The Medicinal Values of Garlic - from Clove to Circulation

 Title: The Biochemistry and Pharmacology of Garlic: From Clove to Circulation

by: Lin Ru Wu alias Lim Ju Boo

 

In the mid 1960's I was doing my postgraduate in Nutrition at the University of London when one of my professors mentioned about the medicinal values of garlic. Today, I like to share further knowledge I gained  there about this valuable medicinal  clove 

Abstract:

Garlic (Allium sativum) has been revered since antiquity for its culinary and medicinal properties. This paper explores the biochemical transformation of garlic's sulfur compounds, particularly allicin and ajoene, through mechanical processing, digestion, and hepatic metabolism. It discusses the pharmacologically active derivatives of garlic, their bioavailability, and the evidence-based therapeutic doses. By synthesizing findings across food chemistry, enzymology, and clinical pharmacology, this work aims to serve as a concise but comprehensive resource for doctors, nutritionists,  healthcare enthusiasts and scholars

1. Introduction:

Garlic is widely recognized for its diverse medicinal applications, including antimicrobial, cardiovascular, and anticancer effects. These properties are attributed to sulfur-containing compounds formed upon cellular disruption of garlic tissues. While traditional knowledge praises garlic's benefits, understanding the journey of its bio-actives from raw clove to systemic circulation requires a multidisciplinary approach.

2. Allicin Formation: The Moment of Activation

Allicin is not present in intact garlic cloves. Upon mincing or crushing, the enzyme alliinase converts the stable compound alliin into allicin within 5 to 10 minutes. This enzymatic reaction is highly sensitive to:

• Heat (>60°C), which denatures alliinase

• Acidity, which can reduce enzyme efficiency

Reaction Pathway: Alliin (S-allyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide) + Alliinase → Allicin (diallyl thiosulfinate)

Waiting 10 minutes after crushing allows maximal allicin formation before further cooking or ingestion.

3. Stability and Degradation of Allicin

Allicin is unstable, reactive, and decomposes quickly into secondary sulphur compounds, including:

• Ajoene (anti-platelet, antifungal)

• Diallyl disulfide (DADS)

• Diallyl trisulfide (DATS)

• S-allyl cysteine (SAC) (stable, bioavailable in aged garlic)

Heat, time, and pH conditions all influence the breakdown pathway.

4. Oral Processing vs Mechanical Mincing

Chewing garlic activates alliinase, but swallowing too quickly reduces time for full allicin conversion. Saliva does not appear to inactivate alliinase significantly, but the enzymatic activity is more reliable in a controlled setting (e.g., mincing and waiting 10 minutes).

5. Gastrointestinal and Hepatic Fate

In the digestive tract:

• Allicin is mostly degraded in the stomach
• Derivatives like DADS, DATS, ajoene, and SAC survive and are absorbed

In the liver:

• Some compounds are metabolized but retain activity

• SAC is especially bioavailable and used in standardized supplements

6. Pharmacological Activity and Effective Doses

Compound	Effective Dose	Activity
Allicin	20–50        mg/day	Antimicrobial,                       antihypertensive
Ajoene	~10–25         mg/day	Antithrombotic,                   antifungal
SAC	Varies	Antioxidant, anti-                 inflammatory

Garlic supplements are typically standardized to 1.3% allicin content or 3.6 mg per 600 mg tablet. But this value may not be stable on storage as for garlic pills. I shall talk on this later.  

7. Preparation Guidelines for Maximum Medicinal Value

Method	Allicin Yield	Notes
Mince + wait 10 min + consume raw	Maximum	Best for medicinal use
Chewing raw garlic	Moderate	Faster ingestion limits yield
Cooking after 10 min rest	Mild	Low heat preserves some value
Aged garlic extract	High (SAC)	Ideal for long-term supplementation

8. Conclusion

While allicin itself is ephemeral, its derivatives may or may not persist and contribute meaningfully to garlic's therapeutic potential. For instance, from the very beginning I mentioned that in the mid 1960's when I was doing my postgraduate in Nutrition at the University of London when one of my professors mentioned about the medicinal values of garlic. But he also told us that they took over two dozens different types of garlic pills manufactured by various companies from various parts of the world and analyzed them for the presence of ajoene, the derivative of allicin since allicin is not stable. What the researchers at London University found was, even ajoene which was supposed to be more stable was not present in any of those hundreds of garlic pills. This implied that even the derivatives of allicin - ajoene is not stable when the garlic was processed into pill form or when stored in a bottle for sales. Probably garlic pills were  just oils - like any vegetable oil with no medicinal values in them?  

My strong advised is, when raw garlic has been minced or crushed, wait for at least 10 minutes for the enzyme alliinase to release the allicin and consume immediately - not longer than a few hours later. We are unsure if storing the minced raw garlic in a refrigerator will retain its medicinal values - allicin and its derivatives - DADS, DATS, ajoene, and SAC, since as far as I know, no study has been done on this. 

Understanding garlic as a sequence of biochemical transformations, from mechanical activation to hepatic metabolism, enables more effective use of this ancient botanical medicine.

References

1. Amagase H, Petesch BL, Matsuura H, Kasuga S, Itakura Y. Intake of garlic and its bioactive components. J Nutr. 2001 Mar;131(3s):955S-962S.

2. Lawson LD, Wang ZJ. Allicin and allicin-derived garlic compounds increase breath acetone through allyl methyl sulfide: Use in measuring functional allicin in garlic. J Agric Food Chem. 2005;53(6):1974-1983.

3. Dirsch VM, Kiemer AK, Wagner H, Vollmar AM. Effect of allicin and ajoene, two compounds of garlic, on inducible nitric oxide synthase. Atherosclerosis. 1998;139(2):333-339.

4. Rahman K. Effects of garlic on platelet biochemistry and physiology. Mol Nutr Food Res. 2007;51(11):1335-1344.

5. Iciek M, Kwiecien I, Wlodek L. Biological properties of garlic and garlic-derived organosulfur compounds. Environ Mol Mutagen. 2009;50(3):247-265.

Acknowledgments:

 Special gratitude to my friend and colleague, Professor Sage for his additional inputs that has inspired me to write this paper

Medicines in Mushrooms

 A paper  presented by Professor Dr Ong Wei Yi from the National University of Singapore and his colleagues on 

"Ergothioneine Treatment Ameliorates the Pathological
Phenotypes of Parkinson's Disease Models" 

https://sg.docworkspace.com/d/sIDLzzKWFAbncjcUG?sa=601.1037

This paper was presented at the 8th International Anatomical Sciences and Cell Biology Conference on 14 and 15th August, 2025 in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia 

Nature’s Healing Arsenal in Foods

 

Nature’s Healing Arsenal: Functional Foods and Phytochemicals in Disease Prevention and Therapy

by: 

Nutritionist Lim Ju Boo and Professor Dr M Sage MD PhD  

Abstract

Functional foods are increasingly recognized for their capacity to promote health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Beyond providing essential nutrients, these foods contain hundreds, if not thousands, of phytochemicals and bioactive compounds. These compounds, including ergothioneine in mushrooms, sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts, curcumin in turmeric, and catechins in green tea, play vital roles in modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolism, and immunity. This article provides a comprehensive overview of selected functional foods and their phytochemicals, with emphasis on mechanisms of action, disease-preventive roles, and evidence from clinical studies.

Introduction

The concept of functional foods extends beyond basic nutrition. These are everyday foods that confer specific physiological benefits or reduce disease risk, thanks to their natural bioactive components. Phytochemicals, a diverse class of plant- and microbe-derived compounds, exert health-promoting effects by interacting with cellular pathways. Unlike vitamins and minerals, phytochemicals are not considered essential nutrients, yet their presence in the human diet is associated with reduced risk of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and neurodegeneration.

Among the wide array of bioactives, certain compounds stand out due to their robust mechanistic evidence and clinical evaluation. These include ergothioneine and β‑glucans from mushrooms, sulforaphane from cruciferous vegetables, curcumin from turmeric, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea, organosulfur compounds from garlic, lycopene from tomatoes, and isoflavones from soy. Their health effects are mediated by key molecular pathways including activation of antioxidant defenses, suppression of pro-inflammatory signals, modulation of lipid and glucose metabolism, and regulation of immune responses.

Ergothioneine: The Longevity Molecule from Mushrooms

Ergothioneine is a sulphur-containing antioxidant produced by fungi and some bacteria, but not by plants or animals. Humans acquire it exclusively through diet, with mushrooms being the richest source. Ergothioneine is transported into cells by the specific transporter OCTN1 (SLC22A4) and preferentially accumulates in tissues exposed to high oxidative stress such as the liver, kidneys, brain, and eyes. It functions as a cytoprotectant, scavenging reactive oxygen species, preserving mitochondrial function, and reducing inflammation.

Recent studies suggest that lower plasma ergothioneine levels are associated with faster cognitive decline in older adults, raising the possibility that it may be a conditionally essential nutrient. Regular consumption of a variety of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, or king trumpet mushrooms, can help increase ergothioneine intake and simultaneously deliver β‑glucans with immune-modulating effects (Tian et al., 2023; Fu et al., 2022).

β‑Glucans: Immune and Metabolic Regulators

β‑Glucans are polysaccharides found in both cereals (such as oats and barley) and fungi (mushrooms and yeast). Their health benefits differ depending on the source. Cereal-derived β‑glucans form viscous gels in the gut, lowering LDL cholesterol by reducing intestinal absorption of cholesterol and increasing bile acid excretion. Large meta-analyses consistently show that consumption of 3 g/day of oat β‑glucan significantly reduces LDL cholesterol and improves lipid profiles (Yu et al., 2022; Noronha et al., 2023).

Fungal β‑glucans, on the other hand, interact with innate immune receptors such as Dectin‑1 and Toll-like receptors, priming immune cells and enhancing their pathogen-fighting ability. This “trained immunity” effect has implications for infection control and oncology, with β‑glucan supplements from mushrooms like shiitake and reishi under active clinical investigation (Cerletti et al., 2021).

Sulforaphane: A Cruciferous Defender

Broccoli sprouts are an exceptional source of sulforaphane, an isothiocyanate derived from glucoraphanin through enzymatic action by myrosinase. Sulforaphane potently activates the Nrf2 pathway, which regulates the expression of antioxidant and detoxification enzymes such as heme oxygenase‑1 and glutathione S‑transferases. In doing so, it enhances the body’s defense against oxidative damage and inflammation. Sulforaphane also influences mitochondrial function and has shown neuroprotective and anticancer properties in experimental models. Human trials indicate promising biomarker improvements, although outcome data remain mixed, often due to variability in preparation and bioavailability (Yan et al., 2024; Bessetti et al., 2025).

Curcumin: Golden Spice with Broad Potential

Curcumin, the active pigment of turmeric, is a pleiotropic molecule that targets multiple signaling pathways. It downregulates NF‑κB, a master regulator of inflammation, and influences epigenetic enzymes involved in gene regulation. Clinical studies and meta-analyses have demonstrated its efficacy in reducing C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor‑α, and markers of oxidative stress. Curcumin has shown benefits in conditions such as arthritis, metabolic syndrome, and certain cancers. However, its low bioavailability has limited its clinical translation, and modern formulations using piperine, phospholipids, or nanoparticles are helping to overcome this challenge (Dehzad et al., 2023; Lee et al., 2024).

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG): Green Tea’s Polyphenolic Star

Green tea is rich in catechins, with EGCG being the most studied. EGCG influences multiple signaling cascades including AMPK activation, PI3K/Akt/mTOR inhibition, and suppression of NF‑κB. It exhibits anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and anticancer properties. Clinical evidence supports its role in improving cardiovascular risk markers and as a potential adjunct in oncology. However, caution is warranted with high-dose extracts due to rare cases of hepatotoxicity, whereas brewed green tea remains a safe and effective option (Capasso et al., 2025).

Garlic Organosulfur Compounds: Traditional Medicine with Modern Proof

Garlic has been used for centuries as both food and medicine. Its organosulfur compounds, such as allicin, diallyl disulfide, and S‑allyl‑cysteine, exhibit antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cardiovascular benefits. Mechanistically, these compounds act as hydrogen sulfide donors, reduce platelet aggregation, and modulate lipid metabolism. Clinical studies support modest reductions in blood pressure and cholesterol with garlic consumption, with effects varying by preparation type (Seki et al., 2025; El‑Saadony et al., 2024).

Lycopene: The Tomato’s Red Shield

Lycopene, a carotenoid found abundantly in tomatoes, is a powerful singlet oxygen quencher. It accumulates in tissues such as the prostate and adrenal glands, influencing signaling pathways including insulin-like growth factor‑1. Observational studies and meta-analyses have linked higher lycopene intake to reduced cancer risk, particularly prostate cancer, and lower overall cancer mortality. Lycopene absorption is enhanced by cooking and co-consumption with oils, making tomato-based dishes with olive oil particularly beneficial (Balali et al., 2025).

Isoflavones: Soy’s Phytoestrogenic Benefits

Soy isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein, act as selective estrogen receptor β agonists. They modulate tyrosine kinase activity and influence epigenetic regulation. Clinical evidence supports their role in reducing menopausal symptoms, improving bone health, and supporting cardiovascular function. Their impact on hormone-sensitive cancers is complex and context-dependent, requiring individualized dietary advice (Sharifi‑Rad et al., 2021; Zhang et al., 2025).

Summary Conclusion: 

Functional foods and their phytochemicals form a natural arsenal against chronic disease. They modulate oxidative stress, inflammation, immune defense, and metabolic regulation, offering preventive and adjunctive benefits. A food-first approach, emphasizing mushrooms, crucifers, turmeric, green tea, garlic, tomatoes, soy, oats, and barley, provides a practical and safe way to harness these benefits. While supplements may be useful in targeted cases, dietary integration remains the most sustainable strategy. More research is needed to define optimal intake levels, bioavailability strategies, and long-term clinical outcomes, but the existing evidence strongly supports their role in human health.

References

1. Tian X, et al. Ergothioneine: an underrecognised dietary micronutrient. Biochem J. 2023.

2. Fu TT, et al. Ergothioneine as a Natural Antioxidant Against Oxidative Damage. Front Pharmacol. 2022.

3. Cerletti C, et al. Edible Mushrooms and Beta‑Glucans: Impact on Human Health. Nutrients. 2021.

4. Yu J, et al. Effects of Oat Beta‑Glucan Intake on Lipid Profiles: Meta‑analysis. Nutrients. 2022.

5. Noronha JC, et al. Effect of Oat Beta‑Glucan on LDL‑C, non‑HDL‑C and apoB: SRMA. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2023.

6. Yan Z, et al. Sulforaphane’s NRF2 and Antiviral Activities. iScience/Cell Rep Med. 2024.

7. Bessetti RN, et al. Sulforaphane neuroprotection review. Front Neurosci. 2025.

8. Dehzad MJ, et al. Antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory effects of curcumin/turmeric: Meta‑analysis of RCTs. Phytother Res. 2023.

9. Lee YM, et al. Is Curcumin Intake Really Effective for Chronic Inflammation? Nutrients. 2024.

10. Capasso L, et al. EGCG: Pharmacological Update. Pharmaceutics. 2025.

11. Seki T, et al. Functionality of garlic sulfur compounds (Review). Exp Ther Med. 2025.

12. El‑Saadony MT, et al. Garlic bioactive substances and therapeutic applications. Front Immunol. 2024.

13. Balali A, et al. Dietary and blood lycopene with cancer risk/mortality: Meta‑analysis. Nutrients. 2025.

14. Sharifi‑Rad J, et al. Genistein: Mode of Action & Health Outcomes. Nutrients. 2021.

15. Zhang K, et al. Genistein mechanisms in oxidative stress & inflammation. Antioxidants. 2025.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice. Always consult healthcare professionals such as a qualified nutritionist or a dietician before making major dietary or supplement changes.

Paper on the Management of Dementia by Traditional Chinese Medicine

 A paper on the Treatment of Dementia by Traditional Chinese Medicine by Professor Dr Ong Wei Yi et al  

Department of Anatomy, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore   Chair, LSI Neurobiology Programme Steering Committee, NUS Centre for Life ..

https://sg.docworkspace.com/d/sIPzrptKmAr2tiMUG?sa=601.1074

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12035-018-0908-0

Are We Saved by Faith Alone or by Our Good Works - a Christian Perspective

 Last evening, Saturday, 16 August, 2025 I was having a family dinner with Professor  Dr  Ong  Wei Yi who is my nephew from the National University of Singapore.

He was here in Kuala Lumpur with his pharmacist wife Lim Siew Mei for a two day conference on Neuroanatomy where he presented a paper. 

During dinner we talked about Christianity, and he being a Christian probably belonging to the protestant church told me  we receive Salvation from Jesus through faith alone. I did not discuss this one single sentence further with him as I seldom see him, and there were so many other stories to talk about. 

Today, being a Sunday, 18 August 2025 I had lunch with my nephew Vincent Lee who was also present during dinner last evening. He told me his late wife (my niece) and their daughter are both Catholic. 

After lunch I decided to remain at home to pen my personal view all day long till night on this, both from the Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox point of view. 

I would now like to dedicate my independent thoughts to Wei Yi and probably for Vincent's daughter also, though she was absent for dinner or lunch 

Here's my combination thoughts guided silently through my still small voice: 

Faith, Works, and the Still Small Voice: Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Perspectives on Salvation

Abstract

The question of salvation is,  whether by faith, works, or both,  has long divided Christians. Catholics, Protestants, and Orthodox believers who hold different emphases, yet all agree that authentic faith must express itself in love and action.

Catholics: 

Salvation is a lifelong process through faith, good works, and sacraments (James 2:17; Matthew 25:31–46).

Protestants: 

Salvation is by grace through faith alone (sola fide), not by works (Ephesians 2:8–9). Yet, true faith always produces fruit (James 2:18).

Orthodox: 

Salvation is theosis (union with God), where faith transforms the believer into Christ-likeness, expressed in love (John 13:35).

All three traditions recognize the role of conscience, namely, the “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12) — guiding believers to act in mercy and compassion. Without faith, conscience falls silent; without conscience, works lose meaning; without works, faith is dead (James 2:26).

The Catholic View

The Catholic Church teaches that salvation is a lifelong journey involving faith, good works, and the sacraments. Faith opens the door to God’s grace, but grace must be lived out in action.

“Faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead” (James 2:17).

Jesus’ parable of the Sheep and the Goats teaches that those who feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and visit the sick will inherit the kingdom (Matthew 25:31–46).

Conscience is central in Catholic teaching, described as “the inner voice of God’s law written on our hearts” (Romans 2:15). Catholics believe that to ignore conscience is to turn away from God. Faith, guided by conscience, naturally bears fruit in works of mercy.

The Protestant View

Protestants emphasize salvation by grace through faith alone (sola fide). They turn often to Paul’s words:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8–9).

Good works cannot earn salvation. However, genuine faith is never idle. As James challenges:
“Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works” (James 2:18).

For Protestants, conscience is guided by Scripture alone (sola Scriptura). Faith awakens the heart, and conscience confirms the call to love and service. Luther himself said that “faith is a living, busy, active, mighty thing,” always bearing good fruit (Galatians 5:6).

The Orthodox View

The Eastern Orthodox Church understands salvation as theosis , a lifelong process of becoming united with God. Faith begins this journey, but it must grow through prayer, worship, and works of love.

Jesus said: “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). To believe in Christ is to walk as He walked, showing mercy, forgiving, and healing.

Orthodox spirituality calls conscience the “eye of the soul.” But sin can darken it (John 3:19–21). Through prayer, fasting, and sacraments (like confession and Eucharist), conscience is purified, enabling believers to follow God’s will more fully.

Good works are not “duties” but the natural overflow of divine love. As Paul writes: “It is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).

A Comparative Glance

Aspect	Catholic Church	Protestant Churches	Eastern Orthodox Church
Authority	Bible (73 books) + Tradition + Magisterium (Pope, bishops).	Bible alone (sola Scriptura, 66 books).	Bible (Septuagint tradition) + Holy Tradition (Fathers, liturgy).
Salvation	Faith + works + sacraments (James 2:17; Matthew 25:31–46).	Grace through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8–9); works as fruit (James 2:18).	Theosis: lifelong union with God (2 Peter 1:4).
Faith	Opens grace; must be lived out (Galatians 5:6).	Central and sufficient; true faith is active (Romans 3:28).	Seed of divine life, transforming into Christ-likeness (John 17:21).
Works	Necessary fruit; evidence of faith (James 2:26).	Evidence of faith, not basis of salvation (Ephesians 2:10).	Outflow of divine love (John 13:35).
Conscience	Inner voice of God’s law (Romans 2:15).	Guided by Scripture; confirms faith (Hebrews 9:14).	“Eye of the soul,” purified by prayer (1 Timothy 1:5).
Jesus’ Teachings	Matthew 25; Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5–7).	John 3:16; Romans 5:1; James 2:18–26.	John 13:35; Matthew 6:33; Luke 6:36.

Faith and Works Together

Despite differences, all traditions agree: faith and works cannot be separated. Jesus Himself never said “faith alone.” Instead, He tied faith to action:

1. The Good Samaritan: “Go and do likewise” (Luke 10:25–37).
2. The Rich Man and Lazarus: condemned for ignoring mercy (Luke 16:19–31).
3. The Sheep and the Goats: judged by acts of compassion (Matthew 25:31–46).
4. The Sermon on the Mount: blessed are the merciful, peacemakers, and pure in heart (Matthew 5:3–10).
*Not everyone who says ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter the kingdom, but he who does the will of my Father” (Matthew 7:21).

5. To “believe in Him” (John 3:16) means to trust Him fully, follow His example, and live His teachings.

My Personal Conclusion

Faith, conscience, and works are not rivals but companions.

Faith is the root.

Conscience is the sap that carries life through the soul.

Good works are the fruit seen by the world.

Without faith, conscience falls silent; without conscience, works lose meaning; without works, faith is barren (James 2:26).

Though Catholics, Protestants, and Orthodox differ in emphasis, the call of Christ is the same: to let faith awaken conscience, and let conscience lead to works of mercy, for in doing so, we walk in His footsteps.

Alternative Natural Agents in the Management of Diabetes Mellitus

 

A lot of my own former colleagues who are doctors and countless patients, including mine have consulted me on other therapeutics options in treating diabetes other than using drugs.

 

First  of all, let me very briefly explain how diabetes is currently treated using conventional medicines 

Diabetes is treated with a variety of medications,

including oral drugs and insulin. Oral medications

include sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide, glyburide,

gliclazide, glimepiride) that stimulate the pancreas to

release more insulin. Meglitinides ((e.g., repaglinide,

nateglinide) are similar to sulfonylureas, stimulating

insulin release, but with a shorter duration of action.

Biguanides ( (e.g., metformin) primarily work by

reducing glucose production by the liver and

improving insulin sensitivity. Thiazolidinediones, α-

glucosidase inhibitors, DPP-4 inhibitors, SGLT2

inhibitors, and bile acid sequestrants. Then we also

have GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (e.g., exenatide,

liraglutide, dulaglutide, semaglutide). These are

injectable medications that stimulate insulin release,

slow gastric emptying, and reduce appetite. Besides

these there are also Pramlintide which is an injectable

medication that mimics the effects of amylin, a

hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels after

meals. 

Insulin is also available in various formulations, including rapid-acting, short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting types, and is used to manage both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. 

We shall not go any further into all these anti-diabetic drugs  as my  purpose here is to write on other more effective and safer natural medicine that have traditionally been used that patients have told me are much more effective than conventional drugs.

Let me now write a short review paper here on other alternative options that are used traditionally where many  patients have told me they were permanent cured and now free from diabetes, after their doctors have failed to cure them permanently using those drugs mentioned above 

Alternative Natural Agents in the Management of Diabetes Mellitus: Mechanistic Insights

Abstract

This review examines four natural or supplemental agents, namely, 

Orthosiphon stamineus (Misai Kucing), Swietenia mahagoni (Tunjuk Langit), Momordica charantia (Bitter Melon), and chromium (especially chromium picolinate as glucose tolerance factor) -focusing on their mechanistic roles in glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and diabetic complication mitigation, based on current in vitro, in vivo, and limited human studies.

1. Orthosiphon stamineus (Misai Kucing)

1.1 Hypoglycemic activity and glucose metabolism

The chloroform sub-fraction (Cƒ2-b) of O. stamineus significantly reduced blood glucose levels in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats without altering plasma insulin levels, suggesting an insulin-independent mechanism such as enhancing peripheral glucose uptake [1].

1.2 Glucose uptake and enzyme inhibition

Aqueous extracts have been shown to increase glucose uptake and consumption in adipocytes (3T3-L1 cells), indicating potential insulin-mimetic or sensitising activity [2].
Flavonoid constituents such as sinensetin inhibit carbohydrate-digesting enzymes α-glucosidase and α-amylase, with IC₅₀ values as low as 0.66 mg/mL [3].

1.3 Antioxidant and GLUT4-mediated effects

Water extracts exhibit antioxidant activity and promote GLUT4 translocation to skeletal muscle cell membranes, enhancing glucose uptake [4].
A systematic review has identified rosmarinic acid, betulinic acid, tormentic acid, and orthosiphols among the bioactive compounds responsible for these effects [5].

2. Swietenia mahagoni (Tunjuk Langit)

2.1 Hypoglycemic and α-glucosidase inhibitory properties

Seeds of Swietenia macrophylla exhibit hypoglycemic activity in diabetic rats, likely due to reduced carbohydrate absorption and delayed postprandial glucose rise [6,7].

2.2 Glucose tolerance improvement

Purified seed extract demonstrates α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with an IC₅₀ of approximately 4.7 µg/mL, and improves glucose tolerance in animal models [8].

2.3 Antioxidant and cardioprotective effects

Nanoparticle formulations of S. macrophylla seed extract have been found to reduce oxidative stress in diabetic rat cardiac tissues by lowering malondialdehyde (MDA), enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity, and upregulating nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2), thus protecting cardiac cells from hyperglycemia-induced injury [9].

3. Momordica charantia (Bitter Melon) 

3.1 Multi-component activity

Bitter melon contains polypeptide-P (an insulin-like peptide), charantin, saponins, flavonoids, polysaccharides, and triterpenoids, all of which contribute to its hypoglycemic effects [10,11].

3.2 Mechanistic pathways

Its mechanisms include antioxidant protection of pancreatic β-cells, reduced intestinal glucose absorption, inhibition of hepatic gluconeogenesis, increased hepatic glycogen storage, and stimulation of glucose oxidation [10].
Certain compounds activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), enhancing glucose uptake and improving metabolic regulation [10,12].
Polypeptide-P and lectins exert insulin-like effects by stimulating glucose uptake via increased insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) phosphorylation and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway activation [13,14].

Additional studies suggest modulation of incretin signaling through TGR5 activation, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) release, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibition [15].

4. Chromium (particularly Chromium Picolinate as GTF)

4.1 Role in insulin signaling

Chromium picolinate supplementation has been shown in some studies to enhance insulin sensitivity, increase insulin receptor kinase activity, improve insulin receptor mRNA expression, and support insulin-like growth factor receptor synthesis [16,17,18].

4.2 Chromodulin mediation

A proposed mechanism involves low-molecular-weight chromium-binding substance (chromodulin) binding to Cr³⁺, which then interacts with the insulin receptor to prolong tyrosine kinase activation and enhance glucose uptake [19,20].

4.3 Clinical evidence and limitations

Meta-analyses report modest improvements in fasting glucose and HbA₁c in insulin-resistant individuals, though findings are inconsistent [16,18].

Safety is generally acceptable at 200–1,000 µg/day, but high doses may pose risks in those with renal or hepatic impairment [18,21].

Summary Table

Agent	Main Mechanisms
Orthosiphon stamineus	↑ Peripheral glucose uptake; α-glucosidase/α-amylase inhibition; antioxidant effects; GLUT4 translocation
Swietenia mahagoni	α-Glucosidase inhibition; delayed carbohydrate absorption; antioxidant & cardioprotective effects
Momordica charantia	Insulin-mimetic peptides; AMPK activation; reduced gluconeogenesis; improved insulin signaling
Chromium (picolinate)	Enhances insulin receptor activity; chromodulin-mediated kinase activation; modest glycemic improvement

References

1. Sriplang K, et al. J Ethnopharmacol. 2007;109(3):510-4.

2. Yam MF, et al. Pharmaceutics. 2023;15(3):945.

3. Akowuah GA, et al. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2012;12:176.

4. Yam MF, et al. Pharmaceutics. 2023;15(3):945.

5. Mohamed EA, et al. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:819984.

6. Rahman MA, et al. J Tradit Complement Med. 2020;10(1):48-54.

7. Fadeyi SA, et al. Pharmacogn Mag. 2013;9(Suppl 1):S1-7.

8. Arifuddin M, et al. Biomed Pharmacol J. 2023;16(3):1485-94.

9. Fadilah NR, et al. Pharmaceuticals. 2023;16(7):973.

10. Joseph B, Jini D. Asian Pac J Trop Dis. 2013;3(2):93-102.

11. Wang S, et al. Front Pharmacol. 2022;13:904643.

12. Tan MJ, et al. Br J Pharmacol. 2008;155(6):1056-63.

13. Ahmad N, et al. J Pharm Technol Clin Pharm. 2016;8(3):5215-23.

14. Nerurkar PV, et al. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2006;6:10.

15. Harinantenaina L, et al. Bioorg Med Chem Lett. 2006;16(23):5635-8.

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Doctor is A Treater, Not A Healer – A Spiritual Reflection on Healing

A Doctor is a Treater, Not a Healer 

By  Lin Ru Wu (not Lim Ju Boo)

Summary: 

At best, a doctor can only treat a patient holistically as a living being composed of body, mind, and soul. At worst, he may regard the patient as a malfunctioning machine to be "oiled" with drugs or repaired via surgery. But in neither case does the doctor possess the power to heal.

A Personal Encounter and Its Deeper Implications:

Yesterday, I conversed with a physician friend, my former colleague, who described himself as a healer. Out of respect for our long-standing friendship since college, I refrained from expressing my disagreement, although I fundamentally oppose that notion.

This is because a doctor, by training and practice, can treat a patient but cannot truly heal him. More often than not, even the act of treating lacks a holistic perspective. A doctor frequently focuses on the disease itself, applying drugs, chemicals in essence, without attending to the entirety of the patient as a person with body, mind, and soul.

Hence, I assert unequivocally: no doctor, whether practising traditional medicine or modern scientific medicine, can rightly claim to be a healer. The reality is that only the human body possesses the inherent, divinely programmed capacity to heal itself. In fact this is the proverb or motto I specifically spelt out when I first started writing in this blog nearly 20 years ago.

"A True Doctor is One Who Teaches, The Best Healer is Your Own Body" 

 A doctor may treat a patient endlessly, but treatment alone is not healing.

The Unique Authority of Jesus Christ in Healing

The only being capable of true, instantaneous healing without chemical intervention, unlike the pharmaceutical paradigm introduced by John D. Rockefeller over a century ago or the medical-surgical systems of the modern era, is Jesus Christ. His healing was never a process; it was an instantaneous transformation, achieved through His voice or touch.

Jesus did not engage in treatment. He healed. The blind received their sight not after a course of medication but immediately. The paralysed walked without physiotherapy. Lepers were cleansed in an instant. Even the dead responded to His command.

These acts overrode the natural biological healing timelines and processes. Jesus healed wholly, beyond any scientific or medical intervention. Neither traditional nor modern practitioners can compare. Medical doctors, therefore, cannot be rightly called healers. They are, at most, facilitators or treaters. The true healing force resides in the miraculous, God-given intelligence of the body, which declares:

"I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well"
(Psalm 139:14)

How Jesus was able to heal instantly, without requiring an appointment, a six-month wait, a detailed medical history, a battery of blood and urine tests, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, PET scans, or ultrasounds, nor the administration of chemicals disguised under the noble name of 'medicines', is not for us to question, but to humbly acknowledge as a manifestation of His Divine power."

See further elaboration here:

The Unsung Sentinel: How Our Immune System Protects Us Every Moment

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/search?q=immune+system

On Healing: A Physiological and Spiritual Distinction 

In today’s discourse, the term "healer" is casually applied to medical doctors, traditional practitioners, and other healthcare providers. Though respectful in intent, this conflation obscures a crucial distinction between treatment and healing, a difference that is not merely linguistic but philosophically and biologically profound.

The Doctor’s Role as a Treater

A doctor is trained in anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and clinical methods to diagnose and manage illness. Treatments may involve pharmaceuticals, surgery, therapy, or preventative counsel. However, none of these constitutes healing. The doctor merely facilitates the conditions necessary for the body’s natural healing mechanisms to operate.

Consider wound repair: A physician may clean and suture the injury, but it is the body that activates coagulation cascades, recruits inflammatory cells, deploys fibroblasts, deposits collagen, and regenerates epithelium. Likewise, antibiotics suppress pathogens, but the immune system clears infections. Chemotherapeutics may shrink tumours, yet long-term remission relies on the body's restorative capacity.

Thus, a doctor treats, but healing, if it occurs, is autonomously orchestrated by the body’s internal processes. Sometimes, despite the best treatment, healing does not take place. As doctors, we can't even cure even common diseases like diabetes mellitus, high blood pressure, cancer,  dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, advanced lung, heart, kidney and liver disease,  stroke and other neurological diseases, including motor neurone disease and multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, muscular dystrophy, HIV/AIDS...etc, etc...just to name a few. 

The True Healer: Divine Biological Intelligence

Each human being is endowed with intricate, highly sophisticated self-regulatory systems, homeostasis, tissue regeneration, immune defence, neuroplasticity, and psychological resilience, all designed for healing. These processes are not human inventions but are deeply embedded in the divine blueprint of life.

Their origin is neither pharmaceutical nor academic. These healing mechanisms arise from the Creator, who formed humanity with profound complexity and purpose:

“Fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:14)

The Supreme Healer: Jesus Christ

Where human intervention requires time and biological cooperation, Jesus bypassed all limitations. His acts of healing were absolute: immediate, total, and unrepeatable by human means. The blind, the lame, the leprous, and even the dead responded instantly to His will.

These miracles were not symbolic but literal demonstrations of divine authority. Christ did not simply restore physical function, He redeemed the soul. He healed the emotionally broken, forgave sins, cast out evil, and conferred spiritual wholeness. Healing, in its truest and most transcendent form, is the redemption of the soul for eternal life:

“By His wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5)

This verse refers not to physical therapy but to salvation, God’s remedy for the human condition. 

Despite His unmatched healing powers, Jesus never referred to Himself as “Dr. Jesus” or “the Great Physician” in title. His humility sharply contrasts with our modern professional pride where we address ourselves as "doctors" when we are just treaters. It serves as a lesson of human pride against divine modesty. Respect is what we need to earn humbly without us even wanting it. We cannot demand others to respect us. We must not glorify ourselves, but to glorify God to the highest who vested those horrendous powers of healing to His only Son, Jesus Christ who came to this world not to heal the sick - which was only a very, very small side-benefit - a teeny-tiny gift to those who were sick during His time. He came here not to heal the sick but His mission was far, far more important than that - to save our souls from eternal destruction from being cast into the Lake of Fire.  The gift of an eternal life is far, far more important to all of us than temporary physical healing in this world. He came  to give us eternal life only if we accept Him as our Saviour.  

 

Modern Misconceptions: A Matter of Titles and Truth

To call a physician a “healer” is understandable but both theologically and biologically imprecise. A more accurate and humble designation would be "caretaker," "facilitator," or simply, "treater", or a healthcare professional, one who assists rather than commands healing. Even the most gifted traditional healers operate within the biological parameters set by God.

Healing is not the product of human skill; it is a sacred gift. When it defies biology, it becomes a miracle. 

Giving Honour Its Rightful Place

This perspective is not meant to undermine doctors. Their role is vital and deserves immense respect, especially in emergency and critical care settings. I have already written a highly technical article where I outlined the treatment protocols used by emergency physicians in managing life-threatening conditions here:

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/2025/08/emergency-protocol-for-management-of.html

 I have also briefly written a simple course on pharmacology - how drugs works to alter an abnormal body chemistry here: 

https://scientificlogic.blogspot.com/2025/08/beyond-pill-critical-review-of.html

But to call ourselves “healers” is to overstep both scientific understanding and spiritual truth. We must remember: the body, created by God, is the healer. And above all, it is Jesus Christ, the Lord of Life, who heals both flesh and soul.

Let us honour doctors, nurse clinicians, paramedics, pharmacists, dietitians, nutritionists, clinical psychologists, physiotherapists, and all healthcare workers for their dedication. But let us reserve our worship and glory for God alone, the sole Healer and Sustainer of life.

 Truth and Identity

In sharing these reflections, I hope to clarify the profound difference between one who treats and one who truly heals. I extend this with the utmost respect and warmth for all my colleagues, especially those in medicine.

Lastly, a personal note: my true Chinese name is Lin Ru Wu 

My  name Lin Ru Wu  written in Chinese characters is:

林 如 武

to mean: 

林 (Lín) — forest, 如 (Rú), like / as if / similar to and 武 (Wǔ) to mean  martial / warrior / military

So, my actual name - 林 如 武 can be interpreted as:

“Like a forest of warriors” or “Forest-like martial spirit”

The Chinese characters evoke a powerful image, calm, natural strength (forest), with the noble, disciplined energy of a warrior (武).

My registered name Lim Ju Boo has neither any meaning in Chinese or in English -  a distinction lost due to a clerical error by a birth registrar. Often in life, we are misled or misnamed, missing the truth. But truth, once known, must be acknowledged.

May we all seek the truth, in both science and spirit, and live by it.

With reverence and affection,

 Lin Ru Wu (林 如 武)