Abstract: Cactus pear (Opuntia) extract compositions, their methods of preparation, and their uses in products are provided. The Opuntia extract compositions are a mixture of an extract prepared by extraction of Opuntia fruit/fruit parts, combined with an extract prepared by extraction of Opuntia cladodes/cladode parts. The resulting Opuntia extract compositions exhibit improved therapeutic characteristics as compared with known Opuntia fruit juices or extracts, including increased hypoglycemic effects.

Abstract: A method for treating a disease comprising administering to a mammal in need thereof an effective dosage of an extract of a plant of the genus Hoodia, wherein the disease is selected from the group consisting of immune-mediated disorders, immune-associated disorders, inflammatory diseases, coronary disease, insulin resistance and liver-related diseases. In a preferred embodiment, the Hoodia is Hoodia parviflora. Also disclosed is a pharmaceutical composition for treating the above diseases comprising an effective dosage of an extract of a plant of the genus Hoodia.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to (the use of) a solution containing at least one nucleic acid (sequence) and free mannose for lyophilization, transfection and/or injection, particularly of RNA and mRNA. The inventive solution exhibits a positive effect on stabilization of the nucleic acid (sequence) during lyophilization and storage but also leads to a considerable increase of the transfection efficiency of a nucleic acid. It thus also increases in vivo expression of a protein encoded by such a nucleic acid upon increased transfection rate. The present invention is furthermore directed to a method of lyophilization using the mannose-containing solution, to pharmaceutical compositions, vaccines, kits, first and second medical uses applying such a mannose-containing solution and/or a nucleic acid (sequence) lyophilized or resuspended with such a solution.

Abstract: This invention relates to extracts and refined fractions of a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, Alpinia officinarum (AO), components thereof, and the use of such compounds and compositions to treat neurodegenerative or neuropathological conditions or to inhibit aggregation of a-synuclein.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, health foods and medical device compositions comprising polysaccharides from Opuntia Ficus Indica cladodes in combination with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory plant extracts as well as those from Olive leaf, Capparis Spinosa buttons, anthocianosides from red oranges, black rice or from other natural sources and their combinations, useful for prevention and therapy of hemorrhoidal disease and related diseases. The invention compositions may, be applied topically or administered by oral route.

Abstract: To provide a material composed mainly of a material derived from dragon fruit having to provide a supplement, a drug, a cosmetic or a food produced by using the material. The invention provides a material derived from dragon fruit, especially, a powder of dragon fruit, and a supplement, a drug, a cosmetic or a food containing the above material as a component.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition including a Laurus nobilis leaf extract as an active ingredient, and particularly, to a composition for preventing or treating hangover including the Laurus nobilis leaf extract, a food composition for preventing or relieving hangover including the Laurus nobilis leaf extract, and a method for preparing the composition. Since the composition according to the present invention includes the Laurus nobilis leaf extract, it has a remarkably excellent effect of lowering blood concentrations of alcohol and acetaldehyde. Its hangover-preventing and treating effects were confirmed by behavioral tests, and thus the composition can be widely applied to foods, drugs, or functional health foods which can be effectively used for preventing and treating hangover.

Abstract: The present invention is embodied by a composition capable inducing weight loss in a patient in need thereof.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions of matter useful for the treatment of diabetes. In one embodiment a nutraceutical composition is administered to a patient in need, said composition comprising of one or more ingredients selected from a group consisting of: magnesium, chromium picolinate, alpha lipoic acid, Garcina indica, holy basil, Morodica charantica, cinnamon, Salacia reticulate, Salacia oblonga, Gymnema sylvestre, nopal cactus, fenu greek, vanadium, 1-carnitine, and vitamin D3.

Abstract: Provided is a method of manufacturing healthy drink using Opuntia ficus-indica, which includes the steps of: removing fruits and thorns from stems of the Opuntia ficus-indica, washing the stems of the Opuntia ficus-indica, and mixing and grinding 90% to 99.5% by weight of the washed stems of the Opuntia ficus-indica and 0.5% to 10% by weight of roasted ginkgo nuts to thereby prepare a crude liquid of mixed materials; mixing 50% to 60% by weight of the crude liquid of mixed materials and 40% to 50% by weight of water; ripening and filtering the diluted crude liquid for 12 hours to 24 hours at temperature of 60° C. to 80° C.; mixing 0.2% to 1% by weight of at least one of pure crystalline fructose and fructooligosaccharine to 99% to 99.8% by weight of the filtered crude liquid; and sterilizing the crude liquid.

Abstract: A method for producing a cactus fruit extract for use in formulating a beverage which can be used in the treatment of veisalgia.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an all-natural composition of matter and methods of delivering nutrients, medicines, pain relievers, antioxidants, antidotes, antibiotics and various active ingredients and supplements directly to the affected area of the body. The all-natural carrier composition consists essentially of the combination of a natural oil, water, salt(s), natural emulsifier, natural sugar(s), plant extracts, natural acid(s), starch and natural flavor(s). The active substances that are mixed with the all-natural carrier composition, include, but are not limited to, drugs, vitamins, minerals, antibiotics anti-fungal agents, antioxidants, diuretics, allergy medicines, anti-inflammatory agents, muscle relaxers, pain reducers, diabetic drugs, neuropathy drugs, chemotherapy agents, arthritis drugs, lotions for eczema, shingles, psoriasis, skin rash; herbal medicines, erectile dysfunction drugs, hormones, cholesterol drugs, essential fatty acids, and the like.

Abstract: This invention provides a composition and method for countering the effects of alcohol consumption by a person. The composition provided is a specifically proportion combination of various vitamins, potassium, magnesium, milk thistle extract, amino acids, green tea extract, prickly pear extract, malic acid, and optionally Maqui berry extract, and various other additives for flavor and preservatives for a liquid formulation. The method includes orally administering the composition to a person under the influence of alcohol.

Abstract: A chewable appetite suppressant composition includes a Hoodia extract, a 5-hydroxytryptophan, a Gymnema Sylvestre, and at least one amino acid derivative. The chewable appetite suppressant composition may further include flavorants.

Abstract: The invention relates to a drug or a dermatological composition containing an avocado peptide extract for treating and/or preventing pruritus, in particular gravidic pruritus, pruritus sine materia, pruritus in newborns, and pruritus originating from a drug.

Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions comprising plants and extracts of plants with chlorogenic acids and antioxidants and/or caffeine; methods for preparing the same; and methods to promote weight loss through the administration of compositions containing these plants and plant extracts in specific proportions.

Abstract: An edible product for normalizing blood sugar levels is provided. The product includes a mulberry extract having a (w/w) flavonoids concentration of at least 10%, a 1-deoxynojirimycin (DNJ) concentration of about 2% and a GABA concentration of about 1% of the total amino acid content of said mulberry extract.

Abstract: Oral pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, health foods and medical device compositions based on polysaccharides from Opuntia Ficus Indica cladodes in combination with other active substances are useful for the prevention or treatment of GERD (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease), gastric esophagitis and related diseases (e.g. dyspepsia, esophagitis, esofageal tumour, gastro-intestinal symptoms, chronic pharyngitis, Barrett's esophagus, esophageal adenocarcinoma, GERD-related pulmonary symptoms).

Abstract: A method for producing a cactus fruit extract for use in formulating a beverage which can be used in the treatment of veisalgia.

Abstract: The present invention provides compositions containing one or more antimicrobial peptide sequestering compounds and methods for topical application of such compositions to the skin to treat skin diseases and disorders such as rosacea in humans.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a beverage containing bamboo extract as a main ingredient, for details, a beverage containing bamboo extract as the main ingredient, which is useful for amelioration of diabetes, cancer, life-style related diseases or the like. A beverage characterized in containing, as the main ingredient, bamboo extract obtained through the process comprising the steps by immersing bamboo in water and extracting the bamboo extract with heating the water to 95° C. or higher and maintaining the temperature for a period of 2 hr 45 min to 3 hr 15 min.

Abstract: A composition including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and prickly pear cactus (OFI) protects against, minimizes the effects of, and hastens recovery from the typical symptoms associated with an alcohol induced hangover. In addition, sesamin and alpha-lipoic acid work with the SOD and OFI for enhanced antioxidant and therapeutic effects. Thiamine, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, milk thistle seed extract, flower pollen extract, eleuthero root extract, guggulsterones EZ, white willow bark extract, sclareolide, ginkgo biloba extract, caffeine, and boswellia serrata extract can be added to the composition for additional treatment of symptoms.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of an opuntia extract formulation, comprising the steps of: a) extracting plant parts selected from fruit, fruit parts, and mixtures thereof using an extractant containing water and from 0 to 70% by weight of alcohols; at least partially removing the extractant; b) extracting plant parts selected from cladodes, cladode parts and mixtures thereof using an extractant containing water and from 0 to 70% by weight of alcohols; at least partially removing the extractant; c) mixing together the extracts of step a) and b).

Abstract: Compositions and methods for reducing hangover symptoms. Generally, a hangover reducing composition includes one or more plant extracts, such as prickly pear cactus extract, white willow bark extract, milk thistle extract, green tea extract, and combinations thereof. In some cases, the composition further includes supplemental nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals (including electrolytes). Some examples of suitable nutrients include sodium, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12. The composition is administered to a person in any suitable form, including as a carbonated soft drink, an energy drink, a tea, a sports drink, a non-carbonated drink, a pill, an elixir, and so forth. In some preferred instances, the composition is formulated as a carbonated soft drink. In order to reduce hangover symptoms, the composition is ingested before, during, and/or after the consumption of a drug, such as alcohol.

Abstract: The invention relates to a medicament which comprises a peptide extract of avocado and which can also comprise a composition containing D-mannoheptulose and/or perseitol, such as a water-soluble extract of avocado sugars, and/or a peptide extract of lupine. The inventive medicament is intended for the treatment and/or prevention of illnesses that are linked to an alteration in innate and/or acquired immunity, through an increase in the production of anti-microbial peptides, preferably hBD-2, without inducing inflammatory reactions, irritations or intolerances.

Abstract: Processes for the production of Hoodia plant extracts with a high content of steroidal glycosides and for minimizing heavy metal and/or polyaromatic hydrocarbon content in Hoodia extracts.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cosmetic composition, which comprises a combination of at least two osmolytes chosen from the group comprising taurine or a derivative thereof, inositol, betaine and trehalose. This composition is intended for restoring, maintaining or reinforcing the moisturization of the skin and/or for protecting it against different types of stress and/or for preventing or retarding the appearance of the signs of aging of the skin, or for attenuating the effects thereof, or alternatively for promoting cell or tissue longevity.

Abstract: A method for improving the appearance, texture and/or moisture of skin comprising administering a composition comprising Chia Seed oil, Opuntia ficus Indica extract, or both to stimulate collagen or hyaluronic acid synthesis, or decrease Interleukin-1b synthesis, in the skin.

Abstract: A Phytoceutical composition for the prevention and treatment of erectile dysfunction is provided. A specific combination of extracts of plants and nutraceuticals is based on categorizing plants and nutraceuticals into one of three groups, Energy, Bio-Intelligence, and Organization. Such combination has synergistic effects, with minimal side effects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to flour-based food products containing Nopal (Opuntia ficus-indica) capable to reduce body weight and plasma LDL cholesterol, lipids and glucose.

Abstract: Phytoceutical composition for the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and/or immune disorders. A specific combination of extracts of plants is taught, as well as the formulations based on categorizing plants into one of three groups, Energy, Bio-Intelligence and Organization. Such combination has synergistic effects, with minimal side effects.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of a polyphenol in the manufacture of a nutriceutical, a food, a food supplement or a medicament for the prophylactic or therapeutic treatment of endothelial dysfunction or the Metabolic Syndrome and other vascular sequellae. The invention further relates to a composition comprising at least one polyphenol and to a method for preparing such composition.

Abstract: An ethyl acetate extract of Opuntia ficus-indica and compounds isolated therefrom for preventing and treating brain diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, stroke and Parkinson's disease, cell and tissue damage caused by ischemia, or cardiovascular system disease such as myocardial infarction.

Abstract: Phytoceutical composition for the prevention and treatment of inmune disorders. A specific combination of extracts of plants is taught, as well as the formulations based on categorizing plants into one of three groups, Energy, Bio-Intelligence and Organization.

Abstract: Compositions and methods of making compositions containing nopal cactus isolates derived from the juice and/or soluble solid fractions of nopal pads. In another aspect, the invention relates to compositions for making coffee, coffee compositions and methods of making such compositions, which contain nopal cactus isolates.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method that is useful for improving the appearance, texture and/or moisture of skin. In particular, the methods of the present invention comprise administering a composition comprising Chia Seed oil, Opuntia Ficus Indica extract, or both to stimulate collagen or hyaluronic acid synthesis, or decrease Interleukin-1b synthesis, in the skin.

Abstract: Flexible elastomer articles and methods of making the same are disclosed in which a material, a botanical extract, is incorporated into an elastomer emulsion, solution and/or plastisol in order to enhance the physical and therapeutic properties of articles made from these materials. In another aspect, the invention relates to coating surfaces of flexible elastomer articles with a non-Aloe vera mucinous botanical or laboratory produced polysaccharide which is fortified by additives known to protect, restore and moisturize mammalian skin or mucosa and to enhance ease of application or donnability of the article. Flexible elastomer articles include gloves and other single layer or multi-layer flexible elastomer articles.

Abstract: A Composition to provide nutritional support for mammals having glycemic control and deficit concerns, and assist in managing glycemic controls deficits, with a synergistic combination of natural ingredients.

Abstract: Pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, dietetic and nutritional compositions containing: a) glucomannan, b) Opuntia ficus indica, c) microcrystalline cellulose present a high gastrointestinal swelling index, which induces an immediate feeling of fullness, release of cholecystokinins and slowing of gastric voiding that prolongs the feeling of fullness. Associating the complex of three vegetable fibers with a mixture of freeze-dried mucilages increases its gastrointestinal swelling properties.

Abstract: A baby diaper cream for diaper itch and diaper red sore includes a predetermined amount of herbal medicine, comprising a predetermined amount of Forsythia and a predetermined amount of Honeysuckle, a predetermined amount of catalyst comprising vitamin E, and a predetermined amount of a binding agent.

Abstract: A Caralluma extract and a method of making thereof which can be standardized and reproducible, and which prevents the glycosides from decomposition, which can reduce the undesirable non-glycoside components. In the first Caralluma extract, the resinous material does not exceed 0.5% by weight, and, in the second Caralluma extract, the resinous material does not exceed 1.0% by weight. The first extract is produced by optionally pretreatment of plant materials, optional crushing and/or grinding, extraction, and concentration. The filtration step and the resin removal step may be performed optionally. The second extract is produced by contacting the first Caralluma extract with excipients, drying, powdering, sifting and blending. The Caralluma extracts of the present invention can be used for medical purposes and as food additives.

Abstract: An insect repellent composition that includes a blend of either all natural oils or synthetic ingredients, a sunscreen vitamin F, volatile silicones to extend the effective repellent life of the spray and a film forming polymer to resist water wash off. The natural oils and extracts can include citronella and orange and the synthetics can include D-limonene and phtalic acid.

Abstract: Phytoceutical composition for the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS and/or immune disorders. A specific combination of extracts of plants is taught, as well as the formulations based on categorizing plants into one of three groups, Energy, Bio-Intelligence and Organization. Such combination has synergistic effects, with minimal side effects.

Abstract: A tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the tampon including a tampon body having a distal end; and a dosage form affixed to the distal end of the tampon body, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent, and wherein the dosage form comprises a plurality of layers. Also, a method for manufacturing a medicated tampon adapted to deliver a therapeutic agent, the method including manufacturing a tampon body having a distal end; producing a dosage form having a plurality of layers, wherein the dosage form includes a formulation including a therapeutic agent; and affixing the dosage form to the distal end of the tampon body.

Abstract: A composition protects against, minimizes the effects of, and hastens recovery from the typical symptoms associated with an alcohol induced hangover. The composition includes superoxide dismutase (SOD), and prickly pear cactus (OFI). In addition, sesamin and alpha-lipoic acid work with the SOD and OFI for enhanced antioxidant and therapeutic effects. Other ingredients can be added to the composition for additional treatment of symptoms.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for coating fruits, vegetables, fowl eggs, and especially for organically-grown produce, useful for protection and extension of the shelf life of said fruits, vegetables and fowl eggs, wherein said composition is an aqueous dispersion comprised of: (a) a hydrophobic component comprising at least one member of the following group consisting of natural wax, or vegetable oil; (b) an alkali agent; (c) water; wherein components (a) and (b) are derived from natural biological sources. The invention also relates to a method for application of the composition.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a method for inhibiting COX-2 in an organism. In particular, the method is preferably directed toward selectively inhibiting COX-2 in an organism. The method comprises the step of administering to the organism an organic extract isolated from an edible plant wherein such extract inhibits COX-2. A method to purify a composition that exhibits COX-2 inhibition and COX-2 selective inhibition from the organic extract is also provided. In addition, a method for treating and/or preventing COX-2 mediated inflammation or inflammation-associated disorders in an organism is provided.

Abstract: The invention concerns a preparation having the property of fixing fats (so as to eliminate from digestion part of the fats ingested during a meal), based on cladodes of cactaceae of the edible type and at least partly non-available. The invention is characterised in that the cactaceae is in the form of powder particles whereof at least 70 wt. % have a size less than 100 &mgr;m (sieve-controlled particle size distribution). Advantageously, the inventive particles of cactaceae cladodes are in the form of granules coated with an acid-resistant film soluble in the intestine and/or with prolonged release. The invention also concerns a method for obtaining such a preparation.

Abstract: The invention concerns the field of biochemistry, and more precisely biological substances of vegetable origin. The invention concerns substances having non-cytotoxic biological activity, extracted from plants with CAM metabolism, such as plants of the Cactacees, Crassulacees and Saxifragacees family. The invention also concerns the method for obtaining these substances as well as compositions containing them. Said compositions are designed for accelerating and amplifying the synthesis of thermal shock proteins of cells of living beings in vivo or in vitro.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical composition for treatment and prevention of light dermatosis includes (i) a medical drug form nopal cactus, and (ii) at least one active substance with light-dermatosis therapeutic properties and wherein the pharmaceutical composition is provided in a suitable form for topical application.