Although the peoples of all continents and cultures have been using different kinds of natural products for centuries, their mechanisms of action are poorly understood. Interestingly, most of these products "work," and paradoxically we are witnessing a great limitation of existing pharmacological targets and agents for various new diseases, such as HIV, as well as those that affect the growing aged population worldwide. This volume presents research focused on the molecular basis of action of different natural products and their applications to various diseases, including cancer, brain disorders, and infectious diseases. Promising natural therapies are scrutinized and evaluated in an effort to advance rigorous scientific analysis of these products and therapies, including achieving neuroprotection through herbal extracts, plant products, and dietary supplements. The role of antioxidants and free radicals from natural products in health and disease is also explored.
The research findings presented in this volume focus on botanical, nutritional, and pharmacological strategies for improving general health and slowing normal aging, and the contributors are scientists recognized for their molecular and mechanistic work in this area. African medicine, traditional Chinese and other east Asian medicines, and ayurvedic medicine are addressed, as are a range of other natural treatments/enhancements in current use.
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