New Delhi: Inflammation is a normal process in the body. It occurs in response to an injury, infection or some other damage. But if inflammation persists for a long time, this can also be dangerous. This can cause risk of heart diseases or even arthritis. Several allopathy medicines are given to control inflammation, but these may have side effects. Arctigenin found in the burdock plant can also reduce inflammation. This plant is easily available in several parts of the country. This can control any disease caused by inflammation. The above has been found by the Patanjali Herbal Research Department, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar.
This research has been published in Gavin Publishers Journal. The main researcher in this research is Acharya Balkrishna of Patanjali. The researchers found that arctigenin is a natural lignin compound found in many plants, especially burdock (Arctium lappa). Apart from this, it is also found in Saussurea involucrata. Arctigenin has anti-inflammatory, anti-viral properties. It also has antioxidant properties which can neutralise free radicals present in the body and prevent cells from growing rapidly in the body.
How is inflammation dangerous for the body?
If inflammation persists in the body for a long time, it can cause arthritis, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, heart disease and neuro-degenerative disorders. Research has shown that Arctigenin inhibits NF-κB in the body, thereby reducing inflammation. Arctigenin also reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines. It also reduces oxidative stress. It also controls many types of enzymes. This reduces inflammation in the body. This reduction provides relief from joint pain and also reduces the risk of neuro-degenerative disorders.
What is the future course of action?
The researchers said that these were initial findings. This research has been carried out on mice, as of now. In such a situation, there is a need to conduct large-scale clinical trials regarding the benefits of Arctigenin. Further research is also needed on the pharmacokinetics of arctigenin. More needs to be learned about its safety profile and its effects in humans.
