Quick Facts about Artemisinin

 

Artemisinin, a naturally occurring compound, and its synthetic derivatives like artesunate, artemether, and dihydroartemisinin, are best known in the medical world for their effective role in treating malaria. They are particularly effective against Plasmodium falciparum, the most dangerous malaria parasite in humans.

What makes artemisinin unique is its chemical structure, which contains a peroxide bridge. This structure gives artemisinin the ability to act cytotoxically on various tumor cells, making it a potential candidate in cancer research.

Moreover, artemisinin is known for its broad action against a wide variety of pathogens. Its antibacterial properties have been shown to be effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Its antifungal effects are noteworthy as well, especially against fungi like Candida albicans and athlete’s foot or nail fungus.

Not only bacteria and fungi, but various viruses are also sensitive to artemisinin. Studies have shown it to be effective against viruses such as Hepatitis B and C, different herpes viruses, and the Epstein-Barr virus.

 

 

Malaria

 

Preventive Use of Artemisinin: Although artemisinin is primarily used for the treatment of malaria, there are situations where it can also be used preventively, a practice known as chemoprophylaxis, often used by travelers to malaria-endemic regions. Preventive intake generally begins 3-4 days before entering the malaria area and continues up to four weeks after leaving. It’s important to note that chemoprophylaxis should be tailored individually, depending on factors like destination, duration of stay, existing resistances, and individual health conditions. In addition to prophylaxis, physical protective measures such as mosquito nets, repellents, and covering clothing should always be used to minimize the risk of mosquito bites. For extended stays in malaria-endemic areas, our ArtemiCure® 30:1 Artemisia annua Full-Spectrum Extract can be an alternative if the continuous intake of artemisinin becomes too taxing.

 

Therapies: Especially effective against Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest form of malaria.

 

1. Diagnosis:

Before artemisinin is administered, a malaria infection must be diagnosed, usually through microscopic blood smear examinations or rapid tests that detect specific malaria antigens.

2. Choice of Medication:

Artemisinin is typically used in combination with other malaria medications. These combination therapies are called Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies (ACTs). Common partners include lumefantrine, mefloquine, or amodiaquine.

3. Treatment Plan:

The exact dosage and duration of therapy depend on the age, weight, and severity of the infection. Treatment typically lasts for five days.

4. Monitoring and Side Effects:

Side effects and the efficacy of the treatment should be monitored during therapy. Common side effects include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

5. Preventing Relapses:

For infections with Plasmodium vivax or Plasmodium ovale, additional treatment with primaquine may be necessary to prevent relapses, as these types of malaria parasites can persist in the liver.

 

Malaria treatment must always be conducted under medical supervision, as improper use of artemisinin and other malaria drugs can lead to resistance and treatment failure.

 

Usage:

Preventive Use: 1 capsule of ArtemiCure - Artemisinin 98% per day

Therapeutic Use: 1 capsule of ArtemiCure - Artemisinin 98% twice daily, morning and evening

 

Note: The statements made here regarding malaria therapy refer exclusively to malaria-endemic regions in Africa, Asia, and India and are recognized and endorsed in collaboration with the WHO and local health systems. These statements are not valid for the European Union.

 

 

Different Types of Cancer

 

The use of artemisinin and its derivatives in cancer treatment is widespread in regions outside of Western medicine, particularly in Asia, India, and Latin America. In these regions, artemisinin is used in both traditional and modern medicine for cancer treatment, based on various modern research approaches and traditional healing practices.

 

Mechanism: When artemisinin comes into contact with iron, it forms free radicals that can damage cancer cells. Since cancer cells often contain more iron than normal cells, they are particularly sensitive to artemisinin. For this reason, an iron supplement is recommended before starting artemisinin therapy. Artemisinin can also disrupt the process of cell division in cancer cells at various stages and inhibit their growth. Additionally, it prevents the formation of new blood vessels in tumors, further limiting their growth. Artemisinin can also trigger programmed cell death, or apoptosis, in cancer cells.

 

1. Traditional Medical Foundations:

In Asian and Latin American countries, as well as in India, artemisinin has long been used in traditional medicine (TCM). This use is based on a holistic approach that emphasizes the balance of the body and its natural processes.

2. Combination with Modern Therapies:

Artemisinin is often used in combination with chemotherapy. These approaches may differ from those typically used in Western medicine and often involve traditional healing methods in post-treatment care.

3. Dosage and Administration:

The dosage and administration of artemisinin can vary and are often tailored to the individual needs of the patient. It is administered orally as capsules but also comes in other forms such as tinctures or infusions.

4. Application to Different Types of Cancer:

Artemisinin is used to treat various types of cancer, with application methods tailored to the type of cancer and the stage of the disease. It cannot be used for brain tumors because it cannot cross the blood-brain barrier.

5. Cure:

As cancer patients are treated early with artemisinin, the cure rate is about 90%. Moreover, during follow-up care, the circumstances of the illness are further explored. This holistic therapy approach ensures a long-term cure for the patient. This type of treatment targets not just the cancer but the entire body and mind.

 

It is important to note that medical practices and perspectives vary in different parts of the world, and what is accepted and practiced in one cultural or geographical context may differ from what is common in other parts of the world. Patients should always seek expert advice and carefully weigh their treatment options.

 

Usage:

Preparation for Therapy: A 2-week iron supplement

Therapeutic Use: 1 capsule of ArtemiCure - Artemisinin 98% daily for 3 weeks, then a 7-10 day break. The intake cycle then resumes. This cycle repeats until the dosage is used up, or at least three consecutive cycles. During the break cycles, iron should be taken again to prevent deficiencies.

Post-Therapy: To prevent potential relapses, it is recommended to strengthen the immune system with colostrum 60% IgG.

 

Note: The statements made here regarding cancer therapies apply to most countries. Exceptions include the following regions: Australia, Canada, England, the European Union, Switzerland, the USA, and countries aligned with their healthcare systems.

 

HIV

 

Mechanism: Artemisinin’s use in HIV treatment is the subject of numerous research studies, and there are already established and recognized treatment methods involving artemisinin for HIV.

 

1. Current Research:

Research to date has shown that artemisinin may have some efficacy against HIV, but these results are preliminary and must be confirmed by further clinical studies.

2. Mechanism of Action:

Artemisinin has been found to inhibit the replication of the HIV virus, potentially by affecting certain enzymes or metabolic pathways necessary for the virus to reproduce.

3. Combination Therapy:

HIV treatment typically involves a combination therapy known as antiretroviral therapy (ART). There are considerations as to whether artemisinin could be a useful additional component in such therapies.

4. Dosage and Application:

Since there is no standardized treatment with artemisinin for HIV yet, the optimal dosage is unknown. Any potential use should at least be strictly monitored (documented).

5. Support from Clinical Trials:

More clinical trials are planned to further confirm the efficacy and safety of artemisinin in the treatment of HIV.

 

Usage:

Currently, there are two recommendations:

 

• 3 weeks, morning and evening, one capsule of 250mg

• 3 weeks, 1 capsule of ArtemiCure - Artemisinin 98% with 500mg, followed by a 5-day break, then the intake cycle restarts.

 

Note: The information provided here about HIV treatment applies to most countries. Exceptions include the following regions: Australia, Canada, China, England, the European Union, Russia, the USA, and countries aligned with their healthcare systems.

 

Microorganisms

Artemisinin is increasingly being researched and, in some cases, used to combat various microorganisms. Its broad activity against different pathogens is particularly noteworthy. Its antibacterial properties have been proven effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Its fungicidal effects have been confirmed, particularly against fungi like Candida albicans and athlete’s foot or nail fungus. Artemisinin is also effective against numerous viruses. Its derivatives have shown efficacy, for example, against Hepatitis B and C, herpes viruses, and the Epstein-Barr virus.

 

1. Mechanism of Action Against Microorganisms:

Artemisinin works by generating free radicals within the cells of microorganisms, causing oxidative stress and, ultimately, cell death. This mechanism is particularly effective against parasites like Plasmodium.

2. Bacterial and Viral Infections:

Although artemisinin is primarily effective against parasites, it has also been shown to work against some bacterial infections. However, research in this area is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to determine the efficacy and safety of artemisinin against bacteria and viruses.

3. Dosage and Forms of Application:

The exact dosage and method of application of artemisinin for combating microorganisms depend on the type of infection and the specific characteristics of the microorganism. In some cases, it may be advisable to use our ArtemiCure® 30:1 Artemisia annua Full-Spectrum Extract, as it contains the full range of active compounds found in the Artemisia annua plant.

4. Combination Therapies:

Artemisinin is often used in combination with other antimicrobial agents to increase efficacy and reduce the risk of resistance development.

 

Usage:

Currently, there are no definitive usage recommendations in this area. We therefore recommend following the dosage instructions on the label.

 

Good to know:

The plant Artemisia annua is one of the most important economic plants in the world. There are hardly any other plants that hold more patents on active ingredients and combinations.