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Anticancer Chinese Privet plant

Anticancer Chinese Privet plant has been studied for its medicinal properties. This shrub can grow into a small tree, reaching a height of about 2–10 m. In exceptional cases, the plant can reach a height of 25 meters. The plant is native to China but is an introduced species that thrives in many subtropical and temperate regions, including Australia, Latin America, Africa, Asia, and the United States. It belongs to the Oleaceae family.

The tree can form dense, impenetrable stands that often outcompete native flora. The literature characterizes it as a weed and an invasive plant. The leaves are ovate to elliptical, and the flowers are white or cream, with a sickly sweet fragrance. The fruits are deep blue-black and turn red-black when ripe.

Anticancer Chinese Privet plant – evidence from Traditional Chinese Medicine

The fruit of Ligustrum lucidum (Chinese Privet) is one of the frequently used liver tonics in traditional Chinese medicine to treat liver disease, including liver cancer. A 2014 study highlighted the potential of this plant as an anticancer herb (Hu et al., 2014).

In addition, multiple studies conducted by Chinese scientists have supported the traditional use of the plant for its anticancer properties and its role in treating various ailments.

An aqueous extract of 12 Chinese herbs—Anemarrhena asphodeloides, Artemisia argyi, Commiphora myrrha, Duchesnea indica, Gleditsia sinensis, Ligustrum lucidum, Rheum palmatum, Rubia cordifolia, Salvia chinensis, Scutellaria barbata, Uncaria rhychophylla, and Vaccaria segetalis—was evaluated for its effectiveness as an anticancer formulation on eight cancer cell lines. The results indicated a great potential for these herbs in anticancer treatment (Shoemaker et al., 2005).

Chinese herbal medicine combined with chemotherapy was seen to improve quality of life and prolong survival in patients suffering from advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This herbal combination included Ligustrum lucidum (Xu et al., 2011).

Tumors are known to suppress the body’s immune system. Chinese herbs Astragalus membranaceus and Ligustrum lucidum have been shown to enhance the body’s self-defense functions (Rittenhouse et al., 1991). These herbs also helped increase the survival period of breast, uterine, and liver cancer patients who were under chemotherapy (Sun, 1986).

A dietary supplement containing extracts from nine Chinese herbs, namely, Herba epimedium brevicornum, Radix morindae officinalis, Fructus rosa, Rubus chingii, Schisandra chinensis, Ligustrum lucidum, Cuscuta chinensis, Psoralea corylifolia, and Astragalus membranaceus, was found to reduce cancer cell growth and induce cell death in prostate cancer patients (Hsieh et al., 2002).

Patents for anticancer properties

A US patent (US8092841B2, assigned to Bionovo, Inc., in 2012) for a Ligustrum lucidum formulation claims it stimulates cancer cell death in breast and uterine cancer patients. Another dietary supplement containing several Chinese herbs, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids claims to enhance the immune system and maintain appetite and weight in cancer patients.

Another patent (US5770217A, assigned to ATLATL Inc.) has been made for a formulation that contains a crucifer extract of Vigna sinensis, Eleutherococcus senticosus, Schisandra chinensis, Panax quinquefolius, Ligustrum lucidum, Echinacea angustifolia, Artemisia annua, Astragalus membranaceus, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Mallettia dielsiana, Ophiopogon japonicus, selenium, glutathione, l-cysteine, l-methionine, and excipients. This formulation is claimed to be beneficial to patients who have undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

#Holistic cancer healing and prevention guide, #Mind-body therapies for cancer patients, #Herbal remedies for cancer support, #Complementary and alternative medicine for cancer, #Natural cancer healing therapies, #Ayurveda and TCM for cancer wellness, #Nutrition and herbal support for cancer recovery

Check out the details in my latest revised edition, Natural Solutions for Cancer: Holistic Healing with Herbal Medicine, Ayurveda, TCM, and Mind-Body Therapies, available on Amazon https://amzn.to/3XNgP52.

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Plant-based anticancer medicine

Plant-based anticancer medicine is based on ancient herbal medicine. The major civilizations in the pre-Christian era were Egypt, Greece, India, and China. Modern medicine emerged in the 19th century, and further advancements in treatments occurred in the 20th century.

European ancient herbal tradition serves as the foundation of modern medicine. We find references to herbal medicine in Homer’s epics, the Illiad and The Odysseys, c. 800 BC. Sixty-three Minoan, Mycenaean, and Egyptian Assyrian pharmacotherapy plant species are mentioned. Elecampane (Inula helenium) and Artemisia are promising references. Hippocrates (459 – 379 BC) writings contain 300 medicinal plants such as wormwood, common centaury (Centaurium umbellatum), garlic, opium, henbane, deadly nightshade, mandrake, fragrant hellebore, haselwort, sea onion, celery, parsley, asparagus, oak and pomegranate.

With the discovery of America, new plants were added to the global medicinal knowledge base: Cinchona, Ipecacuanha, Cacao, Ratanhia, Labelia, Jalapa, Podophyllum, Senega, Vanilla, Mate, tobacco, and red pepper, among others. The early 19th-century discovery, substantiation, and isolation of poppy, ipecacuanha, Strychnos, quinine, pomegranate, and other plants, as well as the isolation of glycosides, marked the beginning of scientific pharmacy. Tannins, saponins, essential oils, vitamins, and hormones are some of the active substances found in medicinal plants. Therapeutics, alkaloids, and glycosides isolated from pure form supplanted the drugs from which they were isolated. The manufacturing, laboratory testing, experimentation, and cultivation of medicinal plants took root in the 20th century.  Petrovska B B (2012)

Combretastatin – an example of plant-based anticancer medicine

The South African bush willow tree is the source of the combretastatin molecule, which has anticancer properties. The US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicines Agency have approved two combretastatin molecules for treating thyroid, ovarian, neuroendocrine, enteric, and glioma cancers. (Patel, V K et al., 2024)

Combretum caffrum is a tree species native to the Combretaceae family, found in South Africa. Its bark contains combretastatin. The plant is used in traditional medicine.

Combretastatin A-4 (CA-4), isolated from the South African tree Combretum caffrum, is one of the most potent antimitotic agents. CA-4 shows strong cytotoxicity against various cancer cells, including multi-drug-resistant cancer cell lines. (Nam, N H (2003); Cirla A. et al., 2003)

The medication received orphan drug status from the US FDA in 2006. Orphan drugs affect rare conditions affecting fewer than 200,000 people. US research grants support orphan drug status, which permits using this medication for specified rare conditions. General approval is accorded after clinical, safety, and efficacy trials.

Advanced clinical trials to treat thyroid cancer in combination with paclitaxel and carboplatin are underway. Some combretastatin derivatives are currently in Phase III clinical trials in combination with chemotherapy treatment for various tumors.

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Hyssop in the Bible

The botanical source of hyssop in the Bible, is shrouded in debate. The Bible mentions hyssop many times (Leviticus 14:1–7). A brush made of hyssop branches was used to mark the houses of the Jews with lamb’s blood to protect them from the impending plague. David mentions hyssop in Psalm 51:7: “Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.”

There are references to hyssop in the burning of the heifer (Numbers 19:6) and for sprinkling on a dead person (Numbers 19:18). In 1 Kings 4:33, Solomon “treated about trees from the cedar that is in Libanus [Lebanon], unto the hyssop that cometh out of the wall.”

Rabbi Saada Gaon (882–942 AD) and Maimonides (1155–1204 AD) believed that Marjarano syriaca syn origanum syriacumsyn origanum maru is the true hyssop, because it is identical to the Israeli za’atar. In Arabic, za’atar refers to marjoram and other genera in its family with similar scent and taste (e.g., thyme, satureja, savory) that are often used as marjoram substitutes. It is also called ezov in Hebrew and Biblical hyssop in English.

Fleischer et al. (1988) concluded that Biblical hyssop was not Hyssopus officinalis, or azob in Greek, which means “holy herb.” Dioscorides wrote that hyssop was used to clean temples,similar to the Biblical descriptions of its use in Leviticus 14:1–7, 33–53 and Psalm 51:7.

On the other hand, the Encyclopedia Britannica (2015) states, “Ezov, the hyssop of the Bible, a wall-growing plant used in ritual cleansing of lepers, is not Hyssopus officinalis … it may have been a species of caper or savory.” Capparis spinosa is a caper found in the region. Stanley (2001), Balfour (1897), and several other authors support that hyssop was C. spinosa.

Botany of hyssop in the Bible

Hyssopus officinalis is a perennial shrub that grows up to two feet. The stems have a woody base, and the plant bears white fragrant flowers. The plant grows in the wild in the Middle East, Southern Europe, and central Asia. It is a naturalised species in the United Kingdom, and immigrants brought it to North America.

The plant grows in rocky, dry, and stony locations, and in the cracks of old walls. It is a hardy species and can withstand desiccation. Beekeepers use the plant to attract bees and produce a pleasantly scented honey. Harvesting is often done with flowers intact. The shoot is cut and dried in a cool, shady, and airy place to prevent discolouration.

Use of Hyssop as a spice

The spice, which has a sage and mint flavour, can be preserved for up to one and half years. Fresh and dried herbs and flowers are used as a spice in salads, soups, dessert, liqueurs, cakes, and other bakery products. It is widely used with wormwood, fennel, and anise to flavour absinthe.

The leaves are used in Eau de Cologne and in liqueurs, such as Chartreuse. The spice is also used in perfumery, soaps, and cosmetics.

Hyssop medicinal properties

Medicinal properties of H. officinalis are also similar to M. syriaca. The herb is used in tonics for its calming effects. A poultice made from the herbs is used to heal wounds and reduce swelling caused by sprains. Tea made from the leaves is used to treat flatulence and stomachache. Hyssop is believed to irritate the mucous membranes, thus herbalists recommend its use only when the infection of the respiratory tract has subsided. Pregnant women should not use the plant; when ingested in large quantities, it can induce miscarriage.

In the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, a hot infusion with vapors was used to treat ear ailments. The bruised leaves were rubbed on rheumatic joints to relieve pain. The juice from the leaves was used as an insect repellent, and to remove lice and intestinal worms. Some people use hyssop as a gargle and bath oil (WebMD). The muscle-relaxing property has been indicated in trials on guinea pigs by Lu et al. (2002). The antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties have been tested and validated in animal trials (Kizil et al., 2010). The U.S. FDA declared hyssop “Generally Recognized as Safe,” although convulsions in rats have been observed during experimental trials.

Like M. syriaca, steam distillation extracts an essential oil from the shoots. The oil is pale yellow to brownish yellow, and the average yield is about 0.6 percent. The oil is used in aromatherapy but only under expert supervision, as it can cause convulsions. According to Mitic et al. (2000), the main components of the oil are cis-pinocamphone (42.9 percent), trans-pinocamphone (14.1 percent), germacrene-D-11-ol (5.7 percent), and elemol (5.6 percent).

The oil has a camphoraceous, herbaceous, spicy, earthy, and woodsy fragrance. It blends well with angelica, basil, bergamot, cajeput, camphor, celery, sage, clove, eucalyptus, fennel, geranium, lavender, lemon, lime, myrtle, orange, rosemary, and sage (www. ElizabethVanBuren.com). It is used to treat skin, digestive, and respiratory ailments. The oil may be used in a nebulizer diffuser, acupressure, and reflexology.

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Plants with anticancer medicinal properties – Helleborus niger

There are many plants with anticancer medicinal properties in every part of the world. But the concentration of the anticancer molecules in these plants is not enough to cure cancer.

Medicinal molecules must be tested for their efficacy and safety in humans. The process can take up to ten years. With the emergence of powerful artificial intelligence based tools, this period is rapidly going down. But the testing process involves several phases, starting with laboratory testing, followed by animal trials, and then three phases of human clinical trials.

Helleborus niger is a flowering plant that imported from the Mediterranean region into India in ancient times. In India, it is called Khurasaai kutaki. The plant is widely found in Europe, particularly in Southern Europe.

It is a small, perennial herb that grows to a height of 30 cm. It produces ornamental flowers that appear around Christmas. The flowers resemble wild roses, ranging in color from white to pink. In English, the plant is called the Christmas rose. It belongs to the Ranunculaceae family.

Ayurveda system plants with anticancer medicinal properties

Helleborus niger plant’s medicinal properties are recognized in the Ayurveda and Unani systems. Its black rhizome is used in medicine. The rhizomes are dried before use. They have a faint odor and a bitter, slightly acrid taste.

Three crystalline cardiac glycosides, aconitic acid, and kaempferol glycosides are the key medicinal molecules of this plant. The plant was extensively used as medicine in ancient Greek and European villages. Traditionally, the plant is used in the Balkan region to treat edema, arthritis, and ulcers.

Paracelsus, a Swiss physician (1493–1541), prescribed a medicine made from the dried leaves of the plant. He termed this medicine “an elixirium for a long life.” The plant was used in East Europe and the neighboring region as a cardiotonic.

The plant is used as an adjuvant treatment for various tumors, including brain tumors in children, prostate cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma (Jesse et al., 2009). Maior and Dobrotă (2013) observed the plant’s potential as an anticancer medicine. Delebinski et al. (2012) studied and validated the cytotoxic effect of the plant in certain extracranial childhood tumors.

In complementary medicine, the plant is used as an adjuvant therapy in treating certain forms of bronchial cancer, abdominal tumors, prostate cancer, Hodgkin’s and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leukemia, Kaposi’s sarcoma, and other related diseases.

Plants with anticancer medicinal properties that have been tested on humans

The herb was tested on a small sample of patients, and the results indicated positive (Jesse et al., 2007). However, I could not find conclusive clinical trials demonstrating the plant’s effectiveness in treating cancer. Until then, the plant’s medicinal value to treat cancer in modern medicine will remain unsubstantiated.

#Holistic cancer healing and prevention guide, #Mind-body therapies for cancer patients, #Herbal remedies for cancer support, #Complementary and alternative medicine for cancer, #Natural cancer healing therapies, #Ayurveda and TCM for cancer wellness, #Nutrition and herbal support for cancer recovery

Check out the details in my latest revised edition, Natural Solutions for Cancer: Holistic Healing with Herbal Medicine, Ayurveda, TCM, and Mind-Body Therapies, available on Amazon https://amzn.to/3XNgP52.

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Cancer-protecting compounds

Nature has several cancer-protecting compounds. Fruits, vegetables, soybeans, colored flowers, and plant-derived beverages, such as green tea, wine, and cocoa-based products, are the primary sources of flavonoids. These compounds exhibit antioxidant and anticancer properties. (Kopustinskiene, D M et al, 2020) Compelling data from laboratory studies and human clinical trials have shown that flavonoids have important effects on cancer chemoprevention and chemotherapy. (Ren, W et al., 2003)

Flavonoid preparations are marketed as herbal medicines or dietary supplements. These induce tumor cell death. These are considered safe. (Galati, G et al., 2004) A review of the anti-cancer properties of flavonoids in the treatment of mammary and prostate cancer has shown that these compounds play a crucial role in cancer prevention. (Chahar, M K et al., 2011)

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of flavonoids from Citrus plants have shown the anticancer properties of these compounds. (Benavente-Garcia, O et al., et al 2008). These compounds have been shown to interfere with cancer initiation, promotion, and progression. (Ravishankar, D. et al., 2013)

Cancer-protecting compounds – Epigallacotechin – 3- gallate

Camellia sinensis is the botanical name of the tea plant, which is valued for its young leaves and buds, which are used to make tea beverages. The shrub’s natural habitat is parts of Northeast India, China, and East Asia. Some tea is also grown in Kenya and South America.

Green tea is made from freshly plucked leaves cooked to preserve the green color and prevent oxidation. This process helps maintain a higher concentration of chlorophyll, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Chinese tea is often pan- or wok-roasted, while Japanese tea is typically deeply steamed. Written records indicate that the cultivation of green tea dates back to the Han Dynasty in China (206-220 AD).

Green tea has anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties. The main antioxidant agents are catechins, which include epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, and epigallocatechin gallate. Among these, epigallocatechin gallate exhibits the most potent anti-inflammatory and anticancer potential. Green tea catechins effectively prevent the development of lung, breast, esophageal, stomach, liver, and prostate cancers. However, green tea should not be used as a substitute for standard chemotherapy (Musial, C et al., 2020). (Musial, C et al., 2020)

An inverse correlation between green tea consumption and various cancers, including urinary bladder, esophageal, stomach, rectal, and lung cancers, has been noted. Bushman, J.L. (1998). Studies show that green tea consumption, not black tea, helps prevent human cancers. (Jankun, J et al., 1997). Tea catechins, including epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), help inhibit gene expression that triggers cancers. (Rashidi, B et al., 2017) It helps prevent cancer. (Cabrera, C. et al., 2006; Azam, S. et al., 2004) Catechins help quench free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and exhibiting pro-oxidant effects against carcinogenic action. (Lambert, J D et al., 2010)

#Holistic cancer healing and prevention guide, #Mind-body therapies for cancer patients, #Herbal remedies for cancer support, #Complementary and alternative medicine for cancer, #Natural cancer healing therapies, #Ayurveda and TCM for cancer wellness, #Nutrition and herbal support for cancer recovery

Check out the details in my latest revised edition, Natural Solutions for Cancer: Holistic Healing with Herbal Medicine, Ayurveda, TCM, and Mind-Body Therapies, available on Amazon https://amzn.to/3XNgP52.

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Cancer dietary supplements

Cancer Research UK has listed some popular cancer dietary supplements that are often believed to help cancer patients in the public imagination. These include bromelain, Essiac, laetrile, turmeric, soy, selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin D. I have reviewed the scientific evidence supporting these dietary supplements to provide an informed understanding of these compounds. Here is a sample review.

Bromelain

Bromelains are protein-digesting compounds obtained from the stem and fruit of pineapple. They have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest that the enzyme may promote cell death and possess anti-cancerous properties. (Pavan R et al., 2012). However, clinical studies are required to validate this property. (Pezzani, R et al 2023)

Essiac

According to the US National Cancer Institute, Essiac is an herbal formula composed of burdock root (Arctium lappa), Turkey rhubarb root (Rheum palmatum), sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella), and slippery elm bark (Ulmus rubra). This cancer dietary supplements formula can be administered as a drinkable liquid, in capsules, or as drops. It was seen to stimulate the growth of human breast cancer cells. (Kulp, K S et al., 2006) However, the scientific evidence supporting these properties appears to be tenuous.

Laetrile

Amygdalin is a bitter substance found in the pits of fruits such as apricots, as well as in raw nuts, lima beans, clover, and sorghum. Amygdalin breaks down into hydrogen cyanide, which then converts into cyanide when absorbed into the body. Hydrogen cyanide is thought to kill cancer cells. Laetrile is the trade name of amygdalin. The compound is also known as Vitamin B 17, which is not approved as a vitamin in the US and the UK. Two clinical trials conducted by the National Cancer Institute report no improvement in cancer when treated with this compound. Laetrile treatment causes several side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness, liver damage, etc.

Soy

Soy refers to the protein found in soybeans and encompasses products made from the bean, including soy milk, tofu, and soy oil. Soy food consumption is associated with health benefits, including protection against breast cancer. This is attributed to soybean isoflavones (genistein, daidzein). Isoflavones are said to be selective estrogen receptor modulators. (Messina M J et al., 2001; Shike M et al., 2014).

A phase II B trial of soy isoflavone supplementation suggests a lack of efficacy for breast cancer prevention and a possible adverse effect in premenopausal women. (Khan, S A et al., 2012. A small reduction in breast cancer risk was associated with soy intake. (Trock, B J et al., 2006) Soy food consumption was significantly associated with a decreased risk of death and recurrence. (Shu, X. O., et al., 2009; Wu. A. H. et al. (2008). A positive relationship between soy consumption and prostate cancer was also noted. (van Die et al., 2014)

Selenium

Selenium is an essential micronutrient found in many foods, including Brazil nuts, seafood, meat, poultry, organ meats, cereals, grains, and dairy products. The inorganic forms of selenium (selenite and selenate) are used as a cancer dietary supplement. Selenium is also present in organic food. Organic compounds are more easily absorbed than inorganic compounds. Extreme selenium deficiencies are prevalent among people worldwide. Supplements containing this micronutrient, such as selenium-enriched food or yeast cell biomass, are recommended as part of a balanced diet. Kieliszek, M (2019)

It exerts multiple and complex effects on human health. It is a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties. Selenoproteins, specifically the amino acid selenocysteine, are responsible for these physiological functions. The health effects of Selenium depend greatly on the baseline level of this micronutrient. (Wrobel, J K et al. 2016)

Selenium at higher doses can become a prooxidant, exerting its potential anticancer properties. (Fernandes, A P et al. 2015) Although several clinical trials indicated no significant benefit of Selenium in preventing cancer, researchers reported it exerts superior anticancer properties. (Tan, H W et al., 2018)

Selenium supplementation reduces the risk of cancer incidence and mortality in all cancers combined, specifically in the liver, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers. The strongest effect is seen in those individuals with the lowest selenium status. Rayman, M P (2005). Selenium nanoparticles have been noted as a potent chemotherapeutic agent. (Menon S et al., 2018)

Cancer Research UK does not recommend cancer dietary supplements that include selenium and advises waiting for more research and trials before determining the anti-cancer use of this micronutrient.

#Holistic cancer healing and prevention guide, #Mind-body therapies for cancer patients, #Herbal remedies for cancer support, #Complementary and alternative medicine for cancer, #Natural cancer healing therapies, #Ayurveda and TCM for cancer wellness, #Nutrition and herbal support for cancer recovery

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Elephantopus scaber -anticancer herb

Elephantopus scaber- anticancer herb has been patented in an anticancer formulation.

This plant has been used in medicine, both in Ayurveda and TCM. In Ayurveda, it is used as a remedy for diabetes, skin diseases, ulcers, etc. The leaves from the plant are boiled and applied externally for eczema and ulcers. The root is useful in medicine.

In Chinese medicine, the herb is used for skin and respiratory ailments. Essential oil is also produced from the plant and used in medicine.

The plant is a small perennial herb just 10–50 cm in height that grows in moist shady places across East and Southern Asia, China, Europe, Australia, Central America, and Mexico. It belongs to the Compositae/Asteraceae family. Sesquiterpene lactones, triterpenoids, steroids, and flavonoids have been isolated from the herb and tested for their anti-cancer potential.

Elephantopus scaber- anticancer herb scientific review

Deoxyelephantopin is one sesquiterpene lactone that has shown anti-cancer potential in trials conducted by multiple researchers. Sesquiterpene lactones are molecules that help protect the body from cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The action has been studied in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells (Kabeer et al., 2013), melanoma (Than et al., 2005), human cervical cancer and human sarcoma (Geetha et al., 2012), murine leukemia (Singh, 2005), human breast cancer cells (Ho et al., 2011), lung cancer (Kabeer et al., 2013), and lung cancer (Farha et al., 2015).

A combination of herbs that include E. scaber and other herbs such as Angelica sinensis, Aloe vera, Saussurea lappa, Scutellaria baicalensis, Phyllodendron chinense, Coptis chinensis, Gardenia jasminoides, Rheum palmatum, Indofera tinctorial and Moschus moschiferus has entered phase I and II clinical trials. The trials aim to improve chemotherapy’s effectiveness on patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (Han, 1988). This development is promising, although we are still far from discovering a new drug.

A composition of eleven herbals has been patented for treating cancer (US6780441 B2). This preparation comprises a mixture of Withania somnifera, Chlorphyton borivilianum, Boerhavia diffusa, Elephantopus scaber, Moringa oleifera, Tecoma undulata, Bauhinia purpurea, Ficus racemosa, Cyperus rotundus, Sphaeranthus acmella, and Tinospora cordifolia. The patent notification claims the invention effectively treats cancer, especially squamous cell carcinomas, tumors, and other cancers, including lung cancer.

Another US patent (US 8754121BS) that uses deoxyelephantopin (DET) and analogs have been registered as a treatment for melanoma. This patent claims to reduce the side effects of anti-cancer agents. Yet another US patent (US 9173868B2), which also uses DET and analogs to reduce the side effects of anti-cancer agents, has been registered.

A herbal formulation containing seven herbs (Tinospora cordifolia, Chlorphyton borivilianum, Curcuma longa, Asparagus racemosus, Hygrophila auriculata, Achyranthus aspera, and Elephantopus scaber) has been registered to treat cancer, especially myelomas (US 200301147896 A1).

While these patents indicate the value of herbs such as Elephantopus scaber and others in treating cancer, scientists have noted caution about using herbs with existing drug interactions. Elephantopus scaber herb action, for instance, is synergistic with the anti-cancer medicine tamoxifen. They warn clinicians to be vigilant when treating cancer patients with these alternative medicine formulations. The interactions must be closely watched while recommending these formulations. The possibility of negative reactions from chemicals found in herbs and cancer medicines should be considered before prescribing herbal medication and anti-cancer drug combinations. (Yap et al., 2010).

Planting and gardening

The plant is gathered from the wild. The leaves are eaten locally in Africa. The perennial herb can be propagated from seed. It requires little water and prefers semi-shade.

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Organic potatoes

Why should we consume organic potatoes? Are they healthier, more nutritious, and environmentally friendly? These are some of the questions that consumers often ask.

Conventionally grown potatoes have been found to contain high doses of pesticides. Most pesticides are absorbed into the tuber from the soil.

When are potatoes first exposed to pesticides during their lifecycle? Seed potatoes are sprayed with pesticide to prevent sprouting, and they are also sprayed when they are in storage. Because of the high pesticide load in conventionally grown and stored potatoes, consumers have been shifting their preference to organically raised potatoes.

A USDA survey conducted and reported in the New York Times claims that over 81% of potatoes tested contained pesticides even after being washed and peeled. Among the 43 fruits and vegetables tested by the Environmental Working Group, potatoes contained one of the highest levels of pesticides.

Conventional potatoes are treated with fungicides during the growing season and then sprayed with herbicides to kill the fibrous vines before harvesting. Yet another dose of herbicide spraying is done after they are dug up to prevent them from sprouting.

Fungicides are extensively used to control late blight Phytophthora infestans, white mold Sclerotinia sclerotium and rot — the more common diseases that infect potato crops. Linuron, used to control potato diseases, is a carcinogen, endocrine disruptor, developmental and reproductive toxin, and groundwater contaminant. Others like metribuzin, aldicarb, oxamil, pirimicarb, and pymetrozine have serious hazardous implications for humans and animals. Pesticide residues in conventionally grown food are a serious health hazard.

Cultivating organic potatoes

Organic potato cultivators use alternative approaches to applying artificial fertilizers and pesticides. They adopt crop rotation, select disease-resistant cultivars, maintain good soil management, use disease–free seed, and adopt correct storage, which helps keep disease incidences down.

Integrated crop and pest management practices are adopted to control pests and diseases in the crop. Organic potato crops follow a minimum of 4–year rotations using legumes, straw, and composted manure, whole seed for planting rather than cut seed pieces, disease-resistant varieties, ensure the presence of good soil moisture, and plant potatoes after the risk of frost has passed. The soil is kept well-drained to prevent the accumulation of water in the field. This helps prevent fungal and other infections.

History and varieties

Potatoes were probably domesticated between 10,000 and 7,000 years ago in their area of origin, which is said to lie in the Andean Mountain region of Peru and Bolivia. The tuber, which could be stored for extended periods, was a food security crop for the Incan people, who are said to have lived from the 13th to the 16th century AD. Potatoes were dehydrated, freeze-dried, and used for consumption during drought periods.

Potato came to Europe via the Spanish explorers who brought them back home from Latin America. The tuber spread worldwide with the help of immigrants, conquerors, and traders.

Numerous potato varieties are popular worldwide. They come in three colors: white, yellow, and red. Popular fruit and vegetable market varieties are Monalisa, Spunta, Primura, and Agata; the latter is imported and exported widely together with Aminca, Alcmaria, and others.

Potatoes popular with the food industry include Hermes, Agria, and Lady Rosetta. Lady Claire is another variety popular with processing units. It can be stored for up to ten months and is not susceptible to bruises or mechanical damage during processing and transport.

Common organic potato varieties in the yellow skin variety are Agata, Ambra Imola, Cosmos, Escort, and Merit, and in the red skin variety, we have Kuroda and Raja.

Nutritional value

Potatoes are rich in Vitamin C and were used by sailors in the 17th and 18th centuries as a cheap and nutritious food source that prevented scurvy, which was common in the business. The vegetable acquired wide acceptance as a stable, high-calorie food source that can be grown in a variety of climates, has high yields, and can be used to feed not just humans but also animals.

Potatoes are rich in calories and carbohydrates. They also contain a compound known as alpha–lipoic acid, which helps the body convert glucose into energy. The potato skin contains quercetin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Potatoes are best eaten with the skin, as most of the nutrients and vitamins are in the skin.

In general, cooked potatoes have high levels of digestible starch. Boiled and mashed potatoes showed the highest rate of digestion, while raw potatoes were hardly digested (Garcia—Alonso et al., 2000).

Potato peelings are a good source of dietary fiber in bread. They are observed to be superior to wheat bran. They are rich in certain minerals, total dietary fiber, and water holding capacity, and they have a lower quantity of starchy components. They also lack phytate (Toma et al., 1979).

Potatoes are an important part of many countries’ diets. Freshly harvested potatoes retain more vitamin C than stored potatoes. However, potatoes have a high glycemic index (the rate at which food raises the blood sugar level), which is one of the factors that diabetics should avoid consuming.

Potato tubers contain phenolic compounds, such as chlorogenic acid, which, when consumed in large amounts, may be a significant source of health-promoting phenolic compounds (Friendman et al., 1997).

The bioactive ingredients in potatoes make them a promising source of functional foods, with a beneficial impact on cardiovascular health. Further studies are required to identify the active compounds and clearly assess the antihypertensive activity of ingredients found in potatoes (Pihlanto et al., 2007).

Potatoes contain glycoalkaloids, toxic compounds mainly composed of solanine and chaconine. These can cause headaches, diarrhea, and cramps. Exposure to light causes potatoes to green, which is a visual indication of the location of these toxic chemicals in the vegetable.

Some potato varieties contain higher glycoalkaloid concentrations, and plant breeding seeks to produce varieties that contain less of this toxic chemical. Breeders try to keep solanine levels below 0.2 milligrams per gram.

Consuming more than 1.5 kilograms of potatoes in a day has been estimated to cause symptoms of solanine poisoning. Solanine poisoning is often caused by eating green potatoes or drinking potato leaf tea. Cooking the potato at high temperatures destroys glycoalkaloids, rendering it safe for consumption.

Storing potatoes

Potatoes are best stored in a dark, dry environment. Refrigeration converts starch into sugar, and exposure to sunlight can form solanine—both give potatoes an unpleasant taste.

Potatoes are best stored unwashed. Washing removes the protective coating on the skin, leading to bacterial buildup. A potato that starts rotting should be removed immediately from the pile to prevent further spoilage. Potatoes should not be stored with onions because both vegetables emit natural gases that cause the other to decay.

Other uses of potatoes

Potato starch is a vegetable used as a water binder, thickener, anti—caking agent, filler, or gluing agent. It has the biggest starch granules and the best water absorbency. It reaches much higher viscosity levels at lower temperatures than other vegetable starches. Organic potato starch is used in food products in Europe and elsewhere. Such products are labelled with EU organic labels.

Production and trade

Despite the increasing popularity of organic potatoes among US consumers, the certified organic potato area in the US is just 13,258 acres (USDA 2011 statistics). Most of the production takes place in Idaho and Washington states. Among fresh vegetables, the top organic purchases are lettuce, tomatoes, broccoli, onions, and potatoes.

In the US, potatoes had the highest price premium among organic vegetables (Lin et al., 2008). The premium for potatoes could be as high as 75%, while other vegetables averaged a premium of 20 to 30%. Premium prices and vegetables in general are subject to demand-supply variations and can sometimes be quite high.

Organic potato production in Europe is small but is steadily growing, a trend observed in other vegetables too. Concessional financing, such as green financing, in the Netherlands, is offered for the promotion of organic farming. VAT exemption is also being offered for organic crops. Conventional crops continue to be subject to VAT levy. The Netherlands has the largest percentage (15%) of land growing organic potatoes. In Switzerland, too, organic potato is a popular crop.

Germany is leading the trend in organic potatoes, like other organic crops. Like the US, price premiums for organic potatoes are helping encourage cultivation. Gross margins in organic potatoes have been estimated to be two to three times higher than those for conventional potatoes in the UK and Germany. In Europe, the trend is to sell organic potatoes in farmers’ niche markets, market stalls, and farm shops. This helps keep the cost of logistics and packaging down to a minimum.

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NENA Food Security

Climate change is impacting NENA Food Security. The North East North Africa (NENA) region is particularly vulnerable.

The Food and agriculture Organization lists the NENA (North East North Africa) Member States as Algeria, Djibouti, Egypt, Gaza and the West Bank, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Somalia, Sudan, the Syrian Arab Republic, Tunisia, Turkey, and Yemen; and five non-borrowing countries: Kuwait, the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

The NENA region is unique in many ways:

Several countries (Gaza and the West Bank, Iraq, Syria, Libya, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia) are active conflict zones or have been a theatre of conflict for many years.A few countries (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, and Kuwait) are blessed with huge petroleum reserves. Some of the world’s biggest oil producers and exporters are in the NENA region.The majority of the countries in the region are poor.Causes of unhealthy and poor diets

Most people in poverty around the world live on the land, dependent on animal farming and agriculture for their survival. Agricultural farming practices in the region are traditional. NENA is a food-deficient region and faces rampant undernourishment.

Undernourishment and food insecurity

The NENA countries’ data on undernourishment and food insecurity have been collected and published by the FAO. The average for undernourishment from 2015 to 2017 was 11 percent. Severe food security in the population was estimated at 11.3 percent. The comparative figures for the developing countries are estimated at 12.8 percent and 10.8 percent, respectively. The situation in the world’s least developed countries remains dire. The undernourishment data was 24.2 percent. (https://www.fao.org/3/ca3817en/ca3817en.pdf)

As is seen in other parts of the world, poverty in the NENA region is concentrated in rural areas. The situation is further exacerbated by gender inequity.

The causes of unhealthy and poor diets in the region are attributed to:

Low purchasing power.Ecological factorsLow GDP and purchasing power impacting NENA Food security

Healthy people are the cornerstone for the development of any region. Food and nutrition are essential inputs for having healthy people. The NENA region is chronically in food deficit. The area is characterized by low GDP and per capita incomes outside the oil-producing countries. Low purchasing power due to low incomes leads to food insecurity and poor health outcomes across the NENA region.

Table 1

GDP and per capita income

Source: World Bank; Worldometers.info; FAO, UN ITC Trademap Database

Ecological factors

NENA is located in the arid region of the world, characterized by vast deserts. Ecologically, NENA will fall within the arid zone, characterized by low water availability and frequent droughts.

The NENA countries are stretched along the Mediterranean Sea. As we move inland on the African continent, we enter the depths of the Sahara Desert, and beyond lies the tropical region. The geography, latitude, climate, soil, and groundwater directly impact a region’s ability to produce its food.

The Nena Countries

The NENA region is largely arid. Some areas adjoining the Mediterranean and the North Atlantic Ocean, represented in brown, have warm-temperate climates with warm, dry summers.

Much of the region has a very short growing period, as indicated by the 0.60 days represented by the yellow color. There is a sliver of sub-humid land along the seacoast. It is this part of these countries that produces the most food. The cultivation period here is fairly long. It ranges from 180 to 270 days.

Source JRC Africa Soil Atlas- Soil moisture map

Most of the NENA countries have low soil moisture. It is an arid land. Cultivation is only possible with irrigation. The territory has extended periods during which the soil moisture is very low.

The land along the coast is agronomically speaking better. Most cultivation in the region is dryland supported with irrigation. These soils can be wet in winter but are dry in summer.

Source: JRC Africa Ground Water Map

The groundwater situation in the NENA region is quite interesting. The areas of the Sahara desert, have groundwater located below 250 meters below ground level (mbgl). Extensive reserves of groundwater are available here. However, the exploitation of this groundwater has serious technical and environmental concerns. There are a few areas that have groundwater between 100-and 250 meters, while the regions adjoining the sea have groundwater that can be easily harvested. The water is available at depts from 7 meters to 100 meters.

Even though Egypt has the Nile river, which is among the largest rivers in the world, the region faces a shortage of surface water. Much of the surface water is used for drinking.

It is a region with a severe water deficit. The renewable water resources per capita are the lowest in the world. FAO data shows that the region is using all the available renewable water. The water is being consumed primarily for irrigation. The region has adopted modern agronomic practices to increase agricultural productivity. Still, the region faces food deficits, with demand far outstripping supply.

Source: FAO

The ecology of the region has turned the NENA region into food importers. The top five African food importers account for 50 percent of total imports into the region. The biggest importers are Egypt (15 percent), Algeria (12 percent), South Africa (9 percent), Morocco (7 percent), and Nigeria (7 percent). (https://www.tralac.org/documents/publications/trade-data-analysis/962-africa-food-trade-overview-september-2017/file.html)

Health outcomes for the people of the region are linked to food security. The region’s food balance projections indicate that dependence on imports will increase by almost 64 percent over the next twenty years. Severe undernourishment is observed in around 11 percent of the region’s people.

Socio-Economic drivers for poor dietary status

According to UNICEF, nine out of ten children in the Middle East and North Africa live in high water stress regions. It has serious consequences on health, nutrition, cognitive development, and future livelihoods. It is the most water-scarce region in the world. Nearly 66 million people in the region lack basic sanitation.

Food scarcity is rampant, with nearly two-thirds of the population receiving subsidized bread. The region has a history of high domestic inflation and protests. Food handouts have become a lifeline to the poor. Bread alone does not make for a healthy diet.

According to Global Nutrition Report.org, North African nutrition figures are worrying. It reports that

1 percent of women of reproductive age are affected by anemia2 percent of infants have a low weight at birth13 percent of children are overweight4 percent stunting is lower than the global average of 22 percent6 percent wasting is seen, which is below the global average of 6.7 percentMalnutrition burden is an average of 17.9 percent in adults (Aged 18 and over)

These statistics indicate that the nutrition support programs of governments are not giving the desired results.

Egypt, for instance, provides vitamin and mineral supplements to mothers and children, and iodized salt is made available in addition to subsidies on bread and oil.

The nutrition support program of the government is not giving the desired results.

Lessons from overseas

Many regions of the world provide cash to the poor. The people choose and invest that cash in food or other necessities. Direct cash transfers for the poor in the region are being debated, but no decision appears to have been taken.

Direct nutrition support activities like soup kitchens, offering nutritious cooked food at subsidized rates, mid-day meals, and others listed above have been successfully implemented. Such programs are hugely popular in India.

Philanthropic groups run soup kitchens across many major cities in the U.S. These kitchens are patronized by the homeless and the poor. Food stamps and food vouchers, too, have been experimented with by many developed nations.

The extent to which a country can extend food support will vary from country to country. You cannot have one size fit all solution. It is best to let each country design its food subsidy and support programs depending on the social, economic, financial, and other conditions prevailing in the country.

Europe has a strong welfare support system in place. The tradeoff is slow growth. The NENA region is still developing. It has to be careful. Going too far on the social welfare spectrum could trap the region into an endless cycle of low growth and poverty.

Lessons from developing countries

India

Agriculture is the largest source of livelihood for most people in this large country with a population of 1.3 billion people. Seventy percent of rural households are dependent on agriculture. The majority of these (82 percent) are poor, with very small holdings of under five acres. In the initial years after independence in 1947, the country faced regular famines, huge food distress, massive imports, and hugely stressed national balance sheets.

In 2017-18 the country estimated food production was 275 million tons. India is the largest producer comprising twenty-five percent of global production. The annual milk production was 165 million tons (2017-18). It is the largest producer of milk globally, the second-largest producer of rice, wheat, sugarcane, cotton, and grounds, and the second-largest fruit and vegetable producer. 10.9 percent of the world’s fruit production takes place in the country, and 8.6 percent of vegetables are produced there.

Despite these achievements, the country still accounts for a quarter of the world’s hungry people. It is home to over 190 million undernourished people. Its poverty incidence is pegged at 30 percent. As per the Global Nutrition Report (2016), India ranks 114th out of the 132 countries.

India’s spectacular advancements in agricultural production have been achieved by resorting to resource-intensive, cereal-centric, regionally biased production strategies. Fast-growing, high-yielding cereal crops that required a lot of fertilizers and intensive irrigation were deployed.

Subsidies for inputs like free electricity, cheap seed and fertilizer, and support prices at which the state could purchase cereals were key features of this strategy. These strategies have resulted in the accumulation of vast stocks of wheat and rice in government godowns and excessive pumping of groundwater, causing its massive depletion.

The problem of nutritional deficiency and poverty continues to endure. Poverty reduction has occurred, but the pace of decline is not comparable to the growth in food availability.

Kenya

Agriculture contributes 26 percent of the country’s GDP, with another 27 percent of GDP indirectly through linkages with other sectors. (FAO). The sector employs forty percent of the total population and more than seventy percent of rural people of the country. Sixty-five percent of the export earnings of the country come from agriculture. Thirty-six and a half percent of people are food insecure, and thirty-five percent of children under five are chronically malnourished.

The country relies more on imports of fishery products (23.3 percent) and vegetable items. (16.7 percent). (Statistica). In 2018, the food production index for Kenya was 109.5, rising from 23.8 in 1969. The index covers food crops that are considered edible and contain nutrients. Coffee and tea are excluded. The rising population threatens the food security scenario in Kenya.

FAO’s vision is “a Kenya free from hunger and malnutrition, where food and agriculture help improve the living standards of all, especially the poorest, in an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable manner.”

In continuation of this vision, the Kenya United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) has set out a transformative plan for the country. The components of this plan are:

Transformative governance for an empowered nationEquitable social and human capital development for a healthy nationInclusive and sustainable growth for a productive nation

The development program for the country is divided into four subprograms:

Developing an enabling policy and investment environmentStrengthening inclusive value chainsIncreasing resilient food and livelihood systemsImproving governance of natural resourcesPolicy Responses to the food crisis

NENA is a food deficit region. The 2015-2017 average for undernourishment in select NENA countries stood at 11 percent. Egypt is the biggest food importer, followed by Algeria.

With an average per capita income of around $4000 per annum, people do not have the means to buy food. Governments are left with no options but to provide food subsidies. The food subsidy system is now the mainstay of maintaining social harmony and political stability in Egypt. (Ahmed. A.U. et al., 2002). The situation is similar in the rest of the region. Countries are meeting their need for food through imports.

According to mei.edu, the price of cereals in September 2021, particularly soft wheat, rose by 27.3 percent over the previous year. Imports of wheat were coming from Russia, Ukraine, and the region. With the area engulfed in war, the prices have substantially hardened. The subsidy bill for governments has significantly risen.

According to Reuters, the food subsidy program in Egypt currently costs the government about $5.5billion. The basic price of a subsidized basic loaf has remained constant at $0.003 since the1980s. Egypt is spending $5.6 billion to subsidize supply commodities and support farmers.

Consequences of policy responses impacting NENA Food Security

Food security can be improved through a series of tradeoffs. Some options discussed below may not be socio-economically feasible today. The cost of imported grain is probably lower than producing it by deploying technologies to increase food production. The situation, though, could change in time. NENA countries should prepare themselves with these options.

Climate modeling indicates that precipitation in North Africa is likely to decrease between 10 and 20 percent. At the same time, temperatures are likely to rise between two and three degrees Celsius by 2050. The recommendation is to move to agriculture output stabilization from output maximization. (Schilling J et al., 2012)

The non-oil-producing NENA countries have very limited exports. Egypt’s annual import bill stood at $83.9 billion. Its exports were only $35.2 billion. It left the country with a yawning trade balance of $48.7billion. (https://commodity.com/data/egypt/)

Food is one of the biggest imports into this food-deficit region. The demand for food is rising and essential. The average GDP of Egypt is around 5 percent, and its inflation is observed to range between 5 to 9 percent.

In the face of rising food exports essential for public welfare, low GDP, and high inflation, the role of tariffs in increasing food supply is very limited.

A similar situation exists in the rest of the NENA countries. Suppose import tariffs on food were cut to zero, as some free-market economists would recommend. In that case, it may lead to improved supply.

The bottleneck for the NENA region is the poor purchasing power of the people. High imports will make food available to the rich, with the poor unable to buy it. The trade imbalance will worsen.

The government may respond with further food subsidies. That will lead to more deficits. The region will then be faced with financial bankruptcy, uncontrolled inflation, and chaos.

Options, recommendations, and tradeoffs

NENA countries need to act urgently to improve food security, promote a healthy diet and alleviate food distress.

Some suggestions to offset future vulnerability to price shocks shared in U.N. agency reports include:

Strengthen safety nets, and provide people with better access to family planning servicesPromote educationEnhance domestic production and improved livelihoods through increased investments and better outcomes from research and development.Improve supply chain efficiencyUse financial instruments to hedge risk.

The oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia and others use part of their wealth to import food and ensure better health outcomes for their population. The poorer NENA countries do not generate adequate financial surpluses to import food.

These countries have implemented recommendations made by international experts. Projections indicate that the food deficits will only widen in the future despite this. The agronomic, soil, and water conservation recommendations are unlikely to increase food production dramatically.

The region is using nearly all the available water for agricultural production. The specter of global warming and climate change is ringing alarm bells. The world could move to a situation where food surplus generating countries may not have enough surpluses for export. The situation calls for innovation, and the adoption of disruptive solutions will help the region produce more food.

Direct cash transfers to the poor and increasing the price of bread are some of the options being debated in Egypt and the region at large. Supplementing the diet of this section of society is a health imperative. Fresh food subsidies are difficult to implement because of the challenges in storage and distribution.

Some nutritional supplementation efforts implemented in India, the USA and other countries could be explored. These include:

Providing mid-day cooked nutritious meals to children in schoolsRunning soup kitchens which private-sector agencies and government fund.Offering cooked healthy meals at highly subsidized rates to all citizens irrespective of their status.Iron, calcium, and other mineral supplementation are provided to lactating mothers.Flour fortified with minerals and supplements is now available on store shelves in many countries. While the middle class could buy them straight off the shelf, the poor could procure these items against food vouchers or food stamps issued by the government.Subsidized flour and pulses are offered to the poor.

The choice of intervention will vary from country to country. The government and the country’s ways and means position is an important determinant of the size of nutritional subsidy that any government could offer.

These are difficult decisions. No government wants to see bread riots on the streets. Allocating more resources for food subsidies is the current exercised option. But there are limits to which any government can extend assistance.

The NENA region countries are taking steps to import as much food to bridge the food deficit as their balance sheets permit. Direct food supply to the most vulnerable sections is one of the interventions deployed to alleviate distress.

Arab countries import at least 50 percent of the food calories they consume. As the largest net importers of cereal, Arab countries are more exposed to severe swings in agricultural commodity prices. The vulnerability is exacerbated by strong population growth, low agricultural productivity, and dependence on global commodities markets.

The NENA countries are characterized by severe water deficit, rising food demand, high malnourishment rates, and limited opportunities for increasing food production. These countries have stressed national balance sheets outside of the oil-producing NENA economies. It limits the ability of these countries to bridge the food deficit with imports.

The option is to increase domestic production and reduce the import bill. It will lead to healthier national balance sheets making it possible for governments to invest in healthy diet support programs.

Strategies for producing more food

Farmers are getting advice from multinational and national experts on agronomic practices. Still, the deficit of food and water is not projected to get bridged. The countries appear to have limited tradeoffs to bridge the deficit.

The option is innovative solutions. Vertical, cellular, and precision agriculture are technologies that make it possible for food to be produced year-round. In NENA, where the growing season is short, experimental farms to test these technologies in the context of the region could be explored. These technologies are energy-intensive. Solar power that can be abundantly produced in the NENA region could be the power source for such experimental farms.

Technological solutions that will help dramatically increase food production are available. Climate change projections indicate that the world could turn food deficit in the future. Countries in the NENA region will have no option but to deploy the technological solutions discussed above and produce their food. The transition will be costly. Preparations to build experimental farms that will act as demonstration, training, and research centers are a good option for NENA policymakers.

As noted by Schilling J et al., 2012, climate shock for the region will be huge. The solutions to providing food security and providing people in the area with a healthy diet will not lie in more distributive policies. The problem of food deficit and availability cannot be solved by offering more subsidies. Disruptive technologies will be the answer to the problem.

The oil-producing countries use revenue surpluses from fossil fuel sales to subsidize and import all the food they need. The non-OPEC countries like Egypt, Algeria, and others do not generate the surpluses essential to buy the grain from the global market.

Investment in renewables

The NENA region is a water deficit, but it is rich in solar energy. Solar power is cost-competitive in India, where solar power plants are coming up in scale. Producing solar energy on a scale is a tradeoff available to the region. Unlike India, where there is a ready market for this power available, NENA countries do not have the absorptive capacity to put this power to productive use.

However, as battery technology evolves or green hydrogen technologies improve, it is an option that could become techno economically feasible. If that happens, the future of NENA countries as producers of surplus power has the potential to turn the national balance sheets from deficit to surplus.

Disruptive technology for farming

Climate-controlled farm production has transformed food production in areas where unconventional farming has been adopted. Agriculture, as we see it today, will dramatically change. Climate change challenges will be nothing the world has seen so far.

Another major limitation of the NENA region is the scarcity of water. Technologies that can recycle wastewater following domestic, municipal, and industrial use are now available. Power required to filter and distill water can be produced in solar plants. These technologies have been extensively applied successfully in various water deficit regions of the world. There is a substantial body of research literature available on the subject.

The U.S. water policy includes a wide variety of uses for recycled water. Recycled water use includes reuse in urban, domestic, and agriculture. It is used for food and non-food crops, industrial and environmental purposes, impoundment, and groundwater recharging. The degree of treatment of wastewater is dependent on its end-use. Extensive treatment and disinfection are done to ensure public health and the protection of environmental quality. McNabb, D.E. (2017) Similar conclusions were reached in an Australian use case (Seshadri, B. et al., 2015)

Nontraditional water sources, including reclaimed or recycled water, have become a desirable option to meet increasing demands in the water-stressed region. Considerable research work on the subject has been done in the Southwest U.S. The willingness to use recycled water is influenced by the farm size, level of education, and concern over water availability. Water managers and planners will have to examine options for policymaking, taking into account social, cultural, public health, and economic factors. (Dery, J.L. et al., 2019)

The Thessaly region of Greece is a water deficit region. Recycled water is used for the irrigation of crops. A survey of farmers in the area revealed that 57.9 percent of farmers were willing to pay for reclaimed water if it costs half the price of freshwater. (Bakopoulou, S et al., 2010) A similar study to understand the willingness to use and willingness to pay for recycled water in agriculture was done in Crete. Irrigation of olive and tomato crops with recycled water is being done here. The study shows that the willingness to pay for recycled water came to 88 percent of its current market price. Environmental awareness, economic facts, such as freshwater prices, and incomes influence the attitude of both farmers and consumers towards recycled water irrigated crops. Similar results were noted in surveys conducted in Nestos catchment. (Menagki, A.N. et al., 2007; Lazaridou, D. et al., 2019; Higgins, J. et al., 2002)

Recycled water provides a viable opportunity to supplement water supplies. The conclusion was reached after studying the use of recycled water in regions of Australia, Asia, The U.S., Latin America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The study reveals good prospects for further expansion and exploration of integrated water planning and management of recycled water reuse in water deficit regions. (Chen,Z., et al., 2013; Gerba, C.P., et al, 2017; Phogat, V., et al., 2020; Weber, E., et al., 2014)

Summary

Policy decision-making in the NENA region will have to consider farmers’ and consumers’ willingness to consume and pay for the use of recycled wastewater. Technology for wastewater recycling is available in the world. It is the feasibility of large-scale deployment that has to be studied.

State budgets will not have the capacity to deploy these technologies on the scale required. The private sector will have to be attracted to invest in the recycling business. It will happen when economic feasibility has been shown in the initial set of state-funded farms. The WHO-FAO-UNEP has issued detailed guidelines for the use of recycled wastewater.

NENA is a water deficit region. The bulk of the region is desert.

The techno-economic feasibility of tapping the water reservoir under the Sahara desert is a challenge. Even if that is resolved, this water is a non-renewable resource that will be lost forever once depleted.Re-cycling of wastewater is another option. However, the cost of recycled water is much more than surface and groundwater. Governments will have to invest in subsidizing agriculture irrigated with recycled wastewater. Israel has successfully converted a water-deficit region into a water surplus. The tradeoff for NENA governments lies between subsidizing agriculture done with recycled wastewater and providing direct food subsidies as is being done today.The NENA region has an extended coastline. Photovoltaic energy can be used to desalinate seawater to produce freshwater is another option. (Al-Karaghouli et al., 2010). As photovoltaics costs drop and fossil fuels become more and more expensive, desalination of seawater and producing freshwater is another tradeoff available to the NENA countries.The solution to malnutrition and improving the nutritional health of the NENA population lies in making national balance sheets better. That will only happen when the region’s countries can produce enough food domestically and at costs that people can afford. The specter of climate change will make food imports more and more costly in the future. Distributive policies and more subsidy is not the answer. The NENA countries cannot afford these.References:https://esdac.jrc.ec.europa.eu/content/soil-map-soil-atlas-africa#tabs-0-description=2pdf (European Commission Soil Atlas of Africa Part 1)https://www.fao.org/global-soil-partnership/resources/events/detail/en/c/1251181/https://www.unicef.org/press-releases/running-dry-unprecedented-scale-and-impact-water-scarcity-middle-east-and-northhttps://ourworldindata.org/agricultural-productionhttps://www.fao.org/3/ca3817en/ca3817en.pdfhttps://www.tralac.org/documents/publications/trade-data-analysis/962-africa-food-trade-overview-september-2017/file.html)https://reliefweb.int/sites/reliefweb.int/files/resources/1F52B98A6BBC8065492575A0000B87DA-Full_Report.pdfImproving Food Security in Arab Countries – 2009 World Bank, FAO and IFAD reporthttps://prsindia.org/policy/analytical-reports/state-agriculture-indiahttps://www.fao.org/india/fao-in-india/india-at-a-glance/en/https://www.fao.org/kenya/programmes-and-projects/en/https://www.fao.org/kenya/fao-in-kenya/kenya-at-a-glance/en/Bakopoulou, S., Polyzos, S., & Kungolos, A. (2010). Investigation of farmers’ willingness to pay for using recycled water for irrigation in Thessaly region, Greece. Desalination, 250(1), 329-334.Menegaki, A. N., Hanley, N., & Tsagarakis, K. P. (2007). The social acceptability and valuation of recycled water in Crete: A study of consumers’ and farmers’ attitudes. Ecological Economics, 62(1), 7-18.Chen, Z., Ngo, H. H., & Guo, W. (2013). A critical review on the end uses of recycled water. Critical reviews in environmental science and technology, 43(14), 1446-1516.Lazaridou, D., Michailidis, A., & Mattas, K. (2019). Evaluating the willingness to pay for using recycled water for irrigation. Sustainability, 11(19), 5220.McNabb, D. E. (2017). Managing recycled water. Water Resource Management, 283-306.Dery, J. L., Rock, C. M., Goldstein, R. R., Onumajuru, C., Brassill, N., Zozaya, S., & Suri, M. R. (2019). Understanding grower perceptions and attitudes on the use of nontraditional water sources, including reclaimed or recycled water, in the semi-arid Southwest United States. Environmental research, 170, 500-509.Higgins, J., Warnken, J., Sherman, P. P., & Teasdale, P. R. (2002). Survey of users and providers of recycled water: quality concerns and directions for applied research. Water research, 36(20), 5045-5056.Gerba, C. P., Betancourt, W. Q., & Kitajima, M. (2017). How much reduction of virus is needed for recycled water: A continuous changing need for assessment?. Water research, 108, 25-31.Seshadri, B., Bolan, N. S., Kunhikrishnan, A., Chowdhury, S., Thangarajan, R., & Chuasavathi, T. (2015). Recycled water irrigation in Australia. In Environmental Sustainability(pp. 39-48). Springer, New Delhi.Phogat, V., Mallants, D., Cox, J. W., Šimůnek, J., Oliver, D. P., Pitt, T., & Petrie, P. R. (2020). 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Culinary herb, onion

In traditional Chinese medicine, the culinary herb, onion, is a yang (positive) food. In Ayurveda, too, onion is said to stimulate the human body. Before the arrival of European settlers in the USA, Native Americans were known to consume wild onions as a vegetable and use them for seasoning food.

Wild onion was used to relieve cold, cough, and asthma. Both wild and cultivated species help expel gas and calm an upset stomach. (Augusti, K.T (2020)  Onion has been used as both food and medicine since ancient times. Egyptians, Chinese, Indians, Romans, Greeks, and the tribal societies of Latin and North America were all familiar with this plant. The plant is mentioned in both the orally transmitted lore of ancient times and written literature. The plant has been in cultivation for at least over 3,000 years. A. cepa is the cultivated variety of Allium genus.

Onion as food

Green onions, popularly called spring onions, are used extensively in the cuisines of China and India, stir-fried or as a garnish. In India, chopped onions, mixed with other spices like turmeric, coriander, and chili, are shallow-fried in hot oil to garnish curries and lentils.

Onion soup is a popular recipe worldwide. Onions can be fried, pickled, caramelized, frozen, dehydrated, or canned.

In trade, there are three popular varieties of onions. Their color classifies them as yellow, white, and red onions. Yellow onions are the most common. The white variety is sharper and more pungent in flavor. Red onions have a milder flavor.

There is yet another very mild variety called the sweet onion. This variety of onion perishes faster than the others. Sweet onions are thinly sliced and served in salads. They are mainly used to garnish food. Soaking them in water after slicing can reduce their pungency.

Culinary herb, onion as medicine

In traditional Chinese medicine, onions are said to enhance chi or energy. They induce urination and perspiration. It is recommended for consumption when the weather is cold. Onion is said to soothe respiratory stress caused by cold weather. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated that the culinary herb, onion is rich in antioxidants. No wonder onion is a popular food herb. The onion skin was noted to be particularly rich in antioxidants. Quercetin is found in abundance in the skin.

The German Federal Health Agency’s Commission has approved onion as an antibacterial agent. The plant is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. The strong smell emanating from the onion is attributed to cysteine sulphoxide.

Planting and gardening

Onions can be grown both in pots and soil beds. The soil should be sandy loam to loam. It is best to use seeds and prepare seedlings in a seed bed. The seed bed can be a pot or a small bed in the backyard. The pot or the seed beds should be rich in compost. Seedlings are ready for transplanting into pots when they are four to six inches tall.

Depending on the size of the pot, plant one to three onion seedlings. Plants should have an eight-inch gap between them.

The plants can be fertilized with organic compost and NPK. They should be mildly watered; overwatering will cause the onion bulbs to rot.

Onions typically take around 100 days to reach a mature bulb stage. Onion bulb formation begins in three weeks. From that stage onward, people begin harvesting onions, using them as spring onions.

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