Marijuana chemical fights cancer
The active chemical in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), appears to encourage cancer cells in the brain to self-destruct, suggesting a possible new therapy, say Spanish researchers, based on studies of mice and two patients with aggressive tumours. Injecting daily doses of THC near the tumours triggered autophagy (a process by which cells, in effect, commit suicide), although the team from Complutense University in Madrid isn't sure why, AFP reports. However, they say THC and related cannabinoids appear to be 'a new family of potential anti-tumoral agent'.
Broccoli blocks stomach virus
Eating about 70 grams of baby broccoli a day for two months appears to protect against a common stomach virus that can cause gastritis, ulcers and cancer, say Johns Hopkins University researchers, based on a pilot study of 25 people in Japan. The key appears to be the sprouts' high levels of a potent natural antibiotic, sulforaphane, which encourages the production of enzymes that counter DNA-damaging chemicals and inflammation, notably a carcinogenic bacterium called Helicobacter pylori. Up to half the world's population have the bug in their stomach linings, Reuters reports.
Acupuncture no help for flushes
Acupuncture appears not to relieve hot flushes in women going through menopause, say British and South Korean researchers, based on a review of more than 100 studies, only six of which they considered to be worthwhile. Of these, only one reported positive effects on the frequency and severity of hot flushes. Edzard Ernst, of Britain's Peninsula Medical School, says hormone-replacement therapy appears to be a more reliable treatment, Reuters reports.