Search Term: " Culinary "

	Clean and Pure Sweetness from Stevia That is Unmatched by Other Brands	Darrell Miller	10/22/24
	The Versatility of Coconut Sugar: A Dive into its Culinary Uses, Glycemic Index, and Nutritional Profile	Darrell Miller	6/5/24
	Agave Nectar: A Delicious Alternative	Darrell Miller	6/4/24
	Stevia: A Zero-Calorie Sweetener	Darrell Miller	6/3/24
	Culinary Uses of Stevia: Sweeten Your Dishes Without Compromising Flavor	Darrell Miller	5/30/24
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Date: October 22, 2024 05:43 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Clean and Pure Sweetness from Stevia That is Unmatched by Other Brands

Discover the Benefits of Kal Brand Sure Stevia Powder Extract

In recent years, the surge in health consciousness has led to a growing demand for alternative sweeteners. Among these, Kal Brand Sure Stevia Powder Extract stands out for its exceptional properties and versatile uses.

What is Stevia?

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Unlike sugar, stevia is free from calories, making it an attractive option for health enthusiasts. The compound responsible for stevia's sweetness is stevioside, which is several times sweeter than table sugar, allowing it to sweeten foods and drinks without the health drawbacks associated with sugar.

Why Choose Stevia Over Sugar?

Stevia's benefits extend beyond its calorie-free nature. It has a minimal impact on blood sugar levels, making it suitable for individuals with diabetes or those looking to maintain balanced glucose levels. In addition, stevia does not contribute to tooth decay, a significant advantage over sugar. Therefore, it's not just an excellent alternative for those with dietary restrictions but also for those concerned with dental health.

The Superiority of Kal Brand

Kal Brand Sure Stevia Powder Extract differs from conventional products through its high purity and sans bitterness formula. Many stevia products on the market can leave a distinct aftertaste; however, Kal's special extraction process ensures a clean, pure sweetness. This attention to detail provides a refined taste experience, allowing you to enjoy your favorite foods and beverages without compromising on flavor.

The No Aftertaste Advantage

One of the primary concerns with using stevia as a sweetener is the aftertaste that can often accompany its use. However, Kal Brand Sure Stevia Powder Extract has effectively addressed this issue through a meticulous refinement process. By employing advanced extraction techniques, Kal Brand has managed to eliminate the unwanted bitterness that many stevia products exhibit. This innovation makes Kal Sure Stevia Powder distinctive, providing a seamless sweetness akin to sugar, devoid of any lingering aftertaste. Consequently, consumers can integrate this stevia into a variety of Culinary applications with confidence, knowing that it won't alter the intended flavor profile of their dishes and beverages. This characteristic solidifies its position as an ideal sweetener for connoisseurs seeking both health benefits and an uncompromised taste experience.

Versatility in Use

Kal Brand Sure Stevia Powder Extract is remarkably versatile. It can be seamlessly integrated into numerous recipes, from sweetening a morning coffee to enhancing a homemade dessert. Furthermore, its concentrated sweetness means that only a small amount is needed, making it an economical and efficient choice.

Tips for Cooking and Baking

To use Kal Brand Sure Stevia in your Culinary creations, a basic understanding of conversions can be helpful. As it is much sweeter than sugar, the amount of stevia needed is substantially less. A reliable rule of thumb is to use about a half a teaspoon of stevia extract for each cup of sugar. Moreover, when incorporating it into recipes, consider the bulk and moisture sugar provides; you may need to adjust recipes to achieve the desired texture.

Health Benefits in Focus

Several studies have explored the potential health benefits of incorporating stevia into a diet. Stevia may help aid in weight management due to its zero-calorie content, allowing individuals to satisfy their sweet tooth without caloric accumulation. Furthermore, there are indications that stevia possesses antioxidant properties, which can contribute to overall health and wellness.

Transitioning to Stevia

Switching from conventional sugar to stevia may seem daunting at first, but the rewards are worth the effort. Gradual introduction into your diet can ease the transition. Start by replacing sugar in your coffee or tea, then slowly incorporate it into baking. This phased approach can help adjust your palate and harness the maximum benefits of Kal Brand Sure Stevia.

Make the Switch Today

As consumers increasingly prioritize health and wellness, choosing a natural sweetener like Kal Brand Sure Stevia Powder Extract is not only a wise decision but also an achievable step towards a healthier lifestyle. With its exceptional purity, versatility, and health benefits, there has never been a better time to optimize your sugar intake. Take action now; explore the delicious possibilities that this remarkable product offers and enjoy the sweetness of life without compromise. Try Kal Brand Sure Stevia Powder Extract today and experience a revolutionary change in your dietary habits.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6617)

Date: June 05, 2024 03:40 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Versatility of Coconut Sugar: A Dive into its Culinary Uses, Glycemic Index, and Nutritional Profile

The Versatility of Coconut Sugar: A Dive into its Culinary Uses, Glycemic Index, and Nutritional Profile

In the world of health-conscious eating, coconut sugar has been gaining traction as a natural sweetener that boasts several benefits over traditional table sugar. Derived from the sap of coconut palm tree flowers, coconut sugar offers a unique flavor and versatile uses in a variety of Culinary applications. This article delves into the numerous ways coconut sugar can be utilized in the kitchen, its glycemic index, and its nutritional profile, shedding light on why this sweetener has captured the hearts of many health enthusiasts.

Culinary Uses of Coconut Sugar

Baking and Desserts

One of the most popular ways to incorporate coconut sugar into your diet is through baking. Coconut sugar can be used as a one-to-one replacement for white or brown sugar in recipes, making it an easy swap for those looking to reduce their intake of refined sugars. Its caramel-like flavor enhances the taste of cookies, cakes, muffins, and other baked goods. For example, coconut sugar can add depth to chocolate chip cookies or provide a rich, molasses-like sweetness to gingerbread.

Beverages

Coconut sugar can also be a delightful addition to both hot and cold beverages. It easily dissolves in liquids, making it a great sweetener for coffee, tea, smoothies, and even cocktails. For instance, adding a spoonful of coconut sugar to your morning coffee or afternoon chai tea can give your drink a subtle, tropical sweetness without the overpowering taste that sometimes accompanies artificial sweeteners.

Cooking and Sauces

In the realm of savory dishes, coconut sugar works exceptionally well in marinades, sauces, and dressings. Its ability to balance flavors makes it a staple in many Asian cuisines, particularly in Thai cooking. Use it to create a luscious teriyaki sauce or add it to a spicy barbecue marinade. Coconut sugar’s mild sweetness can complement and enhance the umami elements of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.

Toppings and Condiments

Don’t overlook coconut sugar as a topping for breakfast or snacks. Sprinkle it over oatmeal, yogurt, or fresh fruit for a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness. You can also use coconut sugar in homemade granola or energy bars. Its granular texture adds a pleasant crunch, and its rich taste pairs well with nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.

Glycemic Index

One of the significant advantages of coconut sugar is its lower glycemic index (GI) compared to regular table sugar. The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels after consumption. Foods with a high GI can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, which can be particularly problematic for individuals with diabetes or those managing their weight.

Coconut sugar has a GI of approximately 35, which is considerably lower than the GI of table sugar, which hovers around 60-65. This lower GI means that coconut sugar causes a slower, more gradual rise in blood sugar levels. As a result, it can help maintain more stable energy levels throughout the day and prevent the sudden energy crashes that often follow high-sugar snacks or meals.

Nutritional Profile

Aside from its lower glycemic index, coconut sugar also offers a more nutrient-dense alternative to refined sugars. While it is still a type of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, coconut sugar contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals that can contribute to overall health.

Vitamins and Minerals

Coconut sugar retains some of the nutrients found in the coconut palm sap. These include small amounts of iron, zinc, calcium, and potassium, all of which play crucial roles in maintaining bodily functions. For example, iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, while calcium supports bone health.

Antioxidants

Coconut sugar also contains antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Antioxidants can neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer and heart disease.

Inulin Content

Another noteworthy component of coconut sugar is inulin, a type of dietary fiber. Inulin acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in the gut and promoting a healthy digestive system. Its presence in coconut sugar can further contribute to its lower glycemic index by slowing down glucose absorption.

Choosing and Storing Coconut Sugar

When purchasing coconut sugar, it’s essential to select high-quality brands that don’t mix the sugar with other sweetening agents like cane sugar. Always check the label to ensure you’re buying 100% pure coconut sugar.

Storage Tips

Store coconut sugar in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its texture and flavor. It’s important to keep it away from moisture, as this can cause clumping and affect its usability.

Ready to Sweeten up Your Life?

Coconut sugar presents a versatile and nutritious alternative to traditional sweeteners, offering a wide range of Culinary uses while providing a lower glycemic index and additional vitamins and minerals. Whether you’re baking your favorite dessert, sweetening your morning coffee, or enhancing a savory dish, coconut sugar can be a valuable addition to your pantry. Its unique flavor and health benefits make it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy sweetness in a more wholesome form. By understanding and embracing the versatility of coconut sugar, you can make more informed and health-conscious decisions in your Culinary endeavors.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6612)

Date: June 04, 2024 04:57 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Agave Nectar: A Delicious Alternative

Agave Nectar: A Delicious Alternative

In recent years, agave nectar has gained popularity as a natural sweetener, touted for its unique taste and potential health benefits. But what exactly is agave nectar, and how does it stack up against traditional sugar and other sweeteners? In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the uses and nutritional benefits of agave nectar, comparing it to traditional sugar and other sweeteners to help you make an informed decision.

What is Agave Nectar?

Agave nectar, also known as agave syrup, is a sweetener derived from the sap of the agave plant. The agave plant is native to Mexico and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and as a sweetener. The sap is extracted from the core of the agave plant, then filtered and heated at low temperatures to break down the complex carbohydrates into simple sugars. The result is a sweet, viscous liquid with a taste similar to honey, but with a thinner consistency.

Nutritional Profile of Agave Nectar

Agave nectar is primarily composed of fructose, a simple sugar found in many fruits. Unlike traditional sugar (sucrose), which is made up of equal parts glucose and fructose, agave nectar usually contains about 70-90% fructose and 10-30% glucose. Here is a quick look at the nutritional content of one tablespoon (21 grams) of agave nectar:

• Calories: 60
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 16g
• Sugars: 16g
• Protein: 0g

Uses of Agave Nectar

Use agave nectar in various ways to add versatility to your kitchen. Here are some common uses:

1. Baking: Agave nectar can replace sugar in baking recipes. It adds sweetness and moisture to cakes, cookies, and muffins.
2. Beverages: Use agave nectar to sweeten tea, coffee, smoothies, and cocktails. It dissolves easily in both hot and cold liquids.
3. Cooking: Drizzle agave nectar over pancakes, waffles, or oatmeal. It can also use in marinades, dressings, and sauces.
4. Topping: Pour agave nectar over yogurt, fruit, or ice cream for a sweet, natural topping.

Comparing Agave Nectar to Traditional Sugar

Caloric Content

Both agave nectar and traditional sugar contain similar amounts of calories per serving, but agave nectar is sweeter than sugar, which means you can use less of it to achieve the same level of sweetness. This can result in a lower overall caloric intake when using agave nectar as a sugar substitute.

Glycemic Index

One of the key differences between agave nectar and traditional sugar is their glycemic index (GI). The glycemic index measures how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. Foods with a high GI cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, while those with a low GI release sugar more slowly and steadily.

Agave nectar has a low glycemic index, typically between 13 and 30, which is significantly lower than that of traditional sugar (sucrose), which has a GI of around 65. This makes agave nectar a more suitable option for those trying to manage their blood sugar levels.

Fructose Content

While agave nectar's high fructose content may contribute to its low glycemic index, it also raises some concerns. Consuming high fructose intake in large amounts has been linked to obesity, fatty liver disease, and insulin resistance. However, when used in moderation, agave nectar can be a healthier alternative to traditional sugar and high-fructose corn syrup.

Comparing Agave Nectar to Other Sweeteners

Honey

Honey, often compared to agave nectar, provides a natural sweetener option with similar caloric content, allowing interchangeability in recipes. This sweetener has a higher glycemic index than agave nectar, meaning it can cause a quicker spike in blood sugar levels. However, honey also contains antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which can provide additional health benefits.

Maple Syrup

Maple syrup, like agave nectar, is a natural sweetener with a lower glycemic index than sugar. It also contains some beneficial nutrients, such as manganese and zinc. However, agave nectar is sweeter than maple syrup, so you may need to use less of it to achieve the desired sweetness.

Stevia

Stevia, derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, is a zero-calorie sweetener. It does not affect blood sugar levels and requires only a small amount due to its sweeter taste compared to agave nectar. If you want a super sweet brand of stevia, try Kal brand stevia, it has no after taste and contains over 1800 servings at a reasonable price. While stevia is a good option for those looking to reduce their caloric intake and manage blood sugar levels, some people find its aftertaste less appealing than that of agave nectar.

Potential Health Benefits of Agave Nectar

Lower Glycemic Index

As mentioned earlier, agave nectar has a lower glycemic index than traditional sugar, making it a potentially better choice for those managing diabetes or trying to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Antioxidant Properties

Agave nectar contains some antioxidants, which can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. While the antioxidant content is not as high as that found in honey or some fruits, it still provides some benefit.

Digestive Health

Fructans, a type of carbohydrate found in agave, can act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can contribute to better digestive health and overall well-being.

Moderation is Key

While agave nectar offers several advantages over traditional sugar and some other sweeteners, it is essential to use it in moderation. Its high fructose content can pose health risks if consumed in large amounts, so it's crucial to be mindful of your overall sugar intake.

Are You Ready For a New Kind of Sweetener?

Agave nectar is a delicious and versatile natural sweetener that offers some nutritional benefits over traditional sugar and other sweeteners. Its lower glycemic index, antioxidant properties, and potential digestive health benefits make it an attractive option for those looking to reduce their sugar consumption. However, it is essential to use agave nectar in moderation and consider it as part of a balanced diet. By understanding the uses and benefits of agave nectar, you can make an informed decision about incorporating it into your Culinary repertoire.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6611)

Date: June 03, 2024 04:15 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Stevia: A Zero-Calorie Sweetener

Stevia: A Zero-Calorie Sweetener

In a world where health consciousness is increasingly important, finding the right sweetener can be a game changer. One such alternative that has gained significant attention is Stevia. Known for its zero-calorie content, Stevia offers a natural sweetness without the drawbacks associated with sugar. This article examines the properties of Stevia, how it’s harvested, its sweetness compared to sugar, and its benefits for those managing diabetes.

What is Stevia?

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. Unlike artificial sweeteners, Stevia is completely natural and has been used for centuries by indigenous people in countries like Brazil and Paraguay. The leaves of the plant contain sweet-tasting compounds known as steviol glycosides, which are the primary components used in Stevia sweeteners found on shelves today.

How Stevia is Harvested

Traditionally, Stevia leaves are harvested by hand. Farmers usually pluck the mature leaves, which are then dried to maintain their sweetness. Once dried, these leaves can be used in their whole form, or they can be processed to extract the steviol glycosides. Modern extraction methods involve soaking the leaves in water and then processing the extract to remove impurities. This results in a highly concentrated sweetener that is hundreds of times sweeter than sugar.

Sweetness Compared to Sugar

When it comes to sweetness, Stevia stands out. Stevia is approximately 200 to 300 times sweeter than sucrose (table sugar). This means a very small amount of Stevia is needed to achieve the desired level of sweetness, which also makes it an efficient option for those looking to cut down on sugar intake. However, it’s important to note that Stevia doesn’t have the exact same taste profile as sugar. Some people describe its sweetness as having a slight, licorice-like aftertaste, which not everyone finds appealing.

Benefits for Those Managing Diabetes

For individuals managing diabetes, Stevia can be an invaluable part of their diet. One of the primary concerns for people with diabetes is managing their blood sugar levels. Traditional sugar can cause spikes in blood glucose, making it difficult to control diabetes symptoms. Stevia, on the other hand, does not contain carbohydrates and has no impact on blood glucose levels. This makes it a suitable alternative for those who need to keep their sugar levels in check.

Moreover, using Stevia can help diabetic individuals enjoy sweet foods and beverages without the fear of negatively affecting their health. The zero-calorie aspect of Stevia also contributes to maintaining a healthier weight, which is a crucial factor in managing diabetes.

Nutritional and Health Benefits

In addition to its zero-calorie feature, Stevia also offers several nutritional and health benefits. Some research suggests that Stevia may help in lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels. These potential benefits make Stevia not just a sugar substitute, but a supplement that can contribute to overall well-being.

Antioxidant Properties

Stevia leaves are rich in antioxidants, which help to combat oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress is linked to various chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer. By incorporating Stevia into your diet, you might benefit from its antioxidant content, aiding in the reduction of inflammation and promoting better health.

Culinary Uses

Stevia is versatile and can be used in a variety of Culinary applications. It’s available in different forms such as powders, liquid extracts, and even whole leaves. You can use Stevia to sweeten beverages like tea and coffee, baked goods, desserts, and even savory dishes that require a touch of sweetness. However, due to its high sweetness level, it is recommended to start with a small amount and adjust according to taste.

Keep in mind that Stevia might behave differently than sugar in recipes, particularly in baking. Sugar contributes to the texture and volume of baked goods, while Stevia does not. Therefore, recipes using Stevia may require additional adjustments for the best results.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Growing and harvesting Stevia can be advantageous from both economic and environmental perspectives. Stevia plants require less land and water compared to sugar cane or beet crops, making it a more sustainable option in the long run. Additionally, Stevia farming can provide economic opportunities for communities in developing countries where the plant is grown.

Are You Ready For a Zero-Calorie Sweetener?

Stevia stands out as an exceptional zero-calorie sweetener, especially beneficial for those managing diabetes and looking to reduce their calorie intake. Its natural origin, coupled with its impressive sweetness and array of health benefits, make it a compelling alternative to traditional sugar and artificial sweeteners. Whether you are looking to alter your dietary habits or manage a health condition like diabetes, Stevia offers a promising solution for a healthier sweetening choice.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6610)

Date: May 30, 2024 12:46 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Culinary Uses of Stevia: Sweeten Your Dishes Without Compromising Flavor

Culinary Uses of Stevia: Sweeten Your Dishes Without Compromising Flavor

Stevia has garnered attention as a natural, calorie-free sweetener that can seamlessly replace sugar in various recipes. Derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, this sweetener is known for its ability to provide a satisfying sweetness without the health drawbacks associated with traditional sugar. In this article, we'll explore creative recipes and practical tips for incorporating stevia into everyday cooking and baking, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes without compromising on taste.

Benefits of Using Stevia

Before diving into recipes, it's important to understand why stevia is a fantastic alternative to sugar. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Zero Calories: Unlike sugar, stevia gives you sweetness without adding calories, making it ideal for weight management.
2. Low Glycemic Index: Stevia doesn't raise blood sugar levels, making it a suitable option for people with diabetes or those watching their carb intake.
3. Natural Origin: Derived from a plant, stevia offers a more natural sweetening option compared to artificial sweeteners.

Baking with Stevia

Stevia can effectively replace sugar in many baking recipes, but it's essential to remember that it is much sweeter than sugar. Typically, a teaspoon of stevia extract can replace a cup of sugar, but always refer to specific conversion charts provided by stevia product manufacturers.

Stevia-Sweetened Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon white stevia sweetener (or stevia-sweet chocolate chips) to desired taste.
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup stevia-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and brown stevia sweetener until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
5. Fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Drop by spoonful onto a cookie sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Cool on wire racks.

Cooking with Stevia

Beyond baking, stevia can introduce a hint of sweetness to savory dishes as well. Here are some innovative ways to include stevia in your everyday cooking.

Stevia BBQ Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
• 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon stevia sweetener (Kal Sure Stevia Powder) add to desired sweetness
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
3. Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until sauce thickens.
4. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Drinks and Smoothies

Stevia is also great for sweetening beverages. Whether it’s a refreshing iced tea or a nutritious smoothie, stevia can add the perfect touch of sweetness.

Stevia Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 4 cups water
• Stevia sweetener to taste
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine lemon juice, water, and stevia sweetener.
2. Stir well until the stevia dissolves.
3. Add ice cubes and lemon slices as desired.
4. Serve chilled.

Tips for Cooking with Stevia

• Understand Stevia Varieties: Stevia comes in various forms—liquid, granulated, and powdered. Liquid stevia is excellent for beverages, while granulated and powdered forms are better suited for baking.
• Adjust Recipes Accordingly: Because stevia is so much sweeter than sugar, you may find that you also need to adjust other elements in recipes such as liquids and flour.
• Watch for Aftertaste: Some people notice a slight aftertaste with stevia. Combining it with other natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup can help balance this out.
• Experiment and Taste Test: Always taste test when trying out a new stevia-based recipe. This will allow you to fine-tune the sweetness to your preference.

Stevia opens up a world of Culinary possibilities, letting you enjoy the sweetness of your favorite recipes without the drawbacks of sugar. From delectable desserts like chocolate chip cookies to savory innovations like homemade BBQ sauce, the versatility of stevia can enhance all your Culinary creations. Remember, the key is to experiment and adapt recipes to suit your taste, making stevia a valuable and enjoyable part of your cooking repertoire.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6606)

Date: November 02, 2022 05:16 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: NOW Real Tea® Organic Matcha A Coffee Alternative

Matcha is a highly concentrated, Culinary grade, pure powder that's made without any other ingredients or additives. Traditionally the highlight of Japanese tea ceremonies - it's great just mixed with water or try it with your favorite milk or non-dairy beverage and natural sweetener to make a latte. It's the perfect alternative to coffee with its strong flavor and energy-boosting capabilities and makes an invigorating add-on to smoothies.

Matcha is quickly becoming popular in the western world as people are looking for alternatives to coffee that are just as energizing but don't come with the drawbacks (like jitters and crash). If you're looking to jump on the matcha bandwagon, look no further than NOW Real Tea® Organic Matcha. Keep reading to learn more about this amazing product!

What is Matcha?

Matcha is a type of green tea that is grown and produced in Japan. The leaves are shade-grown for the last few weeks before harvest which creates a higher chlorophyll content and gives matcha its beautiful green color. Once harvested, the leaves are quickly steamed and dried to prevent fermentation. The stems and veins are then removed before the leaves are stone ground into a fine powder. This powder is what we call matcha.

The Difference between Culinary Grade and Ceremonial Grade Matcha

NOW Real Tea® only sources Culinary grade matcha for our products. Culinary grade matchas are less expensive than ceremonial grade because they don't have to meet as many criteria (like particle size). This makes them more accessible so people can experiment with using matcha in cooking and baking without having to spend a lot of money.

Culinary grade matchas can also be used for traditional Japanese tea ceremonies - it's all about personal preference! Some people prefer the taste of ceremonial grade matchas while others find them too bitter. If you're new to matcha, we recommend starting with a Culinary grade powder like NOW Real Tea® Organic Matcha.

We hope this article has wet your whistle when it comes to matcha! If you're looking to try out this amazing powder for yourself, head over to our website and check out our organic Culinary grade matcha. We think you'll love it as much as we do!

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Date: October 08, 2022 10:35 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Date Sugar - A Raw Food Enthusiast's Delight

For raw food enthusiasts, you can't get much better than date sugar. Unlike typical refined sugar from cane or beets, date sugar is actually finely chopped dry dates. There's no processing whatsoever, so you get an unrefined sweetener that's uniquely suited to certain Culinary applications.

In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at date sugar and some of its key benefits. We'll also explore how to use date sugar in the kitchen to create raw food masterpieces!

The Benefits of Date Sugar

Date sugar is an excellent alternative to refined cane or beet sugar for a number of reasons. First, date sugar is unrefined, meaning that it retains all of the natural nutrients found in dates. These include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Second, because date sugar is made from 100% dried dates, it contains no added sugars or artificial sweeteners. This makes it a great choice for those looking to avoid processed foods. Finally, date sugar has a lower glycemic index than refined sugars, which means it won't cause spikes in blood sugar levels.

How to Use Date Sugar in the Kitchen

Date sugar can be used in any recipe that calls for cane or beet sugar. However, because it is less processed and has a higher moisture content than refined sugars, date sugar is best suited for baked goods such as cakes, cookies, muffins, and quick breads. When using date sugar in place of refined sugars, you may need to make adjustments to your recipe. For instance, you may need to add more liquid to your batter or dough since date sugar will absorb moisture from the ingredients around it.

If you're looking for araw food-friendly alternative to refined cane or beet sugar, date sugar is a great option. This unrefined sweetener is made from 100% dried dates and contains no added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Plus, date sugar has a lower glycemic index than refined sugars—making it a healthier choice overall. So next time you're baking up a batch of raw food goodies, reach for date sugar instead of refined cane or beet sugar—your tastebuds (and waistline!) will thank you!

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Date: September 12, 2022 02:58 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Many Uses of Gelatin Powder

NOW Real Food® Beef Gelatin Powder is a versatile thickener, stabilizer and texturizer that mixes instantly – no soaking necessary. Gelatin is commonly used in jams, jellies, desserts, marshmallows, and many other foods. It’s often used to create volume without adding a lot of calories. Let's explore some of the many uses of gelatin powder and the benefits it can have on your health.

One of the most common uses for gelatin powder is as a thickener for soups and sauces. If you've ever made homemade gravy or sauce and it's come out too thin, gelatin powder can help fix that. Simply mix a small amount of gelatin powder with an equal amount of cold water, then whisk it into your soup or sauce. The gelatin will help thicken it up without changing the flavor.

Gelatin powder is also commonly used in desserts such as pudding, pie filling, and ice cream. It helps give these desserts a silky smooth texture. Gelatin powder can also be used to make fruit snacks and jello. If you want to get really creative, you can even use gelatin powder to make homemade marshmallows!

In addition to its Culinary uses, gelatin powder also has a number of health benefits. Gelatin is a great source of protein and amino acids, which are essential for muscle growth and repair. Gelatin also helps improve joint health by reducing inflammation and boosting collagen production. Collagen is the main structural protein found in connective tissue, so adequate collagen levels are necessary for keeping our joints healthy as we age.

As you can see, there are many uses for gelatin powder beyond just making JellO! Whether you're looking to add some protein to your diet or thicken up a soup or sauce, gelatin powder is a versatile kitchen staple that can do the job. So next time you're at the store, be sure to pick up some NOW Real Food® Beef Gelatin Powder. Your taste buds will thank you!

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Date: May 28, 2019 11:07 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Argan Oil Benefits

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Date: May 10, 2019 02:15 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: New findings show mushrooms protect brain health

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Date: May 09, 2019 09:56 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Gardenia, widely used in TCM, found to prevent cognitive impairmentand neurotoxicity

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Date: May 07, 2019 04:22 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cooking with the "stinking rose": The 7 health benefits of garlic

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Date: May 03, 2019 04:24 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Parsley: An Impressive Herb With Health Benefits

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Date: April 30, 2019 04:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 10 Benefits of Fennel and Fennel Seeds, Based on Science

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Date: April 23, 2019 01:58 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Parsley: An Spectacular Herb With Well being Advantages

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Date: March 21, 2019 01:25 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Caraway Uses – What To Do With Caraway Plants

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Date: February 21, 2019 07:57 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Learn how gotu kola reduces stress and anxiety

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Date: January 15, 2019 04:38 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Eating okra is an easy way to boost your immune system

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Date: January 02, 2019 05:17 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The science behind curcumin’s healing properties

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Date: December 12, 2018 09:09 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 12 Benefits and Uses of Argan Oil

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Date: September 04, 2018 09:53 AM
Author: VitaNet, LLC Staff (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: One of the most precious spices in the world, saffron can be usedas an alternative cancer treatment

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Date: August 13, 2017 04:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Move over turmeric, mushroom lattes are the new wellness order

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Date: June 23, 2017 09:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 6 Health Benefits of Cinnamon And Honey

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Date: June 06, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Turmeric (Curcumin),The Healing Root.

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Date: June 05, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: From golden lattes to wonder drug – is turmeric really such a super spice?

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Date: March 19, 2017 11:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Do you fancy nettle bubble and squeak?

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Date: February 04, 2017 10:19 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Health Benefits Of Black Sesame Seed Oil | Health Tips Education

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Date: November 15, 2016 07:24 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Oregano Plant Is the Most Potent Antimicrobial In The world

Features of Oregano

Uses of Oregano

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Date: September 07, 2016 05:52 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Botanical benefits buchu leaves

Giving off a sweet, peppermint fragrance, buchu or Agothosma Betulina has been part of the indigenous culture and heritage of South Africa for more than three centuries. Its earliest documentation dates back to 1652 when the Khoisan bushmen first introduced this versatile plant to the Dutch colonists.

Today, it is a well-recognised Culinary leaf-spice commonly featured on the menus of top South African restaurants. But apart from its contemporary Culinary uses, did you know that it is chock-full of health benefits too?

This herb contains antibacterial, antifungal and antispasmodic properties, providing relief to pre-menstrual cramping and bloating. What’s more, these unassuming leaves have also been used in Western herbal medicine to relieve inflammation, treat kidney, urinary infections, used as a diuretic, as well as a stomach tonic. Like many natural diuretics, buchu doesn’t seem to lower potassium levels like some drugs do.

It is no wonder the early Khoisans championed this healing herb as an elixir of youth!

References:

1. https://www.drugs.com/npc/buchu.html
2. //skintreatmentz.blogspot.com/2015/08/buchu-didnt-know-these-7-awesome-health.html
3. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agathosma_betulina
4. //www.health24.com/Diet-and-nutrition/Beverages/The-health-benefits-of-buchu-tea-20130708
5. //www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/buchu-herb.html

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Date: September 30, 2015 09:52 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Black Seed Oil Health Benefits

Black seed oil is derived from black cumin seeds. Black seeds, also known as black cumin seeds, black caraway or kalonji have been used medicinally since ancient times. In cooking, they are added as a whole for flavoring dishes. The seeds come from the annual flowering plant, Nigella sativa, which is indigenous to Asia. Just like the seeds, black cumin seed oil is highly prized for its Culinary and therapeutic applications.

Black seed oil is a multivitamin loaded with nutrients. It contains Iron, Zinc, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Linoleic acid, Selenium, Oleic acid and vitamins A, B, B2 and C. This light brown oil is slightly bitter and has a mildly pungent aroma. Possessing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, this oil is effective in treating many external and internal health problems.

Here are some benefits of Black Seed Oil:

• Fights Respiratory problems

The nigellone in black seed oil helps open up the lung’s air passages and makes a person breathe easier. This oil is thus considered effective against respiratory problems. The oil can be used internally and externally to fight problems like cough, bronchitis and asthma.

• Skin health

Nigella sativa can be used to treat several skin problems due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Acne sufferers can mix the oil with honey and use it as an acne treatment mask. The oil helps renew cells and heals acne scars. Apart from this, it can also be used to treat fungal infections. Since skin infections are caused by bacteria and fungus, this oil can be used to treat many skin infections.

• Hair and nails

Pure oil extracted from black seeds can be added to routine hair and nail care regimen. The vitamins present in this oil helps improve hair texture and strengthen hair the natural way. Some of the improvements can also be observed in nail health.

• Improves digestion

The carminative action of black seed oil makes it an excellent remedy for reducing bloating and other digestion problems. Adding this oil in your cooking is a simple way to combat indigestion and excess gas formation.

• Cleansing the body

This oil contains thymoquinone, a powerful antioxidant that helps flush out toxins from the body. Regular consumption of this oil can help improve your general health.

References

//draxe.com/black-seed-oil-benefits/

//www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-901-black%20seed.aspx?activeingredientid=901&activeingredientname=black%20seed

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Date: July 21, 2015 03:38 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: BENEFITS OF TURMERIC

Turmeric or also known as "the golden spice of life", is an important Culinary ingredient around the world. Turmeric is a tropical perennial herb that is domestically cultivated in India since the ancient times. It has been used for thousands of years as the main ingredient for curry. It gave the golden color to Indian food and dishes. Additionally, other than being used as a curry in most Indian cooking, turmeric is also known for its medicinal value. It was used by ancient Indians to treat a multitude of conditions.

Adding turmeric in your everyday diet, effortlessly turns your kitchen and dish into a good resource of health and healing. Turmeric has gained popularity in the recent days for its potential in lowering cholesterol, reducing blood sugar in diabetics, reducing colon inflammation, healing wounds, and fighting cancer as well as preventing Alzheimer’s disease. It is known to contain anti-inflammatory antiseptic and antioxidant qualities. Without much explanation, it means continuous use of turmeric in our dishes improves our chances to be protected from major illnesses.

"Turmeric" is made from turmeric roots that are dried and powdered making it easy to put in food as curry. This root powder contains the healing compound, curcumin. Other parts of the plant also have healing abilities. Here are other benefits of turmeric:

• Ease arthritis.  It has been clinically proven that turmeric helps ease arthritic pain. It can be compared to large doses of ibuprofen 800 mg daily, without causing side effects but delivering more health benefits.
• Slows down liver damage.  It is also known for slowing or delaying liver damage that can lead to development of liver cirrhosis.
• Prevents cancer. Turmeric, when mixed with appropriate vegetables for specific cancer types, helps fight cancer cells and prevents them from metastasizing. It is good in removing heterocyclic amines that develops when meat is cooked up to 40%.
• Powerful antioxidant. It helps promote the health of the heart and memory. It also boosts the immune system. It has the ability to deliver more antioxidants more than vitamin C and E. Its antioxidant is far much more than the one produced by grape seed or the extract from the bark of pine tree. Its strength is enough to scavenge the hydroxyl radical that is considered as the most reactive oxidant.
• Enhances digestion. It has been used for a long time to successfully ease and help heal the inflammatory bowel disease.
• Helps with cognitive decline. Turmeric is also known for slowing as well as versing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease when the symptoms start developing. Additionally, it helps eliminate the cognitive decline that is normally associated with aging.

Turmeric is not only used as a Culinary ingredient but also as a good resource of healing.  This article covers only a few of the benefits of using turmeric, there are more uses and a number of researches to discover the wonders of "the golden spice of life."

//www.hungryforchange.tv/article/6-ways-the-golden-spice-of-life-can-heal-your-body

Read More

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Date: April 20, 2014 08:08 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Thyme Garden Herb And Its Many Benefits

What is a thyme

On the off chance that you have ever pondered about the numerous profits of thyme, then this article is for you. Thyme arrangement herb is an exceptionally flexible herb that has been utilized for quite some time for medicinal, fancy and Culinary employments. Truth be told, thyme is such a staple to many people, to the point that they make a thyme herb arrangement developing the precise numerous sorts of thyme.

For antiquated civic establishments thyme was an unquestionable requirement for cooking as well as for a cluster of different things too. Case in point, the Egyptians utilized thyme as a part of their treating liquids and concerning the Romans; it was utilized for good fortunes. Truth is told, to many people, herbs including thyme were utilized as coin.

Thyme is a lasting plant with something like three hundred and fifty types of its thoughtful, and a large number of them make for extraordinary arrangement plants. The foliage of thyme is truly unique in aroma and is a plant that bumblebees cherish because of its nectar transforming capabilities.

Types of thyme

Enclosure or normal thyme is the most widely recognized. This herb is a light black greenish woody bush that transforms into purple, white or pink blooms local to the Mediterranean district and profoundly developed in France, Spain, European nations and the western U.S

Along these lines, as should be obvious there are numerous profits of thyme and this article simply shows a segment of its employments. Whether utilizing thyme for Culinary, medicinal or decorative purposes there is all that anyone could need motivations to have new thyme close-by or even develop your unique thyme enclosure herb.

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Date: March 08, 2014 09:02 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Health Benefits OF Avocado Oil

Benefits of avocado

Avocado oil has a high attention of healthier fats and supplement E, that is a fabulous epidermis lotion. Icy pressed virgin avocado oil, taken consistently, may help decrease levels of cholesterol and ensure against coronary illness.

Clearspring regular Avocado oil is icy pressed from oil-rich green olives and is broadly distinguished for its wellness profits notwithstanding a support to excellence.

Foul avcado oil is recognized to be a standout amongst the most restorative vegetable oils one can consume. It is a multi-reason oil that could be utilized for Culinary purposes suitable for dressings and sauces and singing, because of its high smoke purpose of over 490 degrees. Natural avocado oil is additionally a top notch "transporter" oil for different qualities; avocado bearer oil is perfect for implantation with different herbs. Notwithstanding its suitability as an edible, foul avcado oil is additionally top notch for utilization as a corrective and the repair of harmed skin.avocado bearer oil is fine for making diverse seasoned oils. Despite the fact that fine for people and different primates, natural avocado oil holds a fattening corrosive known as persin, which might be profoundly poisonous to local creatures, especially pooches, felines and stallions.

This offers no issues to your general health or that of your skin, and holds a monounsaturated oil utilized within fragrance based treatment. There is nothing else in avocado oil with the exception of the 30% of oil that the foods grown from the ground holds. You can drink it without it doing you hurt. An engineered proportionate to avocado oil might fill the mark with included chemicals: one or more to enhance skin ingestion, some to protect the oil from oxidation (despite the fact that it holds its own particular cancer prevention agents), emulsifiers and surfactants to help it spread better (an oil?).

Avocado content

Actually avocado oil holds its own particular emulsifier, lecithin, and additionally the cancer prevention agents Vitamin An and Vitamin E that likewise help to administer a young looking skin. These cell reinforcement vitamins annihilate the free radicals that execute your skin cells and make you look more advanced in years. Avocado oil can help you to continue looking more youthful as you develop sequentially more senior. It likewise holds vitamin D that is so paramount in large portions of the natural methodologies inside your skin - it is not called the 'daylight vitamin' to no end.

Cell reinforcements secure you from the impacts of the less than great UV radiation held in solid daylight, the free-radical producing pesticides, activity and modern outflows and tobacco smoke. Without some type of cell reinforcement medicine your skin would quickly wrinkled and develop old as its unit films are burst and annihilated. Vitamins An and E execute off the free radicals that cause this.

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Date: February 26, 2014 08:51 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Thyme Oil

What is thyme

Thyme is delicate herb with a highly penetrating fragrance. It has very many varied importance in Culinary, medicinal and ornamental purposes. Thyme is an ancient herb that was used for medical purposes by Greeks and Egyptians. It has a sweet yet strong herbal smell and is reddish-brown to amber in color. Thyme essential oil is carefully extracted through distillation from Thymus Vulgaris that belongs to the Labiatae plant family. This oil is considered to have very many health benefits that range from curing some ailments to preventing as well as improving the general body health.

Benefits of thyme

To begin with, it is an excellent disinfectant that is highly regarded particularly in aromatherapy for the protection against infectious diseases. Thyme oil is an antiseptic as well as an expectorant. When diffused into the atmosphere, it can be really beneficial in the treatment and as well as revealing the symptoms of bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, coughs, cold and flu.

The components in this volatile oil have also been proven to expel antimicrobial activity against a host of different bacteria and fungi. For thousands of years, this essential oil has been used to preserve foods; protecting them from microbial contamination. In this way, using the oil helps people avoid various health issue associated with contaminated food.

Thyme oil is also crucial in stimulating the formation of white blood cells as well as aiding in the oxygenation of cellular tissues; which helps in the removal of toxic wastes during illness. Thyme oil generally boosts your lymphatic system and builds your self-esteem and confidence in your ability to make quick recovery during illness.

For a vitamin or supplement, thyme oil taken by mouth and can be very helpful in curing arthritis, stomach pain and a sore throat. It has also been used to treat skin disorders, movement disorders (dyspraxia) as well as parasitic worm infections. This oil can also be applied directly to the skin for swollen tonsils, hoarseness and sore mouth.

In clusion

I would like to caution you. Please note that there are lots of cheap, synthetic copies of essential oils. You, therefore, need to be careful when purchasing thyme oil and ensure that you get it from a trusted supplier to avoid getting a counterfeit product that may not give you the expected results.

Sources

1. www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266016.php
2. www.experience-essential-oils.com/thyme-oil.html
3. www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/thyme.htm
4. www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=77
5. www.wedmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-823-THYME.aspx?activeIngredientId=823&activeIngredientName=THYME

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Date: January 27, 2014 09:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Is Agar Powder Used For?

What Is Agar Powder Used For?

Agar, also known as agar agar or kanten, is a gelling agent that comes from a South East Asian seaweed. This natural additive has excellent gelling properties. It is often used by vegetarians as a vegetable gelatin as the true gelatin comes from calf’s feet.

The product is also used for scientific purposes.

For instance, biologists use it as filler in paper sizing fabric. Biologists also use it as a clarifying compound in brewing. Additionally, agar can be used as a laxative, thanks to its high fiber concentration. Better yet, the product can be used as an appetite suppressant.

Agar is also an exceptional Culinary ingredient. It is quite popular among vegetarians. They often use it to thicken soups. Further, agar can be used as a preservative for ice creams, fruits and other desserts.

The product is also sought for its tremendous health benefits.

People who desire to lose weight fast may find agar useful. It has no calories, no fat, no carbs, and no sugar and is loaded with fiber. As a matter of fact, 80 percent of agar is comprised of nothing but fiber.

Another great benefit associated with agar is that is assimilates glucose in the stomach. Additionally, agar agar passes via the digestive tract pretty fast and prevents the body from absorbing and retaining excess fat. It also has excellent water absorption properties. These properties allow it to assist the body in the elimination of wastes. It is also worth noting that agar has the capacity to absorb bile; in this way, it helps the body to dissolve more of bad cholesterol.

It is of value to reiterate that agar, also known as agar agar or kanten, is a vegetable gelatin. It has excellent gelling properties. It is mainly used by vegetarians as a substitute for the true gelatin.


References:

1. //www.barryfarm.com/nutri_info/thickeners/agar.htm
2. //notenoughcinnamon.com/2012/08/02/everything-you-need-to-know-about-agar

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Date: November 21, 2012 03:48 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Health benefits of Black Cherry Tonic

The black cherry has for long been used for Culinary purposes for instance addition of flavors into liqueurs, foods and many other beverages. However, studies are now showing that the cherry has even greater benefit to the health of man. A person consuming this plant in juice form will be greeted by the ‘bitter sweet' taste from the cherry. Nonetheless, behind this bitter taste, lie a whole lot of nutrients which are crucial for the body.

What is the benefit of black cherry juice ?

? Gout treatment

Gout is a disease that is caused by high uric acid in the body. Health experts say that intake of black cherry tonic could go a long way in alleviating the problem. It is however advisable to consult a physician on this matter before making an adjustment to your daily diet

? Muscle improvement and recovery

Those who undertake sporting activities will find this supplement essential because it helps recover after strenuous exercises. This is due to the fact that it contains anti-oxidants which help replenish energy to the muscles faster.

? Better sleep

Fortunately for those who normally have sleepless nights, there are reports suggesting that intake of black cherry juice could boost your ability to sleep. It does contain a compound known as serotonin which has been known to induce sleep. Instead of taking sleeping pills, try this supplement which is natural unlike pills which could have side effects overtime on your body.

? Inflammation treatment

Inflammation is among the main symptoms of arthritis and its related infections. Luckily, cherries and their juices can help reduce inflammation. By doing this, the possibility of being affected by arthritic infections is reduced by a great margin.

? Nutritional advantage

Generally, the black cherry contains large amounts of Vitamins. Therefore, whenever your body lacks these vitamins, your physician will most probably recommend black cherries for you. In addition, these cherries are beneficial for Kidney support and joint health of the body.

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Date: March 26, 2012 08:01 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Are The Health Benefits Of Saffron Extract?

HEALTH BENEFITS OF SAFFRON EXTRACT

Saffron is one of the rarest and exotic spices found on the earth. Golden spice is the other name given to saffron, attributing to its reddish-golden color. It is the most common spice used in many Indian,Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. This Culinary and exotic spice grows on a flowering plant- Crocus Sativa. It is grown in various countries around the world including many Asian and European countries. Areas with hot dry summers and wet springs are the most suitable areas for growing Saffron. While saffron is popular for its flavor, color and fragrance, this rare spice also, has many medicinal and health benefits. Saffron is a very expensive spice and this is mainly because of the fact, that for making 1gram of Saffron strands 150 flowers are required.

Mineral present in Saffron extract -

Saffron extract contains high amounts of copper, magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium, iron, and selenium. It is also a rich source of various vitamins like- vitamin A, B2 and C, niacin and folic acid. Apart from these Saffron also contains carotenoid compounds - crocetin, lycopeneand, safranel and crocin.

The various health benefits of Saffron are -

1) Cancer Treatment- Because of the presence of crocetin and carotenoid in Saffron, it has anti-mutagenic and anti-tumor properties. Several studies on Saffron extract have proved that Saffron extract delays papilloma carcinogenisis and tumor growth. Because of all these properties, Saffron extract can be used for treating and preventing skin cancer, liver cancer and sarcoma.

2) Anti-inflammatory properties- Saffron have anti-inflammatory properties and therefore it can be used in treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. It is capable of controlling inflammation and healing cuts and burns faster.

3) Potent aphrodisiac- For last many centuries, Saffron has been used as a “POTENT APHRODISIAC” inPersiaand many other Arabian countries. It can increase libido and improve erectile dysfunction by increasing the flow of blood in the pelvic region.

4) Eye Care- Several studies have proved that Saffron extract can treat certain eye problems like- macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. Saffron also protects the eyes from the harmful effects UV rays.

5) Anti-Depressants- Saffron extract can also be used in the treatment of patients suffering from depression. Researches have shown that Saffron gives equal results as given by therapeutic drugs like imipramine and fluoxetine.

6) Painkiller- Saffron extract can be used for treating many severe painful conditions like- stomach pain, menstrual pain, and kidney pain.

7) Weight loss- Researches have shown that Saffron can suppress the feeling of hunger, by controlling the percentage of serotonin content in the blood. Therefore, Saffron is used in many weight loss programs, as it can reduce the compulsion to eat and feelings of hunger.

8) Skin- Saffron contains antioxidants, and therefore it is used in many beauty and anti-aging treatments.

9) Saffron during Pregnancy- During pregnancy, women are advised to drink Saffron milk, in order to enhance their pelvic blood flow. Also, due to its Carminative properties it helps in suppressing cramps.

Gas and bloating are very common problems during pregnancy and just one glass of Saffron milk can reduce flatulence and ease digestion.

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Date: February 23, 2012 07:08 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Are The Health Benefits Of Saffron Extract?

Saffron

Saffron is an expensive spice that is commonly used to add color and flavor to food. It is used in many cuisine especially Mediterraean, Italian and Indian. The high cost of saffron is due to the fact that 150 flowers are required to make 1 g of saffron strands. This Culinary spice grows on aflowering plant, Crocus Sativa. It is grown in Southwest Asia, especially in areas with wet springs and hot dry summers.It contains high amounts of minerals such as copper, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron and selenium. It is a rich source of vitamins such as vitamins A, C and B2, folic acid and niacin. Saffron contains carotenoidcompounds- crocin, crocetin, lycopeneand safranel, which are known to possess many health benefits. This expensive herb not only adds flavor to food but also offers variety of health benefits.

Spices have been used as medicines for centuries because of their anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-oxidant properties. Therapeutic usage of saffron is 3000 years ago when it was used as an natural aphrodisiac. Some of the health benefits of saffron extract are:

Saffron Benefits

1. Saffron contains anti-tumour and anti-mutagenicproperties due to the presence of carotenoid, crocetin. Studies on mice indicated that saffron extract delays tumor growth and delays papilloma carcinogenisis and inhibits squamous cell carcinoma. It helps in treating and preventing certain types of cancer such as skin cancer, sarcoma and liver cancer.

2. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, saffron can control inflammation in the body and speed up the healing of burns and cuts. It helps in treating arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases.

3. For thousands of years in Persian and other Arabian countries, saffron was used as a potent aphrodisiac. It was used to increase libido and erectile dysfuntionby improving the blood flow to the pelvic region. It was also used to treat many female health conditions.

4. Studies have shown the effects of saffron on several eye conditions. Saffron extract helps to slow down retinitis pigmentosa and macular degenration. It alsoprotects the eye from direct effect of bright light.

5. Saffron has been proved to be effective in treating mild to moderate depression. According to studies, saffron has shown equivalent results as given by therapeutic doses of fluoxetine and imipramine., anti-depressants.

6. Saffron acts as a painkiller in treating many painful conditions such as kidney pain, stomach pain and menstrual pain.

7. According to French researchers, saffron extract can reduce the hunger in between meals. It does that by controlling the levels of serotonin in the blood, which is responsible for signaling hunger pangs. Studies have found the effects of saffron on weight loss by reducing feelings of hunger and compulsion to eat between meals.

8. Some animal studies on saffron indicate cognitive enhancement and improved memory . However human trials are still to be conducted to find out the potential effects of saffron on memory. It is believed that regular use of saffron can delay demetia and prevent Alzheimer's disease.

9. It is used in many cosmetics such as skin lightening agents.

A sprinkle of Saffron extract not just adds spice to your food, but also prevents many health conditions.

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Date: December 16, 2011 02:28 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Is The HerbThyme Good For?

What is Thyme?

Thyme has many Culinary uses as well as health benefits to the human body. During the ancient times, thyme is commonly used as an embalming agent. It is popularly used in Egypt to preserve the mummies of their deceased rulers or pharaohs. In Greece, it was widely employed in temples because of its soothing and relaxing aromatic property. For the Romans, thyme is widely used as a flavoring to their cheese and liquors. It adds an aromatic flavor to the food or beverage, making it more palatable. Other traditions use this herb as incense for the dead to guide the soul of the dead and guarantee its journey into the next life.

In addition, thyme also has an antiseptic property. During wars in the ancient times, this herb is popular as a topical application on wounds. Today, this herb can is also used as a mouthwash for sores and oral wounds.

The active ingredient in thyme is called thymol. An oil extract of thyme consists of about 15 to 60 % thymol. The most promising property of thymol is its antiseptic quality. In fact, thymol is the considered to be the main ingredient of many popular mouthwashes and toothpastes. Before the discovery of many antibiotics, thyme extracts was popularly used as a medication for wounds and certain skin irritations. Also, thyme extracts can also be employed as an anti – fungal agent on conditions such as Athlete’s foot and toenail fungal infections. Commercially, thymol is also used as an ingredient among many hand sanitizers and cleansers which are alcohol – free and all – natural.

Aside from it external use as an antiseptic, thyme extracts can also be made into tea and used as a relief treatment for respiratory problems such as coughs and bronchitis. And because of its antiseptic property, thyme extract made into a tincture has a promising effect to improve inflammations of the throat. This can also be used as gargles about three times per day to improve sores in the oral mucous membranes. It cans show improvement after three to five days of use.

Another health use of thyme is that it can also be used to help in maternal labor and childbirth. Clinical studies have shown that thyme has an oxytocin – like property which can induce uterine contractions during labor. After childbirth, it can also be useful in facilitating a faster delivery of the placenta. Its antiseptic property is also useful in the prevention of maternal infections brought about by childbirth.

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Date: October 05, 2011 02:08 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Much Turmeric Should Be Taken For Alzheimer's?

Turmeric is an herb which is a perennial plant included in the family of gingers. This plant is considered to be rhizomatous and has been found to be abundant in tropical countries such as South Asia. For its cultivation, this plant must grow in a climate with a temperature of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius and ample amount of yearly rain. In these kind of climates, this herb can grow healthy and abundantly. In some countries, an annual collection of rhizomes is done and then reproduced and grown the next season.

Turmeric is commonly used as a Culinary spice or ingredient. It is dried in extreme temperatures of ovens and ground into a yellow to orange powder. This spice is common in many Asian dishes. Aside from its Culinary use, it can also be helpful in maintaining the health of the human body. The known active ingredient of turmeric is Curcumin. This chemical substance has a unique slightly metallic taste and peppery in flavor. It also has a mustard–like aroma. Hence, it is considered to be an important condiment in many Middle Eastern recipes. In addition to Curcumin, turmeric consists of about 5 % of essential oils.

With its many health benefits, one of the most interesting is its effect on the brain in helping prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical studies and surveys reveal that people who consume large quantities of curry have a lesser risk and incidence of having Alzheimer’s disease. Therefore, intensive studies are being conducted to test and prove its safety and effectiveness as a chemical substance which can greatly help in the prevention of the increasing number of Alzheimer’s disease cases. Other factors are also considered such as the individual’s diet, familial history, social and economic status as well as lifestyle.

Alzheimer’s disease has been closely related to the increasing damage of brain cells due to oxidation. This brain damage will significantly cause an effect to the person’s memory thus Alzheimer’s disease occur. Curcumin in the turmeric has the potent capacity to prevent this cellular damage thus slowing the development of such disease. Studies have also shown that Curcumin can significantly impede certain mechanisms that are involved in the progress of Alzheimer’s disease. Aside from its benefit in decreasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, turmeric also has a potential anti – inflammatory property and can effectively regulate blood cholesterol levels.

The recommended dosage of turmeric has not yet been officially established. Therefore, if you are planning to supplement with turmeric, it would be best that you should consult your doctor. The dosage of this supplement varies from person to person in terms of age, weight, other health conditions and status of his/her Alzheimer’s disease.

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Date: August 02, 2011 02:02 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Does Prickly Pear Leaf Help with Blood Sugar Control?

Prickly pear leaf is obtained from a group of cacti known for their positive effect on blood sugar. It is an important source of food and medication for Native Americans since prehistory. It contains unique compounds that display potent antioxidant activity. Studies have shown that its phytochemical content displays potential in the management of blood sugar and the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Also known as nopales in its place of origin, all plant species referred to as prickly pear belong to the genus Opuntia. This genus comprises more than 200 species, but only a few are noted for their Culinary uses. In Mexico and most of Latin America, it is consumed as a vegetable in general. The juice extracted from the prickly pear leaf is utilized in different niches of many industries. In food and drug industries, it is highly valued for its alkaloids and polyphenols that exhibit bioactive properties.

Many health problems recorded in the past few decades have been linked to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Complex carbohydrates present in the human diet are broken down into simple sugars. In particular, glucose refers to the sugar that enters the systemic circulation. Glucose takes on a central role at the cellular level. It fuels the physiological functions of all cells and tissues, including the brain and the heart. That being said, diets high in simple sugars have been tied to elevated blood sugar.

Researchers and medical professionals have noted several factors that lead to metabolic disorders. Genetic abnormalities are something we don’t have control of. On the other hand, lifestyle factors are quite the opposite. It has been reported that sedentary lifestyle and food choices play a major part in the development of illnesses related to glucose metabolism. Experts are convinced that some foods are detrimental to health, but there are sources of nutrition that help maintain healthy glucose levels.

Prickly pear leaf belongs to the group of foods that are good for blood sugar. Glycemic index measures how carbohydrates present in our diet influence blood sugar concentration. Simple sugars are always considered unhealthy forms of carbohydrates in that all of them possess a high glycemic index, which means glucose is released into the bloodstream at a very rapid rate. Foods that are easily digested to simple sugars, such as white bread and sweetened beverages, affect blood sugar in the same manner. Organic compounds that occur naturally in prickly pear leaf have a twofold effect. First, it helps lower the glycemic index of carbohydrates in our diet, and thus promotes a gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. Second, it improves the hormone activity of insulin and fights its functional decline that results in insulin resistance, a common medical condition that precedes type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Grab some prickly pear leaf and take control of your life.

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Date: July 05, 2011 03:37 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Celery Seed Is A Herbal Diuretic, Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant, and Packed Full of Omegas

What Does Celery Seed Extract Do For The Body

Celery plant is a member of the parsley family. This plant grows abundantly in humid and salty soil mostly in countries such as India and France. The plant can stand up to two to three feet in height with segmented leaves. It bears fruits and small white flowers. The flowers typically bloom during June to July. The seeds are found on its flowers which are very little in brown to dark brown in color. The seeds have a pungent smell and are commonly employed as nutritional supplement as well as herbal medicine. Celery seed has low amount of calories which make it suitable as a diet food.

Aside from being a recognized vegetable playing an important role in the Culinary and diet food world, celery seed also has many significant health benefits. These include:

1. Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: Celery seeds promote a normal blood pressure and help decrease cholesterol in the bloodstream. Studies reveal that daily consumption of celery seed helps maintain your blood pressure within normal limits and facilitates in getting rid of unnecessary cholesterol in the body. Cholesterol may deposit into arterial walls which may cause obstruction with the blood flow thus increasing the risk of heart attack.

2. Diuretic: Almost a century ago, celery seeds have been commonly used as a diuretic. The active ingredients in celery improve urination thus promoting elimination of toxins out from the body. One of the most important contribution of celery seed as a diuretic is its effect on uric acid crystals deposited in the joints. Celery seeds can effectively clear out uric acid crystals in the joints thus preventing or relieving the person from gouty and rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Anti - inflammatory Property: Celery seed is said to have potent anti – inflammatory actions by decreasing swelling thus reducing pain. This is another reason why celery seed is utilized as an adjunct treatment for gout and rheumatoid arthritis.

4. Antioxidant Property: Like many other vegetables, celery seed is rich in antioxidant chemicals. Antioxidant is important to the body because these chemicals help neutralize free radicals inside the body. Free radicals are toxins which are harmful to the cells of the body by interfering with cellular division and tampering DNA replication.

5. Fatty Acid Source: Celery seed is found to contain high amounts of omega – 6 fatty acids. Together with the other essential fatty acid omega – 3, omega – 6 fatty acids is important in the functioning and health of the nervous system. These fatty acids are also significant for the normal growth and development of the body. These chemicals are also found to have the ability to improve the health of skin and hair, promotes strong bones, regulate metabolism and maintain reproductive health.

Celery seeds can be eaten raw dipped in dressing of choice. It can also be consumed together with other vegetables in a certain dish or recipe. Other preparations of celery seed include decoction and tincture. To prepare a decoction, add one – half teaspoon of powdered seeds to one cup or 200 mL of water.

Celery seed is available in easy to swallow capsules. Grab some today and feel the difference!

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Date: June 01, 2011 04:21 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What is Red Marine Algae And What Are Its Health Benefits?

Red Marine Algae And Your Health.

Red marine algae refer to a large group of seaweeds that contain phycobiliproteins, which give them their red coloration. They are simple organisms in that they do not have complex tissues in contrast with terrestrial plants. Many species of red marine algae plays an important role in the formation of coral reefs as they secrete calcium carbonate as well as provide nutrition for other marine species. Like plants, they are capable of making their own food by way of photosynthesis. And like most other seaweeds, they are excellent sources of vitamins, minerals, and other healthy organic compounds.

Scientific Classification

Rhodophyta is the taxonomic classification of all red marine algae. It is oftentimes considered a part of the plant kingdom, but more recent definitions of plant suggest red algae belong to a kingdom of their own. Rhodophyta is one of the largest groups of algae, second only to green algae. It consists of up to 6000 aquatic species that are widely distributed in the tropical, temperate, and even frigid zones. These species usually take up residence along the coastal regions and significantly contribute to the distribution, abundance, and ecology of organisms found in the extended perimeter of each continent.

Historical Uses

Seaweeds have become a part of the staple diet of many communities throughout history, and red marine algae are one of the best sources of human nutrition among all seaweeds. For thousands of years, different species of red algae have enjoyed significant presence in cuisines from all over the world. It is often consumed uncooked or added to salads. It is also an important ingredient in soups and stews. Ocean farmers have learned different techniques of domesticating crops of algae, and cultivation has been the solution to the growing demand of red marine algae in the past few decades.

Industrial Applications

Red marine algae have steadily grown in economic value since the 20th century. In addition to their historical Culinary uses, their application now extends to medical science. Several organic compounds have been isolated from different species of red marine algae are now in wide use in the food and drug industries. For example, gelatinous substances are derived from agarophytes, any species of seaweeds that belong to rhodophyta. These substances are used in the production of beer, food preserves, ice cream as well as papers, fabrics, lubricants, and other personal care products.

Medicinal Value

Red marine algae have a special place in antiviral research. Many species are now identified to contain organic compounds that are of medicinal value against several viruses. Decades-long studies have come to a conclusion that sulfated polysaccharides derived from red marine algae have an inhibitory effect on replication of herpes simplex virus (HSV). There is good evidence that one class of sulfated polysaccharides called carrageenan offer some protection against transmission of herpes. Furthermore, recent studies have revealed that sulfated polysaccharides are potent inhibitors of HIV-1 in cell culture.

Red marine algae is an excellent source of nutrients found in the sea. Get some red marine algae and reap the benefits of this nutrient rich food today!

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Date: April 14, 2011 03:32 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is Elderberry Good for Colds and Flu?

Elderberry and your Health.

Sambucus nigra is the plant species generally referred to as elderberry although the term elder encompasses the entire genus Sambucus, which comprises up to 30 species. Most species of elderberry thrive well in damp regions where the soil is moderately wet and the area quite shaded, and sambucus nigra is no exception. This species is noted for their dark purplish berries and creamy white flowers, both of which are edible. It is usually categorized as a shrub, but it can grow up to 10 feet on average, looking much like a small tree.

Elderberry has been ascribed with herbal properties since the ancient times, with an emphasis on the amelioration of flu symptoms. All its parts are historically noted for their specific uses. The bark is utilized as an herbal treatment for cardiovascular, digestive, and renal conditions. The leaves are used to disinfect wounds. The berries are for inflammation, allergies, and skin disorders. And the flowers are usually used to relieve sore throat, colds, and influenza. Today elderberry extracts found in health products are obtained from various parts of the plants.

Stimulates Faster Immune Responses

The organic compounds naturally occurring in elderberry appear to speed up the immune responses implicated in viral infections, notably the common colds and influenza B. In Europe, elderberry has enjoyed overwhelming popularity in comparison with other herbal remedies for colds. Indeed it contains unique flavonoids believed to be responsible for stimulating the immune system. Its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties are all attributed to the same organic compounds.

Reduces the Severity of Cold Symptoms

Researchers are enthusiastic about the outcomes of preliminary studies. Earlier studies in Europe recorded noticeable improvements in best known symptoms of the common cold, such as runny nose, nasal congestion, headaches, and sinusitis. Furthermore, it shortened the duration of cold infections. And since its preparations have not been associated with any adverse effect, it can be administered to people of all ages. Succeeding studies conducted in North America yielded very promising results, cutting the severity of symptoms and defeating infections fast.

Effectively Treats Influenza Infections

There have been several studies looking into the efficacy of elderberry preparations, and all of them pointed to a compound called Sambucol. It was first observed to be a viable treatment for Influenza B infections, but more recent studies came to a conclusion that it also effectively treats influenza A. In all studies, Sambucol helped over 80 percent of patients suffering from flu in less than 3 days.

Keep Elderberry on hand in case of emergencies

It is good to keep elderberry on hand for when a cold rears its butt. Starting elderberry at first signs of a cold can greatly increase its effectiveness.

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Date: April 12, 2011 04:28 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Is Thyme and How Can It Help My Lungs?

Thyme And Lung Health.

Thymus vulgaris, the common thyme largely utilized as a Culinary herb, is the same species where most thyme extracts are derived from. However, other species that belong to the genus Thymus have also been observed to produce similar health benefits. There are over 300 species of thyme, but the most widely cultivated in addition to the common thyme are T. herba-barona, T. serpyllum, T. x citriodorus, and T. variegata, and T. zygis. These species are known for their medicinal properties and commonly used in herbal preparations.

Fights Respiratory Tract Infections

In the pharmaceutical industry, thyme is best known for its high terpene content. Terpenes are organic compounds found in many plants that are noted for their antiseptic properties. Thymus species are very rich in thymol, which accounts for more than 50 per cent in essential oil extracted from Thymus vulgaris. Thyme is historically noted for its ability to ward off infections.

In ancient times, crushed leaves were added to poultices to disinfect wounds and dried leaves were made into tea to fight off sore throat. Today thymol is the main ingredient of many hygiene products such as natural sanitizers and the mouthwash Listerine. Thymol is so effective that adding it to water and gargling with the solution fights off infections of the respiratory tract and relieves inflammation.

Displays Antispasmodic Properties

Upper respiratory tract infection is often accompanied by respiratory spasms characteristic of coughs. Thyme also contains flavonoids, such as apigenin, luteolin, naringenin, and thymonin, all of which are spasmolytic in nature. Symptoms of cough may vary, depending on the nature of the condition. Fits of severe coughing may result from different causes, but are often caused by bacterial infection. The flavonoids content of thyme is thought to act on pulmonary tissues and bronchial tubes, creating a soothing effect that results in the amelioration of respiratory spasms and the expulsion of bacteria.

Promotes the Discharge of Mucus

Thyme is a reputed expectorant with a long association with folk medicine of the Mediterranean region. For centuries, certain European communities have relied on thyme to effectively expel infected matter from the lungs and the bronchi. Herbal preparations come in tincture, tea, syrup, and even steam. The inhalation of thyme essential oil has been reported to be very helpful in easing the discharge of mucus. Thyme contains terpenoids in addition to thymol, which all act to increase the fluidity of mucus and exert antimicrobial activity when they reach the lungs, making it easier to cough up phlegm while disinfecting the respiratory tract at the same time.

Give Thyme a try and feel the difference!

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Date: March 29, 2011 04:27 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Bad Cholesterol, High Blood Sugar ? - Try Prickly Pear!

Prickly Pear Cactus And Your Health

Prickly pear refers to a large genus of cactuses known for their Culinary and medicinal uses. It is also known as nopal, a popular vegetable from the young pad segments with the spines removed that originated from Central America. Nopales are sold fresh in Mexico and neighboring countries and largely derived from the species Opuntia ficus-indica. This edible cactus is rich in fiber and flavonoids, making it not only a healthy source of but also a potent medicinal herb. In recent years it has enjoyed a much-publicized association with the therapeutic treatment of diabetes and high cholesterol. Also, its age-old preparations for indigestion and other digestive problems remain in wide use.

Cleanses the Digestive Tract

Prickly pear has long been used as a digestive and an herbal remedy for illnesses of the gastrointestinal tract. In certain regions of Central America, eating nopales is considered the most viable treatment for indigestion, diarrhea, and constipation simple because it works, not to mention nopales are delicious. Of course it is now common knowledge that its high fiber content is the reason why it aids digestion and allays digestive problems. Furthermore, the phytochemical it contains serves as natural cleansers of the entire alimentary canal.

Lowers Blood Lipid Levels

Bad cholesterol is notoriously named so because of the fact that they are a reliable indicator of cardiovascular diseases, notably atherosclerosis. Recent studies have linked prickly pear, especially Opuntia ficus-indica, to better management of high cholesterol. The exact mechanism of action is still under scrutiny, but it is postulated that it interferes with the conversion of very-low-density lipoproteins into low-density lipoproteins, or bad cholesterol, in the liver. It is also suggested that prickly pear may promote the releases of high-density lipoproteins, or good cholesterol.

Enhances Insulin Sensitivity

Among all the health benefits of prickly pear, its effect on diabetes may well be the best studied. Type 2 diabetes results from a metabolic disorder that impairs the capacity of cells to respond to the hormone insulin. Cells that have become resistance to the physiological effects of insulin significantly contribute to escalating levels of sugar in the blood, which often leads to diabetes. Prickly pear works on the principle of reversing this metabolic disorder by promoting the uptake of glucose.

Neutralizes Free Radicals

Free radicals are by-products of oxygen metabolism that damage cells and tissues, the reason why cells have endogenous antioxidants to fight them off. When there is an imbalance between endogenous antioxidants and free radicals, the body needs help in the form of exogenous antioxidant in our diet to contain the damage free radicals cause.

There have been numerous reports about the antioxidant properties of the herb prickly pear. In fact, Opuntia species contain a diverse variety of polyphenols that are not present in a single plant species. Nopales are particularly rich in betalains and flavonoids, both of which are organic compounds naturally occurring in nature that have been well investigated due to their active antioxidant properties inside the human body.

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Date: December 02, 2010 12:33 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Curcumin and Pain

Curcumin

Make no mistake about it: curcumin has long been identified as the compound responsible for the anti-inflammatory benefits of the ginger plant turmeric. The herb turmeric has been around for ages, cultivated for its wide array of Culinary and medicinal uses that transcend regional and cultural boundaries. Apart from the popular use of its powdery form in bread, cakes, ale, and beer as a flavoring, the plant contains up to 5 per cent curcumin, which is one type of polyphenols now being looked into for its antioxidant properties.

Prostaglandin and Inflammation Pain

Autocrines and paracrines are contained in almost all tissues and organs to effectively participate in bodily defenses every time the systems call for them, for example in treating wounds. Prostaglandins are either autrocrines or paracrines that take on the job of signaling the tissues and systems implicated in defensive reactions when the body detects unwanted and harmful stimuli. Cells release autocrines to have an effect on the same cells and paracrines to aid nearby cells, making these compounds function as effective chemical messengers in immediate vicinities anywhere in the body as they are short-lived.

Prostaglandin is known as the chemical messenger causing pain and igniting fever among others. Defensive mechanisms start when cells release mediators, including prostaglandin, which brings about the known signs of inflammation. Prostaglandins relax smooth muscle cells within the walls of blood vessels in the area of inflammation and promote the flow of needed fluids like blood and plasma proteins into the spot, leading to the subsequent redness and swelling. They continue to mediate the healing process by permitting the entrance of neutrophil granulocytes, the front-line soldiers against harmful stimuli, and consequently put an end to invading pathogens. The same group of chemicals also increases pain at the same time, for example the joint pains associated with inflammation called arthritis.

Curcumin and Anti-inflammation

Painkillers, classified as analgesic drugs, work in a number of ways that in the end relieve the continual sensitization of certain body parts to pain. One group called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen targets the enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of prostaglandins aim to reduce levels of prostaglandins.

Curcumin works on the same principle. Take for example, joint pains caused by arthritis. Be reminded that individuals who complain about joint pains are suffering from varied forms of medical conditions, which one way or another contribute to the pain in addition to having excessive levels of prostaglandins in the joints involved. Damage to the joint brought about by wear and tear or forced movement involving joints spurs the body to take defensive measures that include inflammatory effects, thus the pain. The intake of curcumin and its derivatives act on the cells in its production of prostaglandins, resulting in both the easing of pain and the lessening of inflammation.

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Date: November 05, 2009 01:51 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Clantro (Coriander Plant) to remove heavy metals

Cilantro Heavy Metal Detox With Chlorella

Planetary Herbals is pleased to introduce Cilantro heavy metal detox, a unique herbal cleansing formula for defense against today’s environmental toxins. The herbs in Cilantro heavy metal detox are known to bind to heavy metals, helping to clear them from the body. Chlorella is added to increase the chelating and cleansing actions of cilantro. This combination also provides effective antioxidant support for overall cell health.

Planetary Herbals Cilantro heavy metal detox contains organic cilantro leaf and organic chlorella, for the purest product possible.

Herbs: Nature’s Answer to a Toxic World

Cilantro (one of the names used for the leaves of the coriander plant, Coriandrum sativum) is an ancient herb that has been used for millennia for health and for its robust, savory taste. Beyond its Culinary value, modern research has confirmed the benefits of cilantro as a natural means of internal cleansing.

Recent studies show the cilantro attaches to heavy metals in the bloodstream. This process, known as “Chelation,” helps our bodies eliminate metals from our systems, and helps cleanse and purify our tissues, organs and blood. This process is supported with the addition of chlorella, single celled algae that work synergistically to enhance cilantro’s chelating and cleansing ability.

Binding heavy metals

Thousands of noxious chemical compounds, many of which didn’t exist on the planet 100 years ago, now pervade our food, water, and air. Heavy metals like lead, mercury, arsenic, aluminum, and cadmium enter our bodies through food, air, cooking utensils, deodorant, and even the fillings in our teeth.

Cilantro’s properties that enable binding with these toxins are thought to come from unique constituents, including citric acid, phytic acid, and electrolytes that attach to metals. The sequestration of metal ions by chlorella is assumed to be accomplished by surface ligands in the cell walls. Simply stated, both cilantro and chlorella contain properties that bind with metals, and chlorella additionally helps purge the bound metals from the organs.

Planetary Herbals: the PhytoDynamic Difference

Cilantro heavy metal detox is the latest in a herbal product line based on the principles of PhytoDynamics. PhytoDynamics unites a profound understanding of the interaction between plants and people, a commitment to holistic integrity of herbs for optimal efficacy, a strong grounding in scientific research, a world class quality control team, and a level of clinical expertise unmatched in the industry.

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Date: October 29, 2009 12:56 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Pennyroyal Herb

The pennyroyal herb is a member of the mint genus. It is an essential oil that is extracted and used in aromatherapy. Crushed pennyroyal leaves and foliage give off a very strong spearmint fragrance. Traditionally, pennyroyal is used as Culinary herb, folk medicine, and abortifacient. This herb was commonly used by the Greeks and Romans as a cooking herb. The Greeks often flavored their wine with pennyroyal. Additionally, a large number of the recipes in the Roman cookbook of Apicius use pennyroyal along with herbs such as lovage, oregano, and coriander. Although it was still commonly used for cooking in the Middle Ages, it slowly fell out of use as a Culinary herb. Today, it is seldom used. However, the essential oil of pennyroyal is extremely high in pulegone, which is toxic volatile organic compound, and is therefore poisonous to the liver and can stimulate uterine activity.

Pennyroyal was brought by European settlers to the New World. There, they found that Native Americans were using the American variety of pennyroyal for repelling insects, skin irritations, and many of the same illnesses that they were using their own variety for. Additionally, this herb was used to soothe the stomach and relieve cold symptoms. The pennyroyal that is found in America has similar properties to the herb that is found in Europe. However, the European variety is thought to be much more potent.

This herb possesses a volatile oil that works to remove gas from the stomach. It can be consumed as a tea of used as a footbath. If it is taken a few days before menstruation is due, it can help increase a suppressed flow. The pennyroyal tea is beneficial in relieving cold symptoms and also promoting perspiration. This herb has a strong, minty odor. It is used externally to repel insects like fleas, flies, and mosquitoes.

The oil of the pennyroyal plant is extremely concentrated and is often linked to toxic results. The oil is often associated with abortions and convulsions that result in death. It is believed that the oil irritates the uterus, which causes uterine contractions. The action is not predictable and is potentially dangerous. It is recommended that the oil be used only externally as a natural insect repellant. This herb is suggested for use as a decongestant for coughs and colds. Tea that is made from the pennyroyal herb is not associated with toxicity. In fact, it helps to relax the digestive tract and soothe the stomach.

In short, the entire pennyroyal plant is used to provide alterative, antispasmodic, antivenomous, aromatic, carminative, decongestant, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, nervine, oxytocic, parasiticide, sedative, stimulant, and stomachic properties. Primarily, pennyroyal is extremely beneficial in treating bronchitis, childbirth pain, colds, colic, uterine cramps, fevers, gas, lung infections, and absent menstruation. Additionally, this herb is very helpful in dealing with convulsions, coughs, abdominal cramps, delirium, earache, flu, gout, headaches, leprosy, measles, migraines, mucus, nausea, phlegm, pleurisy, pneumonia, smallpox, sunstroke, toothaches, tuberculosis, ulcers, uterine problems, and vertigo.

In order to obtain the best results when supplementing with this, or any herb, it is important to consult your health care provider before beginning any regimen. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by pennyroyal, please feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.

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Date: July 29, 2009 04:35 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Sage

Salvia is the Latin name for sage, meaning healthy. The sage plant was highly revered for its healing benefits in the Mediterranean. It also originated in the Mediterranean. The plant is a perennial herbaceous shrub that can be found growing up to heights of fifty meters. It prefers dry chalky soils in sunny areas, but it will thrive in a rich soil with good drainage. Although it can now be found growing in many areas throughout the world, it should not be confused with the brush sage that grows in the desert areas.

Often, dried sage leaves are used as Culinary spices. Sage is, and has been, a staple in many households. Traditionally, it is used to prolong life. It is also used in lotions to help heal sores and other sin ailments. Fresh sage leaves are chewed in order to remedy infections of the mouth and throat. Gargling with sage can also be an effective way to help treat a sore throat. Additionally, sage helps with excessive mucus discharge, nasal drip, sores, and excessive saliva secretions. The herb has antipyretic qualities that have been known to help with fevers, night sweats, and related problems.

This herb is also beneficial for mental exhaustion and for increasing the ability to concentrate. Sage improves memory and has been used on some forms of mental illness. Also, it has been used to treat digestive disorders such as ulcers, nausea, and diarrhea. It is used topically as an antiseptic for sores, and sore gums. The herb is even used as a teeth cleaner or hair tonic.

Sage has been found in clinical studies to contain antioxidant properties. It is thought that the labiatic acid found within is the active constituent. Evidence has shown that there is some antimicrobial activity in this herb as well. Recent research using laboratory animals has found antispasmodic activity in sage extracts. This activity may account for its use as a digestive aid. It should be noted that those people with seizure disorders should only use sage under the supervision of a health-care provider.

The leaves of the sage plant are used to provide alterative, antigalactagogue, antihydrotic, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aromatic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, febrifuge, parasiticide, stimulant, and vulnerary properties. The primary nutrients found in this herb are calcium, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, sodium, sulfur, and vitamins A, B-complex, and C. Primarily, sage is extremely beneficial in dealing with coughs, diabetes, fevers, gastic disorders, sore gums, indigestion, infection, absent lactation, memory impairments, mental illnesses, mouth sores, nausea, nervous conditions, night sweats, sores, sore throat, and worms.

Additionally, this herb is very helpful in treating snake bits, blood infections, colds, cystitis, diarrhea, dysentery, flu, hair loss, headaches, kidney stones, laryngitis, lung congestion, mucus discharge, nasal drip, palsy, parasites, phlegm, sinus congestion, skin disorders, tonsillitis, ulcers, and yeast infections. In order to obtain the best results when supplementing with this, or any herb, it is important to consult your health care provider before beginning any regimen. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by sage, please feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.

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Date: June 10, 2009 11:34 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Borage Seed Oil (GLA)

Borage, often referred to as starflower, is an annual herb that originated in Syria. However, it was naturalized throughout the Mediterranean region and in Asia Minor, Europe, North Africa, and South America. The plant grows to a height of two to three feet, having a bristly hair all over the stems and leaves. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ranging from two to six inches in length, while the flower are complete with five narrow, triangular-pointed petals. The borage flower is most often blue in color, but occasionally pink flowers are observed. White flowers can also be cultivated. The borage plant has an indeterminate growth habit, which may lead to prolific spreading. In milder climates, borage will bloom for most of the year continuously.

Borage was often used to flavor wine drank by ancient Celtic warriors before going into battle because it held the reputation of enhancing both courage and strength. During the middle Ages, the leaves and flowers of the borage plant were combined with wine to relieve melancholy. The Roman scholar Pliny believed that this herb was useful for treating depression and lifting the spirits. John Gerard, a sixteenth-century herbalist, thought of borage as an herb to comfort the heart and increase joy.

In addition to its mood-boosting properties, borage is often used to treat bronchitis. This is because of its soothing effect and its ability to reduce inflammation and detoxify the body. Borage is known to help heal the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat and to stimulate activity in the kidneys and adrenal glands to rid the body of catarrh.

Also, borage is useful for restoring vitality during recovery from an illness. This herb is helpful for treating problems of the digestive system and has been used to increase quantity and quality of mother’s milk. Borage was traditionally cultivated for Culinary and medicinal uses, but today it is commercially cultivated as an oilseed. The seed oil provides a desired source of GLA, for which borage is the highest known plant-based source. Virgin borage oil contains essential fatty acids, especially when they are in concentrations with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This fatty acid can account for as much as 26 percent of the oil’s content. It is best known for its source of concentrated GLA. The borage plant is known to stimulate the adrenal glands to help the body during stressful times.

Borage includes use as either a fresh vegetable or a dried herb. As a fresh vegetable, borage has a cucumber-like taste and is often used in salads or as a garnish. The flower has a sweet honey-like taste and is one of the few truly blue-colored things that are edible, making it popular for the decoration of dessert.

The leaves of the borage plant are used to provide blood purifier, diaphoretic, febrifuge, galactoagogue, and purgative properties. The primary nutrients found in this herb include calcium and potassium. Primarily, borage is most beneficial in dealing with bronchitis, congestion, inflammation of the eyes, fevers, heart problems, absence of lactation, excessive mucus, PMS and rashes. Additionally, this herb is extremely helpful in treating blood impurities, colds, gastric disorders, insomnia, jaundice, lung disorders, nervous disorders, pleurisy, ringworm, and urinary problems.

Borage oil is available in softgel or bulk liquid forms at your local or internet health food store. Always purchase name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase. For more information on the beneficial effects of borage, please contact a representative from your local health food store.

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Date: March 16, 2009 03:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cold And Flue Remedies

Echinacea, zinc, vitamin C, and garlic are all the most well-known and respected supplements concerning the maintenance and strengthening of the immune system. Echinacea contains polysaccharides, flavonoids, caffeic acid derivatives, essential oils, polyacetylenes, and alkylamides, which contribute to the herb’s therapeutic benefits. These constituents are responsible for a variety of immuno-stimulatory, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer properties.

Echinacea possesses the ability to enhance the movement of white blood cells into infected areas of the body. Echinacea also affects many of the immune system’s cells that are responsible for slowing viral and bacterial infection. Additionally, this herb enhances the performance of macrophages in the immune system, which are responsible for engulfing foreign material like bacteria, viruses, and dead cellular matter. Echinacea also has the ability to kill viruses that indirectly encourage the production and release of interferon, which is a substance that potentially blocks the transcription of viral RNA.

Zinc has been recognized for an extended amount of time as a protection against colds. It is well known that zinc deficiencies are linked to immune system-related disorders as well as the increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. Zinc throat lozenges have become very popular in treating colds over the last few years. One recent study found that zinc is not only beneficial to the immune system, but also necessary for its optimal function.

Vitamin C is one of the most well-known nutrients for battling the effects of colds and flu. Its benefits have been known for years, with a large body of research indicating its effectiveness in reducing the severity and duration of colds an flu. Additionally, vitamin C acts as an immunostimulant by enhancing white blood cell production, increasing interferon levels and antibody responses, promotes secretion of thymic hormones, and improves connective tissue.

There is conflicting information on how much vitamin C one should take, but most experts agree that the FDA’s recommended dietary intake is not sufficient. Many doctors suggest taking large doses, as much as 10,000 mg when suffering from a cold or flu. One of the great things about vitamin C is that it can be found abundantly in many fruits and vegetables. The best food sources include broccoli, sweet peppers, collards, cabbage, spinach, kale, parsley, melons, potatoes, tangerines, and Brussels sprouts.

Garlic, which is extremely well known as a Culinary additive, is actually one of the most commonly used medicinal herbs as it is found throughout the world and employed for various therapeutic purposes for thousands of years. It is common in Chinese herbal medicine and has recently received a great deal of attention in the U.S. and other Western countries. Recent research has found that garlic possesses powerful capabilities relating the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infection. Garlic possesses antiviral and antibacterial capabilities and has been shown repeatedly to simulate and improve performance by the body’s immune systems. Studies on garlic have shown that it has the ability to actually kill flu and cold viruses. Garlic also can protect the body from invading virus cells by enhancing the body’s immune functions.

Additional herbs and natural supplements that are useful in fighting cold and flu viruses include goldenseal, pau d’arco, astragalus, licorice, peppermint, and beta carotene. No matter what you choose to do by way of a doctor or natural alternative, supplements such as these discussed have zero side effects if taken as recommended on the bottles label. Natural vitamins and herbs can be found at your local or internet health food store.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Vitamins and herbs are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.

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Date: February 10, 2009 01:18 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Turmeric Extract (Curcumin)

Curcumin is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that has the potential to provide far-reaching health benefits. It has been shown to be helpful in rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, diabetic retinopathy, and cancer. All of these diseases share underlying inflammation that curcumin may help to diminish.

If you have ever eaten curry or cooked with the spice turmeric, you’ve consumed curcumin. It is obtained from the roots of Curcuma longa and consists of several curcuminoids. Turmeric is biologically related to ginger. Curcumin works as an antioxidant, boosting levels of glutathione S-transferase, which is one of the body’s principal antioxidants. This antioxidant blocks the formation of prostaglandin E2, which is a compound that promotes inflammation within the body. Curcumin also inhibits two inflammation-promoting enzymes: COX-2 and 5-LOX. Additionally, curcumin is able to prevent mutations to DNA, which is an effect that helps to maintain younger, healthier cells.

A study conducted at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center in Tucson had researchers using a curcumin rich turmeric extract to treat rheumatoid arthritis in laboratory animals. The extract blocked joint inflammation as well as the breakdown of joint cartilage and bone. It did this by inhibiting the genes that are involved in inflammation. Curcumin also holds tremendous promise in preventing cancer, as well as an adjunct treatment. Studies on animals have found that curcumin can protect against colon, intestinal, oral, and skin cancers. Its benefits come from several mechanisms. First of all, it blocks the cell-growth cycle in cancer cells, which eventually leads to destruction. It also reduces free radicals and inflammation, both of which can lead to cancer-causing cell mutations.

Many studies have found that curcumin can protect the liver against a variety of toxic compounds, which is important news for those people who are suffering from liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis. In a recent study, researchers reported that curcumin increased the clearance of creatinine and urea, which are signs of improved kidney function. Additionally, curcumin reduced liver damage from toxic chemicals and excess iron.

Another study found that curcumin has the ability to inhibit the activation and spread of the liver cells that play a role in the development of cirrhosis. Japanese doctors have recently used curcumin, drugs, or placebos to treat 89 patients that have ulcerative colitis. These doctors found that a combination of curcumin and conventional medications resulted in the greatest benefits over six months of treatment. Patients in this study took 1,000 mg of curcumin after breakfast and again after dinner.

Inflammation is the underpinning of all chronic degenerative diseases, making curcumin likely to be beneficial for many different conditions. So far, research has identified curcumin’s benefits for diabetic retinopathy, lung disorders, and skin problems such as psoriasis. A dose of 3.6 g of curcumin reduced PGE2 levels by two-thirds in only one hour. After consuming curcumin daily for one month, PGE2 levels were 57 percent lower than before supplementation began.

Turmeric has been used as a Culinary spice for at least 2,000 years. It was listed in an Assyrian herbal in 600 BC, used by ancient Greeks, and widely recommended in Ayurvedic medicine. Native to India and other regions of South Asia, it may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and help maintain mental function. Curcumin is safe in amounts of 500 to 8,000 mg daily, with most supplements providing 500 mg of curcumin.

Turmeric has been proven safe in larger amounts, but is usually limited by taste as a spice. One should look for a standardized supplement that contains at least 90 percent curcumin. Standardized Turmeric can be found at your local or internet health food store.

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Date: November 28, 2008 10:04 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Holy Basil Extract

It has been proposed that holy basil extract can help you cope with stress, and an investigation into the active components of the plant does indicate that there could be a scientific basis behind this use of it. This is in line with most traditional Ayurvedic medicines, whose benefits have been supported by modern scientific evidence.

Holy basil, otherwise known as Tulsi or Tulasi in Sanskrit and Hindi, is correctly Ocimum tenuiflorum, an aromatic member of the Lamiaceae family just as the more common form of basil is (Ocimum basilicum). Holy basil is cultivated for several reasons, the major ones being for its essential oils, for Culinary use, religious use and for its medicinal properties. It is grown right across South Asia. Thai holy basil is used in Thai cookery while other forms play an important role within some of the traditions of Hinduism and is found profusively around Hindu temples.

Holy basil extract has been used for thousands of years for its healing and medicinal properties, and is mentioned in the ancient Ayurvedic text, the Charaka Samhita. It is written that it is used to balance a number of bodily processes and believed to be involved in promoting longevity. It is considered to be able to allow the body to adapt to stress and is also used to treat a large number of different medical conditions, from headaches to malaria and heart disease.

Most modern medical studies, however, have been carried out on animals rather than human subjects, so definitive evidence is lacking, and while there is evidence that tulsi extract might be an effective antioxidant and help in the control of blood sugar, there is also compelling evidence that it might be able to counteract the effects of stress. First, let's have a look at the active ingredients of holy basil extract, and how they fit in with the beneficial medical properties claimed.

One of the more important components of tulsi is eugenol, or 1-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4-allylbenzene. Eugenol is a phenylpropanoid, also found in clove oil, and is a COX-2 inhibitor that is used in medicine as a local anesthetic. Two others are the triterpenes oleanolic and ursolic acids, which possess anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. The pentacyclic ursolic acid can inhibit the development of various forms of cancers through the inhibition of the STAT3 pathway that is responsible for several types of human cancer that have poor prognosis.

Also present in holy basil extract is the polyphenol Rosmarinic acid which is a powerful antioxidant that is also present in herbs such as rosemary, oregano and thyme. Rosmarinic acid will also contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of holy basil, and many of the antibacterial properties it is said to possess could be due to carvacrol, a terpene that damages bacterial cell membranes and inhibits the growth of a number of bacterial strains.

Another component of Tulsi is the sesquiterpene B-caryophyllene, also contained in clove oil, and also possessing anti-inflammatory properties in mice. It is unknown whether or not these properties are transferred to humans, but the evidence of the use of the plant is that they are. Beta-caryophyllene is an FDA approved food additive, and as such, a dietary cannabinoid. Apegenin, also present in tulsi, is a flavanoid and another strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

With all of these ingredients that have proven health benefits, it is little wonder that holy basil is claimed to have the health benefits that it has. But what about its effects on blood sugar that it is said to control? It's probably not a coincidence that many other herbs that contain eugenol, such as cloves, are also claimed to have the same moderating effect on blood sugar levels. Not only that, but since diabetes is an inflammatory condition, it is not surprising that holy basil extract, that is rich in ant-inflammatories, should possess this property.

The main theory is that many of the components of holy basil can help support the beta cell function of the pancreas, and so enhance the secretion of insulin. In one of the few controlled human tests, a group of 40 people with Type 2 diabetes stopped taking their normal medication seven days before the test. They were then given holy basil leaves for an initial period of 5 days. Half were then given 2.5g powder holy basil leaf and the other half a placebo for 4 weeks. The two groups then switched over for 4 weeks - the first being on the placebo, and the second taking the holy basil.

With the first group, the average fasting glucose level dropped by 25.9%, from 234.5 mg/dl to 99.7. After switching to the placebo for 4 weeks it increased to 115.6 mg/dl (15.9% increase). The fasting blood glucose of the second group dropped from an average of 132.4 to 123.2 (6.9%), and then when on the holy basil leaf, dropped further to 97.2 mg/dl (21.1%).

This demonstrates clearly that holy basil leaf reduces blood sugar significantly faster than fasting, and so is beneficial to Type 2 diabetics. Perhaps more such studies should be carried out to confirm these important results, which appear to conform to the theory that the components of the plant should have this type of effect on blood sugar levels.

How about stress? Tulsi is said to particularly useful to people suffering from stress. The human stress response is an inflammatory cascade in which the immune system reacts by attempting to repair the stressed areas. If this response gets out of hand the stress can be exacerbated, and it is important that the stress response is carried put at an appropriate level.

A COX-2 modulator can prevent the inflammatory cascade by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme that causes it. Since eugenol is a COX-2 inhibitor, it can help to keep the body healthy and prevent the stress reaction. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of many of the components of holy basil extract can help to prevent the body being stressed by antioxidants and by today's environmental pollution and it also possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties to help reduce illness.

It is also an adaptogen, which enhances your natural response to emotional stress and helps your body functional normally when stressed. Studies have indicated that holy basil extracts can reduce the levels of corticosterone, a hormone responsible for stress, and improve your mood and mental clarity. Longer term effects can include memory improvement and a reduction in the risk of age-related mental conditions.

The active factors involved in the reduction of mental stress, and an increase in mental clarity, are the essential oils that tulsi contains, and their chemical components: particularly eugenol and caryophyllene. Studies have shown these to elevate the spirit and the mood, while the terpene acids, such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, can help to improve your body's response to stress.

There are very few doubts of the effect of holy basil extract (or tulsi extract and leaf) in improving mood, mental clarity and reducing the effects of stress, or of its other extensive beneficial medical effects. More studies might be needed to prove them to the medical community, but even now people suffering from diabetes mellitus are benefiting from its moderating effect on blood sugar levels, and once again the application of Ayurvedic medicine is being proved as effective in the modern era as it was in the ancient world.

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Date: June 20, 2008 02:08 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Dandelion

That common yard or roadside plant you see during the growing season can be your ally against sickness and disease. The common dandelion has many essential vitamins and minerals inherent in it that can be part of your health regimen. Dandelions are an all-natural way to promote good health when used wisely.

The dandelion root and leaves contain vitamins A, C and D, as well as the B-complexes. They also contain iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, potassium, manganese, choline, boron, calcium and silicon. Choline has shown to improve memory function. Dandelion has found use as a treatment for breast illnesses, bloating (water retention), aching joints, skin problems and gastrointestinal disorders. It is also as a gentle diuretic and a purifier for the bloodstream and liver.

This plant contains luteolin, which is an antioxidant and beneficial as an immune system enhancer. Luteolin helps inhibit the degradation and wearing down of the body's cells. What's great about dandelion and its antioxidant properties is the fact that there is no toxic effect on cells associated with it.

Dandelions are also a medicinal herb. They increase waste elimination in the body through the urine. Like green tea's effects, this excretion of water and waste can lead to weight-loss. Dandelion is available naturally, as well as in pill, liquid, tablets and tea form. The Puritans used it strictly as a vegetable, although some who eat it as a prepared dish consider it to have a bitter taste.

This plant has ranked high in many categories. It is one of the top six herbs in the Chinese herbal medicine chest. It is one of the top four green vegetables rated for overall nutritional value according to the USDA Bulletin #8, "Composition of Foods" (Haytowitz and Matthews, 1984). It is food rich in fiber. This is important because fiber is an essential component of a complete weight-loss program. Fiber absorbs fat molecules and aids in their elimination from the body. This prevents fats from absorbing into the body.

The dandelion is part of the sunflower family. It is prevalent in temperate regions in Europe, Asia and North America. This plant finds itself a big part of Culinary recipes. Taking the dandelion in this form is good for health, as it is in its most natural, unprocessed state. Some use dandelion as a tea to help in the fight against fever, insomnia and jaundice. Dandelion tea can also aid those who have rheumatism, eczema, constipation and even skin diseases.

It aids digestion by stimulating stomach secretions. However, it does increase the flow of bile in one's system, so you should not take dandelion if you have obstruction of the bile ducts. While generally safe, like anything else, you should consult a doctor when trying something new in your diet. This is to make sure it doesn't have harmful side effects or interact negatively with other herbs and medications.

For women, dandelion helps because of its diuretic capabilities. This means it helps eliminate excess water from a woman's system, which causes bloating.

Those who experience premenstrual syndrome may find dandelion helps bring down their bloating and weight gain associated with water retention.

Another promising aspect of dandelion is the fact it contains lecithin. Lecithin is a lipid that contains choline primarily, along with inositol, phosphorous and linoleic acid. Lecithin elevates the brain's acetylcholine, which helps brain function. This, some researchers believe, may help slow down or stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Dandelion, again because of lecithin inherent in it, is beneficial for prevention of arteriosclerosis and cardiovascular disease too.

Sometimes we need to look only in our own backyards and surrounding environments to find plentiful foods that are healthy. Dandelions are one of earth's products that have found use for centuries. Whether as a recipe ingredient, a tea or a pill, dandelion is versatile. When used with care, it can help with weight-loss and be a health enhancer at the same time.

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Date: April 30, 2008 10:40 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Curcumin, Curcuminoids, and Curamin

Curcumin, a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, possesses many potentially far-reaching health benefits. After many studies preformed on humans, animals, and in-vitro, it has been found that curcumin may be helpful in rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, pancreatitis, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, diabetic retinopathy, and cancer. All of these previously listed diseases share an underlying inflammation, which can be diminished by curcumin.

If you have ever eaten curry or cooked with the spice turmeric, you’ve consumed curcumin. Curcumin, which consists of several curcuminoids, is the active constituent of turmeric, which is used in curry. Turmeric is biologically related to ginger. Curcumin works as an antioxidant by boosting levels of glutathione S-transferase, which is one of the body’s main antioxidants. It also blocks the formation of the prostaglandin E2, which is compound that promotes inflammation within the body. Curcumin also inhibits the activity of nuclear factor kappa beta, which is another substance that is involved in inflammation. Additionally, it reduces the activity of COX-2 and 5-LOX, which are two more inflammation-promoting enzymes. Lastly, curcumin prevents mutations that can result in DNA, which helps to maintain healthier, younger cells.

Curcumin taken as a supplement can help with any conditions and diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, liver and kidney protection, ulcerative colitis, and other inflammatory diseases. A study using a curcumin-rich turmeric extract done at the University of Arizona Health Sciences Center in Tucson, treated rheumatoid arthritis in laboratory animals. The results showed that this extract blocked joint inflammation as well as the breakdown of joint cartilage and bone by inhibiting the genes that are involved in inflammation. Curcumin also holds a great amount of promise in preventing cancer and also as an adjunct treatment.

Animal studies have shown that curcumin can protect against colon, intestinal, oral, and skin cancers as its benefits come from several mechanisms. First of all, it blocks the cell-growth cycle in cancer cells, which leads to cell destruction. Additionally, it reduces free radicals by its antioxidant properties, which can lead to cancer-causing cell mutations. Studies have also found that curcumin can protect the liver from a variety of toxic compounds. One recent study left researchers reporting that curcumin increased the clearance of creatinine and urea, which are signs of improved kidney function. It also reduced liver damage from toxic chemicals and excess iron.

Japanese doctors have recently used curcumin to treat patients with ulcerative colitis. A combination of curcumin and conventional medications has led to the best benefits over six months of treatment. Since inflammation is the root of all chronic degenerative diseases, curcumin is likely to be beneficial for many different conditions. So far, research has identified curcumin’s benefits for diabetic retinopathy, lung disorders, and skin problems including psoriasis.

Turmeric, which is the source of curcumin, has been used as a Culinary spice for the past 2,000 years, was used by ancient Greeks, and is now a widely recommended Ayurvedic medicine. It is native to India and other regions of South Asia. By eating a lot of curry, which is rich in curcumin, you may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and help to maintain mental function. One study proved that people who often ate curry had half the risk of becoming mentally impaired. By eating curry on occasion, the risk of mental decline can be reduced by a little more than a third. Curcumin can be safely taken in amounts from 500 to 8,000 mg daily. Look for a standardized supplement containing at least 90 percent curcumin.

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Date: April 14, 2008 03:11 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Great Taste, Lower Cholesterol, Triglycerides, And Blood Sugar

Cinnamon, a spice that every child loves, known to be added to many Culinary foods to enrich the tastes buds. Cinnamon is a very old spice mentioned in the bible and popular in ancient Egypt, once was considered more valuable than gold. There are several varieties of cinnamon available on the market. Chinese or cassia and Ceylon which are found in grocery and health food stores alike.

Cinnamon has been used for the same things over the centuries, as a food and drink additive as well as medicinal purposes cinnamon was one of the first spices to be traded between Europe and the Far East.

Today, cinnamon is used for cooking, baking, and medicinal purposes where recent studies suggest this herb might help equalize blood sugar levels. Several studies suggest that cinnamon may help prevent blood platelets from sticking together in the blood as well as lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Cinnamon is available in power, oil, or whole bark (water soluble and oil soluble) for every need and application you may come across. This herb comes from the cinnamon tree (bark), and can stay fresh un-refrigerated for up to 6 months and longer if left refrigerated and kept in an air tight bottle.

Have you had your cinnamon today?

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Date: March 08, 2007 02:39 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Oil of Oregano – The Natural Antiseptic

Oregano is an aromatic herb that grows in the Mediterranean region, and is cultivated in many areas of the world. It is a member of the Lamiaceae or mint family, a plant family recognized for square stems and opposing pairs of leaves. The ancient Greek’s original name for this plant, “oreganos”, translated to “Delight of the Mountains”. It earns this name because the fragrance that is exuded, which has been described as complex, warm and spicy. The Greeks believed that if their cows ate oregano, it gave the meat a better flavor. Today, Oregano is recognized internationally as a Culinary spice. It is a popular herb with Americans, especially in the distinctive aroma of Italian style cooking. Aromatic spices have been used through out the world for centuries for both their distinctive flavor and aroma as well as for their medicinal qualities.

Oregano is rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamin A and C, niacin, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron and manganese. In addition, the herb contains many active chemical constituents that provide beneficial support to our bodies, such as thymol and carvacrol these components strongly discourage the growth of microorganisms, as action recognized by traditional herbalists throughout history as well as supported by modern scientific research. Oregano additionally provides antioxidant activities, useful to offset the effects of free radical damage.

There is a lot of confusion about oregano, because there are many plants throughout the world that are called oregano. Marjoram is often referred to as oregano, because it is a close cousin to the “true” oregano, and the genus and species name of marjoram is Origanum marjorana. To add to the confusion, the plant called oregano in Spain, Thymus nummularius, is different than Mexican oregano, Lippia graveolens. It is important to be aware of this because different species have different chemical constituents. The active ingredient, carvacrol, is found in high amounts only in “true” oregano, origanum vulare, the exact species that vitamin supplement manufacture use.

It takes approximately 200 pounds of oregano to produce 2 pounds of oregano oil. This highly concentrated form provides you with a quality plant remedy containing all the important volatile oils intact, thus remaining true to maintaining the plant in its holistically balanced state.

Oregano oil is exceptional in its ability to destroy many different kinds of pathogenic (disease-causing) microorganisms. It has a stronger effect than commercial preparations of phenol, a well-recognized medical antiseptic. Disease causing microorganisms including bacteria, fungus, virus and parasites are involved in illnesses ranging from colds and flues to gingivitis of the gums, athlete’s foot and candida. Oregano oil has been shown in scientific studies to actively inhibit and destroy E. Coli, candida albacans and the bacteria’s that cause strep and staff infection. It has been used for diarrhea, intestinal gas and digestive problems, as well as sore throats and minor breathing difficulties in traditional herbology. Oil of Oregano can act as an immediate first aid for insect bites and minor cuts and scrapes as well as dandruff, diaper rash and other skin disorders.

Unlike pharmaceutical drug antibiotics, Oregano oil does not cause the development of resistant strains of bacteria. Although it is always possible for an individual to have an allergic reaction to any substance, there are no known adverse effects to Oil of oregano.

Try Oil of Oregano on the skin for external conditions such as athlete’s foot. A few drops can be diluted in a teaspoon of water and used to brush the gums to help with gingivitis. Due to its high concentration, suggested internal use is just four drops (Start with one drop) in a full glass of water, three times per day. Each four drop dose of Nature’s Answer Oil of Oregano provides 13mgs of Oregano oil, which is guaranteed to contain a minimum of 7mg of Carvacrol. It is also available from Nature’s Answer in soft gel form.

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Date: November 03, 2006 04:00 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Enjoy Some Nuts Every Day

Although high in fat, nuts contain oils that reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Nuts also contain potentially cardio protective components including phytosterols, tocopherols and squalene. Walnuts, almonds, pecans, Brazil nuts and macadamia nuts were all found to be good sources of these compounds. Diets that included one or two servings of macadamia nuts a day have been shown in studies done in Brisbane Australia and Honolulu Hawaii to improve blood lipid profiles as effectively as low-fat, complex carbohydrate diets. Furthermore, scientists at the Harvard School of Public Health found that eating nuts and peanut butter reduced the risk of type II diabetes in women. The researchers suggest that nuts might replace refined grain products, and red or processed meats as a way to limit caloric intake.

The Lowly Goober Gets New Respect

Americans eat more peanuts and peanut butter than all other nuts combined. A Pennsylvania State University study of 13,000 men, women and children revealed that peanut eaters have higher intakes of several hard-to-get nutrients compared to those who did not consume peanuts. Peanut butter and peanut eaters have increased levels of vitamin A, vitamin E, folate, Calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron and phytonutrients resveratrol, beta sitosterol and p-courmaric acid. What’s more, peanut eaters also had leaner bodies than non peanut eaters. This study helps to dispel the myth that higher-fat foods automatically lead to weight gain.

The peanut Butter Diet evolved from studies such as this that showed the benefits of eating peanuts and peanut butter, particularly their high satiety factor. In one small study, ten health workers aged fifty-plus, consumed 1500 calories healthy and moderate fat (35%) diet that included two tablespoons of peanut butter eaten twice a day. The woman had at least one cardiovascular risk factor – high blood pressure, altered blood lipids or diabetes. Peanut butter was chosen because previous studies at Harvard/Brigham Women’s hospital had shown that over an eighteen-month period, three times as many women stuck with a diet that included peanut butter or peanuts, because of a hunger curbing effects.

Peanuts contain about 2 grams of fiber per tablespoon and when spread on two slices of whole-wheat bread, deliver six grams of fiber. Peanut butter makes some yummy sauces. The barbecued ribs a group of scientists and I prepared during a recent weekend at the Culinary Institute of America Greystone in California’s Napa Valley where the best I have ever eaten.

Tropical Oils

The term refers to coconut, palm kernel and palm oils. These oils contain a variety of fatty acids, but unlike olive, macadamia and peanut oils, which contain high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and are liquid at room temperature; tropical oils have high levels of saturated fats and are solid at room temperature. They are gaining popularity as food manufacturers push to replace hydrogenated oils that contain trans fats. The latest hoopla over coconut oil has been its inclusion in weight loss regimens. Two books featuring coconut products have hit bestseller lists. Moderate increase of tropical oils including coconut and palm appear to improve blood lipid profiles largely because of their high lauric acid content.

The health benefits of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) such as caprylic and lauric have been known for some time. Lauric acid has been found to improve blood lipids and red palm oil is rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene and tocotrienols, the vitamin E active constituent. However, there is concern among some experts that eating to many saturated fats, including the tropical oils used to make trans fat free margarine and shortening, can have deleterious effects on cardiovascular health.

In addition, there are differences in processing palm and palm kernel oils that make some choices unhealthy. According to Dr. Andrew Weil palm oil is a better choice than palm kernel oil because chemical solvents are needed to extract palm kernel oil while none are required to press the oil from palm fruit. Fractionation is used to process palm and palm kernel oil and eliminates many of their natural antioxidants, which makes them the least desirable of the tropical oils. It seems prudent to check ingredient labels for fractionated palm kernel oil and avoid it. Best of all, look for Now Organic Coconut Oil that has an impressive resume for boosting immunity. It also has a distinctive flavor to foods prepared with an eastern Indian theme.

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Date: August 01, 2006 10:41 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Wasabi Rhizome Cleanse - Supports Phase II Liver Detoxification - Wasabi Health Benefits

Most people know of it as a pale-green lump on the side of their plates in Japanese restaurants—a hot, spicy accompaniment to sushi or sashimi. The fiery yet sweet taste perfectly compliments the saltiness of soy sauce and the cool delicacy of raw fish. But wasabi is much more than a burst of Culinary flavor, it has been used by traditional herbalists of Japan since the 10th century and is now being rediscovered by modern health practitioners for its stunning health benefits.

Wasabi has powerful detoxification properties, in particular, it supports the immune system and cleanses the liver. Wasabi contains precursors to phytochemicals called isothiocyanates that help remove toxic substances that are stored in the liver’s fatty tissues.

The rare wasabi plant is a natural, potent support to a healthy, cleansed liver that in turn affects the detoxification and cleansing of the entire body. Source Naturals is pleased to bring you this convenient, effective addition to your wellness program.

Wasabia Japonica - Rooted In Health

The wasabi plant (Wasabia japonica) grows naturally in the mountains of Japan in the gravel and sandbars of coldwater streams and rivers. Rare and difficult to grow, it takes three years for a wasabi root or rhizome to reach maturity. Because of its popularity, wasabi is now cultivated hydroponically and in cold, wet environments outside of Japan, such as in New Zealand and Oregon. Traditionally, the rhizome was freshly grated at the table with a sharkskin grater, popular with dishes such as seafood or udon noodles. Now wasabi is usually dried into powder form and made into the pale green paste familiar to most westerners. Often, however, restaurants do not serve real wasabi; since it is so rare and expensive, a dyed horseradish paste is served in most American restaurants.

What makes wasabi so special? It comes from a good family; the brassica vegetables in the cruciferae family include such health giants as broccoli, horseradish, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and kale. All of these are well-known detoxifying plants, and wasabi appears to be the most amazing of them all, with detox capacities far beyond the others in the family because it is loaded with isothiocyanate precursors. This chemical not only gives wasabi its famous “fire,” it is likewise a fireball of detoxification properties.

Phase II Detox

The liver detoxifies the by-products of digestion and other harmful substances through a complex series of chemical reactions often referred to as Phase I and Phase II Detoxification. Phase I enzymes begin the process by taking the toxic molecule and changing it into a bioactive form. This process breaks down toxins. A second set of enzymes, Phase II, then neutralizes the toxin and makes it water soluble for elimination. Wasabi, with its long-chain isothiocyanate precursors, induces the Phase II enzymes. Simply stated, it is the sparkplug that starts Phase II enzymes on their work. This process, all done in the liver, supports the body’s ability to clean itself of impurities.

Part of a Complete Wellness Program

In the modern world, with so many pollutants, it is critical to your health and longevity that you cleanse these toxic compounds from your body. Wasabi, along with a whole food, high-fiber diet and reduction of alcohol consumption, supports the liver— the largest of the vital organs and the key to the digestion and elimination systems and most particularly, the body’s ability to cleanse itself. Source Naturals is pleased to bring you this exceptional product as part of your wellness program.

Research

Depree, JA (1999) Flavour and pharmaceutical properties of the volatile sulphur compounds of Wasabia japonica. Food Research International: 31(5):329-337.

Morimitsu Y, et al. (2002) A sulforaphane analogue that potently activates the Nrf2-dependent detoxification pathway. J Biol Chem: 277:3456-3463.

Munday, R (2002) Selective induction of phase II enzymes in the urinary bladder of rats by allyl isothiocyanate, a compound derived from Brassica vegetables.

Nutrition and Cancer: 44(1):52-59.

Watanabe, M (2003) Identification of 6-methylsulfinylhexyl isothiocyanate as an apoptosis-inducing component in wasabi. Phytochemistry: 62(5):733-739.

Rose, P (2000) 7-methylsulfinylheptyl and 8- methylsulfinyloctyl isothiocyanates from watercress are potent inducers of phase II enzymes. Carcinogenesis: 21(11):1983-1988.

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Date: December 23, 2005 12:27 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: HERBAL EXTRACTS FOR IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT

Nature’s Apothecary

"HERBAL EXTRACTS FOR IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT AND DETOXIFICATION"

For years, Nature’s Apothecary’s reputation for producing high quality natural products, specifically multi-herb and single herb extracts and aromatherapy products, has been unparalleled. This family-owned, environmentally-conscious herbal extract company has laid deep roots on the front range of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, and in the natural products industry as well. NOW® is proud to continue their tradition of excellence in providing only the highest quality natural herbal extracts with the purchase of this premier liquid herbal extract supplier. We’re committed to using the same processes and procedures that have made the Nature’s Apothecary line one of quality and longevity.

Nature’s Apothecary herbal extracts are created with pure herbs grown on small organic farms, or herbs that have been ethically hand-harvested with respect for the earth, just as herbalists have done for thousands of years. While the various herbs used in these formulations offer a broad range of health benefits, two of the most important are immune system enhancement and detoxification. Herbs have a long history of usefulness in these categories. There is evidence of the use of herbs by Stone Age humans, who either cultivated or gathered hundreds of herbs and plants for a variety of uses. The histories of various cultures are filled with references to the use of herbs. Ancient Sumerians, Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, Chinese, Europeans, and American Indians – all used herbs to heal and to nourish. Herbs that support the immune system and provide detoxification benefits were, and still are, very popular. Two of the most effective are Astragalus and Shiitake Mushroom.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a member of the legume family and is considered an adaptogenic herb in traditional Chinese medicine, where it has been safely used for centuries. Native to central and western Asia, specifically China, Korea and Taiwan, Astragalus offers a unique benefit found in very few herbs - it seems to selectively support immune system function by stimulating certain immune functions and depressing others. One reason is that Astragalus has a high selenium content, a trace element with documented immune system benefits. It also contains polysaccharides and flavonoids, which support healthy immune system function as well as minimizing the effects of free radicals on various membranes. The mechanisms of action through which Astragalus supports immune system function are varied. It has shown promise as a means to stimulate “resting” immune system cells, increasing their activity. Research shows that Astragalus supports the body’s production of immunoglobulins, macrophages, T cells and natural killer (NK) cells, the grunts of the immune system’s army. Astragalus has been shown to support healthy cardiovascular function by protecting membranes from oxidative stress as a result of free radical damage.

Shiitake Mushroom (Lentinula edodes) is a Culinary delight with some serious health benefits. The name Shiitake is from a combination of shiia, the Japanese word for a variety of chestnut tree, and take, the Japanese name for mushrooms.

Shiitake is also referred to as the Forest Mushroom and the Black Forest Mushroom. Indigenous to Eastern Asia, primarily Japan and China, Shiitake is Japan’s leading agricultural export, accounting for about eighty percent of the world’s Shiitake production. While it’s Culinary reputation is well-known, Shiitake is also a medicinal herb with a long history of use. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Shiitake is well-regarded and has been used to treat a variety of ailments. Modern research has shown that Shiitake supports healthy immune system function and cardiovascular health, primarily due to the naturally-occurring nutrients found in Shiitake. It contains an excellent B vitamin profile, as well as amino acids, protein, iron, and beta glucan, a major structural component in the cell walls of most fungi, including Shiitake. Beta glucan has been shown to support healthy immune system function by stimulating the activity of phagocytes, white blood cells and NK (natural killer) cells, vital components of the body’s immune system defenses. Astragalus and Shiitake Mushroom are just a few of the immune supporting herbal extracts to be found in the Nature’s Apothecary line. With over 250 SKU’s, Nature’s Apothecary is your best source for high-quality, effective herbal extracts.

References:
1) Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription For Herbal Healing, Avery, Penguin Putnam, 2002
2) Astragalus membranaceus. (Monograph), Thorne Research Inc., The Gale Group, 2003
3) Halpern, Georges M. & Miller, Andrew H. Medicinal Mushrooms: Ancient Remedies for Modern Ailments, M. Evans and Company, Inc. 2002
4) Longe, J.L. Shiitake Mushroom, Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, 2001

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Boost immune system at Vitanet ®

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Date: September 15, 2005 09:58 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Oregano Complete with Carvacrol

Introducting Oregano Complete with Carvacrol

The answer to serious Self-Care

Solaray Provides a "Complete" Oregano - not just for pizza anymore ...

100% Vegetarian

1: An aromatic Phenolic compound found in plants such as oregano and savory and used in flavorings.

2: Source of the antioxidant and immune function support in oregano.

Solaray guarantees that the Wild Oregano oil found in the Oregano Complete formula contains at least 70% Carvacrol - to ensure your customers gain the optimal health benefits from this powerful product.

**The Green Screened from the Wild logo represents Solaray's commitment to providing herbs of the utmost quality. The logo distinguished this product because it is wild sourced and as pure as Mother Nature intended.

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Vitanet ®

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Cinnamon Bark - Live Life to the Fullest

Date: September 10, 2005 01:46 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cinnamon Bark - Live Life to the Fullest

The Spice of Life

Once traded for gold, cinnamon has also been used traditionally for its benificial properties and is currently being studied for its reputed role in blood glucose support. In addition, this precious spice offers antioxidant protection from harmful free radicals.

One of the world's most popular and teasured spices, Cinnamon Bark has a long history of use not only for Culinary purposes, but also for dyspeptic complaints such as mild spasms of the gastrointestinal tract, bloating, flatulence, and as a digestive and respitory aid.

Cinnamon may well be worth its weight in gold.

Live Life to the Fullest

2 Capsules contain 1000mg Cinnamon Bark - Vegetarian - Easy to swallow

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Vitanet ®

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Cinnamon may control sugar levels...

Date: July 08, 2005 10:48 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cinnamon may control sugar levels...

Best Cinnamon

Cinnamon,
a staple ingredient in apple pie, has remained one of the
world's favorite spices throughout recorded history. The
evergreen cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum verum), considered to be
true cinnamon, is native to Sri Lanka. Chinese cinnamon
(Cinnamomum cassia or Cinnamomum aromaticum), the cinnamon most
commonly sold in the U.S., goes by the name “Cassia.” Usage of
cinnamon in Chinese medicine is said to date back over 4,000
years. Mentioned in the Bible, cinnamon was imported to Egypt
and Europe from the Far East by 500 B.C. In addition to its
value as Culinary spice, cinnamon has traditionally been
utilized as a folk medicine for colds and minor digestive
complaints. True cinnamon and cassia are very similar; cassia
has a more pungent flavor. Cassia buds can be found in potpourri
and used as a flavoring agent in sweets and
beverages.1

Recent research has revealed that constituents in
cinnamon bark called procyanidin Type-A polymers help maintain
the body's ability to metabolize glucose in a healthy way.* Best
Cinnamon Extract is Cinnulin PF®, a patented, water extract of
Cinnamon that contains Type-A polymers. Cinnulin PF® is a
registered trademark of Integrity Nutraceuticals International
and is manufactured under US Patent #
6,200,569.

Benefits

Use as Part of Your Diet to Help
Maintain a Healthy Blood Sugar Level*

In Vitro and Animal
Studies

Research has revealed that a number of herbs and
spices have insulin-like activity.2 In a study by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA), cinnamon demonstrated the
greatest ability to stimulate cellular glucose metabolism among
49 botanicals tested.3

In a 2001 study, researchers at the
USDA's Human Nutrition Research Center showed that bioactive
compounds in cinnamon trigger an insulin-like response in fat
cells.4 These compounds stimulated glucose uptake into cells and
increased glycogen (stored glucose) production via activation of
the enzyme, glycogen synthase.

The bioactive compounds in
cinnamon appear to potentiate insulin activity at the level of
the cell receptor for insulin. It has been shown that insulin
resistance involves down regulation of “insulin signaling”
characterized by dephosphorylation of the receptor.5 Enzymes
called “protein tyrosine kinases” (PTPases) are believed to
decrease receptor phosphorylation, and increased PTPase activity
has been observed in insulin resistant rats.6 Cinnamon compounds
have demonstrated the in vitro ability to inhibit PTP-1 and
increase autophosphorylation of the insulin receptor.7

In a
recent animal study, cinnamon (cassia) extract was administered
to rats for three weeks. Following this, the rats were infused
with insulin and glucose to assess their insulin response.
Increased phosphorylation of the insulin receptor was observed
in skeletal muscle of these rats, suggesting that cinnamon has
the ability to potentiate insulin function by normalizing
insulin signaling, leading to improved uptake of glucose into
skeletal muscle.8

Until recently, the precise molecular
structure of the bioactive compounds in cinnamon had not been
clearly defined. The USDA has now determined that the bioactive
compounds in cinnamon are water-soluble procyanidin Type-A
polymers of catechin and epicatechin. In a 2004 study, type-A
polymers were isolated from cinnamon and characterized by
nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectroscopy. Type-A
polymers were found to increase in vitro insulin activity by a
factor of 20. Type-A polymers also exhibited antioxidant
activity, as measured by inhibition of free radical production
in platelets. These results suggest that, in addition to
regulating glucose metabolism, cinnamon may help protect cell
membranes by controlling the lipid peroxidation associated with
disruptions in insulin function.9

HUMAN CLINICAL TRIALS

The effect of cinnamon on glucose and blood lipids
levels on people with type 2 diabetes was tested in a recent
randomized, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 60 subjects
were divided into six groups administered 1, 3, or 6 grams of
cinnamon daily, in 500 mg capsules, or equal numbers of placebo
capsules.

The cinnamon or placebo capsules were consumed for
two periods of 20 days each. Serum glucose, triglyceride,
cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol were measured
after 20 days, 40 days and again at the end of a 20-day wash-out
period, during which neither cinnamon nor placebo was
consumed.

In all three cinnamon groups, statistically
significant reductions in blood glucose levels occurred, with
decreases ranging from 18 to 29 percent. Interestingly, glucose
levels remained significantly lower after the 20-day wash-out
period (60 days from the study start) only in the group that
took the lowest cinnamon dose (1 gram daily). The placebo groups
showed no significant changes.

Decreases in triglyceride
levels ranging from 23 to 30% were observed in all three
cinnamon groups after 40 days. When the study ended at 60 days,
triglyceride levels remained lower than at the study start in
the 1 and 3 gram cinnamon groups, but not in the group taking 6
grams daily. Cholesterol reductions also occurred with the three
cinnamon doses, with decreases ranging from 13 to 25% that were
maintained at the study end. For LDL, the 3 and 6 gram cinnamon
groups showed significant reductions from 10 to 24%, while in
the 1 gram cinnamon group, non-significant reductions occurred
after 40 days; LDL levels continued to decrease, reaching
statistical significance at 60 days. With respect to HDL,
significant increases were seen only in the 3 gram cinnamon
group after 20 days; non-significant changes occurred in the 1
and 6 gram groups after 40 days.

The overall results of this
trial demonstrate that cinnamon exerts a beneficial effect on
blood glucose and lipid levels in people with type 2 diabetes,
at daily intakes of 1 gram, and that this low dose is equally
efficacious as are the higher doses of 3 and 6
grams.10

Safety

The various species of cinnamon are
classified as GRAS (generally regarded as safe) herbs.11 The
Botanical Safety Handbook lists Cinnamomum cassia a “Class 2b”
herb; not to be used during pregnancy.12 The water-soluble
cinnamon extract is largely free of the lipid-soluble components
of cinnamon most likely to be toxic at high dose of cinnamon and
long-term consumption of the herb.9

*This statement has not
been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product
is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any
disease.

Scientific References

1. Manniche, L. An Ancient
Egyptian Herbal. 1989, Austin , TX : University of Texas
Press.

2. Khan A, Bryden NA, Polansky MM, Anderson RA.
Insulin potentiating factor and chromium content of selected
foods and spices. Biol Trace Elem Res 1990;24(3):183-8.

3.
Broadhurst CL, Polansky MM, Anderson R. Insulin-like biological
activity of Culinary and medicinal plant aqueous extracts in
vitro. J Agric Food Chem 2000;48(3):849-52.

4. Jarvill-Taylor
KJ, Anderson RA, Graves DJ. A hydroxychalcone derived from
cinnamon functions as a mimetic for insulin in 3T3-L1
adipocytes. J Am Coll Nutr 2001;20(4):327-36.

5. Nadiv O,
Shinitzky M, Manu H, et al. Elevated protein tyrosine
phosphatase activity and increased membrane viscosity are
associated with impaired activation of the insulin receptor
kinase in old rats. Biochem J. 1998;298(Pt 2):443-50.

6.
Begum N, Sussman KE, Draznin B. Differential effects of diabetes
on adipocyte and liver phosphotyrosine and phsophoserine
phosphatase activities. Diabetes 1991;40(12):1620-9.

7.
Imparl-Radosevich J, Deas S, Polansky MM, et al. Regulation of
PTP-1 and insulin receptor kinase by fractions from cinnamon:
implications for cinnamon regulation of insulin signalling. Horm
Res 1998;50:177-182.

8. Qin B, Nagasaki M, Ren M, et al.
Cinnamon extract (traditional herb) potentiates in vivo
insulin-regulated glucose utilization via enhanced insulin
signaling in rats. Diabetes Res Clin Pract
2003;62(3):139-48.

9. Anderson R, Broadhurst CL, Polansky MM,
et al. Isolation and characterization of polyphenol type-A
polymers from cinnamon with insulin-like biological activity. J
Agric Food Chem 2004; 52(1):65-70.

10. Khan A, Safdar S,
Muzaffar M, et al. Cinnamon improves glucose and lipids of
people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care
2003;26(12):3215-18.

11. Duke, JA. Handbook of Phytochemical
Constituents of GRAS Herbs and Other Economic Plants. 1992. Boca
Raton, FL: CRC Press.

12. Botanical Safety Handbook. American
Herbal Products Association. McGuffin M, et al., eds. 1997; Boca
Raton , FL : CRC Press.

Acting as a biochemical
"super-thiamin," it does this through several different cellular
mechanisms, as discussed below.

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Date: July 05, 2005 10:18 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Supports Healthy Blood Sugar Levels-Herbally

Supports Healthy Blood Sugar Levels-Herbally

The introduction of refined sugars into the modern diet has had tremendous negative health consequences on world health. For example, diabetes, especially insulin-independent diabetes (Type 2), is growing rapidly in the United States particularly among children. This type is partly due to the inability of insulin to effectively transport sugar to receptor sites and into cells, where the sugar can be metabolized. Instead of being "burned up," sugar builds in the blood, creating a potentially serious health problem. This inefficiency can occur for a number of reasons, including: insufficient insulin production due to pancreas dysfunction (though many Type 2 diabetics produce excess insulin); the inability of insulin to carry sugar to receptor sites; a defect in the insulin; or a defect in the receptor that does not allow for the sugar to be transported through the cell membrane. Even if one does not have diabetes, it is important to maintain healthy blood sugar levels through proper diet, exercise, and weight management. This is especially important in children who were recently found to obtain 14% of their daily calories from sweet drinks (sodas), overtaking white bread as the primary source of total daily caloric intake. Regardless of the reason, a number of botanicals, in addition to key lifestyle recommendations, have been shown in modern research to support healthy blood sugar levels by enhance sugar metabolization. (Cinnamomum aromaticum syn. C. cassia*) is one botanical that has been shown to have a positive effect on potentiating the effects of insulin.

*The study referrd to the material used as Cinnamomum cassia. The officially accepted botanical nomenclature has changed and is now Cinnamomum aromaticum.

Ancient Spices for Modern health

Spices have been used historically to increase metabolism, raise body heat (thermogenesis), improve digestion and assimilation, and potentiate the effects of other substances. For this reason, in many herbal traditions, small amounts of hot pungent spices were added to many traditional compounds. Regarding sugar metabolization, a study by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) looked at the potential effects of 49 spices on insulin function (Broadhurst et al. 2000). These researchers found that cinnamon was the most bioactive in directly stimulating cellular glucose metablosim, i.e. the ability of cells to utilize sugar. The same researchers followed up with constituent studies and determined that it was water-soluble compunds in the extract that had this insulin-potentiating effect. This was followed by a clinical trial (60 subjects), also with involvement of the USDA, on the effects of cinnamon for potentiating insulin. The equivalent of 1, 3, and 6 grams (g) of cinnamon powder (approximately 1/4 to 1.5 teaspoons) reduced blood glucose levels 18-29% in 40 days (Khan et al. 2003).

There was a significant increase in efficency between the 1 and 3 g doses, but an insignificant increase between the 3 and 6 g doses. One mechanism of action that has been postulated is that cinnamon increases the activity of PI-3 kinase, an enzyme that is critical in regulating the ability of glucose to be transported into the cell, where it can be utilized as energy. In addition to its ability to potentiate insulin, the cinnamon also supported healthy triglyceride and cholesterol levels, both important health benefits in general.

There is an additional benefit of using cinnamon for many Americans; like many spices it is a potent thermogenic agent. This means it can be used as a healthy adjunct to a weight loss program that includes dietary modification and proper exercise. The excessive consumption of simple sugars in conjunction with poor diet and sedentary lifestyles can cause unhealthy blood sugar levels while providing themogenic support can have long-lasting health benefits.

There have been a number of popular articles on the recent studies. This had led some to ask if crude cinnamon powder can be used with the same effect and safety. This has not been tested. As with all spices, cinnamon is rich in essential oils. Essential oils have beneficial effects, but the insulin-potentiating effect was found to occur in the water extract. This would suggest that many of the oil soluble compunds were lost in the processing. Also, essential oils can be stimulating and irritating, one of the reasons they are generally used in small amounts as flavoring agents. Therefore, it would be best to look for products that contain the water extract to ensure you are delivering the preparation that most closely reflects the preparation used in the studies.

Weight Loss & Lean Muscle Mass- An Important Key to Increased Insulin Sensitivity

Maintaining healthy weight and increasing lean body mass are key components in the supporting healthy blood sugar levels. Recently it was reported that only two days of inactivity resulted in a decreased level of insulin sensitivity. Therefore, supporting healthy blood sugar levels is extremely important for those wanting to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In obesity, or in those with a significantly higher percentage of body fat over lean muscle (body mass index greater that 25), it is very difficult for insulin to do its job effectively. The reason is quite simple: fat cells can prevent insulin from actually reaching insulin receptor sites; the fat physically blocks the receptor, and the sugar that should have been burned off through cellular function remains in the blood. It is important to know that, in such cases, there is often nothing at all wrong with the pancreas (the insulin-producing organ), the insulin, or the receptor sites. The fat simply prevents insulin and sugar from reaching their target. In many cases, people are over-producing insulin in an attempt to get more sugar to the receptor sites. After awhile, the pancreas can become exhausted and no longer produce adequate amounts of insulin. Therefore, a primary therapy for supporting healthy blood sugar levels is proper weight management through diet and exercise.

References

Broadhurst CL, Polansky MM, Anderson RA. 2000. Insulin-like biological activity of Culinary and medicinal plant extracts in vitro. J agric Good Chem. 48(3):849-852. Khan A, Safdar M, Khan M, Khan K, Anderson R. 2003. Cinnamon improves glucose and lipids of people with Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care 26912):3215-3218.

Roy Upton is trained in Western and traditional Chinese herbalism, and has been a professional herbalist for 18 years. He is past president and current vice-president of the American Herbalists Guild (AHG) and is also executive director and editor of the American Herbal Pharnacopoeia. an organization dedicated to the development of authoritative monographs on botanicals used in supplements and medicines. Roy is general manager of Planetary Formulas and a memeber of the Standards Committee of the American Herbal Products Association. He is the author of several books, including St. John's Wort and Echinacea in the Keats Publishing Good Herb Series and co-author of the Botancial Safety Handbook, published by CRC Press. Roy lectures and writes extensively.

Disclaimer: The above article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat a particular illness. The reader is encouraged to seek the advice of a holistically competent licensed professional health care provider. The information in this article has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Vitanet ®


Also try: Now Vitamins brand for low priced vitamins!

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Date: June 28, 2005 10:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Promilin Fenugreek Extract - Supports Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

The basis of Source Naturals PROMILIN™ FENUGREEK EXTRACT is fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), a respected Culinary and medicinal herb used throughout history. One of the formula’s fenugreek extracts is rich in galactomannan, a mucilaginous fiber that may benefit the bowel. The other extract is Promilin, a patent-pending complex of bioactive amino acids standardized to contain 20% 4-hydroxyisoleucine. This extraordinary amino acid derivative assists the pancreas in production of insulin. Several studies with animals and with human cell cultures demonstrate this extract’s positive effect on reducing post-meal glucose levels — with little or no increase in blood insulin concentrations — a clear indicator of improved insulin sensitivity.

Sports Nutrition and Blood Sugar

Athletic energy and endurance depend on the ability of muscles to recover from exercise. Because PROMILIN promotes utilization of glucose and insulin by the the body’s muscle cells, “weekend warriors” will feel less fatigue on Monday morning. In a clinical study, PROMILIN increased glycogen re-synthesis by 63% over carbohydrate alone. This is the rate at which post-exercise muscle glycogen (energy) is restored. PROMILIN may also play a role in weight management because it helps your body metabolize carbohydrates more efficiently. And the less time glucose spends in your bloodstream, the less chance it will be converted into fat. By supporting glucose metabolism, Source Naturals PROMILIN™ FENUGREEK EXTRACT may help protect against a harmful process called glycation, where excess glucose reacts with amino acids to form crosslinked sugardamaged proteins that damage the linings of blood vessels, the lens of the eye, and the myelin sheath that insulates brain cells.

Benefits of PROMILIN

• Reduces body fat potential. Taking personal responsibility for your health and exploring safe natural alternatives to support prevention is the basis for the current revolution in health care. PROMILIN is a simple yet profound strategy for the increasingly recognized importance of maintaining proper blood sugar levels. Health food outlets are the center of this wellness revolution because only here can Source Naturals PROMILIN™ FENUGREEK EXTRACT and hundreds of other powerful natural compounds be found.

References
Madar Z., Abel R., Samish S., Arad J., 1988. Glucose-lowering effect of fenugreek in noninsulin dependent diabetics. European J of Clinical Nutrition Jan 42 (1): 51-4. Sauvaire Y., Petit P., Broca C., Manteghetti M., Baissac Y., Fernandez, Alvarez J., Gross R., Roye M., Leconte A., Gomis R., Ribes G., 1998. 4- Hydroxyisoleucine: a novel amino acid potentiator of insulin secretion Diabetes Feb;47(2):206-10. Sharma RD., Ragtura TC., Rao NS., 1990. Effect of fenugreek seeds on blood glucose in type I diabetes; European J of Clinical Nutrition Apr 44 (4) 301-6.

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Vitanet ®

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HISTORY

Date: June 25, 2005 09:58 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: HISTORY

HISTORY

For thousands of years amazing magical and medicinal powers have been attributed to garlic. Prized as a legendary protectant against vampires in Transylvania, it has also been used to enhance sexual prowess and fight off infections. Referred to as “the stinking rose,” it is mentioned in Bible, the Talmud, and in the Odyssey by Homer as well. The Egyptians looked to garlic as a tonic which boosted physical strength and consumed it while building the pyramids. The Greeks utilized its laxative properties, and the Chinese prescribed it for high blood pressure. Vikings and Phoenicians alike extolled the virtues of garlic and used it both for flavoring foods and treating disease.

Garlic is a hardy, perennial bulb which is native to the Mediterranean regions of Africa and Europe. Along with onions, leeks, chives and shallots, garlic is a member of the lily family. The botanical name for garlic, allium sativum may have been derived from the celtic word all which refers to “pungent.” The edible portion of the garlic plant grows underground and consists of a cloved bulb.

Hippocrates believed that garlic could treat uterine cancer and Native Americans used it for stomach cancer. During the Bubonic Plague years in Europe, garlic was used to boost immunity against the infectious organism responsible for so many deaths. Several accounts relate that survivors of the plague were frequently those who had routinely ingested large amounts of garlic. A sixteenth- century herbalist writes, referring to garlic, “The virtue of this herb is thus. It will unbind all wicked winds within a man’s body.”1

During the eighteenth century, Russians utilized garlic to treat influenza. Eventually, garlic would become known as “Russian penicillin.” American colonists regarded garlic for its ability to kill parasites.

In the nineteenth century, Louis Pasteur finally proved scientifically that garlic contains antibiotic properties. His discovery led to the initiation of hundreds of studies which have substantiated his findings. What was thought to be nothing more than a Culinary ingredient has medicinal value. Garlic can effectively kill bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. In the late nineteenth century, garlic was routinely used by physicians as an effective treatment for typhus, cholera and whooping cough. It was highly recommended by medical practitioners and considered as staple treatment for infection. Albert Schweitzer used garlic for treating amebic dysentery in Africa. Early in this century, tuberculosis was treated with garlic and it was also used as an antibiotic/antiseptic for wounds during World War II. American and European doctors alike noted a remarkable high cure rate in tuberculosis patients treated with garlic.

2 Septic poisoning and gangrene, which can so quickly develop in battlefield wounds were prevented to a significant degree by using garlic. During the 1950’s Chinese scientists used garlic to successfully treat influenza. Subsequently, western studies found that garlic was an effective treatment for the common cold. Today the widespread use of antibiotics have relegated garlic to the back burner of medicinal therapies for infection. The discovery of penicillin resulted in classifying garlic as nothing more than a folk remedy. Unfortunately, for several decades its medicinal potential was no longer taken seriously by scientists. Over the last decade, scientific interest in garlic has dramatically escalated. In 1990, the First World Congress on the Health Significance of garlic and Garlic Constituents was held in Washington D.C. Herbalists have always considered garlic as an effective treatment and preventative agent against colds, flu and other infectious diseases. The present focus on garlic as a medicinal agent promises to support the notion that garlic should be utilized by medical practitioners much more than it currently is.

Recently, medical research has focused on garlic’s potential value in treating cardiovascular disorders and as an anti-cancer agent. This renewed interest in garlic has contributed to the development of the “Designer Foods Program” which is sponsored by the National Cancer Institute.3 This agency investigates foods that may be effective cancer preventatives. Garlic is one of those foods which may have profound cancer prevention potential.

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INTRODUCTION

Date: June 23, 2005 10:49 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

How many of us give the red hot chile pepper the respect it d e s e rves? Mo re often than not, most of us re g a rd red pepper or Capsicum as nothing more than the spice added to give Cajun and Mexican cuisine its piquant kick. Technically speaking, caye n n e pepper is the strongest red pepper variety of the Capsicum family, with paprika being the mildest.

Throughout this discussion, the terms capsicum and cayenne pepper will be used interchangeably. For our purposes, it’s important to know that herbalists have designated both of these terms for the same botanical agent. Health practitioners have known for centuries that Capsicum is much more than a Culinary spice. Because they considered it a “ h o t” plant, Chinese physicians utilized it for physiologic conditions that needed stimulation. Capsicum or Cayenne Pepper is one of the few herbs that can be measured by its BTU or thermal units. In other words, it is a hot and stimulating pepper plant that can generate heat.

Recently, new and very valuable medicinal uses for Capsicum h a ve emerged through scientific inquiry. The red chile pepper is experiencing a rediscovery among health care practitioners, who have only just begun to uncover its marvelous therapeutic actions. It has been referred to as the purest and most effective natural stimulating botanical in the herbal medicine chest. The most recent clinical findings re g a rding Capsicum will be explored in our discussion with special emphasis on Capsicum’s ability to heal ulcers, protect stomach mucosa and alleviate peripheral pain. Unquestionably, Capsicum exe rts potent physiological and pharmacological effects without the side-effects commonly associated with powerful medicinal drugs. Ironically, in the past, Capsicum’s classification as a hot and spicy substance has done it a disservice. Because Capsicum is fiery and pungent, it is frequently regarded as dangerous and unpalatable. To the contrary, if it is used properly, Capsicum can be perfectly safe and impressively effective against a wide variety of physical disorders ranging from indigestion to ulcers to migraines. It s ability to lower blood cholesterol, boost circulation and even step up metabolism are worth serious consideration. In addition, its value for mental afflictions like depression must also be assessed. In a time when the notion of treating disease after the fact is more the rule than the exception, Capsicum offers protection from infectious invaders by boosting the effectiveness of the immune system. Today, amidst the over prescription of antibiotic drugs, Capsicum emerges as a potent immune fortifier, antioxidant and infection fighter.

A powerful compound called capsaicin is what gives Capsicum its bite and is also responsible for most of its beneficial effects on human physiology.1 The hotter the pepper, the higher its content of capsaicin.2 The re m a rkable pro p e rties of capsaicin will be discussed and documented clinical evidence supporting the use of capsaicin will be delineated. It is important to realize in evaluating this herb that while it can be used alone, Capsicum is frequently added to herbal combinations to potentiate their overall action. This fact alone attests to the powerful but safe stimulant action of Capsicum. Stimulation is thought to be one of the keys to swift and complete healing. Capsicum is ascending in prestige and is regarded as a modernday botanical which is accruing new and impressive credentials. The fruit of this particular pepper plant is a valuable herbal treasure. It is vital to our health that we inform ourselves about its many medicinal uses.

CAPSICUM (CAPSICUM ANNUUM)

Common Names: Cayenne Pepper, Red Pepper, African Bird Pepper, Bird Pepper, Spanish Pepper, American Red Pepper Plant Parts: Fruit Active Compounds: alkaloids (capsaicin), fatty acids, flavonoids, volatile oil, carotene pigment Nutritional Components: Capsicum is rich in Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and Zinc, two nutrients which are vital for a strong and healthy immune system. It is also high in vitamins, A, C, rutin (a bioflavonoid), beta carotene, iron, calcium and potassium. Capsicum also contains magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, B-complex vitamins, sodium and selenium. The nutritional breakdown of Capsicum is as follows:

• PABA Note: Capsicum’s red color is due in part to its very high content of vitamin A, which is vital for normal vision, cellular activity, growth and strong immune defenses.

Pharmacology : Capsaicin (active component) contains over 100 distinct volatile compounds.3 It also contains capsacutin, capsaicin, capsantine, and capsico. Character: analgesic, antibacterial, antioxidant, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aromatic, astringent, blood thinner, cardiovascular tonic, carminative, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, hemostatic, herbal accentuator, nerve stimulant, stomachic and tonic (general) Body Systems Targeted : cardiovascular, circulatory, gastrointestinal, nervous, integumentary, skeletal, metabolic Herbal Forms: loose dried powder, capsulized, tincture, infused oil, ointment or cream Usage : Capsicum can be used liberally in a variety of forms. Capsulized dried Capsicum is probably the easiest and most practical way to take the herb. Commercial ointments can be purchased which contain from 0.025 to 0.075 percent capsaicin for the treatment of pain and psoriasis. Dried Capsicum can be mixed in hot water or can be used in tincture form, which can be added to water or juice. Safety: Capsicum is generally recognized as safe in the United Sates and has been approved as an over-the-counter drug. A four week feeding study of Capsicum concluded, “It appears that red chile is relatively non-toxic at the doses tested in male mice.”4 The seeds of the fresh Capsicum plant should not be ingested. Doses of Capsicum should be followed precisely as prescribed to avoid gast rointestinal upset. Pregnant women or breast feeding mothers should avoid using Capsicum. Initial use of topical Capsicum can result in some skin irritation or burning; howe ve r, clinical tests have found that this diminishes with continued application. Avoid direct contact with eyes or other mucous membranes in general.

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Mushroom Miracales

Date: June 18, 2005 09:11 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Mushroom Miracales

Mushroom Miracles by Bert Hoffman Energy Times, April 12, 2004

Mention mushrooms and few people immediately recognize these humble fungi as important tools that can be used to boost well-being. More often, folks identify mushrooms as food with a peculiar appeal. But mushrooms' potential impact on health far surpasses their Culinary reputation.

You don't have to stretch your imagination too far to understand why mushrooms have been much neglected in the modern, Western medical search for plants that can boost health.

Unable to make chlorophyll, often dependent on the kindness of other nutrient-producing organisms for their survival, these humble fungal denizens of dark, damp spaces seem to prefer an anonymous existence that is out of sight and out of the consciousness of the scientific mind.

However, mushrooms have now assumed a spot in the center of the research spotlight. Because of their potent content of natural chemicals that appear to have a strong influence on human health and well-being, during the past decade mushrooms have been the subjects of intensive studies on how they can be used to reduce the risk of cancer and to treat these diseases.

Appropriately, this recent round of research began in a place that has long revered these diminutive organisms: Japan. Japan and other Oriental countries have traditionally recognized the immense value of mushrooms as both food and medicine.

Food and Medicine

As an ancient Chinese saying notes, "food and medicine share a common origin." And one of the very earliest Chinese medical books, Shen Noug's Herbal (Shen Noug Pen Ts'ao Jing), first noted the extraordinary beneficial effects of eating mushrooms 2,000 years ago, back in the first century.

More recently, but still well ahead of Western medical experts, in 1575, Pen Ts'ao Kang Mu (a Chinese compendium of medicinal therapies), written by Li Shi Zhen, outlined the medical benefits of about 20 mushrooms.

Nowadays, modern researchers believe mushrooms' usefulness stems from the fact they contain a wealth of antioxidants. But these aren't just any antioxidants. Scientists think that some of these chemicals can potentially drop your risk of cancer, significantly lower blood pressure, help the body fight diabetes, offer protection for the liver, alleviate some of the ill effects of inflammation, lessen the chance of blood clots and help the body's immune system fend off viruses and other microbes. Quite a collection of benefits for these lowly beings!

The 10,000-Year Mushroom

Through the ages, the reishi mushroom (also known variously as the Mannetake, or 10,000-year mushroom, and the Immortality Mushroom) has been the most popular mushroom in Chinese, Korean and Japanese cultures. The reishi mushroom is frequently depicted in a wide variety of traditional Oriental artwork and even puts in an appearance in Chinese royal tapestries.

To some, reishi's power goes beyond the natural and include the supernatural. Originally grown on aging plum trees, reishi is also sufficiently well regarded to be employed by the Japanese as a good luck charm. But you don't have to believe in the supernatural to be superbly impressed with reishi. The beneficial natural substances in reishi include steroids, lactones, alkaloids, triterpenes and polysaccharides.

Large Molecules

Of these chemicals, polysaccharides (complex chains of sugars) in particular have intrigued researchers looking into the way mushrooms help health. These polysaccharide macromolecules are very large (for molecules) and complex, a complexity that leads researchers to believe they are capable of conveying a huge amount of biological information that help the immune system stop cancer in its early stages. The differences in the benefits of various polysaccharides stems from their intriguing geometrical shapes.

Distinctive Differences

Even though two distinctive polysaccharides may contain the same number of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms, their three-dimensional differences-the way they are structured and branch off in different directions-can endow them with very different health benefits.

Though they all share a basic structure (usually, these molecules consist of a main chain of atoms with various side chains), the slight variations of the side chains changes their effects.

By deciphering the microscopic structures of these molecules, scientists think they are beginning to uncover which ones are most effective against cancer. For instance, in isolating a particularly useful polysaccharide called beta-D-glucan from reishi, researchers have found that this substance fights tumors in lab experiments (Chem Pharm Bull 1981; 29: 3611).

Maitake Benefits

Meanwhile, beta-D-glucan and other extracts taken from the maitake mushroom have also been shown to possess powerful anti-cancer effects in lab experiments (Immunopharm Immunotox; 19:175).

In one instance, researchers in the laboratory who were trying out various substances on prostate cancer cells found that applying extracts of maitake results in a kind of programmed self-destruction (apoptosis) of these undesirable cancer cells (Molec Urol; 4:7). In addition, another substance known as maitake d-fraction has been shown to strongly fight cancer in lab animals-in one study, their liver cancer growths were reduced by up to 90% (Ann NY Acad of Sci; 833:204).

At the same time, research in China on people has demonstrated that maitake may help reduce tumors and alleviate the effects of leukemia (Alter Comp Ther 12/98; 420).

According to A.S. Daba and O.U. Ezeronye (Afr Jrnl Bio 12/03; 672), "Mushroom polysaccharides offer a lot of hope for cancer patients and sufferers of many devastating diseases.

" [These substances support]...a fundamental principle in Oriental medicine...[they help] regulate homeostasis of the whole body and... bring the diseased person [back] to his or her normal state."

The Activity of Active Hexose Correlated Compound Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC), an extract taken from shiitake and other mushrooms, is a relatively new substance that is also being researched for its anti-cancer benefits.

Studies on AHCC began in Japan in the 1990s when scientists looked at how it could potentially help people recovering from liver cancer. In those tests, researchers found that giving people AHCC apparently helped them survive longer.

In the future, scientists feel certain that they will uncover even more anticancer uses for mushrooms and the chemicals they contain. A key advantage to these natural substances is their lack of side effects. For instance, in research on an anti-cancer chemical called lentinan, taken from shiitakes, investigators have found that less than one percent of people experience the kind of discomfort that make them discontinue treatment. (This chemical has been used to treat stomach cancer.)

But a long list of beneficial mushroom substances are probably still waiting to be discovered. More evidence of mushrooms' benefits: A study of mushroom workers in a part of Japan called the Nagano Prefecture found that these farmers enjoyed a significantly lower cancer rate than other inhabitants of that part of the country.

In the rest of Japan, about one in six hundred people dies of cancer. But that rate death rate drops to about one in a thousand for mushroom raisers who eat a diet heavy in mushrooms.

John Smith, PhD, from the University of Strath-Clyde, notes that "...increasing evidence [shows] mushrooms offer a remarkable array of medicinally important compounds that have yet to be evaluated by Western medical scientists." Mushrooms offer the best of both worlds: good health that tastes great.

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Vitanet ®

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Eat to Live - fruits and vegetables are more effective than foods like ...

Date: June 14, 2005 10:38 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Eat to Live - fruits and vegetables are more effective than foods like ...

Eat to Live by Mary Menendez Energy Times, April 14, 2004

By now, most everyone with even a cursory interest in health knows that fruits and vegetables are more effective than foods like cheeseburgers at making your body more resistant to chronic diseases such as cancer.

But beyond that generality, few people seem to know how to fine-tune their meals for the most anti-cancer bang per bite.

Over the course of the lifetime of planet Earth, the plant world has devised and concocted a wealth of nutrients that can help your body fight off cancer.

It's time to put them to work for you.

Would you be interested in a tasty, quick way to cut your chances of certain types of cancer in half? The means to this desirable end are about as close as your refrigerator and your dining room table: All you have to do is cut open and eat a single orange every day.

According to cancer research in Australia, adding that extra serving of citrus fruit to your diet every day, only once a day, boosts immunity enough to significantly lower your risk of some common cancers.

" Citrus fruits [protect] the body through their antioxidant properties and strengthen the immune system, inhibiting tumor growth and normalizing tumor cells," says Katrine Baghurst, PhD, of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO). According to Dr. Baghurst and her fellow researchers, oranges possess the most antioxidants of any fruit: more than 170 different phytochemicals.

The protection you can get from oranges is due to their influence on immunity. Your immune system has the assigned task of protecting you against cells that can turn cancerous. Sixty of the chemicals in oranges are substances called flavonoids that can help the immune system fend off inflammation and tumors.

Better Vegetables

When Americans eat fruits and vegetables, they don't eat the ones with the most anti-cancer (or other) health benefits. Instead, we dine on the same so-so produce too frequently. If we want more health benefits from our veggies, we'd better look to expand our Culinary horizons.

" While people understand they should eat a variety of fruits and vegetables each day, they are not translating 'variety' in a way to capture health benefits, such as reducing their risk of developing chronic diseases," says Susie Nanney, PhD, acting director of the Obesity Prevention Center at Saint Louis University.

" People aren't eating the fruits and vegetables that contain the most nutrients," warns Dr. Nanney. "People are quite frankly confused about nutrition. I feel their pain."

Unfortunately, Americans rely too often on iceberg lettuce, corn, apples, potatoes and bananas; a steady diet of that produce doesn't produce the same benefits as indulging in a wider variety of vegetarian foods.

Dr. Nanney points out that the vegetables and fruits most effective at helping the body fight cancer are dark green leafy veggies, citrus (oranges, grapefruits), cruciferous vegetables (broccoli and cauliflower) and produce that has yellow or orange color.

Making Dinner Plans

Dr. Nanney's spectrum of desirable foods includes:

• Red: Apples are helpful in some ways, but indulge more often in tomatoes (colored by lycopene, a strong antioxidant); include red peppers and strawberries in your diet; these are rich in vitamin C.

Desirable Diet

" When we look at how to get the most bang for your buck, the most power, it's by eating these other fruits and vegetables instead of the traditional choices," Nanney insists.

Studies show that tomatoes, colored by a pigment called lycopene, may be particularly helpful in lowering men's chances of prostate cancer. For instance, research on about three dozen men with prostate cancer found that those taking supplements of lycopene and other tomato phytochemicals had smaller tumors and less spread of their cancers (Exper Bio and Med, 2002; 227: 881).

The researchers conclude that "lycopene may have an antitumor effect and may be useful as an adjunct to standard treatment of prostate cancer, such as surgery, radiation therapy, hormones and chemotherapy. In addition, lycopene supplementation appears to have reduced the [spread of cancer within the prostate], suggesting that lycopene may have a role in the prevention of prostate cancer."

In a study on African-American men, who suffer a higher rate of prostate cancer than other Americans, researchers also found that lycopene can limit the DNA damage that may presage cancer (Amer Chem Soc Meeting #222, 2001).

" This study does not say that tomato sauce reduces cancer," cautions Phyllis E. Bowen, PhD, a nutritionist at the University of Chicago and lead investigator in the study. " It says that it reduces DNA damage that we think is associated with cancer."

Tomato Consumption

Other studies have confirmed the finding that men who eat tomatoes suffer less prostate cancer. And if you want the most anti-cancer benefit from tomatoes, better cook them.

According to Rui Hai Liu, MD, Cornell assistant professor of food science, "[Our] research demonstrates that heat processing actually enhanced the nutritional value of tomatoes by increasing the lycopene content-[the] phytochemical that makes tomatoes red-that can be absorbed by the body, as well as the total antioxidant activity. The research dispels the popular notion that processed fruits and vegetables have lower nutritional value than fresh produce."

Less Meat

While you're making an effort to eat more of the colorful vegetables, you should also eat less fatty red meat and cut back on high-fat dairy foods, according to research from Harvard.

In this study, which covered eight years and looked at the diets of more than 90,000 women, scientists found that those premenopausal women who ate the most fatty red meat and regular milk had the highest chance of developing invasive breast cancer.

The scientists taking part in this study believe that eating more saturated fat from meat may increase hormone levels that boost the chances of breast cancer (Jrnl Natl Cancer Inst 2003;95:1079).

In this research, the total amount of fat didn't affect cancer risk, but the amount of animal fat did. Women who ate the most red meat had a 54% higher chance of breast cancer. Aside from avoiding red meat, women who wish to lower their risk of breast cancer should also limit their consumption of alcoholic beverages.

A study of two thousand post- menopausal women found that those who averaged about two drinks a day raised their risk of breast cancer by about 80% (Cancer Epidem, Biomarkers and Prevention, 10/03).

Here, too, researchers believe that alcohol affects the level of hormones that influence cancer.

The moral of the research into how food can slow cancer risk: Eat a wide variety of vegetables and fruits early and often. Limit meat and alcohol.

Change the color of the fruits and vegetables on your plate for a better chance of a brighter future.

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Vitanet ®

Solaray - Ultimate Nutrition - Actipet Pet supplements - Action Labs - Sunny Greens - Thompson nutritional - Natural Sport - Veg Life Vegan Line - Premier One - NaturalMax - Kal

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Best Bread ...

Date: June 13, 2005 07:30 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Best Bread ...

Best Breads by Jane Lane Energy Times, December 9, 1999

Few of us can resist the seductions of freshly baked bread, warm and fragrant, poised on the edge of a steaming bowl of soup or painted with an aromatic swath of rosemary scented oil. Even those of us from the most Culinary challenged households can recall the pleasures of the simple plump white dinner roll or flaky biscuit piled in a basket on the dinner table.

Bread has blossomed from sideshow status beside the dinner plate to a full-scale mealtime headliner, a scrumptious star enriched by nutritious grains, herbs, fruits and vegetables.

Contemporary cooks build meals around crunchy cornbread or chewy focaccia, presenting soups or salads as satisfying counterpoints. Want to jump into the bread baking basket or hone your skills? Two top vegetarian chefs shared with Energy Times their passion for bread and their expertise in baking. See if you don't find that ardor contagious.

Nancy Lazarus is a chef at the famed Moosewood Restaurant in Ithaca, New York, established in 1973 to serve up natural fare with a homecooked, vegetarian emphasis. The bill of fare changes daily at Moosewood, but there's one constant: a cup or bowl of soup, a salad and a thick slice of bread. Some loyal customers have ordered the daily special for 20 years.

That's why bread occupies a cherished spot at Moosewood. Nancy Lazarus tells why and offers some of Moosewood's favorite bread recipes: "Cooking is like art; baking is like science; bread is like magic. No matter how much science you apply, you'll never have complete control: It'll do its own thing on some level, which is part of its charm, if you're charmed by that sort of thing. Breads come out differently depending on heat and humidity, the heat of the oven; yeast is a variable that can be slower or faster acting.

"There are bread machines, of course, and they work. But they're not as satisfying as the real thing, the kneading, which can be almost therapeutic, and the control over the ingredients to your own specifications.

"Bread is not that difficult. Know your own oven, to begin: Good insulation is important and how the heat travels around inside. Convection ovens are a wonderful thing.

"There are difficult breads we recommend you buy at a good bakery: baguettes, Italian, French and Cuban that are crusty outside and soft inside.

"But focaccia is easy. It's a yeasted bread that's better to make at home than buy because it's so fresh and you can control the toppings. It only requires one slow and one quick rising but you have to be there for a while.

"Then there are quick breads that use baking soda or powder, like cornbread. If you want a good meal at home and can make only one thing, make a quick bread. They're satisfying and delicious warm from the oven; and the aroma of bread fills the house. A corn bread with tomato soup for supper is a nurturing meal good for vegans.

"Popovers are fast and simple, a middle American 50s treat, but you do need a hot oven and 45 minutes. Also easy to make: sweet breads- carrot, banana, zucchini-and biscuits.

"To reduce the fat in denser quickbreads and cakes, use applesauce. It gives body and moistness.

"The number of wheat-sensitive people is rising dramatically. A theory I think makes sense is that in the last 30 years the varieties of wheat grown has been reduced to 1 or 2 that are more easily cultivated and harvested with the machinery available. People are overloaded with one type of wheat.

"Gluten is the offending substance in wheat and some oats; try rice, tapioca and potato flours, which are denser and more fine and don't produce a good crust. Improve the crust by baking in a preheated cast iron skillet.

"Also investigate chickpea flour. You don't make a loaf of bread with it- use it for flatbreads like papadam, which is in Indian cookbooks. And it's good for batter for vegetables.

"Spelt is the closest to wheat flour in consistency but some people can be sensitive to it.

"Visit a natural food store to check out the flours. The mills sometimes print handouts with recipes and a lot of those are real good, especially for what works with their flour. Or you may run into a baker who will whet your appetite with ideas and recipes.

"Bread is the supreme comfort food. It can speak to us, and reassure us. The magic of bread and how it varies: There's something appealing in that. In today's world, food is predictable, and that's reassuring to some people. At Moosewood, things are always different, and that's good."

Claire Criscuolo puts an intensely personal spin on the eclectically ethnic style of cooking at her esteemed vegetarian restaurant, Claire's Corner Copia. That 25-year-old institution in New Haven, Connecticut, reflects her zest for the freshest ingredients, robust flavors and inspired combinations. Claire, a teacher and advocate for healthful cuisine, pours her passion into her breadmaking as well:

"Healthy bread is like anything else-it has healthy ingredients. We use the best organic unbleached flour and yeast, pure vanilla, whole eggs (not dried and powdered), whole milk and organic sour cream. You want to use good, fresh ingredients. It's the essence of healthy cooking. "I tell my staff, 'Don't use your soup pot as a garbage pail. Bread is the same. If the ingredients aren't at their freshest for serving, then they aren't right for other uses in the kitchen.

"Our bread is very important at Claire's. We make a country white and a honey wheat in a pinwheel loaf-400 a day-and challah for the morning French toast with sauteed bananas or as buns for veggie burgers. "It's not practical to bake bread every day. We let our bread rise several times, punching it down again and again. For the home cook, it's time consuming. Even I'm happy to buy a good loaf of bread. "But anybody can bake bread. Combine flour, water and yeast and watch it grow! It's delights all your senses. And it a gratifies and satisfies. I was kneading it all by hand until we got up to 12 loaves a day.

"I love a good oatmeal molasses bread; a whole wheat bread with walnuts, rosemary and finely chopped sweet onion sauteed in olive oil for a roasted vegetable sandwich; or an anadama bread with split pea soup.

"Bread is part of a meal. It requires time and effort, but I can't think of many things worthwhile that don't."

--
Vitanet ®

Solaray - Ultimate Nutrition - Actipet Pet supplements - Action Labs - Sunny Greens - Thompson nutritional - Natural Sport - Veg Life Vegan Line - Premier One - NaturalMax - Kal

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Garlic for the Ages - eat garlic because it's good for your heart...

Date: June 13, 2005 09:58 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Garlic for the Ages - eat garlic because it's good for your heart...

Garlic for the Ages by Phyllis D. Light, RH Energy Times, January 1 , 2004

If you eat garlic because it's good for your heart, you swallow a plant renowned through human history: Garlic was eaten by Roman soldiers for courage; Egyptian slaves ate it to build strength; Christians, Moslems and Hindus include it in their sacred books. Others have used it as an aphrodisiac, a vampire deterrent and a magical charm.

Garlic has a long history as a Culinary and medicinal herb that people either love or hate. Its pungent aroma and warming flavor captivates or repels, but its wealth of natural chemicals does great things for your heart.

Garlic (Allium sativum), a member of the onion family, is native to Siberia but, in modern times, has become a treasured naturalized citizen grown all over the world. Garlic's use in folk medicine dates back about 7,000 years, making it one of the oldest known medicinal foods or herbs.

In modern times, garlic is generally used as a condiment lending a unique, pungent flavor to dishes, but in medieval times, garlic was cooked and eaten as a vegetable in its own right. Today you can revel in a wealth of garlic choices, consuming garlic raw, cooked in various recipes, as a dried concentrated powder, as a fresh liquid extract or as aged garlic powder.

Powerhouse Herb

Each little clove of garlic is a powerhouse of good-for-you natural compounds, vitamins and minerals. The biologically active constituents of garlic include allyl sulfur compounds as well as the minerals germanium and selenium.

When you chop up raw garlic and allowed it to stand for about 10 minutes or more, the herb's fragments release an enzyme that converts its compounds from allyl sulfur to another natural chemical called allicin.

Although some allicin is found in garlic before it is cut apart, the yield multiplies considerably when the garlic clove is chopped or pressed and exposed to water (Garlic Conference, Newport Beach, 11/15/98; Penn State).

Many researchers believe that the more allicin produced, the better the health benefits. (Although this is still being debated among the garlic cognoscenti.)

But garlic's benefits don't end meekly on the kitchen counter with its allicin content rising.

Cooked garlic and aged garlic contain other helpful chemicals called diallyl sulphides. Consequently, in any form, garlic produces beneficial health effects.

Fortunately, since raw garlic juice or oil can often irritate the stomach lining, especially in people with sensitive stomachs and delicate digestive systems, garlic supplements and cooked garlic are both helpful for heart health.

Aged Garlic Extract

Aging garlic significantly reduces its irritating compounds and makes it easier on the stomach.

In the aged form, all of garlic's healthy sulfur-containing compounds are converted to water- soluble compounds that retain garlic's natural health benefits. In addition, the pungent odor of the garlic is greatly reduced, an outcome many people desire.

When a group of researchers at Brown University studied the effects of aged garlic extract on people's cholesterol levels, they found that after six months, cholesterol dropped about 6% (Am J Clin Nutr 1996; 64:866-70).

In another study from Brown, researchers found that aged garlic extract reduced platelet adhesion, a sticky blood problem that can cause vessel blockages (New Drug Clin 45(3):456-66). When platelets are less sticky, they are less likely to form blood clots that can cause heart attacks.

Garlic and Heart Disease

A growing body of research shows that a clove of garlic a day can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease.

A four-year study of 280 people who took dried garlic powder three times a day found a striking reduction in the types of arterial plaque blockages that threaten the blood supply to your heart. Interestingly, in this particular study, women displayed a greater reduction in plaque than men (Atherosclerosis 2000; 150:437-8).

Another study found that garlic may also keep important blood vessels more supple and less likely to spasm. Arterial spasms have been linked to heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems in women.

Aortic Complications

As you age, the aorta, one of the main arteries that carries blood, may harden, reducing blood flow from the heart and placing damaging stress on a number of other bodily organs. In research at Ohio State University, people who took garlic supplements had 15% less aortic stiffness than people who avoided garlic (Circulation).

In this study, scientists found that the older people enjoyed the greatest cardiovascular benefits from daily garlic use.

Researchers believe this extra benefit is linked to the fact that as you age, the endothelial tissue in the linings of the aorta and other blood vessels become less responsive to the need to dilate (expand). As a result, when more blood flow is required, and the heart pumps faster, these vessels take more of a beating from the friction of blood passing through them.

That restriction in dilation has two damaging consequences: In one instance, vessel walls can be injured. In response to these injuries, cholesterol collects on artery walls, plaque forms and the blood supply to the heart muscle can be restricted, leading to a heart attack. In other cases, arteries can restrict blood flow to the heart simply because of the inability to expand sufficiently.

The Ohio State researchers found that arteries in folks aged 70 to 80 benefited the most from taking garlic. But those in their 60s also benefited significantly.

Garlic's natural antioxidant properties can also help protect the heart from damage after surgery (BMC Pharmacology 9/02).

In a study performed on lab animals, researchers found that oxidative stress, a source of cell damage that takes place after surgery, dropped when the animals ate a diet that included garlic.

Oxidative stress can seriously reduce cardiac function, limit the amount of blood the heart can pump and cause permanent damage to the heart muscle.

Garlic Against Blood Clots

Under normal circumstances, blood clots serve a useful purpose: Cut yourself and a blood clot stops the bleeding. Without this clotting ability, you might bleed to death. But if your blood is too prone to clotting, these clumps can cut off blood supply to your heart and other organs, endangering your life.

In a study of apparently healthy individuals whose relatives had already suffered from heart disease, researchers found that their blood formed thick, tangled blood clots, increasing their risk of heart problems (Circulation rapid access 9/23/02). These blood clots are made of a substance called fibrin, a protein in the plasma that can form elastic threads that cut off blood flow.

While these researchers recommended aspirin as an anti-clotting measure for people at risk of heart disease, garlic can also help break up fibrin and possibly lower your chance of heart problems (Pharmatherapy 5(2): 83).

The fibrin that forms clots is produced by blood cells called platelets. Other scientists who have looked into garlic's benefits believe that one of its natural chemicals called ajoene may keep platelets from producing excessive fibrin and gumming up the flow of blood through arteries.

If you've rarely indulged in garlic, you may need a period of adjustment in growing accustomed to its unique taste and aroma. But its heart benefits confirm the long-ago observation by Pliny, an ancient Roman naturalist, that "garlic has powerful properties."

--
Vitanet ®

Solaray - Ultimate Nutrition - Actipet Pet supplements - Action Labs - Sunny Greens - Thompson nutritional - Natural Sport - Veg Life Vegan Line - Premier One - NaturalMax - Kal

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The Flex Factor

Date: June 11, 2005 05:18 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Flex Factor

The Flex Factor by Thomas Dunville Energy Times, February 10, 2004

Arthritis, according to recent research, presents its sufferers with a Catch-22: The nagging pain of this condition can send your spirits plummeting. But, then, the depression spurred by the disconsolate persistence of arthritic pain can make the condition worse.

Part of the trick is not to give in. If you can keep a bright mood even as your joints start to ache, the pain may lessen.

While nobody can offer a guaranteed, 100% effective cure for arthritis, you don't have to be a passive victim. Exercise, the proper nutrients and a positive, can-do attitude can ease arthritis pain so effectively that scientists have been able to measure the difference. While medical researchers recognize the existence of over 100 types of arthritis, most people with achy joints suffer from osteoarthritis, which is caused by everyday wear and is found in just about everyone over age 60. When this condition occurs, the body's cushioning, its cartilage, thins and the inner surfaces of joints grind together painfully.

Although aging itself increases your chances of enduring achy joints, other factors can also put you in the way of osteoarthritis. If you carry too much weight, it can wear on your joints. In addition, suffering a joint injury when you're young can increase your risk of developing osteoarthritis as you age.

In another prevalent form of joint pain, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the membranes lining the joints, causing swelling and pain. About 2 million Americans suffer from RA, which affects women about twice as often as men.

Exercise Away Arthritic Woes

Weekend warriors, don't despair! Arthritis doesn't have to mean the end of your weekend athletic wars. Matter of fact, in many cases, experts now recommend exercise to reduce the effects of arthritis.

While that might sound counterintuitive, a study out of the Netherlands shows that folks in the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis who work out twice a week for about an hour each session may enjoy better physical and mental health than couch potatoes who receive physical therapy.

The Dutch study took 150 people, many of whom had just started to suffer from rheumatism, and enrolled them in RAPIT, an acronym for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients in Training. Rather than letting these folks rest their inflamed joints, twice a week the research team took them to the gym where they did:

• Cooling down with stretches: 15 minutes

When the researchers compared the physical changes in these arthritis sufferers with 150 others with similar arthritis complaints who underwent physical therapy without organized physical activity, they found that after two years the exercisers had benefited greatly. They were stronger and more aerobically fit, could perform everyday tasks more effectively and possessed a better, more optimistic mental attitude (Arthritis and Rheumatism 2003; 48(9):2415-24).

However, the exercisers who were already suffering severe rheumatoid arthritis did experience some extra joint damage, so the researchers believe this kind of program is better for those in the early stages of the disease. " This study demonstrates that participation in long-term high-intensity exercise classes decreases the level of psychological distress in RA patients," says researcher Zuzana de Jong, MD, a professor at the Leiden University Medical Center in the Netherlands.

Fish Oil Lowers Arthritis Risk

Fish oil-in particular, cod liver oil-may be able to help ease osteoarthritis.

In looking at the effects of fish oil, researchers at Cardiff, Wales, discovered indications that "...the omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil can reduce cartilage degradation and inflammation in arthritic disease," according to Bruce Caterson, PhD, one of the scientists involved.

Dr. Caterson adds, "Our most recent work shows that by exposing human osteoarthritic cartilage to cod liver oil in the laboratory for just 24 hours we can turn off, or reverse, the action of the degradative enzymes and inflammatory factors affecting the tissue." John Harwood, PhD, another member of the Cardiff research team, adds, "This is where science and old wives' tales coincide. Our findings are consistent with advice that taking cod liver oil in early adulthood could prevent the onset of osteoarthritis and would reduce the harmful symptoms associated with the disease."

Dr. Caterson further explains that the omega-3 fatty acids in cod liver oil inhibit enzymes that break down aggrecan and collagen, substances that cushion joints. Consequently, cartilage stays healthier, inflammation is lessened and arthritic pain decreases. The anti-inflammatory action of omega-3s in fighting rheumatoid arthritis is also supported by studies performed in the US (Am J Clin Nutr 2000; 71(1 Suppl):349S-51S).

Other research shows that if you take natural vitamin E along with fish oil, you may improve even further your odds of relieving arthritis or lessening its effects (JACN 10/30/00).

Glucosamine Repair

Glucosamine, the stuff that cartilage is made from, has been shown to lower the risk of arthritis and possibly relieve its pain. This natural substance, made from a sugar and a molecule called an amine, is a building block of joint tissue. As a result, experts believe, when you take it in supplemental form, the body may use it to repair joints that have been damaged by arthritis. For instance, an investigation of osteoarthritis of the knee performed at the University of Liege in Belgium showed that taking glucosamine could stop joints from deteriorating.

The study, which involved more than 200 people suffering from osteoarthritis, found that in three years of taking glucosamine supplements, many arthritis sufferers found that their condition actually improved (Lancet 2001 Jan 27; 357).

Other Arthritis Fighters

Chondroitin sulfate is another material that goes into the making of cartilage. Chondroitin helps cartilage stay hydrated and permits the flow of nutrients through the joint tissues. In addition, researchers believe that chondroitin helps fight inflammation, which can otherwise cause pain and stiffness as well as joint destruction.

Taken together with glucosamine, chondroitin is believed to hasten the healing of bone and cartilage. Another substance that may help ease the ache of arthritis is methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), a naturally occurring sulfur-bearing compound. "MSM appears to have anti-inflammatory effects when administered orally, intravenously or topically," says MSM researcher Stanley Jacob, MD, FACS, of the Oregon Health & Science University. That means it has shown an ability to reduce the heat, pain and swelling associated with arthritic conditions. MSM may also be able to reduce muscle spasms around joints and reduce the formation of scar tissue.

Herbal Aid

Herbal medicine has long been used by folks with achy joints. The yellow spice turmeric (Curcuma longa), a staple of Indian cooking, is a traditional Indian remedy for arthritis because of its painkilling properties. Ginger (Zingiber officinale), another Culinary favorite, restrains the production of inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. And willow bark (Salix sp), the source of aspirin, is longer-acting and doesn't irritate the stomach lining.

Those who suffer arthritis know that its pain and discomfort are often no laughing matter. But if you don't take arthritis lying down and manage to keep a smile on your face-and avail yourself of nature's remedies-you can get the upper hand on this often debilitating condition.

--
Vitanet ®

Solaray - Ultimate Nutrition - Actipet Pet supplements - Action Labs - Sunny Greens - Thompson nutritional - Natural Sport - Veg Life Vegan Line - Premier One - NaturalMax - Kal

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Battle Fatigue! Don't passively accept chronic exhaustion and weakness.

Date: June 10, 2005 10:06 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Battle Fatigue! Don't passively accept chronic exhaustion and weakness.

Battle Fatigue! Don't passively accept chronic exhaustion and weakness. by Joanne Gallo Energy Times, December 6, 1999

Most folks wouldn't seek the distressing distinction of suffering chronic fatigue syndrome. Aside from a dizzying array of discomforts associated with the malady, the lack of a definitive cause, and few remedies offered by the medical establishment, scornful skeptics lob accusations of laziness or boredom or just plain moodiness. "Snap out of it!" they say, with little sympathy or understanding. "Just get moving!"

But if you're one of more than 3 million Americans affected by chronic fatigue, you know your problem is not all in your head. Your symptoms are real and they extend far beyond mere tiredness. In addition to a debilitating sense of fatigue that can make everyday existence feel like an overwhelming struggle, you may suffer from impaired concentration and memory, recurrent sore throats, nagging headaches, muscle and joint pain, swollen lymph nodes and fitful sleep. The persistence of any one of these effects alone could be debilitating, but the overall diminished capabilities of the chronic fatigue sufferer can become the most discouraging aspect of the disease.

But before you give up hope on kicking this energy-sucking ailment, look to natural ways to boost your immune system and regain your stamina for a more healthy and productive life. New research points to powerful, energy enhancing supplements which, combined with a nutritious diet and stress reducing techniques, can help you reclaim your body from a swamp of sluggishness.

Yuppie Flu?

Part of the public's misconceptions about chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) may stem from vague definitions of exactly what it is and its causes.

In the '80s, CFS was often mentioned in the same breath as the Epstein-Barr virus, which garnered much notoriety as the "yuppie flu": a state of chronic exhaustion that often plagued young, overworked professionals, as the media trumpeted. CFS was initially thought to be the result of the Epstein-Barr virus, and the two were often considered to be the same thing. Since the Epstein-Barr virus causes mononucleosis, the term "chronic mono" was also thrown around to refer to long-lasting states of fatigue.

Today, CFS is defined as a separate disorder from the Epstein-Barr syndrome. Researchers have found that CFS is not caused exclusively by the Epstein-Barr virus or any other single infectious disease agent. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, CFS may have multiple causes, in which viruses or other infectious agents might have a contributory role. Some of these additional possible culprits include herpes simplex viruses, candida albicans (yeast organisms), or parasites.

According to the CDC, a person can be definitively diagnosed with CFS when she or he experiences severe chronic fatigue for six months or longer that is not caused by other medical conditions, and must have four or more of the following problems recurrently for six consecutive months: tender lymph nodes, muscle pain, multi-joint pain without swelling or redness, substantial impairment in short-term memory or concentration; sore throat, headaches, unrefreshing sleep and postexertional malaise lasting more than 24 hours.

Even if you are not diagnosed with CFS, you could still probably use some help in fending off fatigue. You may suffer from another poorly understood condition like fibromyalgia, which causes similar symptoms of exhaustion and pain with additional stomach discomfort. You may cope with another ailment like hypoglycemia or low thyroid function that zaps your energy. Or you could be like almost every stressed-out American adult trying to do it all at the expense of your well-being. Though researchers still search for a definitive cause for CFS, one thing is certain: Constant stress and poor nutritional habits weaken the immune system's ability to ward off a host of debilitating viruses and organisms. So before you run yourself down and succumb to a chronic condition, learn how you can build up your defenses now.

Nutrient News

Some of the most exciting new research in CFS treatments focuses on NADH or Coenzyme 1, an energy-enhancing nutritional supplement. This naturally-occurring substance is present in all living cells including food, although cooking destroys most of it. Coenzymes help enzymes convert food and water into energy and NADH helps provide cellular fuel for energy production. It also plays a key role in cell regulation and DNA repair, acts as a potent antioxidant, and can reportedly improve mental focus and concentration by stimulating cellular production of the neurotransmitters dopamine, noradrenaline and serotonin.

A recent study conducted at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, DC, and reported in the February 1999 issue of The Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, showed that chronic fatigue sufferers improved their condition significantly by taking Enada, the stabilized, absorbable, oral form of NADH. The researchers found that 31% of those who took the supplement achieved significant improvement in relief of their symptoms, and a follow up study showed that 72% achieved positive results over a longer period of time.

Coenzyme-A and Coenzyme Q-10 (Co-Q10) are related coenzymes also necessary for energy production.

According to Erika Schwartz, M.D., and Carol Colman, authors of Natural Energy: From Tired to Terrific in 10 Days (G.P. Putnam's Sons) CoQ10 in combination with the nutrient carnitine enhances cellular energy production, thereby boosting energy levels. Coenzyme-A is required to initiate the chemical reactions that involve the utilization of CoQ10 and NADH for the production of energy at the cellular level.

Another important energy-enhancing nutrient is D-ribose, a simple sugar that is crucial to many processes in your body. D-ribose stimulates the body's production of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, an energy-rich chemical compound that provides the fuel for all body functions. D-ribose is essential to the manufacture of ATP and maintaining high levels of energy in the heart and skeletal muscles.

Vitamin Power

In addition to these new nutrients, a host of more familiar vitamins and minerals can help banish fatigue. According to Susan M. Lark, M.D., author of the Chronic Fatigue Self Help Book (Celestial Arts) nutritional supplements help stimulate your immune system, glands and digestive tract, promote proper circulation of blood and oxygen, and provide a calming effect. Some of Lark's recommended nutrients for building and regaining strength include:

Vitamin A: Helps protect the body against invasion by viruses that could trigger CFS, as well as bacteria, fungi and allergies. Supports the production and maintenance of healthy skin and mucous membranes, the body's first line of defense against invaders. Also supports the immune system by boosting T-cell activity and contributing to the health of the thymus, the immune-regulating gland.

Vitamin B Complex: Depression and fatigue can result from the body's depletion of B vitamins, which can occur from stress or drinking too many caffeinated beverages. Studies have provided preliminary evidence that CFS patients have reduced functional B vitamin status (J R Soc Med 92 [4], Apr. 1999: 183-5). The 11 factors of B complex are crucial to glucose metabolism, stabilization of brain chemistry and inactivation of estrogen, which regulate the body's levels of energy and vitality. n Vitamin C: Helps prevent fatigue linked to infections by stimulating the production of interferon, a chemical that can limit the spread of viruses. Helps fight bacterial and fungal infections by maintaining healthy antibody production and white blood cells. Also necessary for production of adrenal gland hormones which help prevent exhaustion in those under stress.

Bioflavonoids: Help guard against fatigue caused by allergic reactions; their anti-inflammatory properties prevent the production of histamine and leukotrienes that promote inflammation. Bioflavonoids like quercetin are powerfully antiviral.

Vitamin E: Has a significant immune stimulation effect and, at high levels, can enhance immune antibody response.

Zinc: Immune stimulant; improves muscle strength and endurance. Constituent of many enzymes involved in metabolism and digestion. n Magnesium and Malic Acid: Important for the production of ATP, the body's energy source. Magnesium is also important for women who may develop a deficiency from chronic yeast infections.

Potassium: Enhances energy and vitality; deficiency leads to fatigue and muscle weakness.

Calcium: Combats stress, nervous tension and anxiety.

Iodine: Necessary to prevent fatigue caused by low thyroid function, as it is crucial for the production of the thyroid hormone thyroxin.

Herbal Helpers

In addition to nutrients to bolster your immunity, herbal remedies can also help suppress viral and candida infections. Garlic is a powerful, natural antibiotic, while echinacea and goldenseal have strong anti-infective abilities. Other botanicals help combat tiredness and depression: stimulating herbs such as ginger, ginkgo biloba, licorice root and Siberian ginseng can improve vitality and energy. For anxiety, moodiness and insomnia try passionflower or valerian root, which both have a calming effect on the central nervous system.

Eating For Energy

Supplements can only do their best if you eat a nutritious diet. Start by cutting out large quantities of sugar, caffeine, alcohol, dairy products, red meat and fat.

But what are the best foods when trying to restore energy or recover from illness? "High nutrient content foods with a good balance of proteins and carbohydrates," answers Jennifer Brett, ND, interim clinic director and chair of botanical medicine at the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine.

"You want foods with high nutritional value-that's where vegetables end up looking better than fruit."

Brett enthusiastically pushes that "universal food," as she calls it: chicken soup.

"In China," she says, laughing, "they do make chicken soup, and they do think of it as healing, because they add astragalus and shiitake mushrooms. Vegetable soups with chicken or fish have high nutritional value and are easy to digest."

The same principle applies to juices, Brett says. Juices are a good way to tastefully get more phytonutrients from fruits and vegetables into your diet. Toss in protein powder, and you can make a complete meal in your blender.

"You get more energy from juicing," she explains, "more accessible nutrients and carbohydrates that are not bound up in fiber." Brett's additional recommendation: oatmeal.

"It's got protein and carbohydrates combined with a lot of minerals, which you may not get from a sugary cereal," she says. "Sure, they spray some vitamins on them, but if you don't drink the milk in the bottom of the bowl, you'll miss out on them. You might as well take a multivitamin."

Fabulous Fiber

Look to fiber for superior energy enhancement. Natural Energy author Schwartz calls it downright "miraculous": "In terms of conserving precious energy, fiber-rich foods are your cells' best friends," she writes. "It takes smaller quantities of them to give you a full, satisfied feeling. They release all their benefits slowly, which allows the cells to extract nutrients with much less effort. Then these fiber-rich foods graciously leave the body with ease and efficiency." Among these "slow burn" foods that Schwartz says raise blood sugar slowly and steadily and maintain energy evenly:

Alfalfa sprouts-high in fiber and low in cholesterol.

Apples-one medium unpeeled provides 10% of the recommended daily fiber dose; unlike sweeter fruits, which are rich in healthful fiber, they help regulate blood sugar.

Broccoli-along with such greens as cauliflower, cabbage, kale, collard greens and broccoli rabe, it's packed with fiber, vitamins and minerals n Brown rice, wild rice, other whole grains-fiber treasure troves, including barley, quinoa, millet and buckwheat.

Corn-excellent fiber source.

Lentils and other legumes-high in fiber, delicious beans are rich in Culinary possibilities.

Oat bran and wheat bran-mix into yogurt or add to cereal for the best available access to fiber.

Popcorn-an excellent snack.

Citrus for More Energy

If constant colds and infections are draining your energy, healthy helpings of citrus fruit may be the pickup you need. According to Robert Heinerman, in Heinerman's Encyclopedia of Healing Juices (Parker), citrus fruit have been used for more than a thousand years as natural remedies for a wide variety of ailments:

Kumquat juice is supposed to help clear up bronchitis. Lemon juice with a pinch of table salt eases a sore throat. Lime juice in warm water soothes aches and cramps from the flu. Tangerine juice can break up mucous congestion in the lungs. Along with citrus' vitamin C, these fruits also supply carotenoids, antioxidants that provide disease-preventing benefits. Citrus also often contain calcium, potassium, folate (a B vitamin that fights against heart disease), iron and fiber.

Fruits are loaded with phytochemicals, naturally occurring chemicals that give fruit their vibrant colors. Yellow, red and orange fruits are also high in flavonoids, like quercetin, a substance which fights cancer. Quercetin also aids in prevention of cataracts and macular degeneration, according to author Stephanie Beling, MD, in her book Power Foods (Harper Collins).

Even the US Department of Agriculture agrees on this flavonoid's benefits, noting in its phytochemical database that quercetin is an "antitumor promoter, antiasthmatic, anticarcinogenic, antiplaque, cancer-preventive, capillariprotective." (Quercetin is also available as a supplement.)

Don't Avoid Avocados

For a vitamin rich food, few items beat the avocado which holds vitamins E and C as well as some B vitamins (B6, niacin, riboflavin). A significant source of beta carotene, though not nearly as much as carrots or sweet potatoes, avocados also contain high amounts of the minerals potassium, magnesium, copper and zinc.

Just 15 grams of avocado delivers about 81 international units of vitamin A as beta carotene. Beta carotene, a carotenoid in fruits and vegetables, is converted to vitamin A in the body. This vitamin, aside from providing antioxidant protection from damaging free radicals, is necessary for good eyesight, healthy skin and healing.

In addition, the avocado, like all of these healthy foods, tastes great. Which means that you can pep up and not have to sacrifice taste for zest.

Healthy Mind, Healthy Body

Remember that the path to wellness begins in your mind. Stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation and massage and aromatherapy can have a great rejuvenating effect on your body. If you can learn to handle stress effectively instead of letting it control you-and strengthen your system with the right nutrients and diet-you'll find that fatigue can be a sporadic visitor rather than a chronic companion.

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Vitanet ®

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Oil of Oregano - Botanical Immune Protector ...

Date: June 04, 2005 10:33 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Oil of Oregano - Botanical Immune Protector ...

Oil of Oregano

Traditional cultures, without the benefits of modern research, somehow understood that Culinary spices and herbs added more to food than flavor. They knew certain spices and herbs were important for health and longevity. Today, science has identified the unique compounds responsible for these benefits. One Culinary herb with profound healthpromoting properties is oregano. This botanical treasure was used internally and externally by the ancient Greeks to restore balance to the body, especially the respiratory system. Now research is verifying oregano’s potent immune-supporting activity against foreign organisms. This is crucial today, when international travel and globalized food supplies increase our exposure to unsanitary conditions. Unlike some products, Source Naturals OIL OF OREGANO is prepared from true oregano, Origanum vulgare, standardized to 70% carvacrol. This is the highest concentration available of the active biochemical that gives oregano its broad spectrum immune support.

Oregano: Aromatic Mediterranean Herb Many Culinary spices and herbs have long been recognized for their health-promoting properties. For example, turmeric (a source of curcumin) is important for a healthy liver, ginger (with gingeroles) supports digestion, cayenne offers cardiovascular support, and rosemary is a potent cleansing herb. Origanum vulgare, an aromatic Mediterranean herb, has historically been used as a natural protective compound. The Greeks named this hardy perennial oregano (joy-of-the-mountains). Their health practitioners relied on it for lung support and tissue repair. Over the centuries, oregano gained widespread use for respiratory health.

It’s the Carvacrol that Counts

Source Naturals OIL OF OREGANO is made from the original wild species of oregano, grown without pesticides and extracted without harmful chemicals. It is standardized to 70% carvacrol, the highest amount available. Carvacrol, one of oregano’s most active constituents, is a strong phenol (an acidic compound with cleansing properties), and is the subject of much research into its immune-supporting activity. Other oregano species on the market, for example, Thymus capitus or Mexican sage, are not active because they contain insufficient or no carvacrol. Many products are not standardized or fail to specify the percentage of carvacrol they contain.

Broad Spectrum Production

Oil of oregano has been extensively researched with extremely positive results. Daily supplementation was found in one human study to support intestinal health by protecting against foreign organisms. Oregano also has antioxidant properties, according to in vitro studies. Its phenols inhibited lipid peroxidation of LDL cholesterol in human plasma. Oregano oil has greater activity than a wide variety of other essential oils in protecting food from contamination, according to in vitro studies. Its principle components were found to damage the cell membranes of invading organisms. Studies show oregano oil protects against many different organisms. This is significant, not only for its immediate health benefits, but also because current research shows foreign organisms can cause longterm irritation and stress to organs such as the heart and brain.

Natural Defense in a Changing World

Source Naturals OIL OF OREGANO is available in liquid form and in hard-shell vegetarian capsules, with cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil as a carrier. At a time of increased international trade and travel, this natural health superstar is one of Source Naturals’ most important strategies for wellness.

References:
Elgayyar, M. et al. 2001. Antimicrobial activity of essential oils from plants against selected pathogenic and saprophytic microorganisms. Food Prot 64(7): 1019-24. Force, M. et al. 2000. Inhibition of enteric parasites by emulsified oil of oregano in vivo. Phytother Res 14:213-214. Teissedre, P.L. et al. 2000. Inhibition of oxidation of human low-density lipoproteins by phenolic substances in different essential oils varieties. J Agric Food Chem 48: 3801-05.

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