WO1999064029A1

WO1999064029A1 - Plant extract

Info

Publication number: WO1999064029A1
Application number: PCT/US1999/012931
Authority: WO
Inventors: Hanoch Kosovsky
Original assignee: Mayamedic International, Llc
Priority date: 1998-06-09
Filing date: 1999-06-09
Publication date: 1999-12-16
Also published as: AU4555099A

Abstract

Plant extracts obtained from Bactris plants have been found to provide effective therapeutic treatment for diabetes, aquired immunodeficiency syndrome, influenza, common cold symptoms, pulmonary emphysema, bronchitis, poliomyelitis, macular degeneration, cancer, gingivitis, dermatitis, hair loss, hepatitis, genital herpes, papilloma, and asthma. Therapy can be administered as an aqueous extract of the plant or portions of the plant, or as a powder prepared from the plant or portions of the plant.

Description

PLANT EXTRACT

TECHNICAL FIELD OF INVENTION

The invention relates to a therapeutic preparation comprising a plant extract and medical use thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Viral diseases such as AIDS, influenza, hepatitis, and genital herpes and papilloma and other diseases such as diabetes, macular degeneration, and emphysema, and skin and hair conditions are major health concerns. These diseases contribute greatly to morbidity, mortality, and the generalized discomfort of patients worldwide.

Medicinal products obtained from a variety of plants are currently being used or under investigation in the treatment of many diseases. For example, numerous compounds obtained from plant extracts are under investigation for the treatment for cancer, (e.g., Fujioka, et al. 1999. "Antiproliferative constituents from umbelliferae plants. V. A new furanocoumarin and falcarindiol furanocoumarin ethers from the root of Angelica japonica," Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 47:96-100; Ren, et al. 1999. "Extract of Solanum muricatum (Pepino/CSG) inhibits tumor growth by inducing apoptosis," Anticancer Res 19:403-408; Yoon, et al. 1999. "Lectins isolated from Korean mistletoe (Viscum album coloratum) induce apoptosis in tumor cells," Cancer Lett 136:33-40). Numerous antimicrobial compounds have been found in plant extracts, (e.g., Okeke, et al. 1999. "Antimicrobial spectrum of A lchornea cordifolia leaf extract," Phytother Res 13:67-69; Urzua, et al. 1998. "Antimicrobial study of the resinous exudate and of diterpenoids isolated from Eupatorium salvia (Asteraceae), " J Ethnopharmacol 62:251-254. Silva, et al. 1997. "Antimicrobial activity of Terminalia macroptera root," J Ethnopharmacol 57:203-207). Anti- diabetic agents from a variety of plants are under investigation, (e.g., Gray, et al. 1999. "Insulin-secreting activity of the traditional antidiabetic plant Viscum album (mistletoe)," J Endocrinol 160:409-414; Gray, et al. 1998. "Antihyperglycemic actions of Eucalyptus globulus (Eucalyptus) are associated with pancreatic and extra- pancreatic effects in mice," JNutr 128:2319-2323; Gray, et al. 1998. "Actions of the traditional anti-diabetic plant, Agrimony eupatoria (agrimony): effects on hyperglycaemia, cellular glucose metabolism and insulin secretion," Br JNutr 80:109-114). The Bactris gasipaes plant has been investigated as an alternative food source for humans and animals. Flour made from the fruit of this plant has been recommended for breadmaking and a source for vitamin A and fatty acids. (Yuyama, et al. 1996. "[Effect of supplementation with peach palm as source of vitamin A: study with rats]," Rev Saude Publica 30:61-66; Fernandez-Piedra, et al. 1992. "[Fatty acids contained in 4 pejibaye palm species, Bactris gasipaes]," Rev Biol Trop 43:61- 66; Blanco, et al. 1992. "[Content and bioavailability of carotenoids from peach palm fruit (Bactris gasipaes) as a source of vitamin A]," Arch Latinoam Nutr 42):146-154; Tracy, M. 1987. "[Use of flour of pejibaye fruit (Bactris gasipaes H.B.K.) in bread making]," rcA Latinoam Nutr 37:122-131; Zumbado, et al. 1984. "Composition and nutritive value of pejibaye (Bactris gasipaes) in animal feeds," Rev Biol Trop 32:51- 56). While Bactris plants were determined to offer nutritive benefits, the therapeutic effects of these plants were not understood.

Plant extracts obtained from plants of the Bactris genus, preferably Bactris balanoidea plants have been found to provide therapeutic effects against viral diseases and a variety of other diseases.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a method for isolating a therapeutic plant extract by combining Bactris plants or portions thereof with a nontoxic solvent appropriate for solubilizing the plant extract from the plants or plant portions and recovering the plant extract. Preferably, the plants are Bactris balanoidea, and more preferably, the plant portions are the roots of the plant. The plants or portions thereof can be in dry powder form prior to making the extract. The plant extract can also be extracted from the plants or portions thereof by boiling in the nontoxic solvent. In another aspect, the invention relates to a plant extract of the present invention made by combining Bactris plants or portions thereof with a nontoxic solvent appropriate for solubilizing the plant extract from the plants or plant portions and recovering the plant extract. Preferably, the plant extract is made from Bactris balanoidea, and more preferably, the plant extract is made from the roots of the plant. The plant extract can also be extracted from the plants or portions thereof by boiling in the nontoxic solvent.

In another aspect, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a plant extract of the present invention.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to a pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form adapted for administration to obtain a therapeutic effect, comprising, per dosage unit, a therapeutically effective amount of the plant extract of the present invention. The therapeutically effective amount of the plant extract in the pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form is from about 100 milligrams to about 500 milligrams per kilogram body weight.

In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a method for preparation of a raw plant powder made by drying the Bactris plants or portions thereof in the absence of direct sunlight, and then pulverizing the dried plants or portions thereof to form a raw plant powder. Preferably, the raw plant powder is made from Bactris balanoidea, and more preferably, from the roots of the plant. Preferably, the moisture content of the plants or portion thereof is reduced to from about 5% to about 10% prior to pulverizing.

In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a raw plant powder of the present invention made by drying the Bactris plants or portions thereof in the absence of direct sunlight, and then pulverizing the dried plants or portions thereof to form a raw plant powder. Preferably, the raw plant powder is made from Bactris balanoidea, and more preferably, from the roots of the plant. Preferably, the moisture content of the plants or portion thereof is reduced to from about 5% to about 10% prior to pulverizing.

In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the raw plant powder of the present invention. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form adapted for administration to obtain a therapeutic effect, comprising, per dosage unit, a therapeutically effective amount of the raw plant powder of the present invention. The therapeutically effective amount of the raw plant powder in the pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form is from about 2 milligrams to about 30 milligrams. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a plant extract made by boiling a therapeutic amount of the raw plant powder of the present invention in an aqueous solvent to form an aqueous solution.

In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising the plant extract made from the raw plant powder of the present invention.

In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a plant extract made from the raw plant powder of the present invention. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form adapted for administration to obtain a therapeutic effect, comprising, per dosage unit, a therapeutically effective amount of the plant extract made from the raw plant powder of the present invention. The therapeutically effective amount of the plant extract in the pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form is from about 100 milligrams to about 500 milligrams per kilogram body weight. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to the first medical use of the plant extract of the present invention for treatment of diabetes, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, influenza, common cold symptoms, pulmonary emphysema, bronchitis, poliomyelitis, macular degeneration, cancer, gingivitis, dermatitis, hair loss, hepatitis, genital herpes, papilloma, and asthma. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to the first medical use of the raw plant powder of the present invention for treatment of diabetes, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, influenza, common cold symptoms, pulmonary emphysema, bronchitis, poliomyelitis, macular degeneration, cancer, gingivitis, dermatitis, hair loss, hepatitis, genital herpes, papilloma, and asthma. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a method of treatment for diabetes, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, influenza, common cold symptoms, pulmonary emphysema, bronchitis, poliomyelitis, macular degeneration, cancer, gingivitis, dermatitis, hair loss, hepatitis, genital herpes, papilloma, and asthma in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of the present invention. In yet another aspect, the invention relates to a method of treatment for diabetes, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, influenza, common cold symptoms, pulmonary emphysema, bronchitis, poliomyelitis, macular degeneration, cancer, gingivitis, dermatitis, hair loss, hepatitis, genital herpes, papilloma, and asthma in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a graph depicting the average body weight in grams of untreated mice and mice treated with the plant extract of the present invention over time. Treatment with the plant extract was maintained throughout the experiment, and diabetes was induced on Day 12 by administration of streptozotocin.

Fig. 2 is a graph depicting the average food intake in grams/mouse/day for untreated mice and mice treated with the plant extract of the present invention over time. Treatment with the plant extract was maintained throughout the experiment, and diabetes was induced on Day 12 by administration of streptozotocin.

Fig. 3 is a graph depicting the average fluid intake in milliliters/mouse/day for untreated mice and mice treated with the plant extract of the present invention over time. Treatment with the plant extract was maintained throughout the experiment, and diabetes was induced on Day 12 by administration of streptozotocin. Fig. 4 is a graph depicting the average blood plasma glucose concentration in mmol/liter grams/mouse/day for of untreated mice and mice treated with the plant extract of the present invention over time. Treatment with the plant extract was maintained throughout the experiment, and diabetes was induced on Day 12 by administration of streptozotocin. Fig. 5 A and 5B are graphs depicting the effect of the plant extract of the present invention on the treatment of a patient with Type 2 diabetes on blood glucose concentration over time. Fig. 5 A depicts a first 11 -week treatment regime begun late 1998. Treatment with the plant extract began at Day 10 and was discontinued at Day 51. Fig. 5B depicts a second 9- week treatment regime begun in January, 1999. Treatment with the plant extract began at Day 7 and discontinued at Day 49.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Therapeutic plant extracts have been obtained from Bactris plants, preferably Bactris balanoidea, also known as viscoyol, which ranges from Central to South America. The therapeutic composition in the plant extract has been found in the roots and fruit of the plant, and it is believed that other parts of the plant, including but not limited to leaves and stems, also contain the therapeutic composition. Preferably, the plant extract is obtained from the roots because of their year-round accessibility.

The plant extract of the present invention is extracted from the plant or portions thereof in a nontoxic solvent appropriate for solubilizing the plant extract from the plant or portions thereof. Preferably, the nontoxic solvent is aqueous. More preferably, the solvent is water. The extraction process in the nontoxic solvent is accelerated by increased temperatures. Preferably, the plant or portions thereof are boiled in the nontoxic solvent. The plant extract of the present invention is preferably extracted from the roots by boiling to form an aqueous solution, e.g., about 454 grams of roots boiled in about 7.6 liters of water. The roots can be dried and then cut into shavings or ground to a coarse powder prior to boiling. The subsequent solution can then be freeze-dried to provide an active powder (hereinafter referred to as "freeze-dried powder"). Alternatively, a raw plant powder is prepared from the plants or portions thereof (hereinafter referred to as "raw plant powder"), by drying the plants or portions thereof and then pulverizing the plants or portions thereof into a powder. A preferred method for preparing the powder from dried roots comprises the following steps: (1) cleaning fresh Bactris roots by washing and scrubbing; (2) disinfecting the roots, preferably in sulfur dioxide (SO₂) solution; (3) cutting the roots into shavings; (4) drying shavings in the absence of direct sunlight to prevent loss of potency upon exposure to direct sunlight; (5) drying the shavings further in a drying apparatus such as a kiln set at about 60°C to about 100°C, preferably at 65°C, to reduce the moisture content of the shavings to about 5% to about 10%, preferably to about 6%, and to disinfect the shavings; and (6) pulverizing and sifting the shavings to form a powder. Other disinfectants which are useful in food preparation or as food additives, ultraviolet light, and/or ozone can be used to disinfect the roots, shavings, and/or powder. It is desirable to reduce the moisture content of the shavings sufficiently to make the shavings pulverizable and also so as to deter subsequent antimicrobial contamination by bacteria or fungi. The freeze-dried powder and raw powder are preferably vacuum-packed in a light resistant container to increase shelf life by limiting the exposure of the powder to humidity and sunlight. Alternatively, the powders are processed into capsules or tablets which are stored in light resistant containers. Other containers may be used and packaged, handled, and stored appropriately to provide light and/or humidity protection.

The plant extract or raw plant powder of the present invention can be administered topically, orally, sublingually, or as an inhalant. It can be administered via ingestion of a food substance containing the plant extract in an amount sufficient to achieve therapeutic levels. Alternatively, it can be enclosed in capsules, compressed into tablets, micro-encapsulated, entrapped in liposomes, in solution or suspension, alone or in combination with a substrate immobilizing material such as starch or poorly absorbable salts. Pharmaceutically compatible binding agents and/or adjuvant materials can be used as part of a composition. Tablets or capsules can contain any of the following ingredients, or compounds of similar nature: a binder such as microcrystalline cellulose, gum tragacanth or gelatin; and excipient such as starch or lactose; an integrating agent such as alginic acid; corn starch; a lubricant such as magnesium stearate; a glidant such as colloidal silicon dioxide; and sweetening and flavoring agents. When a capsule form is used, a fatty oil can be used as the liquid carrier. Capsules and tablets can be coated with sugar, shellac and other enteric agents as is known. The plant extract can also be in a controlled-release formulation. An effective therapeutic amount of the freeze-dried plant extract powder of the present invention is from about 100 to about 500 milligrams per kilogram body weight. For prophylactic use, the preferred therapeutic dosage is from about 100 to about 200 milligrams per kilogram body weight. For providing an ameliorative effect to a disease state or curative purposes, the preferred therapeutic dosage is from about 300 to about 500 milligrams per kilogram body weight.

About 2-3 grams of the raw powder functions equivalently to 237 milliliters of the solution prepared by boiling about 454 grams of roots in about 7.6 liters of water for therapeutic use. For the raw powder, the effective therapeutic amount is from about 2 grams to about 30 grams, more preferably from about 4 grams to about 15 grams.

The recommended daily therapeutic amount of the plant extract of the present invention can be given in one dose. However, it is preferred that the therapeutic amount be divided into two to four portions, with the portions taken periodically throughout the day .

Example 1: Treatment for Diabetes The plant extract of the present invention has been shown to provide therapeutic effects in the treatment of diabetes. The effect of glucose homeostasis of the plant extract used as a treatment for diabetes mellitus was evaluated in a blind study carried out by an independent laboratory, using normal and streptozotocin diabetic mice.

About 200 grams of plant material (roots) was ground into a coarse powder and an aqueous extract was prepared by boiling for 30 minutes, to obtain 850 ml. This solution was freeze-dried to yield 10.15 grams of powder. The freeze-dried powder was redissolved in physiological saline for use in the study.

Adult Swiss albino male rats were used in an acute toxicity evaluation, and mice (in bred) were used in an anti-diabetes study. The test animals were housed at 22±2°C in an air-conditioned room and supplied with a standard pellet diet and water ad libitum. To evaluate toxicity, five groups (n=6) of male albino rats weighing 150-200 grams were injected intraperitoneally (i.p.) with increasing doses of the plant extract: 900, 1112, 1375, 1700, and 2100 milligrams per kilogram body weight. The rats were observed continuously for ten hours, and the percentage mortality over a 24 hour period was recorded. The changes in various autonomic and behavioral responses were noted. The LD₅₀ was calculated by probit analysis. In the acute toxicity test, the treated animals exhibited no signs of toxicity, and no mortality was observed up to the 900 milligrams per kilogram body weight dose level. At eight hours after the injection of 2100 milligrams of plant extract per kilogram body weight, 100% death was observed. Before death, most of the rats showed imbalance, crawling gait, twitching, and tremor. The acute toxicity concentration at which 50% of the rats were killed within 24 hours (LD₅₀) was 1533 milligrams per kilogram body weight.

In the anti-diabetes study, groups of 5-7 normal mice were subjected to a four day run-in period followed by treatment with a decoction containing 192 milligram of plant extract per kilogram body weight by gavage beginning on Day 1. Treatment with 192 milligrams per kilogram body weight was given daily throughout the experiment. Diabetes was induced on Day 12 by administration of streptozotocin (Sigma Chemical Co, St. Louis, Mo.) at 200 milligrams per kilogram body weight i.p. in 0.5 mol/L citrate buffer, pH 4.5. Body weight, food and fluid uptake were monitored daily. Blood samples (50 microliters) for plasma glucose were obtained from the tail tip of conscious mice on Days -4, 3, 10, 12, 17, 24, 30, and 40.

As shown in Fig. 1-4 and Table I-IV, treatment with the plant extract did not alter any of the parameters measured (body weight, food and fluid intake, and basal plasma glucose) during the administration to normal mice. Induction of diabetes with streptozotocin was associated with the characteristic development of hyperglycemia, hyperphagia, polydipsea, and loss of body weight. Treatment with the plant extract lowered mean values for basal plasma glucose concentration in the diabetic mice, and achieved statistical significance when compared with the basal plasma glucose concentration of the control group. The plant extract also reduced fluid intake and body weight loss in the diabetic mice. The plant extract of the present invention reduced the hyperglycemia of streptozotocin diabetic mice and also generally reduced the polydipsea and loss of body weight. These results indicate that the plant extract can be used in the treatment of diabetes.

A study was conducted in 23 diabetic patients (16 men and 7 women) who voluntarily were treated with 2 glasses of the plant extract (approximately 100-200 milligrams of plant extract/glassful; one glass in the morning and one at night) during a 2-3 month period. None of the patients experienced elevations in blood glucose levels. The average blood glucose level for the patients deprived of food was 94 milligrams per liter and after consuming food was 103 milligrams per liter. The

Table I: Average Body Weight (grams) of Treated vs. Untreated Mice Over Time

Table II: Average Food Intake (grams/mouse/day) of Treated vs. Untreated Mice Over Time

Table III: Average Fluid Intake (milliliters/mouse/day) of Treated vs. Untreated Mice Over Time

Table IV: Average Plasma Glucose (mmol/liter) of Treated vs. Untreated Mice Over Time

patients were able to alter their diets from a strict diabetic regimen and still maintain ideal weight.

In another study, 20 patients suffering from Type 1 diabetes were treated with a tea preparation as follows: 2-3 grams of the dried plant extract of the present invention were gently boiled in approximately 237 milliliters of water, and each patient received 473-711 milliliters per day. Symptoms of the diabetes were eliminated in 90% of the cases after three days of treatment, and the patients maintained on the plant extract did not require the use of insulin.

In yet another study, 36 patients suffering from Type 2 diabetes were treated with a tea preparation as follows: 2-3 grams of the dried plant extract of the present invention were gently boiled in approximately 237 milliliters of water, and each patient received 473-711 milliliters per day. All 36 patients experienced the lowering of blood sugar levels to the point that, within one week after the initial administration of the tea preparation, each patient was able to discontinue use of insulin. As long as the patients continued use of the tea preparation, the patients did not require the use of insulin and normal blood sugar levels remained. Exemplary Case Report for Type 2 Diabetes

An exemplary case report for a patient with Type 2 diabetes treated with the plant extract indicates that the plant extract of the present invention is capable of reducing and maintaining low blood glucose concentrations in Type 2 diabetes.

A 36-year old Latin male was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. He exhibited all of the signs of Type 2 diabetes such as obesity, lack of exercise, and poor diet control, and had been unable to maintain his blood glucose concentrations at normal levels. The patient monitored his blood glucose levels on a daily basis with a calibrated glucometer and was on a physician prescribed daily regimen of oral anti- diabetic for approximately 3.5 years in an attempt to control his blood sugar levels, with only moderate success. While taking two separate oral anti-diabetic daily, Glucotrol and glucophage, at a high dosage level, his blood glucose concentration fluctuated between 190-280 mg/dl, well above normal. In July, 1997, he inadvertently discontinued the use of his oral anti-diabetic for three days and suffered a life-threatening hyperglycemic crisis requiring the injection of insulin as an emergency measure.

In late 1998, while still on the oral anti-diabetic, the patient started a first regime of therapy with the plant extract of the present invention by drinking two 237 milliliter glasses daily, one in the morning and one in the evening. He continued this regimen for a period of 36 days after which he discontinued use of the plant extract and remained solely on the oral anti-diabetic. The results of his treatment demonstrated in Fig. 5A, show that within 3 days after he began taking the plant extract his blood glucose concentration was reduced from 254 to 177 and then stabilized at concentrations generally below 180. During this time, he continued using the oral anti-diabetic. Significantly, when he discontinued the use of the plant extract, his blood glucose concentrations, within three days, elevated back to their previous high levels. Later in January and February, 1999, the patient began a second treatment regimen of the plant extract of the present invention, using it over a 4- week period. As shown in Fig. 5B, the patient's blood sugar levels were reduced almost to normal levels and were maintained at those levels as long as he continued to take the plant extract. Again, after discontinuing treatment with the plant extract, his blood sugar levels started to rise. Thus, the plant extract was capable of reducing and maintaining low blood glucose concentrations in Type 2 diabetes as long as the treatment was continued.

Example 2: Treatment for AIDS The plant extract of the present invention has been shown to provide therapeutic effects in the treatment of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients. A plant extract solution was prepared by boiling about 454 grams of dried Bactris balanoidea root shavings in about 7.6 liters of water. One to 1 V% glasses of the solution (approximately 100-200 mg of the plant extract/glassful) were ingested morning and evening by over 100 AIDS patients. Good results were observed by the attending physician. In four patients, the CD4+ count increased to 486, 450, 460, and 360, compared to a normal CD4+ of 400, indicating an improvement in immunocompetence. A test for human immunodeficiency virus on one of the patients changed from positive to negative after treatment with the plant extract. Exemplary Case Report for AIDS

An exemplary case report for a patient diagnosed with GRID (Gay-related immunodeficiency disease) indicates that the plant extract of the present invention has a marked multiple positive therapeutic effect in AIDS.

The patient was originally diagnosed with GRID in 1989, before the causative agent of AIDS was discovered. He was a long term survivor, having apparently been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus for over 20 years. Laboratory documentation of his infection was carried out in 1985, and he was treated with various regimens of drugs over the past few years, including nucleoside inhibitors and protease inhibitors. His viral load count, a primary indicator of disease status reached as high as 4,900,000 copies (1993) and his CD4+ lymphocyte count, another disease-status indicator, fell to as low as 30. With the advent of combination therapy, the patient regained some of his immune function and showed a reduction in viral load. However, as with many patients, the combination therapy did not sustain its effect and, early in 1999, he began to fail clinically. During this period of time as outlined below, the patient began taking two times daily the plant extract of the present invention prepared by boiling 3 grams of the dried plant extract in 237 milliliters of water per dose. The patient showed remarkable recovery in CD4+ count and a marked decrease in viral load as given in Table V below.

In addition to the laboratory results given above, the patient reported a marked reduction in fat deposits and residual fatty tissue, elimination of paresthesia of the lower limbs and feet, elimination of Grade 3 neuropathy, and an overall increase in energy and quality of life, indicating the plant extract of the present invention has a marked multiple positive therapeutic effect in AIDS.

Example 3: Treatment for Influenza and Common Cold

The plant extract of the present invention has been shown to provide therapeutic as well as prophylactic effects against influenza and the common cold. In one study, a plant extract solution was prepared by boiling about 454 grams of the roots of interest in about 7.6 liters of water. Voluntary patients diagnosed with influenza ingested daily two to three glasses of the plant extract solution (approximately 100-200 mg of the plant extract /glassful). Within two days, all patients were symptom-free.

In another study, 4 patients suffering the common cold were treated with a tea preparation as follows: 2-3 grams of the dried plant extract of the present invention were gently boiled in approximately 237 milliliters of water, and each patient received 473-711 milliliters per day. Treatment with the tea preparation resulted in complete resolution of symptoms for all patients.

The prophylactic effect of the plant extract has been observed in that of all patients observed who have taken the plant extract solution for any reason, none have been observed to have contracted influenza or the common cold upon environmental exposure to the infectious agents. Example 4: Pulmonary Emphysema

Treatment with the plant extract of the present invention has shown positive improvement in patients suffering from pulmonary emphysema. In one study, 14 patients suffering pulmonary emphysema were treated with a tea preparation as follows: 2-3 grams of the dried plant extract of the present invention were gently boiled in approximately 237 milliliters of water, and each patient received 473-711 milliliters per day. Treatment with the tea preparation resulted in 95% reduction of symptoms in the emphysema patients after 15 days of administration. Example 5: Treatment for Bronchitis Treatment with the plant extract of the present invention has shown positive improvement in patients suffering from bronchitis. In a study of 11 patients suffering bronchitis, the patients were treated with a tea preparation as follows: 2-3 grams of the dried plant extract of the present invention were gently boiled in approximately 237 milliliters of water, and each patient received 473-711 milliliters per day. In all cases of bronchitis, treatment resulted in 90% relief of symptoms after 3 weeks. Example 6: Treatment for Poliomyelitis Treatment with the plant extract of the present invention has shown positive improvement in a patient suffering from poliomyelitis. The patient was treated with a tea preparation as follows: 2-3 grams of the dried plant extract of the present invention were gently boiled in approximately 237 milliliters of water, and the patient received 473-711 milliliters per day. For this patient, 70% of the symptoms were eliminated by treatment with the plant extract of the present invention. Example 7: Treatment for Macular Degeneration Patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration have shown significant improvements in vision and relief from the symptoms of dry eyes after being treated with ophthalmic drops of the plant extract. In a study of nine patients, ophthalmic drops were prepared by boiling about 454 grams of the roots of interest in about 7.6 liters of water. After filtering, two to three drops of the plant extract solution were administered to each eye once a day. The results of this study are summarized for each patient.

Patient #1 was an 85 year old female diagnosed with age related macular degeneration. At an initial examination, visual acuity was measured as OD = 20/800 and OS = 20/200. When treatment with the plant extract began, visual acuity was measured as OD = 20/800 and OS = 20/200. Twenty-three days later, the patient's visual acuity was measured as OD = 20/200 and OS = 20/200. Visual acuity remained unaltered for approximately six months, when a decrease in visual acuity was found: OD = 20/200 and OS = 10/300. During treatment, the patient reported an improvement in vision.

Patient #2 was a 72 year old male diagnosed with pseudophakia OU, age related macular degeneration, bullous keratopathy of the left eye, and failed keratoplasty of the left eye. During an initial examination, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/80 and OS = hand movements only. Seventeen months later, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/300 and OS = hand movements only, and the examination revealed an increase in degenerative changes with no subretinal membrane seen. When treatment with the plant extract began approximately two months later, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/200. In three months, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/70, indicating definite improvement. Subsequent examinations at five months, eleven months, and thirteen months showed the patient's visual acuity at OD = 20/100, with the decrease in vision at five months, coincident with a second failed keratoplasty of the left eye.

Patient #3 was a 63 year old male who was diagnosed with definite changes in macular pigment epithelium. During an initial examination, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/60 and OS = 20/30. Treatment with the plant extract began thirteen months later, at which time the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/30 and OS = 20/100. Thirteen months after treatment began, an improvement was observed with the patient's visual acuity measured at OD = 20/30 and OS = 20/25. The patient continued with treatment, and one month later, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/25 and OS = 20/60. During an examination six months later, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/30+ and OS = 20/200. The patient reported that he stopped using the plant extract drops due to stinging. The patient was given a different batch of the plant extract drops and advised to continue treatment. After three months, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = 20/30 and OS = 20/100. Two months later, the patient showed definite improvement with visual acuity measured at OD = 20/30 and OS = 20/60.

Patient #4 was an 80 year old female who was diagnosed as having age related macular degeneration, and fundus examination showed advanced macular degeneration with scar formation. During an initial examination, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = count fingers at about 0.3 meters and OS = count fingers at about 0.9 meters. Twenty-three months later, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = hand movements only and OS = count fingers at about 0.3 meters. The patient complained of severe loss of vision and had been treated for open glaucoma. The plant extract treatment was initiated, and thirteen months later, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = count fingers at about 0.3 meters and OS = count fingers at 0.9 meters. Twelve months later, the patient's visual acuity measured OD = count fingers at about 0.3 meters and OS = count fingers at about 1.5 meters. The patient considered her visual improvement a miracle.

In another study, a patient with macular degeneration was treated with a tea preparation as follows: 2-3 grams of the dried plant extract of the present invention were gently boiled in approximately 237 milliliters of water, and each patient received 473-711 milliliters per day. The patient with macular degeneration of the eye was cured, with complete reversal of symptoms and regained eyesight. Example 8: Inhibition of Cancer Cells Cancer cell preparations were treated in vitro with the plant extract of the present invention. Complete inhibition of lung cancer, breast cancer, and two types of thyroid cancer cells was achieved. For patients, two to three glasses of the plant extract solution (approximately 100-200 mg of the plant extract /glassful) prepared by boiling about 454 grams of the roots of interest in about 7.6 liters of water is given daily for cancer, and the plant extract solution is also topically applied directly on melanoma.

Example 9: Treatment for Gingivitis The plant extract of the present invention has been shown to provide therapeutic effects against gingivitis. A patient suffering from gingivitis and subsequent loss of teeth began voluntary treatment with the plant extract. The plant extract solution was prepared by boiling about 454 grams of the roots of interest in about 7.6 liters of water. Two glasses of the plant extract solution (approximately 100-200 mg of the plant extract/glassful) was ingested daily, and the mouth was rinsed twice daily with the plant extract solution. Upon evaluation, the patient's periodontal problem was reported to have abated. Example 10: Treatment for Dermatitis

External application of the plant extract of the present invention on the skin improved dermatitic conditions and removed a variety of skin blemishes of viral origin. It had a soothing effect on cuts and bruises, such as after shaving. It also provided active deodorant protection. Two forms of topical administration were successfully used. A plant extract solution was prepared by boiling about 454 grams of the roots of interest in about 7.6 liters of water. This solution was applied to the skin several times a day. A lotion was also prepared by concentrating the plant extract solution by a factor of 20 and mixing the concentrate with an inert body lotion. The lotion was applied to the skin twice daily.

Example 11: Treatment for Hair Loss External application of the plant extract of the present invention on the bald head of one patient resulted in hair growth. Two forms of topical administration were successfully used. A plant extract solution was prepared by boiling about 454 grams of the roots of interest in about 7.6 liters of water. This solution was applied to the scalp several times a day. A lotion was also prepared by concentrating the plant extract solution by a factor of 20 and mixing the concentrate with an inert body lotion. The lotion was applied to the scalp twice daily. In addition to the topical administration, the patient also ingested two glasses of the plant extract solution (approximately 100-200 mg of the plant extract/glassful) daily.

Example 12: Other Treatments Treatment with the plant extract of the present invention has shown positive improvement in patients suffering from hepatitis (A, B, and C), genital herpes, papilloma, and asthma. The plant extract solution was prepared by boiling about 454 grams of the roots of interest in about 7.6 liters of water. Two glasses of the plant extract solution (approximately 100-200 mg of the plant extract/glassful) was ingested daily. For diseases involving skin conditions, topical application was performed using preparations described in Examples 10 and 11. Patients with respiratory diseases can also be treated with a plant extract inhalant.

Claims

We claim:

1. A method for isolating a therapeutic plant extract, said method comprising the steps of:

(a) providing Bactris plants or portions thereof;

(b) combining said plants or portions thereof with a nontoxic solvent appropriate for solubilizing said plant extract; and

(c) recovering said plant extract.

2. The method of Claim 1, wherein said plants are Bactris balanoidea.

3. The method of Claim 1, wherein said plants or portions thereof are in dry powder form.

4. The method of Claim 2, wherein said plants or portions thereof are in dry powder form.

5. The method of Claim 1, wherein said portion comprises roots.

6. The method of Claim 2, wherein said portion comprises roots.

7. The method of Claim 3, wherein said portion comprises roots.

8. The method of Claim 4, wherein said portion comprises roots.

9. The method of Claim 1, further comprising the step of drying said aqueous solution to powder form.

10. The method of Claim 1 , wherein said plants or plant portions thereof are boiled in said nontoxic solvent.

11. A plant extract made according to the method of Claim 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10.

12. A pharmaceutical composition comprising the plant extract of Claim 11.

13. A pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form adapted for administration to obtain a therapeutic effect, comprising, per dosage unit, a therapeutically effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11.

14. The pharmaceutical preparation of Claim 13, wherein said therapeutically effective amount is from about 100 milligrams to about 500 milligrams per kilogram body weight.

15. A method for preparation of a raw plant powder, said method comprising the steps of:

(a) providing Bactris plants or portions thereof;

(b) drying said plants or portions thereof in the absence of direct sunlight; and

(c) pulverizing said dried plants or portions thereof to form a plant powder,

16. The method of Claim 15, wherein said plants are Bactris balanoidea.

17. The method of Claim 15, wherein said portion comprises roots.

18. The method of Claim 16, wherein said portion comprises roots.

19. The method of Claim 15, wherein the moisture content of said plants or portion thereof is reduced to from about 5% to about 10%.

20. The method of Claim 16, wherein the moisture content of said plants or portion thereof is reduced to from about 5% to about 10%.

21. The method of Claim 17, wherein the moisture content of said plants or portion thereof is reduced to from about 5% to about 10%.

22. The method of Claim 18, wherein the moisture content of said plants or portion thereof is reduced to from about 5% to about 10%.

23. A raw plant powder made according to the method of Claim 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, or 22.

24. A pharmaceutical composition comprising the raw plant powder of Claim 23.

25. A pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form adapted for administration to obtain a therapeutic effect, comprising, per dosage unit, a therapeutically effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23.

26. The pharmaceutical preparation of Claim 25, wherein said therapeutically effective amount is from about 100 milligrams to about 500 milligrams per kilogram body weight.

27. A plant extract made by boiling a therapeutic amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 in a nontoxic solvent appropriate for solubilizing said plant extract.

28. A pharmaceutical composition comprising the plant extract of Claim 27.

29. A pharmaceutical preparation in dosage unit form adapted for administration to obtain a therapeutic effect, comprising, per dosage unit, a therapeutically effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 27.

30. The pharmaceutical preparation of Claim 29, wherein said therapeutically effective amount is from about 100 milligrams to about 500 milligrams per kilogram body weight.

31. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of diabetes.

32. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of diabetes.

33. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of aquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

34. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of aquired immunodeficiency syndrome.

35. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of influenza.

36. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of influenza.

37. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of common cold symptoms.

38. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of common cold symptoms.

39. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of pulmonary emphysema.

40. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of pulmonary emphysema.

41. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of bronchitis.

42. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of bronchitis.

43. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of poliomyelitis.

44. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of poliomyelitis.

45. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of macular degeneration.

46. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of macular degeneration.

47. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of cancer.

48. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of cancer.

49. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of gingivitis.

50. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of gingivitis.

51. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of dermatitis.

52. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of dermatitis.

53. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of hair loss.

54. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of hair loss.

55. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of hepatitis.

56. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of hepatitis.

57. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of genital herpes.

58. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of genital herpes.

59. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of papilloma.

60. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of papilloma.

61. A first medical use of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 for treatment of asthma.

62. A first medical use of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 for treatment of asthma.

63. A method of treatment for diabetes in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of diabetes in said patient.

64. A method of treatment for diabetes in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of diabetes in said patient.

65. A method of treatment for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in said patient.

66. A method of treatment for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome in said patient.

67. A method of treatment for influenza in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of influenza symptoms in said patient.

68. A method of treatment for influenza in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of influenza symptoms in said patient.

69. A method of treatment for common cold in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of common cold symptoms in said patient.

70. A method of treatment for common cold in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of common cold symptoms in said patient.

71. A method of treatment for pulmonary emphysema in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of pulmonary emphysema symptoms in said patient.

72. A method of treatment for pulmonary emphysema in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of pulmonary emphysema symptoms in said patient.

73. A method of treatment for bronchitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of bronchitis symptoms in said patient.

74. A method of treatment for bronchitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of bronchitis symptoms in said patient.

75. A method of treatment for poliomyelitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of poliomyelitis symptoms in said patient.

76. A method of treatment for poliomyelitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amoimt of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of poliomyelitis symptoms in said patient.

77. A method of treatment for macular degeneration in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of macular degeneration in said patient.

78. A method of treatment for macular degeneration in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of macular degeneration in said patient.

79. A method of treatment for gingivitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of gingivitis in said patient.

80. A method of treatment for gingivitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of gingivitis in said patient.

81. A method of treatment for dermatitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of dermatitis in said patient.

82. A method of treatment for dermatitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of dermatitis in said patient.

83. A method of treatment for hair loss in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of hair loss in said patient.

84. A method of treatment for hair loss in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of hair loss in said patient.

85. A method of treatment for hepatitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of hepatitis symptoms in said patient.

86. A method of treatment for hepatitis in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of hepatitis symptoms in said patient.

87. A method of treatment for genital herpes in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of genital herpes in said patient.

88. A method of treatment for genital herpes in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of genital herpes in said patient.

89. A method of treatment for papilloma in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of papilloma in said patient.

90. A method of treatment for papilloma in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of papilloma in said patient.

91. A method of treatment for asthma in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the plant extract of Claim 11 or 27 to cause a reduction of asthma in said patient.

92. A method of treatment for asthma in a patient, comprising the steps of administering an effective amount of the raw plant powder of Claim 23 to cause a reduction of asthma in said patient.