Papillex™ HPV Therapy (Human Papilloma Virus)

New Research on the Benefits of Sulforaphane

2012-02-06T22:16:00.000-08:00

It has long been recognized that a diet high in fruits and vegetables is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Increased consumption of cruciferous vegetables in particular (i.e. broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, bok choy, etc.) is associated with a decreased risk of developing a variety of diseases, including certain cancers.

A study published last month in the journal Frontiers in Nutrigenomics has attempted to explore in more detail why these vegetables are so beneficial, shining a light on just how great an impact a healthy diet has on how our bodies function.

Sulforaphane, a biologically active compound found in cruciferous vegetables (as well as in Papillex) was found to interact with and activate detoxification enzymes in our livers, specifically Phase II detoxification enzymes. These enzymes are critical enzymes that convert harmful toxic products and wastes into less volatile, water soluble substances that are more easily excreted by the body via the urine and feces.

Sulforaphane appears to also play a role in helping to activate another category of enzymes called antioxidant (AO) enzymes. AO enzymes help “recycle” vitamin A, C, and E in our bodies. These vitamins act as antioxidants that help protect our cells by “neutralizing” damaging free radicals.

In this increasingly toxic environment that we live in today, maintenance of adequate antioxidant blood levels, and support for our liver’s detoxification pathways is vital to our overall health and well being.

Yet another reason to eat your broccoli (and/or cauliflower, bok choy, Brussel sprouts, cabbage…).

Good luck, and good health.

http://www.frontiersin.org/nutrigenomics/10.3389/fgene.2012.00007/full

5 Easy Ways to Sneak More Vegetables into Your Diet:

2012-01-28T20:55:00.000-08:00

Increasing your daily intake of fruits and vegetables is a theme that will continue to be repeated ad nauseum. It is, however, the simplest way to improve your overall health, so I encourage everyone to challenge themselves to eat 8-10 servings of fruits and veggies every day.

Here are a few great tips to help you achieve this goal:

1. Add a handful of baby spinach to your morning fruit smoothie. The spinach will not interfere with the fruit flavour, you’ll hardly know there are any greens in there at all (except for the colour) and you’ll have gotten a whole serving of vegetables out of the way before lunchtime!

2. Make more homemade soup. Soups are an easy and delicious way to eat your veggies, especially in the winter when you might be craving warm “comfort food” instead of cold salad. Just try to avoid canned varieties as they tend to contain too much salt.

3. Bake with vegetables. Another great way to incorporate vegetables into your day is by baking with them. Search online for great recipes for chocolate brownies with beets (they’re delicious). Not a fan of beets? Try zucchini bread, or look online for other creative options.

4. Choose the side salad option. Eating out? As tempting as it may be to order a side of fries with your burger, choosing the side salad may be a better idea (for both your health and your waist line). Little changes here and there can really add up to big positive change!

5. Make healthy chips. Kale chips, that is! Take a head of kale (a dark leafy vegetable, ask your grocer if unsure what it looks like), and rip the leaves into smaller pieces. Lay the kale pieces flat on a baking sheet, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt, and bake in the oven at 250°C for about 20-30minutes, or until dry and crispy. These will soon become your favourite movie night snack!

Good luck, and great health.

For additional tips and information on HPV:
https://www.papillex.com/faqs.php#q88

Tobacco Smoke and HPV

2012-01-21T11:27:00.000-08:00

Most tobacco cigarette smokers understand that smoking is damaging to their health. The warning labels on cigarette packets try and make that clear! In addition to being a risk factor for heart disease, stroke and respiratory disease, what people may not know is that tobacco smoking is also linked to persistent HPV infections, worsening of HPV symptoms, and the development of cervical cancer.

In a study in the journal Cancer Science, it was found that smokers had twice as high a risk of persistent HPV infection compared to never-smokers, and in young-women, passive smoking since childhood reduced probability of lesion regression. And it was not just smokers who had negative outcomes, it was found that even childhood exposure to second-hand smoke may increase the risk of persistent cervical abnormalities in young women!

This could be in part because smoking diminishes blood levels of certain antioxidants, such as vitamin C, which impairs your immune system and your body’s ability to fight off infection. And remember that vitamin C is vital in the development of collagen (i.e. in your skin), so if quitting for your health is not motivation enough, quit for vanity – smoking ages your skin and contributes to wrinkles!

Simply put: if you have HPV, you need to make quitting smoking a top priority.

For help with becoming smoke-free, I’ve included links to some resources to help you quit smoking.

Good luck, and good health.

Resources for quitting smoking:
http://www.heartandstroke.on.ca/site/c.pvI3IeNWJwE/b.3581753/k.41F4/Smoking_heart_disease_and_stroke.htm
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hc-ps/tobac-tabac/youth-jeunes/life-vie/index-eng.php

Some great journal articles:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3140050/?tool=pubmed
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20626752

2012-01-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a great anti-oxidant, and plays an important role in immune function and in many other body functions. It has also shown antiviral and antibacterial effects in vitro.

Vitamin C may be useful in preventing/treating a wide range of conditions. Many studies are showing that this vitamin may even be helpful in treating/preventing cervical dysplasia due to HPV infection.

A study in the Journal of Infectious Diseases found that the risk of type-specific persistent HPV infection was lower among women reporting the highest intake of vitamin C in the study, compared to those reporting the lowest intake.

Another study in the International Journal of Gynecological Cancer looked at whether dietary supplements, such as vitamin C and multivitamins, were associated with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and found that dietary supplements may actually reduce the risk of CINs in women with high-risk HPV infections.

Good sources of vitamin C, in addition to Papillex, include citrus fruit, cantaloupe, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and potatoes. Yet another amazing reason to increase your daily intake of fruits and vegetables, and to try taking Papillex to help relieve your HPV symptoms!

Remember that significant amounts of vitamin C in food are lost during high-temperature cooking, and during prolonged warming (i.e. keeping meals warm at 75°C for 4 hours). So lower your cooking temperatures and times if possible, or opt for raw versions of foods when applicable.

http://jid.oxfordjournals.org/content/188/10/1508.long
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.ezproxy.ndnet.ca/pubmed/20375804

Carotenoids Explained…

2012-01-08T21:06:00.001-08:00

Carotenoids, are a group of compounds that include lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene. They are organic pigments that are naturally found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as carrots (as the name would suggest), tomatoes, and dark leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale.

These compounds act as antioxidants and have shown to protect DNA from oxidative damage. The development of cancer in the human body is a multistep and complex process, but protecting DNA from damage and mutation is important in preventing cancerous changes from occurring. This is one of the reasons that a diet high in fruits and vegetables is linked to a decreased risk of developing a variety of diseases.

Carotenoids help regulate immune function, and higher circulating levels of carotenoids were associated with a significant decrease in the clearance time of specific types of HPV infections, particularly during the early stages of infection (120 days and under).

This has been, and will continue to be repeated ad nauseum: increase your daily intake of fruits and vegetables, ideally to 8-10 servings a day, and consider supplementing with Papillex. Carotenoids are just one of the many well researched and high quality ingredients in Papillex to help your immune system respond to your HPV infection naturally.

Here’s another interesting article: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ijc.24793/abstract;jsessionid=A2049891206A796EC3FEE4631D096E61.d03t03

A New Year Weight Loss Formula

2011-12-31T16:48:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year again: the time for New Years Resolutions! And as the countdown to midnight nears, one of the top new years resolutions is to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Eating more fruits and vegetables, doing more physical activity, cutting back on coffee, alcohol and sugar (after new years, of course) are all part of the plan.

Another top resolution for many people, is of course, weight loss. Reaching a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) if you are overweight has many great benefits and reduces your risk of developing a variety of diseases. It’s also a welcome side effect of adopting a healthier lifestyle, but always a challenging resolution.

Thankfully, new research has been taking the guesswork out of healthy weight loss. A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition tracked 3 groups of overweight and obese women who all exercised daily while consuming either a high protein, adequate protein or a low protein reduced calorie diet. The results revealed that the group of women who ate the most protein had the greatest fat loss and gained the most lean muscle!

So make increasing your daily intake of protein a part of your healthy lifestyle resolution. May 2012 be a year filled with happiness and health!

Happy New Years from Papillex!

http://jn.nutrition.org/content/141/9/1626.full?sid=7e5bfcc9-d913-4838-90ab-62f0c2e9deed

HPV Strains 101… A Quick Refresher.

2011-12-19T00:19:00.000-08:00

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) comprises more than 100 different virus strains. The name papillomavirus, was given to this group because certain strains cause warts, or papillomas, which are benign (non-cancerous) growths.

Some HPV virus strains are responsible for the “common wart” - annoying kind of warts we sometimes get on our hands and/or feet (i.e. from locker room floors). HPV strains 2 and 4 are the most common causes of these unattractive, lesions.

Other strains of HPV are not as harmless. More than 40 different strains of HPV can be sexually transmitted. Of those 40, 4 stand out the most because of their notorious ability to cause genital warts and cervical cancer.

HPV types 6 and 11 are the most common cause of genital warts, and account for approximately 90% of genital wart infections. These strains are rarely associated with cancer. Warts may appear within several weeks after sexual contact (skin-to-skin) with someone who is infected with HPV.

HPV types 16 and 18 are the most common “high risk” types, and can lead to cervical cancer (these two strains are the ones that the HPV vaccine immunizes against), and cause about 70% of all cases of cervical cancer. HPV type 16 also causes about 85% of all anal cancers.

Some oropharyngeal cancers are also caused by HPV infection (mainly HPV type 16), and the incidence of HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers is on the rise.

Remember, although the use of condoms offers excellent protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), because condoms do not cover all the skin around your genitals, you can still get the HPV virus though skin-to-skin contact in the genital area, even if you’re wearing a condom.

And that concludes HPV Strains 101, I hope this has been informative.

http://www.papillex.com

Magical Mushroom: Reishi

2011-12-12T22:31:00.000-08:00

It’s that time of year again! Cold and flu season. Fight back with mushrooms!

Although the common button mushroom has some benefit, the reishi variety is one of the most heavily researched mushroom. Ganoderma lucidum (the latin botanical name for the reishi mushroom) possesses immunomodulatory as well as anti-tumour properties.

Also known as “the mushroom of immortality”, this mushroom has been used as a medicinal mushroom in traditional Chinese medicine (as well as in other South East Asian countries such as Japan and Korea) for over 2,000 years.

This truly amazing mushroom can help give your immune system the kick it needs to keep colds and flus from using up your sick days .

It is because of its potent immunomodulatory and anti-tumour properties that Reishi has been included as one of the many amazing ingredients in Papillex.

For more information on Papillex and on its remarkable ingredients, click on the following link: https://www.papillex.com/ing_res.php

Boosting your immune system…your best defense against viruses.

2011-12-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

Viruses are everywhere and affect us in different ways, from the common cold, to embarrassing herpes eruptions around your mouth, to even more embarrassing and potentially devastating HPV-related genital warts and cervical dysplasia/cancer.

Frequent infections, such as colds, sinus infections, herpes eruptions, etc, are all signs that your immune system could use a little boost.

While there is no cure for certain viral infections such as the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) or the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) 1 or 2, you can do a few things to help boost your immune system to help your body fight these infections and to reduce symptoms (and stave off the common cold).

First and foremost, clean up your diet:

1. Cut out “the whites” as much as possible, this includes sugar, white bread, white flour, white pasta, white rice, you name it. Opt for whole wheat versions instead.

2. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables. The ideal you should aim for is 8-10 servings a DAY. This may seem like a daunting task, but consider that ½ a cup of frozen or fresh fruits or vegetables = 1 serving. 4-5 cups of fruits and vegetables a day isn’t that bad, you can do it!

3. There are also supplements on the market that help boost your immune system. A great product on the market called Papillex is one of them, and although this supplement is specially formulated for HPV infections, its immune boosting effects are wide spread.

Increase your daily amount of physical activity:

Is the most exercise you get in a day the walk from your car to your office building? Most people, with their hectic schedules, neglect to fit in exercise into their daily life. This is a mistake, as mild to moderate daily exercise boosts immune function.

Take little steps that will have a great impact on your health, such as parking your car further away, taking the stairs instead of the elevator/escalator, and implementing a 20-30 minute walk around your neighborhood before or after dinner every day.

Get your whole family involved, and these small life changes will lead to very positive improvements. The above recommendations will help you strengthen your immune system, and may even have the added side effect of shrinking your waist line.

Here’s a link to the website for that immune-boosting supplement I mentioned above (Papillex): http://www.papillex.com/home.html

How is HPV Contracted?

2011-11-26T15:44:00.000-08:00

Most people know that HPV is spread through skin-to-skin contact during sexual intercourse (vaginal and anal). And while condoms provide excellent protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), they only provide some protection against HPV.

Because condoms do not cover all the skin around your genitals, you can still get the HPV virus though skin-to-skin contact in the genital area even if you’re wearing a condom. It can also be spread through contact with other areas that aren't covered. In other words, you can get HPV through oral-genital or hand-genital contact – not just intercourse!

In fact, there has been a huge spike in HPV-linked oral cancer. Researchers reported that over a 20-year period ending in 2004 the percentage of oral cancer linked to HPV surged from 16% to 72%.

Remember, just like any STI, you can be infected with cancer-causing HPV after only one exposure to someone who has the virus.

Furthermore, you can be infected with HPV more than once, even if you’ve already been exposed to HPV before. Your body may not have developed long-term protection against the virus, and/or you may come into contact with a completely different strain of the virus (there are over 100 different types of HPV).

Here’s a link to the journal article I mentioned above on HPV and Throat Cancer:

http://jco.ascopubs.org/content/29/32/4294.abstract?sid=b9f6acd5-69bb-4cd2-a534-41d3d7c26410

Sulforaphane

2011-11-19T15:26:00.000-08:00

Sulforaphane is an isothiocyanate that is naturally present in cruciferous vegetables (i.e. cauliflower, bok choy, cabbage, broccoli).

In vitro research shows a multifaceted anti-tumor effect of sulphorophane on cancer cells, and epidemiologic studies have long suggested that cruciferous vegetable intake may lower overall cancer risk.

Sulphorophane has even been shown to stimulate the body’s production of detoxification enzymes that eliminate xenoestrogens.

Xenoestrogens are compounds such as Bisphenol A (BPA is found in many hard plastic products such as toys, bottles and food containers) that imitate estrogens and have been implicated in a variety of diseases and are considered an environmental hazard.

Sulphoraphane is also a powerful antioxidant that protects against carcinogens (Proclamations of the National Academy of Sciences. 1997 Sep 16;94(19):10367-72).

Cancer Lett. 2008 October 8; 269(2): 291–304. Multi-targeted prevention of cancer by sulforaphane http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.ezproxy.ccnm.edu/pmc/articles/PMC2579766/?tool=pubmed

Green Tea Extract and Cervical Cancer

2011-11-12T14:35:00.000-08:00

Just one of the many great ingredients in Papillex™, is high in polyphenols (catechins, anthocyanins, phenolic acids), has an excellent safety profile, and is associate with many health benefits ranging from cardioprotective to anti-carcinogenic properties.

A study of 51 patients showed a reduction of 69 percent of cervical dysplasia lesions/HPV in patients who received green tea extracts as either an ointment or capsule (Ahn WS et al 2003).

Another study in the British Journal of Dermatology using an ointment containing green tea catechins revealed its effectiveness and safety as a topical treatment for external and perianal genital warts (caused by the Human Papilloma Virus) (Br J Dermatol 2008).

The British Journal Of Dermatology [Br J Dermatol] 2008 Jun; Vol. 158 (6), pp. 1329-38. http://web.ebscohost.com.ezproxy.ccnm.edu/ehost/detail?sid=3261f7bb-ddf7-4936-a39e-9991e69aff99%40sessionmgr4&vid=1&hid=19&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=mnh&AN=18363746.

Yes, there are herbal remedies for HPV and its symptoms

2010-08-26T05:12:00.000-07:00

Human papilloma virus is highly contagious and is responsible for warty growths in human beings. Some strains have also been linked to cancers of cervix and penis. Herbs can help to treat HPV. These herbs are not only effective against HPV but almost all types of viruses can benefit from herbal remedies. There are many antiviral herbal remedies for HPV. Some of these herbs include:

Essential Oils of thuja and tea tree: These oils are used for herbal remedies of HPV and are applied topically. These help in the elimination of the warts.

Goldenseal: This herb has immune-enhancing properties. Goldenseal has antibacterial properties that help fight HPV internally. This can also be applied topically.

Astragalus: This herb appears to increase antibodies and interferon levels in the body. It enhances the immune-system activity by stimulating the activity of helper-T cells and is therefore helpful in treatment of immune-deficiency related problems. It s available in the form of daily supplements for whole body benefits and can also be applied topically.

Reishi Mushroom Extract: enhances the activity of T-helper cells or CD4 cells. It also stimulates the production of interferons, IL-1 and IL-2. This helps fight serious diseased conditions. It not only supports the immune system but also regulates it.

Green tea extract: This herb contains polyphenols, catechins and falvonoids. These are potent anti-cancer compounds. Results of a controlled study confirmed that a botanical supplement containing green tea extract is an effective and well tolerated treatment for external genital and anal warts (Obstetrics and Gynecology, June 2008).

Echinacea: It boosts the immune system and therefore, helps the body respond to HPV. It is available as supplements, tonics and can also be used for topical application.

Curcumin: It is a major constituent of Turmeric herb. It mainly affects the transcription of the high risk HPV 16 as well as other cellular transcription responses. Lemon Balm: It is an antiviral and can be useful in many herbal remedies of HPV.

Garlic: Garlic has immune boosting and anti-viral properties. It can be applied topically to the warts.

Birch: It contains betulinic acid. It is applied topically for breaking down the hard coverings of the warts.

Ginkgo Biloba: This herb is a potent anti-oxidant.

Olive Leaf: It is useful against many viral illnesses.

Bayberry, Horehound, Red clover, Fenugreek and Hawthorn can also be useful herbal remedies for HPV as these enhance the immune system's response to viruses. These herbal remedies for HPV are available as supplements (to act internally), tonics, and can also be applied topically. Herbal remedies for HPV have little to no side effects.

Papillex is a compound that contains phytoceutical nutrients which are shown to support beneficial outcomes in HPV. It nutritionally supports the body's immune system to aid in the elimination of genital warts, cervical dysplasia and other HPV related conditions. The herbs present in Papillex are Green tea extract, Curcumin, Astragalus and Reishi mushroom extract.

About 80 % of the women around the world get HPV. What is the treatment?

2010-08-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

HPV is one of the most common viruses and is responsible for causing diseases in about 50% of sexually active individuals. About 80 % of the women around the world get HPV at some point in their life. HPV is spread by skin on skin contact, generally vaginal, oral or anal sex.

HPV infections are self-limiting and usually resolve within a period of 1-2 years. The person may not even be aware that they had contracted an infection.

HPV in women is responsible for the following clinical conditions:

Genital warts
Premalignant conditions, i.e. cervical dysplasia
Malignant conditions, i.e. cervical cancer

Genital warts appear as papules near vagina, cervix, vulva, or anus. These warts are visible to the naked eye and can be easily detected by a visual examination. They are itchy, painless, pink papules and may appear as cauliflower-like growths. The growths could be flat or raised and can appear as solitary growths or even in groups.

Precancerous lesions may also occur in the female genital tract. These may become cancerous as the cell abnormalities continue to increase. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer and HPV is the primary risk factor. However, it should be kept in mind that HPV in women only rarely leads to cervical cancer.

HPV in women can be detected by two screening tests for cancer. These are:

Pap smear
HPV test

Every woman should have her Pap smear done within three years of becoming sexually active and no later than the age of 211. The Pap test detects the earliest cellular dysplastic changes and this timely detection has lead to reduction in the progression to cancers. A Pap smear must be repeated every one to two years after the first Pap test. An abnormal Pap smear can be followed by the HPV test. The HPV test is not widely accessible and is advised only for women over 30 years or for women who are over 21 years old and have had an abnormal Pap result.

Avoiding smoking and multiple sexual partners can be helpful to protect one’s self from HPV. A healthy immune system can help get rid of the virus. Papillex, is a compound that contains phytoceutical nutrients that have been shown to support beneficial results with respect to HPV. It nutritionally supports the immune system which will help the body to better respond to genital warts, cervical dysplasia and other HPV-related disorders naturally.

What is an HPV virus? How is it developed, transmitted and treated?

2010-08-13T10:37:00.000-07:00

HPV virus is a non-enveloped DNA virus. It contains a, circular, super-coiled, double-stranded DNA and an icosahedral nucleocapsid. It belongs to the papovaviridae family of viruses. About 100 types of the virus have been identified and these are further divided into low-risk strains and high-risk strains. Each type is believed to cause a different clinical entity. For example, skin warts are caused by HPV-1 to HPV-4. Types HPV-6 and HPV-11 are the main cause of common and genital warts. Types 16 and 18 are associated with cervical carcinoma.

Carcinogenesis by the HPV virus involves two proteins encoded by HPV genes, E6 and E7. These proteins interfere with the activities of the proteins encoded by tumor suppressor genes. The gene E6 inhibits the activity of p53 while E7 interferes with the activity of the Rb (retinoblastoma) gene. P53 and Rb genes are present in normal cells and their function is to suppress the cells that can produce tumors in the body. E6 and E7 inhibit the function of these tumor suppressor genes.
The diseases caused by the HPV virus are:

Genital warts
Common warts
Plantar warts
Laryngeal papillomas
Facial warts
Precancerous lesions of cervix, anus, penis, vulva, or uterus
Cervical cancer
Penile carcinoma in men

HPV virus is transmitted mainly through skin-to-skin contact and intimate sexual contact. It can also be transmitted to a neonate from an infected mother during delivery.

HPV virus related disorders can be fought by a healthy immune system. An immune system is the first line of defense against all diseases. Papillex is a compound that contains phytoceutical nutrients which have been shown to support beneficial outcomes. The ingredients in Papillex were chosen for their immune boosting properties.

A 3-minute Read on certain HPV complications

2010-08-03T10:45:00.000-07:00

HPV causes a number of complications in human beings. These include:

• Common warts
• Genital warts
• Plantar warts
• Facial warts
• Pre-cancerous lesions of cervix, anus, penis, vulva, or uterus
• Cervical cancer and penile carcinoma

The diseases caused by HPV may lead to certain secondary conditions or disorders. These conditions are termed HPV complications. Most HPV viruses do not cause any serious complications, as the infections are self-limiting and regress spontaneously within a period of 1-2 years (in about 90 percent of patients). Only a small number of people suffer from persistent HPV infections and have increased risk of developing cancer.

HPV complications include:

Cancer: Persistent HPV infections caused by high-risk types, mainly type 16 and 18, may progress into malignancies. The cancers caused by HPV are:

Cervical Carcinoma (the most common complication associated with malignancies)
Genital Carcinoma
Vulvar Carcinoma
Anal Carcinoma
Penile Carcinoma (rare cancer)

HPV complications related to genital warts:

Genital warts in the urinary tract may become enlarged leading to difficulties in urination.
Warts on the vaginal wall may lead to obstruction during spontaneous vaginal delivery.
Genital warts may become ulcerated.

These can lead to infections of the rectum, anus, urethra and even mouth or throat.
Laryngeal papillomatosis (warts in the throat) in newborns, born to women with genital warts. This rare condition requires urgent attention.

Alarming Facts about (HPV) Human Papillomavirus

2010-07-29T13:31:00.000-07:00

Human papilloma virus is one of the most common viruses that affects humans. Around 50 % of sexually active adults get HPV at some point in their lifetimes.
It is spread by skin and genital contact. Vaginal, anal, and oral sex can lead to the transmission of HPV. Kissing and touching the genitalia of an infected person can also lead to contraction of the virus.
HPV infects the keratinizing or mucous membrane of the skin, leading to koilocytes formation. It causes genital warts, cervical dysplasia and cancers, and penile carcinomas in human beings.
Around 100 types of HPV have been identified on the basis of DNA fragment analysis. These are further sub-divided into low-risk and high-risk types. Around 12 low-risk types and 15 high-risk types have been identified. Low-risk types are responsible for warty growths in human beings while the high-risk types usually develop into cancers.
Risk factors contributing the development of HPV-related disorders are; smoking, immune-compromised conditions, and/or having multiple sexual partners.
The Pap smear and HPV test can be used as screening tests for cervical cancers. More than 90 % of cervical cancers are caused by HPV.
A vaccine was approved by the FDA in 2006. However, recently a number of vaccine side-effects have been reported. This has lead to many people questioning of the safety and efficacy of the vaccine.
HPV can be treated by certain conventional surgical procedures. These include; Conization, LEEP (Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure, and Cryotherapy.
HPV can be treated naturally by boosting the immune system and modifying lifestyle factors.

HPV in Children

2010-07-26T07:50:00.000-07:00

HPV is one of the most common viruses that infect teens and adults. The virus is mainly transmitted by skin-to-skin and sexual contact.

The prevalence of HPV in children is very low. However, recently there has been a change in this trend. The rate of HPV in children is on the rise. This is due to an increased prevalence of the virus and better HPV detection measures.

There are various modes of transmission of HPV in children. Children may be infected at any age. It is mainly transmitted by non-sexual means. For example, from an infected mother to her child during delivery. It should be kept in mind that sexual abuse of a child by an infected person may also lead to the transmission of HPV resulting in infections in children. Thorough clinical examination and history can aid in the diagnosis.

HPV causes cutaneous and mucosal infections in children. It may cause warts, and squamous intraepithelial lesions that can be either low-grade or high-grade.

There is a minimal risk to a child’s health during pregnancy but in rare circumstances a pregnant woman with a genital HPV infection may pass on the virus to her newborn during the delivery. The child may develop warts in the throat or on the genitals. Symptoms of HPV in children remain dormant for up to three years after birth. Warts in the throat are termed laryngeal papillomatosis. It is a very rare condition but once it occurs it must receive immediate attention and requires laser surgery to remove the condylomae (growths). The danger is, they may obstruct the child’s breathing and this can prove to be fatal.

A child’s immune system usually fights off the virus. It must be noted that 30-50 % of the warts resolve themselves within 6 months without any treatment. Other conditions require proper attention and treatment.

For more information on natural treatments of HPV Symptoms, please continue reading.

About HPV Test

2010-07-18T15:33:00.000-07:00

An HPV test is used for the detection of high risk strains of HPV in women. This test is used as the primary tool for screening as an adjunct to Pap smear. An HPV test detects the viral DNA that contains the genetic information for HPV, and finds abnormalities that can lead to cancers.

Hybrid capture Test: (FDA approved)

Hybrid Capture Test is a commercially available HPV test. There are two types of Hybrid Capture tests:

Hybrid Capture Test I: For research purposes, for the detection of low-risk types.
Hybrid Capture Test II: For detection of high-risk types. (Accuracy rate is 95%)

Hybrid Capture Test II is the commonly used important test for HPV detection.

Procedure:

An HPV test is performed on a sample of cells collected from the cervix. The sample is collected with a brush or swab in the same way as it is done for Pap test. The sample is then taken to the lab for proper investigation and analysis.

Precautions:

Do not use a douche, tampons, or vaginal medicines for at least 48 hours before the test.
Empty the bladder just before the test for convenience.

Interpretation:

Positive results mean that the person is a carrier of one of the 13 types of the high-risk strains. It does not necessarily mean that you are going to have cancer.

Pros:

HPV test can detect about 18 types of HPV.
This test can differentiate between the low-risk and high-risk types.
The procedure is quick and not very uncomfortable.

Cons:

This test cannot determine the specific HPV types.
This test cannot tell the exact number of HPV virus.
It is not cost-effective.

The HPV test is not widely accessible. Therefore, it is performed only in certain circumstances. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the following instances merit a follow-up HPV:

For cervical cancer screening in women over 30 years of age whose Pap smear showed abnormalities.
For women who are 21 years or older and have certain abnormalities on a Pap smear known as “atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance”.

This test is not recommended for women under 30 as most HPV infections are self-resolving and do not require treatment or have complications. HPV infects men and women equally, but this test is only for women.

Fighting HPV

2010-07-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

Human papilloma virus is one of the most common viruses that infect humans. It is responsible for warty growths on different body parts of the body. These can include plantar warts, genital warts, anal warts and laryngeal warts. These growths are benign hyper-proliferations of the keratinized squamous epithelium. However, they can also cause the precancerous and cancerous lesions of the cervix and penis.

Most of the HPV infections resolve within a period of 1-2 years and the patient remains asymptomatic. However, in certain conditions such as in immune-compromised patients the infections may persist and eventually spread, leading to malignancies.

HPV is mainly transmitted by skin-to-skin contact, for example, during intimate sexual contact. The immune system is the first line of defense against all harmful foreign organisms that try to gain entry into the human body. The body should be well-equipped with the proper cellular and molecular components of the immune system in order to fight HPV effectively.

A patented compound with the name of Papillex, which contains phytoceutical nutrients which support beneficial outcomes for HPV has been introduced. It is formulated to nutritionally support the immune system to aid and speed the body's ability to eliminate genital warts, cervical dysplasia and other HPV related conditions. Papillex is a unique blend of natural ingredients that have immune boosting properties. These ingredients have been shown to:

Relieve the symptoms of HPV naturally.
Help minimize the recurrence of the infection.
Prevent cellular damage with powerful anti-oxidant ingredients.
Not only restore a weak immune system but also promote a healthy immune system.

It is advised that, for optimal effectiveness, Papillex should be taken twice daily until all symptoms disappear. Papillex has the advantages of good patient compliance (it is easy to take), with minimal side effects. These side effects are experienced by only a very small percentage of those taking this supplement. Papillex helps the body to respond to HPV by supporting the body's natural healing processes.

Human Papillomavirus

2010-01-19T02:33:00.000-08:00

Human papilloma virus is one of the most common viruses. HPV infects the keratinizing squamous or mucosal epithelium of the cervix. It is a non-enveloped DNA virus and is responsible for papillomas in human beings. Papillomas are benign warts but they can progress to form carcinomas in immune-compromised patients.

Types: 100 types of HPV have been identified, and each type is associated with a distinct clinical entity. For example, HPV 1 to HPV 4 cause plantar warts, HPV 6 and HPV 11 lead to genital warts, and HPV 16 and HPV 18 cause cervical carcinomas.

Mode of transmission: Human papillomavirus is transmitted mainly through skin-to-skin contact and intimate sexual contact with an infected person. People with multiple sex partners are at a higher risk of contracting the virus.

Pathogenesis: The proteins encoded by the two viral genes, E6 and E7 inhibit the activity of the proteins encoded by p53 and Rb (retinoblastoma) gene respectively.

Genome: The genome of human papillomavirus is dsDNA.

Laboratory diagnosis: Koilocytes present in the lesions are the hallmark of the infection. Patient history and physical examinations are important in the diagnosis. The diagnosis can be made by:

• Pap smears

• HPV tests

Papillex therapy: Papillex, a patented phytoceutical complex is formulated to respond to HPV related diseases naturally. The ingredients present in Papillex are:

• Carotenoids such as Lycopene, Lutin, and Zeaxanthin.

• Green tea extract containing polyphenols, catechins and flavonoids.

• Curcumin from Turmeric.

• Vitamin C.

• Vitamin E.

• Selenium, a trace element.

• Folic acid.

• Astragalus.

• Reishi mushroom extract.

These ingredients naturally respond to warts, cervical dysplasia and other HPV related diseases and are safe for continued use.

HPV Complications

2010-01-19T00:55:00.000-08:00

HPV causes a number of complications in human beings. These include:

• Common warts

• Genital warts

• Plantar warts

• Facial warts

• Pre-cancerous lesions of cervix, anus, penis, vulva, or uterus

• Cervical cancer and penile carcinoma

The diseases caused by HPV may lead to certain secondary conditions or disorders. These are termed HPV complications. Most HPV viruses do not cause any serious complications, as the infections are self-limiting and regress spontaneously within a period of 1-2 years (in about 90 percent of patients). Only a small number of people suffer from persistent HPV infections and have increased risk of developing cancer.

HPV complications include:

Cancer: Persistent HPV infections caused by high-risk types, mainly type 16 and 18, may progress into malignancies. The cancers caused by HPV are:

• Cervical Carcinoma (the most common complication associated with malignancies)

• Genital Carcinoma

• Vulvar Carcinoma

• Anal Carcinoma

• Penile Carcinoma (rare cancer)

HPV complications related to genital warts:

• Genital warts in the urinary tract may become enlarged leading to difficulties in urination.

• Warts on the vaginal wall may lead to obstruction during spontaneous vaginal delivery.

• Genital warts may become ulcerated.

• These can lead to infections of the rectum, anus, urethra and even mouth or throat.

• Laryngeal papillomatosis (warts in the throat) in newborns, born to women with genital warts. This rare condition requires urgent attention.

HPV

2010-01-19T00:46:00.000-08:00

HPV stands for human papilloma virus. It is a non-enveloped DNA virus and belongs to the papovaviridae virus family. HPV causes warts and carcinoma of the cervix and penis.

Hundreds of types of HPV have been identified through DNA fragment analysis. These have been subdivided into low-risk types and high-risk types. The low-risk types are responsible for the growth of warts in human beings while the high-risk types may progress into cancer.

The genes, E6 and E7 are implicated in carcinogenesis. These inactivate the proteins encoded by the tumor suppressor genes, p53 and Rb (retinoblastoma) gene respectively.

The mode of transmission is through skin-to-skin contact and sexual contact. HPV is highly contagious, that is, it passes from an infected person to an uninfected person easily.

HPV infects the squamous epithelial cells and causes koilocytosis. It causes benign tumors of squamous cells, which usually do not progress to malignancy. Persistent HPV infections caused by high-risk HPV types can progress into cancer.

HPV can be diagnosed by:

• Extraction of DNA from the cervical cells collected by brushing the cervix.

• Detection of viral DNA sequences by DNA hybridization.

The tests available for the diagnosis are:

• Pap test.

• HPV test.

There is no silver bullet cure for HPV. Papillex works by helping the body to heal itself naturally. This patented phytoceutical compound has been formulated based on medical research.

The ingredients present in Papillex provide nutrient support and immune-system modulation. It nutritionally supports the elimination of genital warts, cervical dysplasia and other HPV related diseases.

Herbal remedies for hpv

2010-01-18T07:30:00.000-08:00

Human papilloma virus is highly contagious and is responsible for warty growths in human beings. It also causes cancers of the cervix and the penis. Herbs can assist in the elimination of HPV symptoms. These herbs are not only effective against HPV but almost all types of viruses can benefit from herbal remedies.

There are many antiviral herbal remedies for HPV. Some of these herbs include:

• Essential Oils of thuja and tea tree: These oils are used for herbal remedies of HPV and are applied topically. These help in the elimination of the warts.

• Goldenseal: This herb has immune-enhancing properties. Goldenseal has antibacterial properties that help fight HPV internally. This can also be applied topically.

• Astragalus: This herb appears to increase antibodies and interferon level in the body. It enhances the immune-system activity by stimulating the activity of T-helper cells and is therefore, helpful in treatment of immune-deficiency related problems. It’s available in the form of daily supplements for whole body benefits and can also be applied topically.

• Reishi Mushroom Extract: It enhances the activity of T-helper cells or CD4 cells. It stimulates the production of interferon, IL-1 and IL-2, this helps fight serious immune conditions. This not only supports the immune system but also regulates it.

• Green tea extract: This herb contains polyphenols, catechins and falvonoids. These are potent anti-carcinogens. Results of a controlled study confirmed that a botanical containing green tea extract is an effective and well tolerated treatment for external genital and anal warts (Obstetrics and Gynecology, June 2008).

• Echinacea: It boosts the immune system and therefore, helps in fighting HPV. It is available as supplements, tonics and can also be used for topical application.

• Curcumin: It is a major constituent of Turmeric herb. It mainly affects the transcription of the high risk HPV 16 as well as other cellular transcription responses.

• Lemon Balm: It is antiviral and can be useful as a herbal remedy for HPV.

• Garlic: Garlic has immune-system boosting and anti-viral properties. It can be applied topically to warts.

• Birch: It contains betulinic acid, which is applied topically for breaking down the hard coverings of the warts.

• Ginkgo Biloba: This herb is a potent anti-oxidant.

• Olive Leaf: It is useful against many viral illnesses.

• Bayberry, Horehound, Red clover, Fenugreek and Hawthorn can also be useful herbal remedies for HPV as these enhance the immune system response.

These herbal remedies for HPV are available as supplements (to act internally), tonics, and can also be applied topically. These herbal remedies for HPV have no side effects.

Papillex, a patented phytoceutical compound, nutritionally supports the elimination of genital warts, cervical dysplasia and other HPV related conditions. The herbs present in Papillex are Green tea extract, Curcumin, Astragalus and Reishi mushroom extract.

Herbs for HPV

2010-01-18T01:57:00.000-08:00

Human papilloma virus can be treated with herbs. There are many known herbal protocols for HPV, including essential oils and immune-system boosting herbs taken as a tonic. Essential oils of thuja and tea tree, can help eliminate warts.

Immune system enhancing herbs used in the eradication of HPV include:

• Astragalus: This herb promotes the resistance to disease. It increases the level of interferon and antibodies in the body and also stimulates the activity of T-helper cells. This helps in treating immune-deficient diseases.

• Goldenseal: This is antibacterial and helps in the eradication of warts.

• Reishi Mushroom Extract: This herb is a potent stimulant of the immune system. It wards off many types of viral diseases.

• Green Tea extract: It contains polyphenols, catechins and falvonoids, which are protective anti-carcinogens. A study of 51 patients showed 69 percent reduction in cervical dysplasia lesions/HPV in patients who received green tea extracts as either an ointment or capsule (Ahn WS et al 2003).

• Curcumin: Is an herbal extract of Turmeric, which affects the cellular transcription responses. It is mainly effective against high risk HPV 16.

• Echinacea: It helps to fight HPV by enhancing the body’s immune response.

• Lemon balm: This antiviral herb is useful for the treatment of warts.

• Birch: This herb contains a mild acid, betulinic acid, which breaks down the hard wart coverings.

• Garlic: Garlic juice can be applied topically for the elimination of warts.

• Olive Leaf: Effective against different types of viruses as well as HPV.

• Ginkgo Biloba: Performs as an anti-oxidant and prevents cellular damage.

• Bayberry: A herb used to strengthen local resistance to infection and thus can be used as a topical treatment for warts.

• Hawthorn: Herb includes flavonoids and tannins used in healing HPV.

• Red Clover: Red clover is one of the richest sources of isoflavones, are found to decrease the risk of cancer reoccurrence in women.

• Fenugreek: An herb that prevents cancer by raising the levels of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and other antioxidants in the blood stream.

The herbs included in Papillex, a phytoceutical complex formulated to treat HPV naturally, are:

• Green tea extract

• Astragalus

• Reishi Mushroom Extract

• Curcumin

HPV Therapy

2010-01-08T07:48:00.000-08:00

Human papillomaviruses are the members of the papovaviridae family. These are non-enveloped viruses containing a double-stranded DNA and an icosahedral nucleocapsid. Around 100 types of the human papillomaviruses have been identified.

HPV can cause genital warts and cervical and penile carcinoma. The viruses are transmitted through intimate sexual contact and it can also be transmitted during delivery from infected mother to the newborn. The virus infects the keratinizing or mucosal squamous epithelium resulting in formation of vacuolated cells known as koilocytes. Koilocytes are the hallmark of the infections caused by this virus and therefore, helps in diagnosis.

Almost all the 100 types cause different clinical entities. For example, HPV-1 to HPV-4 causes skin warts, HPV-6 and HPV-11 are associated with the anogenital warts and laryngeal papillomas. Type 16 and 18 are usually involved in the cervical carcinoma. It has two genes E6 and E7. These primarily encode proteins that cause the inactivation of tumor suppressor genes’ encoded proteins. E6 inactivates the proteins encoded by p53 and E7 inactivates the proteins encoded by RB (retinoblastoma) gene.

Most warts in healthy individuals are self-resolving and typically resolve within a period of 1-2 years. However, in some patients warts may persist and eventually spread.

There is no cure for HPV. But it can be responded to by making the immune system stronger. A phytoceutical compound with the name of Papillex has been introduced to naturally respond to HPV. It nutritionally supports the immune system so that the body can eliminate the papillomas naturally. The key ingredients present in Papillex are:

• Carotenoids such as Lycopene, Lutin, and Zeaxanthin which regulate the immune system.
• Green tea extract containing polyphenols, catechins and flavonoids is an anti-carcinogen.
• Curcumin plays an important role in regulation of cell development, cell division and apoptosis.
• Sulphoraphane is a powerful anti-oxidant.
• Vitamin C, which regulates immune system.
• Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant and protects cell membranes from damage.
• Selenium is a trace element and protects cell against free radicals.
• Folic acid, that is necessary for healthy cell growth.
• Astragalus increases the T-cell production and helps restore the body’s immunity even in very serious conditions.
• Reishi mushroom extract is a potent immune system stimulant. It enhances the activity of t-helper cells or CD4 cells.

Dosage is two to four capsules per day and therefore, it has good patient compliance. Papillex is contraindicated in transplant patients and patients with auto-immune diseases. Papillex in not only helpful in responding to HPV, but also helps in response to other viral conditions as it contains ingredients that nutritionally support the immune system.

HPV facts and figures

2009-09-29T02:27:00.000-07:00

• Human papilloma virus commonly termed as HPV infects the skin as well as the mucous membranes.

• Almost 100 different types of HPV have been found to exist, out of which 30 are spread due to genital contact (usually sexual intercourse). Approximately 12 are the “low-risk” types of HPV causing genital warts. In addition, there are 15 “high risk” types of HPV that lead to the development of cervical cancer.

• On the basis of different research, it is estimated that 80 percent of all women and 50 percent of the men and women collectively, at some point in their lives will get one or more types of genital HPV.

• There are a few other factors like smoking that can contribute toward the development of cervical cancer, but HPV has to be present first.

• The vaccine fails to provide protection against all types of HPV that can cause cervical cancers. Therefore, it is necessary to get a regular Pap or an HPV test if you are over 30, even if you are vaccinated. Pap identifies abnormal cells and helps in making sure that these cells are diagnosed and treated timely.

• The most familiar forms of the virus cause warts (papillomas) on the hands, legs, arms and some other areas of the genitals and skin. These wart-like growths are small, cauliflower-type growths that appear on the skin. These types of HPV warts are mostly non-cancerous. Two HPV strains are usually associated with genital warts, numbers 6 and 11 and they manifest in both men and women.

Read more about HPV and its treatment on the Papillex official website.