INS and cancer: Animal studies have shown that this plant could expand the lifespan of humans by 22.6%.21 Ooitabi extract (Ficus pumila L.), another plant which Okinawans consume, could possibly contribute to their longevity via its ability to improve the lipid profile, insulin sensitivity, blood pressure and uric acid levels.22 Other studies have shown that the Okinawan propolis has anti-aging and anti-cancer abilities via the inhibition of p21 activated kinase 1 (PAK1), while the extract from Melia azedarach L. leaves has a high cytotoxic effect against cancer cells in vitro.23,24