Article Feature
Using artemisia to treat COVID-19
Why the controversy about Artemisia as a cure for COVID? It works better than drugs
2020 June interview. Zulaikha and Sue discuss the traditional use of Artemisia Annua/Afra and some new discoveries
Traditional herbal remedies are easy to find and they work! But when it comes to the COVID pandemic they keep on telling us that they are still trying to find a cure. While people wait for a vaccine the virus keeps mutating and always will, yet a few doses of Artemisia Annua, (also known as Wormwood, Wilde Als, Lengana or Umhlonyane) have not only cured patients but also offers immunity from the dreaded virus -as well as malaria, bilharzia and many other infectious diseases. This plant can also cure cancer and be used for many other ailments, as we are about to see.
The WHO says there are currently no vaccines or medicines to prevent, treat or cure COVID-19.
Q: Sue, we have often chatted about Artemisia and how it is still one of the best cures we have for malaria. Is has also cured a number of COVID-19 patients. Do we have any scientific evidence that Artemisia cures COVID-10?
A : In April, California biotech company Mateon Therapeutics announced in a press release that tests showed artemisinin inhibited the replication of SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19. A powerful body of scientific evidence, built over the last 40 years, has revealed that the components in the leaves of Artemisia annua are highly active against a broad range of human diseases, including viruses, parasites, and cancers.” https://www.artemisiaannua.org/
There is evidence to show that an effective treatment and even prevention may already exist in the form of Artemisia annua. This plant contains a range of active compounds that make it a naturally occurring, side-effect free, combination therapy. As seen in the scientific report below, Artemisia annua is effective against a range of viruses, but most importantly shows considerable activity against SARS-coronavirus.
So what is the connection between malaria and COVID?
A: Iron! Both infections attack the haemoglobin in the bloodstream to usurp the iron. When coming in contact with Iron, Artemisinin triggers the release of intracellular free radicals that destroy cells. Malaria, cancer and coronaviruses are dependent on iron, so this natural weapon is very effective. Within the complexity of its natural chemistry, Artemisia also provides enough antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds to prevent inflammation. It I also an immune modulator – to control the possibility of cytokine storms.
https://artemisiaannuatea.com/about-artemisia-annua/ About Artemisia Annua
Some forms of cancer as well as malaria parasites and now the novel COVID-19 virus, directly infect red blood cells (erythrocytes), attacking haemoglobin to release iron that is linked to porphyrin. It is assumed that the free form iron is used as energy to replicate the virus. Furthermore, this attack on haemoglobin, which we remember, is responsible for transporting oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood causes hypoxia plus acidity, poisoning and inflammation of lungs. Images of crystallized carbon dioxide are characteristic of many lungs seriously infected with COVID-19.
Antimalarials appear to work in diverse ways for protecting haemoglobin against infection, hence their possible successful application against COVID-19. Hydroxychloroquine, a chloroquine derivative used for decades to fight malaria, has been the first case study. Various clinical studies, carried out on a small scale in France, China and the United States have shown that hydroxychloroquine could be an alternative, mainly due to its immunomodulatory effect rather than as an antiviral. However, the results of the tests to date are not yet conclusive. In addition, the severe side effects and allergic reactions of the use of hydroxychloroquine are something to consider seriously.
https://www.artennua.com/traditional-medicine-but-scientifically-proven/ TRADITIONAL MEDICINE, BUT … SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7267810/
Q: What exactly is Artemisia Annua. Is it the same as Artemisia Afra?
A: Artemisia Annua is a herb that was first introduced in traditional Chinese medicine 1000 years ago. They used it to strengthen the immune system and help your body fight against pathogens as well as chronic diseases. Artemisia Afra is similar and is found – obviously in Africa. Artemisia Absanth is not the same, do not use it as a treatment.
Q: We hear about Artemisinin, is this the same thing?
A: No, definitely not. It is only a single extract from the plant, leaving all the other valuable chemicals out of the equation. Plants work in synergy, so the idea that a single component would cure malaria, for instance is remote and that is why Artemisinin failed whereas tea and tablets from the whole plant continue to cure malaria and now, as we are seeing more and more – the coronaviruses. There is plenty of evidence that SARS was successfully treated with Artemisia Annua and trials are underway for testing it for CoVID-19. Although the Artemisia tea is being used, people remain suspicious, despite the scientific evidence that is now coming to the fore.
Artemisia annua is a plant that is very cheap and available almost everywhere. This is why people will tend to use the whole plant more than the extract Artemisinin. it seems that most of the positive anecdotal reports are coming from the use of the whole plant as opposed to Artemisinin. And this is probably better since the whole plant contains more anticancer substances such as Scopoletin, known for its cytotoxicity towards cancer cells.
Q: How do we take Artemisia Annua. It is very bitter, so do you have any suggestions?
A: The plant is harvested and dried with its stem and leaves and flowers. Direct consumption of Artemisia Annua as a tea infusion or by oral consumption of the leaves is most recommended because its high success rate when the components are released in boiling water and ingested. Other intake alternatives are the alcoholic tincture or best of all – in capsules you can just swallow. Most people find it very bitter, but children throughout the malaria infested regions of Africa drink a cup of cold tea every day. If you have ever had malaria, you would too. The bitterness is excellent to control high blood sugar and some diabetics have found it doubles up as a medication for diabetes.
Q: So what exactly do people use Artemisia Annua for?
A: It is a complex herb, containing phytochemicals that destroy pathogens, but it also helps to boost – as well as mediate immune responses and also to treat inflammation. It has a good track record for treating respiratory infections, from colds and flu (coronaviruses, adenoviruses) to drug resistant strains of bacteria that attack the lungs.
Fever Malaria Bacterial infections Viral infections Fungal infections Parasitic diseases ( worm, flukes, protozoa) Diabetes Inflammatory conditions Various skin conditions as psoriasis Cancer- tumour growth Lung diseases Chronic bladder infection Prostrate inflammation related disorders Chron’s disease Arthritis, Joint pain Autoimmune disorders.
Scientific trials show that artemisinin-derived compounds have been shown to exhibit antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, anti-allergic, anti-fibrotic, anti-arrhythmic, immune regulatory and contraceptive actions, and the agents were found to be active for autoimmune diseases.
Artemisinin can be very effective because it selectively affects tumour cells without harming normal cells. This is because Artemisinin affects only cells that contain excessive amounts of iron which is the case for cancer cells. Indeed, via specific receptors cancer cells are demanding and depositing large amounts of Iron as they need it for cellular division.
https://www.cancertreatmentsresearch.com/artemisia-annua-its-extract-artemisinin/ Artemisia Annua, Artemisinin & 2015 Nobel Prize in Medicine – A Cancer Fighting Plant
Q: We have heard about Madagascar giving out COVID – organics, a tea. Are there other stories?
A: yes, Africans are very familiar with Artemisia Annua and the Afra variant because they have been using it for malaria for many years. In the Cameroons, on May 19, 2020 President Paul Biya encouraged the use of homemade treatments for CoVID-19 such as the local herbal combination of artemisia, pineapple, ginger and so on. Though not yet official, this Coronavirus remedy is the second announced in Africa, after that of Madagascar’s “Covid Organics” medicine confirmed by President Andry Rajoelina as efficient in treating the pandemic, a cure the World Health Organization has however remained sceptical about.
Q: Is there any anecdotal feedback regarding Artemisia Annua when used for treating other ailments?
A: Yes, there are some wonderful testimonials on the Anamed website. This institution has been teaching the people of Africa how to grow and use Artemisia for half a century – to good effect, to treat malaria. However, the people using it have reported a number of benefits over the years. There are lots of reports of cures for not only malaria, but also for diabetes, asthma, arthritis, digestive disorders, cancer and a long list of other chronic ailments, not related to infectious diseases. Here are some examples:
Uganda. The late Monik Adriaens conducted a very interesting study on a tea estate. 100 workers drank half a litre of full strength Artemisia tea once a week. 100 workers did not. Of those who did, none got malaria. Of those who did not drink the tea, the normal number got malaria. Following this, a group living in a swampy area that had repeated malaria attacks started to drink tea in this way and found that they became completely protected from malaria.
Ethiopia. Nearly 100 percent of those we have treated with Artemisia tea, both as an inhalation and by drinking the tea, have found complete relief from their asthma symptoms. We are amazed at this and wonder why it has never been discovered before. (I say nearly 100% because one patient had a severe allergic reaction and had to stop taking the treatment.)
Bilharzia. Uganda. The incidence of bilharzia has reduced since malaria has been treated with Artemisia tea. An English missionary had malaria, and treated it with Artemisia tea. When he returned to England on leave, for the first time he had no bilharzia in his blood.
Congo. Adi hospital treated more than 30 bilharzia patients (confirmed in the hospital lab) with Artemisia tea with complete success.
South Africa. Not only does the tea prevent malaria, at the same time it prevents colds, flu and sinusitis.
Diabetes. A development worker had diabetes and used to inject himself four times a day. Since he has drunk a cup of Artemisia tea every day and taken three moringa capsules he has not needed to inject himself at all. His insulin levels have completely stabilized.
https://anamed.org/en/artemisia-annua-anamed.html Feedback Regarding The Use of Artemisia annua With a Wide Range of Health Problems
Nature Fresh Data Base for COVID-19 pandemic
Covid research update: linoleic acid deactivates spike proteins.
Why would I want to drink pine needle tea? Yuk! (More evidence to support the budwig protocol, by Sue Visser June 2021.)
“The Bristol researchers showed that linoleic acid binds to the coronavirus’s spike protein and locks the spike in a state that would prevent binding to human cell receptors called ACE2.” Omega 3 from fish oil or flaxseeds are linoleic acids that are essential for maintaining cell membranes and anti-inflammatory prostaglandins or messengers called PEG 1 and PEG 3. Our diets are usually too high in omega 6 linoleic acid and saturated fat or trans-fats that stimulate the pro-inflammatory prostaglandin called PEG.
In September 2020 linoleic acid was discovered by Max Plank researchers in a customized pocket within the spike protein. These polyunsaturated fatty acids affect inflammation and immune modulation, which are key elements of the COVID-19 infection. The researchers also explained that in other illnesses, interfering with the metabolic pathways of linoleic acid can induce systemic inflammation, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
All these health problems are seen in patients with COVID-19 due to a lack of anti-inflammatory LA, I would presume. “The study findings provide the first direct link between LA, the health consequences, and the virus itself.” This implies that we need to stock up on more anti-inflammatory oils and hence the justification for embracing the time-honoured Budwig protocol – to zap spike proteins from coronaviruses, vaccines or even vaccinated people!
Scientists Find An Avenue To Attack The Coronavirus, Aided By Cloud Imaging by Aaron Ricadela Sept 2020
Linoleic acid binds SARS-CoV-2 spike protein By Angela Betsaida B. Laguipo, BSNSep 24 2020
June 2020 preparation for the peak
By Sue Visser Health Researcher www.naturefresh.co.za
Introduction to the South African Covid scene:
In South Africa the Covid-19 pandemic is all about masks, social distancing and sanitizing your hands. I know what you are thinking – what about fortifying the immune system? The average person has wallowed in a state of lockdown laziness, with minimal exercise and a steady supply of unhealthy takeaways. The middle to upper classes make do with cell phones, computers, Cokes and sweets for company. There is little concern for antioxidants, zinc, Vitamin C and D or at best, a course of chloroquine and some herbal tea. They complain about conflicting lockdown regulations, weight gain, the price and quality of black market cigarettes and no alcohol. Herbal tinctures and cough mixtures are no substitute for a sundowner. (We noticed that the demand for our Parasite Remedy tincture exceeded the capsules during Level 4 of the enigmatic lockdown.)
From day 1, a number of people have died at the mercy of ventilators while the rest of the world anxiously awaits vaccines and drugs. My neighbour works as a nurse in the intensive care unit at Groote Schuur hospital. I’m still waiting to hear if any of the patients have survived the ventilation and gone home instead of to the morgue. There is also no guarantee that the latest vaccine will provide 100% protection to the locked down world at such short notice. A variety of novel and familiar pathogens are closing in for the winter kill. The news (the fear channel) is mum about natural alternatives and immune boosters.
In the crowded hotspots they shout “fight the virus” and don their filthy damp cotton masks, to rebreathe more germs. But a mask is a mask albeit a recycled pair of nickers or a sock. Children in squatter camps sell illegal cigarettes to earn a bit of money. Their parents travel to the city in crowded taxis and stand in long queues outside shops for most of the day. They cluster together in poorly ventilated houses, waiting to be fed by well-meaning citizens who try to stave off the national hunger epidemic. Nobody has a clue about natural resources like eucalyptus or iodine that can zap viruses for a few cents. Taking comfort in sugar does more damage to their already compromised immune systems. From the Minister of Health – not even a dose of vitamin C or heaven forbid, Artemisia or olive leaves to improve their chances against the deadly virus. Glutathione did you say? “Naaaay, we sniff glue to forget.”
Glutathione is our primary antioxidant and will ward off a respiratory crisis in the first place, providing we have adequate supplies of it. Nutrients involved in the conversion of homocysteine into glutathione include folate, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, riboflavin, and choline. Vitamin C plays a vital role in maintaining glutathione levels so supplements are needed. Selenium is a cofactor for the production of glutathione. Fish, organ meats, and Brazil nuts are all selenium-rich foods that may help increase your levels naturally. Take food sources or supplements of: glutamine (all proteins), glycine and cysteine (whey protein) Oral Glutathione supplements that include the bioavailable precursors such as N Acetylcysteine can effectively increase Glutathione production. For the emergency treatment of virus infected patients, some forms can be inhaled into the lungs or used trans-dermally or intravenously, but the treatment is very costly.
Meanwhile in the townships and makeshift shacks, most of the lockdown victims are anxiously awaiting their over-publicised saviours – the vaccines, the rows of invitingly empty hospital beds, the ventilators and silver bullets that have been stockpiled around the country. In the light of this sad state of affairs we need to stand up and deliver the solutions that Natural and Integrative medicine have to offer to outwit both the virus and the bullshit. With a track record of a few thousand years our herbal kingdom has taken care of our ailments, especially respiratory ones. So who needs to make a new remedy? Traditionally tried and trusted herbs (green science) can provide safer and in most cases, more effective alternatives to experimental or redundant drugs to treat the Corona pandemic.
How do we defend ourselves from these CORONA-based infections? How do we treat them without drugs?
Very few of the existing “repurposed” drugs have achieved any measure of success in curing this Corona virus and its nefarious cousins let alone TB, pneumonia and the other ever-mutating super bugs. The oncoming winter wipe-out in South Africa is expected to reach a peak by September this year. As a health researcher and observer of conventional as well as traditional modalities I see a play-off between silver versus green bullets in the offing. For those who place their trust in vaccines and new drugs that roll out prior to thorough testing, the outcome is experimental at best. Are people really expected to hang in there without any support until a vaccine or new patent medicines arrive?
We need practical ways to fight the symptoms of a virus – the fever, sore throat and a dry cough. For doctors who have to treat patients who have a penchant for kitchen remedies and herbal teas, the safest way is to forestall the danger of duplicating their current medications. (e.g. Olive leaf lowers blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar. Fresh ginger also kills viruses, but it competes with Warfarin.) Should one adjust a prescription accordingly or forbid the use of anything besides a regular medication? Our Ministry of health insists on scientific evidence and has waved herbal remedies such as Artemisia aside. They foster the scrutiny of random, isolated chemicals from a huge data base that includes herbs but most of them only look good on paper. By now most of us know that isolates require a synergy in order to be effective. So a tea, decoction, tincture, capsule or pill made from the actual herb provides all the complimentary factors as a safer and more reliable remedy. Antibiotics dished out for “just in case complications” do more harm than good, especially to an already compromised immune system. If there are no medications that can kill viruses as effectively as elenoic acid then your patient may be right about Olive leaves.
Herbal remedies to consider for protection, symptomatic relief or treatment for COVID’s
By Sue Visser Health Researcher www.naturefresh.co.za
Over 60% of our local population prefer to take traditional medicines. What do doctors of integrative medicine have to offer them? Tried and tested herbal remedies like Artemisia Annua offer some light at the end of the tunnel. Even prior to Madagascar’s bold march forward with COVID organics – a time honoured cure for malaria; we saw how well it worked in China. It was used during the initial Wuhan protocols based on TCM (traditional Chinese medicine). Their interactive approach albeit unwieldy, took into consideration the treatment of the causative factors and also offered symptomatic relief to their patients. The most successful remedies included liquorice, ginger, Artemisia and other blends of herbs to suit what they called wet coughs, dampness, heat, dryness and so on.
Traditional herbs have served the world for countless generations. Artemisia Afra is being used successfully in Madagascar and other African countries to cure Covid-19 patients and the tea is dished out daily to long queues of people, as is the habit for the treatment of malaria. It works despite the derision of scientists, the WHO and politicians alike. Traditional herbal remedies have additional health benefits and adverse effects are rare. The COVID series is also responding to the discarded anti-malarial drugs such as chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine and arteminisin to name a few. Quinine salts are not a safe all-round remedy, especially for heart patients with irregular heart rates and arteminisin is an isolate (often a synthetic analogue) that can cause oxidative stress if unaccompanied by protective antioxidants and the other supportive components like polyphenols and alkaloids that are present in the leaves.
The scientific obsession with isolates is questionable as we learn from history about the failure of artemisinin to treat drug resistant malaria as opposed to using the Artemisia Annua or the Artemisia Afra leaf tea. Ironically, Artemisia Afra does not even contain artemisinin! Using the whole leaf provides anti-malarial chemicals such as chlorquinone that are also present in the leaf. Oleuropin, another component converts to elenoic acid and plays an important protective role against reactive oxygen species-induced oxidative injury in RBCs – one of the COVID hazards that doctors have observed. The key to the success of Olive leaf and Artemisia is thus due to their anti-malarial properties that according to new studies, are equally effective against the ever-mutating coronaviruses that drive this global 2020 pandemic.
Three new Artemisia-based products: tincture, tea and Artemisia Complex capsules
Here is the technical lowdown, should one require scientific evidence that Artemisia and Olive leaf can destroy the COVID virus. Firstly, arteminisin and oleouropin isolates inhibit Heme Polymerization, a pathway that is unique to the malaria parasite (and Covid-19 related infections) as effectively as chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine. This requirement for anti-malarial as well as anti-covid remedies needs to be met according the latest studies (virtual drug screening, molecular docking and supervised machine learning algorithms to identify novel drug candidates against COVID-19). So too, their docking scores in the ACE-inhibitor receptor molecular crystalline studies prove that these natural substances have similar and often superior bonding energies to the chloroquine’s.
Plants have combined defences against viruses (colds and flu and modified coronaviruses), bacteria (pneumonia and tuberculosis), protozoans (malaria) and other pathogens. Using them offers superior protection – as opposed to single-target drugs with unavoidable side effects. Phytochemicals (within the context of whole leaf remedies) deserve further recognition as studies have now demonstrated their superior activity against SARS-CoV-2 as well as malaria. They also provide anti-inflammatory, cardio protective (against blood clots) and immuno-regulating effects. Furthermore, nobody was able to detect any acute or chronic toxicity for the consumption of these plants, which have been utilized for thousands of years without any severe side effects other than a die-off or Herxheimer reaction.
Although broad spectrum antiviral drugs can be effective against novel coronaviruses and their constant mutations, their side effects may do more harm than good. They do not help to control inflammation or blood clotting, let alone cytokine storms. The inappropriate use of antibiotics or antivirals can destroy natural colonies of viruses, especially inside the lungs – the strains that control pathogenic respiratory bacteria that cause pneumonia and tuberculosis. As we know, antibiotics (including Zithromax) used against viruses are not effective and they wipe out the gut flora that form a major component of the immune system. Surely we need to strengthen – not weaken it?
https://www.who.int/bulletin/online_first/20-255943.pdf Identification of novel compounds against three targets of SARS CoV-2 coronavirus by combined virtual screening and supervised machine learning
CPD articles by Sue Visser https://www.medicalacademic.co.za/integrative-medicine/can-herbal-treatments-for-malaria-work/
https://www.medicalacademic.co.za/integrative-medicine/preventing-and-treating-diseases-with-iodine/
Watch my movie clips from ETV from 2007 about Artemisia and malaria: https://naturefresh.co.za/media/video/
https://naturefresh.co.za/much-ado-about-the-coronavirus/
Full documentation on 3 herbal ingredients that work against Coronavirus, malaria and other pathogens
1 Artemisia Annua
Initial studies in China showed the alcoholic extract of sweet wormwood (Artemisia annua) was the second most potent herbal medicine used on the 2005 Sars-CoV. Aqueous infusions of A. annua significantly decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in human intestinal cells in vitro. Rosmarinic and chlorogenic acids in the herb seemed primarily responsible for this effect. (Nature Fresh Parasite Remedy contains 25% in an alcoholic tincture and has been used for over 2 decades to treat malaria, schistosomiasis and HIV/Aids but only as evidence based from patients without clinical trials.)
Artemisia annua extracts show very little toxicity and artemisinin-based drugs are widely used to treat malaria even in newborns. Evaluation of the plant extract was non-toxic with LD50 values no greater than 5000mg/kg.9” Artemisia (Wilde Als / Umhlonyane) Chinese Wormwood, Ging Hoa is a traditional African remedy for fever and colds and flu. It is also used to clear inflammatory and infectious conditions, referred to as ‘Internal Heat’ in TCM. This is why most of the herbs in this category will have both antibacterial and antiviral properties. It was first used in traditional Chinese medicine 1000 years ago. Tu Youyou received a Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2015 for her work and achievement in fighting malaria in Africa, Latin America and Asia with Artemisia. Artemisinin in Artemisia annua tea absorbs faster than pure artemisinin alone.
From other sources: “Olive leaf combines well with Artemisia Arfa. Traditionally people take Artemisia Annua for cough, stomach and intestinal upset, the common cold, measles, diabetes, yellowed skin (jaundice), anxiety, irregular heartbeat, and muscle weakness. It is also used for parasitic infections such as roundworms, pinworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and flukes.”
“These proof-of-concept trials suggest that a sustainable supply of locally grown Artemisia Annua could be maintained in Africa as a way to deliver life-saving medicine, and that pharmaceutical companies and synthetic, isolated artemisinin’s are not necessary for the treatment of malaria.”
https://herbalmateriamedica.wordpress.com/2014/04/20/artemisia-annua/ Artemisia Monograph
https://www.meandqi.com/herb-database/sweet-wormwood-herb
https://medcraveonline.com/PPIJ/artemisia-afra-and-hypertension.html
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1074552102001175 Artemisia Heme-Artemisinin Adducts Are Crucial Mediators of the Ability of Artemisinin
https://www.mpg.de/14663263/artemisia-annua-corona-virus Artemisia annua to be tested against coronavirus. Artemisia annua extracts show very little toxicity
https://www.rxlist.com/artemisia_herba-alba/supplements.htm
https://artemisiaannuatea.com/about-artemisia-annua/
YOU TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oCCZdenOHo by Manfred Taege Artemisia annua – Malaria, Cancer and a Nobel Prize A tea made from the leaves, containing, apart from Artemisinin nine other anti-malarial substances can help to fight malaria in regions where people have no access to medical care or are too poor to buy the expensive pharmaceutical products – which particularly in Africa are often either fake or of substandard quality.
YOU TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OvC4uSYprU8 The malaria business: Big pharma vs natural medicine, WHO banned Artemisia in France and Belgium. Studies by Prof Pamela Weathers and Congolese doctors prove it is not Artemisinin exclusively.
You tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uCNurvdJVM Full instructions on how to grow and take Artemisia by Martin Hurt of Anamed.
YOU TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52-tw-G8Yag the story of ANAMED Presenters : Dr. Hans-Martin Hirt and Richard Tsimba Kandu Dr. Hans-Martin Hirt is pharmacist and the founder of an international NGO called “anamed” or “action for natural medicine in the tropics”. Their main area of research is to have an exchange of knowledge with local people how to produce medicine themselves out of medicinal plants…by this, far money may be left to fight hunger in the family!
2 Black Cumin (Nigella Sativa / Kalonjie)
This is a traditional remedy for treating what Islamic people refer to as: “every ailment except your inevitable death”. This time honoured and much studied remedy can help any of our ailments, either as a stand-alone remedy or to support the effects of other medications. It is also an anti-malarial remedy, (similar to chlorquinone) due to the presence of thymoquinone. It has been used successfully by theTaibah University anti-COVID-19 treatment as a novel evidence-based approach (using natural products) for treating COVID-19 patients. The 5ml (2g) dose of Nigella sativa seeds mixed with honey and chamomile helped infected patients, even on ventilators to recover within 7 days. It was confirmed that: “Nigella sativa enhances immunity, exerts tissue protective effects and effectively treats co-morbidities.
High levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and lymphopenia or a lack of macrophages are common to patients who are severely affected by coronaviruses, yet Nigella Sativa (Kalonjie) can provide both lympho protective activity and immune modulation. According to Doctor Saki Moidin,” Future clinical trials will unravel how exactly we can use Nigell Sativa (thymoquinone) for treating the current COVID-19 pandemic state.” Our endocannabinoids (CBD’s that are also present in Black Cumin) and their receptors influence the immune system, viral pathogenesis, and viral replication.
Black Cumin’s immune-suppressing (in states of inflammation) or immune-boosting (in states of infection) ability plays a key role in protecting us from pathogens as well as cytokine storms. It is a versatile supplement and helps to maintain the major aspects of our health. Benefits include immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, anticancer, hypoglycaemic, antihypertensive and anti-asthmatic. It has a broad antimicrobial spectrum including malaria, Gram-negative, Gram-positive bacteria, viruses, parasites, Schistosoma (bilharzia) and fungi. Apart from helping to control pain, epilepsy, Parkinsonism and anxiety Black Cumin (kalonjie) improves learning and memory, alertness and is mood elevating.
https://pharmacologyonline.silae.it/files/newsletter/2019/vol2/PhOL_2019_2_NL007_Molla.pdf Pharmacology Online August 2019 A review on antiviral effects of Nigella Sativa.
http://www.sciepub.com/AJPHR/abstract/11658 The Evidence-Based TaibUVID Nutritional Treatment for Minimizing COVID-19 Fatalities and Morbidity and eradicating COVID-19 pandemic: A novel Approach for Better Outcomes (A Treatment Protocol)
https://thescipub.com/PDF/ajptsp.2007.46.50.pdf In Vivo Anti-malarial Tests of Nigella sativa (Black Seed) Different Extracts
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4052177/ Black cumin oil effects on haeme
https://thecognate.com/nigella-sativa-every-disease-has-a-cure-decelerating-the-covid-19-pandemic/ The Cognate Nigella Sativa: Every Disease Has A Cure – Decelerating The COVID-19 Pandemic by B yDr. Shakil Moidin 22 March 2020
https://naturefresh.co.za/32905-2/ How can we benefit from kalonjie Mar 26, 2020 by Sue Visser
https://naturefresh.co.za/ramadan-2020-in-lockdown-april-radio-talk-with-zulaikha-and-sue1/ Ramadan 2020 in Lockdown: April Radio talk with Zulaikha and Sue
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/kalonji-nigella-seeds 9 Impressive Health Benefits of Kalonji (Nigella Seeds)
https://www.medicalacademic.co.za/post-summary/?post_refered=22174 Natural alternatives to CBD
http://www.phytojournal.com/archives/2015/vol4issue4/PartB/4-3-79.pdf Black Cumin / Nigella Sativa MONOGRAM
3 Olive leaf
Olive leaves contain a natural anti-malarial component called chlorquinone. Olive leaf also inhibits blood clotting and maintains optimal viscosity. A natural built-in benefit as an alternative to blood-thinning medications. This can help to protect high-risk patients against the formation of tiny clots that occur as a complication of the coronovirus infections. Olive leaf has been used successfully for diabetic and cardiovascular patients as an alternative to medications that lower blood pressure, thin the blood and lower blood sugar. Although it was first believed that ACE inhibitors may be harmful to coronavirus patients the verdict is that these drugs are of more benefit to help the heart and lungs of an infected patient.
Extracts from olive leaves have been shown to treat infection caused by a large number of viruses as well as bacteria, parasitic protozoans, and fungi. A phytochemical in olive leaf, call oleuropein, is able to stop viruses in their tracks. Oleuropein neutralizes the enzymes that are important for the virus to replicate itself and spread. Oleuropein also has the ability to interfere with the critical amino acid production that is essential for viruses. Another component from the whole leaf is elenolic acid that inactivates viruses and bacteria without damaging the host cells by:
- Interference with specific amino acid production processes vital to the life cycle of the virus
- Interference with viral infection and/or spread by inactivating the virus or by prohibiting shedding, budding or assembly at the cell membrane
- Immune activation of host defence through direct stimulation of phagocytosis
- Neutralization of the production of reverse transcriptase and protease (relates to retroviral ability to alter the host cell RNA)
- Penetration of infected host cells while achieving an irreversible inhibition of viral replication.
- The antiviral activity of elenolic acid was shown to be greatest in an alkaline environment (pH 7.5), which is very close to the normal human pH range of 7.35-7.45.
http://www.altmedrev.com/archive/publications/14/1/62.pdf Olive leaf MONOGRAM
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8279931/Common-blood-pressure-pills-NOT-make-coronavirus-worse-three-studies-find.html Common blood pressure pills DO NOT make coronavirus worse
https://doctorsnutrition.com/the-natural-antiviral-effects-of-lysine-and-olive-leaf-extract/
YOU TUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WedVlJCB6tE did you know that olive leaves also have some wonderful health benefits? By Ryan Taylor – how to use olive leaves medicinally
https://www.dynamicchiropractic.com/mpacms/dc/article.php?id=38381
Vitamin D RDA = 4000 iu
Vitamin D is a modulator of adaptive immunity. Like Nigella Sativa, it reduces the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increases the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Supplements can reduce the risk of influenza and COVID-19 incidence and death but mostly we need to expose ourselves to 30 minutes of direct sunlight. Some studies show that supplementing with vitamin D may improve immune response. In fact, recent research suggests that taking this vitamin may protect against respiratory tract infections.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/immune-boosting-supplements#1.-Vitamin-D
Selenium RDA 50 – 300 mcg
A selenium deficiency can weaken the immune response to viruses and increase the virulence of certain viruses, including coronaviruses. In the influenza virus, a lack of selenium can lead to mutations that increase its pathogenicity. The same applies to the SARS virus, which is related to SARS-CoV-2. The influenza virus itself can increase oxidative stress in the host. In combination with increased oxidative stress due to a selenium deficiency-related low activity of the selenium protein glutathione peroxidase-1, this can lead to direct oxidative damage to viral RNA.[7] In the case of selenium deficiency, these mutations can turn a relatively harmless influenza A virus into a much more aggressive influenza A virus. Kate Bennett, a medical statistician at the University of Surrey, said; “There is a significant link between selenium status and COVID-19 cure rate,”
https://int.search.myway.com/search/GGmain.jhtml?p2=%5ECAM%5Exdm249%5ETTAB03%5EZA&ptb=EFD16FB3-D0C3-4BDC-95B6-0F84C67463D4&n=784a1ca1&ln=en&si=58449441480&tpr=hpsb&trs=wtt&brwsid=50AC8C18-3CE4-49A6-BA8A-07631F0C84E7&searchfor=selenium+for+corona&st=tab Selenium deficiency and coronaviruses – biosyn Pharma
https://www.ugent.be/bw/en/news-events/news/selenium-deficiency-corona-virus.htm Do people with selenium deficiency get sicker from the corona virus?
Zinc adult RDA = 20 -40mg
Zinc is needed for immune cell development and communication and plays an important role in inflammatory response. Taking zinc long term is typically safe for healthy adults, as long as the daily dose is under the set upper limit of 40 mg of elemental zinc. A laboratory study in 2010 showed that zinc inhibited the activity and replication of another coronavirus, SARS-CoV which caused an outbreak in 2002. Zinc inhibits the binding of the cold virus to cells within the nasal mucosa and helps to suppress inflammation.
https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/zinc-protect-you-covid-19-boost-immune-system-3535446/ Does Zinc protect you from Covid-19 or boost immune system?
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/immune-boosting-supplements#2.-Zinc
YOU TUBE: Sue updates on Artemisia 2000 – 2020. Clips from ETV series on Nature’s Health
This 6 minute collection of material from the series made over 13 years ago shows how timeless herbal remedies are. They still work, despite drugs and chemical isolates that come and go because of pathogens that develop a resistance to them. No wonder Artemisia also works for novel infections like Covid. So do olive leaves because they are complete medicines!
https://www.google.com/search?q=you+tube+sue+visser+artemisia+2000+2020&oq=you+tube+sue+visser+artemisia+2000+2020&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60l3.24087j0j8&client=tablet-android-samsung&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8#
Extra resources and links – ongoing Covid news updates:
How a virus attacks you and causes sneezing, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches and a fever (a beneficial one)
“Because a virus is merely a set of genetic instructions surrounded by a protein coat and because it does not carry out any biochemical reactions of its own, viruses can live for years or longer outside a host cell. Some viruses can “sleep” inside the genetic instructions of the host cells for years before reproducing. For example, a person infected with HIV can live without showing symptoms of AIDS for years, but he or she can still spread the virus to others.
Coming down with the flu or a cold is a good demonstration of how a virus works:
An infected person sneezes near you. You inhale the virus particle, and it attaches to cells lining the sinuses in your nose. The virus attacks the cells lining the sinuses and rapidly reproduces new viruses. The host cells break, and new viruses spread into your bloodstream and also into your lungs. Because you have lost cells lining your sinuses, fluid can flow into your nasal passages and give you a runny nose. Viruses in the fluid that drips down your throat attack the cells lining your throat and give you a sore throat. Viruses in your bloodstream can attack muscle cells and cause you to have muscle aches.
Your immune system responds to the infection and in the process of fighting, it produces chemicals called pyrogens that cause your body temperature to increase. This fever actually helps you to fight the infection by slowing down the rate of viral reproduction, because most of your body’s chemical reactions have an optimal temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. If your temperature rises slightly above this, the reactions slow down. This immune response continues until the viruses are eliminated from your body. However, if you sneeze, you can spread thousands of new viruses into the environment to await another host.” https://doctorsnutrition.com/the-natural-antiviral-effects-of-lysine-and-olive-leaf-extract/
You tube 21 may 2020 Amazing Polly speaks about Artemisia and Covid organics
Prime Minister of Tanzania John Magufuli points out that Papaya and birds test positive for Corona, proving that the test criteria is faulty. He is importing Covid Organic Artemisia tea from Madagascar’s president Andry Rajoelina to cure Covid patients. Despite criticism from HOA and other Western Medical bodies, there have been no adverse or harmful effects. Only dramatic cures! 105 out of 171 infected patients, for example were cured within 7 days. Dramatic improvement was seen within 24 hours after drinking this herbal decoction of Artemisia. At best, Polly says that 50% of French drugs are said to be useless and definitely harmful. Over 58 of the western style drug-based medications that are used to treat Africans have been declared to be dangerous and without any major healing effects.
Why are Africa’s coronavirus successes being overlooked? The Guardian Afua Hirsch 21/05/2010
One plant in particular – Artemisia annua, or sweet wormwood, which belongs to the daisy family – is drawing particular attention after the president of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, claimed it was a “cure” for Covid-19.
That may sound Trumpian, and the WHO has cautioned that further trials are needed before it can be advocated as a treatment for the disease. But I contacted the respected Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces in Germany, which is currently conducting clinical trials on a different breed of the same plant, in this case grown in Kentucky.
This specially grown, more potent variety of sweet wormwood is being tested on cells to determine its effectiveness in fighting coronavirus infections and the results so far, the institute’s director, Prof Peter Seeberger, told me, are “very interesting”. Human clinical trials are likely to follow.
More than 20 African countries have already ordered the Madagascan version (containing Artemisia Annua / Afra), a vote of confidence for Rajoelina, who has taken to showing up at meetings and TV appearances with a bottle of a brown herbal drink made from the plant, touting its benefits.
https://www.nowtheendbegins.com/bill-gates-human-implantable-quantum-dot-microneedle-vaccine-delivery-system-needs-luciferase-666/ Bill Gates is building something that we call the Human Implantable Quantum Dot Microneedle Vaccination Delivery System, and it needs an enzyme called Luciferase in order to make it work. Bill Gates is building something that we call the Human Implantable Quantum Dot Microneedle Vaccination Delivery System, and it is composed of multiple things. At its center we have the COVID-19 vaccination that he wants to give every human on earth, there will be quantum dot microneedles, a digital identification mark from ID2020, and a human implantable device for buying and selling cryptocurrency with a patent number of #060606. The digital ID will come in the form of something called an Immunity Passport.
YOU TUBE: Sue updates on Artemisia 2000 – 2020. Clips from ETV series on Nature’s Health
This 6 minute collection of material from the series made over 13 years ago shows how timeless herbal remedies are. They still work, despite drugs and chemical isolates that come and go because of pathogens that develop a resistance to them. No wonder Artemisia also works for novel infections like Covid. So do olive leaves because they are complete medicines!
https://www.google.com/search?q=you+tube+sue+visser+artemisia+2000+2020&oq=you+tube+sue+visser+artemisia+2000+2020&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60l3.24087j0j8&client=tablet-android-samsung&sourceid=chrome-mobile&ie=UTF-8#
Much ado about the coronavirus
Radio interview with Zulaikha and Sue Visser February 2020
Much ado about the coronavirus Radio interview with Zulaikha and Sue Visser February 2020
One of our listeners called to ask for more information about the coronavirus because there are some alarming reports, especially due to the risks involved. He asked why old people are more vulnerable and was wondering what Sue would do personally, if she was involved? We will try to find the truth, because some of the information is very misleading. If associated with the common cold, why is the coronavirus so dangerous?
Q: Why is it killing people and how did this crisis begin?
Two years ago, in January 2018, in the Wuhan district – in the same area as the coronavirus upheaval, China’s first maximum level 4 security virology laboratory designed for the study of the world’s most dangerous pathogens was set up. Is it pure coincidence that Wuhan City is now the epicentre of the latest coronavirus infection? Their first case was reported on December 21, 2019. Symptoms are said to resemble viral pneumonia as the patients presented with a fever, severe and non-productive coughs and they had difficulty in breathing.
This makes one suspicious, because the coronaviruses cause sneezing, a runny nose, coughing, a sore throat, and sometimes a fever – no different from other viruses like the common adenovirus or rhinovirus that are associated with these symptoms. They have been around for centuries. So – why the global panicking, to the point that thousands of people are being quarantined and wear face masks? They stay at home, hoping that a vaccine can save them. People are dying from the dreaded virus/superbug that is classified as incurable. Something is not right.
Q: Do we have any proof that this is not a regular coronavirus?
After the recent outbreak in Wuhan (home to the meat market and the deadly pathogens laboratory), the World Health Organization identified the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) which can be fatal due to what they call a COVID-19 infection. (Not such a common cold!) However, no animal from this market has thus far been identified as a possible source of the new infection.
Under normal circumstances (far away from high security bug laboratories) the latest coronavirus could just be a new and different strain of a cold/flu virus, because they naturally mutate all the time. Every year, when you cough or get a runny nose you may have a number of mutated viruses to contend with. But they do not initially cause symptoms of pneumonia – this is why we need to be a bit suspicious.
Q: What about vaccines?
Vaccines would constantly need to keep up with all the mutations of colds, flu and other infections. Because they can’t, we may catch a new strain. Then what? Well, you would have wasted your money and would still be vulnerable to other mutations, either from the laboratory or from the wild strains. Vaccines also claim the lives of many and they have to match the exact strain meaning one is not 100% safe.
Report from the Washington Post: “Sending out coronavirus vaccines won’t make sense unless the spread gets worse … The bare facts, at least as far as anyone knows them yet, are that a global rollout of a coronavirus vaccine would kill some 7,000 people or so. The trade-off in this situation is how many people we may kill by giving them the vaccine, versus how many die without it?”
Q: Who are the most vulnerable – only old people?
People of all ages can die from the complications of the coronavirus (2019-nCoV) infection. For a number of decades, old people accumulate a number of chronic infections, especially high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis and so on. Some of them still smoke cigarettes and eat junk food – especially gluten. They neglect their antioxidants and have higher levels of toxins; they suffer from the side effects of medications such as statins and anti-inflammatories and so on. There are hundreds of viruses floating around and they are not something to be feared – unless you are like them:
Immune compromised, either from toxins or HIV infections or from excessive antibiotics that destroy gut flora (80% of the immune system)
Nutrient deficient. Most people, even children are lacking a good supply of vitamins, minerals and key micronutrients that help to fight diseases. Iodine, for instance can kill just about any pathogen.
Already have chronic diseases and have high levels of inflammation. C-reacive protein indicates the total amount of tissue undergoing inflammation and can predict your risk of heart disease and strokes. 40-200mg/L – indicates acute inflammation/bacterial infection.
Q: Why are we so sickly today?
We live in an undernourished, toxic world full of electro smog, chemical trails and other pro-inflammatory stressors. The death rate from the common cold is higher than it was 10 years ago and it will double within the next few years because our resistance is constantly weakening. Yet, according to Dr Brownstein, “There is no bacterium, virus, parasite or fungus that is known to be resistant to iodine.”
Q: Tell us more about: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
There are different levels of respiratory failure, but they all cause a lack of oxygen and an excess of carbon dioxide. Respiratory viruses such as the new 2019 affect chronic asthma, bronchitis, obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or pneumonia, raising levels of carbon dioxide in the blood and causing a respiratory crisis. Symptoms include: drowsiness and confusion, rapid and desperate gasping for air, irregular heart rhythms and passing out. With a lack of oxygen a blue tinge to a person’s fingernails, lips, or skin will be evident. This is an emergency!
Q: How can we reduce inflammation?
The fact is, we can fortify ourselves against all types of viruses and pathogens by repairing the immune system and reducing inflammation. We need to remove parasites and toxins, especially heavy metals and take appropriate supplements backed up by sound nutrition – not food that is pathogenic. (Wheat and gluten are major contributors to inflammation.)
Popular natural remedies for inflammation include: Omega 3 oils, curcumin, boswellia, nettle, serrapeptase (mucolytic enzyme), bromelain (from pineapple tops), resveratrol and grape seed extract (by-products of grapes) and alpha lipoic acid. Antioxidants are very important and we need to appreciate the role of glutathione, the primary antioxidant that we make ourselves. Ask your doctor to check your inflammatory markers and help you create a protocol to reduce chronic inflammation.
Q: How does the body naturally control oxidative stressors and detoxify itself?
Glutathione is one of the body’s most important and potent antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress by combating free radicals in the body. We make our own glutathione – our master antioxidant (superior to vitamin C) out of homocysteine and the amino acids glutamine, glycine and cysteine. So if the cysteine is not being channelled into glutathione production there will be raised levels of homocysteine, the pro-inflammatory chemical instead. High homocysteine levels (above 15 μmol/L) in the blood are considered to be a primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease and the new 2019 coronavirus – it seems!
Q: Why are some of our Doctors so concerned about homocysteine?
There is also a strong link between cardiac disease and raised homocysteine levels, increasing a respiratory patient’s risk of mortality from cardiovascular diseases. This is especially the case with people who lack anti-inflammatory Omega 3 oils and consume too many Omega 6 and saturated fats rich in pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid. The reactive surge of acute acidity and the paucity of antioxidants (glutathione, Vitamin C and selenium) are also what contribute to acute respiratory failure and death. A high level of homocysteine in the blood (hyper homocysteinemia) makes a person more prone to endothelial cell injury, causing inflammation of the blood vessels. According to some doctors, “homocysteine is an independent cardiovascular disease risk factor that is modifiable by nutrition and exercise”.
Q: Isn’t it easier to take a glutathione supplement instead?
Glutathione supplements are not fully absorbed by the body and tend to break down into amino acids. Whey protein is a good source of cysteine, which helps maintain adequate glutathione production.
Nutrients involved in the conversion of homocysteine into glutathione include folate, vitamin B12, vitamin B6, riboflavin, and choline.
Vitamin C plays a vital role in maintaining glutathione levels so supplements are needed
Selenium is a cofactor for the production of glutathione. Fish, organ meats, and Brazil nuts are all selenium-rich foods that may help increase your levels naturally.
Milk thistle supplements may cause an increase in glutathione levels, likely attributed to silymarin.
Take food sources or supplements of: glutamine (all proteins), glycine and cysteine (whey protein)
Oral Glutathione supplements that include the bioavailable precursors such as N Acetylcysteine can effectively increase Glutathione production. For the emergency treatment of virus infected patients, some forms can be inhaled into the lungs or used trans-dermally or intravenously, but the treatment is very costly.
Q: Sue, last question – what would you do to protect yourself and deal with such a worldwide outbreak?
Sue: I would use homeopathic remedies to develop a natural immunity to this or any other pathogen. (They work like a vaccine but do not kill people). Also take your Lugol’s iodine, get rid of parasites, treat chronic inflammation and boost your glutathione. Seek out the truth, do your homework and question the motives for spreading global panic.
Homeopathy to the rescue: Historically speaking, plagues and pandemics can wipe out thousands of people. 200 years ago, it was Samuel Hahnemann, the father of Homeopathy who controlled smallpox and cholera and saved thousands of lives using remedies based on the law of similar – treating like with like. A sample of the pathogen is prepared in a homeopathic manner (a nosode) to render it completely safe and non-toxic. According to homeoprophylaxis, like not only treats like; like also prevents like. In 1799 this method was used successfully to prevent scarlet fever – so why not the coronavirus? Homeopathy has been used successfully for hundreds of years in many different countries during epidemic outbreaks. Millions of people in Cuba received homeoprophylaxis to prevent the tropical disease Leptospirosis and for Meningitis in Brazil. Today it is also used to prevent malaria as an alternative to medications that are not always able to contain the spread of drug resistant malarial strains.
The little white pills are sucked in the mouth and the energetic signature of 2019-nCoV is taken up by the bloodstream. This will help to increase a person’s natural immunity to it.
“The Coronavirus 2019 Nosode is 100% safe and non-toxic and is made according to strict pharmacopeia guidelines at a licensed USA lab. It is made from the current circulating strain that started in late 2019 (now named as COVID-19). The nosode (specific pathogen) is highly diluted and succussed (shaken up), they do not contain a single molecule of the original material. Instead they contain an energetic signature. The homeoprophylaxis dosing method recommended and used for the Coronavirus 2019 resembles dozens of other strategies against infectious diseases in HP programs for all ages, including for infants and children, college and medical students, mission workers, business travellers and tourists.”
References and resources:
https://bestantiaginghacks.com/inflammatory-markers-and-antiaging/
https://www.webmd.com/lung/coronavirus#1
https://www.ageofautism.com/2020/02/dr-mercola-on-the-coronavirus-pandemic-scare.html
https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/health-disease/high-homocysteine
http://www.infobarrel.com/Are_You__the_Victim_of_an_Iodine_Deficiency_
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324528#types
https://www.littlemountainhomeopathy.com/vaccine-alternatives (Order your coronavirus immunisation)
This link gives a background to the historical aspects of patented pathogens – viruses and their vaccines:
“Understanding the Corona Virus Hoax”
Morning before this talk: the latest BBC 27 Feb 2020 – containing the coronavirus?
Global pressure on China 600 000 000 affected by travel? Concern about managing business staff – self isolation, risks, latest updates. Protective equipment and medicines? Keep resources and the economy flowing.
Laughter – the best medicine:
A new strain of the Corona virus is soon to be released:
In Holland it will be called the Amstel virus
In South Africa it will be called the Castle virus
and in America it will be called the Budweiser virus
All it depends on is the advertising revenue. The general symptoms include severe thirst!
Herbal remedies zap drug resistant malaria
How do we cope with drug resistant malaria?
Malaria updates for 2019 travellers
Professor Pamela Weathers cured drug resistant malaria in 2017 during an outbreak in the Congo. 18 fatally ill patients had not responded to drug treatments. Her whole leaf Artemisia tablets cured them all after 5 days
Q & A with healthcare researcher Sue Visser March 2019
Caution: do not take olive leaf or Artemisia products if you are breastfeeding or pregnant unless under the guidance of a doctor. Products containing these herbs may potentize the effects of cardiovascular, thyroid, antimicrobial or anti-diabetic medications, so ask a practitioner to adjust the prescriptions accordingly.
Herbal treatments for malaria – are they original or alternative?
Doctors who use drugs that are made in a laboratory will claim that because of their scientific methodology they provide exclusively reliable, fully tried and tested legal treatments for diseases. They view what they call as “unscientific” alternatives such as herbs with suspicion and have tried to discourage their use, especially in the case of both preventing and treating malaria. Yet thousands of years ago – long before the era of modern medicine the herb Artemisia annua – a member of the wormwood family was the standard cure for malaria.
So what is the alternative to this herb? How about modern, “scientifically proven” pharmaceutical drugs? According to the April 24, 2017 edition of Science Daily: “Successful treatment of drug resistant cases of malaria with 100% dried leaf Artemisia annua suggests that it should be rapidly incorporated into the antimalarial regimen for Africa.” Further studies were recommended but as we will see from this discussion, Artemisia annua has been used to successfully treat and prevent malaria for thousands of years without any evidence of toxicity or drug resistance.
Our Traditional healers in South Africa can sell herbs to cure malaria and other ailments and are exempt from legislation. Here you can buy a bundle of Artemisia afra for next to nothing and yes – it dies cure malaria!
Are our modern scientific drugs winning the battle against drug resistant malaria? Are they safe?
Unfortunately, the recent and now widespread epidemic of drug resistant malaria has spread from Asia into Africa and is claiming many lives. There are no effective preventative drugs for travellers to take that can guarantee their safety anymore. Therefore we are all at risk of contracting malaria should we have to rely solely on what modern medicine has to offer. We can use mosquito nets and poisonous insecticides and gamble with our lives or refrain from visiting malaria infested areas.
We can choose from a number of standard prophylactic drugs that can prevent the onset of malaria but there is no guarantee that they are 100% effective against the latest strains. A further risk is death or debilitating illnesses as a result of taking amodiaquine and Fansidar because fatalities have occurred.
Many of the side effects from the drugs are so unpleasant that some travellers (including our family) refuse to take them anymore. The four most popular drugs used by travellers are: mefloquine, doxycycline, chloroquine-proguanil and atovaquone –proguanil (Malarone). These more recent formulations are a better option, but are not free of risks, side effects and contra-indications.
Melfloquine for instance is associated with neurological disorders that include headache, dizziness, confusion, vertigo and seizures. Peripheral neuropathies such as paraesthesia, tremors and ataxia have also been reported. The psychiatric disorders may include insomnia, strange dreams, restlessness, anxiety, depression, and psychosis. Doxycycline is an antibiotic and its long-term use will obliterate entire colonies of beneficial gut flora – 80% of the immune system as well as the gut microbiome we need to aid digestion, produce neurotransmitters and prevent candidiasis as well as neural disorders in the first place! Malarone is basically the best option for long term use and has fewer side effects other than gastric upsets, so it should be taken with meals. But it is very, very expensive.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3395692/
Is it safe enough to rely 100% on insecticides, sprays and mosquito nets?
Kinsley Holgate, the famous explorer who travels throughout Africa to distribute mosquito nets has had malaria over 30 times. Now doctors have no standard cure for drug resistant malaria so is it worth taking the risk? Mosquitoes don’t only attack people who sleep in beds. You may get zapped by a mosquito in the shower – after you have washed off all the insecticides! They love dark, damp places. Malaria plasmodia are developing a resistance to all the silver bullets, and will continue to do so unless we find a better solution.
What about the use of artemisinin and ACT – has that also failed?
Around the world, Malaria claimed over 407 000 lives in 2016 despite the ubiquitous use of artemisinin, an extract of Artemisia annua combined with partner drugs. These drugs were assessed for quality, safety and efficacy by means of the regulatory procedure known as Article 58 of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) at the time. The increasing death toll is due to the spread of partial artemisinin resistance combined with what they call partner drug resistance.
The Bill and Melinda Gates foundation promoted the use of an Artemisia annua extract combined with a number of anti-malarial drugs, called ACT. But the very expensive artemisinin extract proved to be unstable with a rapidly diminishing half-life. As a solo chemical, it is easier for plasmodia to develop a resistance to it. ACT tablets were sold to people who could barely afford food and clothing. The medication cost 20 US$ and families only earned a dollar a day. In terms of sustainability, the whole Artemisia annua or Artemisia afra plant can be cultivated in their own back yards and would save them from malaria and a host of other diseases. It does not cost 20 US$ per person per month and no drug resistance has ever been reported.
The malaria death toll is still rising and the use of Artemisia annua has been discredited by the WHO despite its efficacy when taken in adequate doses. Anamed recommends 20g of 100% dry leaf per litre of tea per day to be sufficient according to their evidence based methodology.
https://www.who.int/malaria/media/artemisinin_resistance_qa/en/
https://www.who.int/malaria/position_statement_herbal_remedy_artemisia_annua_l.pdf
How did the Chinese treat malaria thousands of years ago?
The same Artemisia annua was used – as a tea or 100% leaf remedy. In other words not with unstable, very expensive and not very effective artemisinin! Ironically, it was the modern Chinese opportunists who developed artemisinin to supply to Bill and Melinda Gates for their very pricey ACT. However, Professor Pamela Weathers and her research team at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) produced the evidence we now so badly need as more recent – in situ proof of the efficacy of this treatment in the face of drug resistant malaria.
Artemisia consumption in the form of dose-related tablets, powder or capsules from the whole dried aerial parts has never led to any resistance in long duration trials. The Artemisia annua plant contains at least 20 active ingredients which work as a synergy. So it makes no sense to whip out an extract and mislead people in terms of stability or efficacy or cost effectiveness. Yet the WHO suggests that even if these constituents do act in concert with with artemisinin, these interactions are insufficient to eliminate Plasmodium parasites and cure malaria.
Traditional medicine embraces medicinal plants that are combination therapies. The 100% content guarantees the stability and bioavailability of their active substances. As opposed to a single extract, the combined anti-parasitic components of Artemisia can treat and prevent malaria. The rapid action of this herb against plasmodia means that travellers can start taking the product a few days before they leave. It is very affordable and side effects, if any, are minimal.
http://nordman.co.za/artemisia.html
We often hear that the use of Artemisia is ineffective and can be toxic. Is this true?
No, there were many such attempts to discredit the use of Artemisia annua: saying it could contain toxic substances, it doesn’t work and its use against malaria was unorthodox if not unlawful. In 1998 a law even prohibited the use of Artemisia annua herbal tea in Belgium! Yet for two thousand years and among thousands of people using the herbal tea against malaria, the phenomena of resistance – let alone toxicity has never been established.
Pharmaceutical research institutes did their best to invalidate Anamed, (Action for Natural Medicine in The Tropics) the worldwide association that empowers low-income groups of people with Artemisia annua DIY treatments. Anamed believe it is their God-given responsibility to share their expertise (over 30 years of it) with people who cannot afford elitist medicine for tropical diseases. In 2019 they aim to work on a project in South Africa to cultivate Artemisia for the treatment of malaria and HIV AIDS – despite opposition from controlling bodies.
https://malariaworld.org/blog/artemisia-against-malaria-efficient-banished
Is there any scientifically acceptable research to justify the medicinal use of Artemisia?
All substances can be put through their paces to prove various points but many products fail to deliver results in a real life situation. A typical case being drugs involved with malaria. Extensive studies have been and still are undertaken to produce the evidence we need today, should we wish to use Artemisia as a medicine – not only to treat malaria. We can also consult the European Monographs in this respect.
African Universities that are studying Artemisia afra as opposed to Artemisia annua have found it to contain the highest concentration of the flavone luteolin, a molecule with demonstrated antiplasmodial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. We also have well documented results on the effectiveness of herbal tea against leishmaniosis (sand fly bites) in Antioquia University in Colombia, against cancer at the University of Belgrade, against Trypanosoma cruzi at the University of Cumana in Venezuela, against diarrhoea and bilharzia in Senegal and against AIDS at the University of Leiden.
In South Africa, herbal remedies are preferred by 80% of the local population. Traditional uses for our local Artemisia afra include treatments for bacterial infections such as sore throats, ear infections and respiratory diseases. The aerial parts contain various phenolic compounds that have anti-bacterial and anti-viral infections such as measles and influenza and parasitic infections like malaria, worms and flukes. Non-pathogenic conditions traditionally treated with Artemisia afra include diabetes mellitus, gout and neuralgia, autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation and asthma. It is now being scrutinized for its immune regulating effects.
http://etd.uwc.ac.za/xmlui/bitstream/handle/11394/2020/Kriel_MSC_2010.pdf;sequence=1
In South Africa, over 80% of the local inhabitants prefer Traditional or herbal medicine. Remedies made from plants. They use Artemisia for many ailments especially HIV/AIDS
Can you give a specific, well documented example of how well Artemisia annua works?
A good example of how effective it is for drug resistant malaria comes from the Congo in 2017. Tablets made from the whole dried Artemisia annua leaves were used to successfully treat 18 cases of advanced malaria (symptoms that can include loss of consciousness, respiratory distress, convulsions, and pulmonary oedema and in this case, one child was already in a coma). The much publicised and over promoted ACT treatment had failed to cure them and none of the other standard drugs made any difference to what had become a near fatal situation.
None of patients even responded to artesunate, the frontline medication for severe malaria. Yet after five days on the Artemisia tablets all 18 of the patients fully recovered. Laboratory tests showed they had no parasites remaining in their blood. During 2017 over 100 other drug-resistant malaria patients were also successfully treated with the experimental Artemisia tablets, thanks to the pioneering work of Professor Pamela Weather and her lab team. Her research has shown that whole leaf Artemisia therapies are more effective and less expensive than standard malaria medications. They are a lot safer and do not have life threatening or debilitating side effects.
It is a pity that legislation does not allow these remedies to be offered at travel clinics throughout the world as an alternative for malaria-proofing travellers as well as their pets. The Artemisia pills help to ward off traveller’s gut bugs as a bonus!
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/04/170424141222.htm
http://nordman.co.za/artemisia.html
We can buy Artemisia afra plants and wild olive trees from South African nurseries. These local subspecies are hardier and contain stronger active ingredients in many cases, according to analytical tests.
Are there any other plants growing in the garden that can ward off malaria?
Yes, if you have olive trees you can use the leaves! When quinine lost favour as the earliest treatment for malaria, olive leaf tea became a popular substitute in the 1820′s. Later on chemists isolated a compound they called oleuropein that protects leaves against the lacey-winged olive fly that attacks the fruit.
By 1906, scientists claimed that olive leaf extracts were superior to quinine , the primary treatment for malaria at the time. A case report from a clinic in Mexico announced a complete cure of a full-blown case of malaria in a 34-year-old woman after taking two 100% olive leaf supplements every six hours for six months. There are a host of other valuable phytochemicals present in whole olive leaf products, such as the anti-malarial agent cinchonine. No wonder it worked!
https://www.quantumbalancing.com/oliveleaf.htm
http://www.altmedrev.com/archive/publications/14/1/62.pdf
In 2002 my husband Jim was relieved of malaria within a few days using only whole olive leaf tablets. He was on holiday in China, and the breakout occurred on top of a high mountain we had just climbed. That night, in the remote hotel, his fever broke loose and he became delirious. Luckily we had olive leaf tablets with us and he took 2 every 2 – 4 hours. The next morning he was able to climb down unassisted. We did not use them to prevent malaria – we hadn’t discovered that yet! A few weeks later Jim’s malaria backlash was once again alleviated using only the olive leaf tablets. We were then at home and could get the proper diagnosis. He recovered fully.
Olive leaf, as in the case of Artemisia is more potent as a 100% dry leaf remedy. Ever since that bout of malaria, we have always taken our herbal remedies with us and have visited many malaria infested areas without further mishaps. Ironically people who take olive leaf tablets every day for blood pressure, candidiasis and so on have built-in malaria protection.
https://naturefresh.co.za/the-olive-leaf-story/
https://naturefresh.co.za/products/nf-025-olive-leaf-tablets-90-tablets/
After visiting Thailand, Jim contracted malaria while climbing the Yuang Shan mountains in China. That night in the hotel at the summit he nearly died, until we gave him olive leaf tablets
So ideally one needs to consume the whole dried leaf to receive the most benefit?
Now that malaria has developed resistance to many of our present day drugs, clinicians may once again turn to olive leaf remedies in addition to Artemisia. Many scientific studies have been performed throughout Europe and the United States to show that olive leaf extracts have strong antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-parasitic activity.
Alternative Medicine Review Monograph Volume 14, Number 1 2009, states that olive leaf can successfully treat bacterial, protozoan, and fungal Infections as well as viruses that include colds and flu as well as HIV/AIDS and of course, malaria. Olive leaf does not harm beneficial bacteria as is the case with regular antibiotics and they also help to eliminate biofilms that shield off colonies of bacteria, causing drug resistance.
http://www.altmedrev.com/archive/publications/14/1/62.pdf
https://www.shiftfrequency.com/olive-can-cure-malaria-and-who-doesnt-know/
Apart from preventing malaria for travellers, are there other benefits from using olive leaves?
Many people drink olive leaf tea to lower their blood pressure but heating up the leaves destroys many of their other active ingredients. For the equivalent of one standard 500mg whole leaf tablet you would need 7 dried and finely crushed and screened olive leaves. The powder can be mixed with a little honey or something similar to help it go down. Traditionally only European olive leaves were used for treating malaria but Olea afra, a local African species is also effective. Olive leaves are a potent cardiovascular medicine in their own right as they not only reduce blood pressure, they also help to thin the blood, clear out microbes and parasites and reduce inflammation.
Studies show that olive leaf helps reduce symptoms relating to age-related disorders, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. As an antioxidant it helps to combat the damage caused by free radicals and protects the brain from memory loss. Olive leaves help reduce blood sugar as well as “bad” cholesterol. Chronic swelling, inflammation and pain that are associated with osteoarthritis can be reduced. As an antioxidant, olive leaf reduces the production of cytokines and enzymes that are markers for the inflammatory process.
Tablets and tinctures are easier to take. The choice is yours and according to the monographs there are no serious side effects. Olive leaf has not been officially tested for pregnancy but for over 20 years, many ladies have taken them to good effect, after the third trimester. It is best to ask a doctor. As a treatment for yeast infections such as candidiasis they can help to cure long-term patients who have given up on diets and medications.
In a 2003 study of the antiviral activity of olive leaf against HIV-1 infection and replication, it was found that olive leaf extract inhibits acute infection and cell-to-cell transmission. HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It harms your immune system by destroying the white blood cells that fight infection. In a 2016 study it was found that olive leaf extract can modify the response of white blood cells called peripheral blood mononuclear cells (a class of immune cells which includes T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, and monocytes). It was able to influence the expression of genes in inflammatory and metabolic pathways. This helps to explain why we call olive leaf an immune booster.
https://draxe.com/olive-leaf-benefits/
https://naturefresh.co.za/doctors-love-olive-leaves-2/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12878215
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/17/12/2019
Jim back home, fully cured of malaria in 2002. No plasmodium parasites were found after 5 days of taking the olive leaf tablets for his relapse 3 weeks later.
Are there problems with taking Artemisia or olive leaves if you are on medications?
Please bear in mind that herbal remedies can duplicate the effects of medications, so ask your doctor about using them as part of your protocol. Due to the blood pressure lowering and antiplatelet aggregating properties of olive leaf extract, using them with the full dose of blood-pressure lowering medications and blood thinners may exaggerate the effect; so caution is advised. Refer to the monographs for more details.
Some people have weaned themselves off hypertensive medications and take 2 olive leaf tablets in the mornings and evenings. They say it is cheaper and are happy to have no unpleasant side effects and it also helps to prevent colds and flu. Some practitioners of Natural Medicine use them to ward off colds and flu – especially those who no longer believe in vaccinations. Olive leaf seems to zap all strains of “latest” colds and flu bugs, as it does with drug resistant malaria!
Olive leaf Monograph http://www.altmedrev.com/archive/publications/14/1/62.pdf
They say that monotherapies are not effective for malaria. How about herbs, could we combine them?
Now that we have discovered just how effective 100% olive leaf and Artemisia leaves are as very versatile remedies, combining them would provide an even wider therapeutic spectrum. However, sufficient quantities must be present – lest we fall into the trap of making claims and not delivering enough of the active ingredients per dose.
For Traditional Medicine in South Africa, no strict regulations or efficacy testing is required. For the average supplement manufacturer however, the cost of undertaking efficacy, safety and drug interaction trials of herbal combinations is exorbitant – if not crippling. Here is a typical example: for the past 20 years a 4 – part combination of Artemisia afra, olea Europa / afra, cloves and ivy leaf is sold in pharmacies and health shops as a Parasite Remedy*.
When taken as capsules or a tincture, the herbal combination has helped many people suffering from respiratory ailments, HIV / AIDS and tropical diseases such as malaria, leishmaniosis and malaria. It has also been used by travellers to prevent malaria on many occasions – even to places like Mozambique and Zanzibar. It was also used by a team of cyclists who travelled from Cape to Cairo.
In all cases, the parasite remedy also helped to prevent traveller’s diarrhoea, colds and flu. Yet the manufacturer may not even say what the product does on the label! Apart from dosage guidelines, the compulsory warning must be visible in English and Afrikaans: this product has not been evaluated by the Medicines Control Council and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness.
Meanwhile on the pavement one can buy a huge range of wild harvested herbs from our local “inyanga” medicine men. They are practitioners of Traditional Medicine and seem to be exempt from MCC regulations. They harvest their medicines – usually without supervision, at the expense of threatening plants that are nearly extinct. Their packets of herbal tea are freely distributed and are sold as a – z remedies for many common ailments. You can buy bundles of Artemisia afra cuttings from them – plus a bag of tea leaves to treat diabetes, gut problems and drive away evil spirits*.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternative_medicine
http://www.infobarrel.com/Traditional_Medicine_Grows_in_the_Ground_and_Cannot_be_Legislated
http://nordman.co.za/stockists.html (Artemisia)
https://naturefresh.co.za/products/nf-051-parasite-capsules-40-capsules/ (Parasite capsules and olive leaf) https://naturefresh.co.za/products/nf-042-parasite-remedy-200ml-tincture-20-alcohol/
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
How well do we control tooth decay?
How well do we care for our teeth these days?
A better understanding of oral hygiene is needed
Modern dental services are now so advanced; there should be very little tooth decay around. Yet like the common cold, tooth decay is one of the most common diseases mankind seems unable to cure. But can we prevent tooth decay? Yes – even before the teeth emerge we can help children to develop stronger teeth that are more resistant to tooth decay. Then it is up to the parents and not really the dentists to prevent tooth decay.
Q ) Where does tooth decay come from – are sweets really the “root” cause?
A ) No. It is the bacteria called streptococcus mutans that lives in the food residues that wrecks our teeth. Any food that ferments in the mouth – even healthy food that remains in the mouth can ferment and provide an acidic environment for this pathogenic type of bacteria to live.
However, some fermented foods produce beneficial or probiotic bacteria that help us to fight against bacteria that causes tooth decay. Cheese, for instance is fine as a snack food or to eat slowly – chewing and swishing it around the teeth. The lactobacillus bacteria makes the “bad” bacteria form into clumps and this stops them from sticking to our teeth.
Q ) Is it true that cavemen all had very good strong teeth and it was only when man started eating grains that teeth began to decay?
A ) No, not all early earth dwellers had good teeth as we like to assume. Newly discovered human skeletal remains in Morocco dating back to the Pleistocene era of 13 000 BC show signs of severe, widespread tooth decay thousands of years before humans invented farming.
Q ) So what did they eat?
A ) Certainly not sweets and sugar like we do! The food remains they studied showed that these ancient people ate lots of a particularly sweet type of acorn, which becomes soft and sticky when cooked. They also ate wild oats and legumes. This type of food, when left in the mouth can ferment and facilitate streptococcus mutans and thus tooth decay – as it does today. Even though crude toothpicks were discovered, they don’t seem to have rinsed out their mouths after eating food that was rich in starch. They also ate animal flesh, but no dairy products.
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/01/06/tooth-decay-archaeology/4307319/
There is however, plenty of evidence from Palaeolithic remains that show hominoids with excellent strong teeth. This group of hunter gatherers did not snack on sticky sweet carbohydrates so dental plaque was not full of acidic residues from bacteria. It is the acid that leeches the calcium out of our teeth. Ancient man did not have sparkling white teeth, they did not take fluoride or floss and some of their teeth were covered in green slime (plaque). But they did not have rotten teeth!
Q ) So is it true that plaque by itself is not the cause of tooth decay?
A ) food particles and saliva form a sticky film known as plaque which builds up on your teeth. When you consume food and drink high in carbohydrates (sugary or starchy), bacteria in plaque grow and produce acidic residues that break down your tooth’s surface. If left untreated, plaque that is infected with the streptococcus mutans bacteria can completely destroy the outside of the tooth and expose the nerves within the softer dentine and this leads to toothache.
http://www.your.md/condition/dental-decay
Q ) Is it only acidity from bacteria that attacks our teeth – what about the healthy habit of sipping lemon juice in water?
A ) Lemon juice mixed with saliva washes around the teeth, exposing them to citric acid and this does cause severe tooth decay. Fruit juice also causes a lot of tooth decay, especially when babies drink it from bottles throughout the day. Natural fruit juice can be high in sugar and now we know – it may be “healthy” but it rots our teeth.
Q ) Is there an alternative sweetener that is not harmful to teeth?
A ) Yes, xylitol. It can even help to prevent tooth decay before we are born! Consumption of xylitol is associated with a significant reduction in tooth decay, resulting in fewer cavities. Pure 100% pharmaceutical-grade xylitol is a white, crystalline carbohydrate that is classified as a sugar. It is found naturally in fibrous vegetables and fruits. Xylitol is produced by the human body during normal metabolism. It is a naturally occurring form of the 5-carbon sugar, xylose. The main sources of commercially produced xylitol are corncobs and wood scraps from the lumber industry.
Q ) What else do you recommend for preventing tooth decay?
- Keep the bacteria and acidity away from your teeth.
- As soon as you can after eating starches and sugars, rinse out your mouth with water.
- Suck xylitol sweets or chew gum that contains xylitol as this will help to kill the bad bacteria.
- Eating a piece of cheese after a meal will also help to control bad bacteria.
- Don’t sip at sour drinks for hours at a time. Ideally, use a straw to drink lemon juice.
- Brush your teeth and rinse out the mouth very well.
- If you have a dry mouth, be aware that it contributes to tooth decay. It is the side effect of some medications. Rinse the mouth with water and chew xylitol gum to promote the flow of saliva.
For more information about oral hygiene products that contain xylitol:
https://naturefresh.co.za/product-categories/oral-hygiene-products/
Try our Nature Fresh mouthwash for glorious breath.
