Latest news with #Rosaceae
Resala Post
24-05-2025
- Health
- Resala Post
Oridzin: Unlocking the Health Secrets
In the bustling world of modern wellness, new supplements and superfoods make headlines every week. Yet, few have stirred genuine scientific interest and historical curiosity like Oridzin. Sourced from the humble peels of apples and a select few plants in the Rosaceae family, Oridzin is a flavonoid compound that is not only natural and safe but also remarkably potent in its health-enhancing capabilities. This article unravels the mystery behind this fascinating phytonutrient—its origins, how it works, and most importantly, how it can profoundly impact your health. Whether you're a wellness enthusiast, a healthcare professional, or someone exploring better alternatives to synthetic supplements, this guide on Oridzin is your comprehensive resource. What is Oridzin? A Closer Look at the Compound Oridzin (also spelled phloridzin or phlorizin) is a naturally occurring dihydrochalcone—a subclass of flavonoids. Found mainly in apple skins, pear trees, and some medicinal herbs, Oridzin's is best known for its role in modulating glucose metabolism and acting as a powerful antioxidant. Structurally, it combines phloretin and a glucose molecule, forming a compound that interacts beneficially with the human body's biochemical processes. Origins and Historical Use of Oridzin Traditional Chinese medicine and early European herbal practices often made use of apple bark and peels for their therapeutic effects. Although the practitioners may not have known the compound by name, the benefits attributed to Oridzin-rich plants were clear—from fever reduction to inflammation control. Modern research has since isolated Oridzin's , proving that ancestral intuition was grounded in biochemical reality. How Oridzin Works Inside the Body Once ingested, Oridzin's begins its journey by being metabolized into phloretin, a compound known for its ability to inhibit glucose transporters (SGLT1 and SGLT2). This directly affects how sugar is absorbed in the intestines and kidneys. The result? Balanced blood sugar levels, even post meals, and a reduced glycemic load, making Oridzin's particularly valuable for people with prediabetes or metabolic syndrome. Oridzin and Blood Sugar Regulation Among its most researched benefits, Oridzin's effect on blood glucose control is groundbreaking. It works similarly to pharmaceutical SGLT2 inhibitors but with fewer side effects and greater biocompatibility. A daily dose of Oridzin from apple peel extract or specialized supplements may help: Decrease postprandial (after meal) blood sugar spikes Improve insulin sensitivity Reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes Antioxidant Properties That Rival Vitamin C Oridzin's has been shown to exhibit high ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) scores. This means it can: Neutralize free radicals Combat oxidative stress Slow cellular aging Antioxidants like Oridzin help preserve not just physical youthfulness but also neurological health, cardiovascular integrity, and skin elasticity. Oridzin and Inflammation: Nature's Anti-inflammatory Agent Chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases, from arthritis to cancer. Oridzin acts on inflammatory cytokines, downregulating their activity and thus reducing inflammation markers like TNF-α and IL-6. This makes Oridzin an effective natural ally for people managing: Autoimmune conditions Gut inflammation (like IBS or Crohn's) Joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis Oridzin and Heart Health: A Flavonoid with a Purpose Your heart loves Oridzin's —and here's why: It improves endothelial function Supports healthy cholesterol levels Reduces arterial stiffness By supporting vascular flexibility and preventing LDL cholesterol oxidation, Oridzin contributes significantly to reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Neuroprotective Effects: Sharpening Mind and Memory Emerging studies suggest that Oridzin can cross the blood-brain barrier, bringing its neuroprotective magic to the central nervous system. Benefits include: Enhanced memory retention Reduced neuroinflammation Protection against age-related cognitive decline Some researchers believe that Oridzin could one day form a key part of protocols against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Oridzin and Skin Health: Radiance From Within Skin health isn't just about what you apply topically—it's also what you feed your cells. Oridzin helps in: Reducing UV-induced damage Enhancing collagen production Fighting signs of aging It has even been shown to protect against skin hyperpigmentation and support skin barrier function. Oridzin and Bone Density One of the lesser-known yet impactful benefits of Oridzin's is its role in bone mineralization. It helps regulate osteoblast activity and calcium absorption, which are critical for preventing: Osteoporosis Fractures in aging adults Hormonal bone loss in postmenopausal women Weight Management and Fat Metabolism While not a 'magic pill' for weight loss, Oridzin's supports healthy metabolism by: Reducing fat accumulation in adipose tissue Increasing lipid oxidation Enhancing satiety signals When combined with exercise and a balanced diet, it can contribute meaningfully to fat loss goals. How to Take Oridzin: Dosage and Sources There are two primary sources of Oridzin's : Natural Foods: Apple peels (particularly from Granny Smith and Fuji varieties) Pears Herbal infusions (e.g., from root bark of apple trees) Supplements: Oridzin extract capsules (standardized for purity) Powdered forms added to smoothies or teas Suggested Dosage: Most clinical studies support a daily intake of 25–100 mg, depending on health goals and existing conditions. Is Oridzin Safe? Side Effects and Considerations Oridzin's is generally considered safe when taken in appropriate doses. However, individuals with low blood sugar conditions (hypoglycemia) or those on blood sugar-lowering medications should consult their healthcare provider. Minor side effects may include: Mild digestive discomfort Increased urination (due to glucose excretion) Who Should Consider Taking Oridzin? Oridzin is beneficial for: Pre-diabetics and diabetics Individuals with cardiovascular risk Aging adults wanting cognitive support Those managing chronic inflammation or arthritis Fitness enthusiasts looking for metabolic boosters Conclusion: The Oridzin Opportunity Oridzin is no fleeting health fad. It's a science-backed, nature-derived powerhouse with applications across almost every major system in the body. From balancing blood sugar to shielding the brain, from glowing skin to strong bones, its benefits are as diverse as they are profound. As we continue to seek out holistic, plant-based solutions in a synthetic world, Oridzin's shines as a beacon of natural wisdom, now validated by modern science. Don't just eat the apple—unlock the magic hidden in its skin.
South China Morning Post
05-05-2025
- Science
- South China Morning Post
‘Symbol of love': Roses are red but first they were yellow, Chinese and Dutch study finds
While 'roses are red' in a familiar poem, new evolutionary genetic analysis by Chinese and Dutch researchers has revealed that the first roses were likely yellow. Advertisement Roses are one of the most extensively cultivated ornamental flowers in the world, coming in an array of shapes, sizes, and colours. Although pink and red roses with multilayered petals have become synonymous with the flower, a new genomic study of domesticated and wild rose samples has revealed that their common ancestor was likely a yellow flower with a single row of petals. 'Roses – known as the 'queen of flowers' – belong to the genus Rosa in the Rosaceae family,' the team said in a paper published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Plants on April 4. 'As the most successfully domesticated ancient ornamental plants, roses have been regarded as a symbol of love and beauty from antiquity to modern times,' the team, led by researchers from Beijing Forestry University, said. Advertisement 'Ancestral trait reconstruction showed that the common ancestor of Rosa most likely showed single-petal flowers with yellow colour and seven leaflets.'
USA Today
22-04-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Yes, plums are good for you. But should you eat them every day?
Yes, plums are good for you. But should you eat them every day? Show Caption Hide Caption How to add more Vitamin C to your diet and everyday routine Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that can do everything from strengthening cells to improving your hair health. If you ask a group of friends what their favorite fruit is, chances are their responses will reflect the ones most frequently sold in grocery stores. According to the International Fresh Produce Association, the 20 most commonly purchased fruits in the U.S. include bananas, strawberries, apples, grapes, watermelon, cherries and oranges. Plums are another fruit that make the list — though they come in ninth place and are lumped in with other fruits that belong to the same plant family, namely peaches and nectarines. Here's why plums are as nutritionally beneficial as they are juicy and delicious — plus why you may want to go easy on how many you eat each day. What are plums? Plums are a kind of stone fruit that belong to the rose (Rosaceae) family. This plant family includes nearly 5,000 species including flowers, trees and shrubs, plus foods like raspberries, pears and almonds. Within this plant family, "plums are a favorite because they can be enjoyed in so many ways such as fresh, dried, in sauces, baked goods, juices and jams," says Jen Messer, a nutrition consultant and registered dietitian at Jen Messer Nutrition. "And plums come in countless varieties which can be fun to compare to one another." More than 300 plum varieties are sold in the U.S. alone, with Santa Rosa, Methley, Stanley and Burbank being among the most popular. Plums grow on plum trees and vary significantly in size, shape and color depending on where they are cultivated. Chinese and Japanese plum trees, for instance, produce plums with an oblong shape, while European plum trees produce round fruit. Plum trees grow well in a variety of climates, though China, Romania and Serbia remain the world's top producers of plums, followed by countries like Chile, Turkey, Argentina, Iran, Japan and France. The U.S. produces a lot of the fruit as well, with the vast majority of the country's plums growing in the fertile orchards of California. Are plums healthy? No matter where your favorite plum varieties are grown, they "have an impressive nutrient profile — especially for being a relatively small fruit," says Messer. Indeed, just two small plums (100 grams), contain protein, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, biotin, vitamin K, vitamin C and more than a gram of dietary fiber, per the U.S. Department of Agriculture. "Their rich vitamin C content supports immune function and skin health and their vitamin K aids in blood clotting and bone health," says Alex Larson, a registered dietitian, endurance athlete nutritionist and founder of Alex Larson Nutrition. Larson also praises the potassium content in plums for helping regulate blood pressure; "and they contain polyphenol antioxidants — which support brain health and reduce inflammation," she adds. "Plums have also been shown to lower LDL cholesterol — which is the 'bad' kind of cholesterol you want lowered," says Leah Groppo, clinical dietitian with Stanford Health Care. This benefit was most evident in a 2021 study of prunes (dried plums), which demonstrated that consuming just one to two dried pieces of the fruit daily for six months not only decreases bad cholesterol but also increases beneficial HDL cholesterol levels "and reduces inflammatory biomarkers," says Messer. The fiber in plums — both soluble and insoluble — also "helps keep digestion on track, balances blood sugar levels and supports heart health," says Messer. "Maybe less recognized," she adds, plums can also benefit bone health in some groups of people. "Several studies indicate that prunes can help preserve bone mineral density in postmenopausal women — potentially lowering the risk of osteoporosis," she explains. Can you eat plums every day? Despite so many benefits, plums are probably best enjoyed in moderation. The high-fiber content in plums can lead to digestive issues like bloating, diarrhea and gas. However, that same fiber and natural sugar content such as sorbitol ("which has a laxative effect," notes Messer), is also why plums and prunes are often thought of as being helpful with constipation. It's worth noting though that if you eat too many, you may end up worsening the issue. "If you are increasing your prune or plum intake to aid with hard stools, make sure to drink more water as you do so," advises Groppo. And because plums belong to such a broad plant family, people who are allergic to peaches, cherries, apricots and some nuts may also be allergic to plums. And because plums contain vitamin K, they can help blood clot — which usually needs to be avoided by anyone taking blood thinners. As long as such issues are kept in mind, though, plums can be a highly beneficial fruit. "Plums are naturally sweet and nutrient-packed and are a delicious way to add variety, nutrition and color to a balanced diet," says Larson.
Express Tribune
21-04-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Sweet and tangy: strawberry farming flourishes in Deepalpur
The ripe strawberries are carefully handpicked, cleaned and packed into baskets. photos: express The fertile lands of Deepalpur and its surrounding areas are seeing a rise in the cultivation of strawberries - a fruit cherished for its sweet-and-sour taste and packed with health benefits. Traditionally a spring favourite, strawberries are increasingly becoming a staple both in local diets and in the export market. Belonging to the Rosaceae family, strawberries are typically grown during the winter and spring seasons. In Deepalpur, the deep red, aromatic fruit is not only a culinary delight but also a source of income for local farmers who are cultivating it with growing interest. Dr Anam Azhar, a dietetics and nutrition expert at the University of Lahore, told The Express Tribune that strawberries are considered a highly nutritious fruit. "They are rich in vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, improves skin health, and protects against diseases," she explained. "Strawberries also contain dietary fibre that aids digestion and relieves constipation, while antioxidants like flavonoids and ellagic acid help detoxify the body and reduce cancer risks." She further noted that the fruit contributes to heart health by maintaining healthy blood vessels and lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases. "With a low glycaemic index (GI), strawberries don't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, making them suitable for people with diabetes," she added. Local farmers shared their experiences with The Express Tribune, revealing that strawberry cultivation requires nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. The process begins with the purchase of expensive saplings, followed by the application of fertilisers and sprays. The entire crop is then covered with polythene sheets to protect it. For the first two months, the farmers bear all expenses - from agricultural sprays to fertilizers - out of pocket. Around this time, strawberry blossoms appear and slowly develop into full fruit. The plants need regular watering but must be protected from overwatering to prevent rot. After three months, the ripe strawberries are carefully handpicked, cleaned and packed into baskets, making their way to local fruit shops and markets where they are sold eagerly. The fruit enjoys immense popularity for its vibrant flavour and numerous health benefits. Farmers emphasized that with government support, the strawberry industry could be further developed to boost both rural livelihoods and the national economy. As a seasonal delicacy with high demand, fresh strawberries are quickly snapped up by consumers who enjoy them for both their taste and nutritional value.
Korea Herald
18-03-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
Kolmar Korea's anti-aging breakthrough featured in SCI journal
Korean cosmetics contract manufacturer Kolmar Korea said Tuesday that its study on the antiaging effects of Spiraea salicifolia has recently been published in the international SCI (Science Citation Index) journal Natural Product Communications. Conducted over two years in collaboration with Professor Lee Ki-yong's team at Korea University's College of Pharmacy, the study is the first to confirm that the plant extract helps slow skin aging. A Korean native and a member of the Rosaceae family, Spiraea salicifolia has traditionally been used to treat arthritis and bruises, but its skincare benefits had not been previously explored. Kolmar Korea's research found that the plant's extract has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wrinkle-reducing properties. Hyperoside, the active compound in the plant, slows aging and inhibits collagen-decomposing enzymes by up to 43 percent, helping to maintain skin structure and elasticity. Following these findings, Kolmar Korea registered Spiraea salicifolia extract in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Korea's official cosmetic ingredient database. The company has also secured a domestic patent for its use in cosmetic formulations. Kolmar Korea said it plans to develop antiaging cosmetics featuring the newly found extract, citing China and the US as the key target markets, where there is growing demand for natural Korean ingredients. The company has previously researched various native plants for cosmetics, including Sophora flavescens for hair loss, sunflower and lingonberry for skin protection, and aquatic plants for antiaging. It has also developed fragrances using Hibiscus syriacus and lotus flowers from Buyeo. 'With the rising popularity of K-beauty, we will continue to develop high-efficacy products using Korea's unique botanical resources,' a Kolmar Korea representative stated. 'Our goal is to create scientifically backed skincare solutions that combine tradition with innovation, allowing us to compete in the global market.'
