This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of processed (Beopje) curly dock (Rumex crispus L.) in LPS (lipopolysaccharide)-stimulated murine RAW 264.7 cells. The experimental group was classified into five groups : LPS no treatment, CD (curly dock), CD-B (CD processed through Beopje), LPS, LPS+CD-B (LPS+CD processed through Beopje) and LPS+CD (LPS+CD). Treatment of the Raw 264.7 cell lines using LPS led to a significant increase in NO production, pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β), and inflammation related genes (COX-2 and iNOS). Investigation of the inhibitory effects of CD and processed CD on NO production and expression of iNOS and COX-2 was done in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. There was significant inhibition of NO production by LPS+CD and LPS+CD-B in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.05). Particularly, LPS+CD-B exhibited reduced mRNA expression of iNOS and COX-2 and NO production as compared to LPS+CD in Raw 264.7 cell lines (p<0.05). These results may explain some known biological activities of curly dock including the anti-inflammatory effects. CD-B in particular exhibited the highest anti-inflammatory effects of inhibiting production of NO, through the regulation of inflammatory related genes and pro-inflammatory cytokines. These results of Beopje processing might help decrease the anti-biological effects and increase several active substances of curly dock

This study compares and analyzes inorganic components of four different Pu-erh tea species consumed in Korea. The criteria for the inorganic components was based on the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) recommendations. Out of the 19 general items: potassium, manganese, silicon and fluorine were detected in amounts exceeding the maximum allowable concentration by 5~23, 57~91, 1.6~1.8 and 9~18 times respectively. Out of the 15 potentially harmful elements: aluminum and nickel were exceeded the Maximum allowable concentration by 9~14 times and 0.8~1.2 times respectively. To reduce the concentration of inorganic elements in excess of the maximum allowable concentration, the extraction time of tea should be less than 1 minute in addition to limiting the amount. The amount of Pu-erh tea for extraction was about 0.1 g manganese, about 0.3 g potassium, about 0.5 g fluoride and about 2 g silicon. Therefore, the maximum amount of tea for extraction should be 0.1 g in regards to the safety of Pu-erh tea. Based on the recommended maximum daily intake of inorganic ingredients by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety, it is desirable that the number of extractions be less than three.