Cytokine control

[annesco]

After pondering the recent references to cytokine suppression and control, I thought I would start this thread to see if anyone else has given much thought to this topic as a possible avenue to Morgellons relief.

Cytokine - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

It has been stated that certain anti-parasitic drugs may have significant cytokine controlling properties, which could explain their positive effect on some individuals using them for M treatment, including myself. However, I have also used and am using various natural substances to treat my condition, including some of the items mentioned below.

I was wondering whether anyone else has had success with other substances, i.e. pharmaceutical or natural.

Some natural substances that come to mind are curcumin (in turmeric), serrapeptase, bromelain, ginger, green tea, etc.

Information re: quantities, combinations, and anything else relevant might prove worthy of discussion...

[fritolay66]

Hope you don't mind, but I would like to put a cross-reference link to this thread, so others can follow in the future.

These links center around the topic of dewormer meds, and are what has led into the cytokine discussion on this thread.

DVT and PE- AGAIN!

And another...

Eureka Moment

And lastly...

Veterinary Drugs

Cytokine Related Symptoms:

High levels of cytokines produce flu-like symptoms, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, fluctuating body temps, attention span deficits, inflammation, blood clotting issues, etc. Additionally excessive cytokine production as a reaction to a unwelcome invader can also directly affect certain receptors on the hypothalmus, and that means a decrease in MSH. It is here you will experience sleep disturbances, chronic and excessive unusual pain, GI effects, more resistent bacteria, the allowance and reactivation of viruses, prolonged and unremitting illness, an affect on the pituitary and subsequent reduced hormone levels, and changes in cortisol in which can lead to adrenal stress and failure. An elevated and for this purpose an abnormal response of cytokines induce yet others, and if not caught, can lead to a cytokine storm and in the very least, wreck more havoc on an already stressed system/body. This is what I went through.

Briefly:

A few considerations for those considering using herbs to control cytokines.

From Lyme and mold sufferers, and why their treatments work largely for us as well. And that is the Biotoxin pathway outlined in Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker's book the "Mold Warrior". It was the Lyme forums in which have given me the herbs that worked so well for me. I first used Cats Claw and Sarsaparilla, of which those posts can be found somewhere here. I read much of John Blue Skies posts, anywhere I could find them. It was through Cowden's protocol, I discovered Burbur and berberine.

The cytokines of Morgellons sufferers are posted at the MRF website under abnormal lab parameters. I will post a link here. I don't by any means think this is a comprhensive list of the cytokines induced by whatever Morgellons is for someone. And those outlined by Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, and his Biotoxin pathway are my best guess and has worked well as a model for me. Combining those two sources gave me a base in which to research the pharmocological actions of herbs.

Some years later to the present, the combo in which affords me the greatest relief is rather short and simple. And that is Cats Claw and Turmeric. I chose both Cats Claw in which contained TOA purposely, and Turmeric the whole herb as opposed to the single constituent of curcumin. Yucca is quite helpful when I ingest too much protein. Activated charcoal, apple pectin fiber, and physillium to soak up bile salts and toxins. Berberine herbs to help with detox. And continued methylation treatments. And now, with identification, antibiotics again.

When you switch from one of these dewormer meds to herbs, there is a period of time in which you work up to an effective dose. This is why it makes it so hard to try to tell people that the dewormer meds really don't work. See they keep most lesions at bay, and when the sufferer goes off, then they come back. So that period of time is what keeps people on them, nobody wants those damn things back or the relentless feeling of biting and itching and crawling. And obviously the herbs don't necessarily keep me lesion free either, but the magnitude isn't anywhere near what it was before any of it. And I don't crawl or itch either. So my condition has improved dramatically with each new step I seem to take in treatments. I have been one lucky girl in terms of how bad I was.

I tried ginger and liked it, but the combo I ended up with I like even more.

I used the enzymes for other purposes besides cytokine control, as well as copious green tea drinking. Cats Claw and Turmeric are what I specifically use to address the Biotoxin pathway.

And through my new knowledge from my diagnosis, I am currently researching more pointedly additional herbs in which I can affect the various pathways of my microbes and make them less toxic, degrade and invade, or otherwise compromise, so I can get at them, and get rid of them.

Frito

[fritolay66]

Oh damn. I wanted to give you a list of cytokines I suspect are induced in this disease. I am sleepy and need a quick nap. Hectic morning.

Frito

[tcmgpt13]

If someone has serious parasite issues then herbs may not be enough to cure this type of infection. Even if the parasite remains unidentified it appears that some of the parasite medications decrease parasite loads which overall should reduce cytokine levels, helping over inflammation in the body. I do have at least one identified parasite and I need to do more research to see how that might be affecting cytokine levels. Recently I had an increase in eosinophil levels (over 800, nearly 900) and so several antigen tests for known parasites were run. Therefore I have decided to use doctor prescribed meds for viral, bacterial and parasite infections right now. Quite frequently accompanying microbial infections allow parasites to proliferate within the body. Therefore all infections must be treated to at least obtain some improvement in parasite load. Although herbs helped me a lot, they have never in and of themselves been enough to treat and control my symptoms. Sadly.

I still use some herbs, even with the meds. I find that the ones I use minimize side effects from the drugs. Just my personal experience. My mistake the first time I went to a doctor was to mostly focus on the two drugs my first doctor prescribed (acyclovir and ivermectin--ivermectin use was not constant). Not using many herbs or the right herbs anyway allowed a blockage in the small intestine to form. At first my TCM guy only used the formula for the large intestine when I went to see him after an ultrasound located the blockage. Even with that formula I still was not having good bowel movements. It was only when he added the formula for the small intestine that I finally passed a capsule shaped piece of stool which appeared at that time to be full of larger ascaris type worms. These were not of course ever identified as such, so this is just a guess on my part. After that the pain subsided and I then began to recover. Since that time two years ago I continue to take these two formulas (in smaller amounts now) for the small and large intestines along with some gall bladder pills. Still even this has been insufficient to control all parasitic involvement.

Guess I will just have to wait to see where this all winds up, but for now I need to do what I am doing. When it is not needed or no longer works I will move on. Meanwhile I am hopeful we will have new choices in the future as far as the ways parasites are treated. Cytokine involvement is important, I definitely agree, but there are other disruptions in the cells that go along with that. And seem to vary according to the type of parasite. In fact parasites themselves are often the cause of these disruptions. Researchers are aware of all this now so it is encouraging that somewhere down the road...

quote=fritolay66;89430] High levels of cytokines produce flu-like symptoms, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, fluctuating body temps, attention span deficits, inflammation, blood clotting issues, etc. Additionally excessive cytokine production as a reaction to a unwelcome invader can also directly affect certain receptors on the hypothalmus, and that means a decrease in MSH. It is here you will experience sleep disturbances, chronic and excessive unusual pain, GI effects, more resistent bacteria, the allowance and reactivation of viruses, prolonged and unremitting illness, an affect on the pituitary and subsequent reduced hormone levels, and changes in cortisol in which can lead to adrenal stress and failure. An elevated and for this purpose an abnormal response of cytokines induce yet others, and if not caught, can lead to a cytokine storm and in the very least, wreck more havoc on an already stressed system/body. This is what I went through.

Briefly:

A few considerations for those considering using herbs to control cytokines.

From Lyme and mold sufferers, and why their treatments work largely for us as well. And that is the Biotoxin pathway outlined in Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker's book the "Mold Warrior". It was the Lyme forums in which have given me the herbs that worked so well for me. I first used Cats Claw and Sarsaparilla, of which those posts can be found somewhere here. I read much of John Blue Skies posts, anywhere I could find them. It was through Cowden's protocol, I discovered Burbur and berberine.

The cytokines of Morgellons sufferers are posted at the MRF website under abnormal lab parameters. I will post a link here. I don't by any means think this is a comprhensive list of the cytokines induced by whatever Morgellons is for someone. And those outlined by Dr. Ritchie Shoemaker, and his Biotoxin pathway are my best guess and has worked well as a model for me. Combining those two sources gave me a base in which to research the pharmocological actions of herbs.

Some years later to the present, the combo in which affords me the greatest relief is rather short and simple. And that is Cats Claw and Turmeric. I chose both Cats Claw in which contained TOA purposely, and Turmeric the whole herb as opposed to the single constituent of curcumin. Yucca is quite helpful when I ingest too much protein. Activated charcoal, apple pectin fiber, and physillium to soak up bile salts and toxins. Berberine herbs to help with detox. And continued methylation treatments. And now, with identification, antibiotics again.

When you switch from one of these dewormer meds to herbs, there is a period of time in which you work up to an effective dose. This is why it makes it so hard to try to tell people that the dewormer meds really don't work. See they keep most lesions at bay, and when the sufferer goes off, then they come back. So that period of time is what keeps people on them, nobody wants those damn things back or the relentless feeling of biting and itching and crawling. And obviously the herbs don't necessarily keep me lesion free either, but the magnitude isn't anywhere near what it was before any of it. And I don't crawl or itch either. So my condition has improved dramatically with each new step I seem to take in treatments. I have been one lucky girl in terms of how bad I was.

I tried ginger and liked it, but the combo I ended up with I like even more.

I used the enzymes for other purposes besides cytokine control, as well as copious green tea drinking. Cats Claw and Turmeric are what I specifically use to address the Biotoxin pathway.

And through my new knowledge from my diagnosis, I am currently researching more pointedly additional herbs in which I can affect the various pathways of my microbes and make them less toxic, degrade and invade, or otherwise compromise, so I can get at them, and get rid of them.

Frito[/quote]

[Fables429]

I have been taking Turmeric and Cat's Claw which seem to be helping.

I am also taking 10 Days of Flagyl for Entemoeba Histolitica- my last day of that Antibiotic is today. I will get another stool test in about 2 months for that.

What are peoples thoughts on:

Goldenseal
Wormwood

NAC
Mustard Seeds

Marigold Plant (Calendula)
Grape Seed

???

[tcmgpt13]

This is not exactly in response to cytokines, but I think the information will be of interest here, since it states that biofilms contain worm DNA, mentions an ayurvedic parasite powder that this doctor claims is stronger than medications and in general has some other interesting comments (such as the Hulda protocol, which uses wormwood as a part of it, is weak and disappointing--my own experience with sweet wormwood mirrors that comment):

Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt - Parasites

Dr. Klinghardt has found immense success in treating parasites as a focus. Many that think Lyme is their problem actually are suffering from parasites. The natural sequence is to treat the parasites first and then treat the Lyme. When this is done, years of antibiotic therapy turns into weeks or months.

Parasite patients often express the psyche of the parasites - sticky, clingy, impossible to tolerate - but a wonderful human being is behind all of that.

We are all a composite of many personalities. Chronic infections outnumber our own cells by 10:1. We are 90% "other" and 10% "us". Our consciousness is a composite of 90% microbes and 10% us. Our thinking, feeling, creativity, and expression are 90% from the microbes within us. Patients often think, crave, and behave as if they are the parasite. Our thinking is shaded by the microbes thinking through us. The food choices, behavioral choices, and who we like is the thinking of the microbes within us expressing themselves.

Patients will reject all treatments that affect the issue that requires treating. Patients will not guide themselves to health when the microbes have taken over.

Viruses in the nervous system are likely not the cause of CFS. They are certainly often present, but when treated, the patient may only get a little better. The two main causes are parasites (mainly lungworm) and chronic nasal staph infection. These nasal infections enter the hypothalamus which then leads to suppression of MSH. One's level of fatigue and level of MSH are directly related. MSH is depressed by bacteria and mycotoxins.

Parasite treatment may be needed for 6 months to a year.

Parasites induce changes in our system to make us a comfortable host.

Natural deworming treatments such as Hulda Clark formulations have been weak and disappointing.

Mimosa pudica powder is an Ayurvedic herb that is 30 times stronger than the best medical drug. Starting with 1/2 teaspoon twice a day two days a week and working up to 1 teaspoon daily for 3 months.

Can use rectal application of 1 capsule of BioPure Freeze-dried garlic, 100mg artemisinin, 1 teaspoon phospholipids with pure water in a bulb syringe from the local drugstore. Make the mix liposomal using the ultrasonic method used with the Klinghardt Cocktail. Hold it. This cleans the rectum and then gets absorbed such that many start to see visible evidence of worm elimination. A good first step in parasite elimination.

Parasite treatment is best done with concurrent colonic therapy. 2 colonics per week; 1 day after the other.

Nail biting is a sign of parasites.

Alinia and Albendazole both cross the blood-brain barrier.

Deworming is significant in ASD kids. Every biofilm has worm DNA in it.

The more you deworm, the longer you live and the healthier you are.

betterhealthguy.com/joomla/blog/242-a-deep-look-beyond-lyme

[annesco]

I am going to look into the ayurvedics a bit more, I think.

I have tried cat's claw, but not to any great effect. I think this is possibly because I didn't take it for a sufficient period. I have also tried the turmeric, same thinking regarding its usage. Both were obtained very early on, when I was searching wildly for some relief.

TC, the reference in your post to nasal staph infection is interesting to me, as a couple of months before my symptoms manifested, I went to my doctor for what looked like a large cyst or tumor inside my right nostril. It was red and inflammed. He prescribed a course of doxycyclene and nasal bactroban. I went on vacation a couple of days later, and failed to continue the treatment, but did mention to a family member who is also an MD, and who said that the treatment would address a possible nasal staph infection. Months later, after the symptoms started, I began treating the growth, and it is now much reduced, but not gone.

As to the cytokine suppression, I am also going to continue taking the dewormers, but possibly on a modified schedule, as I continue to see sporadic "evidence" in the stool. However, I am also going to devote some considerable time and energy to looking at more natural solutions to buffer and possibly speed things along.

Second day on flagyl, and I have noticed that I am feeling better than I was a few days ago.

Frito, I will look for your listing of cytokines.

Originally Posted by tcmgpt13

This is not exactly in response to cytokines, but I think the information will be of interest here, since it states that biofilms contain worm DNA, mentions an ayurvedic parasite powder that this doctor claims is stronger than medications and in general has some other interesting comments (such as the Hulda protocol, which uses wormwood as a part of it, is weak and disappointing--my own experience with sweet wormwood mirrors that comment):

Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt - Parasites

Dr. Klinghardt has found immense success in treating parasites as a focus. Many that think Lyme is their problem actually are suffering from parasites. The natural sequence is to treat the parasites first and then treat the Lyme. When this is done, years of antibiotic therapy turns into weeks or months.

Parasite patients often express the psyche of the parasites - sticky, clingy, impossible to tolerate - but a wonderful human being is behind all of that.

We are all a composite of many personalities. Chronic infections outnumber our own cells by 10:1. We are 90% "other" and 10% "us". Our consciousness is a composite of 90% microbes and 10% us. Our thinking, feeling, creativity, and expression are 90% from the microbes within us. Patients often think, crave, and behave as if they are the parasite. Our thinking is shaded by the microbes thinking through us. The food choices, behavioral choices, and who we like is the thinking of the microbes within us expressing themselves.

Patients will reject all treatments that affect the issue that requires treating. Patients will not guide themselves to health when the microbes have taken over.

Viruses in the nervous system are likely not the cause of CFS. They are certainly often present, but when treated, the patient may only get a little better. The two main causes are parasites (mainly lungworm) and chronic nasal staph infection. These nasal infections enter the hypothalamus which then leads to suppression of MSH. One's level of fatigue and level of MSH are directly related. MSH is depressed by bacteria and mycotoxins.

Parasite treatment may be needed for 6 months to a year.

Parasites induce changes in our system to make us a comfortable host.

Natural deworming treatments such as Hulda Clark formulations have been weak and disappointing.

Mimosa pudica powder is an Ayurvedic herb that is 30 times stronger than the best medical drug. Starting with 1/2 teaspoon twice a day two days a week and working up to 1 teaspoon daily for 3 months.

Can use rectal application of 1 capsule of BioPure Freeze-dried garlic, 100mg artemisinin, 1 teaspoon phospholipids with pure water in a bulb syringe from the local drugstore. Make the mix liposomal using the ultrasonic method used with the Klinghardt Cocktail. Hold it. This cleans the rectum and then gets absorbed such that many start to see visible evidence of worm elimination. A good first step in parasite elimination.

Parasite treatment is best done with concurrent colonic therapy. 2 colonics per week; 1 day after the other.

Nail biting is a sign of parasites.

Alinia and Albendazole both cross the blood-brain barrier.

Deworming is significant in ASD kids. Every biofilm has worm DNA in it.

The more you deworm, the longer you live and the healthier you are.

betterhealthguy.com/joomla/blog/242-a-deep-look-beyond-lyme

[zenmorgie]

Sorry about missing this thread. I have pasted the information below:


What Is A Cytokine Storm?

Cytokines are compounds produced by the body’s immune system that attack and remove foreign bodies. Cytokines, produced by a number of different types of cells in response to infection that act as signals to other cells in the body, telling them to divide, or to produce certain proteins, or to cease their production. They assist, basically, in orchestrating portions of the immune response.
Simply put, a "cytokine storm" occurs when this regulation goes on overdrive and the molecules which are supposed to be protecting the body end up causing it harm by responding too strongly to the infection.

When our body detects foreign microorganisms indicating an infection, it can sometimes respond by over-protecting the site of infection. The body may race so many antibodies to the infection site that they collect in a cytokine storm. When the infection is in the lungs, for example, a cytokine storm can potentially block airways and result in suffocation.

Children have immune responses that are still developing, while the elderly tend to lose some immune function with the aging process. However, those who are roughly age 18 to 50, tend to have an active, vigorous immune response to pathogens.
Most of the time, this keeps us relatively free of disease from microbes, but certain invading organisms, due to the virulence and enthusiasm with which they enter human tissues, tend to trigger this type of hyper-response that can actually end up causing harm to the system. Whether or not H1N1 (swine flu) and this newest swine version causes this kind of cytokine mess is still not known.

During the 1918 Spanish Flu many healthy young people died from cytokine storms due to their immune systems overreacting.
Scientists theorize that young, healthy people may have a more robust cytokine response and less H1N1 immunity from previous exposure compared with older populations.

Certain herbs and substances actually stimulate the production of these specific cytokines and would want to be avoided if one suspects they may have the virus.

In truth, we don't have enough evidence to make any definitive conclusions about how to avoid a cytokine storm. Scientists have identified the causes and stages of the cytokine storm and are working on treatments to weaken an overactive immune response.

It would seem wise to consume foods and herbs which suppress the production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6 and enhance the production of the ones that actually are effective against the virus.

Below are some foods and herbs that are said to contain substances that are natural antivirals, immune boosters or they decrease cytokines TNF-a and IL-6.
Also, you will find some that may be best to avoid during an H1N1 pandemic.

For the sake of clarity I have divided them into "Good Guys" and "Bad Guys," but please note that we are speaking specifically of cytokine reactions - not boosting basic immunity. Herbs that may increase risk of cytokine storm in certain flu pandemics are often quite useful and effective in other situations.

The Good Guys:

Garlic (allicin) - Very effective antiviral. Best if fresh (raw) and crushed. Must be consumed within 1 hour of crushing. Dosage is initially 2 to 3 cloves per day but later reduce until no body odour occurs. No toxic effects noted. (Pubmed PMID 9049657)

Vitamin C - Boosts the immune system and is an antiviral by blocking the enzyme neuraminadase. Viruses need neuraminadase to reproduce. There are anecdotal stories of people taking large amounts of Vitamin C (children ½) surviving the Spanish Flu. Research shows that it may reduce the production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. A study on 470 people involved giving the test group 1000 mg hourly for 6 hours and then 1000 mg 3 times daily after reporting flu symptoms. Symptoms decreased by 85%. (Pubmed PMID 10543583, 634178, 16169205, 12876306)

Vitamin D - The crucial role of vitamin D in the innate immune system was
discovered only very recently. Both epithelial cells and macrophages increase expression of the antimicrobial cathelicidin upon exposure to microbes, an expression that is dependent upon the presence of vitamin D. Pathogenic microbes stimulate the production of an enzyme that converts 25(OH)D to
1,25(OH)2D, a seco-steroid hormone. This in turn rapidly activates a suite of genes involved in pulmonary defense. In the macrophage, the presence of vitamin D also appears to suppress the pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, vitamin D appears to both enhance the local capacity of the epithelium to
produce endogenous antibiotics and at the same time dampen certain destructive arms of the immune response, especially those responsible for the signs and symptoms of acute inflammation, such as the cytokine storms operative when influenza kills quickly.


Green Tea (possible Tamiflu/Relenza alternative)- Very effective antiviral. Also decreases the production of the cytokine (catechins) TNF-a. Inhibits neuraminidase. May have antiviral activity that is equal to other antivirals such as Tamiflu. (Pubmed PMID 16137775)

St Johns Wort (Hypericum) - Very effective antiviral. Also decreases the production of the cytokine IL-6. Hypericum is an extract from St John’s Wort. There have been some very successful field trials in commercial flocks infected with H5N1 in Vietnam. (Pubmed PMID 7857513, 11518071, 11362353, 7857513, 11518071)

Vitamin E - Immune booster. Also decreases the production of the cytokine TNF-a. (Pubmed PMID 155882360, 10929076) Experiments involved using mice. Very suitable for immune compromised people, especially the elderly. Effects enhanced when taken with Vitamin C.


Resveratrol - Antiviral. In addition to inhibiting neuraminidase, Resveratrol also sends a message to cells to stop manufacturing viruses. This is a proven antiviral found naturally in red wine, peanuts, mulberries, Japanese Knotwood root (richest source), raisins and red grapes. Resveratrol supplements are relatively inexpensive, are more stable than wine and is available in liquid form for absorption in the mouth. No toxic effects noted. (Pubmed PMID 1583880, 12817628, 15985724)

Scuttellaria (Skullcap) - Antiviral. A herb used as a tea. It has no side effects and is also a mild tranquilliser. Research suggests neuraminidase, which is a substance needed by the H5N1 virus to reproduce, may be inhibited.


Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) - Decreases the production of the cytokine TNF-a. Also boosts immune system. The number of white blood cells was significantly increased during treatment. No toxicity was noted. Active constituents can be found in the leaves, bark, vine, and roots. Water extraction from bark used. Children and pregnant women are to avoid. Has a potentially damaging effect on the DNA of proliferating cells. (cancers, foetuses, growing children)

Curcumin (Tumeric Spice) - Decreases the production of the cytokine TNF-a. This is the yellow compound in turmeric spice. Research shows that this may be very good for preventing a cytokine storm although this is not proven. Traditional dosage is 500mg to 4000mg daily.

Astragalus Root (Astragali Radix) - Boosts immune system. (Pubmed PMID15588652)
Tea Tree - Steam Inhalation - Reduces the cytokine TNF-a. Add 2 drops of tea tree oil in a bowl of steaming water. Cover head with a towel and inhale for 5 to 10 minutes. Relieves congestion and fights infection. Its effectiveness is unknown. (Pubmed PMID 11131302)

Tulsi - has been known and worshipped in India for more than five millennia for its remarkable healing properties. Considered as an 'Elixir of Life', this wonder herb has now been claimed to keep the deadly swine flu at bay and help fast recovery in afflicted persons.

The Following May Be Best to Avoid During an H1N1 Pandemic

The Bad Guys (Remember, we're just talking about cytokine storms here - these herbs are generally very good for immune systems!)

Elderberry Juice (Sambucal) - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. This substance is very effective against the common flu but may not be desirable for the H1N1 virus. Increases in these cytokines may trigger a lethal cytokine storm. (Isr Med Journal2002 Nov;4:944-6)

Micro Algae (Chlorella and Spirulina) - AVOID - Increases production of cytokine TNF-a. (Pubmed PMID 11731916)

Honey - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. (Pubmed PMID12824009)

Chocolate - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. (Pubmed PMID 12885154, PMID 1091792

Echinacea - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. Although it is often used for normal flu, research shows that it may increase the chance of cytokine storms for H1N1. (Pubmed PMID 15556647, 9568541)

Kimchee - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. (Pubmed PMID15630182)

Coiloidal Silver - AVOID - While silver will likely work to kill the swine flu virus, in many healthy individuals it is likely to elicit a severe cytokine storm reaction.

[annesco]

Great post, Zen. Thanks. I use many of the herbs listed below, and have also stopped the spirulina and echinacea several weeks ago.

Originally Posted by zenmorgie

Sorry about missing this thread. I have pasted the information below:


What Is A Cytokine Storm?

Cytokines are compounds produced by the body’s immune system that attack and remove foreign bodies. Cytokines, produced by a number of different types of cells in response to infection that act as signals to other cells in the body, telling them to divide, or to produce certain proteins, or to cease their production. They assist, basically, in orchestrating portions of the immune response.
Simply put, a "cytokine storm" occurs when this regulation goes on overdrive and the molecules which are supposed to be protecting the body end up causing it harm by responding too strongly to the infection.

When our body detects foreign microorganisms indicating an infection, it can sometimes respond by over-protecting the site of infection. The body may race so many antibodies to the infection site that they collect in a cytokine storm. When the infection is in the lungs, for example, a cytokine storm can potentially block airways and result in suffocation.

Children have immune responses that are still developing, while the elderly tend to lose some immune function with the aging process. However, those who are roughly age 18 to 50, tend to have an active, vigorous immune response to pathogens.
Most of the time, this keeps us relatively free of disease from microbes, but certain invading organisms, due to the virulence and enthusiasm with which they enter human tissues, tend to trigger this type of hyper-response that can actually end up causing harm to the system. Whether or not H1N1 (swine flu) and this newest swine version causes this kind of cytokine mess is still not known.

During the 1918 Spanish Flu many healthy young people died from cytokine storms due to their immune systems overreacting.
Scientists theorize that young, healthy people may have a more robust cytokine response and less H1N1 immunity from previous exposure compared with older populations.

Certain herbs and substances actually stimulate the production of these specific cytokines and would want to be avoided if one suspects they may have the virus.

In truth, we don't have enough evidence to make any definitive conclusions about how to avoid a cytokine storm. Scientists have identified the causes and stages of the cytokine storm and are working on treatments to weaken an overactive immune response.

It would seem wise to consume foods and herbs which suppress the production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6 and enhance the production of the ones that actually are effective against the virus.

Below are some foods and herbs that are said to contain substances that are natural antivirals, immune boosters or they decrease cytokines TNF-a and IL-6.
Also, you will find some that may be best to avoid during an H1N1 pandemic.

For the sake of clarity I have divided them into "Good Guys" and "Bad Guys," but please note that we are speaking specifically of cytokine reactions - not boosting basic immunity. Herbs that may increase risk of cytokine storm in certain flu pandemics are often quite useful and effective in other situations.

The Good Guys:

Garlic (allicin) - Very effective antiviral. Best if fresh (raw) and crushed. Must be consumed within 1 hour of crushing. Dosage is initially 2 to 3 cloves per day but later reduce until no body odour occurs. No toxic effects noted. (Pubmed PMID 9049657)

Vitamin C - Boosts the immune system and is an antiviral by blocking the enzyme neuraminadase. Viruses need neuraminadase to reproduce. There are anecdotal stories of people taking large amounts of Vitamin C (children ½) surviving the Spanish Flu. Research shows that it may reduce the production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. A study on 470 people involved giving the test group 1000 mg hourly for 6 hours and then 1000 mg 3 times daily after reporting flu symptoms. Symptoms decreased by 85%. (Pubmed PMID 10543583, 634178, 16169205, 12876306)

Vitamin D - The crucial role of vitamin D in the innate immune system was
discovered only very recently. Both epithelial cells and macrophages increase expression of the antimicrobial cathelicidin upon exposure to microbes, an expression that is dependent upon the presence of vitamin D. Pathogenic microbes stimulate the production of an enzyme that converts 25(OH)D to
1,25(OH)2D, a seco-steroid hormone. This in turn rapidly activates a suite of genes involved in pulmonary defense. In the macrophage, the presence of vitamin D also appears to suppress the pro-inflammatory cytokines. Thus, vitamin D appears to both enhance the local capacity of the epithelium to
produce endogenous antibiotics and at the same time dampen certain destructive arms of the immune response, especially those responsible for the signs and symptoms of acute inflammation, such as the cytokine storms operative when influenza kills quickly.


Green Tea (possible Tamiflu/Relenza alternative)- Very effective antiviral. Also decreases the production of the cytokine (catechins) TNF-a. Inhibits neuraminidase. May have antiviral activity that is equal to other antivirals such as Tamiflu. (Pubmed PMID 16137775)

St Johns Wort (Hypericum) - Very effective antiviral. Also decreases the production of the cytokine IL-6. Hypericum is an extract from St John’s Wort. There have been some very successful field trials in commercial flocks infected with H5N1 in Vietnam. (Pubmed PMID 7857513, 11518071, 11362353, 7857513, 11518071)

Vitamin E - Immune booster. Also decreases the production of the cytokine TNF-a. (Pubmed PMID 155882360, 10929076) Experiments involved using mice. Very suitable for immune compromised people, especially the elderly. Effects enhanced when taken with Vitamin C.


Resveratrol - Antiviral. In addition to inhibiting neuraminidase, Resveratrol also sends a message to cells to stop manufacturing viruses. This is a proven antiviral found naturally in red wine, peanuts, mulberries, Japanese Knotwood root (richest source), raisins and red grapes. Resveratrol supplements are relatively inexpensive, are more stable than wine and is available in liquid form for absorption in the mouth. No toxic effects noted. (Pubmed PMID 1583880, 12817628, 15985724)

Scuttellaria (Skullcap) - Antiviral. A herb used as a tea. It has no side effects and is also a mild tranquilliser. Research suggests neuraminidase, which is a substance needed by the H5N1 virus to reproduce, may be inhibited.


Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) - Decreases the production of the cytokine TNF-a. Also boosts immune system. The number of white blood cells was significantly increased during treatment. No toxicity was noted. Active constituents can be found in the leaves, bark, vine, and roots. Water extraction from bark used. Children and pregnant women are to avoid. Has a potentially damaging effect on the DNA of proliferating cells. (cancers, foetuses, growing children)

Curcumin (Tumeric Spice) - Decreases the production of the cytokine TNF-a. This is the yellow compound in turmeric spice. Research shows that this may be very good for preventing a cytokine storm although this is not proven. Traditional dosage is 500mg to 4000mg daily.

Astragalus Root (Astragali Radix) - Boosts immune system. (Pubmed PMID15588652)
Tea Tree - Steam Inhalation - Reduces the cytokine TNF-a. Add 2 drops of tea tree oil in a bowl of steaming water. Cover head with a towel and inhale for 5 to 10 minutes. Relieves congestion and fights infection. Its effectiveness is unknown. (Pubmed PMID 11131302)

Tulsi - has been known and worshipped in India for more than five millennia for its remarkable healing properties. Considered as an 'Elixir of Life', this wonder herb has now been claimed to keep the deadly swine flu at bay and help fast recovery in afflicted persons.

The Following May Be Best to Avoid During an H1N1 Pandemic

The Bad Guys (Remember, we're just talking about cytokine storms here - these herbs are generally very good for immune systems!)

Elderberry Juice (Sambucal) - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. This substance is very effective against the common flu but may not be desirable for the H1N1 virus. Increases in these cytokines may trigger a lethal cytokine storm. (Isr Med Journal2002 Nov;4:944-6)

Micro Algae (Chlorella and Spirulina) - AVOID - Increases production of cytokine TNF-a. (Pubmed PMID 11731916)

Honey - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. (Pubmed PMID12824009)

Chocolate - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. (Pubmed PMID 12885154, PMID 1091792

Echinacea - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. Although it is often used for normal flu, research shows that it may increase the chance of cytokine storms for H1N1. (Pubmed PMID 15556647, 9568541)

Kimchee - AVOID - Increases production of cytokines TNF-a and IL-6. (Pubmed PMID15630182)

Coiloidal Silver - AVOID - While silver will likely work to kill the swine flu virus, in many healthy individuals it is likely to elicit a severe cytokine storm reaction.

[fritolay66]

Innate Immune Response is the initial recognition and control of pathogens.

Inflammation occurs as an effect from this response, and occurs through various pathways.

Cytokines, chemokines, and lipid mediators are part of the process of inflammation.

Drug therapy in the professional setting is aimed at both controlling the infection and limiting the immunopathy. And immunopathy is the result of the potential negative consequences of induction of cytokines, chemokines, and lipid mediators that complicate treatment.

Initial recognition by PRR's of the innate immune response of which are germ line encoded Pathogen Recognition Receptors. What this means in laymen terms is that PRR's can recognize microbial nucleic acids and other conserved structures of the microbe or molecular patterns, of which these are known as PAMP's. So...

PRR's >>> PAMP's (pathogen)

PRR's include some familar and not so familar terminology we have seen in the Morgellons forums. I have included these for those whom understand and need more specific target info. Otherwise just skip.

TLR's (Toll-like receptors)
CLR's (C-type Lectin receptors)
RIG-1 (Cytoplasmic retinoic acid inducible gene)
RLR's (Rig-like receptors)
NLR's (NOD-like recpetors)

The PPR's mediate several functions:

Opsonization
Activation of Complement
Activation of coagulation cascades
Phagocytosis
Activation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways
Induction of apoptosis

With receptor binding and recognition...several genes mediating these functions are transcriptionally regulated. And here in fits methylation and its relation to transcription.

Also the relation to enzymes. A deficiency can absolutely occur with pathogenic infection due to up-regulation and production from these genes, and encoding pro-inflammatory cytokines, type 1 interferons, chemokines, antimicrobial proteins or AMP's, enzymes for the production of inflammatory lipids and proteins in which are needed for signaling events that regulate the above pathways in this paragraph.

It is here we try to control the immune response. But it doesn't mean your treating the pathogen, so don't get them confused. You are just mitigating your immune response and trying to control immunopathy.

With loss of methylation, transcription becomes compromised, or with loss of enzymes being used instead by the immune response and not being enough left over for methylation processes, mehtylation mitigated transcription becomes compromised and latent viruses can then start manifesting active symptoms. BTW, viruses infect bacteria. Just saying...

NF-kB is the central pathway for most human TLR's, but once again, not all.

NF-kB drives gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines and it does through through adapters involving:

Luecine
Ubiquitin (any one have a positive response to COQ10? Heart palpitations?)
Phosphorylation
TGF-beta

The signaling pathways from RIG-1 involve the mitochondria which increases production of IFN's and inducing apoptosis thru secondary feedback pathways.

Again, with loss of methylation, mass apoptosis cannot be recovered from.

Cytokines:

Many of these receptor mediated pathways involve the acute inflammation response and lead to the production of cytokines.

Cytokines are an important class of protein signaling molecules for recruiting WBC's to contain an invading pathogen and regulate the inflammation response to its invasion.

Ever notice on the forums, many of us have low levels of WBC's on various tests? Over production and chronicity of cytokine production, enzyme depletion, loss of methylation, and loss of homestatic transcription, and abnormal protein production are a result.

Cytokines ultimately inactivate various transcription factors and genes.

Chemokines:

IL-8 et al., are chemotactic cytokines involved in the recruitment and activation of neutrophils, basophils, macrophages, and T-cells to the site of infection.

Chemokines mediate this through interactions w G-protein coupled receptors on WBC's. Anyone recognize G-protein and correlate with methylation?

In many cases, the overproduction of these is what drives much of the pathology associated with acute inflammation. Immunopathy.
And is especially true in the case of cytokine storms.

I have made many posts on inflammation, and this is the base of why it is so important to us in Morgellons.

continued next post...

Frito