeast Asia, Malaya, the East Indies and tropical Africa. The most important growing regions are Egypt, China, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Iraq, India, Burma and Saudi Arabia. There are some commercial orchards in Israel on the coastal plain and in the Jordan Valley.

It is rather commonly planted and has become naturalized in Bermuda where it was first recorded in 1621, but only occasionally seen in the Bahamas, West Indies and warm areas of South and Central America. Many people grow it at cool altitudes in the interior of Honduras. In Mexico it is frequently planted, and it is sometimes found in gardens in Hawaii. The tree was introduced in California by Spanish settlers in 1769. It is grown for its fruit mostly in the dry zones of that state and Arizona. In California, commercial pomegranate cultivation is concen-trated in Tulare, Fresno and Kern counties, with small plantings in Imperial and Riverside counties. There were 2,000 acres (810 ha) of hearing trees in these areas in the 1920's. Production declined from lack of demand in the 1930's but new plantings were made when demand increased in the 1960's.

Food Uses
For enjoying out-of-hand or at the table, the fruit is deeply scored several times vertically and then broken apart; then the clusters of juice sacs can be lifted out of the rind and eaten. Italians and other pomegranate fanciers consider this not a laborious handicap but a social, family or group activity, prolonging the pleasure of dining.

In some countries, such as Iran, the juice is a very popular beverage. Most simply, the juice sacs are removed from the fruit and put through a basket press. Otherwise, the fruits are quartered and crushed, or the whole fruits may be pressed and the juice strained out. In Iran, the cut-open fruits may be stomped by a person wearing special shoes in a clay tub and the juice runs through outlets into clay troughs. Hydraulic extraction of juice should be at a pressure of less than 100 psi to avoid undue yield of tannin.

The juice from crushed whole fruits contains excess tannin from the rind (as much as .175%) and this is precipitated out by a gelatin process. After filtering, the juice may be preserved by adding sodium benzoate or it may be pasteurized for 30 minutes, allowed to settle for 2 days, then strained and bottled. For beverage purposes, it is usually sweetened. Housewives in South Carolina make pomegranate jelly by adding 7 1/2 cups of sugar and 1 bottle of liquid pectin for every 4 cups of juice. In Saudi Arabia, the juice sacs may be frozen intact or the extracted juice may be concentrated and frozen, for future use. Pomegranate juice is widely made into grenadine for use in mixed drinks. In the Asiatic countries it may be made into a thick sirup for use as a sauce. It is also often converted into wine.

In the home kitchen, the juice can be easily extracted by reaming the halved fruits on an ordinary orange-juice squeezer.

In northern India, a major use of the wild fruits is for the preparation of "anardana"–the juice sacs being dried in the sun for 10 to 15 days and then sold as a spice.

Other Uses
All parts of the tree have been utilized as sources of tannin for curing leather. The trunk bark contains 10 to 25% tannin and was formerly important i