Chaparral

Chaparral has been used for many years to relieve pain and inflammation. They also use it to treat many illnesses. These include colds, diabetes, digestive problems and cancer. In traditional medicine chaparral tea is used to treat gallbladder and kidney stones.

Chaparral is a natural expectorant and helps in relieving Respiration troubles. It clears excessive mucus from the air sacs of the lungs. It is beneficial in treating Cold and Bronchitis.

Anticancer potential

Chaparral contains various potent compounds that may interact with cancer pathways.

In particular, chaparral leaves and stems contain nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), a potent antioxidant linked to tumor regression — the shrinkage of tumors.

In one study, mice treated with a topical application of chaparral-derived NDGA experienced significantly lowered activity of tumor-promoting agents (TPAs), compared with mice who didn’t receive the treatment.

Other mice and test-tube studies have shown similar antioxidant and anticancer effects associated with NDGA.

Antiviral activity

There are claims that the chaparral herb can prevent the replication of the human papillomavirus (HPV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV).

Chaparral contains many different polyphenols called lignans, which are plant compounds that confer health benefits. The lignans in chaparral are believed to block transcription factor Sp1, which is responsible for replicating virus genes.

Although this is promising, chaparral may cause dangerous side effects, including liver complications, diarrhea, and fever, which are especially dangerous for people with compromised immune systems, including those with HIV.

Anti-inflammatory activity

Chaparral contains NDGA, an antioxidant that can inhibit lipid peroxidation. This is a process in which molecules called free radicals attack lipids, resulting in cellular damage. Cellular damage may increase the risk of chronic diseases such as neurodegenerative disease.

NDGA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may improve conditions like arthritis, sciatica, headaches, and stomach pain.

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Video: Herb of the Day Chaparral Leaf