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Reactive oxygen species (ROS) or free radicals are dangerous substances produced in the body along with toxins and wastes which are formed during the normal metabolic processes of the body. Oxidative stress is associated with the increased production of ROS or a significant decrease in the capability of antioxidant defense systems in the body. In all the disease states, the probability of ROS formation is much higher than in the normal physiologic state. Free radicals damage a variety of essential body components and alter body functions; years of such damage may result in biologic aging. Tight linkage between aging and oxidative stress is indicated by the observations that ROS generated under various conditions of oxidative stress are able to oxidize nucleic acids, proteins and lipids, and that aging is associated with the accumulation of oxidized forms of cellular constituents; the linkage is also indicated by the fact that there is an inverse relationship between the maximum life span of an organism and the age-related accumulation of oxidative damage. ROS have been implicated as mediators of tissue damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Oxidative stress plays a substantial role not only in the pathogenesis of autoimmune rheumatic diseases (ARDs) and their complications but also in a specific disease activity. Herbs and spices contain a huge range of phytochemicals that have proven health benefits. By acting through a number of different mechanisms, phytochemicals found in herbs and spices prevent and reverse many of the processes which lead to oxidative stress that underlines chronic diseases. Important properties of phytochemicals include their role as antioxidants, anti-carcinogens, blood lipid modulators, blood-thinning agents, blood sugar regulators, anti-inflammatory agents, antimicrobial agents, toxin neutralizers, bioavailability enhancers and synergistic compounds, and as triggers for gene activation. These properties make herbs and spices effective, preventive and therapeutic agents against most of the chronic and degenerative diseases and aging. |
