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Well Womens guide to Other Supplements for Nutrition
There are literally hundreds of other supplements that can benefit our health, but how do we know what ones do what? Here I have given a rundown of some of the more popular supplements and hope to unscamble the mystery of these for you. I have tried to cut down on the terminology as most of us really don't need to or want to know the scientific explanations!!! As some of the other supplements can cause unwanted side effects, please check with your doctor before using any products that you have not used before or if you are suffering from a specific illness or have a compromised immune system, stomach disorder or diabetes or a heart condition. Also, please start with the lowest recommended dose rather than choosing a high dose, especially if you have not used the product before, e.g where a product states 200-100mg, then please start with 200mg.These other supplements are there to benefit your health, but can also cause other problems PLEASE CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE DRUG DATABASE TO CHECK POSSIBLE INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER MEDICATIONS BEFORE TAKING HERBAL SUPPLEMENTS. Acidophilus lactobacillus This is one of the most important bacteria that live in the digestive tract. It inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and can be used as a probiotic orally to help prevent and treat yeast infections which it will also kill on contact if a topical product is used. It can also treat diarrhoea caused by antibiotics and can help by protecting the colon against cancer, and also the adverse effects of chemotherapy and radio therapy. It will improve the efficiency of your digestive system, help make other vitamins, such as Biotin, Niacin, Folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin K, help protect against food poisoning, kills harmful bacteria in the gut and helps keep normal bacterial levels. It is one of the most beneficial of the other supplements. It may help clear up skin problems, and yeast infections in women with diabetes. It may also help lower cholesterol and aid in the digestion of milk for those who are lactose intolerant. It may also help mouth ulcers, food allergies, vaginitis, Crohns disease and ulcerative colitis. It also enhances immunity and may help relieve symptoms of spastic colon. It may also enhance lifespan, so it really is a very beneficial supplement for anyone. It can also be found in probiotic yoghurt. Consuming it in liquid form is particularly beneficial due to bioavailability and quicker absorption. For specific conditions such as chronic yeast infections, 500mg 4 times a day is suggested. Women on antibiotics of any kind will have an increased need for Acidophilus, Please refer to your doctor if you have a disorder of the stomach or gut where medication is required or if you are taking antacids or any kind of prescribed medication or over the counter medication.
strangely enough, Agnus Castus was once used to reduce female sexual desire and in Roman times women spread the leaves on their beds when their husbands were away with the legion for this reason. It subsequently became known as the Chasteberry Tree. It was also used in monasteries for the same reason and became known as Monks Pepper because it was used as a food flavouring. It does indeed have some effect on the control of the female reproductive system and has thus been used for mentrual problems and menopausal conditions for it's hormone controlling properties. Studies have shown that extracts of Agnus castus can stimulate the release of Leutenizing Hormone (LH) and inhibit the release of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). This suggests that it has a progesterone-like effect. It's benefits originate from its actions upon the pituitary gland and particularly on the production of luteinizing hormone which increases progesterone production and therefore helps regulate the menstrual cycle. In a double blind study, a group of women showed a reduction in PMS symptoms such as anxiety, nervous tension, insomnia, water retention or mood changes in those taking Agnus Castus. Although the herb should not be used in pregnancy, a good production of milk was observed in women who were breast feeding.
However it would need to be used as a long term remedy for over a year as it is not fast acting. Side effects are rare.
Antioxidants Not so much one of the other supplements, as many of the vitamins are also powerful antioxidants, but there are also other nutrients that have antioxidant properties. Used by our bodies to protect against free radicals,which are highly reactive compounds created in the body during normal metabolic functions or introduced from the environment. Free radicals are unstable and contain extra energy, so to reduce their energy load, they react with certain chemicals in our body and this interferes with cells ability to function normally. Anti-oxidants work in a number of ways, reducing the energy of the free radical, stop it from forming in the first place, or by interrupting an oxidising chain reaction, minimising the damage caused by the free radical. Unfortunately, free radicals play a role in more than 60 health conditions including the aging process, cancer and hardening of the arteries. By increasing our intake of anti-oxidants either by using other supplements or in our diet, we can reduce the risk of free radical damage and resulting health problems. However, reducing our exposure to environmental aggressors and certain lifestyle choices will also help by contributing to the benefits of the antioxidants. Environmental aggressors include exposure to ionising radiation (from medical X-rays, industry, and sun exposure,) ozone and nitrous oxide (from automobile exhaust fumes), heavy metals (from dental mercury, cadmium and lead), cigarette smoke (both passive and active) alcohol, unsaturated fat and other chemicals in food (artificial, pesticides etc), water and air. There are also important “building block” nutrients that will assist the our bodies in making antioxidants themselves, like manganese, zinc and copper and selenium and by increasing these, either by way of our diet or supplements containing them in addition to using anti oxidants or increasing our intake of them in food, we have a great fighting chance of resisting serious free radical damage. Many vitamins and minerals provide antioxidant protection such as Vitamin C, E, beta carotene, B2, Coenzyme Q10, lycopene, and herbs such as grape seed extract, pine bark extract, turmeric and bilberry. Also ginkgo and amino acids such as lutein and cysteine and all these are available as other supplements Consuming a wide range of both vitamins, enzymes, herbs and amino acids, as well as eating them in our diet, give us complete protection against free radicals. Ashwagandha Also known as Winter Cherry, Ashwagandha is also an adaptogen. An adaptogen is a substance which increases resistance and resiliance to stress. It has energy promoting and disease protecting properties and studies have shown that it increases white cell count therefore is immune system boosting. It also has been shown to have a relaxing or sedative effect on the nervous system. It is important to those suffering from chronic illness as it increases vitality. It is effective in pain management and very useful for those with fibromyalgia due to it's ability to assist in the production of brain chemicals. It has been shown to have positive effects on the endocrine system, immune system and central nervous system as well as the cardiovascular system. It is also used for male impotence and fertility in India. Best of all, for thyroid sufferers, it has been said to assist the thyroid is producing it's own hormones. Preliminary studies show that it aids in stress reduction and it's negative effects, benefits the adrenal glands, increases sexual performance, treats anxiety, insomnia, reduces cholesterol and slows tumour growth as well as improving memory and promoting wellness. Should not be used in combination with sedatives or barbiturates, anti depressants or any kind of neurological medication. For more information, please click HERE
Astragalus A herbaceous perennial plant, Astragalus strengthens the immune system. It is also an adaptogen so helps the adrenal glands and therefore the effect of stress on the body. It has been used alongside chemotherapy and radiotherapy and also immune deficiency syndromes. Over time, it strengthens the immune system building resistance to disease and illness. It can also be used to strengthen the cardiovascular system and can help Angina and congestive heart failure. It also helps with the relief of fatigue in those undergoing cancer treatment and also chronic fatigue syndrome. It can also help night sweats and recurring infection, and other uses of Astragalus include; atherosclerosis, hypertension, hyperthyroidism, insomnia, diabetes, chronic hepatitis, genital herpes, AIDS, Fibromyalgia and chemotherapy side effects.
Black Seed Oil (Nigella Sativa) It was proclaimed by the prophet Mohammed that this cures every disease except for death!Of course that was 1400 years ago. However Black Seed Oil is hailed as a miracle cure. The seeds of the plant Nigella sativa are used for this cure and certainly it has curative properties. Mainly, it has a strengthening effect on the immune system and has properties seen to this effect due to over 100 chemicals contained within the seeds which have immune system boosting properties not seen in any other naturally occuring substance. It has the power to eradicate problems such as autoimmune disease and ailments caused by bacteria, viruses and common allergies. What else can it do? It has the following list of properties as well as many others not listed: Analgesic (Dampens pain) Liver dysfunction underactivity congestion jaundice, Gall Stones Kidney problems - urinary infections, difficulties, cystitis Respiratory - infection, coughs and sore throats, congestion, bronchial inflammation, asthma, Menstrual Problems Parasites Hair and skincare Immune system - probably the most important attribute of Black seed oil is it's ability to improve the overall function of the immune system, resistence to infection, stabilises and therefore helps in the elimination of autoimmune disease and stimulates production of bone marrow. Is an immunomodulator so suppresses or strengthens immune system activity, whatever is needed for optimum balance. Hypertension - Has the ability to substantially reduce blood pressure in only 15 days. Is useful in treating cardio vascular disorders. Those suffering with high blood sugar diabetes, would benefit from this as it decreases blood glucose. Best used in conjunction with a diabetic dietary program. Prevents and eases muscle spasms and cramps. Anti bacterial Antioxidant - useful against the formation of free radicals. Erradicates existing free radicals and prevents formation. Reduces fever Stimulates digestion and helps expel wind. Anti tumour - prevents or couneracts the formation of malignant tumours. Anti-inflammatory Diuretic - Stimulates urination to relieve bloating and ridding the body of excess water Stimulates mentrual flow.
Capra Mineral Whey 100% natural, mineral-rich, goat's milk whey powder, Regenerative nutrition include other nutrients in their product such as Boron, Vitamin D3, Boron and contains 20 naturally occuring minerals. Since minerals are the body's electrical transmitters, this ensures your body is receiving the correct nutrition to enable messages to be sent and received correctly. Some conditions deplete the body of minerals such as digestive disorders and autoimmune disease and those with Fibromyalgia, Peripheral Neuropathy, Hypothyroidism, especially experience muscle spasms, tingling, numbness and "brain-fog.". Capra Mineral Whey can help correct imbalances to allieviate these symptoms. The powder can be dissolved in drinks and tastes a bit like Ovaltine. Some of the health benefits: Neutralises acid and replenishes depleted minerals in the body ensuring correct balance. Supports conditions with weak and painful joints by providing nutritional support. Replaces minerals depleted by exercise, so useful for athletes. Creates an alkaline environment within the digestive tract which is unfriendly to viruses and bacteria. Readily absorbed, so 100 per cent bio-available. Contains Potassium, Calcium, Zinc, Magnesium, Chloride, Molybdenum, Phosphorus, Manganese, Tin, Chromium, Antimony, Nickel, Silicon, Selenium, Iron, Barium, Vanadium, Titanium, Silver, Yttrium, Boron and Sulphur.
Cayenne Also called capiscum or red pepper, Cayenne has a multitude of uses and benefits. Studies have shown that it can raise metabolic rates by 25 per cent. It treats Shingles, Herpes, Raynauds Disease and treats ulcers as well as a valuable aid to preventing heart disease. Also treats arthritis, rheumatism, psoriasis, muscle and joint pain and bunions. It can be used both externally by opening a capsule and mixing contents with a body cream, as well as internally. It can improve circulation and has been said to be of benefit in preventing heart attack in susceptible individuals. Surprisingly it also aids digestion by stimulating digestive juices and treats ulcers by stopping bleeding (see a GP first and use with caution) as well as aiding in expelling excess wind. It helps bowel pains and cramping. It can however cause stomach irritation in susceptible individuals and should not be used during pregnancy or breast feeding. Those with delicate gastrointestinal conditions or infection should not use Cayenne. While it can be used topically, it should never be used on broken cut or scraped skin and after treating, should never be covered. Nor should the skin be exposed to sunlight or heat after treatment. Excess burning sensation should be rinsed with cool water. For reasons that are not clear, individuals who have allergies to latex or to tropical fruits such as bananas or kiwi may also be allergic to Cayenne (capsicum)It should be used with caution in children and not used at all in children under the age of 3. It can cause skin irritation and also problems if inhaled It is used as a tonic for the heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, spleen and stomach. It has anti-inflammatory properties and aids colds, tonsilitis, laryngitis and hoarseness. It is also said to help delay senility. It can also be taken for nausea, scrofula, swollen lymph glands, cluster headaches and pleurisy. In my opinion, if you have an ulcer or sensitive stomach, I would NOT use Cayenne (Capiscum). It can also cause heartburn in suceptible individuals
Chlorella One of the most potent nutrional foods on earth, Chlorella is an emerald green, single-celled freshwater micro-algae. Chlorella's benefits are scientifically proven. The richest source of chlorophyll, which is deep cleansing, chlorella contains more than 20 important vitamins and minerals and 19 amino acids which are essential for tissue and cell regeneration and is especially rich in beta carotene. Chlorella contains most of the B complex, especially B12. 3 times the protein content of fish or steak. highly bio available. Very beneficial to vegetarians. Reduces cholesterol and contains EFA's of the omega-3, alpha-linolenic variety. Enhances immune system function Removes heavy metals and toxins from the body and this is scientifically proven. It is particularly renowned for its ability to do this and attracts and binds with heavy metal poisons such as mercury, lead and cadium and also with dangerous hydrocarbons such as insecticides, pesticides and DDT, PCB's and Kepone and then removes them from the body. For this quality alone it should be high on our daily supplement list, bearing in mind that these toxins cause liver failure, cancer, brain damage, kidney failure and other fatal conditions. Can help eliminate viruses, fungi such as candida, Epstein-Barr virus, immune deficiency syndrome, chronic fatigue syndrome, assist with blood sugar imbalances such as diabetes, hypoglycaemia and bi polar disorder. It has anti ageing properties and can ward off degenerative illnesses or disease associated with ageing. Helps the body stay alkaline which is beneficial to overall health. Encourages the growth of friendly bacteria Boosts energy Naturally deorderises the body and freshens breath Antiviral Cleanses the bowel and digestive system
Cinnamon Cinnamon is traditionally used for digestive disorders, especially wind, gas, nausea and morning sickness. A German study showed that Cinnamon "completely suppresses" the cause of most urinary-tract infections (Escherichia coli bacteria) and the fungus responsible for vaginal yeast infections (Candida albicans). Cinnamon contains the anti-oxidant Glutathione and a type of flavonoid called MHCP (methylhydroxy chalcone polymer). It is thought that cinnamon causes fat cells to be much more responsive to insulin, enabling the regulation of sugar metabolism and thus controlling the level of glucose in the blood. An eighth of a teaspoon is all that is needed to triple insulin efficiency. Taking a half to three quarter teaspoon with each meal may greatly assist in controlling blood sugar. Cinnamon contains special compounds which help in the relief of nausea and the oil in the bark helps break down fats during digestion. Other studies have demonstrated it's effectiveness in treating Candida (responsible for both vaginal and oral thrush), Oral yeast infections, Helicobacter pylori (the bacteria that causes stomach ulcers) and also head lice due to it's anti parasitic properties. One study demonstrated its anti fungal properties by using slices of bread which were untreated with mould inhibitors. Dangerous toxic moulds grew on all the breads except for the one containing cinnamon. These dangerous toxic moulds can cause liver cancer and can kill both humans and animals. Only 2 per cent per ml was needed to inhibit 97 to 99 per cent of these moulds. Useful for treating colds and viruses, cinnamon has very many uses and daily supplementation should be considered as a treatment for chronic candida.
CoQ10 This is an enzyme that is found in all our cells. It helps us produce energy to fuel our bodies. A deficiency in CoQ10 aggravates many medical conditions can make them worse. It is most concentrated in the heart and liver and is the reason it is associated with a healthy heart. It helps reduce free radicals, together with vitamin E which it utilises in this respect. It is a major contributor to helping to effectively reduce heart disease and is a safe enzyme for this purpose. Used in excesses of 60mg it will make a noticeable difference to energy levels. It also enhances mood and without a doubt helps prevent diseases of the heart and vessels. There are no known side effects.
DMAE (Dimethylaminoethanol) This is an antioxidant and crucial neurotransmitter responsible for carrying messages between brain cells and from the brain to the muscles that control body movements and is the precursor to choline and acetylcholine which are chemicals in the brain responsible for nerve transmissions and cognitive function. Unlike choline, it easily passes the blood/brain barrier where it stimulates the cholinergic nervous system.
DMAE promotes feelings of well being, fights age related memory loss, supports memory and therefore learning ability, increases energy and has a stabilising effect on our emotions and is also good for depression by allieviating symptoms such as low mood. Those who supplement with DMAE have reported improved sleep and daytime alertness. DMAE may also treat autism, Alzheimer’s, ADHD, memory deficits, depression, and dementia. Skin Care: One of DMAE's most promising benefits is that, by stopping the manufacture of arachidonic acid, which can lead to wrinkles and ageing of the skin, DMAE promotes healthy skin. Arachidonic acid production can be stopped by taking a DMAE supplement. A well documented effect of DMAE is its ability to inhibit the formation of the ageing pigment, Lipofuscin, responsible for liver spots. These generally occur on the backs of hands and can start appearing in our 40's but are generally seen in those over 50. Lipofuscin accumulates in the heart, kidneys, muscles, nerves and brain and is not actually harmful but we would rather not have it on the backs of our hands for cosmetic reasons. DMAE not only prevents this pigment, but flushes it out of the body. Useually it takes around 6 months to significantly show the change, but many liver spots will be completely erradicated. There have been many studies to back up its usefulness in treating conditions such as ADHD without the side effects of Ritilin. CautionsDMAE is non-toxic and is safe for human use. However, it is recommended that label directions always be followed. Taking too much DMEA can result in insomnia, headaches and muscle tightness. Persons suffering from Alzheimer's disease, depression, or other psychiatric conditions should consult a doctor prior to supplementing with DMAE. Do not take DMAE if you have a seizure disorder or manic depression, as it could worsen these conditions. Not recommended during pregnancy
Fennel Fennel is rich in phytoestrogens and is often used for IBS wind, colic, as an appetite suppressant, a breast enlarger, improving digestive transit, boosting sexual desire, PMS, Angina, anxiety, asthma, respiratory conditions and beneficial to kidneys, spleen, liver and lungs etc It helps cancer patients with the repair of the digestive system after chemo and radiation therapy. Not to be used during pregnancy
Fenugreek This herb has a long history as a breast enlarger and promotes the growth of new breast cells whilst increasing the size and fullness of the breasts and is considered the finest herb for enhancing feminine beauty. It also aids in increasing sexual desire through sexual stimulation, balances blood sugar levels, and because it contains choline, aids in the thought process. It has also been studied in the prevention of breast cancer and treatment of diabetes. It has hormone balancing effects so useful in treating PMS and Menopause. Slows the ageing process and helps in the prevention of disease. Helps muscle aches, ulcers, sore throats and fevers and topically, may help eczema. It can also be useful in the prevention of kidney stones and also in the prevention of colon cancer. May also help protect the liver from the damage caused by alcohol. Taking large amounts of fenugreek for very long periods has a small risk of causing hypoglycemia (blood sugar that is too low). Signs that blood sugar may be too low include shakiness, sweating, confusion, distorted speech, and loss of muscle control. If not corrected, low blood sugar can lead to unconsciousness and even death. As much time as possible--at least 2 hours--should be allowed between taking fenugreek and taking drugs or other supplements.
When very large amounts of fenugreek are taken with antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs, the effect of the drug may be increased, resulting in uncontrolled bleeding. These anticoagulant drugs include Heparin and Warfarin. Antiplatelets include Clopidogrel and Ticlid. Aspirin can also delay clotting, so fenugreek should not be taken orally at the same time as aspirin. Theoretically, if fenugreek is used with other herbs that affect blood clotting, bleeding may occur. Some of the most common herbal products that might inhibit blood clotting are: Danshen Devil's Claw Eleuthero Garlic Ginger Ginkgo HorseChestnut Panax Ginseng Papain Red Clover Saw Palmetto
Because it may have a lowering effect on blood sugar, fenugreek may increase the effectiveness of medications used for the treatment of diabetes. Individuals who are taking medications for diabetes should talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using fenugreek.
Taking fenugreek by mouth may make the urine smell somewhat like maple syrup and therefore be misdiagnosed as a rare metabolic condition known as "Maple Syrup Urine Disease"
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Liquorice Not to be confused with the confectionary, it has an impressive list of uses including: asthma, athlete's foot, baldness, body odour, bursitis, canker sores, chronic fatigue, depression, colds and flu, coughs, dandruff, emphysema, gingivitis and tooth decay, gout, heartburn, HIV, viral infections, fungal infections, ulcers, liver problems, Lyme disease, menopause, psoriasis, shingles, sore throat, tendinitis, tuberculosis, ulcers, yeast infections, prostate enlargement and arthritis. It is an excellent alternative to St Johns Wort in treating depression as it contains anti-depressant properties. Hundreds of potentially healing compounds have been identified including flavonoids and various plant estrogens (phytoestrogens) making it invaluable during menopause and it's key compound, Glycyrrhizin makes Liquorice particularly valuable as it seems to prevent the breakdown of adrenal hormones such as cortisol (the body's primary stress-fighting adrenal hormone), making these hormones more available to the body and improving our resitence to stress especially during times of extreme emmotional or physical stress, after surgery or illness and when feeling exhausted, over tired or run down. It also fights off many viruses such as the the Influenza A virus and preventing the growth of many bacteria. Liquorice also appears to enhance immunity by boosting levels of interferon, which is an important immune system chemical that fights off attacking viruses. It has been hailed by medical herbalist Gerald Green as having "tremendous value in the reversal of Autoimmune Disease" and he has treated patients with multiple scerosis and inflammatory bowel disease although he says liquorice is important for all autoimmune diseases. It has a well-documented reputation for healing ulcers by lowering stomach acid levels, relieving heartburn and indigestion and acting as a mild laxative. It can also be used for irritation, inflammation and spasm in the digestive tract. Through its beneficial action on the liver, it increases bile flow and lowers cholesterol levels. In the respiratory system it has a similarly soothing and healing action by reducing irritation and inflammation and has an expectorant (promotes the discharge of mucus from the lungs and throat) effect, useful in irritating coughs, asthma and chest infections. It has anti-allergenic effects so can be used for hay fever, allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis and bronchial asthma. Because of its cortisol enhancing action, it is partucularly useful for those illnesses that are linked with Adrenal Fatigue such as some autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromylagia It treats PMS and menstrual problems as the phytoestrogens in licorice have a mild estrogenic effect, making the herb potentially useful in easing certain symptoms of PMS such as irritability, bloating and breast tenderness. Although the glycyrrhizin in licorice actually inhibits the effect of the body's own estrogens, the mild estrogenic effect produced by licorice's phytoestrogens manages to override this inhibiting action. Licorice combats hepatitis by both protecting the liver and promoting healing. The herb's anti-inflammatory properties help calm hepatitis-associated liver inflammation. Licorice also fights the virus commonly responsible for hepatitis and supplies valuable antioxidant compounds that help maintain the overall health of the liver. Licorice prevents heart disease and recent studies have found that by limiting the damage from LDL ("bad") cholesterol, licorice may discourage artery-clogging plaque formation and contribute to the healthy functioning of the heart. Research indicates that modest doses of licorice (100 mg a day) have this effect. Basically a wonder herb, Licorice certainly has a place in the supplement cupboard and if only medical science could make a drug that has so many benefits whilst having few side effects, it would be hailed a Wonder Drug. Thankfully, we can use this wonder drug inexpensively ourselves and it is a relief that it is so accessible. Cautions: Use with care if taking oral contraceptive as this appears to cause a sensitivity in women. Not to be used in pregnancy. Those with very high blood pressure should avoid the use of liquorice, which could aggravate their condition as it can raise blood pressure. Anyone with a heart problem should use liquorice only under medical supervision. Potassium depletion caused by liquorice is especially hazardous for such patients. Anyone with pre-existing hypokalemia (low potassium) should not take liquorice. Can cause water retention. Those with kidney disease should exercise care. Gallbladder disease and cirrhosis are considered contraindications for liquorice. Can cause mild adrenal stimulation Please click here for much more detailed information if you are considering using this herb.
Milk Thistle Milk Thistle has been used for many years as a food supplement and is of particular benefit to the liver. For this organ, it has been used as a tonic for more than 2000 years, having no equivalent in the modern medical world. It is widely used to treat alcoholic hepatitis, alcoholic fatty liver, cirrhosis, liver poisoning and viral hepatitis. It is also indicated for adrenal disorders and inflammatory bowel syndrome, stimulating the flow of breast milk and is used to treat psoriasis. Our Liver's are severly overworked particularly when we consume toxins such as alcohol and other reacreational substances, food additives such as aspartame, monosodium glutamate etc, indeed anything that is unrecognisable to the body as being a nutrient including prescription drugs. Silymarin is a property of Milk Thistle and also stimulates protein synthesis in liver cells, which helps to regenerate and repair the liver. Silymarin compounds are also strong antioxidants, and have been shown to reduce damage to liver cells caused by repeated use of some prescription drugs. Milk thistle is generally only be used where a problem has been identified. Plenty of water should be consumed with this supplement. Dandelion Root can be used instead as a general tonic for the liver. This herb is a must for cleansing and for anyone with any sort of liver dysfunction or regular exposure to toxins. One animal study found that silymarin (an active compound in milk thistle) worked as effectively as the cholesterol-lowering drug probucol, with the additional benefit of substantially increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol Preliminary laboratory studies also suggest that active substances in milk thistle may have anti-cancer effects. One active substance known as silymarin has strong antioxidant properties and has been shown to inhibit the growth of human prostate, breast, and cervical cancer cells in test tubes. Cautions: Women with hormone-dependent conditions such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and cancers of the breast, ovaries, or uterus should not take or use milk thistle plant extract due to its possible estrogenic effects. Men who have prostate cancer should not take milk thistle without the approval of a doctor.
Mistletoe Whilst this may surprise you as we usually associate this plant with Christmas, Mistletoe was a sacred herb of the druids. It is useful for many problems such as those associated with the nervous and endocrine systems, circulatory problems, blood pressure, menopausal, mentruation and metabolism problems and chronic fatigue. It can kick mentrual problems such as heavy bleeding into touch and assist with the hot flushes of menopause. A calming herb, Mistletoe will aid those suffering from stress and anxiety and has a sytemic action upon glands of the endocrine system helping to normalise hormonal balance because of this it can also help diabetes. It is also recommended for hardening of the arteries and is beneficial to those who have suffered from a stroke and all circulatory disorders in particular. It can normalise blood pressure so both low and high blood pressure will be corrected and associated symptoms such as dizziness, ear noises and visual problems erradiacted. Palpitations will also be soothed and a racing heart calmed. Many doctors and those associated with herbal medicine say it is an excellent nerve tonic and is excellent combined with Noni, Pollen and Chlorella.
Muira Puama A tonic to the nervous system, this botanical helps in the treatment of exhaustion, sexual desire, PMS, mentrual cramps, stress and trauma as well as libido. Hailed as the viagra of the Amazon for use by both men and women, by improving blood flow to the pelvis and aiding male erection and enhancing orgasm in women. It also aids the production of sex hormones in both men and women. Useful in stress management, anxiety, a neuromuscular tonic is also used to treat asthenia, paralysis, chronic illness and rheumatism, Said to be the most effective aphrodisiac in the effective treatment of loss of libido in both sexes. If you suffer from high blood pressure it is not recommended as it slightly increases blood pressure, like all sexual stimulants
Pycnogenol (Pine Bark Extract) This is pine bark extract and has been found to be a more powerful antioxidant than Vitamin E and C. It has many reported health improvements from a reduced risk of many diseases including heart disease, cancer, diabetes and arthritis to improved heart health and circulation, healthier skin and eye health, enhanced immune health, action against inflammation and menstrual disorders and facial ageing as it maintains collagen integrity! Pycnogenol normalises the activity of blood platelets responsible for blood clots. It helps reduce platelet ‘stickiness’ particularly with high risk factors – smoking, hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes and old age and helps maintain healthy platelet aggregation whilst protecting the inner lining of blood vessels. It also supports healthy blood pressure and normalises cholesterol levels. Similar to the effects of aspirin but the advantage of Pycnogenol is that unlike aspirin it crucially does not extend the blood clotting process during an injury or cause ulcers or internal bleeding. Pycnogenol helps improve circulation by relaxing constricted arteries and other blood vessels caused by the stress hormones adrenaline and nor adrenaline. Therefore Pycnogenol has an anti stress function which supports an improved blood flow during periods of stressful living. Studies have shown than it improves blood flow to fingers and toes in the elderly and would also help Raynauds Disease. Pycnogenol binds to collagen in the skin to maintain skin elasticity, a characteristic associated with youth that keeps the skin firm and prevents wrinkles. Pycnogenol also improves microcirculation of the tiny skin capillaries supporting better oxygen and nutrient supply and better hydration as well as protecting against the damage of sunburn and photo ageing. The result is fewer wrinkles as well as smoother skin with a healthy and vibrant glow and tone. Diabetic Retinopathy is one of the major causes of deteriorating eyesight and blindness. The disease occurs because raised glucose levels in the blood react with the capillaries of the retina which results in brittle and swollen walls. This leads to blood leaking into the retina, which limits oxygen and nutrients from reaching the it and lowers sensitivity of the eye to light causing gradual vision loss and possible blindness. Pycnogenol seals leaky capillaries in the eye caused by diabetes and stops and in some cases reverses vision loss and improves sharpness of vision. Several clinical studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Pycnogenol in inhibiting the release of histamine which in turn prevents a reaction to an antigen. It is anti-inflammatory so reduces swelling, redness and hives. Hyper Pigmentation (Melasma, Chloasma): These conditions mainly affect the face particularly women as they are related to hormonal imbalance caused by oral contraceptives, HRT, pregnancy and birth. Pycnogenol in clinical trials has been shown to reduce both the area and intensity of over pigmented skin. Pycnogenol effectively assists in lowering high blood pressure and one study performed on a group with mild hypertension who were not on medication showed sugnificantly reduced systolic pressure. Those with higher blood pressure and taking medication were able to cut their dose by half when supplemented with Pycnogenol. It also helps PMS and a Japanese study showed that 73 per cent of women tested with endometriosis or severe menstrual pain experienced significantly reduced menstrual cramping and abdominal, pain with Pycnogenol. It can also help with gum problems by sealing caillaries thus preventing bleeding. It also helps reduce plaque. Since Pycnogenol improves circulation, it also helps stamina and energy by up to 21 per cent. Pycnogenol helps reduce Odema which is swelling of hands and feet caused by fluid seeping into tissue and can be more than just a cosmetic problem because if left untreated poosible ulceration and necrosis may result. It improves ciculation in lower legs. Clinical studies carried out at the University of Arizona showed that after taking Pycnogenol, asthmatics showed significant improvements in breathing and air flow. This was a result of Pycnogenol's capability to reduce inflammatory mediators in the blood that cause constriction of the bronchi and consequent airway obstruction. Not to be used in pregnancy unless precribed by a medical professional.
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Agnus Castus
