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Food Nutrition Research Library

November 2015
FIRST EDITION
0987654321

CONTENTS
4 Natural Remedies For The Common Cold
Nutritional Benefits Of Coconut Water
The Three Faces Of Coconut
8 Reasons to Go Nutty Over Pistachios
From Star Fruit To Stinking Toe: 4 Exotic Fruits That Will Do Wonders For Your Body
7 Best Herbal Remedies To Heal Your Lungs
High Vitamin D Levels Can Help To Prevent And Survive Cancer
The Power of Peppermint: 15 Health Benefits Revealed
7 Benefits Of Walnuts
Hot Peppers Prevent The Number One Cause Of Death
Government Requires Pasteurization Of All Almonds, Even Organic & Raw
3 Types of Foods You Probably Didnt Know Have MSG
Better Than Vitamin D? Revolutionary New Coriander Oil May Be Your #1 Weapon In Your Fight For
Better Health
AMA Junk Science Study Used To Falsely Label Vitamins And Minerals As Dangerous
Forget The Headlines - Keep Taking Your Vitamins, Minerals And Supplements
The Lack Of Science Behind Mainstream Medicine's Rejection Of Alternative Healing
Big Pharmas War On Natural Supplements For The Elderly
Tomato's Powerhouse Antioxidant Lycopene Widens Blood Vessels By More Than 50 Percent
All About Dandelions And Their Health Benefits
12 Reasons To Use Lemons
9 Healthy Food Scraps You Shouldnt Be Throwing Away
7 Natural Antibiotics That Dont Require A Prescription
14 Reasons Why Witch Hazel Should Be In Every Home
Health Benefits Of Onions: 5 Surprising Ways Onions Can Cleanse Your Body To Eliminate Disease
11 Proven Health Benefits of Quinoa
Ten Healthy Fats You Should Be Eating
Science Confirms Turmeric As Effective As 14 Drugs
14 Foods That Cleanse The Liver
Top 11 Biggest Lies of Mainstream Nutrition
12 Proven Benefits Of Avocados
Sapota Shown To Stop Cancer And 3-Fold Increase In Life Span
Colonoscopy? You Might Want To Try Pineapple Instead
Pineapple IS THE Delicious End TO Cancer
13 Health Benefits Of Spinach
10 Amazing Health Benefits Of Onions
Study: Tart Cherry Juice Amazing For Joints, Gout And Inflammation
22 Amazing Benefits And Uses Of Bitter Melon/Bitter Gourd For Skin, Hair And Health
Bitter Melon (Momordica Charantia)
Fats Found in Coconut Oil Boost Brain Function
Turmeric: Doctors Say This Spice Is A Brain Health Miracle
10 Food Facts That May Surprise You
Raw Milk Hazardous to Healthcare Industry
5 Things You Didn't Know About Honey
National Nut Day 2014: Peanuts, Tree Nuts, And How Each Helps Your Health
Dangers Of More Than 3 Glasses Of Milk A Day:
Balancing These 10 Minerals Is Crucial To Your Health
Benefits of Magnesium Are Far Greater Than Previously Imagined
Virgin Coconut Oil Like Mothers Milk
22 Powerful Uses Of Frankincense Essential Oil
Lime Juice Could Save 100s Of Thousands Of Lives Each Year
Surprising Finding: Gut Microbes Make Dark Chocolate Healthy
An Interview with Dr. Beatrice Golomb On Chocolate
Curcumin, Compound In Turmeric, Found To Impair Fear Memories And Ease PTSD Symptoms
Cleanse Your Lungs With Honey-Water
Ginger Ale Recipe for Pain: Reduce Chronic Inflammation, Pain and Migraines
No Innocent Spice: The Secret Story Of Nutmeg, Life And Death
18 Amazing Health Benefits From Honey and Cinnamon

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Research: Pineapple Enzyme Kills Cancer Without Killing You

Are You Trading Your Omega-3s For PCBs With Your Choice Of Salmon?
Inexpensive Vitamin Treats So Many Diseases It Threatens Big Pharma
Veganism And B12 Deficiency: One Danger Of Avoiding Meat
An Avocado A Day Keeps The Cardiologist Away
The 48 Most Essential Healing Herbs
Honey & Sugar Outperform Antibiotic Ointments In Treating Wounds And Burns
10 Powerhouse Plant Proteins
Go Green: 6 Surprising Health Benefits Of Green Tea
Is Garlic Good For You? 7 Surprising Benefits Of Garlic For Optimal Health
1,000-Year-Old Onion And Garlic Remedy Kills Superbugs Better Than Antibiotics
The Common Spice That Can Dissolve Deadly Brain Plaques and Prevent Memory Loss
Coconut Water: A New Alzheimers Disease Treatment?
5 Medicinal Herbs You Can Grow In Your Backyard
Allow Cherries To Relieve You Of Gout Pain
10 Worst Food Companies That Are Poisoning You Daily And Lying About It
Eating Dates Produces Powerful Health Benefits, Religion And Science Agree
23 Awesome Uses For Lemongrass Essential Oil
The Spice That Prevents Fluoride From Destroying Your Brain
What Is Inulin?
Why Vitamin D Is Crucial To Your Health
7 Top Healthy Foods To Avoid
Light-Turmeric Extract Combo Treats Psoriasis Effectively
Turmeric Neutralizes Deadly Viral Infections
Beet Juice Boosts Cognitive Function In One Dose
8 Foods That Boost Your Immune System
Fish Oil Pills: A $1.2 Billion Industry Built, So Far, On Empty Promises
The Vitamin Found To Destroy Cancer Cells
How Turmeric Supports Weight Loss
70 Reasons To Eat More Flaxseed
Harvesting Garlic For Natural Medicine
The 4 Main Benefits Of Bentonite Clay
Cinnamon Vs. Ibuprofen For Menstrual Pain
Is The Cure For Diabetes A Humble Root?
9 Reasons To Stop Drinking Any Kind Of Pasteurized Milk
The Truth About Alkalizing Your Blood
5 Foods That Destroy Your Immune System
Why It May Be Time To Stop Drinking Milk For Good
Wheat Grass Reverses Cataract-Associated Cloudy Lenses
31 Long-Forgotten Native American Medical Cures
New Study: Echinacea As Effective As Tamiflu
Grapefruit Seeds Treat Antibiotic-Resistant Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Top 10 Toxic Ingredients Used By McDonalds
Coconut Oil Found Effective In Treating Atopic Dermatitis (Dry, Itchy, Scaly Skin)
Study: BPA Disrupts Prostate Health
Decomposing The Myth That Mushrooms Cant Produce Vitamin D3
The 6 Best Vegan Supplements
Make Your Own Natural QuikClot (VIDEO)
The Health Benefits Of Avocados
The Benefits Of Resveratrol For Blood Pressure
Foods, Vitamins And Herbs That Boost Your Brain Power
Open Sesame! 10 Amazing Health Benefits Of This Super-Seed
Sugarcane Extract Superior To Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs?
Flaxseed: Just An Ounce A Day May Extend Your Life
Coconut Oil Improves Alzheimers Disease Symptoms
8 Natural Remedies for Shingles
Essential Oils
Amber Oil
Angelica (Root) Oil
Anise Oil

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Basil Oil
Bath Oils
Bay Oil
Bergamot Oil
Bitter Almond Oil
Bitter Orange Oil
Black Seed Oil
Calendula Oil
Camphor Oil
Carrier Oils
Cedarwood Oil
Chamomile Oil
Cinnamon Oil
Cade Oil
Citronella Oil
Emergency First Aid Kit
Eruca Rocket Oil
Eucalyptus Oil
Fennel Oil
Forsythia (Orchid) Oil
Fragonia Oil
Frankincense Oil
Galbanum Oil
Jasmine Oil
Juniper Berry Oil
Lavender Oil
Lemon Oil
Lotus Oil
Marigold (Calendula) Oil
Marjoram Oil
Mnuka Oil
What Is Avocado Oil Good For?
7 Health Benefits Of Organic Peppers
The Health Benefits Of Parsley
Improve Dental Health With Chocolate
20 Ways To Benefit From Clove Essential Oil
10 Delicious Ideas For Preserving Tomatoes
Four Medicinal Mushrooms To Add To Your Natural Pharmacy
The Silent Killers In Your Food
The Health Benefits Of Antioxidants
10 Best Cancer Killing Phytonutrients To Eat
Conventional Ground Beef Is Three Times More Likely To Contain Antibiotic-Resistant Fecal Bacteria
Than Grass-Fed Beef
How Eating Kimchi Prevents Lethal Cancer
2,000 Reasons It Is Unethical That Turmeric Is Not FDA Approved
Heart Benefits Of Cranberry Juice
Self Heal Herb Used For Centuries For About Every Ailment Known To Man
Research Confirms Probiotics Support Immune System
Turmerics Weight Loss Secret: It Turns Bad Fat Good
Turmeric Extract Strikes To The Root Cause Of Cancer Malignancy
17 Lemon Water Benefits That Will Change Your Life
The 9 Best Essential Oils For Your Survival Kit
How To Make Lavender Lemonade To Get Rid Headaches And Anxiety
What To Do About Lactose Intolerance?
25 Cancer Stem Cell Killing Foods Smarter Than Chemo And Radiation
What Are The Health Benefits Of Tamarind?
Why All Diabetics Should Know About Turmeric
10 Food-Medicines That Could Save Your Life
Coconut Oil Fights Deadly Yeast Infections, Study Suggests
Best Anti-Aging Foods: Health Benefits Of Pecans

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Health Benefits Of Raw Honey

Liver Health: The Role Of Turmeric In Fatty Liver Disease
Eat Pecans For Cardiovascular Health
Water Extinguishes Stomach Acid 175x Faster Than Some Drugs
10 Foods That Detox The Body (VIDEO)
The Top 5 Healthiest Nuts
10 Natural Remedies For Athletes Foot
Putting The Chicken Before The Egg
The Top 5 Healthiest Seeds
High Fructose Corn Syrup Now Hidden Under a New Name
Avoid Drugs And Surgery For Prostate Issues With Flaxseed
The Surprising Link Between Vitamin B12 And Periodontitis
New Studies: Coffee Consumption Reduces Risk Of Mortality And Chronic Diseases
Study: Vitamin C Kills Untreatable Cancer Cells
Absolute Beginners Guide To Growing Your Own Aloe Vera
Research: A Tsp. Of Aloe Daily Reverses Signs Of Skin Aging
5 Powerful Psychedelics That Treat Mental Disorders And Change Human Consciousness
By Reorganizing The Brain
Grape Seed Extract More Effective Than Chemotherapy In Advanced Cancer
9 Reasons You Need To Be Supplementing With Vitamin D
Healthy Nuts: Pecans vs Walnuts
10 Reasons To Choose Grass Fed Dairy Cheese
5 Heart Healthy Foods
6 Horrifying Facts About Chickens: A Wake-Up Call For The Meat Industry (VIDEO)
10 Foods That Wont Upset IBS
Hot Dogs: Questions And Answers
Is Fructose As Addictive As Alcohol?
Do Onions Help Fight The Flu?
What Is Potassium And Why Is It So Important?
Got Hemp Milk? The Benefits Of Hemp Milk
FDA Has Known Processed Meat Causes Cancer Since The 1970s, But Continues To Cover Up Truth
To Protect Meat Industry
Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms Explained: The Top 9 Warning Signs
Vitamin A: Health Benefits, Best Foods And More
Epazote: Discover Its Health Benefits And Uses
Yeast Is A Cause Of Cancer And Turmeric Can Kill Both, Research Confirms
How Turmeric Keeps You Looking Young
What Is Riboflavin And Its Importance?
Scientists Discover Coconut Oil Exterminates 93 Percent Of Colon Cancer Cells In Two Days
Combat Iron Deficiency With These 16 Iron Rich Foods
Top 10 Healthy Foods That Actually Contain Hidden Chemicals
Plastic Oils Vs. Saturated Fats: Busting The Propaganda (VIDEOS)
Feds Try To Suppress Herbal Molecule That Makes Your Liver Nearly 'Bulletproof'
Against Alcohol Damage
FDA Responsible For Rapid Rise Of Deadly Pathogens In U.S. Food Supply
This Humble Food Extract Puts Bone Drugs To Shame
Discover 10 Nutritious Foods That Are High In Phosphorus
Broccoli Fights Cancer And Reduces Your Risk Of Developing Arthritis
Black Seed Extract Cures HIV Patient Naturally

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4 Natural Remedies For The Common Cold

By Dr. K.J. Mclaughlin
Friday, November 15, 2013
This time of year is cold and flu season. It seems that this
health problem affects everyone from time to time. The
common cold and flu are causes by viruses which are
passed from person to person by respiratory droplets from
coughing, sneezing or touching your mouth or nose after
touching a surface containing the virus.

specifically, white blood cell activity. Echinacea mobilizes

white blood cells and increases their production and
activity.
I recommend taking the two forms of echinacea which are
the angustifolia and purpurea varieties. The recommended
dosage is 300-500 mg of echinacea extract taken daily.

Most viruses that cause the flu or a cold can be managed

quite well without too much of a worry. However, the
virus can cause serious harm in older people, very young
people or individuals who have a compromised immune
system.

Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene is a yellow-orange pigment found in
vegetables and various fruits. It has a strong potential to
stimulate the immune system and act as an antioxidant.
Much like other nutrients, beta-carotene can increase the
white blood cell number and function enabling your
immune system the enhanced capability to fight off viruses
and prevent the cold.

There are a few natural remedies that can help when you
have these kinds of viruseshere are the four best natural
remedies which can prevent the flu.
Green Tea

I recommend taking 200,000-300,000 IU per day with

food to prevent the cold.

Green tea contains important chemicals called catechins

which are beneficial for the stimulation of the immune
response necessary to fight and destroy foreign invaders
like viruses. Green tea is also very good to help ward off
viruses from the upper respiratory tract.

Selenium
This important trace mineral influences the immune
system by improving the function of the thymus gland
which produces T-lymphocytes and improve white blood
cell numbers and function. Selenium, more importantly, is
a pivotal nutrient in the formation of a chemical known as
glutathione. Glutathione is a very powerful intracellular
antioxidant contained within various immune cells
throughout your body. Glutathione is essential for
destroying viruses that can take up residence inside the
cells of your body.

During the cold and flu season, I recommend drinking at

least three to four cups of green tea per day. The
antioxidants in the green tea will help protect your cells
from the inflammation caused from the viruses and help
maintain cellular function.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal remedy commonly used to treat the
common cold and flu viruses. The herb works by
stimulating various aspects of the immune response, more

The recommended dosage for selenium is 200 IU per day

with food.

Nutritional Benefits Of Coconut Water

Dr. Ray Peat
Dr. Bruce Fife, N.D. Gave Me Permission To Use This Article For My Newsletter
I Have Summarized His Article As Best I Can
Coconut water is the liquid you find inside a young green
coconut. In the tropics it is not only considered a
refreshing beverage but a health tonic. Hawaiians call
coconut water noelani (no-way lah-nee), which means
dew from the heavens. Coconut water has a long history
of use as both a food and as a medicine. Although a variety
of fruits grow in abundance in many tropical locations,
coconut water is prized above all other juices. It not only
satisfies thirst but invigorates the body and brings about a
sense of well-being and renewed health. Women are
encouraged to drink it when pregnant and nursing so their
milk will provide all the nutrients necessary for a healthy
baby. The first food an infant receives as it begins weaning
is coconut water and coconut jelly (soft immature coconut
meat).

infections, remove kidney stones, and improve sexual

vitality. Medical research has shown that the consumption
of coconut water can be very effective in dissolving kidney
stones. Dr. Eugenio Macalalag, director of the urology
department of the Chinese General Hospital in the
Philippines, says that coconut water has demonstrated its
effectiveness in patients suffering from kidney and urethral
stones. He reports that consuming coconut water only 2 to
3 times a week results in a significant reduction in stone
size and expulsion, eliminating the need for surgery.1
In Jamaica coconut water is known as a heart tonic and is
used to strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
Research bears this out. Animal studies show that coconut
water consumption reduces plaque formation in arteries,
thus reducing risk of heart attack and stroke.

Coconut water contains a variety of nutrients including

vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, enzymes,
growth factors, and other nutrients. Coconut water is a
good source of the major minerals like magnesium,
calcium, and potassium. It is particularly rich in potassium,
an essential nutrient; one 8-ounce cup of coconut water has
more potassium than a banana. It also contains a variety of
trace elements such as zinc, selenium, iodine, sulfur,
manganese, boron, molybdenum, and others. These are
derived from volcanic soils and seawater from which the
coconut palms are grown. All of these minerals are in the
form of electrolytes so they are easily absorbable by the
human body. Many of the health benefits attributed to
coconut water can be traced to its mineral content.

High blood pressure is one of the primary risk factors

associated with heart disease and stroke. The minerals
potassium and magnesium are known to help reduce high
blood pressure. Human studies show that coconut water,
which is a good source of both of these minerals, is
effective in reducing high blood pressure and increasing
circulation.2 Studies also demonstrate that coconut water
consumption reduces the risk of heart failure in heart
disease patients.3 The evidence is so convincing that the
FDA allows coconut water to carry the claim that it may
reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke.
Because coconut water improves blood circulation, it is of
benefit to diabetics. Coconut water helps dilate blood
vessels, improves blood flow, and reduces plaque
formation. Coconut water also contains certain forms of
dietary fiber and amino acids that help moderate sugar
absorption and improve insulin sensitivity.

In the tropics where heatstroke and dehydration are

common problems, coconut water is far more effective in
relieving symptoms associated with these conditions than
either plain water or fruit juice. Over the past two decades
coconut water has been used extensively as a treatment for
cholera, dysentery, influenza, and other infectious diseases
that promote dehydration. Coconut water has saved
thousands of lives, especially of children in
underdeveloped countries. Ordinary water is not effective
in treating severe dehydration caused by vomiting and
diarrhea, but because of coconut waters unique chemical
composition it is able to rehydrate the body and give it the
strength and energy it needs to fight off the infection.
Death rates from cholera are high, but with the use of
coconut water survival rates increase to 97 percent.

Some of the most interesting components of coconut water

are the plant growth hormones, particularly cytokinins.
Cytokinins are a group of hormones that regulate growth,
development, and aging. In some respects they are similar
to human hormones with a similar name of cytokines.
Cytokinins are also known as anti-aging hormones.
Cytokinins regulate cell division and influence the rate at
which plants age. Depending on the amount of cytokinins
present, the aging process in plants can be either
accelerated or retarded. One of the active sites of cytokinin
production is in the roots. From here the hormone is
carried by the sap throughout the plantmuch like our
bloodstream disperses hormones. Portions of plants that

Coconut water has a therapeutic effect on the urinary and

reproductive systems. It is reported to clear-up bladder

are deprived of cytokinins age faster than normal,

Conversely, if additional cytokinins are added to a plant,
normal aging is retarded.

enzymes, health enhancing growth hormones, and other

important nutrients.
Because its electrolyte (ionic mineral) content is similar
to human plasma, it has gained international acclaim as
a natural sports drink for oral rehydration. As such, it
has proven superior to commercial sports drinks. Unlike
other beverages, it is completely compatible with the
human body, in so much that it can be infused directly
into the bloodstream. In fact, doctors have used coconut
water successfully as an intravenous fluid for over 60
years.

Cytokinins also have an anti-aging effect on human cells

and tissues. Normal human cells, as they age, go through a
progressive and irreversible accumulation of changes until
they reach a stage at which they finally die. Young cells
are plump, round, and smooth. As they age they become
irregular in shape, flatten out, enlarge, and fill up with
debris; cell division slows down and eventually stops,
which is ultimately followed by death.
When cytokinins are added to the culture medium, cells
dont act their age. The normal sequence of aging slows
down considerably. Cells do not undergo the severe
degenerative changes that ordinarily occur.4 Although the
total lifespan of human cells is not increased much, the
cells remain significantly more youthful and functional
throughout their lifetime. For example, treated cells after
they have reached the final stage of their lifespan and no
longer divide, look and function like untreated cells half
their age. Treated cells never undergo the severe
degenerative changes experienced by untreated cells. In all
respects, their youth is extended into old age.

Published medical research and clinical observation

have shown that coconut water:

Makes an excellent oral rehydration sports beverage replaces electrolytes from exercise, heat stress and
illness
Aids in exercise performance
Natural isotonic beverage contains the same level of
electrolytes found in human blood
Has 15 times the amount of potassium as most sports
and energy drinks (264 mg vs 12.5 mg /100 ml)
Reduces problems for infants suffering from intestinal
disturbances
Cardioprotective: helps regular blood pressure (due to
high potassium); improves circulation
Reduces swelling in hands and feet
Prevents abnormal blood clotting
Aids in kidney function including those with kidney
stones; Nutritional support for those with urinary
tract/bladder problems
Helps balance blood sugar in diabetics
Improves digestion
Reported by some people to reverse cataracts
Contains nutrients that feed friendly gut bacteria
Helps relieve constipation or diarrhea
Possesses anti-aging properties
Nutritional support for healthy skin: restores strength
and elasticity to skin; reduces age spots; reduces
wrinkles and sagging
Regulates the functioning of the intestine which
promotes smoother, more hydrated skin
Enhances healing of wounds and lesions
Supports good vision and provides nutritional
support in those who have a tendency towards
glaucoma
Contains potent antioxidants
Nutritionally supports immune function
Provides nutrients important in preventing
osteoporosis
Where to Find Coconut Water

Because of their effects on human cells, cytokinins have

been tested for the possible treatment for age spots,
wrinkles, sagging, and dry skin. One of the factors that
cause wrinkles and sagging skin is the aging and
breakdown of connective tissues in the skin. Connective
tissues give the skin strength and elasticity. When
cytokinins are applied to the skin, they stimulate cell
division of connective tissue which replaces older,
damaged tissue with functionally younger tissue. The
result is that on the surface of the skin, wrinkles tend to
flatten out. Dry, aging skin is replaced with smoother,
softer skin. This has led some cosmetic manufacturers to
add cytokinins to facial creams and lotions.
Coconut water is the richest natural dietary source of
cytokinins. Researchers have suggested the possibility that
consuming a rich source of cytokinins, such as coconut
water, may produce an anti-aging effect on the body,
reducing risk of developing degenerative and age related
diseases.
In regulating cell growth, cytokinins also prevent mistakes
that may lead to the development of cancer. Normal cells
are kept healthy while cancerous cells are programmed to
die, preventing them from growing and spreading.
Subsequently, the anti-cancer effects of cytokinins have
been well documented.5-6
Summary of the Nutritional Benefits of Coconut
Water

Young coconuts are available at many health food stores

and at Asian markets. But they dont look like the brown,
hairy ones with which you may be familiar. Young
coconuts have only a portion of the husk cut off, leaving

Coconut water contains a complex blend of vitamins,

minerals, amino acids, carbohydrates, antioxidants,

10

about an inch covering the shell. The husk is white and

often shaped like a large toy top, with a point on one end
and flat on the other. They are perishable so you will find
them in the refrigerated section of the store.

www.coconutresearchcenter.org.
This article has only touched the surface. For a more
complete description along with summaries of medical
studies, case histories, news and historical accounts,
recipes and references, I recommend Dr. Bruce Fifes new
book, Coconut Water for Health and Healing. For more
information on coconut water from Dr. Fifes newsletters,
go to

You can now get coconut water in easy-to-carry bottles,

cans, and tetra paks from many health food stores, Asian
markets and some grocery stores.
Dr. Bruce Fife is a certified nutritionist and naturopathic
physician. He is the author of 20 books including Coconut
Water for Health and Healing and serves as the director of
the Coconut Research Center,

http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/hwnl_4-4.htm.
I am now stocking both this excellent book and coconut
water for your online ordering convenience.

References

1. Macalalag, E.V. and Macalalag, A.L. Bukolysis: young coconut water renoclysis for urinary stone dissolution. Int
Surg 1987;72:247.
2. Alleyne, T., et al. The control of hypertension by use of coconut water and mauby: two tropical food drinks. West
Indian Med J 2005;54:3-8.
3. Shah, N.J., et al. Use of coco-nut water in treatment of congestive cardiac failure. Ind Jour Med Res 1956;44:341351.
4. Rattan, S.I.S. and Clark, B.F.C. Kinetin delays the onset of ageing characteristics in human fibroblasts. Biochem
Biophys Res 1994;201:665-672.
5. Adair, W.L. and Brennan, S.L. The role of N-6-isopentenyl adenine in tumor cell growth. Biochem Biophys Res
Commun 1986;137:208-214.
6. Dolezal, K, et al. Preparation and biological activity of 6-benzylaminopurine derivatives in plants and human cancer
cells. Bioorg Med Chem 2006;14:875-874.

11

The Three Faces Of Coconut

By Kimberly Day
gets shipped directly to your liver, where it is put to work
to help you stay energized and alert all day.
Even better, 45 percent of the saturated fat found in
coconut is lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid that
converts in your body to monolaurin. Monolaurin is a
compound found in breast milk that strengthens a babys
immune system and helps to promote normal brain
development and contribute to healthy bones, as well as
protect against viruses and bacteria.1 Plus, coconut is
known to have great anti-inflammatory,2 anti-fungal3 and
antibacterial benefits.

Its amazing how the largest seed in the world can trigger
one of the longest running health debates. Yes, we are
talking about coconut.

So now that the saturated fat debate has been put to rest,
lets focus on more interesting matters, like the three
incredible ways this amazing seed can benefit your health.

The Malaysian and Polynesian cultures have revered the

coconut for centuries, and the reason is simpleit contains
almost every essential nutrient your body needs for
optimal health. In addition to a whole host of amino acids,
coconut is also a great source of the minerals potassium,
calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and manganese, as well
as vitamin C and riboflavin (vitamin B2).

Coconut Oil
Sometimes called coconut butter, coconut oil is extracted
from the dried flesh of the coconut. When it comes to
antibacterial benefits, coconut oil is tops.

Good, right? But heres where the debate comes in.

Coconut also contains 90 percent saturated fat, which puts
it right smack in the middle of the great fat argument.

According to a double-blind, placebo-controlled study

from 2007, coconut oil can help to treat skin infections,
specifically atopic dermatitis.1 Researchers divided 26
participants with the condition into two groups. One used
virgin coconut oil twice a day for four weeks at two noninfected sites, while the other group used virgin olive oil,
also twice a day for four weeks.

All Fat is NOT Created Equal

There is no question that saturated fat and its evil cousin
trans-fat are bad for your health. However, like most things
in health and nutrition, there are good points and bad
points with most everythingand the same is true of
saturated fat.

When the study started, 20 of the 26 participants tested

positive for Staphylococcus aureus. After four weeks, only
one person in the coconut oil users tested positive for the
bacteria, compared to six in the olive oil group. Plus, the
coconut oil relieved their dry skin.

While there is a valid argument to avoid animal-based

saturated fats, which are made up of short-chain
triglycerides, the fat in coconut oil is actually a mediumchain triglyceride.

And remember that saturated fat issue? Turns out that

coconut oil actually appears to be good for your heart.
According to a 1981 population study of about 2,500
Polynesians from the islands of Tokelau and Pukapuka,
high coconut oil consumption has no effect on cholesterol
levels.4 Investigators found that even though participants
ate some form of coconut at every meal, their overall
health was very good and vascular disease was uncommon.

While most fats are stored in your bodys cells, the fat in
coconut oil goes directly to your liver, where it is
converted into energy.
Think of it this way. That double bacon cheeseburger you
ate most likely sits around in your cells waiting to be
burned up or stored as fat for later. Conversely, coconut oil

12

In fact, they did not have high cholesterol. Moreover,

coronary heart disease, colon cancer and other bowel
disorders were also uncommon.

With such great electrolyte properties, coconut water also

makes a perfect alternative to chemical-laden, sugary
sports drinks. According to a study published in 2012 in
the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition,
coconut water performed as well as a carbohydrateelectrolyte sports drink when it came to markers of
hydration and exercise performance.6

And when it comes to weight loss, coconut oil really

shines. Farmers in the 1940s unwittingly illustrated this
benefit when they attempted to use coconut oil to fatten up
their animals. They found it made the animals lean and
active instead. Later, animal experiments in the laboratory
compared diets that were low or high in total fat, and
contained different types of fat. Results showed that
animals with more unsaturated oil and less coconut oil in
their diet were fatter. This was even more important than
the total amount of fat consumed. In other words, the
animals that ate just a little unsaturated oil were fat, and
those that ate a lot of coconut oil were lean.

This supported a study from 2002, which found that

coconut water rehydrated as well as a commercial sports
beverage, but also resulted in lower blood glucose levels
and better blood volume restoration (post exercise) than
the sports drink. This caused researchers to conclude,
Ingestion of fresh young coconut water, a natural
refreshing beverage, could be used for whole body
rehydration after exercise.7

Human studies have supported this finding. According to a

double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized 2009 study
out of Brazil, women with clinical abdominal obesity
(waist circumference of more than 88 cm) who used
coconut oil daily for 12 weeksin conjunction with a
balanced, low-calorie diet and moderate exercise
programenjoyed a statistically greater reduction in waist
circumference than those women taking soybean oil. The
coconut oil users also had a statistically higher level of
HDL cholesterol and a lower LDL:HDL ratio than the
soybean oil group.5

Other reported uses of coconut water include digestive

upsetgas, vomiting, indigestion and constipationas
well as urinary issues, including acting as a natural
diuretic, edema and potential treatment of kidney and
urethral stones. While there is scant research to back up the
digestive claims, a 2013 study does show promise for
kidney stones.
Researchers divided rats into three groups. The control
group was given normal feed. The second and third groups
were both given a substance to trigger nephrolithiasis, a
condition that is marked by crystalized urine, which can
lead to kidney stones. Only the third group was also given
coconut water.

Coconut Water
Coconut water is the thin, almost clear juice found inside a
raw coconut. It contains nearly all the essential nutrients
your body needs, with one cup providing:

After seven weeks, researchers found that those rats given

the coconut water had no crystal deposits in their kidney
tissue and a reduced number of crystals in their urine.
Additionally, the rats were protected against impaired
renal function and development of oxidative stress in the
kidneys.8

252 mg sodium
2 g protein
60 mg magnesium
48 mg phosphorus
600 mg potassium
252 sodium
2.4 mcg selenium
10% vitamin C (5.8 mg)
6% calcium (58 mg)
4% iron

Coconut Milk
Many people incorrectly confuse coconut milk with
coconut water. Coconut milk is the diluted cream pressed
out from the thick, white flesh of a well-matured coconut.
While coconut milk contains similar nutrients to coconut
oil and coconut water, including lauric acid, it is prized
more for its culinary virtues.

The protein in coconut water comes from amino acids,

namely threonine, isoleucine, leucine, valine, serine,
proline, glycine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid,
phenylalanine and arginine.

Most coconut milk is canned, but not all brands are

produced the same way. Good coconut milk has a clean,
white color and tastes rich, creamy and mildly sweet with
the essence of coconut. It should also have a complexity
and depth of flavor that keeps you intrigued and not leave
an unpleasant aftertaste. Good brands of coconut milk,
therefore, will have thick cream floating on top of the can
while the milk on the bottom will be much more watery.

This incredible nutrient profile was put into practice during

World War II, when both sides of the war in the Pacific
regularly used coconut watersiphoned directly from the
coconutto give emergency plasma transfusions to
wounded soldiers. Its that identical to our own human
blood plasma!

13

Brands that look homogenized tend to have an artificial

taste because of additives introduced to make the cream
homogenize, or excess processing, which changes the
nature of the cream.

You can also add a spoonful to a smoothie or use in place

of butter on toast, sweet potatoes or even pancakes!
And speaking of smoothies, both coconut water and
coconut milk make great alternatives to juice or dairy
when making a vegetable and fruit smoothie. With just
coconut water, you can just drink right out of the seed
itself or choose a bottled variety. Youd do well to avoid
the flavored options, however, as they tend to be loaded
with extra sugar.

Put Coconut to Use

There are many ways to use all three forms of coconut.
With the oil, your best bet is to use as an alternative to
other vegetable oils for cooking. Because it has such as
high smoking point (350F for unrefined and 450F for
refined), you can saut and bake with it and not worry
about it turning into a trans-fat before your eyes. Plus,
coconut oil is very stable. It has a two-year shelf life, and
wont turn rancid, even in warm temperatures. Just be sure
to choose organic, unrefined, virgin coconut oil to avoid
unwanted heat processing or chemicals.

For coconut milk, it makes a great sauce for chicken or

fish. Saute with garlic and ginger for a truly heart-healthy
way to compliment any meal.
No matter which way you go, you cannot go wrong when
it comes to coconut.

.
References:
1.

Verall-Rowell VM, et al. Dermatitis. 2008 Nov-Dec;19(6):308-15.

2.

Intahphuak S, et al. Pharm Biol. 2010 Feb;48(2):151-7.

3.

Ogbolu DO, et al. J Med Food. 2007 Jun;10(2)384-7.

4.

Prior IA, et al. Am J Clin Nutr 1981;34:1552-61.

5.

Assuncao ML, et al. Lipids. 2009 Jul;44(7):593-601.

6.

Kalman DS, et al. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2012 Jan 18;9(1):1.

7.

Saat M, et al. J Physiol Anthropol Appl Human Sci. 2002 Mar;21(2):93-104.

8.

Gandhi M, et al. Int Braz J Urol. 2013 Jan-Feb;39(1):108-17.

14

8 Reasons to Go Nutty Over Pistachios

Written by MRHEALTH
March 1, 2014
(Nicole DAlessandro) Almonds, walnuts, pecans, Brazil
nuts, pistachios I love them all. Besides their distinctly
enjoyable flavorswhether eaten as a midday snack or
added to a dish, from salads to a main course to dessert
turns out there are many ways that nuts are a healthful
addition to a diet.

Consuming pistachios may aid in the prevention of type II

diabetes. This is because 60 percent of the recommended
daily value of the mineral phosphorus is contained in just
one cup of pistachios. Not only does phosphorus break
down proteins into amino acids, it also aids glucose
tolerance.

Nuts are a great source of plant-based protein as well as

many nutrients and healthy fat. As the Mayo
Clinic explains, eating nuts helps your heart. Most nuts
contain at least some of these heart-healthy substances:

3. Healthy Blood

Pistachios are a very rich source of vitamin B6. Vitamin

B6 is essential to make hemoglobin, the protein
responsible for bringing oxygen through the blood stream
to cells, and is also shown to increase the amount of
oxygen carried.

Unsaturated fats
Omega-3 fatty acids
Fiber
Vitamin E
Plant sterols
L-arginine

4. Healthy Nervous System

Vitamin B6, so prevalent in pistachios, has many effects
on the nervous system. Messaging molecules called
amines require amino acids to develop, which in turn rely
on vitamin B6 for their creation. That being said, B6 plays
a critical role in the creation of myelin, the insulating
sheath around nerve bers that allows optimal messaging
between nerves. Furthermore, vitamin B6 contributes to
the synthesis of serotonin, melatonin, epinephrine and
gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, an amino acid that
calms the transmission of nerve impulses throughout the
nervous system. Basically, if you want a nervous system
thats in tip-top shape, eat pistachios.

Nuts also can be beneficial to teeth and gums because they

contain powerful teeth-healthy micronutrients such as
phosphorous, magnesium, potassium, zinc and calcium.
Need more reasons to celebrate nuts? Well, turns out
National Pistachio Day was this week. Did you mark the
occasion? I will have to do so retroactively with a scoop of
my favorite gelato from Sweet Spot.
Yes, gelato might be a guilty pleasure, but pistachios do
not have to be. As The Green Divas outline, here are eight
reasons its okay to go nutty for pistachios:

5. Healthy Eyes
Pistachios contain two carotenoids not found in most nuts,
lutein and zeaxanthin. These guys function as protective
antioxidants by defending tissues from damage from free
radicals. They have been associated with a decrease in the
risk for developing age-related macular degeneration,
which is the leading cause of visual impairments and
acquired blindness in the nation.

1. Heart Health
Pistachios have been proven to reduce LDL, or bad,
cholesterol, and increase HDL, or good, cholesterol after
only a very brief period of chowing down. They are high
in antioxidants, like vitamin A and vitamin E. They also
fight inflammation, protect blood vessels and ultimately
decrease the risk of heart disease. Even a very small intake
of these nuts have been linked to increase lutein levels.

6. Immune System Boost

Vitamin B6 is essential for a healthy immune system and
pistachios have a lot of it. Vitamin B6 found in pistachios
also helps the body make healthy red blood cells, and helps
maintain the health of lymphoid glands, such as the

2. Diabetes Prevention

15

thymus, spleen and lymph nodes, ensuring the production

of white blood cells that protect the body from infections.

hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans and walnuts. The amount

of protein found in pistachios is 6 g per 1 ounce, which is
the highest in comparison to other nuts. The fat content in
pistachios is also the lowest compared to other nuts.
Statistics collected by Thomas and Gebhardt show that the
fat content in pistachios is 13 g per 1 ounce. Why not add
them to a salad or your next baked-good?

7. Glowing Skin
Pistachios are an amazing source of vitamin E, a powerful
fat-soluble antioxidant, imperative for maintaining the
integrity of cell membranes and often recommended for
healthy and beautiful skin. Vitamin E does an excellent job
protecting the skin from UV damage, providing daily
defense against premature aging and skin cancer. Get
lovely skin from the inside out by eating pistachios.

Got a sudden hankering for something delicious and nutty?

Try tossing some chopped pistachios, in this chocolate
superfood recipe for a healthy bark to snack on.
Not sure how many servings of nuts to eat in a day?
Check out the new and improved vegetarian food
pyramid for guidelines.

8. Extra Protein
Pistachios contain a higher amount of protein in
comparison with other nuts such as almonds, cashews,

16

From Star Fruit To Stinking Toe:

4 Exotic Fruits That Will Do Wonders For Your Body
By Sabrina Bachai
Apr 29, 2014 08:00 AM EDT
Trying new foods from around the globe can sometimes be
intimidating. However, there are a number of health
benefits associated with fruits that many here in the United
States have never even heard of. Not only are many of
these fruits delicious, but they provide a number of health
benefits.

researchers are trying to pinpoint the exact cause.

Symptoms of start fruit intoxication can include,
persistent hiccups, nausea, vomiting, agitation, insomnia,
mental confusion and convulsions that occur within one to
five hours of eating the fruit, Dr. Weil wrote on his site.
3. Rambutan

1. West Indian Locust: (Stinking Toe)

This might have an unappealing nickname, but many
Caribbean natives, especially in Jamaica, love this fruit.
The name comes from the appearance of the large seed
pod, which looks like a big, fat toe. Despite the fruit's foul
smell, many claim that this fruit is actually delicious. Its
health benefits include iron, calcium, and some even say
its a natural energy booster.

Its a close cousin to the lychee, but its larger, and the
outer skin is red with neon-colored spikes on the outside.
However, like the lychee, it is a great fruit to add to a
cocktail. Rambutan quenches thirst, helps the human body
absorb minerals like iron and copper, and it helps to
protect the body from free radicals. In Malaysia and
Indonesia, it is also used in managing certain illnesses such
as diabetes.

2. Carambola (Star Fruit)

4. Jabuticaba (Brazilian Grape)

This sweet fruit gets its name from its shape after being cut
in half. The tangy flavor is native to the Malayan peninsula
and is grown in many parts of the world, including
Southeast Asia, South America, and China. Its a lowcalorie food that provides a plethora of antioxidants,
nutrients, and vitamins. However, according to Dr.
Andrew Weil, start fruit intoxication can be prevalent in
people with impaired kidney functions because of the high
levels of oxalic acid and an unknown toxin. Brazilin

Both in texture and color, it resembles a giant grape. Its

native to Brazil and can be eaten in its natural state, or it
can be used for wines or jellies. According to Food
Research International, fruits with dark skins such as the
Brazilian grape contain anti-inflammatory properties and a
number of other health benefits, such as treating or
preventing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,
diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke.

17

7 Best Herbal Remedies To Heal Your Lungs

By Dr. Victor Marchione
Tuesday, May 06, 2014
If you suffer from allergies or any number of respiratory
ailments, such as asthma, spring doubtlessly puts added
pressure on your lungs. Youve probably searched high
and low for remedies to relieve the misery on your nose,
throat, and lungs. As a result, youre likely also aware of
the top pharmaceutical medications advertised on
television, billboards, radio, and pretty well any other
media outlet throughout the spring season. But are you
aware of the countless other, natural ways to provide your
lungs with relief that dont involve over-the-counter
medications?

Combine it with coltsfoot, mullein, and lobelia for an

effective expectorant. Take one teaspoon of the herb in
water or up to half a teaspoon of tincture three times a day.
Black horehound is best avoided by those who are
pregnant or breastfeeding or those suffering from a
psychotic disorder.
4. Lobelia
Lobelia is an excellent remedy if youre suffering from any
number of respiratory ailments, such as coughs, infections,
asthma, and/or excess phlegm. If youre suffering from
bronchial spasms, it can also alleviate the symptoms,
which is excellent for anyone suffering from asthma.
Because this is an extremely strong herb, you must follow
the instructions on the packaging carefully.

Here are the top seven herbs to help you fight respiratory
ailments naturally.
1. Coltsfoot
This herb is excellent for cleaning mucus from the lungs
and bronchial tubes. Additionally, if youre suffering from
a cough due to allergies or even a late cold, coltsfoot
(known scientifically as Tussilago farfara) soothes the
lungs and mucous membranes. It is also good to take if
you are suffering from any number of respiratory ailments,
such as bronchitis, whooping cough, and emphysema. For
respiratory relief, either steep two teaspoons for 15
minutes for a tea, or use one teaspoon three times a day in
tincture form.

5. Lungwort
Using lungwort helps to clear catarrh, an inflammation of
the mucous membrane of the lungs, nose, and throat, and
lessens a cough. It can be combined with lobelia, black
horehound, and coltsfoot for an effective way to treat lung
infections. Drink one to two teaspoons in an infusion three
times a day. Alternately, you can take a quarter to one
teaspoon in a tincture three times a day.
6. Mullein

It is important to note that recent findings may suggest

coltsfoot could be toxic if taken for a prolonged period;
due to its undefined safety classification from the Food and
Drug Administration, it is best to take this herb in lower
doses for just a short period of time.

Infusions and tinctures made with mullein are effective for

clearing the respiratory tract, as well as clearing excess
mucus from the lungs. Its also effective for treating
coughs and sore throats. Use one to two teaspoons in an
infusion in one cup of water three times a day. Alternately,
you can use mullein in a tincture with a quarter to one
teaspoon of the herb three times a day.

2. Elecampane
If youre looking to kill bacteria, elecampane (Inula
helenium) lessens coughs and expels excess mucus from
the lungs. If youre suffering from any respiratory
ailments, this herb alleviates fever and causes the body to
excrete any toxins through sweating. Mix one teaspoon of
the herb in a cup of tea or take up to one teaspoon in
tincture form three times a day. Due to its minor use to
bring on menstruation, pregnant women should avoid this
herb.

7. Sea Buckthorn
In addition to being an effective treatment for lung
disorders, asthma, and coughs, sea buckthorn is a littleknown superfood that is also an effective treatment for
skin conditions; there is even evidence that it is can be
used to treat cancer and weight loss. The plants berries are
also used in foods, including jellies, juices, and sauces.
Before you use any of these herbal methods to treat any
ailments affecting your lungs, please consult with your
physician first, especially if you are pregnant,
breastfeeding, have a known history of mental illness, are
prone to blood clots, or take any prescription medications.

3. Black Horehound
While most prefer candies made from this herb, the dried
leaves have the best medicinal properties. Horehound
relaxes the lungs and encourages the discharge of mucus.

18

High Vitamin D Levels Can Help To

Prevent And Survive Cancer
Mae Chan, Prevent Disease - Waking Times
May 2, 2014
and vitamin D supplementation, said Dr.
Anthony Petaku who studies the effects of
Vitamin D2 and D3 on mutating cells.

The active form of vitamin D essentially shuts down

cancer cells by several mechanisms which inhibit proteins
involved in metastases. Now Chinese researchers have
found breast and colorectalcancer patients with higher
levels of vitamin D at the time of diagnosis may have
better chances of survival and remain in remission longer
those who are deficient, according to a scientific review.

Physicians need to pay close attention to

vitamin D levels in people who have been
diagnosed with cancer, say Chinese
researchers.

For the past several years, there has been considerable

interest in the role vitamin D plays in improving health and
preventing disease. Previous finding show that low levels
of vitamin D have been directly associated with various
forms of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Stephen B.
Kritchevsky, PhD, Professor of Internal Medicine and
Transitional Science at the Wake Forest School of
Medicine found a signficant correlation.

Better Chances of Survival

In a recent study, author Dr Hui Wang, said:
The results suggest vitamin D may
influence the prognosis for people with
breast cancer, colorectal cancer and
lymphoma, in particular.

We observed vitamin D insufficiency

(defined as blood levels <20 ng/ml), in one
third of our study participants. This was
associated with nearly a 50 percent
increase in the mortality rate in older
adults, said Kritchevsky. Our findings
suggest that low levels of vitamin D may be
a substantial public health concern for our
nations older adults.

The meta-analysis, published in the Journal of Clinical

Endocrinology & Metabolism, included 25 studies and
17,332 cancer patients. In the majority of the research
included the patients were tested for vitamin D levels
before undergoing any cancer treatment. The researchers
from Shanghais Institute for Nutritional Sciences and
other Chinese universities and institutions found a ten
nanomole/liter (nmol/L) increase in vitamin D levels
correlated with an increased survival rate of 4%.

Although vitamin D can be obtained from limited dietary

sources and directly from exposure to the sun during the
spring and summer months, the combination of poor
dietary intake and sun avoidance has created vitamin D
deficiency or insufficiency in large proportions of many
populations worldwide. It is known that vitamin D has a
wide range of physiological effects and that correlations
exist between insufficient amounts of vitamin D and an
increased incidence of a number of cancers. These
correlations are particularly strong for cancers of the
digestive tract, including colon cancer, and certain forms
of leukemia.

Significant associations
In another study in Anticancer Research, breast cancer
patients with high levels of vitamin D in their blood are
twice as likely to survive the disease as those with lower
levels, new research has suggested.
A study by Dr. William Grant, Ph.D., internationally
recognized research scientist and vitamin D expert, found
that about 30 percent of cancer deaths which amounts
to 2 million worldwide and 200,000 in the United States
could be prevented each year with higher levels of vitamin
D.

Almost every disease decreases in

frequency and duration as we move
towards equatorial populations, and
the data shows that there is a minimum of
a 1000 percent increase for many diseases
in countries furthest from the equator,
however we have obtained the same
results based on data through populations

Higher vitamin D (25(OH)D) levels were significantly

associated with reduced cancer-specific mortality for
patients with colorectal cancer and lymphoma, while
improved disease-free survival for patients with breast
cancer or lymphoma was observed.

19

sufficient levels of this important nutrient,

Dr Wang said. Physicians need to pay
close attention to vitamin D levels in people
who have been diagnosed with cancer.

Meanwhile the researchers found less evidence of a

connection in people with lung cancer, gastric cancer,
prostate cancer, leukemia, melanoma or Merkel cell
carcinoma, but said the data available was positive.

Professional recommendations for supplementation are

made for groups at risk of deficiency including pregnant
and breastfeeding women, children under the age of five
not fed infant formula, people over 65 and those not
exposed to much sun. It says supplementation should not
exceed 25 micrograms (0.025mg) a day, as it could be
harmful.

The paper speculated that cancer patients with higher

vitamin D levels had an improved overall survival because
of better general health status.
Due to the limited data of randomized
controlled trials, it is unclear whether
vitamin D status is causally related to
diseases or if circulating 25(OH)D merely
acts as a biomarker for health status of
patients, the researchers wrote.

It said taking too many vitamin D supplements over a long

period of time could cause more calcium to be absorbed
than can be excreted, which could lead to kidney damage
and softened and weakened bones.

No significant difference in levels was found for patients

with early or later stages of the diseases.

For this reason its very important to take a high quality

calcium and magensium supplement with vitamin D such
as Life Choice Opti-Cal/Mag Complex which also contains
Vitamin K2 which in itself also has been found to prevent
cancer and also improve bone, cardiovascular, skin, brain,
and now prostate health.

Supplementation
Considering that vitamin D deficiency is a
widespread issue all over the world, it is
important to ensure that everyone has

20

The Power of Peppermint:

15 Health Benefits Revealed
By Sayer Ji, www.greenmedinfo.com
May 14, 2014

A favorite herbal medicine of the ancients, peppermint

leaves have been found in Egyptian pyramids dating
back to 1,000 BC. Modern scientific investigations have
now confirmed that this remarkable plant has over a
dozen healing properties.

In our continuing effort to educate folks to the vast array of

healing agents found in the natural world around us, we are
excited to feature peppermint, a member of the aromatic
mint family that you may already have squirreled away
somewhere in your kitchen cupboard. While most have
experienced peppermint as a flavoring agent, or perhaps as
a comforting cup of herbal tea, few are aware of its wide
range of experimentally confirmed therapeutic properties.

The ancients certainly were aware of the mint family's

medicinal value, having been used as herbal medicines in
ancient Egypt, Greek and Rome thousands of years ago.[i]
Dried peppermint leaves have even been found in several
Egyptian pyramids carbon dating back to 1,000 BC.

increasingly prevalent disorder.[ii] This beneficial effect

extends to the pediatric community. In one children's
trial 75% of those receiving peppermint oil had reduced
severity of pain associated with IBS within 2 weeks.[iii]
Another 2005 trial in adults concluded that "Taking into
account the currently available drug treatments for IBS
Peppermint oil (1-2 capsules t.i.d. over 24 weeks) may
be the drug of first choice in IBS patients with nonserious constipation or diarrhea to alleviate general
symptoms and to improve quality of life."[iv] In another
2007 trial 75% of patients receiving peppermint oil saw
an impressive 50% reduction of "total irritable bowel
syndrome score."[v] Most recently, a study published
January of this year found that peppermint oil was
effective in relieving abdominal pain in diarrhea
predominant irritable bowel syndrome.[vi]
Colonic spasm Peppermint oil has been studied as
a safe and effective alternative to the drug Buscopan
for its ability to reduce spasms during barium
enemas.[vii] [viii]
Gastric Emptying Disorders Peppermint has been
found to enhance gastric emptying, suggesting its
potential use in a clinical setting for patients with
functional gastrointestinal disorders.[ix]
Functional dyspepsia A 2000 study published in the
journal Ailment Pharmacology and Therapy found that
90 mg of peppermint oil and 50 mg of caraway oil
resulted in 67% of patients reporting "much or very
much improved" in their symptoms of functional
dyspepsia. [x]
Infantile Colic: A 2013 study found that peppermint is
at least as effective as the chemical simethicone in the
treatment of infantile colic.[xi]

Other studied applications include

Today, modern scientific investigations are revealing an
abundance of potential health benefits associated with the
use of different components of the peppermint plant,
including aromatherapeutic, topical and internal
applications.

Most of the human research on peppermint performed thus

far indicates this plant has great value in treating
gastrointestinal disorders, including:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome Since the late 90's it was

discovered that enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules
are safe and effective in the treatment of this

21

Breastfeeding Associated Nipple Pain and Damage:

A 2007 study found that peppermint water prevented
nipple cracks and nipple pain in breastfeeding
mothers.[xii]
Tuberculosis: A 2009 study found that inhaled
essential oil of peppermint was able to rapidly regress
tuberculous inflammation, leading the authors to
conclude: "This procedure may be used to prevent
recurrences and exacerbation of pulmonary
tuberculosis."[xiii]
Allergic rhinitis (hay fever): A 2001 preclinical study
found that extracts of the leaves of peppermint inhibit

histamine release indicating it may be clinically

effective in alleviating the nasal symptoms of allergic
rhinitis.[xiv]
Shingles
Associated
Pain
(Post-Herpetic
Neuralgia): A 2002 case study found that topical
peppermint oil treatment resulted in a near immediate
improvement of shingles associated neuropathic pain
symptoms; the therapeutic effects persisted throughout
the entire 2 months of follow-up treatment. [xv]
Memory problems: A 2006 study found that the simple
aroma of peppermint enhances memory and increases
alertness in human subjects.[xvi]
Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea: A 2013 study found
that peppermint oil was found to be effective in
reducing chemotherapy-induced nausea, and at
reduced cost versus standard drug-based
treatment.[xvii]
Prostate Cancer: Preclinical research indicates that
peppermint contains a compound known as menthol
which inhibits prostate cancer growth.[xviii] [xix]
Radiation Damage: Preclinical research indicates
peppermint protects against radiation-induced DNA
damage and cell death.[xx] [xxi]
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1: Peppermint has been
found to have inhibitory activity against acyclovirresistant Herpes Simplex virus type 1.[xxii] [xxiii]
Dental Caries/Bad Breath: Peppermint oil extract has
been found to be superior to the mouthwash chemical

chlorhexidine inhibiting Streptococus mutans driven

biofilm formation associated with dental caries.[xxiv]
[xxv] This may explain why powdered peppermint
leaves were used in the Middle Ages to combat
halitosis and whiten teeth.
Peppermint is actually a hybridized cross between Water
Mint (Mentha aquatica) and Spearmint (Mentha
spicata),[xxvi] the latter of which has also been researched
to possess remarkable therapeutic properties, such as the
ability to exert significant anti-androgenic effects in
polycystic ovarian syndrome[xxvii] and ameliorating the
related condition of mild hirsutism, marked by excessive
hair growth in females.[xxviii]
Like all plant medicines, extreme caution must be
exercised when using extracts and especially essential
oils. Also, remember that more is not always better. A
recent study on the use of rosemary in improving cognitive
performance in the elderly found that a lower 'culinary'
dose (750 mg) was not only more effective in improving
cognition (as measured by memory speed) than a higher
dose, but the highest dose (6,000 mg) had a significant
memory impairing effect.[xxix] This illustrates quite
nicely how less can be more, and why an occasional
nightly cup of peppermint tea may be far superior as
preventive strategy than taking large 'heroic' doses of an
herb only after a serious health problem sets in.

Resources
[i] A. Sustrikova, I. Salamon, Essential oil of peppermint (Mentha x piperita L.) from fields in Eastern Slovakia., 2004: Zahradnictvi Horticultural Science
31(1): 31-36
[ii] J H Liu, G H Chen, H Z Yeh, C K Huang, S K Poon. Enteric-coated peppermint-oil capsules in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a
prospective, randomized trial. J Gastroenterol. 1997 Dec;32(6):765-8. PMID: 9430014
[iii] R M Kline, J J Kline, Di Palma J, G J Barbero. Enteric-coated, pH-dependent peppermint oil capsules for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome
in children. J Pediatr. 2001 Jan;138(1):125-8. PMID: 11148527
[iv] H G Grigoleit, P Grigoleit. Peppermint oil in irritable bowel syndrome. Phytomedicine. 2005 Aug;12(8):601-6. PMID: 16121521
[v] G Cappello, M Spezzaferro, L Grossi, L Manzoli, L Marzio. Peppermint oil (Mintoil) in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective
double blind placebo-controlled randomized trial. Dig Liver Dis. 2007 Jun;39(6):530-6. Epub 2007 Apr 8. PMID: 17420159
[vi] M S Alam, P K Roy, A R Miah, S H Mollick, M R Khan, M C Mahmud, S Khatun. Efficacy of Peppermint Oil in Diarrhea Predominant IBS - A
Double Blind Randomized Placebo - Controlled Study. Mymensingh Med J. 2013 Jan ;22(1):27-30. PMID: 23416804
[vii] M J Sparks, P O'Sullivan, A A Herrington, S K Morcos. Does peppermint oil relieve spasm during barium enema? Br J Radiol. 1995
Aug;68(812):841-3. PMID: 7551780
[viii] T Asao, H Kuwano, M Ide, I Hirayama, J-I Nakamura, K-I Fujita, R Horiuti. Spasmolytic effect of peppermint oil in barium during double-contrast
barium enema compared with Buscopan. Clin Radiol. 2003 Apr;58(4):301-5. PMID: 12662951
[ix] Masahiko Inamori, Tomoyuki Akiyama, Keiko Akimoto, Koji Fujita, Hirokazu Takahashi, Masato Yoneda, Yasunobu Abe, Kensuke Kubota, Satoru
Saito, Norio Ueno, Atsushi Nakajima. Early effects of peppermint oil on gastric emptying: a crossover study using a continuous real-time 13C breath
test (BreathID system). J Gastroenterol. 2007 Jul;42(7):539-42. Epub 2007 Jul 25. PMID: 17653649
[x] B May, S Khler, B Schneider. Efficacy and tolerability of a fixed combination of peppermint oil and caraway oil in patients suffering from
functional dyspepsia. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2000 Dec;14(12):1671-7. PMID: 11121917
[xi] Joo Guilherme Bezerra Alves, Rita de Cssia Coelho Moraes de Brito, Telma Samila Cavalcanti. Effectiveness of Mentha piperita in the Treatment of
Infantile Colic: A Crossover Study. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012 ;2012:981352. Epub 2012 Jul 12. PMID: 22844342
[xii] Manizheh Sayyah Melli, Mohammad Reza Rashidi, Abbas Delazar, Elaheh Madarek, Mohammad Hassan Kargar Maher, Alieh Ghasemzadeh, Kamran
Sadaghat, Zohreh Tahmasebi. Effect of peppermint water on prevention of nipple cracks in lactating primiparous women: a randomized controlled
trial. Int Breastfeed J. 2007;2:7. Epub 2007 Apr 19. PMID: 17442122
[xiii] V A Shkurupi, O A Odintsova, N V Kazarinova, K G Tkrachenko. [Use of essential oil of peppermint (Mentha piperita) in the complex treatment of
patients with infiltrative pulmonary tuberculosis]. Virol J. 2009 Jan 20;6:8. PMID: 17128800
[xiv] T Inoue, Y Sugimoto, H Masuda, C Kamei. Effects of peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) extracts on experimental allergic rhinitis in rats. Biol
Pharm Bull. 2001 Jan;24(1):92-5. PMID: 11201253
[xv] Simon J Davies, Louise M Harding, Andrew P Baranowski. A novel treatment of postherpetic neuralgia using peppermint oil. Clin J Pain. 2002 MayJun;18(3):200-2 PMID: 12048423
[xvi] Mark Moss, Steven Hewitt, Lucy Moss, Keith Wesnes. Modulation of cognitive performance and mood by aromas of peppermint and ylang-ylang.
Nutr Cancer. 2006;55(1):53-62. PMID: 18041606
[xvii] Z Tayarani-Najaran, E Talasaz-Firoozi, R Nasiri, N Jalali, Mk Hassanzadeh. Antiemetic activity of volatile oil from Mentha spicata and Mentha
piperita in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Ecancermedicalscience. 2013 ;7:290. Epub 2013 Jan 31. PMID: 23390455

22

[xviii] Eun-Jung Park, Su-Hwa Kim, Byung-Joo Kim, Sung-Young Kim, Insuk So, Ju-Hong Jeon. Menthol Enhances an Antiproliferative Activity of
1alpha,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D(3) in LNCaP Cells. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2009 Mar;44(2):125-30. Epub 2009 Feb 28. PMID: 19308266
[xix] Su-Hwa Kim, Joo-Hyun Nam, Eun-Jung Park, Byung-Joo Kim, Sung-Joon Kim, Insuk So, Ju-Hong Jeon. Menthol regulates TRPM8-independent
processes in PC-3 prostate cancer cells. Biochim Biophys Acta. 2007 Apr;1770(4):659-65. Epub 2006 Nov 23. PMID: 18955132
[xx] Hanaa A Hassan, Hani S Hafez, Mona S Goda. Mentha piperita as a pivotal neuro-protective agent against gamma irradiation induced DNA
fragmentation and apoptosis : Mentha extract as a neuroprotective against gamma irradiation. Cytotechnology. 2013 Jan ;65(1):145-56. Epub 2012 Sep
21. PMID: 23011739
[xxi] Ravindra M Samarth, Meenakshi Samarth. Protection against radiation-induced testicular damage in Swiss albino mice by Mentha piperita (Linn.).
Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2009 Apr;104(4):329-34. PMID: 19320637
[xxii] Silke Nolkemper, Jrgen Reichling, Florian C Stintzing, Reinhold Carle, Paul Schnitzler. Antiviral effect of aqueous extracts from species of the
Lamiaceae family against Herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 in vitro. Planta Med. 2006 Dec;72(15):1378-82. Epub 2006 Nov 7. PMID: 17091431
[xxiii] A Schuhmacher, J Reichling, P Schnitzler. Virucidal effect of peppermint oil on the enveloped viruses herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2 in
vitro. Phytomedicine. 2003;10(6-7):504-10. PMID: 13678235
[xxiv] Iraj Rasooli, Shojaedin Shayegh, Massoud Taghizadeh, Shakiba Darvish Alipoor Astaneh. Phytotherapeutic prevention of dental biofilm formation.
Phytother Res. 2008 Sep;22(9):1162-7. PMID: 18729251
[xxv] Shojaedin Shayegh, Iraj Rasooli, Massoud Taghizadeh, Shakiba Darvish Alipoor Astaneh. Phytotherapeutic inhibition of supragingival dental
plaque. Nat Prod Res. 2008 Mar 20;22(5):428-39. PMID: 18404563
[xxvi] The Complete Illustrated Book of Herbs, Alex Frampton, The Reader's Digest Association, 2009
[xxvii] Paul Grant. Spearmint herbal tea has significant anti-androgen effects in polycystic ovarian syndrome. A randomized controlled trial. Phytother
Res. 2009 Jul 7. PMID: 19585478
[xxviii] Mehmet Akdoan, Mehmet Numan Tamer, Erkan Cre, Medine Cumhur Cre, Banu Kale Krolu, Namik Deliba. Effect of spearmint (Mentha
spicata Labiatae) teas on androgen levels in women with hirsutism. Phytother Res. 2007 May;21(5):444-7. PMID: 17310494
[xxix] Andrew Pengelly, James Snow, Simon Y Mills, Andrew Scholey, Keith Wesnes, Leah Reeves Butler. Short-term study on the effects of rosemary on
cognitive function in an elderly population. J Med Food. 2012 Jan ;15(1):10-7. Epub 2011 Aug 30. PMID: 21877951

23

7 Benefits Of Walnuts
Author: Dr. Mercola
May 19, 2014
a day cut breast cancer risk in half, and slowed tumor
growth by 50 percent as well.1
2. Heart Health
Walnuts contain the amino acid l-arginine, which offers
multiple vascular benefits to people with heart disease, or
those who have increased risk for heart disease due to
multiple cardiac risk factors.
Oftentimes, the simplest foods are best for your health, and
this is certainly the case for nuts, in which Mother Nature
has crafted a nearly perfect package of protein, healthy
fats, fiber, plant sterols, antioxidants, and many vitamins
and minerals.

If you struggle with herpes, you may want to avoid or limit

walnuts, as high levels of arginine can deplete the amino
acid lysine, which can trigger herpes recurrences.

Among nuts, the case may be made that walnuts are king,
as research shows they may boost your health in a number
of ways at very easy-to-achieve "doses."

Walnuts also contain the plant-based omega-3 fat alphalinolenic acid (ALA), which is anti-inflammatory and may
prevent the formation of pathological blood clots.
Research shows that people who eat a diet high in ALA are
less likely to have a fatal heart attack and have a nearly 50
percent lower risk of sudden cardiac death.2

Eating just one ounce of walnuts a day (that's about seven

shelled walnuts) may be all it takes to take advantage of
their beneficial properties.

Eating just four walnuts a day has been shown to

significantly raise blood levels of heart-healthy ALA,3 and
walnut consumption supports healthful cholesterol levels.

7 Top Reasons to Eat Walnuts

Separate research showed that eating just one ounce of

walnuts a day may decrease cardiovascular risk,4 and
among those at high cardiovascular risk, increased
frequency of nut consumption significantly lowers the risk
of death.5

Walnuts belong to the tree nut family, along with Brazil

nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pine
nuts, and pistachios. Each has its own unique nutritional
profile.
One-quarter cup of walnuts, for instance, provides more
than 100 percent of the daily recommended value of plantbased omega-3 fats, along with high amounts of copper,
manganese, molybdenum, and biotin. Some of the most
exciting research about walnuts includes:

3. Rare and Powerful Antioxidants

Antioxidants are crucial to your health, as they are
believed to help control how fast you age by combating
free radicals, which are at the heart of age-related
deterioration.

1. Cancer-Fighting Properties

Walnuts contain several unique and powerful antioxidants

that are available in only a few commonly eaten foods.
This includes the quinone juglone, the tannin
tellimagrandin, and the flavonol morin.6

Walnuts may help reduce not only the risk of prostate

cancer, but breast cancer as well. In one study, mice that
ate the human equivalent of 2.4 ounces of whole walnuts
for 18 weeks had significantly smaller and slower-growing
prostate tumors compared to the control group that
consumed the same amount of fat but from other sources.

Walnuts contain antioxidants that are so powerful at freeradical scavenging that researchers called them
"remarkable,"7 and research has shown that walnut
polyphenols may help prevent chemically-induced liver
damage.8

Overall the whole walnut diet reduced prostate cancer

growth by 30 to 40 percent. According to another study on
mice, the human equivalent of just two handfuls of walnuts

24

Why You Should Eat the Walnut Skin

In another study, researchers found that nuts, especially

walnuts, have potent antioxidant powers. Walnut
polyphenols had the best efficacy among the nuts tested
and also the highest lipoprotein-bound antioxidant activity.
The researchers concluded:9

The outermost layer of a shelled walnut the whitish,

flaky (or sometimes waxy) part has a bitter flavor, but
resist the urge to remove it. It's thought that up to 90
percent of the antioxidants in walnuts are found in the skin,
making it one of the healthiest parts to consume.16 To
increase the positive impacts on your health, look for nuts
that are organic and raw, not irradiated or pasteurized.

"Nuts are high in polyphenol antioxidants

which by binding to lipoproteins would
inhibit oxidative processes that lead to
atherosclerosis in vivo. In human
supplementation studies nuts have been
shown to improve the lipid profile, increase
endothelial
function
and
reduce
inflammation, all without causing weight
gain."

Furthermore, be aware that walnuts are highly perishable

and their healthful fats easily damaged. If you're
purchasing shelled walnuts in bulk, avoid those that appear
shriveled or smell rancid, or that you cannot verify are
fresh. Walnuts should be stored in an airtight container in
your refrigerator or freezer, whether they are shelled or
unshelled. Walnuts are great as a quick snack, but if you're
not a fan of their flavor, you can still get their therapeutic
benefits by blending them into smoothies. Or you can try
one of the other healthful nuts available.

4. Weight Control
Adding healthful amounts of nuts such as walnuts to your
diet can help you to maintain your ideal weight over time.
In one review of 31 trials, those whose diets included extra
nuts or nuts substituted for other foods lost about 1.4 extra
pounds and half an inch from their waists.10 Eating walnuts
is also associated with increased satiety after just three
days.11

You can further improve the quality of walnuts by soaking

them in water overnight, which will tend to lower some of
the enzyme inhibitors and phytic acid. After soaking, you
can dehydrate them at low temperature of around 105 to
110 degrees Fahrenheit until they are crispy again, as they
are far more palatable when they are crunchy.

5. Improved Reproductive Health in Men

Most Nuts Are a Wonderful Food

One of the lesser-known benefits of walnuts is their impact

on male fertility. Among men who consume a Westernstyle diet, adding 75 grams (a bit over one-half cup) of
walnuts daily significantly improved sperm quality,
including vitality, motility, and morphology. 12

You can't really go wrong when choosing nuts to eat, as

long as you pay attention to quality. By this I mean look
for nuts that are organic and raw, not irradiated,
pasteurized, or coated in sugar. One exception is peanuts,
which are technically in the legume family. My main
objections to peanuts are that they tend to:

6. Brain Health
Walnuts contain a number of neuroprotective compounds,
including vitamin E, folate, melatonin, omega-3 fats, and
antioxidants. Research shows walnut consumption may
support brain health, including increasing inferential
reasoning in young adults.13

One study also found that consuming high-antioxidant

foods like walnuts "can decrease the enhanced
vulnerability to oxidative stress that occurs in aging,"
"increase health span," and also "enhance cognitive and
motor function in aging."14

Distort your omega-3 to omega-6 ratio, as they are

relatively high in omega-6
Be frequently contaminated with a carcinogenic mold
called aflatoxin
Be one of the most pesticide-contaminated crops

My favorite nuts are raw macadamia and pecans, as they

provide the highest amount of healthy fat while being on
the lower end in terms of carbs and protein. Most nuts'
nutritional makeup closely resemble what I consider to be
an ideal ratio of the basic building blocksfat making up
the greatest amount of your daily calories, followed by a
moderate amount of high-quality protein and a low amount
of non-vegetable carbs. And this is precisely why they're
recommended as one of the best sources of healthy fats in
my nutrition plan.

7. Diabetes
The beneficial dietary fat in walnuts has been shown to
improve metabolic parameters in people with type 2
diabetes. Overweight adults with type 2 diabetes who ate
one-quarter cup of walnuts daily had significant reductions
in fasting insulin levels compared to those who did not,
and the benefit was achieved in the first three months.15

The main fatty acid in macadamia nuts is the

monounsaturated fat oleic acid (about 60 percent). This is
about the level found in olives, which are well known for
their health benefits. I have been consuming macadamia

25

nuts and pecans almost daily since I started lowering my

overall protein intake about a year ago. The following list
shows the nutrition facts in grams per one ounce for your
most common tree nuts (one ounce of nuts equates to just
over 28 grams, or about a small handful):17

Tree Nut

Macadamias

Pecans

Pine nuts

Fat
(grams
per
ounce)

22

20

20

Protein
(grams
per
ounce)

Carbohydrates
(grams
per
ounce)

Brazil nuts

19

Walnuts

18

Hazelnuts

17

Cashews

13

Almonds

14

Pistachios

13

26

Hot Peppers Prevent The Number

One Cause Of Death
By APRIL Mccarthy
May 27, 2014
"Our research has reinforced and
expanded knowledge about how these
substances in chilies work in improving
heart health," said Zhen-Yu Chen, Ph.D.,
who presented the study. "We now have a
clearer and more detailed portrait of their
innermost effects on genes and other
mechanisms that influence cholesterol and
the health of blood vessels. It is among the
first research to provide that information."

Capsaicinoids found in cayenne pepper, jalapenos,

habaneros and other chili peppers already have an
established treatment role in creams to address joint and
arthritis pain. They also promote fat burning, increase
metabolism and even kill cancer cells. Scientists have now
reported the latest evidence that chili peppers are a hearthealthy food with potential to protect against the No. 1
cause of death in the developed world.

The team found, for instance, that capsaicin and a close

chemical relative boost heart health in two ways. They
lower cholesterol levels by reducing accumulation of
cholesterol in the body and increasing its breakdown and
excretion in the feces. They also block action of a gene
that makes arteries contract, restricting the flow of blood to
the heart and other organs. The blocking action allows
more blood to flow through blood vessels.
"We concluded that capsaicinoids were
beneficial in improving a range of factors
related to heart and blood vessel health,"
said Chen, a professor of food and
nutritional science at the Chinese
University of Hong Kong. "But we certainly
do not recommend that people start
consuming chilies to an excess. A good
diet is a matter of balance. And remember,
chilies are no substitute for the prescription
medications proven to be beneficial. They
may be a nice supplement, however, for
people who find the hot flavor pleasant."

Past research suggested that spicing food with chilies can

lower blood pressure in people with that condition, reduce
blood cholesterol and ease the tendency for dangerous
blood clots to form.
Researchers in Korea recently published evidence that
suggests the mechanisms behind why capsaicin may aid
weight loss.
Spicing up your daily diet with some red pepper can also
curb appetite, especially for those who don't normally eat
the popular spice, according to research from Purdue
University.

Capsaicin is used as an analgesic in topical ointments,

nasal sprays, and dermal patches to relieve pain, typically
in concentrations between 0.025% and 0.25%. It may be
applied in cream form for the temporary relief of minor
aches and pains of muscles and joints associated with
arthritis, backache, strains and sprains, often in compounds
with other rubefacients. It is also used to reduce the
symptoms of peripheral neuropathy such as post-herpetic
neuralgia caused by shingles. In direct application the
treatment area is typically numbed first with a topical
anesthetic; capsaicin is then applied by a therapist wearing
rubber gloves and a face mask. The capsaicin remains on
the skin until the patient starts to feel the "heat", at which

The component that gives jalapeno peppers their heat may

also kill prostate cancer cells.
Capsaicin is present in large quantities in the placental
tissue (which holds the seeds), the internal membranes
and, to a lesser extent, the other fleshy parts of the fruits of
plants in the genus Capsicum. The seeds themselves do not
produce any capsaicin, although the highest concentration
of capsaicin can be found in the white pith of the inner
wall, where the seeds are attached

27

point it is promptly removed. Capsaicin is also available in

large bandages (plasters) that can be applied to the back.

cholesterol (which deposits into blood vessels), but did not

affect levels of so-called "good" cholesterol. The team
found indications that capsaicinoids may reduce the size of
deposits that already have formed in blood vessels,
narrowing arteries in ways that can lead to heart attacks or
strokes.

Chen and his colleagues turned to hamsters for the study,

animals that serve as stand-ins for humans in research that
cannot be done in people. They gave the hamsters highcholesterol diets, divided them into groups, and
supplemented each group's food with either no
capsaicinoids (the control group) or various amounts of
capsaicinoids. The scientists then analyzed the effects.

Capsaicinoids also blocked the activity of a gene that

produces cyclooxygenase-2, a substance that makes the
muscles around blood vessels constrict. By blocking it,
muscles can relax and widen, allowing more blood to flow.

In addition to reducing total cholesterol levels in the blood,

capsaicinoids reduced levels of the so-called "bad"

28

Government Requires Pasteurization

Of All Almonds, Even Organic & Raw
Natasha Longo, Prevent Disease - Waking Times
May 26, 2014
If you are purist when it comes to nutritional value of nuts,
it may come as a shock to discover that most of the
worlds almonds are heat treated. A little known secret in
almond production and processing is that irrespective of
the status of standard, raw or organically produced
almonds, the worlds largest producer is required,
according to The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), to
pasteurize all almonds. This means even organic and raw
almonds shipped in North America are exposed to heat
treatments.

Salmonella outbreaks in 2001 and 2004 that were traced

back to raw almonds.
The Almond Board of California (ABC)
collaborates with the USDA to institute
industry -wide pasteurization programs.
The purpose of this program is claimed to
to ensure consumers are provided with
safe, wholesome food products, without
compromising the almond qualities,but
unfortunately this is plainly false.

Almonds are the best nut source of Vitamin E. In fact, just

one ounce contains 7.3 mg of alpha-tocopherol vitamin
E, the form of the vitamin the body prefers.. Whats more,
Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that helps protect
cells from damage.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are responsible

for evaluating and approving the treatment processes that
demonstrate effectiveness in achieving a reduction of
possible contamination in almonds while not impacting
their quality and sensory attributes. To date, the FDA has
approved not oil roasting, dry roasting, and blanching, but
also processing and propylene oxide (PPO) and steam
treatment for organic raw almonds as acceptable forms of
pasteurization. Steam pasteurization meets the USDA
Organic Programs national standards.

According to researchers at Tufts University in the United

States, a 28 gram serving of almonds packs in the same
level of flavonoid antioxidants as a serving of cooked
broccoli or a serving of brewed green or black tea. A
handful or about 23 almonds can provide an individual
with heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, protein, fibre,
potassium, magnesium and iron. All in just 160 calories!

Even the use of the term pasteurized is used in a

misleading way, because according to the Almond Board
of California (ABC), no heating is used during the
pasteurization process, but rather a process referred to by
the FDA as terminal gas sterilization with propylene
oxide.

Sounds great doesnt it? But did you know that most
studies on almonds come from unpasteurized and raw
sources?
According to Food and Agriculture Organization, the
world produced 2.00 million tonnes of almonds in 2011
with United States the largest producer at 0.73 million
tonnes. The United States is said to produce by some
estimates almost 80% of the worlds supply.

Propylene oxide is a highly toxic flammable chemical

compound, once used as a racing fuel before it became
prohibited for safety reasons. It is also used in thermobaric
weapons. It is an epoxide, which is not GRAS (generally
recognized as safe for human ingestion).

Since nearly all domestic almonds come from this fertile

area in California, that means that any raw almonds you
buy, unless they were imported from abroad, have been
pasteurized via one of these methods. Which method was
used depends on the brand and the preference of the
grower. Farmers can also sell small quantities of truly raw,
untreated almonds in quantities of 100 pounds or less at
farmers markets and farm stands in California.

The Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) site has

this to say about propylene oxide:
Dermal contact, even with dilute solutions,
has caused skin irritation and necrosis in
humans. Propylene oxide is also a mild
central nervous system (CNS) depressant
in humansPropylene oxide has been
observed to cause tumors at or near the
site of administration in rodents, causing
forestomach tumors following ingestion via
gavage (experimentally placing the

In January 2007, the U.S. Department of Agriculture

announced that virtually all almonds would have to be
pasteurized later that year. The new rule was a result of

29

chemical in the stomach) and nasal tumors

after inhalation exposure. EPA has
classified propylene oxide as a Group B2,
probable human carcinogen.

the fumigant twice, and in 1996 seemed on the verge of

revoking its food additive regulation status.
Changing its tune after protests from the manufacturer of
the gas, the EPA permitted the chemicals status to remain
on the books and set an allowable residue level of 150
parts per million. But sometime between then and now,
that residue allowance doubled to 300 ppm. And despite
the fact that the state of California considers PPO to be a
known carcinogen growers in that state can release
almonds for sale once the PPO levels are down to 300
ppm.

And yet youre told these propylene oxide-treated almonds

are no different from raw almonds!
This also means that all almond oils and nut butters are
affected nutritionally by the same process since all
almonds must be pasteurized regardless of their
processing.

Canada, which did not previously allow PPO use, also set
an approved residue level of 300 ppm in 2009 to comply
with its international trade obligations.

METHODS OF PASTEURIZATION
Despite what any agency has to say about the gentle and
non-invasive effects of pasteurization, there is nothing
gentle about violently heating any foods. Pasteurization
destroys enzymes, diminishes vitamin content, denatures
proteins, kills beneficial bacteria, promotes pathogens and
is associated with disease.

The USDA-approved marketing order was challenged in

court by organic farmers organized by the Cornucopia
Institute, a Wisconsin-based farm policy research group.
According to the Cornucopia Institute, this almond
marketing order has imposed significant financial burdens
on small-scale and organic growers and damaged domestic
almond markets. A federal judge dismissed the lawsuit in
the spring of 2009 on procedural grounds.

Oil roasting, dry roasting, and blanching are the oldest

and most traditional processes used in the industry and all
three methods used by commercial processors decrease
vitamin and mineral content substantially is most nuts, not
just almonds.

WHY WE NEED UNPASTEURIZED ALMONDS

Pasteurized almonds reduce the flavonoids found in
almond skins when they team up with the vitamin E found
in their meat. Reductions are estimated at anywhere
between 30%-70%.

Steam processing uses surface treatments. Multiple

proprietary steam treatments are currently being utilized by
the industry which meets USDA Organic Program
standards. Regardless of claims to the opposite, these short
bursts of steam do indeed impact the nutritional integrity
of the almond. These treatments do not heat proteins-and
diminish vitamins and minerals. The nutritional and
sensory characteristics of the almonds ARE changed when
treated with steam.

That means that twenty potent antioxidant flavonoids in

almond skins, some of which are well known as major
contributors to the health benefits derived from other
foods, such as the catechins and naringenin, are all
diminished in the pasteurization process.

They are exposed to steam for 8 seconds at 210-215F.

Then for 44 seconds they are moved through a high-heat
dehydration tunnel to remove the moisture resulting from
the steam. The circulating air temperature is 391- 395F.
During this process the almonds reach 220-221F. This
eliminates both good and harmful bacteria and also
reduces critical enzymes, vitamins and minerals.

The synergy between the flavonoids and

vitamin E in almonds demonstrates how
the nutrients in whole foods such as
almonds can impact health, says Dr.
Blumberg, however the synergistic
relationship is lost once the almonds
become processed.

Propylene Oxide (PPO) treatment is also a surface

treatment which has been approved for use on foods since
1958, and is widely used for a variety of foods such as
other nuts, cocoa powder and spices. PPO is claimed to be
effective at reducing harmful bacteria on almonds and also
claimed to pose no risk to consumers. Yet PPO is
classified by the EPA as a Group B2, probable human
carcinogen. It also used in making polyurethane foams,
antifreeze and hydraulic fluid. And while the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) currently allows
PPO treatment of almonds, it has also made moves to ban

Almonds that have been pasteurized are heated to the point

where their life force is almost entirely dissipated.
Recent scientific studies show that heating almonds creates
potentially harmful levels of acrylamide, a threatening
byproduct of the amino acid asparagine. Acrylamide is a
chemical known to cause cancer, or reproductive toxicity
(such as birth defects and other reproductive harm).
WHERE CAN YOU FIND TRUE ORGANIC RAW
ALMONDS?

30

Not in any retailer in the United States, unless you happen

to find farmers who will sell you small quantities.
Otherwise all California almonds labeled raw must be
steam-pasteurized or chemically treated with propylene
oxide. However, this does not apply to imported almonds.

Spain is the second largest almond producer in the world

and also offers some of the best almonds in the world
which are unpasteurized.
Many raw food companies started selling unpasteurized
imported almonds from countries like Spain and Italy to
the benefit of consumers.

California farmers are leading the struggle to bring back

your original almonds. In addition to the instituting of a
lawsuit against the USDA pasteurization mandate,
California farmers are actively pursuing another route,
namely non-thermal pasteurization i.e. the use of ultraviolet light or ozone at room temperature to achieve the
same result.

If youre serious about obtaining any almonds (within

reasonable quantities) with a suitable degree of nutrition,
youre only option is to pursue sources outside of the
United States to ensure you are receiving the best quality
almond as nature intended.

31

3 Types of Foods You Probably Didnt Know Have MSG

Natasha Longo, Prevent Disease
June 11, 2014
Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is not a nutrient, vitamin,
or mineral and has no absolutely no health benefits. It is a
processed food and pharmaceutical additive that is an
extremely dangerous neurotoxin (excitotoxin) that kills
brain cells in the hypothalamus and has been linked to
migraines, seizures, ADD/ADHD, heart palpitations and is
now officially officially linked to obesity and disorders
associated with metabolic syndrome including progressive
liver disease. What is more shocking is that its found in
three types of foods most people are not even aware of.

These processes are discussed in some detail in food

encyclopedias wherein articles on glutamic acid and
monosodium glutamate are generally written by persons
who work for Ajinomoto, Co., Inc., the worlds largest
producer of the food ingredient monosodium glutamate.
It used to be that when any ingredient contained 78%-79%
processed free glutamic acid (MSG), and the balance was
made up of salt, moisture, and up to 1 per cent impurities,
the FDA required that the product be called monosodium
glutamate, and required that the product be labeled as
such. The FDA required that other MSG-containing
ingredients be identified by names other than
monosodium glutamate. Never has the FDA required
mention of the fact that an ingredient contains processed
free glutamic acid (MSG).

What is MSG?
Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is not a nutrient, vitamin,
or mineral and has no health benefits. The part of MSG
that negatively affects the human body is the glutamate,
not the sodium. The breakdown of MSG typically consists
of 78% glutamate, 12% sodium, and about 10% water.
Any glutamate added to a processed food is not and can
not be considered naturally occurring. Natural glutamate in
plants and animals is known as L-glutamic acid.

While the glutamic acid in monosodium glutamate is

generally produced through bacterial fermentation, the
glutamic acid in the other MSG-containing ingredients is
made through use of chemicals (hydrolysis or autolysis),
enzymes (enzymolysis), fermentation, or a complex
cooking process wherein reaction flavors are produced
from a combination of specific amino acids, reducing
sugars, animal or vegetable fats or oils, and optional
ingredients including hydrolyzed vegetable protein.

In contrast, processed free glutamic acid (MSG) contains

both L-glutamic acid and D-glutamic acid, and is also
accompanied by pyroglutamic acid and other impurities.
The impurities differ according to the starting materials
and methods used to produce the glutamic acid (MSG). It
is only acid hydrolyzed proteins that contain mono and
dichloro propanols (which are carcinogenic), and it is only
reaction flavors that contain heterocyclic amines (which
are also carcinogenic).

It is now essentially unregulated when it comes to labeling

standards. A label may say yeast extract, calcium
caseinate, or beef flavoring, but the product still
contains varying amounts of free glutamic acid. This
makes it very difficult for consumers who are trying to
avoid it. It is also very dangerous for those who suffer
severe reactions to it. Many people who are very sensitive
to MSG experience respiratory, neurological, muscular,
skin, urological and even cardiac symptoms.

By FDA definition, processed free glutamic acid (MSG) is

naturally occurring, because the basic ingredients are
found in nature. Naturally occurring does not mean that
a food additive is being used in its natural state. Naturally
occurring only means that the food additive began with
something found in nature. By FDA definition, the
ingredient monosodium glutamate is natural. So is
hydrochloric acid. So is arsenic. Natural, especially in
our beloved food industry, doesnt mean safe.

3 TYPES OF FOODS WHICH SHOCKINGLY CONTAIN

MSG
1. Dairy

Processed free glutamic acid (MSG) is created when

protein is either partially or fully broken apart into its
constituent amino acids, or glutamic acid is secreted from
selected bacteria. A protein can be broken into its
constituent amino acids in a number of ways (autolysis,
hydrolysis, enzymolysis, and/or fermentation). When a
protein is broken down, the amino acid chains in the
protein are broken, and individual amino acids are freed.

Many of the fat free and reduced fat milks tend to be made
from powdered milk that contains processed free glutamic
acid. Pasteurization affects the MSG content, especially
those milks ultra-pasteurized the higher temperatures
break down more milk protein resulting in more processed
free glutamic acid. What about the organic whole milks?
Unfortunately, those arent safe from additional MSG
either. Granted, the label doesnt specifically state that

32

ingredient. All of the following dairy products may contain

MSG:

Most powdered infant formulas contain some of the

following ingredients including processed milk and or/soy
proteins, enzymatically hydrolyzed reduced minerals,
whey protein concentrate, corn syrup solids, casein
hydrolysate, modified corn starch, carrageenan, which are
broken down into MSG during the manufacturing
process. Here is a link to the truthinlabeling.org website
which shows a Canadian Study listing the glutamic acid in
so-called hypoallergenic formulas.

Ultra Pasteurized Products

Powdered Milk
Cottage Cheese
Fat-free Milk
Yogurt
Reduced Fat Milk
Ice Cream

Other Common Ingredients Containing MSG:

2. Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

- Plant Proteins
- Hydrolyzed Corn Gluten
- Hydrolyzed Pea Protein
- Textured Protein
- Autolyzed Yeast Extract
- Autolyzed Plant Protein
- Yeast Extract
- Calcium Caseinate
- Sodium Caseinate
- Gelatin
- Disodium Guanylate
- Disodium Inosinate
- Carrageenan
- Xanthum Gum
- Maltodextrin
- Natural Flavor
- Barley Malt
- Malt Extract
- Soy Protein Isolate
- Ultra-pasteurized Soy Sauce
- Whey Protein Concentrate
- Soy Protein Concentrate
- Whey Protein Isolate
- Protease Enzymes
- Protein Fortified anything
- Enzyme Modified anything
- Citric Acid.

Most people dont expect MSG in their fresh fruits and

veggies. How can an artificial ingredient be in these
natural foods? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
allows dangerous and unhealthy practices to be applied to
fresh produce. Again, the USDAs certified organic
sealdoes not regulate crops after they are harvested, and
USDA offers no guarantee of the absence of
MSG. Auxigro is a very controversial chemical-based
growth-enhancer that is approved in the by the EPA for
spraying on fruits, vegetables, and grains. It is a mixture of
equal parts gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), casein
hydrolysate and free glutamic acid dissolved in water. The
free glutamic acid or so called L-glutamic acid
component being used by its manufacturer, Emerald
BioAgriculture, contains L-glutamic acid, an amino acid
found in protein; but it also contains D-glutamic acid,
pyroglutamic acid, and other chemicals referred to in the
industry as contaminants. The free glutamic acid used in
AuxiGro is processed free glutamic acid. It is
manufactured in chemical plants where certain
selected genetically engineered bacteria feeding on a
liquid nutrient medium excrete the free glutamic acid
they synthesize outside of their cell membrane into the
liquid medium in which they are grown. In contrast, the
free glutamic acid found in protein, and the free glutamic
acid involved in normal human body function, are
unprocessed. free glutamic acid, and contain no
contaminants.

MSG Confirmed To Cause Obesity and Liver Disease

A new study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food,
identified MSG as a critical factor in the initiation of
obesity and shows that a restrictive diet cannot counteract
this effect but can slow the progression of related liver
disease is published in.

AuxiGro, the first MSG-laced plant growth enhancer to

hit the market, has been approved for spraying on every
crop we know of, with no restrictions on the amount of
processed free glutamic acid (MSG) that may remain in
and/or on crops when brought to market. Even before
consumers had an inkling that crops were being sprayed.

Makoto Fujimoto and a team of international researchers

from Japan, the U.S., and Italy monitored the weight gain
and development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and its
progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in MSG-treated
mice fed either a calorie-restricted or regular diet.

3. Baby Formulas and Baby Foods

Co-Editor-in-Chief Sampath Parthasarathy, MBA, PhD,

Florida Hospital Chair in Cardiovascular Sciences,
University of Central Florida, Orlando, said although MSG
has been deemed a safe food additive, its dosage,
interaction with other drugs, effects on vulnerable
populations, and effects on chronic inflammatory diseases
and neurological diseases are unknown.

The food industry employed its usual tactic in the face of

consumer criticism with MSG, especially with baby food.
They buried it under new names. The industry came up
with a fabulous range of euphemisms for monosodium
glutamate the most cheeky of all is natural flavourings.

33

Better Than Vitamin D?

Revolutionary New Coriander Oil May Be Your #1
Weapon In Your Fight For Better Health
By The Alternative Daily
July 5, 2014
Believed by the Chinese to bestow immortality, coriander,
or Coriandrum Sativum, is a powerful herb with many
health benefits earning it the name, The Wonder
Herb.

acid, riboflavin, niacin, beta carotene, and a generous dose

of vitamins C, A and K all essential for optimal health.

Hippocrates, the famous ancient Greek healer who became

known as the Father of Medicine, was said to have used
and regularly recommended coriander for a wide range of
conditions.

Vitamin D, no doubt should be a vital part of your daily

regiment. However, relying on it alone to do its job can be
a BIG MISTAKE, and heres

Coriander helps vitamin D

WHY:

Discovered by archeologists in Egyptian pharaoh

Tutankhamens tomb, coriander (also known as cilantro or
Chinese parsley) has been traced back to 5,000 BC. The
use of this herb has a long-history across the
Mediterranean, Middle East and Asia spanning thousands
of years and playing a major part in ancient medicine.

Known to cure small pox, and with medicinal properties

documented in Sanskrit and Greek writings, coriander
seeds have an impressive health-supporting reputation
matched by very few, even today

In Europe, coriander has traditionally been referred to

as an anti-diabetic plant.
In India, it has traditionally been used for its antiinflammatory properties.
In the United States, coriander is quickly gaining
popularity for its cholesterol-lowering effects.

Most supplements do NOT get absorbed properly.

Vitamin D requires vitamin K for proper synthesis.
Vitamin D is a prohormone it requires sufficient
healthy cholesterol to produce a useable form.
Vitamin D is fat-soluble. Absorption suffers from
absence of lipid-fats to transport & carry it INTO your
cells.
Natural vitamin D from the sun is not effective and
can significantly increase deadly skin cancer risk if you
are omega-3 & antioxidant deficient.

Coriander oil solves Vitamin-D Problems

Because vitamin-D is fat soluble, it needs healthy fats to
be effective. Coriander seeds are loaded with fatty acids
and essential oils. In fact, they contain 28.4% of seed
weight in total lipids!

Coriander is rich in vital nutrients

There is ample evidence to suggest that vitamins A and K

are necessary for proper assimilation of vitamin D. One
serving of coriander contains roughly 400% the RDV of
vitamin-K and ample amounts of vitamin A.

Very popular for its anti-inflammatory properties, and

known for its ability to aid in remedying a long list of
ailments including smallpox, diarrhea, mouth ulcers,
indigestion, menstrual disorders, food poisoning,
conjunctivitis, skin disorders, blood sugar disorders, eye
problems, osteoporosis, arthritis, anemia, rheumatism,
headaches, insomnia, muscle pain and general stiffness.

Pathogens in the body put stress on the immune system

and can affect vitamin D levels. The presence of
antioxidants, rich phytonutrients, minerals, and vitamins in
coriander all work synergistically to boost the bodys
overall immunity.

As a gateway to health, coriander has potent liver

supporting properties, and is an excellent source of
phytonutrients and flavonoids. It is an also a phenomenal
source
of
minerals,
including
potassium,
calcium,manganese, iron, and magnesium, as well as folic

Common toxic metals like mercury, lead, aluminum and

cadmium impair your bodys ability to produce sufficient
vitamin D. Coriander oil has shown to be one of the most
potent natural chelatorsof toxic metals known and to aid

34

removal of mercury, cadmium, aluminum and lead from

the body!

Consuming coriander oil daily reduces the amount of

damaged fats (lipid peroxides) in the cell membranes.
Studies have shown it to lower bad cholesterol levels, and
increase good cholesterol levels.

Getting natural vitamin D from the sun is surely the best

way, yet poses great skin cancer risks if you are
antioxidant and/or omega 3 deficient! And actually,
omega-3 fat deficiencies are a far more significant risk
factor for deadly skin cancers than sun exposure!

A study in rats demonstrated that corianders combination

of linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and
ascorbic acid (vitamin-C) are effective in also reducing
cholesterol deposits along the inner walls of the arteries
and veins.

Coriander oil provides you with a great source of

antioxidants! For omega 3 boosting power, coriander oil
has been shown to increase the natural bioconversion of
alpha-linoleic acid to EPA and DHA in animal studies.

Hypertension
Coriander oil consumption has been shown to reduce
blood pressure in patients suffering from hypertension.

Coriander and blood sugar regulation

In 2009, type 2 diabetes affected 285 million worldwide.
Today, in 2014, it affects 365 million people worldwide!
Due the stimulating effect of Coriander oil on the
endocrine glands, the secretion of insulin is increased from
the pancreas, increasing the insulin levels in the blood.
This regulates the proper assimilation and absorption of
sugar and results in healthier blood sugar levels.

Cancer
Coriander contains coriandrol, a substance used to treat
liver cancer. When combined with a healthy diet,
Coriander is believed to be effective in preventing certain
cancers such as liver, breast and colon cancer.
Foodborne illness and bacteria

Chronic disease fighting power

Coriander Oil is a MUST when traveling! In most
countries, food-borne illness impacts up to 30% (or more)
of the population and Coriander oil has shown
DRAMATIC results against all major food-borne illness!

Metals are the #1 known contributor to chronic diseases

such as Crohns disease, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis
and Alzheimers. Coriander has shown to be a potent
mobiliser of mercury, cadmium, lead and aluminum from
the bones and central nervous system.

Research, recently published, showed that Coriander Oil

has the ability to kill serious bacteria such as E. coli,
MRSA, salmonella and Bacillus cereus. Out of 12 tested
strains, every bacteria strain showed reduced growth, and
most were killed! And these were by solutions only
containing 1.6% coriander oil!

It is also the only known substance to get inside entry to

the cell dislodging toxic metals attached to cell
organelles, from within the nucleus of the cell and
actually reversing the DNA damage that has been caused!
It is best taken 30 minutes prior to eating food containing
fiber or a clean source of chlorella.

Imagine taking 100% coriander oil

Digestion

Coriander oil works by damaging the membrane of the

bacterial cell, causing cell death according to the
Journal of Medical Microbiology study. Back in 2004, a
study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food
Chemistry showed the compound dodecenal (found in
Coriander) was twice as effective as the commonly used
antibiotic drug, gentamicin, at killing salmonella!

Coriander oil helps with the secretion of enzymes and

digestive juices in the stomach, thus stimulating peristaltic
motion, and overall digestion. And also because of its
antioxidant, antifungal, and antibiotic effects, coriander
oil has shown to help increase absorption in the stomach.
Candida

Its actually been know for a long time that salsa has
antibacterial properties only no one realized it was the
Coriander in the salsa that was responsible for this.

Because of its powerful anti-fungal properties, coriander

has been proven to be effective at killing Candida Albicans
over growth and any accompanying digestive invaders.
This promotes the proliferation of healthy gut bacteria and
improves immune system function.

All-in-all, youre SURE to experience some sort of food

borne illness more than a few times in your lifetime
with Coriander oil at your side, youll be prepared!

Cholesterol regulation

35

Especially since this new Coriander oil (mentioned below)

does NOT require refrigeration, you can easily take it
with you on the go, whether home or traveling.

Where to get 100% Pure Coriander Oil

First, it must be truly pure Coriander oil. You also only
want to purchase organic, pure-pressed oil that is
completely free of all additives and should be stored in a
light-protective and air-sealed Miron bottle.

Finally, Pure-Unadulterated Coriander Oil

Yes, its HERE!

Currently, Activation Products is the only supplier of pure

coriander oil that is matched to these standards.

After years of research and trial & error for the first time
in the world Activation Products is now exclusively
manufacturing The Only 100% Organic, Pure-Pressed
Coriander Oil of its kind!

Activation Products has developed a proprietary extraction

technology. This technology is so delicate yet powerful
that the precious nutrient qualities of the seeds are left
undamaged.

With the highest usable potency ever produced, even

Hippocrates would have drooled to get his hands on this
super-charged oil! Plop a few drops into your daily
regimen and feel your body flourish!

The result is high quality oil that needs no refrigeration

and will last for up to a year in the kitchen cupboard.
The amazing health effects listed above are what inspired
the team at Activation to produce pure coriander oil.

36

AMA Junk Science Study Used To Falsely Label

Vitamins And Minerals As Dangerous
By Tony Isaacs
July 6, 2014
The mainstream media is awash and abuzz with news
about a new study which purports to show that taking
vitamins, minerals and other supplements can be
dangerous. However, even a perfunctory look at the study
reveals it to a seriously flawed study using junk science.

thousands of years. The body most often treats unnatural

petro-chemical coal tar derivative vitamins as unnatural
toxins. Consume unnatural toxins and put crushed rocks in
your body for up to 19 years and there might well be an
increased likelihood to have negative health results especially if you happened to be someone who tried to
offset unhealthy diet and lifestyle practices with
supplements.

The study, published in the American Medical

Associations (AMAs) Archives of Internal Medicine,
actually consisted of nothing more than an analysis of a
series of three questionnaires given to almost 39,000
women over a 19 year period.

Minerals are absolutely essential for proper absorption and

utilizations of vitamins. Thus the vast majority of the
women in the study were taking minerals which were hard
to properly absorb and utilize, which in turn made those
synthetic vitamins that much harder to absorb and utilize.

The researchers analyzed the self-reported results and

determined that there was a 2.4 percent increased risk of
death associated with the use of multiple vitamins. Though
such an amount is statistically insignificant, that did not
keep the media from jumping on the story as proof of the
danger of taking vitamin and mineral supplements. And
the study authors themselves declared:

Had a study been conducted on people who took only

whole-foods derived supplements the results would have
likely been markedly different. However, we are unlikely
to ever see such a study by the AMA an organization
which has a dark history of opposing, suppressing and
even persecuting alternatives to patented drugs and
mainstream medical treatments.

We see little justification for the general

and widespread use of dietary
supplements.
The Alliance for National Health (ANH) immediately
blasted the so-called study in an article titled Shame on
AMAs Archives of Internal Medicine, noting that:

See for example:

Modern Medicine: How Healing Illness Became
Managing Illness For Profit

In the study, all of the relative risks were

so low as to be statistically insignificant,
and none was backed up by any medical
investigation or biological plausibility study.
No analysis was done on what
combinations of vitamins and minerals
were actually consumed, and no analysis
of the cause of death was done beyond
grouping for cancer, cardiovascular
disease, or otherthere was certainly no
causative analysis done.

The study authors and other mainstream medical

commentators also tried to further the maim-stream myth
that one can get all the nutrition they need from simply
eating a healthy diet. Such a myth has been shown to be
one of the worst ones perpetrated on the public by the
sickness industry. See:
The Myth Of Being Able To Get All The Nutrition One
Needs From Diet Alone

Another large problem with the study was that there was
no differentiation made between unnatural synthetic
vitamins and crushed rock minerals and natural whole
foods derived vitamins and minerals. The vast majority of
the vitamin and mineral supplements used by the women
were assuredly common over the counter items which
contained few, if any, whole foods derived vitamins and
minerals.

As the ANH aptly concluded in their article:

In short, this study is less than useless: it
is dangerous, because it is being used by
the media and the mainstream medical
establishment to blacken the eye of
nutritional supplements using poor data,
bad analysis, and specious conclusions otherwise known as junk science.

The body knows the difference between synthetics and the

forms of vitamins it has utilized for many tens of

37

Forget The Headlines - Keep Taking Your

Vitamins, Minerals And Supplements
Latest Industry Backed "Study" Seriously Flawed And Biased
By Tony Isaacs
July 6, 2014
A "new" study condemning the use of vitamins and
ineffective and potentially dangerous is generating
headlines throughout the mainstream media in the United
States and Europe. Apparently generating headlines was
the sole intention, as the study is neither new, scientific nor
objective.

The studies in the latest meta-analysis not only relied on

synthetic forms of vitamins, in most instances they relied
on very high dosages of pharmaceutical-grade, synthetic
forms of supplements manufactured by the pharmaceutical
industry. The dosages used are typically much greater than
those recommended on the labels of food or dietary
supplement products. In most countries, the dosages used
in the trials would be considered medicinal by regulatory
authorities and therefore would not legally be allowed for
food or dietary supplements.

The "study" was led by Serbian scientist and "visiting

researcher" at Copenhagen University Hospital, Goran
Bjelakovic, whose name is now synonymous with vitamin
meta-analyses (studies of other studies) which appear to
show that vitamin supplements either dont work or end up
increasing your risk of death. Two similar Bjelakovic
"studies" on vitamin supplements, in October 2004 and
February 2007, resulted in similar outbursts of negative
international headlines.

As a result, these studies actually apply only to synthetic

forms of vitamins produced by the pharmaceutical industry
in amounts much larger than most consumers would ever
take. The authors of this latest Cochrane review state: "The
present review does not assess antioxidant supplements for
treatment of specific diseases (tertiary prevention),
antioxidant supplements for patients with demonstrated
specific needs of antioxidants, or the effects of
antioxidants contained in fruits or vegetables." This shows
that the study has no relevance to natural sources of
vitamins and minerals or antioxidants sourced from plants
(e.g.
flavonoids,
anthocyanins,
sulforaphanes,
salvestrols/resveratrol, etc.), which are included in many of
the leading-edge natural health supplements claiming
potent antioxidant activity.

Upon closer examination, the flaws in the so-called study

are apparent. First of all, in evaluating studies for
inclusion, the authors omitted a massive 405 potentially
eligible studies because there were no deaths in the studies
and another 69 studies were excluded because they werent
randomized controlled trials.
In other words, instead of conducting an
honest review of all the studies, the authors
arbitrarily eliminated all studies in which
vitamins prevented mortality and kept
people alive - leaving only the studies in
which people died from various causes.
Most of the trials used pertain to already
sick people being given very high dose,
synthetic, isolated nutrients for relatively
short periods they therefore have no
relevance to the vast majority of vitamin
consumers.

Make no mistake, this isnt research.

This is a re-analysis of studies that have
been conducted and reported on
previously, by a group of men with a known
axe to grind, who have never produced a
study favorable to supplements, which is
itself statistically unlikely unless you have a
bias.
There is extensive scientific evidence that higher intakes of
vitamins in the forms and combinations consumed in the
diet substantially reduce risk of killer diseases such as
cancer and heart disease. In fact, it is this research (some
of which is referenced in the introduction to both the
JAMA and Cochrane papers) that has stimulated
pharmaceutical companies to undertake research on
pharmaceutical-grade, synthetic forms of supplements,
which they manufacture. As is often the case when
pharmaceutical companies try to synthesize or unnaturally
isolate compounds found in nature so they can patent and

When you select or reject studies on criteria that only

mean something to statisticians, and ignore important
things like duration, how long the study ran for which
ranged from 28 days to 14 years your findings are
immediately meaningless. Even the huge difference in
dose of supplements between different studies was not
deemed important - for example, Vitamin E ranging from
10 to 5000 units daily.

38

more safely and less expensively such as those found in

nature. And so there are a trillion reasons why we see the
repeated headlines about misleading and flawed studies
like this one on vitamins, minerals and other natural
supplements that represent billions of dollars in potential
lost profits due to improved health and competition with
patented drugs.

profit from them, their synthetic version have been largely

disappointing.
A good source to see why their results have largely failed
can be seen in this paper by the Alliance for Natural
Health:
http://www.alliance-natural-health.org/_docs/ANHwebsiteDoc_231.pdf

The best possible model for profits would be a monopoly

on side-effect laden drugs which lead to complications
requiring yet more side effect laden drugs in a never
ending cycle so that by the time a person reaches the age
of 65 they take an average of 15 prescribed and over the
counter medications daily when it all started with one or
two conditions that could have been treated naturally. A
great model for profits and a horrible one for health and
humanity.

As a final note on the study: although presented as a

"new", the study is really no more than a rehash of a paper
by the very same authors, published last year (February
2007) in the Journal of the American Medical Association
(JAMA). Extensive international media followed the 2007
JAMA paper, including a front page articles in major
newspapers telling consumers that vitamin pills could
cause early death. The "new" study review relies on 67 of
the 68 studies used in the JAMA paper.

The bottom line for all those who reject such a model:
dont stop taking your vitamins, minerals and other
supplements - especially those derived from natural
sources which insure adequate amounts of daily nutrition
vital to your optimum health.

The world pharmaceutical empire is a trillion dollar

juggernaut whose continued profits depends on continued
illness as well as a continued monopoly on approved
medications and suppression of any alternatives which
might provide prevention and treatment more effectively,

39

The Lack Of Science Behind Mainstream Medicine's

Rejection Of Alternative Healing
By Tony Isaacs
many well-designed studies have found
that acupuncture can help with certain
conditions, such as back pain, knee pain,
headaches and osteoarthritis.

The mainstream medical establishment's rejection of

alternative healing not only flies in the face of hundreds
and even thousands of years of history, it also flies in the
face of good science. History has taught us time and again
that the science of today is often found lacking tomorrow.
Apparently, that is a lesson that has continued to be lost or
ignored by today's mainstream science, even as many of
their longstanding beliefs are being overturned.

Likewise, aromatherapy was long rejected by mainstream

science as having any scientifically proven value. Then
came a Japanese study which was published in the
American Chemical Societys Journal of Agricultural and
Food Chemistry. The study found that inhaling linalool,
which is a fragrance found naturally in lavender, mint, and
many other fragrant plants, reduced the activity of more
than 100 genes that are normally significantly elevated in
stressful situations. See:

Another principle which mainstream medicine fails to

understand is that lack of evidence is not the same as
evidence of lack. Often, lack of evidence is merely lack of
understanding and current knowledge.
In many instances, mainstream rejection of alternative
healing violates the foremost principle of the scientific
method itself - observation. Successful alternative healing
has been observed to be successful dating back hundreds
and even thousands of years. Mainstream medicine
continues to reject observed success as merely anecdotal
and contends that only rigorous testing will provide any
validation.

"Taking Time to Smell Roses Really CAN Ease Stress"

http://www.tbyil.com/roses.htm
A favorite target of mainstream medicine for well over a
century has been homeopathy, which is based on the
principle of retained memory in extreme dilutions. Just this
month, an article in Forbes Magazine bemoaned the
"absurdity of homeopathy".

The FDA, which is supposed to oversee

medicine in the U.S., carries bias
against alternatives medicine to absurd
extremes - refusing to allow even
natural fruits, vegetables, vitamins,
minerals, or any other item to claim
health benefits unless they have gone
through the complete FDA approval
process at costs up to a billion or more
dollars

However, it appears that homeopathy may be turning out

to be not so scientifically absurd after all: An article this
month in The Daily Mail highlighted a study which
showed that salt solutions change the structure of hydrogen
bonds in water even when diluted to homeopathic levels,.
Last July, Nobel Prize winning French virologist Professor
Luc Montagnier shocked fellow Nobel prize-winners and
the medical establishment by telling them that he had
discovered that water has a memory that continues even
after many dilutions. See:

When alternatives are tested, the studies are often marred

by lack of current knowledge and understanding as well as
design flaws. That includes vitamins and minerals studies
which fail to consider how nature works synergistically as
well as the differences between natural vitamins and
bioaviailable minerals and synthetic petrochemical
vitamins and crushed rock minerals.

http://www.tbyil.com/Homeopathy.htm
Today we continue to see mainstream medicine reject
much in alternative healing, including therapeutic, healing
energies and frequencies, colloidal silver, herbal medicines
and traditional healing practices used for centuries around
the world and more. As history has taught us, many of
those rejected items may well be validated and accepted by
the mainstream once science finally catches up - or owns
up, as the case may be.

Modern science has long denied that acupuncture offers

any benefit other than the placebo effect and much of the
mainstream establishment still clings to that view even as
study after study has proven them wrong. For example, a
recent report from the National Institutes of Health (NIH)
stated that

.
40

Big Pharmas War On Natural Supplements

For The Elderly
By Brian Shilhavy - Health Impact News Editor
July 6, 2014
So what are these dangerous supplements and CAM
products that the field of psychiatry feels the need to warn
fellow doctors about? According to the abstract they are:
omega-3 fatty acids, ginkgo biloba, SAMe, St Johns
wort, B vitamins and vitamin D, huperzine, caprylidene,
and coconut oil. If these supplements are bringing about
positive changes in the lives of elderly folks, it is not
surprising that they are competing with Big Pharma drugs,
which have a multitude of side effects, and little or no
effect on cognitive diseases like Alzheimers.
Unfortunately, Medicare and insurance companies will
cover the toxic drugs, which the medical system admits
kill over 100,000 people a year (not including suicides or
other secondary deaths), but they will not cover natural
products that have few or no side effects, but are often far
more effective.

Dr. Taya Varteresian, a board certified psychiatrist

working for the Veterans Administration, is the lead
publisher in an article to appear in the journal Current
Psychiatry Reports titled: Natural Products And
Supplements For Geriatric Depression And Cognitive
Disorders: An Evaluation Of The Research.

If this list is indicative of natural remedies that are

effective and present competition to Big Pharma, it might
be well worth the time to do your own research into each
one rather than trust a doctor who has been trained by Big
Pharma-funded psychiatrists to advise you on natural
supplements and foods. The largest criminal convictions in
modern times are against the pharmaceutical companies
selling these powerful drugs through the pseudo-science of
psychiatry, often through deception and off label
prescriptions for conditions the drugs were never tested
against. (See: Pharmaceutical companies now among
largest corporate criminals in the world: no better than
white-collar drug dealers.) Their list of dangerous
natural products might be unwittingly tipping you off to
the most successful natural products to combat mental
disease.

According to the abstract, more and more elderly people

are starting to use Complementary and Alternative
Medicine (CAM) for late-life mood and cognitive
disorders. This obviously concerns psychiatrists, since
their main remedies for cognitive disorders are powerful
anti-psychotic drugs. They are not trained in natural
supplements, therefore they apparently felt the need to
educate other psychiatrists about the side effects and
indications for various natural products so that
psychiatrists could protect their patients.
Unfortunately, the patients probably need protection
against the powerful arsenal of psychiatric drugs more than
they do against harmless natural supplements and foods!

We have often reported here at Health Impact News on the

testimonials of families who have successfully
incorporated coconut oil and a high-fat diet into the lives
of seniors suffering from mental illness with great success.
(See: New Alzheimers Drugs Continue to Fail Where
Coconut Oil Shines)

This is particularly true regarding anti-psychotic drugs

prescribed to veterans, where the rate of suicide is far
above the rate among the general population. More service
members die by suicide than in combat, with 22 veterans
killing themselves every single day. Obviously our
pharma-based mental health system is not helping
veterans, as suicide is a side effect of many anti-psychotic
drugs.

Dont be fooled by dire warnings made against natural

products such as coconut oil by Big Pharma and Big
Pharma-funded mainstream media. The scare tactics
usually look like this:
1. There is no science to support health claims of natural
products like coconut oil.

41

FALSE. There are plenty of scientific

studies regarding coconut oil, the highfat ketogenic diet, and natural
supplements. It is true that rigorous and
costly studies as are spent by drug
companies to get their products FDA
approved will seldom be funded or
conducted on natural products. This is
because they cannot be patented to
obtain a return on such an investment
as the lucrative FDA-approved products
can provide. However, natural products
also do not need such extensive
research, since they are not toxic and
they are not killing people like
pharmaceutical products are. Coconut
oil, for example, has been nourishing
billions of people around the world for
thousands of years.

effects
of
natural
foods
and
supplements, but over 100,000 people a
year die from prescription drugs.
There is actually one claim made against natural
supplements that is generally true: their interaction with
prescription drugs is unknown and potentially dangerous.
However, this is true because pharmaceutical drugs are
inherently dangerous, even without interactions with other
products.
Of course we would disagree with the medical
communitys suggested solution regarding potential
dangerous drug interactions, which would be to forgo
natural treatments in favor of approved drugs. Instead,
one might want to skip the approved drugs and try the
natural products first.
But that would put a lot of people out of business,
wouldnt it? If people found natural products to be more
effective for mental illness, they might never return to the
toxic drugs. It is not likely that Big Pharma will allow that
to happen.

2. Natural products like coconut oil are dangerous because

they are not regulated or approved by the FDA.
FALSE. Just the opposite is true.
Nobody is dying from the toxic side

Reference
Natural products and supplements for geriatric depression and cognitive disorders: an evaluation of the research. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2014
Aug;16(8):456.

42

Tomato's Powerhouse Antioxidant Lycopene Widens

Blood Vessels By More Than 50 Percent
Getting Off Cardiovascular Meds
By KAREN FOSTER
JUNE 11, 2014
Cardiovascular medications, especially those for
hypertension, constitute approximately 25 percent of all
prescribed medications in the world. By decreasing
vascular resistance and blood flow these drugs have many
side effects including blood disorders, impotence,
inflammation of the liver, elevated blood glucose,
increased heart rate, depression and even cancer. It turns
out that the antioxidant lycopene, which is found in
tomatoes and in other yellow, red, and orange vegetables,
is a valuable alternative that is capable of widening blood
vessels by more than 50 percent according to new research
in PLOS One.

The incidence of cardiovascular disease varies worldwide,

but is notably reduced in southern Europe, where a
Mediterranean diet consisting of a larger consumption of
fruit, vegetables and olive oil predominates. Recent dietary
studies suggest that this diet reduces the incidence of
events related to the disease, including heart attack and
stroke, in patients at high cardiovascular risk, or those who
have previously had the disease.
One component of the Mediterranean diet thought to play a
role in reducing this risk is lycopene, a powerful
antioxidant which is ten times more potent than vitamin E.
Lycopene is found in tomatoes and other fruits, and its
potency appears to be enhanced when it is consumed
pureed, in ketchup or in the presence of olive oil.
Recent evidence has shown that just two ounces of tomato
paste or a pint of juice a day could be enough to help many
patients avoid dangerous statins the class of drugs
commonly prescribed for these conditions which can lead
to heart problems.
Researchers in Israel found that a daily dose of tomato
extract helped lower blood pressure among 31 men and
women with mild hypertension. On average, their systolic
pressure --the top number in a blood-pressure reading -dropped 10 points, while their diastolic pressure, or bottom
number, dipped four points, both statistically significant
differences.

According to the new research from the University of

Cambridge, a daily supplement of an extract found in
tomatoes may improve the function of blood vessels in
patients with cardiovascular disease, making many health
experts now question the use of dangerous drugs when
natural alternatives can effectively treat the same
cardiovascular conditions without the side effects.

Tomatoes and tomato-based products are by far the most

important dietary sources of lycopene in observational
studies, and most human lycopene trials are performed
using tomato-based interventions. Cooked tomatoes are
best as tests showed the body can absorb more lycopene
from these than raw fruit.

"The problem with vasodilator drugs is that

they to increased heart rate and oxygen
demand which contradicts treatment
protocols for coronary artery disease," said
practicing cardiologist Dr. Antonio Diaz.
"They do work in the short-term, but longterm use leads to retention of sodium and
water which increases blood volume and
cardiac output at rest, which too is a
counterproductive to a patient with CAD,"
he concluded.

Lycopene Improved Widening of Blood Vessels By

Over a Half
In a study published in the journal PLOS One, researchers
at the University of Cambridge and the Cambridge
University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation
Trust demonstrate one mechanism by which they believe
lycopene reduces the risk.

43

Dr Joseph Cheriyan, consultant clinical pharmacologist &

physician at Addenbrookes Hospital and Associate
Lecturer at the University of Cambridge, says:

10 Reasons To Love Your Tomatoes

Theres a wealth of research that suggests

that the Mediterranean diet -- which
includes lycopene found in tomatoes and
other fruit as a component -- is good for our
cardiovascular health. But so far, its been
a mystery what the underlying mechanisms
could be.

1.

Tomatoes are rich in a collection of phytonutrients

called carotenoids. Youve probably already heard of
beta-carotene and lycopene. But there are others. And
exciting research in the Journal of the National Cancer
Institute
shows
that
higher
amounts
of
carotenoidsincluding alpha-carotene, betacarotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, and total
carotenoidsmay have a reduced risk of breast
cancer.
2. According to new research in the journal Cell
Biochemistry and Biophysics, scientists created
diabetic conditions in animals and fed some lycopene
while others were fed their typical diet free of lycopene.
The biochemistry of animals fed lycopene returned to
normal while the others stayed at diabetic levels. This
study shows promise that lycopene (found in tomatoes)
can help restore biochemical balance in diabetics.
3. New research in the journal Harvard Health Letter
found that diets rich in tomatoes can help prevent
stroke. The scientists chalk up the results to tomatoes
rich lycopene content.
4. Research shows the lycopene found in tomatoes, when
eaten regularly, can reduce the risk of heart disease by
29 percent. Fresh tomatoes and tomato extracts have
been shown in research to lower total cholesterol, LDL
cholesterol, and triglycerides. They have also been
shown to prevent clumping in the blood (known as
platelet aggregation) which is a risk factor for
atherosclerosis.
5. They contain an important phytonutrient called
lycopene that has been proven in studies to fight aging
and have anti-cancer properties. It appears to be
particularly effective against prostate and colon
cancers.
6. Lycopene found in tomatoes even protects our genetic
material against damage and the resulting disease.
7. Tomatoes stimulate the production of the amino acid
carnitine which has been shown in research to speed
the bodys fat-burning capacity by over 30 percent.
8. Excellent sources of vitamin C, tomatoes can help keep
your immune system strong.
9. Lack of lycopene in a menopausal womans diet has
been linked to osteoporosis.
10. Because tomatoes are a rich source of the
phytonutrients beta carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin,
they can help improve vision and protect your eyes
from degeneration.

The researchers carried out a randomised, double blind,

placebo controlled, interventional trial investigating the
effects of lycopene a gold standard method of measuring
the function of blood vessels called forearm blood flow,
which is predictive of future cardiovascular risk. Thirty-six
cardiovascular disease patients and thirty-six healthy
volunteers were given either Ateronon (an off-the-shelf
supplement containing 7mg of lycopene) or a placebo
treatment. As a double blind trial, neither the study
participants nor the researchers dispensing the pills were
aware which treatment was being provided.
The patients with cardiovascular disease were all on statins
(cholesterol-lowering drugs). However, despite this, they
still had a relatively impaired function of the endothelium - the inner lining of blood vessels -- compared to healthy
volunteers. This function is determined by the response of
blood vessels in the forearm to a naturally occurring
molecule called acetylcholine. Endothelial function
predicts future events, so having a healthy endothelium is
an important factor in preventing the evolution of heart
disease.
The researchers found that 7mg of oral lycopene
supplementation improved and normalised endothelial
function in the patients, but not in healthy volunteers.
Lycopene improved the widening of the blood vessels by
over a half (53%) compared to baseline in those taking the
pill after correction for those who took the placebo;
constriction of the blood vessels is one of the key factors
that can lead to heart attack and stroke. However, the
supplement had no effect on blood pressure, arterial
stiffness or levels of lipids.
Weve shown quite clearly that lycopene
improves the function of blood vessels in
cardiovascular disease patients, adds Dr
Cheriyan. It reinforces the need for a
healthy diet in people at risk from heart
disease and stroke."

44

All About Dandelions And Their Health Benefits

Posted By Trinity
May 28, 2014
Every springtime in temperate climates they deck fields,
meadows, lawns, yards and gardens, with a sunny yellow
blanket of bright flower heads. Much to the delight of
children, they also throw up tufty seed heads that scatter
like elegant fairies with the most gentle breeze. My
favourite childhood drink was dandelion and burdock pop,
a marriage made in heaven inspired by these much ignored
wild plants. I remember eagerly waiting for the delivery
man as he brought our weekly order and Ill never forget
that refreshing taste as I gulped down a full glass, after an
afternoons work of making mud pies and wild rose
perfume. And we used to blow the Dandelion seed heads
playing the game of he loves/he loves me not for a bit of
harmless fun

for the myriad of golden sun-like flowers that brighten the

lawns and meadows in early spring time.
So what is a dandelion?
Dandelion is a an excellent all rounder and should most
certainly feature near the top of any healthy herb
collection. They have a thick tap root that makes the
perfect coffee substitute, whilst their leaves form a rosette
shaped platter of highly nutritious leaves. Bright yellow
flowers and tufty white seed heads grow from hollow
milky stems, each part having a beneficial role to play for
nature, animals and people.
Where does the name come from
The name dandelion come from the French word dent de
lion, which translates to lions teeth. When we take a closer
look at their saw shaped leaves, it all makes perfect sense.
How to eat dandelions
The flowers are edible both raw and cooked, especially if
you take the yellow petals off the bulky head (the head is
much more bitter). Dandelion flowers have however
achieved particular popularity for their role in helping to
create dandelion flower wine.
Leaves can be eaten just like spinach, raw in a salad,
sandwiches, tossed in a stir-fry or soup. Most people prefer
to use the youngest leaves, since they can get very bitter as
they get bigger and mature throughout the season. One of
the easiest ways to enjoy the benefits of dandelion is by
making an infusion of tea with the leaves (either dried or
fresh).
How to make dandelion tea

Dandelions are born survivors

You can make dandelion tea with either the yellow flower
heads or with the leaves. I prefer to use the leaves,
although it can look pretty doing it with flowers. The
flowers taste more delicate whilst the leaves have an
amazing this-is-really-doing-me-good taste!

These days if you mention dandelions to most folk youll

hear a mutter about how they keep popping up everywhere
in the yard and how notoriously difficult they are to
control. Dandelions are born survivors, so I like to think
that theyre hanging on so that when we all come back to
our senses and embrace them for the amazing gifts they
bring, they will be right there waiting for us in plentiful
supply. Its often those little, down trodden beauties that
bring us the most divine gifts of all. I feel deeply thankful

45

Simply infuse the flower heads or a handful of leaves in

boiling water in a pot for at least 3 minutes (and for as
long as you would like after that). If you have a tea
infuser ball you can make it straight in your mug. I
would tear about 5 leaves for one mugful.

Use a strainer to pour a cup of tea and sweeten if

desired (or enjoy it as it is if you like a a herby hit, like
me).
You can usually buy dried dandelion leaves from a
good health food store or herb shop to be used as a
tea infusion.

essential nutrient flushed out in the urine is easily replaced

(potassium depletion is a common side effect of more
conventional diuretics). Dandelions cause great relief for
fluid retention issues, especially around pre-menstrualtension, kidney problems or high blood pressure.
Acne and skin problems since dandelion acts as a
diuretic, detoxifier and anti-oxidant, the juice or tincture
can help stimulate and regulate the system to remove the
build up of toxins that cause acne. Applying the milky
dandelion sap directly can also act against microbial skin
infections (but be sure to avoid the eyes). It is believed that
the sap found in the hollow stem has good anti-fungal,
germicidal and insecticidal properties. This milky white
sap can therefore be used to treat skin infections, like
eczema and ring worm and especially those diseases
caused by microbial and fungal infections. It can also
relieve itchiness from bites and stings.

How to make dandelion coffee from scratch

The roots are frequently used as a convincing coffee
substitute. I am not really a coffee drinker myself, so I can
only comment on what Ive heard from friends who have
used this.

Dig up the roots (which tend to be thicker later in the

season).
Scrub clean (but dont peel).
Use a sharp knife to chop them up as small as you can.
Spread evenly on a baking tray.
Roast in the oven either on a low temperature over a
long period or higher temperature until theyve dried out
completely (usually when they have turned a light
brownish colour).
When fully roasted, grind in a nut mill, coffee grinder or
with a pestle and mortar and use as regular coffee.
Or alternatively infuse like tea and then strain off the
ground root before serving.

Bladder Issues Dandelion is a brilliant tonic for the

bladder and urinary tract with its ability to cleanse and
flush, whilst acting as an anti-microbial to promote a
healthy urinary system. It works well on bladder infections
like cystitis.
Liver and Gall Bladder the roots work particularly well
to help improve digestion and elimination. This often has
benefits for arthritic conditions, gout and skin diseases.

Its worth noting that some people grind some people

dont. Explore, experiment and just do what you find
works best for you. You can also cheat and buy pre-ground
dandelion root in good health food stores in the alternative
coffee section.

Warts rubbing the fresh sap on warts every day, over

several weeks is said be a painless and effective way of
removing them altogether.
Highly Nutritious Superfood Dandelions offer a potent
gift of vitamin A & K, which are excellent at supporting
blood health. Vitamin K ensures effective blood clotting,
whilst vitamin A regulates blood cell growth. This wild
plant also gives a good dose of Vitamin C and calcium to
support good bone health. Eye health also benefits greatly
from regular consumption of the plant, due to the nutrients
lutein and zeaxanthin.

The many health benefits of dandelions an overview

Dandelions have an excellent reputation as a detoxifier,
blood cleanser, stimulant and digestive aid. They act as a
liver tonic, removing toxins whilst stimulating the kidneys
to ensure that toxins are rapidly eliminated. Bile is cleared
out, promoting better digestion and discouraging the
formation of gallstones. Whilst there havent been many
clear and concise studies carried out on the health benefits
of dandelions (probably because there isnt any money in
things that grow freely!) traditional cultures including
the North Native Americans and the European Celts
successfully used these prolific wild plants for a myriad of
different health benefits. Ive outlined a few of the most
commonly known uses here.

So all in all, dandelions make a regular appearance in my

cuisine. A real gift from nature to support general health
and wellness as well as specific conditions. Dandelions are
generally safe for most people, but if any doubt then please
do explore further regarding any specific health conditions
that you might have or are already taking prescription
medications.
For more about foraging wild foods and their benefits,
please check out my article Essential Foraging Guide
for a Temperate Climate.

Diuretic Dandelion leaves act as a wonderful diuretic.

Their high levels of potassium means that any of this

46

Healthy Debates
12 Reasons To Use Lemons
Lemon's Evidence-Based Healing Properties Revealed
By Mrhealth
June 10, 2014
9.

1.
2.

3.

4.

5.
6.

7.
8.

It Can Protect Against Cholera: Lemon juice is a

biocide against Vibrio cholerae, the pathogen that can
cause cholera.[10]
10. It Is A Powerful Antioxidant and Prevents LDL
Oxidation: Excessive oxidative stress is a contributing
factor to accelerating aging, inflammation and a wide
range of acute and chronic health conditions. One of
the primary reasons why LDL cholesterol can cause
heart disease is that it oxidizes LDL cholesterol,
resulting in artherogenicity (the ability to damage the
inner lining of the arteries). Lemon is a powerful
antioxidant and is capable of preventing LDL
oxidation.[11]
11. It Can Help Lift Your Mood and Reduce Anxiety:
Lemon oil possesses anxiety relieving (anxiolytic),
antidepressant-like
via
modulation
of
neurotransmitters.[12]
12. It Can Help You Maintain An Ideal Weight: Lemon
peel polyphenols suppress diet-induced obesity,
hyperlipidemia,
hyperglycemia
and insulin
resistance.[13]

It Can Lower Blood Pressure: Simply smelling this

fruit has been found in lower blood pressure.[1]
It Can Lessen Constipation: In combination with
rosemary and peppermint essential oil, the smell of
lemon has been found to relieve constipation in the
elderly.[2]
It Can Remedy Bad Breath: In combination with tea
tree and peppermint essential oil, it can reduce
malodour and sulphur compounds in the breath of
intensive care patients.[3]
It Can Reduce Esophageal Cancer Risk: Lemon, like
all citrus fruits, contains physiological significant levels
of flavones; Flavone intake has been found to be
inversely associated with esophageal cancer risk. [4]
Oral Yeast Infection: Lemon juice has therapeutic
value in the treatment of oral thrush (oral candida
infection) in HIV/AIDS patients. [5]
It Can Dissolve Kidney Stones: Lemonade therapy
appears to be a reasonable alternative for patients with
hypocitraturic nephrolithiasis (a type of kidney
stone).[6] [7]
It Can Reduce Inflammation: Lemon mucilage has
significant in vivo and in vitro anti-inflammatory
effects.[8]
It Can Protect Your Heart: Lemon juice antioxidant
and cardioprotective properties. [9]

In addition, lemon is also one of the most concentrated

sources of food vitamin C on the planet. Unlike ascorbic
acid which is the synthetic form of vitamin C, commonly
derived from GMO corn lemon contains all the essential
cofactors needed to provide the body the means to utilize
it, and maximize its effectiveness in disease prevention and
treatment (Pssssst. Please don't tell the FDA, since its not
approved to 'prevent, treat, or cure any disease,' and they
wouldn't' look kindly on this statement).
For more information on the healing properties of lemon,
view our lemon database and share this information far
and wide. Also, view our popular blog on GMTV, 9
Reasons to Drink Lemon Water in the Morning. Also,
learn more about the amazing healing properties of vitamin
C by readingResearch Proving Vitamin C's Therapeutic
Value in 200+ Conditions.

47

9 Healthy Food Scraps

You Shouldnt Be Throwing Away
By MAE CHAN
May 30, 2014
source of carotenoids and vitamins A & C. You can
consume them raw in a salad and dont forget that the
stems contain a good dose of fibre, and sliced are great for
a crunchy snack.
3. MELON RIND
Almost all melon rinds are rich in citrulline, an amino acid
which can help to improve blood circulation. Blend the
rind with the flesh to add an antioxidant boost to your
super fresh smoothie.

We waste a third of the worlds food supply every year

along with all the energy and water needed to produce it.
However, we may be chucking away food scraps that are
not scraps at all. Many fruit and vegetables have skins and
leaves which we commonly discard that are more colourful
and higher in nutritious phytochemicals like carotenoids
and flavonoids than the flesh. These deliver a greater
variety of antioxidants if we learn how to utilize them.

4. ACORN SQUASH
If youre eating just the flesh of this superfood, youre
missing out on vital antioxidants: Acorn squash skin
provides an array of phytonutrient benefits plus fiber. You
can roast halves with their skin and eat the skin with the
flesh. It adds texture, color, and overall meal appeal.
Adding a drizzle of maple syrup, and a pinch of sea salt
makes this meal divine.

Its important to note that if you do start consuming the

skins, or outer shells of fruits and vegetables to ensure you
buy organic since a higher percentage of pesticides are
retained in the skins and shells than on the inner flesh.

5. ONION SKIN
Processing of fruits produces and vegetables produces two
types of waste a solid waste of peel/skin, seeds and a
liquid waste of juice and washwaters. These waste byproducts could be utilized as a good source of affordable
antioxidants for advancing human health and preventing
some chronic diseases

Onion skin is rich in quercetin which may reduce blood

pressure and prevent clogged arteries. It also has antiinflammatory benefits, restraining both the production and
release of histamine and other allergic and inflammatory
sources, meaning that it may be useful for hay fever
sufferers. Always remove the tough onion outermost skin
layer before eating, but just beneath that lies an abundance
of nutrients that may even protect you from other foods
cooked under high heat.

1. POTATO AND CARROT SKINS

Most of the nutrients in potatoes and carrots, like vitamin
C and potassium, are preserved when eaten with the skin
on. The skins also contain significant fiber. Nearly every
recipe that calls for a peeled potato or carrot can be made
with a peel-on potato or peel-on-carrot, so experiment and
leave those skins alone.

6. PINEAPPLE CORE
The core of the pineapple is a little harder and obviously
not as appealing as the fleshy part of the fruit. But its in
your interest to eat a little bit of the harder core of this
healthy fruit. The cores too are high in nutrients. It is just a
little harder and less sweet than the rest, but eating it raw is
the best way to obtain all the nutrients. Its excellent in a
smoothie.

2. BROCCOLI STALKS AND LEAVES

The stalks and leaves of the superfood broccoli are just as
packed with antioxidants, fiber, and taste as the florets, yet
they often end up going to waste. The leaves are generally
not even available in most supermarkets but they will grow
in your garden. Broccoli stalks and leaves are an excellent

7. ORANGE AND LEMON PEELS

48

The peels of these citrus fruits are powerhouses of fibre,

flavonoids and vitamins. Anecdotal evidence shows that an
active chemical in the peels of lemons and oranges (dlimonene) helps relieve heartburn and indigestion. The
good concentration of vitamin C helps boost the immune
system and could help prevent respiratory infections. Peel
extract can also be used as an antibacterial cleanser, made
into an insect repellent and even a grease-busting kitchen
cleaner. It has also been used to naturally whiten stained
teeth. Pectin and other fibre found in the white layer
beneath the skin of the oranges and lemons and can help
curb appetite and suppress hunger for up to 4 hours.

8. CELERY LEAVES
Containing five times more magnesium and calcium than
the stalks, celery leaves also contain vitamin C and
phenolics powerful antioxidants which may help combat
cancer, heart disease and even aging. Use them as you
would celery- add to soups, salads, sauces, relishes etc.
9. CHARD STEMS
Packed with glutamine, antioxidants and phenolic
compounds the stems are as edible as the leaves. Steam the
stems whole just as you would asparagus.

49

7 Natural Antibiotics That Dont

Require A Prescription
By MRHEALTH
June 28, 2014
Recent research has also stated that colloidal silver can
destroy antibiotic resistant microbes like MRSA, the bird
flu, and SARS.
For safe usage of colloidal silver, the Silver Safety Council
recommends using the following formula: 12 x your
weight (lbs)/ppm = drops per day of your silver
supplement.
This is a great option for any situation where antibacterial
products are required. Do not use on a long term basis
(longer than 2 weeks), but keep it in your cupboard as part
of your natural pharmacy.

Prescription antibiotics have become the standard

treatment for infections. As a result, people have ruined
their digestive systems, and ironically, have lowered their
natural immunity to all types of infections in the future.
Get rid of infections without the digestive destruction with
these fivepowerful natural antibiotics.

Echinacea
Echinacea has been used to treat a wide variety of
infections for hundreds of years. Traditionally, it was used
to treat open wounds, diphtheria, blood poisoning, and
other bacterial related illnesses.

Garlic
Garlic has been used medicinally by cultures around the
world for thousands of years. In fact, it was used in the
1700s to ward off plague.

Today, this potent herb is used mostly for colds and flu
due to its ability to destroy the most dangerous forms of
bacteria such as staphylococcus aureus, which causes
deadly MRSA.

Garlic possesses potent antibiotic, antiviral, antifungal, and

antimicrobial properties and is able to help protect and
facilitate removal of unfriendly bacteria. It is also very
high in natural antioxidants that destroy free radicals,
which also supports a strong immune system.

To get a pure form of echinacea, mixed with two other

powerful natural antibiotics, check in with this one of a
kind formula.
Manuka honey

The active ingredient in garlic, allicin, is the key

component to killing and warding off harmful bacteria.
Crush it to activate these compounds, and eat it raw, in a
warm tea, or in lightly cooked food.

Perhaps the most palatable antibiotic comes in the form of

manuka honey. Applied topically it can kill a wide range
of pathogens including MRSA and flesh eating bacteria. It
was also found that the treated bacteria did not build up
any resistance, which would eventually render manuka
honey ineffective.

Colloidal silver
Colloidal silver has been known as an effective antibiotic
for centuries. In the early 1900s, Alfred Searle, founder of
the Searle pharmaceutical company, discovered that it
could kill the most deadly pathogens.

When choosing any honey, ensure that it is unpasteurized

and is the real deal. Many honeys on the market are simply
concoctions of HFCS and honey, which drastically lessens
its health benefits. In this case, its best go as pure and
local as possible for you.

Searle stated that applying colloidal silver to human

subjects has been done in a large number of cases with
astonishing results. The main advantage was that it was
rapidly fatal to microbes without a toxic action on its host.

Oil of oregano

50

Oil of oregano takes care of pathogenic bacteria with little

disruption to beneficial bacteria. It is also antiviral and
antifungal, which makes it a powerful three-in-one
combination that rivals pharmaceuticals while not
encouraging antibiotic resistance.

Reishi will support other key areas of the body, namely the
immune system and the liver. A healthy liver will help
support a strong attack on foreign invaders and help
detoxify the body if you get an infection.
In addition to these powerful natural remedies, you can
also consider olive leaf extract, cloves, turmeric, cayenne,
and even lemons to round out your natural pharmacy.

The key antimicrobial ingredient in oil of oregano is

carvacrol. You should ensure that your source is at least 70
percent carvacrol content in order to be effective.

Antibiotic Tea
Be careful not to use oil of oregano on a long term basis.
Simply have it as part of your natural pharmacy so when a
bacterial infection threatens to take you down, you have
this powerful medicine at your immediate disposal.

Combining the synergistic effects of many powerful

natural antibiotics gives bacterial infections more than they
can handle. Consider making the following tea for a
more comprehensive approach:

Reishi
1 serving of echinacea tea (loose preferred)
Juice of 1 lemon
2 medium cloves of garlic
1 tsp of unpasteurized manuka honey
1 dropper of Host Defense reishi
Add: 12-16 oz of tepid water

Gaining a bit more attention as of late, reishi is part of the

medicinal mushroom family and is known as not only a
superior immune modulator, but also an extremely potent
antibacterial, viral, and fungal agent.

51

14 Reasons Why Witch Hazel Should Be In Every Home

By MRHEALTH
Posted on July 31, 2014
3. Brighten Around Eyes
The ability of witch hazel to tighten skin and reduce
inflammation makes this an ideal natural remedy for
treating discoloration and puffiness under and around
eyes. Just make sure not to get any of this natural
astringent on the eyes themselves as it will result in
significant pain and lingering discomfort from dryness.
4. Shrink Swollen Veins
Soak soft terry cloth in witch hazel and lay over skin
affected by varicose veins to temporarily reduce swelling
and pain. Also, remember to prop up the areas to be
treated as high as possible. This will decrease blood
pressure in swollen veins and maximize the effectiveness
of your treatment.

Witch hazel is a topical astringent derived from the bark

and leaves of Hamamelis virginiana, the common or North
American witch-hazel shrub. Native Americans have long
recognized the medicinal properties of witch hazel and
used a decoction of the boiled plant parts to treat skin
irritations and tumors. Nowadays this popular herbal
remedy is recognized world-wide as a natural cleanser and
toner, but witch hazel has many more uses than simply to
clarify skin and shrink pores.

5. Stop Bleeding
Witch hazel naturally tightens skin and promotes faster
healing. Apply organic witch hazel to minor cuts and
scrapes to stop bleeding. Store-bought witch hazel also
often contains isoproply alcohol which disinfects, making
it a popular choice for cleansing wounds before bandaging.

1. Natural Astringent
6. Post Hair-removal
High concentrations of tannins in witch hazel make it an
excellent astringent which means it has the ability to
remove excess oil from skin and shrink down pores.
Health-wise, those who are exposed to lots of
environmental pollutants may apply witch hazel to the face
in order to reduce the amount of contaminants that enter
pores and, consequently, the amount and severity of
blemishes. Also, because astringents remove excess oil,
regular use of witch hazel may further prevent blemishes,
especially black heads which result from dried sebum
build-up in pores.

For both men and women, witch hazel is a great follow-up

to shaving any part of the body. Not only will it stop
bleeding from nicks or cuts, anti-inflammatory witch hazel
can also work to prevent razor burn. Furthermore, those
who employ hot wax treatments for hair-removal may also
apply witch hazel as an anti-inflammatory post-waxing or
use it to stop bleeding from damaged hair follicles.
7. Hemorrhoid Relief
Witch hazel is great for easing the pain, itching, swelling,
and bleeding of hemorrhoids. In fact, its a common
ingredient used in many commercial hemorrhoid creams.
Just mix witch hazel with a carrier like Aloe Vera gel and
apply to affected areas for fast relief.

2. Fade Bruises and Blemishes

Witch hazel may also be used to treat blemishes already
present on the face or other areas of the body. Apply witch
hazel with a cotton ball or cosmetic pad to reduce irritation
and appearance of acne or other inflammatory skin
conditions. Witch hazel applied to bruises can also help to
fade discoloration and speed up the healing process of any
underlying damage.

8. Ease a Sore Throat

Due to its astringent properties, an herbal tea of witch
hazel (not the store-bought kind which almost always
contains isopropyl alcohol) can help to ease the discomfort

52

of a sore throat. Gargle with witch hazel tea to reduce

swelling, dry up excess mucus, and ease pain caused by
laryngitis, sinusitis, tonsillitis, or other throat maladies.

rash. Regular application will also assist in healing

damaged skin faster, further reducing your babys
discomfort.

9. Treat Damaged Gums

12. Cool Down Sunburn

A witch hazel mouth rinse (again, dont use witch hazel

that contains isopropyl alcohol) can help to reduce pain
and swelling of irritated or infected gums. Witch hazel can
be used stop minor bleeding of the gums and mouth. Try a
teaspoon of witch hazel tea with one drop each clove and
myrrh oil to safely relieve teething pain for infants. The
same treatment may also be used to soothe pain caused by
emerging wisdom teeth or after oral surgery to reduce
discomfort and inflammation.

Mix some witch hazel in with your Aloe Vera gel the next
time you need to treat a sunburn. The anti-inflammatory
power of this incredible plant extract will aid your skin in
healing while it and the Aloe help to cool the burn. This
treatment can also help to prevent skin from peeling in the
days following a bad burn.
13. Neutralize Contact Dermatitis
Because of its drying and anti-itch power, witch hazel can
also be used to counter the effects of skin-irritating plant
compounds like urushiol, the sap oil contained in poison
ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac that causes contact
dermatitis in about 85% of adults who come in contact
with it.

10. Dry Up Swimmers Ear

Otitus externa commonly known as Swimmers Ear
is caused by microbial infection of the ear canal. Use an
eye dropper to insert several drops of witch hazel into each
ear to dry up pus, clear away excess oil, and break up wax
and debris that may be clogging the ear canal. Allow ears
to drain then clean gently with a cotton swab or cosmetic
pad. Follow up with a natural anti-microbial like basil oil,
apple cider vinegar, or tea tree oil.

14. Bug Bites and Stings

Just as witch hazel can be used to ease pain and itching
from poison ivy and its cousins, the same works for bug
bites and stings. Yet another reason to carry a small bottle
of this awesome remedy with you the next time you plan to
spend a day outdoors!

11. Soothe Diaper Rash

Anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel make it an
effective and safe remedy for soothing pain from diaper

53

Health Benefits Of Onions:

5 Surprising Ways Onions Can Cleanse
Your Body To Eliminate Disease
By Lizette Borreli
Jul 31, 2014 08:00 AM EDT
However, no human studies have examined whether it
works or not. Stegall believes onions help alleviate asthma
because they act as a powerful antioxidant. Studies have
shown that quercetin causes the bronchi of the respiratory
tract to widen, he said.
2. Cancer
Onions can help reduce cancer risk when combined with
turmeric. Chemicals found in these two cooking
ingredients. A 2006 study published in Clinical
Gastroenterology and Hepatology found the combination
of onions and turmeric creates a synergistic effect that
reduces both the size and number of precancerous hosts in
the intestine, therefore reducing colon cancer risk.
Moreover, Stegall suggests regularly consuming onions
can help detoxify potential carcinogens. Since they contain
organosulfur compounds. These compounds are found in
the cell wall of the onion, and are released when the onion
is chopped or chewed, he said.

Eating an onion a day can keep the doctor away by cleansing and
detoxifying the body to prevent and treat ailments from diabetes
to heart disease boosting your health. Photo courtesy of
Shutterstock

Onions are best known for two things: bad breath and
tears. The popular vegetable found in most types of cuisine
gives dishes their flavorful taste, transforming any meal to
an aromatic experience. Raw onions not only provide an
excellent taste for our palates, but provide therapeutic and
antibacterial properties that cleanse and detox our bodies
to eliminate disease.

3. Diabetes
A high intake of onions could mean the lower the level of
glucose. The essential oil of an onion, allyl propyl
disulphide, is found to mediate this effect, and lower blood
sugar levels by increasing the amount of free insulin that is
available. The allyl propyl disulphide competes with the
insulin, which is also a disulphide, to occupy the sites in
the liver where the insulin is inactivated. This is what leads
to an increase in insulin available, which lowers blood
sugar levels. A 1975 study published in the journal Clinica
Chimica Acta; International Journal of Clinical Chemistry
found onions essential oil led to a significant fall in blood
glucose levels, and a significant rise in the serum of insulin
levels after being administered to six normal volunteers
after a 12-hour fast.

Experts like Dr. Jonathan Stegall, an integrative medicine

practitioner in Johns Creek, Ga., emphasize the beneficial
properties of onions for our health. "Onions contain a high
amount of sulfur compounds, which not only give onions
their recognizable smell, but are also powerful detoxifying
agents," he told Medical Daily in an email. With more than
100 sulfur-containing compounds, which are what cause
the eyes to tear, onions can help prevent and treat ailments,
from diabetes to heart disease, with daily consumption.
1. Asthma
Onions have antihistamine effects due to quercetin, an
antioxidant that acts like an antihistamine and an antiinflammatory agent. In test tubes, quercetin has proven to
prevent immune cells from releasing histamine, which are
chemicals that cause allergic reaction. Based on this
observation, researchers believe the antioxidants may
reduce histamine, and other allergic or inflammatory
chemicals in the body, and can be a promising asthma
treatment.

4. Heart Disease
When we think of heart healthy food, onions do not come
to mind. However, quercetin is found to significantly
reduce high blood pressure in hypertensive adults,
according to a 2007 study published in The Journal of
Nutrition. Moreover, this vegetable is considered to exceed
the heart-protective properties of red wine. Stegall shared,

54

Onions are involved in maintaining good blood pressure,

inhibit hardening of the arteries, and keep the arteries
elastic.

lead to tooth decay. Two to three minutes of chewing on

an onion can kill most germs in the mouth, according to
Naturalsociety.com.

5. Tooth Decay

To stay healthy and prevent the onset of these diseases, eat

an onion a day to keep the doctor away.

Raw onions may make our breath stink, but they can
actually improve our oral health. Simply chewing a raw
onion can strengthen teeth and eliminate bacteria that can

55

11 Proven Health Benefits of Quinoa

(No. 1 is My Favorite)
By Kris Gunnars

Here is the nutrient breakdown for 1 cup of cooked quinoa,

or 185 grams (2):
Quinoa is the worlds most popular superfood.

Quinoa is a grain crop that is grown for its edible seeds. It

is pronounced KEEN-wah.

It technically isnt a cereal grain, but a pseudo-cereal (1).

It is loaded with protein, fiber and minerals, but doesnt

contain any gluten.
Here are 11 proven health benefits of quinoa.
1. Quinoa is Incredibly Nutritious

In other words, it is basically a seed which is prepared

and eaten similarly to a grain.

Protein: 8 grams.
Fiber: 5 grams.
Manganese: 58% of the RDA.
Magnesium: 30% of the RDA.
Phosphorus: 28% of the RDA.
Folate: 19% of the RDA.
Copper: 18% of the RDA.
Iron: 15% of the RDA.
Zinc: 13% of the RDA.
Potassium: 9% of the RDA.
Over 10% of the RDA for Vitamins B1, B2 and
B6.
Small amounts of Calcium, B3 (Niacin) and
Vitamin E.

This is coming with a total of 222 calories, with 39 grams

of carbs and 4 grams of fat. It also contains a small amount
of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Quinoa was an important crop for the Inca Empire back in

the day. They referred to it as the mother of all grains
and believed it to be sacred.

Quinoa is non-GMO, Gluten Free and usually grown

organically. Even though not technically a grain, it still
counts as a whole grain food.

It has been consumed for thousands of years in South

America, although it only became trendy and reached
superfood status a few years ago.

NASA scientists have been looking at it as a suitable crop

to be grown in outer space, mostly based on its high
nutrient content, ease of use and how easy it is to grow (3).

These days, you can find Quinoa and products made with
it all over the world especially in health food stores and
restaurants that emphasize natural foods.

The year 2013 was actually called The International Year

of Quinoa by the United Nations (UN), based on its high
nutrient value and potential to contribute to food security
worldwide (4).

There are three main types of quinoa white, red and

black.
This is what they look like:

56

Bottom Line: Quinoa is an edible seed that has become

very trendy among health conscious people. It is loaded
with many important nutrients.

One study that looked at 4 varieties of quinoa found a

range of between 10 and 16 grams of fiber, per every 100
grams of uncooked quinoa (11).

2. Quinoa Contains Potent Bioactive Substances Called

Quercetin and Kaempferol

This equals 17-27 grams per cup, which is very high

more than twice as high as most grains. Boiled quinoa
contains much less fiber, gram for gram, because it absorbs
so much water.
Unfortunately, most of the fiber is insoluble fiber, which
doesnt appear to have the same health benefits as soluble
fiber.
That being said, the soluble fiber content is about 2.5
grams per cup (or 1.5 grams per 100 grams), which is still
decent.

The health effects of real foods go way beyond the

vitamins and minerals were all familiar with.
There are thousands of trace nutrients in there and some
of them are extremely healthy.

There are numerous studies showing that soluble fiber can

help reduce blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol, increase
fullness and help with weight loss (12, 13, 14).

This includes interesting molecules called flavonoids,

which are plant antioxidants that have been shown to have
all sorts of beneficial effects on health.

Bottom Line: Quinoa is much higher in fiber than most

grains, with one source finding 17-27 grams of fiber per
cup of uncooked Quinoa.

Two flavonoids that have been particularly well studied

are Quercetin and Kaempferol and they happen to be
found in large amounts in Quinoa (5).

4. Quinoa is Gluten Free and Perfect For People With

Gluten Intolerance

In fact, the quercetin content of quinoa is even higher than

typical high-quercetin foods like cranberries (6).
These important molecules have been shown to have antiinflammatory, anti-viral, anti-cancer and anti-depressant
effects at least in animal studies (7, 8, 9, 10).
By including quinoa in your diet, you will significantly
increase your total intake of these (and other) important
nutrients.
According to a 2013 survey, about a third of people in the
U.S. are currently trying to minimize or avoid gluten.

Bottom Line: Quinoa contains large amounts of

flavonoids, including Quercetin and Kaempferol. These
are potent plant antioxidants with numerous health
benefits.

A gluten-free diet can be healthy, as long as it is based on

foods that are naturally gluten free.
The problems arise when people eat gluten free foods
made with refined starches instead.

3. It is Very High in Fiber Much Higher Than Most

Grains

These foods are no better than their gluten-containing

counterparts, because gluten free junk food is still junk
food.
Well many researchers have been looking at quinoa as a
suitable ingredient in a gluten-free diet, for people who
dont want to give up staples like breads and pasta.

Another important benefit of quinoa is that it is high in

fiber.

Studies have shown that by using quinoa instead of typical

gluten-free ingredients like refined tapioca, potato, corn

57

and rice flour, it can dramatically increase the nutrient and

antioxidant value of the diet (15, 16).

It is known that eating foods that are high on the glycemic

index can stimulate hunger and contribute to obesity (18,
19).

Bottom Line: Quinoa is naturally free of gluten and using

it instead of typical gluten-free ingredients can increase the
antioxidant and nutrient value of a gluten-free diet.

Such foods have also been linked to many of the chronic,

Western diseases that are so common today like diabetes
and heart disease (20).

5. Quinoa is Very High in Protein, With All The

Essential Amino Acids That we Need

Quinoa has a glycemic index of 53, which is considered

low (21).
However its important to keep in mind that quinoa is
still pretty high in carbs, so it is not a good choice for a
low-carb diet, at least not in large amounts.
Bottom Line: The glycemic index of quinoa is around 53,
which is considered low. However, it is still relatively high
in carbohydrates.
7. It is High in Minerals That Most People Dont Get
Enough of, Especially Magnesium

Protein is made out of amino acids. Some of them are

termed essential because we can not produce them and
need to get them from the diet.
If a food contains all the essential amino acids, it is seen as
a complete protein.
The problem is that many plant foods are deficient in
certain essential amino acids, such as Lysine.
However quinoa is an exception to this, being
particularly high in in all the essential amino acids. For this
reason, quinoa is an excellent source of protein. It has both
more and better protein than most grains (17).

There are many nutrients in the modern diet that people

tend to be lacking in.
This is particularly true of some minerals especially
Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc and (for women) Iron.

With 8 grams of quality protein per cup of cooked quinoa

(or 4.5 grams per 100 grams), quinoa is an excellent plantbased protein source for vegetarians and vegans.

Interestingly, quinoa is very high in all 4 minerals. It is

particularly high in magnesium, with one cup having about
30% of the RDA.

Bottom Line: Quinoa is high in protein compared to most

plant foods and contains all the essential amino acids that
we need.

The problem is that quinoa contains a substance called

phytic acid, which can bind these minerals and reduce their
absorption (22).

6. Quinoa Has a Low Glycemic Index

However, by soaking and/or sprouting the quinoa before

cooking it, you can reduce the phytic acid content and
make these minerals more bioavailable.
Quinoa is also pretty high in oxalates, which reduce the
absorption of calcium and can cause problems for certain
individuals with recurring kidney stones (23, 24).
Bottom Line: Quinoa is very high in minerals, but the
phytic acid can partly prevent them from being absorbed.
Soaking or sprouting quinoa degrades most of the phytic
acid.

The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly foods

raise blood sugar levels.

58

Bottom Line: Quinoa appears to be very high in

antioxidants, which are increased even further after the
seeds are sprouted.

8. Quinoa May Have Some Major Benefits For Metabolic

Health
Given the high amount of beneficial nutrients, it makes
sense that quinoa could lead to improvements in metabolic
health.

10. Quinoa Has Several Important Characteristics That

Make it a Weight Loss Friendly Food

Although this needs to be studied more thoroughly, I did

find two studies (one in humans, the other in rats) that
examined the effects of quinoa on metabolic health.

In order to lose weight, we need to take in fewer calories

than we burn.

The human study found that using quinoa instead of

typical gluten-free breads and pastas significantly reduced
blood sugar, insulin and triglyceride levels (25).

It is known that certain properties of foods can facilitate

this process either by boosting metabolism (increasing
calories out) or reducing appetite (lowering calories in).

The rat study found that adding quinoa to a diet high in

fructose almost completely inhibited the negative effects of
fructose (26).

Interestingly, quinoa has several such properties.

It is high in protein which can both increase metabolism
and reduce appetite significantly (29).

Bottom Line: Two studies, one in humans and the other in

rats, show that quinoa can improve metabolic health. This
includes lower blood sugar and triglyceride levels.

The high amount of fiber should also help to increase

feelings of fullness, making us eat fewer calories overall
(30).

9. Quinoa is Loaded With Antioxidants

The fact that quinoa has a low glycemic index is another

important feature, but choosing such foods has been linked
to reduced calorie intake (31).
Although there is currently no study that looks at the
effects of quinoa on body weight, it seems intuitive that it
could be a useful part of a healthy weight loss diet.
Bottom Line: Quinoa is high in fiber, protein and has a
low glycemic index. These properties have all been linked
to weight loss and improved health.

Quinoa also happens to be very high in antioxidants.

Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals
and are believed to help fight ageing and many diseases.

11. Quinoa is Easy to Incorporate Into Your Diet

One study looked at antioxidants in 10 foods 5 cereals, 3

pseudocereals and 2 legumes.
Quinoa had the highest antioxidant content of all 10 (27).
Allowing quinoa seeds to sprout seems to increase the
antioxidant content even further (28).

59

The last one is not a health benefit, but still incredibly

important.

Quinoa can be ready to eat in as little as 15-20 minutes:

It is the fact that quinoa is very easy to incorporate into

your diet.

Put 2 cups of water in a pot, turn up the heat.

Add 1 cup of raw quinoa, with a dash of salt.
Boil for 15-20 minutes.
Eat.

It is also tasty and goes well with many foods.

It should now have absorbed most of the water and gotten
a fluffy look. If done right, it should have a mild, nutty
flavour and a satisfying crunch.

Depending on the type of quinoa, it can be important to

rinse it with water in order to get rid of saponins, which are
found on the outer layer and can have a bitter flavor.

Then there are dozens of other delicious ways to use

quinoa.

However, some brands have already been rinsed, so this

may not be necessary.
You can buy quinoa in most health food stores and many
supermarkets. It is also available on Amazon, with many
reviews, testimonials and usage tips from real customers.

60

Ten Healthy Fats You Should Be Eating

by MRHEALTH
August 12, 2014
Macademia oil. This oil comes from a fat-laden nut, so it
makes sense that extracting oil from the macademia would
be easy and not require much in terms of chemical
processing. Macademia nut oils are a source of squalene, a
naturally occuring antioxidant that protects from suninduced oxidation. It helps synthesize both cholesterol and
vitamin D. It is highly shelf stable and resistant to heat
oxidation. Of all the seed nut oils, macademia oil
performed best when exposed to heat. It is also low in
omega-6 fatty acid, helping us to maintain our
polyunsaturated fat balance.

Twenty years ago, low fat diets were the craze. Fat made
you fat said conventional wisdom, and we all avoided it
like crazy.

Grass fed butter. Butter from cows that eat grass is one of
the healthiest of the fats. The fat soluble vitamins in butter
protect against heart disease, atheroclerosis, osteoperosis,
and degenerative disease. It contains Vitamin D, Vitamin
A, and Vitamin K2, a vital nutrient to assist with the
uptake of Vitamin D and calcium. Butter contains butyrate,
a short chain fatty acid that is anti-inflammatory and has
shown to reduce the negative effects of type 1 diabetes in
laboratory studies. Grass fed butter is high in omega 3s,
CLA, beta carotene. Sweet butter is unsalted and has a
more delicate flavor, but also a shorter shelf life. Buy it
wrapped in foil to preserve its freshness. Cultured butter
comes from milk that sits out for a day before churning
and has an exquisite flavor.

Fats, however, support us in so many ways. including

keeping us from feeling hungry all the time. Of course,
like anything, there are healthy fats and unhealthy fats.
Here are some we should be eating every day.
Oil and the gut
Healthy oils heal and protect our guts. When were dealing
with inflammation or gut issues, healthy oils can actually
soothe and promote natural healing of gut related
issues. Vitamin D is particularly healing for intestinal
issues. As well, many healthy oils are antimicrobial and
will help rid the gut of candida, viruses, parasites, and
other undesirable gut inhabitants.

Clarified butter, is butter fat that has had milk solids and
water removed. With whey and casein removed, clarified
butter can be stored for many months without becoming
rancid.

Eating the right oils can help alleviate a number of modern

day health maladies. Here are a few to consider.
Healthy Oils

Ghee is similar to clarified butter, different because the

butter is cooked longer allowing the milk solids to brown
before being strained out. This gives ghee a nutty flavor. It
is an anti carcinogen, makes food easier to digest,
enhances the medicinal values of food, and gives food an
outstanding flavor.

Avocado oil. Avocados have exemplary health benefits.

The fruit itself contains excellent dietary fiber and are
loaded with vitamin E, folic acid, chlorophyll and
monounsaturated fats. Avocado oil has a high smoke
temperature, so it is ideal for frying and cooking. Eating
the
whole
fruit
is
even
better
for
you.
Coconut oil. Ive written before about the benefits of
coconut oil. In short, its easily digestible, provides great
energy without being stored as fat.

Flax oil. Flax oil is a great way to get more Omega 3 into
your diet. Omega 3 fatty acid helps promote healing and
reduces inflammation all over the body. For those of us
with leaky guts, autoimmune disorders, and other
inflammatory illnesses, flax oil is health promoting in a
number of ways. It supports proper thyroid, adrenal and
hormone activity. It strengthens the immune system, helps
maintain healthy blood, nerves, arteries, skin and hair. It
also helps to transport fat soluble vitamins and helps to
break down cholesterol in the body. It should not be

Olive oil is one of the most stable oils, due in part to its
high vitamin E content. It supports liver and gall bladder
function and reduces the LDL cholesterol in the body. It
should not be heated over 325 degrees. Seek outorganic
extra virgin olive oil, which is the most health promoting
and best tasting olive oil. Oil that is not extra virgin is
often chemically treated, and is less desirable for health.

61

heated. If it tastes bitter, it is rancid and should be

discarded.

inflammation and be protective against cancer, while too

much Omega-6 fats cause inflammation and increase
cancer risk.

Sunflower oil is a sweet, nutty oil pressed from sunflower

seeds. When unrefined and fresh, it is a great source of
omega 3. Sunflower oil should not be heated, but is great
for salads.

Avoid these oils, and the processed foods that contain

them, as much as possible.
Corn oil. A byproduct of the corn industry, this oil
requires all sorts of intense processing to extract the very
small amount of oil from corn. It is an inferior oil, yet it is
used in almost all of the fried foods in restaurants.

Walnut oil. Buy walnut oil in small quantities with a

manufacture date on the label. Keep it refrigerated and
dont heat it. Instead use it on salads Walnut oil is rich in
omega 3 and omega 9 which help to keep arteries flexible,
reduces inflammation, and helps with skin issues like
eczema. It is rich in phytonutrients like selenium,
phosphorous, magnesium, zinc, iron, and calcium as well
as many B vitamins, vitamin E and niacin.

Cottonseed oil. Another of the chemically treated plants,

cottonseed oil is some of the most chemically tainted oils
on the market. Avoid.
Canola oil, which comes from the rape plant, is highly
refined by chemical means. The omega 3 in canola oil is
quite fragile and does not last long. Rape seed oil has been
used for a long time, however, in historic use the oil was
pressed fresh daily using simple presses that did not break
down fatty acids.

Tips for Using Healthy Oils

Dont overheat oils. When you overheat oil past its smoke
point, the oil breaks down and oxidizes and toxic
compounds are formed. Every oil has its own smoke
point dependent upon how it was refined and the chemical
make up of the oil.

Vegetable oil is mostly corn oil. Avoid.

Store oil in a cool, dark place. Oils break down more

rapidly in light and when heated.

Margarine. I cant believe its not butter! I cant believe

youre eating this! Go find yourself some real grass fed
butter and live! Margarine is highly processed, chemically
flavored, and inflammation producing crap. Avoid.

Buy smaller amounts and replenish often.

Smell your oils. If they smell bad, toss them. Rancid oils
have broken down into unhealthy compounds and should
not be used. If you cant tell by smell, taste your oils
before using them. Any acrid, bitter, moldy, or musty or
any other unpleasant flavor means you should not use it.
Oils should taste and smell lightly sweet, or like the food
they came from (e.g., olive oil).

Grape seed oil. Grapes are some of the most chemically

treated fruits. Toxins concentrate in fatty acids, so the
seeds of grapes and the oil coming from it are not health
promoting.
Packaged foods to avoid
Because so many of our packaged foods contain unhealthy
oils, avoid the following commercial products that contain
vegetable oils (amongst other health destructive elements):

Oils to avoid
Vegetable oils must go through extensive chemical
processing to make them usable and palatable. These fats
are highly undesirable and unhealthy. Vegetable oils
contain very high levels of polyunsaturated fats, and these
oils have replaced many of the saturated fats in our diets
since the 1950s. The problem is that polyunsaturated fats
are highly unstable and oxidize easily in the body. These
oxidized fats are rancid and cause inflammation and
mutation in cells.

These fats also contain a higher ratio of omega-6 fatty

acids, where we need to consume a higher ratio of omega 3
for health. Our bodies need a balance of omega-3 and
omega-6. Modern diets provide ample omega 6, whacking
our balance. Omega-3s have been shown to reduce

Salad Dressings
Condiments
Mayonnaise
Chips
Artificial Cheeses
Store bought nuts and snacks
Cookies, crackers, snacks
Sauces

If youre buying packaged foods, read the labels! It will

tell you what ingredients are in there, and youd be
surprised. Commercial food in the modern world is not
health promoting.

.
62

Science Confirms Turmeric As Effective As 14 Drugs

Sayer Ji
Posted On August 27, 2014

Turmeric is one the most thoroughly researched plants in

existence today. Its medicinal properties and components
(primarily curcumin) have been the subject of over 5600
peer-reviewed and published biomedical studies. In
fact, our five-year long research project on this sacred
plant has revealed over 600 potential preventive and
therapeutic applications, as well as 175 distinct beneficial
physiological effects. This entire database of 1,585 ncbihyperlinked turmeric abstracts can be downloaded as a
PDF at our Downloadable Turmeric Document page,
and acquired either as a retail item or with 200 GMItokens, for those of you who are already are members
and receive them automatically each month.
Given the sheer density of research performed on this
remarkable spice, it is no wonder that a growing number of
studies have concluded that it compares favorably to a
variety of conventional medications, including:

Lipitor/Atorvastatin(cholesterol medication): A 2008

study published in the journal Drugs in R & D found
that a standardized preparation of curcuminoids from
Turmeric compared favorably to the drug atorvastatin
(trade name Lipitor) on endothelial dysfunction, the
underlying pathology of the blood vessels that drives
atherosclerosis, in association with reductions in
inflammation and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetic
patients. [i] [For addition curcumin and 'high
cholesterol' research 8 abstracts]
Corticosteroids (steroid medications): A 1999 study
published in the journal Phytotherapy Research found
that the primary polyphenol in turmeric, the saffron
colored pigment known as curcumin, compared
favorably to steroids in the management of chronic
anterior uveitis, an inflammatory eye disease.[ii] A
2008 study published in Critical Care Medicine found
that curcumin compared favorably to the corticosteroid
drug dexamethasone in the animal model as an
alternative therapy for protecting lung transplantationassociated injury by down-regulating inflammatory
genes.[iii] An earlier 2003 study published in Cancer

63

Letters found the same drug also compared favorably

to dexamethasone in a lung ischaemia-repurfusion
injury model.[iv] [for additional curcumin and
inflammation research 52 abstracts]
Prozac/Fluoxetine
&
Imipramine
(antidepressants): A 2011 study published in the
journalActa Poloniae Pharmaceutica found that
curcumin compared favorably to both drugs in reducing
depressive behavior in an animal model.[v] [for
additional curcumin and depression research 5
abstracts]
Aspirin (blood thinner): A 1986 in vitro and ex vivo
study
published
in
the
journal
Arzneimittelforschung found that curcumin has antiplatelet and prostacyclin modulating effects compared
to aspirin, indicating it may have value in patients prone
to vascular thrombosis and requiring anti-arthritis
therapy.[vi] [for additional curcumin and antiplatelet research]
Anti-inflammatory Drugs: A 2004 study published in
the journal Oncogene found that curcumin (as well as
resveratrol) were effective alternatives to the
drugs aspirin, ibuprofen, sulindac, phenylbutazone,
naproxen,
indomethacin,
diclofenac,
dexamethasone, celecoxib, and tamoxifen in
exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity
against tumor cells.[vii][for additional curcumin and
anti-proliferative research 15 abstracts]
Oxaliplatin (chemotherapy drug): A 2007 study
published in the International Journal of Cancer found
that curcumin compares favorably with oxaliplatin as an
antiproliferative agenet in colorectal cell lines.[viii] [for
additional curcumin and colorectal cancer research
52 abstracts]
Metformin (diabetes drug): A 2009 study published in
the journal Biochemitry and Biophysical Research
Community explored how curcumin might be valuable
in treating diabetes, finding that it activates AMPK
(which increases glucose uptake) and suppresses
gluconeogenic gene expression (which suppresses
glucose production in the liver) in hepatoma cells.
Interestingly, they found curcumin to be 500 times to
100,000 times (in the form known as
tetrahydrocurcuminoids(THC)) more potent than
metformin in activating AMPK and its downstream
target acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). [ix]
Another way in which turmeric and its components
reveal their remarkable therapeutic properties is in
research on drug resistant- and multi-drug resistant
cancers. We have two sections on our site dedicated
to researching natural and integrative therapies on
these topics, and while there are dozens of substances

with
demonstrable
efficacy
against
these
chemotherapy- and radiation-resistant cancers,
curcumin tops both lists:
Cancers: Drug Resistant
Cancers: Multi-Drug Resistant

Considering how strong a track record turmeric (curcumin)

has, having been used as both food and medicine in a wide
range of cultures, for thousands of years, a strong
argument can be made for using curcumin as a drug
alternative or adjuvant in cancer treatment.

We have found no less than 54 studies indicating that

curcumin can induce cell death or sensitize drug-resistant
cancer cell lines to conventional treatment.[x]

Or, better yet, use certified organic (non-irradiated)

turmeric in lower culinary doses on a daily basis so that
heroic doses wont be necessary later in life after a serious
disease sets in. Nourishing yourself, rather than selfmedicating with nutraceuticals, should be the goal of a
healthy diet. [learn more at Sayer Ji's new collaborative
project EATomology]

We have identified 27 studies on curcumins ability to

either induce cell death or sensitize multi-drug resistant
cancer cell lines to conventional treatment.[xi]

Resources
[i] P Usharani, A A Mateen, M U R Naidu, Y S N Raju, Naval Chandra. Effect of NCB-02, atorvastatin and placebo on
endothelial function, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized,
parallel-group, placebo-controlled, 8-week study. Drugs R D. 2008;9(4):243-50. PMID: 18588355
[ii] B Lal, A K Kapoor, O P Asthana, P K Agrawal, R Prasad, P Kumar, R C Srimal. Efficacy of curcumin in the management of
chronic anterior uveitis. Phytother Res. 1999 Jun;13(4):318-22. PMID: 10404539
[iii] Jiayuan Sun, Weigang Guo, Yong Ben, Jinjun Jiang, Changjun Tan, Zude Xu, Xiangdong Wang, Chunxue Bai. Preventive
effects of curcumin and dexamethasone on lung transplantation-associated lung injury in rats. Crit Care Med. 2008
Apr;36(4):1205-13. PMID: 18379247
[iv] J Sun, D Yang, S Li, Z Xu, X Wang, C Bai. Effects of curcumin or dexamethasone on lung ischaemia-reperfusion injury in
rats. Cancer Lett. 2003 Mar 31;192(2):145-9. PMID:18799504
[v] Jayesh Sanmukhani, Ashish Anovadiya, Chandrabhanu B Tripathi. Evaluation of antidepressant like activity of curcumin and
its combination with fluoxetine and imipramine: an acute and chronic study. Acta Pol Pharm. 2011 Sep-Oct;68(5):769-75.
PMID:21928724
[vi] R Srivastava, V Puri, R C Srimal, B N Dhawan. Effect of curcumin on platelet aggregation and vascular prostacyclin
synthesis. Arzneimittelforschung. 1986 Apr;36(4):715-7. PMID:3521617
[vii] Yasunari Takada, Anjana Bhardwaj, Pravin Potdar, Bharat B Aggarwal. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents differ in their
ability to suppress NF-kappaB activation, inhibition of expression of cyclooxygenase-2 and cyclin D1, and abrogation of
tumor cell proliferation. Oncogene. 2004 Dec 9;23(57):9247-58. PMID: 15489888
[viii] Lynne M Howells, Anita Mitra, Margaret M Manson. Comparison of oxaliplatin- and curcumin-mediated antiproliferative
effects in colorectal cell lines. Int J Cancer. 2007 Jul 1;121(1):175-83. PMID: 17330230
[ix] Teayoun Kim, Jessica Davis, Albert J Zhang, Xiaoming He, Suresh T Mathews. Curcumin activates AMPK and suppresses
gluconeogenic gene expression in hepatoma cells.Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2009 Oct 16;388(2):377-82. Epub 2009 Aug
8. PMID: 19665995
[x] GreenMedInfo.com, Curcumin Kills Drug Resistant Cancers, 54 Abstracts
[xi] GreenMedInfo.com, Curcumin Kills Multi-Drug Resistant Cancers: 27 Abstracts.

64

14 Foods That Cleanse The Liver

By MRHEALTH
September 2, 2014
Modern society is a sad state that produces many overprocessed livers. When we overeat or eat processed or
fried foods, and, anytime we are exposed to environmental
pollutants or stress, the liver becomes overworked and
overloaded. When the liver is taxed, it cant process toxins
and fat in an efficient way. There are many foods that can
help cleanse the liver naturally by stimulating its natural
ability to clean toxic waste from the body.

3. Beets and Carrots

Both are extremely high in plant-flavonoids and betacarotene; eating beets and carrots can help stimulate and
improve overall liver function.

In the past, I have discussed my favorite cleansing foods.

This list is a little more specific and focuses mainly on
foods that can help cleanse your liver. In addition to taking
a liver-cleansing supplement, and performing at least
two liver and gallbladder cleanses per year, eating the
following foods is the best way to keep your liver healthy
and functioning the way you need it to. I would encourage
you to incorporate these liver cleanse foods into your
weekly diet.

4. Green Tea
This liver-loving beverage is full of plant antioxidants
known as catechins, a compound known to assist liver
function. Green tea is not only delicious, its also a great
way to improve your overall diet. Learn more about the
benefits of green tea.

1. Garlic

5. Leafy Green Vegetables

Just a small amount of this pungent white bulb has the

ability to activate liver enzymes that help your body flush
out toxins. Garlic also holds high amounts of allicin and
selenium, two natural compounds that aid in liver
cleansing.

One of our most powerful allies in cleansing the liver,

leafy greens can be eaten raw, cooked, or juiced.
Extremely high in plant chlorophylls, greens suck up
environmental toxins from the blood stream. With their
distinct ability to neutralize heavy metals, chemicals and
pesticides, these cleansing foods offer a powerful
protective mechanism for the liver.

2. Grapefruit
High in both vitamin C and antioxidants, grapefruit
increases the natural cleansing processes of the liver. A
small glass of freshly-squeezed grapefruit juice will help
boost production of the liver detoxification enzymes that
help flush out carcinogens and other toxins.

Try incorporating leafy greens such as bitter gourd,

arugula, dandelion greens, spinach, mustard greens,
andchicory into your diet. This will help increase the
creation and flow of bile, the substance that removes waste
from the organs and blood.

65

6. Avocados

11. Lemons & Limes

This nutrient-dense super-food helps the body produce

glutathione, a compound that is necessary for the liver to
cleanse harmful toxins.
7. Apples

These citrus fruits contain very high amounts of vitamin C,

which aids the body in synthesizing toxic materials into
substances that can be absorbed by water. Drinking
freshly-squeezed lemon or lime juice in the morning helps
stimulate the liver.
High in pectin, apples hold the chemical constituents
necessary for the body to cleanse and release toxins from
the digestive tract. This, in turn, makes it easier for the
liver to handle the toxic load during the cleansing process.

12. Walnuts
Holding high amounts of the amino acid arginine, walnuts
aid the liver in detoxifying ammonia. Walnuts are also
high in glutathione and omega-3 fatty acids, which support
normal liver cleansing actions. Make sure you chew the
nuts well (until they are liquefied) before swallowing.

8. Olive Oil
Cold-pressed organic oils such as olive, hemp and flaxseed are great for the liver, when used in moderation. They
help the body by providing a lipid base that can suck up
harmful toxins in the body. In this way, it takes some of
the burden off the liver in terms of the toxic overload many
of us suffer from.

13. Cabbage
Much like broccoli and cauliflower, eating cabbage helps
stimulate the activation of two crucial liver detoxifying
enzymes that help flush out toxins. Try eating more
kimchi, coleslaw, cabbage soup and sauerkraut.

9. Alternative Grains

14. Turmeric

Its not only that you need alternative grains

like quinoa, millet, and buckwheat in your diet, its that if
youve got wheat, flour, or other whole grains in your diet,
its time to make changes. Your liver is your bodys filter
for toxins, and grains that contain gluten are full of them.
A study last year found that persons who experienced
gluten sensitivities also had abnormal liver enzyme test
results, and thats just one of many.

The livers favorite spice. Try adding some of this

detoxifying goodness into your next lentil stew or veggie
dish for an instant liver pick-me-up. Turmerichelps boost
liver detox, by assisting enzymes that actively flush out
dietary carcinogens.
Tips For Doing a Liver Cleanse

10. Cruciferous Vegetables

Other liver cleanse foods not listed above include
artichoke, asparagus, kale, and brussel sprouts. Eating the
foods listed above is a great way to help keep your liver
functioning properly. However, for best results, I
recommend performing a liver cleanse. Performing a liver
cleanse at least twice a year will eliminate any foreign
substances that may be trapped in your liver.

Eating broccoli and cauliflower will increase the amount

of glucosinolate in your system, adding to enzyme
production in the liver. These natural enzymes help flush
out carcinogens, and other toxins, out of our body which
may significantly lower risks associated with cancer.

66

healthydebates.com
Top 11 Biggest Lies of Mainstream Nutrition
By Kris Gunnars
September 12, 2014
There is a lot of misinformation circling around in
mainstream nutrition.

A few decades ago it was decided that the epidemic of

heart disease was caused by eating too much fat, in
particular saturated fat.

I have listed the worst examples in this article, but

unfortunately this is just the tip of the iceberg.

This was based on highly flawed studies and political

decisions that have now been proven to be completely
wrong.

Here are the top 11 biggest lies, myths and misconceptions

of mainstream nutrition.

A massive review article published in 2010 looked at 21

prospective epidemiological studies with a total of 347,747
subjects. Their results: absolutely no association between
saturated fat and heart disease (6).

1. Eggs Are Unhealthy

Theres one thing that nutrition professionals have had
remarkable success with and that isdemonizing
incredibly healthy foods.

The idea that saturated fat raised the risk of heart disease
was an unproven theorythat somehow became
conventional wisdom (7).

The worst example of that is eggs, which happen to

contain a large amount ofcholesterol and were therefore
considered to increase the risk of heart disease.

Eating saturated fat raises the amount of HDL (the good)

cholesterol in the blood and changes the LDL from small,
dense LDL (very bad) to Large LDL, which is benign (8,
9).

But recently it has been proven that the cholesterol in the

diet doesnt really raise the cholesterol in blood. In fact,
eggs primarily raise the good cholesterol and are NOT
associated with increased risk of heart disease (1, 2).

Meat, coconut oil, cheese, butter there is absolutely no

reason to fear these foods.

What were left with is one of the most nutritious foods on

the planet. Theyre high in all sorts of nutrients along with
unique antioxidants that protect our eyes (3).

Bottom Line: Newer studies have proven

that saturated fat does not cause heart
disease. Natural foods that are high in
saturated fat are good for you.

To top it all of, despite being a high fat food, eating eggs
for breakfast is proven to cause significant weight loss
compared to bagels for breakfast (4, 5).

3. Everybody Should be Eating Grains

Bottom Line: Eggs do not cause heart

disease and are among the most nutritious
foods on the planet. Eggs for breakfast can
help you lose weight.
2. Saturated Fat is Bad For You

The idea that humans should be basing their diets on grains

has never made sense to me.
The agricultural revolution happened fairly recently in
human evolutionary history and our genes havent changed
that much.

67

a lower risk of fracture. High protein also

lowers blood pressure and improves
diabetes symptoms, which should lower the
risk of kidney failure.

Grains are fairly low in nutrients compared to other real

foods like vegetables. They are also rich in a substance
called phytic acid which binds essential minerals in the
intestine and prevents them from being absorbed (10).

5. Low-Fat Foods Are Good For You

The most common grain in the western diet, by far, is

wheat and wheat can cause a host of health problems,
both minor and serious.
Modern wheat contains a large amount of a protein called
gluten, but there is evidence that a significant portion of
the population may be sensitive to it (11, 12,13).
Eating gluten can damage the intestinal lining, cause pain,
bloating, stool inconsistency and tiredness (14, 15). Gluten
consumption has also been associated with schizophrenia
and cerebellar ataxia, both serious disorders of the brain
(16, 17).
Bottom Line: Grains are relatively low in
nutrients compared to other real foods like
vegetables. The gluten grains in particular
may lead to a variety of health problems.

Do you know what regular food tastes like when all the fat
has been taken out of it?
Well, it tastes like cardboard. No one would want to eat it.

4. Eating a Lot of Protein is Bad For Your Bones and

Kidneys

The food manufacturers know this and therefore theyadd

other things to compensate for the lack of fat.

A high protein diet has been claimed to cause both

osteoporosis and kidney disease.

Usually these are sweeteners sugar, high fructose corn

syrup or artificial sweeteners like aspartame.

It is true that eating protein increases calcium excretion

from the bones in the short term, but the long term studies
actually show the opposite effect.

Well get to the sugar in a moment, but Id like to point out

that even though artificial sweeteners dont have calories,
the evidence does NOT suggest that they are better for you
than sugar.
In fact, many observational studies show a consistent,
highly significant association with various diseases like
obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart disease,
premature delivery and depression (24, 25, 26).

In the long term, protein has a strong association with

improved bone health and a lower risk of fracture (18, 19).

In these low-fat products, healthy natural fats are being

replaced with substances that are extremely harmful.

Additionally, studies dont show any association of high

protein with kidney disease in otherwise healthy people
(20, 21).

Bottom Line: Low-fat foods are usually

highly processed products loaded with
sugar, corn syrup or artificial sweeteners.
They are extremely unhealthy.

In fact, two of the main risk factors for kidney failure are
diabetes and high blood pressure. Eating a high protein
diet improves both (22, 23).

6. You Should Eat Many Small Meals Throughout The

Day

If anything, a high protein diet should be protective

against osteoporosis and kidney failure!

The idea that you should eat many small meals throughout
the day in order to keep metabolism high is a persistent
myth that doesnt make any sense.

Bottom Line: Eating a high protein diet is

associated with improved bone health and

68

It is true that eating raises your metabolism slightly while

youre digesting the meal, but its the total amount of food
that determines the energy used, NOT the number of
meals.

7. Carbs Should Be Your Biggest Source of Calories

The mainstream view is that everyone should eat a low-fat

diet, with carbs being around 50-60% of total calories.

This has actually been put to the test and refuted multiple
times. Controlled studies where one group eats many small
meals and the other the same amount of food in fewer
meals show that there is literally no difference between the
two (27, 28).

This sort of diet contains a lot of grains and sugars, with

very small amounts of fatty foods like meat and eggs.
This type of diet may work well for some people,
especially those who are naturally lean.

In fact, one study in obese men revealed that eating 6

meals per day led to less feelings of fullness compared to 3
meals (29).

But for those who are obese, have the metabolic syndrome
or diabetes, this amount of carbohydrates is downright
dangerous.

Not only is eating so often practically useless for most of

the people out there, it may even be harmful.

This has actually been studied extensively. A low-fat,

high-carb diet has been compared to a low-carb, high-fat
diet in multiple randomized controlled trials.

It is not natural for the human body to be constantly in the

fed state. In nature, we used to fast from time to time and
we didnt eat nearly as often as we do today.

The results are consistently in favor of low-carb, high-fat

diets (34, 35, 36).

When we dont eat for a while, a cellular process called

autophagy cleans waste products out of our cells (30).
Fasting or not eating from time to time is good for you.

Bottom Line: The low-fat, high-carb diet is

a miserable failure and has been proven
repeatedly to be vastly inferior to lowercarb, higher-fat diets.

Several observational studies show a drastically increased

risk of colon cancer (4th most common cause of cancer
death), numbers going as high as a 90% increase for those
who eat 4 meals per day compared to 2 (31, 32, 33).

8. High Omega-6 Seed and Vegetable Oils Are Good For

You

Bottom Line: There is no evidence that

eating many small meals throughout the
day is better than fewer, bigger meals. Not
eating from time to time is good for you.
Increased meal frequency is associated
with colon cancer.

Polyunsaturated fats are considered healthy because some

studies show that they lower your risk of heart disease.

69

But there are many types of polyunsaturated fats and they

are not all the same.

However, low-carb diets (demonized by nutritionists and

the media) have repeatedly been shown to lead to much
better outcomes.

Most importantly, we have both Omega-3 fatty acids and

Omega-6 fatty acids.

Every randomized controlled trial on low-carb diets shows

that they:

Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and lower your risk of

many diseases related to inflammation (37). Humans
actually need to get Omega-6s and Omega-3s in a certain
ratio. If the ratio is too high in favor of Omega-6, it can
cause problems (38).

1.
2.
3.

By far the biggest sources of Omega-6 in the modern diet

are processed seed and vegetable oils like soybean, corn
and sunflower oils.

4.
5.

Throughout evolution, humans never had access to such an

abundance of Omega-6 fats. It is unnatural for the human
body.

6.
7.

Research that specifically looks at Omega-6 fatty acids

instead of polyunsaturated fats in general shows that they
actually increase the risk of heart disease (39, 40).
Eat your Omega-3s and consider supplementing with cod
fish liver oil, but avoid the industrial seed and vegetable
oils.

Reduce body fat more than calorie-restricted low-fat

diets, even though the low-carb dieters are allowed to
eat as much as they want (41, 42).
Lower blood pressure significantly (43, 44).
Lower blood sugar and improve symptoms of diabetes
much more than low-fat diets (45, 46, 47, 48).
Increase HDL (the good) cholesterol much more (49,
50).
Lower triglycerides much more than low-fat diets (51,
52, 53).
Change the pattern of LDL (bad) cholesterol from
small, dense (very bad) to Large LDL, which is benign
(54, 55).
Low carb diets are also easier to stick to, probably
because they dont require you to restrict calories and
be hungry all the time. More people in the low-carb
groups make it to the end of the studies (56, 57).

Many of the health professionals that are supposed to have

our best interest in mind have the audacity to claim that
these diets are dangerous, then continue to peddle their
failed low-fat dogma that is hurting more people than it
helps.

Bottom Line: Humans need to get

Omega-6 and Omega-3 fats in a certain
ratio. Eating excess Omega-6 from seed
oils raises your risk of disease.

Bottom Line: Low-carb diets are the

healthiest, easiest and most effective way
to lose weight and reverse metabolic
disease. It is a scientific fact.

9. Low Carb Diets Are Dangerous

10. Sugar is Unhealthy Because it Contains Empty

Calories

It is commonly believed that sugar is bad for you because

it contains empty calories.
Its true, sugar has a lot of calories with no essential
nutrients. But that is just the tip of the iceberg.

I personally believe low-carb diets to be a potential cure

for many of the most common health problems in western
nations.

Sugar, primarily because of its high fructose content,

affects metabolism in a way that sets us up for rapid fat
gain and metabolic disease.

The low-fat diet peddled all around the world is fairly

useless against many of these diseases. It simply does not
work.

70

Fructose gets metabolized by the liver and turned into fat

which is secreted into the blood as VLDL particles. This
leads to elevated triglycerides and cholesterol (58,59).

It seems kind of intuitive that eating fat would make you

get fat.
The stuff that is gathering under our skin and making us
look soft and puffy is fat. So eating fat should give our
bodies even more of it.

It also causes resistance to the hormones insulin and leptin,

which is a stepping stone towards obesity, metabolic
syndrome and diabetes (60, 61).

But it isnt that simple. Despite fat having more calories

per gram than carbohydrate or protein, high-fat diets do
not make people fat.

This is just to name a few. Sugar causes a relentless

biochemical drive for humans to eat more and get fat. It is
probably the single worst ingredient in the standard
western diet.

As with anything, this depends on the context. A diet that

is high in fat AND high in carbs will make you fat, but its
NOT because of the fat.

Bottom Line: The harmful effects of sugar

go way beyond empty calories. Sugar
wreaks havoc on our metabolism and sets
us up for weight gain and many serious
diseases.

In fact, diets that are high in fat (and low in carbs) cause
much greater fat loss than diets that are low in fat (62, 63,
64).

11. High Fat Foods Will Make You Fat

12. Anything Else?

This is just the tip of the iceberg.
Feel free to leave a comment if you want to add to the list!

71

healthydebates.com
12 Proven Benefits Of Avocados
Kris Gunnars
September 16, 2014
The avocado is a rather unique type of fruit.

The yellow-green flesh inside the fruit is eaten, but the

skin and seed are discarded.

Most fruit consists primarily of carbohydrate, while

avocado is high in healthy fats.

Avocados are very nutritious and contain a wide variety of

nutrients, including 20 different vitamins and minerals.

Numerous studies show that it has powerful beneficial

effects on health.

Here are some of the most abundant nutrients, in a single

3.5 ounce (100 gram) serving (3):

Here are 12 health benefits of avocado, that are supported

by scientific research.

1. Avocado is Incredibly Nutritious

What we refer to as avocado is the fruit of the avocado
tree, called Persea americana (1).
This fruit is prized for its high nutrient value and is added
to all sorts of dishes due to its good flavor and rich texture.
It is the main ingredient in guacamole.

Vitamin K: 26% of the RDA.

Folate: 20% of the RDA.
Vitamin C: 17% of the RDA.
Potassium: 14% of the RDA.
Vitamin B5: 14% of the RDA.
Vitamin B6: 13% of the RDA.
Vitamin E: 10% of the RDA.
Then it contains small amounts of Magnesium,
Manganese, Copper, Iron, Zinc, Phosphorous, Vitamin
A, B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin) and B3 (Niacin).

These days, the avocado has become an incredibly

popular food among health conscious individuals. It is
often referred to as a superfood which is not surprising
given its health properties (2).

This is coming with 160 calories, 2 grams of protein and

15 grams of healthy fats. Although it contains 9 grams of
carbs, 7 of those are fiber so there are only 2 net carbs,
making this a low-carb friendly plant food.

There are many kinds of avocados, and the shape (from

pear-shaped to round) and color (from green to black) can
vary between them. They can also weigh anywhere from 8
ounces (220 grams) to 3 pounds (1.4 kg).

Avocados do not contain any cholesterol or sodium, and

are low in saturated fat. I personally dont think that
matters, but this is one of the reasons they are favored by
many old school experts who still believe these things
are inherently harmful.

The most popular type is called Hass avocado.

Bottom Line: Avocado is a green, pear-shaped fruit often
called an alligator pear. It is loaded with healthy fats,
fiber and various important nutrients.

This is what a typical avocado looks like:

2. They Contain More Potassium Than Bananas

It is often called alligator pear, which is very descriptive

because it tends to be shaped like a pear and have green,
bumpy skin like an alligator.
Potassium is a nutrient that most people arent getting
enough of (4).

72

This nutrient helps maintain electrical gradients in the

bodys cells and serves various important functions.

4. Avocados Are Loaded With Fiber

Avocados are actually very high in potassium with a 100

gram (3.5 ounce) serving containing 14% of the RDA,
compared to 10% in bananas, which are a typical high
potassium food (5).
Several studies show that having a high potassium intake is
linked to reduced blood pressure, a major risk factor for
heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure (6).
Bottom Line: Potassium is an important mineral that most
people dont get enough of. Avocados are very high in
potassium, which should support healthy blood pressure
levels.
3.
Avocado
is
Loaded
Monounsaturated Fatty Acids

With

Fiber is another nutrient found in relatively large amounts

in avocado.

Heart-Healthy

Fiber is indigestible plant matter that can contribute to

weight loss, reduce blood sugar spikes and is strongly
linked to a lower risk of many diseases (11, 12, 13).
A distinction is often made between soluble and insoluble
fiber.
Soluble fiber is known to be able to feed the friendly gut
bacteria in the intestine, which are very important for the
optimal function of our bodies (14).
A 100 gram (3.5 ounce) serving of avocado contains 7
grams of fiber, which is 27% of the recommended daily
amount.

Again, avocado is a high fat food.

About 25% of the fiber in avocado is soluble, while 75% is

insoluble (15).

In fact, 77% of the calories in it are from fat, making it one

of the fattiest plant foods in existence.

Bottom Line: Avocados tend to be high in fiber, about 7%

by weight, which is very high compared to most other
foods. Fiber can have various important benefits for weight
loss and metabolic health.

But they dont just contain any fat the majority of the fat
in avocado is oleic acid.
This is a monounsaturated fatty acid that is also the major
component in olive oil and believed to be responsible for
some of its beneficial effects.

5. Eating Avocados Can Lower Cholesterol and

Triglyceride Levels

Oleic acid has been linked to reduced inflammation and

been shown to have beneficial effects on genes linked to
cancer (7, 8, 9, 10).
The fats in avocado are also pretty resistant to heatinduced oxidation, makingavocado oil a healthy and safe
choice for cooking.
Heart disease is the most common cause of death in the
world (16).

Bottom Line: Avocados and avocado oil are high in

monounsaturated oleic acid, a heart healthy fatty acid
that is believed to be one of the main reasons for the health
benefits of olive oil.

73

It is known that several blood markers are linked to an

increased risk.

They had a much higher nutrient intake and were half as

likely to have metabolic syndrome, a cluster of symptoms
that are a major risk factor for heart disease and diabetes
(25).

This includes cholesterol, triglycerides, inflammatory

markers, blood pressure and various others.

People who ate avocados regularly also weighed less, had

a lower BMI and significantly less belly fat. They also had
more HDL (the good) cholesterol.

The effects of avocado on some of these risk factors has

been studied in 8 human controlled trials.

However correlation does not imply causation and there

is no guarantee that the avocados caused these people to
be in better health.

These are studies where people are split into groups one
group is instructed to eat avocados, while the other is not.
Then researchers see what happens to their blood markers
over time.

Therefore I dont think this particular study carries much

weight.

These studies have shown that avocados can (17, 18, 19,
20, 21, 22, 23):

Bottom Line: One dietary survey found that people who

ate avocados had a much higher nutrient intake and had a
lower risk of metabolic syndrome.

Reduce total cholesterol levels significantly.

Reduce blood triglycerides by up to 20%.
Lower LDL cholesterol by up to 22%.
Increase HDL (the good) cholesterol by up to 11%.

7. The Fat in Them Can Help You Absorb Nutrients

From Plant Foods

One of the studies showed that including avocado in a lowfat vegetarian diet led to improvements in the cholesterol
profile (24).
Unfortunately, all of the human studies were small (13-37
subjects) and short-term (1-4 weeks), but the results were
impressive nonetheless.
Bottom Line: Numerous studies have shown that eating
avocado can improve heart disease risk factors like Total,
LDL and HDL cholesterol, as well as blood triglycerides.
6. People Who Eat Avocados Tend to be Healthier
One study looked at the dietary habits and health of people
who eat avocados.

When it comes to nutrients, the total amount of them is not

the only thing that matters.

They analyzed data from 17,567 participants in the

NHANES survey in the U.S.

We also need to be able to absorb them move them from

the digestive tract and into the body, where they can be
used.
Some nutrients are fat soluble, meaning that they need to
be combined with fat in order to be utilized.
This includes vitamins A, D, E and K along with
antioxidants like carotenoids.
One study showed that adding avocado or avocado oil to
either salad or salsa can increase antioxidant absorption by
2.6 to 15-fold (26).

Avocado consumers were found to be much healthier than

people who didnt eat avocados.

74

So not only is avocado highly nutritious, it can

dramatically increase the nutrient value of other plant
foods that you are eating.

One study showed that it may help reduce side effects of

chemotherapy in human lymphocytes (31).
Avocado extract has also been shown to inhibit the growth
of prostate cancer cells (32).

This is an excellent reason to always include a healthy fat

source when you eat veggies. Without it, a lot of the
beneficial plant nutrients will go to waste.

However, keep in mind that these studies were done in

isolated cells and dont really prove anything about what
happens in a living, breathing human.

Bottom Line: Studies have shown that eating avocado or

avocado oil with veggies can dramatically increase the
amount of antioxidants you take in.

Bottom Line: Some studies in isolated cells have shown

that nutrients in avocados may have benefits in preventing
prostate cancer, and lowering side effects of chemotherapy
in some cells.

8. Avocados Are Loaded With Powerful Antioxidants

That Can Protect The Eyes

10. Avocado Extract May Help Relieve Symptoms of

Arthritis
Arthritis is a common problem in Western countries. There
are many types of arthritis, and these are often chronic
problems that people have for the rest of their lives.

Not only do avocados increase antioxidant absorption from

other foods, they are also high in antioxidants themselves.
This includes nutrients called Lutein and Zeaxanthin,
which are incredibly important for eye health (27, 28).
Studies show that these nutrients are linked to a drastically
reduced risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, which
are common in the elderly (29, 30).
Multiple studies have shown that extracts from avocado
and soybean oil, calledAvocado and Soybean
unsaponifiables, can reduce symptoms of arthritis of the
bones, called osteoarthritis (33, 34).

Therefore, eating avocados should have benefits for eye

health over the long term.
Bottom Line: Avocados are high in antioxidants,
including Lutein and Zeaxanthin. These nutrients are very
important for eye health and lower the risk of macular
degeneration and cataracts.

Whether avocados themselves can have this effect, and not

just the extract, remains to be seen.
Bottom Line: Studies have shown that an extract from
avocado and soybean oils can significantly reduce
symptoms of osteoarthritis.

9. Avocado May Help Prevent Cancer

11. Eating Avocado May Help You Lose Weight

There is limited evidence that avocado may be beneficial

in preventing cancer.

75

There is some evidence that avocados are a weight loss

friendly food.

Not only are avocados healthy, theyre also incredibly

delicious and go with all sorts of foods.

In one study, people were split into groups. One group was
instructed to eat a meal that contained avocado, the other a
similar meal without avocado.

You can add them to salads and various sorts of recipes, or

you can simply scoop them out with a spoon and eat them
plain.

Then they were asked a series of questions related to

hunger and satiety.

They have a creamy, rich, fatty texture and blend well with
various other ingredients.

The people eating the avocado felt 23% more satisfied and
had a 28% lower desire to eat over the next 5 hours (35).

A notable mention is guacamole, which is arguably the

most famous use of avocados. It includes avocado along
with ingredients like salt, garlic, lime and a few others
depending on the recipe.

If this holds true in the long-term, then including avocados

in your diet could help you naturally eat fewer calories and
have an easier time sticking to a healthy diet.

An avocado often takes some time to ripen and it should

feel slightly soft when ripe. The nutrients in avocado can
oxidize soon after fleshing it, but if you add lemon juice
then that shouldnt happen as quickly.

Avocados are also high in fiber, and very low in carbs, two
attributes that should also help promote weight loss, at
least in the context of a healthy, real food based diet.

If youre serious about adding avocado to your diet, then I

highly recommend that you watch this video about how to
pick, prepare and eat avocados.

12. Avocado is Delicious and Easy to Incorporate in The

Diet

At the end of the day, avocados are an awesome food.

Theyre loaded with nutrients, many of which are lacking
in the modern diet.
They are weight loss friendly, heart healthy and last but
not least, taste incredible.
What more could you ask for in a food?

76

Sapota Shown To Stop Cancer And

3-Fold Increase In Life Span
By MAE CHAN
SEPTEMBER 12, 2014
Sapodilla or sapota (chikoo) is a popular delicious tropical
fruit in line with mango and kiwi. It has now joined the list
of fruits that have proven anticancer properties.

polyphenols, dihydromyrecetin, quercitin, myricitrin,

catechin, epicatechin, gallocatechin and gallic acid have
been isolated from fruits.
Study
The study was undertaken by a team of scientists from the
Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore and the
Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology,
Bangalore. The results were published recently in the
Nature groups journal Scientific Reports.
Phytochemicals have been considered as conducive for
cancer prevention. Preclinical and clinical studies have
established plant derived dietary substances as suitable
candidates for treating various types of cancers due to their
broad chemical diversity. Such phytochemicals can block
the action of carcinogens on target tissues thereby
suppressing cancer development. Hence, the risk of cancer
can be repressed by eating more fruits, vegetables and
other plant products.

Originated in the central American rain forests, probably in

Mexico and Belize, today it has spread all over the tropical
belt and is being grown as a major commercial crop in
India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Malaysia. The tree is fast
growing, wind and drought resistant, and suitable for dry
arid regions receiving scanty rains.

Meta-analyses of cohort and case control studies show

significant evidence for cancer preventive effects with fruit
consumption as they are good sources of vitamins,
minerals and fibers.

Sapota fruit is brown in color with sandy kiwifruit like

outer surface but without the fuzziness. Internally, the pulp
in unripe fruits is white with sticky latex called as saponin.
Latex content gradually disappears as the fruit ripens, and
its flesh turns brown. The ripe fruit is sweet with smooth
or grainy texture, and has light musky flavor. It contains
about 3-10 black, smooth, shiny biconvex/bean shaped,
inedible seeds located at its center.

Experiments were carried out using different human cancer

cell lines and mice induced to develop breast cancer to test
and verify the efficacy of the sapota fruit extract in
inhibiting cancer cell proliferation.

Sapodilla is high calories, 100 g provides 83 calories

(almost same as that of calories in sweet potato, and
banana). In addition, it is a very good source of dietary
fiber (5.6 g/100g), which makes it an excellent bulk
laxative. The fiber content helps relieve constipation
episodes and help protect the mucous membrane of the
colon from cancer-causing toxins by firmly binding to
them.

In the case of human cells, the anti-tumour potency was

pronounced in the case of leukaemia. Of the two different
human leukaemia cancer cell lines studied, the effect was
pronounced in one of them (NALM6). The viability was
significantly affected in these cell lines after 48 hours of
treatment at extract concentrations of 1 mg/ml onwards.
Over 80 per cent of cell death was observed at 2 mg/ml
concentration, the paper notes. As expected, the effect of
the sapota fruit extract on normal cells was limited
compared with cancer cells.

Different components of the Sapota plant such as saponins

and triterpenoids have been used in folk medicine and are
known to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,
antimicrobial, analgesic and spermicidal activities.
Importantly, chemical constituents such as flavonoids,

Importantly, ~3-fold increase in lifespan was also observed

at least in 50% of the mice (6/12 mice) when tumor
bearing mice were treated Sapota extracts.

77

These results indicate that Sapota fruit can be used as a

potent chemotherapeutic agent.
7.
Top Health Benefits of Sapota
1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Apart from being a delicious fruit, the humble Sapota is

known for the large amount of health benefits it can
give the human body. This is because the fruit has
plenty of nutrients in it which makes digestion easy, it
also helps with refreshing the body and providing the
body with a lot of energy in it, thanks to the high
amounts of glucose found in the fruit. Since it is rich in
tannins and minerals too, most consume it as a shake.
For better eye sight as well, the Sapota in any form is
good, since it has plenty of vitamin A in it.
Those who suffer from aches, pains and inflammation
issues should have Sapota. This is because the fruit
has plenty of tannins in it which makes it an antiinflammation agent, say experts. Sapota in other ways
also helps work with the digestive system, and it also
keeps the body safe from issues such as irritable
bowels, enteritis, oesophagitis and gas too.
The rich antioxidants found in Sapota can help the
body stay safe and clear from cancers of various kinds.
This is because of the vitamins A and B in them which
helps maintaining the health of the mucus lining, say
experts. Even the skins texture would be taken care of
when the paste is applied as a body or face mask, and
kept for twenty minutes. The nutrients and dietary fibre
helps the digestive system too, and protects the body
from cancers, the carcinogens in the fruit helps the
colon stay safe and clean too. Lung, cavity and oral
cancers too can be prevented when the fruit is
consumed.
To have healthy bones, the body needs enough of iron,
phosphorus and calcium, which Sapota has in
abundance. Since the fruit is rich in minerals and
vitamins, it helps the body have high bone density and
gives the bones a lot of strength as well
The fruit is rich in dietary fibre as mentioned, which
would help the digestive tract steer clear of constipation
issues. In many countries across the globe, people
consume Sapota as a laxative. The fibre in the fruit is
known to break down the proteins and helps the food
dissolve easily too. When food is dissolved well, the
body then doesnt suffer from issues such as
constipation. Even the membrane of the colon would
be cared for, and it is made stronger to help fight
infections too.
Pregnant women would find a lot of help having
Sapota, because of the high amounts of nutrients and
carbohydrates in it. Lactating mothers especially face
weakness, which is why Sapota is given to them. Other

8.

9.

pregnancy symptoms can be taken care of when

Sapota is eaten too, say experts
Blood loss can be an issue and one needs to stop it.
Thanks to the fruit Sapota, this can be done, especially
when internal injuries and piles happen to the body,
both of which make the body lose a lot of blood. If there
are stings and bites that cause blood loss, the seeds of
the fruit can be crushed and applied on the affected
areas, say experts
Anti bacterial and anti viral properties are found in the
Sapota, because of the polyphenols found in the fruit.
These compounds stop the bacteria from entering the
body and the vitamin C in the fruit helps destroy free
radicals which if left unchecked can create havoc.
For those who suffer from diarrhoea and loose motions,
having Sapota would be of great help say experts,
since the fruit has purgative properties in it. Apart from
that, Sapota can help with mental health too, and since
it is a sedative, it has the potential to calm the nerves
as well. Stress and anxiety pangs can be beaten off,
and that is why most consume the fruit to beat
depression, insomnia and anxiety as well.

Other benefits:
b.

c.

d.

e.

It is a well known fact that coughs and colds can be

treated when Sapota is consumed. Phlegm is removed
and the mucus too, the nasal tract is cleared and
respiration is helped.
Sapota can help with removals of kidney stones too,
when the seeds are crushed as used. This is because
the seeds are diuretic and can help with bladder
expelling and removal of stones as well
Consume Sapota and watch how you lose weight. The
fruit is best for those who have bloating and obesity
issues too, because it regulated the gastric enzymes
and metabolism in the body too
Detox your body and do it by consuming Sapota. The
fruit is diuretic and can help eliminate waste from the
human system through frequent urination, say sources.
Water retention would be prevented and no
dehydration would happen.

Sources:
nature.com
thehindu.com
stgmagazine.com.au
Mae Chan holds degrees in both physiology and
nutritional sciences. She is also blogger and and
technology enthusiast with a passion for disseminating
information about health.

78

healthydebates.com
Colonoscopy?
You Might Want To Try Pineapple Instead
By MRHEALTH
On September 21, 2014

About half of Americans age fifty and older get

screening colonoscopies. So if removing polyps were
an effective intervention, we should be witnessing at
least a 50% reduction in incidence of colorectal cancer.
But in reality we are seeing a 22% increase in
incidence of the disease.

As has been repeatedly shown in research, cancer is a

lifestyle disease. The choices you make determine your
outcome, even when hereditary factors are present.
Every year more than 14 million healthy Americans follow
the dictate of the medical establish to have a colonoscopy.
Of this number, an estimated 70,000 are killed or seriously
injured by colonoscopy related complications, according to
statistics published in the journal Annals of Internal
Medicine. But here is the real shocker that 70,000 is a
larger number (by 22%) than the total number of people
who die from colon cancer in the first place!

Choose pineapple to prevent colon cancer

Instead of subjecting yourself to the horrors of
colonoscopy, protect your colon by adding pineapple to
your diet, or by getting the an enzyme found in pineapple,
known as bromelain, which can be bought in capsule form.
Two recent research studies have shown that bromelain
from pineapple has powerful action against colon cancer.
In the first, scientists from Italy evaluated bromelain for its
ability to stop the proliferation of cancer cells and cause
them to die on time through a process known as apoptosis.
When cancer cells die on schedule, they are not
threatening.

Other interesting facts about colonoscopy include:

According to an April 21, 2014 release from the

National Institutes of Health, no large clinical trials have
been completed to support the need for colonoscopy
screening. The American Cancer Society is in
agreement with this statement.

Radiation exposure from one colonoscopy increases

the lifetime risk of cancer by 20%. Since you are
supposed to get your first colonoscopy at age 50 and
then in five year increments, by the time you reach the
age of 70 your cancer risk will be 100%.

Research has shown that colonoscopy screening

increases mortality from all causes. The Telemark
Polyp Study I revealed a 157% increase in mortality
among colonoscopy screened patients compared to
those not screened.

An estimated 95% of all polyps are benign, and may

actually serve a protective purpose in the colon.

Removing polyps profoundly increases a patients risk

of death from hard to detect internal bleeding which
may lead to stroke, myocardial ischemia, cardiac
arrest, or sudden cardiac death.

The researchers found that bromelain exerts antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in colorectal
carcinoma cells, and it is effective in stopping the genesis
of cancer in vivo. They concluded that both eating
pineapple and taking the bromelain enzyme alone are
highly effective at cancer prevention.
In the second study, a team of scientists from Australia
researched the ability of bromelain to kill cancer cells in
four human gastrointestinal cell lines, and they
investigated the mechanisms involved.
They found that bromelain was cytotoxic in a panel of
human gastric and colon carcinoma cells. Their data
implicated different mechanisms by which bromelain
induced cancer cell death. While promoting apoptosis,
bromelain also impaired cancer cell survival by blocking
pathways leading to oncoproteins. These are proteins
encoded with an oncogene which can cause the
transformation of a normal cell into a cancerous cell.
Other research has shown bromelain is effective against
cancer by shrinking tumors. It has the ability to dissolve

79

fibrin, the protein based defense shield that protects

tumors, leading to their elimination. Bromelain has shown
the capacity to modulate other key pathways that support
malignancy, both directly and through the modulation of
the immune, digestive, inflammatory and hemostatic
systems.

its anti-tumor effects against induced skin tumor formation

in mice.
They found that pre-treatment with bromelain resulted in a
reduction in cumulative number of tumors and in average
number of tumors per mouse. Reduction in tumor volume
was a whopping 65%. Bromelain resulted in up-regulation
of the anti-cancer gene p53. This research team concluded
that bromelain was protective of DNA formation, and able
to prevent inappropriate cell signaling cascades.

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Toxicology Research in

India have reported the anti-inflammatory, anti-invasive
and anti-metastatic properties of bromelain. They studied

80

The Best Years IN Life

Pineapple IS THE Delicious End TO Cancer
BY Barbara Minton
September 22, 2014
Imagine sunshine, tropical breezes and relaxation. If you
put a fruit in that picture, it's probably pineapple, the sweet
juicy gift from the tropics. Just like a tropical vacation can
ease the mind, pineapple can ease the body. Bromelain, the
key enzyme in pineapple, banishes inflammation as
effectively as drugs. It reduces swelling, treats arthritis and
gout, and speeds digestion of proteins. And research is
now showing that pineapple is highly effective at shrinking
tumors and sending cancer on the run.

Bromelain from pineapple is a complex mixture of

substances, the most widely studied of which is a group of
protein digesting enzymes, known as proteolytic enzymes.
These enzymes give bromelain its ability to dissolve fibrin
as well as blood clots. Two clinical trials with heart
patients have shown an elimination of thrombosis with
bromelain. Therapeutic doses of bromelain reduce
excessive coagulation of blood.
Bromelain is approved by the German Commission E for
the treatment of sinusitis. Clinical studies have shown that
children diagnosed with acute sinusitis recover
significantly faster when treated with bromelain than when
given other treatments.

Bromelain keeps cancers from getting started and

shrinks tumors
The people of South America, China and Southwest Asia
have long recognized the medicinal qualities of bromelain
from pineapple. In a review of current evidence and data,
scientists at the University of Oxford in the UK are
pointing out the virtues of pineapple to Europe and the
U.S. They note that bromelain is effective against cancer
by shrinking tumors. Bromelain has the ability to dissolve
fibrin, the protein based defense shield that protects
tumors, leading to their elimination. They also note
evidence from clinical observations and study models
suggesting that bromelain has the capacity to modulate key
pathways supporting malignancy. This anti-cancer activity
consists of a direct impact on cancer cells and their microenvironment, as well as in the modulation of immune,
inflammatory and hemostatic systems.

Bromelain is effective in treating bruises, sprains and

strains by reducing swelling, tenderness and pain. It works
well at reducing post operative swelling.
Bromelain manages digestive disorders, particularly those
caused by lack of pancreatic enzymes. It works so well to
break down proteins that it can be used as a highly
effective meat tenderizer. Bromelain works synergistically
with other enzymes to produce optimal digestive results.
Bromelain is effective against inflammatory colon and
bowel disease, according to a study published in Clinical
Immunology in 2008.

Bromelain is able to normalize breast cancer cells to the

point where they die on schedule in a process known as
apoptosis, according to scientists at the Goodwin Institute
for Cancer Research in Florida. Cancer cells are only a
threat when they refuse to die and multiply instead.

Eating pineapple and other fruits offers protection and

treatment for macular degeneration.

Scientists at the Indian Institute of Toxicology Research in

India have reported the anti-inflammatory, anti-invasive
and anti-metastatic properties of bromelain. They studied
its anti-tumor effects against induced skin tumor formation
in mice.

Pineapple is a super source of the body's primary watersoluble antioxidant, Vitamin C. This important vitamin
mops up free radicals implicated in the aging process. Free
radicals damage normal cells and have been shown to
promote clogged arteries and diabetic heart disease. Free
radicals can cause airway spasms that lead to asthma
attacks, and can help colon cancer get started. Free radicals
are implicated in joint pain and osteoarthritis. Vitamin C is
an excellent cold and flu fighter due to its ability to support
the immune system.

Antioxidants in pineapple protect the immune system

They found that pre-treatment with bromelain resulted in a

reduction in cumulative number of tumors and in average
number of tumors per mouse. Reduction in tumor volume
was a whopping 65%. Bromelain resulted in up-regulation
of the anti-cancer gene p53. The scientists concluded that
bromelain was protective of DNA formation, and able to
prevent inappropriate cell signaling cascades.

Vitamin C from pineapple is good for oral health by

reducing the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease. It
increases the ability of the body to fight bacteria and toxins
that contribute to gum disease. Periodontal disease

Bromelain has strong anti-inflammatory and digestive

benefits

81

destroys gum tissue and the underlying jaw bone, and has
been linked to heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

Almost any spring or summer dish can be embellished

with pineapple. Add it to a cooked dish after it has cooled,
or use it in salads, smoothies and tropical drinks. For
maximum anti-cancer benefits, pineapple should be eaten
raw and not at the same time as protein foods are eaten. If
pineapple is eaten with protein, its digestive enzymes will
be used to help digest that protein, rather than being
available for use in the body to dissolve fibrin and send
cancer packing.

Tantalize your taste buds with pineapple

To enhance the body's healing mechanisms and promote
overall good health, add fresh pineapple to your diet
whenever possible. Always choose the whole fresh fruit
and cut it up at home to get the maximum healing benefits.
Most of the bromelain and Vitamin C in canned pineapple
has been destroyed, and pre-sliced packaged pineapple has
lost much of its Vitamin C.

Try these pineapple smoothies:

Pineapple and Kale Smoothie (just a hint of sweetness)

Most pineapples show they are ripe by turning a beautiful

golden color. A pineapple is ripe when you can easily pull
out a leaf from its top knot.

1 1/2 cups cold water

Half a pineapple, cored and chopped
2 cups washed kale

To prepare pineapple, cut the top off and make a narrow

cut across the bottom. Place the remaining pineapple
upright on a cutting board or counter, and slice off the
outer skin at a depth that cuts off most of its eyes. The few
eyes that remain can be eaten or cut out individually. To
separate the succulent meat from the hard inner core, make
four top-to-bottom slices around the core. This allows the
fruit to be removed in four large blocks. As large blocks,
the pineapple will store better and retain more of its
sweetness and Vitamin C until you are ready to eat it. It
can be cut into smaller chunks right before serving.

Blend ingredients in blender.

Pineapple, Banana, Mango Smoothie (a sweet tropical
treat)
1 cup crushed ice
1 1/2 cups fresh pineapple, cored and chopped
1 large ripe banana
1 cup sliced mango
Blend ingredients in blender. Garnish with lime slices.

82

healthydebates.com
13 Health Benefits Of Spinach
By Health Digezt
On October 1, 2014
6. Protects the Eyes
A different category of antioxidants, called lutein and
zeaxanthin, found in spinach, focuses and cures eye-related
issues, like age-related macular degeneration, weak
eyesight and cataract.
7. Enhances Immunity
A cup of spinach contains over 337% of the RDA of
vitamin A, which is a main element of white blood cells. It
is also a protector and energiser of entry points of the
body, such as mucous membranes, urinary, intestinal, and
respiratory passages.

Popeye was actually correct!!! The green and leafy spinach

is undeniably excellent for the overall health of a human
being. The nutritional benefits and boosting elements that
these vibrant leaves possess are beyond our imaginations.
Spinach does not only taste good, but also provides a
number of magical therapeutic benefits. Lets have a look
at the health benefits of spinach.

8. Makes Bones Strong

Spinach is full of dietary fibre, which curbs overeating,

maintains low blood sugar, prevents constipation, and aids
in digestion.

A cup of boiled spinach is endowed with over 1000% of

the RDA of vitamin K, which averts the over stimulation
of osteoclasts, a type of cells that break down the bones
abnormally. Spinach triggers the formation of osteocalcin
in the body, which is a protein for maintaining the potency
and solidity of our bones.

2. Prevents Cancer

9. Makes Nervous System and Brain Healthy

Spinach contains one of the important phytonutrient, called

Flavonoids, in abundance. It slows down the formation of
skin cancer cells and cell division in stomach. It also helps
in preventing the occurrence of dangerous prostate cancer.

The profusion of vitamin K in spinach contributes to a

great extent in making the nervous system healthy and
functioning of brain proper.

1. Aids in Digestion

10. Maintains Gastrointestinal Health

3. Anti-Inflammatory
The antioxidants in spinach also lessen the risk of colon
cancer and DNA damage in the body. The presence of
vitamin C and folate along with beta-carotene makes the
spinach worthy of treating the gastrointestinal health, as
well.

Spinach contains two vital anti-inflammatory substances,

called Neoxanthin and violaxanthin, which are great in
treating inflammation.
4. Contains Antioxidants

11. Maintains the Alkalinity in the Body

Due to the presence of powerful antioxidants, like betacarotene, manganese, vitamin E, vitamin C, zinc, and
selenium, spinach combats the commencement of diseases,
like atherosclerosis, osteoporosis, and high blood pressure.

Spinach clears the tissues in the body and thus, maintains

the alkalinity of the body. Spinach gives complete relief
from rheumatoid arthritis because of being alkaline.

5. Manages Blood Pressure

12. Excellent in Pregnancy

Spinach also effectively manages the level of blood

pressure by restraining the angiotensin I-converting
enzymes.

Spinach is beneficial for pregnant women since it provides

all the essential nutrients for the development of the foetus

83

inside the womb. Moreover, it also improves the quantity

and quality of milk produced in the mothers body.

Spinach is an iron-rich vegetable, which not only cures the

anaemia, but also helps in regulating the menstruation
cycles.

13. Helps in Overcoming Anaemia

84

10 Amazing Health Benefits Of Onions

Friday, October 03, 2014
with your evening meal can help to activate the natural
pain-relieving properties of the onion.
3. Tasty food makes you happy! Cooking and consuming
satisfying food thats good for you and tastes great is a
definite health benefit. Onions add flavor and aroma to
any dish and are often included in the base of most of
your favorites. There are some religions that exclude
onions from their diet but most people find they add
definite flavor to their meals and enjoy onions.
4. Antioxidants are considered important in our diet to
fend off cancer as well as minor illness. Onions are rich
in Vitamin C and other recognized antioxidants, which
can help to increase your bodys immunity.
5. Onions are considered low GI. Low GI foods release
their stored energy slowly into the body once they are
consumed. Eating low GI foods has been found to
benefit those seeking to lower their weight. Youll feel
fuller for longer if you make sure to include low GI
foods in your diet.
6. Onions are great for your tummy and your digestion.
Eating onions helps to digest your food, increase your
appetite and guard against stomach cancers and
gastric ulcers. Combating colon cancer is another
benefit from eating of onions.
7. The combination of Chromium, Vitamin B6 and the
sulfur compounds found in onions has been shown to
decrease cholesterol and lower blood pressure. This
can assist in lowering the risk factors present for heart
attack and stroke.
8. Onions have been shown to inhibit the growth of
tumors in animals. Scientists believe this is the reason
they are so helpful as a cancer-fighting food.
9. Onions are great for your skin. Acne, warts, bruises or
wounds can all be treated by either rubbing on the
onion juice or creating a poultice to apply to an injury.
There is even evidence that rubbing onion juice on your
scalp several times a week may promote faster hair
regrowth.
10. When you need a better nights sleep, onions may be
the answer! The phytochemicals in onions can help you
be well rested. Eating onions in your evening meal is
the key. Onion and tomato on toast or a steaming bowl
of onion soup will definitely assist.

Advising someone to eat onions for good health doesnt

exactly sound like fun. Onions are not what generally
comes to mind first when you think about fixing yourself a
nice healthy snack, are they?
First there is the strong aroma that an onion gives off.
Then theres the problem that you cant really eat them on
their own without some kind of preparation or cooking.
Onions might not be at the top of your healthy snack list,
but you should make efforts to include them regularly in
your diet nonetheless. There are quite a few health benefits
to eating onions and weve included just 10 below to get
you started on understanding why this vegetable is so
important for good health.
Who knows? Our 10 amazing health benefits of onions
post might just help you win that trivia competition on the
weekend!
1.

2.

Onions contain Chromium and Chromium helps to fight

insulin resistance. Controlling glucose levels is
extremely important for those suffering from diabetes,
and including onions in your diet can reduce the risk of
you developing insulin resistance. Chromium is needed
to assist with insulin activity when metabolizing fat,
protein and carbohydrates in other foods that are
consumed. Maybe the term "an onion a day keeps the
doctor away" will become a new saying!
Remember there are all kinds of different onions and
some have different health properties. For instance, red
onions contain Quercetin. Quercetin is useful in helping
the body to fight off free radicals, which are thought to
be a factor in cancer. It also has many other beneficial
properties including anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and
anti-bacterial uses, too. Adding red onions to a salad
each day could assist your body to reduce the risk of
developing stomach cancer. Quercetin is believed to
also aid in pain relief. Eating raw onion in a salad or

Remember to choose firm, fresh onions with no signs of

growth or openings in the skin at the neck. Once they start
to sprout they are past their prime and should be left on the
shelf. Eating the green tops of spring onions will give you
a great source of Vitamin A so remember to include them
rather than throwing them away.

85

Obviously eating onions alone will not result in the full

range of health benefits outlined above, as your body
ideally needs plenty of other healthy foods to keep strong.
Including onions as part of a balanced diet, however, is

one of the very best things you can do; and eating them
both cooked and raw will give you the variety you need to
get the most healthy outcomes and be satisfied as well.

86

Study: Tart Cherry Juice Amazing For Joints,

Gout And Inflammation
By Heather Callaghan
Monday, October 06, 2014
cherries) or 2 ounces (60 ml) of juice concentrate mixed
with 100 ml of water.

New study shows that tart cherry juice lowered blood uric
acid levels and a marker for inflammation - but that's not
all!

The researchers used a single blind, two-phase,

randomized, cross-over design to identify the
bioavailability of anthocyanins following the consumption
of these two different doses. There was a washout period
of at least 10 days between the phases. Each phase was
comprised of two days drinking the tart cherry juice
concentrate twice a day in the morning and just before
dinner.

True story: there was a man who had such severe gout, his
doctor told him hed need surgery to remove three toes.
They were stiff, bent up, and crippled from the pain of
gout, caused by excess uric acid. Before his scheduled
surgery, a friend told him the secret to ridding gout
was Montmorency tart cherries - the kind used for cherry
pie.
It figures, my least favorite food, he thought. So he did
what he could stomach: he sat down with a spoon and
made himself eat cherry pie filling from a can! In only a
few days his pain faded, his toes worked again, and he
cancelled his surgery. He saved his feet, medical bills, and
countless hours of physical therapy. Amazingly, this
mighty fruit even in processed, sugary canned form saved
his feet.

The researchers collected blood and urine samples from

the participants immediately before and at numerous
intervals for 48 hours after the tart cherry juice was
consumed. The results supported the researchers'
hypothesis: blood levels of uric acid and C-reactive protein
were reduced and urinary uric acid was increased
following both doses of the tart cherry juice. The
magnitude of the change was independent of the dose
given; that is, the 30 ml of the juice was just as effective as
60 ml.

Tart cherries have long been researched for their

association with pain relief ranging from gout and
arthritis joint pain to exercise-related muscle pain. A new
study published in the Journal of Functional Foods is the
first to report consumption of Montmorency tart cherries
caused changes in uric acid metabolism, which can also
have an impact on joint pain.

Co-author Howatson:
We have been investigating Montmorency tart cherries for
several years because they're a unique fruit with a high
concentration of anthocyanins. Our current study was
conducted with a healthy population, although more
research is needed to determine the specific benefits of
Montmorency tart cherry juice for individuals with
inflammatory diseases, including gout and other arthritic
conditions.

The study also detected increases in specific anthocyanin

compounds in the bloodstream after consuming tart
cherries.
In the study, Montmorency tart cherry juice reduced blood
levels of uric acid and C-reactive protein, a measure of
inflammation. High levels of uric acid are linked to gout, a
form of arthritis that can cause severe attacks of intense
pain and swelling (inflammation) in various joints,
including the big toe and other joints in the legs and arms.

A second study newly published in the Journal of

Functional Foods conducted by Dr. E. Mitchell Seymour
and Dr. Sara M. Warber from the University of Michigan
found that the antioxidant capacity in the blood was
elevated after eating whole frozen Montmorency tart
cherries (45 or 90 cherries), and remained elevated even
12-hours after eating the 90 cherries. Similar to the
Howatson team in the UK, they also observed tart cherry
anthocyanin metabolites in the blood and urine with both
doses of the whole tart cherries.

A research team led by Dr. Glyn Howatson with PhD

student Phillip Bell in the Department of Sport, Exercise
and Rehabilitation at Northumbria University in the UK
gave 12 healthy participants (average age 26 years) two
doses of Montmorency tart cherry juice concentrate: about
1 ounce (30 ml) of the juice concentrate mixed with 100
ml of water (equivalent to 90 whole Montmorency tart

Lead author Seymour said:

Our observations were after a one-time
consumption. It is compelling to think

87

what could occur with more regular

consumption of tart cherries, and how that
could translate into possible health
benefits. [emphasis added]

Check out how the antioxidant level of cherries compares

to other fruits:

Montmorency tart cherries are available year-round in

dried, frozen and juice forms --including juice concentrate,
which was the form used in the UK study. Montmorency
tart cherry juice concentrate can be mixed with water or
other juices. It can also be consumed straight from the
bottle or used as an ingredient in recipes, including
smoothies and other beverages. For those who really hate
the taste like the man above, there are now concentrated
capsules.
Try it on yogurt or kefir to have a snack that tastes like
cherry pie and fights inflammation in one sitting.

88

22 Amazing Benefits And Uses Of Bitter Melon/Bitter

Gourd For Skin, Hair And Health
Saba
July 10, 2014
3. Immune system:
Boil bitter melon leaves or fruits in water and consume it
every day to fight against infections. This also helps to
build your immunity.
4. Acne:
Consuming Bitter Melon can help to get rid of acne,
blemishes and deep skin infections. Bitter melon is useful
in treating blood disorders like blood boils, scabies,
itching, psoriasis, ring-worm and other fungal diseases.
The free radicals in it are also useful for anti ageing.
Consume juice of bitter melon mixed with lemon on an
empty stomach daily for 6 months or till you get the
required results.

Confused with the name? More commonly bitter gourd in

hindi is known as Karela. This vegetable is called as
Bitter Gourd, Bitter Melon and Bitter Squash in english.
First thing that comes to my mind seeing it is the bitterness
in the name. They are dark or light green in colour
depending on the region where they are grown. Though
they taste very bitter, they are filled with many beneficial
antioxidants and essential vitamins.

5. Diabetes:
Bitter melon juice benefits to overcome type 2 diabetes. It
has been a part of the Chinese and Indian ancient medicine
for a long time but only recent research has proven that it
is no folk lore. Type 2 diabetes is caused partially due to
the inability of a cell to absorb the sugar in the blood due
to insufficient insulin or due development of resistance to
insulin. In both cases, the cells are unable to absorb the
sugar due to the ineffectiveness of insulin produced. The
absorption of sugar occurs due to the activation of AMPactivated protein kinase in the cells. Bitter gourd activated
these kinases due to which the absorption of sugar
increases. And hence aids in bringing diabetes in control.

Bitter melon can be consumed in various ways like

drinking its juice, pickle or using them in recipes.
Bitter Melon Benefits:
Let us quickly look at some of the most well known health
benefits of Bitter Melon:

Fresh pods are an excellent remedy for curing respiratory

problems like asthma, cold, cough, etc.

Green juice for diabetics: cucumbers, green apples, bitter

melon, celery, green capsicum (bell pepper). Bitter
melon contains certain chemicals that are like insulin
which help to reduce blood sugar levels.

2. Liver tonic:

6. Constipation:

Drink one glass of Bitter Melon juice daily to heal liver

problems. Keep consuming this continuously for a week to
see results.

Bitter melon helps in easy digestion as it contains fibre

properties. The food is digested and waste is thrown out of
the body which helps in curing indigestion and
constipation problems.

1. Respiratory disorders:

89

7. Kidney and bladder:

13. Anti-ageing:

Bitter melon helps to maintain healthy liver and bladder. It

is also useful in curing kidney stones.

Bitter gourd contains vitamin C, which is a powerful

antioxidant. By fighting and eliminating the harmful free
radicals, it helps to prevent wrinkles by slowing down the
ageing process. It also protects the skin from damage by
Suns ultraviolet rays.

8. Heart disease:
Bitter melon is very good for the heart in many ways. They
help to reduce the bad cholesterol levels which clog the
arterial walls and thereby reduce the chances of heart
attacks. Also it is known to lower blood sugar levels that
help in maintaining good heart health.

14. Healing Qualities:

Bitter gourd helps in controlling blood flow and clotting,
causing wounds to heal faster, preventing further
infections.

9. Cancer:
Bitter Melon can prevent cancer cells from multiplying.
10. Weight loss:
Bitter Melon contains antioxidants, which help to flush out
your system. This improves your metabolism and digestive
systems thus helping you lose weight quickly.The two
other major factors that aid in weight loss is the calorie
control and filling components. Calorie control happens as
such because vegetables are low on calories which allows
you to consume more quantities of them. Filling
component in this vegetable is water. We know that water
is a universal suppressant of hunger. And the pods of this
vegetable contain on the whole 80-85% water.

Hair Benefits of Bitter Melon:

Bitter gourd is a great home remedy for your hair. Besides
being beneficial for your skin and health, bitter gourd juice
is also effective in treating hair problems and promoting
longevity. It is beneficial for your hair in the following
ways:

Skin Benefits for Bitter Melon:

The appearance of your skin is largely determined by what
you put inside your body. In other words, getting proper
nutrition is a pre requisite for healthy and damage free
skin. Being a natural blood purifier, bitter gourd helps in
improving the appearance of your skin. It provides the
following benefits to your skin:

15. Shiny Hair:

To impart a natural shine to your hair, you can mix a cup
of fresh bitter gourd juice with yoghurt and apply on your
hair. Wash off after sometime. This will make your hair
shiny and beautiful.

11. Prevents Skin Problems:

Regular consumption of bitter gourd helps in keeping your
skin glowing and free from blemishes. It also helps prevent
acne thanks to its blood purifying properties.

16. Dandruff:
Dandruff is a common problem and is mostly caused due
to the consumption of unhealthy food and exposure to
pollution. To ward off dandruff, you can prepare a hair
pack by mixing bitter gourd juice and cumin seeds.
Regular usage of this pack will rid you of dandruff within
a month.

12. Skin Infections:

Bitter melon benefits in treating skin diseases or skin
infections, eczema and psoriasis. Regular consumption of
bitter gourd juice helps in improving psoriasis condition as
well as other fungal infections like ring worm and athletes
foot.

[ Read: How to Make Pomegranate Juice ]

90

melon
(Momordica
fresh, raw, Nutritive value per 100 g

17. Split Ends:

If you are troubled by split ends, you can apply raw bitter
gourd juice to your split ends and then comb gently. This
should be done twice a week to get rid of split ends.
18. Dry and Itchy Scalp:

Principle

Nutrient Percentage of RDA

Value

Energy

17 Kcal

<1%

Carbohydrates 3.70 g

3%

Protein

1.00 g

2%

Total Fat

0.17 g

0.5%

Cholesterol

0 mg

0%

Dietary Fiber

2.80 g

7%

Folates

72 g

18%

Niacin

0.400 mg 2.5%

Pantothenic
acid

0.212 mg 4%

Pyridoxine

0.043 mg 3%

Riboflavin

0.040 mg 3%

21. Grey Hair:

Thiamin

0.040 mg 3.5%

Bitter gourd can also treat premature greying of hair. You

can apply freshly squeezed bitter gourd juice on your grey
strands. Doing this once in every ten days will reduce grey
hair growth.

Vitamin A

471 IU

16%

Vitamin C

84 mg

140%

Sodium

5 mg

<1%

Potassium

296 mg

6%

Calcium

19 mg

2%

[ Read: Amazing Benefits Of Soybean Oil ]

Copper

0.034 mg 4%

Bitter Gourd: Nutritional Value:

Iron

0.43 mg 5%

The numerous health, skin and hair benefits of bitter melon

can be attributed to its nutritional value. It has a wide array
of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, Vitamin B1,
Vitamin B2, Vitamin C, calcium, potassium, zinc, iron,
copper and phosphorus. The chart given below shows the
nutritional value of bitter gourd.

Magnesium

17 mg

Manganese

0.089 mg 4%

Zinc

0.80 mg 7%

To combat dryness of scalp, you can rub a fresh piece of

bitter gourd on it and massage your scalp in a circular
motion. Then rinse off with clear water. To combat
itchiness, you can prepare a hair pack by mixing bitter
gourd juice with either avocado or banana and apply it on
your scalp. This should be used at least once a week to get
rid of itchy scalp.
19. Hair Loss:

Vitamins
Bitter gourd juice helps in reducing hair-fall naturally. All
you need to do is mix bitter gourd juice with a dash of
sugar and use this paste on your hair to get good results.
20. Rough and Tangled Hair:
If you have rough and tangled hair, you can pour a cup of
bitter gourd juice and allow it to soak for 10 to 15 minutes.
Then rinse off your hair. This will help smoothen your hair
texture and make it soft and shiny.

Electrolytes
22. Oily Hair:
Increased intake of oily food can cause the accumulation
of excess oil in your hair. If you have oily hair, you should
first limit the consumption of oily food. You can apply a
mixture of bitter gourd juice and apple cider vinegar to
remove excess oil from your hair.

Minerals

Phytonutrients

See the table below for in depth analysis of nutrients:Bitter

91

4%

charantia),

Carotene-

190 g

Carotene-

185 g

Luteinzeaxanthin

170 g

Some important tips:

1.

2.
3.
4.
5.

Calories: Bitter gourd is quite low in calories with a 100

gram serving providing just 17 calories.

6.
7.

Vitamin C: Bitter gourd is an excellent source of

vitamin C with 100 grams of raw pod, providing 84 mg
of this vitamin which is equivalent to 140% of
Recommended Daily Intake (RDI).
Folates: Fresh pods are a good source of folates. 100
grams of fresh pods provide 72 g of folate which is
equivalent to 18% of RDI.
B-vitamins: It is also a good source of B-vitamins like
niacin or Vitamin B3, pantothenic acid or Vitamin B5
and pyridoxine or Vitamin B6.

92

Always wash Bitter Melon thoroughly under running

water.
Use fresh Bitter Melon for best results.
Always choose bitter gourds that are fresh, bright, deep
green in colour.
Dont consume more than 2 bitter melons a day
The Bitter Melon leaves should be kept in a cool, dry,
dark place. They stay fresh in refrigerator up to a week.
Marinade with salt to reduce bitterness.
Pregnant women should be careful while consuming
this vegetable. The laxative component of the
vegetable may lead to premature contraction, vaginal
bleeding and miscarriages. Do consult your doctor
once.

Bitter Melon
(Momordica Charantia; Kgu; )
Bitter melon (Momordica charantia; kgu; ) is
actually a member of the squash family and resembles a
cucumber with bumpy skin. Bitter melon bears simple
alternate leaves. Each bitter melon plant bears separate
yellow male and female flowers; its fruit has an oblong
shape. When first picked, a bitter melon is yellow-green,
but as it ripens, it turns to a yellow-orange color. As the
fruit ripens, the flesh becomes tougher and more bitter.
Bitter melon has a variety of shapes and sizes. The Chinese
one is 20-30 cm long, oblong and pale green in color. The
inside of the melon is filled with fibrous seeds.

_______________________________________________
Alzheimer's disease
Four lectins (Abrus precatorius (APA), Maackia amurensis
(MAA), Bitter Melon and Sambucus nigra (SNA)) have
been used to identify glycohistochemically the microglial
cells (MGC) activation in autoptic brain samples from
Alzheimer's disease subjects. Three of these lectins
including the one from bitter melon have utilized as
microglial cell markers for the first time. [A7] It would be
interesting to see if there is any benefit of bitter melon on
Alzheimer's disease.

Bitter melon is used mostly in Asian and Indian cooking.

Bitter melon is generally consumed cooked in the green
stage. In Chinese cooking, bitter melon is typically stirfried, or for soups. Bitter melon tea is also available. In
Indian cuisine, bitter melon is stuffed with spices and
cooked in oil. It is also prepared with curry, deep fired
with peanuts or other nuts. Bitter melon has been used for
diabetes, and other conditions such as gastrointestinal
diseases, malaria, chickenpox, measles, and cancers. It is
believed that bitter melon's health benefits are due to its
active ingredients - momordicins, cucurbitacin B, and
glycosides (such as momordin, charantin, charantosides,
goyaglycosides, momordicosides).

Cancers
Bitter melon extracts may provide benefits for cancers as
they have shown anti-cancer activities in a study of Swiss
albino mice. A significant decrease in tumor burden was
observed in short and long-term treatment. Also, total
tumor incidence reduced to 83.33% with 2.5% dose and
90.90% with 5% dose in short term treatment, while in
long-term treatment tumor incidence decreased to 76.92%
with 2.5% dose and 69.23% with 5% dose of bitter melon.
[7] Seed oil from bitter melon (Momordica charantia),
which is rich in cis(c)9, trans(t)11, t13-conjugated
linolenic acid, has been shown to inhibit the development
of azoxymethane-induced colonic aberrant crypt foci. Seed
oil from bitter melon rich in t13-conjugated linolenic acid
can suppress azoxymethane -induced colon carcinogenesis
and the inhibition might be caused, in part, by modification
of lipid composition in the colon and liver and/or increased
expression of PPARgamma protein level in the colon
mucosa. [8]

[Wikipedia.org]
Other Name: foo qua, balsam pear, or bitter gourd.
_______________________________________________
Discuss with your doctor before taking any alternative
medicine. This article is for reference only, it is not a
medical advice. All rights reserved. Do not copy this
article to other website or blog.

Furthermore, Pitchakarn P and other researchers at Nagoya

City University demonstrated the possibly beneficial
effects of a bitter melon leaf extract on prostate cancer in a
cell study. [A1]

Bitter Melon Health Benefits Anti-oxidative Activity

Boiled bitter melon extracts show anti-oxidant activities.
Extracts from bitter melon (Momordica charantia,
Cucurbitaceae) showed a significant difference in the free
radical scavenging activity between the extract obtained
by using cold maceration and that prepared by boiling the
plant in the solvent under reflux, suggesting the chemical
composition of the plant changed during the heating
process, leading to an increase in the amount of
antioxidant components. [5] It is believed that its strong
anti-oxdative activity allows the variety of health benefits
of bitter melon.

Cholesterol profiles
Bitter melon may also have benefits of lipid-lowering
activities. Researchers have shown the hypolipidemic
effect of dietary methanol fraction (BMMF) extracted from
bitter melon (Koimidori variety), at the levels of 0.5% and
1.0%, in male golden Syrian hamsters. [6] The results of
another study have clearly shown that that bitter melon,
especially Koimidori variety, exhibited a potent liver
triglyceride-lowering activity. The triglyceride lowering

93

activity was furthermore confirmed by the dose-dependent

reduction of hepatic triglyceride, resulting the lowest level
in rats fed 3.0% supplementation. [9]

Malaria
Oral administration of the Crude ethanolic extracts of dry
bitter melon leaves administered orally was ineffective up
to 500 mg/kg in lowering the parasitemic levels of
malarious mice. [A4]

Diabetes
With limited scientific supports, bitter melon is general
believed to benefit diabetes. In a study, researchers from
University of Bologna, Italy, asked 720 herbalists what
herbal remedy that they would recommend to those
suffered from diabetes. They suggested ten herbal
remedies and bitter melon is in the list. [1] According to a
review article, bitter melon has been recognized as a
Chinese herbal medicine for diabetes mellitus for
centuries. [2] And, it is more popular in Asia to be used as
a natural product for diabetes. [4] Researchers from
Natural Standard, MA, consider bitter melon an alternative
therapy that has primarily been used for lowering blood
glucose levels in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Components of bitter melon extract appear to have
structural similarities to animal insulin. Bitter melon has
been shown to have anti-viral and anti-neoplastic
activities. [3] Small trials have shown the moderate
hypoglycemic effect of bitter melon juice, fruit or its dried
powder. Thus, bitter melon may benefit certain people at
risk of diabetes.

Measles
An ethnobotanical survey of three Local Government areas
of the Ijebu area of Ogun State in southwest Nigeria for
plants used in the treatment of measles suggests bitter
melon is one of the most frquently used plants for measles.
[A5]
Nematodes
Das P and co-workers at Visva Bharati University, India,
assayed six plant extracts for their activity against freeliving nematodes. Bitter melon yielded the best results, its
crude extract producing 96% mortality. Thus, bitter melon
may have the benefits of antihelminthic effect. [A3]
Kidney Stone
Insufficient data to support the health benefit claim of
bitter melon on people suffered from kidney stones. [as of
December 2011]

High Fat Diet

How may bitter melon benefit those on high fat diet?
Increased metabolic flux to the brain during overnutrition
and obesity can orchestrate stress response, blood-brain
barrier disruption, recruitment of inflammatory immune
cells from peripheral blood and microglial cells activation
leading to neuroinflammation. Mice were fed high fat diet
with and without bitter melon for 16 weeks. Bitter melon
ameliorated high fed diet-associated changes in blood
brain barrier permeability. High fat diet-induced brain
oxidative stress was also significantly reduced by bitter
melon supplementation. [A2]

Psoriasis
Insufficient data to support the health benefit claim of
bitter melon on people suffered from psoriasis. [as of
December 2011]
Bitter Melon Side Effects, Warnings and Precautions
Bitter melon has been eaten as a food in many cultures for
many years, it probably is safe to healthy adults at regular
amount of consumption when used short-term. However,
covering on seed may be toxic in children, leading to
vomiting, diarrhea, and death. Intake of the seed may lead
to favism, especially those with G6PD deficiency.
Hypoglycemia and hypatotoxicity were reported in animal
studies Rare, unusual side effects may include atrial
fibrillation with rapid ventricular response and acute
gastric ulceration. [A8] Other possible bitter melon side
effects include liver inflammation, and spontaneous
abortion. [10] Pregnant women should avoid bitter melon.

HIV
Ribosome inactivating proteins (RIPs) from bitter melon
shows promising in anti-viral therapy. It has been reported
that RIPs are member of the single chain ribosome
inactivating protein (SCRIP) family which act irreversibly
on ribosome by removing adenine residue from eukaryotic
ribosomal RNA. Various activities of RIPs include antitumor,
broad
anti-viral,
ribonuclease
and
deoxyribonuclease. [A6]

Drug Interaction
Liver Damage
Bitter melon may also have additive effects when taken
with other glucose-lowering agents. [3] Popular
medications for diabetes include glimepiride, glyburide,
insulin, pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, chlorpropamide,
glipizide, tolbutamide, and others.

In a study, a formulation (containing Ferula asafetida,

bitter melon and Nardostachys jatamansi) demonstrated
significant hepatoprotective activity. [A9] But, this does
not mean bitter melon itself has hepato-protective effects.
More studies are needed to demonstrate its benefits on
liver.

Dosage

94

Bitter melon is a food. At this time there is not enough

scientific information to determine an appropriate range of
doses for bitter melon.

Wash bitter melon thoroughly with water. If bitter melons

are of longer variety, cut them into 3 inch pieces. Remove
skin by scraping with a sharp knife. Keep the skin aside.
Slit the bitter melons length wise. Remove the seeds.
Discard the seeds if very hard, otherwise mix them with
the skin scrapings. Blanch the bitter melon in boiling
water. Heat a nonstick frying pan and add 2 teaspoon oil.
When the oil becomes hot, add cummin seeds. When the
seeds become dark, add onion, green chile, ginger and
garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes and add all the spices. Stir
well and cook until the mixture turns light brown, about 57 minutes. Mix half the coriander leaves. Take the bitter
melon skin in a sieve and wash thoroughly.

Selection
Select firm, unblemished melons that are from 5 to 12
inches in length. Choose melons that are still green for a
more bitter flavor and a yellow-orange melon for a milder
taste. Bitter melons are available fresh from April to
September in most Asian markets and can occasionally be
found in larger supermarkets. Some markets are beginning
to carry bitter melons year round. They may also be
purchased canned or dried.

Fill the bitter melon with the above mixture. Heat and
spray oil on a nonstick frying pan. Place all the bitter
melons in the pan, cover with a lid and reduce the stove to
low. Let them cook for 7 minutes. Change the side of bitter
melons and again cover with the lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes.
Sprinkle with coriander leaves.

Storage
Store melon loose in a paper or plastic bag in the
refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Slice the melon immediately
before use.

Nutritional analysis per serving: Calories 31, Calories from

Fat 24%, Fat 1g, Protein 1g, Carbohydrates 5g, Fiber 1g,
Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 329mg.

Preparation
Cut in half and discard the seeds and fibrous core. To
reduce the bitterness, blanch in boiling water for 2 to 3
minutes. The skin is edible and the melon is not typically
peeled. The seeds are also edible, unless very hard, and are
included in some recipes. Bitter melon is commonly
stuffed, curried or pickled. It can also be used in stirfry&#8217;s and soups and may be steamed. Garlic or
chili peppers are often added to recipes with bitter melon
to offset the bitter taste.

What products of bitter melon in the market?

Bitter melon leaves, fruits and seeds are used to prepare
tea. Some manufacturers blend bitter melon and green tea
leaves to produce a refreshing and cooling effects.
However, its fruits and seed are mainly used to prepare
supplements, as they are believed to contain more "antidiabetic properties".

bitter melon recipes

CONCLUSION
Recipe-Stuffed Bitter Melon Ingredients 4 bitter melon
The health benefits of bitter melon on diabetes and some
about 3 inches long (if longer cut into 3 inch pieces) 1 cup
other diseases have been known for centuries, though
onion finely chopped cup green chile finely chopped
related scientific supports are limited. Some people like to
Tbsp ginger root finely chopped 2 cloves garlic finely
have bitter melon in their dinner plates, because of its
chopped 1 Tbsp coriander chopped 3 tsp canola oil 2 tsp
bitter-tasting. At high doses, it may cause unpleasant
flour tsp red chile powder tsp salt 1 tsp powdered
adverse events or side effects.
coriander tsp powdered tumeric tsp lemon juice
1/8 tsp cumin seed
______________________________________________________________________________________________

95

REFERENCE AND SOURCE

[1] Cicero AF et al, What do herbalists suggest to diabetic patients in order to improve glycemic control? Evaluation of scientific evidence
and potential risks.
Acta Diabetol. 2004 Sep;41(3):91-8.
[2] Jia W et al, Antidiabetic herbal drugs officially approved in China. Phytother Res. 2003 Dec;17(10):1127-34.
[3] Basch E et al, Bitter melon (Momordica charantia): a review of efficacy and safety. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2003 Feb 15;60(4):356-9.
[4] Shapiro K et al, Natural products used for diabetes. J Am Pharm Assoc (Wash). 2002 Mar-Apr;42(2):217-26.
[5] Ansari NM et al, Antioxidant activity of five vegetables traditionally consumed by south-Asian migrants in Bradford, Yorkshire, UK.
Phytother Res. 2005 Oct;19(10):907-11.
[6] Senanayake GV et al, The effects of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) extracts on serum and liver lipid parameters in hamsters fed
cholesterol-free and cholesterol-enriched diets. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2004 Aug;50(4):253-7.
[7] Deep G et al, Cancer preventive potential of Momordica charantia L. against benzo(a)pyrene induced fore-stomach
tumourigenesis in murine model system. Indian J Exp Biol. 2004 Mar;42(3):319-22. [8] Kohno H et al, Dietary seed oil rich in conjugated
linolenic acid from bitter melon inhibits azoxymethane-induced rat colon carcinogenesis through elevation of colonic PPARgamma
expression and alteration of lipid composition. Int J Cancer. 2004 Jul 20;110(6):896-901.
[9] Senanayake GV et al, The effects of bitter melon (Momordica charantia) on serum and liver triglyceride levels in rats. J Ethnopharmacol.
2004 Apr;91(2-3):257-62. 10. Basch E, Gabardi S, Ulbricht C. Bitter melon ( Momordica charantia): a review of efficacy and safety. Am J
Health Syst Pharm. 2003;60:356-359. Source for the recipe, introduction and image: CDC Online Publication, November 29, 2005
[A1] Cancer Lett. 2011 Jul 28;306(2):142-50]
[A2] Nerurkar PV et al, J Neuroinflammation. 2011 Jun 3;8(1):64.]
[A3] Das P, et al, Screening of antihelminthic effects of Indian plant extracts: a preliminary report. J Altern Complement Med.
2006 Apr;12(3):299-301
[A4] Amorim CZ, et al, Screening of the antimalarial activity of plants of the Cucurbitaceae family. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 1991;86 Suppl
2:177-80. A5 Sonibare MA, et al, Use of medicinal plants for the treatment of measles in Nigeria. J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 Mar
18;122(2):268-72.
[A6] Puri M, et al, Ribosome
inactivating proteins (RIPs) from Momordica charantia for anti viral therapy. Curr Mol Med. 2009 Dec;9(9):1080-94
[A7] Zambenedetti P, et al, Histochemical localization of glycoconjugates on microglial cells in Alzheimer's disease brain samples by using
Abrus precatorius, Maackia amurensis, Momordica charantia, and Sambucus nigra lectins. Exp
Neurol. 1998 Sep;153(1):167-71.
[A8] Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Website]
[A9] Dandagi PM, et al, Development and evaluation of hepatoprotective polyherbal formulation containing some indigenous medicinal
plants.

96

Fats Found In Coconut Oil Boost

Brain Function In Only One Dose
September 29, 2014
The study was conducted with a double-blind placebo
controlled design with two study visits. During each visit,
subjects received one of two isocaloric conditions (690
calories) in a randomized order: emulsified MCTs, or
emulsified long chain triglycerides as a placebo. NeoBee
895 (Stepan, Inc.) was used for MCTs. To increase
palatability, heavy whipping cream was used as a source
of long chain triglycerides and as a source of long chain
mono- and di-glycerides for emulsification. MCTs (40 ml)
were blended with 152 ml heavy whipping cream to create
the emulsified test sample. Heavy whipping cream alone
(232 ml) was blended to create the placebo.

Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), the

primary type of fat found within coconut
oil, have been found to boost cognitive
performance in older adults suffering
from memory disorders as serious as
Alzheimers and not after months or
even days of treatment, but after a
single 40 ml dose!

Subjects fasted from 8:00 p.m. on the night prior to the

study visit. They arrived in the morning and blood was
drawn to determine plasma -OHB levels and APOE
genotyping (first visit only). Subjects then consumed the
test beverage and rested quietly for 90 min, after which
blood was drawn and a 30-min cognitive testing session
ensued. After testing, a final blood draw was taken.

A groundbreaking 2004 study published in the

journal Neurobiology
of
Aging found
that
the
administration of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs), the
primary fat type found in coconut oil, almost immediately
improved cognitive function in older adults with memory
disorders.

HOW MEDIUM CHAIN TRIGLYCERIDES WORK

How could a single dose of MCTs (40 ml or 2.7
tablespoons) cause an almost immediate improvement in
cognitive performance in those suffering from cognitive
impairments as serious as Alzheimers disease? The
explanation is found both in the unique metabolic needs of
the brain and in the configuration of MCTs themselves.
Whereas the primary fuel source for the energy-hungry
brain is glucose, when insulin resistance and suboptimal
metabolism (hypometabolism) develops in the brain, both
the brains structure and function are compromised.
Ketone bodies provide a much needed alternative fuel
source to glucose that can recharge metabolic processes
within the brain, resulting in an almost immediate
improvement in cognitive function.

The study involved 20 subjects with Alzheimers

disease or mild cognitive impairment who, on separate
days, were given either emulsified MCTs or a placebo.
The researchers observed a significant increase in blood
plasma levels of the ketone body beta-hydroxylutyrate
(beta-OHB) after only 90 minutes of treatment, and
depending on the apolipoprotein E genotype of the subject
tested, beta-OHB levels either continued to rise or held
constant between the 90 and 120 minute blood draws in
the treatment condition. Remarkably, cognitive testing
revealed that this brief MCT treatment facilitated improved
performance on the Alzheimers Disease Assessment
Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-cog) in 4 subjects within
the study group. Moreover, higher ketone values were
associated with greater improvement in paragraph
recall with MCT treatment relative to placebo across
all subjects (P=0.02).[i]

MCTs are not like most fats we consume. For instance,

due to their smaller size they do not form micelles and are
not stored in adipose tissue. Whereas up to 97% of the
dietary fats we ingest are made up of long-chain
triglycerides (LCTs) which have been 14 and 18
carbons,[ii] MCTs have relatively shorter chain lengths of
5 to 12 carbons, making them easier to absorb and utilize.
They are preferentially oxidized by the liver, and when

The details of the study procedure was described as

follows:

97

provided in large enough quantities, they give rise to

ketone bodies.[iii]

seed, peanut, canola oil) you are using to fry an egg or

bake with, with sublimely saturated, rancidity-resistant
coconut oil.

What is the best way to take MCTs? As we are advocates

of whole food nutrition, coconut oil is our preferred source
of these triglycerides, containing approximately
2/3rds MCTs by volume. Coconut oil also has a broad
spectrum of other health benefits, which we highlighted in
our previous article 13 Evidence-Based Medicinal
Properties of Coconut Oil.

Or, enjoy a delicious curry with coconut milk as a base.

Because 25% of coconut milk is fat, and about 66% of that
fat is MCT, you are still getting a healthy dose. It is always
better to eat smaller amounts of truly therapeutic foods,
enjoyed in the context of sharing, preparing and enjoying
good food, so that you will ideally never have to use the
heroic food as medicine approach after a serious disease
has had the opportunity to set in. Think: use food so that
medicine never becomes necessary.

Also, instead of treating coconut oil or MCTs as some new

nutraceutical magic bullet, almost as if we are just
loading natural bullets into the same old outdated
allopathic gun, try incorporating it into your diet in a way
that displaces less healthy fats. For instance, replace that
rancid, pro-inflammatory vegetable oil (e.g. soy, grape

For additional information view the testimonial of Dr.

Mary Newport who discovered the benefits of using
coconut oil to treat her husbands Alzheimers Disease.

Article Resources
[i] Mark A Reger, Samuel T Henderson, Cathy Hale, Brenna Cholerton, Laura D Baker, G S Watson, Karen Hyde, Darla Chapman,
Suzanne Craft. Effects of beta-hydroxybutyrate on cognition in memory-impaired adults. Neurobiol Aging. 2004 Mar;25(3):311-4.
PMID: 15123336
[ii] Anonymous: Medium chain triglycerides. Alt Med Rev 2002, 7:418-420.[iii] Lauren C Costantini, Linda J Barr, Janet L Vogel,
Samuel T Henderson. Hypometabolism as a therapeutic target in Alzheimers disease. BMC Neurosci. 2008 ;9 Suppl 2:S16. Epub
2008 Dec 3. PMID: 1909098

98

Turmeric: Doctors Say

This Spice Is A Brain Health Miracle
By Stacey Chillemi
7th October 2014
Discover the Simple Natural Solution to Lifelong
Cognitive Health

nation. My passion for natural health drives me to seek the

truth about the causes of health problems and to educate
people on alternative solutions that are both safe and
effective.Nature's Brain-Protecting Miracle

Are you concerned about maintaining the health of

your brain as you age?You're not alone. Losing one's
memory and mental abilities to cognitive decline is
something we all fear, and the current statistics on the
prevalence of cognitive decline in this country are not
pretty. By age 65, sadly 1 in 8 Americans will suffer from
severe cognitive decline, and by age 80, an astonishing 1
in 2 will.[1]

There are a number of natural brain protectors out there,

but did you know that one herb has shown more promise
when it comes to supporting your neurological system than
any other medical finding to date? It's a scientific fact that
curcumin, an antioxidant compound found in the root of
the turmeric plant, is one of the most powerful natural
brain protecting substances on the planet! It continues to
amaze scientists with its remarkable cognitive health
benefits.

Researchers have been working for years to develop an

effective treatment. But one "miracle" drug after another
has failed to live up to its promises, and it's becoming
more and more apparent that pharmaceuticals are not the
solution. Unfortunately, the medical establishment is so
narrowly focused on finding an elusive "cure" that
scientifically proven prevention strategies are often
ignored.

You may be familiar with turmeric as the bright yellow

spice that is commonly found in curry powder. Turmeric
has a long history as a healing herb and culinary spice in
India. Interestingly, India has the highest per capita
consumption of turmeric AND the lowest incidence of
cognitive decline worldwide!

I'm Joshua Corn, Editor-in-Chief of Live in the Now, one

of the fastest growing natural health publications in the

99

10 Food Facts That May Surprise You

By Karen Foster
October 14, 2014
From the color of foods to their fat content and nutritional
value, there are facts about what we consume, their origin
and manufacture which is not common knowledge and
rarely promoted as truth. Here are 10 food facts that still
surprise the majority.

You do not recognize gelatin's taste as an animal product

because, as Kraft says, "during the manufacturing of
gelatin, chemical changes take place so that the final
product, the composition, and the identity of the original
material is completely eliminated." If you have chosen to
follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, you may prefer to avoid
eating products made with gelatin.
3. Consuming Eggs Regularly Does Not
Boost Cardiovascular Risk
Americans have been urged to reduce egg consumption in
the belief that eggs' high cholesterol levels contribute to
coronary disease. We seem to have gotten the message: in
1943, per capital consumption was 402 eggs annually; by
2007, it was down to 253, a 38 percent decline.

1. Orange Tomatoes May Be Healthier

Than Red Ones

But several large studies indicate that egg anxiety is

unfounded. Most notably, a 1999 report from the Harvard
School of Public Health (published in the Journal of the
American Medical Association) that tracked 110,000
American adults for up to 14 years found no increased risk
of coronary heart disease or stroke among healthy men and
women who ate as much as seven eggs per week vs. those
who ate less than one per week. There did, however,
appear to be a correlation between high egg consumption
and heart disease among diabetic men and women that
"warrants further research" the authors concluded.

Usually, deep color in fruits and vegetables indicates

abundant antioxidants - compounds that have been linked
to heart and brain health - so it makes sense to consume
produce with the deepest hues. But a study by Ohio State
University researchers, published in the Journal of
Agricultural Food and Chemistry, found that a variety of
orange-colored tomatoes called Tangerine provided more
readily available lycopene than did red tomatoes.
Lycopene is an antioxidant that has been shown to reduce
risks of cancer, cardiovascular disease and macular
degeneration. Tangerine tomatoes are not available in
grocery stores, but the researchers suggested that the
advantage might extend to other orange- and gold-colored
tomatoes.

Many groups have also been against eggs due to allergies,

especially for children. However, Pediatrician Fatima
Arash, M.D., says that a high percentage of children can
eliminate allergy sensitivities by incremental exposures to
the allergen, especially eggs. "Under proper supervision,
almost 70 percent of egg allergies can be reversed in
children before the age of eight by incrementally exposing
the immune system so that it gradually tames the defense
mechanism and no longer reacts to antigens violently," she
stated.

2. Gelatin is Made From Cattle Hides

and Pork Skins
Gelatin is used to make many desserts, such as jelly
powders, marshmallows and frozen cakes. Gelatin is made
from the collagen of animal skin and bones. Gelatin melts
to a liquid state when heated, and solidifies when it cools.
You may see gelatin form if you use animal bones to make
your own soup stock and cool the broth.

The only way to ensure you are buying a healthy egg is to

visit the farm itself. Ensure farms practices are free of
synthetic chemicals of any kind, free of genetically
modified organisms in their feed and are producing soils of
enhanced biological activity. Do not rely on the USDA
organic label which has no interest in organic farming,
improving soil, quality of the produce, or factors that
pollute the environment.

Gelatin is the main ingredient in jelly powder. On its

website, Kraft Canada states that the gelatin used in JELLO is extracted only from cattle hides and pork skins, and
only from the hides of healthy animals that have passed
strict inspections and are found fit for human consumption.

100

4. Many Decaffeinate Teas and Coffees

Are Manufactured Using Carcinogenic
Solvents

releases an enzyme, alliinase, that catalyzes the formation

of allicin, which then breaks down to form a variety of
heart-healthy organosulfur compounds. So crushed or
chopped garlic, they reported, was potentially better for
cardiac health than whole cloves.

Most countries permit three food additives for

decaffeination of tea and coffee: carbon dioxide, ethyl
acetate and methylene chloride. The last two are chemical
solvents that strip the caffeine from green coffee beans or
tea leaves. Green tea labeled as naturally decaffeinated
may have been decaffeinated using carbon dioxide,
whereas methylene chloride is more often used to remove
caffeine from black tea or coffee.

Even more surprising, they noted that allowing the crushed

garlic to stand for 10 minutes before cooking appeared to
further enhance formation of those compounds. So when
making a dish that contains garlic, crush the cloves first,
and let them rest on the cutting board for at least 10
minutes while doing other prep work.
7. Salt Is Beneficial For Human Health

Methylene chloride, or dichloromethane is recognized as

possibly carcinogenic, and for this reason, many
manufacturers have switched to using carbon dioxide or
the Swiss Water process instead. Of course, the
methylene chloride is removed from the coffee or tea
before it is packaged and sold, but knowing your tea or
coffee has been processed using a carcinogenic solvent
may influence your shopping choices.

The pharmaceutical industrial complex has had great

influence in scientific journals, medical literature and
consequently Physicians in promoting the idea that salt is a
baddy. Contrary to public perception, the reason the
mantra of "eat less salt" has been advocated so strongly in
decades past was due to the higher risk associated with
cardiovascular disease which increased profits for
pharmaceutical drugs.

Bottom line is if you're going to drink coffee, make it

caffeinated.

Even a recent report commissioned by the Center for

Disease Control (CDC) stated that salt is no longer
considered a substantial health hazard. What the CDC
study reported explicitly is that there is no benefit, and
may be a danger, from reducing our salt intake below 1 tsp
per day.

5. Drinks Containing Hibiscus Are The

Highest In Antioxidants
The tea made from hibiscus flowers is known by many
names in many countries around the world and is served
both hot and cold. The beverage is well known for its
color, tanginess and flavor. A study conducted in Portugal
found that drinks containing hibiscus exhibited the highest
antioxidant activity compared to other beverages. The
results were published in the Food Science and
Technology Journal. A study in Food Research Journal
showed that anthocyanins are a major source of
antioxidant capacity in Hibiscus extract.

A recent study by researchers at the University of Glasgow

has revealed that low chloride levels in the blood is an
independent indicator of mortality risk in people with
hypertension.
The key is to know the difference between a good salt and
bad salt. Table salt is recrystallized where a brine solution
is treated with chemicals that precipitate most magnesium
and trace minerals. During the drying process, an anticaking compound is added to the brine and these agents
often use sodium ferrocyanide, tricalcium phosphate,
calcium or magnesium carbonates, fatty acid salts (acid
salts), magnesium oxide, silicon dioxide, calcium silicate,
sodium aluminosilicate, and calcium aluminosilicate. The
ferrocyanide and aluminosilicate compounds give the most
cause for concern. And the iodization of salt, especially as
it is used in processed food, poses real problems for those
who are sensitive to iodine.

A 2008 USDA study shows consuming hibiscus tea lowers

blood pressure in a group of prehypertensive and mildly
hypertensive adults. Three cups of tea daily resulted in an
average drop of 8.1 points in their systolic blood pressure,
compared to a 1.3 point drop in the volunteers who drank
the placebo beverage. Study participants with higher blood
pressure readings (129 or above) had a greater response to
hibiscus tea: their systolic blood pressure went down by
13.2 points. These data support the idea that drinking
hibiscus tea in an amount readily incorporated into the diet
may play a role in controlling blood pressure, although
more research is required.

The problem is not salt, it's the type of salt we use. It takes
just half an hour for one meal high in table salt to
significantly impair the arteries ability to pump blood
around the body, alarming research has shown. Blood flow
becomes temporarily more restricted between 30 minutes
and an hour after the food has been consumed.

6. Crush Garlic, Then Wait 10 Minutes

Before Cooking, To Maximize Health
Benefits.
Argentinian researchers reported in the Journal of
Agricultural and Food Chemistry that crushing garlic

101

8. Vanilla is Mildly Addictive and Blocks

Bacterial Infections

In 1970 there was an average 8.6grams of fat per 100

grams of meat. Today there is an average of 22.8grams.
Protein levels in 1970 were 24.3grams per 100 grams.
Today it is a mere 16.5grams. Buying organic gives only
slight protection from the extra fat but does protect the
consumer from chickens fed genetically modified feed and
antibiotic or hormone injections. A typical organic chicken
has 17.1grams of fat per 100 grams. Like their batteryfarmed counterparts, organic chickens are likely to live
relatively sedentary lives compared to birds in the 1950s,
60s or 70s.

The consumption of natural vanilla causes the body to

release catecholamines (including adrenalin) -- for this
reason it is considered to be mildly addictive.
Mayans used them to flavor chocolate drink centuries
before Spanish first set their foot in Mexico. Ancient
Mayans believed that vanilla drink was supposed to have
aphrodisiac qualities.
When vanilla plants were first exported from Mexico to
other tropical climes, they flowered but wouldnt produce
vanilla pods. It was discovered that a bee native to Mexico
was the only creature that could pollinate vanilla flowers
(vanilla comes from a special species of orchid). Attempts
to move the bee to other countries failed and it was not
until a slave boy discovered a method of artificial
pollination that Mexico lost its monopoly on vanilla. As
well as being mildly addictive, vanilla has also been found
to block bacterial infections.

In the 1950s, chicken was regarded as a luxury, reserved

for special occasions. By 1976, nutritionists were praising
it for its low fat and high protein. In the 1980s, sales of
pork, lamb and beef dropped as the message got through,
and as health conscious consumers chose chicken the
industry began factory farming techniques producing as
many chickens as possible to feed the demand.

Natural vanilla extract contains numerous antioxidants,

including vanillic acid and vanillin. Antioxidants protect
your body from damage from harmful components, such as
free radicals and toxins. Researchers in a 2007 study
published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food
Chemistry found that vanilla extract contains 26 to 90
percent of the antioxidants of unprocessed vanilla,
depending on the type of antioxidant and the concentration
of the extract. They concluded that vanilla showed great
potential as a health supplement and as a food
preservative.

Carrots were originally recorded as being cultivated in

present day Afghanistan about 1000 years ago and were
purple. Carrot cultivation spread to Spain in the 1100s via
the Middle East and North Africa. Purple, white and
yellow carrots were brought into southern Europe in the
14th century and were widely grown in Europe into the
16th Century. Purple and white carrots still grow wild in
Afghanistan today where they are used by some tribesmen
to produce a strong alcoholic beverage. Over the ensuing
centuries, orange carrots came to dominate and carrots of
other colours were only preserved by growers in remote
regions of the world.

10. Long Before Carrots

Domesticated, They Were Purple

9. Chicken Contains 266% More Fat

Than It Did Just 40 Years Ago

Were

Nature then took a hand and produced mutants and natural

hybrids, crossing both with cultivated and wild varieties. It
is considered that purple carrots were then taken
westwards where it is now known, through modern genetic
research, that yellow varieties were developed to produce
orange. Then some motivated Dutch growers took these
"new" orange carrots under their horticultural wings and
developed them to be sweeter, consistent and more
practical.

The research team, using data from a long-ranging study

into mothers' diets, examined the content of chicken meat
from 1970 compared to today. They found the fat content
is now almost three times higher. Protein has dropped by
almost a third.

102

Raw Milk Hazardous to Healthcare Industry

The Ongoing War on Raw Milk
Parwaiz Khan
October 21, 2014
An organized war is being waged on the Raw Milk For
years, the FDA and its cahoots have been targeting and
harassing the farmers who dare to sell raw milk direct to
people who are willing to drive long distances to get the
real milk for their families. Numerous health and medical
organizations have been churning out a plethora of clinical
studies to warn the public against the perils of consuming
the raw milk And, of course, the Colas and Mc-Burgers
are perfectly safe and healthy foods!

and live on pasture land. Nature has designed cows

digestive system for eating grass and hay. Real Milk
comes from such health and happy cows.
A diet based on grains is foreign to cows stomach. Vital
nutrients like vitamin A and D, and K2 are greatest in the
milk from cows eating green grass, especially rapidly
growing green grass in the spring and fall. Vitamins A and
D are greatly diminished, and K2 disappears, when the
milk cows are fed commercial feed.

May it be that the Raw Milk poses a danger to the health of

the Multi-Trillion dollar Health Care Industry?

Commercially Raised Cows:

A Heavenly Drink

Commercial dairy cows, on the other hand, live confined

in tiny spaces, and are fed Soy Meal,Corn, Cottonseed
Meal, Bakery Waste, Chicken Manure, and even pieces of
their herd mates. They are kept in confinements and
pumped with antibiotics and a variety of other drugs as the
cows get constantly sick due to the unnatural and
unhealthy diet and confinement. No doubt commercial
milk tastes and smells like Pus Actually, it is part pus.

I grew up in a region where milk was an essential part of

our daily diet. We drank milk as children. We drank milk
after workouts, and we drank milk to recover from our
injuries and sicknesses. And, we drank it raw.
Since we had tasted the Real Milk, the milk bought from
the store shelves never appealed to our taste buds. It was
difficult to digest and caused bloating and heaviness. Over
the last two decades, we noticed the taste and odor of milk
getting deteriorated to such a degree that we had to give up
on milk.

Even at the organic dairy farms, cows are fed soy meal.
Soy meal has the wrong protein profile for the dairy cows.
Ingestion of these grains causes a multitude of health
problems for cattle the main issue being the premature
aging of the animals organs.

That was until I stumbled upon the website of Weston A.

Price Foundation Thanks to them, we found the sources
to obtain the grass fed raw milk in our area, and
rediscovered the Real Milk again. It tastes like a drink
direct from Heaven Delicious, Creamy and easy on the
Digestive System. We love it and enjoy the immune
boosting effects of this natural milk.

Cows raised on grain diet, especially on soy bean, produce

high volume of milk over a short period of time, and then
die a premature death.
The Benefits of Grass-Fed Raw Milk
Raw milk from grass-fed cows is the only food that has all
the necessary components essential for good health. While
healthy fats in raw milk support the cardiovascular system,
beneficial bacteria and antimicrobial components, absent
in pasteurized milk, support the immune system boost and
reduce allergies. It is an outstanding source of vitamins,
especially vitamin A, zinc, and enzymes.

These happy cows eat food that is appropriate for them,

which is mostly grass, hay or silage, with only a small
amount of grain, if any. The real milk contains all the fat,
and has not been processed in any way it is raw and
unhomogenized. It must be noted that most of the
important
anti-microbial
and
health-supporting
components are in the milk fat.

Clean raw milk from pastured cows is a complete and

properly balanced food You could live on it exclusively
if you had to.

Health & Happy Cows:

Raw milk comes from cows that graze on fresh green
forage, especially those grazing grass grass. Cows are
natural herbivores and are healthiest when they eat grass

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Pastured raw milk is not associated with any of the health

problems of pasteurized milk such as rheumatoid arthritis,
skin rashes, diarrhea and cramps.

biochemical reactions that free energy from the food you

eat, vitamins from both of these groups are essential.
Raw milk contains a broad selection of completely
available minerals ranging from the familiar calcium and
phosphorus on down to trace elements.

In a survey of raw milk drinkers in the state of Michigan,

over 80 percent of those advised by a health care
professional that they were lactose intolerant were able to
consume raw milk without any complication.

The 60 plus (known) fully intact and functional enzymes in

raw milk have an amazing array of tasks to perform, each
one of them essential in facilitating one key reaction or
other. Some of them are native to milk, and others come
from beneficial bacteria growing in the milk. The most
significant health benefit derived from food enzymes is the
burden they take off from our body. When we eat a food
that contains enzymes devoted to its own digestion, its
that much less work for our pancreas.

Raw cows milk has all of the 8 essential amino acids in

varying amounts. About 80% of the proteins in the milk
are caseins - reasonably heat stable and, for most people,
easy to digest. The remaining 20% or so are classified
as the whey proteins, many of which have important
physiological effects. Whey proteins, though easy to
digest, are very heat-sensitive. These proteins include the
key enzymes and the enzyme inhibitors, immunoglobulins
(antibodies), metal-binding proteins, vitamin binding
proteins and several growth factors.

The amylase,
bacterially
-produced
lactase,
lipases and phosphatases in raw milk, break down starch,
lactose (milk sugar), fat (triglycerides) and phosphate
compounds respectively, making milk more digestible and
freeing up key minerals. Other enzymes, like catalase,
lysozyme and lactoperoxidase help to protect milk from
unwanted bacterial infection, making it safer for us to
drink.

The Latest research is also focusing on the fragments of

protein (peptide segments) hidden in casein molecules that
also exhibit anti-microbial activity.
Other Beneficial Ingredients in Raw Milk:

The Dangers of
Pasteurized Milk

Lactoferrin, an iron-binding protein, has numerous

beneficial properties; including improved absorption and
assimilation of iron, anti-cancer properties and antimicrobial action against several species of bacteria
responsible for dental cavities . Recent studies also reveal
that it has powerful antiviral properties as well.

Commercially

Produced

and

Commercially produced liquid thing that is sold in the

name of milk is deprived of these essential constituents of
the Real Milk. It is not natural milk. It can be considered a
product outright unfit for the human consumption.

Two other players in raw milks antibiotic protein/enzyme

arsenal are lysozyme and lactoperoxidase. Lysozyme can
actually break apart cell walls of certain undesirable
bacteria, while lactoperoxidase teams up with other
substances to help knock out unwanted microbes too.

Pasteurization destroys beneficial bacteria found in the

raw milk. It destroys the natural enzymes, vitamins and
essential antibodies in the raw milk. The process also
changes the chemical make-up of calcium in the raw milk,
making it Bio-unavailable for our bodies. Calcium is vital
to the growth and health of children.

The immunoglobulins, an extremely complex class of

milk proteins also known as antibodies, provide resistance
to many viruses, bacteria and bacterial toxins and may help
reduce the severity of asthma symptoms. Studies have
shown significant loss of these important disease fighters
when milk is heated to normal processing temperatures.

Pasteurization has been implicated in everything from

allergies to heart disease to cancer. Many studies have
linked consumption of pasteurized milk with lactose
intolerance, allergies, asthma, frequent ear infections,
gastro-Intestinal problems, diabetes, auto-Immune disease,
attention deficit disorder, and constipation.

CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid), abundant in milk from

grass-fed cows, is a heavily studied, polyunsaturated
Omega-6 fatty acid with promising health benefits. CLAs
many potential benefits: it raises metabolic rate, helps
remove abdominal fat, boosts muscle growth, reduces
resistance to insulin, strengthens the immune system and
lowers food allergy reactions.

Clinical Studies and Research on Raw Milk

Dr. Pottenger was a legendry physician. In 1940 he
founded the Francis M Pottenger, Jr. Hospital at Monrovia.
Until closing in 1960, the hospital specialized in treating
non-tubercular diseases of the lung, especially asthma.

There are two groups of vitamins, water-soluble and fatsoluble. Whole raw milk has them all in easily assimilable
form. Whether regulating your metabolism or helping the

He was a regular and prolific contributor to the medical

and scientific literature. He served as president of several

104

organically raised animals and 100% free

from chemical additives, drugs, detergents,
and insecticide and herbicide residues,
then you will be better off to omit milk and
milk products from your diet.

professional organizations, including the Los Angeles

County Medical Association, the American Academy of
Applied Nutrition and the American Therapeutic Society.
He was a member of a long list of other professional
organizations as well.
In his article Clinical Evidences of the Value of Raw
Milk, Pottenger writes:

Asthma: Three recent studies in Europe found that

drinking farm (raw) milk protected against asthma and
allergies -(Lancet. 2001 Oct 6;358(9288):1129-33; J
Allergy Clin Immunol. 2006 Jun;117(6):1374-8; Clinical
& Experimental Allergy. 2007 May; 35(5) 627-630).

Some of the factors transmitted by milk

are thermo-labile [sensitive to heat].
Though their destruction may not produce
death, their deficiency may prevent proper
development of the child. This may show in
the development of an inadequate skeleton
or a decrease in resistance. . . . delay in
development of osseous centers is noted
more frequently in those children. . .
receiving heat treated milk. It is particularly
absent from the raw milk fed children. . . . I
am basing this discussion on analysis of
150 children whose parents have consulted
me because of respiratory allergies. Many
other workers. . . have also shown that
treating milk by heating interferes with its
proper assimilation and nutritional qualities.
. . . The best milk from a nutritional
standpoint is raw milk. . . . Heat-treating
milk interferes with calcium metabolism
causing. . . delay in bone age and small
bones. . . . The interference with calcium
metabolism as shown in the bones is only a
physiological index of disturbed metabolism
throughout the body.

Human Studies: In early studies involving humans, raw

milk was shown to be superior to pasteurized milk in
protecting against infection, diarrhea, rickets, tooth decay
and TB; and children receiving had better growth than
those receiving pasteurized milk ( Real Milk PowerPoint,
slides 54-56, 58).
Animal Studies: In early animal studies, animals fed raw
milk had better growth, denser bones, greater integrity of
internal organs, less anemia, fewer signs of anxiety and
stress, and fewer signs of nutrient deficiency than animals
fed pasteurized milk (Real Milk PowerPoint, slides 57,
59-64).
Raw Human Milk: In recent studies, infants on
pasteurized human milk did not gain weight as quickly
compared to those fed raw human milk (J Pediatr
Gastroenterol Nutr. 1986 Mar-Apr;5(2):248-53) and
premature babies given raw human milk had more rapid
weight gain than those given pasteurized human milk.
Problems were attributed to pasteurizations destruction of
lipase
(J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 1986 MarApr;5(2):242-7).

I have prescribed raw milk from grass-fed

animals to my patients for nearly fifteen
years. Time and again I have seen
allergies clear up and dramatically
improved health. Particularly in children,
middle ear infections usually disappear and
do not recur on raw milk. Both children and
adults unable to drink pasteurized milk
without problems have thrived on raw milk.
In hundreds-perhaps thousands-of my
patients using raw milk, not one has ever
developed a salmonella, campylobacter, or
other raw-milk-related infection.

Notes and Cautions

Raw Milk, like the Raw Honey, may not be suitable in
certain conditions. Some of us are genetically intolerant to
any dairy product. If you have not been drinking milk for a
long time, start on raw milk in small quantities. Consult
your medical service provider if you have a medical
condition before embarking on any new regimen.
Where to Buy
Raw Milk is not commercially available in most states in
US. For information sourcing the Real Milk in your area,
and to get more information, you may like to visit www.
realmilk.com.

Dr. Paavo Airola wrote this in 1971:

If you cannot get a high-quality milk, raw
and unpasteurized, guaranteed to be from
.

105

5 Things You Didn't Know About Honey

By Dr. Mercola
October 20, 2014
Honey has been valued as a natural sweetener long before
sugar became widely available in the 16th century. Honey
production flourished in ancient Greece and Sicily, for
instance, while animals other than humans bears,
badgers, and more have long raided honeybee hives,
risking stings for the sweet reward.1

5 Honey Facts You Might Not Know

Honey, particularly in its raw form, offers unique health
benefits that you might not be aware of. Among them
1. Honey Makes Excellent Cough Medicine

Honey is truly a remarkable substance, made even more

extraordinary by the process with which it is made. This
blend of sugar, trace enzymes, minerals, vitamins, and
amino acids is quite unlike any other sweetener on the
planet.

The World Health Organization (WHO) lists honey as a

demulcent, which is a substance that relieves irritation in
your mouth or throat by forming a protective film. 5
Research
shows
honey
works
as
well
as
dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in over the
counter cough medications, to soothe cough and related
sleeping difficulties due to upper respiratory tract
infections in children.6

And while honey is high in fructose, it has many health

benefits when used in moderation (assuming youre
healthy). Before I delve into those, heres a brief lesson
on how honey is made...

2. Honey Can Treat Wounds

How Honey Is Made (Fascinating!)

Honey was a conventional therapy in fighting infection up

until the early 20th century, at which time its use slowly
vanished with the advent of penicillin. Now the use of
honey in wound care is regaining popularity, as researchers
are determining exactly how honey can help fight serious
skin infections.

It takes about 60,000 bees, collectively traveling up to

55,000 miles and visiting more than 2 million flowers, to
gather enough nectar to make one pound of honey. 2
Once the nectar is gathered, the bee stores it in its extra
stomach where it mixes with enzymes, and then passes it
(via regurgitation) to another bees mouth. This process is
repeated until the nectar becomes partially digested and is
then deposited into a honeycomb.

Honey has antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidants

activities that make it ideal for treating wounds. In the US,
Derma Sciences uses Manuka honey for their Medihoney
wound and burn dressings.

Once there, the honeybees fan the liquid nectar with their
wings, helping the water to evaporate and create the thick
substance you know as honey. This honeycomb is then
sealed with a liquid secretion from the bees abdomen,
which hardens into beeswax. As Live Science reported:3

Manuka honey is made with pollen gathered from the

flowers of the Manuka bush (a medicinal plant), and
clinical trials have found this type of honey can effectively
eradicate more than 250 clinical strains of bacteria,
including resistant varieties such as:

Away from air and water, honey can be

stored indefinitely, providing bees with the
perfect food source for cold winter months.

There are more than 300 kinds of honey in the US, each
with a unique color and flavor that is dependent upon the
nectar source. Lighter colored honeys, such as those made
from orange blossoms, tend to be milder in flavor while
darker-colored honeys, like those made from wildflowers,
tend to have a more robust flavor.4

MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)

MSSA (methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus)
VRE (vancomycin-resistant enterococci)

Compared to other types of honey, Manuka has an extra

ingredient with antimicrobial qualities, called the Unique
Manuka Factor (UMF). It is so called because no one has
yet been able to discover the unique substance involved
that gives it its extraordinary antibacterial activity.

106

Honey releases hydrogen peroxide through an enzymatic

process, which explains its general antiseptic qualities, but
active Manuka honey contains "something else" that
makes it far superior to other types of honey when it comes
to killing off bacteria.7

Interestingly enough, there were few differences between

the two honey groups (those who took regular honey,
versus those who took honey that contained birch pollen.)
However, the birch pollen honey group used less
histamines than those who used regular honey. The authors
concluded:

That being said, research shows that any type of

unprocessed honey helped wounds and ulcers heal. In one
study, 58 of 59 wounds showed remarkable improvement
following topical application of honey.8

"Patients who pre-seasonally used birch

pollen honey had significantly better control
of their symptoms than did those on
conventional medication only, and they had
marginally better control compared to those
on regular honey. The results should be
regarded as preliminary, but they indicate
that birch pollen honey could serve as a
complementary therapy for birch pollen
allergy."

3. Honey Improves Your Scalp

Honey diluted with a bit of warm water was shown to
significantly improve seborrheic dermatitis, which is a
scalp condition that causes dandruff and itching. After
applying the solution every other day for four weeks, all
of the patients responded markedly. According to the
researchers:9
Itching was relieved and scaling was
disappeared within one week. Skin lesions
were healed and disappeared completely
within 2 weeks. In addition, patients
showed subjective improvement in hair
loss.

Honey for Herpes

Good-quality honey offers several topical wound-care
benefits that can explain some of its success as a remedy
for herpes sores:

4. Help Boost Your Energy

A healthy, whole-food diet and proper sleep is the best

recipe for boundless energy, but if youre looking for a
quick energy boost, such as before or after a workout,
honey can suffice. This is particularly true for athletes
looking for a time-released fuel to provide energy over a
longer duration.10

It draws fluid away from your wound

The high sugar content suppresses microorganism
growth
Worker bees secrete an enzyme (glucose oxidase) into
the nectar, which then releases low levels of hydrogen
peroxide when the honey makes contact with your
wound

In one study, 16 adult subjects with a history of recurrent

labial and genital herpes attacks used honey to treat one
attack, and a commonly prescribed antiviral drug,
Acyclovir cream, during another. (It's important to realize
that neither the drug nor the honey will actually cure
genital herpes. They only treat the symptoms.)

5. Reduce Allergy Symptoms

Locally produced honey, which will contain pollen spores
picked up by the bees from local plants, introduces a small
amount of allergen into your system. Theoretically, this
can activate your immune system and over time can build
up your natural immunity against it.

Interestingly, honey provided significantly better treatment

results. For labial herpes, the mean healing time was 43
percent better, and for genital herpes, 59 percent better
than acyclovir. Pain and crusting was also significantly
reduced with the honey, compared to the drug. Two cases
of labial herpes and one case of genital herpes remitted
completely with the honey treatment, whereas none
remitted while using acyclovir.12

The typical recommendation is to take about a teaspoonfull of locally produced honey per day, starting a few
months PRIOR to the pollen season, to allow your system
to build up immunity. And the key here is local.
This approach only works because it has pollen of local
plants you may be allergic to. Honey from other parts of
the country simply wont work. While research on this has
yielded conflicting results, one study found that, during
birch pollen season, compared to the control group, the
patients using birch pollen honey experienced:11

Twice as many asymptomatic days

70 percent fewer days with severe symptoms
50 percent decrease in usage of antihistamines

3 DIY Honey Home Remedies

Honey is a humectant, which means it attracts and retains
moisture, making it an ideal addition to moisturizers,
shampoos, and conditioners. Along with its antimicrobial

60 percent reduction in symptoms

107

properties, honey makes a wonderful addition to

homemade personal care products. The National Honey
Board has a few you can try out for yourself:13
1.

2.
3.

Is Honey a Healthy Natural Sweetener? How to Avoid

Fake Honey
As far as natural sweeteners go, honey does have a place.
The main thing to remember when it comes to honey is
that not all honey is created equal. The antibacterial
activity in some honeys is 100 times more potent than in
others, while processed refined honey will lack many of
these beneficial properties altogether. Your average
domestic Grade A type honey found in the grocery store
is likely highly processed.

Honey Hair Conditioner: Mix cup honey with cup

olive oil. Work a small amount through your hair until
coated. Cover your hair with a shower cap and let sit
for 30 minutes. Shampoo as normal and rinse.
Honey Body Moisturizer: Mix 5 tablespoons honey, 2
tablespoons rose oil, and 2 cups almond oil in a
medium-sized bottle. Apply as needed onto wet skin.
Honey Almond Scrub: Mix 3 teaspoons honey, 1
teaspoon olive oil, and 6 tablespoons of finely
crushed almonds. Rub the exfoliating scrub onto your
face gently and rinse with warm water.

Its also been found that more than 75 percent of the honey
on American supermarket shelves may be ultraprocessedto the point that all inherent medicinal
properties are completely goneand then smuggled into
the country by the barrel drum. Nearly all of this fake
honey is made in China. Some of these brokers will even
create bogus country of origin papers. All 60 jars of
"honey" tested by Food Safety News (FSN) came back
negative for pollen, which is a clear sign of ultraprocessing.15 According to FSN:

The Organic Consumers Association has also published

this simple honey lemon cough syrup thats useful to keep
on hand during the winter months:14
Honey Lemon Cough Syrup
Lemon helps promote health by quickly
alkalinizing your body, and honey will kill
most bacteria while soothing your throat.
This is a perfect choice for a quick cough
remedy.

Put a pint of raw honey in a pan on

the stove on VERY low heat (Do not
boil honey as this changes its
medicinal properties).

Take a whole lemon and boil in

some water in a separate pan for 23 minutes to both soften the lemon
and kill any bacteria that may be on
the lemon skin.

"The removal of these microscopic particles

from deep within a flower would make the
nectar flunk the quality standards set by
most of the world's food safety agencies.
The food safety divisions of the World
Health Organization, the European
Commission and dozens of others have
also ruled that without pollen, there is no
way to determine whether the honey came
from legitimate and safe sources."
In their investigation, FSN discovered the following:

Let the lemon cool enough to

handle then cut it in slices and add
it to the pint of honey on the stove.

Let mixture cook on warm heat for

about an hour.

Then strain the lemon from the

honey making sure all lemon seeds
are removed.

Let cool, then bottle in a jar with a

lid and store in the refrigerator.

76 percent of honey samples bought at grocery stores

(such as TOP Food, Safeway, QFC, Kroger, Harris
Teeter, etc.) were absent of pollen
77 percent of the honey from big box stores (like
Costco, Sam's Club, Walmart, and Target) were absent
of pollen
100 percent of the honey sampled from drug stores
(like Walgreens, Rite-Aid, and CVS Pharmacy) were
absent of pollen

The good news is all of the samples from farmers markets,

co-ops, and natural stores like Trader Joe's had the full,
proper compliment of pollen, as did organic brands from
common grocery stores. When choosing honey, be sure it
is raw, unfiltered, and 100% pure, from a trusted source.

This syrup will keep for 2 months in the

refrigerator. To soothe a cough, take 1/2
teaspoon for a 25 lb. child and 1 teaspoon
for a 50 lb. child, about 4 times a day, or as
often as needed. Adults can take 1tablespoon doses.

Honey Should Be Consumed Only in Moderation

Honey has many healthy attributes, but it is also high in
fructose, averaging around 53 percent. Each teaspoon of
honey has nearly four grams of fructose, which means it
can exacerbate pre-existing insulin resistance and wreak

108

havoc on your body if consumed in excess. So when

consuming honey, carefully add the total grams of fructose
(including fruits) that you consume each day, and stay
below 25 grams of total fructose per day.

cholesterol, diabetes, or if you're overweight) you'd be

better off avoiding all sweeteners, including honey, since
any sweetener can decrease your insulin sensitivity and
worsen your insulin resistance. If youre healthy, however,
eating raw honey in moderation could provide many of the
benefits listed above.

Keep in mind, though, that if you have insulin resistance

(i.e. if you are taking drugs for high blood pressure,

109

National Nut Day 2014: Peanuts, Tree Nuts,

And How Each Helps Your Health
By Stephanie Castillo
Oct 22, 2014 09:00 AM EDT
slew of diseases, maintains weight, boosts gastrointestinal
and bone health, even adds years to a persons life.
Yet, with so many available options (and nutritional
profiles), do some nuts target specific areas of our health
better than others? Does eating almonds and walnuts
equally impact heart health? Or is it better to reach for
pistachios? What about pecans? Cashews? We decided to
crack open the case on the nuts to eat, and for what, in
order to shell out the best advice. Sorry, nut puns are too
much fun.
Weight Loss

Pistachios, almonds, and cashews, oh my! Photo courtesy of

Shutterstock

Eat: Pistachios, almonds, and cashews

Happy National Nut Day! Or, you know, happy
Wednesday since nearly one out of every 10 Americans
eats nuts or nut products. Though the purpose of this
holiday isnt just to increase a persons prerogative to go
HAM on a handful of almonds its to remind them how
healthy and versatile nuts are at all.

As previously mentioned, nuts are pretty much equal in

terms of calories. There are, however, some nuts that have
more heart-healthy nutrients and fats than others. See:
pistachios. This particular tree nut is high in healthy fats
called monounsaturated fats (MUFA). MUFAs are often
associated with belly fat.

For people who already eat plenty of meat

and dairy productsnuts and nutty
legumes, like Brazil nuts, cashews,
peanuts and walnuts, are a good nutritional
alternative to meat, Dr. Donal MurphyBokern, independent agri-environmental
scientist and author of several studies on
food system impacts, said in a statement.

One study published in the journal Nutrition found that

when middle-aged adults at risk for heart disease and
diabetes incorporated more pistachios into their diet, they
weighed less and lessened their cholesterol and blood
sugar levels after just six months. And a separate study
from UCLA found people who regularly ate pistachios lost
an average of 10 to 12 pounds. Almonds and cashews are
additional nuts high in MUFAs. While macademia nuts
and pecans boast high levels of this fat, too, they are higher
in calories and lower in protein.

Heeding this advice means people can reap the benefits

that come with eating nuts Protein! Fiber! Omega-3
fatty acids! at the same time they help the environment
by reducing greenhouse gases. Scientific American
reported meat production contributes up to 22 percent of
the 36 billion tons of greenhouse gas emitted into the
world each year.

How does a snack high in fat wind up being a tool for

weight loss? A study in the American Journal of Clinical
Nutrition concluded nut eaters tend to have healthier diets,
replacing processed foods with nuts.
Heart Health

Nuts fall into two categories: peanuts (which are really

legumes) and tree nuts. The latter includes Brazil nuts,
cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts,
pistachios, walnuts and Americas beloved almonds.
Health reported that each nut is about equal in terms of
calories per ounce, and in moderation, are all healthy
additions to any diet. And existing research generalizes
that eating nuts does everything from reduce risk for a

Eat: Walnuts
The Harvard School of Public Health reported,
several of the largest cohort studies,
including the Adventist Study, the Iowa
Womens Health Study, the Nurses Health

110

Study, and the Physicians Health Study

have shown a consistent 30 percent to 50
percent lower risk of myocardial infarction,
sudden cardiac death, or cardiovascular
disease associated with eating nuts several
times a week.

Folate, as defined by Harvard Medical School,

is the naturally occurring form of the
vitamin that is in foods or in the blood.
Its also the vitamin that staves off brain atrophy, or the
progressive loss of brain cells over time. This means the
more folate a person consumes, the better he or she can
combat cognitive decline. A study published in the
American Journal of Psychiatry found folate may ward off
depression, too.

Though almonds tend to be associated most with heart

health, its actually walnuts that take the number one spot.
The American Chemical Society presented research in
2011 that found walnuts have more antioxidants than other
nuts, which work to protect cells against disease-causing
free radicals. Dr. David Katz, the director of the Yale
University Prevention Research Center, reviewed the
findings for WebMD and revealed walnuts improve
cardiac risk factors and enhance blood flow.

And which nut is super rich in folate? Unsalted peanuts.

Brain HQ added peanuts are also high in vitamin E and
niacin, both of which boost brain health. Hazelnuts and
almonds are known to have concentrated amounts of E,
too, so either nut is bound to help your noggin.

If that wasnt convincing enough, Health

reported a 2006 Spanish study, which
suggested that walnuts were as effective
as olive oil at reducing inflammation and
oxidation in the arteries after eating a fatty
meal. BOOM.

The bottom line: Nuts, when you're mindful of servings,

can be extremely healthy, especially when you subtitute
them for meat and fatty, processed foods. True, some are
clearly better suited to cater to certain aspect's of a person's
health, but the truth is, moderate servings of all and every
nut will do no harm.

Brain Health
Eat: Peanuts, hazelnuts, and almonds

111

Dangers Of More Than 3 Glasses Of Milk A Day:

High Intake May Not Protect Against Broken Bones
And Could Actually Increase Chance Of Death

Milk Known For Cutting Risk Of Fractures Because It Contains Vitamin D

But New Study Says Certain Sugars May Actually Boost Inflammation
For Now Researchers Say They Can Not Prove A 'Cause And Effect'
It's Early Days And More Work Needed Before Advising We Drink Less
Good News Is Yoghurt And Cheese Led To Less Deaths And Fractures

By Jenny Hope, Daily Mail Medical Correspondent

Published: 18:18 EST, 28 October 2014 | Updated: 03:16 EST, 29 October 2014
Drinking more than three glasses of milk a day may not
protect bones against breaking - and may even lead to
higher rates of death, say researchers.

and galactose found in high levels in milk, compared with

much lower levels in other dairy products.
In animal studies, they have been linked to cell damage,
impaired immunity and premature ageing.

A new study suggests certain types of sugars found in milk

may increase inflammation and oxidative stress, which can
damage body cells.

Two large groups of 61,433 women and 45,339 men in

Sweden completed food frequency questionnaires for 96
common foods including milk, yoghurt and cheese.

But Swedish researchers said their study could not prove

cause and effect and much more research was needed
before anyone would be advised to limit their milk
consumption.

Women were tracked for an average of 20 years, during

which time 15,541 died and 17,252 had a fracture, of
whom 4,259 had a hip fracture.
In women, drinking more milk did not cut the risk of
broken bones, says the study published in The BMJ.

Women who drank more than three glasses had double the
risk of death than women who drank less than one
Milk is recommended for cutting the risk of fractures
because it contains calcium and vitamin D, which are vital
for bone strength.
Dairy products such as yoghurt and cheese led to lower
death rates and fewer fractures, particularly in women

However, there have been conflicting results from studies

into the health benefits of milk in recent decades, with
some showing it prevents heart attacks and strokes and
others the opposite.

Women who drank more than three glasses of milk a day

on average 680 ml - had almost double the risk of death
than women who drank less than one glass of milk a day,
around 60 ml.

Professor Karl Michalsson, of Uppsala University,

Sweden, led a team to investigate whether the mechanism
for potential harm was consumption of the sugars lactose

112

Men were tracked for an average of 11 years, during which

time 10,112 died and 5,066 had a fracture, with 1,166 hip
fracture cases.

had limitations, such as weak methods to assess lifestyle

habits including bodyweight.
She said: Also key is that all milk in Sweden is fortified
with vitamin A. This may well be an important
confounding factor.

Men who drank more milk also had a higher risk of death,
although much lower than in women.

Milk and dairy products in the UK provide 50-60 percent

of the calcium in our diet. We know that low calcium
intakes is a risk factor for osteoporosis.

Tests on blood and urine found higher milk intake was

linked to biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation.
In contrast, eating more dairy products such as yoghurt and
cheese - with a low lactose content led to lower death
rates and fewer fractures, particularly in women.

Individuals should still be encouraged to consume a

balanced diet from the five key food groups of which milk
and dairy are key.

Prof Michalsson said the study design meant lactose and

galactose could not be definitely implicated and the results
should be interpreted cautiously.

Prof Brian Ratcliffe, Professor of Nutrition, Robert Gordon

University, Aberdeen, said the possible role of alcohol
intake was understated given that most of the extra deaths
in milk drinkers were from heart disease.

He said independent replication was needed before the

findings can be used for dietary recommendations.

Lowest milk consumption was associated with the highest

consumption of alcohol, and there is considerable
evidence for a cardio-protective effect of alcohol at modest
intakes he said.

Prof Sue Lanham-New, Head of the Department of

Nutritional Sciences, University of Surrey, said the study

113

Balancing These 10 Minerals Is Crucial To Your Health

By MAE CHAN
OCTOBER 30, 2014
Together, minerals make up a mere four percent of your
body, but their role in its effective functioning is critical to
your health. Any imbalance or deficiency of the following
minerals can result in illness until that balance is restored.
It is nearly impossible to lack minerals with the right diet.

Function: Builds and maintains strong bones and teeth;

helps with muscle function; controls cell function,
communication and signalling.
Cause and effect: Low levels make you prone to
osteoporosis and easy fracture. A deficiency in calcium
can lead to numbness in fingers and toes, muscle cramps,
convulsions, lethargy, loss of appetite, and abnormal heart
rhythms. More of it leads to uneasiness, high BP, kidney
and gall bladder stone, calcification of soft tissue, and
increased risk of vascular diseases like stroke and heart
attack.
Sources: Dark leafy greens, Almonds, figs, carrots,
raisins, brown rice, garlic, dates, spinach, sesame, cashew,
papaya, celery.
2) PHOSPHORUS
Minimum Recommended Daily Allowance: 700 mg/day
Function: Works with calcium to form bones and teeth,
helps create energy in the body, is part of cell membranes.
Phosphorus is present in DNA and RNA, the body's
genetic material.
Cause and effect: Phosphorus is a mineral that is vitally
important to the normal metabolism. About 70 percent of
retained phosphorus combines with calcium in bone and
tooth structure. Phosphorus deficiency may cause bone
diseases such as rickets in children and osteomalacia in
adults. An improper balance of phosphorus and calcium
may cause osteoporosis.

Often the most frightening symptoms are traced to an

imbalance of little-known minerals.
The right diet plays a key role here since the body doesn't
produce minerals naturally, which means we must rely on
what we eat to acquire them in the right quantity. A diet
rich in fresh fruits and vegetables are a must if your body
is to be replenished adequately.

Sources: Most prevalent in protein-rich foods, such as

seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, chia, sesame), cheese
(parmesan, romano, goat), nuts (brazil, pine, almond,
cashew), salmon, beans and lentils.

Nutritionist Sheela Tanna, who sees 20 mineral deficient

patients a week, draws a link to the environment, when she
says, "Good soil is 45 percent minerals, but our soils today
are lacking due to the rampant use of fertilizers, chemicals,
pesticides and mono-cropping."

3) POTASSIUM
Minimum Recommended dietary allowance: 2,000
mg/day (men and women)

Here is a guide on 10 crucial minerals and sources to

acquire them:

Function: Essential for nerve function, muscle

contraction, maintaining BP and a healthy balance of water
in blood and body tissues.

1) CALCIUM
Minimum Recommended Daily Allowance: 1,000
mg/day

Cause and effect: Deficiency can cause anxiety, fatigue

and decreased heart rate. Excess of potassium causes

114

hypertension. Unless you are on dialysis, or have a special

condition, overdose of potassium from natural sources is
nearly impossible; however, it is possible to consume too
much potassium via potassium salts which can lead to
nausea, vomiting, and even cardiac arrest.

creating DNA. It also helps the cells in your body

communicate by functioning as a neurotransmitter.
Cause and effect: Deficiency leads to dermatitis,
abnormal pregnancy and poor eyesight, abnormal sense of
taste and smell. It can also lead to stunted growth, diarrhea,
impotence, hair loss, eye and skin lesions, impaired
appetite, and depressed immunity.

Sources: White beans, dark Leafy greens, potatoes,

oranges, bananas, peanuts, beans, coconut water, spinach.
4) SELENIUM
Minimum
mcg/day

Recommended

dietary

allowance:

Sources: Seafood (oysters), wheat germ, spinach,

almonds, peanuts, chickpeas, , mushrooms, sunflower
seeds, pumpkin seeds, cashews, cocoa, beans and white
mushrooms.

50

Function: Helps in sperm formation, protects cells from

damage and regulates thyroid function. Selenium cuts risk
of prostate, lung and colorectal cancer. It helps protect
against free radical damage and cancer.

7) COPPER
Minimum Recommended Daily Allowance: 2 mg/day
Function: Aids in metabolism of iron, red blood cell
formation and blood circulation. Helps in production of
energy for cells. Copper is an essential mineral required by
the body for bone and connective tissue production, and
for coding specific enzymes that range in function from
eliminating free radicals to producing melanin.

Cause and effect: A deficiency can cause muscle

weakness, cardiomyopathy (enlarged heart) and immune
dysfunction. In long term cases it may even lead to
Hashimoto's disease, a condition in which the body's own
immune system attacks the thyroid. An excess of selenium
can lead to bad breath, diarrhea, and even hair loss.

Cause and effect: Low levels lead to blood circulation

problem. A deficiency in copper can lead to osteoporosis,
joint pain, lowered immunity, and since copper is essential
for the absorption of iron, anemia.

Sources: Brazil nuts, seafood (oysters and crab),

sunflower seeds, mushrooms (crimini) spices.
5) CHROMIUM
Minimum
mcg/day

Recommended

dietary

allowance:

Sources: Seafood (lobster and oysters), kale, shiitake

mushrooms, cashews, sunflower and sesame seeds, wheat
bran, pulses, dried fruit, avocadoes, goat cheese.

50

Function: Chromium is an essential mineral that is not

made by the body and must be obtained from the diet. It is
important in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates.
Chromium stimulates fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis,
which are important for brain function and other body
processes. Chromium is also important in the breakdown
(metabolism) of insulin.

8) IODINE
Minimum
mcg/day

Recommended

Daily

Allowance:

150

Function: Works to make thyroid hormones.

Cause and effect: Diets deficient in iodine increase risk of
retarded brain development in children (cretinism), mental
slowness, high cholesterol, lethargy, fatigue, depression,
weight gain, and goiter: a swelling of the thyroid gland in
the neck. Please note that both too much and too little
iodine can cause hypothyroidism.

Cause and effect: Because most people in the U.S. eat a

diet of refined foods, many people don't get even the
minimal amount of chromium in their diets. Deficiency
symptoms resemble diabetes because the body is unable to
use insulin normally. Symptoms may include fatigue,
increased thirst and urination, and extreme hunger.

Sources: Seafood, seaweed, cod, eggs, potatoes, navy

beans

Sources: Eggs, Wheat Germ, Green Peppers, Apples,

Bananas, Spinach, Molasses, Butter, Black Pepper, Spices.

9) IRON
6) ZINC
Minimum Recommended Daily Allowance: 10-12
mg/day

Minimum Recommended dietary allowance: 12 mg/day

Function: Boosts immunity (especially against lower
respiratory tract infection, cold and cough), reproduction
and the nervous system. Useful in blood clotting. Zinc is
essential for building proteins, triggering enzymes, and

Function: To transport oxygen across the body via RBCs

Cause and effect: Low levels can lead to anaemia,
weakness, change in colour of nails, depression, and

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inattentiveness. Excess iron causes the production of

harmful free radicals and will also interfere with
metabolism, causing damage to organs like the heart and
liver. The body is able to regulate uptake of iron, so
overdose is rare and usually only occurs when people take
supplements. Iron from natural food sources, like the ones
listed below, are considered safe and healthy. While iron is
better absorbed from heme (meat) sources, non-heme
(plant) iron is better regulated causing less damage to the
body.

Function: Helps muscle and nerves function, steadies

heart rhythm, maintains bone strength. Magnesium is also
involved in at least 300 biochemical reactions in the body.

Sources: Clams, mussels, oysters, green leafy vegetables,

eggs, poultry, pumpkin seeds, most nuts, beans, pulses,
and dark chocolate.

Sources: Dark leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, mushroom,

spinach, almonds, mackerel, black-eyed peas, avocado,
banana, kiwi fruit, beans, lentils, avocadoes, dried figs, and
dark chocolate.

Cause and effect: Low levels causes high BP, muscle

spasms, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood
pressure, anxiety disorders, migraines, osteoporosis, and
cerebral infarction. Conversely, consuming too much
magnesium typically causes diarrhea as the body attempts
to excrete the excess.

10) MAGNESIUM
Disclaimer: The Minimum Recommended Daily
Allowance mentioned above is meant for adults between
the ages of 19 to 50

Minimum Recommended Daily Allowance: 10-12

mg/day

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Benefits of Magnesium Are Far Greater

Than Previously Imagined
By Dr Mercola, www.mercola.com
November 5, 2014
As reported by GreenMedInfo1, researchers have now
detected 3,751 magnesium binding sites on human
proteins, indicating that its role in human health and
disease may have been vastly underestimated.

You don't hear much about magnesium, yet an estimated

80 percent of Americans are deficient in this important
mineral and the health consequences of deficiency are
significant. One reason could be because magnesium, like
vitamin D, serves so many functions it's hard to corral.

Magnesium is also found in more than 300 different

enzymes in your body, which are responsible for:
Creation of ATP (adenosine
triphospate), the energy
molecules of your body

Proper formation of bones and

teeth

Relaxation
vessels

of

blood

Action of your heart muscle

Promotion
function

Regulation of
sugar levels

blood

of

proper

bowel

participants. The results showed that dietary magnesium

intake is inversely associated with risk of ischemic stroke.

The Health Benefits of Magnesium have Been Vastly

Underestimated

But its role in human health appears to be far more

complex than previously thought, andlike vitamin D
its benefits may be more far-reaching than we've imagined.
GreenMedInfo.com's database project has indexed over
100 health benefits of magnesium so far, including
therapeutic benefits for:

A number of studies have previously shown magnesium

can benefit your blood pressure and help prevent sudden
cardiac arrest, heart attack, and stroke. For example, one
meta-analysis published earlier this year in the American
Journal of Clinical Nutrition2 looked at a total of seven
studies collectively covering more than 240,000
Fibromyalgia

Atrial fibrillation

Type 2 diabetes

Premenstrual
syndrome

Cardiovascular
disease

Migraine

Aging

Mortality

being called, adds additional complexity to

the picture, indicating that the presence or
absence of adequate levels of this basic
mineral may epigenetically alter the
expression and behavior of the proteins in
our body, thereby altering the course of
both health and disease."

According to the featured report3:

"The proteome, or entire set of proteins
expressed by the human genome, contains
well over 100,000 distinct protein
structures, despite the fact that there are
believed to be only 20,300 protein-coding
genes in the human genome. The
discovery of the "magneseome," as its

117

Magnesium also plays a role in your body's detoxification

processes and therefore is important for helping to prevent
damage from environmental chemicals, heavy metals and
other toxins. Even glutathione, your body's most powerful
antioxidant that has even been called "the master
antioxidant," requires magnesium for its synthesis.
Signs of Magnesium Deficiency

percent of magnesium in your body is distributed in your

blood, making a simple sample of magnesium from a
blood test highly inaccurate. Other tests that your doctor
can use to evaluate your magnesium status include a 24hour urine test, or a sublingual epithelial test. Still, these
can only give you an estimation of your levels, and doctors
typically need to evaluate them in conjunction with the
symptoms you exhibit.

There's no lab test that will give you a truly accurate

reading of the magnesium status in your tissues. Only one

An ongoing magnesium deficiency can lead to more

serious symptoms, including:

Numbness and tingling

Muscle contractions and cramps

Seizures

Personality changes

Abnormal heart rhythms

Coronary spasms

With that in mind, some early signs of magnesium

deficiency to keep an eye out for include:

In many ways chlorophyll is the plant's version of our

hemoglobin as they share a similar structure but have
magnesium plugged in the middle rather than iron. Green
leafy vegetables like spinach and Swiss chard are excellent
sources of magnesium, as are some beans, nuts and seeds,
like almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and sesame
seeds. Avocados are also a good source. Juicing your
vegetables is an excellent option to ensure you're getting
enough of them in your diet.

Loss of appetite
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue and weakness

One of the Best Ways to Optimize Your Magnesium

Levels

In order to ensure you're getting enough, you first need to

be sure you're eating a varied, whole-food diet like the one
described in my nutrition plan. But there are other factors
too, that can make you more prone to magnesium
deficiency, including the ailments listed below. If any of
these conditions apply to you, you may want to take extra
precautions to make sure you're getting a sufficient amount
of magnesium in your diet, or, if needed, from a
magnesium supplement, in order to avoid magnesium
deficiency.

If you suspect you are low in magnesium one of the best

ways to consume this mineral is through organically bound
magnesium, found in whole foods. As explained in the
featured article:
"Chlorophyll, which enables plants to
capture solar energy and convert it into
metabolic energy, has a magnesium atom
at its center. Without magnesium, in fact,
plants could not utilize the sun's light
energy. "
An unhealthy digestive system, which impairs your body's ability to
absorb magnesium (Crohn's disease, leaky gut, etc.)

Alcoholism -- up to 60 percent of alcoholics have low blood levels

of magnesium4

Unhealthy kidneys, which contribute to excessive loss of

magnesium in urine

Age -- older adults are more likely to be magnesium deficient

because absorption decreases with age and the elderly are more
likely to take medications that can interfere with absorption

Diabetes, especially if it's poorly controlled, leading increased

magnesium loss in urine

Certain medications -- diuretics, antibiotics and medications used

to treat cancer can all result in magnesium deficiency

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may have more magnesium, as most fertilizer used on

conventional farms relies heavily on nitrogen,
phosphorous, and potassium instead of magnesium.

Foods with the Highest Amounts of Magnesium

Most people can keep their levels in the healthy range
without resorting to supplements, simply by eating a varied
diet, including plenty of dark-green leafy vegetables. One
important point to mention though is that the levels of
magnesium in your food are dependent on the levels of
magnesium in the soil where they're grown. Organic foods

The featured article lists more than 20 specific foods that

are exceptionally high in magnesium, including the
following (for the full list, please see the original report 5).
All portions are listed equate to 100 grams, or just over
three ounces:

Seaweed, agar, dried (770 mg)

Spices, basil, dried (422 mg)

Spice, coriander leaf, dried (694 mg)

Flaxseed (392 mg)

Dried pumpkin seeds (535 mg)

Almond butter (303 mg)

Cocoa, dry powder, unsweetened (499 mg)

Whey, sweet, dried (176 mg)

Courtesy of the fact that magnesium must be bound to

another substance. There's simply no such thing as a 100%
magnesium supplement. The substance used in any given
supplement combination can affect the absorption and
bioavailability of the magnesium, and may provide slightly
different, or targeted, health benefits:

Different Types of Magnesium Supplements

If for whatever reason you decide you need a supplement,
be aware that there are a wide variety of magnesium
supplements on the market, which includes Magnesium
glycinate, Magnesium carbonate, and Magnesium citrate.
Magnesium glycinate is a chelated form of magnesium
that tends to provide the highest levels of absorption
and bioavailability and is typically considered ideal for
those who are trying to correct a deficiency

Magnesium oxide is a non-chelated type of magnesium, bound to an organic

acid or a fatty acid. Contains 60 percent magnesium, and has stool softening
properties

Magnesium chloride / Magnesium lactate contain only

12 percent magnesium, but has better absorption than
others, such as magnesium oxide, which contains five
times more magnesium

Magnesium sulfate / Magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia) are

typically used as a laxative. Be aware that it's easy to overdose on these, so
ONLY take as directed

Magnesium carbonate, which has antacid properties,

contains 45 percent magnesium

Magnesium taurate contains a combination of magnesium and taurine, an

amino acid. Together, they tend to provide a calming effect on your body and
mind

Magnesium citrate is magnesium with citric acid, which

has laxative properties

Magnesium threonate is a newer, emerging type of magnesium supplement

that appears promising, primarily due to its superior ability to penetrate the
mitochondrial membrane, and may be the best magnesium supplement on

119

the market

for every 1,000 IU's of vitamin D you take, you may

benefit from about 100 micrograms of K2, and perhaps as
much as 150-200 micrograms (mcg). The latest vitamin D
dosing recommendations, which call for about 8,000 IU's
of vitamin D3 per day if you're an adult, means you'd need
in the neighborhood of 800 to 1,000 micrograms (0.8 to 1
milligram/mg) of vitamin K2.

Balance Your Magnesium with Calcium, Vitamin K2

and D
One of the major benefits of getting your nutrients from a
varied whole food diet is that you're far less likely to end
up with too much of one nutrient at the expense of others.
Foods in general contain all the cofactors and needed conutrients in the proper amounts for optimal health, which
takes out the guess work. When you're using supplements,
you need to become a bit more savvy about how nutrients
influence and synergistically affect each other.

Now, getting back to magnesium...

Magnesium may actually be more important than calcium
if you are going to consider supplementing. However,
maintaining an appropriate calcium-to-magnesium ratio is
important regardless. Research on the paleolithic or
caveman diet has shown that the ratio of calcium to
magnesium in the diet that our bodies evolved to eat is 1to-16. Americans in general tend to have a higher calciumto-magnesium ratio in their diet, averaging about 3.5-to-1.

For example, it's important to maintain the proper balance

between magnesium, calcium, vitamin K2, and vitamin D.
Lack of balance between these nutrients is why calcium
supplements have become associated with increased risk of
heart attacks and stroke, and why some people experience
vitamin D toxicity.

Magnesium will also help keep calcium in your cells so

they can do their job better. In many ways it serves as
nutritional version of the highly effective class of drugs
called calcium channel blockers, used in the treatment of
high blood pressure, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms.
Magnesium and vitamin K2 also complement each other,
as magnesium helps lower blood pressure, which is an
important component of heart disease.

Part of the explanation for these adverse side effects is that

vitamin K2 keeps calcium in its appropriate place. If you're
K2 deficient, added calcium can cause more problems than
it solves, by accumulating in the wrong places. Similarly,
if you opt for oral vitamin D, you need to also consume
it in your food or take supplemental vitamin K2. Taking
mega doses of vitamin D supplements without sufficient
amounts of K2 can lead to vitamin D toxicity symptoms,
which includes inappropriate calcification.

So, all in all, anytime you're taking any of the following:

magnesium, calcium, vitamin D3 or vitamin K2, you need
to take all the others into consideration as well, since these
all work synergistically with each other.

While the ideal or optimal ratios between vitamin D and

vitamin K2 have yet to be elucidated, Dr. Kate RheaumeBleue (whom I've interviewed on this topic) suggests that

120

Virgin Coconut Oil Like Mothers Milk

November 8, 2014
in artery clogs is unsaturated. The artery clogging fats
are not animal fats but vegetable oils.
Mary Enig, PhD, a nutritionist who reviews research on
and writes articles about the nutritional aspects of fats
sates,
Those who have most actively promoted
the use of polyunsaturated vegetable oils
as part of a Prudent Diet are well aware of
their dangers. In 1971, William B. Kannel,
former director of the Framingham study,
warned against including too many
polyunsaturates in the diet. A year earlier,
Dr. William Connor of the American Heart
Association issued a similar warning, and
Frederick Stare reviewed an article which
reported that the use of polyunsaturated
oils caused an increase in breast tumors.
And Kritchevsky, way back in 1969,
discovered that the use of corn oil caused
an increase in atherosclerosis.

Virgin Coconut Oil was the most popular household oil in

US until the disruption of its supply during the 1930s and
1940s. The supply cutoff provided the vegetable oil
industry an opportunity to form a joint front along with the
Healthcare Industry, and launch a campaign to demonize
the coconut oil and promote vegetable oils as substitute for
it.
While the oil industry was able to take over almost the
entire market share, the healthcare industry benefited with
a steady stream of customers unhealthy vegetable oils,
especially hydrogenated oils and trans fats, contributed in
increasing all types of chronic diseases along with a hefty
mark up in the waistline of the population.

Coconut Oil A Healthy Food

Coconut Oil is a superbly nutritious and safe food that not
only provides energy and nutrients by itself, but also by
promoting the absorption of other foods, particularly fatsoluble vitamins (A, D, E and K) and minerals. While it is
a food, it is also an immune booster and a tonic. It
supports bodys defense mechanism and restores structural
integrity of the cells. It guards the body against the attack
of viruses, bacteria, yeasts, fungi, protozoa and worms. It
is an antibody with the widest spectrum of action of all
antipathogens.

As the health conscious people are becoming aware of the

benefit of virgin coconut oil, the healthcare industry is
getting nervous Its double-digit growth must go on
unhindered. It has battalions of health professionals,
authors and magicians available to attack and demonized
the coconut oil. Lately, the vested interests have prompted
the doctor of the Land-of-Oz to also join the smear
campaign against the coconut oil.
Dr. OZ conveniently forgot to mention that the past
researches
cited
were
carried
out
on
the
hydrogenated coconut oil and not on virgin coconut oil
any oil that is hydrogenated is hazardous to health.

It is an immunoregulator and a function regulator. It

enhances bodys capacity to work better, metabolize better,
defend better and heal better. It has therapeutic effect in
supporting the body against the debilitating diseases like
diabetes, asthma, atherosclerosis, hypertension, arthritis,
Alzheimers, Crohns and cancer.

Touted Vegetable Oils Not Healthy

The Vegetable oils like corn, soy, safflower, sunflower and
canola, are absolutely the worst oils they cause havoc to
human body, and become more toxic when heated. One
study reported that these polyunsaturated oils turn to a
varnish like substance in the intestines. A study by a
plastic surgeon found that women who consumed mostly
vegetable oils had far more wrinkles than those who used
traditional animal fats. A 1994 study appearing in
the Lancet showed that almost three quarters of the fat

Coconut oil is unique in its structural make-up due to its

medium chain fatty acids (MCFAs) the closest to those
found in human breast milk that nature provides. Coconut
oil is natures richest source of these healthy MCFAs
comprising more than 65% of the fat. The medium chain
fatty acids in coconut oil are more easily digested than fats
found in most common vegetable or seed oils, which are
comprised of long chain fatty acids (LCFAs).

121

These LCFAs found in common oils are difficult for the

body to break down, as they must be combined with
lipoproteins that require special enzymes for digestion.
Naturally, these LCFAs put more strain on the pancreas,
the liver and the entire digestive system.

Coconut oil kills viruses that cause influenza, measles,

hepatitis, herpes, etc. It also kills bacteria that cause ulcers,
throat infections, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and
gonorrhea, etc. Coconut oil is also effective on fungi and
yeast that cause candidiasis, ringworm, athletes foot, etc.
Coconut oil plays an instrumental role in reducing viral
susceptibility of people suffering from HIV and cancer.

LCFAs are predominantly stored in the body as fat and, as

such, can be deposited within arteries in lipid forms such
as cholesterol. They nearly always go to fat storage in the
body and promote fattening.

Enhanced Metabolism and Energy: MCFAs in Coconut

oil enhances bodys metabolism and, hence, it helps in
taking off excessive weight while providing more energy
to body. It is also easy to digest and it helps in healthy
functioning of the thyroid and enzymes systems and
removes stress on pancreases and liver. It is a remedy for
treating pancreatitis.

But, on the other hand, the MCFAs in coconut oil are

health promoting. They do not require lipoproteins or
special enzymes to be utilized effectively by the body.
Hence, they are easily digested thus, putting less strain on
the digestive system.

It also helps in boosting energy and endurance, and

enhances the performance of athletes. For this reason,
coconut oil is preferred by athletes and body builders and
by those who are dieting.

MCFAs are processed directly in the liver and easily

converted into energy. There is therefore less strain on the
liver, pancreas and digestive system and, being easily
digested, they also tend to improve the absorption of other
nutrients.

Diabetes: Coconut oil is a natural remedy in controlling

blood sugar. It improves the secretion of insulin and also
helps in effective utilization of blood glucose, thereby
preventing and treating diabetes.

MCFAs in coconut oil help stimulate bodys metabolism,

leading to weight loss while providing more energy.
The long list of benefits of coconut oil can be attributed to
the presence of Lauric Acid, which forms more than 50%
of the

Liver, Kidney and Gall Bladder Health: MCFAs in

coconut oil reduce workload on the liver and support its
function by preventing accumulation of fat. Coconut oil
also helps in preventing kidney and gall bladder diseases.
It is a remedy in dissolving kidney stones.

MCFAs, and Capric Acid, Caprylic Acid, Myristic Acid,

Oleic acid and Palmitic. Lauric acid is what gives the
coconut oil its mothers milk like protective qualities.

Bone Health: Coconut oil improves the ability of our body

to absorb the needed minerals like calcium and
magnesium, which are necessary for development and
maintaining the density of bones. Coconut oil is very
useful in preventing osteoporosis in women in their
advanced age.

The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin the actual compound responsible for helping to strengthen
the immune system. It helps in dealing with viruses and
bacteria that cause diseases such as herpes, influenza,
cytomegalovirus, and AIDS. It provides defense against
harmful bacteria such as listeria monocytogenes and
heliobacter pylori, and harmful protozoa such as giardia
lamblia.

Hair Health: Coconut oil is one of the best natural

nutrition for hair. It provides the essential proteins required
for nourishing damaged hair, helps in healthy growth of
hair and gives a shinny luster. Massage head twice a week
and leave overnight to for the best befit.

Specific Benefits and Applications of Virgin Coconut

Oil

Skin Care: Coconut oil is an excellent nourishing

ointment for the skin as well. It acts as an effective
moisturizer on all types of skins. It is safe and nonallergenic. It prevents skin damage and wrinkling due to
age and environment. It helps in healing and repairing the
scar tissues and in treating skin problems like psoriasis,
dermatitis, eczema and other skin infections.

Heart Diseases: Coconut oil is highly beneficial for the

cardio vascular system. It helps in strengthening the hearts
muscular structures. MCFAs in coconut oil help in
preventing various heart problems including arterial plaque
and high blood pressure.
Immune System: With heavy concentration of Lauric
Acid, Capric acid and Caprylic acid, which have
antifungal, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antiviral
properties, coconut oil strengthens the immune system.
Monolaurin, converted by the human body from the lauric
acid, helps in dealing with viruses and bacteria causing
many debilitating infectious diseases.

Healing Wounds & Burns: Coconut Oil, cold pressed

from Fresh Coconuts, has amazing healing properties. It
promotes fast healing and recovery from cuts and burns,
provides protection against fungi, bacteria and viruses, and
speeds up the healing process by repairing the damaged

122

tissues. I have recommended it to people I work with, and

have personally applied it on the infectious wounds and
burns which were not responding to conventional drugs
and antiseptic creams Amazing to see the fast healing
and recovery. For the best result, I recommend mixing 1
tea spoon of Turmeric powder with 1 oz of coconut oil.

child, add one-half to two teaspoon of virgin coconut oil a

day to their food.
Proven Applications: Mix 2-teaspoon full of Turmeric
Powder in half cup of coconut oil and 1-tablespoon
of Virgin Olive Oil and keep refrigerated in a tight jar for
application on wounds and burns (no need to apply on
fresh minor cuts) to accelerate the healing and prevent
infection. Coconut oil helps heal the scar tissues (i.e. no
scar marks).

Note: All these benefit are related to the Virgin Coconut

Oil. Commercially processed or hydrogenated oil is not
only deprived of any nutrition, it is hazardous for human
body.

This mix is also fantastic for application as

Suppositories (give shape when somewhat frozen and let
it harden in the freezer) to heal rectal swelling, discomfort
and hemorrhoids Be aware of the turmeric color, though.

Suggestions: I recommend incorporating 2-3 tablespoon

of virgin coconut oil (uncooked and unheated) daily in
your diet It tastes delicious on toast, rice and lentils. It
can be safely given to babies. Depending on the age of the

123

22 Powerful Uses Of Frankincense Essential Oil

By Gaye Levy
Friday, November 21, 2014
of gout, and after applying Frank and coconut oil 4
times daily, the pain was all but gone within three days.

When it comes to essential oils, I believe practical and

anecdotal uses are those that can be relied upon to deliver
the best results. And so it is with one of the most powerful
and versatile oils available, Frankincense.

4.

Foster strong immune system. The antiseptic

properties of Frankincense make it ideal for supporting
a strong immune system. Massage a few drops into
the balls of your feet every day. In addition, try
diffusing it throughout your home and especially in the
bedroom at night. This is especially good during cold
and flu season.

5.
Many know of Frankincense as one of the plant-derived
treasures, along with myrrh, given to the newborn Jesus in
the New Testament. Its use in a religious context goes
beyond Christianity, however. According to the Hebrew
Bible, Frankincense and Myrrh were components of the
holy incense ritually burned in Jerusalems sacred temples
during ancient times.

Stress and anxiety management. Apply a drop at the

temples to relieve stress and evoke a feeling of
calmness. You can also rub a few drops mixed in a
carrier oil on the back of the neck when you feel
anxious. Something else you can do is simply inhale
the aroma of the oil by rubbing a drop or two between
the palms of your hands then bringing them up to your
nose and taking a deep breath.

6.

Frankincense is derived from the sap from a specific

variety of trees in the genus Boswelia. Harvests are done
at various times and the more opaque resins are considered
to be the best quality.

Mitigate depression and feelings of helplessness.

Apply a few drops to the back of the neck and
especially around the brain stem two or more times
daily.

7.

Anti-aging. None of us likes to look old. Dabbing

Frankincense on fine lines and wrinkles will make them
less noticeable. A 50/50 blend with a carrier oil
(fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil) in a glass
roller ball is recommended. You can also add a drop of
Frank to your daily moisturizer.

8.

Replacement for NSAIDS/Advil. Frankincense is a

powerful anti-inflammatory and can be used to relieve
conditions where pain and inflammation are present.

9.

Colds and congestion. Put up to six drops in a sink

or bowl filled with very hot water then bend over the
sink with a towel draped over your head to contain the
steam. Breathe in the vapors for at least five minutes,
adding more hot water as needed. Be careful not to
scald yourself; the water should be hot, not boiling.

I do not say this lightly because, truth be told, I initially

shunned Frankincense, or Frank as it is called, because I
thought it both exotic and expensive. Slowly, though, I
began to recognize its value especially when it comes to
skin and wound care and its remarkable ability to relive
inflammation and pain.
What is Frankincense?

22 Powerful Uses of Frankincense for Health, Wellness,

and Healing
The following uses of Frankincense are based upon my
own personal experience or on the experience and
knowledge of trusted colleagues in the online community.
In going through this list, I am sure that you will agree that
Frankincense deserves its reputation as the King of Oils.
1.

Heal wounds from cuts, scrapes, and burns. For

even greater benefit, apply Lavender essential oil first
then layer Frankincense on top. The combination of
these two oils together is amazing when it comes to
healing wounds.

2.

Reduce and fade scars. Continue use after the

wound has healed to reduce and fade scarring.

3.

Relieve the symptoms of gout. Mixed 50/50 with a

carrier oil, Frankincense has been known to relieve the
painful symptoms of gout. I know this is true because
during our recent vacation, my husband had a flare-up

10. Relieve itching. A single drop applied to the affected

area will bring immediate relief.
11. Relieve arthritis pain and swelling. Mix with a carrier
(such a plain salve or DIY healing salve) and rub into

124

aching joints at night before bed and throughout the

day.

22. Enhance the efficacy of other essential oils. The

best is saved for last. Layer Frankincense over other
essential oil to enhance that oils properties and drive
the oils deeper into the cells. This layering will deliver
amazing results for those times when you need to kick
it up a notch.

12. Clear up cystic acne. Dab one drop on stubborn

spots of cystic acne morning and night. According to
my friend Wendy at Moms Essential Oils, this
treatment cleared things up for her son in just two or
three applications!

Essential Oils and You

13. Relaxation. Add 5 or 6 drops to a diffuser and breathe

in the oil to open the senses and create a calming
atmosphere. Perfect for quiet meditation.

Essential oils are adaptive, meaning they adapt to your

unique body chemistry. What this means is that sometimes
an oil will work for you right away and sometimes you
have to be consistent and use it over a period of days to see
results. And, in some cases, a particular oil may not work
for you at all.

14. Remove moles, skin tags, and warts. Apply a single

drop 3 or 4 times a day until gone. Note that if the
mole is dark and ragged around the edges and/or
growing quickly, see your healthcare professional for
an assessment and possible treatment.

Finding the right combination of oil or oils may take some

trial and error. In my own experience, I have found that
the basics such as lavender, peppermint, oregano, lemon,
melaleuca (tea tree) and rosemary work for me without
fail, every time. Other, more complex blends may take a
while but when they kick in, the carry a punch. And
always, Frankincense seems to make every oil I use more
effective sooner.

15. Reduce swelling from insect bites. A single drop

dabbed on an insect bite will reduce the swelling and
stop the itching.
16. Enhance vision. I have seen many references to
studies that indicate that Frankincense will improve
vision and possibly eliminate the need for reading
glasses. I could not find a single study myself,
however. That said, my personal experience tells me
that Frank will indeed improve vision and if my latest
test results are accurate, using Frankincense along my
optical bone and under my eye has halted, for now, the
progression of glaucoma. Please take care not to get
any oil in the eye itself. In this case, less is more.

Practical Concerns
You will notice that I frequently mention the use of a
carrier oil. In most cases, mixing Frankincense with a
carrier (such as coconut oil or a salve) will make the
application easier. In addition, you will be saving money
because you will be diluting the oil 50/50. Be cautious,
though, and ensure that the Frankincense you purchase is
100% essential oil and not pre-diluted. You will want
100% pure Frankincense so that you can dilute, or not,
yourself.

17. Remove musty odors. Place a couple of drops in a

small dish of water and the room will take on a much
fresher smell.
18. Restless leg syndrome. Apply 2 drops Frankincense
with carrier oil to the bottom of each foot and massage
each night to relieve restless leg syndrome.

I like to dilute 50/50 in a roller ball bottle (such as these or

these). For that I use fractionated coconut oil which is in
liquid form. If you see the term FCO used, it is an
acronym for fractionated coconut oil.

19. Oral Health: Useful as preventative measure against

oral health problems such as bad breath, toothaches,
cavities, canker sores, and other infections. Try mixing
with baking soda and coconut oil to make your own
toothpaste.

Coconut oil is a wondrous substance. To learn more, be

sure to read Every Prepper Needs Coconut Oil in Their
Pantry. Fair warning though, you will fall in love with this
stuff.

20. Promote sleep and prevent insomnia. Diffuse

Frankincense at bedtime to help you slow down your
breathing and relieve nervous tension and anxiety.
You will sleep like a baby!

Although not known for side effects, Frankincense

essential oil should not be used during pregnancy unless
cleared in advance with your healthcare provider.
Likewise, always dilute with a carrier oil when used on
children.

21. Boost the healing power of homemade remedies

and beauty products. JoAnn from God, Family,
Country, Love adds a few drops of Frankincense to DIY
salves, lip balms, and roller balls. It boosts the power
of everything else! (More about that in #22 below.)

Where to Purchase Frankincense

Frankincense essential oil is widely sold both online and in
health food stores. I personally purchase therapeutic grade
Frankincense from Spark Naturals. Their quality standards

125

are high and because they sell direct and not through a
membership or MLM program, their prices are affordable.

Reference and I use it almost daily. If you can afford it, I

highly recommend that you add this desk reference to your
survival library. Although it promotes another brand of
oils, the information is presented in an unbiased manner
and there is never a sales pitch one way or another.

In addition to the individual oil, Frankincense is a

component of the Health and Wellness Kit. This kit
includes 10 oils and oil blends at a highly discounted price
and shipping in free. This is the kit I include in my bugout bag.

Going forward, I plan to continue to share information on

additional, less common, essential oils. There are dozens
of oils out there and I am convinced that we can all
maintain our health and wellness during times of crisis
with the proper selection of essential oils in our first aid
kits.

Spark Naturals also carries a number of supporting carrier

oils as well as accessories such as roller ball bottles,
dropper tops and more. Furthermore, you can use the code
BACKDOORSURVIVAL to get a 10% discount off your
entire order,

Be well and stay safe!

Enjoy your next adventure through common sense and
thoughtful preparation!

The Final Word

It was over a year ago that I tossed two drawers full of
OTC remedies into a box in favor of essential oils. To this
day, I am still learning how to use the various oils to
improve my health and to remedy everyday aches and
pains. You might say that essential oils are my Band-Aid
of choice!

Gaye started Backdoor Survival to share her angst and

concern about our deteriorating economy and its impact
on ordinary, middle-class folks. She also wanted to
become a prepper of the highest order and to share her
knowledge as she learned it along the way. She considers
her sharing of knowledge her way of giving back and as
always, we at Natural Blaze are grateful for her
contributions.

My own education continues. A few months back I

purchased a big fat book entitled Essential Oils Desk
.

126

Lime Juice Could Save 100s Of

Thousands Of Lives Each Year
Alice
Tuesday 2 December 2014
While billions of dollars are poured into research and
development for pharmaceutical drugs, the humble lime
has been proven to mitigate and even cure diseases that
cause millions to suffer and hundreds of thousands to die
each year worldwide.
The lime is best know for its role in key lime pie and
margaritas, but did you know it possesses remarkable
healing properties as well?

An impressive array of research on lime juice from the

National Library of Medicine indicates that it could
either cure or greatly accelerate healing time from a variety
of life-threatening illnesses including:

Sickle cell anemia (SCA): According to the CDC,

SCA afflicts about 95,000 Americans and is diagnosed
in 1 in every 500,000 African-American births. A
hereditary blood disorder, SCA is characterized by an
abnormality in the oxygen-carrying hemoglobin
molecule in red blood cells. A clinical trial on lime juice
was recently found to reduce painful episodes (50.0%
lime juice intervention versus 92.7% control); febrile
illness (46.6% lime juice intervention versus 87.3%
control) and hospital admission rate (3.4% lime juice
intervention versus 34.5% control) for sickle cell
anemia in children.
Malaria: Malaria is a mosquito-borne parasitic disease,
which the WHO estimates causes 219 million of illness

resulting in 660,000 deaths each year. A wide range of

highly toxic drugs are used to treat the disease, but a
recent study found that lime juice greatly increased
malarial clearance when combined with standard drug
therapy.[1] They concluded: lime juice when used
with the appropriate antimalarial may enhance malaria
parasite clearance especially in those with
uncomplicated malaria.
Bacterial Agents In Food: A recent study found that
the popular food known as ceviche, naturally containing
pathogenic agents from fish, could be completely
sanitized with lime juice. Both Vibrio parahaemolyticus
and Salmonella enterica (two common causes of food
poisoning) were all reduced to below detection limits
through the addition of lime extract.[2]
Disinfecting water: Lime has been found to enhance
the disinfection of water, by both killing norovirus as
well as Escherichia coli.[3] Lime has also been found to
kill the cholera pathogen, which is believed to affect 3
5 million people and causes 100,000130,000 deaths a
year as of 2010.[4]
Killing pancreatic cancer: Pancreatic cancer is a
notoriously difficult to treat type of cancer. Lime juice
was found to induce programmed cell death in
pancreatic cancer cells.[5]
Stopping Smoking: Likely the most preventable cause
of death on this planet, a clinical trial comparing
nicotine gum to lime juice extract found Fresh lime
can be used effectively as a smoking cessation aid.[6]

Reference(s):
[1] S A Adegoke, O A Oyelami, O S Olatunya, L A Adeyemi. Effects of lime juice on malaria parasite clearance. Phytother Res. 2011 Oct ;25(10):154750. Epub 2011 Mar 17. PMID:21413089
[2] Prateek Mathurand, Donald W Schaffner. Effect of lime juice on Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Salmonella enterica inactivation during the
preparation of the raw fish dish ceviche. J Food Prot. 2013 Jun ;76(6):1027-30. PMID: 23726199
[3] Prateek Mathurand, Donald W Schaffner. Effect of lime juice on Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Salmonella enterica inactivation during the
preparation of the raw fish dish ceviche. J Food Prot. 2013 Jun ;76(6):1027-30. PMID: 23726199
[4] A Rodrigues, A Sandstrm, T C, H Steinsland, H Jensen, P Aaby. Protection from cholera by adding lime juice to food results from community
and laboratory studies in Guinea-Bissau, West Africa. Trop Med Int Health. 2000 Jun;5(6):418-22. PMID: 10929141
[5] Jaiprakash R Patil, K N Chidambara Murthy, G K Jayaprakasha, Mahadev B Chetti, Bhimanagouda S Patil. Bioactive compounds from Mexican lime (
Citrus aurantifolia ) juice induce apoptosis in human pancreatic cells. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2005 Feb 15;21(4):435-44.PMID: 19919125
[6] Suthat Rungruanghiranya, Chatchai Ekpanyaskul, Chanin Sakulisariyaporn, Prapada Watcharanat, Kunyanit Akkalakulawas. Efficacy of fresh lime for
smoking cessation. J Med Assoc Thai.2012 Dec ;95 Suppl 12:S76-82. PMID: 23513469

127

Surprising Finding:
Gut Microbes Make Dark Chocolate Healthy
By Dr. Mercola
December 08, 2014
A considerable number of studies are in agreement that
dark chocolate has pronounced health benefits1provided
you eat it in moderation (one to two ounces is
recommended by some researchers2).

among the most anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich

foods known to mankind.
Interestingly, recent research has shed new light on the
mechanism that makes cocoa powder (and dark chocolate)
so beneficial for your heart and blood vessels. These
benefits, it turns out, are largely dependent on the action of
beneficial bacteria in your gut.

The same cannot be said for milk chocolate, however.

There's a big difference between your average chocolate
bar and what could be referred to as "therapeutic"
chocolate. To understand this better, here are some
definitions:

Gut Microbes Unlock

Inflammatory Powers

Cacao: Refers to the plant Theobroma cacao,

cultivated for its seeds, known as cacao beans or
cocoa beans.

Cocoa butter: The fat component of the cacao seed

Chocolate: The solid food or candy made from a

preparation of cacao seeds (typically roasted). If the
cacao seeds are not roasted, then you have "raw
chocolate," which is also typically sweetened.

Anti-

While it's known that cocoa powder is rich in potent

antioxidants called polyphenols, it was thought that these
molecules were poorly digested and absorbed due to their
large size.

Cocoa: Refers to the powder made from roasted,

husked, and ground cacao seeds, from which most of
the fat has been removed

Chocolate's

Research4, 5, 6 presented at the National Meeting &

Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS)
claims to have unraveled the precise reason why dark
chocolate is so beneficial.

Cacao is naturally high in antioxidants and other

natural compounds that are beneficial for
cardiovascular health and weight management. In all,
about 40 distinct health benefits3 have been linked to
dark chocolate

Dark

Researchers have now discovered that certain bacteria in

your gut actually break down and ferment the components
in dark chocolate, turning them into absorbable antiinflammatory compounds that benefit your health.
In
particular,
beneficial
microbes
including
Bifidobacterium and lactic acid bacteria like to "feast" on
cocoa, according to the researchers. The microbes also
break down the fiber found in cocoa powder, turning it into
highly absorbable short fatty acid chains that promote
satiety.

Generally speaking, the darker the chocolate, the

higher the antioxidant content. Milk chocolate has few if
any health benefits, as it contains limited amounts of
cacao

The study, which involved three cocoa powders tested in a

model digestive tract, may help explain why chocolate has
been found to be so good for your heart, as the antiinflammatory compounds may reduce inflammation of
cardiovascular tissue. The study's lead author explained:

Knowing the meaning of these terms is important, because

if you think you're improving your health by eating typical
milk chocolate candies, you're fooling yourself.

"[W]e found that the fiber is fermented and

the large polyphenolic polymers are
metabolized to smaller molecules, which
are more easily absorbed.

Cocoa and cacao is typically quite bitter, and rarely

fancied by self-proclaimed chocolate lovers, who are really
craving the sugar added to most chocolate bars and candy.

These smaller polymers exhibit antiinflammatory activity When these

compounds are absorbed by the body, they

That said, certain types of dark chocolate, as well as raw

cocoa powder and cacao, are powerful superfoods, ranking

128

lessen the inflammation of cardiovascular

tissue, reducing the long-term risk of
stroke."

Research Supports Raw Cacao for Cardiovascular

Health
As mentioned, a number of previous studies have found
that dark unprocessed raw cacao helps reduce your risk for
cardiometabolic disorders, including:

Previous research7 has also shown that eating dark

chocolate may help promote gut health by selectively
feeding beneficial bacteria, as opposed to harmful ones. It
essentially acts as a probiotic, thereby promoting a
healthier gut microbiome.
Coronary heart disease Stroke
Hypertension

Diabetes

Metabolic syndrome

Elevated fasting glucose and triglycerides High cholesterol Abdominal obesity

One meta-analysis8 published in 2011 found that those

who ate the highest amounts of dark chocolate had a 37
percent reduced risk for cardiovascular disease and a 29
percent lower risk for stroke, compared to those who
consumed the least.

protects your heart by relaxing your blood vessels and

thereby lowering your blood pressure.
However, nitric oxide production produces adverse
reactions and toxic metabolites, which must be neutralized
by your body so they don't result in oxidative damage to
your blood vessel lining (by peroxynitrite oxidation and
nitration reactions). Cocoa polyphenols protect your body
from these metabolites and help counter the typical agerelated decline in nitric oxide production.11

Small amounts of dark chocolate may also reduce your risk

of heart attack because, like aspirin, it has a biochemical
effect that reduces the clumping of platelets that causes
blood to clot. Platelet clumping can be fatal if a clot forms
and blocks a blood vessel, causing a heart attack.

Other Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

Researchers also discovered that a flavonoid compound in
dark chocolate called epicatechin may protect your brain
after a stroke by increasing cellular signals that shield
nerve cells from damage.9

Besides antioxidants, chocolate also contains other potent

plant compounds, including anandamide, named after the
Sanskrit word for "bliss," which is a neurotransmitter in
the brain that temporarily blocks feelings of pain and
anxiety.

A stroke is similar to a heart attack, but occurs when the

blood supply to your brain becomes blocked or reduced, as
opposed to blocking the blood supply to your heart.

Caffeine and theobromine in chocolate have been shown to

produce higher levels of physical energy and mental
alertness, and there are likely many more healthy chocolate
compounds that have yet to be discovered. The following
table highlights just some of the benefits conferred by the
cocoa bean.12

Another way raw dark chocolate may provide

cardiovascular benefit is by assisting with nitric oxide
metabolism, as described by Ori Hofmekler.10 Nitric oxide

Anti-inflammatory

Anti-carcinogenic

Anti-diabetic and anti- Reduction

in
obesity
reactive protein
Neuroprotective

Anti-thrombotic, including improving endothelial function

C- Cardioprotective, including lowering blood pressure, Improved liver function for

improving lipid profile, and helping prevent atrial fibrillation those with cirrhosis

Improves
gastrointestinal flora

Slows progression of Improves

periodontitis
endurance

Lowers Alzheimer's risk

exercise

Reduces stress hormones

Reduces
symptoms
glaucoma and cataracts

of

May help extend lifespan

Protects against preeclampsia

in pregnant women
health products, a recent investigation14 revealed there's a
wide range of quality when it comes to chocolate, and
rarely can you tell quality by the label alone. Some brands
tested did indeed have high levels of antioxidants, but

Determining Quality Can Be Tricky...

According to Tod Cooperman,13 president of
ConsumerLab.com, which performs independent tests on

129

fructose can lead to elevated blood pressure, as a

result of nitric oxide suppression. It also promotes
insulin resistance, which is at the heart of virtually all
chronic disease.

others did not. Some brands had three times the

concentration of flavanols compared to others, and one
chocolate bar marked 85 percent flavanols actually
contained less of the antioxidant than a bar labeled 72
percent.
As reported by Times,15 this kind of discrepancy is due to
the fact that "the percentage is a sum of cocoa liquor,
cocoa powder and cocoa butterand cocoa butter does not
contain flavanols." The labels of some brands, however,
were very accurate, including Ghirardelli and Endangered
Species. Interestingly, Consumer Labs also found that dark
chocolate bars may be a safer choice over raw cacao
powder, as many of the latter were found to be
contaminated with heavy metals.
That said, the closer your cocoa is to its natural raw state,
the higher its nutritional value. To avoid contamination
issues, I recommend looking for fair traded organic
varieties. Ideally, your chocolate or cocoa should also be
consumed raw (cacao). When selecting a chocolate bar,
you can optimize its nutritional value by looking for higher
cacao and lower sugar content.

Genetically engineered cocoa beans: Select

chocolate products that are certified organic so that you
be sure they aren't genetically engineered (GE). Most
chocolate today (even dark chocolate) is GE,
unfortunately.16 Also opt for fair-trade products.

Type of fat: Fat in chocolate, as long as it's the right

kind, is a good thing. It slows down the absorption of
sugar, lessening the insulin spike. Ideally, the type of
fat in your chocolate bar should be what is contained in
the natural plantcocoa butter. The primary fatty acid
in cocoa butter is stearic acid, which is the only
saturated fat that favorably affects HDL, without
adversely affecting LDL. Coconut oil would be the next
best fat in chocolate. Make sure you avoid soybean oil
(and any other form of soy), and other vegetable oils
and trans fats.

Using Chocolate as a Therapeutic Tool

What to Look for on the Label

To learn more about the health benefits of high quality

chocolate, please listen to the following interview with Dr.
Beatrice Golomb, in which she also discusses how to
determine your ideal therapeutic dose. In general, it seems
preferable to consume smaller amounts of chocolate at
more frequent intervals, much like the principle of split
dosing for supplements, in order to ensure a steadier
stream of nutrients in your bloodstream. According to Dr.
Golomb, studies show daily chocolate consumption in
divided doses (two to three times per day) is probably
beneficial, as long as you aren't going overboard in
quantity, and as long as you're eating high-quality
chocolate.

In general, the darker the chocolate, the higher the cacao

content. However, cacao is fairly bitter, and the higher the
percentage cacao, the more bitter it is. The flavanols are
what make the chocolate bitter, so manufacturers often
remove them. But, it's the flavanols that are responsible for
many of chocolate's health benefits. To counteract the
bitterness, most chocolate is sweetened, so it's a matter of
balancing nutritional benefit with palatability. So, read
your labels carefully. In addition to high cacao content,
you also want to evaluate each product for the following:

Type of sweetener: Not only should you choose

chocolate with low sugar content, but you should also
look at what form of sugar it contains. Honey is
sometimes used to sweeten raw chocolate products,
which is a good choice (in moderation). If you can find
chocolate sweetened with Stevia or Luo Han, that
would be preferable to cane sugar, fructose, or high
fructose corn syrup. Strictly avoid any product
containing artificial sweeteners.

How to Make a Healthier Chocolate Candy

Perhaps one of the best ways to ensure quality is to make it
yourself, using high-quality ingredients. In the following
video, I demonstrate how to make a healthy chocolate
snack. This is a recipe I created from scratch and there are
no specific measurements. You can simply use raw cocoa
butter and that will give you a finished candy that melts, or
you can add raw pastured butter and coconut oil, which
have their own health benefits. If you use these
ingredients, the candy will melt at a lower temperature and
you will most likely need to keep it in the refrigerator to
keep it from melting.

Fructose will reverse some of the positive benefits of

chocolate, as it breaks down into a variety of harmful
waste products, one of which is uric acid. Uric acid
drives up your blood pressure by inhibiting the
production of nitric oxide in your blood vessels, which
helps your vessels maintain their elasticity. So, excess

130

An Interview with Dr. Beatrice Golomb

On Chocolate
By Dr. Joseph Mercola
December 8, 2014
got an A. Why dont you major in physics? And I said,
Okay. He said, And it looks like you took biochemistry
in organic chemistry and other pre-requisites for medical
school. Have you considered being a pre-med? It would
be too embarrassing to show you have I answered that
question.

DM: Dr.Joseph Mercola

BG: Dr. Beatrice Golomb
Introduction:
DM: Welcome, everyone. This is Dr. Mercola. Today Im
here with Dr. Golomb, who is an associate professor of
family and preventive medicine, an area that Im also
particularly interested and have my training in. She has
some number of different interests that I do and has really
acquired a level of expertise in some diverse areas. Shes
served on numerous committees and boards, including The
Science Network and the Cochrane Group.

Then he said, Well, you have to at least take the

MCAT. Since I still didnt want to narrow my options, I
ended up doing an MD-PhD program. I actually did have
physics fellowship offers from Harvard and Caltech.
DM: Where did you undergraduate at?
BG: It was at USC, where my father is still on the faculty,
so there was tuition revision. And they also permit you to
enter undergraduate without having graduated from high
school, so I graduated at 19.

Some of the topic that shes become proficient in are the

Gulf War veterans illness, statins (which weve had a
previous interview with her on) and CoQ10, mitochondrial
function, placebos, and chocolates effects on your body
a favorite one for many people.

DM: Wow. So, you grew up in an academic environment.

Was your father an important influence in your life?

So, welcome and thank you for joining us. Im wondering

if you could expand as to how you acquired your expertise
in such a wide diverse area of interest, so you know, your
background will help us understand how you obtained
your perspective.

BG: Oh absolutely. In fact, we celebrated his 80th birthday

at an event at USC last night. He if anything is even
broader than I am. [Laughs]
DM: [Laughs]

BG: Well, Ive always been a problem child. Its been

difficult to sort of pin me down to one area. In fact, as an
undergraduate, I got called into an administrators office in
my senior year, because I had waywardly failed to declare
a major. I actually argued that Undeclared was the most
difficult major of all. Why, look at the statistics.
Thousands of freshmen have entered undeclared and none
has yet succeeded in graduating with this degree.

BG: He has published work. Hes a mathematician, but

has worked with people like Francis Crick and [inaudible
03:01] in biology and has published in domains as diverse
as quarks and cold fusion. I definitely am from a family
that has broad interests. And he knows many languages
and is this Bible scholar, etc.
DM: Thats very interesting. It reminds me of the
importance that parents can have on the upbringing of their
children. Theres another woman, Denise Minger, whos
younger and has absolutely no formal biological training at
all. Yet she has written the most definitive rebuttal of The
China Study, which is sort of the authoritative scientific
treatise on defending vegetarianism. And interestingly,
both of her parents are academics. [Laughs] So, she was
instilled with that from an early age. It was interesting to
see what happens when you have parents who can nurture
that process.

DM:[Laughs]
BG: However, if I graduate as unimpeachable, therefore, I
feel I should be permitted to be the first to graduate
undeclared. And embarrassingly, I was completely serious.
DM: [Laughs]
BG: The administrator just glared at me and said, No!
Then took out my transcript and his eyebrows sort of went
up, and he said Gee! It looks like you took quantum
mechanics without the math or physics prerequisites and

BG: Right.

131

DM: So, congratulations on that.

properties.

BG: In terms of my more recent interests, there tends to be

a theme involving an interest in areas where I feel that
people have misused evidence to draw incorrect
conclusions. Particularly, where there are individuals who
are suffering, and evidence is being misused in a fashion
that adversely impacts their health and experiences.

Something that people often dont think about is that in

relationship to the weight issue People say that it comes
with all that sugar and fat. Well, of course, if youre going
to have sugar, you want to have fat. Because the fat blends
the rise and blood sugar associated with consuming sugar.
The fat may actually contribute to the metabolic benefits.

Through a range of different areas that I became interested,

and by that avenue, my scientific interest have also
converged on a theme involving oxidative stress and cell
energetics, including mitochondrial function. Some areas
including Gulf War illness, effects of chocolate, autism,
aging, statin side effects all involve that as a common
theme, as well.

In fact, in chocolate, the primary fatty acid in cocoa butter

is stearic acid, which is the only saturated fat that
favorably affects HDL the good cholesterol without
adversely affecting LDL. There are favorable benefits to
[inaudible 07:31] as well.
DM: You know what? When I first saw that chocolate
research It was over 10 years ago now when some of the
initial studies came out. It was interesting that I think most
of them were funded by The Hershey Company. It
seemed to me, it was an obvious, industry-biased
perspective. Especially with this reputation of not being a
health food, they seem like they were really perverting
science.

DM:You know I was really excited to see that youre on

the upcoming list of people to re-interview, because I
enjoyed our last one so much. I saw that the topic for our
conversation was going to be chocolate or raw cacao. Ever
since Ive known this, I said, Why dont I start using
some of these?
I purchased a pound of raw cacao organic of course
and started using it. The challenge is of course, the taste.
But Im just really excited to learn all the reasons why Im
doing it now. [Laughs] Hopefully, youll educate us and
really expand on all the benefits of pursuing this. But why
did you pick cacao or chocolate or cocoa?

But the actuality is there really is solid science behind this,

because its a natural product that has many powerful
antioxidants and benefits in there. The only problem, of
course, is the way that its consumed by most people.
Im sure youll help us understand the details. And what
differentiates a higher-quality from a lower-quality one, if
youre seeking to use it for health benefits?

BG: I think the chocolate is one of my favorite vegetables.

DM: [Laughs]

BG: Well, I will sort of reiterate something you said,

which is You know, Im only half-joking when I said
chocolate is one of my favorite vegetables. It is a plantbased product that is rich in plant-based phytonutrients that
do have a range of health effects. And youre right.
Chocolate had this reputation for being unhealthy, but
thats what it was. It was a reputation and it wasnt based
on science. It certainly was accompanied by, I think, a sort
thinking that has been pervasive until relatively recently
that has something tasted good that had to be bad for you.

BG: When we had done our statin randomized control trial

involving a little over a thousand people, we had decided
that we should capitalize on the opportunity to get
information on a large range of different topics. So, we
gave them food frequency questionnaires. We also added
our own chocolate questions and did a range of studies on
everything from behavior to mood, etc., so that we could
actually leverage the investment these kind people put in
participating in this study to get the most possible out of it.

DM: [Laughs]
Chocolate has certainly been one of the areas that people
have shown the most interest in the findings from. And
certainly there have been previous studies showing
benefits of chocolate to blood pressure and insulin
sensitivity. There are observational studies showing lower
risk of heart disease. They actually launched two new
observational studies showing that people who eat
chocolate actually live longer. The benefits to cavities in
your mouth even despite the sugar apparently
associated with consuming hot cocoa. A range of very
favorable findings have been shown.

BG: But in fact, among foods that essentially nature

provides, theres generally a positive relationship between
how food tastes and its health effects. Evolution helps
provide for tastebuds preferring than things that one need
or that are healthier for one.
In terms of what you want to look for, obviously, you want
to make sure that trans-fat, hydrogenated fats arent
included in the chocolate product. As in other domains,
fake ingredients or chemical ingredients of any kind
generally the ones that have been tested serve as oxidative
stressors can be presumed to be generally adverse to
your health and offsetting the potential benefits of the

Of course, chocolate is rich in a number of important

antioxidants, as well as having a lot of other neuroactive

132

BG: But I wouldnt want to

chocolate. I think those are probably the two most

important things.

DM: Because if youre going to healthy stores, you could

look for cocoa, but youll typically find it as raw cacao
powder.

Its certainly is the case that dark chocolate is richer in

phytonutrients than most milk chocolate is. It may also be
higher in some compounds like copper, which may be
favorable or adverse, depending on the individual
understanding.

BG: Right. Yeah, and I think that cacao refers to the bean
found in a plant.
DM: Okay. But when its processed and its put together
in a product that you can buy like a chocolate bar, theres
80 percent or 70 percent. Is that the percentage of the
powder thats in there? Or 70, 80, or 90, you know, the
higher the number, the more bitter it becomes.

[----- 10:00 -----]

There is evidence from studies actually some were done
here at UC San Diego in animals that epicatechin derived
from cocoa has favorable effects, but with a relatively tight
dose response range. A modest amount consumed every
day by these rats increases the production of mitochondria
(these energy-producing elements in cells), increases
capillary (meaning access to blood, oxygen, nutrients, etc.
of muscle tissue), actually leads to weight loss despite no
fewer calories consumed and despite increased muscle
capacity and endurance in these rats.

BG: The mass, yeah.

DM: Yeah. I mean that is a challenge. Just the pure cacao
powder or cocoa is very bitter.
BG: Right. Its not palatable, but the good news is that a
lot of the epidemiological evidence suggesting favorable
effects doesnt come from the unpalatable stuff. It comes
from chocolate as people actually eat it, including our
recent findings. Despite the fact that it is accompanied by
sugar, and despite the fact that it is accompanied by fat, or
perhaps even because of the fact that it is accompanied by
fat and in that case cocoa butter, these apparent favorable
associations are present even with chocolate in the form
that is more typically consumed.

But if you get beyond the required amount, you get back to
as though you had not had any epicatechin. It doesnt
actually become worse than that, but it goes back to
neutral.
So, one could actually speculate that for people, who want
a little bit more chocolate, they might actually be better off
with the forms of chocolate that are a little bit lower in
these compounds. Because then, they might still be on the
favorable part of the curve. But I think a lot of people who
eat dark, good-quality chocolate only want a little bit.
Their body more or less tells them that Ive had the
amount that I really need.

DM: Had a research you reviewed or done personally

looked at the differences of the different types of fats and
its benefits? Obviously, but not being trans-fat, I mean,
Im assuming. Are there any differences, like, from butter
or cocoa butter, regular butter, or coconut oil?

DM: So there is a downside. Theres a sort of Goldilocks

curve that if you have an optimum amount, youre going to
get the benefits. If you have too much, its going to push
you in the wrong direction.

BG: Okay. Im not an expert in coconut or butter, but I can

certainly comment on things like butter, cocoa butter, and
a range of other fats. Butter has a bad reputation, because
dairy products have a bad reputation. But dairy products
at least as produced, you know, a couple of decades ago
and at least in sort of Caucasian or European descendant
populations, actually despite having saturated fats were
consistently linked to favorable mortality and even
cardiovascular mortality effects.

BG: Yeah, it just actually pushes you For that particular

phenomenon and that particular substance in chocolate, it
didnt push you in the wrong direction. It just stopped
being a force to the right direction.
DM: Okay. Normally, there are different ranges of the
chocolate, like 80 percent and 70 percent. Is that related to
the amount of cacao or cocoa thats in there? Maybe you
can address the difference between cocoa and cacao. Is
cocoa the derivative of the raw cacao plant?

In more recent meta-analyses of studies, that benefit is

starting to erode. I suspect thats for two reasons. One is
that nougat now is not what milk then was. For one thing,
pastured-fed cattle produce a lot of omega-3s in milk,
whereas grain-fed cattle produce virtually none. So, thats
one factor.

BG: You know, I should actually not comment, because

this is something that Ive lived off in the past and not
recently. I think cacao refers to the plant product, and I
believe cocoa refers to the processed element.

Another factor is that people who consume milk now

typically consume non-fat or one percent milk. And
actually, the fat enables you to assimilate key things, like,
you know, vitamin D, which is often added to milk, and
that enables you to assimilate the calcium. Non-fat and

DM: Okay.

133

we dont really know the extent to which this translates to

other soy products. But those are the data we have.

low-fat milk may actually be less favorable foods.

Also, as we mentioned earlier, effects on blood sugar
When you have a sugar-containing product, and of course,
lactose in milk is a form of sugar, effects on blood sugar
are more favorable when there is fat in there with the
sugar. So, glycemic effects are more favorable. And then
there is, of course, also the issue with how milk is
packaged now. Some comes in plastic with things like
bisphenol-A, and often, of course, you know, there are
now antibiotics (which are pro-oxidants) and other things
that the cattle are fed that may be introduced into the milk.

Potentially, this literature from studies of estrogen use in

women, where it was presumed that they protected against
dementia, but it turned out that it was just women who
were better educated and so forth were more likely to be
on hormone replacement therapy. And when people did the
actual randomized trials of it, people who received a
hormone replacement were actually otherwise similar to
the ones who didnt. It was found that hormone
replacement actually modestly but significantly increased
dementia risk.

Milk itself, milk fat, and even butter fat in all the studies
were if anything favorable. Particularly for stroke risk,
theres a very strongly favorable association between milk
consumption and reduced stroke.

Soy, of course, is rich in phytoestrogens, so thats one

among a number of possible mechanisms by which soy
may adversely affect those kinds of things.

Butter in very large studies, including the sort of nurses

health study that involved 90,000 people consumption of
butter had no positive link to risk of a heart attack.
Consumption of margarine had a strong and significant
connection, but butter did not. So butter, you know,
especially maybe organic (the stuff that doesnt have all
the bad things), at least again in European descendant
populations (which are the populations that the older
studies were primarily have been done in and who may
sort of tolerated no butter), is generally not an unfavorable
food.

Polyunsaturated fat has more generally lower LDL

cholesterol, which is thought of typically as unfavorable,
but by the way also has important functions. They also
lower HDL cholesterol. And I know theres been recent
debate about is HDL a marker. Well, HDL and LDL are
markers. But they are markers that often have associations
in the direction that has long been contended.
Coconut oil, obviously, is a saturated fat. Its one that
theres a lot of positive thinking about right now. I havent
really delved into that literature enough to comment
extensively on it. But I will say that, in general, when
looking for chocolate, you want to look for chocolate
where the only fat is cocoa butter.

DM: Yeah. And especially, not only organic, but raw and
grass-fed, which are two other important characteristics,
maybe more important than organic, because typically,
they have those as organic.

DM: And why is that?

BG: Because thats the form of chocolate thats chocolate
and that generally has been found to have a number of
these favorable health benefits. And because many of the
alternatives that would typically be in there, besides
chocolate

BG: Right. In California, at least, to be labeled organic,

there has to be some times spent pasture feeding, which is
not true for non-organically labeled milk.
Well, soybean oil Of course, now most soy products are
genetically modified. And a lot of people think that sounds
like its nothing. It sounds just like you hybridized a plant.
But you have to think about what the major genetic
modifications are. One is herbicide resistance, and what
does herbicide resistance mean? It means that youre
throwing chemicals on the plant. Herbicides are very
potent oxidative stressors, and it can lead to things like
Parkinsons disease and so forth. Thats not necessarily
favorable.

DM: Not good.

BG: are unfavorable.
DM: And the cocoa butter is also derived from the cocoa?
BG: Correct.
DM: Okay.

A main other genetic modification in plants is insertion of

insecticidal lignans, which are essentially toxin insects that
are somewhat less toxic to us. But its hardly the case that
theyre good for us.

[----- 20:00 -----]

BG: For example, what is white chocolate? White
chocolate has the cocoa butter, but not the cocoa mass. It
has the fat part, but not the sort of solid part that has a lot
of the phytonutrients.

Theres that issue. The other issue is that there are two
large studies: one longitudinal cross-sectional insertion
that soy consumption is linked to cognitive loss. I have to
say that both of these studies looked specifically at tofu, so

DM: Is there a benefit from high-quality white chocolate?

134

BG: We know that at least, the lipid profile appears to be

favorably affected by, again, the cocoa butter aspect. But
there really isnt a lot of study on the effects on other
things. I think there are a lot fewer people who have a
strong affection for white chocolate than for other forms of
chocolate. And that may well be because many of the
substances that help people to feel good and that promote
energy, antioxidation, and also the theobromine (which has
a touch of that sort of caffeine-like phosphodiesterase
inhibiting effect) are more present in chocolate that has the
cocoa mass.

had it been cocoa-derived epicatechin that was used in the

rat studies that was given every day that seemed to be
associated with favorable effects and the chocolate
benefits. I think right now based on incomplete evidence, a
modest amount regularly may be the right thing. I should
say that I think, as with a lot of foods, if youre a person
who doesnt like chocolate, you may well be a person who
should not eat chocolate.
You know, just as with the case with the coffee literature,
there are subgroups of people, for example, who are slow
caffeine metabolizers, and whereas fast caffeine
metabolizers reduce the risk of heart attack. In association
with coffee consumptions, slow caffeine metabolizers
increase their risk. There may be factors, including perhaps
associated with the copper levels in chocolate.

I can also comment that it was a study done here in La

Jolla at Scripps Research Institute that showed that
chocolate also has, you know, substances that bind the
endogenous cannabinoid receptor. Some people joked that
(or not even joked) maybe one reason why some people
like to keep eating chocolate. My sort of response to this is
that we name the main brain receptors after basically the
first thing we find that binds to them. So, this has been
called the endogenous

And recently, coppers used in fungicides in chocolate

crops, including in organic chocolate crops. High copper to
zinc ratios have been linked unfavorably to depression,
aggression, and various other things, which you know,
some studies actually seem to link chocolate consumption
at least observationally to.

cannabinoid receptor. But my contention is that its really

the endogenous chocolate receptor and that regular binding
is important for good neurochemical health.

Weve had reports from some people of caffeine-like

adverse effects on sleep with chocolate consumption in
some individuals. So again, if it feels like its not good for
you, you may not be a person who should be having
chocolate.

DM: [Laughs] Thats an interesting theory.

BG: Ive seen that tongue-in-cheek data.
DM: [Laughs] All right, so what type of dosing If one is
going to view this as a sort of nutrient approach, what
would you recommend with respect with the frequency
and the range of doses that might be optimal for
physiological benefits?

DM: Listen to your body.

BG: Absolutely.
DM: It is intriguing to hear of the benefits for weight loss,
and Im wondering if you have any thoughts or
speculations as to what the mechanism might be.

BG: Right. In here, we dont have good randomized

evidence, so were sort of going off with whats been
found in observational studies. Well, Ill say in our recent
study showing that more frequent chocolate consumption
like [inaudible 22:15] And we havent heard more or
less about times a week, you know, it wasnt like 40 times
a day. [Laughs] At a certain point, frequency merges the
amount of chocolates. But people within our study who ate
chocolate more often actually weighed less, despite eating
more calories and despite not exercising anymore.

BG: Right. In fact, I have to say that I looked at this

specifically, because I had conjecture that regular
moderate chocolate consumption might be approximately
body mass index neutral. Because chocolate had shown
these other favorable metabolic effects and associations on
blood pressure and insulin sensitivity, etc., that often
attracts with body mass index. I believe that when theres
adverse cell energy, the body packs on more calories as fat
as an adaptation. Theres actually a lot of evidence that
supports this. This was even before we knew that
epicatechin enhances mitochondrial biogenesis and
capillarity.

This was the item that looked sort of separately to see that
its true within people who eat chocolate from those who
eat chocolates in more than five times a week, compared to
fewer than five times a week. The answer was, yes, it
actually was the case that people who ate chocolate more
than five times a week, compared to those who ate
chocolate at least once but fewer than five, actually still
had a significant body mass index benefit or association
with lower body mass index.

But my thinking was that antioxidant effects, which

enhance function of mitochondria which are the energyproducing elements of cells, etc., might be such that the
body would simply not elect to deposit as much calories as
fat. It was sort of a hypothesis that regular chocolate
consumers might not weigh more. It was something we
hadnt actually been optimistic enough to report to see that
regular chocolate eaters might actually weigh less. But

I think a modest amount of chocolate, perhaps on an

approximately daily basis, is not necessarily a bad thing

135

thats in fact what we found.

BG: I guess none that immediately comes to mind.

Again, if you produce more mitochondria, have better cell

energy, more capillaries to cells first of all, you may be
processing more calories through those mitochondria as
energy. And second of all, there may be less adaptive drive
to deposit fats as an accessory energy source for
individuals who may have periods of less cell energy.

DM: Okay. Any other areas of interest of research youve

explored recently that you want to share with us now?
BG: I guess to that has sort of always been [Laughs]
DM: [Laughs] Whats your perception of some of the
more exciting things on the horizon that you think have
great potential for that youre either looking at or excited
to research?

DM: So, is it reasonable to consider using healthy

chocolates as an adjunct to perform mitochondrial
resuscitation or recovery? Especially, for people who
might be taking statins and other areas of your diverse
interest.

BG: Well, we have a small study that we completed in

autism spectrum disorder, looking at cell energetics. I
probably shouldnt share too much, because that hasnt
been published yet. It was a pilot study, but it still actually
showed statistical significance. Were sort of applying to
do more work in that area.

BG: Right, it may be. Again, you know, with the caveat
that if it feels that its not good for you, [Laughs] perhaps
its not good for you. But yeah, I think obviously its
something that needs direct study in humans and with, you
know, real chocolate as opposed to something derived
from chocolate. But I think there certainly is reason for
interest in that possibility, absolutely.

We have a paper coming out within the next month or so

in the Archives of Internal Medicine based on our
randomized trial findings, looking at effects of statins on
energy and fatigue with exertion, which I think a lot of
people would find interesting. And we recently had a paper
that got a bit of attention, showing that people who eat
trans-fats are actually more aggressive, and essentially,
resuscitating the Twinkie defense to some degree.

DM: Okay. Sort of like expanding the range, like

anything, I guess theres potential for adverse reactions if
you over-consume something. Especially, with the lowerquality versions, which are rife with the trans-fats that you
mentioned and too much sugar. But assuming that we have
a healthy chocolate, youre not disliking it personally,
youre listening to your body and it feels good, is there a
risk of over-consuming it?

[----- 30:00 -----] These are kind of some of the areas.

DM: Interesting. Has there been any result from your
efforts to educate not only the masses, but the health care
professionals about the dangers of statins? Are you seeing
progress in the area? Are you hopeful that theres going to
be a shift in the conventional approach to this overaggressive use?

BG: Well, I assume the answer is Yes. In our study,

there was a small but not approaching significant trend
toward people who ate more chocolate when they ate
chocolate weighing more. In our study, it actually didnt
come close to significance, but I think we all sort of have
the expectation. The maximum amount of times a week
that people in our study ate chocolate was 21, so three
times a day. [Laughs]

I mean, because this has to be balanced against the

incredible and aggressive marketing skills of the
pharmaceutical companies, which basically (as youve
well-documented) push the research and try to manipulate
the recommendations to the point where theyre sort of
recommending some group or a government agency was
recommending that everyone over 50 should be not on
statins.

DM: What was the serving size?

BG: This particular question was times a week. Again,
amount of chocolate in our study didnt really relate to
body mass index. But if youll look at amount per time, it
showed non-significant positive association. But really,
what looked like it was important was frequency of
chocolate consumption.

BG: Yeah, theres a new paper that came out in The

Lancet
DM: Yeah.

DM: So, more or less, like taking a supplement? You

dont want to just take it once. You want to spread it out
throughout the time period that youre using it.

BG: By a heavily industry-influenced group that is more

or less perpetuating that view. You know, Im seeing a bit
of a shot that Im having colleagues of my husband, whos
at the Salk say, Oh, both me and my wife are doctors and
are now acknowledging that statins have side effects. I
think a piece of it may be encapsulated by a comment we
got from one of our statin adverse effect sufferers, who
said, My doctor didnt believe me. He thought that I was

BG: Right. You want to sort of have, perhaps, consistent

benefits assuming that there are benefits from that.
DM: Terrific. Are there any other aspects of the research
that youve done on this that we havent talked about yet?

136

making it up. Until hes own father, whos also a doctor,

developed the same side effect.

developed adverse effects, including cognitive adverse

effects and whose physician, you know, hadnt recognized
it. Frankly, I dont even think he had recognized the
connection, until (at least he said) a medical student was
seeing him and suggested it may be due to the statins. Hes
been off for about, you

DM: [Laughs]
BG: I think as more physicians themselves are
experiencing the side effects and having family members
and certain people they love experience the side effects,
theyre becoming a little bit more open to the existence of
them. In fact, one of the major people at my university,
whos one of the heavily industry-funded The lower the
cholesterol, the better people did actually dodge me
well, saying You know, statin effects arent important,
because theyre very rare. But I have them, and theyre
very, very

know, five weeks and had noted almost complete

resolution of all three of his major problems, including the
cognitive problems. So, Im hopeful, but let me just say,
Im cautiously optimistic.
DM: It just seems that the effectiveness of the
pharmaceutical marketing is so powerfully effective that it
may be that these physicians have to die. I mean really the
next generation (like the medical student, who diagnosed
this) is going to be aware, because theyre not really
putting this concrete block where they cant get out of. Its
just unwilling and massive denial, even when its
happening to themselves! [Laughs]

DM: [Laughs]
BG: [Laughs]
DM: Denial to the extreme! [Laughs]

BG: Yeah. No, I think youre right. If you have essentially

bought out every interest group, which functionally could
be argued with whats happening, including, you know,
fielding and funding grassroots patient advocacy groups
that then do lobbying aligned with the industry interest, the
one group you might have thought would have been
untainted are patient groups. In fact, its not even true
there.

BG: [Laughs] I think we still hear from a lot of patients

that theyre doctors deny that there could be a relationship
between their symptom and their problem.
A doctor at my university was sharing with me that they
had just admitted that a patient who was in his 80s, who
was having terrible statin effects including weakness and
who really felt that there was no reason to live anymore,
because these side effects were so severe. And they were
still debating whether to take him off, using that age
category where the evidence shows no mortality benefit,
no all cost morbidity benefit, a statistically significant
increase in cancer risk, no evidence of cognitive benefit,
stroke benefit seen in younger age completely obliterated.

Thats the message that is paid to come out from

essentially every source. Its very hard to overcome that
even with evidence. And, of course, most of the evidence
is produced and represented by industry-funded sources as
well.
DM: Yeah, we discussed that last time. I just really want
to thank you for all your efforts, because youre really,
clearly one of the leaders, the leading forces in the catalyst
to help educate the professionals that is, in fact, a
significant area that they really need to change their
thinking on. That its going to improve the quality of care
to their patients, which is really what they wanted to do.
But they just arent able to implement that, because theyre
so blinded by this massive perversion of the science.

And this man is having side effects that even they

recognize that are from the statins that are so severe that he
doesnt want to be alive, and they hadnt decided to take
him off these agents.
There still really is a long way to go, but I am hopeful that
the climate is changing, and I think one reason for it is that
one of the statins are now off patent. I think the industry
pressure may start to be a little bit weaker, perhaps in part
due to these kinds of factors.

BG: I think thats absolutely correct.

BG: Yeah.

DM: Yeah. So, thank you again for what youre doing. Its
always a pleasure talking to you, and I just greatly
appreciate everything. Keep up the great work.

DM: [Laughs]

BG: The pleasure is mine. Thank you very much.

BG: So, well see. I mean I feel as though were seeing

signs of change among at least some physicians. I actually
met with a physician a couple of days ago, who have

[END]

DM: Unless theyre moving to OTC.

137

Curcumin, Compound In Turmeric, Found To Impair Fear

Memories And Ease PTSD Symptoms
By Lecia Bushak
Dec 10, 2014 02:21 PM
mesothelium, a protective lining around organs when
combined with other anti-cancer peptide molecules. In
addition, researchers have examined curcumins effect on
Alzheimers disease:
A 2008 study claimed that due to various
effects of curcumin, such as decreased
beta-amyloid plaques, delayed degradation
of
neurons,
metal-chelation,
antiinflammatory, antioxidant and decreased
microglia formation, the overall memory in
patients with [Alzheimers disease] has
improved.

Turmeric, a common ingredient in curry, has been shown to have

several health benefits; most recently, scientists found that curcumin
can impair fear memories involved with PTSD. Photo courtesy of
Shutterstock

Turmeric is a main spice in curry it's a yellow-colored,

bitter-tasting ginger root that can also be quite medicinal.
Turmeric has been used to treat arthritis, heartburn,
stomach issues, and diarrhea, among other things
throughout human history but now researchers have
found a new potential outlet for the root in treating
disorders involving fear memories, like post-traumatic
stress disorder (PTSD).

But if curcumin truly has a beneficial effect on people

suffering from PTSD or other psychological disorders, that
brings the spice to a whole new level. The authors of the
most recent study discovered that fear memories impaired
by curcumin appeared to remain compromised for a long
period of time preventing them from reconsolidating
or reappearing again. Of course, more research will be
needed in order to solidify the evidence.
Curcumin, a yellow-pigment compound
found in the popular Indian spice turmeric
(Curcuma longa), has been extensively
investigated for its anti-inflammatory,
chemopreventative and antidepressant
properties, the authors write in the
Abstract. Here, we examined the efficacy
of dietary curcumin at impairing the
consolidation and reconsolidation of a
Pavlovian fear memory, a widely studied
animal model of traumatic memory
formation in post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD).

In a new study led by Glenne Schafe, a professor of

psychology at Hunter College, researchers found that
curcumin the principal compound found in turmeric
impaired the formation of fear memories in the brain after
a traumatic experience.
We showed that rats freely fed a diet
enriched with curcumin have impaired
encoding of fear memories, Schafe said in
the press release. We also showed that
rats with a pre-existing fear memory can
lose that memory when it is recalled while
they are eating a curcumin-enriched diet.

The authors conclude that the findings may have

Curcumin has been examined in the past for its potential

health benefits, such as its efficacy in treating multiple
myeloma, pancreatic cancer, myelodysplastic syndromes,
colon cancer, psoriasis, arthritis, Alzheimers disease, and
even depression. A recent study, meanwhile, found that
curcumin also proved able in fighting mesothelioma a
rare form of cancer that attacks the cells of the

important clinical implications for the

treatment of disorders such as PTSD that
are characterized by unusually strong and
persistently reactivated fear memories.

.
138

Cleanse Your Lungs With Honey-Water

December 9, 2014
In the beginning you will notice increasing of your waist
line but do not worry. This happens because fecal
sediments swell, become softer, therefore their process of
exiting the body starts.
The process of cleansing cells in our organism starts. The
antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties increase.
Colons work is normalized. Honey-water will help in the
process of rejuvenating colons micro flora and eliminating
bacteria.
You have probably heard about honeys health benefits,
but have you ever heard about healing properties of honeywater?

This mixture can help in preventing the unpleasant and

uncontrolled night urination. Honey collects water, which
means the kidneys are not over worked.

How to prepare honey-water

How to consume honey-water

Put one teaspoon of honey in a glass of fresh lukewarm

water and mix. You will get a 30% honey mixture which
has identical composition as blood plasma. Honey creates
a cluster compound in the water which increases this
mixtures health benefits. Honey-water is easily absorbed
by our organism.
Honey-waters healing powers

For preventive purposes, drink the honey-water in the

morning on an empty stomach. Make sure you drink it fast.
The stomach valve opens immediately and the water
quickly enters in the intestines. From this point on, water is
entering our blood stream. Honey-water should be
consumed in the morning and in the evening. You will not
have any problems if you drink this beverage in the
evening because it soothes kidneys work.

It normalizes digestion process, which means it puts an

end to the lazy intestines problem.

Make sure you always drink freshly prepared honeywater.

It strengthens the immune system, treats clods, is great

against bronchitis and it cleanses mucus in the lungs.

You can use this mixture to clean your face because it will
make your skin softer, shinier and silky. Honey-water is
great natural cosmetics and it is the oldest, yet most
modern at the same time.

Cleanses the digestive tract of parasites and prevents their

breeding. It also cleanses the intestines of toxin deposits.

139

Ginger Ale Recipe for Pain:

Reduce Chronic Inflammation, Pain and Migraines
December 26, 2014
Ingredients

When it comes to old holistic medicine, ginger is a

frequent go-to. I can absolutely attest to its abilities when it
comes to settling the stomach and helping with digestion.
Ginger has been used for thousands of years in China to
treat nausea, arthritis, and heart disease. But lets get into
how we make our own ginger ale for nausea and pain.

1 cup of peeled, finely chopped organic ginger

2 cups of purified water

1 cup of raw organic honey

Sparkling water

1 organic lime, juiced

Directions

Ginger has been shown to ease muscle pain, as well as

back pain. In addition, it has been shown to reduce
inflammation. Women have been able to find relief from
menstrual pain. Relief from the pain of migraines has also
been experienced.
Many studies have shown that ginger appears to have antiinflammatory and analgesic properties. Modern scientific
research has revealed that ginger is able to inhibit the
formation of inflammatory compounds, and direct antiinflammatory effects.

140

Boil 2 cups of water

Add the ginger

Reduce the heat to a medium-low setting, let simmer

for 5 minutes

Take it off the heat and strain

When serving, use 1 part of the ginger syrup to 3 parts

water. Serve it over ice and enjoy!

No Innocent Spice:
The Secret Story Of Nutmeg, Life And Death
Allison Aubrey
November 26, 2012 4:49 AM ET
And traditionally, we turn to nutmeg (along with cloves
and cinnamon) this time of year because these spices as
the settlers to the colonies believed can help warm us
up and even help us fight off head colds and stomachaches.
And for foodies, nutmeg is an ideal spice for layering
flavor. Chef Kyle Bailey of Birch and Barley restaurant in
Washington, D.C., combined spinach and nutmeg to whip
up a divine puree (see gallery below) that marries the
flavors beautifully.
This copper engraving from approximately 1700 depicts
the condition of the English prisoners at the hands of the
Dutch. In the 1660s, Cornell University's Eric Tagliacozzo
says, the conflict and competition for the spice trade came
to a head.

I can't finish this post without mentioning a bit of nutmeg

history that makes good dinner-party conversation and
this is the question of whether the Dutch traded Manhattan
(yes, New York) for nutmeg.
In the 1600s, "the Dutch and the British
were kind of shadowing each other all over
the globe," explains Cornell historian Eric
Tagliacozzo.

The Dutch decapitated a number of

English merchants who were also in the
Spice Islands trying to profit from the
trade.

They were competing for territory and control of the spice

trade. In 1667, after years of battling, they sat down to
hash out a treaty.

Ah, nutmeg! Whether it's sprinkled on eggnog, baked into

spice cake or blended into a latte, this pungent spice can
evoke memories of holidays past. We tend to link it to
celebratory times.

"Both had something that the other

wanted," explains Krondl.

But a lot of blood has been shed over this

little brown seed. "Nutmeg has been one of
the saddest stories of history," explains
culinary historian Michael Krondl.

The British wanted to hold onto Manhattan, which they'd

managed to gain control of a few years earlier. And the
Dutch wanted the last nutmeg-producing island that the
British controlled, as well as territory in South America
that produced sugar.

If you listen to my story you'll hear the gruesome, grisly

tale of how the Dutch tortured and massacred the people of
the nutmeg-producing Banda Islands in Indonesia in an
attempt to monopolize the nutmeg trade.

"So they [the Dutch] traded Manhattan,

which wasn't so important in those days, to
get nutmeg and sugar."

So, why was nutmeg so valuable? Well, Krondl likens it to

the iPhone of the 1600s. It was fashionable among the
wealthy. It was exotic and potent enough to induce
hallucinations or at least a nutmeg bender, as detailed in
this account from The Atlantic.

And back then, the Dutch considered it a sweet deal!

"Nutmeg really does have chemical

constituents that make you feel good,"
explains culinary historian Kathleen Wall of
the Plimoth Plantation.

141

Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet. Add 2

tablespoons of shallots and saute. Add 4 cups of spinach.
Cook on high heat until wilted.

142

18 Amazing Health Benefits From Honey and Cinnamon

January 2, 2015
powder before breakfast, they found that within a week
(out of the 200 people so treated) practically 73 patients
were totally relieved of pain and within a month, most
all the patients who could not walk or move around
because of arthritis now started walking without pain.
BLADDER INFECTIONS: Take two tablespoons of
cinnamon powder and one teaspoon of honey in a glass of
lukewarm water and drink it. It destroys the germs in the
bladder.who knew?

Drug companies wont like this one getting around.

It is found that a mix of honey and cinnamon cures most
diseases. Honey is produced in most of the countries of the
world. Scientists of today also note honey as very effective
medicine for all kinds of diseases. Honey can be used
without side effects which is also a plus. Todays science
says that even though honey is sweet, when it is taken in
the right dosage as a medicine, it does not harm even
diabetic patients.

CHOLESTEROL: Two tablespoons of honey and three

teaspoons of Cinnamon Powder mixed in 16 ounces of tea
water given to a cholesterol patient was found to reduce
the level of cholesterol in the blood by 10 percent within
two hours. As mentioned for arthritic patients, when taken
three times a day, any chronic cholesterol-could be cured.
According to information received in the said Journal, pure
honey taken with food daily relieves complaints of
cholesterol.

HEART DISEASES: Make a paste of honey and

cinnamon powder, put it on toast instead of jelly and jam
and eat it regularly for breakfast. It reduces the cholesterol
and could potentially save one from heart attack. Also,
even if you have already had an attack studies show you
could be kept miles away from the next attack. Regular use
of cinnamon honey strengthens the heart beat. In America
and Canada, various nursing homes have treated patients
successfully and have found that as one ages the arteries
and veins lose their flexibility and get clogged; honey and
cinnamon revitalize the arteries and the veins.

COLDS: Those suffering from common or severe colds

should take one tablespoon lukewarm honey with 1/4
spoon cinnamon powder daily for three days. This process
will cure most chronic cough, cold, and, clear the sinuses,
and its delicious too!
UPSET STOMACH: Honey taken with cinnamon powder
cures stomach ache and also is said to clear stomach ulcers
from its root.
ARTHRITIS: Arthritis patients can benefit by taking one
cup of hot water with two tablespoons of honey and one
small teaspoon of cinnamon powder. When taken daily
even chronic arthritis can be cured. In a recent research
conducted at the Copenhagen University, it was found that
when the doctors treated their patients with a mixture of
one tablespoon Honey and half teaspoon Cinnamon

GAS: According to the studies done in India and Japan, it

is revealed that when Honey is taken with cinnamon
powder the stomach is relieved of gas.

143

SKIN INFECTIONS: Applying honey and cinnamon

powder in equal parts on the affected parts cures eczema,
ringworm and all types of skin Infections.

IMMUNE SYSTEM: Daily use of honey and cinnamon

powder strengthens the immune system and protects the
body from bacterial and viral attacks. Scientists have found
that honey has various vitamins and iron in large amounts.
Constant use of Honey strengthens the white blood
corpuscles (where DNA is contained) to fight bacterial and
viral diseases.

WEIGHT LOSS: Daily in the morning one half hour

before breakfast and on an empty stomach, and at night
before sleeping, drink honey and cinnamon powder boiled
in one cup of water. When taken regularly, it reduces the
weight of even the most obese person. Also, drinking this
mixture regularly does not allow the fat to accumulate in
the body even though the person may eat a high calorie
diet.

INDIGESTION: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two

tablespoons of honey taken before food is eaten relieves
acidity and digests the heaviest of meals
INFLUENZA: A scientist in Spain has proved that honey
contains a natural Ingredient which kills the influenza
germs and saves the patient from flu.

FATIGUE: Recent studies have shown that the sugar

content of honey is more helpful rather than being
detrimental to the strength of the body. Senior citizens who
take honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts are more
alert and flexible. Dr. Milton, who has done research, says
that a half tablespoon of honey taken in a glass of water
and sprinkled with cinnamon powder, even when the
vitality of the body starts to decrease, when taken daily
after brushing and in the afternoon at about 3:00 P.M., the
vitality of the body increases within a week.

LONGEVITY: Tea made with honey and cinnamon

powder, when taken regularly, arrests the ravages of old
age. Use four teaspoons of honey, one teaspoon of
cinnamon powder, and three cups of boiling water to make
a tea. Drink 1/4 cup, three to four times a day. It keeps the
skin fresh and soft and arrests old age. Life spans increase
and even a 100 year old will start performing the chores of
a 20-year-old.

BAD BREATH: People of South America, gargle with

one teaspoon of honey and cinnamon powder mixed in hot
water first thing in the morning so their breath stays fresh
throughout the day.

RASPY OR SORE THROAT: When throat has a tickle

or is raspy, take one tablespoon of honey and sip until
gone. Repeat every three hours until throat is without
symptoms.

HEARING LOSS: Daily morning and night honey and

cinnamon powder, taken in equal parts restores hearing.

PIMPLES: Three tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon

of cinnamon powder paste. Apply this paste on the pimples
before sleeping and wash it off the next morning with
warm water. When done daily for two weeks, it removes
all pimples from the root.

Credit: IN5D

144

Research: Pineapple Enzyme Kills Cancer

Without Killing You
Written By: Sayer Ji, Founder
Saturday, December 24th 2011 At 11:30 Am
to work by tricking more rapidly dividing cells -- which
include both cancer and healthy intestinal, hair follicle, and
immune cells -- into taking it up, thereby inhibiting (read:
poisoning) RNA replication enzymes and RNA synthesis.
The material safety data sheet (MSDS) for 5-FU states:

Could an extract of pineapple fruit be both safer and

more effective than a blockbuster chemotherapy agent?

The dose at which 50% of the animals given the drug die is
115mg/kg, or the equivalent of 7.8 grams for a 150 lb adult
human.

Every once in a while a study pops up on the National

Library of Medicine's bibliographic citation database
known as MEDLINE that not only confirms the
therapeutic relevance of natural substances in cancer
treatment, but blows the conventional approach out of the
water. Published in 2007 in the journal Planta Medica,
researchers found that an enzyme extracted from pineapple
stems known as bromelain was superior to the chemoagent 5-fluorauracil in treating cancer in the animal model.
The researchers stated:

Keep in mind that a 7.5 gram dose of 5-FU, which is the

weight of 3 pennies, would kill 50% of the humans given
it. Bromelain's MSDS, on the other hand, states the LD50
to be 10,000 mg/kg, or the equivalent 1.5 lbs of bromelain
for a 150lb adult, which means it is 3 orders of magnitude
safer!

"This antitumoral effect [bromelain] was superior to that

of 5-FU [5-fluorouracil], whose survival index was
approximately 263 %, relative to the untreated control."

What is so remarkable about this research is that 5-FU has

been used as a cancer treatment for nearly 40 years, and
has been relatively unsuccessful due to its less than perfect
selectivity at killing cancer, often killing and/or
irreversibly damaging healthy cells and tissue, as well.

How then, can something as innocuous as the enzyme

from the stem/core of a pineapple be superior to a drug that
millions of cancers patients over the past 40 years have
placed their hopes of recovery on, as well as exchanging
billions of dollars for?

As a highly toxic, fluoride-bound form of the nucleic acid

uracil, a normal component of RNA, the drug is supposed

145

There is a well-known effect associated with a wide range

of natural compounds called "selective cytotoxicity,"
whereby they are able to induce programmed cell death
(the graceful self-disassembly known as apoptosis) within
the cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells and tissue
unharmed. No FDA-approved chemotherapy drug on the
market today has this indispensable property (because
chemicals don't have behave like natural compounds),
which is why cancer treatment is still in the dark ages,
often destroying the quality of life, and accelerating the
death of those who undergo it, often unwittingly. When a
person dies following conventional cancer treatment it is
all too easy to "blame the victim" and simply write that
patient's cancer off as "chemo-resistant," or "exceptionally
aggressive," when in fact the non-selective nature of the
chemotoxic agent is what ultimately lead to their death.

patentable (i.e. non-profitable) cancer therapies, even if

they work, are safe and extremely affordable. This is
simply the nature of the beast. Until we compel our
government to utilize our tax dollars to invest in this type
of research, there will be no level playing field in cancer
treatment, or any treatment offered through the
conventional medical establishment, for that matter. Or,
some of us may decide to take our health into our own
hands, and use the research, already freely available on
possible natural cancer treatment, to inform our
treatment decisions without the guidance of the modern
day equivalent of the "priest" of the body, the conventional
oncologist, who increasingly fills the description of an
"applied pharmacologist/toxicologist" - nothing more,
nothing less.
To view additional research on the potential
therapeutic properties of bromelain in over 30 health
conditions, visit the open source, natural medical
resource page on bromelain.

Keep in mind that bromelain, like all natural substances,

will never receive FDA drug approval. Capital, at the
present time, does not flow into the development of non-

146

Are You Trading Your Omega-3s For PCBs

With Your Choice Of Salmon?
By Dr. Mercola
January 03, 2015
The omega-3 levels in farmed salmon seem to have
entered a free fall. Today's farmed fillet may contain as
little as half of the omega-3s as it did less than a decade
ago, according to the International Fishmeal and Fish Oil
Organization (IFFO).1

raised on pasture. Fish farms, even though they're oceanbased, are still confined animal feeding operations
(CAFOs), replete with all of the problems associated with
such.
Farmed Salmon Has Almost Five Times the Omega-6
Fat of Wild Salmon

More than half of the fish Americans eat comes from fish
farms, which has increased by more than 400 percent in
the last 10 years.2

Fish in the wild, especially oily fish such as salmon, are a

rich source of omega-3 fats. Those of particular dietary
importance are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Most of the health benefits
of omega-3 fats (for your heart, brain, immune system, and
other) are linked to the animal- and fish-based EPA and
DHA, not the plant-based ALA (alpha-linoleic acid).

Not only are omega-3 levels dropping, but salmon farmers

have recently been caught overstating the omega-3 fat
levels of their products, as in the news report above. And
not by an insignificant amountthreefold!
The report comes from New Zealand, but if it's happening
there, it could easily be occurring in other places as the
aquaculture industry begins to worry about losing healthminded consumers.3

"Omega-3s are not labeled, so consumers

can't possibly have any idea how much
farmed fish contain," says Marion Nestle,
author and New York University professor
of nutrition, food studies, and public health.

Why Are Omega-3 Levels Dropping in Farmed Fish?

Levels can vary from farm to farm, depending on in-house

feed recipes and the time of year salmon are harvested. 4

The drop in farmed salmon's omega-3 levels has resulted

from changes in what the fish are fed. In order to keep
their omega-3 levels up, farmed fish have traditionally
been fed large quantities of small oily wild fish, such as
anchovies, herring, and sardines.

Farmed salmon are much fattier than wild salmon. The

economic incentive to speed the growth of farmed salmon
has led to the use of increasingly high-energy diets, which
is why farmed grow so big.

These have now become so overfished that their numbers

have dropped precipitously, forcing salmon farmers to
resort to other sources of feed that are low in omega-3 fats
and high in omega-6s.

High fat itself is not a problem, but what comprises that fat
IS the problem. Farmed salmon are much higher in omega6 fatalmost five times higherand the typical American
already gets 10 to 20 times too much omega-6 as they
need.

Instead of small wild fish high in omega-3s, farmed

salmon are now feasting on byproducts of hog and poultry
processing, soybeans and soybean oil, canola oil, corn and
other grains, most of which are genetically engineered for
the animal feed industry.

Given the fact that farmed salmon's omega-3 levels are

falling, its fat profile is likely to continue moving in the
wrong direction. The following table, derived from
Authority Nutrition,5 shows the omega-3 and omega-6
profiles of wild versus farmed salmon.

All of these are loaded with cheap, low quality omega-6

fats and essentially devoid of beneficial omega-3 fats.
Farmed salmon's drop in omega-3 levels is a similar
phenomenon to the poor omega fat profile of industrialized
meatsgrain-fed beef and poultrycompared to animals

Nutrient

147

Half Fillet Wild

Half Fillet
Salmon
Farmed Salmon

Nutrient

Half Fillet Wild

Half Fillet
Salmon
Farmed Salmon

Total Fat

13 g

27 g

Omega-3 Fats 3.4 g

4.2 g

Omega-6 Fats 341 mg

1944 mg

similar to humans who don't get enough exercise. The

health of farmed fish is further compromised by feeding
them an unnatural diet. Farmed salmon suffer from
parasites and diseases that can pass directly into wild fish
populations, threatening their viability. In order to combat
the disease problem, farmed fish are given antibiotics and
pesticides (such as endosulfan), and in the case of salmon,
synthetic astaxanthin made from petrochemicals not
approved for human consumption. Fish farms pump
uneaten food and massive amounts of excrement, often
containing drugs and pesticides, directly into ocean waters.

How Healthy Can Salmon Be When Raised on a

Steady Diet of Chicken Feather Sandwiches?

Farmed Salmon Is MUCH More Contaminated Than

Wild Salmon

Farmed and Dangerous provides an example of a fish feed

label, and the ingredients are very telling in terms of where
these excess omega-6 fats are coming from. Skretting's
"Winter Plus 3500 salmon feed lists the first nine
ingredients:

Over the course of the last century, thousands of dangerous

chemical substances have been poured into the oceans.
Fish bioaccumulate these pollutants, and farmed salmon
are more susceptible to the accumulation of fat-soluble
pollutants, such as PCBs. dioxins, and pesticides. Farmed
salmon has much higher concentrations of persistent,
bioaccumulative contaminants (polychlorinated biphenyls,
dioxins, and several chlorinated pesticides) than wild
salmon.11 Scientists have concluded that:12

"Poultry Meal, Fish Meal, Poultry Fat, Fish

Oil, Whole Wheat, Soybean Meal, Corn
Gluten Meal, Feather Meal, Rapeseed Oil"
To this you can add gelatin, swine byproducts and other
unsavory protein and fat sources found in common
commercial fish feed.7,8 This is a far cry from a speciesappropriate diet! However, fish farmers are left with few
options.

"Consumption of farmed salmon at

relatively low frequencies results in
elevated exposure to dioxins and dioxinlike compounds with commensurate
elevation in estimates of health risk."

According to Farmed and Dangerous, it takes 1.5 to eight

kilograms of wild fish to produce just one kilogram of
farmed salmon, which is why the aquaculture industry is
contributing heavily to the depletion of wild fish stocks.9

In a global assessment of farmed salmon published in the

January 2004 issue of Science,13 13 persistent organic
pollutants were found. Some of the most dangerous are
PCBs, strongly associated with cancer, reproductive and
other health problems. PCB concentrations in farmed
salmon were found to be eight times higher than in wild
salmon. Those contamination levels are deemed safe by
the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) but not by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Researchers
postulated that if EPA guidelines were applied to the
farmed salmon they tested, recommendations would be to
restrict salmon to no more than once per month.

About 85 percent of global fish stocks are severely

overexploited, depleted or in various stages of recovery. 10
We are losing species as well as entire ecosystems, and as
a result, the overall ecological integrity of our oceans is at
risk.
Fish Farms: CAFOs of the Sea

Six More Reasons to NOT Eat Farmed Salmon

Salmon raised on fish farms are also creating some serious
environmental problems, six of which are summarized
below.14
Environmental Risks of Fish Farms
Just as with land-based CAFOs, high stocking
densities can fuel a disease outbreak. Vaccines
1.
Transmission and antibiotics are used to control infections,
through medicated baths and feed, but those
of disease
methods of delivery also increase the chance
that antibiotics will pass into the environment,

Most fish farms are aquatic versions of CAFOs, and just

like cattle and poultry farms, overcrowding makes them
breeding grounds for disease. Fish kept in constrained
environments become "sea slugs" with health problems

148

affecting wildlife and other organisms. The use

of antibiotics in aquaculture has resulted in a
much larger problem: antibiotic resistance.

2. Sea lice

AquaBounty Technologies Inc. has genetically engineered

Atlantic salmon (known as AquAdvantage salmon) to
overexpress a growth-hormone gene, resulting in a fish
that grows up to five times faster than normal. The
company has been seeking FDA approval for its pseudosalmon since 1995, which is now opposed by two million
Americans, including hundreds of organizations,
businesses, fishermen and a large segment of Congress.19

One of the most significant threats facing wild

salmon populations, a parasite called sea lice,
spread rampantly in fish farms.15 Farm
infestations significantly increase the number of
lice in surrounding waters, infecting wild fish
populations. Sea lice can infect very young
salmon so that fewer make it out to sea or back
to spawn. Combating sea lice requires the use
of toxic pesticides, including emamectin
benzoate (SLICE),16 which persists in the
salmon's tissues and the environment for weeks
to months.

In March 2014, the FDA reported they are still deciding

whether or not to approve the GE fish. If they do, it will be
the first GE animal product to reach America's dinner
plate.
The environmental risks of such a biological nightmare are
tremendous. In a Purdue University computer model that
tracked the effects of releasing just 60 "Frankenfish" into a
population of 60,000, there was a complete extinction of
the normal fish in just 40 fish generations. In response to
these concerns, several major groceries, including Kroger,
Whole Foods, Safeway, Target and Trader Joe's, have
committed to not selling GE seafood if it's allowed on the
market. And Governor Jerry Brown just signed California
law AB 504, which bans commercial production of any
GE salmon in state waters.20

The majority of salmon are raised in open pens

and cages along the coast, where the fish are
targeted by predators such as seals and sea
3.
Escapes birds, who attempt to get through the nets. As a
and
result, many salmon flee from their enclosures.
interspecies The escape of farmed salmon into the wild
impacts
population poses a serious threat to indigenous
wild salmon species, potentially outcompeting
them for habitat and food, as well as spreading
disease.17

Clues for Spotting a Farm-Raised Salmon

Densely confined salmon produce copious

amounts of waste, laced with antibiotics and
pesticides, and this excrement can build up
under the pens, smothering portions of the
ocean bottom, contaminating the marine
4.
Salmon
ecosystem and depriving species of oxygen
manure
like a litter box that never gets changed. Or, the
bulk of the waste may be carried away from the
farm site by ocean currents, ending up
collecting in another place and causing
localized pollution.

Unfortunately, salmon and other fish are often

mislabeledand if GE salmon is approved, it won't be
labeled as such. Studies have shown that up to 80 percent
of the fish marked as "wild" are actually farmed. This
includes restaurants, where 90 to 95 percent of salmon is
farmed, yet often listed on the menu as "wild."
Given these inaccuracies, how can you tell whether a
salmon really is wild or farmed? The flesh of the salmon
will give you a clue. Wild sockeye salmon is bright red,
courtesy of its natural astaxanthin content. Sockeye salmon
actually has one of the highest concentrations of natural
astaxanthin of any food. Wild salmon is also very lean, so
the fat marksthose white stripes you see in the meat
are quite thin. If a fish is pale pink with wide fat marks, the
salmon is likely farmed. Avoid Atlantic salmon, as salmon
bearing this label are almost always farmed.

5.
Seals, sea lions, and birds become trapped and
Endangerment
drown in salmon farm nets.18
of sea life
Algal blooms are the uncontrolled growth of one
or more species of algae. Hundreds of
thousands of salmon excreting in the confined
6.
Algal area of a farm can cause a localized level of
blooms
nutrient loading that may not be completely
absorbed by the surrounding environment;
hence, nutrient loading from salmon farms may
be linked to algal blooms.

The two designations you want to look for are:

"Alaskan salmon" (or wild Alaskan salmon)
and "sockeye salmon."
Alaskan sockeye are not allowed to be farmed. Canned
salmon labeled "Alaskan salmon" is a good bet, and if you
find sockeye, it too is assured to be wild. My favorite
brand is Vital Choice Wild Seafood and Organics, which
offers a nice variety of high-quality salmon products that
test high for omega-3 fats and low for contaminants.

Genetically Engineered Pseudo-Salmon

As if the problems associated with farmed salmon aren't
enough, genetically engineered (GE) salmon may soon be
heading to a supermarket near you, if approved by FDA.

149

Krill Oil, Another Excellent Source of Omega-3 Fats

Krill is highly sustainable because of its enormous

biomass, between 170 million to 740 million tons. We are
harvesting only about two percent of the precautionary
catch limit of 6.6 million tons, set in 2008. We could
increase this harvest 50-fold and still be within safe limits.
Unlike fish, krill does not accumulate heavy metals, PCBs,
dioxins and other contaminants because it's at the bottom
of the food chain. Between wild Alaskan salmon, krill oil,
and grass pastured meats and dairy, your omega-3 to
omega-6 fat ratio should be much more balanced and
appropriate for optimal health.

Consuming wild Alaskan salmon is an excellent way to

boost your omega-3 level, but there is another option if
you're concerned you're not getting enough. You can add a
krill oil supplement. Krill oil is extracted from tiny shrimplike crustaceans called krill that live in the pristine waters
of Antarctica. Krill feed on plankton floating near the
ocean's surface. The special properties of the EPA and
DHA in krill oil make it 48 times more potent than fish oil.

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Inexpensive Vitamin Treats

So Many Diseases It Threatens Big Pharma
Just Be Careful If You're Vegan
By Christina Sarich
Posted On January 8, 2015
Most of us dont get enough B12 in our diets, though you
can find it primarily in animal sources like seafood,
shellfish, dairy, and meat. It also isnt given its due credit
in the medical establishment, as many vitamins and
minerals dont since they cannot be patented and sold as
billion dollar drugs. But even a geneticist recently
uncovered the ability of B12 to treat the rare disease that
causes loss of muscle control in a toddler.
Peripheral neuropathy, which is characterized by sharp
pain or numbing and tingling, affects people of all ages.
But the cure isnt some outlandish and expensive
pharmaceutical medicine its a vitamin found easily in
fish or supplements. Patients suffering from a loss of
muscular control, painful tingling, numbness and loss of
sensation in their limbs dont have to undergo invasive
surgeries or take debilitating meds they may be able to
simply take high doses of Vitamin B12. This vitamin
benefits many other diseases as well.

David L. Katz, MD, MPH, FACPM, FACP Director, Yale

University Prevention Research Center Director says that
B12 might be one of the most important vitamins that you
arent paying any attention to. One of the most obviously
vital functions of the vitamins, as he points out, is its
ability to promote the normal replication of DNA. Without
B12, we cannot regenerate normal, healthy cells.
This means that even if you dont have a full-blown
disease like peripheral neuropathy, you will likely feel old
before your time, excessively tired, anemic, dizzy, and
irritable. You may also more frequently suffer from
dementia as you age.

Our bodies need 13 different B vitamins, and B12 can be

especially lacking. Most of us are already familiar with B1
(thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, and folic acid.
But the B complex also includes vitamin B5 (pantothenic
acid), B12, biotin, PABA, choline, and inositol. These
water-soluble vitamins are indispensable for good health.

If you are vegan or vegetarian, it can be difficult to get

enough B12. Try the following tips:

Whats more, the high sugar diet that many Americans

partake of also destroys Vitamin B12 in the intestinal tract.

As Natural Society previously reported, one UK doctor is a

big fan of B12 so much so that he has treated all kinds of
illnesses with B12 shots. He fully documented his
successes, but UK health officials were wary because he
was giving inexpensive B12 injections to patients whose
blood serum B12 levels were above 150, which the UK
medical establishment considers normal.

Eat more meat, dairy, and seafood.

Take one B12 supplement daily providing at least
10 micrograms
Eat fortified foods two or three times a day to get
at least three micrograms (mcg or g) of B12 a
day.

If youve been feeling sluggish, check that you are getting

enough B12, and if not, supplement. Your renewed health
will be testament to the miracle of this vitamin.

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Veganism And B12 Deficiency:

One Danger Of Avoiding Meat
By Elizabeth Renter
Posted On August 20, 2012
When you tell a meat-eater that you are a vegetarian or
vegan, the first response is usually something like, How
do you get enough protein? This question is somewhat of
a joke in the vegan community, as there are plenty of foods
that can make up a diet full of protein. Many of the foods
in a high vegetarian protein diet may also fit in a vegan
diet. But protein often isnt the real problem a vitamin
B12 deficiency is.

hour after meals, you could be diminishing the availability

of vitamin B12. Calcium is another important factor in
vitamin B12 absorption; a lack of dietary calcium could
result in a lack of B12.
In other words, how your body uses B12 is a complicated
process.
What can you do?

Vegans, Vegetarians, and B12 Deficiency

The key to any healthy diet is balance and education. You

have to know what your body needs in order to provide it.
Some vegetarian sources of B12 include fortified cereals
and nutritional yeast, but both of these products are highly
processed. Since it indeed is quite difficult to attain enough
vitamin B12 if on a vegan or vegetarian diet, a B12
supplement can go a long ways in balancing the B12
absorption and providing the vitamin.

Why do vegans have such a tough time attaining enough

Vitamin B12? The vitamin is most often found in animal
products. It is crucial in the formation of red blood cells,
brain function, and DNA synthesis. Without it, you could
face a whole host of problems. And yet, its suspected that
many vegans and vegetarians are deficient in this crucial
vitamin. However, there are things that you can do to
ensure you are getting enough of this water soluble
vitamin.

Finally, be aware of what B12 deficiency looks like.

Although it is rare, many vegans leave their meat-free
lifestyle because they dont feel healthy, and being short
on B12 could certainly contribute to these not-quite-right
feelings.

The liver stores years worth of B12, available for

absorption whenever is needed. This means that even if
you dont get enough B12 today, you could be reaping the
benefits of B12 you consumed last year. However, B12
doesnt just depend on intake, but on absorption. B12 can
only be absorbed when it combines with something called
intrinsic factor (IF). Things like anemia can reduce the
production of IF and the absorption of B12, making it
unusable.

Lethargy, rapid heartbeat, pale skin, easy bruising and

bleeding, digestive distress, weight loss, and a sore tongue
are all signs of B12 deficiency. Left unresolved it can lead
to tingling and numbness in the extremities, depression,
memory loss, and disorientation.

Vitamin C can actually block the absorption of vitamin

B12 as well. According to research, if you take more than
500 mcg of vitamin C, either with meals or within one

152

An Avocado A Day Keeps The Cardiologist Away

Wednesday, January 07, 2015
cholesterol -- as well as total cholesterol. However,
participants experienced an even greater reduction in LDL
and total cholesterol while on the avocado diet, compared
to the other two diets, the researchers report today (Jan. 7)
in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
The avocado diet decreased bad
cholesterol by 13.5 mg/dL, while LDL was
decreased by 8.3 mg/dL on the moderatefat diet and by 7.4 mg/dL on the low-fat
diet.
Adding an avocado to your daily diet may help lower bad
cholesterol, in turn reducing risk for heart disease,
according to health researchers.

All participants followed each of the three diets for five

weeks. They were given a two-week break in between
each diet. Blood samples were taken at the beginning and
end of each study period. Subjects were randomly assigned
the order in which they received each diet.

Avocados are known to be a nutrient-dense food, high in

monounsaturated fatty acids. Previous studies have
suggested that avocados are a cholesterol-lowering food,
but this is the first study -- to the researchers' knowledge -to look at health implications of avocados beyond
monounsaturated fatty acids.

"This was a controlled feeding study, but

that is not the real world -- so it is more of a
proof-of-concept investigation," said KrisEtherton. "We need to focus on getting
people to eat a healthy diet that includes
avocados and other food sources of better
fats."

"Including one avocado each day as part of

a moderate-fat, cholesterol-lowering diet
compared to a comparable moderate-fat
diet without an avocado provides additional
LDL (low-density lipoproteins) lowering
affects, which benefit CVD risk," said
Penny M. Kris-Etherton, Distinguished
Professor of Nutrition.

She pointed out that much of the U.S. population doesn't

know how to use or prepare avocados, with the exception
of guacamole. However, guacamole is usually eaten with
corn chips, which are high in both sodium and calories.
"People should start thinking about eating
avocados in new ways," said Kris-Etherton.
"I think using it as a condiment is a great
way to incorporate avocados into meals -for instance, putting a slice or two on a
sandwich or using chopped avocado in a
salad or to season vegetables."

Kris-Etherton and colleagues tested three different diets,

all designed to lower cholesterol: a lower-fat diet,
consisting of 24 percent fat, and two moderate fat diets,
with 34 percent fat. The moderate fat diets were nearly
identical, however one diet incorporated one Hass avocado
every day while the other used a comparable amount of
high oleic acid oils -- such as olive oil -- to match the fatty
acid content of one avocado. Hass avocados are the
smaller, darker variety with bumpy green skin and have a
higher nutrient content than Florida avocados, which are
larger, and have smoother skin and a higher water content.

Kris-Etherton and colleagues note that further research will

need to be conducted with a larger and more diverse study
sample and to explore further how high-density
lipoproteins -- good cholesterol -- might be affected by a
diet that includes avocados.

The researchers tested the diets with 45 healthy,

overweight adults between the ages of 21 and 70.
Compared to the participants' baseline measurements, all
three diets significantly lowered LDL -- also known as bad

Press and study by Penn State.

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The 48 Most Essential Healing Herbs

By Waking Times
January 16, 2015
Acai berry products have become popular in the United
States, where they have been marketed as folk or
traditional remedies for weight-loss and anti-aging
purposes, but there is no definitive scientific evidence to
support these claims. Acai fruit pulp has been used
experimentally as an oral contrast agent for magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) of the gastrointestinal tract.
Acai berry products are available as juices, powders,
tablets, and capsules.

People are once again turning towards natural medicines,

foods and plants for their healing properties, realizing that
modern medicine may not always be the best answer to the
bodys ailments. The brief descriptions below will provide
you with the basic information about some wellknown herbs and botanicals. Click on any of the links to
explore a large variety of herbal products now available on
Amazon. You can also find many of these herbs at your
local health food store. Please share your experiences and
knowledge of these healing herbs in the comments section.

2. Aloe Vera
Common Names: aloe vera, aloe, burn plant, lily of the
desert, elephants gall
Latin Name: Aloe vera, Aloe barbadensis
Aloe veras use can be traced back 6,000 years to early
Egypt, where the plant was depicted on stone carvings.
Known as the plant of immortality, aloe was presented
as a burial gift to deceased pharaohs.
Historically, aloe was used topically to heal wounds and
for various skin conditions, and orally as a laxative. Today,
in addition to these uses, aloe is used as a folk or
traditional remedy for a variety of conditions, including
diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, and osteoarthritis. It is also
used topically for osteoarthritis, burns, sunburns, and
psoriasis. Aloe vera gel can be found in hundreds of skin
products, including lotions and sunblocks. The Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) has approved aloe vera as a
natural food flavoring.

1. Acai
Common Names: acai, aa, Amazonian palm berry
Latin Name: Euterpe oleracea
The acai palm tree, native to tropical Central and South
America, produces a reddish-purple berry. The acai berrys
name, which comes from a language of the native people
of the region, means fruit that cries. The acai berry has
long been an important food source for indigenous peoples
of the Amazon region, who also use acai for a variety of
health-related purposes.

Aloe leaves contain a clear gel that is often used as a

topical ointment. The green part of the leaf that surrounds
the gel can be used to produce a juice or a dried substance
(called latex) that is taken by mouth.

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Latin
Name: Astragalus
Astragalus mongholicus

membranaceus,

Native to China, astragalus has been used for centuries

in traditional Chinese medicine. In the United States, the
herb gained popularity in the 1980s. There are actually
over 2,000 species of astragalus; however, the two related
species Astragalus
membranaceus and Astragalus
mongholicus are the ones primarily used
for
health purposes.
3. Asian Ginseng
Common Names: Asian ginseng, ginseng,
ginseng, Korean ginseng, Asiatic ginseng

Historically, astragalus has been used in traditional

Chinese medicine, usually in combination with other
herbs, to support and enhance the immune system. It is still
widely used in China for chronic hepatitis and as an
adjunctive therapy for cancer. It is also used as a folk or
traditional remedy for colds and upper respiratory
infections, and for heart disease.

Chinese

Latin Name: Panax ginseng

Asian ginseng is native to China and Korea and has been
used in various systems of medicine for many centuries.
Asian ginseng is one of several types of true ginseng
(another is American ginseng, Panax quinquefolius).
The herb called
Siberian
ginseng
or
eleuthero (Eleutherococcus
senticosus) is
not
a
true ginseng.

The root of the astragalus plant is typically used in soups,

teas, extracts, or capsules. Astragalus is generally used
with other herbs, such as ginseng, angelica, and licorice.

Treatment claims for Asian ginseng are numerous and

include the use of the herb to support overall health and
boost the immune system. Traditional and folk uses of
ginseng include improving the health of people recovering
from illness; increasing a sense of well-being and stamina;
improving both mental and physical performance; treating
erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C, and symptoms related to
menopause; and lowering blood glucose and controlling
blood pressure.

5. Bilberry

The root of Asian ginseng contains active chemical

components called ginsenosides (or panaxosides) that are
thought to be responsible for the herbs claimed medicinal
properties. The root is dried and used to make tablets or
capsules, extracts, and teas, as well as creams or other
preparations for external use.

Common
Names: bilberry,
whortleberry, huckleberry

European

blueberry,

Latin Name: Vaccinium myrtillus

Bilberry is a relative of the blueberry, and its fruit is
commonly used to make pies and jams. It has been used
for nearly 1,000 years in traditional European medicine.
Bilberry grows in North America, Europe, and northern
Asia. Historically, bilberry fruit was used to treat diarrhea,
scurvy, and other conditions. Today, the fruit is used as a
folk or traditional remedy for diarrhea, menstrual cramps,
eye problems, varicose veins, venous insufficiency (a
condition in which the veins do not efficiently return blood
from the legs to the heart), and other circulatory problems.
Bilberry leaf is used for entirely different conditions,
including diabetes.

4. Astragalus

The fruit of the bilberry plant can be eaten or made into

extracts. Similarly, the leaves of the bilberry plant can be
made into extracts or used to make teas.

Common Names: astragalus, bei qi, huang qi, ogi,

hwanggi, milk vetch

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(arthritis and muscle pain) but has been used more recently
as a folk or traditional remedy for hot flashes, night
sweats, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms that can
occur during menopause. Black cohosh has also been used
for menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome,
and to induce labor.
The underground stems and roots of black cohosh are
commonly used fresh or dried to make strong teas
(infusions), capsules, solid extracts used in pills, or liquid
extracts (tinctures).

6. Bitter Orange
Common Names: bitter orange, Seville orange, sour
orange, zhi shi
Latin Name: Citrus aurantium
The bitter orange tree is native to eastern Africa and
tropical Asia. Today, it is grown throughout the
Mediterranean region and elsewhere, including California
and Florida. Bitter orange oil is used in foods, cosmetics,
and aromatherapy products. Bitter orange oil from the
trees leaves is called petitgrain, and oil from the flowers is
called neroli. Bitter orange has been used in traditional
Chinese medicine and by indigenous people of the
Amazon rainforest for nausea, indigestion, and
constipation. Current folk or traditional uses of bitter
orange are for heartburn, loss of appetite, nasal congestion,
and weight loss. It is also applied to the skin for fungal
infections such as ringworm and athletes foot.

8. Bromelain
Common Names: bromelain, pineapple extract
Latin Name: (Pineapple Plant) Ananas comosus L.
Bromelain is a mixture of enzymes found in the pineapple
plant. Pineapple is native to the Americas but is now
grown throughout the world in tropical and subtropical
regions. Historically, natives of Central and South America
used pineapple for a variety of ailments, such as
digestive disorders.

The dried fruit and peel (and sometimes flowers and

leaves) are taken by mouth in extracts, tablets, and
capsules. Bitter orange oil can be applied to the skin.

Currently, bromelain is used as a dietary supplement for

nasal swelling and inflammation, osteoarthritis, cancer,
poor digestion, and muscle soreness. Topical (applied to
the skin) bromelain is used for wounds and burns.
Bromelain is obtained from the stem or fruit of the
pineapple. It is sold in the form of a powder, cream, tablet,
or capsule, and it may be used alone or in combination
with other ingredients.
7. Black Cohosh
Common Names: black cohosh, black snakeroot,
macrotys, bugbane, bugwort, rattleroot, rattleweed
Latin Name: Actaea racemosa, Cimicifuga racemosa
Black cohosh, a member of the buttercup family, is a plant
native to North America. It was used in Native American
medicine and was a home remedy in 19th-century
America. Black cohosh has a history of use for rheumatism

156

9. Butterbur
Common Names: butterbur, petasites, purple butterbur.
Butterbur is also known under several patented
standardized extract forms, such as Petadolex.
Latin Name: Petasites hybridus (also known as Petasitidis
hybridus, Petasites officinalis, or Tussilago hybrida).
Butterbur is a shrub that grows in Europe and parts of Asia
and North America, typically in wet, marshy ground. The
name, butterbur, is attributed to the traditional use of its
large leaves to wrap butter in warm weather. Butterbur has
historically been used for a variety of health issues such as
pain, headache, anxiety, cough, fever, and gastrointestinal
and urinary tract conditions. It has also been used topically
to improve wound healing. Today, traditional or folk uses
include nasal allergies, allergic skin reactions, asthma, and
migraine headache.

11. Chamomile
Common Names: chamomile, German chamomile
Latin Name: Matricaria recutita, Chamomilla recutita
Two types of chamomile have been used for health
conditions: German chamomile and Roman chamomile.
While the two kinds are thought to have similar effects on
the body, the German variety is more commonly used in
the United States and is the focus of this fact sheet.

The leaves, rhizomes (underground stems), and roots of

butterbur are commonly used to make solid extracts used
in tablets. Some butterbur extracts are also used topically.

Chamomile has been widely used in children and adults for

thousands of years for a variety of health conditions.
Today, chamomile is used as a folk or traditional remedy
for sleeplessness, anxiety, and gastrointestinal conditions
such as upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea. It is also used
topically for skin conditions and for mouth ulcers resulting
from cancer treatment.
The flowering tops of the chamomile plant are used to
make teas, liquid extracts, capsules, or tablets.
The herb can also be applied to the skin as a cream or an
ointment, or used as a mouth rinse.
10. Cats Claw
Common Names: cats claw, ua de gato
Latin Name: Uncaria tomentosa, Uncaria guianensis
Cats claw grows wild in many countries of Central and
South America, especially in the Amazon rainforest. The
use of this woody vine dates back to the Inca civilization.
Historically, cats claw has been used for centuries in
South America to prevent and treat disease. More recently,
cats claw has been used as a folk or traditional remedy for
a variety of health conditions, including viral infections
(such as herpes and HIV), Alzheimers disease, cancer,
and arthritis. Other folk uses include supporting the
immune system and promoting kidney health, as well as
preventing and aborting pregnancy.

12. Chasteberry
Common Names: chasteberry, chaste-tree berry, vitex,
monks pepper
Latin Name: Vitex agnus-castus

The inner bark of cats claw is used to make liquid

extracts, capsules, and teas. Preparations of cats claw can
also be applied to the skin.

Chasteberry is the fruit of the chaste tree, a small shrublike tree native to Central Asia and the Mediterranean
region. The name is thought to come from a belief that the

157

plant promoted chastityit is reported that monks in the

Middle Ages used chasteberry to decrease sexual desire.
Chasteberry has been used for thousands of years, mostly
by women to ease menstrual problems and to stimulate the
production of breast milk. Currently, chasteberry is still
used as a folk or traditional remedy for menstrual
problems, such as premenstrual syndrome, as well as for
symptoms of menopause, some types of infertility,
and acne.
14. Cranberry
The dried ripe chasteberry is used to prepare liquid extracts
or solid extracts that are put into capsules and tablets.

Common Names: cranberry,

bog cranberry

American

cranberry,

Latin Name: Vaccinium macrocarpon

Cranberries are the fruit of a native plant of North
America. These red berries are used in foods and in herbal
products. Historically, cranberry fruits and leaves were
used for a variety of problems, such as wounds, urinary
disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, stomach ailments, and liver
problems. More recently, cranberry has been used as a folk
or traditional remedy for urinary tract infections
or Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) infections that can lead to
stomach ulcers, or to prevent dental plaque. Cranberry has
also been reported to have antioxidant and
anticancer activity.

13. Cinnamon
Common Names: cinnamon, cinnamon bark, Ceylon
cinnamon, cassia cinnamon, Chinese cinnamon

The berries are used to produce beverages and many other

food products, as well as dietary supplements in the form
of extracts, capsules, or tablets.

Latin Name: Cinnamomum zeylanicum (also known

as Cinnamomum
verum); Cinnamomum
cassia (also
known asCinnamomum aromaticum)
Cinnamon comes from the bark of trees native to China,
India, and Southeast Asia. A popular cooking spice in
many cultures for centuries, cinnamon also has a long
history of use as a folk or traditional medicine. For
example, many ancient societies used cinnamon for
bronchitis. Additional folk or traditional uses include
gastrointestinal problems, loss of appetite, and control of
diabetes, as well as a variety of other conditions.

15. Dandelion

Cinnamon bark is used to make powders, capsules, teas,

and liquid extracts. Although there are many kinds of
cinnamon, Ceylon cinnamon (sometimes referred to as
true cinnamon) and cassia cinnamon (also known as
Chinese cinnamon) are the most familiar.

Common Names: dandelion, lions tooth, blowball

Latin Name: Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion greens are edible and are a rich source of
vitamin A. Dandelion has been used in many traditional
medical systems, including Native American and
traditional Arabic medicine. Historically, dandelion was
most commonly used to treat liver diseases, kidney
diseases, and spleen problems. Less commonly, dandelion
was used to treat digestive problems and skin conditions.
Today, traditional or folk uses of dandelion include use as

158

a liver or kidney tonic, as a diuretic, and for minor

digestive problems.

Ephedra is an evergreen shrub-like plant native to Central

Asia and Mongolia. The principal active ingredient,
ephedrine, is a compound that can powerfully stimulate the
nervous system and heart. Ephedra has been used for more
than 5,000 years in China and India to treat conditions
such as colds, fever, flu, headaches, asthma, wheezing, and
nasal congestion. More recently, ephedra was used as an
ingredient in dietary supplements for weight loss,
increased energy, and enhanced athletic performance.

The leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant,

are used fresh or dried in teas, capsules, or extracts.
Dandelion leaves are used in salads or as a cooked green,
and the flowers are used to make wine.

The dried stems and leaves of the ephedra plant have been
used to create capsules, tablets, tinctures, and teas.

16. Echinacea
Common
Names: echinacea,
coneflower, American coneflower
Latin
Name: Echinacea
angustifolia, Echinacea pallida

purple

coneflower,

purpurea,

Echinacea

18. European Elder

Common Names: European elder, black elder, elder,
elderberry, elder flower, sambucus

There are nine known species of echinacea, all of which

are native to the United States and southern Canada. The
most commonly used is Echinacea purpurea. Echinacea
has traditionally been used for colds, flu, and other
infections, based on the idea that it might stimulate the
immune system to more effectively fight infection. Less
common folk or traditional uses of echinacea include for
wounds and skin problems, such as acne or boils.

Latin Name: Sambucus nigra

European elder is a tree native to Europe and parts of Asia
and Africa, and it also grows in the United States. There
are several different types of elder, such as American
elder, but European elder is the type most often used as a
supplement. Parts of the elder treesuch as the berries and
flowershave historically been used for pain, swelling,
infections, coughs, and skin conditions. Current folk or
traditional uses of elderberry and elder flower include flu,
colds, fevers, constipation, and sinus infections.

The aboveground parts of the plant and roots of echinacea

are used fresh or dried to make teas, squeezed (expressed)
juice, extracts, or preparations for external use.

The dried flowers (elder flower) and the cooked blue/black

berries (elderberry) of the European elder tree are used in
teas, liquid extracts, and capsules.

17. Ephedra
Common Names: ephedra, Chinese ephedra, ma huang
Latin Name: Ephedra sinica

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19. European Mistletoe

Common Names: European mistletoe, mistletoe
Latin Name: Viscum album L.
European mistletoe is a semiparasitic plant that grows on
several types of trees in temperate regions worldwide.
Where the term mistletoe is used in this fact sheet, it
refers to European mistletoe. (European mistletoe is
different from American mistletoe, which is used as a
holiday decoration.) Mistletoe has been used for centuries
in traditional medicine to treat seizures, headaches, and
other conditions. Today, mistletoe is used mainly in
Europe as a treatment for cancer.

21. Fenugreek
Common Names: fenugreek, fenugreek seed
Latin Name: Trigonella foenum-graecum

The leafy shoots and berries of mistletoe are used to make

extracts that can be taken by mouth. In Europe, mistletoe
extracts are prescription drugs that are given by injection.
In the United States, mistletoe by injection is available
only in clinical trials.

The first recorded use of fenugreek is described on an

ancient Egyptian papyrus dated to 1500 B.C. Fenugreek
seed is commonly used in cooking. Historically, fenugreek
was used for a variety of health conditions, including
menopausal symptoms and digestive problems. It was also
used for inducing childbirth. Today, fenugreek is used as a
folk or traditional remedy for diabetes and loss of appetite,
and to stimulate milk production in breastfeeding women.
It is also applied to the skin for inflammation.
The dried seeds are ground and taken by mouth or used to
form a paste that is applied to the skin.

20. Evening Primrose Oil

Common Names: evening primrose oil, EPO
Latin Name: Oenothera biennis
Evening primrose is a plant native to North America, but it
grows in Europe and parts of the Southern hemisphere as
well. It has yellow flowers that bloom in the evening.
Evening primrose oil contains the fatty acid gammalinolenic acid (GLA).

22. Feverfew
Common
Names: feverfew,
buttons, featherfew

Evening primrose oil has been used since the 1930s as a

folk or traditional remedy for eczema (a condition in which
the skin becomes inflamed, itchy, or scaly because of
allergies or other irritation). More recent folk uses include
other conditions involving inflammation, such as
rheumatoid arthritis; conditions affecting womens health,
such as breast pain associated with the menstrual cycle,
menopausal symptoms, and premenstrual syndrome
(PMS); cancer; and diabetes.

Latin
Name: Tanacetum
Chrysanthemum parthenium

bachelors

parthenium,

Originally a plant native to the Balkan mountains of

Eastern Europe, feverfewa short bush with daisy-like
flowersnow grows throughout Europe, North America,
and South America. For centuries, traditional uses of
feverfew have included fevers, headaches, stomach aches,
toothaches, insect bites, infertility, and problems with
menstruation and with labor during childbirth. Newer folk
or traditional uses for feverfew include migraine
headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, allergies,

Evening primrose oil is extracted from the seeds of the

evening primrose. The oil is usually put into capsules
for use.

160

asthma, tinnitus (ringing or roaring sounds in the ears),

dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
The dried leavesand sometimes flowers and stemsof
feverfew are used to make supplements, including
capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. The leaves are
sometimes eaten fresh.

24. Garlic
Common Name: garlic
Latin Name: Allium sativum
Garlic is the edible bulb from a plant in the lily family. It
has been used as both a medicine and a spice for thousands
of years. Garlics most common folk or traditional uses as
a dietary supplement are for high cholesterol, heart
disease, and high blood pressure. Other folk or traditional
uses include prevention of certain types of cancer,
including stomach and colon cancers. Garlic cloves can be
eaten raw or cooked. They may also be dried or powdered
and used in tablets and capsules. Raw garlic cloves can be
used to make oils and liquid extracts.

23. Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil

Common Names: flaxseed, linseed
Latin Name: Linum usitatissimum
Flaxseed is the seed of the flax plant, which is believed to
have originated in Egypt. It grows throughout Canada and
Northwestern United States. Flaxseed oil comes from
flaxseeds. The most common folk or traditional use of
flaxseed is as a laxative; it is also used for hot flashes and
breast pain. Flaxseed oil has different folk or traditional
uses, including arthritis. Both flaxseed and flaxseed oil
have been used for high cholesterol levels and in an effort
to prevent cancer.
Whole or crushed flaxseed can be mixed with water or
juice and taken by mouth. Flaxseed is also available in
powder form. Flaxseed oil is available in liquid and
capsule forms. Flaxseed contains lignans (phytoestrogens,
or plant estrogens), while flaxseed oil preparations
lack lignans.

25. Ginger
Common Name: ginger

Flaxseed contains soluble fiber, like that found in oat bran,

and may have a laxative effect.

Latin Name: Zingiber officinale

Ginger is a tropical plant that has green-purple flowers and
an aromatic underground stem (called a rhizome). It is
commonly used for cooking and medicinal purposes.
Historically, ginger has been used in Asian medicine to
treat stomach aches, nausea, and diarrhea. Today, ginger is
used as a folk or traditional remedy for postsurgery nausea;
nausea caused by motion, chemotherapy, and pregnancy;
rheumatoid arthritis; osteoarthritis; and joint and
muscle pain.

161

Blue Ridge Mountains. Historically, Native Americans

have used goldenseal for various health conditions such as
skin diseases, ulcers, and gonorrhea. Currently, folk or
traditional uses of goldenseal include colds and other
respiratory tract infections, infectious diarrhea, eye
infections, vaginitis (inflammation or infection of the
vagina), and occasionally, cancer. It is also applied to
wounds and canker sores and is used as a mouthwash for
sore gums, mouth, and throat.
The underground stems or roots of goldenseal are dried
and used to make teas, liquid extracts, and solid extracts
that may be made into tablets and capsules. Goldenseal is
often combined with echinacea in preparations that are
intended to be used for colds.

26. Ginkgo
Common Names: ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba, fossil tree,
maidenhair tree, Japanese silver apricot, baiguo, bai guo
ye, kew tree, yinhsing (yin-hsing)
Latin Name: Ginkgo biloba
The ginkgo tree is one of the oldest types of trees in the
world. Ginkgo seeds have been used intraditional Chinese
medicine for thousands of years, and cooked seeds are
occasionally eaten. Historically, ginkgo leaf extract has
been used to treat a variety of ailments and conditions,
including asthma, bronchitis, fatigue, and tinnitus (ringing
or roaring sounds in the ears). Today, folk uses of ginkgo
leaf extracts include attempts to improve memory; to treat
or help prevent Alzheimers disease and other types of
dementia; to decrease intermittent claudication (leg pain
caused by narrowing arteries); and to treat sexual
dysfunction, multiple sclerosis, tinnitus, and other
health conditions.

28. Grape Seed Extract

Common Name: grape seed extract
Latin Name: Vitis vinifera

Extracts are usually taken from the ginkgo leaf and are
used to make tablets, capsules, or teas. Occasionally,
ginkgo extracts are used in skin products.

The leaves and fruit of the grape have been used

medicinally since ancient Greece. Today, grape seed
extract is used as a folk or traditional remedy for
conditions related to the heart and blood vessels, such as
atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), high blood
pressure, high cholesterol, and poor circulation;
complications related to diabetes, such as nerve and eye
damage; vision problems, such as macular degeneration
(which can cause blindness); swelling after an injury or
surgery; cancer prevention; and wound healing.
The grape seeds used to produce grape seed extract are
generally obtained from wine manufacturers. Grape seed
extract is available in capsule and tablet forms.

27. Goldenseal
Common Names: goldenseal, yellow root
Latin Name: Hydrastis canadensis
Goldenseal is a plant that grows wild in parts of the United
States but has become endangered by overharvesting. With
natural supplies dwindling, goldenseal is now grown
commercially across the United States, especially in the

162

29. Green Tea

Common Names: green tea, Chinese tea, Japanese tea
Latin Name: Camellia sinensis
All types of tea (green, black, and oolong) are produced
from the Camellia sinensis plant using different methods.
Fresh leaves from the plant are steamed to produce green
tea. Green tea and green tea extracts, such as its
component EGCG, have traditionally been used to prevent
and treat a variety of cancers, including breast, stomach,
and skin cancers, and for mental alertness, weight loss,
lowering cholesterol levels, and protecting skin from
sun damage.

31. Hoodia
Common Names: hoodia, Kalahari cactus, Xhoba
Latin Name: Hoodia gordonii

Green tea is usually brewed and drunk as a beverage.

Green tea extracts can be taken in capsules and are
sometimes used in skin products.

Hoodia is a flowering, cactus-like plant native to the

Kalahari Desert in southern Africa. Its harvest is protected
by conservation laws. Historically, Kalahari Bushmen ate
hoodia stems to reduce their hunger and thirst during long
hunts. Today, the main folk use of hoodia is as an appetite
suppressant for weight loss.
Dried extracts of hoodia stems and roots are used to make
capsules, powders, and chewable tablets. Hoodia can also
be used to make liquid extracts and teas. Hoodia products
often contain other herbs or minerals, such as green tea or
chromium picolinate.

30. Hawthorn
Common Names: hawthorn, English hawthorn, harthorne,
haw, hawthorne
Latin
Name: Crataegus
laevigata (also
as Crataegus oxyacantha), Crataegus monogyna

known

Hawthorn is a spiny, flowering shrub or small tree of the

rose family. The species of hawthorn discussed here are
native to northern European regions and grow throughout
the world.

32. Horse Chestnut

Common
Names: horse
Spanish chestnut

Historically, hawthorn fruit has been used for heart disease

since the first century. It has also been used for digestive
and kidney problems. More recently, hawthorn leaf and
flower have been used as folk or traditional remedies for
heart failure, a weakness of the heart muscle that prevents
the heart from pumping enough blood to the rest of the
body, which can lead to fatigue and limit physical
activities. Hawthorn is also used for other heart conditions,
including symptoms of coronary artery disease (such
as angina).

chestnut,

buckeye,

Latin Name: Aesculus hippocastanum

Horse chestnut trees are native to the Balkan Peninsula (for
example, Greece and Bulgaria), but grow throughout the
Northern Hemisphere. Although horse chestnut is
sometimes called buckeye, it should not be confused with
the Ohio or California buckeye trees, which are related but
not the same species.
For centuries, horse chestnut seeds, leaves, bark, and
flowers were used for a variety of conditions and diseases.
Today, horse chestnut seed extract is used primarily as a

The hawthorn leaf and flower are used to make liquid

extracts, usually with water and alcohol. Dry extracts can
be put into capsules and tablets.

163

folk or traditional remedy for chronic venous insufficiency

(a condition in which the veins do not efficiently return
blood from the legs to the heart). This condition is
associated with varicose veins, pain, ankle swelling,
feelings of heaviness, itching, and nighttime leg cramping.
The seed extract has also been used as a folk or traditional
remedy for hemorrhoids.

Lavender is native to the Mediterranean region. It was

used in ancient Egypt as part of the process for
mummifying bodies. Lavenders use as a bath additive
originated in Persia, Greece, and Rome. The herbs name
comes from the Latin lavare, which means to wash.
Historically, lavender was used as an antiseptic and for
mental health purposes. Today, lavender is used as a folk
or traditional remedy for anxiety, restlessness, insomnia,
depression, headache, upset stomach, and hair loss.

Horse chestnut seed extract standardized to contain 16 to

20 percent aescin (escin), the active ingredient, is the most
commonly used form. Topical preparations have also
been used.

Lavender is most commonly used in aromatherapy, in

which the scent of the essential oil from the flowers is
inhaled. The essential oil can also be diluted with another
oil and applied to the skin. Dried lavender flowers can be
used to make teas or liquid extracts that can be taken
by mouth.

33. Kava
Common Names: kava, kava kava, awa, kava pepper
Latin Name: Piper methysticum

35. Licorice Root

Kava is native to the islands of the South Pacific and is a

member of the pepper family. Kava has been used as a
ceremonial beverage in the South Pacific for centuries.

Common Names: licorice root, licorice, liquorice, sweet

root, gan zao (Chinese licorice)
Latin
Name: Glycyrrhiza
uralensis (Chinese licorice)

Historically, kava was used to help people fall asleep and

fight fatigue, as well as to treat asthma and urinary tract
infections. It also had a topical use as a numbing agent.
More recent folk or traditional uses include anxiety,
insomnia, and menopausal symptoms.

glabra,

Glycyrrhiza

Most licorice is grown in Greece, Turkey, and Asia.

Licorice contains a compound called glycyrrhizin (or
glycyrrhizic acid). Licorice has a long history of medicinal
use in both Eastern and Western systems of medicine.
Today, licorice is used as a folk or traditional remedy for
stomach ulcers, bronchitis, and sore throat, as well as
infections caused by viruses, such as hepatitis.

The root and rhizome (underground stem) of kava are used

to prepare beverages, extracts, capsules, tablets, and
topical solutions.

Peeled licorice root is available in dried and powdered

forms. Licorice root is available as capsules, tablets, and
liquid extracts. Licorice can be found with glycyrrhizin
removed;
the
product
is
called
DGL
(for
deglycyrrhizinated licorice).
34. Lavender
Common
Names: lavender,
garden lavender

English

lavender,

Latin Name: Lavandula angustifolia

164

Today, noni fruit juice has folk uses as a general health

tonic and for cancer and chronic conditions such as
cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
The noni fruit is most commonly combined with other
fruits (such as grape) to make juice. Preparations of the
fruit and leaves are also available in capsules, tablets,
and teas.

36. Milk Thistle

Common Names: milk thistle, Mary thistle, holy thistle.
Milk thistle is sometimes called silymarin, which is
actually a mixture of the herbs active components,
including silybinin (also called silibinin or silybin).
Latin Name: Silybum marianum
38. Passionflower

Milk thistle is a flowering herb native to the Mediterranean

region. It has been used for thousands of years as a remedy
for a variety of ailments, and historically was thought to
have protective effects on the liver and improve its
function. Today, its primary folk uses include liver
disorders such as cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis, and
gallbladder disorders. Other folk uses include lowering
cholesterol levels, reducing insulin resistance in people
who have both type 2 diabetes and cirrhosis, and reducing
the growth of breast, cervical, and prostate cancer cells.

Common Names: passionflower, Maypop, apricot vine,

old field apricot, maracuja, water lemon
Latin Name: Passiflora incarnata L.
Sixteenth-century Spanish
explorers
learned
of
passionflower in Peru. Native peoples of the Americas
used passionflower for boils, wounds, earaches, and liver
problems. Today, passionflower is promoted as a folk or
traditional remedy for anxiety, stress, and sleep, as well as
for heart ailments, asthma, attention-deficit hyperactivity
disorder, burns, and hemorrhoids.

Silymarin, which can be extracted from the seeds (fruit) of

the milk thistle plant, is believed to be the biologically
active part of the herb. The seeds are used to prepare
capsules, extracts, powders, and tinctures.

Passionflower is available dried (which can be used to

make tea), or as liquid extract, capsules, or tablets.

37. Noni
Common Names: noni, morinda, Indian mulberry, hog
apple, canary wood

39. Peppermint Oil

Common Name: peppermint oil

Latin Name: Morinda citrifolia

Latin Name: Mentha x piperita
Noni is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows
throughout the tropical regions of the Pacific Ocean, from
Southeast Asia to Australia. Noni has a history of use as a
topical preparation for joint pain and skin conditions.

The herb peppermint, a cross between two types of mint

(water mint and spearmint), grows throughout Europe and
North America. Peppermint is often used to flavor foods,

165

and the leaves can be used fresh or dried in teas. Today,

peppermint oil is used as a folk or traditional remedy for
nausea, indigestion, cold symptoms, headaches, muscle
and nerve pain, stomach problems, and bowel conditions
such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Latin Name: Trifolium pratense

Like peas and beans, red clover belongs to the family of
plants
called
legumes.
Red
clover
contains
phytoestrogenscompounds similar to the female
hormone estrogen. Historically, red clover has been used
for cancer and respiratory problems, such as whooping
cough, asthma, and bronchitis. Currently, red clover is
used as a traditional or folk remedy for menopausal
symptoms, breast pain associated with menstrual cycles,
high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and symptoms of
prostate enlargement.

Essential oil of peppermint may be found in very small

doses in capsule or liquid forms. The essential oil can also
be diluted with another oil and applied to the skin.

The flowering tops of the red clover plant are used to

prepare extracts available in tablets and capsules, as well
as in teas and liquid forms.

40. Pomegranate
Common Name: pomegranate
Latin Name: Punica granatum L.
Since ancient times, the pomegranate has been a symbol
of fertility. The pomegranate fruit has a leathery rind (or
husk) with many little pockets of edible seeds and
juice inside.

42. Rhodiola

Researchers have studied all parts of the pomegranate for

their potential health benefits. Those parts include the fruit,
seed, seed oil, tannin-rich peel, root, leaf, and flower. The
pomegranate has been used as a dietary supplement for
various conditions including wounds, sore throats, and
diarrhea

Latin Name: Rhodiola rosea L.

Common Names: golden root, roseroot, queens crown

Rhodiola grows in cold regions of Europe and Asia, as

well as in Alaska.
Historically, people in northern regions have used rhodiola
for anxiety, fatigue, anemia, impotence, infections,
headache, and depression related to stress. People also
have used it to increase physical endurance, work
performance, longevity, and improve resistance to highaltitude sickness.

Pomegranate is made into capsules, extracts, teas,

powders, and juice products.

Today, people use rhodiola as a dietary supplement to

increase energy, stamina, and strength, to improve
attention and memory, and to enhance the ability to cope
with stress.
The root of rhodiola is sometimes brewed and drunk as a
tea. Rhodiola root extracts are also available in capsule or
tablet form.
41. Red Clover
Common Names: red clover, cow clover, meadow clover,
wild clover

166

prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH), as well as for chronic

pelvic pain, bladder disorders, decreased sex drive, hair
loss, hormone imbalances, and prostate cancer.
The ripe fruit of saw palmetto is used in several forms,
including ground and dried fruit or whole berries. It is
available as liquid extracts, tablets, capsules, and as an
infusion or a tea.

43. Sage
Common Names: black
common sage

sage,

broad-leafed

sage,
45. Soy

Latin Name: Salvia officinalis, Salvia lavandulaefolia,

Salvia lavandulifolia

Common Name: soy

Sage has been used for centuries as a spice and seasoning
in cooking and as a folk or traditional remedy for
hoarseness, coughs, and sore mouths and throats. In
ancient times it even was thought to extend life. Sage was
used as a fertility drug in ancient Egypt. Physicians in
ancient Greece used a solution of sage and water to stop
wounds from bleeding and to clean sores and ulcers.

Latin Name: Glycine max

Soy, a plant in the pea family, has been common in Asian
diets for thousands of years. It is found in modern
American diets as a food or food additive. Soybeans, the
high-protein seeds of the soy plant, contain isoflavones
compounds similar to the female hormone estrogen.
Traditional or folk uses of soy products include
menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, memory problems,
high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, breast cancer,
and prostate cancer.

Today, sage is used as a folk or traditional remedy for

mouth and throat inflammation, indigestion, and excessive
sweating; to improve mood; and to boost memory or
mental performance.
Sage is available as dried leaves, liquid extracts and
sprays, and essential oils.

Soy is available in dietary supplements, in forms such as

tablets and capsules. Soy supplements may contain
isoflavones or soy protein or both. Soybeans can be
cooked and eaten or used to make tofu, soy milk, and other
foods. Also, soy is sometimes used as an additive in
various processed foods, including baked goods, cheese,
and pasta.

44. Saw Palmetto

Common Names: saw palmetto, American dwarf palm
tree, cabbage palm
46. St. Johns Wort

Latin Name: Serenoa repens, Sabal serrulata

Common Names: St. Johns wort, hypericum, Klamath

weed, goatweed

Saw palmetto is a small palm tree native to the eastern

United States. Its fruit was used medicinally by the
Seminole Tribe of Florida. Saw palmetto is used as a
traditional or folk remedy for urinary symptoms associated
with an enlarged prostate gland (also called benign

Latin Name: Hypericum perforatum

167

St. Johns wort is a plant with yellow flowers whose

medicinal uses were first recorded in ancient Greece. The
name St. Johns wort apparently refers to John the Baptist,
as the plant blooms around the time of the feast of St. John
the Baptist in late June. Historically, St. Johns wort has
been used for centuries to treat mental disorders and nerve
pain. St. Johns wort has also been used for malaria, as a
sedative, and as a balm for wounds, burns, and insect bites.
Today, St. Johns wort is used as a folk or traditional
remedy for depression, anxiety, and/or sleep disorders.

people of Australia. Today, tea tree oil is often used

externally as a folk or traditional remedy for a number of
conditions including acne, athletes foot, nail fungus,
wounds, and infections; or for lice, oral candidiasis
(thrush), cold sores, dandruff, and skin lesions.

The flowering tops of St. Johns wort are used to prepare

teas, tablets, and capsules containing concentrated extracts.
Liquid extracts and topical preparations are also used.

48. Thunder God Vine

Common Names: thunder god vine, lei gong teng
Latin Name: Tripterygium wilfordii

Latin Name: Melaleuca alternifolia

Thunder god vine is a perennial vine native to China,

Japan, and Korea. It has been used in China for health
purposes for more than 400 years. In traditional Chinese
medicine, it has been used for conditions involving
inflammation or overactivity of the immune system.
Currently, thunder god vine is used as a traditional or folk
remedy for excessive menstrual periods and autoimmune
diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis,
and lupus.

Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the tea tree and has
been used medicinally for centuries by the aboriginal

Extracts are prepared from the skinned root of thunder

god vine.

47. Tea Tree Oil

Common Names: Australian tea tree oil, tea tree essential
oil, melaleuca oil

168

Honey & Sugar Outperform Antibiotic Ointments In

Treating Wounds And Burns
Mark David
January 19, 2015
From Alexander the Great to the American Revolution in
1776, man has fought and incurred severe wounds and
amputations on the battlefield, was treated and survived.
For thousands of years people have survived without
antibiotics, and its time to look at how that was possible.

Sugar Treatment
Treatments:

Both the Smith Papyrus of 1700 B.C. and the Ebers

Papyrus of 1500 B.C. describe the treatment of severe
wounds and burns with coagulated milk and honey held in
place by a muslin bandage.

Similar combinations have been used by cultures

worldwide from the ancient Chinese, to Native American
Indians to the people of Kenya.

In 1966 a nurse at the Frenchay Hospital in Bristol,

England, reported that two men suffering from
bedsores and infected amputations resistant to
standard treatments were successfully healed using
honey. She had gotten the idea from an article in a
popular magazine.

In 1980, Dr. Leon Herszage reported that over the

course of the previous four years he had applied
sterilized granulated sugar to the surgical wounds of
120 patients and had achieved a cure rate of over 99
percent.

Burn

An Indian physician named Dr. Subrahmanyam

reported in series of articles in British Surgical Journals
that honey dressings outperformed much more
common burn treatments such as silver sulfadiazine
gauze dressings and OpSite a polyurethane film
coated with antiseptics.
Surgeons in Asia and Africa are also packing honey
into an ever-widening variety of wounds.

One patient of Dr. Harvey Gordon and his colleagues

at the Northwick Park Hospital and Clinical Research
Centre in Harrow, England, had enormous abscesses
in each buttock that were so debilitating the man could
not walk and so painful that changing bandages
required general anesthesia. No improvement was
made from any standard treatment, so desperate as
they were, the doctors decided to try sugar. After
packing the patients abscesses with a sugar and
hydrogen peroxide paste for three days, anesthesia
was no longer needed and the patient actually got up
and was able to walk about for the first time in months.
Within six weeks, his wounds were completely healed.

Sugar Heals Quicker:

Common

Sugar-based therapies have even worked Miracles:

Here are some of the success stories shared in the book

Honey, Mud, Maggots & Other Medical Marvels:

Outperforms

Dr. Richard Knutson of Greenville, Mississippi treated

burns, ulcers, lacerations, gunshot wounds, and
amputations at a trauma clinic of the Delta Orthopedic
Center. His 5-year study of 605 patients treated with
sugar-iodine pastes, published in 1981, showed that 98
percent experienced complete healing. He has since
treated several thousand patients, with a nearly 99
percent success rate. These figures compare to 94
percent for patients in the same clinics with the same
types of injuries and infections who were treated with
the more usual antiseptics and antibiotics. The sugar
treatment worked better!

169

As doctors Herszage and Knutson had found, the

healing times associated with sugar treatments was
decreased dramatically. Patients treated with
conventional methods stayed in the hospital for 85
days on average, while patients treated with sugar
stayed for an average of 54 days. Additionally, patients
found no pain in the changing of sugar dressings, in
stark contrast to those treated with standard care.

Disease-causing microbes, which are cells too, dry out and

die in a paste of sugar or honey.
Honey works Better than Sugar!
Not only does honey have profound antibacterial and
antifungal properties, but the concentration of sugar
creates such high osmotic pressure that it destroys all
infections.
Although honey creates elevated blood sugar, which can
be damaging when eaten, it has proven to be an incredible
ointment for the treatment and healing of wounds. The
quicker people learn this, the quicker we can turn this
medical marvel into the standard treatment for wounds and
burns.

How does it work?

First you must understand that sugars and salts absorb

water. All cells in your body use this osmotic effect to
regulate their own hydration and water content. If the cell
experiences more sugar or salt outside the cell than inside,
water will be drawn out of it, causing the cell to die.

References:
Honey, Mud, Maggots and other Medical Marvels by
Robert and Michele Root-Bernstein

170

10 Powerhouse Plant Proteins

By The Sleuth Journal
February 11, 2015
5.

Quinoa (1 cup cooked = 9 grams)

5 TOP ADD-ONS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Hemp seeds (3 tablespoons = 10 grams)

Peanuts ( cup = 9.5 grams)
Almonds ( cup = 8 grams)
Sunflower seeds ( cup raw = 7 grams)
Chia seeds (2 tablespoons = 6 grams)

Do you need to combine them?

These proteins are not all complete (except soy and
quinoa)most plants lack one or more of the essential
amino acids; but plant-based nutrition has come a long
way since its early days of combining bland, brown foods
in the same meal. Now we know that vegetables like
spinach pack a protein punch too; and as long as you have
a variety of protein-rich foods in your diet, you dont need
to carefully plan proteins at every meal.

Easier on the planets water and land resourcesand often

easier on your digestive tract than animal proteinsplant
foods offer ample essential amino acids to build muscle
and maintain optimal health. From quinoa to lentils to chia,
youll find these protein-rich plant foods ground into
powders, added to breads and bars, and bringing substance
to soups and other packaged vegan and vegetarian foods.
Eating them fresh and whole is even better, of course,
because youll also benefit from these foods abundant
phytonutrients and antioxidants, in addition to essential
amino acids, our bodies building blocks.

Can plant proteins meet your needs?

For kids, total protein (in grams) should be about 0.4 times
bodyweight in pounds. For adults, it should be about 0.36
times bodyweight in pounds. So, if youre a 130-pound 40something, youd want to aim for about 47 grams of
protein. Thus if you add 2 tablespoons of chia (6 grams)
and cup of almonds (8 grams) to one cup of cooked
oatmeal (which also has 6 grams), at 20 total grams youre
nearly halfway there.

5 TOP MAINS
1.
2.
3.
4.

Tempeh (7 ounces = 20 grams)

Lentils (1 cup cooked = 18 grams)
Chickpeas (1 cup cooked = 14.5 grams)
Tofu (3 ounces = 9 grams)

171

Go Green: 6 Surprising Health Benefits Of Green Tea

By Lizette Borreli
Feb 17, 2015 07:00 AM
IgE receptor the key receptor involved in an allergic
response. It can elicit a stronger anti-allergenic response
than normal EGCG, which makes it the strongest antiallergen compound found in tea. Quercetin, a naturally
occurring flavonol in tea, can also alleviate a histamine
response.
2. Boosts Eyesight
Carrots have long been associated as a food that promotes
good eyesight, but science suggest theres a new kid on the
block. The antioxidants found in green tea can actually
penetrate the tissues of the eyes and produce antioxidant
activity. Catechins, an antioxidant in green tea, are capable
of being absorbed into the tissues of the eye.

Sip your way to optimal health to reap the benefits of this hot, green
liquid miracle drink. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

The green miracle drink from China made its way long
ago into the mugs of Americans all across the nation for its
touted health benefits. From a weight loss aid to targeting
pancreatic cancer, green tea has evolved into a medicinal
drink that caters to a myriad of illnesses. The reality is
there are surprising benefits to reap from this magical
drink in just one cup.

A 2001 study published in the journal Experimental Eye

Research found green tea can actually prevent cataractinduced blindness. Researchers saw different parts of the
eye absorbed varying amounts of catechins, with the
highest concentration of this antioxidant found in the retina
of lab rats fed green tea extract. The area with the least
absorption of catechins was the cornea. These findings
suggest that drinking green tea could serve as a protective
measure when it comes to eyesight, but its effects have yet
to be confirmed in humans.

The hot beverage accounts for 15 percent of the tea

consumed in the U.S., according to the Tea Associations
latest statistics. Although black tea remains Americas
favorite at 84 percent, green tea can invite more positive
changes when it comes to your health. Unlike green tea,
black tea is processed in a way that allows for
fermentation, which depletes the amount of antioxidants
and polyphenols found in tea. Black tea also contains less
catechins than green tea, which minimizes the benefits of
the hot beverage.

3. Lowers Cholesterol
The access to greasy foods puts your health at risk for
heart-related complications like high cholesterol.
Replacing unhealthy snacks and drinks with green tea
could actually help keep your cholesterol levels at bay.
Green teas powerful antioxidant, EGCG, is believed to
inhibit the absorption of cholesterol from the large
intestine.

Here are surprising health reasons why you should go

green and let it be your cup of tea:

A 2011 study published in The American Journal of

Clinical Nutrition found green tea consumption
significantly lowered the total serum cholesterol and LDL
cholesterol across 14 randomized controlled trials of over
1100 participants. Overall, green tea intake led to
significant reductions in total cholesterol 7.2mg/dL, and
mean low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (2.19
mg/dL). Research suggests drinking five cups of green tea
per day will provide the biggest reduction in cholesterol.

1. Combats Allergies
Green tea may need to be added to your allergy season
arsenal. Drinking the green liquid may provide some relief,
as it's been proven to be anti-allergenic; a specific
compound, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), appears to be
the most potent.
A 2007 study published in the journal Cytotechnology
found the tea polyphenol can reduce pollen allergies. This
is the first time a methylated form of EGCG can block the

172

which damages the mitochondria, and the

mitochondria responds by making more
reactive oxygen species, Joshua Lambert,
associate professor of food science at
Penn State, in a press release.

4. Promotes Healthy Gums And Teeth

Drinking tea has been given a bad reputation for its
staining effect on your teeth. The hot beverage contains
tannic acid, which is what gives tea its dark-like color.
However, the consumption of green tea can actually be
beneficial when it comes to your oral health.

Eventually, the mitochondria loses its defenses with a

breakdown in the expression of antioxidant genes. It is in
this weakened state the cancer cells succumb to EGCG and
die.

A 2009 study published in the Journal of Periodontology

found the intake of green tea was inversely correlated with
periodontal disease. Regularly drinking green tea reduced
symptoms of periodontal disease, possibly due to the
presence of catechin. Catechin reduces inflammation in the
body, and therefore, interferes with the bodys
inflammatory response to periodontal bacteria. Its ability
to control bacteria and lower the acidity of saliva and
dental plaque makes it useful for preventing cavities and
other indicators of poor oral health.

6. UV Protection
You may want to add a packet of green tea in addition to
sunscreen and sunglasses when you visit the beach. The
catechins in green tea can actually make the skin more
resistant to the effects of UV rays and therefore premature
skin aging. They can also lead to reduced skin redness
after UV exposure.

5. Wards Off Oral Cancer

A 2013 study published in the British Journal of Nutrition
found a relatively low dose (540 mg) of green tea
catechins each day along with 50 mg of vitamin C for 12
weeks, or two cups of green tea can considerably reduce
the effect of UV radiation on the skin. When UV exposure
produced inflammation, green tea supplementation
reduced that effect. This is the first time oral doses of
green tea has been proven to make their way to skin tissues
to limit the effects of the suns ultraviolet rays.

Green tea has been known to target pancreatic cancer, and

most recently oral cancer. Its strongest antioxidant, EGCG,
is able to help kill cancer cells through destruction of the
cells mitochondria, and may even become a possible
alternative to the debilitating chemotherapy. Green tea
consumption is believed to not be associated with any of
chemos side effects, according to a recent study published
in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Research.
It looks like EGCG causes the formation of
reactive oxygen species in cancer cells,

A cup of green tea a day, may actually keep the doctor

away.

173

Is Garlic Good For You? 7 Surprising Benefits

Of Garlic For Optimal Health
By Lizette Borreli @Lizcelineb
Mar 3, 2015 09:00 AM

The smelly superfood is more than just a spice; the natural medicinal ingredient can treat hair loss and the common cold.
Victoria Rachitzky Hoch, CC BY 2.0

decomposed form sulfenic acid allicin produces a

fast reaction with radicals, which makes it a valuable herb
for treating acne scars, skin diseases, and allergies.

Garlic does more than just invigorate your palate and ward
off vampires; its also a smelly superfood health aid. The
spice is a highly nutritious vegetable with very few
calories, containing trace amounts of other nutrients that
contribute to its universal status of a powerful, beneficial
healer. The natural medicinal ingredient, both as a fresh
plant and supplement, can strengthen immune function and
boost overall well-being.

2. Treats Hair Loss

A head full of hair that smells like garlic could help in the
treatment of hair loss. The herbs extremely high sulfur
content contains keratin, the protein hair is made of. This
stimulates fortification and growth. A 2007 study
published in the Indian Journal of Dermatology,
Venerology and Leprology found the use of a garlic gel
added to the therapeutic efficacy of topical betamethasone
valerate for alopecia areata treatment can be effective to
induce hair re-growth.

Garlics delicious flavor and health benefits have led to a

steady increase in demand. The average garlic
consumption per capita per year is 2 pounds. A healthy
adult can safely consume up to four cloves of garlic each
day, according to the University of Maryland Medical
Center, with each one weighing about a gram.
The body-strengthening effects of this herb are thought to
be due to its active ingredient allicin. This is what gives
garlic its distinctive taste and smell. Whether you take
your garlic powdered, salted, or minced or in supplement
form, you can reap the surprising benefits of this
multipurpose herb for optimal health.

3. Fights Common Cold

Garlics allicin can serve as a health aid during times of
illness. Rene Ficek, a registered dietician and a lead
nutrition expert at Seattle Sutton's Healthy Eating in
Illinois told Medical Daily in an email: Garlic cloves
contain a healthy dose of allicin, but you may still need a
few cloves per day to feel the effects. However, garlic
supplementation can also be used to ward off viruses.

1. Treats Acne
This herb may not be found in acne products list of
ingredients, but it can serve as a natural topical treatment
to get rid of blemishes. Allicin, the organic compound in
garlic, has the ability to stop the damaging effects of
radicals and kill bacteria, according to a 2009 study
published in the journal Angewandte Chemie. In its

A 2001 study published in the journal Advances In

Therapy found a daily garlic supplement can reduce the
number of colds by 63 percent compared to not taking
supplements. Moreover, the average length of cold
symptoms was also reduced to 70 percent, from five days

174

in the control group to 1.5 days in garlic supplement

group. These findings suggest the allicin-containing
supplement has a protective effect against the common
cold.

to dissolve blood clots that would otherwise increase the

risk of heart attacks by closing the arteries.

4. Lowers Blood Pressure

Garlic can help increase exercise capacity and reduce

exercise-induced fatigue. [G]arlic has a long history of
being used in ancient cultures to reduce fatigue and
enhance the work capacity of laborers, Ficek said. Garlic
oil has been shown to improve the exercise capacity of
people with heart disease. A 2005 study published in the
Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology found
participants with heart disease who took garlic oil for six
weeks saw a reduction in peak heart rate by 12 percent.
This was accompanied by an improvement in their
physical endurance during a treadmill exercise.

6. Enhances Physical Performance

A garlic supplement a day may help keep your blood

pressure at bay. Its active compounds can significantly
reduce blood pressure comparable to the effects of
prescribed drugs. Aged garlic extract between 600 to 1,500
milligrams (mg) was found to be just as effective as the
drug Atenolol prescribed for hypertension in a 24-week
period, according to a 2013 study published in the
Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Garlic is believed to activate the production of the
endothelium-derived relaxation factor, according to Ficek,
due to the herbs high amount of polysulfides sulfur
containing molecules. This leads to smooth muscle
relaxation and vasodilation (widening of blood vessels),
following the relaxation of the smooth muscle in the vessel
wall. Garlic supplements can achieve these effects
efficiently without the bad breath compared to raw garlic.

7. Improves Bone Health

The alkalizing vegetable is filled with bone-healthy
nutrients such as zinc, manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin
C. Risa Groux, a holistic nutritionist and ChazzLIVE
expert told Medical Daily in an email: Garlic is really
high in manganese, which contains enzymes and
antioxidants that facilitates the formation of bones and
connective tissues, bone metabolism, and calcium
absorption.

5. Lowers Heart Disease Risk

Garlic can help lower the risk of heart disease by lowering
total LDL cholesterol. A 2000 study published in the
journal Annals of Internal Medicine found the effect of
garlic on total cholesterol level in people with elevated
levels moderately reduced cholesterol levels. Vandana
Sheth, registered dietitian nutritionist and spokesperson for
the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics told Medical Daily
in an email that this is achieved by diminishing the
activity of main cholesterol-producing enzyme in the
liver. Garlic supplements can enhance the bodys ability

Garlic may help reduce bone loss through the increase of

estrogen in females. A 2007 study published in the journal
Phytotherapy Research found garlic oil was able to
preserve the skeletal health of rodents when under a
hypogonadal situation. In other words, garlic contains
nutrients that act as building blocks for healthy, strong
bones.
Garlic can be a flavorful addition to your dish and also
double as a valuable aid to your health.

175

1,000-Year-Old Onion And Garlic Remedy Kills

Superbugs Better Than Antibiotics
By John Vibes
April 1, 2015
theory this poses two questions how
systematic was the development of these
remedies and how effective were these
remedies against the likely causative
species of bacteria? Answering these
questions will greatly improve our
understanding of medieval scholarship and
medical empiricism and may reveal new
ways of treating serious bacterial infections
that continue to cause illness and death.
She added that We were genuinely
astonished at the results of our
experiments in the lab. We believe modern
research into disease can benefit from past
responses and knowledge which is largely
contained in non-scientific writings. But the
potential of these texts to contribute to
addressing the challenges cannot be
understood without the combined expertise
of both the arts and science.

Researchers at Nottingham University recently discovered

that a thousand-year-old potion remedy actually works to
kill super-bugs that modern medicine has a difficult time
with. The ingredients sound like something from a fantasy
novel, but the concoction is now proven to nearly
eradicate MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus
aureus).
The potion is made from onions, garlic, wine and oxgall,
which is bile from a cows stomach. Each of these
ingredients are useless on their own, but when mixed
together they have the power to kill incredibly strong
bacteria.

Microbiologist Dr Freya Harrison explained why this

discovery could be important for modern medicine.
We thought Balds eyesalve might show a
small amount of antibiotic activity because
each of the ingredients has been shown by
other researchers to have some effect on
bacteria in the lab copper and bile salts
can kill bacteria and the garlic family of
plants make chemicals that interfere with
the bacterias ability to damage infected
tissues. But we were absolutely blown
away by just how effective the combination
of ingredients was. We tested it in difficult
conditions too; we let our artificial
infections grow into dense, mature
populations called biofilms, where the
individual cells bunch together and make a
sticky coating that makes it hard for
antibiotics to reach them. But unlike many
modern antibiotics, Balds eye salve has
the power to breach these defences,
Harrison said.

The recipe was initially found in an Old English

alchemical text called Balds Leechbook, which has been
stored in the British Library for a number of years. The
text contains a wide variety of different cures and
remedies, which the researchers began experimenting with
to see if they could learn more about medicine in the
middle ages.
One of the first major discoveries that they have made in
their research is that one of the recipes killed MRSA in lab
mice.
Associate Professor Dr Christina Lee said that
Medieval leech books and herbaria
contain many remedies designed to treat
what are clearly bacterial infections
weeping wounds/sores, eye and throat
infections, skin conditions such as
erysipelas, leprosy and chest infections.
Given these remedies were developed well
before the modern understanding of germ

176

The Common Spice That Can Dissolve Deadly Brain

Plaques and Prevent Memory Loss
Joshua Corn, Editor-in-Chief - editor@liveinthenow.com
Could President Reagans
Struggle Have Been Avoided?

Painful

Decade-Long

Scientists have identified a basic pathologic process

underlying Alzheimers development that involves the
formation of abnormal protein deposits in the brain known
as beta-amyloid plaques, but they still arent entirely sure
what causes this to happen.

In the early stages of his widely publicized 10-year

struggle with Alzheimers, the late former U.S. President
Ronald Reagan wrote in a public letter:

The pharmaceutical drugs that have been approved to treat

Alzheimers are only marginally effective, at best, and
come with a variety of undesirable side effects, such as
nausea, headaches and dizziness,[4] that someone who is
already scared and confused clearly doesnt need to deal
with.

I have recently been told that I am one of

the millions of Americans who will be
afflicted with Alzheimers disease. ... I only
wish there was some way I could spare
Nancy from this painful experience. ... I
now begin the journey that will lead me into
the sunset of my life. I know that for
America there will always be a bright dawn
ahead. [2]

If you try talking to your doctor about your memory loss

concerns, chances are youll be told theres nothing you
can do, aside from taking a diagnostic test to confirm your
worst fears.

Ten years later, Nancy Reagan spoke of her sadness as her

husbands mental state deteriorated:

But the truth is that Alzheimers and cognitive decline are

much less inevitable than you might think. The latest
research is showing that cognitive dysfunction is really a
lot like heart disease and type 2 diabetes it develops
over time as a result of our habits and lifestyle. And while
some of us may be genetically predisposed to have a
higher risk, it does not strike at random. In other words,
you CAN beat the odds!

Ronnies long journey has finally taken him

to a distant place where I can no longer
reach him. We cant share the wonderful
memories of our 52 years together. And I
think thats the hardest part.[3]
More than a decade has passed since Reagans death, and I
know that many people still feel absolutely powerless
against the threat of Alzheimers. Could President
Reagans descent have been prevented with modern
science? No one can say for sure, but cutting-edge research
is showing that there are many extremely effective ways to
keep Alzheimers at bay. However, most people are still
completely in the dark about what they are, and
unfortunately most doctors are unaware of the latest
science or rely exclusively on a pill from Big Pharma as a
solution.

Simple Steps for Preventing Alzheimers

The latest science is showing that you can significantly
reduce your risk of developing Alzheimers with some
simple strategies that most anyone can implement.
But with so much conflicting information out there,
knowing whats truly best for your brain can be tricky.
For example, did you know that the low-fat, lowcholesterol diet the medical establishment has promoted
for years is actually disastrous for cognitive health? Thats
because it can literally starve your brain of essential
nutrients it needs to function!

Please keep reading, because the latest research from

UCLA, Tufts University and Columbia University College
of Physicians and Surgeons, as well as dozens of other
prestigious institutions, is revealing that there are actions
you can take right now to stack the odds in your favor for
maintaining a healthy brain and a sharp memory
throughout your entire life. And you deserve to know what
they are!

You wont likely hear this from your doctor, but emerging
research is showing that you can protect and enhance your
memory and prevent Alzheimers and dementia by doing
things like:

The Truth About Alzheimers and Cognitive Decline

Taking specific supplements, like an extract of

177

a common spice that has been shown in

studies to dissolve the plaques associated
with Alzheimers. More on that in a moment...

specific dietary and lifestyle changes that anyone can

easily embrace.
The simple 4-week program outlined in the book will
improve your memory and concentration now, while
protecting your long-term brain health. And the best part
is, a lifestyle that promotes long-term brain health not only
strengthens neurons and combats mental decline, it also
improves blood sugar regulation, cardiovascular function,
mood balance and overall health.

Maximizing your intake of certain key

essential fatty acids, while minimizing your
consumption of carbohydrates and avoiding
sources of certain toxic heavy metals
Using simple strategies to keep stress under
control, keeping your brain active by learning
new things, cultivating close interpersonal
relationships and maintaining a positive
outlook

Turmeric: So Effective, Big Pharma Wishes It Could

Turn It Into a Drug
If you learn nothing else from reading this message, and
even if you dont purchase Save Your Brain from
Alzheimers and Dementia, please remember this: A
growing body of scientific evidence is indicating that a
compound called curcumin, found in the curry spice
turmeric, can be one of your best weapons against
cognitive decline when taken in the right form and
dosage.

Dont Let the Mainstream Medical System Make a

Tragic Statistic Out of You
Without proactively caring for your brain, your chances of
suffering from severe deficits in cognitive function at some
point in your life are about 50/50 no better than a flip of
a coin. But if you take action now, you can change the
odds of subjecting yourself and your loved ones to
so much stress, sadness and suffering.

As I mentioned, a major trigger of memory loss is the

buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. As these
plaques accumulate, brain cells lose their ability to
function and communicate properly.

As Editor-in-Chief of the Live in the Now newsletter, Ive

published thousands of articles on scientifically proven
natural heath strategies, many of them focusing on
cognitive health. The newsletter has over 200,000
subscribers, and one of the parts of my job I enjoy most is
interacting with our readers. Through emails and
conversations, Ive learned firsthand that many people are
utterly confused as to how to best care for their brain as
they age.

Exciting new research shows that curcumin stops the

process that causes the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in
the brain![5] And perhaps even more significant than
blocking the buildup of new plaques, a study by
researchers at UCLA showed that curcumin actually helps
to clear away existing plaques.[6]
So why havent you heard about curcumin from your
doctor or the authorities on Alzheimers prevention?
Well, I wont go into detail here, but the short answer is,
mainstream medicine relies heavily on the drug solutions
Big Pharma provides. And Big Pharma hasnt yet figured
out a way to turn curcumin into a lucrative pharmaceutical
drug.

Thats why I got together with Live in the Nows Senior

Medical Editor and practicing physician, Dr. Kevin
Passero, to write a book based on our over 30 years of
combined knowledge and experience that provides you
with a clear action plan to give you the best possible
chance of avoiding Alzheimers and cognitive decline.
Drawing on Dr. Passeros medical training and clinical
expertise and utilizing a wide range of in-depth scientific
research that I have aggregated from other leading experts
in the field, we've created a simple, easy-to-read guide to
keeping your brain healthy for life.

The Alzheimers Prevention Plan Your Doctor Wont

Give You
Curcumin is just one of the powerful brain protectors that
should be part of your daily routine. In Save Your Brain
from Alzheimers and Dementia, Dr. Passero and I give
you a comprehensive plan with all the tools you need to
take advantage of cutting-edge nutritional science. This
way you can easily stack the deck in your favor by halting
or reversing the decline in cognitive function that leads to
such memory lapses as forgetting common words or the
inability to recall the names of familiar faces.

Its called Save Your Brain from Alzheimers and

Dementia, and for a limited time, you can get this 127page book for only $19.95. I priced it this low because I
want as many people as possible to benefit from it
starting with YOU!
In Save Your Brain from Alzheimers and Dementia, Dr.
Passero and I break down the research to make it easy for
you to identify your cognitive health risk factors so you
can protect and restore optimal brain function with

Well also describe how leading researchers are using

specific foods and nutrients to suppress brain
inflammation, restore healthy cardiovascular and

178

cerebrovascular function, and reduce the buildup of toxic

compounds in the brain linked to Alzheimers and other
cognitive health problems.

Best of all, like many of the patients Dr. Passero has

worked with, there's a good chance youll begin to see
improvements in your mental functioning and overall
health within the first week of the program.

Scientific References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Alzheimers Association. 2012 Alzheimers Disease Facts and Figures. Alzheimers & Dementia. Volume 8, Issue 2.
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. (1994, November 5). Text of letter written by President Ronald Reagan announcing he
has Alzheimers disease. Retrieved from http://www.reagan.utexas.edu/archives/reference/alzheimerletter.html
CNN.com. (2004, May 9). Retrieved from http://edition.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0405/09/sun.03.html
National Institute on Aging. (2014, January). Alzheimers Disease Medications Fact Sheet. Retrieved from
http://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers/publication/alzheimers-disease-medications-fact-sheet
Ono K, et al. Curcumin has potent anti-amyloidogenic effects for Alzheimer's beta-amyloid fibrils in vitro. J Neuro Res. 2004;75:742-750.
Zhang L, et al. Curcuminoids enhance amyloid-beta uptake by macrophages of Alzheimer's disease patients. J Alzheimer's Dis. 2006;10:17.

179

Coconut Water:
A New Alzheimers Disease Treatment?
By Sayer Ji
May 31, 2015
chemical warfare than a therapeutic
intervention.
One reason why conventional interventions are so
ineffective is that the brain is highly protected against the
entry of chemicals due to the brain-blood-barrier (BBB),
with most small molecule drugs and virtually all large
molecule drugs incapable of gaining entry to the brain
because of it. Even naturally occurring biomolecules such
as fats have a hard time penetrating directly through the
BBB. Coconut may be an exception to this rule, as it has
copious amounts of the medium chain triglyceride known
as caprylic acid, which preliminary research indicates is
able to pass through the BBB and which has been
demonstrated
to
possess
anti-convulsive
and
neuroprotective properties in the animal model.[1]

Unlike conventional drug treatments for Alzheimers

disease, coconut oil and water may help resolve some of
the root causes of neurodegenerative conditions.
Have you ever noticed that sometimes a food that nourish
a particular organ often look uncannily similar to it? For
instance, the walnut shell and bi-hemispheric flesh look
awfully like the skull and brain it is now known to be
exceptionally good for. Pomegranate fruit, the actual
fruiting ovary of the plant, looks a lot like the
mammalian ovary that it has been proven to support,
containing relatively high levels of the actual bioidentical
estrogen estrone. So too is the case with the head-like
coconut, which is increasingly being looked at for
preventing and/or improving brain dysfunctions such as
Alzheimers disease (AD) due to its wide range of
potentially therapeutic properties, such as:
1)

2)
3)

Coconut Waters Anti-Alzheimers Properties

We have reported previously on coconut oil and
Alzheimers research, but it appears another coconut
product: coconut water, which contains no fatty acids of
physiological relevance, may also have great value for
those suffering with Alzheimers disease.
Coconut water is one of natures best forms of hydration
due to its isotonic properties (it is able to pass through cell
membranes easily). And while the focus on brain health
has been primarily on brain structures, e.g. neurons, brain
plaque, etc., little focus has been on the role of water in
brain health, and particularly dehydration as a factor in
chronic neurodegeneration illness. Coconut water may
help to restore hydration to the brain, and considering the
discovery of a 4th phase of water known as EZ by
Gerald Pollack which acts like a battery by absorbing
the energy of sunlight, this increased hydration of the
brain may also translate to increased energy production in
those tissues and associated improvements in cognition.

Increasingly energy production in the brain by providing

neurons an alternative to glucose, namely, the brainnourishing metabolites of medium chain fatty acids
known as ketone bodies.
By contributing potent antioxidant polyphenols that may
reduce oxidative stress, improve brain blood circulation
and reducing neuroinflammation
By inhibiting amyloid beta plaque-associated
neuronal toxicity.

Indeed, a growing number of cell, animal, human and

population-based studies reveal that coconut consumption
may provide a natural solution to a growing global
epidemic that pharmaceutical drugs have been shown to do
nothing to mitigate.

First, coconut water contains a range of essential

biomolecules needed for health, including vitamins,
minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, enzymes, growth
factors and other nutrients which have yet to be fully
characterized.

In fact, we have discussed in previous

articles how modern drug-based
treatment for AD actually is more like

Second, one of the more promising classes of

phytocompounds in coconut water (and related plants) is

180

Coconut water has also been shown to

have beneficial effects on serum and tissue
lipid parameters, when given to rats
concurrently fed a high-cholesterol
containing diet(168).[5] Another study has
investigated the positive effect of regular
consumption of two tropical food drinks,
coconut (C. nucifera) water and mauby
(Colubrina arborescens), on the control of
hypertension(169).[6]
The
combined
products were found to be almost twice as
effective as the products in isolation.

known as cytokinins. These plant hormones modulate

plant cell division and are believed to have anti-aging
properties. One cytokinin known as trans-zeatin has been
investigated as a possible new treatment for neuronal
diseases including Alzheimers disease. According to a
recent review on coconuts value in Alzheimers disease,
trans-zeatin is capable of preventing the brain cell
damaging properties of amyloid beta brain plaque and
related impairments in memory:
Zeatin has demonstrated antioxidant and
cell protective effects against Ab-induced
neurotoxicity in cultures of neuronal PC12
cells, and in experiments of mice treated
with scopolamine to induce amnesia,
pretreatment of the mice with zeatin
caused a reduction in the level of induced
amnesia, according to the passive
avoidance test and Y maze test(165)[2].
Interestingly, another study has found that
trans-zeatin
could
inhibit
acetylcholinesterase (166,167)[3][4]. This
indicates that cytokinin could have
therapeutic value, as levels of the
neurotransmitter acetylcholine are reduced
in AD, and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors
are currently used to ameliorate the
symptoms of AD.

If you have followed my previous writing on coconut

water it is no secret to you that I am quite smitten with
coconut water. In a previous article, Coconut Water:
More Than Just A Refreshing Beverage, I broke down
the multitude of health benefits it has been studied to
possess. Despite these scientifically validated health
properties, a common concern is coconut waters sugar
content. And yet, despite coconut waters sweet taste and
not insignificant simple sugar content it has actually been
studied to have significant anti-diabetic properties.[7] [8]
Also, take a look at this study showing that coconut water
may outperform a blockbuster statin drug[9] for
improving blood lipid profiles. Because statin drugs are
well known diabetogenic agents, coconuts potential role
in substituting for statin drugs may actually make it a
powerful contributor to reducing iatrogenic, drug-caused
diabetes.

The enzyme acetylcholinersterase is the target of most AD

drugs, because when this enzyme is inhibited it increases
the duration of activity for the neurotransmitter
acetylcholine, which in Alzheimers patients is believed to
impaired or deficient.

Ultimately, I believe a compelling pattern of evidence

points to the use of coconut oil and water as a therapeutic
agent
in
the
prevention
and
treatment
of
neurodegenerative diseases. To learn more about how
alternative fuel sources such as fatty acids may benefit
brain health read Sugar and Your Brain: Is
Alzheimers Disease Actually Type 3 Diabetes? To
explore a rich database of research on natural interventions
for Alzheimers disease view our section dedicated to the
topic here: Alzheimers disease research.

Furthermore, the study pointed out another potentially

beneficial property of coconut water for neurodegenerative
disease via improving cardiovascular disease parameters
(e.g. blood lipids and blood pressure):

References
Wlaz P, Socaa K, Nieoczym D, et al. (2012) Anticonvulsant profile of caprylic acid, a main constituent of the medium chain
triglyceride (MCT) ketogenic diet, in mice. Neuropharmacology 62, 18821889.
[2] Choi SJ, Jeong CH, Choi SG, et al. (2009) Zeatin prevents amyloid b-induced neurotoxicity and scopolamine-induced cognitive
deficits. J Med Food 12, 271277.
[3] Heo HJ, Hong SC, Cho HY, et al. (2002) Inhibitory effect of zeatin, isolated from Fatoua villosa, on acetylcholinesterase activity
from PC12 cells. Mol Cells 13, 113117.
[4] Mirjana BC, Danijela ZK & Tamara DL (2013) Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors: pharmacology and toxicology. Curr
Neuropharmacol 11, 315335.
[5] Sandhya VG & Rajamohan T (2006) Beneficial effects of coconut water feeding on lipid metabolism in cholesterolfed rats. J Med
Food 9, 400407. 169.
[6] Alleyne T, Roache S, Thomas C, et al. (2005) The control of hypertension by use of coconut water and mauby: two tropical food
drinks. West Indian Med J 54, 38.
[7] Isabella F D Pinto, Railmara P Silva, Adriano de B Chaves Filho, Lucas S Dantas, Vanderson S Bispo, Isaac A Matos, Felipe A M
Otsuka, Aline C Santos, Humberto Reis Matos. Study of Antiglycation, Hypoglycemic, and Nephroprotective Activities of the
Green Dwarf Variety Coconut Water (Cocos nucifera L.) in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats. J Med Food. 2015 Feb 4. Epub
2015 Feb 4. PMID: 25651375
[1]

181

P P Preetha, V Girija Devi, T Rajamohan. Hypoglycemic and antioxidant potential of coconut water in experimental
diabetes. Food Funct. 2012 May 11. Epub 2012 May 11. PMID:22576019
[8]

Article Contributed by Sayer Ji, Founder of GreenMedInfo.com

Sayer Ji is an author, researcher, lecturer, and advisory board member of the National Health Federation. He founded
Greenmedinfo.com in 2008 in order to provide the world an open access, evidence-based resource supporting natural and
integrative modalities. It is internationally recognized as the largest and most widely referenced health resource of its kind.

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5 Medicinal Herbs You Can Grow In Your Backyard

These Herbs Aren't Just For Cooking Here's How You Can Use Them
To Treat Ailments From Asthma To Anxiety.
By Miles Schneiderman / YES! Magazine
June 5, 2015
At its core, most of medicine is still herbology, according
to Dr. Jenn Dazey, naturopathic physician at Bastyr
University's Department of Botanical Medicine. And
growing your own medicinal garden is easier than it might
seem. In fact, you might already have one. Many common
culinary herbs have a long history as traditional medicines.

Mentha piperita

1. Common Sage
Salvia officinalis

image: wonderferret/Flickr

Use it for: Relieving gastrointestinal problems such as

irritable bowel syndrome, dyspepsia, colonic spasms, and
gastric emptying disorders. Peppermint calms intestinal
muscles and improves bile flow.
image: Alice Henneman/Flickr

How: The best medical use of peppermint comes from

extracting the essential oil. Crush the leaves, pack them
into a lidded jar, and cover them with vodka. Leave the jar
to steep, shaking occasionally; the longer it steeps, the
stronger the extract. Strain out the leaves, leaving only the
extract behind.

Use it for: Cooling and drying body functions because of

its phytosterols. This property makes sage useful in
treating high fevers, diarrhea, and excessive sweating or
phlegm, as well as throat inflammation, asthma, and
bronchitis.

Grow it: Peppermint will grow almost anywhere, but

thrives in partial shade and in rich, moist soils.

How: Dry and eat the leaves, or brew them fresh in a tea.
For all medicinal infusions, make sure to cover the tea with
a lid for at least ten minutes before drinking to avoid the
evaporation of critical ingredients.

Interesting to note: Like all mints, the primary active

ingredient of peppermint is menthol, which is why
peppermint tea is an effective decongestant and
expectorant. It can also soothe coughing and sore throats.

Grow it: Sage is a perennial that thrives in hot, dry

climates but will grow in some milder conditions. Plant it
in sandy soil in a sunny spot.

3. Catnip

Interesting to note: Some studies show sage tea is

effective for treating diabetes patients.

Nepeta cataria

2. Peppermint

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of cardiovascular disease and other chronic diseases of the

heart and blood.
How: The most effective way of using it as a medicinal
herb is brewing it in a tea.
Grow it: Somewhere warm and humid. Rosemary thrives
in dry, well-drained soil and fails in extreme cold. In
climates with heavy winters, plant it in a container that can
be moved indoors.
Interesting to note: The carnosic acid active in rosemary
helps protect against cellular and brain damage inflicted by
free radicals. This makes it an effective preventative for
headaches, memory loss, strokes, and neurological
degeneration. Research is being conducted on rosemary's
potential use in the treatment of conditions like
Alzheimer's and Lou Gehrig's disease.

image: Isaac Wedin/Flickr

Use it for: Treating common psychological problems such

as insomnia, anxiety, and addiction. It's also a natural
sedative for children, particularly when they are sick, as it
helps soothe the stomach and relax the body.

5. Hyssop
How: Dry leaves and mix with honey for eating, or brew
in a tea.

Hyssopus officinalis

Grow it: Catnip is a perennial that prefers rich, welldrained soil or loam and will grow in full sun or partial
shade.
Interesting to note: Catnip can also be used as an insect
repellant, although Dr. Dazey recommends avoiding it if
you are planning to enter forests or jungles populated by
large cats.
4. Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinalis

image: anneheather/Flickr

Use it for: Treating cuts, scrapes, and bruises. With its

natural antiseptic properties, hyssop is effective for skin
abrasions.
How: Dice the leaves by hand or in a food processor to use
in a poultice. Alternatively, boil the leaves and soak
bandages in the strained mixture.
Grow it: Hyssop is a perennial, drought-resistant plant. It
grows best in warm, dry climates with well-drained soil
and full sun exposure.
Interesting to note: Hyssop has many other medical uses
that date back to ancient times, though accounts differ on
whether the hyssop we use today is the same plant
referenced in the Bible's Psalm 51.

image: Rebecca Siegel/Flickr

Use it for: Increasing capillary circulation and antioxidant

levels. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the risk

.
184

Allow Cherries To Relieve

You Of Gout Pain
By: Batool Ali
June 8, 2015
pound of cherries every day till four consecutive weeks. In
case you are having them in cooked form make sure to
include the cooking juices.
Canned: canned cherries are equally helpful in relieving
you of joint pain, as concluded by the University of
Michigan. So, make sure to have a couple of cans handy in
your pantry just in case you run out of fresh cherries and
need it urgently. Remember, though, that maraschino does
not count because of the added preservatives and sugar in
it.
Juice: tart cherry juice is thought to be the savior for those
having intense gout pain. Tart cherries also contain high
levels of potassium which stimulates the production of an
alkaline-forming state and gives protection against acidosis
which assists in disease formation.

Arthritis happens due to joint disorder and this disease

causes inflammation of joints. Gout is a kind of arthritis in
which sodium urate crystals accumulate around the joints,
leading to swelling and inflammation. While the most
commonly affected area is the joint of the big toe, it can
affect just any joint. Symptoms develop rapidly and in
anywhere between 6 and 24 hours they could easily last for
3 to 10 days and this is termed as a gout attack. After this
the pain will start subsiding and gradually relieve
completely. It may return later on though, and the time
period between each attack may vary from person to
person.

Six ounces of tart cherry juice needs to

be taken in, which equals half a pound
of raw cherries.
In case you find tart cherry juice too unpalatable for your
taste, try mixing it with black cherry juice to sweeten it up.
Powder: cherry powder is another alternative, portable
and easy to consumer. A study funded by the Cherry
Marketing Institute in 2008 concluded that rats who were
given dried cherry powder showed reduced inflammation.

Considering the intensity of the pain gout attack causes

and how it may render you unable to work, it is very
important to treat and reduce it. It has been found that
cherries eliminate this pain. The reason is the nutrients
present in these fruits to which the pain responds. Cherries
have high levels of antioxidants and anthocyanins and
these two together help in reducing pain, inflammation and
stiffness. The rich, reddish-purple color of cherries is
owing to poly-nutrients and anthocyanins and the richer
the color, the more antioxidants that fruit contains.

Concentrate: you get cherry concentrate when you

remove all extra water from the normal cherry juice. Being
a concentrate it has pain-relieving nutrients in saturated
form and greatly helps with pain. Also, since it is
concentrated just about two ounces diluted with water is
enough to relieve joint pain. One thing to look out for is
that the concentrate you are going for is organic and void
of any chemicals.

The different forms in which cherries can be consumed

Supplements: supplements containing cherries are
available in different forms; capsules, extracts and snack
bars. Although cherry supplements are not a cure for gout
but they definitely help with relieving pain. Since these are
supplements they also have other nutrients commonly
required by our body, such as vitamin C. Though you
normally require about a total of 2,000 mg of cherry

Raw or cooked: the University of Michigan Health

System has found that the form in which cherries are
consumed does not matter; you can have them raw or
cooked and you will be getting the same anti-inflammatory
substances. Their research claims that you will find a
major relief in joint pain if you consume around half a

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extract each day, consulting a medical practitioner is

preferable prior to taking on supplements you do not know
about.

cherries activate PPAR that regulates genes concerned

with metabolizing fat and glucose. This decreases risks of
high cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes. Thus,
helping the heart as well. Besides, cherries contain high
levels of potassium which are beneficial for heart rate and
blood pressure regulation along with reducing
hypertension. Considering that heart disease is the number
one cause of death and around 600,000 people in the US
die due to heart problems, it is certainly time to include tart
cherries in your daily meals and snacks.

Other benefits of cherries

The health benefits of cherries are not limited to just
relieving joint pain. The benefits of this fruit go beyond
that and you may have more than one excuse to consume
cherries.

Post workout soreness: remember when you overdid on

your workout and ended up all sore and had trouble even
walking? This post workout soreness can be easily cured
with cherries. Raw cherries or cherry juice helps reduce
muscle inflammation to a great extent and therefore is a
great way to combat soreness.

Diabetes: cherries protect you against diabetes. Due to a

low glycemic index, of just 22, cherries are a much better
fruit snack for diabetics as compared to other fruits such as
apricots (glycemic index 57).
Sleep: if you find it difficult to fall asleep at night, try
having cherry juice twice a day; once thirty minutes after
waking up and the second time 30 minutes prior to your
snack in the evening. According to a study this habit
allows for an increase in melatonin intake, a hormone
responsible for sleep cycles.

These petite stone fruits, sweet or sour, are loaded with

nutrition and yet they are often overlooked. Including them
in your diet is a great idea, whether you need to regulate
your sleep, keep your heart safe, or need help with joint
pain. Hesitate no more and replace the more harmful sweet
snacks such as candy with cherries.

Heart problem: tart cherries are a great and simple way to

ward off heart problems. The anthocyanins present in

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Activist Post
Interrupt Your Regularly Scheduled Programming

10 Worst Food Companies That Are Poisoning

You Daily And Lying About It
By Jake Anderson
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
#2: General Mills
Trisodium Phosphate (also known as TSP) is an additive
and flavor enhancer found in thousands of frozen and
processed foods, including kids cereals. It also happens to
be an ingredient that was used in industrial cleanersthat
is, until the EPA declared it unsafe for human exposure.
Still, that doesnt stop General Mills from using it. Its
okay, though, because GM states: In our food products
we use very small amounts [of TSP]. Phew! Only a small
amount of poison, thank God!
Much of the mainstream American food supply is laden
with unhealthy additives, artificial flavorings, coloring,
dyes, preservatives, hormones, genetically modified
organisms (GMOs), and toxins.

Up until just this year, General Mills foods also used

BHT, or butylated hydroxytoluene, which animal tests
have proven to be toxic.
General Mills has also come under fire for the widespread
use of GMOs in nearly all of its foods. The company
actively lobbies against any required labeling of GMO
ingredients and it spreads disinformation concerning the
safety of GMOs.

Not everyone agrees that GMOs have been proven harmful

to humans, which is why the food chains listed here were
selected specifically because they are responsible for a
wide variety of health violationsthe GMOs and their
concealment from public knowledge are included for
informational purposes.

#3: Kraft Foods

As with all things, I urge you to read with your head on a

swivel, adjusting your worldview based on new
information.

Theres a reason why Krafts Mac N Cheese has such a

beautifully golden hue to it: its the artificial coloring agent
Yellow No. 6, which has been linked to hyperactivity,
asthma, skin conditions and even cancer. In 2013, Kraft
bowed to pressure and removed the artificial coloring, but
tens of thousands of people have already consumed their
products. Kraft also hides the presence of GMOs in their
foods while actively fighting against regulations to require
the labeling of these potentially dangerous ingredients.
And, of course, their highly processed, pre-packaged
products contain high amounts of fat, sugar and sodium.

#1: ConAgra Foods

ConAgrawhose brands include Hunts, Healthy Choice,
Marie Callenders, Orville Redenbacher, Slim Jim, Reddiwip, Egg Beaters, Hebrew National, P. F. Changs, and
Bertollilabels many of their products under the
confidence-inspiring statement of made with all natural
ingredients. Their slogan, Making the food you love, is
equally charming and disingenuous. Unless you
contextualize them in a world of Orwellian doublespeak,
these statements are the antithesis of truth. ConAgra was
found guilty of health code violations and bacterial
contaminations at its food processing facilities, which have
endangered consumers and in some cases been linked to
deaths. Theyve also concealed the use of GMOs in their
products and practice unethical factory-farm sourcing.

Oh, and one last thing: as of March 18th, 2015, Kraft was
in the process of recalling 6.5 million boxes of Mac N
Cheese because some of them contained fragments of
metal.
#4: Heinz
Heinz recently lost a lawsuit over false advertising.
Theyve been busy lying to the public by labeling products
made from GMOs as all natural. Whether you tolerate
GMOs in your food or not, the fact is that this company
has a proven track record of lying to the public.

In 2003, it was revealed that for two years, ConAgra had

been poisoning Americans with E.coli-tainted beef, which
the USDA was complicit in covering up.

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Furthermore, Heinz products contain the following

ingredients: tomato concentrate made from non-organic
tomatoes, distilled vinegar, high fructose corn syrup
(HFCS), corn syrup, salt, and variety of spices and
flavorings. Each squirt of that classic ketchup contains
pesticides, HFCS (a neurotoxin), a particularly unhealthy
type of sugar, and table salt, which dehydrates the body
and depletes minerals.

#7: Nestl
Nestl is one of three companies using GMOs in their
infant formula. Okay, so maybe you want to trust
corporate-paid scientists about the safety of GMOs but
Nestl also has the additional track record of using traces
of the industrial poison melamine. For context, this is the
same chemical that sickened at 50,000 Chinese infants in
2008.

You dont have to stop eating ketchupjust switch to a

healthy organic brand. The same goes for all of these
foods.

Purina, which is owned by Nestl, also had a lawsuit filed

against it for the use of propylene glycol, a known animal
toxin and component of automotive antifreeze in its dog
food. After over 3,000 dogs became ill, Purina responded
on its website that propylene glycol is an FDA-approved
food additive that is also in human foods like salad
dressing and cake mix. How reassuring.

#5: Campbells Soup Company

Is it a prerequisite for success that all large food companies
must actively lie to their customers? Campbells soup,
forever emblazoned in our minds by Andy Warhols iconic
prints, has been a staple in most American homes for
decades. Unfortunately, Campbells has been sued for
hiding the presence of GMOs and for labeling foods as
low-sodium when they contain as much salt as regular
products. The average cup of Campbells soup contains a
staggering 850mg of sodium. Unless thats your only
major meal of the day, consuming it means youre risking
heart attacks, diabetes and high blood pressure.

#8: Kelloggs
Kelloggs has been the target of a nationwide ban over
GMOs after spending over $1,012,552 on pro-GMO, antiorganic media propaganda in California, Washington, and
Oregon in order to defeat GMO labeling initiatives. Did
the nationwide ban impact Kelloggs corporate ethos?
Unfortunately, the company actually doubled down and its
products now contain 100% GMO corn that contains traces
of glyphosate and BT toxins.

Just as importantly, if not more so, is the fact that for many
decades, Campbells has lined its epoxy-resin cans with
the toxic chemical, bisphenol A (BPA). BPA has been
linked in lab studies to breast and prostate cancer,
infertility, early puberty in girls, type-2 diabetes, obesity,
and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to
Breastcancerfund.org. Only recently did the company
finally bow to pressure and phase BPA out of its
production.

#9: PepsiCo
Following the lead of Coca Cola, Pepsi vowed to changed
its formula after a California law mandated a carcinogen
warning for soft drinks. Nevertheless, the vast majority of
Pepsi still contains 4-methylimidazole, or 4-Mel, which
has been linked to cancer in humans.

#6: Coca-Cola

Another major opponent of GMO labeling laws, PepsiCo

invests millions in celebrity endorsements to make sure
you dont equate their products with obesity, diabetes or
cancer. A 2014 study has shown Pepsi has even more
sugar fructose than previously believed.

Does this really surprise anyone? By this point, you should

be aware of the myriad health problems that Coca Cola
and Diet Coca Cola cause, but sometimes its helpful to
break it down to the specifics. Coca Cola has over a half
dozen chemical additives that are detrimental to your
health: E150D, a food coloring agent; E952, or Sodium
Cyclamate, a synthetic sugar substitute that was actually
banned by the FDA in 1969 and then inexplicably
reinstated by WHO a decade later; E950, or Acesulfame
Potassium, which is 200 times sweeter than sugar, very
addictive, and is bad for the cardiovascular and nervous
system; E951, or aspartame, a sugar substitute that has
been linked to brain tumors, MS (Multiple Sclerosis),
epilepsy, Graves disease, chronic fatigue, Alzheimers,
diabetes, mental deficiency and tuberculosis; E338, or
Orthophosphoric Acid, which can cause irritation of the
skin and eyes; and E211, or Sodium Benzoate, a
compound that, according to one study, damages human
DNA.

#10: Hersheys
Along with many other chocolate companies, Hersheys
was recently found to have unsafe levels of leadwhich
can lead to neurological damage and learning disabilities
as well as cadmium, which can cause reproductive harm
and damage to the kidneys, liver, and bones.
Additionally, Hersheys has spent more than a million
dollars to make sure you cant be certain whether or not
the candies you are eating contain GMOs. Their most
popular treats contain many modified ingredients, a fact
they obviously hope stays unknown.

.
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Eating Dates Produces Powerful Health Benefits,

Religion And Science Agree
By Sayer Ji - Natural Medicine
June 17, 2015
Not by a long shot.
When we apply the complementary lenses of modern
scientific investigation and ancient wisdom, dates begin to
look like both a holy- and a super-food of immense value.
Heres a neat example.
From the Koran to Clinical Trials: Dates for Better
Birthing
In the Koran, the central holy book of Islam, Allah
instructs the Virgin Mary to consume dates when she gives
birth to Jesus.[1] And so, not surprisingly, dates are
commonly referred to within the Islamic tradition as
beneficial to pregnant women. We might chalk this up as
pre-scientific magical thinking without basis in medical
fact, were it not for a remarkable human clinical study that
confirmed their value in pregnancy

Since biblical times, dates were to believed to possess

profound healing properties, but only now is science
catching up to confirm our distant ancestors knew
exactly what they were talking about.
If you go by the Nutrition Facts panel of an ordinary
package of dates, they look more like sugar bombs than a
healthy snack. Check this one out:

Published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in

2011 and titled, The effect of late pregnancy
consumption of date fruit on labour and delivery,
researchers set out to investigate the effect of date fruit
consumption on labor parameters and birth outcomes.
Over the course of 11 months at Jordan University of
Science and Technology, two groups of women were
enrolled in a prospective study where 69 women consumed
six date fruits per day for 4 weeks prior to their estimated
date of delivery, versus 45 women who consumed none.
These women were matched so there was no significant
difference in gestational age, age and parity (the number of
times a woman has brought a pregnancy to viable
gestational age) between the two groups.
The results of the date intervention were reported as
follows:

But are they really as nutritionally vapid as these label

claims make them seem?

189

Improved Cervical Dilation: The women who

consumed date fruit had significantly higher mean
cervical dilatation upon admission compared with the
non-date fruit consumers (3.52cm vs 2.02cm,
p<0.0005).

Less Damage to Membranes: [The intervention

group had] a significantly higher proportion of intact
membranes (83% vs 60%, p=0.007).
More Natural (Spontaneous) Labor: Spontaneous
labour occurred in 96% of those who consumed dates,
compared with 79% women in the non-date fruit
consumers (p=0.024).
Less Drugs Required: Use of prostin/oxytocin was
significantly lower in women who consumed dates
(28%), compared with the non-date fruit consumers
(47%) (p=0.036).
Shorter Labor: The mean latent phase of the first
stage of labour was shorter in women who consumed
date fruit compared with the non-date fruit consumers
(510min vs 906min, p=0.044).

sustaining properties, without losing quite a lot in the

process. Foods contains hundreds, if not thousands, of
physiologically important biomolecules, together which
modulate the expression of thousands of genes in our
body, as well as affecting our microbiome. In fact, our
microbiome works on the foods we ingest, and together
produce an intermediary layer of biomolecules known as
the metabolome, many of which may be indispensable to
our health.
This is why when we say food is medicine, we are not
simply using a metaphor. We now know that food is
capable, on a molecular level, of positively modulating a
wide range of biological pathways simultaneously, in a
manner that drugs simply can not replicate. In fact, I
believe food contains an immense, if not infinite, amount
of information which our bodies draw from to realize
optimal gene expression, especially in times of stress or
imbalance. Looking at it granularly, I believe food
contains discrete units or packets of gene-regulatory
energy and information. This can be inferred by the way
curcumin, for instance, which is only one of hundreds of
biomolecules found in the spice turmeric, is capable of
modulating over 2,000 genes simultaneously within a
cancer cell line, with a positive end result. Both the
specificity and broadness through which these food
compounds are capable of correcting imbalances is simply
astounding and speaks to an intelligence within certain
plants of particular food and medicinal purpose that can
not be exhaustively explained through terms and methods
of the reductionistic sciences that still form the backbone
of our understanding of conventional nutrition.

The researchers concluded:

It is concluded that the consumption of
date fruit in the last 4 weeks before labour
significantly reduced the need for induction
and augmentation of labour, and produced
a more favourable, but non-significant,
delivery outcome. The results warrant a
randomised controlled trial.[2]
Thanks to research like this we can see how the
mythological and scientific ways of understanding now
converge and confirm one another. I believe that rather
than contradict and/or negate one another, the mythos and
logos are beginning to assume a far more productive
complementary relationship as we move into a new era of
understanding where the profane and sacred are perceived
as intimately entwined in our direct experience. The field
of nutrition, as you can see, is no exception.

So if my theory holds true, and dates, which are a food

type (namely, fruit) we co-evolved with for quite some
time, are more than just a package of mainly simple
carbohydrate (half fructose/half glucose) and mineral
quantities of alphabetic vitamins and minerals, but also
possess gene-regulatory energy and information, shouldnt
it perform a number of therapeutic effects? Indeed, the
research now bears testimony to exactly this fact.

Dates Contain Nourishing Information

Dates, of course, are in the palm tree family, and along
with coconut and red palm, are some of the oldest
cultivated plants known in the historical record; in fact,
they are so old we dont know where they first originated.
They have provided life-sustaining nutrition in regions that
are often sparse in edible resources, and are increasingly
being researched as a powerful medicinal food that
could reduce much suffering in malnourished and disease
prone populations, especially in underdeveloped countries.

I took the liberty of doing a cursory meta-analysis of the

extant research on dates available through the National
Library of Medicines biomedical database MEDLINE,
accessible of course through the google-like search engine
pubmed.gov. And to my pleasant surprise the research on
dates as a whole (including the fruit, pollen and seed
extract) reveals approximately 19 specific beneficial
modes of action, and a preventive and/or therapeutic role
in about 40 different health conditions.

Even while scientific analysis of dates are beginning to

reveal that they are actually densely packed with a wide
range of minerals, vitamins, amino acids and fatty acids, it
should be emphasized that they are not just sources of
energy and material building blocks for our body. We must
acknowledge that they are also sources of biologically
valuable (perhaps indispensably so) information. We can
not analytically decompose a food into the minerals,
vitamins, and macronutrients (e.g. lipids, fats, and protein),
that we believe are responsible for its nourishing and life-

Consider for a moment that most of the blockbuster drugs

on the marketplace only have one therapeutic mode of
action and one condition they are approved to treat.
Additionally, there are on average 75 adverse health
effects for each drug. The fact that it is classified and sold
as a food and not a drug should not delude us into thinking
it is not as powerful as a pharmaceutical. In fact, it should

190

be clear that foods are actually far more powerful in

affecting root cause resolution of health conditions by
nourishing us deeply, nutritionally, and again,
informationally (literally: to put form into).

Notes
[1] The Holy Koran, Chapter 12 verses 22-25, retrieved
on Feb. 28 2015, So she [Virgin Mary] conceived him,
and she retired with him to a remote place. And the pains
of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a palm tree. she cried
(in her anguish): Ah! would that I had died before this!
would that I had been a thing forgotten and out of sight!
But (a voice) cried to her from beneath the (palm-tree):
Grieve not! for thy Lord hath provided a rivulet beneath
thee; And shake towards thyself the trunk of the palm-tree;
it will let fall fresh ripe dates upon thee.'

To gain greater familiarity with the literature

demonstrating the various therapeutic properties of dates,
view our Date research page. You will notice that one of
the potential therapeutic properties of dates are its
beneficial properties in diabetes which underscores our
original point, that if you go by nutrition facts panels alone
you are bound to miss out on a number of healthy foods
include fruits like dates.

[2] [Note: non-significant here means insignificant in

statistics, which is often due to insufficient numbers of
subjects enrolled to draw results with adequate statistical
power]

For more information on Food as Information & Medicine

you can watch my lecture below:

191

23 Awesome Uses For Lemongrass Essential Oil

By Gaye Levy
June 23, 2015
With its strong lemony scent and earthy, grassy
undertones, it is also effective in aromatherapy and
especially when used in a diffuser. If you drink lemongrass
tea like I do, that will make perfect sense since the aroma
of even the tea is quite lingering.
Used topically, a carrier oil is usually recommended as
lemongrass is one essential oil that can cause sensitivity or
irritation if utilized undiluted on the skin, or neat. A
common dilution is 2 drops of lemongrass to 1 teaspoon of
a carrier oil but this is considered just a guide line and is
quite conservative. Still, this 2% dilution is a good starting
point especially when using lemongrass for the first time.
Anyone who has used essential oils for a period of time
will find that they reach for the same tried and true oils
over and over again. In my case, there are the go-to
standards
lavender,
peppermint,
rosemary
and
frankincense but in addition, there is Lemongrass.

23 Uses for Lemongrass Essential Oil in the First Aid

Kit
1. Muscle and tendon relaxer: When muscles and
tendons tighten up, an application of lemongrass essential
oil will typically bring immediate relief. It works
extremely quickly on those knots and spasms that can
come on very quickly in the middle of the night.

Three years ago, I thought lemongrass was an herbal plant

used in tea and in Asian cuisine. While I still enjoy a
soothing cup of lemongrass and ginger tea, these days
lemongrass essential oil serves an important role in my
first aid kit as well.

2. Headache relief: When it comes to headaches, and

especially allergy-related headaches, lemongrass is a super
star. It is also useful for individuals who are sensitive to
Peppermint essential oil which is usually the recommended
EO for headaches.

The lemongrass genus has over fifty different species

worldwide, but only some of the species are suitable for
utilization as essential oil. The two most commonly used
in essential oils are are Cymbopogan citratus and
Cymbopogan flexuosus.

3. Arthritis joint pain: Lemongrass works well to resolve

joint pain and works especially well when mixed with
Birch EO and Geranium EOs. (See Birch Essential Oil for
Arthritis, Muscle and Joint Pain.) Since the use of birch
essential oil is not recommended for people on blood
thinners, lemongrass is an effective alternative. That said,
layering the Birch over lemongrass works surprisingly
well to relieve deep joint pain.

Historically, lemongrass has been used to treat fevers,

inflammation and indigestion as well as a sedative. These
days, it is used for an armload of other ailments as well as
for purification and odor control. Today I share 23 uses
for lemongrass essential oil that will set you a a path of
wellness.
How is Lemongrass Essential Oil Used?

4. Pulled muscles: By treating the inflammation created

by a pulled muscle, lemongrass essential oil can bring
immediate relief. (An easy peasy pain relief formula is
shown below). This will also work on tender bruised
areas.

Lemongrass is effective in resolving a number of first aid

woes. It has anti-microbial properties and is also an antiinflammatory. As a powerful analgesic, it offers
immediate topical pain relief and reduces inflammation. In
addition, it is antibacterial and antimicrobial which means
it can prohibit bacterial growth and it is effective in
controlling a fever caused by infection.

5. Shock: If you feel that someone is in shock, add 1 or 2

drops to a cotton ball and place the infused cotton ball
under the nostrils. Do this as soon as possible then, if you
can, summon medical help.

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6. Treat wounds: Blend a few drops with Witch Hazel or

Saline to flush wounds. Afterward, blend with some BDS
Simple Salve for an antiseptic application. Apply a
bandage or gauze to the wound to keep it clean and free
from dirt.

inhale the scent. You can also put a drop on a cloth, or

pillow for nighttime or travel aromatherapy.
17. Fatigue: Like stress relief, you can use lemongrass
essential oil aromatically to mitigate fatigue. A diffuser or
even a few drops on a cotton ball will work beautifully.
Topically, mix a drop or two with a carrier oil and either
massage into your temples.

7. Heartburn: Spread a couple of drops mixed with a

carrier such as coconut oil or BDS Simple Salve over the
throat and chest area to relieve heartburn.

18. Anti-depressant: Use a few drops in a diffuser daily.

I find it works great at night while sleeping.

8. Indigestion: A drop or two massaged into the

abdomen will assist digestion and relieve the symptoms of
indigestion..

19. Anti-bacterial cleaning products: Use lemongrass

in homemade cleaning products to reduce bacteria in your
home. You can also use it in a diffuser to reduce airborne
bacteria. See this article on making your own DIY
cleaning products. As an added bonus, lemongrass has a
wonderful, and uplifting aroma. You home will smell
fresh and inviting!

9. Sprains and sports injuries: Lemongrass essential oil

will treat both the pain and inflammations associated with
sprains and sports injuries.
10. Reduce fevers: Use lemongrass to help fight the
infection that causes fevers and also to keep the toxins
from spreading. To use, blend with your basic Simple
Salve (or even plain coconut oil) and apply to the back of
neck, chest area, and the bottom of feet.

20. Reduce high blood pressure: Lemongrass is a

vasodilator and can help reduce high blood pressure by
relaxing the blood vessels.

11. Flea repellant: Lemongrass will repel fleas. For

dogs, apply to a piece of cloth (such as a bandana) or
collar. Since cats are more sensitive to essential oils in
general, check with your veterinarian before using any
essential oil on your kitty.

21. Water retention: The diuretic properties of

lemongrass can help clean and flush toxic wastes out of the
body. This can be done via topical applications such as in
a salve or by adding a drop to your glass of water or cup of
tea.
Note: normally I do not suggest ingesting
essential oils although with high quality oils,
the practice is safe. Always do your own
research and if in doubt, consult a
physician first.

12. Insect repellent: Insects dont like lemongrass!

Apply to the edges of your clothing edges to repel
climbing insects like ticks, or to exposed skin to repel
mosquitos and other flying biting bugs. Just remember to
dilute with a bit of carrier oil or salve when applying
directly to the skin.

22. Insomnia: Applying lemongrass to the bottoms of

your feet at night is calming and helps induce a deep
sleep. Sipping a cup of lemongrass tea also helps.

13. Acne: Lemongrass is a mild astringent and is also

antimicrobial. To help clear up acne, add one drop to a
carrier oil and dab on to affected areas once or twice a day.

23. Body odor: Commercial deodorants often contain

lemongrass. If you are prone to body odor, adding a few
drops of lemongrass essential oil to your moisturizing
body lotion or salve will help combat unpleasant body
odors.

14. Athletes Foot: Athletes foot is fungal skin infection

and lemongrass can help address it. Utilize a drop of
lemongrass in a carrier oil of salve, and rub on the feet a
few times a day. If you wear shoes most of the day, try
rubbing it on first thing in the morning, as soon as your
shoes come off, and again before bed.

Lemongrass Pain Relief Formula

15. Oily skin: Utilize lemongrass in the same manner as

that for acne, or utilize a drop in warm water as a skin
rinse. The astringent properties of lemongrass have a
naturally drying effect, without the potential over dryness
caused by stronger astringents.

I personally use lemongrass essential oil in a roller ball

mixed with fractionated coconut oil to provide immediate
relief to painful muscle and tendon cramps in my hands,
feet, and calves.
Lemongrass Pain Relief Formula
10 to 15 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
Fractionated Coconut Oil (or other carrier

16. Stress relief: One of the best ways to use lemongrass

essential oil to relieve stress is via aromatherapy. Add 5 to
6 drops to your diffuser, or put a drop on your palms and

193

oil)
10ML Roller Ball (about 2 teaspoons)

Lemongrass from Spark Naturals. Their quality standards

are high and because they sell direct and not through a
membership or MLM program, their prices are affordable.

Optional: Add 5 drops of Clove essential

oil

Spark Naturals also carries a number of supporting carrier

oils as well as accessories such as roller ball bottles,
dropper tops and more. Furthermore, you can use the code
BACKDOORSURVIVAL to get a 10% discount off your
entire order.

Add the lemongrass to the roller ball then top with a carrier
oil. I use FCO (fractionated essential oil). Shake well
before each use then apply copiously. Rubbing the area
gently will accelerate the relief.

The Final Word

I find that I get better results with the roller ball application
but you could also make up a salve using 2 teaspoons of
BDS Simple Salve (or other carrier) and up to 15 drops of
essential oil.

It was close to two years ago that I tossed two drawers full
of OTC remedies into a box in favor of essential oils. To
this day, I am still learning how to use the various oils to
improve my health and to remedy everyday aches and
pains. Essential oils have become my band-aid of choice
and not a day goes by when I dont use them for one thing
or another.

Side Effects of Lemongrass

Although considered one of the safer oils, lemongrass
should always be diluted before applying it to the skin.
Even with low dilutions, it can be an irritant to some
people so use a conservative amount to begin with. If in
doubt, perform a patch test first.

My own education continues. A few months back I

purchased a big fat book entitled Essential Oils Desk
Reference and I use it almost daily. If you can afford it, I
highly recommend that you add this desk reference to your
survival library. Although it promotes another brand of
oils, the information is presented in an unbiased manner
and there is never a sales pitch one way or another.

As with all essential oils, lemongrass essential oil should

be kept out of the reach of children and pets, and should
not be used if pregnant or nursing unless approved in
advance by a medical professional.

It has been my pleasure to share this information about

Lemongrass essential oil. Over time, I will continue to
share information on additional, less common, essential
oils with a special focus on the less expensive, more
affordable oils that can be purchased for $10 or less.

A Word About Carrier Oils

Using a carrier oil makes an essential oil application so
much easier and less wasteful. Although I personally
prefer coconut oil or BDS Simple Salve (which you make
yourself), feel free to experiment with olive oil, sweet
almond oil, avocado oil, jojoba oil, or even an organic,
unscented lotion.

There are dozens of oils out there and I am convinced that

we can all maintain our health and wellness during times
of crisis with the proper selection of essential oils in our
first aid kits.

Where to Purchase Lemongrass Essential Oil

Be well and stay safe!
Lemongrass essential oil is widely sold both online and in
health food stores. I personally purchase therapeutic grade

194

The Spice That Prevents Fluoride From

Destroying Your Brain
By Anya V
May 30, 2014
starting to organize at the local and statewide level to oust
this ubiquitous toxicant from municipal drinking water.
Publishing their findings in a recent issue of
Pharmacognosy Magazine, a research team out of India
observed that regular consumption of turmeric, a spice
commonly used in Indian and Asian cuisine, helps to
protect the mammalian brain against fluoride poisoning.
The recent study concludes:
A new study published in the journal Neurologia reveals
that chronic exposure to, and ingestion of, the synthetic
fluoride chemicals added to water supplies can cause
serious brain and neurological damage.

Our study thus demonstrate that daily

single dose of 120 ppm F result in
highly significant increases in the LPO
as well as neurodegenerative changes
in neuron cell bodies of selected
hippocampal regions. Supplementation
with curcumin significantly reduce the
toxic effect of F to near normal level by
augmenting the antioxidant defense
through its scavenging property and
provide an evidence of having
therapeutic role against oxidative stress
mediated neurodegeneration.

Fluorides neurotoxicity has been the subject of academic

debate for decades, and now a matter of increasingly
impassioned controversy among the general public, as
well. From conspiracy theories about it being first used
in drinking water in Russian and Nazi concentration camps
to chemically lobotomize captives, to its now well-known
IQ lowering properties, to its ability to enhance the
calcification of the pineal gland the traditional seat of
the soul many around the world, and increasingly in the
heavily fluoridated regions of the United States, are
.

195

What Is Inulin?
By Dr. Edward F. Group III
June 29, 2015
Diabetes
A study of 49 women with diabetes reported those who
took inulin responded better to sugar, had lower glycemic
levels, and increased antioxidant activity. [2] While more
research is needed, the importance of a healthy gut cant be
understated.
Keeps You Regular
Youve probably heard how important fiber is for being
regular. For the best outcomes, you want to get fiber, like
inulin, to keep your gut bacteria fresh. In a study of elderly
volunteers who took 15 grams of chicory root daily,
researchers found that participants experienced improved
digestion, fewer problems with constipation, and an easier
time with bowel movements. [3]

We could all use digestive support from time to time,

especially if were not consuming a high-quality diet. For a
healthy stomach and digestive tract, inulin is a must. While
you cant digest this water-soluble dietary fiber, you wont
feel good without it. Its found in many natural plant foods
and is known as a prebiotic, and recent research indicates it
has much more far-reaching effects than just keeping your
tummy happy.

How Much Inulin Do You Need?

What Inulin Does

There is no set limit for how much inulin you can have, or
really how much you need. Typically, you want to eat
inulin-rich foods every day to keep your digestive tract
healthy and working right. If youve been taking
antibiotics, you will want to increase inulin and maybe
even supplement with the compound to replenish the
intestinal bacteria that antibiotics wipe out. Alcohol,
processed, sugary foods, and fried foods also kill off the
healthy intestinal bacteria you need. So if youre trying to
right your diet, lose weight or overcome IBS or IBD, you
will want to increase your inulin intake.

This dietary fiber survives your stomach acid and passes

into the small intestine. Along the way it mixes with water,
ferments, and then becomes food for life-supporting
probiotic bacteria of the large intestine. This bacteria
includes things like bifidobacterium and lactobacilli. When
you keep bacteria like these fed, they keep out unwanted
bacteria like E. coli and Clostridium difficile and fungus
like Candida.
Benefits of Inulin

Great Sources of Inulin

Inulin has many researched benefits, including weight,
cholesterol, and blood sugar support. Here are a few of the
many benefits you can get from inulin.

Inulin can be obtained through supplements; however, it is

always best to get the ingredient closest to its natural
source as possible. The best natural food sources of inulin
include bananas, asparagus, Jerusalem artichoke, jicama,
leeks, onions, garlic, and chicory and dandelion root.
Many supplements feature chicory as their source of
inulin. Fun fact: chicory root and dandelion root are
commonly used in herbal coffee formulations for their
bitter flavors and rich dark colors.

Weight Loss
While inulin can help with weight loss, its not the entire
picture. Eating healthy and exercise are also key
components. When it comes to inulin and weight loss, a
healthy digestive tractand the symbiotic bacteria inulin
promotesmoves the nutrients you need into your
bloodstream and gets the toxins through so they do as little
damage as possible. One study of 30 obese women found
those who took inulin restored healthy bacteria and created
a positive change on metabolites linked to obesity. [1]

If your diets been high in processed foods and sugars,

start slow. Too much of this dietary fiber too quickly can
lead to bloating, gas, diarrhea, and intestinal discomfort
like IBS. But this doesnt mean you shouldnt eat foods

196

high in inulin. If natural, real foodslike bananasupsets

your stomach, it likely means your system is out of whack.
Starting with an inulin supplement allows you to control

how much you get and avoid the unpleasant side effects
commonly associated with this essential dietary fiber.

References:
1.

2.

3.

Dewulf EM1, Cani PD, Claus SP, Fuentes S, Puylaert PG, Neyrinck AM, Bindels LB, de Vos WM, Gibson GR, Thissen JP,
Delzenne NM. Insight into the prebiotic concept: lessons from an exploratory, double blind intervention study with inulin-type
fructans in obese women. Gut. 2013 Aug;62(8):1112-21. doi: 10.1136/gutjnl-2012-303304.
Pourghassem Gargari B1, Dehghan P, Aliasgharzadeh A, Asghari Jafar-Abadi M. Effects of high performance inulin
supplementation on glycemic control and antioxidant status in women with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Metab J. 2013 Apr;37(2):1408. doi: 10.4093/dmj.2013.37.2.140.
Marteau P1, Jacobs H, Cazaubiel M, Signoret C, Prevel JM, Housez B. Effects of chicory inulin in constipated elderly people: a
double-blind controlled trial. Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Mar;62(2):164-70. doi: 10.3109/09637486.2010.527323.

197

Why Vitamin D Is Crucial To Your Health

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
July 1, 2015
some countries, like Finland and Sweden, are fortifying
oils, packaged foods, and beverages. The issue with
nutrient fortification programs is the quality of the nutrient
used. For most dairy products, vitamin D3the quality of
which may be questionableis used. D3 is the form that
actually has a beneficial effect on serum levels, whereas
vitamin D2 is lower quality synthetic and not as useful. [2]
Some dairy-free milk alternatives only include D2,
offering no real benefit.
Benefits of Vitamin D
To fully understand the impact vitamin D deficiency can
have on your health, you need to know about the many
benefits vitamin D holds for the body. Did you know
without proper vitamin D levels, for example, you could
raise the risk for dementia? [3] There are many surprising
benefits of vitamin D, and according to Harvard School of
Public Health, vitamin D provides these benefits [4]:

Research underscoring the importance of vitamin D

continues to mount. Vitamin D was long thought to be
beneficial for mainly bone health, but it turns out its
helpful for so much more. Its strikingly clear that vitamin
D, one of the most misunderstood nutrients, offers
hundreds of benefits to human health, and many of those
benefits have yet to be discovered. Its so beneficial that
even mandatory fortification of food with vitamin D is
beginning to see some serious discussion in Europe. With
healthcare costs rising worldwide, could adding such a
necessary (and inexpensive) nutrient be helpful? Many
experts believe so, but it comes down to the quality of the
fortification that will make sense and will provide the most
benefit.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Blood sugar support

Bone health
Immune system support
Cardiovascular health
Cholesterol support

Vitamin D may also be helpful for supporting a healthy

mood and for regulating sleep patterns. When you shun the
sun, whether intentionally or not, youre setting yourself
up for a host of issues. Balancing levels by getting out in
the sun or supplementing could be helpful for getting your
health back on track.

Vitamin D Deficiency is More Concerning Than You

Think
An estimated 75% of people have insufficient levels of
serum vitamin D, and this number is probably far more
than generous. [1] Vitamin D is responsible for over a
hundred biological processes, including regulating immune
system status, modulating proper blood sugar, supporting
memory and overall mental health, keeping metabolism in
check, and much more. Its clear that a vitamin D
deficiency is contributing to the spiraling costs of
medications, possible preventative medical procedures,
and various therapies. Europe is slowly but surely coming
around to the idea of using fortification programs to help
fight vitamin D deficiency. The question is: are health
officials going to use the appropriate form of vitamin D?

The Best Type of Vitamin D

One of the simplest interventions you can take right now in
your own health is simply stepping outside. The sun
supports all life on this planet, and its availablefree of
chargefor you to take advantage of its rays. While you
should certainly take precautions to protect your skin from
overexposure to sunlight (particularly the face), getting a
few minutes worth of sun exposure on as much as your
skin as possible can be the best bet for producing vitamin
D. Depending on your current vitamin D status, you may
have to spend more or less time out in the sun compared to
the next person.

Finland adopted a vitamin D fortification program in 20032004 that expanded on fortified dairy products. Most
developed countries have vitamin D added to milk, but

198

egg yolks and cod liver oil, its not a reliable source for
those who are severely deficient. Before supplementing
with vitamin D, work with a knowledgeable medical
practitioner who can test your levels and guide you toward
the correct supplementation pattern.

For the autumn and winter months, sunlight exposure can

be a bit more tricky. Thats when supplementation comes
in, but its important to choose one that is vegan friendly,
as many vitamin D3 supplements are produced from sheep
wool. Although some foods do contain vitamin D, such as
References:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Adit A. Ginde, MD, MPH; Mark C. Liu, MD; Carlos A. Camargo Jr, MD, DrPH. Demographic Differences and Trends of Vitamin D Insufficiency in
the US Population, 1988-2004. Arch Intern Med. 2009;169(6):626-623. doi:10.1001/archinternmed.2008.604.
Lisa A. Houghton and Reinhold Vieth. The case against ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) as a vitamin suppleemnt. Am J Clin Nutr October 2006 vol. 84
no. 4 694-697.
Cynthia Balion, PhD, Lauren E. Griffith, PhD, Lisa Strifler, BSc, et al. Vitamin D, cognition, and dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
Neurology. 2012 Sep 25; 79(13): 1397-1405. doi: 10.1212/WNL.-b-13e31826c197f.
Harvard T.H. Chan. School of Public Health Vitamin D and Health. Harvard T.H. Chan. School of Public Health. The Nutrition Source.

199

7 Top Healthy Foods To Avoid

By Dr. Mercola
July 01, 2015
In a global survey of more than 27,000 people, 26 percent
reported that confusion about which foods are healthy was
a major barrier to eating right.1 That confusion is only
compounded upon because many of the "official" dietary
recommendations are contrary to optimal health.

Many other yogurts contain artificial colors, artificial

sweeteners, artificial flavors, and additives, yet
masquerade as health food. Mark A. Kastel, co-director of
The Cornucopia Institute, which released the Yogurt
Report last year, said:3

There is no one-size-fits-all diet that benefits everyone, but

there are certain principles that will help most people
thrive. You want to be centering your diet on whole foods,
for starters those that come from nature, are minimally
processed and, ideally, are grown locally and without
synthetic chemicals.

"What is most egregious about our findings

is the marketing employed by many of the
largest agribusinesses selling junk food
masquerading as health food, mostly
aimed at moms, who are hoping to provide
their children an alternative, a more
nutritious snack.

At the same time, you want to minimize your intake of

processed foods, particularly snack foods and convenience
foods that have little to offer in the way of nutritional
value. Such foods will add to your toxic load by way of
high-fructose corn syrup, artificial colors and flavors,
preservatives, and genetically modified (GM) ingredients
while offering your body next to nothing in return.

In some cases, they might as well be

serving their children soda pop or a candy
bar with a glass of milk on the side."
If you want to know which commercial yogurts are healthy
and which are not, refer to The Cornucopia Institute's
Yogurt Report. Their investigation found many products
being sold as yogurt do not even meet the standards for
real yogurt. The report also includes a comparative cost
analysis of commercial yogurt brands.

Some foods do not fall neatly into these two categories,

however, and may masquerade as "healthy" foods when in
fact they should be avoided. Below you'll find examples of
some of these "healthy" foods that could be sabotaging
your healthy-eating intentions.

The top-rated yogurts are generally VAT pasteurized at

relatively low temperatures and are made from raw milk
rather than previously pasteurized milk.

7 Top 'Healthy' Foods to Avoid

The good news is many organic yogurts are actually less
expensive, on a price-per-ounce basis, than conventional,
heavily processed yogurts (although some of the organic
brands of yogurt actually contained some of the highest
amounts of sugar).

1. Yogurt
Yogurt can be incredibly healthy, rich in high-quality
protein, beneficial probiotics, calcium, B vitamins, and
even cancer-fighting conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). But
the key words are "can be."

Your absolute best bet when it comes to yogurt, however,

is to make your own using a starter culture and raw grassfed milk.

Most yogurts sold in US grocery stores resemble more of a

dessert than a health food. One six-ounce container of
Yoplait yogurt may contain 26 grams of sugar (for the red
raspberry flavor, for example).2

2. Fish
Fish has always been the best source for the animal-based
omega-3 fats EPA and DHA, but as levels of pollution
have increased, you have to be very choosey about which
types of seafood you decide to eat.

The negative effects of the sugar far outweigh any

marginal benefits of the minimal beneficial bacteria they
have. Remember, the most important step in building
healthy gut flora is avoiding sugar, as that will cause
disease-causing microbes to crowd out your beneficial
flora.

If you're not careful, the toxic effects from the pollutants in

the fish will outweigh the benefits of the omega-3 fats.
About half of the world's seafood comes from fish farms,

200

including in the US, and this is expected to increase. At

first glance, farmed fish may seem like a good idea to help
protect wild seafood populations from overfishing.

Sardines, in particular, are one of the most concentrated

sources of omega-3 fats, with one serving containing more
than 50 percent of your recommended daily value.7

In reality, however, the industry is plagued with many of

the same problems surrounding land-based concentrated
animal feeding operations (CAFOs), including pollution,
disease, and inferior nutritional quality.

They also contain a wealth of other nutrients, from vitamin

B12 and selenium to protein, calcium, and choline, making
them one of the best dietary sources of animal-based
omega-3s.

It's getting so bad that fish farms can easily be described as

"CAFOs of the sea." Many farmed fish are fed genetically
modified (GM) corn and soy, which is a completely
unnatural diet for marine life. Others are fed fishmeal,
which is known to accumulate industrial chemicals like
PCBs and dioxins.

Finally, no matter what type of fish you're considering,

look for varieties that have received the Marine
Stewardship
Council
(MSC)
certification.
This
certification assures that every component of the
manufacturing process from how the raw materials are
harvested to how the product is manufactured has been
scrutinized by MSC and has been independently audited to
ensure it meets sustainable standards.

In a global assessment of farmed salmon published in the

journal Science, for instance, 13 persistent organic
pollutants were found.4 Some of the most dangerous are
PCBs, strongly associated with cancer, reproductive, and
other health problems. PCB concentrations in farmed
salmon were found to be eight times higher than in wild
salmon.

3. Soy
Soy is touted as a healthy vegetarian source of protein, but
its phytoestrogens (or isoflavones) can mimic the effects of
the female hormone estrogen. These phytoestrogens have
been found to have adverse effects on various human
tissues, as they produce a variety of mild hormonal actions
within the human body.

Certain types of farmed fish, including farmed catfish

imported from china and farmed shrimp from China, India,
Malaysia, Mexico, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Indonesia
are even on the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA)
watch list for illegal drug residues, including antibiotics
and anti-fungal compounds.5

An increased risk of breast cancer is

another potential hazard, especially if
you're exposed to high amounts of
estrogen-mimicking compounds from birth.

Levels of critical omega-3 fats may also be reduced by

about 50 percent in farmed salmon, compared to wild
salmon, due to increasing amounts of grain feed.

Unfermented soy also contains natural toxins known as

"anti-nutrients," along with additional anti-nutritional
factors such as saponins, soyatoxin, protease inhibitors,
and oxalates. Some of these factors interfere with the
enzymes you need to digest protein.

One study published in the Journal of the American

Dietetic Association found farmed tilapia and farmed
catfish also have much lower concentrations of omega-3s
and very high ratios of omega-6 fats to omega-3 fats.6

While a small amount of anti-nutrients would not likely

cause a problem, the amount of soy that many Americans
in products like tofu, soy milk, soy oil, soy protein powder,
and soybeans, can be extremely high.

So is any fish still considered a "health food"?

Among the safest in terms of contamination, and the
highest in healthy omega-3 fat, is wild-caught Alaskan and
sockeye salmon. Neither is allowed to be farmed, and are
therefore always wild-caught. The two designations you
want to look for on the label are:

Further, one of the worst problems with

soy comes from the fact that 94 percent
of soybeans grown in the US are
genetically modified.8

"Alaskan salmon" (or wild Alaskan salmon)

and "Sockeye salmon."

One of the best studies ever done to document the dangers

of GM foods found that overall, inflammation levels were
2.6 times higher in GM-fed pigs than those fed a non-GM
diet, and male pigs fared worse than the females.

Canned salmon labeled "Alaskan salmon" is also a good

choice and offers a less expensive alternative to salmon
fillets. A general guideline is that the closer to the bottom
of the food chain the fish is, the less contamination it will
have accumulated, so other safer choices include smaller
fish like sardines, anchovies, and herring.

If you eat Roundup Ready soy, one common GM variety

that's engineered to withstand the herbicide Roundup,
you'll be exposed to its active ingredient, glyphosate.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC),

201

which is the research arm of the World Health

Organization (WHO), determined glyphosate to be a
"probable carcinogen" (Class 2A). This was based on
"limited evidence" showing that the popular weed killer
can cause non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and lung cancer in
humans, along with "convincing evidence" it can also
cause cancer in animals.

5. Veggie Chips
Veggie chips sound like a healthy way to satisfy your
snack cravings, but they're nothing more than glorified
potato chips. Most are made from corn flour or potato as a
base and have only veggie powder or puree added in. Not
only are most of the vitamins in veggies therefore NOT in
veggie chips, but these snacks are then either fried or
baked at high temperatures. When carbohydrate-rich foods
like chips are cooked at high temperatures, acrylamide -- a
tasteless, invisible chemical byproduct -- is formed.

Glyphosate and glyphosate formulations have also been

shown to induce DNA and chromosomal damage in
mammals, as well as human and animal cells in vitro. Even
if you opt for organically grown soy, I still don't
recommend consuming it, however, unless it's in
fermented form. For centuries, Asian people have been
consuming fermented soy products such as natto, tempeh,
and traditionally made soy sauce -- and enjoying the health
benefits. Fermented soy does not wreak havoc on your
body like unfermented soy products do, but unfortunately,
most soy sold in the US market is the unfermented,
processed variety.
4. Agave

Animal studies have shown that exposure to acrylamide

increases the risk of several types of cancer, and the
International Agency for Research on Cancer considers
acrylamide a "probable human carcinogen." It has also
been linked to nerve damage and other neurotoxic effects,
including neurological problems in workers handling the
substance. While this chemical can be formed in many
foods when they're heated to a temperature above 120
degrees Celsius (248 degrees Fahrenheit), French fries and
potato chips are the biggest offenders.

Most agave nectar or syrup is nothing more than a

laboratory-generated super-condensed fructose syrup,
devoid of virtually all nutrient value. This so-called
"healthy" sweetener is mostly fructose and is so highly
processed and refined that it bears no resemblance to the
plant for which it's named. Depending on how it's
processed, it may contain anywhere from 55 percent to 90
percent fructose. High-fructose corn syrup is also about 55
percent fructose so, even in the best case, agave syrup
offers no advantage.

So whether they're laced with veggie powder or not,

veggie chips are not a smart food choice. A far healthier
alternative would be to chop up some fresh kale and toss it
with some olive oil and natural salt, then bake it in your
oven until crispy (homemade kale chips are also a favorite
of "soul surfer" Bethany Hamilton).10 You can, of course,
also snack on fresh veggies like carrot sticks, celery sticks,
radishes, bell pepper, and even asparagus, to increase your
nutrient and fiber intake while satisfying your craving for a
crunchy snack.

The evidence is overwhelming that, when consumed in

large quantities, fructose is among the most damaging
sugars you can eat. Fructose drives up uric acid, which is a
direct pathway toward hypertension, insulin resistance,
diabetes, kidney, and liver disease. Fructose is, in many
ways, very similar to alcohol in the damage that it can do
to your body and your liver. Unlike glucose, which can
be used by virtually every cell in your body, fructose can
only be metabolized by your liver, because your liver is the
only organ that has the transporter for it.9

6. Fruit Juice
The primary problem with fruit juice is that it simply
contains far too much fructose to be healthy, not to
mention the rarely mentioned methanol toxicity in any
preserved juice. While whole fruits do contain fructose,
they're also rich in fiber, antioxidants, and a vast array of
health-promoting phytochemicals. Fruit juices, particularly
pasteurized, commercially available fruit juices, have
virtually none of these phytonutrients. The fiber in the
whole fruits also plays a large role in protecting you from a
rapid and exaggerated rise in blood sugar.

Since nearly all fructose gets shuttled to your liver, and, if

you eat a typical Western-style diet, you consume high
amounts of it, fructose ends up taxing and damaging your
liver in the same way alcohol and other toxins do. In fact,
fructose is virtually identical to alcohol with regard to the
metabolic havoc it wreaks. According to Dr. Lustig,
Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology at
the University of California, fructose is a "chronic, dosedependent liver toxin." And just like alcohol, fructose is
metabolized directly into fat not cellular energy, like
glucose. A better sweetener options is stevia, a natural
herb.

The fiber slows the rate at which sugar is absorbed into

your bloodstream, and fruit juice will not provide such
protection. According to a study published in the British
Medical Journal, those who drank one or more servings of
fruit juiceeach day had a 21 percent higher risk for type 2
diabetes compared to those who ate whole fruits.11 So if
you're in the mood for something fruity, eat a piece of fruit
instead of drinking a glass of juice.
An alternative that can be healthy is a homemade fruit
smoothie, provided it's balanced with moderate amounts of

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fruit, protein, and healthy fats, like this avocado super

smoothie (which also contains blueberries and pineapple).
Most store-bought fruit smoothies are far too high in sugar
and/or fructose to be considered healthy.

transition, most gluten-free products are nothing more than

refined, processed junk foods.
Some may contain gluten-free grains in their place, which
if you are insulin and leptin resistant will only raise your
insulin and leptin levels, which is a major driver of most
chronic diseases. And many gluten-free products contain
high amounts of sugar, corn syrup, and alternative forms of
starch, none of which is healthy. So while I believe many
people can benefit from removing gluten from their diets,
stick with gluten-free whole foods as a replacement not
the processed gluten-free junk foods lining many store
shelves.

7. Gluten-Free Foods
Gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and
barley, causes the immune system to attack the intestines
in people with celiac disease. But non-celiac gluten
sensitivity may actually affect as many as 30 percent to 40
percent of the population, and according to Dr. Alessio
Fasano at Massachusetts General Hospital, virtually all of
us are affected to some degree.12 This is because we all
create a substance called zonulin in the intestine in
response to gluten.

As an aside, many food products bearing the gluten-free

label have been found to be contaminated with sometimes
high amounts of gluten. In one study, even naturally
gluten-free products tested positive for gluten, courtesy of
cross-contamination during processing. So if you're eating
gluten-free due to celiac disease, avoiding processed
gluten-free products may be even more important.

Glutinous proteins, known as prolamines, can make your

gut more permeable, which allows partially digested
proteins to get into your bloodstream that would otherwise
have been excluded, any of which can sensitize your
immune system and promote inflammation, contribute to
chronic disease. Once gluten sensitizes your gut, it then
becomes more permeable and all manner of gut bacterial
components and previously excluded dietary proteins
including casein and other dairy proteinshave direct
access to your bloodstream, thereby further challenging
your immune system.

Additional Unhealthy Foods to Avoid

For a comprehensive guide on what to eat to be healthy,
see my free optimized nutrition plan. Generally speaking,
as mentioned, you'll want to focus your diet on whole,
ideally organic, unprocessed or minimally processed
foods. For the best nutrition and health benefits, you'll also
want to eat a good portion of your food raw. To help sort
through more of the confusion surrounding "health" foods
that aren't, check out the infographic below. It has even
more details on commonly consumed foods that you're
better off avoiding.

Gluten may even negatively impact mood and brain

health.13 Gluten also makes your gut more permeable,
which allows proteins to get into your bloodstream, where
they don't belong. That then sensitizes your immune
system and promotes inflammation and autoimmunity.
Gluten-free foods are becoming more widely available in
supermarkets and restaurants, due to growing consumer
demand, but while this seems like it would be a healthy

203

Light-Turmeric Extract Combo

Treats Psoriasis Effectively
By Sayer Ji
July 3, 2015
experimental area, while the rest of the body surface was
treated with ultraviolet A (UVA) radiation.
The study results were reported as follows:
Twenty-one patients were included in the
study. In the intention-to-treat analysis, no
patients included in the VLRT group
showed moderate or severe plaques
after the treatment, in contrast to the
patients included in the VSLT group
(p<0.01). Parallelisms in the evolution of
PGA (Psoriasis Global Assessment), BSA
(body surface area), and PASI (psoriasis
area and severity index) scores were
observed in the two groups following the
treatment. At the end of the study period,
76% of all patients showed a response in
the BSA exposed to UVA. Lesions on the
experimental area showed a response in
81% of the patients in the VLRT group and
30% of the patients in the VLST group.
There were no study-related adverse
events that necessitated participant
withdrawal.

Oral turmeric extract (curcumin) in combination with

light therapy produces remarkable healing results in
patients with severe-to-moderate psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory skin
condition characterized by itchy, dry, scaly plaques.
Conventional treatment, which involves drugs and
sometimes surgery, is often ineffective, leading many to
search for alternative treatments. Many of these, however,
have not been studied clinically and while working in
some circumstances, may not be taken as seriously as socalled evidence-based natural interventions.

In other words, all three groups showed significant

improvement, with the most pronounced effect involving a
combination of real visible light phototherapy and oral
curcumin who no longer showed moderate or severe
plagues after treatment.

Thankfully, there are a number of natural interventions that

have undergone conventional research protocols, over
thirty of which can be viewed on our psoriasis research
page. You will notice that curcumin, the primary
polyphenol in turmeric, features high on the list, with four
studies concerning its potential therapeutic value. Now, a
randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot clinical
trial published in the European Journal of Dermatology
has found that oral curcumin extract in combination with
visible light therapy (phototherapy) is highly effective at
improving the condition of adults with plaque psoriasis.

The study concluded:

The results suggested that moderate to
severe plaque psoriasis should show a
therapeutic response to orally administered
Curcuma if activated with visible light
phototherapy, a new therapeutic method
that would be safer for patients than
existing treatments.

Titled, Effects Of Curcuma Extract And Visible Light

On Adults With Plaque Psoriasis, European researchers
conducted a trial with patients suffering from moderate to
severe psoriasis. They received curcumin extract orally for
17 days, about 15 days of which occurred in combination
with either real visible light phototherapy (VLRT) or
simulated visible light phototherapy (VLST) in only the

Because the full study was not available to us, we are not
able to report how much curcumin they used. Despite this
limitation, previous trials give us an idea of what

204

effect or the natural history of psoriasis.

However, two patients who responded to
the treatment showed 83% to 88%
improvement at 12 weeks of treatment.
Small sample size and the lack of a control
(placebo) group were the limitations of the
study (52). Therefore, large placebocontrolled studies are required before
recommending
oral
curcumin
for
psoriasis.[2]

constitutes a therapeutic dose. For instance, a phase II trial

with psoriatic patients used 4.5 grams of curcumin, the
results of which are described below:
A phase II, open-label, Simons two-stage
clinical trial sought to determine the safety
and efficacy of oral curcumin in patients
with moderate to severe psoriasis (52). [1]
Twelve patients with chronic plaque
psoriasis were enrolled in the study and
were given 4.5-g curcumin capsules every
day for 12 weeks, followed by a 4-week
observation period. Curcumin was welltolerated, and all participants completed
the study. The response rate was low,
however, possibly caused by a placebo

Additionally, since certain subtypes of psoriasis have

been linked to wheat and gluten intolerance and/or
sensitivity, it is important to consider a broad-based
strategy in preventing and/or treating psoriasis versus
simply looking for natural magic bullets.

References
[1] Kurd SK, Smith N, VanVoorhees A, Troxel AB, Badmaev V, Seykora JT, Gelfand JM. Oral curcumin in the treatment of
moderate to severe psoriasis vulgaris: A prospective clinical trial. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 Apr;58(4):625-31. doi:
10.1016/j.jaad.2007.12.035. Epub 2008 Feb 4. Erratum in: J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 Jun;58(6):1050. PubMed PMID: 18249471;
PubMed Central PMCID: PMC4131208.
[2] Gupta SC, Patchva S, Aggarwal BB. Therapeutic roles of curcumin: lessons learned from clinical trials. AAPS J. 2013
Jan;15(1):195-218. doi: 10.1208/s12248-012-9432-8. Epub 2012 Nov 10. Review. PubMed PMID: 23143785; PubMed Central
PMCID: PMC3535097.

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Turmeric Neutralizes Deadly Viral Infections,

Study Suggests
By Sayer Ji
July 9, 2015
overproduction of cytokines by the bodys immune
system.
Materials and Methods: The actions of curcumin in
suppressing cytokine release and cytokine storm are
discussed.
Results: Curcumin blocks cytokine release, most
importantly the key pro-inflammatory cytokines,
interleukin- 1, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-.
The suppression of cytokine release by curcumin correlates
with clinical improvement in experimental models of
disease conditions where a cytokine storm plays a
significant role in mortality.

The global race for an Ebola drug or vaccine is on, with

hundreds of millions of dollars of resources invested, but
could our best bet already be hiding in plain sight within
our spice racks?

Conclusion: The use of curcumin should be investigated

in patients with Ebola and cytokine storm. Intravenous
formulations may allow achievement of therapeutic blood
levels of curcumin.

A new study published in the journal In Vivo

titled,Curcumin Suppression of Cytokine Release and
Cytokine Storm. A Potential Therapy for Patients with
Ebola and Other Severe Viral Infections, has raised an
intriguing possibility: that one of the worlds most prized
spices could provide an effective treatment against deadly
viruses like Ebola that have no known conventional
treatment to date.

In a previous article, Natural Treatments for Ebola

Exist, Research Shows, we reviewed some of the
preliminary research available on natural treatments for
Ebola. Curcumin was not yet on the radar of researchers
when the article was written. Now, considering the new
study, and curcumins long history of safe usage,
affordability, and widespread availability as a food
ingredient, it should be considered top on the list of
candidates for a natural anti-Ebola agent. Moreover,
curcumin has already been found to inhibit a broad range
of viruses, including HPV and Hepatitis C virus, indicating
that future research should be performed to ascertain if it
possesses direct anti-Ebola virus activity as well. You can
peruse first-hand abstracts on the topic on our focused
research page: Turmerics anti-viral properties.

Turmeric is about 3-5% curcumin by dry weight. It is one

of the most extensively researched substances on the
planet, with over 1540 studies available to view on our
database alone. Amazingly, it has been identified to have
potential or actual therapeutic value in over 600 health
conditions. The discovery that it may also be an important
anti-Ebola agent while new, is not surprising, given how
profoundly it appears to ameliorate hundreds of causes
of physical suffering, many of them associated with
opportunistic infections with viruses, parasites and
bacteria.

The new study looked at the wide-ranging ways that

curcumin may down-regulate the cytokine storm
inducible through infection with potentially lethal viruses
like Ebola, and even the more common influenza A. Below
is a diagram of these specific beneficial modulatory
actions:

The study findings are summarized in the abstract

succinctly:
Background: The terminal stage of Ebola and other viral
diseases is often the onset of a cyotkine storm, the massive

(click image to enlarge)

206

For further research, you can visit our curcumin database

where you will find over 150 distinct modulatory
properties possessed by this biomolecule, including many
of those listed in these tables above.

the clinical setting without side effects. For information on

how to use turmeric in a medicinal though culinary way,
watch the popular video on GreenMedTV on how to make
a golden turmeric milk recipe:

One issue raised in the studys concluding remarks is

curcumins limited bioavailabity:
The activity of curcumin in suppressing multiple
cytokines, and its activity in experimental models of
diseases and conditions associated with cytokine storm,
suggest it may be useful in the treatment of patients with
Ebola and cytokine storm. Curcumin is poorly absorbed
from the intestinal tract; however, intravenous
formulations may allow therapeutic blood levels of
curcumin to be achieved in patients diagnosed with
cytokine storm. Clinical status and levels of important
cytokines, such as IL1, IL6 and TNF, should be
monitored carefully when patients are treated with
curcumin.

Keep in mind that curcumin is a non-patentable natural

substance. This does not bode well for it gaining
acceptance by the capital-intensive and/or capital-focused
medical system which requires the passing of a gauntlet of
expensive clinical trials (over 800 million dollars on
average is required to receive FDA drug approval) in order
to obtain FDA drug approval, not to mention market
exclusivity. Of course they may try to synthetically alter
curcumin, creating semi-synthetic or synthetic analogs,
suitable for obtaining patent rights. But this approach
amounts to a kiss of death, rendering a
natural biomolecule into a xenobiotic, the latter of which
often have dozens of adverse downstream health effects.
This is why curcumin will not be broadcasted anytime
soon as a viable therapy, despite the dire need for an
alternative to conventional approaches which have yet to
manifest.

While curcumins bioavailability may be a limiting factor,

there are a number of formulas on the market today that
include the curcumin in a phospholipid-based (usually
lecithin-derived) delivery system which makes it much
more water soluble and capable of passing through the
livers imposing glucoronidation barrier, so it may gain
systemic entry into circulation and the peripheral
tissues. Some of these such as Meriva or BCM-95 (nonaffiliate links) are available over-the-counter. It is also
possible to combine piperine, a compound found in black
pepper, to enhance absorption and systemic delivery. It
should also be noted that curcumin has an exceptionally
high safety profile, with as high as 12 grams daily used in

207

Beet Juice Boosts Cognitive Function In One Dose

By Sayer Ji
July 8, 2015
performance and prefrontal cortex cerebral
blood-flow (CBF) parameters in healthy
adults. In this randomised, double-blind,
placebo-controlled, parallel-groups study,
40 healthy adults received either placebo
or 450ml beetroot juice (~5.5mmol nitrate).
Following a 90minute drink/absorption
period, participants performed a selection
of cognitive tasks that activate the frontal
cortex
for
54min.
Near-Infrared
Spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to monitor
CBF and hemodynamics, as indexed by
concentration changes in oxygenated and
deoxygenated-haemoglobin, in the frontal
cortex throughout. The bioconversion of
nitrate to nitrite was confirmed in plasma by
ozone-based chemi-luminescence. Dietary
nitrate modulated the hemodynamic
response to task performance, with an
initial increase in CBF at the start of the
task period, followed by consistent
reductions during the least demanding of
the three tasks utilised. Cognitive
performance was improved on the serial 3s
subtraction task. These results show that
single doses of dietary nitrate can modulate
the CBF response to task performance and
potentially improve cognitive performance,
and suggest one possible mechanism by
which vegetable consumption may have
beneficial effects on brain function.

Could beet juice provide you a brain boost superior to

coffee or tea?
Recently, Deanna Minich, PhD, founder of Food and
Spirit, brought to my attention an amazing new study on
beets and their role in promoting cognitive health. She
summarized the study as follows:
One recent study in 40 healthy people
showed that they were able to better
perform on cognitive tests 90 minutes after
drinking 450 mL beetroot juice compared
with placebo (apple/blackcurrant juice,
which is low in nitrates). What I really like
about this study is that brain performance
can be improved fairly rapidly in healthy
people with a simple activity like drinking
beetroot juice (high in dietary nitrates,
which leads to more nitric oxide to open up
oxygen flow in the brain).

As you can see above, the beet juice intervention resulted

in the modulation of haemodynamic response (HR) in the
prefrontal cortex during task performance. In neurobiology
the HR involves the rapid delivery of blood to active
neuronal tissues. The blood vessel dilating effects of beet
nitrate and subsequent increases in oxygen and nutrients
may help explain the improvements in cognitive function
in the intervention group.

The abstract below goes into greater depth as to the

plausible mechanism behind beet juices observed
beneficial effects:
Nitrate derived from vegetables is
consumed as part of a normal diet and is
reduced endogenously via nitrite to nitric
oxide. It has been shown to improve
endothelial function, reduce blood pressure
and the oxygen cost of sub-maximal
exercise, and increase regional perfusion in
the brain. The current study assessed the
effects of dietary nitrate on cognitive

As Deanna mentioned, it is quite amazing that a single

dose of beet juice (450 mL = 15.21 ounces), could result in
near immediate improvements in cognition. This bodes
well for those looking for a viable option to coffee or tea,
since habitual users of these stimulant beverages have
come to expect immediate results. The difference here, of
course, is that beets are a food and therefore can be
considered a more sustainable and nourishing brain

208

supportive agent. Additionally, beet is a nutrition-packed

food carrying a wide range of side benefits, which include
cardiovascular benefits, cancer prevention, and liver
support. For more in depth information of beet as a
functional food, read our previous article The Health
Benefits of Beets.

dysfunction. You can view the entire data set here:

Cognitive Dysfunction.
A few of the approaches that stand out are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

A Wide Range of Natural, Evidence-Based Brain

Boosters Have Been Identified
At GreenMedInfo.com we have indexed a vast swath of
information on both the causes and solutions for cognitive

209

Ginkgo Biloba
Coconut Oil
Turmeric
Pomegranate Juice
Avoid Wheat

8 Foods That Boost Your Immune System

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
July 3, 2015
may be helpful, but its always best to receive the vitamin
from its natural source.
3.

Ginger

Ginger is thought to work much like Vitamin C in that it

can even stop a cold before it starts. That said, its also a
great food to reach for after youre sick. Ginger can have a
little heat due to the gingerol, a cousin of sorts to
capsaicinthe stuff that makes chili peppers hot. Its the
kick of the gingerol that can even act as a strong
soothing agent. [3]
4.

Maybe you have something as simple as a cold, or perhaps

youre just looking for a little boost in immunity. With the
right vitamins and minerals, smart dietary choices can pack
a healthy punch. Although diet gets little attention in
conventional media when it comes to supporting the
immune system, it is one of the most powerful methods for
keeping colds and other illnesses at bay. While nutrition
isnt the only means of immune system support, it is one of
the oldest and most reliable natural adjuncts.

You can find this spice in many curries; its bright yellow
in color, and a little bitter in taste, but it can definitely be
pretty amazing for your health. While its already been
used for its soothing capabilities for arthritis (among other
things), a recent study suggests high concentrations of
curcuminwhat gives turmeric its colorcould also
reduce fever. [4] [5]
5.

Eight Foods for Immune System Support

Bell Peppers
6.

I know, right? I bet you thought citrus was going to be my

first choice. Well, reach for all the bell peppers you want
because they can actually have twice as much vitamin C as
citrus fruits. In addition, bell peppers are a great source of
beta-carotene, which not only helps maintain healthy skin
and eyes but studies suggest they could also provide an
immune system boost. [1] [2]

Broccoli

Like spinach, broccoli is another great vegetable choice

packed with antioxidants and vitamins. With vitamins A,
C, and E, broccoli could easily be one of the healthiest
vegetables you can put on your table. Just like with
spinach, cook it as little as possible to retain its nutrients.
7.

2.

Spinach

With vitamin C, beta-carotene, and plenty of antioxidants,

spinach is a perfect vegetable for your immune system. If
you want to get the most out of it though, cook it as little
as possible, or even keep it raw. But dont stop at spinach;
a study suggests that other leafy green vegetables are good
choices as well. [6]

The majority of your immune cells reside in your

intestines, so doesnt it make sense to consume healthy
foods for keeping your immune system top notch? Here
are 8 foods you can eat right now to boost your immune
system.
1.

Turmeric

Citrus

Yogurt

If you like yogurt, make sure youre getting the full health
benefit by eating the kind with live cultures. Recent
research suggests these cultures may strengthen your
immune system. [7] Yogurt can also be a great source of
vitamin D, which can also help boost the immune system.

Dont be fooled by my first point! Those citrus fruits are

certainly packed with vitamin C. Believed to increase the
production of white blood cells, C is essential for fighting
off infections. Since your body doesnt produce or store
this vitamin, stock up on citrus to help keep your immune
system up and running. Supplementation with the vitamin

[8]

210

8.

allowance of this vitamin by reaching for a half-cup of

almonds. How easy is that?

Almonds

When your immune system needs a boost, vitamin E

sometimes loses the spotlight to vitamin C, but both are
crucial for a healthy immune system. Vitamin E is fatsoluble, which means fat is needed in order for it to be
absorbed properly. You can get almost all of your daily

What food would you reach for if your immune system

needed a boost? Share your thoughts with us in the
comments.

References:
1.

Hughes, D. A. Effects of carotenoids on human immune function. The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. 58 (3).

2.

Chew, B. P. & Park, J. S. Carotenoid Action on the Immune Response. The Journal of Nutrition. 134 (1).

3.

Grzanna, R. et al. GingerAn Herbal Medicinal Product with Broad Anti-Inflammatory Actions. Journal of Medicinal Food. 8 (2).

4.

Jagetia G. C, & Aggarwal B. B. Spicing up of the immune system by curcumin. Journal of Clinical Immunology. 27 (1).

5.

Sultana, G. N. et al. Analgesic principle from Curcuma amada. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 163.

6.

Li, Y. et al. Exogenous Stimuli Maintain Intraepithelial Lymphocytes via Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Activation. Cell. 147 (3).

7.

Meydani, S. N. & Ha W. Immunologic effects of yogurt. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 71 (4).

8.

Aranow, C. Vitamin D and the Immune System. Vitamin D and the Immune System.

211

Fish Oil Pills: A $1.2 Billion Industry Built,

So Far, On Empty Promises
By Peter Whoriskey
July 8 At 8:14 PM
that the supplements lack efficacy across
a range of health outcomes.
While the persistent popularity of fish oil may reflect the
human weakness for anything touted as a life-extending
elixir, it also reflects that, even among scientists, diet
notions can persist even when stronger evidence emerges
contradicting them. Scientists, sometimes, are reluctant to
let go of ideas.

For anyone wondering about whether to take a fish oil pill

to improve your health, the Web site of the National
Institutes of Health has some advice.
Yes. And no.
One page on the Web site endorses taking fish oil
supplements, saying they are likely effective for heart
disease, because they contain the beneficial fatty acids
known as omega-3s.
But another page suggests that, in fact, the fish oil pills
seem useless:
Unfortunately, its a common situation,
said John P.A. Ioannidis, a professor at
Stanford University who has critiqued the
methods and findings in nutritional
research.

Omega-3s in supplement form have not

been shown to protect against heart
disease.
I can see how you might think that there is
some inconsistency, Paul R. Thomas, a
scientific consultant in NIHs Office of
Dietary Supplements wrote in response to
questions about the NIH pages.

Too often, in the view of Ioannidis and colleagues, claims

that one food or another has a particular health effect
persist long after they have been contradicted by more
exacting research.

Few issues better reflect the American confusion over diet.

For example, his research showed that various claims

regarding vitamin E, estrogen and beta-carotene continued
to find an audience among scientists as reflected in
scientific papers even when initial claims about them
appear to have been trounced.

People in the United States spend about $1.2 billion

annually for fish oil pills and related supplements even
though the vast majority of research published recently in
major journals provides no evidence of a health benefit.
The accrual of high-level evidence, according to a
review of studies published last year in an American
Medical Association journal, shows

What we have found is that the original

papers continue to be cited well after they
have been refuted, he said. These claims
do not easily die away.

212

Sorting through warnings

As for the confusing advice on the NIH Web site, Thomas

said the page that endorses fish oil was provided to the
NIH by a third party that assesses diet advice.

American consumers have long had to sort through

confusing contradictions over what food is healthful to eat.
And the trouble lies partly in the realm of science, where
researchers sometimes have developed diet advice that,
despite weakness in the supporting evidence, has been
urged on the public.

Their conclusion that fish oil omega-3s are

likely effective for heart disease is
generous, he said. Whether fish oil can
help healthy people prevent or reduce their
risks of cardiovascular disease when taken
over months and years is still an open
scientific question.

This year, for example, a federal advisory panel

recommended withdrawing the governments longstanding warning about consuming foods rich in
cholesterol, decades after scientists began to argue that the
warning was wrongheaded.

A fish oil story

The fish oil story begins with the account of its discovery.
In the 1970s, two Danish scientists, Hans Olaf Bang and
Jorn Dyerberg, visited remote Inuit villages in northwest
Greenland.

Likewise, the long-lived admonition that Americans are

using too much salt is facing a strong challenge from
research published in prominent medical journals.

The people in those villages ate mostly whale, seals and

fish, according to the scientists. While orthodox thinking at
the time suggested that a diet so rich in animal fat would
cause heart disease, reports of heart attacks there were very
few. Bang and Dyerberg were intrigued.

The dispute over fish oil and its fatty acids known as
omega-3s, meanwhile, is part of a long and confusing
debate about the role of fats in the American diet. As far
back as 1977, the U.S. Dietary Goals, a forerunner of the
federal governments influential U.S. Dietary Guidelines,
called for Americans to eat more carbohydrates and eat
less fat. That position is now widely regarded as
misguided.

During their visit, they drew blood samples of 130 Inuits.

The samples showed low levels of cholesterol and
triglycerides, which are viewed as markers of heart
disease.

A closer look at the fish oil recommendation shows how

health authorities first recommended fish oil despite mixed
evidence, then let the recommendation stand even as
studies suggesting their worthlessness mounted.

Eventually, the two formally would hypothesize that the

low levels of heart disease among the Inuit was caused by
the omega-3s in their fishy diets.

The result can be confusion.

One of the first major tests of this idea was published in

the British medical journal the Lancet in 1989. The test,
often referred to as the DART study, looked at more than
2,000 Welsh men who had suffered heart attack; some
were told to eat more oily fish. That group, it turned out,
was 29 percent less likely to die over the next two years.

The American Heart Association, for example,

recommends that some people with heart disease may
want to talk to their doctor about [omega-3] supplements.
But when the association was asked for an expert to
explain the recommendation, that expert, former AHA
president Robert Eckel, said that the recommendation
needs to be revised.

The demand for fish oil was about to grow. Pharmacies

and health food stores were stocking up on fish oil
supplements in the 80s, and by the mid-90s, the industry
counted sales in the tens of millions.

It would be a good time for that to be

updated, Eckel said. Almost all studies of
fish oil supplements show no benefit. I
really feel this remains unproven.

But it wasnt until the early 2000s that the market began to
soar. In part, the enthusiasm stemmed from the advice
from the broadly influential American Heart Association.

An AHA spokesman added:

In 2002, the association issued a Scientific
Statement concluding that omega-3 fatty
acids have been shown in epidemiological
and clinical trials to reduce the incidence of
cardiovascular disease.

AHA guideline committees are always

reviewing guidelines and assessing
whether updates are needed. AHA cannot
discuss any guidelines or statements that
are currently in the works.

The statement, however, was based on mixed evidence.

Some of the observational studies at the time showed that

213

eating fish provided a benefit; others didnt. Two

randomized trials showed a benefit, while a third didnt. At
the same time, consuming fish and fish oil didnt show
harmful effects, either.

Most trials have focused on the effects of fish oil on people

who have had a history of heart trouble. The trouble with
those studies is that such patients are typically taking an
array of heart medicines, such as statins, blood thinners
and beta blockers. It is possible, scientists say, that the
effects of the fish oil cant be detected among the effects of
the other medicines.

Bill Harris, one of the three authors of the AHA statement,

said that currently the evidence is unclear on the benefits
of fish oils.

An ongoing trial of 26,000 people, however, will focus on

the effects of fish oil on a broader set of patients
including those who dont already have heart disease or
use multiple heart medicines.

But it all made a lot of sense at the time,

said Harris, now a professor at the
University of South Dakota.

JoAnn E. Manson, principal investigator of the trial and

chief of preventive medicine at the Harvard-affiliated
Brigham and Womens Hospital in Boston, said that it is
biologically plausible that omega-3s could protect against
heart disease, though theres not enough evidence to
recommend fish oil supplements routinely.

He is also president of OmegaQuant, a company that

analyzes the content of foods.
There seemed to be a benefit, and they
were safe, so there was just no downside.
Everything looked good, so why not do it?

Its amazing how popular the fish oil

supplements have become without
conclusive evidence of their efficacy, she
said.

The AHA continues to endorse the use of fish oil,

suggesting that people with heart disease, particularly
those who dont eat much fish,
may want to talk to their doctor about
supplements.

In the absence of clear messages from health authorities,

however, consumers are faced with a barrage of unproven
promises.

In 2003, some of the researchers who conducted the early

and influential DART study published the results of a
follow-up. Of 3,000 Welsh men with angina a chest
pain caused by coronary heart disease some were
advised to eat oily fish or take fish oil supplements. This
time, the fish group patients were more likely to die, and
the researchers said it was particularly worse for those
taking the fish oil pills.

The omega-3s [EPA and DHA] in fish oil

help support a healthy heart, according to
Nature Made, one company that sells the
supplements.
Their benefits go far beyond the heart,
says Nordic Naturals, which boasts of
offering the #1 selling fish oil in the U.S.

The excess risk [of cardiac death] was

largely located among the subgroup given
fish oil capsules, they reported.

And Dr. Tobias, another leading fish oil company,

suggests that the pills help defend against a remarkable
array of ailments.

That finding didnt stop the growth in sales of fish oil pills,
however, even though the pages of the academic journals
were filling with evidence that fish oil has no benefits.

It says supportive but not conclusive

studies indicate benefits of Omega 3
essential fatty acids for heart disease,
dementia, Alzheimers, arthritis, symptoms
of asthma, pneumonia, depression, suicide,
wrinkles, acne and psoriasis.

Andrew Grey and Mark Bolland, researchers at the

University of Auckland in New Zealand, for example, last
year reviewed fish oil research published in major journals
between 2005 and 2012 based on randomized clinical
trials. Twenty-two of the 24 studies showed no benefit,
according to their work published in JAMA Internal
Medicine.

At the end of the day, omega-3s are

healthy fats, said Adam Ismail, executive
director of the Global Organization for EPA
and DHA Omega-3s, an industry group.
We believe they prevent heart disease.

It is possible that fish oil has health benefits that scientific

experiments are not sensitive enough to detect.
.

214

The Vitamin Found To Destroy Cancer Cells

Just Know Which Version To Choose
By Barbara Minton
Posted On July 13, 201
This form has four methyl groups on the 6-chromanol
nucleus.
Finally, alpha-TOS cooperated with
tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosisinducing ligand in suppression of tumor
growth in vivo. Vitamin E succinate is thus
a potent and highly specific anticancer
agent and/or adjuvant of considerable
therapeutic potential.

Evidence is mounting that humble little vitamin E plays

a big role in keeping women safe from breast cancer.
Several recent studies have shown it can inhibit the
metabolism of cancer cells, leading to their death.

More Benefits from This Vitamin Superstar

Vitamin E is able to protect cholesterol from oxidation
because it is a potent antioxidant that is fat soluble. When
cholesterol becomes oxidized too many times, it can
accumulate in blood vessels walls and create early stage
atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries.

This is excellent news for women wanting to protect

themselves against a diagnosis of breast cancer, for those
now being treated for the disease, and for those who have
had breast cancer and want to avoid a recurrence.

Vitamin E is mainly found in:

How does vitamin E wield such power? Scientists around

the world have concluded that breast cancer involves
special tumor initiating cells which not only initiate the
disease, but also speed the development of metastasis,
therapeutic resistance, and relapse. Vitamin E comes to the
rescue by destabilizing the mitochondria in those special
cells, and making it so they cannot carry on metabolism,
leading to their death.

In other words, each cell of the human body has a tiny

furnace in it, known as the mitochondria, in which fuel
(food) is burned to give energy to that cell. What vitamin E
does is block that process in cancer cells. Without fuel, a
cancerous cell soon dies of starvation, no matter what
stage it is in.

Vegetables (especially green ones)

Fish
Nuts
Eggs
Whole grains
Plant oils

These foods are prominently featured in the Mediterranean

Diet, the only diet to be documented as reducing
mortality from all causes.
A study published in 2014 from the Gill Heart Institute at
the University of Kentucky documented that eating the
Mediterranean Diet can lead to a reduction in peripheral
artery disease of a whopping 56 percent. Beneficial
outcomes on insulin resistance and inflammation were also
noted. But back to vitamin E specifically.

According to one of the research

teams investigating this process, vitamin E
can not only induce apoptosis at higher
concentrations but also block proliferation
and suppress normal mitochondrial
function and transcription at low, nonapoptogenic doses.

Vitamin E is actually composed of eight different

compounds four are tocopherols and four are
tocotrienols. Each is found in some amount in the daily
diet of most people.

But before you buy a bottle of vitamin E, know that all

vitamin E is not targeted to perform this action in the
mitochondria. The research teams investigating these
actions are using vitamin E succinate, a natural tocopherol.

The most well-known of this group is alpha-tocopherol. It

is the form most commonly found as a supplement,
probably because it is widely known to prevent free radical

215

damage. Recently, the other tocopherols and tocotrienols

have begun to be investigated; preliminary findings have
suggested we may soon hear about more health benefits
from vitamin E.
Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., author of 54 books on natural
substances including Prescription Alternative, The Herb
Bible, and the widely distributed Vitamin Bible, says
vitamin E can:

Keep you looking younger by retarding cellular aging

due to oxidation
Supply oxygen to the body to give it more endurance
Protect lungs against air pollution by working with
vitamin A

Prevent and dissolve blood clots

Alleviate fatigue
Help to prevent various forms of cancer
Help prevent scar formation externally and internally
Accelerate healing of burns
Work as a diuretic and lower blood pressure
Help prevent miscarriages
Help alleviate leg cramps and charley horses
Lower risk of ischemic heart disease and stroke
Decrease risk of Alzheimers disease

The best way to increase vitamin E intake is to regularly

include the foods that contain healthy amounts of it in your
diet. This way you can get all eight of its forms and be sure
it is digested and assimilated into your body.

216

How Turmeric Supports Weight Loss

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
July 14, 2015
index. [1] A 12-week study in mice compared the effects of
turmeric on a high-fat diet, administering a very small
amount of curcumin daily of about 1.5 to 1.75 milligrams.
In comparison to the non-supplemented group of mice,
those that were receiving turmeric gained less weight and
body fat throughout the duration of the study. The mice
taking curcumin during the 12 week period also had less
blood vessel growth present in fat tissue, and blood sugar,
cholesterol, liver fat, and triglycerides were remarkably
lower. It does suggest that turmeric extract may be a
beneficial supplement when attempting to lose weight or
maintain a healthy weight.
A healthy weight loss program only produces sustaining
results when exercise is combined with the right dietary
approach. There are other components that play a role,
such as sleep and sunlight exposure, but certain foods
could really give your weight loss efforts a substantial
boost. Turmeric is one of those foods. The active
compound in turmeric, curcumin, could in fact halt the
infiltration of fat tissue throughout the body by inhibiting
angiogenesis.

How Does Turmeric Work for Weight Loss?

The exact mechanisms behind turmerics weight loss
capabilities is still unclear; however, there are a few
theories. For one, turmeric is one of the most powerful
spices for reducing systemic redness, swelling, and
irritation in the body, and this irritation is one of the
leading factors behind obesity and every other debilitating
disease. Turmeric also rates high on the ORAC antioxidant
scale. [2] Antioxidants are not only helpful for protecting
DNA and cells from oxidative damage, theyre also
extremely useful for reducing fat accumulation.

Is Turmeric the Magic Component for Weight Loss?

Managing weight is a constant issue for many people, and
researchers have been searching to find the solution. A
study performed at Tufts University took a look at whether
turmeric could produce favorable changes in body mass

Do you use turmeric regularly? Please let us know if its

been helping you!

References:
1.
2.

USDA/Agricultural Research Service. Compound In Turmeric Spice May Stall Spread Of Fat Tissue. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily,
25 May 2009.
Sahdeo Prasad and Bharat B. Aggarwal. Turmeric, the Golden Spice. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd
edition.

217

70 Reasons To Eat More Flaxseed

By Sayer Ji
July 13, 2015
and likely far safer and effective alternatives may exist.
If we can establish the preventive value of flaxseed in only
one serious condition, perhaps this alone would be
compelling enough to convince our readers to start
incorporating it into their daily dietary regimen. However,
for those nutrition geeks out there who like to read the
first-hand research, heres our flaxseed database page,
wherein you will find all the abstracts we have gathered on
the topic of this seeds immense potential in preventing
and/or treating up to 70 different health conditions.
7 Flaxseed Healing Highlights
Below you will find our top 7 reports on flaxseeds
immense health benefits, including their role in preventing
and/or reversing the #1 and #2 killers, namely,
cardiovascular disease and cancer.

The science has never been clearer: flaxseed deserves to

be top of the list of the worlds most powerful medicinal
foods. For just pennies a day it may protect against
dozens of life-threatening health conditions.

1.
2.
3.

Many of us have been enculturated to think about the

nutritional dimension of our food intake in terms of the
governments recommended daily allowances (RDAs),
focusing on getting the right amounts of carbohydrate,
proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. However, I believe
this focus on the quantifiable dimensions of food versus
the qualitative elements has profoundly lead us astray.
We bear witness to this in the fact that Americans are some
of the most overfed yet simultaneously malnourished
people on the planet. It is no wonder that we we are dying
by the droves, with heart disease and cancer representing
the most common (and also most preventable) causes of
premature death.

4.
5.
6.
7.

They Can Heal Your Arteries

They Can Contain Beneficial Plant Estrogens
They Can Reduce Your Breast Cancer Mortality by
70%
They Can Protect Against Ovarian Cancer
They Protect Against Radiation Toxicity
They Can Dilate Your Arteries
They Can Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

For those who are interested in how best to take advantage

of flaxseeds many health benefits, but are unsure what is
the best way to consume it, we address some of the most
common questions below.

What if there was a nutrient-packed super-food which

costs pennies a day that can greatly reduce the risk of
dying not only these, but dozens of other life-threatening
conditions? Would you take it? The good news is there
already is: welcome to the amazing nutritional/medicinal
potential of flaxseed!
70 Reasons To Consume Flaxseed Daily
Admittedly, the title of this article is a bit over the top.
Wouldnt five good reasons, or even just one good reason
be enough to consume it more regularly? After all, think of
the millions of people around the world who take aspirin
daily only because it promises to reduce the risk for one
condition: namely, prevention of heart attack. A practice,
incidentally, that is dubious at best, and for which natural

218

Should I Eat The Seeds Ground or Whole?

Which is Better? Flaxseed Oil or The Seed?

First, keep in mind that flaxseeds are Natures ingenious

design for preserving the precious cargo inside: highly
therapeutic, though fragile polyunsaturated fatty acids,
amino acids, and other fat soluble vitamins. This also
means that you dont have to worry about refrigerating it.
Once the seed is ground up and exposed to air, light,
ambient fluctuations in temperature, and time, it begins to
go bad, i.e. oxidize and degrade. This is why many make
a daily practice of grinding up their own seeds in a coffee
grinder to ensure maximum freshness. While I think this is
a great idea, not everyone will have the time or desire to
adhere to this daily routine. This is why some purchase
pre-ground flaxseed. I am not against the practice. My only
stipulation is that the buyer make sure the manufacturer
has nitrogen-flushed the container so that oxygen didnt
get into the package at the time of manufacture.

Hands down, this is the most common question I have

fielded. The truth is that one is not better than the other for
general preventive health purposes. For optimal protection
I would suggest using both. However, there are some
important things to consider when incorporating either of
these forms into your diet:

The same rule applies to flaxseed oil. The company

manufacturing the oil should maintain optimal freshness
via nitrogen flushing the container, which will preferably
be in non-chemical leaching glass. Also, opt for a high
lignan form of the oil when available because you lose this
valuable component of the seed material when you
produce oil concentrate. Flaxseed has one of the highest
levels of naturally occurring lignans known, and this is
why if you are consuming the oil you may also wish to
supplement with whole or ground flaxseed so that you
benefit from these highly therapeutic compounds.

As far as whole flaxseed, make sure that you chew it well,

if you primary objective is to obtain the beneficial
nutrients, lignans, and fiber from them. Also, consider that
flaxseed produces a very soothing mucilaginous gel when
exposed and/or soaked in water. You can pre-soak a
tablespoon in a glass of water overnight to produce a very
good concoction for constipation by drinking it in the
morning. Because flaxseed will naturally soak up water,
remember not to consume too much dry, whole flaxseed
without adequate hydration, as it could be a bit binding
the exact opposite effect that it will naturally have when
consumed in the correct manner.

Never heat flaxseed oil: All oils rich in

monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids are
prone to enhanced oxidation (rancidity) when heated.
This means that you would not cook with flaxseed oil,
opting for naturally saturated (and therefore more heat
stabile) fats like palm, coconut oil or ghee (clarified
butter) instead.
Get creative with flaxseed meal: Flaxseed meal is an
excellent addition to smoothies or for sprinkling on
foods that have a higher glycemic index, e.g. pasta,
cereal. The flaxseed meal will slow the breakdown of
the starchy carbohydrates and therefore blunt blood
sugar spikes and concomitant elevations in insulin.
Also, the fiber is excellent for helping to contribute to
regularity (it is useful both for going too much and not
enough). The key, of course, is to always stay hydrated
when using flaxseed, as it can cause significant binding
in a dehydrated individual.
Flaxseed is full of good fats: Keep in mind that
flaxseed is a potent source of omega-3 fatty acids,
containing a 4:1 ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 fatty
acids. This is a great way to balance out the
predominant ratios in the Standard American Diet,
which is so heavy in corn, canola, soy, and peanut oils,
all of which have several orders of magnitude more
omega 6 than omega 3.

How Much Should I Take?

Generally, a tablespoon or two of meal a day is a good
dose for ensuring you are getting a physiologically
significant amount. The same goes for the oil. I have
personally consumed five tablespoons of meal a day
without any harm, and have used a good amount of the
flaxseed oil in place of olive oil as salad dressing (I happen
to like the taste of flaxseed better). Everyone will be
different, so go with your intuition if you are just
experimenting. If you are sick, consult your health
practitioner or dietary coach to obtain specific
recommendations. Also, listen to your body. If you arent
finding flaxseed agrees with you, then back off on the
amount or stop it until you find another dietary
intervention that does work for you. Another alternative
that has many of the same health benefits is chia seed.
Just the Nutritional Facts
Well leave you with some nutritional snapshots of
flaxseed from the more quantitative perspective, so that it

219

is clear how valuable it is in human nutrition simply as a

source of both macronutrients and micronutrients, above
and beyond its clearly medicinal function (a reflection of
what I would call its therapeutic information
content) in the wide range of health conditions our
database shows. The information below is based on 1 cup
(168 grams) worth of flaxseed whole.

Flaxseed Mineral Content

Flaxseed Protein and Amino Acid Content

Flaxseed Fatty Acids

Flaxseed Vitamin Content

220

Harvesting Garlic For Natural Medicine

Jeremiah Johnson
July 13th, 2015
This list is not exhaustive. Garlic is effective against
bacteria, viruses, as an antiseptic, an antiparasitic, against
funguses, worms, and protozoans. The antibiotic activity
in Garlic (as mentioned in the former article) originates
with Allicin, and also diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide,
and ajoene (a substance created when allicin and diallyl
disulfide combine). Preparations of fresh garlic are
effective against both gram-negative and gram-positive
bacteria. The juice of the herb diluted to a very small
degree inhibits bacterial growth.
Garlic also stimulates the immune system and helps to
lower the blood pressure (it thins the blood). It decreases
the amount of cholesterol in the system. Any bacterial
infection in the gastro intestines is negated as soon as raw
garlic hits it. In terms of survival medicine, it is highly
effective against E. coli, S. aureus, and others such as
amebic dysentery and Cryptosporidium. All of these
diseases become predominant/prevalent with the advent of
a disaster, as fresh water supplies become contaminated.
Please refer to my earlier articles on Waterborne Illnesses
for more information on these pathogens and parasites.

Hey there, all of you guys and gals in Ready Nutrition

Land! Are you ready for the second installment of the
series on garlic? Well, ready or not, here it comes! The
last episode we discussed many of the uses of garlic and its
component parts that make it a broad spectrum herb.
Before entailing the ways it is grown and stored, I wish to
touch on a few more facts concerning its uses from a
naturopathic standpoint.
Please keep in mind that this article is not meant to
diagnose, treat, prescribe, cure, or take any action or
activity from a medical perspective. This information is
provided for informational purposes only. Prior to
utilizing any of the information in this article, please
consult with your licensed family physician for permission
and approval.

Harvesting Garlic
Depending on your locale, Garlic is usually harvested in
the autumn at the time that the leaves begin to dissipate
and die off. Depending on your climate location, you may
have to employ raised and/or covered beds. There are
several different species that are very hardy and productive
in a cold-weather climate. Rochambole is a type of garlic
that is distinguishable by its reddish/purplish striations on
the outer husk. Siberian and Korean varieties are
especially hardy perennials that can withstand a
tremendous cold.

Medicinal Uses For Garlic

Let us list some diseases that Garlic (Allium sativum)
readily combats:

Staphylococcus aureus
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Candida albicans
Escherichia coli
Tuberculosis
Shigella
Salmonella spp.
Proteus mirabilis
Herpes simplex
HIV
Streptococcus spp.
Tuberculosis

You can use compost and mulched-soil-type beds and

cover the ground surface of them with either straw or
plastic bags (or a combination of the two), or use raised
beds that are insulated on the walls with straw. The cloves
should either be planted in the early fall or late summer.
They will stay in the ground for the winter months, and
should be planted to a depth of about 2 maximum. Make
sure theyre covered well! You dont want them to be
scorched by the freezing temperatures. They should be
placed about 1 square foot apart on all sides to permit
growth without each plant stealing the other plants
nutrients.

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The reason that it is so good to grow it is that it doesnt

require an inordinate amount of space and it is very low
maintenance to grow such a wonderfully gifted herb that
can become a mainstay to your herbal medicine chest. If
you have a root cellar, all the better: for storage you can
string the bulbs up and hang them to air dry. They will
keep many months, either for direct use or for drying and
powdering. Canning also works, especially in a water bath
to preserve the allicin and component parts and lock it all
inside of the jar.

Jeremiah Johnson is the Nom de plume of a retired Green

Beret of the United States Army Special Forces (Airborne).
Mr. Johnson was a Special Forces Medic, EMT and ACLScertified, with comprehensive training in wilderness
survival, rescue, and patient-extraction. He is a Certified
Master Herbalist and a graduate of the Global College of
Natural Medicine of Santa Ana, CA. A graduate of the U.S.
Armys survival course of SERE school (Survival Evasion
Resistance Escape), Mr. Johnson also successfully
completed the Montana Master Food Preserver Course for
home-canning, smoking, and dehydrating foods.

Pretty simplistic to cultivate and harvest, it can be grown

in pots and also planters. Once again, you must ensure
your plants receive adequate water every couple of days
without over watering, as this can lead to rot. The herb is
good to use against virtually any disease or infection. As
far as drying is concerned, it may not be cost effective to
use with a standard dehydrator; however, if you build your
own system to utilize sun drying in your dehydration, this
is probably the optimal level for your activities.

Mr. Johnson dries and tinctures a wide variety of

medicinal herbs taken by wild crafting and cultivation, in
addition to preserving and canning his own food. An
expert in land navigation, survival, mountaineering, and
parachuting as trained by the United States Army, Mr.
Johnson is an ardent advocate for preparedness, selfsufficiency, and long-term disaster sustainability for
families. He and his wife survived Hurricane Katrina and
its aftermath. Cross-trained as a Special Forces Engineer,
he is an expert in supply, logistics, transport, and longterm storage of perishable materials, having incorporated
many of these techniques plus some unique innovations in
his own homestead.

It is a simple thing to backpack with a small container of

powdered garlic with you, and for longer, extended trips,
you may wish to take a small jar of crushed garlic stored in
water with you. Garlic has been used for more than five
thousand years as a broad-spectrum herb, and do you know
why? It works! You can cultivate and grow it, store it,
and use it against a variety of illnesses. It is very good for
you and a way to fight infections that does not have an
abundance of side effects that may affect your system
negatively. For a survival and SHTF herb, it cant be
topped. Have a good day, and remember garlic as a
survival herb: its not just to flavor food!

Mr. Johnson brings practical, tested experience firmly

rooted in formal education to his writings and to our team.
He and his wife live in a cabin in the mountains of Western
Montana with their three cats.

222

The 4 Main Benefits Of Bentonite Clay

Dr. Axe
July 15, 2015
The reason clay is beneficial is it absorbs the toxins and
microorganisms, and so if your body has been exposed to
any type of bad bacteria, heavy metal or something that
shouldnt be in your body, clay really binds to things.
In fact, if you ever picked up clay yourself, you know its
very, very sticky. Think of it that way: Its going through
your body and sticking to and binding to those toxins,
pulling them out of your body.

[Below is my transcript of my video about the benefits of

bentonite clay, along with supplemental information on
the topic.]

1. Supports Healthy Detoxification

So the first main benefit youre going to have with using
bentonite clay is that it really supports your body with
a healthy detoxification. It absorbs the heavy metals
perfect for a heavy metal detox. It absorbs environmental
pollutants plus different types of bad bacteria and parasites
making it a great addition to any parasite cleanse
and other chemicals that you may be exposed to.
2. Works as an Anti-Inflammatory

Today, I want to talk to you about the many benefits of

bentonite clay, also known as montmorillonite clay. Clay
has been used for thousands of years for healing benefits,
including supporting skin health, reducing inflammation
and especially supporting digestive health as well as
detoxifying and cleansing.

The second benefit of bentonite clay is that its antiinflammatory. In fact, its also great for the skin for that
reason.
Women have been putting on clay face masks for well
over 100 years and seeing great results in their skin by
doing so. This has been shown to be an effective natural
treatment for eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, as well as an
excellent home remedy for acne overall, helping
to naturally slow the aging of your skin.

Bentonite clay sometimes comes in a liquid form, but most

of the time, I use it in a powder form. Again, clay has
tremendous benefits, so its surprising to some people
when I say that eating dirt or eating clay can actually be
good for your body and I want to break this down on
how this works.

To make a clay face mask, start by mixing just a little bit

of water with clay, rub it on your face, leave it on there for
about 20 minutes and then rinse it off. Clay will actually
bind to the bad bacteria on your skin that can cause things
like acne as well as other chemicals and gently pull them
out from your skin.

Bentonite Clay Benefits

By the way, a lot of women should practice putting clay on

their face because a lot of these makeups today that
women use are loaded with different types of chemicals
that can cause the skin to age prematurely. A lot of those
toxins can even get into the system over time, increasing
the risk of different diseases. So again, clay is amazing for
detoxifying the skin and skin health in general, and its

223

In addition, bentonite clay is packed with minerals, and its

very alkalizing to the body. If youre looking to get your
body more alkaline, it has a lot of alkaline minerals,
especially things like iron, magnesium and zinc, and a lot
of those minerals in the soil that are alkaline in nature.

also great to be taken internally to mitigate the real price

of beauty products.
3. Supports the Digestive System
The third main benefit of clay is how it supports the
digestive system and digestive health. You can take about
one teaspoon of clay a day mixed with water to get this
bentonite clay benefit. I recommend doing that right before
you go to bed or first thing in the morning. You want to do
it between meals, about an hour apart from a meal.

This helps reduce acidity and alkalize the body. So again,

one teaspoon of clay a day is going to bring your body
tremendous health benefits. This is why I do recommend
it.
Bentonite Clay and Good Bacteria

So, if you struggle with an issue especially like

diarrhea, loose stools, leaky gut, etc. you can benefit
from taking a teaspoon of clay a day and again, especially
useful as a step to cure diarrhea. Just one teaspoon a day
will really go through your system. If you have pathogenic
bacteria, or different types of metals or toxins within the
body, the clay will absorb and help your body eliminate
any of this junk.

You think about this, for the past 5,000 years, people ate
dirt. Literally, when you pulled a carrot out of the ground,
we washed it off, but some of that good bacteria and
micro-organisms stayed on that piece of food.
Today, we chlorinate our foods. We kill off all the
bacteria, which isnt good. We should be getting what are
called SBOs. Those soil-based organisms or soil-based
microbes are great for our health, and so clay is also going
to contain probiotics as well as other micronutrients that
really support the health of your body.

4. Acts as a Natural Multivitamin

Last but not least, the fourth main benefit of bentonite clay
is that it can be used as a natural multivitamin. Its
absolutely true; in fact, when you look at the minerals that
are found in clay, its tremendous. The soil itself is packed
with healthy minerals and clay especially.

Again, if you really want to experience these benefits from

reducing inflammation, detoxifying your skin, detoxifying
your intestines and colon, and getting more nutrients and
vitamins in the body which also will help alkalize the
body then I recommend taking one teaspoon of
bentonite clay a day.

Again, in a way, it can be used as a natural multivitamin.

Youll no longer need to ask if your multivitamin is
helping or hurting you. Now, obviously, you need to
consume a lot of fruits and vegetables on a regular basis as
well along with bentonite clay.

By the way, when buying clay, make sure its a food grade
clay or a medicinal clay like bentonite or montmorillonite
clay.

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Cinnamon Vs. Ibuprofen For Menstrual Pain

By Sayer Ji
July 16, 2015
(p< 0.001). Of 4 hours after the intervention
there were no statistically significant
differences between the Cinnamon and
placebo group (p> 0.05). Of eight hours
after the intervention, the mean pain
severity in the cinnamon group was
significantly lower than placebo group (p<
0.001). At various time intervals the mean
pain severity in the Ibuprofen group were
significantly less than Cinnamon and
placebo groups (p< 0.001).
The researchers concluded:

Why risk using a pain killer with deadly side effects?

Cinnamon can be regarded as a safe and

effective
treatment
for
primary
dysmenorrhea. More researches are
recommended to study the efficacy of
Cinnamon on reducing menstrual
bleeding.

New research reveals that cinnamon powder is effective at

reducing symptoms of painful periods (primary
dysmenorrhea) in college age students.

Discussion
Why do we consider cinnamon superior to ibuprofen?
Considering the well known dangers of ibuprofen, which is
estimated to kill several thousand a year from its
cardiovascular side effects alone, cinnamons potential
role as a natural alternative to this drug is highly
promising. Unlike ibuprofen, cinnamon is not known to
have cardiotoxic properties. To the contrary, it is known to
have both blood pressure lowering and blood sugar
lowering properties, both which may confer protection
against cardiovascular disease.

Published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic

Research and titled, Comparative effect of cinnamon
and
Ibuprofen
for
treatment
of
primary
dysmenorrhea: a randomized double-blind clinical
trial, Iranian researchers evaluated the effect of either
420 mg of cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), 400 mg
of ibuprofen, or a starch placebo, in three groups of 38
females. Both pain intensity and duration were monitored
in all groups, with the results reported as follows:

As far as the question of its role in menstrual bleeding

addressed in the conclusion above, a recent randomized,
double-blinded clinical trial found that it actually
reduced the severity of menstrual bleeding in women,
making it a win-win as far as difficult or inconvenient
menstruation symptoms go.

The mean pain severity score and mean

duration of pain in Ibuprofen and Cinnamon
were less than placebo group respectively
.

225

Is The Cure For Diabetes A Humble Root?

By Sayer Ji
July 23, 2015

Billions are spent annually and still there is no

conventional cure for diabetes. Or is there a cheap, safe
and freely available solution already growing beneath
our feet?

Obviously, turmeric possesses a wide range of side

benefits, making this finding all the more promising for
those under conventional care. Clearly, if these spectacular
results had been obtained through an FDA approved drug
instead of a plant that grows freely, it would have made
global headlines as one of the greatest achievements of
modern pharmaceutical medicine history.

Diabetes is a very big business, representing tens of

billion of dollars in pharmaceutical drug sales annually.
Tragically, while the number of diabetes diagnoses
continue to expand globally the drugs themselves,
including recombinant (GMO produced) insulin, appear
to actually increase mortality. Upton Sinclair nailed the
problem on its head when he stated:

Fortunately, it appears that academic interest in

turmeric and diabetes is picking up.

It is difficult to get a man to understand

something, when his salary depends on his
not understanding it.

A new report, focused on the work of an Indian scientist,

Professor Manohar Gang, working out o the University of
Newcastles Nutraceuticals Research Group, suggests that
turmerics anti-diabetic properties are related to its well
known anti-inflammatory properties. Professor Gang is
presently designing a clinical trial that will look at this
connection in depth:

In other words, the resistance within the conventional

medical system against finding both the causes and the
cures for the diabetes epidemic is institutional,
economically-motivated, and fundamentally unethical.

The root cause of type 2 diabetes is systemic

inflammation, which impacts insulin secretion and
function Professor Garg explains.

This happens to be why GreenMedInfo.com continues to

enjoy expanding popularity around the world. There is no
shortage of research on natural solutions to both type 1 and
type 2 diabetes, but with the mainstream medias primary
funding coming from Big Pharma, the storylines either
completely ignore or are pitted against the natural
solutions we regularly report on. Back in 2014, for
instance, we reported on a truly groundbreaking finding
published in the American Diabetes Associations very
own journal, Diabetes Care, which found a turmeric
extract (curcumin) was 100% effective in preventing the
progression from pre-diabetes to diabetes (type 2).

We want to nip the inflammation in the

bud.
Professor Gang is leading a randomized, controlled trial
that will test the effects of both turmeric and omega-3 fatty
acids:

226

The
anti-inflammatory
mechanisms
surrounding curcumin and omega-3 fats
are different, so we want to test if they
complement each other and have
treatment synergies beyond their individual
effects, Professor Garg added. Our
thinking is that the combination is safe, free
of any side- effects and may prove to be as
effective as drugs used for management of
diabetes.

It should be noted that while turmeric and/or omega-3 fatty

acids may provide a greatly superior alternative to
conventional drug therapy for blood sugar disorders
like type 1 and type 2 diabetes, there is a tendency to
mistakenly over-identify with the allopathic model of
disease by simply reproducing the same assumptions and
addressing symptoms palliatively with would-be
nutraceutical magic bullets. It is not our intention to
replicate or reinforce these misunderstandings. A truly
sustainable and root-cause-resolution oriented approach to
managing and even resolving diabetes would look at
factors such as heavy metal and petrochemical
accumulations,
hormone
imbalance,
nutritional
incompatibilities, deficiencies and excesses, lack of
adequate exercise, mind-body stress reduction techniques
and mindfulness, etc. It is only through addressing the
whole person that you can arrive at a true resolution of the
underlying conditions that have lead one to a conventional
diagnosis. For further research to support you in your task,
visit our Health Guide: Blood Sugar Disorders, which
collates both the first-hand biomedical research on
natural/functional medical interventions, as well as articles
aimed to translate in lay person terminology the import of
these studies.

Greenmedinfo.com already houses a wide range of

studies on both turmeric and omega-3 fatty acids antiinflammatory and anti-diabetic properties, along with
extensive research on over 1700 other natural substances.
You can view the anti-type 1 Diabetes research on
turmeric here, and the anti-type 2 Diabetes research on
turmeric here. Or, take a look at the 120 studies on our
database on turmerics anti-inflammatory properties.
You can also explore the role of omega-3 fatty acids in
inflammation reduction and blood sugar balancing on our
omega-3 database page here.
But dont be mesmerized by magic bullets.
.

227

9 Reasons To Stop Drinking

Any Kind Of Pasteurized Milk
By Natasha Longo
July 3, 2014
Pasteurization is a dangerous method of heating our foods
with tragic side effects which are largely ignored bu the
FDA and downplayed by the dairy industry. To accept
these facts would be to surrender after a hundred-year war
indiscriminately waged against all bacteria--a hundredyear war that has now turned to attack the immune systems
of the public. Here are 9 reasons why pasteurization
destroys the nutritional and enzymatic value of milk and
why you need to avoid it.

pressure. The expanding fluid pushes against the weakened

wall and causes it to burst, spilling out the guts of the
bacterium.
Pasteurization constitutes one of the milder forms of
thermal processing. Ultra-high temperature and
sterilization methods kill all microorganisms in the food,
while milder heat treatments like thermization and
pasteurization only kill some of them. Why not use a
higher temperature if it will kill more pathogens? The
answer is that higher temperatures change the
characteristics of the food.
At higher temperatures, as with Ultra High Temperature
Pasteurization, several things happen to milk that make it
less desirable to consumers:
High-Temp Pasteurization - Milk is heated to 161F for
31 seconds in order to sterilize the milk. The problem is
that this also kills enzymes, much of the healthy
microorganisms, and more importantly it denatures the
proteins. Essentially, high-temp pasteurization kills the
milk and makes it much more difficult for your body to
digest. This can typically lead to inflammatory bowel
disease, among others.

Raw milk contains vast amounts of nutrients including

beneficial bacteria such as lactobacillus acidolphilus,
vitamins and enzmes, and only a very modest source of
calcium (if left unpasteurized).

Ultra-Pasteurized - This is the majority of our milk today,

what you would typically find in a grocery store. Ultrapasteurization heats the milk to 280F for only a few
seconds. The reason for using ultra-pasteurization is
because it kills everything. Ultra pasteurization not only
kills potentially harmful bacteria in the milk, but also
damages all of the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients
originally contained in the milk. This process also kills the
healthy enzymes which help your body digest the milk,
and drinking it without the enzymes can lead to lactose
intolerance.

To understand what heat does to a good bacteria, we need

to know about its structure. A bacterium is a single-celled
organism. Think of it like a studio apartment, one room
containing all the things a person needs to live: food,
water, air. The walls of the apartment enclose the electrical
wiring and gas pipes that deliver energy, along with the
sewage pipes that get rid of waste products. In contrast to
the size of this single-celled organism, even an animal as
small as a mouse would be like a huge city with thousands
of buildings and extensive infrastructure to keep it "alive."
When the temperature gets hot enough, the enzymes in the
bacterium are denatured, meaning they change shape. This
change renders them useless, and they're no longer able to
do their work. The cell simply ceases to function.

Low-Temp Pasteurization - Milk is only heated to 145F.

This is significant because its below the temperature that
kills most of the beneficial enzymes and the proteins
remain in-tact. The main downside to low-temp
pasteurization is that some of the enzymes and probiotics
can be damaged. But, by culturing (fermenting it with
good bacteria) this dairy and making yogurt, kefir or
amasai, many of those probiotics are added back. This also

Heat can also damage the bacterium's cell envelope.

Proteins and fatty acids making up the envelope lose their
shape, weakening it. At the same time, fluid inside the cell
expands as the temperature rises, increasing the internal

228

improves the digestibility of the dairy. Low-temp is the

closest to raw milk products most of us in the US can get.

allergenic. Unpasteurized milk is the opposite and heals

and prevents asthma by stabilizing MAST cells and
reducing inflammation as shown by dramatic lowering of
C-reactive protein levels. Unpasteurized milk rebuilds
immunity by allowing the safe consumption of biodiversity
in our diets. These bacteria then re-colonize the gut and
become our immune protective and digestive ecosystem
armies.

Most cow's milk has measurable quantities of herbicides,

pesticides, dioxins (up to 200 times the safe levels), up to
52 powerful antibiotics, blood, pus, feces, bacteria and
viruses.
9 REASONS TO STOP DRINKING PASTEURIZED
MILK

5) Allergenic and Disease Causing Food

Cow's milk is the number one allergic food in this country.
The milk of each of the over 4,700 mammals on earth is
formulated specifically for that species. There are special
lactoferrins and immunoglobulins (cow specific
immunizing stuff) that in humans serve as allergens. It has
been well documented as a cause in diarrhea, cramps,
bloating, gas, gastrointestinal bleeding, iron-deficiency
anemia, skin rashes, atherosclerosis, and acne. It is the
primary cause of recurrent ear infections in children. It has
also been linked to insulin dependent diabetes, rheumatoid
arthritis, infertility, and leukemia. The protein lactalbumin,
has been identified as a key factor in diabetes (and a major
reason for NOT giving cows milk to infants). 89% of
America's dairy herds have the leukemia virus. Cows
diagnosed with Johne's Disease have diarrhea, and heavy
fecal shedding of bacteria. This bacteria becomes cultured
in milk, and is not destroyed by pasteurization.
Occasionally, the milk-borne bacteria will begin to grow in
the human host, and the results are irritable bowel
syndrome and Crohn's Disease.

1) Pasteurization Used To Mask Low-Quality Milk

Heat destroys a great number of bacteria in milk and thus
conceals the evidence of dirt, pus and dirty dairy practices.
Its cheaper to produce dirty milk and kill the bacteria by
heat, that to maintain a clean dairy and keep cows healthy.
To combat the increase in pathogens milk goes through
clarification, filtering, bactofugation and two
deariation treatments. Each of these treatments uses heat
ranging from 100-175 degrees Fahrenheit. Dairies count
on many heat treatments to mask their inferior sanitary
conditions: milk filled with pus, manure and debris.
Consumer Reports found 44% of 125 pasteurized milk
samples contained as many as 2200 organisms per cubic
centimeter (fecal bacteria, coliforms)
2) Pasteurization Destroys Nutrients
It destroys vitamin C, and damages water soluble B
vitamins diminishing the nutrient value of milk. Calcium
and other minerals are made unavailable by pasteurization.
The Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between
proteins and sugars, occurs at higher heats and causes
browning, discoloring the milk.

6) Kills Bone Density

The dairy industy has been hard at work the last 50 years
convincing people that pasteurized dairy products such as
milk or cheese increases bioavailable calcium levels. This
is totally false. The pasteurization process only creates
calcium carbonate, which has absolutely no way of
entering the cells without a chelating agent. So what the
body does is pull the calcium from the bones and other
tissues in order to buffer the calcium carbonate in the
blood. This process actually causes osteoporosis.
Pasteurized dairy contains too little magnesium needed at
the proper ratio to absorb the calcium. Most would agree
that a minimum amount of Cal. to Mag Ratio is 2 to 1 and
preferably 1 to 1. So milk, at a Cal/Mag ratio of 10 to 1,
has a problem. You may put 1200 mg of dairy calcium in
your mouth, but you will be lucky to actually absorb a
third of it into your system. Over 99% of the body's
calcium is in the skeleton, where it provides mechanical
rigidity. Pasteurized dairy forces a calcium intake lower
than normal and the skeleton is used as a reserve to meet
needs. Long-term use of skeletal calcium to meet these
needs leads to osteoporosis. Dairy is pushed on Americans
from birth yet they have one of the highes risk of
osteoporosis in the world. The test for pasteurization is
called the negative alpha phosphatase test. When milk has
been heated to 165 degrees (higher for UHT milk) and

3) Pasteurization Destroys Enzymes

Milk enzymes, proteins, antibodies as well as beneficial
hormones are destroyed by pasteurization resulting in
devitalized lifeless milk. Milk enzymes help digest
lactose and both enzymes and milk proteins help to absorb
vitamins. Protective enzymes in milk are inactivated,
making it more susceptible to spoilage.
4) Causes Asthma
Pasteurized milk causes asthma, and as a result doctors
prescribe a diet without pasteurized dairy products. Milk
triggers asthma by destabilizing MAST cells, which
release histamines that cause inflammation, mucus
production and bronchial spasm. Pasteurized milk is a
partial food product that is missing digestive enzymes and
nearly all of its beneficial bacteria. Pasteurized milk (with
rare exceptions) comes from cows fed a ration based on
corn and soy rather than pasture and forage. Pasteurization
warps and distorts fragile proteins, making them

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pasteurization is complete, the enzyme phosphatase is 100

percent destroyed. Guess what? This is the enzyme that is
critical for the absorption of minerals including calcium!
Phosphatase is the third most abundant enzyme in raw
milk and those who drink raw milk enjoy increased bone
density. Several studies have documented greater bone
density and longer bones in animals and humans
consuming raw milk compared to pasteurized.

9) Forces Cows Out Of Green Pastures And Into

Diseased World
Pasteurization kills cows on green pastures. Seventy-five
years ago there were friendly cows on green pastures all
over America. Pasteurization has effectively paved the
pastures and now forces the cows to be fed soy protein
concentrates and forty pounds of grain per day, along with
antibiotics and hormones. These CAFO dairy feeds
increase milk production to numbers never seen before in
the history of earth. It is not uncommon for some CAFO
dairy cows to produce twenty gallons of milk per day and
be crowded into pens deep in manure with thousands of
other cows. The stress of being milked up to four times per
day and lying on artificial rubber beds shortens their lives
to just forty months. A cow on pasture will produce much
less milk (four to five gallons per day) and easily live ten
years or more in true happiness and health.

7) Antibiotic Effectiveness
Pasteurization killed antibiotic effectiveness for all of us.
By creating a commodity dairy market system that relies
heavily on antibiotics fed to heifers and dry cows at CAFO
(Confined Animal Feeding Operation) mega dairies to
support massive milk production, the antibiotics now used
in American hospitals for humans no longer work. Tens of
thousands of Americans now die each year because of
superbugs created by CAFO antibiotic abuse. MRSA and
VRA drug resistance is now a major cause of death and
there are fewer and sometimes no antibiotics left to kill the
bad bugs and save human lives. FDA has conceded
antibiotic use in farm animals must be phased out but
refuses an outright ban or limit of the use of antibiotics in
CAFO feed and instead testifies in defense of antibiotic
use by the CAFO industry.

Try Coconut Milk

Compared to cows milk coconut milk is easier to digest
because the body uses 3 less enzymes for its digestion as
opposed to cows milk. It also contains a high level of
omega 3, 6 and 9 fats along with high amounts of amino
acids. This excellent combination of fats and amino acids
make it a complete meal in and of itself.

8) Cancer Fuel
The high level of omega 3, 6 and 9 fats and protein in this
milk are more bio-available to humans compared to all
other animal fats and most vegetable fats. This bioavailability results in the bodys ability to assimilate all its
nutrients.

Of the almost 60 hormones, one is a powerful GROWTH

hormone called Insulin- like Growth Factor ONE (IGF-1).
By a freak of nature it is identical in cows and humans.
Consider this hormone to be a "fuel cell" for any cancer...
(the medical world says IGF-1 is a key factor in the rapid
growth and proliferation of breast, prostate and colon
cancers, and we suspect that most likely it will be found to
promote ALL cancers). IGF-1 is a normal part of ALL
milk... the newborn is SUPPOSED to grow quickly! What
makes the 50% of obese American consumers think they
need MORE growth? Consumers don't think anything
about it because they do not have a clue to the problem...
nor do most of our doctors.

Its very healing to the digestive tract and even heals

damage done to the system in cases of IBS, Crohns
disease and severe malnutrition.
Coconut milk also helps maintain balanced blood sugar
levels by being a good source of manganese. This mineral
is usually deficient in people with blood sugar issues.

230

The Truth About Alkalizing Your Blood

By Dr. Ben Kim, Reset.Me
Friday, July 24, 2015

Is it true that the foods and beverages you consume cause

your blood to become more alkaline or acidic?
Contrary to popular hype, the answer is: not to any
significant degree.

The pH of your blood is tightly regulated by a complex

system of buffers that are continuously at work to maintain
a range of 7.35 to 7.45, which is slightly more alkaline
than pure water.

If the pH of your blood falls below 7.35, the result is a

condition called acidosis, a state that leads to central
nervous system depression. Severe acidosis where
blood pH falls below 7.00 can lead to a coma and even
death.

Plasma, which is fluid that makes up your

blood.
Interstitial fluid, which occupies all of the
spaces that surround your tissues. Interstitial
fluid includes the fluids found in your eyes,
lymphatic system, joints, nervous system,
and between the protective membranes that
surround your cardiovascular, respiratory,
and abdominal cavities.

Your blood (plasma) needs to maintain a pH of 7.35 to

7.45 for your cells to function properly. Why your cells
require your blood to maintain a pH in this range to stay
healthy is beyond the scope of this article, but the most
important reason is that all of the proteins that work in
your body have to maintain a specific geometric shape to
function, and the three-dimensional shapes of the proteins
in your body are affected by the tiniest changes in the pH
of your body fluids.

If the pH of your blood rises above 7.45, the result is

alkalosis. Severe alkalosis can also lead to death, but
through a different mechanism; alkalosis causes all of the
nerves in your body to become hypersensitive and overexcitable, often resulting in muscle spasms, nervousness,
and convulsions; its usually the convulsions that cause
death in severe cases.

The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. A liquid that has a pH of

7 is considered to be neutral (pure water is generally
considered to have a neutral pH). Fluids that have a pH
below 7 like lemon juice and coffee are considered
to be acidic. And fluids that have a pH above 7 like
human blood and milk of magnesia are considered to be
alkaline.

The bottom line is that if youre breathing and going about

your daily activities, your body is doing an adequate job of
keeping your blood pH somewhere between 7.35 to 7.45,
and the foods that you are eating are not causing any wild
deviations of your blood pH.
So whats up with all the hype about the need to alkalize
your body? And whats to be made of the claim that being
too acidic can cause osteoporosis, kidney stones, and a
number of other undesirable health challenges?

Its important to note that on the pH scale, each number

represents a tenfold difference from adjacent numbers; in
other words, a liquid that has a pH of 6 is ten times more
acidic than a liquid that has a pH of 7, and a liquid with a
pH of 5 is one hundred times more acidic than pure water.
Most carbonated soft drinks (pop) have a pH of about 3,
making them about ten thousand times more acidic than
pure water. Please remember this the next time you think
about drinking a can of pop.

As usual, the answers to such questions about human

health can be found in understanding basic principles of
human physiology. So lets take a look at the fundamentals
of pH and how your body regulates the acid-alkaline
balance of its fluids on a moment-to-moment basis.
pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a liquid is. With
respect to your health, the liquids involved are your body
fluids, which can be categorized into two main groups:

2 Extracellular fluid, which is the fluid found

outside of your cells. Extracellular fluids are
further classified as one of two types:

When you ingest foods and liquids, the end products of

digestion and assimilation of nutrients often results in an
acid or alkaline-forming effect the end products are
sometimes called acid ash or alkaline ash.

1 Intracellular fluid, which is the fluid found in all of

your cells. Intracellular fluid is often called cytosol, and
makes up about two-thirds of the total amount of fluid in
your body.

Also, as your cells produce energy on a continual basis, a

number of different acids are formed and released into
your body fluids. These acids generated by your

231

everyday metabolic activities are unavoidable; as long

as your body has to generate energy to survive, it will
produce a continuous supply of acids.

This is just one example of how your buffering systems

can be overtaxed to a point where you experience negative
health consequences. Since your buffering systems have to
work all the time anyway to neutralize the acids that are
formed from everyday metabolic activities, its in your
best interest to follow a diet that doesnt create
unnecessary work for your buffering systems.

So there are two main forces at work on a daily basis that

can disrupt the pH of your body fluids these forces are
the acid or alkaline-forming effects of foods and liquids
that you ingest, and the acids that you generate through
regular metabolic activities. Fortunately, your body has
three major mechanisms at work at all times to prevent
these forces from shifting the pH of your blood outside of
the 7.35 to 7.45 range.

Acid And Alkaline-Forming Effects Of Common Foods

Generally speaking, most vegetables and fruits have an
alkaline-forming effect on your body fluids.

These mechanisms are:

Most grains, animal foods, and highly processed foods

have an acid-forming effect on your body fluids.

1 Buffer Systems

Your health is best served by a good mix of nutrient-dense,

alkaline and acid-forming foods; ideally, you want to eat
more alkaline-forming foods than acid-forming foods to
have the net acid and alkaline-forming effects of your diet
match the slightly alkaline pH of your blood.

Carbonic Acid-Bicarbonate Buffer System

Protein Buffer System
Phosphate Buffer System

2 Exhalation of Carbon Dioxide

3 Elimination of Hydrogen Ions via Kidneys

The following lists indicate which common foods have an

alkaline-forming effect on your body fluids, and which
ones result in acid ash formation when they are digested
and assimilated into your system.

Its not in the scope of this post to discuss the mechanisms

listed above in detail. For this article, I only want to point
out that these systems are in place to prevent dietary,
metabolic, and other factors from pushing the pH of your
blood outside of the 7.35 to 7.45 range.

Foods That Have A Moderate To Strong Alkaline-Forming

Effect

When people encourage you to alkalize your blood, most

of them mean that you should eat plenty of foods that have
an alkaline-forming effect on your system. The reason for
making this suggestion is that the vast majority of highly
processed foods like white flour products and white
sugar have an acid-forming effect on your system, and
if you spend years eating a poor diet that is mainly acidforming, you will overwork some of the buffering systems
mentioned above to a point where you could create
undesirable changes in your health.
For example, your phosphate buffer system uses different
phosphate ions in your body to neutralize strong acids and
bases. About 85% of the phosphate ions that are used in
your phosphate buffer system comes from calcium
phosphate salts, which are structural components of your
bones and teeth. If your body fluids are regularly exposed
to large quantities of acid-forming foods and liquids, your
body will draw upon its calcium phosphate reserves to
supply your phosphate buffer system to neutralize the acidforming effects of your diet. Over time, this may lead to
structural weakness in your bones and teeth.
Drawing on your calcium phosphate reserves at a high rate
can also increase the amount of calcium that is eliminated
via your genito-urinary system, which is why a
predominantly acid-forming diet can increase your risk of
developing calcium-rich kidney stones.

232

Watermelon
Lemons
Cantaloupe
Celery
Limes
Mango
Honeydew
Papaya
Parsley
Seaweed
Sweet, seedless grapes
Watercress
Asparagus
Kiwi
Pears
Pineapple
Raisins
Vegetable juices
Apples
Apricots
Alfalfa sprouts
Avocados
Bananas
Garlic
Ginger
Peaches
Nectarines

Grapefruit
Oranges
Most herbs
Peas
Lettuce
Broccoli
Cauliflower

Please note that these lists of acid and alkaline-forming

foods are not comprehensive, nor are they meant to be.
If youre eating mainly grains, flour products, animal
foods, and washing these foods down with coffee, soda,
and milk, you will almost certainly improve your health by
replacing some of your food and beverage choices with
fresh vegetables and fruits.

Foods That Have A Moderate To Strong Acid-Forming

Effect

Flesh meats
Most types of bread

Alcohol
Soft drinks (pop)
Tobacco
Coffee
White sugar
Refined Salt
Artificial sweeteners
Antibiotics (and most drugs)
White flour products (including pasta)
Seafood
White vinegar
Barley
Most boxed cereals
Cheese
Most beans

The primary purpose of this article is to offer information

that explains why I believe that you dont need to take one
or more nutritional supplements or alkalized water for
the sole purpose of alkalizing your body. Your body is
already designed to keep the pH of your body fluids in a
tight, slightly alkaline range.
The ideal scenario is to make fresh vegetables and fruits
the centerpieces of your diet, and to eat small amounts of
any other nutrient-dense foods that your appetite calls for
and that experience shows your body can tolerate.
I hope these thoughts bring some clarity to this often
misunderstood health topic.

233

5 Foods That Destroy Your Immune System

Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
July 26,2015
3. Soda

More than likely, you want to keep your immune system

running at its peak condition, and you likely put forth the
effort every day by getting enough sunshine, sleeping well,
and exercising.

If youre drinking sodait really doesnt matter what its

sweetened withyoure likely destroying your immune
system. Even diet soda is a bad option. Because soda has
no beneficial nutrients, drinkers are less likely to get
enough vitamin A, calcium, and magnesiumall
necessary for an optimum immune system. And, if that
wasnt enough, phosphoric acid (found in sodas) can also
deplete calcium and magnesium in the body.

But diet also plays a huge role in our lives, and there might
even be some foods youre eating right now that you didnt
know were harmful.
Sugar, fried foods, and meat are only the tip of the iceberg
when it comes to foods that will destroy your immune
system. Even some healthy foods will contribute to
immune system suppression over time.

4. Sugary Snacks
Some sugarsrefined ones are the absolute worst
can actually suppress the immune system. One study
suggests that the sugar actually targets the cells that attack
bacteria. [3]And the effect can even last for hours after you
eat something sugary.

Foods That Compromise Immune Function

Food manufacturers, particularly those that market their
brand as natural, have become very clever at making their
products seem relatively benign in the terms of health.
Some foods that are by no means healthy are marketed as
such, and the unbeknownst consumer is being subjected to
dangerous ingredients that could be inhibiting
proper immune function. Here are 5 foods that will destroy
your immune system.

5. Processed Foods
One of the most dangerous foods to immune health, in my
opinion, is processed foods. How come? Because there are
many food companies out there who are using the terms
natural to describe their product, even though their foods
may have a hefty amount of refined carbohydrates, sugar,
and hidden flavorings. Even organic processed foods, like
cereal and breads, can contain immune-suppressing sugar.
Processed foods are basically anything that comes in a
package, contains more than one ingredient, and has been
cooked and modified mechanically. Eating processed
foods can lead to chronic irritation in the body. A recent
study even suggests that the toxins of a modern diet
completely outweigh the possible nutritional gains. [4] All
this is leading us to weaker immune systems, higher rate of
illnesses and diseases, and all-around poor health.

1. Red Meat
A recent study from the University of California
suggests red meat can trigger a dangerous reaction that can
weaken the immune system. [1] The issue comes from a
natural sugar in red meat that our bodies cant digest. The
sugar is believed to cause a host of other health
problemsa higher risk of cancer being one of those.
2. Fried Foods
In addition to being full of fats that could increase your
bad cholesterol, fried foods can also trigger irritation and
swelling in the body, leading to lower immunity. But one
study suggests that just cutting back on fried foodsor
better yet, getting rid of them altogethercould help
restore the bodys natural defenses regardless of age or
health status. [2] Plus, fried foods accumulate acrylamide,
a dangerous carcinogen.

Natural Immune System Support

If you want a healthy immune system, in addition to
getting rid of these foods, you could also try eating some
that boost your immunity instead. These include vitamin
C-rich foods like green vegetables and citrus. Exercise is
also a healthy component, as is stress reduction and
vitamin D supplementation. Oregano oil is also a powerful
harmful organism cleanser and may have some benefit for
immune health.

234

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Samraj, A. N. et al. A red meat-derived glycan promotes inflammation and cancer progression. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
of the United States of America. 112 (2).
Vlassara, H. et al. Protection against Loss of Innate Defenses in Adulthood by Low Advanced Glycation End Products (AGE) Intake: Role of the
Antiinflammatory AGE Receptor-1. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 94 (11).
Sanchez, A. et al. Role of sugars in human neutrophilic phagocytosis. he American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 26 (11).
Myles, I. A. Fast food fever: reviewing the impacts of the Western diet on immunity.Nutrition Journal.

235

Why It May Be Time

To Stop Drinking Milk For Good
By MARCO TORRES
JULY 27, 2015
At least cow's milk that is. For how many years did the
milk industry get away with touting the milk mustache as
the badge of good health, providing us with all the calcium
and protein we'll ever need right? Today, the most
informed researchers, both professional and casual know
better. "Got Milk?" Not if you're a pursuer of a healthy
diet. Today's processed milk is far from healthy and is
essentially a dead liquid, devoid of any real nutritional
value.

Part of milk being healthy for the human body was spurred
by misinformation campaigns in the 1980s. Many myths
were accepted as truths relating to calcium and bone
health.
Pasteurized dairy contains too little magnesium needed at
the proper ratio to absorb the calcium. Most would agree
that a minimum amount of Cal. to Mag Ratio is 2 to 1 and
preferably 1 to 1. So milk, at a Cal/Mag ratio of 10 to 1,
has a problem. You may put 1200 mg of dairy calcium in
your mouth, but you will be lucky to actually absorb a
third of it into your system.
Over 99% of the body's calcium is in the skeleton, where it
provides mechanical rigidity. Pasteurized dairy forces a
calcium intake lower than normal and the skeleton is used
as a reserve to meet needs. Long-term use of skeletal
calcium to meet these needs leads to osteoporosis. Dairy is
pushed on Americans from birth yet they have one of the
highest risk of osteoporosis in the world.
The pasteurization process only creates calcium carbonate,
which has absolutely no way of entering the cells without a
chelating agent. So what the body does is pull the calcium
from the bones and other tissues in order to buffer the
calcium carbonate in the blood. This process actually
causes osteoporosis.

Twenty or more years ago, the move away from milk for
most people was rooted in concerns about lactose
intolerance, but today it's the fact that plant-based
alternatives are far healthier.
In recent years consuming milk has been linked to cancer,
diabetes, asthma, acne and even weak and fragile bones.
The alternatives, meanwhile, can be low in calories and
fats, and often have the added appeal of new and
interesting flavors.

The type of minerals in any calcium food or supplement

determines the absorption levels: Opti-Cal/Mag with
Vitamin K2 is a co-enzyme complex, heat-stabled
molecules that must be associated with another enzyme for
them to perform their function in the body. It is necessary
in the utilization of vitamins and minerals for proper
delivery to the cell nucleus. For example, one study found
that Opti-Cal/Mag complex is 8.79 times more absorbed
into the blood than calcium carbonate and 2.97 times more
than calcium gluconate. So you can obtain far more
absorption from this type of supplement than any type of
cow's milk.

In many Western countries, milk consumption has been

falling since the 1970s, and due to more people informing
themselves on the dangers of dairy, consumption is well
below recommended levels and that is good news for
public health and bad news for the milk industry. In 2010,
the official Dietary Guidelines for Americans
recommended 2.5 cup equivalents (about 0.6 liters) of
dairy products per day for children aged 4 to 8, and 3 cups
for anyone over 8. Average consumption for adults in the
US is at less than half the suggested intake.

Last year, Karl Michaelsson at Uppsala University in

Sweden and his colleagues published a paper which
challenged the dogma that high milk consumption results
in stronger bones. They followed 61,433 women over 20
years and 45,339 men for 11 years, and found that the
more cows milk people said they drank, the more likely

Campaigns About Calcium and Bone Health Rooted in

Misinformation

236

they were to experience a bone fracture during the study

period. The risks were greatest for women: those who
drank three or more 200-millilitre glasses of milk per day
had a 16 per cent higher chance of sustaining a bone
fracture than those who drank only one. Whats more,
those who consumed more milk were also more likely to
die during the study; the women who drank three or more
glasses had double the chance of dying as those who drank
one (BMJ, doi.org/f22kjh).

requires neutralization by alkaline salts of calcium from

bone."

Michaelssons theory is that galactose, one of the

constituent sugars of lactose, is to blame. When lab
animals are fed modest amounts, equivalent to one to two
glasses of milk per day for humans, galactose triggers
premature ageing and shortens life expectancy due to
oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Theoretically,
this could lead to bone loss and muscle damage -- which
would boost fracture risk -- and also contribute to other
diseases of aging, which might explain the increased
mortality that Michaelsson recorded.

The foods you eat can influence how much IGF-I

circulates in the blood. Diets higher in overall calories or
in animal proteins tend to boost IGF-I, and there seems to
be an especially worrisome role played by milk.

Cancer Fuel
Of the almost 60 hormones, one is a powerful GROWTH
hormone called Insulin- like Growth Factor ONE (IGF-1).
By a freak of nature it is identical in cows and humans.

Consider this hormone to be a "fuel cell" for any cancer...

(the medical world says IGF-1 is a key factor in the rapid
growth and proliferation of breast, prostate and colon
cancers, and we suspect that most likely it will be found to
promote ALL cancers). IGF-1 is a normal part of ALL
milk... the newborn is SUPPOSED to grow quickly! What
makes the 50% of obese American consumers think they
need MORE growth? Consumers don't think anything
about it because they do not have a clue to the problem...
nor do most of our doctors.

Other studies have similarly cast doubt on the link between

a high calcium intake and a reduced risk of fractures, and
increasing evidence is suggesting that the general
population should change their dietary patterns when it
comes to cow's milk.

Studies funded by the dairy industry show a 10% increase

in IGF-1 levels in adolescent girls from one pint daily and
the same 10% increase for postmenopausal women from 3
servings per day of nonfat milk or 1% milk.

A 2005 review in Pediatrics showed that milk has no

effect on preventing stress fractures in girls. In fact, the
research linked higher milk consumption with higher
fracture risk.

IGF-1 promotes undesirable growth too--like cancer

growth and accelerated aging. IGF-1 is one of the most
powerful promoters of cancer growth ever discovered.
Overstimulation of growth by IGF-1 leads to premature
aging too--and reducing IGF-1 levels is "anti-aging."

The message that estrogen builds fracture-resistant bones

(prevents osteoporosis) has been hammered into womens
minds over the past 4 decades by the pharmaceutical
industry, selling HRT formulas, such as Premarin and
Prempro. Food also raises estrogen levels in a persons
body--and dairy foods account for about 60 to 70% of the
estrogen that comes from food. The main source of this
estrogen is the modern factory farming practice of
continuously milking cows throughout pregnancy. As
gestation progresses the estrogen content of milk increases
from 15 pg/ml to 1000 pg/ml.

A review published by the World Cancer Research Fund

and the American Institute for Cancer Research in 1997
found that cancer risk paralleled milk consumption in
numerous studies.
Milk Stripped Of Fat One of The Worst Offenders
People who eat more dairy fat or more high-fat dairy foods
tended to be leaner and/or to gain less weight over time
than people who eat less dairy fat. In studies that directly
compared high-fat dairy to low-fat dairy, high-fat dairy
was associated with better weight outcomes. None of the
studies find links between high-fat dairy and higher
weight, nor between low-fat dairy and reduced risk for
obesity.

The National Dairy Council would like you to believe,

There is no evidence that protein-rich
foods such as dairy foods adversely impact
calcium balance or bone health."
But these same dairy people know this is untrue and they
state elsewhere, "Excess dietary protein, particularly
purified proteins, increases urinary calcium excretion. This
calcium loss could potentially cause negative calcium
balance, leading to bone loss and osteoporosis. These
effects have been attributed to an increased endogenous
acid load created by the metabolism of protein, which

By reducing the fat, skim milk is certainly lower in

calories, but authors of one study in JAMA Pediatrics David Ludwig, of Boston's Children Hospital, and Dr.
Walter Willett, of the Harvard School of Public Health -

237

believe lower calorie beverages do not necessarily mean

lower calorie intake.

Plant-based milks may have other benefits as they are low

in calories, which could be helpful for weight loss. There's
been extensive development in North America around nondairy milk in the last couple years. Lately coconut milk
and hemp milk have made great strides in the marketplace
and are likely the two best alternative sources. Due to
problems with soy (most sources are GMO and
unfermented), it's one non-dairy milk you should steer
clear from. Almond and rice milk are two other options
although not as nutritious as coconut or hemp.

Consumers are being milked and skimmed in more ways

than one. The promise of weight loss and healthier hearts
by drinking skim/low-fat products is false and actually
seems to cause weight gain. Then the milk conglomerates,
many call them the milk monopoly, take the good fats they
took away from you and sell it back to you at higher profit
margins in other products.

Compared to cows milk coconut milk is easier to digest

because the body uses 3 less enzymes for its digestion as
opposed to cows milk. It also contains a high level of
omega 3, 6 and 9 fats along with high amounts of amino
acids. This excellent combination of fats and amino acids
make it a complete meal in and of itself.

Mario Kratz, PhD, a nutrition scientist and associate

member at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in
Seattle analyze 11 observational studies that evaluated the
association between dairy fat and the development of risk
factors for diabetes, such as elevated blood sugar and
insulin levels. Of these 11 studies, six showed that higher
dairy fat consumption was associated with markers of
better metabolic health than low fat. Only a single study
showed an association between higher dairy fat
consumption and a marker of poorer metabolic health--and
it was just one marker, the glycated hemoglobin value (an
indicator of blood glucose concentration over time). As for
the development of type 2 diabetes itself, of the eight
studies that looked at this issue, three reported that high-fat
dairy intake was associated with lower risk for
diabetes...four found no association between full-fat dairy
products and diabetes...and one had inconsistent evidence.

The high level of omega 3, 6 and 9 fats and protein in this

milk are more bio-available to humans compared to all
other animal fats and most vegetable fats. This bioavailability results in the bodys ability to assimilate all its
nutrients.
Its very healing to the digestive tract and even heals
damage done to the system in cases of IBS, Crohns
disease and severe malnutrition.
Coconut milk also helps maintain balanced blood sugar
levels by being a good source of manganese. This mineral
is usually deficient in people with blood sugar issues.

A study at Harvard in 2006 suggested that a high intake of

skim milk can impair ovulation, while drinking whole fat
milk can improve fertility. Those who are planning to get
pregnant or are currently pregnant should stick to whole
milk.

Hemp milk (also called hemp beverage) has a creamy

consistency that tends to be a bit thicker than skim milk
and other milk alternatives. It has a slightly nutty flavor
(similar to almond milk).

The preponderance of evidence does not support the idea

that high-fat dairy promotes metabolic disease.

Hemp seeds are rich in the plant-based omega-3 fatty acid

ALA, and several hemp milk companies add additional
hemp oil into their hemp beverages -- so drinkers get the
omega-3 benefits.

A previous study actually found that those who drank low

fat milk had a higher chance of being overweight later on
in life, according to Time Magazine.
Dairy Free Plant-Milks Are The Best Alternatives For
Your Health
.

238

Wheat Grass Reverses

Cataract-Associated Cloudy Lenses
By Sayer Ji - Founder Of Greenmedinfo.Com
July 28, 2015
reversibility: from thymus graft to vegetable extract
treatment application to cure an age-associated
pathology,1 wheat grass may actually REVERSE LENS
OPACITY ASSOCIATED WITH CATARACTS:
Old dogs were orally treated for a month
and the lens opacity analysed before and
after the treatment. Results showed a
reduction from 25 to 40% of lens opacity.
The efficacy of wheat sprouts in the
recovery of age-related alterations and in
treating age-associated pathologies could
be due to the contemporary presence of
small regulatory acid peptides, a
remarkable level of highly energetic
phosphoric radicals and antioxidant
molecules, peculiarities that may be, to
some extent, related to the aging process
regulation. [emphasis added]

The idea that one can reverse aging, especially in eye

diseases like cataracts, is usually looked upon as an
unrealistic expectation. And yet research increasingly
reveals that dietary interventions can lead to remarkable
improvements. Aloe gel, for instance, was recently found
to significantly improve visible signs of skin aging. Who,
after all, would not like to age slower and/or reverse the
process when unnecessarily accelerated? And especially
when loss of vision and/or potential blindness are at stake.

Wheat grass, of course, is likely not the only sprouted

cereal seed capable of providing these uniquely beneficial
properties. And green foods, such as green leafy
vegetables from non-cereal plants, are also of great value.
It is also important to point out that not everyone will do
well with the wheat lectin (aka wheat germ agglutinin
(WGA)) that is found in wheat sprouts, as it may
contribute to osteoarthritis, for example. But the key
point here is that a simple nutritional change adding
something living and green to the diet may make a world
of difference in age-associated degenerative eye
conditions, and is at least worth trying before more
invasive, expensive and dangerous approaches are utilized.

Watchful
waiting,
some
vague
nutritional
recommendations, increased use of sunglasses, and, of
course, surgical intervention, are still the standard of care
from the conventional medical viewpoint. With half of all
Americans in their mid-80s suffering from them, cataracts
are generally considered a natural and inevitable part
of the aging process. But there is a reason why not
everyone in their 80s (i.e. the other 50%) gets them, and it
likely has far more to do with nutritional factors, than
genetics. How do we know that? Well, the following
research may bring the point home poignantly

Andrea Basso, Giuliana Rossolini, Anna

Piantanelli, Domenico Amici, Isabella
Calzuola, Loretta Mancinelli, Valeria
Marsili, Gian Luigi Gianfranceschi. Aging
reversibility: from thymus graft to vegetable
extract treatment application to cure an
age-associated pathology. Biogerontology.
2005;6(4):245-53. PMID: 16333758
1

There are a broad range of natural substances which have

been researched for their ability to prevent cataract
associated lens opacity, but wheat grass steals the show
when it comes to demonstrably improving the condition, at
least in the animal model.
According to a study published in the journal
Biogerontology in 2005, on aging reversal titled, Aging

.
239

31 Long-Forgotten Native American Medical Cures

Written by: Steve Nubie
Aug 3, 2015
When it comes to herbal remedies, many of us are familiar
with the benefits of Echinacea or purple cone flower as an
antibiotic, willow bark as a pain killer and aloe as a topical
anesthetic and treatment for skin conditions. But thats
common knowledge compared to the insights and
treatments that Native American medicine men discovered
and used.

poisonous and if not used properly the results could be

counter-productive, if not deadly.
Ive also found a great deal of redundancy. It seems like
everything is good for a cough or diarrhea. Rather than
endlessly list plants that cure the same conditions over and
over, Ive tried to isolate this grouping to the most
prevalent plants that you may find and recognize. As
always, if you are pregnant, check with your doctor and do
plenty of research before using any of these.

Native American medicine men developed a wheel very

similar to the yin/yang of Asian medicine. The use of
herbal remedies and other alternative forms of treatment
was the cutting-edge medicine of their day. This was a
holistic approach to medical treatment that relied heavily
on plants and their unique benefits.

Heres the list:

1. Alfalfa: Relieves digestion and is used to aid blood
clotting. Contemporary uses included treatment of arthritis,
bladder and kidney conditions and bone strength.
Enhances the immune system.

What follows is list of indigenous plants, trees, fruits and

flowers unique to North America that have surprising
benefits as defined by Native American tribes. If and when
times are tough, it might be good to keep some of these
ancient cures in mind. They also are good for everyday
needs when you consider how effective some of them can
be.
Licorice tea for a sore throat is a good example. Its also
interesting that many of these natural cures are still in use
today, including beeswax and bee pollen, chamomile and
others. Its a good demonstration of the benefit of wisdom
developed over centuries.
Its hard to know how Native Americans determined
which plants might have medicinal properties, although
trial and error was probably one approach. Its also thought
that they observed sick animals eating certain plants and
determined that those plants must have a certain property
worth exploring. Since that time, scientific studies have
verified the medicinal value of many plants. In fact,
common aspirin is derived from salicin, a chemical in the
inner bark of willow trees that was used in ancient times
for fever and pain.

Aloe

2. Aloe: A cactus-like plant. The thick leaves can be

squeezed to extrude a thick sap that can be used to treat
burns, insect bites and wounds.

These medicines were usually administered via teas or

pastes that were either ingested or applied externally.
Sometimes the plants were eaten as food or added to food
or water. On occasion, a salve or poultice was applied to
open wounds. I would strongly recommend that you avoid
the latter, given the risk of infection from wild sources.

3. Aspen: The inner bark or xylem is used in a tea to treat

fever, coughs and pain. It contains salicin, which also is
found in willow trees and is the foundation ingredient for
aspirin.

Ive omitted many of the natural remedies. There was a use

for mistletoe that I came across, but mistletoe is essentially

4. Bee pollen: When mixed with food it can boost energy,

aid digestion and enhance the immune system. If youre
allergic to bee stings you will most likely be allergic to bee
pollen.

240

5. Beeswax: Used as a salve for burns and insect bites,

including bee stings. Intended to only be used externally.

13. Eucalyptus: The oil from the leaves and roots is a

common treatment when infused in a tea to treat coughs,
sore-throat, flu and fever. Its used to this day as an
ingredient in cough drops.

6. Blackberry: The root, bark and leaves when crushed

and infused in a tea are used to treat diarrhea, reduce
inflammation and stimulate the metabolism. As a gargle it
treats sore throats, mouth ulcers and inflammation of the
gums.

14. Fennel: A plant with a licorice flavor, this is used in a

tea or chewed to relieve coughs, sore-throat, aid digestion,
offer relief to diarrhea and was a general treatment for
colds. It also is used as a poultice for eye relief and
headaches.

7. Black Raspberry: The roots of this plant are crushed

and used as a tea or boiled and chewed to relieve coughs,
diarrhea and general intestinal distress.

15. Feverfew: Used to this day as a natural relief for fever

and headaches including severe headaches like migraines
it also can be used for digestive problems, asthma and
muscle and joint pains.

8. Buckwheat: The seeds are used in soups and as

porridge to lower blood pressure, help with blood clotting
and relieve diarrhea.

16. Feverwort: Another fever remedy that also is used for

general pain, itching and joint stiffness. It can be ingested
as a tea or chewed, or crushed to a paste as a salve or
poultice.

9. Cayenne: The pods are used as a pain reliever when

taken with food or drunk in a tea. Also used to threat
arthritis and digestive distress. It is sometimes applied to
wounds as a powder to increase blood flow and act as an
antiseptic and anesthetic to numb the pain.

17. Ginger root: Another super plant in Native American

medicine, the root was crushed and consumed with food,
as a tea or a salve or poultice. Known to this day for its
ability to aid digestive health, it also is anti-inflammatory,
aids circulation and can relieve colds, coughs and flu, in
addition to bronchitis and joint pain.

10. Chamomile: The leaves and flowers are used as a tea

to treat intestinal problems and nausea.
11. Chokecherry: Considered by Native American tribes
as an all-purpose medicinal treatment, the berries were
pitted, dried and crushed into a tea or a poultice to treat a
variety of ailments. These include coughs, colds, flu,
nausea, inflammation and diarrhea. As a salve or poultice
it is used to treat burns and wounds. The pit of the
chokecherry much like apple seeds are poisonous in
high concentrations. Be sure to pit the cherries if youre
considering this for any use.

18. Ginseng: This is another contemporary herb that has a

history that goes back across cultures for millennia. The
roots were used by Native Americans as a food additive, a
tea and a poultice to treat fatigue, boost energy, enhance
the immune system and help with overall liver and lung
function. The leaves and stems also were used, but the root
has the most concentration of active ingredients.
19. Goldenrod: Commonly thought of today as a source
of allergies and sneezing, it was actually considered
another all-in-one medicine by Native Americans. As a
tea, an addition to food and a topical salve, it is used to
treat conditions from bronchitis and chest congestion to
colds, flu, inflammation, sore throats and as an antiseptic
for cuts and abrasions.
20. Honeysuckle: The berries, stems, flowers and leaves
are used to topically treat bee stings and skin infections. As
a tea, it is used to treat colds, headaches and sore throat. It
also has anti-inflammatory properties.
21. Hops: As a tea it is used to treat digestive problems
and often mixed with other herbs or plants, such as aloe, to
soothe muscles. It also is used to soothe toothaches and
sore throat.

Echinacea

12. Echinacea: Also known as purple coneflower, this is a

classic Native American medicine that is used to
strengthen the immune system, fight infections and fever.
It also is used as an antiseptic and general treatment for
colds, coughs and flu.

22. Licorice: Roots and leaves can be used for coughs,

colds, sore throats. The root also can be chewed to relieve
toothaches.

241

intestinal distress,
inflammation.

as

an

antiseptic

and

to

treat

27. Rosemary: A member of the pine family and used in

food and as a tea to treat muscle pain, improve circulation
and as a general cleanser for the metabolism.
28. Sage: A far-reaching shrub across much of North
America, it is a natural insect repellent and can be used for
the standard list of digestive disorders, colds and sore
throat.
Mullein

29. Spearmint: Used consistently by Native American

tribes for treatment of coughs, colds, respiratory distress
and as a cure for diarrhea and a stimulant for blood
circulation.

23. Mullein: As an infusion in tea or added to a salad or

other food, this is a plant that has been used by Native
Americans to treat inflammation, coughs and congestion
and general lung afflictions. It is quite common and you
probably have it growing in your backyard or somewhere
close.

30. Valerian: The root as an infusion in a tea relieves

muscle aches, pain and is said to have a calming effect.

24. Passion flower: The leaves and roots are used to make
a tea to treat anxiety and muscle pain. A poultice for
injuries to the skin such as burns, insect bites and boils
also can be made from passion flower.

31. White Pine: Ubiquitous and the needles and the inner
bark can be infused in a tea. Used as a standard treatment
for respiratory distress and chest congestion.
If youre an expert on Native American cures Im sure you
can add many to this list. There are some excellent books
on natures cures and the specific medicinal properties that
Native American tribes discovered. Natural remedies are
worth considering both from an historical and potentially
practical point-of-view. Just make sure you identify them
properly and check with your physician before using.

25. Red clover: It grows everywhere and the flowers,

leaves and roots are usually infused in a tea or are used to
top food. It is used to manage inflammation, improve
circulation and treat respiratory conditions.
26. Rose hip: This is the red to orange berry that is the
fruit of wild roses. It is already known to be a massive
source of vitamin C and when eaten whole, crushed into a
tea or added to food it is used to treat colds and coughs,

242

New Study: Echinacea As Effective As Tamiflu

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
August 2, 2015
receiving either the echinacea extract or oseltamivir
(Tamiflu). Statistical analysis following administration of
the two therapies showed no significant differences among
groups, and that the herbal extract was equal in
effectiveness to Tamiflu in reducing symptoms.
Efficacy is Not the Only Problem With Tamiflu
The main issue with Tamiflu, and most other store-bought
medications, is that it has a higher risk factor compared
with herbal approaches. Herbs are not without risk, but the
risk-to-benefit ratio is considerably lower, for most healthy
individuals, when youre dealing with natural plant
material in its pure form. That being said, herbal
approaches have been shown consistently to be equal in
effect to many conventional influenza and cold
medications. [2] [3] Side effects of Tamiflu include nausea,
dizziness, insomnia, eye redness, and vomiting.

Commonly used during the cold and flu season, echinacea

has been used for years as a remedy for a cold or the flu.
While its not a cure and conflicting evidence about its true
value exists, recent research is showing that a simple
echinacea preparation could be helpful much in the same
way as Tamiflu. Could it help reduce reliance on over-thecounter medications?

Natural Cold and Flu Approaches

One of the best ways to reduce the likelihood of
developing a cold or the flu is to step outside in the sun.
Ultraviolet light is a potent antiviral, and its also helpful
for producing immune-bolstering vitamin D. [4] Studies
also indicate that getting enough quality sleep is an
important factor for reducing cold and flu incidence, as is
stress reduction. [5] [6] Increasing your intake of
antioxidant-rich foods, like vegetables and small berries,
also support immune health. Exercise is also a potent
supporter for immune health that is often overlooked, so be
sure youre getting plenty of physical activity throughout
the day, no matter the season.

New Research Shows Echinacea as Effective as Tamiflu

A new study published in the April 2015 edition of
Current Therapeutic Research revealed that an herbal
proprietary blend of concentrated echinacea root extract
had a powerful effect on cold and flu. [1] Researchers
compared the herbal extract to Tamiflu, a common overthe-counter medication used to combat the symptoms of
the influenza virus. Close to 500 people exhibiting flu-like
symptoms were involved in the study, each randomly

References:
Karel Raus, Dr, Stephan Pleschka (Prof), Peter Klein, MSc, Roland Schoop, MSc, Peter Fisher, Dr. Echinaforce Hotdrink versus Oseltamivir in
Influenza: A randomized, double-blind, double dummy, ulticenter, non-inferiority clinical trial. Current Therapeutic Research.
doi:10.1016/j.curtheres.2015.04.001.
Rajesh Arora, R. Chawla, Rohit Marwah, et al. Potential of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in Preventive Management of Novel H1N1
Flu (Swin Flu) Pandemic: Thwarting Potential Disasters in the Bud. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2011; 2011: 586506. doi:
10.1155/2011/5865506.
M. Jawad, R. Schoop, A. Suter, P. Klein, and R. Eccles. Safety and Efficacy Profile of Echinacea purpurea to Prevent Common Cold Episodes: A
Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Evidenced-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Volume 2012 (2012), Article
ID 841315, 7 pages. doi: 10.1155/2012/841315.
Amir Hashem Shahidi Bonjar. UV Phototherapy Has Positive Effect in Viral Treatments. International Journal of Applied Science and Technology.
Vol. 2 No. 6; June 2012.
Luciana Besedovsky, Tanja Lange, and Jan Born. Sleep and immune function. Pflugers Arch. 2012 Jan; 463(1): 121-137. doi: 10.1007/s00424-0111044-0.
Infante JR, Peran F, Rayo JI. Levels of immune cells in transcendental meditation practitioners. Int J Yoga. 2014 Jul;7(2):147-51. doi:
10.4103/0973-6131.133899.

.
243

Grapefruit Seeds Treat Antibiotic-Resistant

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
By Sayer Ji
August 7, 2015
Grapefruit is perhaps the most interesting anti-urinary
infection agent we have yet stumbled upon in our research.
A remarkable case study published in the Journal of
Alternative and Complementary medicine in 2005 titled,
The Effectiveness Of Grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi)
Seeds In Treating Urinary Tract Infections, found that
the seeds of the grapefruit were highly effective in killing
antibiotic-resistant UTIs:
Three middle-aged males and one female
were diagnosed as having urinary tract
infections (UTIs) between 2001 and 2003
in the Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa, a unit of
Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching
Hospitals Complex, Ile Ife, Osun State,
Nigeria. Of the 4 patients, only the female
was asymptomatic. The 3 males had
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella
species, and Staphylococcus aureus,
respectively, in their urine samples, while
the female had Escherichia coli. All 4
patients were treated with grapefruit seeds
(Citrus paradisi) orally for 2 weeks and they
all responded satisfactorily to the treatment
except the man with P. aeruginosa isolate.
However, the initial profuse growth of
Pseudomonas isolate in the patient that
was resistant to gentamicin, tarivid, and
augmentin later subsided to mild growth
with reversal of the antibiotic resistance
pattern after 2 weeks treatment with
grapefruit seeds. These preliminary data
thus suggest an antibacterial characteristic
of dried or fresh grapefruit seeds (C.
paradisi) when taken at a dosage of 5 to 6
seeds every 8 hours, that is comparable to
that of proven antibacterial drugs.

Antibiotic resistant urinary tract infections are

increasingly common, leaving many looking for natural
alternatives. Grapefruit seed extract may be an effective
treatment that is safe, affordable and easily accessible.
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common nuisance,
disproportionately afflicting women, most of who will
have a UTI at some point in their lives. UTIs when left
untreated or when conventional treatment with antibiotics
fail, can progress to more serious kidney infections. They
are also of great concern for pregnant women, as the
changes in prostaglandins and cytokines they induce can
contribute to preterm delivery.
Conventional antibiotics are notorious for killing both the
good and the bad bacteria within the body, as well as
leading to the overgrowth of fungi like Candida albicans,
which can lead to yeast infections. Moreover, even when
conventional antibiotics suppress acute symptoms of
infection, they can drive the survival of even more virulent
antibiotic resistant bacteria. These surviving colonies form
biofilm enabling them to lay dormant and grow back with
even greater virulence when the infection recurs posttreatment.

The authors concluded that based on these case studies,

This is why natural alternatives are becoming increasingly

popular, especially those within the food category, like
cranberry, whose safety is assured relative to what are
often highly toxic conventional antibiotics such as the
fluoride-based ciprofloxacin. You can view our Urinary
Tract Infection database for over 20 natural substances
that show promise as anti-urinary tract infection
agents.

The adequate clinical response of these

patients suggest that the 8-hourly dosage
of 5 to 6 seeds of grapefruit seeds taken for
a 2-week period may have an effect that is
comparable to other proven antibacterial
drugs.

244

They also referenced research on grapefruit seed extracts

effectiveness at inhibiting bacteria:

Indeed, our database contains a number of citations on

grapefruit seed extracts anti-microbial activity,
including against MRSA. Also, the more salient
difference between GSE is that it also has potent antifungal activity, making it superior to conventional
antibiotics.

Recently, it has been confirmed that

grapefruit seed extract (GSE) has
antimicrobial properties against a wide
range of gram-negative and gram-positive
organisms at dilutions found to be safe.
With the aid of scanning transmission
electron
microscopy
(STEM),
the
mechanism of GSEs antibacterial activity
was revealed (Heggers et al., 2002). It was
evident that GSE disrupts the bacterial
membrane and liberates the cytoplasmic
contents within 15 minutes after contact
even at more dilute concentrations. It has
also been found that GSE appeared to
have a somewhat greater inhibitory effect
on gram-positive organisms than on gramnegative
organisms;
however,
its
comparative effectiveness against a wide
range of bacterial biotypes is significant
(Reagor et al., 2002).

The really amazing thing here is that even if conventional

antibiotics were safe, effective, available and inexpensive
(which they are not), not everyone in the world has access
to them. Grapefruit, and related medicinal foods, are far
easier to acquire, and also provide significant nutritional
benefits, which supports the underlying immune system
whose status is responsibility for determining
susceptibility to infection. Weve reported on a similar
case study on the use of black seed (nigella sativa) in
putting an HIV patient into remission, as well as a case of
temporary remission of incurable leukemia using cannabis.
Case studies always provide a powerful window into the
role of ancient food-based healing interventions, which,
owing to their non-patentability, will likely never receive
the massive capital influxes required to fund the RCTs
needed to legitimize them in the eyes of a medical model
beholden to pharmaceutical interests.

245

Top 10 Toxic Ingredients Used By McDonalds

By: Carol Young | Top 10 Grocery Secrets
August 8, 2015
cooked longer and their color turns a dark brown, then
these fries will contain much higher levels of acrylamide
than fries which are cooked for less time.
Azodicarbonamide
Almost every bun at McDonalds contains dough
conditioners. These are ingredients which are used to
improve the texture of the dough. McDonalds uses
azodicarbonamide in their buns, from the sesame to the
McRib bun. Azodicarbonamide is also a chemical foaming
agent, a blowing agent for plastics and rubbers and a
common food additive, and it is even found in some
tobacco products. In the UK, you cannot find
azodicarbonamide in McDonalds buns, because it is a
banned food additive there. It is also banned in most
European countries, as well as Australia. In Singapore,
using azodicarbonamide can result in a 15-year prison
sentence and a fine of $450,000.

McDonalds has a very complicated brand image: entirely

unhealthy, yet an affordable option that is almost
universally available. McDonalds isnt a place we go to
get our nutritional needs met, and with most research
connecting our Western/fast food diet directly to various
diseases, such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease, one
begins to wonder why this company continues to serve
billions and billions. Availability is a key to McDonalds
worldwide success. This fast food mecca can be found in
every airport, off rural highways, on college campuses and,
who knows, maybe one day the golden arches might even
show up in Arches National Park. All joking aside, the
global addiction to McDonalds is frightening, and
assuming that McDonalds isnt going away anytime soon,
then perhaps it is time you know some of the toxic
ingredients that can be found in a typical McDonalds
menu.

Some McDonalds food items are prepared with a liquid

margarine which contains partially hydrogenated soybean
oil. Partially hydrogenated oils are very high in trans fat.
Trans fats are known to increase ones risk of heart disease
and may also add to ones risk of developing type 2
diabetes. Trans fats raise your LDL (bad) cholesterol
which increases your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Sodium acid pyrophosphate

Acrylamide

Sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP) is a synthetic

substance which is often used as a leavening agent. The
Center for Science in the Public Interest (CPSI) warns that
excessive consumption of phosphates could lead to
dietary imbalances that might contribute to osteoporosis.
SAPP can be found in the McDonalds hash browns, eggs
and tortillas, to name a few fast food items. In bulk form,
SAPP may cause severe inflammation if it comes into
contact with the skin or eyes, or is inhaled or ingested.

The items on a McDonalds menu may vary slightly from

country to country, but there is one fried food you can
expect to find worldwide: fries. In Canada, these Famous
Fries can be served with gravy or cheese curds, but all
McDonalds fries contain one very unhealthy element:
acrylamide. While acrylamide is not an added ingredient,
it is a result of frying food, one of the most common
methods of cooking at McDonalds. Acrylamide levels are
particularly high in fried potatoes. The debate over the link
to acrylamide and cancer continues, yet this chemical
compound can be found on the Proposition 65 list. This is
a list of chemicals known to the State of California to
cause cancer or reproductive toxicity. Additionally, the
National Toxicology Program lists acrylamide as a
chemical which may be reasonably anticipated to be a
human carcinogen. How long a food is cooked can also
affect acrylamide levels. For example, if your fries are

Dimethylpolysiloxane
Dimethylpolysiloxane is added to cooking oils and is used
as an anti-foaming agent to cook McDonalds Filet-o-Fish,
Chicken McNuggets and french fries.
Dimethylpolysiloxane can also be found in cosmetics, hair
conditioners, silly putty and even in breast implants.

246

THBQ

Sodium metabisulfite

The Chicken McNuggets are also prepared in a vegetable

oil with a chemical preservative called THBQ, or tertiary
butylhydroquinone, a petroleum-based product which can
also be found in cosmetic products such as eyeshadows.

Sodium metabisulfite is another dough conditioner used in

McDonalds tortillas, and it is known to cause allergic
reactions in people who are sensitive to sulfites. Sulfites
also may be related to certain diseases and health
conditions, including skin conditions, lethargy, diabetes,
bloating, joint pain and even brain fog. Sodium
metabisulfite is also used in waste treatment and as a
bleaching agent in coconut cream.

Sodium aluminum phosphate

Sodium aluminum phosphate is another food additive in
the batter of McDonalds Chicken McNuggets. Several
studies have shown a possible link to sodium aluminum
phosphate and the onset of Alzheimers disease.

High-fructose corn syrup

McDonalds has a very hardworking PR campaign that
tries to minimize the adverse health effects caused by these
toxic ingredients. On their own website, they claim that
high-fructose corn syrup, an ingredient used in many of
their products, is similar in composition to sugar. They
also state that HFCS is in a wide variety of products
found on your local supermarket shelves, which is clearly
a way of trying to normalize the use of HFCS. It is also an
attempt to skirt the issue and avoid the serious and welldocumented negative health effects caused by
consumption of HFCS.

Sodium benzoate
Sodium benzoate can be found in many of McDonalds
sauces, as well as in most of their soft drinks. One UK
study found that consuming a mixture of sodium benzoate
with artificial food colors can be linked to increased
hyperactivity in children. The study recommended that
children should avoid foods with these products.
Disodium 5-ribonucleotides

The toxic ingredients found in many of McDonalds

products are hidden in their cooking oils, breads and
sauces. The science experiments taking place in the
McDonalds kitchens are filled with foods (and chemicals)
that you do not want to eat.

Disodium 5-ribonucleotides (a combination of disodium

inosinate and disodium guanylate) can be found in
McDonalds chicken products as well as in some of their
sauces. Disodium guanylate is not safe for very young
babies (under 3 months old) and should be avoided by
asthmatics and people with gout.

.
Sources:
http://www.oehha.ca.gov[PDF]
http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov[PDF]
http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov
http://www.livestrong.com
http://foodbabe.com
http://healthpsych.psy.vanderbilt.edu
http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk
http://www1.mcdonalds.ca[PDF]
http://www.food-info.net
http://www.cspinet.org
http://www.mcdonalds.com

247

Coconut Oil Found Effective In Treating Atopic Dermatitis

(Dry, Itchy, Scaly Skin)
By Sayer Ji
August 9, 2015
group clearly experienced superior results versus the
mineral oil group:

A promising new study published in the International

Journal of Dermatology[i] has confirmed the natural
healing properties of virgin coconut oil in treating atopic
dermatitis, a chronic skin condition characterized by scaly
and itchy rashes.

Researchers at the Department of Dermatology, Jose R.

Reyes Memorial Medical Center, Manila, Philippines
compared the effects of topical virgin coconut oil (VCO)
to mineral oil, a crude oil derivative, in a randomized,
double-blinded clinical trial.

In the VCO group, 47% (28/59) of patients achieved

moderate improvement and 46% (27/59) showed an
excellent response.
In the mineral oil group, 34% (20/58) of patients
showed moderate improvement and 19% (11/58)
achieved excellent improvement.
The VCO group achieved a post-treatment mean
transepidermal water loss (TEWL) of 7.09 from a
baseline mean of 26.68, whereas the mineral oil group
demonstrated baseline and post-treatment TEWL
values of 24.12 and 13.55, respectively.
In the VCO group, post-treatment skin capacitance (an
indication of the water content of the outermost layer of
skin known as the stratum corneum) rose to 42.3 from
a baseline mean of 32.0, whereas that in the mineral oil
group increased to 37.49 from a baseline mean of
31.31.

The researchers concluded, Thus, among pediatric

patients with mild to moderate AD, topical application of
VCO for eight weeks was superior to that of mineral oil
based on clinical (SCORAD) and instrumental (TEWL,
skin capacitance) assessments.

Patients with atopic dermatitis have inflamed skin with

defects in the epidermal barrier function, primarily related
to inflammation and dehydration, which leads them to use
ostensibly soothing moisturizers. Most mass market skin
care products, however, contain mineral oil and related
petrochemical ingredients which not only may contribute
to skin irritation, but more serious skin conditions such as
skin cancer, as well as bodily accumulation of
significant quantities within internal organs. This is
why natural, food quality ingredients like coconut oil,
which have been used in traditional cultures for thousands
of years, hold great promise as a viable alternative, and are
increasingly becoming the subject of modern scientific
investigation.

For more information on coconut oil as a moisturizer, and

the dangers with petroleum-based ones, read our article on
the topic: Let Food Be Your Cosmetic: Coconut Oil
Outperforms Dangerous Petroleum Body Care
Products.
For additional research on natural interventions and
preventable causes of atopic dermatitis, visit our research
page on the topic: Atopic Dermatitis research, or a guest
post by Pat Robinson from Heal Thyself on 27 Natural
Alternatives for Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) which
summarizes the most compelling research on our database
on the topic.

In the study titled, The effect of topical virgin coconut oil

on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin
capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis:
a randomized, double-blind, clinical trial, a total of 117
patients were evaluated at baseline, and at 2, 4, and
8 weeks. Results showed that atopic dermatitis symptoms
decreased from baseline by 68.23% in the VCO group and
by 38.13% in the mineral oil group (P < 0.001). The VCO

[i] Mara Therese Padilla Evangelista, Flordeliz Abad-Casintahan,

Lillian Lopez-Villafuerte. The effect of topical virgin coconut
oil on SCORAD index, transepidermal water loss, and skin
capacitance in mild to moderate pediatric atopic dermatitis: a
randomized, double-blind, clinical trial. Int J Dermatol. 2013
Dec 10. doi: 10.1111/ijd.12339.

248

Study: BPA Disrupts Prostate Health

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
August 11, 2015
theories, the more stem cells an organ has, the more likely
a mutation can occur. Could BPA be one of the leading
contributors to todays cases?
BPA mimics female hormones, particularly estrogen,
which means it poses a threat to men and women. Not only
could it be a hidden contributing factor to prostate cancer,
but research shows it may also be contributing to all forms
of cancer. [2] Even avoiding BPA-free plastics is probably
not the answer, because the alternatives to BPA appear to
hold the same health risks. Bisphenol-S, for instance, is
sometimes used in BPA-free plastics and BPA-free tin
cans, but it isnt the most reliable from a health standpoint.

Bisphenol-A has seen its share of media attention, and

none of it has been very positive. Its a known endocrine
disruptor still being used as a softening agent in plastics.
Youre probably already aware that BPA disrupts
reproductive health, which is contributing to hormonal
imbalance in both women and men. BPA lines many
aluminum cans and water bottles, and it has the tendency
to leach into the contents of the container. A new study has
exposed another startling health effect of BPA
consumptionprostate cancer.

[3]

Ways to Avoid BPA

One of the best ways to avoid BPA is to stop using plastic
containers and, instead, switch to glass or ceramic. Avoid
drinking from plastic water bottles, reusable or not, and do
not drink from plastic water bottles that have been sitting
out in the hot sun. Heat speeds up the rate at which BPA is
leached into the water. [4] Also, consider performing a
cleanse periodically to support your overall health. Just
making a simple switch for your health can go a long way,
so consider using these tips the next time you are storing
leftovers or beverages.

Why Men (and Everyone Else) Should Avoid BPA

According to a professor from the University of Illinois in
Chicago, when scientists exposed an organoid similar to
the prostate gland to very low doses of BPA, the organoid
grew an overabundance of prostate stem cells. [1] While
stem cells are present in the prostate gland, too many can
raise the risk for prostate cancer. According to many

Are there any tips for avoiding BPA that weve missed?
Please let us know in the comments!

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Esther L. Calderon-Gierszal, Gail S. Prins. Directed Differentiation of Human Embryonic Stem Cells into Prostate Organoids In Vitro and its
Pertubation by Low-Dose Bisphenol A Exposure. PLoS One. DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0133238.
Ana M. Soto & Carlos Sonnenschein. Environmental causes of cancer: endocrine disruptors as carcinogens. Nature Reviews Endocrinology 6,
363-370 (July 2010). doi: 10.1038/nrendo.2010.87.
Manjumol Mathew, S. Sreedhanya, P. Manoj, C. T. Aravindakumar, and Usha K. Aravind. Exploring the Interaction of Bisphenol-S with Serum
Albumins: A Better or Worse Alternative for Bisphenol A. J. Phys. Chem. B, 2014, 118 (14), pp 3832-3843. DOI: 10.1021/jp500404u.
Chun Z. Yang, Stuart I. Yaniger, V. Craig Jordan, Daniel J. Klein, and George D. Bittner. Most Plastic Products Release Estrogenic Chemicals: A
Potential Health Problem That Can Be Solved. Environ Health Perspect. 2011 Jul 1; 119(7): 989-996. doi: 10.1289/ehp.1003220.

249

Decomposing The Myth That Mushrooms

Cant Produce Vitamin D3
By Sayer Ji
August 12, 2015
In her article, Sylvia points out important differences
between D2 and D3, but argues so strongly for the
superiority of vitamin D3 over D2 that it would seem to
imply vegans or vegetarians who do not have sufficient
sun exposure should reconsider their dietary/ethical stance
or suffer dire health consequences.
What I find so interesting about this exchange is that Paul
never argues that sun-exposed mushrooms are superior to
animal derived forms of vitamin D3; nor is he denying that
vitamin D3 is superior in bioactivity to vitamin D2. He is
only arguing that mushrooms are a legitimate alternative,
and considering the needs of sunlight-deprived
vegans/vegetarians or those who are not in a position to
access or manufacturer animal derived vitamin D3
themselves, they may be the only available source to them.

Prevailing wisdom maintains that mushrooms can not

produce Vitamin D3, and it has been a vociferously
debated topic of late. But new research promises to upset
conventional assumptions in favor of these fungal friends
of ours.

Decomposing The Assumption That Mushrooms Cant

Produce Vitamin D3

Whether or not mushrooms provide a legitimate source of

vitamin D activity has been a hotly contested topic over
the past few years. Back in 2014, we were pulled into the
fray after publishing the mycologist Paul Stamets article
on the topic titled, Place Mushrooms in Sunlight to Get
Your Vitamin D. Soon after, the Healthy Home
Economist published an article by Sylvia P. Onusic
aggressively titled Debunking the Absurd Notion of
Vitamin D in Mushrooms, wherein she calls out the
presumably erroneous view of Paul that non-animal
sources of vitamin D are relevant to meeting nutritional
requirements for these indispensable biomolecules. Sylvia
states:

Research exists from 2013 that demonstrates how sunlightexposed mushrooms produce not only D2, but also D4
(with about 60% the biological activity of D3)[1] and D3
itself a discovery that fundamentally undermines
Sylvias argument against mushrooms.
Published
back
in
2013
in
the
journal
Dermatoendocrinology
and
titled,
Photobiology
of vitamin D in mushrooms and its bioavailability in
humans, the study revealed that mushrooms indeed are a
vegan source of vitamin D3 and related isomers:
Shiitake mushrooms not only
produce vitamin D2 but also
produce vitamin D3 and vitamin D4.

In the past few years many blogs have

expounded on the glorious vitamin D
properties of mushrooms.

The study also referenced research that disproves Sylvias

claims:

Mushrooms are not only wonderful

sources of vitamin D, but they offer us
many opportunities for maintaining and
improving health, says mycologist Paul
Stamets (5).

A study of the bioavailability of vitamin D2

in mushrooms compared with the
bioavailability of vitamin D2 or vitamin D3 in
a supplement revealed that ingestion of
2000 IUs of vitaminD2 in mushrooms is as
effective as ingesting 2000 IUs
of vitamin D2
or vitamin
D3 in
a

But that wonderful source hes talking about is vitamin

D2, which is otherwise made artificially from radiating
ergot and yeasts.

250

supplement in raising and maintaining

blood levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D which
is a marker for a persons vitamin D status.
[Note: Full study details at the end of this
article]

once a day for three months during the winter. Vitamin D

concentrations were verified to be within 10% by HPLC.
Twenty-five subjects completed the study. Fourteen
subjects were randomized to the mushroom vitamin D2
group, eight subjects to the supplemental vitamin D2 group
and 3 subjects to the supplemental vitamin D3 group.
Serum concentrations of 25(OH)D2, 25(OH)D3 and
25(OH)D were measured once a week for 12 weeks by
liquid chromatography tandem mass spectroscopy
(LCMS/MS) as previously described.28

Their conclusion clearly indicates that mushrooms

constitute an excellent source of vitamin D:
Therefore, mushrooms are a rich source of vitamin D2
that when consumed can increase and maintain blood
levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in a healthy range.
Ingestion of mushrooms may also provide the consumer
with a source of vitamin D3 and vitamin D4.

Subjects in the mushroom vitamin D2 group had a mean

baseline serum 25(OH)D2 of 0.6 0.3 ng/mL that
increased significantly to 18.6 1.4 ng/mL at the end of 12
weeks (p < 0.0001). Total serum 25(OH)D levels increased
from 20.6 2.4 ng/mL to 30.1 2.6 ng/mL (p < 0.001)
(Fig. 8A).

Clearly, if vitamin D3 can be produced by fungi, the

ongoing argument between those who believe that animal
products are necessary to fulfill basic human dietary
requirements and those who maintain that the
vegan/vegetarian lifestyle is rendered more complex than
hitherto considered. We have also recently seen other basic
assumptions about human physiology and metabolic nees
challenged. For instance, the discovery that chlorophyll is
capable of helping the body capture energy directly
from the sun, a capability formerly attributed only to
autotrophs like plants. We have also seen turmerics role
in helping vegetarians enhance DHA synthesis, perhaps
undermining the Paleolithic fixation on eating much higher
on the trophic scale for optimal health. There is also the
fact that since we are constituted by 99% microbes,
everything we once believed about our body and its
relationship to the world has basically been redefined.

Figure 8. Mean ( SEM) 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 (), 25hydroxyvitamin D3 () and total 25-hydroxyvitamin D ()

concentrations over time after oral administration of (A)
2000 IU of mushroom vitamin D2 in capsules (n = 14),
Subjects in the supplemental vitamin D2 group had a mean
baseline serum 25(OH)D2 of 1.5 1.2 ng/mL that
increased significantly to 13.3 2.0 ng/mL at the end of 12
weeks (p < 0.001). Total serum 25(OH)D levels
significantly increased from 19.4 2.3 ng/mL to 29.2
2.0 ng/mL (p < 0.01) (Fig. 8B).
Subjects in the supplemental vitamin D3 group had a mean
baseline serum of 25(OH)D3 of 16.3 0.6 ng/mL with a
final baseline serum level of 34.4 1.3 ng/mL (Fig. 8C).
Total 25(OH)D increased from 17.1 1.4 ng/mL to 34.4
1.3 ng/mL (p < 0.05). The discrepancy in mean baseline
serum levels is due to some detectable 25(OH)D2 of 0.8
ng/mL (Fig. 8C).

The lesson here may be that in the field

of human nutrition and physiology we
must consider the presumption of
certainty utterly premature at this stage
of our learning, with open-mindedness
always a more appropriate intellectual
stance.

Baseline serum total 25(OH)D levels were not

significantly different between the groups; 17.1 1.2, 19.4
2.3 and 20.6 2.4 ng/mL for the supplemental D3 and
vitamin D2, and mushroom vitamin D2 groups
respectively. Serum 25(OH)D levels gradually increased
and plateaued at seven weeks and were maintained for the
following five weeks. At the end of 12 weeks, serum total
25(OH)D levels were not statistically significantly
different in all three groups: 34.4 1.1, 29.2 2.0 and 30.1
2.6 ng/mL for supplemental vitamin D3, D2 and
mushroom D2 respectively.

Full Vitamin D Bioavailability Study Details: We

conducted a clinical study to determine if ingestion of
vitamin D2 in a dried white button mushroom extract
(Monterey Mushrooms, Inc.) was as effective at increasing
and maintaining vitamin D status as supplemental vitamin
D3 and vitamin D2. Thirty healthy adults were enrolled in
the study (6 male, 19 female, mean age 35.2 y) and were
randomized to ingest capsules containing 2000 IU vitamin
D2, 2000 IU vitamin D3 or 2000 IU mushroom vitamin D2

References
[1] De Luca HF, Weller M, Blunt JW, Neville PF. Synthesis, biological activity., and metabolism of 22,23-3H vitamin D4. Arch Biochem
Biophys. 1968;124:1228. doi: 10.1016/0003-9861(68)90310-X. [PubMed]

251

The 6 Best Vegan Supplements

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
August 15, 2015
harder for the body to absorb. What this means is that
vegans and vegetarians can have lower iron stores in the
blood. This is why supplementing with iron is so
important. Also, keep in mind that eating non-heme iron
foods with vitamin C foods can actually increase
absorption!
3. Zinc
Found in every cell in the body, zinc helps with everything
from maintaining your immune system to aiding
reproduction. [3] And, while zinc can be found in vegetable
sources, phytates in plants can actually bind to the mineral
and weaken absorption. Taking additional zinc is highly
recommended for vegetarians and vegans because of this.
Since the body lacks any kind of zinc storage system, zinc
orotate is one form that passes quickly and easily through
cell membranes, allowing the body to get the most of the
mineral.

As a vegan, making sure you get adequate nutrition is very

important. Since many vitamins and minerals are more
readily available from animal sources, its important to
know how taking certain supplements could affect your
health. Fortunately, a vegan diet can be quite nutritious and
contain most of the essential nutrients you need. Still, there
are some minerals and vitamins you may be missing. Here
are just a few of the best supplements every vegan (and
non-vegan) should know about.
Six Vegan Supplements You Should Have

4. Enzymes

Being a vegan has its share of benefits, but there are also
some drawbacks you should be aware of. Vegan diets are
missing crucial nutrients, like vitamin B12 and even
vitamin D, so supplementing should definitely be on every
vegans mind. While plant foods do provide an assortment
of nutrients, some of them may be on the low end. Heres
six supplements you should be considering taking if youre
following the vegan lifestyle:

No matter what your diet, supplementing with enzymes

can provide your body a great deal of help. There are some
studies that suggest proteolytic enzymes could reduce
irritation in the body, while digestive enzymes help digest
food molecules into nutrients. [4] [5] For example, someone
who is lactose intolerant could take the enzyme lactase in
order to better digest dairy. As a vegan (or vegetarian), its
especially important to make sure your enzyme
supplement isnt sourced from animal products; a highquality, full-spectrum supplement like VeganZyme could
be just the thing you need.

1. B12
One of the essential B-complex nutrients, B12 maintains
brain and nervous system health. But getting enough is
crucial, since low levels could also lead to anemia or even
pregnancy complications. [1] [2] Unfortunately for vegans, it
can be difficult getting enough B12 from plant sources;
however, a vegan B12 supplement could be a great option.
I highly recommend supplementing with VeganSafe
B12, a vegan-friendly formula that contains two of the
most bioactive forms of the vitamin.

5. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a necessary vitamin for calcium absorption,
but many of usregardless of dietsimply dont get
enough. While calcium can be found fairly easily in the
diet, vitamin D can be a little trickier. In fact, many vegans
dont get any vitamin D at all from the food they eat.
Studies suggest vitamin D is actually just as important as
calcium when it comes to reducing osteoporosis risk, so
make sure youre getting enough of both. [6] Check out
Suntrex if youre looking for a potent vegan vitamin D
supplement.

2. Iron
Since your red blood cells use iron to transport oxygen and
nutrients, not getting enough could lead to anemia. Of the
two types of iron, non-heme, found in plant sources, is

252

6. Iodine

Give Your Vegan Diet a Boost

Everyone needs iodine to function; its necessary for a

healthy thyroid and too little intake can throw metabolic
functions out of whack. It might seem strange, but your
body cant produce iodine on its own. Your only options
are getting it from trace amounts in food and supplements.
Vegans are especially vulnerable, because research
suggests that iodine occurs in only minute amounts in
plants. [7] Our iodine supplement Detoxadine is something
that may help if you find youre iodine intake isnt the
best.

Supplements will provide your vegan lifestyle an extra

boost, supporting your overall health, energy, and well
being. And dont think these tips are just meant for
vegansthese 6 supplements could help anyone needing an
extra advantage in their health. Why not give them a try?
But what do you take to maintain your health? Tell us in
the comments below!

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Molloy, A. M. et al. Effects of folate and vitamin B12 deficiencies during pregnancy on fetal, infant, and child development. Food and Nutrition
Bulletin. 29 (2 Supplement).
VanderJagt, D. J. et al. Assessment of the Vitamin B12 Status of Pregnant Women in Nigeria Using Plasma Holotranscobalamin. ISRN
Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Favier, A. E. The role of zinc in reproduction. Hormonal mechanisms. Biological Trace Element Research. 32.
Brien, S. et al. Bromelain as a Treatment for Osteoarthritis: a Review of Clinical Studies. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative
Medicine. 1 (3).
Viswanatha Swamy, A. & Patil, P. A. Effect of Some Clinically Used Proteolytic Enzymes on Inflammation in Rats. Indian Journal of
Pharmaceutical Sciences. 70 (1).
Barr, S. I et al. Spinal bone mineral density in premenopausal vegetarian and nonvegetarian women: cross-sectional and prospective
comparisons. Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 98 (7).
Krajcovicov-Kudlckov M et al. Iodine deficiency in vegetarians and vegans. Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism. 47 (5).

253

Make Your Own Natural QuikClot (VIDEO)

By Tess Pennington
August 17, 2015
Cayenne: A Natural Wound Dressing
If you find yourself in a situation where you have to attend
to a bleeding wound, take comfort in the fact that
everything you need is sitting in your kitchen pantry.
Many have found that cayenne pepper is an effective
alternative and natural version of QuikClot. Cayenne
pepper contains an active ingredient, called capsaicin,
which has analgesic (pain relieving) properties and various
other medicinal uses.
In a post-disaster environment, paramedics and medical
response teams are inundated with emergency calls and
assign degrees of urgency to emergency calls. If your call
is not on the list of priority medical issues, then you will
have to wait. Those who understand this know that in these
times of crisis, we must become our own medics and know
how to treat medical emergencies during disaster events.

Why is cayenne pepper so effective for bleeding

wounds?

Stopping a critical life threatening bleed is paramount in

an emergency situation and, in some cases, takes
precedence over airways and breathing. This is one of
those medical issues that you need to know how to care
for. One product that preppers like to have on hand are the
Celox or QuikClot like bandages that help stop this type of
excessive bleeding. These wound dressings contain
a hemostatic agent in powder or granule form that is
applied directly to a wound to help stop bleeding. These
dressings are usually reserved for when a major artery has
been severed and bleeding out is a concern.

Equalizes the blood pressure and allows cutseven

deep cutsto clot quickly.
Possesses antifungal and antibacterial capabilities, it
naturally disinfects the wound
Naturally promotes healing in tissues
Is a natural pain killer

Cayenne pepper is a great survival plant and also works to

improve blood circulation, assist digestion, stimulate
perspiration and saliva, and lessen pain from swollen or
arthritic joints and limbs.
Cayenne powder can be applied directly to the open wound
to stop bleeding. Simply sprinkle a generous amount of
pepper to the wound and cover with a gauze pad to apply
direct pressure to wound. Apply pressure for up to 10
minutes or make your own cayenne pepper gauze pads.

A downside to this type of emergency wound dressing is it

is extremely difficult to debride or clean out of a
wound. As well, because you are introducing a foreign
object into the body, it has the capacity of cause further
irritation and possible infection. In fact, many complain
that when they used QuikClot, it caused heat in the wound
from the chemicals used. This can cause a lot of pain!
Moreover, many turn to QuikClot wound dressings
prematurely when applying direct pressure may have been
the best approach.
Remember: If you have not severed an artery, apply
direct pressure to the wound and see if your body
creates a natural clot.

To Use Cayenne Pepper Gauze

1.

254

Remove debris and flush wound thoroughly.

2.
3.
4.
5.

Place cayenne-coated gauze on wound and add

additional gauze pads to apply pressure.
Apply direct pressure for up to 10 minutes.
Remove gauze pad and wrap with clean bandage.
If bleeding does not stop, the wound may need
stitches.

Additionally, you can make your own bandages using

chitosan
Nature always seem to provide us with everything we need
to get by. Chances are, many of you have some cayenne
pepper laying around, so keep it safe. You never know,
you may need it during an emergency.

255

The Health Benefits Of Avocados

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
August 20, 2015

Avocados are native to Central and South America and

have been cultivated since approximately 8,000 B.C. By
the mid-1800s, they had been introduced to Asia and
Jamaica, but they did not arrive in the United States until
the early 20th century. California and Florida produce
most of the avocados grown in the USA with other
commercial producers existing in Mexico, Brazil,
Colombia, and the Dominican Republic.

Guacamole is a popular way to enjoy avocados and this

delicious food contain other ingredients besides avocados
that offer some surprising health benefits.

Ingredients in Organic Guacamole

Organic Avocado Contains Lutein (a carotenoid

along with Vitamin E), Magnesium, and
monounsaturated (healthy) fats. Avocado helps fight
cancer of the mouth, breast, and prostate, and
improves skin tone. It also improves absorption of
nutrients in other foods.
Himalayan Crystal Salt Stabilizes blood sugar levels
and regulates heart beat. Himalayan salt also improves
absorption and cell communication, and relieves the
sinuses and lungs.
Organic Lime Juice Contains potassium and
supports the immune system. It also helps to cleanse
the blood and liver.
Organic Cilantro Contains several antioxidants, and
is a natural deodorizer. It relieves nausea, bloating,
urinary tract infections, and indigestion. Consumption
of cilantro also helps to reduce blood sugar and
cholesterol levels, and has properties that make it
beneficial against harmful organisms.
Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil Helps balance
systemic redness and swelling, also promotes healthy

blood pressure. It helps to increase metabolism, and

supports health of the ovaries and breasts.
Raw Organic Apple Cider Vinegar Once lauded by
Hippocrates, apple cider vinegar (raw & unfiltered)
helps countless health ailments. It strengthens the
immune system, improves metabolism and stamina,
and provides relief for sore throats. I personally
recommend Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar.
Organic Cumin A natural antioxidant that supports
the liver, promotes digestion, and vitalizes the immune
system.
Organic Garlic An antioxidant that may lower blood
pressure and cholesterol, and helps to cleanse the
liver. Garlic has unique benefits whether consumed
raw, cooked, or aged. It also contains unique properties
that make it an excellent fighter against stomach
cancer.
Organic Lemon Juice (fresh) May aid the body in
removing gallstones when mixed with olive oil, relieves
stomach discomfort, and may help reduce the risk of
developing arthritis, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and
kidney stones.
Organic Onion Onions contain an antioxidant called
Quercetin, which is a flavonoid. They also contain
Vitamin E, Potassium, Folic Acid, Vitamin C, and Fiber.
Onions are known to relieve congestion and allergy
symptoms, and help to reduce cholesterol. In addition,
they remove heavy metals from the body, and help
fight cancer of the lungs, bladder, ovaries, and breast.
Organic Pepper Pepper contains an antioxidant
called Capsaicin, which relieves congestion,
headaches, allergies, colitis, ulcers, and discomfort.
Eating peppers can aid with blood clotting, cholesterol
reduction, and the rate of stroke. Peppers also increase
metabolism.

Tips for Buying Organic Avocados

Look for avocados that are slightly soft, but without dark
sunken spots or cracks. Tree ripened avocados generally
have a better flavor and can be identified by their slight
neck. California avocados usually have a richer taste than
avocados grown in Florida. Be sure that you only purchase
avocados that have a dark green skin, light and bright skin
is a sign the avocado is not ripe.
Organic Guacamole Recipe

256

Guacamole Recipe

2 ripe, medium organic avocados

Juice from 1 organic Lime (to taste)
2 Tbsp chopped fresh organic cilantro
Tsp organic olive oil
Tsp raw organic apple cider vinegar
Juice from 1 organic lemon
Tsp organic Cumin

2 cloves organic Garlic

cup finely chopped organic onion
Tsp freshly ground organic pepper
- Tsp finely ground Himalayan Crystal Salt (to taste)

Peel avocados and remove the pit. Dice avocado; mince

garlic cloves; chop onion and cilantro. Squeeze your lemon
and lime and grind your pepper as needed. Combine all
your ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Toss well
instead of mixing, to maintain the chunky consistency.

257

The Benefits Of Resveratrol For Blood Pressure

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
August 22, 2015
far from conclusive, it does lead many to wonder how
powerful plant compounds really are.
One of the emerging areas of research in relation to
resveratrol is in the field of healthy aging. Resveratrol may
provide similar effects of calorie restriction in terms of
cellular protection. [5] Its effects on blood pressure are not
surprising, if you consider the fact that resveratrol may
reduce irritation and improve blood flow through vessels.
Resveratrol may even support hormones that play a role in
blood pressure. Foods high in resveratrol may also contain
a number of other beneficial compounds and nutrients, like
antioxidants and fiber, that are responsible for supporting
blood pressure.

According to statistics from the CDC, around 70 million

people1 in 3 Americanssuffer from high blood pressure.
Half of these individuals have their blood pressure under
control, probably under some form of blood pressure
medication. [1] Hypertension, or high blood pressure, can
be a silent yet deadly disease, one that doesnt necessarily
need to be managed by medication. While there are some
rare hereditary conditions that make it impossible to
control blood sugar with just exercise and diet, most
people have the ability to use dietary strategies as their
first line of defense.

How to Support Blood Pressure Naturally

One of the key ways you can support a healthy blood
pressure is by eating right and exercising. I know, pretty
boring advice. But eating right doesnt mean just eating
vegetables; in fact, it means avoiding sugarsincluding
high-sugar fruitsin order to avoid the blood sugar spike
that inadvertently leads to a rise in blood pressure. Also,
just by walking every day, doing yoga, sprinting, or any
other physical activity you enjoy, youre one step closer to
a balanced blood pressure ratio. In the past, a healthy
blood pressure reading wouldve been 120/80; yet, recent
evidence is suggesting that less than 120/80 is ideal. While
you certainly dont want low blood pressure (hypotension),
at or above 120/80 may be signs of prehypertension. In this
case, consult with your doctor to know for sure.

How Resveratrol Supports a Healthy Blood Pressure

Resveratrol is a natural plant compound typically found in
grapes, chocolate, and almonds. Its antioxidant capabilities
have been studied for years, with each study revealing
some type of benefit for health. Whether its protecting
cells and DNA, regulating a healthy blood sugar, or
protecting skin from UV damage, there seems to be a wide
range of benefits associated with the compound. [2] [3] A
recent meta analysis shows that resveratrol may play an
important role in supporting blood pressure health by
regulating systolic blood pressure. [4] While the research is

How do you support blood pressure health? Please let us

know in the comments!

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Centers for Disease Control. High Blood Pressure Facts. Centers for Disease Control.
Szkudelski T, Szkudelska K. Anti-diabetic effects of resveratrol. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2011 Jan;1215:34-9. doi: 10.1111/j.17496632.2010.05844.x.
Aziz MH, Afaq F, Ahmad N. Prevention of ultraviolet-B radiation damage by resveratrol in mouse skin is mediated via modulation
in survivin. Photochem Photobiol. 2005 Jan-Feb;81(1):25-31.
Liu Y, Ma W, Zhang P, He S, Huang D. Effect of resveratrol on blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
Clin Nutr. 2015 Feb;34(1):27-34. doi: 10.1016/j.cinu.2014.03.009.
Lam YY, Peterson CM, Revussin E. Resveratrol vs. calorie restriction: data from rodents to humans. Exp Gerontol. 2013
Oct;48(10):1018-24. doi: 10.1016/j.exger.2013.04.005.

258

Foods, Vitamins And Herbs That Boost Your Brain Power

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
August 23, 2015
brain cells. Berries are also some of the most colorful
foods you can eat!
The Healthiest Berries

Blueberries
Blackberries
Red Grapes

Strawberries
Raspberries
Cranberries

Goji Berries
Mulberries
Boysenberries

The South American Acai Berry has more antioxidants

than any other berry. Plus, it contains Omega Fatty Acids
and is high in protein. Stick to bright colors when choosing
other fruits and vegetables, too. Yellow, orange, and green
vegetables are rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant
that converts to vitamin A in your body. Dark leafy green
vegetables and citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C.

The right foods will help you use your brain to the max,
and the more you use it, the more youll challenge your
brain to grow new cells, create new connections, and
improve your problem-solving and memory functions.
Before I tell you about the many great foods that will keep
your brain performing at its peak, remember eat organic
foods that are fresh and as close to their natural state as
possible. Also, drink plenty of pure, clean water, which is
85% of your brains weight.

Both vitamins are linked to improving your memory and

reasoning powers and keeping your arteries functioning
properly.
Foods High in Beta-Carotene & Vitamin C:

Did you know that water can actually increase your

alertness? When youre feeling sluggish in the afternoon,
instead of grabbing a caffeinated, carbonated drink, pour
yourself a tall glass of purified water.

Finally, pick foods your great, great grandparents would

have eaten, and stay away from so-called modern, highly
processed foods that are filled with nasty chemicals. Many
foods today are genetically modified. So, they are not as
nutritious as organic, natural foods. And even worse, they
can be dangerous to your health.

Mangos
Oranges
Carrots
Broccoli

Tomatoes
Cantaloupe
Rainbow chard
Green, Red & Yellow Peppers

Vegetables and fruits also contain natural sugars that keep

you alert. Your brain needs natural sugars to function at its
best. Avocados are rich in good fat and vitamin E, while
whole and sprouted grains are rich in fiber. Both are good
for your circulatory system. And whats good for your
blood flow, is great for your brain.

Foods that Boost Your Brain Power

Research suggests that diets rich in berries reduce, or even
reverse, declining brain function. Blueberries, in particular,
have been shown to have the ability to improve memory
and keep your brain young. They can also help you
improve your balance and coordination.

The Importance of Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids are also necessary for maximum brain
power, as well as promoting normal brain growth and
development. Studies show that eating foods that are high
in Omega Fatty Acids can reduce the risk of some disease,
too. These fatty acids also help boost memory and your
ability to learn new things!

Berries are rich in antioxidants which protect your brain

cells from oxidation and free radical damage [1]. This
means antioxidants may slow down brain aging and
prevent disease, while promoting the growth of healthy

259

Other sources of good Omega fatty Acids are marine

plants, such as blue-green algae, and nut or seed oils.

These vitamins and minerals help your memory and

reasoning powers while slowing down the signs of aging.

All nuts, particularly walnuts, feed your brain because

they keep your arteries clear and boost serotonin levels.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls sleep,
depression, memory, and other neurological processes.
Raw unprocessed Organic Olive oil, Coconut Oil and
hempseed oil also contain brain healthy fats, fibers, and
proteins. I recommend 1-2 tablespoons daily.

Vitamin A
Vitamin C

Vitamin E
Folic Acid

B Vitamins
Magnesium

Some researchers suggest that the herbs ginseng and

gingko have a positive impact on your brain, keeping you
alert and improving memory.

Foods High in Folic Acid

Okra
Spinach
Lentils
Collards
Asparagus

Did you know? Body cleansing can help boost your brain
power, too. By eliminating the toxic chemicals and heavy
metals that build up in your body from your environment
and diet, you can rid your brain of dangerous free radicals
that may contribute to disease and poor health.

Black Beans
Garbanzo Beans
Romaine Lettuce
Black-Eyed Peas
Sunflower Seeds

Eating the proper foods enhances your brain functions.

And, using your brain for reading and learning new skills,
such as a musical instrument, a new language, or computer
skills even conquering crossword puzzles regularly will
keep your brain quick and nimble.

Did you know that flaxseed, and real organic chocolate are
brain food, too! Theyre filled with vitamin E which keeps
your brain healthy later in life. Real chocolate also releases
dopamine, to enhance cognition and mood.

Note: Processed foods are often too starchy, fatty, and

sugary and will do more harm than good for your body and
brain. You want raw, organic fruit and vegetables as often
as possible. Live foods present your body with beneficial
energy as well as their natural nutrients.

Be sure to eat chocolate that is minimally processed and

retains the most pure cacao bean. That means either 100%
organic cocoa powder or a dark chocolate bar with at least
75% cacao content. Youll need to be careful of the
chocolate you buy because some chocolate manufacturers
use unhealthy and unethical practices.

I also recommend getting a cellphone protector for your

phone to reduce any harmful radiation leaking into your
brain tissue.

Vitamins & Herbs that Boost Your Brain Power

References:
1.

Leigh Erin Connealy MD. The importance of antioxidants in fruits and vegetables. Natural News. 2008 Novermber 05.

260

Open Sesame! 10 Amazing Health Benefits

Of This Super-Seed
By Sayer Ji
August 22, 2015
2.

High Blood Pressure: A study published in 2006 in

the Yale Journal of Biological Medicine showed that
sesame seed oil has a beneficial effect in hypertensive
patients on either diuretics or beta-blockers.
Substitution of all dietary oils with sesame oil brought
down systolic and dystolic blood pressure to normal, in
addition to decreasing lipid peroxidation (bodily
rancidity) and antioxidant status. [3] One of the
compounds identified behind sesame seeds
antihypertensive effects are peptides that act as
angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitors.[4]

3.

Gingivitis/Dental Plaque: Sesame seed oil has been

used for oral health for thousands of years in the
traditional Indian medical tradition known as Ayurveda
in a process known as oil pulling. It involves swishing
sesame seed oil in the mouth for prolonged durations
and has been said to prevent teeth decay, halitosis,
bleeding gums, dry throat, and for strengthening the
teeth, gums and jaw. Clinical research now confirms
that it compares favorably to chemical mouthwash
(chlorhexidine)
in
improving
plaque-induced
gingivitis,[5] and that it is capable of reducing
Streptococcus mutans growth associated with oral
plaque formation. [6]

4.

Infant Health/Massage Oil: A study published in the

Indian Journal of Medical Research in 2000 showed
that massaging infants with sesame oil improved both
their growth and post-massage sleep, in comparison to
control oils such as mineral oil.[7]

5.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS): In the animal model of MS,

also
known
as
experimental
autoimmune
encephalomyelitis, sesame seed oil protects mice
from developing the disease by reducing IFN-gamma
secretion, a key factor in initiating autoimmune
inflammation and injury in the nervous system.[8] It has
also been research for its potential beneficial role in
another neurodegenerative condition, Huntingtons
disease. [9]

6.

Antibiotic-Induced Kidney Damage: Sesame seed oil

protects against gentamicin-induced kidney damage in
rats by reducing oxidative damage caused by the
antibiotic.[10]

Sesame (Sesamum indicum) is one of the oldest cultivated

plants in the world, prized as an oilseed for at least 5,000
years. While it is beginning to regain favor due to its
exceptionally high calcium and magnesium content, few
realize it is also one of the most potent medicinal foods
still commonly consumed today.
In fact, its history as a medicine goes back 3600 years to
Egyptian times where it was listed in the scrolls of the
Ebers as a favored medicine. Also, women in ancient
Babylon were believed to use a mixture of honey and
sesame seeds (havla) to prolong youth and beauty, and
Roman soldiers ate the mixture for strength and energy.
In the past twenty years, a glut of scientific information
has poured in demonstrating that sesame seed, and its
components, have over three dozen documented
therapeutic properties [see sesame research page]. Given
these new revelations, it would seem that sesame would be
just as at home in a medicine cabinet as it would be a
kitchen cupboard.
Here are just 10 evidence-based medicinal properties of
this food-medicine:
1.

Diabetes: A study published in 2011 in the Clinical

Journal of Nutrition showed that sesame oil improved
the effectiveness of the oral antidiabetic drug
glibenclamide in type 2 diabetic patients. [1] Another
study published in 2006 in the Journal of Medicinal
Foods showed that the substitution of sesame seed oil
as the sole edible oil lowers blood pressure and
glucose in hypertensive diabetics. [2]

261

7.

8.

9.

Atherosclerosis: Sesame seed oil prevents the

formation of atherosclerotic lesions in mice fed an
atherogenic diet.[11] The antioxidant and antiinflammatory lignan found within sesame seeds known
as sesamol has been identified to be partially
responsible for its anti-atherogenic properties. In fact,
sesamol has been shown to possess over two dozen
beneficial pharmacologically active properties, many of
which may contribute to improving cardiovascular
health.

10. Cancer: Sesame contains a fat-soluble lignin with

phytoestrogenic properties known as sesamin, and
which has been studied for inhibiting the proliferation of
a wide range of cancer cells, including:

Depression: The sesame lignin sesamol was shown to

exert an antidepressant-like effect in behavioral despair
in chronically stressed mice, specifically by modulating
oxidative-nitrosative stress and inflammation.[12]

Leukemia
Multiple Myleoma
Colon Cancer
Prostate Cancer
Breast Cancer
Lung Cancer
Pancreatic Cancer
Lung Cancer

Sesamins anticancer effects have been linked to the NFkappaB signaling.[16]

Radiation-Induced DNA Damage: Sesamol has been

shown to protect against gamma radiation-induced
DNA damage, likely through its antioxidant properties.
[13] It is capable of reducing mortality in radiation
treated mice, in part through preventing intestinal and
spleen damage.[14] When compared to another
powerful antioxidant, melatonin, it was found 20 times
more effective as a free radical scavenger.[15]

Sesame deserves to be recognized, along with garlic,

honey, turmeric and a select few other substances, as an
easily accessible and affordable food-medicine that, if
consumed regularly, could quite possibly save lives.

[1] Sesame oil exhibits synergistic effect with anti-diabetic medication in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clin Nutr. 2011 Jun
;30(3):351-8. Epub 2010 Dec 16. PMID: 21163558
[2] A pilot study of open label sesame oil in hypertensive diabetics. J Med Food. 2006 Fall;9(3):408-12. PMID: 17004907
[3] Effect of sesame oil on diuretics or Beta-blockers in the modulation of blood pressure, anthropometry, lipid profile, and redox status. Yale
J Biol Med. 2006 Mar;79(1):19-26. PMID: 17876372
[4] Antihypertensive effect of angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory peptides from a sesame protein hydrolysate in spontaneously
hypertensive rats. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem. 2006 May;70(5):1118-26. PMID: 16717411
[5] Effect of oil pulling on plaque induced gingivitis: a randomized, controlled, triple-blind study. Indian J Dent Res. 2009 Jan-Mar;20(1):4751. PMID: 19336860
[6] Effect of oil pulling on Streptococcus mutans count in plaque and saliva using Dentocult SM Strip mutans test: a randomized, controlled,
triple-blind study. J Indian Soc Pedod Prev Dent. 2008 Mar;26(1):12-7. PMID: 18408265
[7] Effects of massage&use of oil on growth, blood flow&sleep pattern in infants. Indian J Med Res. 2000 Dec;112:212-7. PMID: 11247199
[8] The Mechanism of Sesame Oil in Ameliorating Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis in C57BL/6 Mice. Phytother Res. 2011
Apr 28. Epub 2011 Apr 28. PMID: 21538630
[9]Sesamol attenuate 3-nitropropionic acid-induced Huntington-like behavioral, biochemical, and cellular alterations in rats. J Asian Nat Prod
Res. 2009 ;11(5):439-50. PMID: 19504387
[10] Protective effect of daily sesame oil supplement on gentamicin-induced renal injury in rats. Biol Pharm Bull. 2001 Feb;24(2):181-7.
PMID: 19487986
[11] Inhibition of atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor-negative mice by sesame oil. J Med Food. 2006 Winter;9(4) PMID:
17201634
[12] Neuropsychopharmacological effect of sesamol in unpredictable chronic mild stress model of depression: behavioral and biochemical
evidences. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2011 Apr ;214(4):819-28. Epub 2010 Nov 20. PMID: 21103863
[13] Antioxidant potential of sesamol and its role on radiation-induced DNA damage in whole-body irradiated Swiss albino mice. Environ
Toxicol Pharmacol. 2009 Sep ;28(2):192-7. Epub 2009 Apr 11. PMID: 21784002
[14] Effect of sesamol on radiation-induced cytotoxicity in Swiss albino mice. Mutat Res. 2006 Dec 10 ;611(1-2):9-16. Epub 2006 Oct 11.
PMID: 17045515
[15] Sesamol as a Potential Radioprotective Agent: In Vitro Studies. Radiat Res. 2011 Sep 7. Epub 2011 Sep 7. PMID: 21899433
[16] Sesamin manifests chemopreventive effects through the suppression of NF-kappa B-regulated cell survival, proliferation, invasion, and
angiogenic gene products. Mol Cancer Res. 2010 May;8(5):751-61. Epub 2010 May 11. PMID: 20460401
.

262

Sugarcane Extract Superior

To Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs?
By Sayer Ji
August 24, 2015
option of doing so without poisoning themselves into
disability, even death, which sadly, is increasingly the
case.
In comparison studies policosanol has been shown either
to be superior, or to compare favorably, to the following
statin drugs:
Pravachol (Pravastatin) 10 mg of policosanol given
during evening meals for 8 weeks was capable of lowering
LDL-cholesterol, (19.3%), total cholesterol (13.9%) and
the ratios of LDL-cholesterol/high-density lipoprotein
(HDL)-cholesterol (28.3%) and total cholesterol/HDL
cholesterol ratio (24.4%).
There is a little known natural extract of plant waxes
known as policosanol, extractable from sugar cane, yams,
and beeswax, which has been giving some of the more
profitable drugs on the market a biomedical beating since
it was first investigated in clinical trials by the Cubans in
the 1990s.

In comparison, pravastatin, also administered at 10 mg

during evening meals for 8 weeks, resulted in lowering
LDL-cholesterol, (15.6%), total cholesterol (11.8%)
without affecting the ratios of LDL-cholesterol/highdensity lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol and total
cholesterol/HDL
cholesterol
ratios

clearly
demonstrating the superiority of policosanol to pravastatin.

Not only has it been shown superior to aspirin for treating

conditions linked with peripheral artery disease
(intermittent claudication), but it has put the $29 billion
dollar a year statin drug category to shame. At $5 for a
month supply, you can understand why you havent heard
it advertised on television or promoted through a
conventional physicians increasingly drug dispensary-like
office.

Moreover, policosanol and not pravastatin, significantly

increased levels of HDL-cholesterol (18.4%) and reduced
(p < 0.01) triglycerides (14.1%). Also, policosanol was
more effective at inhibiting platelet aggregation induced by
chemical agonists and arachadonic acid (a by-product of
omega-6 metabolism).

And here is the kicker: while aspirin has been linked to 50

serious, if not life-threatening side effects,[i] and statin
drugs to well over 300,[ii] policosanol was evaluated for
safety in animal toxicity studies and was found to have no
negative effects on carcinogenesis, reproduction, growth,
and development at 1500 times normal human doses (on
the basis of body weight).[iii] With such a low cost, and
high margin of safety, it is unconscionable that more are
not being made aware of it as an alternative to
pharmaceuticals for lipid modulation.

Simvastatin/Lovastatin Patients with a LDL cholesterol

over 160 mg/dl were studied. They received either
policosanol 10 mg/day (55 patients), lovastatin 20 mg/day
(26 patients) or simvastatin 10 mg/day (25 patients).
Serum cholesterol was measured again after 8 weeks of
therapy. A 24% LDL cholesterol reduction was obtained
with policosanol, compared with a 22% reduction with
lovastatin and a 15% reduction with simvastatin. HDL
cholesterol significantly increased in patients on
policosanol and did not change in the other treatment
groups.[iv]

It should be said before we continue, that while we do not

subscribe to the intellectually bankrupt and vastly oversimplified cholesterol hypothesis of heart disease, if a
patient feels compelled to lower cholesterol, or is
pressured to do it for financial reasons (e.g. medical
insurance premium hikes), they should at least have the

Lipitor (Atorvastatin) 10 mg of policosanol was

compared to 10 mg of atorvastatin. After 8 weeks of
therapy, policosanol lowered LDL-cholesterol 25.7%
versus 41.9% for the drug. While atorvastatin was capable
of suppressing LDL-cholesterol more dramatically,

263

policosanol was shown superior in raising the HDLcholesterol, as well inhibiting platelet aggregation.[v]

condition characterized by muscle pain (ache, cramp,

numbness or sense of fatigue), which occurs after exercise,
usually in the calf muscle. Policosanol was capable of
significantly increasing walking distances, whereas aspirin
had no discerned effect.[viii] Incidentally, policosanol has
also shown favorable results when compared to the
antiplatelet
drug
tricoplidine
for
intermittent
claudication.[ix]

Also, LDL-cholesterol may have significant protective

effects against cancer, infections and even heart attack
itself. In fact, our research project has identified up to 30
conditions that may benefit from higher LDL cholesterol
levels, illustrating just how misguided dramatic, drugmediated suppression of cholesterol may actually be.

Another study found that 20 mg of policosanol was as

effective as 100 mg of aspirin as a platelet inhibitor, but
without the serious side effects associated with taking
aspirin, e.g. headache, epigastralgia and nose bleeding.[x]

Additionally, policosanol has even been compared to

another blockbuster class of cholesterol-lowering drugs,
the fenofibrates, with the following positive result:
Bezalip (Besafibrate) 10 mg of policosanol was
compared to 400 mg of besafibrate, and after a 8-week
course of treatment the policosanol groups total
cholesterol diminished by an average of 15%, LDLP
cholesterol fell by 18%, triglycerides by 15%, while in the
drug group a respective decrease was 8, 11 and 6%.[vi]

A final note on aspirin alternatives. A 125 mg dose of the

pine bark extract known as pycnogenol has been clinically
demonstrated in smokers to be as effective as 500 mg of
aspirin as a platelet inhibitor, but without increasing
bleeding time a difference that can mean life or death,
when it comes to risks for hemorrhagic side effects
associated with the use of blood thinners. .[xi]

Policosanol has also been shown superior to the statin drug

lovastatin in preventing experimentally-induced carotid
artery lesions associated with atherosclerosis. [vii]

Until the conventional medical establishment prioritizes

safety, affordability and effectiveness over profit,
policosanol will have few advocates within the medical
professional caste. On the other hand, if these so-called
health professionals do not find a place for natural
substances for high cholesterol such as policosanol, can
they really claim to be practicing medicine, or would it not
be more accurate to describe it as glorified, applied
pharmacology?

Research comparing policosanol to aspirin for another

cardiovascular disease related complaint, intermittent
claudication, is also compelling:
Aspirin 10 mg of policosanol was compared to 100 mg
of aspirin in 39 patients with intermittent claudication, a
.

264

Flaxseed: Just An Ounce A Day

May Extend Your Life
By Sayer Ji
August 25, 2015
6 fatty acids like linoleic acid or its derivative arachadonic
acid have been linked to the promotion of inflammation.[1]
Since the typical Western diet contains a ratio of omega 3
to 6 fatty acids unprecedented in its overemphasis on
omega 6 fats, and since flaxseed contains a uniquely high
ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 (4 times more omega 3), it is
logical to assume it would contribute to bringing our
dietary and therefore physiological ratios back into greater
balance.
In the new study, researchers tested the hypothesis that
flaxseed may positively modulate oxylipin concentrations.
They also sought to determine whether or not oxylipin
levels differ with age, as has been previously observed for
other fats in the plasma of human subjects of differing
ages.
A new study shows flaxseed positively impacts ageassociated changes in inflammation, adding to an
already extensive list of beneficial health effects linked to
its consumption.

The study design compared younger (19-28 year old) and

older subjects (45-64 year old), 10 in each group. Both
groups ingested a muffin containing 30 grams of milled
flaxseed daily for a period of 4 weeks. This equated to
6,000 mg of the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid
per serving.

A new study published in Experimental Gerontology

indicates that consuming about an ounce a day of flaxseed
(30 grams) may profoundly benefit elderly subjects,
possibly neutralizing age-associated increases in
inflammation, by modulating levels of a class of fat
derived biomolecules known as oxylipins.

At baseline the older group had 13 different

oxylipins showing a 2-fold or higher levels in
concentrations compared to the younger group. More
specifically:

Titled, Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory oxylipins

in older subjects are normalized by flaxseed
consumption, Canadian researchers looked at the effects
that flaxseed have on oxylipins, a category of
physiologically bioactive molecules produced in the body
from the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (also
known as eicosanoids).

[P]ro-inflammatory
oxylipins
5hydroxdyeicosatetraenoic acid, 9,10,13trihydroxyoctadecenoic acid, and 9,12,13trihydroxyoctadecenoic
acid
were
significantly greater in the older
(1.10.23nM,
5.60.84nM,
and
4.50.58nM, respectively) versus the
younger group (0.340.12nM, 3.50.33nM,
and 3.00.24nM, respectively) (p<0.05).

Oxylipin derivatives are believed to play a critical role in

chronic disease progression as well as the aging process by
modulating both inflammatory and anti-inflammatory
pathways in the body, making dietary sources and/or
deficiencies of their substrates particularly relevant. For
instance, oxylipins derived from long chain omega 3 fatty
acids (e.g. resolvins, protectins) can down-regulate
inflammatory processes by preventing the activation of
certain
immune
cells
(e.g.
polymorphonuclear
neutrophils). On the other hand, those derived from omega

After the 4-week flaxseed intervention the number of

oxylipins that were 2-fold higher in the older versus the
younger group was reduced from 13 to 3. More
specifically:
5-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, 9,10,13trihydroxyoctadecenoic acid, and 9,12,13-

265

trihydroxyoctadecenoic acid decreased in

the older group to concentrations
equivalent to the younger group after
flaxseed consumption.

After the six months, the flaxseed group

had marked and significantly lower levels of
oxylipins. Oxylipins are known to be linked
with
artery
damage, thrombosis,
hypertension and cardiovascular disease in
general.
Recent
research
from
Philadelphias Thomas Jefferson University
has linked high oxylipin levels with diabetes
as well.

The results lead the authors to conclude:

In conclusion, this is the first study to report
differences in plasma oxylipin profiles
based upon age and gender. The
consumption of milled flaxseed resulted in
potentially beneficial alterations in the
plasma oxylipin profiles of both the younger
and older individuals by reducing oxylipins
that induce neutrophil chemotaxis and
inflammation. The older groups plasma
oxylipin profile became similar to that of
their younger counterparts as a function of
the dietary flaxseed. The findings of this
study, therefore, have implications for
understanding the biochemical changes
associated with aging, the potential
mechanisms of action responsible for the
beneficial physiological effects of dietary
flaxseed, and therapeutic strategies for
disturbing inflammatory-related conditions
and diseases.

Flaxseed An Easy, Safe, Affordable Alternative To

Drugs
We live in an incredible time. Science now regularly
confirms age-old aphorisms like food is medicine, with
flaxseed increasingly attracting the attention of medical
researchers. Every month or so, a new study appears
revealing this humble foods incredible healing power. Not
only does it have a multitude of diverse culinary
applications and beneficial health effects (we have
indexed 70 benefits here), flaxseed has been found
surprisingly capable of profoundly reducing the risk of
lethal diseases such as cancer. Recently, for instance, we
reported on its amazing ability to reduce breast cancer
mortality by up to 70% a feat that we do not know
any drug has yet been demonstrated capable of performing.
The implications here are profound. As we have discussed
extensively in the past with turmeric, the science-based
validation of foods as not only therapeutic but superior to
drugs in the prevention and treatment of disease has
revolutionary implications for the future of medicine.

This is actually not the first time we have reported on a

clinical study using flaxseed to modulate oxylipin levels
resulting in beneficial health effects. Last year, in an article
titled Flaxseed Reduces Blood Pressure and Decreases
Oxylipin Levels, our naturopath contributor Case Adams
reported:

Learn more about the authors unique philosophy of

nutrition in Food as Medicine Rebooted.

Research from Canadas St Boniface

Hospital Research Center and the
University of Manitoba has found that
taking flaxseed as a supplement can
significantly reduce and lower blood
pressure especially among patients
with peripheral
artery
disease, hypertension, and high blood
pressure.
The positive outcome were produced after 110 peripheral
artery disease patients were given 30 grams of ground
flaxseed daily for six months:

266

Coconut Oil Improves Alzheimers Disease Symptoms

By Sayer Ji
August 25, 2015
preclinical research on whole coconut oil, which
contains other beneficial medium chain triglycerides, is
quite encouraging, and that generally speaking one needs
to take less of the whole food complex in order to obtain
the kind of therapeutic effect observed in one of its
isolated components.
The results of the 8-person case study revealed that 2
patients experienced disease stabilization and 2 saw
modest improvement, i.e. the CT actually reversed the
disease trajectory, with a reduction in symptoms
corresponding directly with the initiation of the dietary
intervention.
A new study in Alzheimers disease (AD) patients using
dietary supplementation with a unique saturated fat has
confirmed earlier research that a non-drug based approach
can stabilize and even improve a degenerative disease
whose symptoms are usually managed with drugs and not
cured.

The researchers concluded:

Results from this case review study
indicated that addition of CT to
pharmacotherapy for AD was associated
with stable disease or improvement for
some patients. In particular, addition of CT
seemed to have slowed the rate of decline,
as measured by MMSE scores, compared
with rates of decline reported in larger
longitudinal studies. These findings warrant
further investigation in a larger study.

Published in the journal Neuropsychiatric Disease and

Treatment and titled Retrospective case studies of the
efficacy of caprylic triglyceride in mild-to-moderate
Alzheimers disease, [i]this exploratory study sought to
test whether caprylic acid triglycerides (CT) a type of fat
found naturally in the milk of mammals and a constituent
of coconut and palm kernel oil would improve the
condition of mild-to-moderately afflicted AD patients.

This study has profound implications for the estimated 5.4

million people in the U.S. diagnosed with Alzheimers
disease, and who are presently taking a class of drugs
(cholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl-D-aspartate
receptor antagonists) that have been linked to a wide
range of side effects including seizures and may fail to
outperform basic plant therapies such as turmeric,
saffron and ginkgo biloba.

The researchers noted that, The limitations of current

pharmacotherapy have prompted interest in diet and
dietary supplementation as part of the overall treatment
regimen for patients with AD.
The researchers reviewed the case records of eight patients
with extensive monitoring of cognitive function using the
Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and who had
received on average 20 grams a day of CT for at least 6
months. The patients were at least 50 years of age, were
undergoing conventional drug-based therapy for AD of
mild-to-moderate severity (MMSE 14-24).

The basic premise behind the use of caprylic acid in

Alzheimers disease is that it addresses region-specific
decreases in cerebral glucose metabolism characteristic of
the disease. Caprylic acid releases ketone bodies which can
be used as an alternative fuel source by the brain during
periods of low glucose availability. Semi-miraculous
recoveries have been reported anecdotally, and even
within the peer-reviewed medical literature, a 2004 study
published in the journal Neurobiology of Aging found near
immediate improvements in cognition and memory within
20 Alzheimers patients who received a single 40 ml (2.7
tablespoon) dose of medium chain triglycerides. Read

Caprylic acid is commonly isolated from coconut oil. One

cup (218 grams) contains approximately 16.3 grams,
according to NutritionData.coms coconut oil nutrition
facts. While the prospect of consuming over a cup of
coconut oil in order to obtain the 20 gram clinical dose
used in this study may be unappealing, consider that

267

our article MCT Fats Found in Coconut Oil Boost

Brain Function In Only One Dose to learn more.

degenerative conditions that are for the most part

refractory to conventional, drug-based treatment. This
new study adds to a now substantial body of data that
Thomas Edison was absolutely correct:

As we have touched upon recently in an article about The

Grain That Damages The Human Brain, there is
increasing recognition among the medical community that
dietary interventions and/or modifications are not of
secondary importance in treating brain disorders, but
constitute as Hippocrates once taught an essential
element in treating and even reversing chronic,

The doctor of the future will give no

medication, but will interest his patients
in the care of the human frame, diet and
in the cause and prevention of disease.

[i] Steven Douglas Maynard, Jeff Gelblum. Retrospective case studies of the efficacy of caprylic triglyceride in mild-tomoderate Alzheimers disease.

268

8 Natural Remedies for Shingles

3.
4.

A bad case of shingles is one of the most miserable of

maladies. This relative of chickenpox, officially known as
herpes zoster, is caused by the same virus. If you have had
chickenpox earlier in life, there is a 20 percent chance you
may suffer an outbreak of shingles at some point later in
life. The virus tends to lay dormant in the body until the
immune system is vulnerable, perhaps from diabetes, HIV,
radiation treatment, immunosuppressive drugs such as
corticosteroids, or emotional stress.

5.
6.

The virus generally travels along the nerves to the skin,

causing inflammation and extreme pain. Unless the patient
has a severely compromised immune system, the outbreak
will usually clear up on its own. Be aware, however: If the
outbreak occurs around the eyes or forehead, you need to
see a doctor immediately, as the disease can cause
blindness in that situation.

7.

Your doctor will have prescription treatments to offer, but

you may also want to use natural remedies. Here are eight
natural ways to keep yourself as comfortable as possible
during an outbreak of shingles:

8.

1.

2.

Warm baths Try adding colloidal oatmeal, which is

extra soothing and healing. Take the baths in
moderation, as you dont want to dry out the skin,
especially after the blisters have dried up.
Apple cider vinegar compresses Put half a cup of
raw apple cider vinegar in two cups of lukewarm filtered
water, and soak a compress in the solution. Apply the

compress to the affected skin two to four times daily,

for about ten minutes. This helps dry the blisters; once
the blisters are gone, discontinue this treatment.
Raw honey Some people have found the application
of raw honey to be helpful.
Essential oils Dr. Kurt Schnaubelt, author of Medical
Aromatherapy, says Our greatest success in the
treatment of shingles is by applying a blend of 50%
ravensara and 50% calophyllum inophyllum (oil of
tamanu). Drastic improvements and complete
remissions occur within seven days. As always,
essential oils should be delivered in a carrier oil such
as almond oil.
Capsaicin skin ointment Application of this
treatment has proven helpful in many cases.
Grapefruit seed extract Grapefruit seed extract can
be taken orally and used topically, as well. This is a
powerful extract that should always be diluted with
distilled water before use internally or externally. If you
are on any medication, check with your doctor, as
grapefruit interferes with the efficacy of some
medicines.
Lithium orotate Three to four capsules per day have
been reported to greatly reduce pain and itching,
including the residual effects that sometimes last
months or even years after the lesions have resolved.
In fact, lithium is a powerful antiviral agent against
herpes infections of all kinds.
Enzymes A German study showed that the use of
proteolytic enzymes for 14 days was as effective in
treating shingles as the use of the drug acyclovir.
Trevinol Professional is a brand of proteolytic enzyme
that is frequently recommended.

Natural health professionals counsel caution in the use of

the shingles vaccine. They note that the incidence of
shingles has increased significantly since 1995, when the
government began recommending that children be given
the chickenpox vaccine.

269

Essential Oils
It All Makes Good Scents!
By Hwaa Irfan
Poet Nzami Ganjavi (1141 1203) described the use of
rose oil as a remedy for headaches and as an antiseptic. In
Caucasian Albania (North Azebaijan), they used the herb
thyme as both a tonic and an aphrodisiac. Other
Azerbaijani aromas that were used included: fennel, lemon
balm, spearmint, nutmeg, dill, chamomile, cinnamon, lime,
black cumin, cedar wood, cypress and myrtle.

Essential Oils

Whereas today an expensive French perfume is rated

highly, back then shahs and sultans rated highly the
aromatic herbs and ointments of India, Egypt, Byzantium,
China, Russia, and the Persian Gulf. It was through the
Muslims alchemist Jabir (Geber in the West) ibn Hayyan
(702 705) and others that the process of distillation was
refined.

The use of aromas is believed to date back to the times of

the ancient Egyptians and the Babylonians (modern day
Iraq). Unlike today where aromas are bottled for females
to give off a sweet scent of attraction, back then they were
solely used for medicinal purposes and for the purpose of
hygiene.

The Discovery of Aromatherapy

It was actually during the plague of the Middle Ages that
Europeans began producing essential oils. The term
aromatherapy was coined by French cosmetic chemist
Rene-Maurice Gattefosse in the early 20th century. As a
result of an incident in his laboratory in which he burnt his
hand, he went for the nearest cooling liquid. That just
happened to be lavender. He was startled when he
observed how quickly his hand healed, and how there were
no visible scars, so he took up research arising from his
discovery. During WWII Gattefosse applied his findings to
injured soldiers and discovered that they too healed
quickly. Also treating veterans, Dr. Jean Valent, an army
surgeon and medical doctor, used essential oils in WWII to
treat burns and later to treat veterans suffering from
psychiatric problems in mental hospitals.

The Ebers Papyrus of ancient Egypt, the worlds oldest

preserved medical document dating back to 1552 BC, lists
over 800 remedies much of which consisted of myrrh a
brownish aromatic tree gum resin with a bitter slightly
pungent taste.
In distant Azerbaijan, the use of aromas was a part of
mainstream medicine. Aromas were not sidelined as they
are today to alternative forms of treatment. In t e Middle
Ages, when the idea of medical treatment was slowly
becoming established, medieval Azerbaijani doctors used
essential oils and other aromas as a regular method of
treatment for their patients. The legacy from their medical
texts can be found in the Bakus Manuscript Institute,
much of which has been studied by historian Farid
Alakbarov.

Kwang-Geun Lee of the University of California at Davis

in 2002 discovered that some smells could act as
antioxidants preventing cancer-forming cells. Lee distilled
and extracted 30 chemicals form 10 plants and then he
tested them for the presence of antioxidants. Lee found
antioxidants similar to those in vitamin E in eucalyptus
leaves, basil, thyme, rosemary, chamomile, and cinnamon
amongst others.

In the ancient kingdom of South Azerbaijan (Iran), it was a

common understanding among the population that they
had to be clean in order to attain higher spirituality. They
used aromatic oils such as frankincense, myrrh, galbanum,
rosemary, hyssop, cassia, cinnamon, and spikenard, most
of which have become common and highly priced essential
oils of aromatherapy in specialist shops in the West.

What Do They Do?

270

Modern western scientists differ as to how these oils work

technically speaking, but what is understood is that the
sense of smell works mainly on the subconscious level
being connected to the primitive part of the brain known as
the limbic system, which has been under much research in
recent times in the field of neuroscience. The limbic
system helps to regulate what are essentially the survival
mechanisms: the sensory-motor function, the emotions,
and instincts such as the sex drive, hunger and thirst. Then
there is the olfactory nerve (affects memory) which carries
the sensation of smell to the brain, waking the brain, and
creating visual associations with the aroma. Electrical
signals are sent to the limbic system, activating imagery
and behavior mechanisms. When absorbed by the skin,
inhaled or ingested (in some cases), the essential oil is
transported through the body affecting various biological
functions.

Qualities of an Oil
Every God-given gift of a plant varies according to
whether the root, stem, bark, leaf, petal, is being used, just
as the organs of a human serves a different function.
Accordingly, each part of a plant/tree possesses different
medicinal qualities. Basically, the further away from the
root, the more mental/emotional the affect of the medicinal
properties, which is affected in turn by the soil in which it
grows, and the method of extraction. The more
concentrated types are referred to as absolutes with very
little alcohol content, and must be diluted before
application. Much can depend on the reputation of maker
/producer in terms of being true to quality including how
organically produced the oil is, because this also affects
the end result the therapeutic effect. Standards have been
set in place in some countries in order to ensure that the
customer is buying an essential oil i.e. an oil that is
100% pure, is wholly from a botanical source, and is
produced by physical means only.

The medicinal action, which one may be familiar with

includes:

Alterative cleanses the blood, and corrects presence

of blood impurities
Analgesic Relieves pain through oral/external means
Analeptic stimulates the central nervous system
Antiemetic reduces vomiting
Antiscorbutic Prevents/relieves scurvy
Anesthetic causes reversible loss of sensation
Anthelmintic expels/destroys parasitic worms
Antihistaminic counteracts histamine
Antibiotic (bacterial, fungal, viral)
Anti-Inflammatory Reduces inflammation/swellings
by helping the body to overcome the problem
Anti-Neuralgic Reduces pain arising from the nerves
Anti phlogistic Reduces swelling of parts of the
body
Anti-spasmodic Relieves spasms

Aphrodisiac Arouses and increases sexual desire

Bechic Relieves of coughs
Calmative Calms the nerves and skin
Carminative Promotes the discharge and flow of bile
from the gall bladder into the small intestines helping to
disinfect the bowels.
Cephalic Calms and soothes the mind
Chemoprotective Protects healthy tissues in
chemotherapy
Cicatrisant Closes wounds and forms scar tissue
Cordial Tonic and stimulant to the heart
Cytophylactic Encourages growth of skin cells
Cytoprotective protects healthy cells against harmful
agents
Depurative purgative/purifying
Diaphoretic Promotes perspiration
Diuretic Increases the secretion and flow of urine
Emmenagogue Stimulates the menstrual flow
Expectorant Causes and eases the bring-up of
phlegm/mucus/sputum from the respiratory tract
Febrifuge Reduces temperature
Haemostatic stops bleeding
Hepatic Strengthens and tones the liver. Increases
secretions in the liver.
Hypotensive abnormally low blood pressure
Insecticide Repels insects
Odontalgic Strengthens the teeth
Orexigenic Induces the desire to eat
Pectoral Helps chest infections
Rubefacient Warming as blood flow increases
Secretolytic/Mucolytic Dissolves/expels mucus
Sedative Increases likelihood of sleep
Stomachic Tones the stomach and improves the
function of the digestive tract
Styptic reduces external bleeding
Sudorific increases perspiration
Thermogenic Warming by stimulation of the
metabolism
Vermifuge expels/destroys parasitic worms
Vulnerary Prevents bleeding and cell degeneration
Vasodilator Dilates the blood vessels

The Dangers
As Islam reminds us, nothing is good in excess for therein
lies the danger, and so it is with aromatherapy. For
example:

271

Basil/Nutmeg Taken in high doses can have a

stupefying affect.
Bergamot If applied neat, it increases photosensitivity
Cinnamon Bark/leaf In high doses/concentration or
without anything else, it can irritate the skin causing
convulsions
Chamomile If taken by someone who is depressed
during the daytime, it can make them feel worse.
Fennel Can be toxic to children aged 6 and under.

Mugwort May lead to abortion

Oregano/Red Thyme Can irritate the skin
Pennyroyal Toxic in high doses

but depending on the oil used, to strengthen ones immune

system, clean ones face from pollutants in the air, and to
attend to any cuts/bruises/burns! Besides I save a lot of
money by not going to the pharmacy, which only has
products that do not agree with my skin!

Of course added to the above, each person has their own

aversions, sensibilities, allergies, and may be of a
particular disposition that prevents them from using an
essential oil, or any essential oil.

New oils are being made available all the time, but we will
focus only on the tried and tested the established
essentials oils!

Personally, I always travel with a pack. I can use them

when I bath/or as incense to not only moisturize the skin,

Hwaa Irfan

Sources:
Alakbarov, F. Scents that Heal
Burfield, T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Aromatherapy & Natural Perfumery Practice.
http://www.naha.org/articles/adulteration_1.htm
Healing System Alternatives and Choices. Indiangyan.com
Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. The Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990
Price, S. Practical Aromatherapy. Thorsons Publ. Britain. 1987

272

Amber Oil
Medicinal Qualities
According to the Kings American Dispensatory, 1898,
rectified oil of amber (oleum succini rectificatum) is the
only derivative that can be used internally. The recipe of
which is mixed in a glass of oil of amber, 1 pint; water, 6
pints, and to distill until 4 pints of water have passed with
the oil into the receiver; then separate the oil from the
water, and keep it in a well-stopped bottle. This can be
used as a diuretic, antispasmodic by taking 5 30 drops on
a teaspoon of sugar. For external application it serves as a
rubefacient and as a liniment for palsy, and chronic
rheumatism. The derivative succinic acid is a scientifically
recognized antioxidant that stimulates the nervous system,
counters the feeling of loss of energy, boosts awareness,
and reduces stress. Nobel Prize winner, Robert Kock found
there to be no accumulative effect in the human body after
a surplus was ingested. Today one can find succinic acid in
many medicines produced in the U.S. and Russia, as an
aging inhibitor. Dr. Veniamin Khazanov of the RAS
Institute of Pharmacology at the Tomsk Scientific Center
wrote: For aged people, succinic acid has proved to be
indispensable. It is capable of restoring the energy balance
at the cellular level, which is often upset as the years go
by, and helps the patient regain his youthful energy.

Amber Oil (Oleum Succinum)

Amber is a fossil resin mainly of the Pine tree which can

range in colour from orange, to dark brown, green, violet
or yellow. The prized amber is found in the Baltic Sea,
with the Dominican Republic coming second. It contains
electromagnetic properties, which can influence brain
waves, stimulate the DNA process, and cell mitosis on the
vibrational level.
One can find a range of adulterated amber oil on the
market containing synthetic fragrance or carrier oils. Real
amber oil is prepared in beeswax and then combined with
pure essential or carrier oils. It can also be prepared by
heating the resin in an oxygen free container. Succinic acid
is released into the air when amber is burnt, a rare
substance in nature that happens to be the active ingredient
in natural Baltic amber.

As a local application, oil of amber is a stimulant to the

circulation of the blood, the nervous system, and for piles.
It is also an antispasmodic when used as a liniment. Amber
oil is absorbed by the skin easily, and able to counter any
build up of negative ions, which occurs today if one is
surrounded by electrical devices.

Sources:
Amber Oil http://www.masterpage.com.pl/amber/amber-oil.html
Baltic Amber Alternative Medicine http://www.amberartisans.com/baamalme.html
Felter, H. W et al. Oleum Succini.Oil of Amber. Kings American Dispensatory, 1898
Gurudas. Gem Elixirs and Vibrational Healing. Cassandra Press, U.S. 1989.

273

Angelica (Root) Oil

Stimulant
Tonic

Angelica oil contains a large amount of monoterpene

hydrocarbons , which has the following medicinal effect:

Angelica (Root) Oil

Known as Dong Quai in Chinese medicine, and as Chorak

in Indian ayurvedic medicine. Angelica belongs to the
Umbelliferae group of plants, and has a special interaction
with the air, the quality of which is incorporated into the
quality of the plant as reflected in its hollow stem. The
roots are long and spindly. The leaves belie the roots being
stout, but fluted like blades. The flowers burst into life
being small and numerous in groups of umbrella-like
structures, with colors that range from yellow green. It
likes humid soil conditions and cool climates growing wild
by streams, and irrigation canals. The oil has an earthy, but
fresh smell. The wild angelica, Angelica Sylvestris, have
hairy stalks, and furrowed stems with flowers that range
from white to purple in color.

The chemical constituents include:

Angelica is produced from the roots and sometimes the

seeds through a traditional process of steam distillation,
and thus has a very grounding effect. It takes 340 pounds
of plant material to produce one pound of Angelica Root
Oil. Popular during the Renaissance amongst physicians,
the stems were chewed during the 1660 plague to prevent
infection. In Chinese herbal medicine, many varieties of
Angelica are used to promote fertility, and for the
treatment and female disorders.
Medicinal Qualities
Like all plants, the quality of Angelica reflects the
character of the plant, and the conditions of its growth.
Whilst grounding, it is a plant of elimination, eliminating
toxins, purifying the body, through the digestive system.
The oil is a good stimulant and tonic for general wellbeing.

Anesthetic
Analeptic
Anthelmintic
Antibiotic
Antihistaminic
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-rheumatic
Diuretic
Expectorant
Hypotensive
Insecticidal
Irritant
Phytohormone (growth regulator)
Sedative
Spasmolytic

Alpha pinene
Camphene
Beta pinene
Sabinene
Alpha phellandrene
Bornyl aceta
Beta phellandrene
Beta bisabolene
Copaene
Cryptone
Cis ocimene
Humulene oxide
Limonene
Myrcene
Pentadecanolide
Para cymene
Rho cymenol
Trans ocimene
Terpinolene
Terpinenol
Tridecanolide

Indications

Antispasmodic
Carminative
Cleanser
Depurative
Sudorific
Stomachic

274

Nervous related problems to the digestive system:

cramps, spasms, weak stomach
Asthenia, anemia, anorexia
Lungs (bronchitis, flu, pneumonia, pleurisy
Gout

Due to its properties as a tonic, Angelica Oil is good for

convalescence, and recuperation, especially when ones
immunity has been low. The impact on the digestive
system is as a purifying tonic used in the treatment of
dyspepsia, anorexia, stomach ulcers, chronic enteritis, and
gastritis. As a depurative, Angelica Oil detoxifies the
body, and as an analeptic the oil balances the central
nervous system, as well as heals skin diseases like
psoriasis.

Availability/Adulterated
The main producers of the oil are Belgium, China, France,
and Poland, but it grows abundantly in Iceland, Lapland,
Scotland, South England (common in the fields near
London, and the parks in London, U.K), Central Europe,.
There are 2 main types: Angelica Sylvestris, which is from
the wild, and Angelica Archangelica/Officinalis, (of Syrian
origin) which despite its name is domesticated/cultured.
Angelica Archangelica/Officinalis is the one most
commonly used, which has many varieties. The oil is
colorless, and therefore sometimes referred to white
angelica, but turns yellowy brown with age.

As a spasmolytic , it eases cramps, coughs, aches, and

diarrhea when related to a convulsion. By relieving the
spasm, there is also relief from and related pain. In a study
by Dr. Shalini Pathak and team of Bundelkhand
University, India, Angelica Oil i.e. Angelica archangelica
was explored in terms of its spasmolytic properties, and
was compared to the drugs phenytoin and diazepam. It was
found that the oil did indeed prevent seizures/convulsions,
and did bring about recovery, while at the same time
delaying future attacks. In ayurvedic medicine, oil of
Angelica archangelica is used in the treatment of epilepsy.
In fact the same study (carried out on mice) proven the use
of monoterpene hydrocarbons to be effective against
induced convulsions, and limonene-pinene content
prevented audio based convulsions.

Application
In vapor therapy (using a burner/vaporizer), angelica oil
can be used for respiratory problems
By putting a couple of drops in a bath and then running the
bath water, this will assist respiratory problems,
detoxification, and the digestive/menstrual/CNS system
Contraindications
Angelica Oil is fine in low doses, and in general is nontoxic, and does not irritate, but it can be phototoxic due to
having a high content of bergapten, thus should not be
applied to the skin for at least 24 hours before exposure to
light. In high doses the oil over-stimulates the nervous
system, and can cause insomnia. It should be avoided by
pregnant women, those with high blood pressure,
diabetics, and women who are lactating.

As a carminative, it helps to drive out any gas from the

intestines, causing relaxation of the intestinal and
abdominal muscles.
As a diuretic it speeds up elimination of uric acid, excess
salt and water, fat, bile from the body by means of sweat,
and urine natural means of detoxifying the body. By
doing so, one lowers the potassium content in the body,
thus reducing blood pressure, fat content, and relief from
rheumatism and arthritis.

Sources:
Angelica.
http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/a/anegl037.htm
l

Angelica Oil helps to protect the liver from infection, and

triggers menstruation where there has been an obstruction.
Angelica Oil helps to maintain a proper balance of acids
and bile, and strengthens the immune system.

Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. Healing Arts

Press, Canada. 1990.

In the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia, Angelia is indicated

for bronchitis related to vascular insufficiency, poor
circulation (lower extremities), and respiratory conditions.

Pathak S, Wanjari MM, Jain SK, Tripathi M. Evaluation of

Antiseizure Activity of Essential Oil from Roots of
Angelica archangelica Linn. in mice. Indian J Pharm Sci
2010;72:371-5

275

Anise Oil
Anise oil is produced from the fruit (seed), through a
process of steam distillation, but the good quality oil is
produced from the aniseeds (fruit) of the ripe umbels
(flowers) at the center of the plant. In general, the oil is
produced from the Russian and German variety. The oil is
a clear pale yellow, and 15lbs of seed produces 1lb of oil
by a process of steam distillation.
Adulterated anise oil is made with cheap (nature, not
natural identical synthetics, for instance technical grade
anethol.
Medicinal Qualities
The fragrance comes mainly from its natural chemical
anethol

Anise Oil (Pimpinella Anisum )

The anise referred to here should not be confused with

fennel, or Star Anise/Chinese Anise/Japanese Star
Anises/Badian (Illicium Verum), which has a different
chemistry and toxicity. Known as velaiti saunf (India and
Pakistan), yansoon (Middle East), Pythagoras believed just
holding the plant could prevent epileptic fits. Hyppocrates
recommended it for colds, and Pliny recommended it for
bad breath.

The fruit aniseed is often used in Western cooking for its

slight licorice flavor to dishes, drinks, sweets and cough
mixtures. It is used more in Asian cooking, in the Middle
Eastern arak, the Columbian aguardiante, Greek uzo, and
the Turkish raki. Charlemagne gave instructions for it to be
grown on imperial farms. In the American Civil War it was
used an antiseptic by the nurse Maureen Hellstorm, and the
British in the early days of the steam locomotive put anis
oil on the bearings of white metal so that when there was
overheating, the distinctive smell would act as an alarm.
Native to the Middle East it has been cultivated in Egypt
for its medicinal properties for 4,000 years. It was
cultivated in Tuscany during the times of the Romans, and
spread to Europe, with serious cultivation from the 16 th
century. It is an annual herbaceous plant that shares the
same Umbelliferae family as Angelica. It grows well in
light, but well drained soil to 3ft in height. There are lobed
leaves at the base, and longer leaves higher on the stem.
The hummingbird is attracted to the tiny white flowers.
The seed (fruit) pod is referred to as aniseed attracts the
birds, while the bees are attracted to its pollen from which
the bees produce a light, but fragrant honey. Anis is grown
for commercial use in Southern Russia, North Africa,
Germany, the Mediterranean, Greece and South America,
but the largest producing countries are China, Spain, and
India. The Spanish Anise/Alicante Anise is adapted for
pharmaceutical use.

A-pinene
Camphene
B-pinene
Acetaldehyde
Limonene
Linalool
B- caryophyllene
Anisaldehyde
P-cresol
Cresol
Myristicin
Cetoanisole
Choline
Transanethole
Methyl
Chavicol
P-methoxyphenylacetone (anise ketone)
Safrole
Coumarins
Flavonoid glycosides
Sterols
Calcium
Iron
Magnesium
Phosphorus
Potassium
Traces of sodium and zinc.

Therapeutic Qualities

276

Calmative
Carminative
Abortifacient
Antiseptic
Spasmolytic
Aperient

Decongestant
Stomachic
Expectorant
Galactagogue
Insecticide
Stimulant
Vermifuge.
Purgative

Contraindications
The anethole in anise oil contains the estrogenic agent,
estragole so it should be avoided in pregnancy. Some
people are sensitive to anethole, the reaction of which is
dermatitis, so those with skin conditions should avoid the
oil. When acid reflux is present.
Application

Anise oil is a stimulant to the digestive tract, so it

stimulates the digestive juices, and increases the
breakdown efficiency of fatty acids. The anethole present
in the oil is responsible for easing stomach pains pertaining
to flatulence and intestinal colic. Anise used to decrease
bloating and settle the digestive tract in children. It is also
a tonic to the circulatory system and the respiratory tract.
The oil calms the nerves of those riddled with anxiety. It
eases menstrual cramps, stimulates lactation, and
stimulates the lungs making the lungs able to get rid of
phlegm.

The oils is of medium viscosity thus may solidify under

low temperatures it best to warm with the hands, which
is easy enough if kept in a glass bottle. It should be kept in
a tightly sealed glass container that is resistant to light
(colored glass) at room temperature.

Indications

Rheumatism/arthritis
Spasms
Gas/wind
Nasal/throat congestion
Breathing difficulties
Indigestion
Expels worms/lice
PMS

In cases of dyspepsia 0.3 ml. of the essential oil.

For lice, 3 parts of olive oil to 1 part anise apply
thoroughly to the hair then cover the hair with a plastic
bag and leave for 2 hours. Shampoo thoroughly, and
comb through with a fine comb to remove eggs over a
10 day period.
For toothache a piece of cotton soaked in oil placed
on decaying teeth relieves pain.
As a vapor the oil eases asthmatic conditions, colds
and respiratory problems. It stems nausea and
vomiting. Inhale from a drop on the handkerchief eases
migraines and vertigo.
Sprayed on cows, increases milk production!

Sources:
Anise http://www.drugs.com/npp/anise.html
Anise http://www.herbal-facts.com/herb_index/anise/anise.htm
Anise http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/a/anise040.html
Burfield, T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Armatherapy and Natural Perfumery Practice.
http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~nodice/new/magazine/october/october.htm
.

277

Basil Oil

Basil Oil (Ocimum Basilicum)

Known in English as Common Basil, Sweet Basil, and St.

Josephs Wort, basil belongs to the mint family
(Lamiaceae). The French call it basilic, In German it is
basilienkraut, in India, tulsi, and in Spanish it is called
albahaca. With a preference for hot, dry conditions, basil
bush (Ocymum Minumum), grows as a low bushy plant.
The leaves, which we eat as a herb are slightly oval in
shape, bearing small white flowers/black-purple leaves in
July and August. The common/sweet basil can grow to a
height of 3 feet, with grey-green leaves like that of sage.
Both basils flourish best in rich soil, but when being
cultivated as a herb (dried) the leaves are cut before the
plant flowers. When it is being cultivated for its oil
(aromatherapy), basil is cut after it blooms. Cultivating
Basil for commercial production is done mainly in Egypt,
Cyprus, Italy, Comoro Islands, Seychelles and Europe.

Therapeutic Qualities

Through a process of steam distillation, good quality Basil

essential oil produced from the leaves and the flowers from
the flowering plant. It is yellow in color. The odor is warm
and crispy/herbaceous with a hint of anise/mint/cinnamon
depending on the variety extracted from.
Like most essential oils, adulterated Basil essential oil can
be found on the market making the price cheaper. It is
usually added with synthetic linalool and methyl chavicol
which have a negative impact on any therapeutic benefit.

Carminative
Spasmolytic
Analgesic
Anti bacterial
Opthalmic
Antidepressant
Anti-venomous
Cephalic
Diaphoretic
Digestive
Emmenagogue
Expectorant
Febrifuge
Insecticide
Nervine
Stomachic
Sudorific
Tonic and stimulant.

The crisp smell of basil essential oil awakens the mind. It

also calms the nerves and stress-related headaches, yet at
the same time acts as a tonic for the nerves. It acts as a
tonic in cases of mental or intellectual fatigue, yet
strengthens mental clarity. Uplifts the mood in cases of
depression.

Medicinal Qualities

Camphor
Linalool (found prominent in European species)
Methyl chavicol (found prominent in European,
Egyptian, Reunion and Comoro Island species)
Estragole (found prominent in the Togo species)
Y-terpineol
Citronella
Geraniol
Methyl cinnamate (found prominent in Javan and
Bulgarian species)
Eugenol. (found prominent in Javan and Bulgarian
species)
Methyleugenol (found prominent in the Togo species)
Coumarins
Flavonoid glycosides
Vitamin A
Magnesium
Potassium
Iron
Calcium.

A-pinene
Camphene
B-pinene
Myrcene
Limonene
Cis-ocimene
Sabinene (found prominent in the Togo species)

278

It is a tonic to the digestive system, and as a

carminative and stomachic eases stomach cramps,
flatulence, and colic.

Eases sinus congestion, and motion sickness, and as a

spasmolytic, eases whooping cough.
Reduces temperatures, and as an analgesic provides
relief from pain.
As an emmenagogue the oil relieves scanty periods,
and normalizes the menses.
Improves blood circulation, increases the metabolism,
and provides relief from bloodshot eyes.
It reduces the presence of uric acid in the blood, which
leads to gout.
Controls acne and skin infections, and minimizes
infections from cuts. As an antibacterial, it minimizes
not only infections from cuts and wounds, but is also
good for viral infections.
Enhances the lustre of dull looking skin, as well as hair.

Indigestion
Motions sickness
Mental fatigue/stress-related headaches and migraines
Depression
Scanty periods
Flatulence
Infections
Intestinal infections
Breathing difficulties
Poor blood circulation
Nursing

Contraindications
The methyl chavicol present in the oil is slightly toxic and
can irritate sensitive skin. Taken in large amounts can
over-stimulates the nervous system. It should be avoided in
pregnancy because of its emenagogue properties.

In a Brazilian study the linalool content of Basil oil was

found to be 100% effective in its antimicrobial activity
against the parasite Giardia lamblia after 1 hour of
incubation, as a tonic for the heart and the adrenal glands
in an Indian study by Muralidharan and team. In a
Sudanese study by A, Nour et al, the chemical geraniol
present in wild Sudanese Basil essential oil was the active
ingredient in the antibacterial activity against E. coli,
Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhimurium
common causes of food poisoning the U.S. Methyleugenol
present in a species of Basil from Togo, was found to be an
active antimicrobial against fungi Aspergillus fumigates,
Candida albicans, and Scopulariopsis brevicaulis in a W.
African study by Koffi Koba et al.

Application
In vapor therapy which can be in the form of a portable
burner or a hot bath, basil oil eases migraines, headaches,
depression, improves concentration, skin infections, and
respiratory problems.
Three drops in the bath before filling the bath with warm
water, relieves gout, arthritis, muscular and menstrual pain,
indigestion, scanty periods, depression, poor blood
circulation.

Indications

Sources:
Burfield, T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Armatherapy and Natural Perfumery Practice.
http://www.users.globalnet.co.uk/~nodice/new/magazine/october/october.htm
De Alemeida. I et al. Antigiardial Activity of Ocimum Basilicum Essential Oil.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=ShowDetailView&TermToSearch=17342533
Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990.
Koba, K. et al Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Properties of Different
Basil Essential Oils Chemotypes from Togo Bangladesh J Pharmacol 2009; 4: 1-8
Muralidharan, I et al. Cardiac Stimulant Activity of Ocimum basilicum. http://www.ijponline.com/article.asp?issn=02537613;year=2004;volume=36;issue=3;spage=163;epage=166;aulast=Muralidharan
Nour, A.H et al. Antibacterial Activity of the Essential Oils of Sudanese Accessions of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)
http://scialert.net/fulltext/?doi=jas.2009.4161.4167
Simon, J.E. et al. Basil: A Source of Essential Oils. http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/proceedings1990/v1-484.html

279

Bath Oils
Evening: 6 drops of one of the following:

Lavender essential oil

Marjoram essential oil

Stimulant
Morning: 6 drops of one of the following:

Bath Oils

Below the surface layer of the skin, the epidermis, is the

dermis, which is alive and contains blood vessels, sweat
glands, and nerve endings. As we get older, our skin takes
longer to regenerate and the shedding of dead skin takes
longer. Most lotions and creams penetrate only the
epidermis, and thus is only able to moisturize the
epidermis, but essential oils reaches the tiny blood vessels,
the capillaries. And thus is able to enter the blood stream.
Therefore, as such, one should not take essential oils on
face value alone, i.e. smell.

Sage
Rosemary
Pine

Aphrodisiac

Ylang ylang
Sandalwood
Ginger
Peppermint

Lungs

As can be seen from the individual essential oils, they

contain chemical and therapeutic factors, which have
specific, i.e. localized functions, and each essential oil falls
under a category that makes it compatible/synergistic with
a certain essential oil so it is wrong to assume that one
can mix any essential oil with any essential oil. Each oil
works on the physical, spiritual, instinctual, and mental
nature of a person depending on how it is applied.

Eucalyptus
Lavender
Pine

Rheumatic and Muscular Pains

Essential oils also have a synergy with water. When used

for a bath, the oil/oil blend should be added first, before
filling the bath with water. As the bath fills, the action of
the water not only disperses the oil/oil blend in the water
evenly, but it helps to potentate the oil as the water takes
on the signature of what is added to it. Therefore, one
should not be mistaken by adding more oil to get a better
affect this is not the case at all! To ensure efficacy, it is
best to buy organically made essential oils, because they
are without adulteration, and only then can the therapeutic
affect be guaranteed.

Amber
Juniper
Rosemary
Thyme
Vetiver
Sassafras

Nervousness

Petigrain
Marjoram
Neroli

Skincare (general)

Here are some examples:

For a Calming Bath

280

Amber
Patchouli
Rose
Sandalwood

Bay Oil
Chemical Properties

Bay Oil (Laurus Nobilis)

Known as Bay, bay leaf, bayberry, laurel bay, laurel, bois

dInde, dhafne, warak el lowri, erramu, yueh, kuei, barg-ebu, and pei, oil of bay is achieved through a process of
distillation of the leaves and the flowers from the
flowering plant. The sturdy bay tree is of the Lauraceae
family that can grow to a height of 60 feet in warm
climates. There are many varieties, with the pimento
racemosa native to the Caribbean. Cultivation began in
Britain since the 1600s, but it can be commonly found
around the Mediterranean today. The bark ranges from
olive green to reddish in color. The evergreen leaves are
thick, shiny and a dark green with unisex flowers that grow
in clusters, bearing small berries.
The laurel leaves claim to fame is through the Olympics
via the ancient crowns and wreaths worn by heroes. Bay
oil was considered the herb a symbol of wisdom, peace
and protection, and the leaves were a popular spice in
Roman cuisine.
Dried Bay leaves have become a popular addition in
Western, Middle Eastern and Caribbean cuisine, and can
be found added to meat dishes, stews, sauces, soups and
pickles. The specie of bay leaf in India is native to the
Himalayas, and Indonesian bay leaf comes from a different
family.
The oil is collected from a tree when it is at least 5 years
old. It has a strong, spicy, ethereal scent, and is dark
yellow (Pimenta racemosa) to dark green in color. The oil
from the berries is known as Oil of Bays, and the oil from
the leaves is sometimes known as Oil of Laurel (Oleum
lauri). The oil from the Caribbean variety Pimenta
racemosa is also known as Oil of Bay.
Like most essential oils, one can find adulterated bay oil,
which can sometimes be distinguished by the color red
which appears after adding ammonia

281

Laurin (berries)
Glycerides of acetic, oleic, linoleic, stearic, palmitic,
myristic, and lauric acids (berries)
Terpenes (cineol, A-pinene, B-pinene, citral)
Chlorophyll permanent
Geraniol
Eugenol
Cineol
A-pinene
B-pinene
Myrcene
Limonene
Linalool
Methyl chavicol
Nerol
A-terpineol
Chavicol.
Phellandrene
A-Thujene
Camphene
Sabinene
Carene
A-Terpinene
PCymene
Limonene
Cineole
Y-Terpinene
CisSabinene hydrate
Terpinolene
TransSabinene hydrate
Terpineol
Borneol
Linalyl acetate
Isobornyl acetate
B-Elemene
Methyl eugenol
B-Caryophyllene
Valencene
B-Bisabolene
Elemicin
Spathulenol
Germacrene
Caryophyllene
Viridiflorol
Y-Eudesmol
Bisabolol
B-Eudesmol
A-Cadinol

The Laurus nobilis grows wild in Tunisia, where a

research team led by Marzouki found as expected the same
properties in all parts of a Bay Tree, but it differed from
wood to stem, stem to leaf, leaf to flower, and flower to
berry, but varying only in concentration. They also found
the Bay Tree to very strong antibacterial properties.
Mohammed Reza Verdian-Rizi and research team of the
Tehran University of Medical Sciences found that the time
of harvesting of the organs of the tree for oil production
does not significantly affect the chemical composition of
the essential oil, but the best time for harvesting is the time
of flowering when there is a higher concentration of the
essential oil.

Indications

Therapeutic Qualities
The aroma uplifts the mind, helps one to focus, and boosts
the confidence.

Anti septic
Antibiotic
Antineuralgic
Spasmolytic
Analgesic
Aperitif
Astringent
Cholagogue
Emmenagogue
Febrifuge
Insecticide
Sedative
Stomachic
Sudorific
Tonic
Diaphoretic
Emetic (in large does)

Rheumatism
Neuralgia
Muscular pain
Menstrual pain
Delayed menses
Circulation problems
Colds, flu, etc
Dental infection
Hair growth
Diarrhea
Skin infections.
Poor digestion
Cuts, wounds, hemorrhaging
Grief, anxiety, panic attacks

Contraindications
The high concentration of eugenol in bay can irritate the
skin, so it is wise to do a skin test beforehand. As an
emmenagogue it should be avoided during pregnancy, if
one is a hemophiliac, suffers from prostate cancer, kidney
or liver problems, and avoid taking with anticoagulants.
Avoid inhaling too much or there is a reverse affect to the
intended therapy.

As an antiseptic and as antibiotic bay oil protects against

infection, and prevents growth of unwanted microbes in
the body. Bay oil is disliked by insects and is useful as an
insecticide. As an analgesic it eases localized pain. As a
spasmolytic cramps, and any convulsive activity that leads
to a spasm are eased and as an astringent that contracts
muscles and tissues, the oil helps to strengthen hold of hair
on the scalp, tighten gums, and narrow blood vessels in
cases of haemorrhaging. It is good for loss of appetite as
an appetizer, and helps to stimulate the secretion of bile,
important in the process of proper digestion. As a tonic to
the stomach it helps to maintain proper functioning of the
stomach, and as a tonic to the whole body helps to sustain
proper regulation of the nervous, immune, and endocrine
systems.

Reduces fevers as a febrifuge and eliminate toxins as a

sudorific, and in cases of hysteria, anxiety, stress or
depression, acts as a sedative.
In the Caribbean bay leaves were distilled with rum to
produce bay-rum which was used for fevers, bodily
aches and pains, and as a hair tonic.
In Iran, the oil was used to relieve haemorrhoids, pain
from rheumatism, as a diuretic, and also as an
antifungal/antibacterial.

Application
Use in the diluted form when applying to the
skin/bathing/massage, and avoid applying bay oil to
children aged under 5 years. One can add 1 part of bay oil
to
1
part
organic
oil
(avocado/grapeseed/jojoba/wheatgerm/sesame/sweet
almond).
It can be used in a liniment/massage oil to stimulate the
lymph glands, bile secretion, and blood circulation when
applied in this way, the body temperature increases, which
in turn eases muscle tension.
In the form of vapor therapy, bay oil can be used to treat
infections, fevers, aches and pains, calm the nerves grief,
stimulate appetite, and stimulate the mind.

Bay oil helps to normalize the menses, stimulate

delayed menses, and yet eases the discomfort that
may come from the cycle.

282

Sources:
Bay (Laurel) http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/l/larbay10.html
Felter, H. W. and Lloyd, J. Kings American Dispensatory, U.S. 1898.
Health Benefits of Bay Essential Oil. http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-bayessential-oil.html
Laurel (Laurus Nobilis L.) http://www.uni-graz.at/~katzer/engl/Laur_nob.html
Marzouki et al. Essential Oil Composition and Variability of Laurus Nobilis L. Growing in Tunisia, Comparison and
Chemometric Investigation of Different Plant Organs. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19296375
Verdian-Rizi, M. et al. Phenological Variation of
Laurus Nobilis
http://ejeafche.uvigo.es/component/option,com_docman/task,doc_view/gid,402/

283

L.

Essential

Oil

from

Iran.

Bergamot Oil
acetate, linaool, limonene, citral, terpinyl acetate, diethyl
phthalate, and bitter orange lime, thus affecting the
therapeutic value. Therefore it is worth establishing a
reputable producer of essential oils.
The Monarda Didyma specie produces the most oil. It
takes 0.65 1.2 g of fresh plant to produce 60-125 kg of
oil. It is grown for commercial use in Italy, the Ivory
Coast, and Guinea.
Chemical Properties
Bergamot oil has over 300 compounds some of which are:

Bergamot Oil (Monarda Didyma)

The word bergamot comes from the Turkish beg

armudu/begamodi, which means Lords pear. Known in
English as bergamot, bee balm, American Melissa, Indian
plume, mountain balm, Oswego tea amongst other names,
and in Arabic as lemun adalya barnati, bergamot oil is
achieved through a process of cold press of the peel from
the fruit. There are 17 varieties of bergamot, the oil of each
which can possess different qualities. The tree-like
herbaceous plant. Of the Lamiaceae (Labiatae) family of
the plant kingdom, its sweet smell, and ornamental
appearance has made bergamot a favorite in garden
landscaping even the surface rootlets give off an
attractive fragrance. The attractive flowers can vary in
color depending on the specie growing from hard stems,
and rough leaves which grow in pairs. It is sometimes
called bee balm because the bees are strongly attracted to
the blossoms. The plant prefers light soil that is moist and
to be exposed only to the morning sun. Wild bergamot, the
monarda fistulosa specie, has become an endangered
native species in the U.S. as it tends to spread like a weed.
Known as horsemint, it still grows wild on Rhodes Island.
Monarda fistulosa is drought resistant, and is profuse on
the Canadian prairies.
Bergamot leaves have been used by indigenous Americans
as a tea to cure stomach complaints, and is commonly used
in potpourri, fruit dishes, halva, food flavoring, the
perfume and cosmetic industry, as well as for medicinal
purposes around the world today. The oil from the citrus
bergamia specie of bergamot is added to Earl Grey tea.

Thymol
Para-cymene
D-limonene
Carvacrol
Linalool
Hydrothymoquinone
Linalyl acetate (citrus bergamia)
Bergapten (citrus bergamia)
Bergamottin (citrus bergamia)
Citropten (citrus bergamia)
Xanthotoxin (citrus bergamia)
A-Thujene (monarda didyma)
A- Pinene (monarda didyma)
B-Pinene (monarda didyma)
Camphene (monarda didyma)
1-Hepten (monarda didyma)
B-Myrcene (monarda didyma)
A-Phellondrene (monarda didyma)
A-Terpenene (monarda didyma)
P-Cymeme/Limonene (monarda didyma)
Cineole (monarda didyma)
Ocimene (monarda didyma)
Bornyl acetate (monarda didyma)
Borneol (monarda didyma)
Terpinen (monarda didyma)
Terpineol (monarda didyma)
A-Terpineol (monarda didyma)
Nerol (monarda didyma)
Geraniol (monarda didyma)
Neral (monarda didyma)
Jasmone (monarda didyma)
Germacrene-D(monarda didyma)

In the pharmaceutical industry, Psoralen is a product of

bergamot oil which has been used orally in the treatment
of psoriasis, and vitiligo.

Good quality bergamot oil appears yellowish-green to

emerald in color. Like most essential oils, one can find
adulterated bergamot oil. It can be adulterated with
cheaper oils like lemon oil, citral, and acetylated ho oil. It
can also be adulterated with synthetically with linalyl

Therapeutic Qualities

284

The refreshing floral aroma is affective in cases of

depression, and suppressed emotions, and adds an uplifting
feeling to the atmosphere when burnt applied as vapor
therapy or through a diffuser.

Analgesic
Antibiotic
Antiemetic (Monarda punctata)
Antidepressant
Antiseptic
Cicatrisant
Carminative
Cordial
Deoderant
Diaphoretic (Monarda punctata)
Disinfectant
Diuretic (Monarda punctata)
Emmenagogue (Monarda punctata)
Febrifuge
Insecticide
Relaxant
Rubefacient
Sedative
Spasmolytic
Stimulant
Stomachic
Tonic
Vermifuge
Vulnerary

The thymol present in bergamot oil acts a strong

antiseptic against fungal bacterial, and parasitic
infections/disease.
Helps to relieve phlegm related problems
Bergamot oil prevents herpes viruses.
Added to massage oils, bergamot helps to reduce
unnecessary tension, and sooths joints with tight
muscles.

Indications

Acne, eczema, seborrhea, psoriasis (related to

emotional state)
Cuts and wounds that take long to heal
Varicose veins
Body odor
Digestive problems, colic, slow digestion, intestinal
infections
Anxiety, suppressed emotions, insomnia, depression
Hot climates
Leucorrhea

Contraindications
This is one oil that should be mixed when used on the
body, by adding one drop of bergamot oil to 1 ounce of
carrier oil.
Should not be applied neat to the skin as the psoralen and
bergapten content is phototoxic otherwise can result in
serious skin burning once exposed to the sun. Bergapten
changes the potassium balance which can result in
twitching and muscle cramps.

As an antiseptic and as antibiotic bergamot oil protects

against infection, and prevents growth of unwanted
microbes in the body. As an analgesic it eases localized
pain. As a spasmolytic cramps, and any convulsive activity
that leads to a spasm are eased and as an astringent that
contracts muscles and tissues, the oil helps to strengthen
hold of hair on the scalp, tighten gums, and narrow blood
vessels in cases of haemorrhaging. As a cordial, bergamot
oil is a tonic to the heart. As a diaphoretic, the oil helps to
promote sweating, which helps to expel toxins from the
body; and as a vulnerary bergamot oil stops bleeding in the
case of cuts and wounds, and helps to prevent cell
degeneration.

Application

Can be used in the form of vapor therapy in the form of

an oil burner, diffuser, or on a handkerchief, or
pillow/cushion.
Can be ingested
Can be added to a carrier oil (e.g. wheat germ,
sesame, jojoba, grapeseed) for dilution.
Can be added to massage oils.

Sources:
Bergamot. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/b/bergam32.html
Bergamot. http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/med-aro/factsheets/BERGAMOT.html
Bergamot Oil. http://www.drugs.com/npp/bergamot-oil.html
Burfield, T The Anatomy of Adulteration. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Mazza, G et al. A Source of Geraniol, Linalool, Thymol, and Carvacrol-Rich Essential Oils.
http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/proceedings1993/v2-628.html
Synonyms for Bergamot Orange (Citrus Aurantium) http://www.uni-graz.at/~katzer/engl/Citr_sin.html

285

Bitter Almond Oil

Chemical Properties
Almond oil is similar in composition to olive oil. It has
over ? compounds some of which are:

Bitter Almond Oil (Amygdalus communis/amara)

The word almond comes from the Greek amygdalos an

indicated in its Latin botanical name, whereas al-lawz is
reflected in other languages, including Maltese lewz, and
Swahili lozi. In Farsi, and in the S Sanskrit almonds are
called badam, in Turkish badem, and in Albania bajame.
In Portuguese we find almonds are called doce, dolc in
Catalan, tihm hahng yahn in Cantonese, and in Russian
sladki.
Almonds are of the same tribe of the plant kingdom, the
Rosaceae family as plums and peaches as indicated by
their seeds. Of course, there are many varieties, which
generally fall into two types, sweet and bitter. Of the finest
are the Jordanian almonds (sweet). Almond oil is extracted
from both the sweet and the bitter almond with the bitter
almonds only for external use. A profusion of delicate
flowers hang from the Almond tree, which can grow as tall
as 30ft., is native to West Asia and North Africa, but can
be found cultivated for commercial use around the
Mediterranean, and growing freely in Syria and Palestine.
Introduced to Europe by the Romans, and could be found
in gardens of England during the time of Shakespeare. The
oil was being used in Greece and Italy long before it
became a culinary delight, and a commodity in Central
Europe during the Middle Ages.

Amygdalin/laetrile (laetrile is actually chemically

different to amygdalin, and is often referred to as
amygdalin.
Emulsin
Benzaldehyde (essential oil)
Prussic acid
Olein
Linolic acid
Laccase
Hydrocyanic acid/prussic acid
Betulinic acid
Ursolic acid
Corosolic acid
Protocatechuic acid
Maslinic acid
P-Hydrobenzoic acid
Vanillic acid
Quercetin
Isorhamnetin
Quercitrin
Kaemferol
Morin
Methyquercitin
Catechin
Resveratrol

Because of the oils ability to soften the hands, it is used

much in the production of toilet soap, but it also used in
trade as a good lubricant. The chemical amygdalin was
first isolated as far back as 1830 by French chemists, and
was identified as an anti-carcinogen by Russian chemists
in 1845. A derivative of amygdalin is laetrile, which is
now banned in the U.S. With hydrocyanic acid, toxicity
forms when combined with the enzyme betaglucuronidase, which is present in the human intestines,
thus becoming toxic when consumed in large amounts
th gram is lethal for adults!

Commercial cultivation occurs mainly in Spain, Sicily,

Southern Italy, Portugal, South of France, Morocco, and
the Balearic Islands. The best bitter almond is produced by
Sicily, North Africa, and southern France. Unlike Sweet
Almonds, bitter almonds are mainly used for their oil, and
as a flavoring agent.

Therapeutic Qualities

Good quality bitter almond oil appears slightly goldenyellow in color, and is relatively odorless. It is expressed,
and it takes 5lb. of almonds to make ounce of essential
oil.

The refreshing floral aroma is affective in cases of

depression, and suppressed emotions, and adds an uplifting
feeling to the atmosphere when burnt applied as vapor
therapy or through a diffuser.

Like most essential oils, one can find adulterated bitter

almond oil, often with sweet almond. This might seem
unimportant, but any adulteration reduces the therapeuticmedicinal affect. It can also be adulterated with oil from
the same family, e.g. apricot. It can also be adulterated
with synthetic benzaldehyde.

286

Antibacterial
Antifungal
Anti-carcinogen
Anti-inflammatory
Antioxidant

Aperient
Diuretic
Sedative
Vermifuge
Febrifuge
Spasmolytic

Indications

This oil possesses a strong synergy with the skin, and can
be found widely used in moisturizing creams, anti-ageing
creams, sunscreens, and skin cleansers.

The antioxidant properties, which include quercetin,

isorhamnetin, quercitrin, kaemferol, and morin, are
strong antioxidants, prevents the proliferation of the
HIV virus, as well as in general cellular deterioration,
and the build of plaque on the walls of the arteries. The
triterpenoids: betulinic acid, oleic acid, and ursolic acid
are also strong anti-inflammatories, and anti-HIV and
cancer.

As a vermifuge bitter almond oil kills worms, and as an

antibacterial, anti-fungal, bitter almond oil kills bacterial
and fungal infections.

As anti-inflammatory, bitter almond oil desensitizes (as

an anaesthetic) the area of the inflammation.

As a diuretic the flow of urine is increased to release

the body of excess water, salt and fats from the body
as well as toxins. The bitters in almond acts as a
febrifuge; thus reducing temperature, and preventing
the spread of infections present. Spasms are eased.

Added to massage oils, bitter almond oil hydrates the

skin, prevents wrinkles, and eases darkening of areas
of the skin.

Aging skin
Skin/hair infections
Bacterial/fungal infections
Inflammations
Insomnia
Muscular spasms

Contraindications
This is one oil that should be mixed when used on the
body, by adding one drop of bitter almond oil to 1 ounce of
emulsion/carrier oil. The British Pharmacopeia urges the
use of Jordanian almonds over bitter almonds. It should be
avoided by children, pregnant women, and those on antiseizure medication.
Application

Can be used in the form of vapor therapy in the form of

an oil burner, diffuser, or pillow/cushion.
Cannot be ingested due to its toxicity
Can be added to a carrier oil (e.g. wheat germ,
sesame, jojoba, grapeseed) for dilution as a massage
oil or oil face mask.
Can be added to an emulsion (cream) for the purpose
of the skin and hair.

Sources:
Almonds. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/a/almon026.html
Almonds. http://www.drugs.com/npp/almond-almond-oil.html
Almonds. http://www.phytochemicals.info/plants/almond.php
Amygdala Amara: Bitter Almond. http://british-pharmaceutical-codex.agilityhoster.com/432.htm
Felter, H. W, and Lloyd, J. Amydala Almond. Kings American Dispensatory, 1898

287

Bitter Orange Oil

Chemical Properties
Bitter orange oil contains many properties all of which
have not been identified, and they include:

Bitter Orange Oil (Citrus Vulguraris/Aurantium)

Bitter orange essential oil should not be confused with

neroli or petitgrain essential oils. Bitter orange essential oil
is made from the peel of the bitter orange tree, citrus
aurantium, neroli oil is made from the flowers of the bitter
and sometimes sweet orange tree, and petitgrain is is made
from the leaves and the twigs of the orange tree, with
differing qualities. The smell of bitter orange is more
intense, neroli smells more floral, and petitgrain has a
warm slightly spicy smell.

Limonene
Limonin
Bitter and non-bitter flavanoids
Furanocoumarins
Flavanoid glycosides
Terpeniol
Naringin
Hesperidin
Pectin
Carotenoids
Isohesperidin
Vitamin A
Vitamins B
Vitamin C

In the pharmaceutical industry, it has been found that

synephrine increases the bodys ability to burn food
consumed, and to reduce food intake, therefore playing an
effective role in weight loss. However as a dietary
supplement it can have a negative impact if one has a heart
condition. Synephrine supplement is banned by some
sports agencies. Bitter orange oil has often been seen as
containing the same properties as ephedra negating its
other counter-balancing properties and is therefore banned
by the FDA (U.S.), but research at the University of
California led by Dr. Christine Haller, has demonstrated
that bitter orange alone does not have the same effect, but
when combines with caffeine it can be harmful.

The word orange and auran(tium) derives from the

Sanskrit nagaranga, which comes from the Arabic
naranj. Known as kijitsu, khatta, Seville oranges, ChenPi, bitter orange differs visually from the orange we eat in
the leaves, which tends to be heart-shaped, while the fruit
holds less juice, and is bitter/sour to taste. Belonging to the
plant kingdom of the Rutaceae family, bitter oranges were
introduced to the Mediterranean by Arab traders in 10 th
century, and to the Americas by the Spanish and
Portuguese in the 16th century. It is now cultivated widely
for commercial purposes in the Caribbean, Europe, India,
Israel, Spain, Madras, the Middle East, North Africa,
Portugal, , and, and for the oil in Brazil, the Caribbean,
Mexico, Sicily, Spain, Paraguay, Taiwan, and West
tropical Africa.

Therapeutic Properties
The invigorating aroma helps to relieve the feeling of
tiredness, is energizing, yet calms the nerves. It refreshes
the mind, and works well as in vapor therapy as a room
freshener.

Bitter orange oil is extracted from the peel via cold press,
and is difficult to preserve, with a ration of 1/10 in olive
oil, preservation is possible. To help preservation, it is
wiser to buy bitter orange oil in an amber colored bottle.
Good quality bitter orange essential oil is orangey yellow
to green-yellow in color, and is thin in consistency. The oil
has been used in foods, as well as cosmetics (facials,
shampoos, cleansers, conditioners, moisturizers etc).

Like most essential oils, one can find bitter orange oil
adulterated with sweet orange oil (citrus sinensis),
synthetic orange terpenes, fatty aldehydes, and esters,
which undermines the therapeutic value of bitter orange
oil.

288

Antibacterial
Antifungal
Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Aphrodisiac
Carminative
Cholagogue
Cordial
Demulcent
Deoderant
Expectorant
Sedative

Spasmolytic
Stomachic
Tonic
Tranquilizer

without the natural fiber content is still not apparent.

However research shows that bitter orange reduces a
distended stomach, and lifts a prolapsed womb or rectum.
Indications

This oil possesses a strong synergy with the lymphatic and

digestive system. The bitters in bitter orange acts as a
febrifuge; thus reducing temperature, and preventing the
spread of infections present. Spasms are eased as a
spasmolytic, and acts as a strong tonic to the intestines, the
vascular system, the lymphatic system, and the liver. It
calms the nerves and as a tranquilizer and sedative,
induces sleep. Bitter orange oil contains hesperidin, which
is a flavanoid glycoside (found mainly in the pith) the
white part of the peel, which acts as an antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and as an anticarcinogenic. Hesperidin
maintains health capillaries, reduces hay fever by
preventing the release of histamine in the body.

Digestive problems
Constipation
Congestion of the liver
Sluggish lymphatic, vascular system
Exhaustion
Anxiety
Acne, pimples, skin infection, dull skin
Colds

Contraindications
Bitter orange oil in general is non-toxic, non-irritant, and
non-sensitizing, but to err on the side of caution, there is
possible phototoxicity for sensitive skins, so do not apply
on the skin if one is going to be exposed to the sun within
6 hours. As a spasmolytic it should be avoided by those
who suffer from epilepsy and pregnant women. It and
extracts thereof should also be avoided as a supplement, or
as an over-the-counter drug for weight loss.

As a cholagogue and carminative, bitter orange oil

increases the flow of bile disinfecting the bowels, and
expels gas from the intestines, and as a cordial acts as a
tonic to the heart. Bitter orange oil sooths mucous
membranes as in the case of chronic bronchitis or any lung
infection where phlegm is abundant, and as natural
deodorant it destroys unwelcomed odor.

Application

Limonene has anti-carcinogenic affect inhibiting tumor

growth in the stomach, lungs and mammary glands.
Limonene also increases the flow of liver enzymes, which
detoxify carcinogens. Both limonene and limonin stimulate
a detoxifying enzyme known as glutathione S-transferase.
Research team, Ramadan et al of Tanta University, Egypt,
found that orange bitter oil demonstrated strong antifungal
activity when it came to infections of the skin.

In Europe, bitter orange oil has been used as a sedative, a

prophylactic for veterans, for nervous conditions, sore
throat and insomnia. In Chinese folk medicine, dried bitter
orange has been used for problems pertaining to the uterus,
anus, diarrheas, and for when blood appears in the feces,
but whether the related properties transfer to the oil

Can be used in the form of vapor therapy in the form of

an oil burner, diffuser, or pillow/cushion or a in a
relaxing bath as a relaxant and as an aphrodisiac by
adding one drop of oil (before adding water the act of
which increases dispersion and invigorates the
properties.
Can be added to a carrier oil (e.g. almond, wheat germ,
sesame, jojoba, grapeseed) for dilution as a massage
oil or oil face mask, hand lotion, deodorant or rubbed
on the stomach to ease digestive problems as the
blend will then be absorbed by the skin, then enter the
blood stream which will take it to where the properties
of the oil is needed.

Sources:
Ramadan et al, Oil of Bitter Orange: New Topical Antifungal Agent. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8737885
Wolters Kluwer Health. Bitter Orange. http://www.drugs.com/npp/bitter-orange.html

289

Black Seed Oil

through cold press extraction. The oil is thick in
consistency, and has a deep-dark amber color with a strong
pungent aroma. It should be bought in an amber bottle
which prevents light from deteriorating the therapeutic
value, and has a shelf life of 6 months if kept in a stable
environment, but refrigeration is recommended.
When buying the oil, make sure that it is labeled cold
pressed, and solvent free because it has been known to be
extracted using a petroleum-based process.
Chemical Properties
Black seed oil contains over 100 properties synergistically,
and in pharmacology it has been found that it is best to use
the whole oil (rather than specific properties e.g.
supplement), or the crude oil extract. The chemical
properties identified include:

Black Seed Oil (Nigella Sativa)

Known also as fennel/Nutmeg flower, Love-LiesBleeding, Black Cumin/Caraway, or Roman coriander in

English, the spice from which black seed oil is derived is
native to Syria. Spreading from the Middle East to Africa,
India, and Europe it is not to be confused with cumin, i.e.
Cuminum cyminun/odorum the seed is used a popular spice
in Middle Eastern cuisine, traditional and alternative
medicine, and is often used to replace pepper in French
cuisine. In India, the seeds may be placed amongst the
linen to keep away insects, traditional Indian herbal
medicine apply it as a carminative, for gastro-intestinal
disorders, diabetes, inflammations, chest infections, and
for fevers. In South East Morocco the seeds are used for
hypertension, and diabetes.

Records reveal that it has been used for over 3, 000 years
seeds were found in the tomb of Tutankh-amun. Prophet
Muhammed (SAW) said:
Use this black seed regularly, because it
has a cure for every disease except death.
(Al Bukhari)
Known as faux cumin in French, schwarzkummel
(German), tikur azmud (Amharic), habbet el-barakat
(Arabic), kalo jira (Bengali), Sanuj (Catalan), hak jung
chou (Cantonese), siah daneh (Farsi), kalanji (Hindi),
chernushka in Portuguese, and jintan hitam (Malay), black
seed belongs to the buttercup family, Ranunculaceae in the
plant kingdom. The firm stems bear grayish-green leaves,
and white grayish-blue flowers. The seeds have a curious
three corner shape, with two flat sides, and one convex
with a brown-black exterior, and a white interior. Sown in
the spring, the seeds ripen around the middle of summer
carrying bearing a strong, pungent aroma..Once harvested
the seeds must be kept in a cool dry place.
As the use of Black seed oil has become widespread, more
names have popped up including black cumin oil, nigella
seed oil, and black oil. It is obtained from the seeds

290

Dithymoquinone/nigellone
Nigellicine
Nigellidine
Nigellimine
Nigellimine N-oxide
n-Nonane
n-Nonane
Thymoquinone
P-cymene
A-pinene
Thymohydroquinone
Thymol
Melanin
Stearic acids
Arginine
Methionine
Lysine
Glycine
Leucine
Phytosterols
Estragole
Carvacrol
Carvone
Limonene
-Thujene
-Pinene
Sabinene
4-terpineol
Citronellol
Palmitic acid
Oleic acid
Linoleic acid
Linolenic acid
Glutamic acid

Ascorbic acid
Calcium
Potassium
Sodium
Iron
Zinc
Magnesium
Selenium
Vitamin A
Vitamin B
Vitamin B
Vitamin C
Niacin

For glossary see It All Makes Good Scents

This oil is a powerful antioxidant preventing the
deterioration of cells. As an emmenagogue it stimulates
menstruation in cases of suppressed menses, and as a
galactagogue it stimulates lactate ion in nursing mothers. It
is a tonic to the immune system by increasing antibodies, a
tonic to the liver by strengthening the function of the
nephrons, and detoxifying the liver. Its qualities as an
anthelmintic means that it destroys and expels worms, as
an analgesic it relieves pain whether taken orally or
applied externally, and as an antipyretic it reduces fever.
As a carminative the oil promotes the discharge and flow
of bile from the gall bladder into the small intestines by
disinfecting the bowels.

In clinical trials, Nigellone or dithymoquinone has been

found to be affective in the relief of bronchial asthma, and
is effective with allergies pertaining to the lungs e.g.
asthma, emphysema, congestion because nigellone acts as
an inhibitor of histamine. Thymoquinone protects against
nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity (pertaining to the liver)
induced by either disease or chemicals. The oil has
demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory qualities against
encephalomyelitis, colitis, peritonitis, edema, and arthritis
by suppressing prostaglandins and leukotriens which lead
to inflammation.

Indications

The African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and

Alternative Medicine published findings that black seed
extract cured an HIV patient in August 2013. A complete
recovery was experienced experienced with no detectable
HIV virus or antibodies against HIV in their blood serum,
both during and long after the therapy ended.

Digestive problems, constipation

Congestion of the liver
Diabetes
Sluggish lymphatic, vascular system
Delayed menses
High blood pressure
Exhaustion, anxiety, depression
Skin infections, acne
Colds, flu
Hair loss
Allergies(especially ears, nose and throat)
Chest infections
Nursing mothers

Contraindications
Therapeutic Properties
There is low adverse reaction to black seed oil, but allergic
dermatitis is possible for those with sensitive skin in its
concentrated (absolute) form. It should not be used in
conjunction with antibiotics, and anti-inflammatories.
Ingestion can cause gripe, and the estragole content makes
it unsuitable for pregnant women, and its anti-oxytocic
qualities also makes it unsuitable for pregnant women, by
preventing contractions. It is also unsuitable for those who
suffer from low blood pressure.

Much of the therapeutic qualities of black seed oil has yet

to be discovered in the medical sense, but what has been
discovered includes:

Analgesic
Anti-allergenic
Anti-bacterial
Anti-depressant
Anti-inflammatory
Antifungal
Antipyretic
Anti-rheumatic
Anti-viral
Anti-retroviral
Anthelmintic
Antioxidant
Carminative
Emmenagogue
Galactagogue
Hepatic
Hypoglycemic
Tonic (immune system)

Application

291

Can be taken orally for the treatment of allergies,

arthritis, anxiety, bruises, cold symptoms, diarrhea,
headaches, high blood pressure, flu, sore muscles,
rheumatism, and stomach problems.
It can be applied directly to the scalp for hair loss
It can be applied directly to non-sensitive skin for the
treatment of fungal infections (I have recently used it
successfully in the treatment of psoriasis of the skin)
It can be rubbed on the back for treatment of asthma,
and chest infections
It can be massaged on the stomach for colic

Dripped into the ear for infections of the ear

It can be rubbed on the forehead for headaches.

Applied in vapour therapy (though the smell maybe

disliked by some) for acne, asthma, coughs, and
allergies.

Sources:
Blunden, G. Pharmacological and Toxicological Properties of Nigella Sativa. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12722128
Fennel Flower. botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/f/fenflo04.html
Ji, S Black Seed Extract Cures HIV Patient Naturally greenmedinfo.com/blog/black-seed-extract-%27cures%27-hivpatient-naturally
Kalanji. .drugs.com/npp/kalanji.html
Nickavar, B et al Chemical Composition of the Fixed and Volatile Oils of Nigella sativa L. from Iran.
Salem, L. Immunomodulatory and Therapeutic Properties of the Nigella Sativa Seed. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16275613

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Calendula Oil
Chemical Properties
Calendula contains many properties all of which have not
been identified, and they include:

Calendula Oil (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula essential oil comes from the florets of the

common marigold (in Italian Fiore dogni mese , ) flower
which belongs to the daisy family, the Compositae.
Believed to be native to Egypt, (is still grown there
organically) before spreading to the Levant, and other
temperate climates, the common marigold is a flower that
opens with the rise of the sun, and closes with the setting
of the sun.

Cadinol
Calendulin/bassorin
Carotenoids
Flavanoids
Isorhamnetin
Kaempferol
Oleanolic acids
Quercetin
Saponins
Sesquiterpenoids
Scopoletin
Tocopherols
Triterpenes

Scopoletin regulates blood pressure when high, and raises

it when too low. As an antibacterial, scopoletin has been
found to be effective against various bacteria like
Escherichia coli, staphylococcus aureus, and klebsiella
pnumoniae. As an anti-inflammatory, scopoletin has been
used in the treatment of bronchial illnesses including
asthma. It also regulates the hormone serotonin, helping to
reduce anxiety and depression.

The calendula oil is not really an essential oil, but an

infusion, because of the delicate sweet petals of the
yellow-orange florets, which have been used for medicinal
purposes as far as Ancient Egypt, and to color cheese
yellow in Europe. In Scandanavia, the dried flowers were
considered a protection against winter, and was added to
broths, and given to divers.

Quercetin is a flavanoid, and like all flavanoids, they are

strong antioxidants preventing cell deterioration. Quercetin
also helps to improve cardiovascular health, reduce the risk
of heart disease, and helps to protect against osteoporosis.
It is also an anti-inflammatory, an anti-allergen, an antitoxin, and in medicine has helped to reduce the blood
glucose level in diabetic patients.

The florets which arise from a singular stem, are male,

sterile, and bloom from May October. The seeds are
sown in April, and require little care other than weeding.
The roots of the plant are fibrous, and replenish annually.
Left to germinate, the crop will increase making an
effective pesticide. Delicate once picked, the florets after
picking need to be dried quickly in the shade with a good
current of warm air otherwise they will lose their colour
and some valuable medicinal properties. They are so
delicate that when put to dry, they should not touch each
other as they will become discoloured.

Kaempferol is also a flavanoid which works synergistically

with Quercetin in the prevention of cancer cell
proliferation.
Therapeutic Properties
The invigorating aroma helps to relieve the feeling of
tiredness, is energizing, yet calms the nerves. It refreshes
the mind, and works well as in vapor therapy as a room
freshener.

Calendula oil has been most commonly produced from the

French and African variety of marigold, tagetes erecta,
and tagetes patula respectively. As an infusion, the
flowers are soaked for some time in a Carrier Oil such as
extra virgin Olive Oil allowing for the Carrier Oil to
become infused with the medicinal properties of the
florets. Pure Calendula oil is achievable through SCO2
(supercritical carbon dioxide) distillation. After which, the
petals are removed, and SCO2 is released leaving only the
essential oil.

293

Antibacterial
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-spasmodic
Cicatrizant
Expectorant
Fungicide

Hepatic
Hypotensive
Mild Diaphoretic
Mild Stimulant
Styptic
Vulnerary

Contraindications
Calendula oil in general is non-toxic, non-irritant, and nonsensitizing. As a spasmolytic it should be avoided by those
who suffer from epilepsy and pregnant women.

Calendula oil as an infusion of extra virgin olive oil makes

a great salve for the treatment of serious burns, bruises and
cuts. As a cicatrizant, calendula oil helps in the formation
of scar tissue, hence closing wounds, and as a styptic, it
helps to stop the bleeding of external wounds.

Application

In the medical world, calendula oil has been found to be

useful in cases of suppressed menses, spasms, and cancer
as an infusion or as an extract. It is a stimulant to the veins
and the capillaries, and relieves the capillaries of engorged
mucous tissues of the skin, of the nasal membrane, and the
vagina. It has been found affective in the healing of
radiation burns, in fact more effective than aloe vera.

As an antioxidant it prevents cell deterioration due to

suppression of the immune system, and as a hepatic, acts
as a tonic to the liver, as well as the kidneys.

Indications

Burns Infected bites/wounds

Greasy/tired/ageing skin Superficial skin infections
Varicose veins

Acne eczema (inflammation)

Amenorrhea
High/Low blood pressure
Bronchial infections

Calendula, though strong in smell, can be used by

people of all ages including children though
concentrations will vary according to age group.
Can be used in the form of vapor therapy in the form of
an oil burner, diffuser, or pillow/cushion or a in a
relaxing bath as a relaxant and as an aphrodisiac by
adding one drop of oil (before adding water the act of
which increases dispersion and invigorates the
properties.
Calendula oil can also be applied directly to the skin, or
the affected area including ulcers or used in a
therapeutic bath.
1-3 drops can be ingested daily to allow for the
strengthening of the liver and the kidneys.
Used in the form of an infusion for medicinal purposes,
calendula oil should be taken 3 or 4 times a day.
For skin care, calendula oil can be applied directly to
the skin or added to natural creams to increase the
benefit (14 drops per ounce of carrier/base oil or
cream.

Sources:
Calendula. British Pharmaceutical Codex: An Imperial Dispensatory Medical Practitioners and Pharmacists 1911.
http://british-pharmaceutical-codex.agilityhoster.com/084.htm
Felter, H. and Lloyd, J. U. Kings American Dispensatory.
Marigold. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/m/marigo16.html
Wolters Kluwer Health. Calendula. http://www.drugs.com/npc/calendula.html

294

Camphor Oil
Camphor essential oil comes from the woody parts of the
Camphor Tree. Camphor oil is extracted through steam
distillation with the main producers being China, Egypt,
India, Japan, Madagascar and Sri Lanka. It should not be
confused with Ngai, Champaca, Formosa or Borneo
Camphor Oils, which come from a different family in the
plant kingdom, and thus contain differing properties. After
distillation and a vacuum process, there are three products,
white, yellow, and brown camphor, but only the white oil
is used because the yellow and brown oils are highly toxic;
hence why it is not unusual to see camphor listed as white
oil or White Camphor, which is also used as a solvent in
the paint industry, and for the production of celluloid.

Camphor Oil (Cinnamomum camphora)

The Camphor Tree is of the same family as the Bay Tree,

Lauraceae of the plant kingdom. It is a slow growing tree
that can grow to a height of up to 35 meters bearing
broadleaved shiny evergreen leaves, which alternate
between a dark green and a light green. With wavy edges,
and three yellow veins the tree bears pea-sized berries. It is
drought tolerant, and grows in the fullness of the sun, or
partial shade, but it will not grow in the cold. It is invasive
in unnatural climates like Australia, and parts of the U.S.,
where it is even sometimes described as a weed-like in
character. The Tree bears white yellow flowers, which
has alternating sterile and non-sterile stamens.

Camphor oil is available cheaply because of the

adulterated form which is a derivative of turpentine, which
in itself can be added to camphor devaluing its therapeutic
value. It is also produced synthetically by oxidation of
selected constituents camphene or isoborneol.
Chemical Properties
Camphor essential oil contains many properties all of
which have not been identified, and they include:

Camphor oil from the Cinnamomum camphora is known

as true camphor, hon-sho, gum camphor, . The word
camphor comes from the French camphre, the camfora
of the Middle Ages, which in turn comes from the Arabic
kafur, which can be found in the following verse from
the Quran:

{Surely the righteous shall drink of a cup

the admixture of which is camphor} (Al
Insan/Dahr 76: 5)
Canfora in Italian, karpuuram in Sanskrit, and zhang
shu in Chinese, bom zamgle/ kafm in the Caribbean,
makafuri maita in Swahili in camphor has been used for
hundreds of years for medicinal purposes buy the Chinese,
the Egyptians, and the Persians. In Nepal the tree is
planted in gardens for purely religious reasons. In the
Islamic funerary rites, it is customary to place fresh
camphor on the forehead, the palms, the knees and the big
toes of the feet of the dead person after the person has been
ritually cleansed and dressed in their funerary garb, and it
is highly desired to place a touch of fresh camphor on the
nose of the dead person.
Camphor was used as a traditional remedy against the
plague in Persia and for embalming. In China the oils was
found useful in the building of ships as well as temples,
because of the durable properties of the wood, and is used
in embalming today. The wood is well known for its
insecticidal, and antifungal properties, as well as a good
wood preservative, hence why natural history cabinets and
cabinets of entomologists are made of camphor wood.

Linalool
Safrole (high in yellow and brown camphor)
Cineole
A-pinene
B-pinene
Camphene
Sabinene
Phellandrene
Limonene
1,8-cineole
Y-terpinene
P-cymeme
Furfural
Kaemferol
Piperitone
Geraniol
Cinnamaldehyde
Methyl cinnamate
Eugenol
Keto-tetrahydro-cymene
Isoborneol

In the research of camphor, which gave no indication of

whether this was camphor oil as a whole, or a fraction
(white, yellow or brown camphor oil) Dr. Abiya Chelliah
of the Research Department of Plant Biology and
Technology, St, Xaviers, Tamilnadu, India, the constituent
safrole was found to contain to compromise the mucous
membrane, prevents new growth of brain cellular tissue,

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and inhibits neural transmission, bearing in mind that it

was once taken internally in Ayurvedic medicine to abate
hysteria. It might be a homeopathic case of similar treats
similar, the same approach that modern medicine applies
with vaccines. However, Chelliahs research also found it
contains good antiviral, anti-inflammatory action, as well
as beneficial in the healing of eczema, as an
antidepressant, anti=epileptic, anti-asthmatic, effective in
the treatment of Inflammatory Bowel disease, thrombosis,
pulmonary hypertension, and supports/balances the
nervous system.

Camphor essential oil in India has been used in liniments

for the treatment of joint and muscular pains, as a balm for
chilblains, and skin diseases. It has also been used for
bronchial congestion via inhalation/vapour therapy. It has
been added to water in regions that experience a rainy
season to disinfect the water which is kept in a container.
Excessive use can lead to vomiting, palpitations, and
serious convulsions which can lead to death.
It is an effective stimulant and diaphoretic for the
metabolism, blood circulation, the digestive system, all
secretions and excretions. As a pacifier of the nervous
system, it is effective when applying a local anesthetic by
numbing the sensory nerves. It calms down nervous
disorders and convulsions. As a sedative inn cases of
neuralagia camphor causes the blood vessels to contract
thus reducing pressure in the cranial nerve concerned.

The constituent cineole was found to be antitoxic, supports

the liver, anti-diabetic, a cordial that is a tonic to the
heart, effective against glaucoma, a probable treatment for
autoimmune disorders, multiple sclerosis, however it was
also found to inhibit the action of phosphate, to
compromise cholesterol (not clear whether this is good or
bad cholesterol, as good cholesterol is required by the
body), nutritive to the nervous system, and effective in the
treatment of thrombosis.

It also happens to be an aphrodisiac when taken internally

(erring on the side of caution), but applied externally it
helps to cure erectile dysfunction in men by increasing the
blood circulation in the affected parts.

Kaempferol is a flavanoid which has strong antioxidant

properties.

Indications

Therapeutic Properties

Camphor essential oil (i.e. white oil), is very potent, and

should be used with care.

The oil has a sharp, but woody penetrating aroma with the
cooling effect of menthol. It is easily tolerated by the skin,
and subcutaneous tissues, but less tolerated by the mucous
membranes. Being very potent it should be used with care.
Its key notes are cool/refreshing, but calming, that can
pierce!

Anti-bacterial
Anti-fungal
Anti phlogistic
Anti-rheumatic
Antiseptic
Anti-viral
Analgesic
Anthelmintic
Carminative
Cordial
Diaphoretic
Diuretic
Expectorant
Sedative
Spasmolytic
Sudorific
Odontalgic
Rubefacient
Tonic
Vermifuge
Vulnerary

Arthritis, rheumatism
Bronchitis, colds, coughs, flu
Burns
Depression, nervous tension, shock
Fever, infections, inflammations
Gout
Insect repellent
Muscular aches and pains, sprains
Oily skin conditions, acne
Poor circulation
Poor digestion, flatulence
Hyper-metabolic rate

Contraindications
Camphor essential oil is best used by those experienced at
using this oil. As a spasmolytic it should be avoided by
those who suffer from epilepsy who are on epileptic drugs,
and should only be taken in the throes of a fit. Pregnant
women should also avoid camphor oil. For those with
sensitive skin, the oil can cause irritation, and should not
be combined with homeopathic remedies. In large doses it
can lead to respiratory failure in children. Camphor oil is
potentially narcotic as a result of desensitizing the nerves,
and the smell can be addictive. Take too much, and the
brain can lose control over the function of the limbs.
The Food and Drugs Administration, U.S., set a limit of
11% of camphor in consumer products, except of white

296

camphor essential oil, which contains minimal amount of

camphor. Camphor oil is classed as a convulsant and
neurotoxin.

Application

White camphor is effective in vapour therapy for the

treatment of colds, flu, and respiratory disorders.
As a liniment in treatment of pains of the joint and
muscles, chilblains, skin diseases (not for those with
sensitive/thin skin.
A drop added to a bath before adding water disinfects
the whole body.

Sources:
Burfield, T. The Anatomy of Adulterations. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Camphor. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/campho13.html
Chelliah, A. Biological Activity Prediction of an Ethno Medicinal Plant Cinnamomum Camphora Through Bio-informatics.
http://www.ethnoleaflets.com/leaflets/cinna2.htm
Felter, H.W. and Lloyd, J.U. Camphora. Kings American Dispensatory 1898

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Carrier Oils

The underlying cause of the symptoms

The biological landscape
The psychological landscape
The emotional landscape

Here are some examples:

Almond Oil, Sweet (prunus amygdalus)
Sweet Almond Oil is clear with a tinge of yellow bronze.
Compared to most carrier oils, it is one of the cheapest
having a shelf life of 12 months. This is an all-purpose that
can be used for most essential oils and suits all skin types.
It has a light, sweet nutty aroma, and is slightly thick (i.e.
medium viscosity). It has a good synergy with the skin,
and is easily absorbed leaving a hint of oil on the skin
when massaged. Sweet Almond oil hydrates and reconditions the skin and contains:

Carrier Oils
Because of the different skin sensitivities from person to
person, and the different constituents from essential oil
to essential oil, often it is best to apply undiluted
essential oils via another medium. In aromatherapy that
medium can be a carrier oil, a cream, or an infusion.

Carrier oils are in general vegetable based oils, which

originate from the fatty part (seeds, kernels or nuts) of a
plant. Carrier oils allow for the therapeutic value of the
essential oil to be applied without causing an allergic
reaction. There are different types of carrier oils of which
more and more are becoming available, and each carrier
oil in turn have their own properties, and can be used for
massage.

Therapeutic Value

Carrier oils in general can be bought at the local grocery

store, or herbalists, which are as local as the grocery shop
in Middle Eastern countries. The Middle Eastern herbalist
is equivalent to the Western health store that sells natural
oils and aromas. The oils should be cold pressed, and fresh
without additives. The dust on the bottle/container is a
good indicator as to how long it has been on the shelf.
When selecting a carrier oil it should be checked for
rancidity. The oil should be of good quality to ensure the
required therapeutic effect.

Anti-inflammatory
Anti-hepatotoxicity
Antioxidant
Cephalic
Cordial
Emollient
Laxative (slightly)
Nervine
Tonic (Immunity)

In Ayurvedic and Unani medicine, sweet almond

oil/Roghan badam is used as a nutrient for the brain as
well as the nervous system, and to treat skin psoriasis and
eczema. Recent research has found that it lowers the risk
of colon cancer, and elevates good cholesterol, lowers bad
cholesterol, and rejuvenates the skin from scar tissue post
operation.

Carrier oils can go rancid over a period of time, unlike

essential oils, so they should be kept in dark glass
containers with tight fitting tops, and stored in a cool dark
place.
One also has to choose the right carrier oil for the right
essential oil for synergy. In aromatherapy that synergy is
based on:

Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Choline (trace amounts)
Omega-6 fatty acids
Polyunsaturated fats
Monounsaturated fats
Saturated fats
Phystosterols

Contraindications
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, it
may lower blood sugar levels.

The symptoms to be treated

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Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera)

Coconut oil has been a very much misunderstood oil

because of its high fatty oil content, negating that its
therapeutic qualities are in this content. Now that it has
become a part of the healing arts in therapy, the benefits
can be seen to out-pace any assumptions.

Calmative
Nutritive (hair)

When lauric acid is absorbed, the human body converts it

to monolaurin, which then acts as an antibacterial, and as
an antiviral in the treatment of herpes, listeria, and
influenza for example.

Until recently coconut oil was only used in the West as a

lathering agent in soaps, and for cosmetic purposes only.
We all know that it is a solid, which liquefies at 76
Fahrenheit. However, fractioned coconut oil has now made
it possible to use it as a carrier oil, due to the removal of a
chemical chain, as is done to make camphor white oil.
Fractioned coconut oil is liquid at room temperature,
which has increased its use in aromatherapy. The scent is
minimal therefore not overpowering when adding essential
oils and the shelf life is quite long.

Monolaurin is also acts as an antiviral and antiprotozoal,

which is used by the human body to destroy lipid-coated
viruses such as HIV, herpes, influenza, various pathogenic
bacteria and protozoa such as giardia lamblia.

Fractioned coconut oil has no aroma, is very light,

colorless, non-greasy, and is absorbed easily by the skin
thus making a good massage oil. It also has a very long
shelf, as it does not go rancid, and the price is quite
reasonable. It is good for all skin types, especially dry or
inflamed skin. The high fatty oil content is synergistic,
which nurtures a healthy skin for all skin conditions, as
well as offering healing qualities to the skin. It contains:

Having a cooling affect as it throws of heat, fractioned

coconut oil relieves stress especially where there is mental
fatigue. It balances good and bad cholesterol, and the
saturated fat content of coconut oil has antibacterial
properties that lead to problems with digestion. It contains
less calories than other fatty oils, and is easily digested.

It is effective in speeding up the healing process pertaining

to bruises and cuts, and is effective with throat and urinary
throat infections. Coconut oil is also proactive in
overcoming fungal and yeast infections pertaining to
thrush, candidiasis, athletes foot, and nappy rash.

Coconut oil assists in the absorption of calcium and

magnesium, and prevents any progress in tooth decay. It is
well known for taking care of the hair as a nutritive and as
a conditioner. Regular massage of the scalp with coconut
oil keeps the scalp free from dandruff, and lice. It helps
damaged hair to recuperate. It is a good skin moisturizer,
delays wrinkling and the sagging of skin, and is effective
in the treatment of psoriasis, dermatitis, and eczema.

Vitamin E
Vitamin K
Choline (trace amount)
Iron
Lauric acid
Capric acid
Caproic acid
Caprylic acid
Myristic Acid
Palmitic acid
Stearic acid
Oleic acid
Polyunsaturated Fat: Linoleic Acid
Monounsaturated Fat: Oleic Acid
Poly-phenol: Gallic Acid
Omega-6 fatty acids
Phytosterols

Contraindications
None indicated.
Grapeseed Oil (Vitus vinifera)
Grapeseed oil is a light oil, with a slightly sweet, but nutty
aroma. However, unlike the other oils it is in the main a
solvent extraction so some trace elements of chemicals
might be present. Grapeseed oil cannot be extracted
through cold press because the seeds are small, and the
yield is little. It is probably the cheapest, providing a
lighter alternative to Sweet Almond Oil, which is helpful
for quick massages. It is clear with a touch of yellow
green, and has a shelf life of 6 12 months, and so it
should be kept in a dark colored glass container in a cool
place. It is an all-purpose oil, and if one is looking to
create a slight sheen to the skin, this is the oil to use.

Lauric, capric, and caprilic acids are polyphenols, which

not only give coconuts their distinctive aroma and taste,
but are also antioxidants. These polyphenols are also
present in Virgin Coconut oil.
Therapeutic Value

Antibacterial
Antifungal
Antimicrobial
Antioxidant

It contains:

299

Vitamin C

Vitamin E
Beta-Carotene
Tocopherols
Steroids: Campesterol, B-Sitosterol, Stigmasterol
Linoleic acid omega-6 fatty acid
Oleic acid omega-9 fatty acid
A-linoleic acid (omega-3 fatty acid)
Palmitic acid
Stearic acid
Oligomeric proanthocyanidin
Palmitoleic acid (trace amount)
Icosanoic (trace amount)
Icosenoic (trace amount)
Docosanoic (trace amount)

Astringent
Cicatrisant
Emollient
Hypotensive
Lowers blood cholesterol

Grapeseed oil is useful for those whose skin does not

absorb oil easily without that greasy after effect. It is also
useful for sensitive skins as it contains no allergens. It is
regenerative in nature to the skin, repairing damaged
tissues, and helps to maintain normal cell structure. As a
mild astringent it tones the skin, and helps to ease acne.
Contraindications
Because it is extracted with a solvent, it may cause an
allergic reaction on the skin.

Therapeutic Value
.

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Cedarwood Oil
to a different variety of Cedarwood, for example the
Virginian belongs to a different species, the Juniperus
virginiana, and is toxic!
Cedarwood essential oil is extracted from the leaves and
the twigs. It has a camphor-like quality. A yellow-green
colored oil is extracted from the leaves, and is used as a
vermifuge.
Cedarwood Oil (Thuja occidentalis)

15-year-old tree will yield 50% more essential oil than a

30-year-old tree. When buying cedarwood check for the
variety/specie to ensure you are getting what you want.
The scent is fruity, but with a camphoraceous aroma, and
has a yellow-amber color and is of a viscous consistency.

The Cedarwood Tree is an evergreen conifer which takes

on a distinctive conical shape, and is often used to create
hedges. The tallest of this species, the Thuja occidentalis
can grow up to 70 ft. Known in English as Arbor Vitae, the
Tree of Life, Cedrus, featherleaf cedar, or white/yellow
cedar, it is the native to Pennsylvania, U.S., and Canada
with a preference for damp soil. They have two types of
leaves, which can be awl-shaped, or obtuse, but both have
flattened glands which emit a fragrant turpentine smell.
The tree also bears tiny flowers as well oval shaped cones
that have blunt scales arranged in rows of three. The cones
are male and female, with the male cones being 1mm in
diameter, and the female cones 1-2cm long. The male
cones shed pollen from March April, and the female
cones shed seeds from September October. The old bark
of the tree sheds every year. Unfortunately the Cedarwood
tree is one of the fruits of the earth that has been used for
and is being considered as a candidate for carbon
sequestration/biomass to provide alternative fuel.

The constituent thujone is the main medicinal property of

cedarwood essential oil so ensure that the oil you intend to
buy has been extracted through distillation, and is not
percolated with pure water, the process of which reduces
the thujone content greatly. Thujone in itself contains
ethanol, which if extracted for the purpose of biofuel
would make the oil ineffective therapeutically in many
areas.
Adulteration is common through mixing different varieties
and species of Cedarwood, which compromises the
therapeutic effect.
Chemical Properties

Known as Lebensbaum in German, Livstr in Danish, and

Zerav zapadni in Czech, the Cedarwood of Lebanon
(Cedrus libani), which can be also found in Syria and
Turkey, has had many sentimental poetic and prosaic
pieces written about it and a long sacred history e.g.
Prophet Musa/Moses ordered the Hebrew priests to use the
Lebanon cedar for the purpose of circumcision, and
leprosy and Prophet Ash-iyah/Isaiah described the Cedar of
Lebanon as a metaphor for the world. Cedrus is from the
Arabic Kedron meaning power in English. In certain
indigenous American circles, the wood serves a sacred
function as an incense, to help clear the energy field of a
person. The Ojibwa Indians used the inner bark of the
young twigs to make a soup, and for medicinal purposes.

Cedarwood essential oil contains many properties all of

which have not been identified, and they include:

Today there are many today there are many types of

Cedarwood essential oils, all with their own distinctive
therapeutic qualities depending on which specie the oil is
extracted from, and which part of the tree. One can find the
oils labeled as cedar leaf oil/thuja oil, which is steam
distilled from the fresh leaves of Thuja occidentalis, and is
used as an insect repellent, and in the perfume industry.
There is also Cedarwood Essential oil Atlas (from
Algeria), Cedarwood Essential oil Chinese, Cedarwood
Essential oil Himalayan, Cedarwood Essential oil Texas,
and Cedarwood Essential oil Virginian. Each one belongs

301

A-eudesmol (heart of the wood)

B- eudesmol (heart of the wood)
Occidol (heart of the wood)
Occidiol (heart of the wood)
A-pinene,
D-pinene
A-thujone
Thujone (fresh leaves)
D thujone
Isothujone (fresh leaves)
Fenchone
Borneal
Carvotanacetone (fresh leaves)
Origanol (fresh leaves)
Origanes (fresh leaves)
Myrcen (fresh leaves)
Camphen (fresh leaves)
Isovaleric-acids.
Terpineol
Tannic acid
Sabinene

Camphene
Camphor
Valerianic acid
Bsitosterol
Quercitrin
Rhodoxanthine
Pinipicrin

The astringent properties act to contract blood vessels,

gums, muscle tissues, scalp, and nerves, which has a
cooling effect when ingested. By contracting the skin and
the muscle tissues, one feels more alert and fit. By
contracting the blood vessels, any hemorrhaging that is
taking place is slowed down.
As an emenagogue the oil helps to promote menses in
cases where it has been suppressed, and relieved an
abdominal cramp, feeling of nausea, and fatigue that
ensues with menses. It supports the female reproductive
system by stimulating the pertinent hormones.

The constituent thuja has been found to be a powerful

tonic to the immune system, stimulating antibody
production, and an antiviral. High in sesquiterpenes, they
oxygenate the body at the cellular level, releasing toxins,
and increasing blood circulation. Also, in clinical tests, a
fraction of thujone has been found to stimulate spleen cells
where there has been cell-death.

Indications

Both thujone and fenchone stimulates the heart muscle.

The oil in general has been found to arrest epithelioma and
condylomata cancers, and extreme cases prolong life.

Therapeutic Properties
The oil has a fruity, but with a camphoraceous aroma,
which is refreshing yet calming.

Antiseborrhoeic
Antiseptic
Anti-viral
Astringent
Abortifacient
Diuretic
Emenagogue
Expectorant
Fungicide
Insecticide
Sedative
Spasmolytic
Stimulant
Styptic
Tonic

Sebhorrhoea, wounds
Loose teeth, contract gums
Colds, coughs, severe bacterial infection of the ears,
nose and throat
Fungal infections
Delayed menses, cystitis,
Spermatorrhea
Difficulty urinating
Spasms
Anxiety, nervous tension
Inflammations
Contracts, tissues, skin, and blood vessels
Excess water, salts, fats, toxins
General debility, weak immune system, poor blood
circulation
Acne, greasy skin, growths of the skin and mucous
membrane
Dandruff, hair loss,

Contraindications
Poisonous cases of fatalities have resulted from use of the
oil as abortifacient , but most of the toxicity occurs with
the fresh leaves. The thujone in thuja oil can cause
irritation of the stomach lining, which can lead to spasms,
convulsions, and gastroenteritis. Because of its peristaltic
and abortifacient properties, this oil is not suitable for
pregnant women, and those who suffer from epileptic fits.

The sesquiterpenes in cedarwood essential oil makes it a

powerful decongestant for the lymphatic system, which
makes the oil a good candidate for cellulite reduction. As a
strong diuretic, the oil acts to detoxify the body, removing
uric acid which may cause irritation in cases of
rheumatism, gout and arthritis.

Application

As a stimulant the oil increases blood circulation,

stimulates the lymphatic system into proper action the
affect of which is to bring warmth to the body. It also
stimulates the bile, gastric juices, peristalsis, the heart and
the brain. The oil stimulates the immune system via the
blood platelets, leucocytes, and erythrocytes, and in
clinical tests has been found to do the same with the cells
of the spleen, where damage has occurred.

302

In general 1 to 10 drops depending on the condition, 3

times daily, but avoid excess!
For post-natal catarrh, and nasal polypi, 3 drops in a
hydrastic spray will halt further production of catarrh,
and contract the growth, which will then eventually drop
off.
Applied to senile gangrene leads to drying of the
surface, and overcoming any offensive smell.

Sources:
Burfield, T. The Anatomy of Adulterations. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Cedar, Yellow. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/cedyel41.html
Duke. J. Thuja Occidentalis. http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Thuja_occidentalis.html
Ellingwood, F. Thuga. Thuja Occidentalis. The American Materia Medica, Therapeutics and Pharmacognosy.
http://www.henriettesherbal.com/eclectic/ellingwood/thuja.html
Naser, B et al. Thuja Occidentalis (Arbor Vitae): A Review of its Pharmaceutical, Pharmacological and Clinical Properties.
http://ecam.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/2/1/69

303

Chamomile Oil
produced by Belgium, France, Italy, U.K. and the U.S.
Moroccan chamomile is steam distilled from the wild
growing perennial Ormenis mixta/multicolis. It has a
refreshing aroma with balsamic overtones, and is pale
yellow in color, leaning towards brown. Blue Chamomile
is extracted from the German Chamomile, and is mainly
produced in Eastern Europe, England, Hungary, and Spain;
German Chamomile is cultivated in Argentina, Belgium,
Bulgaria, Egypt, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, Spain,
Russia, and Nepal.
Chamomile Oil (Matricaria chamomilia/ Chamaemelum
nobile/Anthemis nobilis/ Ormenis mixta/multicolis)

Adulteration can occur by the addition of fractions of

chamomile, isobutyl angelate, and biasbolols thus
compromising the therapeutic value. To avoid such a
purchase, it is best to identify a manufacturer/brand whose
quality and standards that are assured. Also they will state
on the label the botanical/Latin name as it is established
the main three types of Chamomile oil are used for
therapeutic purposes. Nobilis and Anthemis have different
shaped scales between each floret. Small flies like to
frequent the Common Chamomile. The medicinal
properties
of
the
wild
Chamomile,
Ormenis
mixta/multicolis is considered to be more powerful.

Chamomile is one of the longest used medicinal plants.

Chamomile was used as a febrifuge by Pharoanic Egypt,
and was regarded as the plants physician, keeping other
plants in good health. In Slovakia, the elders say that one
should bow out of respect when facing a chamomile plant,
because of its long beneficial history as a medicine.
All chamomiles used in aromatherapy come under the
family of the plant kingdom, Compositae. As a
Compositae, as Lavabre puts it, they live in all terrestrial
domains except the far north, seashores, mountain tops,
deserts and swamps, with a preference for open spaces and
a wide expanse of sunlight. In other words, Compositae
enjoys diversity, which is represented by the many species,
and the abundant tiny flowers they produce as a form of
expression.

Chemical Properties
Over 120 bioactive ingredients have been identified in
Chamomile essential oil including:

Anthemis nobilis, is referred to as Common Chamomile,

and is profuse in English gardens, it is a low growing
creeping perennial plant, with tufts of leaves and flowers
that grow a foot high. The roots are fibrous, and the stems
are hairy producing leaves that divide in fine segments.
The flower blooms in the late summer with a ray of white
florets, centered by daisy-like yellow. The flowers of
German Chamomile matricaria chamomilia are 3-4 inches
wide, and are quite similar in appearance to Corn
Chamomile, Anthemis arvensis. German Chamomile has a
strong smell, is more bitter, more medicinal, but is less
aromatic than Common Chamomile.
Chamomile became popular again, due to the bioactive
constituent, chamazulene, which forms in the process of
distillation. German Chamomile (matricaria chamomilia)
essential oil is extracted from the through a process of
steam distillation. It has an inky-blue viscous appearance,
and has a warm herbaceous smell, and contains more
chamazulene.

Chamazulene (highest content in German C.)

Anthemic acid
Glucoside
A-bisabolol (within Chamazulene)
Bisabolol oxide A (within Chamazulene)
Bisabolol oxide B (within Chamazulene)
Bisabolone oxide A (within Chamazulene)
Farnesene (within Chamazulene)
Momile
Caffeic acid (German)
Apigenin (German)
Luteolin (German)
Chamaemeloside (German)
Tachykinin NK1 (German)
Coumarin (German)
N-butyl angelate (Roman)
Bitters
Choline

The constituent chamazulene gives German Chamomile its

distinctive blue color, which along with apigenin, and
luteolin possess anti-inflammatory action. Bisabolol is a
spasmolytic, and alpha-bisabolol acts an antimicrobial, a
mild sedative, an antifungal, and has been found to be
effective against peptic ulcers. In Clinical trials on an

Roman Chamomile is distilled from the dried flowers of

Chamaemelum nobile. It is used in the bodycare industry
for its skin healing properties. It is pale blue-green-yellow,
and liquidy, with a warm, sweet, but fruity herbaceous
smell. Both Roman and Common Chamomile is mainly

304

extract of German Chamomile, it was found to be superior

to hydrocortisone, and the oil was found to have a sedative
effect, but with positive mood, but it is not indicated what
the mental state of the participants were. Withdrawal
symptoms were diminished on participants who were
addicted to morphine, and an opium derivative from
inhaling German Chamomile essential oil. Chamazulene is
also a spamolytic, and an antiallergen.

problems. As a calmative it diminishes nervous

excitability, and sooths pains from neuralgia. It eases
painful joints as in arthritis, and sore muscles, and it is
particularly healing for the skin easing skin complaints like
eczema, psoriasis, inflamed wounds, and burns.
On the subtle level, chamomile eases tensions and
anxieties pertaining to past fears, promotes self realization,
and emotional stability; and is useful for childhood
problems such as diarrhea, colic, convulsions, and
tantrums.

Therapeutic Properties
Chamomile oil is refreshing yet calming, but some are
more fruity like Roman, and others more balsamic like
Moroccan. The therapeutic properties are:

Indications

Analgesic (Common,/Blue/German/Roman/ Moroccan)

Antiallergenic (Blue/German)
Anti-enemic (German/Roman)
Anti-asthmatic (Chamomile Roman/German)
Antibacterial (Common/Blue/German/Roman)
Antidepressant (Common)
Antiseptic (Common)
Anti-inflammatory (Common/German/Moroccan)
Antiphlogistic (Common)
Antiseptic (Chamomile (Blue/Roman)
Calmative(Chamomile (Blue/Roman/ Moroccan)
Carminative (Common/Blue)
Cholagogue (Common/Moroccan/Roman)
Cicatrizant (Blue)
Diuretic
Emollient (Chamomile (Blue)
Emmenagogue (Common/Blue/German/Roman)
Enteric parasite Roman)
Febrifuge (Blue)
Fungicidal (Blue/German)
Hepatic (Common/Blue/Moroccan/German/Roman)
Nervine (Blue/German/Roman/ Moroccan)
Relaxant (Chamomile Roman)
Skin infections (Chamomile (Blue)
Spasmolytic
(Common/Blue/German/
Moroccan/Roman)
Stimulant immune system (German/Roman)
Stomachic (Common/Blue/Morrocan/German/Roman)
Sudorific (Blue)
Tonic (Common)
Vermifuge (Common/Blue)
Vulnerary (Common/Blue)

Acne (Blue/Roman)
Arthritis (Blue/Roman)
Asthma (Blue)
Burns (Blue)
Capillaries, broken (Blue)
Colic (Blue)
Cuts (Blue)
Dyspepsia (Blue)
Eczema (Blue/Roman)
Hair conditioner blonds (Roman)
Insect bites (Roman)
Insect bites (Blue)
Insomnia (Moroccan/Roman)
Irritability (Moroccan)
Headaches (Blue/Moroccan/Roman)
Menses, painful/irregular/excessive loss of blood
(German/Moroccan)
Migraine (Moroccan)
Muscular pain/spasms (Blue/Roman)
Nausea (Blue)
Neuralgia (Blue)
Nervous tension (Blue)
Rashes (Blue/Roman)
Rheumatism (Blue)
Self development anger, oversensitivity, realization,
tantrums (Roman)
Sensitive skin (Moroccan/Roman)
Stress (Blue)
Toothache (Roman)
Wounds (Roman)

Contraindications
Blue Chamomile can cause dermatitis and anaphylaxis in
some individuals, and all chamomiles should not be used
by pregnant women, and those with epilepsy due to the
anti-spasmic properties. On the level of Vibrational
healing, it is contraindicated in the daytime for those who
are depressed, but will ease the depression if taken before
sleeping. Chamomile in general has been found to have a
negative interaction in chemotherapy, and with drugs:
Cisplatin, Cyclophosphamide, Docetaxel, Fluorouracil,
Methotrexate, Paclitaxel.

As a stomachic, the oil improves the digestion, and eases

atonic dyspepsia by increasing the digestive process. As a
diuretic, the oil promotes the flow of urine, which helps to
relieve fluid retention, expel excess fat, water and toxins,
while relieving any renal inflammation, and cystitis, as an
anti-inflammatory.
The oil balances the female hormones in cases of delayed,
suppressed or painful menses, and relieve menopausal

305

Application

It can be used in Vapour Therapy for the treatment of

respiratory tract infections/irritations, nervous tensions,
and inflammatory disorders
5 drops can be added to a bath before adding water for
ano-genital inflammations, inflammatory, allergies,
anorexia, addiction, insomnia, arthritis, muscular aches
and pains, and menopause.

It can be added to Carrier Oils, to use for massage in

the case of gastrointestinal spasms, and rheumatism.
It can be added to water as a dental wash for dental
abscesses, and tonsillitis.

Sources:
Burfield, T. The Anatomy of Adulterations. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Chamomile, Common. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/chammo49.html
Chamomile. http://www.drugs.com/npp/chamomile.html
Chamaemelum Nobile.
http://www.sigmaaldrich.com/life-science/nutrition-research/learning-center/plant-profiler/chamaemelum-nobile.html
Lavabre, M. Aromatehrapy Workbook. Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990.
Price, S. Practical Aromatherapy. Thorsons Publ. 1987.

306

Cinnamon Oil
value. Sometimes, other varieties of cinnamon are added
like Cassia oil, or with pure cinnamon leaf oil is replaced
by clove oil, bay oil, synthetic eugenol, synthetic
cinnamaldehyde or even petroleum based derivatives, so
watch out for brand name, consistency (it should watery),
color, and aroma! As sometimes cinnamon bark essential
oil and cinnamon leaf essential oil are sold separately, look
out for a richer scent for the bark oil, which has a more
brown pigmentation, whilst the leaf oil is sharper in smell,
and a pale yellow in color.
Chemical Properties
Cinnamon essential oil includes:

Cinnamon Oil (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

The bark and leaves of the Cinnamon Tree is one of the

longest used medicinal and culinary plants stretching back
into antiquity. Known as qurfa in Arabic, kanela in
Basque, yuhk gwai in Cantonese, Anoater dua in Fante,
Darusita in Sanskrit, and dar chini in Farsi. The Queen of
Sheba gave cinnamon to King Solomon. The ancient
Greeks used cinnamon oil as an incense in their temples,
while ancient Egyptians used the oil for massage of the
feet, and for excessive bile.
The evergreen Cinnamon Tree is of the Lauraceae family
of the plant kingdom, the same as Bay Leaf, and Camphor.
Native to Sri Lanka, southwest India, and the Caribbean, it
grows best in sand with a little bio-matter where there is
shelter, constant rain, heat with a stable temperature. It
used to be wild up until the late 1700s, but can grow up to
30 feet high as a cultivated tree. The tree bears a thick
bark, strong branches, and green-orange speckled young
shoots, bearing the typical leaves of a laurel tree, which
become almost leathery when mature. The tree is adorned
by small white mauve flowers that bear an oval shaped
fruit. The characteristic curling of the cinnamon quill
occurs while the bark is drying.
It is cultivated for commercial use mainly by Africa,
Brazil, India, Jamaica, Madagascar, Mauritius, Vietnam,
but the quality most esteemed in aromatherapy is from Sri
Lanka. The oil has a warm, earthy but spicy aroma with an
undertone of camphor. It is almost clear (yellow-brown),
but if distilled purely from the leaves the oil is pale yellow
in color with an odor of musk.

Benzyl benzoate
Cinnamaldehyde
Trans-cinnamic acid
Eugenol
Hydroxycinnamaldehyde
O-methoxycinnamaldehyde
Limonene
Linalool (leaf)
Safrol (leaf)
A-terpinol
Oliogomeric procyanidins
Phellandrene
Furfurol (bark)
Cymeme (bark)
Coumarin
Vitamins A and C
Thiamine
Manganese
Phosphorus
Sodium
Riboflavin
Potassium
Niacin
Iron
Calcium

The constituent Cinnamaldehyde/cinnamic aldehyde acts

as an antiseptic, and a stimulant, but it is an irritant to the
skin. Research at the National Taiwan University found
that cinnamaldehyde is also proactive in the killing of
mosquito larvae. Research in the Netherlands at the
University of Groningen found cinnamon oil effective in
preventing the bacteria staphylococcus epidermidis from
forming a film on medical devices.

Adulteration is not uncommon with cinnamon essential oil.

Sometimes clove leaf oil, fractions of cinnamon oil:
eugenol, cinnamaldehyde are added, which changes the
balance of natures chemistry thus affecting the therapeutic

Therapeutic Properties

307

Cinnamon essential oil has an uplifting heartening aroma.

The therapeutic properties identified so far are:

Analgesic
Anthelmintic
Antibiotic
Antiseptic (bark, leaf)
Aphrodisiac (impotence)
Carminative
Cordial
Emmenagogue
Insecticide
Spasmolytic
Stimulant (bark)
Stomachic
Tonic
Vermifuge

Colic, diarrhea, flatulence, worms

Coughs, respiratory infections
Tones the skin, lice, scabies
Arthritis, rheumatism
Impotence
Depression, nervous exhaustion, stress, slowness in
processing tasks
Sluggish glandular system, poor blood circulation,
sluggish digestive system
Disinfects the air, mosquito repellent (kills larvae)

Contraindications
The leaf oil is less toxic than the bark oil, but taken in high
doses, the oil stimulates contractions in labor, is an irritant
to the skin and mucous membrane, and can cause
convulsions. As an emmenagogue it should avoided by
pregnant women, and as a spasmolytic it should be
avoided by those on medication for epilepsy.

Cinnamon oils have been used for several years in dental

medications, and as a germicidal agent in toothpaste. As a
stimulant, both the oil of the bark, and the leaf helps to
maintain healthy blood circulation, heart, digestive,
menstrual, and nervous system. It is also a stimulant the
brain as discovered by the 2004 research carried out by Dr.
P Zoladz of the Wheeling Jesuit University, U.S. boosting
brain activity, as well as relieving nervous tension and
short term memory loss, and that just smelling cinnamon
enhances cognitive processing of the participants of the
study. As a stomachic, the oil improves the digestion, and
eases atonic dyspepsia by increasing the digestive process.
As a carminative the oil is effective in the treatment of
diarrhea. In Vibrational medicines/energy-based medical
systems like Ayruvedic medicine, and traditional Chinese
medicine, the warmer qualities are noted in the treatment
of ailments like colds, and flu.

Application

It can be used in Vapour Therapy for the treatment of

respiratory tract infections/irritations, nervous tensions,
inflammatory disorders, chills, improved cognition,
disinfect the air, as an air freshener.
8 drops can be added to a bath before adding water for
impotence, inflammatory, depression, arthritis,
muscular aches and pains, delayed menses.
It can be added to a carrier oil, to use for massage in
the case of gastrointestinal spasms, and rheumatism,
poor blood circulation, sluggish glandular system.
It can be added to water as a dental wash for dental
abscesses, and throat infections.
It can be added to fresh ginger tea for colds and flu.

Indications

Sources:
Burfield, T. The Anatomy of Adulterations. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Price, S. Practical Aromatherapy. Thorsons Publ. 1987.
Ceylon Cinnamon. http://www.uni-graz.at/~katzer/engl/Cinn_zey.html
Cinnamon. http://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/c/cinnam69.html
Cinnamon http://www.rz.uni-karlsruhe.de
Cinnamon. http://www.drugs.com/npp/cinnamon.html
Felter, H. W. and Lloyd, J.U. Cinnamomum Oleum. Kings American Dispensatory.
http://www.henriettesherbal.com/eclectic/kings/cinnamomum_oleu.html
Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990.
Nuryastuti, T, et al. Effect of Cinnamon Oil on icaA Expression and Biofilm Formation by Staphylococcus epidermidis
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2772433/

308

Cade Oil
Adulteration occurs as a result of adding pine, birch, petrol
or tar limiting the use of cade oil as these adulterations
prevent possible use on the skin.
Chemical Properties
Cade essential oil contains over 60 bioactive ingredients,
which includes:

Cade Oil (Juniperus oxycedrus)

Not to be confused with the common Juniperus cummunis

from which the eatable juniper berries come from,
Juniperus oxycedrus has many sub-species. The habitat of
Juniperus oxycedrus are coastal sandy hills, scrubs and
hilly forests. Known as cade/prickly/red berry juniper,
zeder wacholder (German), cedre piquant (French),
Anoater dua in Fante, Darusita in Sanskrit, dar chini in
Farsi, aaraar, taga in Arabic, and taqqa in Berber. Ancient
Egyptians used Cade oil for burial ceremonies. In Europe,
it was widely used to fight deadly infections like typhoid
and cholera
In the middle of the 19th century Cade oil was used in
France to treat all forms of skin irritation including
dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema. It was also used for
horses to treat ulcers, scabies, worms and parasites.
This perennial evergreen conifer is of the Cupressaceae
family of the plant kingdom, although there are 28 species
of Juniperus. It varies in size from a low shrub to a tree
depending on where it grows. Bearing tiny narrow prickly
leaves, which are greener on the underside, it survives well
during a drought leaving little surface area from which
moisture can escape from, and this gives an indication in
healthcare. The male plant is more likely to bear only
flowers. The flowers turn to round cones, which are
yellow, and round, but then form fruits that grow in
clusters as red berries which darken as they ripen over a
period of 2 years.

A-pinene (leaf)
Dihydrochloride
Manoyl oxide (leaf)
A-pinene (unripe berries)
Myrcene
Limonene (unripe berries)
Germacrene D/ -muurolene (unripe berries).
Creosol
Guaiacol
Cadinene
Terpenes
Calamenene
Geranyl acetone
13-epimanoyl oxide
Phellandrene
Carene
Eudesma
Cymene
Muurolene
Occidentalol
Bifloratriene
Kaurene
Abietadiene

Cade essential oil is rich in sesquiterpenes e.g cardinene,

and phenols e.g. cresol, and guaiacol. Sesquiterpenes are
known for their bioactive efficacy as anti-tumors, antileukaemic, and as antimicrobial as well as being effective
in the case of skin allergies. Phenols are antioxidants,
which are important in preventing cell deterioration
through the process of oxidization. The specific role of
phenols are its antimicrobial activity. When a German
research team investigated the Pharaonic secret of
mummification in 2003, and how that process has lasted
for thousands of years. There was a difference of opinion
as to whether the vital ingredient was present in juniper, or
cedarwood. That vital ingredient was guaiacol, which is a
juniperus oxycedrus phenol.

The oil is extracted by means of steam distillation from

young twigs, and the wood of mature plants. The oil has a
resinous quality, is reddish-dark brown in color, and has a
smoky smell, but freshly produced oil is clear to pale
yellow. Rectified Cade Oil is used as a fragrance in soaps,
detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes. It is cultivated
for commercial purposes in South France

Therapeutic Properties
Cade essential oil has an earthy smokey aroma. The
therapeutic properties identified so far are:

309

Abortifacient
Analgesic
Anti-dandruff
Antiseptic
Anti-parasitic
Antimicrobial
Insecticide
Vulnerary

When unadulterated the essential oil is good for hair loss,

dadruff, hair weakened by dyeing and bleaching, and skin
eruptions.
Contraindications
Cade essential oil is an extreme irritant if it is adulterated.
As an abortifacient it should not be used during pregnancy
or by those with kidney disease or other inflammatory
conditions. Large amounts of this oil can have a reverse
effect, causing retention, and it is considered to be a
carcinogenic, and a neurotoxic.

Cade can be found in hair products due to its ability to

purify and correct imbalances, as well as in face and hand
care products that protect those parts of the body from the
wind and the sun. As a vermifuge Cade oil kills worms,
and as an antibacterial, anti-fungal, bitter almond oil kills
bacterial and fungal infections.

Application
The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Cade essential oil can be applied to the skin
in cases of:

Indications

Diabetes.
Diarrhea, Peptic ulcer disease
High blood pressure.
Bronchitis, Pneumonia.
Itching, Psoriasis, Eczema, Skin infections caused by
parasites, Wounds
Dandruff, Hair loss.

In aromatherapy, Cade essential oil is more likely to be

used as an ingredient of a linament/ointment for chronic
skin cases including parasitic infections. In Aromatherapy
Cade essential oil is used to treat dry and problematic skin.
.

Psoriasis.
Eczema.
Skin infections caused by parasites.
Wounds.
Scalp conditions.
Dandruff.
Hair loss.
Cancers.
Other

conditions

Sources:
Adams, R. P. The Leaf Essential Oils and Taxonomy of Juniperus oxycedrus L. subsp. Oxycedrus. Badia, and subsp.
Macrocarpa. J. Essent. Oil Res., 11, 167 172 Mar/Apr. 1999
Burfield, T. The Anatomy of Adulterations. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Cade (Juniperus Oxycedrus Cupressaceae).
Elaissi, M et al. Leaf Oil of Juniperus oxycedrus L. (Cupressaceae) Harvested in Northern Tunisia: Composition and Intraspecific Variability. Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie, Facult de Pharmacie, Tunisia. PMID: 20491081
Juniperus oxycedrus.http://www.conifers.org/cu/Juniperus_oxycedrus.php
Juniperus oxycedrus Oleum.http://www.henriettesherbal.com/eclectic/usdisp/juniperus-oxyc_oleu.html
Medini, H. Comparison of the Antimicrobial Activity and the Essential Oil Composition of Juniperus oxycedrus SUBSP
macrocarpa and Juniperus oxycedrus SUBSP. Rufescens Obtained By Hydrodistillation and Supercritical Carbon Extraction
Methods. Chemistry of Natural Compounds, Vol. 45, No. 5, 2009
Sophiae, F. Secret of Mummy Preservation. http://www.newsfinder.org/site/more/secret_of_mummy_preservation/

310

Citronella Oil
Citronella is the steam distilled oil of the dried
leaves/grass. The essential oil is a pale-yellow in color, and
has been added to soaps and perfumes as an insect
repellent. The Java variety tends to be clear pale yellow
with a characteristic aroma of citronella, and the Sri Lanka
variety a pale yellow to yellowish brown in color with a
strong lemon aroma. When buying Citronella essential oil,
make sure that the label states that it is 100% pure essential
oil in order to avoid the adulterated oil. The essential oil
can be adulterated by adding aldehydes and monoterpene
alcohols, dipentine and citronella terpenes. Labels stating
Real Essential Oil are a form adulteration in that only
10% of the essential oil is present!
Chemical Properties

Citronella Oil (Cymbopogon nardus)

Citronella essential oil contains over 80 bioactive

ingredients, which includes:

When we think of scented oils, what comes to mind are

flowers, but not so for the essential oil of Citronella.
Citronella belongs to a range of grasses from which
aromatic oils have been extracted from pre-Christian
times, many of which are native to the Indian subcontinent.
When a pharaonic tomb dating back 2000 years was
opened in the smell was still evident. Extracted and used
for thousands of years, the West became familiar with
them before the birth of Prophet Issa/Jesus. Both
Citronella Cymbopogon nardus, and Lemon Grass
Cymbopogon citrates are still popular today. The plant was
introduced to Guatemala and Honduras in the early 20 th
century, where it is still harvested by hand, as cutting
stimulates new growth, ready for harvesting within only 3
months!

Cymbopogon nardus, is a vascular plant of the grass

family Poaceae, of the plant kingdom, that has tall narrow
blades of leaf that grow in clumps. It can be found in a
variety of growing circumstances and climates, including
tropical Africa, Burma, the Caribbean, India, Java, Kenya,
Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and the U.S. They are perennial
grasses, which grow easily from seed to the point that
Cymbopogon nardus has become quite invasive in
rangelands of Uganda, East Africa. As such it has been
regarded as a weed by farmers.

Citronellol
Citronellic acid
Citronellyl acetate
Geraniol (80+%)
Geranyl acetate (Sri Lankan/Ceylon)
Methyl isoeugenol (Sri Lankan/Ceylon)
Elemol (Java)
Sesquiterpene alcohols (Java)
Camphene
Beta-cubebene
Limonene bourbonene
L-borneol
Nerol

Citronella essential oil has been proven to be a strong

antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agent. In some cases
it is even more effective than penicillin, but with no side
effects! Citronellol has proven to be effective as an
antihistamine,
antiseptic,
antibacterial,
antifungal,
preventative against cancer, and effective as a sedative.
Citronellic kills intestinal parasites.
Therapeutic Properties

Because of the level of safety recognized by the U.S. Food

and Drugs Administration, Citronella oil is used as food
flavoring. The Council of Europe have positioned the Java
variety as having an element of concern safety-wise, and a
lower level of concern over the Sri Lankan variety.

Citronella essential oil has a distinctive uplifting citrus

aroma. The therapeutic properties identified so far are:

Known as Tussocky Guinea Grass in Uganda, Lenabatu in

Sri Lanka, the varieties from Java and Sri Lanka are the
most favored in aromatherapy, with Java considered to be
superior in quality. Both Java and Sri Lanka are the main
suppliers globally.

311

Antibacterial
Antidepressant
Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Cordial/cardiotonic
Deodorant

Diaphoretic
Diuretic
Febrifuge
Fungicidal
Stimulant
Stomachic
Tonic (whole body)
Vermifuge

Indications
The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Citronella essential oil can be used for:

Citronella has been used in Brazilian traditional medicine

as an anxiolytic, analgesic, and as an anticonvulsant. The
essential oil clears the mind and refreshes any room whilst
acting as an insect repellant, antibacterial, and as an
antifungal. It softens the skin, and is good for those with
oily skin.

Colds, flu, infections

Deodorant, excessive perspiration, smelly feet
Oily skin, black spots, acne, and skin pigmentation,
skin cleanser
Animal fleas
Spasms, rheumatism,
Mild depression, insomnia,

Application

Contraindications

The methyl eugenol content in Java and Sri Lankan/Ceylon

varieties has proven to be a carcinogen in rats and mice,
though whether the effect on humans is the same is
unclear. Regardless, the amount of methyl eugenol present
in foods like nutmeg, basil, baked goods etc, is much more
than the amount present in Citronella/Cymbopogon nardus.
However, as a whole body tonic, including as a
cardiotonic, those with heart problems should err on the
side of caution, because citronella essential oil can speed
up the heart rate.

As a vaporizer/burner to lift the spirits, refresh a room,

insect repellent,
A head steam bath head and chest infections
Added to a natural cream/lotion (e.g. shea/kariite,
cocoa butter) to soften the skin, to reduce excessive
perspiration, sweaty feet, as a mosquito repellent
Added to bath water softens the skin, head cold
infections, refresher, uplifts the spirit, inflammations
Added to water for household cleaning
Added to a diffuser as a deodorant
Massage wet skin first, massage in a circular motion,
then pat dry.

Sources:
Burfield, T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils. http://www.naha.org/articles/adulteration_1.htm
Citronella Oil.http://www.drugs.com/npp/citronella-oil.html
Lemon Grass. http://www.planetbotanic.ca/fact_sheets/lemon_grass_fs.htm
Safety Summary of Citronella Oil as a Flavoring Agent. http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/securit/facts-faits/citron-eng.php

312

Emergency First Aid Kit

Citronella
Mosquitoes Repels
Eucalyptus
Infection It is a good antiviral, and an antibacterial.
Insects Repels

Aromatherapy: Emergency First Aid Kit

Respiration It helps to improve breathing, and is a good

decongestant for the respiratory tract, and helps to relieve
asthma.

When one thinks about the typical things that go in a first

aid kit, there are some items that one would prefer not to
be reliant on especially if one is predisposed to natural
remedies. Focusing on aromatherapy, here are some
essential oils that will come in handy bearing in mind the
predispositions and sensibilities of family members.
However, take care that the essential oils are therapeutic
grade, i.e. not adulterated and pure e.g. lavandin is sold as
lavender in the U.S.

Fennel
Nursing Helps to stimulate lactation
Frankincense
Inflammation Applied to the skin, it acts as a good antiinflammatory

One should include:

Cotton, gauze, bandages, scissors, tweezers,

thermometer, eye droppers.
Oils of an antiseptic nature should be diluted in a
Carrier oil like sweet almond, grape seed and kept in
dark glassed bottles away from sunlight.
Replace items that have been used, and refresh the
content every 18 months.

Emotions It helps to balance the emotions. It is uplifting

yet relaxing. Supports the crown chakra.
Respiration It helps to relieve asthma, and coughs.
Immunity It stimulates the immune system, and is good
for shortening the length of colds and respiratory
infections.

Black Seed Oil

Geranium
Convalescence Helps to speed up the recovery process.

Burns Helps to relieve burns, and stimulate

cell/tissue/nerve growth in the case of damaged/loss of
skin

Infection It is a powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and

antiseptic great for cleaning wounds, and eliminating any
systemic infection

Blood Stems haemorrhaging

Immunity It stimulates the immune system, and helps

relieve the body of accumulated toxins/fluids

Emotions Eases feelings of depression, nervous tension,

and any emotional extremes.

Nervous System acts as a stimulant

Kidneys It stimulates the kidneys

Skin The skin is a part of the immune system which

might react to any trauma/stress. This oil is good for
relieving and emotional skin reactions like psoriasis,
eczema, and dermatitis.

Menses It eases menopausal symptoms, and regulates

hormones in general.
Mosquitoes Repels

Cedarwood
German Chamomile
Emotions Eases feelings of anxiety

Arthritis Helps to relieve the discomfort .

Infections Helps to relieve urinary tract infections like

cystitis

Dentition Eases teething, and toothache.

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Dermatitis For those with a skin that reacts to emotional

upsets including eczema, abscesses
Myrrh
Emotions Eases feelings of anger.
Respiration Helps to reduce catarrh, and relieve coughs.
Head Relieves headaches and migraines.
Energy Supports the crown chakra.
Inflammation Helps to reduce inflammation around
joints.

Orange Blossom/Neroli

Menses It balances any problems with delayed or painful

periods, and eases menopausal symptoms.

Emotions It is a good antidepressant leaving one feeling

more positive, and for relieving hysteria.

Lavender

Stomach Is good for relieving flatulence when one has

no choice but to eat what is available, and is good for
stemming diarrhoea when one cannot afford to lose more
bodily fluids. A drop added to tea is helpful in the case of
diarrhoea and flatulence.

Cuts It is an antiseptic and antibacterial that is good for

cuts and wounds
Emotions Eases feelings of depression, and nervous
tension

Skin care It helps to tone the skin when placed under

stress, and reduce scarring.

Head Relieves headaches, and migraines.

Peppermint
Heart Eases palpitations
Head Relieves headaches, and migraines.
Immune system It stimulates the immune system which
can be compromised by stress and/or reaction to injury

Liver Strengthens the liver

Infections Fleas dont like lavender!

Mind Eases mental fatigue

Inflammation It is an anti-inflammatory therefore

reducing inflammation that may occur from internal
wounds If one cannot burn the oil as in Vapour Therapy by
placing it on the skin of the affected area, the skin will pass
the lavender into the blood stream via the skin.

Respiration It helps to clear blocked sinuses, relieving

the feeling of nausea, and motion sickness as well as to
awake from fainting.

Mind It is a stimulant to the mind, yet, relaxing. A

smudge on the forehead will help someone to sleep.

Rose

Temperature Reduces fever

Emotions Eases emotional shock, and grief

Wounds Promotes tissue regeneration, and speeds up
the healing of wounds minimizing scarring , especially
acid burns.

Energy Supports the heart chakra

Rosemary

Lemon
Memory Strengthens memory

Gallbladder Relieves congestion.

Pain It helps to relieve pain, and improve circulation.

Hypertension Good for reducing high blood pressure

Respiration Helps to relieve bronchitis

Wounds As a powerful anti-bacterial and astringent it

helps to clean and close wounds, which in doing so
reduces the loss of blood, by using it as a compress.
Source:

Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990.

314

Eruca Rocket Oil

proven to be quite adaptive, liking light sandy, medium,
heavy clay, and well drained soils.
It reaches out of the soil with stiff hairy branches bearing
dandelion-like leaves on the lower level appearing more
stalked than those on the upper level. The large, but few
flowers compensate for its unappealing appearance, which
can range in color from pale yellow to white, bearing deep
violet veins. The fruits are cylindrical in shape, and the
ovoid seeds are yellowish brown to reddish brown. Eruca
likes full sun from midday in the summer months.
Eruca sativa is grown commercially in Portugal, which
exports it to Northern European countries. When buying
eruca sativa essential oil, look out for that distinctive
pungent, yet aromatic aroma, which increases with the age
of the leaf. It does not exactly have a pleasant smell, so if
one has a pleasant aroma in mind, this is not the essential
oil to obtain. Hence, the young leaves are preferred, which
tend to smell more like watercress.

Eruca Rocket Oil (Eruca Sativa)

Popularly known as Rocket in English, the name goes

back to its Latin origin eruca which means cabbage as in
the same family of the plant kingdom that eruca sativa
belongs to, the Brassicaceae. It is commonly known as
True Rocket, Rocket Salada, Arugula, and Roquette or
White Pepper (due to the peppery flavor of the leaves.

Chemical Properties
Eruca sativa essential oil contains over 67 compounds,
which includes:

In the Mediterranean and elsewhere, the leaves, and

sometimes the flowers have been used as a salad and in
soups. In the Mediterranean, it has been used, and is still
used as a potent aphrodisiac in the footsteps of the ancient
Greeks who used the oil from the seed as well as the
leaves. In the Middle East, the leaves have a stronger taste
known as gargeer it is served with meat.

In industry, Eruca seed oil is used as alternative mineral oil

as a lubricant, in soap-making, in massage, medicines,
cooking and salad oils. The cake from the production of
the oil is used for cattle feed, and as mulch in manure. The
fraction high erucic acid is added to polythene and
polypropylene to reduce surface friction, and in printing
inks.
Known as Ta mira in Urdu, Jamba oil in Hind, Eruca
sativa is grown mainly for the oil in both Pakistan and
Northern India. Eruca sativa is a low growing annual plant
that anchors into the earth with its slender roots; invasive,
its weed-like nature covers the ground quite quickly,
preventing other weeds from growing. Known for its high
tolerance to drought, it is native to Asia and the
Mediterranean, it has become naturalized in undisturbed
parts Western and Northern Europe like waste lands, on
the shoulder of roads, and fallow fields. The plant has

Isothiocyanates (the distinctive ingredient over other

varieties)
4-Methylthiobutyl isothiocyanate
5-Methylthiopentyl isothiocyanate
Sulphur
Cis-3-hexen-1-ol
cis-3-hexenyl butanoate
cis-3-hexenyl 2-methylbutanoate
C22:1 (cis-13-docosenoic acid (erucic acid/ erucamide)
5-methylthiopentanenitrile
Butane, Hexane, Octane, Nonane
Palmitic acid
Oleic fatty acid
Linolenic fatty acid
Kaempferol
Quercetin
Isorhamnetin
Vitamins C, A, K and P
Iron
Potassium
Copper
Manganese

Hydrogenated Erucamide is used in cosmetics as an

emollient , Methylsulphinylbutyl isothiocyanate is an
glucosinolate which induces enzymes which have
anticancer activity. Research by Dr. Syed Rafatullah,
Saudi Arabia, identified the anti gastric ulcer properties of

315

Eruca sativa, and research at the Institute of Botany,

Pakistan, discovered an extract of Eruca seed oil to be a
good antifungal agent against Spadicoides stoveri, and
Paecilomyces variotii, and a good antibacterial agent
against Enterobacter agglumerans and Hafnia alvei.

massaging the oil onto the scalp and hair, and leaving the
oil in for up to 2 hours before shampooing.
Contraindications
It can cause burning sensation on the skin.

Therapeutic Properties
Indications

The therapeutic properties identified so far are:

The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Drops of no more than 5 should be used for:

Antimicrobial
Anticancer
Antiscorbutic
Aphrodisiac
Diuretic
Rubifacient
Stimulant
Stomachic

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

The stimulant property uplifts the body as a whole,

including the mind, acting as a tonic to hair, the sexual
organs, and the liver in particular . The essential oil is
effective in mild bacterial and fungal infections, and being
rich in Vitamin C counteracts scurvy. The oil acts on the
kidneys promoting the flow of urine, and counters any
irritation of the skin. The Vitamin K content helps to
strengthen bones, and promote bone growth.

Alopecia,
Scurvy
Coughs
Low Libido
Ulcers
Poor indigestion, bacterial and fungal infections
Sluggish liver, metabolism, digestive system
Water retention

Application

Eruca sativa essential oil from the seeds has been used in
some South Asian countries for head lice, and dandruff
though be it very irritating to the scalp. This is done by
Sources:

A head steam bath head and chest infections

Added to bath water softens the skin, head cold
infections,
Added to water for household cleaning
Massage wet skin first, massage in a circular motion,
then pat dry.

Alqasoumi S, et al Eruca Sativa : A Salad Herb with Potential Gastric Anti-ulcer Activity. World Journal of
Gastroenterology 2009; 15(16): 1958-1965
Bennett, R.N. et al. Ontogenic Profiling of Glucosinolates, Flavonoids, and Other Secondary Metabolites in Eruca sativa
(Salad Rocket), Diplotaxis erucoides (Wall Rocket), Diplotaxis tenuifolia (Wild Rocket), and Bunias orientalis (Turkish
Rocket). http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf052756t
Eruca (Rocket. http://www.ienica.net/crops/eruca.pdf
Grubben. G. Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 2: Vegetables. PROTA. Netherlands. 2004.
Rani, I, et al. Antimicrobial Potential of Seed Extract of Eruca Sativa. Institute of Botany. University of Sindh Jamshoro,
Pakistan. Pak. J. Bot., 42(4): 2949-2953, 2010.
Rocket (Eruca Sativa L.). http://www.uni-graz.at/~katzer/engl/Eruc_sat.html

316

Eucalyptus Oil
shape, as the tree matures the leaves become more
elongated, narrow, yellow, and surround creamy white
fragrant flowers. The name Eucalyptus is actually a Greek
word meaning well cover(ed) referring to the buds
which are well covered by a cone that opens as the flowers
bloom.
The Eucalyptus tree can now be found in many countries
including Africa, the Americas, China, Europe, the Indian
subcontinent, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. The
essential oil is extracted from fresh or partially dried
leaves, and twigs through a process of steam distillation,
which first occurred in Australia in the mid-19th century.
The British Pharmacopeia approved the use of the oil in
1885. Now the essential oil is mainly produced in Brazil,
California, China, Spain, Portugal, and Russia. Spain,
However, Eucalyptus globulus is the favored one for its
medicinal properties., and is the variety that exudes a blue
gum rich in tannins.

Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus globulus)

Native to Australia there are over 700 varieties of the

eucalyptus tree a few number of which can be found in
Indonesia, New Guinea, the Philippines, and Taiwan. All
belonging to the myrtle family, he native/aboriginal names
vary according to clan and variety for example, Myrtaceae,
the Nyungar clan word for Eucalyptus marginata is
jarrah, in south-western Australia, the Eucalyptus
diversicolor is known as karri, in Western Australia,
marri for Eucalyptus calophylla, and ballook/kino
refers to Eucalyptus globulus. The indigenous-aboriginal
name mallee is actually a name for a growth formation
rather than a particular variety of Eucalyptus which arises
from growth under stress like shortage of water, bush fires,
termites or from felling. Mallee is when many leaves grow
from underground branch/trunk.

When buying look for almost colorless oil, which not only
yellows with age, but its therapeutic astringent quality
increases with age. The smell should be camphor-like,
which has a piercing aroma with a slight scent of wood. In
general one can expect to find unadulterated eucalyptus
essential oil as the cost is quite low, however there is on
the market adulterated eucalyptus oil added to which is
synthetic cineole.
Chemical Properties
Some of the constituents of Eucalyptus essential oil are:

Different varieties have served different functions amongst

the indigenous-aborigines as a tonic for the stomach, and
for fevers from the peppermint variety, the gum mixed
with water for diarrhea, as an antiseptic, and as an
astringent for wounds for example. It is probably from the
practice of burning the leaves for fevers that the European
colonizers learnt to burn the leaves to help ease asthmatic
conditions. It was in the 19th century that Eucalyptus was
introduced to Europe. In Sicily, Eucalyptus has been used
against malaria.

The many varieties can be found in the form of shrubs as

well as large trees, which can grow to a height of 100m.
This fast growing tree has strong thick roots, which befits
its natural habitat as they are capable of absorbing large
amounts of water to the extent that they can dry out a
marshland, and turn swamps into rich agricultural land.
The leaves are populated by oil secreting glands only
visible when held up to the light. The leaves of the young
tree of Eucalyptus globulus are bluish green, ovular in

317

Aromadendrene (greater in Eucalyptus globulus/blue

gum eucalyptus)
Camphene (Eucalyptus dives /peppermint eucalyptus)
Cineol/ Eucalyptol (greater in Eucalyptus globulus/blue
gum eucalyptus)
Citronellal (greater in Eucalyptus dives /peppermint
eucalyptus)
Citronellol (greater in Eucalyptus dives /peppermint
eucalyptus)
Cymene (greater in Eucalyptus globulus/blue gum
eucalyptus)
Epiglobulol
Geraniol (greater in Eucalyptus dives /peppermint
eucalyptus)
Globulol
Limonene (greater in Eucalyptus globulus/blue gum
eucalyptus)
Phellandrene (greater in Eucalyptus globulus/blue gum
eucalyptus)
Pinene (greater in Eucalyptus dives /peppermint
eucalyptus)
Piperitone (Eucalyptus dives /peppermint eucalyptus)

Terpinene (greater in Eucalyptus globulus/blue gum

eucalyptus)
Thujene (Eucalyptus dives /peppermint eucalyptus)

Through the medical research of German doctors in the

late 19th century, eucalyptus was prescribed for cases of
bronchitis, asthma, catarrh, coughs, colds and flu.
Aromatherapist Dr. Jean Valnet applied the leaves as an
infusion in cases of non-insulin dependent diabetes.
Eucalyptus is famous for its ability to reduce mucous, and
has a special affinity with the respiratory tract. In fact, the
oil is more potent than herbal preparations pertaining to the
respiratory tract. Interestingly, suppressed emotions are
expressed physically on the first level through the lungs
which reflect the other main therapeutic affinity of
Eucalyptus i.e. the mind-body connection. Eucalyptus is
also affective in and nervous or mental tensions. As a
stimulant, Eucalyptus is effective in supporting the
enzymes in the liver concerning detoxification.

Eucalyptol is effective as an expectorant, decongestant, for

pain relief, to reduce/eliminate coughs, and as a potent
antibacterial. Cineol is a powerful germicide, but is most
effective working as part of the whole rather than apart as
is the tendency of modern Western allopathic medicine. In
the research work of Dr. Javad Safaei-Ghomi of the
Essential Oils Research Institute, Iran on the varieties
Eucalyptus intertexta and Eucalyptus largiflorens,
Eucalyptus intertexta was found to be a stronger
antimicrobial than Eucalyptus largiflorens featuring the
constituents
eucalyptol/cineol.
The
antimicrobial
properties were found to be effective against Candida
albicans and Pr. vulgaris

Cooling and deodorizing, it is effective in hot, clammy

weather, protects against malaria, and eases migraines.

Therapeutic Properties
The lemon scented variety Eucalyptus citriodora is
effective in cases of rheumatic pains.

Eucalyptus essential oil as an uplifting aroma that

cools yet clears the head. The main varieties used in
Aromatherapy are:

Contraindications

Eucalyptus globulus blue gum eucalyptus

Eucalyptus dives peppermint eucalyptus
Eucalyptus citriodora -lemon-scented eucalyptus
Eucalyptus radiate/Australiana -narrow-leaved
eucalyptus

Eucalyptus essential oil is non-toxic externally and

internally, but at levels of 3ml+ it is fatal. Given the
different vulnerabilities of children and elderly people, it
should not be used beyond vapor therapy. It should be
avoided by those with high blood pressure, and epilepsy,
and overuse has been known to cause headaches. The
essential oil is not compatible with homeopathic treatment,
and should not be used those on medication specific to the
liver, as Eucalyptus promotes detoxification of the liver.

Some of the therapeutic properties identified so far are as

a:

Analgesic
Antibacterial
Anti-inflammatory
Antineuralgic
Antiphlogistic
Anti-rheumatic
Antiseptic
Antiviral
Astringent Eucalyptus globulus blue gum
eucalyptus
Balsamic
Cicastrisant
Decongestant
Deoderant
Depurative
Diuretic
Expectorant
Febrifuge
Germicide
Insecticide
Rubefacient
Stimulant
Vermifuge
Vulnerary

Indications
The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Drops of no more than 5 should be used for:
1.
2.

Blood Hypoglycemic, poor circulation, sluggish liver

Cuts and wounds A good antiseptic that eases
blisters
3. Head Headaches
4. Infections Cystitis, herpes, respiratory, skin,
5. Insects Bites, lice, repels especially cockroaches,
and silverfish.
6. Menses Leucorrhea,
7. Mind Concentration, study, homework, exhaustion,
tension, nervous debility
8. Nervous System Neuralgia
9. Musco-skeletal Fibrositis, rheumatic pains,
10. Skin Burns, spots, greasy hair, dandruff
11. Respiratory Asthma, bronchitis, coughs, colds, flu,
sinusitis
Application

318

A head steam bath head and chest infections. At the

first symptoms of flu/cold a couple of drops in a bowl of
steaming hot water stops the progression of the
flu/cold. In the midst of a flu/cold, it helps to clear the
respiratory tract, and to prevent secondary infection.
For a sore throat 1 drop in warm water makes a good
gargle. If colds or flu is doing the rounds in the family,
burning a couple drops as in vapor therapy. Also use
vapour therapy to promote concentration
Direct application with cotton wool for cuts, wounds,
pain

In a massage oil (almond or avocado)/bath for arthritis,

dandruff, fatigue, fibrositis, greasy hair, respiratory tract
infections, spots, and rheumatic pains.
Ina cream for slow healing cuts, skin ulcers, spots,
wounds
In a spray/diffuser as an insecticide

A massage oil can be made using as a carrier like almond

or avocado oils, at a ratio of 30ml essential oil for every
500ml of carrier oil.

Sources:
Eucalyptus. http://www.planetbotanic.ca/fact_sheets/eucalyptus_fs.htm
Jones, C. The Medicinal Properties and Bush Foods of Eucalypts. http://anpsa.org.au/APOL9/mar98-2.html
Salvesen, C. Aromatherapy for Natural Health and Beauty. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Safaei-Ghomi et al. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties of the Essential Oil and Methanol Extracts of Eucalyptus
largiflorens and Eucalyptus intertexta. Pharmacogn Mag. 2010 JulSep; 6(23): 172175. PMCID: PMC2950377 doi:
10.4103/0973-1296.66930.
Yokose, H. Aboriginal Words in Australian English.
http://nicholnl.wcp.muohio.edu/DingosBreakfastClub/Australia/Upfield/AboEnglish.pdf

319

Fennel Oil
Chemical Properties
Some of the constituents of Fennel essential oil are:

Fennel Oil (Foeniculum Vulgare)

Fennel, sweet fennel, wild fennel, is a member of the

Umbelliferae family of the plant kingdom. Known as
fenkel, saunf in India, and xiao hui xiang in Chinese, this
hardy perennial has been a popular herb for a very long
time. It was known to the ancient Romans who traveled far
and wide, for its edible shoots. The ancient Greeks
regarded fennel as supportive of courage, strength and a
long life. Although the entire plant is edible, in general
only the seeds and the oil is used today.

1,8-cineole
Anethol
Anisic acid
Anisic aldehyde
A-pinene
D-pinene
Fenchone
Limonene
Methyl chavicol
Myrcene
Phellandrine
Trans-anethole

Scientific research has established fennel essential oil to be

affective in prohibiting the growth of the bacteria Bacillus
amyloliquefaciens, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and
Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Fennel essential oil has also
proven effective in preventing contractions when labour
was artificially induced with oxytocin and prostaglandin.

Like the family name indicates, a cluster of tall stems

topped with bright yellow clusters of tiny flowers open out
like an umbrella. Native to the Mediterranean the plant
became naturalized in many countries with a temperate
climate with a preference for residency in dry limestone
soil around coastal shores, and river banks. With its stout
stems fennel can grow to a height of over 5 feet supporting
rays of tiny yellow flowers as many as twenty. From July
to August the blooms are apparent brightening the dullest
dry soil. In fact the fennel that grows in the garden
Foeniculum officinale differs from its wild relative which
is stouter, taller, and has less leaves which act to protect
the stems. The fruit or the seeds, are shorter and darker the
flavor of which is not as palatable as its sweet cousin.

Therapeutic Properties
Fennel oil carries with it a sweet aroma that is warming.
Some of the therapeutic properties identified so far are:

Fennel essential oil is achieved through the process of

steam distillation of the crushed seeds, and is used in the
pharmaceutical industry in cough carminative, and laxative
medicines, and is used in the food and cosmetic industry.
For commercial purposes fennel is mainly cultivated in
France, India, Iran and Russia, and for the oil France,
Greece, and Italy. Depending on where it is grown, the
quality of oil will vary. Good quality fennel essential oil
will contain as much as 60% of the bioactive constituent
fenchone, which is bitter. The oil from Russia contains up
to 18% of fenchone, French/Roman hardly any fenchone,
the Indian fennel contains over 6% fenchone, and the
Japanese oil contains over 10% of fenchone.
When buying look for an almost colorless pale yellow oil
with a fragrant aniseed/camphor-like scent with an earthy
undertone. The bottle should be of dark glass, and kept in a
cool place. It is not unusual to find fennel essential oil
adulterated with bitter fennel, and synthetic anethole,
fenchone, methyl chavicol, and/or limonene.

Anti-inflammatory
Antimicrobial
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Aperitif
Carminative
Depurative
Diuretic
Emmenagogue,
Expectorant
Galactagogue
Insecticide (fleas)
Laxative
Orexigenic
Regenerative
Stimulant (circulatory system)
Stomachic
Tonic (liver, spleen)
Vermifuge

Contraindications
Due to its antispasmodic quality, fennel essential oil is ill
suited for those with epilepsy or who are pregnant. Those

320

7.
8.
9.
10.
11.

with endometriosis, and estrogen dependent cancer should

avoid the oil as it contains trans-anethole, which is an
estrogen. It can also cause skin irritation for those who
have sensitive skin.

Oral Pyorrhea
Reproductive Labor, lactation,
Respiratory Asthma, bronchitis, coughs, sore throat
Skeletal Rheumatism
Skin Bruised, cellulitis, dull, fleas, oily, mature

Indications
Fennel essential oil works synergistically well with foot
reflexology.

The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Drops of no more than 5 should be used for:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Application

Antidote Poison mushrooms

Gastrointestinal Anorexia, colic, constipation,
cramps, dyspepsia, flatulence, nausea, obesity,
Genitourinary Fluid retention
Glands Liver, spleen
Menses Amenorrhea, balances hormones (including
menopausal symptoms), PMS
Mind Emotional extremes, crave for sugar, weak
memory,

Sources:
Common Adulterations of Essential Oils.
http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm
Fennel. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/f/fennel01.html
Fennel. http://www.drugs.com/npp/fennel.html

321

Vapor therapy to stimulate the appetite, for anorexia,

upper respiratory problems, and for facing emotional
challenges
Bath (maximum of 5 drops before filling the bath) for
gastro-intestinal, and respiratory problems, as a
diuretic, for fluid retention, and cellulitis.
Massage oil see Bath
Added to a natural cream/lotion cellulitis, rheumatism,
skincare, and water retention

Forsythia (Orchid) Oil

Myristic acid
Octacosane
Silicon
Squalene

Strong antioxidant and antibacterial activity has been

identified in Forsythiaside . Caffeic acid has been proven
to have antibiotic properties that are effective against the
bacteria Staphylococcus aureus.
Therapeutic Properties
Forsythia essential oil has an uplifting aroma, which is
important in vapour therapy for easing depressive moods.
Some of the therapeutic properties identified so far are:

Forsythia Oil (Forsythia suspensa)

Native to China, the beautiful golden bell shaped blossoms

of the forsythia (an orchid) is a member of the olive family
of the plant kingdom, Oleaceae. The name forsythia is
derived from the director of Chelsea Physics Garden,
William Forsyth back in 1770, but the Chinese name is
lin qio. It is flower decked deciduous shrub that can
grow to a height of 9 feet with the leaves appearing after
the flowers bloom in opposition to each other. Another
unusual feature of the forsythia flower is that they can
produce lactose the only other natural source of which is
milk! The fruits of forsythia appear as winged seeds.

The contrasting grayish-brown bark is rough to the touch.

With a preference to rich well-drained soil it can tolerate
partial shade although it likes the full sun, and can be
grown in containers throughout the year.

Forsythia in Traditional Chinese Medicine is used as a

blood and liver detoxifier, as well as an antiseptic, and as
an antibiotic. TCM also use Forsythia in the treatment for
head/ear-aches, fevers, viral infections, and upper
respiratory tract infections. As a recent addition to the
world essential oils, it should be worth noting that in
Chinese Traditional Medicine forsythia fruit has a bitter,
pungent, and yet cooling properties. In TCM, the fruit is
applied in the treatment of the heart, liver, and gallbladder
meridians. It expels hot wind from the body, and is used in
the treatment of fevers, chills, upper respiratory tract
infections, and head/ear-aches.

The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of

the fruit. When buying look for an almost colorless pale
yellow oil with a fragrant sweet scent. The bottle should be
of dark glass, and kept in a cool place.
Chemical Properties
Some of the bioactive constituents of forsythia essential oil
are:

Alterative
Antibacterial
Antibiotic
Antioxidant
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-scrofulous
Carminative
Diuretic
Emmenagogue
Febrifuge
Pectoral
Stimulant (uterus)
Tonic (liver)
Vermifuge

1-Terpinen-4-ol
-pinene
-pinene
-Phellandrene
Cis-Geraniol
Cis-linoleic acid
Flavanoids: rutin
Forsythiaside
Iodine
Isoaromadendrene epoxide
Lupenylacetate

Contraindications
As a uterine stimulant, Forsythia essential oil should be
avoided by pregnant women. Also it is ill advised for those
who have deficient yin energy e.g. heat in blood, or
diarrhea as result of a weak spleen.
Indications

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Systemic Bladder meridian, blood detoxification,

cancer, heat stroke, liver meridian, low vitality

The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Drops of no more than 5 should be used for:

Application
General Fever

Genitourinary Urinary tract infections

Mind Depression, migraine

Respiratory Mumps, tonsillitis, upper respiratory tract

infections

Skin Acne, inflammation, scars, spots, tired/ageing skin,

Vapor therapy Upper respiratory problems, for facing

emotional challenges, depression
Massage oil see Bath to stimulate the liver and
bladder meridians, to improve skin quality, and general
vitality.
When used for daily healthcare, it can greatly improve
liver functions.
Added to a natural cream/lotion Skincare, and water
retention

Sources:
Duan Wen-lu et al. Research on Chemical Constituents of Volatile Oil from Forsythia suspensa(Thunb).Journal of Anhui
Agricultural Sciences 2008-19
Forsythia. http://www.drugs.com/npp/forsythia.html
Forsythia Fruit Profile. http://www.naturopathydigest.com/nutrition_herbs/herbs/forsythia.php
Xi-ying, W et al. Analysis of essential oil of Forsythia suspense(Thunb.) Vahl. by GC-MS and its antioxidant activities.
College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, China

323

Fragonia Oil

Fragonia Oil (Agonis fragans)

Native to South-West Australia, a profusion of tiny white

flowers reminiscent of the buttercup belies a woody shrub
that is a member of the Myrtaceae family of the plant
kingdom has been used by the indigenous Australians long
before being introduced to the West as an analgesic and its
properties as an expectorant. In fact, fragonia is pretty new
to aromatherapy; so much of its potential is yet to be
discovered in the Western world.
With preference for acidic peat sand where plenty of water
is nearby, Agonis fragrans grows up to 2.5 metres the erect
branches straggle outwards covered in thick rigid leaves
that are small like the flowers produced. The 5-petaled
white flowers bloom from January May. The small
flowers have a pink centre, which under the Doctrine of
Signatures is indicative of its therapeutic value on the
emotional level.

1,8-cineole
-Eudesmol
-Copaene
-Phellandrene
-pinene
-Thujene
-Eudesmol
-Pinene
-Cadinene
p-Cymene
Caryophyllene
Cinnamyl
cis-Calamanene
Citral
Citronellol
Coumarin
Cryptomeridiol
Elemol
Eugenol
Farnesol
Geraniol
Globulol
Humulene
Limonene
Linalool
Methyl cinnamate
Methyl geranate
myrtenol
Nerol
Rosifoliol
Sabinene
Spathulenol
Trans-myrtanol
Terpenen-4-ol

Argonis fragrana has been reported to have an unusual

balance of monterpenes, monopenols, and oxides.
A-pinene acts as an anti-inflammatory, limonene has
anticancerous, antiseptic, expectorant, antifungal, sedative
and antiviral properties. The oxide 1,8-cineole is active
against bronchitis, acts well as an anti-catarrhal, antiseptic,
stimulant (central nervous system), expectorant, and as an
anti-inflammatory. The oxides present increases skin
uptake of the oil. Linalool is effective as an antiseptic,
antibacterial, antifungal, as a sedative, spasmolytic, and as
an antiviral.

The essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of

the twigs. It is the only essential oil that is patented, the
holders of the patent being the Paperback Company;
however how this affects indigenous rights is not too clear,
but what is clear is the lack of ethics behind patenting what
nature provides. When buying look for an almost colorless
pale yellow oil with a fragrant combination of citrus,
cinnamon with a camphoraceous undertone. The bottle
should be of dark glass, and kept in a cool place.
Chemical Properties

Laboratory tests at the School of Biomedical & Chemical

Sciences at the University of Western Australia have found
Fragonia essential oil to be effective in its antimicrobial
properties against Candida albicans, the bacteria
staphylococcus aurous, staphylococcus epidermidis and E.
Coli killing any microbial activity within 30 seconds.

The bioactive composition varies depending on where the

plant extracted from grows. As a trade- marked essential
oil the composition has been extensively explored. Some
of the bioactive constituents of Fragonia essential oil are:

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Tests as the School of Paediatrics and Child Health,

University of Western Australia, found the oil to be
effective as an anti-inflammatory in cases of tissue injury
and infection.

Australian aromatherapist Karen Wallwork has found:

It is a regulator/balancer, working for
stalled, stuck, congestive, interrupted
conditions whether it be blood, mucous
etc.

1,8-cineole, limonene, and a-terpeneol are effective

expectorants, and geraniol is proven to be an effective
antiseptic, anticancerous, antifungal, and a sedative.

Contraindications

Therapeutic Properties

None yet indicated.

Fragona essential oil has an uplifting aroma, which is

important in vapour therapy for clearing the head, and
easing the mind. Some of the therapeutic properties
identified so far are as a:

Indications

The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Drops of no more than 5 should be used for:

Analgesic
Antibiotic
Antifungal
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-microbial
Antiseptic
Balsamic
Calmative
Cephalic
Emollient
Expectorant
Pectoral
Secretolytic/Mucolytic
Suphoric
Tonic (immune system, Central Nervous System, 4th
chakra, hara)

General Light sports injuries (tissue injury and

infection)
Gender Tender breasts, hormonal imbalance,
Mind Depression, emotional blocks, fatigue, tension,
insomnia,
Respiratory Chronic sinus, tonsillitis, upper
respiratory tract infections
Reproductive Dysmenorrhea,
Skin Irritated/tired skin
Systemic Low vitality, jet lag, weak immune system

Application

Dr. Penoel in his work with Fragonia found through his

patients in Australia that this essential oil has a the unique
power of harmonisation and rebalancing. As one of his
patients described it:

thanks to the use of Fragonia, I was

able to create the conditions of peace and
harmony within myself, through the process
of opening my heart and letting go of the
accumulated negativity over the years.
Fragonia cannot replace my psychotherapy
sessions, but, for me, it triggered and
accelerated an important phase of my
healing adventure, by removing inner
obstacles to my change and progress.

Mouthwash-gargle Sore throat

Vapor therapy Upper respiratory problems, for facing
emotional blockages, depression, to calm the mind, to
get rid of airborne germs
Neat At the top of the spine-base of skull to release
emotional blockages
Massage oil With friction along the spine releases
emotional blockages
Topical Added to a cream/lotion relieves muscular
pains, and pains in the joints. Applied to the chest
breaks up mucus. A couple of drops on the lymphatic
nodes: armpits, groins, side of neck supports the
immune system
Bath 5 drops added before filling the bath, helps to
calm the mind, ease upper respiratory tract infections,
stimulate the immune system, lubricate the skin

Sources:
Day, P. Our Journey with Australian Essential Oils: Part 1. http://www.allthingshealing.com/Aromatherapy/Our-Journeywith-Australian-Essential-Oils-Part-1/5986
Robinson, C.J. A New Essential Oil : Agonis Fragrans. RIRDC Publication No 06/090
Todd, D. Fragonia Oil. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) http://www.essentialoilsdirect.co.uk/fragoniaagonis_fragrans-essential_oil.html?PHPSESSID=76

325

Frankincense Oil
This evergreen tree is far from attractive, looking aged and
snarled, with an ancient quality about its thick bark with
white patches. Only growing to a maximum height of 15
feet, the trunk is not long portraying bonsai-like features
before it branches out with scanty, curled leaves.
Frankincense Oil (Boswellia carterii)

The flowers compensate for the appearance of the tree

although not plentiful, bearing marble-sized berries

Native to Somalia, the tree Boswellia carterii has its place

firmly planted in medicinal and religious history. Known
as Moxor in Somal, and alliban Arabic (from which its
other the name Olibanum is derived), the gum from the
stems of this tree, frankincense is an everyday item that is
chewed much like chewing gum, lacking flavor, but
strengthening and whitening the teeth as it is chewed.
Protected by the lifestyle of the desert Bedouin for
thousands of years, the resin/gum is in response to a
cut/wound to the tree, and in turn the resin/gum heals the
wounds of the tree, having the same affect on the human
body.

The human relationship with offerings of the tree are very

strong, describing the resin/gum as noble as it protects the
tree from infestations both fungal and of the crawling kind.
Even in the market, the resin/gum is described as tears,
as it is the result of the tree being wounded. This is
probably best understood through the exploitation of
accessible trees, where those who sell the resin are offered
low prices. The best resin-tears are the first tears, which
are yellow in colour, and gets darker each time the tree is
tapped/wounded. Ideally, a tree should not be tapped more
than twice a year, but in practice, meeting demand, the first
phase of tapping takes place Jan- Mar, the second, August
October. An incision is made by the tapper, and a white
emulsion appears. On contact with air, the emulsion
congeals into tears turning pale yellow dark amber
depending on the amount of tapping, and the age of the
tree. As a horse is put to pasture after years of hard labour,
the Boswellia carterii tree is given a chance to rest after 5
6 years.

There are other species which originate from northwest

India, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen, but the Boswallia
carterii named after an English botanist originates from the
Dhofar Valley of Somalia. The trees may have been
plentiful enough at one time for the resin to have been
exported to China, as records demonstrate exports to China
during the Ming Dynasty as the time of Queen of Sheba,
and King Solomon. The Roman emperor Nero burned tons
on the many funeral pyres during his time. The earliest
records to date of use are those found in an ancient
Egyptian tomb during the time of Queen Hatsheput, and
again during the time of the boy who would be king,
Tutankhamen. Frankincense was burned by the ancient
Egyptians, and is still burned today as an incense. The
ancient Egyptians also burned the resin into a powder
called kohl, the earliest form of eyeliner still used today,
but not made from frankincense.

Today, the main supply of frankincense is from Somalia,

with Oman exporting in limited amounts. Sometimes
frankincense essential oil can be found under the name
African elemi, not to be confused with Elemi essential oil
from Philippines. Frankincense essential oil is steam
distilled from the resin. When buying look for a slightly
viscous with the best quality a pale yellow, with an
essential balsamic aroma fused with a woody
camphoraceous-cum-lemon scent. Unfortunately one can
find adulterated frankincense essential oil o the market,
often with a turpentine-like solvent or synthetic alphapinene with an aroma that does not last long.

Frankincense belongs to the Burseraceae family of the

plant kingdom. Meaning dry fire, Burseraceae grows in
areas where the heat is very strong (fire), and the climate
very dry. Being a member of the Burseraceae, the qualities
of frankincense oil, which according to Marcel Lavabre,
filters the suns rays, and freshens the air around them, the
nature of which makes them strong anti-inflammatory. The
members of the Burseraceae family act on the fire in the
body, which transpires as upper respiratory tract infections.
The other qualities that the Burseraceae family take from
their environment is the essence of infinity thus elevating
the soul, which transpires as being supportive of the
practice of meditation; and is the reason why since
antiquity, frankincense has been used for religious
ceremonies. It is for this reason that the Latin/botanical
sometimes used is Boswellia sacra.

Chemical Properties
Frankincense is non-toxic. Some of the bioactive
constituents of Frankincense essential oil are:

326

1-a-pinene
- pinene
Borneol
Cadinene
Camphene
Cembrane A

Cembrane C
Cymene
Dipentene
Farnesol
Incensole
Limonene
Linalool
Myrcene
Ocimene
Octanol
Octyl acetate
Olibanol Verbenone, verbenol, and some other
terpene alcohols
Phellandrene
Sabinene
Terpinene
Thujone
Verbene

Disinfectant
Diuretic
Emmenagogue
Expectorant
Sedative
Tonic (respiratory, immune, nervous systems)
Uterine
Vulnerary

The powerful astringent quality contracts the gums, and

blood vessels. The aroma instills deep breathing allowing
for greater calm, and clarity helping a person to feel
centered, facilitates emotional healing, and move into a
state of meditation if desired. In Islamic medicinal practice
(Tibb-e-Nabi) frankincense is used as a germicide, for
stomach pains, to heal wounds, upper respiratory tract
infections, eczema, for arthritis, and as an insecticide.
Contraindications

The Academy of Science in Leipzig, Germany have found

that the chemical tetrahydrocannabinol is produced on
burning the resin, and it is believed that this compound is
responsible for expanding the subconscious. The
sesquiterpenes help to oxygenate the pineal and pituitary
glands.

None yet indicated.

Indications
The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Sweet
Almond Oil. Drops of no more than 5 should be used for:

The monoterpenes pinene, dipentene, phellandrene,

cymene, myrcene, terpinene are well known for their antiinflammatory, antiseptic and astringent effect; and verbene
is a powerful antifungal, which is helpful in preventing
infection of wounds along with its antiseptic action in the
prevention of sepsis in slow healing wounds.

The essential oil of Boswellia carterii in clinical trials

exhibited the ability to inhibit the causative virus in
Epstein-Barr disease.

Inhalation of Frankincense slows and deepens the breath

and is calming and relaxing.

Therapeutic Properties

Frankincense essential oil has an uplifting aroma, which is

important in vapour therapy for clearing the head, easing
the mind, releasing emotional blockages, aligning the
physical, emotional, and spiritual bodies, and meditation.
The breath slows, and deepens bringing about calm. Some
of the therapeutic properties are:

General Lethargy
Gastro-intestinal Dyspepsia, flatulence
Gender Tender breasts, hormonal imbalance,
Mind Anxiety, depression, grief, living in the past,
lack of self confidence, mental fatigue, nervous tension,
paranoia, stress, 6th and crown chakra,
Respiratory Asthma, hyperventilation
Reproductive Delayed menses,
Skeletal Rhematism,
Skin Tired/ageing skin, skin diseases, slow healing
wounds, scar tissue, acne scars
Systemic Low vitality, weak respiratory system,
weak immune system, sluggish circulatio
Urinogenital Gonorrhea, urinary tract infection,
Water retention

Application

Anticatarrhal
Antidepressant
Antiseptic
Astringent
Balsamic
Carminative
Cicatrisant
Cytophylactic

327

Vapor therapy Upper respiratory problems, for facing

emotional blockages, depression, to calm the mind,
asthma
Massage oil With friction along the spine releases
emotional blockages, and at the base of the skull
Topical Added to a cream/lotion relieves asthma,
rheumatism
Facial Mask for dry ageing skin (1tspn plain yoghurt,
2 tspsns. Honey, 1 drop of Vitamin E oil, 1 tspn. Of oat
flour)

infections, stimulate the immune/respiratory/digestive

system, lubricates and regenerates the skin.

Bath 8 drops added before filling the bath, helps to

calm the mind, ease upper respiratory and urinary tract

Sources:
Ahmed, M. Useful Medicinal Flora Enlisted in Holy Quran and Ahadith. American-Eurasian J. Agric. & Environ. Sci., 5
(1): 126-140, 2009 ISSN 1818-676. IDOSI Publications, 2009
Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990.
Salveson, C. Common Adulterations of Essential Oils. http://www.abundantlifeessentials.com/adulteration.htm

328

Galbanum Oil
Commercial production is mainly in Iran, Afghanistan,
Turkey, and Cape of Good Hope. The essential oil is a thin
colourless yellowish brown viscous liquid with a
complex aroma that reveals itself in layers, from earthy
balsamic musky pine. Unfortunately, one can find
adulterated products on the market, usually adulterated
with pine oil, fractions of b-pinene, and undecatrienes.
Like all essential oils, if stored in a cool, dry place that is
safe from heat, and light, one can expect a shelf life of 1
year.
Chemical Properties
Ferula galbaniflua is rich in monoterpenes, and sulphur.
Monoterpenes such as
pinene, -pinene, and 3-carene have a mild antiseptic,
decongestant, rubefacient, and as well as a slight antiinflammatory activity. With over 84 bioactive constituents,
Ferula galbaniflua essential oil also includes:

Galbanum Oil (Ferula galbaniflua)

Ferula galbaniflua has a long history of medicinal use, and

was once imported from the Levant and India in large
quantities, featuring prominently in Biblical use. It is a
member of the Umbelliferae family of the plant kingdom,
and it is native to Iran where it is called Barijeh, and
Afghanistan, of which there are 19 varieties. In Biblical
times it was used as incense with its complex aroma, and
was known as helbenah. In Coptic medicine, galbanum
was used as a poultice for aching wounds, and aching feet.

Naturalized in Pakistan, Turkmenistan, N.W. India, and

Cape of Good Hope, Ferula galbaniflua is approaching the
status of endangered species. It is a perennial that grows in
the mountainous regions of northern Iran with a tall
smooth stem that can extend to 5 feet in height. The plant
has two types of leaves, with the leaves of the stem being
small and glossy. The tiny yellow flowers are few
extending from the tips of smaller stems, which is typical
of the Umbelliferae family as can be seen in Angelica
Sylvestris Angelica Root), and fennel. The thin, flat fruit
also has a shine. with prominent ribs, and oil glands in the
grooves.
A lactic liquid oozes from the joints of the old plants, and
then hardens at the base of the stem that has been removed
as if to heal a wound. The hardened liquid forms a resin,
which is used in the cosmetic and foods industries, as well
as in aromatherapy.
The best resin/tears are externally pale looking, but when
opened reveal the colour white. Galabanum resin was once
dissolved in water, vinegar/wine, but now it is steam
distilled or extracted using Co2, which helps to maintain
the integrity of the oil. It is a popular ingredient in the
cosmetic, perfumery, and food industry. It is the main
ingredient in Cartiers Must.

-terpinyl acetate
-pinene
(Z)--ocimene
-pinene
3-carene
2-isopropyl-3-methoxypyrazine
2,3,4-trimethylthiophene
(3E,5Z)-undeca-1,3,5-triene
Arabinose
Calcium
D-galactose,
D-glucuronic acid
4 0 methyl glucuronic acid
Galactoronic acid
Galbaresino-tannol
Guaiacol
Guaiazulene
Hydroxyproline
Isoguaiazulene
Larabinose
Linalool
L-rhamnose
Potassium
Sabinene
Sulphur
Umbelliferine
Verbenone

Therapeutic Properties
Galbanum essential oil removes toxins, skin care, kills &
repels insects, eliminates parasites, and heals wounds, and

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is effective in removing toxins from the body, for relaxing

the nerves, and muscles, and in the treatment of childhood
trauma.

Ferula Galbanum has long been known to cause irritation

to the skin in some people, and contact with the eyes
should be avoided.

Some of the therapeutic properties are as follows:

Indications

Anti arthritic
Antibacterial
Anti-rheumatic
Cicatrisant
Circulatory
Decongestant
Detoxifier
Emollient
Expectorant
Insecticide
Spasmolytic
Stimulant (blood, digestive, lymphatic, and endocrine
systems)
Vulnerary

Gandh Biroza has it is known in some parts of India, has

become a part of traditional medicine and is used for
rheumatism, and asthma, hysteria, and mental health
problems in males.
The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like
Fractioned coconut oil. Drops of no more than 1 should be
used for:

As a cicatrisant, geranium essential oil is helpful for

healing damaged skin, and tissues, as it not only helps to
heal scars by balancing the presence of sebum and keeping
the skin supple whilst stimulating cell regeneration.

As a detoxifier help to release toxins in the body

including excess salts, and water.

Used as an emollient in the cosmetic industry because its

rich lipophilic properties penetrates bodily tissues easily.

Circulatory system Sluggish

Insecticide Kills and repels
Lymphatic system Sluggish
Mind Anxiety, childhood trauma, confusion, panic
attacks, psychosomatic illnesses, spasms, stress
Reproductive PMS,
Respiratory Chronic bronchitis, congestion,
Musculoskeletal Arthritis, muscular aches and
pains, rheumatism, spasms,
Skin Acne, abscesses, boils, lice, mature skin, oily
skin, scar tissue, slow healing wounds, sores, spots,
Spiritual Emotional blockages, negative energies,
undergoing personal change, soul transformation

Application

As a rubefacient, improves circulation, and provides relief

for muscular aches, pains, and stiffness.

As a vulnerary the oil helps to stem blood loss, and

promotes cell regeneration in the case of wounds and scar
tissue.

Contraindications:

Vapor therapy Anxiety, eases traumatic experiences

(especially in children), psychosomatic conditions,
stress, and respiratory conditions
Massage oil Balance skins oil production, keeps skin
supple, heal wounds, eases blockages in the spiritual
body
Bath 2 drops added before filling the bath, helps to
calm the mind, bruises, ease depression, mood swings,
PMS, stress, fluid retention, eczema, abscesses,
musculoskeletal, and conditions pertaining to a
sluggish endocrine system

Sources:
Burfield T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Aromatherapy & Natural Perfumery Practice.
London. 2005
Felter , H.W., and Lloyd , J.U. Galbanum. Kings American Dispensatory, 1898
Galbanum. http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/g/galban02.html
Kanani, MR, et al. Chemotaxonomic Significance Of The Essential Oils Of 18 Ferula Species (Apiaceae) From Iran. Chem
Biodivers. 2011 Mar;8(3):503-17. doi: 10.1002/cbdv.201000148.
Manniche, L. An Ancient Egyptian Herbal. British Museum Publications Ltd, U.K. 1989.
Milani, J.M. et al. Extraction and Physicochemical Properties of Barijeh (Ferula galbaniflua) Gum. International Journal
Of Agriculture & Biology 15608530/2007/0918083
Miyazawa, N. et al. Novel Key Aroma Components Of Galbanum Oil. https://home.zhaw.ch/~yere/pdf/Teil106%20%20Expression%20of%20Multidisciplinary.pdf

330

Jasmine Oil
value. The downside of solvent extraction is that it is
weaker in aroma, and in therapeutic value.
Today commercial production of Jasminum grandiflorum
takes place mainly in Egypt, and India, Iran, with smaller
production in Afghanistan, Algeria, Cape of Good Hope,
France, Italy, Turkey, and Morocco. However, when
buying the nose plays a very important role as it is far from
uncommon to find inclusions of petrochemical-based
extractions. Jasmine absolute is brown, and quite viscous.
It is strongly floral, and sweet unlike solvent-extracts
which do not carry the full fragrance. The solvent
extraction is thin and colourless a yellowish brown
viscous liquid. The aroma has a masculine quality that is
strong, floral, sweet, warm, and sensual

Jasmine Oil (Jasminum grandiflorum/officinale)

Jasmine comes from the Arabic, which in turn comes

from the Persian yasmin, which means a gift from God.
Jasmine oil is considered the scent of all scents as it has
been the centre of the perfumery industry for eons. In India
it symbolizes divine hope, in China the sweetness of
women, and in Hindu and Arab traditions, it is looked
upon as the perfume of love.

Unfortunately, one can find adulterated products on the

market readily, usually adulterated with synthetics and can
be mainly reconstructions. Synthetic essential Jasmine oil
has a sweet sickening smell that smells as if it has
oxidized, i.e. gone rancid. Jasmine absolute is prone to
oxidation once exposed to the air, so it should be kept in a
dark glass container in a cool place. It has a shelf life of 12
15 months.

The plant Jasminum grandiflorum is a member of the

Oleaceae family, and is native to Iran, and Kashmir. It is
also the national flower of Tunisia. It arrived in Europe via
Moorish Spain in the 17th century. There are 43 varieties,
but only Jasminum grandiflorum/officinale are the most
important in Aromatherapy. Jasminum grandiflorum and
Jasminum officinale are two not one variety, but they are
very similar therapeutically.

The essential oil of Jasminum grandiflorum contains over

100 different chemical compounds, which includes:

With a preference for tropical/subtropical environments,

Jasminum grandiflorum is a hardy, deciduous and
evergreen climbing shrub with woody stems that loves the
sun. Although the plant is a thirst quencher, it cannot
tolerate water logging, and prefers well drained soil. The
ovate deep green leaves are positioned in opposition to one
another, and each leaf can have seven leaflets.
The flowers bloom in clusters in the early summer or early
autumn with complex petal formation ranging from 4 to 8
petals. After the flowers bloom, tiny black berries appear.
The Jasmine is picked at night through till morning, which
is how it earned the name Queen of the night because the
flower tends to open at night.

Benzoic Acid
Benzyl acetate
Benzyl alcohol
cis-Jasmine
Farnesol
Geraniol
Indole
Linalol
Linalyl acetate
Phenylacetic acid
Methyl anthranilate
Methyl jasmonate
Salicylic acid

Therapeutic Properties

There is no Jasmine essential oil what is used is

effleurage, or a solvent extraction. Effleurage is a
traditional method which involves placing layers of fresh
flowers on top of a blend of fats. The fats then absorb what
is released by the flowers. Each day old flowers are
replaced with fresh flowers, the process of which produces
a pomade. The pomade is then washed with alcohol to
remove the fats , then the alcohol is removed via vacuum
distillation leaving the final product, the absolute. An
absolute has over 7 million flowers producing 1 kg!
Absolutes have a stronger scent, and greater therapeutic

The scent plays an important therapeutic role as it uplifts

the spirit, balances, soothes, and aligns with the higher
purpose of sexuality, thus helping to release mental
blockages pertaining to intimacy. The scent stimulates beta
rhythms in the brain, thus increasing mental alertness
while calming the autonomic nervous system.
It is worth noting that Egyptian jasmine has a more floral
top notes, while Italian jasmine has a more fruity note.

331

Some of the therapeutic properties are as follows:

Indications

Antidepressant
Anti-microbial
Antioxidant
Antiulcer
Anthelmintic
Anti-inflammatory
Antiseptic
Aphrodisiac
Chemoprotective
Cytoprotective
Deodorant
Emollient
Galactogogue
Emenagogue
Odontalgic
Sedative
Spasmolytic
Thermogenic
Tonic
Uterine

The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like
Jojoba/Almond Oil (i.e. 1 drop to 1 oz.). Drops of no more
than 1 should be used for:

In research carried out at the St. Xaviers College, India,

was found to demonstrate antimicrobial properties that
were most effective against the bacteria Salmonella
typhii

As an expectorant, Jasmine calms and eases irritating

coughs.
Used as an emollient in the cosmetic industry because
its rich lipophilic properties penetrates bodily tissues
easily.
As a spasmolytic, it strengthens the contractions of
labour, and relieves pain at the same time. It also
relieves uterine spasms, and spasms of the bronchi.
As a tonic for the uterus easing spasms and menstrual
pains
As a vulnerary the oil helps to stem blood loss, and
promotes cell regeneration in the case of wounds and
scar tissue

Head Headaches, loose teeth, otorrhoea, otalgia,

ulcerative stomatitis,
Mind Dejection, depression (related to emotional
repression), despair, fear, emotional shock/trauma,
grief, guilt, insecurity, loss of self confidence,
nervous/mental
fatigue,
paranoia,
post-natal
depression, stress, withdrawal symptoms (addiction)
Musculoskeletal Bone cancer, inflammation,
muscular spasms/sprains.
Reproductive Breast cancer, eases childbirth,
insufficient breast milk, irregular menses, menstrual
cramps, weak uterus,
Respiratory Bacterial infections, upper respiratory
tract infections,
Skin All types, dermatitis (stress-related), dry
aggravated skin (stress related), inflammation, scars
leprosy , wounds,
Sexual Poor libido, reciprocity
Spiritual Inhibitions (ability to experience pleasure
within not physical), reciprocity in intimacy, alignment of
1st, 2nd, and 3rd chakras, weak heart, small intestine
and pericardium meridians, syphilitic miasm.

Application

Contraindications:
Jasmine is a strong oil, and in general more than one drop
is too much per application. Over-use can result in having
the opposite effect. It should not be used in pregnancy until
about to give birth, after one has given birth.

Vapor therapy Anxiety, eases traumatic experiences

(especially in children), psychosomatic conditions,
stress, respiratory conditions, and spiritual
development
Massage oil Balance skins oil production, keeps skin
supple, heal wounds, eases blockages in the spiritual
body
Bath 1 drop added before filling the bath, helps to
calm the mind, bruises, ease depression, mood swings,
PMS, stress, eczema, abscesses, musculoskeletal,
mind, sexual inhibitions, ability to receive.
It can be added to creams, oils, shampoos, mists and
facial masks. It can be used in a bath to ease the
tension of the day.
Before giving birth, rub one drop on the lower
abdomen and back to ease pain, and strengthen
uterine contractions

Sources:
Burfield T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Aromatherapy & Natural Perfumery Practice.
London. 2005
Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990.
Gurudas. Spiritual Properties of Herbs. Casssandra Press, U.S. 1988.
Priya, J, and Raja D. Anti-Bacterial Activity Studies of Jasminum grandiflorum and Jasminum sambac. Ethnobotanical
Leaflets 12: 481-483. 2008.

332

Juniper Berry Oil

overtone, with an undertone of pine, but is warming,
radiant, yet earthy.
Unfortunately, one can find adulterated products on the
market readily, usually adulterated with synthetics and can
be mainly reconstructions. This is done not by the local
growers, but by the international traders for increased
profits. Adulterated juniper berry oil can be found with
terpene hydrocarbons (i.e. synthetic a-pinene and d-3carene, along with Juniper branch oil, which is a lower
grade.

Juniper Berry Oil (Juniperus communis)

Juniperus communis is the commercial variety most used

today, but there are 70 species of juniperus. The female
cones have been used to flavor foods, drinks, and in
cosmetics and perfumes. Oil of juniper has been used for
ritual cleansing, and was bruned in ancient Egyptian
temples as a part of a ritual of purification. In Europe,
juniper berries were used to preserve catgut ligatures, and
in herbal medicine is well known for its role in the
prevention of contagious diseases like cholera, typhoid
fever and the plague.

Chemical Properties
The essential oil of Juniperus communis contains over 200
constituents, and 50 compounds, which includes:

Known as Kuei (China), ar-ar (Egypt), Genvrier

(France), hapusha (India Sanskrit), Enebro (Spain),
Gemeiner Wachholder (Germany, Switzerland), juniperus
communis is a member of the Cupressaceae family of the
plant kingdom, it is native to North Africa, North Asia, and
North America. It is a small evergreen shrub which grows
very slowly, with a preference for limestone soils, and
sunny slopes it does not like shade. The bark is thin,
brown, and peels, and when a branch comes into contact
with the ground, and buried, the branches develops roots.
The bark is fibrous, and branches erect, with yellowishgreen young twigs which turn brown with age. The pine
needle-shaped leaves appear in groups of three, and are
green yet sometimes have a silver affect. The actual fruits,
are berrylike seed cones of an ovoid shape with male and
female features, and the seeds after experience a cold
period can live for a very long times.
The fresh blue ripe berries are used for the essential oil in
preference over the green berries which are used for
medicinal purposes. The berries take up to 3 years to ripen,
and once picked and laid to dry a little, the blue
oxygenizes to the familiar black. However the oil is most
plentiful just before ripening and darkening. After
darkening it becomes a resin. The oil is obtained through
steam distillation.

-phellandrene
terpinene
caryophyllene
-phellandrene
p-cymene
cadinene
y-terpinene
1,4-cineole
Borneol
Bornyl acetate
Cadinene
Camphene
Cayophyllene
Diterpene acid
Formic acid
Juniperin
Limonene
Linalool
Linalyl acetate
Malic acid
Myrcene
Nerol
Pinene (oil)
Sabinene
Terpinen-4-ol

Pinene, myrcene, and sabinene are monoterpenes which

act as mild antiseptics, as a decongestant for upper
respiratory infections, as a rubefacient that improves
circulation and pain relief for muscular pains, and
stiffness, can act as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial,
and anti-viral. Monoterpenes are high in lipophils, and thus
penetrates the skin easily. They are also effective with airbourne infections and can be used to spray to fumigate an
enclosed space.

When buying look out for a clear pale yellow liquid.

There are varieties like Juniper Berry Wild Himalyan, and
Juniper Berry Wild Tyro, which differ only in color,
consistency, and aroma . The aroma has a balsamic

333

Terpinen-4-ol increases renal glomerular filtration rate

facilitating the oils reputation as a stimulant to the kidneys.

disease/weak kidneys, and pregnancy. Juniperus communis

however acts as a stimulant to the kidneys, and to the
uterine muscle, so it should be avoided.

In a Serbian study by Sandra Glisic and team, it was found

that the antimicrobial activity of juniperus communis was
exhibited by the constituents sabinene, and a-pinene
against yeast and fungal infections.

Indications

In an Iranian study by Sahar Rezvani and team, there was

notable
anti-bacterial
activity
against
E.coli,
Staphylococcus and Sodomunas.

The oil can only be used for external use, and when used it
should be diluted by means of Carrier Oils like Oil.
Drops of no more than 5 should be used for:

Therapeutic Properties
The scent plays an important therapeutic role in releasing
buried toxins, whether emotional or physical.

Some of the therapeutic properties are as follows:

Astringent
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-microbial
Anti-rheumatic
Antiseptic
Anti-viral
Carminative
Depurative
Diuretic
Rubefacient
Spasmolytic
Stimulant (skin, circulatory system. Nervous system,
renal system)
Tonic (nervous system)
Vulnerary

Circulatory purifies the blood

Mind Tonic to the nervous system, cleanses the auric
and emotional body, releases negative thinking
Musculoskeletal prevents and/or relieves chronic
rheumatic pain and swelling. Increases localized blood
flow and circulation reducing pain and swelling, relieves
spasms and cramps
Oral strengthens gums, haemorrhaging,
Renal increases urination cystitis, kidney stones,
fluid retention, uric acid (relieving pain from gout,
rheumatism and arthritis),
Reproductive Regulates the menstrual cycle
painful periods,
Respiratory Bacterial infections, upper respiratory
tract infections,
Skin Contracts, tightens tissues, and prevents tissue
degeneration cellulite, acne, eczema, oily skin,
weeping eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, septic wounds
Spiritual Cleanses the auric, mental and emotional
bodies.

Application (1 5 drops)

Contraindications:

Juniper berry oil is non-toxic, but when it oxidizes can

cause irritation to the skin unless used in low amounts in
baths or massage oils. It has been found that the Chinese,
Japanese and Filipinos are more sensitive to the pollen
than Caucasians. The oil extracted from the Juniperus
Sabina, is mainly contraindicated in cases of kidney

Vapor therapy Anxiety, spiritual development,

contagious diseases, skin infections
Massage/bath oil colic in adults, arthritis, cellulitis,
nervous tension, cystitis, swollen joints, liver problems,
muscle fatigue and overweight.
Juniper berry oil can also be added to creams, oils,
shampoos, mists and facial masks for skin
inflammations

Sources:
Burfield T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Aromatherapy & Natural Perfumery Practice.
London. 2005
Ladner, J. Juniperus communis L. http://www.fao.org/ag/AGP/AGPC/doc/Gbase/data/pf000461.htm
Glisic , S B. et al Antimicrobial activity of the essential oil and different fractions of Juniperus communis L. and a comparison
with some commercial antibiotics. J . Serb. Chem. Soc. 72 (4) 311320 (2007) UDC 582.475/.477:665.5:615.28+615.33
JSCS3560
Juniper. http://www.drugs.com/npp/juniper.html
Rezvania, S. et al. Analysis and Antimicrobial Activity of the Plant Juniperus Communis. Rasayen J. Chem. V2, No.2
(2009), 257-260 ISSN: 0974-1496 CODEN: RJCABP

334

Lavender Oil
produce one pound of oil so it should not be taken for
granted.
When buying look out for lavender oil labelled lavendula
augustifola if one intends to buy true lavender. The oil
should be colourless, and yellowish-green in colour. The
pungent smell we all know should have a bitter taste. At
home, the oil should be stored like all oils in a dark glass
bottle and kept away from direct light in a cool place to
protect the oil from deteriorating.
Unfortunately, one can find adulterated products on the
market which compromises the medicinal properties.
Lavandula angustifolia can be found with additions of
lavandin (Lavandula x intermedia) and the spiked variety
Lavandula latifolia which in turn can be adulterated with
eucalyptus, white camphor oil fractions, and Spanish sage
oil. Lavandula angustifolia oil can also be adulterated with
rectified ho oil, and acetylated ho or acetylated lavandin
oils.

Lavender Oil (Lavendula angustifolia/officinalis)

The smell of lavender is familiar to those living in

temperate climates today. Native to the Canary Islands,
India, Mediterranean, NE Africa, and SW Asia true
lavender has a long history in the medicinal and aroma
field, and can be found in modern cosmetics as a nice
addition to soaps, creams, oils, and even pot pourri.
Known as ustukhuduz (Farsi), al-khuzaama (Arabic), Xun
yi cao (Chinese- Mandarin) Lus na tuise (Gaelic), it is
commonly known on variations of the word lavender in
many countries. As a herbal remedy lavender has been
used to resolve bacterial and fungal infections, to lift the
spirits, to enhance relaxation, and to promote the healing
of wounds.

Chemical Properties
The essential oil of Juniperus communis contains over 200
constituents, and 50 compounds, which includes:

The English Lavender is Lavandula vera or common

lavender. Lavendula means to wash and augustifolia
narrow leaf the names of which give basis clues about a
plant that has wide ranging uses. As a member of the
Laminaceae family of the plant kingdom, it shares
something in common with mint, and nettle. Having a
genus of its own, lavender can be found as a shrub,
herbaceous, and as an annual, but true lavender, Lavendula
augustifolia is more herbaceous and is by nature a
perennial.

l-linaloyl-acetate
Cineol
Coumarin
Geraniol
Linalool
Pinene
Tannins
Triterpene

Geraniol is one of natures antioxidants that has been

recommended for cancer prevention. Geraniol prevents
synthesis of DNA, when imbalanced, and suppressed the
growth of pancreatic tumors.

This aromatic plant prefers well drained sandy soil, and the
full sun which describes its natural habitat.
The stems are short and branch out, and when young grow
very quickly. With age the progress from being four-sided
to a more rounded shape, becoming thicker as the semiwoody stems grow. The very green leaves are silvery graygreen purple depending on how they have been
cultivated and when crushed an aroma is released. The
wispy flowers range from white lavender in colour and
beautify the tips of the lanceote leaves. It can be easily
cultivated from cuttings, as well as its rhizomes, and seeds.

Limonene is beneficial to the liver as it increases the

production of enzymes needed to detoxify carcinogens.

The whole plant is aromatic. The flowers are harvested just

after they appear or before blooming in June-July after
which they are carefully dried. Their strong aroma remains
long after drying. Two hundred pounds of fresh flowers

Therapeutic Properties

Coumarin is effective in the thinning of blood. It is an

antifungicide. As a supplement, it should not be taken with
anticoagulants. It is effective at increasing the flow of
blood to the veins, and decreases the permeability of the
capillaries. As a supplement, in high doses, coumarin is
toxic when taken over a long period.

335

The scent plays an important therapeutic role on the

psycho-spiritual level. Some of the therapeutic properties
are as follows:

The oil can only be used for external use, though some
traditions have specific applications for internal use. It is
preferable to dilute it in a Carrier Oils at 5 drops per
tablespoon (15ml).

Analgesic (organic)
Antibacterial
Antiphlogistic (organic)
Anti-rheumatic (organic)
Antiseptic
Antispasmodic
Aromatic
Carminative
Cholagogue
Cicatrisant
Cytophilactic
Cordial (organic)
Diuretic
Emmenagogue (organic)
Fungicide
Hypotensive (organic)
Nervine
Sedative
Stimulant (nervous system)
Stomachic
Tonic

Endocrine balances the spleen

Gender Cystitis, mucous discharge
Head Aches, sinusitis, migraines
Mind Convulsions, depression, insomnia, nervous
tension, palpitations
Musculoskeletal Rheumatism
Other Repellent: fleas, moths
Renal Fluid retention
Reproductive Amenorrhoea, dismenorrhoea,
menopause, PMS,
Respiratory Asthmatic, upper respiratory tract
infections
Skin Abscesses, acne, bruises, dermatitis, eczema,
oily, psoriasis, wounds
Spiritual Calms the astral body.

Application
2- 4 drops Vapor therapy Astral body, depression,
insomnia, nervous tension, upper respiratory tract
infections

Contraindications:

4 drops Massage oil

Avoid during pregnancy as Lavender oil stimulates the

uterine, and do not use if taking anticoagulants.

6 drops Bath oil Abscesses, acne, bruises, depression,

insomnia, nervous tension, dermatitis, eczema, oily,
psoriasis, upper respiratory tract infections, wounds

Indications

Sources:
Burfield T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Aromatherapy & Natural Perfumery Practice.
London. 2005
Felter, W, M.D., Lloyd, J. U. Kings American Dispensatory, 1898
Horticulture 62 ~ Fall Plant Materials & Design.
http://www.cabrillo.edu/~lmcandrews/pdfs/Lab%2011%20PDFs/Lavandula%20angustifolia.pdf
Katzer, G. Lavender. http://www.uni-graz.at/~katzer/engl/Lava_ang.html
Lavabre, M. Aromatherapy Workbook. Healing Arts Press, Canada. 1990

336

Lemon Oil
Not to be confused with lemon balm, lemon verbena,
lemon myrtle, or lemongrass oils, Citrus limonum
contains:

Lemon Oil (Citrus limonum)

Native to Northern India, this now common fruit, is a

member of the Rutaceae family of the plant kingdom. The
Latin name Limonum is from the Arabic , but is also
known by many variations, along with citron (French) is
present in every home for it has many purposes. First
brought to Europe via the unholy Crusades of the Middle
Ages in 1096-1271 AD. English ships are deem by law to
carry lemons which contains the best antiscorbutics, which
are specific in the treatment of scurvy.

a-pinene
a-terpinene
b-bisabolene
b-pinene
Camphene
Limonoids
Linalool
Limonene
Sabinene
Myrcene
Trans-a-bergamotene
Nerol
Neral

Limonoids have been found to play a positive role in the

fight against cancers of the mouth, skin, lung, stomach,
and the colon.
Alpha-pinene provides the anti-rheumatic effect of Citrus
limonum, and acts as a tonic for mucous membranes and
the upper respiratory tract. Alpha-pinene acts as an antiinflammatory, and is anti-microbial.

The lemon has changed over centuries of cultivation

through commercialization of which today one can find
over 47 varieties. Preferring well drained soil and abundant
sunlight, lemon trees can grow up to 20 feet high. The tree
bark varies in colour from grey green purple. Ovate
evergreen alternating leaves grow two inches long,
sheltering five-petaled flowers that are white at the center,
changing to the lemon yellow we know and love, ending in
purple edged petals.

Limonene is the source of the smell of the oil. Limonene

has anti-cancerous effects, and increases the enzymes of
the liver concerned with detoxification. D-limonene has
been used clinically to dissolve cholesterol-containing
gallstones.

The lemon comes to fruit first as an ovoid berry with oil

glands and acidic pulp.

Linalool decreases aggressive behavior, stress, and

improves sleep

The essential oil is extracted by cold press from the

mesocarp or the white pith as well as from the peel. It
takes one ton of fresh lemons to produce seven pounds of
fresh lemon oil.

Therapeutic Properties
The scent plays an important therapeutic role especially
pertaining to the liver, but its long history has mad lemon
oil a cure all for a wide variety of conditions including the
following:

When buying look out for lemon oil watch out for
adulteration from citrene (a fraction from the citral oil of
the lemon used to make terpeneless oil, other fixed oils,
orange terpenes, alcohol, oils of turpentine, and pinene.
The oil should be a pale greenish-yellow, and the
consistency watery. The smell is recognizable and more
rounded than the fruit itself, but refreshing. At home, the
oil should be stored like all oils in a dark glass bottle and
kept away from direct light in a cool place to protect the
oil from deteriorating. It is only effective up to 10 months
after extraction so check the date of manufacture.

Some of the therapeutic properties are as follows:

Chemical Properties

337

Anti-anemic
Antibacterial
Antimicrobial
Anti-rheumatic
Anti-sclerotic
Antiseptic
Carminative
Cicatrisant

Depurative
Diaphoretic
Diuretic
Febrifuge
Haemostatic
Hypotensive
Insecticidal
Rubefacient
Tonic
Vermifuge

preferable to dilute it in a Carrier Oils at 5 drops per

tablespoon (15ml).

As an antibacterial, citrus limonum has been found to be

effective against a wide variety of bacterial causing
infections including staphylococcus aureus and E.coli.
Within 15 minutes of exposure to the oil, meningococcus
bacteria die, an hour for typhoid bacilli, and two hours for
Staphylococcus aureus.

The Japanese use lemon oil in a diffuser in banks to

increase concentration, as a Japanese university study
established that 54% fewer mistakes were made.

Circulatory Detoxification, high blood pressure,

sluggish
Dietary A good substitute for vinegar.
Digestive Acidity, cramps, indigestion, stomach
upsets
Endocrine balances the spleen, detoxifies the liver
Head Aches, sinusitis, migraines
Mind Dizziness, convulsions, mental fatigue, nervous
tension, stress,
Musculoskeletal Rheumatism
Renal Fluid retention
Respiratory Asthmatic, upper respiratory tract
infections
Skin Cuts, dull, immunity (stimulates white blood
cells, pimples, oily, wounds, weak nails,
Skeletal Arthritis, rheumatism

Application

As an anti-sclerotic it prevents hardening of the bodily

tissues as in the case of scleroderma, sclerosis, and
varicose veins.

Contraindications:
The oil is photo-senstive, and can cause skin irritation in
some individuals on exposure to the sun, but can cause
skin irritation and sensitizing in some individuals. Since it
is a photo-toxic oil, it should not be used (even in low
dilution) 72 hours before being exposed to the sun as it
increases the likelihood of sunburn.

Indications
The oil can only be used for external use, though some
traditions have specific applications for internal use. It is

Diffuser To aid concentration, clear the mind, lift the

spirits, reduce stress,
Vapor therapy For colds, decision-making,
depression, fatigue, stress, lack of energy, low spirits,
poor concentration, sluggish liver, upper respiratory
tract infections, and voice loss. 30 drops added to a
diffuser of spring water makes it an effective
disinfectant.
Massage/bath oil depression, digestive problems,
fatigue, flu, lack of energy, infections, obesity,
overweight, rheumatism, stress and as a general tonic.
Added to a cream/lotion acne, cellulite, cuts, oily skin
conditions, wounds
Mouthwash mouth ulcers
The antiseptic effect of lemon oil on the other hand,
helps to treat any cuts, boils and minor wounds. The
rubefacient action of the oil further helps to sort out
cellulite, as well as helping with acne.

Sources:
Burfield T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Aromatherapy & Natural Perfumery Practice.
London. 2005
Felter, W, M.D., Lloyd, J. U. Kings American Dispensatory, 1898
Sokovi, M et al. Chemical Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils of Ten Aromatic Plants against Human
Pathogenic Bacteria. http://www.baltikjunior.com/origano_doc/sinisa_stankovic_1.pdf

338

Lotus Oil
The plant requires much needy space, and plenty of sun.
As the long stalks extend above the waters they join the
leaves at the center of the blade, while the blades float on
the surface of the water or above the water.
The white/pink flowers are solitary in nature and open for
two days closing overnight. Some varieties open at dawn,
and with a short day, closes again a couple of hours after
the mid-day sun, while others open while we are asleep at
night, and close when we are awake.
The outer sepals are white (2-6 sepals) but 10 -30 on
white, pink or red petals spiral, and as if pregnant, the base
of the flower swells and becomes fleshy as it surrounds the
ovary of many compartments.
The fruit is ovoid in shape, and produces nutlets that
occupy the space inside the flowers. The flowers have an
interesting feature in that they produce heat while
flowering, and maintain temperatures of 30-35 while
flowering. The flowers are pollinated by beetles.

Lotus Oil (Nelumbo nucifera)

Native to Asia, North Africa, Persia, and Oceania, this

highly valued plant, from time immemorial has been
regarded as a sacred plant. Nelumbo nucifera is a member
of the Nymphaeaceae family of the plant kingdom, which
bears seeds that 500 years later, have been found to be still
fertile!

The variety Nelumbo nucifera is widely cultivated in

Africa, Australia, China, Greece, Japan, and South Korea
today. The oil is rendered through a process of solvent
extraction, which may leave behind some potentially
harmful traces. However, CO2 extracts achieves a cleaner
end product that is true to the oil, and is thicker than other
extractions.

As a symbol of purity, peace, rebirth, and fertility, the

lotus is sacred to not only ancient Egyptians, but is also
sacred to the Buddhists, and the Hindus.

Lotus oil is quite expensive, and blended mixes are widely

available. They are usually blended in a Carrier Oil like
apricot, jojoba or sweet almond oil, the benefit of which is
that it can be applied straight on the skin.

Much of its symbolism evolved from the way the plant

grows, beginning from the muddy waters which the lotus
loves so much. Nourished by such humble beginnings, the
stems rises above the water existence of our emotions, to
the light and air where it flowers, a symbol of spiritual
unfolding or jihad an nafs. Both Egyptian and Indian
mythology refer to a giant blue lotus at the End of Days
that precede Beginning of Days that arises from the abyss
of primordial waters, flowering to reveal a new child god,
born to restore the Light and banish Darkness. There is
much symbolism here that could be paralleled with the
Egyptian youth behind the January 25 Revolution 2011,
who inspired many, but the all-important message is still
misunderstood.

Chemical Properties
Nelumbo nucifera contains:

The rhizomes ensure the spread of the plant, and is so

firmly rooted, that it is very difficult to remove. The
rhizomes are white-yellowy brown and are tough, fibrous
externally, with a dense center, and a spongy inner layer.
As such, the rhizomes have been a source of food in
indigenous American cultures, and elsewhere, containing
the vitamins thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and ascorbic acid.

339

-sitosterol
Armepavine
Asparagine
Catechin
Dehydronuciferine
Glucose
Isorhamnetin 3-O-rutinoside
Linoleic acid
Lotusine
Neferin
Nelumbine
Nelumboside
Nicotinic acid
N nornuciferine
nuciferine

Onornuciferine
Palmitic acid
Quercetin
Roemerine

Blue Lotus (Nymphaea caerulea) essential oil is the rarest

of the types, and is closest in energy to Lotus flower
essence. Painted on the walls of ancient Egyptian temples,
the therapeutic value is on the spiritual plane and is of
benefit to those who want to work on their physiological
energy points, i.e. the chakras. As the universe realigns
itself, so too are those who are open, which means that the
energy points will not be as traditionally understood, but at
elevated rate and function, so this should be born in mind
by the observant.

At the Institute of Toxicology, College of Medicine,

National Taiwan University Catechin was found to be
affective in the treatment of hyperglycemia in cases of
non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
-sitosterol is a plant sterol that supports the immune
system. It has also been found to be affective in the
treatment of a range of illnesses including cardiovascular
disease, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis, TB, psoriasis,
allergies, cervical cancer, fibromyalgia, systemic lupus,
asthma, hair loss, bronchitis, and chronic fatigue
syndrome.

The delicate yet powerful energy of the Blue Lotus, helps

to strengthen awareness, thus connection with ones
chakras, especially the crown chakra, which is the main
focus of all Lotus Flowers. In doing so, one becomes more
in touch with the Divine, and thus helps to bring more into
alignment with ones true self, purpose and assists a
process of self actualization for those who are open and are
working towards such higher truths.

Nelumbine, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine

to stop bleeding and to eliminate stagnated blood.

Pink Lotus essential oil (Nelumbo nucifera) works with

the 2nd, and 3rd chakras and helps to balances ones
energies, especially the sexual energies of the 2nd chakra.

Some men use -sitosterol for enlarged prostate, and some

women use it for symptoms of menopause. Beta-sitosterol
is used for heart disease and high cholesterol. It is also
used for boosting the immune system and for preventing
colon cancer, as well as for gallstones, the common cold
and flu (influenza), HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid arthritis,
tuberculosis, psoriasis, allergies, cervical cancer,
fibromyalgia, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE),
asthma, hair loss, bronchitis, migraine headaches, and
chronic fatigue syndrome.

White Lotus essential oil is more subtle, and takes more

time for the benefit to become apparent which is a sense of
peace born from clarity, prepares one for a meditative
state, and strengthens ones ability to connect with ones
higher self as a part of ones conscious self development.
Clinical trials have proven the seeds to protect the liver
from toxicity.

Therapeutic Properties

Lotus oil in India is used to treat fungal infections of the

skin, and in Asia in general, the seeds and fruit have been
used to treat ailments of the gastro-intestinal tract, cardiovascular disease, insomnia, nervous disorders, and skin
conditions.

The therapeutic effects begin with the floral scent. The

aroma of Lotus essential oil is subtle, and varies slightly
depending on the colour, but the scent is essentially
uplifting, and transcendent. Some of the therapeutic
properties are as follows:

Contraindications:

Astringent (flowers)
Febrifuge
Demulcent (seeds)
Emmenagogue (roots)
Expectorant (flower)
Hypotensive
Mucilaginous (roots)
Refrigerant (flower)
Resolvent
Sedative (flowers)
Stomachic
Styptic
Tonic (heart, immune system, nervous system)
Vasodilator

It is believed that the phytochemicals in the Lotus plant

interferes with drug therapy in the treatment of diabetes,
high cholesterol, psychiatric or cardiac conditions, or
erectile dysfunction, but this is based purely on the
constituents of the plant, not actual evidence.
Application

There are blue, pink and white lotus essential oils, each
with their own synergy.

340

The oil can only be used for external use, though some
traditions have specific applications for internal use. It
is preferable to dilute it in a Carrier Oils at 2 drops per
tablespoon (15ml).
Diffuser The scent is intense so it is best to mix the
oil with lighter oils. One can add 2 drops to 1 drop of
neroli in water, and spray the air for poor libido, anxiety,
fatigue, lack of energy, feeling of disconnection,
insomnia, weak immunity.

enlarged prostate, delayed menses, vaginal infections,

systemic lupis, sluggish liver, skin infections.

Bath oil depression, digestive problems, upper

respiratory problems, musko-skeletal, poor/tired skin, ,

Sources:
Burfield T. The Adulteration of Essential Oils and the Consequences to Aromatherapy & Natural Perfumery Practice.
London. 2005
Huang, C.F. et al. Extract of Lotus Leaf (Nelumbo nucifera) and Its Active Constituent Catechin with Insulin Secretagogue
Activity. J. Agric. Food Chem., 2011, 59 (4), pp 10871094 DOI: 10.1021/jf103382h
Sacred Lotus. http://www.drugs.com/npp/sacred-lotus.html

341

Marigold (Calendula) Oil

Commercial production today takes mainly in Egypt as the
climate allows for three crops annually, but it is also grown
in South America, Hungary, France, Spain, and Britain.
Chemical Properties
Calendual officinalis contains:

Marigold (Calendula) Oil (Calendula officinalis)

Known as Zergul (Hindi), Butterblume (German),

calendula officinalis is native to Egypt, but has been
growing in European gardens since the 12 th century. Not to
be confused with African marigold, Tagetes patula,
Calendula officinalis is a member of the Asteraceae/
Compositae family of the plant kingdom Scotch or pot
marigold is used clinically, for the treatment of chilblains,
chronic wounds (including slow healing wounds), and
other inflammatory conditions of the skin. In some rural
regions of Europe the species has been used externally for
veterinary anti-inflammatory remedy by mixing the
flowers heads with animal fat, heated for a short period in
order to extract the active lipophilic constituents, and the
resulting product is stored for usage. The flower heads
which are in bloom every month (hence its botanical name
calendula) have also been used to color butter and thicken
soups.

acadinene
a-phellandrene
a-pienene
a-sabinene
a-terpeneol
a-thujene
Calendulin (bassorin)
Carotene
Cubebene
Dichloromethane-methanol
Flavonol glycosides
Geraniol
Isorhamnetin
limonene
Lycopine
Quercetin
Phylloquinone
Rutin
Stigmasterols
Triterpene glycosides
Tocopherols
Triterpenoid
Umbelliferone

The carotenoid pigments have been used as coloring

agents in cosmetics

The marigold has become a common garden flower with

its fibrous annual roots. The stem grows to about a foot in
height that produce many striated branches that are
succulent. The oblong leaves alternate. Solitary rich golden
yellow flowers head emanate from each branch opening at
9.00am and closing at 3.00pm. The florets at the center
are tubular in shape, male and thus sterile. The florets at
the edge are female, and is from where the fruits develop.
The ovaries are cylindrical downy, and green.

Alpha-pinene provides the anti-rheumatic effect, and

acts as a tonic for mucous membranes and the upper
respiratory tract. Alpha-pinene acts as an antiinflammatory, and is anti-microbial.
Limonene is the source of the smell of the oil.
Limonene has anti-cancerous effects, and increases
the enzymes of the liver concerned with detoxification.
D-limonene has been used clinically to dissolve
cholesterol-containing gallstones.

In a study carried out by the College of Pharmacy,

Mahrashtra State, India, dichloromethane-methanol
demonstrated anti-HIV activity.

The essential oil is rendered through a process of steam

distillation
or
maceration.
Macerated/infused
Marigold/Calendula essential oil is superior therapeutically
speaking as well as the cold extraction process Calendula
CO2 .

Therapeutic Properties
Some of the therapeutic properties are as follows:

342

Antibacterial
Antifungal
Anti-inflammatory
Alterative
Aperient
Cholagogue
Cytotoxic
Diaphoretic
Emmenagogue
Hepatoprotective
Spasmolytic
Vulnerary

Indications
The oil can only be used for external and internal, though
some traditions have specific applications for internal
use.).

As an antibacterial, calendula is effective against

bacterial causing gastrointestinal infections, especially the
bacteria Campylobacter jejuni which causes diarrhea in
children.

In a study carried out by the College of Pharmacy,

Mahrashtra State, India the antifungal activity was very
potent against Candida albicans, Candida dubliniensis ,
Candida parapsilosis, Candida, and Candida albicans.

Digestive Acidity, cramps, indigestion, stomach

upsets
Endocrine Stimulates the kidneys, gallbladder, and
liver, detoxifies the liver
Female Yeast infections, stimulates the uterus
Mind Soothes the central nervous system
Respiratory Upper respiratory tract infections
Skin Cuts, slow healing wounds, itchy, inflammation,
burns, eczema, nappy rash, cracked/sore nipples,
varicose veins, chemotherapy, radiation induced
dermatitis, exfoliative cheilitis, tissue regeneration
Skeletal Arthritis, rheumatism
Ingestion A few drops can be taken as an
antioxidant, and for enteric parasites.

Application

As an anti-inflammatory, the oil of calendula officinalis

is effective in the treatment of skin inflammations from
bee stings psoriasis.
As a cholagogue, calendula plays an active role in the
protection of the liver and the gallbladder as it
stimulates the release of bile from the gallbladder bile
is a natural laxative!
As an anti-sclerotic it prevents hardening of the bodily
tissues as in the case of scleroderma, sclerosis, and
varicose veins.

Contraindications:

Diffuser For burns, rashes, cuts, bee stings, insect

bites, facial toner, eczema.
Vapor therapy For colds, decision-making,
depression, fatigue, stress, lack of energy, low spirits,
poor concentration, sluggish liver, upper respiratory
tract infections, and voice loss. 30 drops added to a
diffuser of spring water makes it an effective
disinfectant.
Massage/bath oil 510 drops in bath water for anxiety
and depression.
Suppository 2- 5 drops with tea tree oil taken twice
daily relieves vaginal yeast infections
Mouthwash mouth ulcers, deodorant

Calendula officinalis has low toxicity, but as a spasmolytic

it is ill advised for pregnant women as it stimulates the
uterus.

Sources:
Calendula. http://www.drugs.com/npp/calendula.html
Prance, G. The Common History of Plants. Routledge, U.K. 2005
Kings American Dispensatory, 1898, was written by Harvey Wickes Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd
Mulley, B. P et al. Phytochemical Constituents and Pharmacological Activities of Calendula officinalis Linn (Asteraceae): A
Review. http://www.ajol.info/index.php/tjpr/article/viewFile/48090/34455
The British Pharmaceutical Codex, 1911, the Council of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain

343

Marjoram Oil
used the herb for both internal and external application, for
fomentations, narcotic poisoning, convulsions, and dropsy.
Wild Marjoram, Origanum vulgare, can be found today in
Asia, Europe, North Africa, and the U.K. It is a perennial
plant, with creeping roots, a signature of journeying from
one place/state to another.
The woody stems grow to around a feet in height,
branching above to a purplish colour, a signature of the
venal system. The ovate leaves alternate on the stem edged
with shallow teeth, opposite to each other with many fine
hairs on the underside signaturing the life force.

Marjoram Oil (Origanum vulgare/majorana)

Known as oregano (English), bardaoush (Arabic), Kekik

otu (Turkish), the herb that has been popularized by pizza,
is a member of the Labiatae/Lamiaceae family of which
there are over 240 genera and 6,500 species. Many are
flowering plants. Each plant family possesses key
characteristics that underlie all species within the family,
therapeutically. In the case of the Labiatae family e.g.
basil, catnip, clary sage, hyssop, lavender, marjoram,
melissa, mints, oregano, patchouli, rosemary, sage, and
thyme. The Labiataes therapeutic qualities include:

The tiny flowers are profuse in corymbs, with reddish

bracts, signifying the blood.The corolla (ring of united
petals) is purple, and two-lipped (labia) with a five-toothed
calyx, and each flower has four stamens (the male part)
and are in bloom from the end of June August.
Propagation is by division of the roots in the autumn.
The sweet Marjoram, Origanum majorana/hortensis,
native to the Mediterranean region is more common in
Europe as a half-hardy perennial that can withstand cold
climates. It is a little gray-green plant that can be grown as
an annual. The branches hang down and take root to form
a loose, airy clump. The small, rounded leaves have a
unique sweet scent when crushed that are often used in pot
pourri, sachets and as a source of oil in perfume.

Heat, thus warming physiologically and spiritually.

Balance yang energy
An affinity with a particular element/meridian or two
Many are culinary indicating affinity for the digestive,
metabolic, respiratory and venal systems
Adapt to environmental change well indicating immunostimulant properties
Applicable to conditions of weakness thus increasing
vitality
Used by healers and those who are overly sensitive to
the environment and the energy of others

The essential oil is extracted by steam distillation

producing 1 Ib. of oil from about 200 lb. of the plant, when
about to flower. When buying look out for marjoram oil
that is thin in consistency. The oil should be a pale yellow,
and the aroma should have a balsamic overtone. At home,
the oil should be stored like all oils in a dark glass bottle
and kept away from direct light in a cool place to protect
the oil from deteriorating.

As allopathic medicine continues to find its existence, and

profit margin from the earths natural resources through
patenting, extracts from the Labiatae family include:

Chemical Properties

Oxolabdanes for the reduction of intraocular pressure,

Hoechst-Roussel Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Extracts for the treatment of metastasis, Brown
University Research Foundation
Hydrazinocarbonyloxylabdanes for treating cardiac
failure, Hoechst-Roussel Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Please note that the content of the following properties will

vary from specie to specie:

Native to the Mediterranean region, Origanum vulgare,

Wild Marjoram is sometimes referred to as oregano. It
prefers the calcareous soils of open scrubs, grassland and
rocky locations. Used by the ancient Greeks and Romans
on graves to wish the departed happiness, Origanum
vulgare has a long medicinal history. The ancient Greeks

344

a-pinene
a-terpinene
-pinene
y-terpinene
p-cymene
cis-sabinene hydrate
Carvacol
Carvacrol (not present in the flowering plants)
Caryophylene
Cymene

Humulene
Ledene
Limonene
Linalool
Linalyl acetate
Sabinene
Terpinolene
terpinen-4-ol and y-terpineol
Thymol

Limonene is the source of the smell of the oil. Limonene

has anti-cancerous effects, and increases the enzymes of
the liver concerned with detoxification. D-limonene has
been used clinically to dissolve cholesterol-containing
gallstones.
Linalool decreases aggressive behavior, stress, and
improves sleep
In a Moroccan study by Elhoussine Derwich and team, the
phytochemicals, carvacol, thymol, -terpinene, p-cymene,
limonene, caryophylene, cymene, ledene, linalool, apinene, - terpineol, and Germacrene-D were found to be
effective antibacterial agents against staphylococcus
aureus, bacillus subtilis, listeris monocytogenes,
clostridium botulinum, clostridium perfringens, E. Coli,
pseudomonas aeruginosa, salmonella typhimurium,
campylobacter jejuni, and vibrio cholera.

cordial
diaphoretic
digestive
diuretic
emenagogue
expectorant
fungicidal
hypotensive
laxative
Mild tonic
nervine
Rubefacient
sedative
Stimulant
stomachic
vasodilator
vulnerary

As an analgesic reduces pain associated with cold,

fever, inflammation, exertion of muscles, toothache,
headache etc.
As a spasmolytic it relieves spasms of the respiratory,
digestive, and muscular systems, and eases
convulsions, muscle pulls, cramps and spasmodic
cholera
As an anaphrodisiac suppresses sexual desires in
cases of excess.
As an antiseptic it is good for external and internal
wounds
As an antiviral helps to cure viral infections
As an antibacterial kills bacteria from food poisoning,
typhoid, malaria, colic, and bacterial infections in the
colon, digestive system, and urinary tract
As a carminative useful in cases of gastritis and
associated problems of indigestion, nausea, vomiting,
chest pains, hypertension and flatulence
As a cephalic keeps the brain healthy
As a cordial it improves circulation and warms up the
body useful in cases of cough, phlegm, and also
relieves arthritis and rheumatism
As a diaphoretic promotes perspiration which
eliminates toxins, sodium salts, excess water from the
body, and helps to bring down fevers
As a digestive stimulates secretion of gastric juices,
acids and bile Its aroma also
As a diuretic, increases frequency of urination thus
removing excess water, sodium, uric acid, bile salts,
and other toxic elements. Lowers blood pressure, clean
kidneys and reduces fat.
As an emenagogue relieves irregular/delayed/painful
menses. It also helps prevent untimely menopause.
As an expectorant relieves catarrh and congestion of
nasal tract, larynx, pharynx, bronchi and lungs due to
cold and viral infection.

Therapeutic Properties

The scent stimulates the salivary glands, the first stage of

digestion. As a Labiatae the warming action calms the
emotions, headaches, migraines, insomnia, relieves
anxiety, stress and calms hyperactive people.
Physiologically the essential oil acts as a muscle relaxant,
pain killer, eases rheumatic pains, sprains, strains, spasms,
swollen joints and painful muscles.

It soothes the digestive system and helps with cramps,

indigestion, constipation and flatulence and has a
beneficial action on colds, sinusitis, bronchitis and asthma.

It
can
diminish
delayed/painful/scanty
menstrual cramps.

sexual
monthly

desire,
periods

and
treat
as well as

Some of the therapeutic properties are as follows:

Analgesic
anti-spasmodic
anaphrodisiac
antiseptic
antiviral
bactericidal
carminative
cephalic

345

As a fungicidal prevents growth of fungus, helps to

clear fungal infections, and related skin diseases. ,
most of which are caused due to fungal infections. It
also helps to cure dysentery.
As a hypotensive lowers blood pressure
As a sedative induces calm, relieves nervous stress
and anxiety. It also gives a happy feeling in cases of
anger or sadness.
As a stimulant improves peristalsis of the intestines
thus aiding digestion
As a stomachic relieves stomach disorders, ulcers,
improves flow of bile, gastric juices and acids.
As a nervine strengthens the nervous system
As a vasodilator it widens and relaxes the blood
vessels thus easing flow of blood and reducing blood
pressure
As a vulnerary promotes quick healing of wounds,
external or internal, and protects against infection

Application

..
Contraindications:

O. majorana/hortensis essential oil is non-toxic, nonirritant and non-sensitizing, but as an emenagogue, and
spasmolytic should not be used during pregnancy. As a
sedative, excess use can cause drowsiness.
Indications

The oil can only be used for external use, though some
traditions have specific applications for internal use. It is
preferable to dilute it in a Carrier Oils at 3 drops per
tablespoon.

Digestive Acidity, colic, cramps, flatulence,

indigestion, sluggish, stomach upsets
Gender Amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, menopause,
excess sex drive
Head Aches
Mind Physical exhaustion, nervous tension, anxiety,
insomnia
Musculoskeletal Aching muscles, rheumatism
Nervous Neuralgia
Renal Fluid retention
Respiratory Asthma, bronchitis, coughs, headaches,
sinusitis
Skin Chilblains, fungal infections

Circulatory Poor circulation, hypertension

Diffuser To aid concentration, clear the mind, lift the

spirits, reduce stress,
Vapor therapy For colds, decision-making,
depression, fatigue, stress, lack of energy, low spirits,
poor concentration, sluggish digestion, upper
respiratory tract infections.
Massage/bath oil asthma, arthritis, back pain,
bronchitis, poor circulation, colds, coughs,
detoxification, physical exhaustion, fatigue, headaches,
tension, heartburn, insomnia, painful periods, migraine,
muscular pains and spasms, rheumatism, sinusitis,
anxiety, stress and grief.
Neat a couple of drops on cotton-wool placed
relieves toothache, and in the early stages of measles
induces perspiration which ripens the eruptions
Added to a cream/lotion bruises, chilblains,
The antiseptic effect of lemon oil on the other hand,
helps to treat any cuts, boils and minor wounds. The
rubefacient action of the oil further helps to sort out
cellulite, as well as helping with acne.

Sources:
Derwich, E. et al. Phytochemical Analysis and in-vitro Antibacterial Activity, of the Essential Oil of Origanum Vulgare from
Morocco. American-Eurasian Journal of Scientific Research 5 (2): 120-129, 2010. ISSN 1818-6785.
http://www.idosi.org/aejsr/5(2)10/6.pdf
Sujata V. Bhati et al Effective
http://www.google.com/patents/US4088659

substance

from

346

plants

belonging

to

the

Labiatae

family.

Mnuka Oil
claimed to have many medicinal properties. The essential
is extracted from the oil saps in the leaves/ small branches
through steam distillation.
When buying, look out for the scent, a honey-like aroma.
The color of the oil can vary from colorless yellow
depending on the specie. The best variety is from New
Zealand where it grows wild, and not for commercial
production, which guarantees quality so expect a high
price.

Mnuka Oil (Leptospermum scoparium)

The name Mnuka is a Mori word that provides a

distinctive name for a plant that has wider human usage
medicinally speaking than its common reference, tea tree
of Australia. Mnuka honey is becoming increasingly
popular because of its medicinal properties which are
utilized by the pharmaceutical industry. The fresh pungent
leaves were made popular by Captain Cook as they make a
good cup of tea, but to get the best out of the leaves, they
should be brewed longer in order to release the flavor.
Therapeutically, the Maori of New Zealand use various
parts of Leptospermum s. for a wide variety of complaints,
from moral to medicinal with an 800 year history of use.
There are 85 species to be found. A member of the
Myrtaceae family of the plant kingdom, the same family as
eucalyptus, Leptospermum scoparium is an evergreen
small tree/shrub that is native to New Zealand and
southeast Australia, but can be found in places like
Hawaii, and Brazil.

Chemical Properties
Please note that the content of the following properties will
vary from specie to specie, and that the properties are
stronger amongst naturally growing species:

The wood of Leptospermum s. is hardy and has been used

to make tools, and sawdust to smoke meat and fish due to
the flavor it adds.

With a preference for dry, clear well drained areas,

Leptospermum s. can be found in rocky, sandy soil, light
(sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. However
it does poorly in the shade, and is intolerant of strong
inland winds, but not sea winds. Ecologically they make
good nursery crops for re-forestation.
They produce a dense bush of small leaves with short
spiny tips making them prickly. The 5-petaled flowers
range from white, to rose pink. They are hermaphrodite
(both male and female organs) and are pollinated by
Insects. They tend to flower from September to February
with peak flowering from November to January.
The oils extracted from the crushed foliage of Mnuka
contain an antibiotic agent called leptospermone which is

347

1,8-cineole
-copaene
-cubebene
-gurjunene
-humulene
-pinene
-selinene
-terpinene
-terpinolene
-terpineol
-burbonene
-chamigrene
-citronellol
-elemene
-gurjunene
-myrcene
-ocymene

-pinene (higher in content in the far north of New

Zealand)
cis-calamenene
cis--guaiene
(E)--farnesene
E-caryophyllene
-cadinene
p-cymene
-cadinene
-muurolene
-terpinene
acetate
alloaromadendrene
aromadendrene
benzaldehyde
bicyclogermacrene
borneol
caryophyllene oxide
cinnamyl acetate
citronellal
citronellyl acetate
endo-fenchol
eugenol
farnesene
Flavesone
germacrene B and D
geranial
geranyl acetate
Isoleptospermone
isopulegol
ledene
Leptospermone
limonene
linalool
methyl geranate
neral
nerolidol
Rose oxide
Sesquiterpene hydrocarbons
terpinen-4-ol
Trichetones (present in the varieties in East Cape and
Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand, and Brazil)
Valencene
viridiflorol

Therapeutic Properties
It must be noted that in modern pharmaceutics, an
antibacterial kills all bacteria, including good and much
needed bacteria, whereas in plant-based natural remedies,
specific bacteria are targeted. Oil of Leptospermum s. has
proven effective in laboratory tests against 39 microorganisms!
Some of the therapeutic properties are as follows:

Analgesic
Anti allergenic
Anti bacterial
Anti fungal
Anti inflammatory
Anti histaminic
Anti-microbial
Astringent
Cicatrisant
Cytophylactic
Deodorant
Digestive
Expectorant
Insecticide
Nervine
Sedative
Spasmolytic
Stimulant (immune system)

The antibacterial/antifungal activity of Leptospermum s.

has proven effective at targeting Helicobacter pylori,
Staphylococcus aureas, Staphylococcus aureas methacillin
resistant, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus
faecalis, Streptococcus agalactiae, Micrococcus luteus,
Sarcina lutea, Bacillus subtilis, Listeria monocytogenes,
Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella
pneumonia,
Proteus
vulgaris,
Vibrio
furnissii,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas fluorscens,
Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton rubrum,
Microsporum canis, Aspergillus niger, and Candida
albicans.
Therapeutic Activity

Limonene is the source of the smell of the oil.

Limonene has anti-cancerous effects, and increases
the enzymes of the liver concerned with detoxification.
D-limonene has been used clinically to dissolve
cholesterol-containing gallstones.
Linalool decreases aggressive behavior, stress, and
improves sleep
Terpinen-4-ol, which is found in another member of
the Myrtaceae family, eucalyptus has strong germicidal
properties.
Trichetones determine the level of antimicrobial
activity in Leptospermum s.

348

As an analgesic reduces pain associated with cold,

fever, inflammation, exertion of muscles, toothache,
headache etc.
As an antiseptic it is good for external and internal
wounds
As an antiviral helps to cure viral infections
As an antibacterial kills bacteria from food poisoning,
typhoid, malaria, colic, and bacterial infections in the
colon, digestive system, and urinary tract
As a digestive stimulates secretion of gastric juices,
acids and bile Its aroma also

As an expectorant relieves catarrh and congestion of

nasal tract, larynx, pharynx, bronchi and lungs due to
cold and viral infection.
As a fungicidal prevents growth of fungus, helps to
clear fungal infections, and related skin diseases. ,
most of which are caused due to fungal infections. It
also helps to cure dysentery.
As a sedative induces calm, relieves nervous stress
and anxiety. It also gives a happy feeling in cases of
anger or sadness.
As a stimulant improves peristalsis of the intestines
thus aiding digestion the intestines are 80% of the
immune system
As a nervine strengthens the nervous system
As a vulnerary promotes quick healing of wounds,
external or internal, and protects against infection

Head Dandruff, Gingivitis, mouth ulcers, rhinitis,

Tinea, Tonsillitis
Mind Anxiety, stress, oversensitive nervous system,
negative external influences, passivity, strengthens the
psyche
Musculoskeletal Muscular tension, sprains, stiff
joints, rheumatism,varicose
Nervous Nervous tension
Respiratory Asthma, coughs (including whooping
cough), colds, flu, hayfever
Skin Abrasions, abcesses, acne, bed sores, blisters,
boils, burns, carbuncles, cold sores, cracked skin,
dandruff, dermatitis, eczema, fungal infections,
impetigo, insect bites, leeches, lice, psoriasis,
ringworm, oily, ulcers, warts

Application
Contraindications:

It is contraindicated if on medication that includes

ofloxacin, enoxacin, and sparfloxacin. It is also
contraindicated for pregnant women due to the plants
spasmolytic properties.

Indications

The oil can only be used for external use, though some
traditions have specific applications for internal use. It is
preferable to dilute it at 3 drops per tablespoon. (see
Carrier Oils)

Digestive Indigestion, sluggish, stomach upsets

Gender Low libido, vaginitis

Diffuser To fumigate a space/home

Vapor therapy 1 drop in water for colds, decisionmaking, depression, fatigue, stress, lack of energy, low
spirits, poor concentration, sluggish digestion, upper
respiratory tract infections.
Bath external 2-4 drops in the bath before adding
water. As a deodorant, wash daily, and 2 drops to a
cream and apply for the feet, 3x weekly.
Massage Scalp Add 10 drops to shampoo applied
to wet hair. For sunburns after applying cold water to
reduce heat, a couple drops of oil in natural cream
rubbed into sunburnt area.
Neat fungal infections a couple of drops on cottonwool applied twice daily. Add to 2-4 drops to a natural
cream/lotion for skin complaints

Sources:
Demuner, A.J. et al. Seasonal Variation in the Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of Volatile Oils of Three
Species of Leptospermum (Myrtaceae) Grown in Brazil. Molecules 2011, 16, 1181-1191; doi:10.3390/molecules16021181
Forst, J.R. Leptospermum scoparium. http://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Leptospermum+scoparium
Manuka Oil Uses and Information. http://www.manukaoil.co.nz/manuka_oil_uses.htm

349

What Is Avocado Oil Good For?

Avocado Oil Offers As Many Benefits (If Not More) Than Olive Oil.
By: Jennifer Nelson
August 26, 2015, 8 A.M.
What's more, avocado is also cholesterol-free and contains
no trans fats. A 2005 study published in the Journal of
Nutrition found the oil very beneficial, suggesting that
adding it to a salad of romaine lettuce, spinach and carrots
would increase absorption of key carotenoid antioxidants
(lycopene and beta-carotene) more than the salad alone
would. That boost can have eye health benefits.
Another study in the Journal of Periodontology discovered
that avocado oil decreases inflammation in the gums,
which helps prevent periodontal disease.
Avocados: They're not just for guacamole anymore.

"The primary fatty acid in the avocado fat is

oleic acid, which helps reduce both
inflammation and appetite," says Sears.

While everyone is familiar with olive oil and its role in a

healthy diet, not many people are well-versed about
avocado oil. Yet oil for oil, avocado has about the same
nutritional blueprint as olive, only tastier and healthier.

We also know avocado oil is an ally for heart health. In a

90-day study conducted by the Journal of Periodontology,
animals fed avocado oil had higher levels of high-density
lipoprotein (the good form of cholesterol) than animals fed
coconut, olive and corn oils.

First, about 70 percent of avocado oil is oleic acid, a

monosaturated pale yellow omega 9 fatty acid with a lardlike odor. Aside from the excellent work it does in the
body like improving glucose levels for diabetics the
acid is less susceptible to spoiling than other fats.

Because avocado oil is pressed from the pulp of the fruit

rather than the seed and has such a pleasing fat ratio, extra
virgin avocado oil has a high smoke point of 400 degrees
Fahrenheit. This makes it perfect for cooking from
sauting to stir-frying to baking as well as atop salads.
Avocado oil has a mild smell, a creamy texture and rich,
nutty, buttery flavor.

The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of avocado oil is about

13:1. These essential fatty acids play an important role in
blood clotting and inflammation. Most nutrition experts
agree that the omega 6:3 ratio should range from 1:1 to
5:1.

Unlike coconut oil, which is a partial solid, avocado oil is a

stable liquid that looks a lot like olive but it can be harder
to locate at regular groceries. You'll more likely see it in
specialty grocers and online.

"However the extracted avocado oil is

richer in oleic acid compared to extra-virgin
olive oil with close to a similar level of
polyphenols, says Dr. Barry Sears, author
of "The Mediterranean Zone."

What else can you do with avocado oil?

Polyphenols are micronutrients in our diet that prevent

degenerative diseases like cancer and cardiovascular
disease.

Externally, avocado oil is hailed as an excellent source for

skin and haircare and is already an ingredient in many
products, including baby products. It may have some
properties in helping fight UV-induced damage as well as
be useful for improving symptoms of psoriasis.

"The green color of avocado is indicative of

its polyphenol content thats similar to the
same volume as kale but obviously much
better tasting."

You can use avocado oil to remove makeup, by swiping a

cotton ball dipped in oil across cheeks and eyelids. It's also
effective for moisturizing skin and repairing cracked heels
and dry cuticles. It's readily absorbed without being too

350

greasy feeling. You can diminish fine lines by massaging a

few drops of oil into crows feet as you would with an
expensive skin oil.

Plus, avocado oil's vitamin E can help strengthen the skin

and the immune system when you ingest it, says Keri
Gans, R.D., author of "The Small Change Diet." "Serving
a healthy fat with each meal is important," says Gans. Go
for nuts, olive oil or the gaining popularity of avocado oil,
which may beautify from the inside.

It's also a wonderful hair conditioner or leave-in treatment

for the scalp or split ends. Simply cover the scalp or split
ends with a 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the oil and leave it wrapped
in a towel for 20 minutes before shampooing as usual.

351

7 Health Benefits Of Organic Peppers

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
August 31, 2015
1.
2.

3.

4.
5.
You already know that peppers add great taste to your
favorite dishes. You might not know what superior healing
agents organic peppers can be and how much they can
promote your health. Id like to tell you just how much
delicious organic hot peppers can do for you.

6.

7.
Plant compounds called capsaicinoids create the heat in
peppers when it touches your mucous membranes.
Different peppers produce a slightly different burn, from
mild to very hot. The hottest peppers of the genus
capsaicin, such as cayenne and jalapeo peppers, produce
a sensation of fire in your mouth.

Reduce Redness and Swelling You can potentially

redness and swelling from sore muscles and bones
with the natural properties in organic peppers.
Ease the Common Cold Organic peppers clear out
congested mucus membranes in the nose and lungs
and cause sweating which is one way your body
eliminates toxins.
Soothe and Balance Your Stomach Added to your
diet, organic peppers help improve digestion by
stimulating the flow of stomach secretions and
eliminating the discomfort of excess gas.
Support Blood Circulation Hot peppers such as
cayenne stimulate blood flow naturally.
Promote Healthy Lipid Profiles Acting as a thinning
agent, organic peppers help dissolve fibrin, the
insoluble protein that builds up in your blood vessels
which might cause blood clots.
Control Your Weight By activating your digestion,
organic hot peppers can reduce your appetite by
making you feel full faster.
Function as an Anti-oxidant The beta-carotene in
cayenne and other organic peppers works as an
antioxidant that counteracts the damage caused by
free radicals.

One of the hottest peppers, the small, red-hot habanero,

provides exceptional health benefits, too. The oils in these
peppers put fiery heat and flavor into Tex-Mex dishes
while doing some amazing things for your overall health.

When that fire hits, your mouth sends a signal to your

brain which releases natural pain relievers and endorphins.
Its good to go for the burn, but do so in moderation.

In addition to the benefits listed above, habanero peppers

can also help:

Cayenne is a very popular hot pepper. Its long pod and

biting seeds boost fiery flavor and support your immune
system too. Specifically, the vitamin A, or beta-carotene,
in cayenne and other organic peppers protects your
digestive system and wards off infections.
Fresh or lightly cooked red peppers such as cayenne also
contain vitamins E, C, and B complex vitamins.

Trigger endorphins
Lower triglycerides
Supports circulation
Promotes normal, balanced blood pressure
Fight potential heart disease

Green, bullet-shaped jalapeos are medium-hot peppers,

and they also offer all the health giving advantages of the
hotter capsaicin rich peppers, with a slightly milder flavor.

Health Benefits of Organic Peppers

Not So Hot Peppers
Capsaicin rich cayenne and other hot peppers help to:
Very mild and sweet organic peppers have plenty of health
benefits, too. Dark green poblanos and red, green, and

352

yellow bell peppers offer the benefits of high fiber, and

theyre low in fat, calories, and sodium.

Note: Eating hot peppers in excess may irritate your

intestinal tract, from top to bottom, so practice restraint.
Also, handle the hotter peppers carefully because the heat
can transfer from your fingers to your nose and eyes,
causing discomfort.

These peppers are great replacements for salt in your diet,

and they offer the bonus of boosting your metabolism to
burn fat.

353

The Health Benefits Of Parsley

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
September 1, 2015
potentially guarding against harmful organisms. [5] One
caveat is to avoid parsley during pregnancy, as its been
associated with promoting menstrual flow.
Other Health Benefits of Parsley
Parsley is soothing to irritated tissue and has potent
antioxidant capabilities. Its naturally-occurring eugenol
content may also help reduce blood glucose levels. It is
incredibly rich in vitamin K as well as A, C, and several B
vitamins. [6] Some preliminary research shows parsley
contains something called apigenin, which has shown
positive effects on supporting immune health. [7] Its fiber
content may also help with regularity.

Most people are familiar with parsley as a food garnish;

yet, its often used as a mere decoration and is usually
discarded. But did you know that when it comes to herbs
that promote superior body cleansing, parsley is one thats
high on the list? Toxins, chemicals, and toxic metals
none of these stand a chance against this nutritional
powerhouse. [1] Its rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and
ascorbic acid, and its benefits have been known for
centuries.

Whats the Best Source of Parsley?

Finding a good source of parsley is like finding a good
source of any other herb. Its easy to grow if youve got a
garden space, and you must absolutely purchase organic if
you will be consuming it. The herb holds onto pesticides
more so than other foods, so always seek out one that has
the USDA organic certification. Parsley is also available as
a supplement usually dried or concentrated. Weve
actually included it in the formulation of Zeotrex, our
solution for chemical and toxic metal cleansing. If youre
looking for a way to harness its cleansing abilities, Zeotrex
is a great product with strong reviews.

How Parsley Helps Cleanse Your Body

Similarly to cilantro, parsley acts as a natural diuretic. [2]
Your urine is a route through which toxins are expelled
from your body, so incorporating parsley to help this
natural process along may prove useful for cleansing.
Parsley is also a strong liver supporter, particularly in the
presence of common diseases like diabetes and liver
disease. [3] [4] In fact, theres evidence to suggest that
parsley can help benefit other problems like IBS or a UTI.
Its high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K
stimulates immune-bolstering properties in the body,
.References:
1.
2.
3.
4.

5.
6.
7.

What tips do you have for using parsley? Leave a

comment below and share it with us.

University of Missouri-Columbia. Parsley, celery carry crucial component for fight against breast cancer, study suggests. ScienceDaily.
ScienceDaily, 9 May 2011.
Kreydiyyeh Sl, Usta J. Diuretic effect and mechanism of action of parsley. J Ethnopharmacol. 2002 Mar;79(3):353-7.
Tunali T1, Yarat A, Yanarda R, Ozelik F, Ozsoy O, Ergenekon G, Emekli N. Effect of parsley (Petroselinum crispum) on the skin of STZ
induced diabetic rats. National Center for Biotechnology Information. USA.gov, 1999.
Srinivasan S, Sathish G, Jayanthi M, Muthukumaran J, Muruganathan U, and V. Ramachandran. Ameliorating effect of eugenol on hyperglycemia
by attenuating the key enzymes of glucose metabolism in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. National Center for Biotechnology Information.
USA.gov, 2014.
Holmannova D, Kolackova M, Krejsek J. Vitamin C and its physiological role with respect to the components of the immune system. Vnitr Lek.
2012 Oct;58(10):743-9.
Peters, Cornelius. The proud plant Parsley or Petroselinum crispum is more than just a food. Academia.edu. Academia.edu, 2015.
Sanjeev Shukla and Sanjay Gupta. Apigenin: A Promising Molecule for Cancer Prevention. Pharm Res. 2010 Jun; 27(6): 962-978. doi:
10.1007/s11095-010-0089-7.

354

Improve Dental Health With Chocolate

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
September 8, 2015
showing powerful effects for oral health. [1] Theobromine,
an alkaloid found in cacao and tea, may provide
antioxidant effects against gum disease and tooth erosion.
Some researchers are in fact pitting this chocolate extract
against fluoride, a common neurotoxin added to
toothpastes and the public water supply.
There are many reasons why you should avoid fluoride in
favor of theobromine, the natural extract from the cacao
plant. For one, fluoride may promote neurotoxic effects
following prolonged exposure. [2] Also, too much fluoride
ingestion can actually cause fluorosis, a complicated and
frustrating condition that results in yellowing of the teeth
and even calcification of ligaments. Fluoride just isnt the
safest ingredient for promoting oral health. Plant-based
extracts, however, are showing more promise.

Chocolate has been a long-maligned food when it comes to

dental health, and probably for good reason. Most
chocolate sold today is not chocolate at all; in fact, the
majority of chocolate sold and consumed is nothing more
than sugar, dairy, and a tiny amount of processed cacao.
Significant health benefits attributed to dark chocolate are
lost in processed milk chocolate, which is why its so often
linked to negative health outcomes in the population. Dark
chocolate is the preferred chocolate you should consume if
youre seeking any type of beneficial health effects. Recent
research has shown that dark, unprocessed cacao has
benefits that go beyond cellular protection, with one study
showing it may be effective for supporting oral hygiene.

Take Home
While the research is promising, it isnt suggesting youre
doing your teeth and gums good by eating a chocolate bar.
If anything, if youre wanting that chocolate fix, grab a
handful of unprocessed and organic cacao nibs to satisfy
your craving. To support your teeth and gums without
using fluoride, be sure youre brushing with fluoride-free
toothpaste, flossing every day, drinking water, avoiding
sugar, and getting plenty of vitamin D. You may also want
to look into herbal support, like Fresh Mouth, as an
adjunct to your daily regimen.

The Dental Benefits of Chocolate

How do you protect your teeth without using fluoride? Let
us know in the comments!

Research examining a powerful flavonoid extract derived

from cacaothe source of modern-day chocolateis
References:
1.
2.

Tulane University. Chocolate Toothpaste? Extract Of Tasty Treat Could Fight Tooth Decay. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 19 May
2007.
Choi AL, Zhang Y, Sun G, et al. Association of lifetime exposure to fluoride and cognitive functions in Chinese children: a pilot
study. Neurotoxicol Teratol. 2015 Jan-Feb;47:96-101. doi: 10.1016/j.ntt.2014.11.001.

355

20 Ways To Benefit From Clove Essential Oil

By Gaye Levy
September 11, 2015
to sensitive skin tissue. You can still use it directly on a
tooth by applying it to a cotton ball or cotton swab first.
Just so you know, I did not come up with this painrelieving trick on my own. While on vacation, I was
experiencing major dental woes. When I got home, my
dentist had one piece of advice for me. Always travel with
a small bottle of inexpensive clove. In addition, he told me
he was such a proponent of clove oil that he frequently
used it with patients to provide preliminary numbing prior
to a procedure.
I was convinced and wanting to learn more, I decided to
investigate additional uses for this miracle oil.
The History of Cloves
It has happened to all of us. It is the weekend or you are
miles away from civilization and your tooth starts to hurt.
The pain is excruciating and has become so bad you can
not eat, drink, concentrate, or get through the normal dayto-day activities of life. If it is night time, you cant sleep.

The use of clove dates back to the Han dynasty (207B.C to

220 A.D.) where it was used to hide bad breath. Anyone
approaching the Chinese emperor was required to hold a
clove in their mouth for this purpose. Over the years,
traditional Chinese medicine has used cloves to treat
indigestion, diarrhea, hernias, ringworm, athletes foot, and
other fungal infections.

A trip to the ER is not practical and of course, what dentist

is open for business on the weekend?

Cloves arrived in Europe in the 4th century A.D. They

were considered a luxury and were used as a part of a
mixture it was used to treat gout. Once cloves became
more readily available in Europe, they were used in a
manner similar to traditional Chinese medicine.
Europeans used cloves to treat indigestion, flatulence,
nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. cough, infertility, warts,
worms, wounds and toothaches.

Let me let you in on a secret. You can temporarily

mitigate the pain and suffering of a toothache with with the
oil of clove, an inexpensive and readily available essential
oil commonly referred to as clove oil or clove bud oil.
How to Mitigate Dental Pain with Clove Oil
Here is what you need to do.

In America, cloves have been used to treat digestive

disorders and have been used in bitter herb medicine
preparations to make them more tasteful.

Put a few drops of clove oil on a cotton ball, place the ball
on your sore tooth and bite down. Keep you mouth shut
for about 5 minutes as the oil numbs the pain and kills the
bacteria.

Here is a fact for you: Americans were the first to extract

the oil from cloves and use it to treat the gums and relieve
toothaches.

Afterward, remove the cotton ball and mix a bit of the

clove oil (6 to 8 drops will do it), water, and salt into a
cup. Swish this around in your mouth for about a minute
and spit out. You should feel a whole lot better.

The active component of cloves is eugenol oil. This oil

makes up 60-90% of each clove and has long been thought
to kill bacteria, viruses and fungi. This oil also acts as an
antiseptic, anesthetic, digestive stimulant expectorant,
aromatic, antispasmodic, astringent and accounts for its
various uses.

Note: Undiluted clove oil can cause burning and even

nerve damage, so be sure to dilute it if you are applying it

356

Cancer Prevention: Preliminary studies suggest that

clove oil may play a chemo preventative role, particularly
in cases of lung, skin and digestive cancers. The American
Cancer Society states that more carefully controlled
research is needed to determine the role of Chinese herbal
medicine, including cloves, in cancer treatment and
prevention.

20 Ways to Benefit from Clove Oil

Since my first experience using clove oil for dental pain, I
have incorporated cloves and clove essential oil into other
aspects of daily life. Here is a list of 20 ways you can
benefit from clove essential oil.
Instant air freshener: Make an atomizer in a spray bottle
mixing clove oil with water. Be sure to shake well before
each use as oil and water do not stay mixed. If your
household is smelling especially bad or is really stale,
simmer some cloves, cinnamon and orange peel on the
stove for awhile; the smell will be heavenly. You can also
use an essential oil diffuser to automatically mist clove oil
in the air.

Cardiovascular Health: The active essential oil in clove,

eugenol, has been shown to act as a an effective platelet
inhibitor, preventing blood clots.
Energy booster: When used for aromatherapy purposes,
clove oil helps to stimulate the brain. The scent makes you
more attentive and can even make you feel more energetic
than you normally would.

Got Doggie Destructo? You can discourage puppy

chewing by dabbing the most likely targets (wood
moldings, your slippers) with a bit of clove oil. One sniff
and one taste and your pup will move on to something
else, hopefully his dog food or doggie toys. This worked
with Tucker the Awesome Wonder Dog (my Yorkie) and
he never did develop and penchant for chewing anything
but his treats and toys.

Improves blood circulation. Clove bud oil is one of the

ingredients used in Tiger Balm, which is an herbal
formulation that dates back to the times of the Chinese
emperors. It is used to sooth muscle aches and pains and is
though to do so by increasing the blood flow in the
affected area.
Indigestion: Clove oil offers a powerful action against gas
and bloating. It reduces gas pressure in the stomach, aiding
in the proper elimination of food and toxins. It also
relieves the discomfort of peptic ulcers. Effective for
stomach related conditions including nausea, hiccups,
motion sickness and vomiting.

Non-toxic Insect Repellent: Did you know that many

insect repellent companies use Clove essential oil as one of
the active ingredients in their spray products? If you have
some clove leaves or oils, you can simply use these instead
of spending money on bug spray. Another thing you can
do is plant cloves around the perimeter of your yard to
replace the number of bugs that cross into your yard. You
can also put some of the oils on your body so bugs and
mosquitoes wont come near you.

Infections: Due to its antiseptic properties, clove oil is

useful for wound, cuts, scabies, athletes foot, fungal
infections, bruises, prickly heat, scabies, etc. It can also be
used for treating insect bites and stings.

As much as I tried, I could only find anecdotal information

about the benefits of cloves. There seems to be little or no
scientific research into the medicinal uses of cloves which
frankly, I find baffling given the huge sums that are
devoted to the research of toxic pharmacy products.

Mitigate Dental Pain: Clove creates a numbing sensation

that becomes a powerful pain reliever for dental pain.
Powerful germicidal properties: Gargling with clove oil
can aid in sore throat conditions and bad breath.

That said, here are some of the reported therapeutic uses of

cloves and oil of clove:

Premature Ejaculation: Some research has shown that

clove may be useful as a aid for premature ejaculation.

Anti-bacterial and Anti-fungal: Effectively aid for food

poisoning, clove oil effectively kills many forms of
bacterial infections. Clove is also effective in reducing
fungal infections such as athletes foot.

Relieve flatulence: A tea made of cloves can relieve the

foofs. Try steeping 5 cloves in a cup of boiling water for
10 minutes. Drink it when it cools and repeat two of three
times daily.

Anti-inflammatory: Clove oil clears the respiratory

passages, acting as an expectorant for treating many upperrespiratory conditions including colds, eye sties,
bronchitis, sinus conditions, cough and asthma.

Relieves headaches: Clove oil is useful for reducing the

pain and discomfort associated with tension headaches.
Apply a rag soaked in clove oils to the forehead or temples
to get help open the blood vessels and rid yourself of the
headache.

Antiseptic: Clove oil can be used to reduce infections,

wounds, insect bites and stings.

Skin: An aid for skin disorders, such as acne.

357

Stress reliever: Clove oil stimulates the circulatory

system, clearing the mind and reducing mental exhaustion
and fatigue. It is also used to aid insomnia, memory loss,
anxiety and depression.

A good way to use this clove intensive blend is in a

protective spray.

Prevention from toxic exposure: Some studies show that

clove oil can prevent toxicity related to exposure to
environmental pollution.

Here is the recipe I use to make Shield Protective Spray.

I use it as a hand sanitizer, room freshener, and all around
disinfectant and protectant.

How to Make Your Own Clove Oil Infusion

DIY Protective Spray

While not as potent as an essential oil, a clove oil infusion

is a cinch to make at home for very little cost. (Not that
clove essential oil is expensive, but sometimes, it is nice to
have a DIY alternative.)

30 drops Thieves/Robber Blend (from above); or

30 drops Shield Blend (from Spark Naturals)
Witch Hazel

How to Make An Essential Oil Protective Spray

Add the essential oil to a 2 ounce glass spray bottle. Top

with Witch Hazel. Shake well before using. Thats it.
Easy peasy. Honestly, this recipe is so darn simple, it is
embarrassing.

Here is what to do:

Using a mason jar, take 1/8 cup of whole clove buds and
cover them with 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. I recommend
using olive oil for its own unique healing qualities but any
oil will work.

A Word About Essential Oils

Cover the jar and set it in a warm place such as the top of
the refrigerator, next to the fireplace, or a sunny window
sill. Every couple of days, give the jar a good shake. At
the end of two weeks, strain the cloves from the oil and
you are all set.

When selecting the oils to use in these Psoriasis formulas,

be mindful that you want to use 100% pure, undiluted,
essential oils. I get mine from Spark Naturals because I
feel that they are the best quality I can buy at a reasonable
price. If you are interesting in giving them a try, you will
enjoy an extra 10% by using coupon code
BACKDOORSURVIVAL at checkout.

This clove oil infusion would make a fantastic carrier oil to

mix with other essential oils or herbs when creating your
own salves including DIY Miracle Salve.

Resource: Clove Bud Essential Oil; Shield Blend

What about Thieves or Bandit Blends?

Note: Enjoy a 10% discount at Spark Naturals using

discount code BACKDOORSURVIVAL.

According to the Essential Oils Desk Reference, cloves

were reputed to be part of the Marseilles Vinegar or
Four Thieves Vinegar that bandits who robbed the dead
and dying used to protect themselves during the 15th
century plague.

For the budget minded, and especially when using oils in

cleaning products, you might want to consider the 100%
pure essential oils from NOW Foods. I have had good
luck with them although I find I need to increase the
amount used by about 50% to get the same benefit when
used as an air freshener in my diffuser. Products from
NOW Foods are often available in stores that sell
supplements as well as online at Amazon and elsewhere.

These days, there are many popular thieves-type blends put

out by essential oils companies. I personally use the Spark
Naturals Shield Blend bit you can also make your own
using this recipe:

Resource: NOW Foods Clove Oil

DIY Shield or Thieves/Robbers Blend

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

45 drops clove essential oil

35 drops lemon essential oil
25 drops eucalyptus essential oil
20 drops cinnamon essential oil
10 drops rosemary essential oil

The Final Word

I first wrote about clove oil back in 2012. Since then, it
has become an important addition to my first aid kit and is
a frequent visitor to my diffuser. There is simply
something calming about breathing air that is infused with
the smell of cloves!

Combine the all essential oils and store in a dark 15 ml

glass bottle.

358

One caution: please remember that clove oil is very strong

in nature and hence should always be used in a diluted
form. In addition, if you have sensitive skin, do a patch test
first. That said, cloves and clove oil are inexpensive and
useful for a variety of purposes and ailments. And for a
toothache or dental pain? In my view a dab of clove oil

sure beats strong and potentially toxic pain relievers that

require a prescription.
Enjoy your next adventure through common sense and
thoughtful preparation!

359

10 Delicious Ideas For Preserving Tomatoes

By Daisy Luther
September 10, 2015
When its time to use them, place the bag in a bowl on the
counter to thaw. The skins will come right off with a
gentle pull and your tomatoes are ready to use.
Prepping Tomatoes for Canning or Cooking
This article gives you the how-to for prepping tomatoes for
canning. Below, find a few quick recipes for canning your
tomatoes and some links to other, more involved recipes.
Canning a Simple Tomato Sauce
This thin puree is as simple as running your tomatoes
through the blender, and possibly adding some garlic,
onions, and salt to them. It can be used as a base for soup,
chili, spaghetti sauce, enchilada sauce, or any other
purpose that requires crushed tomatoes. I like to can this
because its pretty neutral and can be used in so many
different recipes throughout the year.

The best part of late summer is the glorious tomatoes.

Once youve eaten all of the BLTs that you can hold, its
time to start preserving tomatoes for later. Here are 10
delicious ways to prolong that taste of summer throughout
the year.
Dried Tomatoes Packed in Oil

I didnt give measurements because this simple sauce can

be made from any amount of tomatoes that you happen to
lay hands upon. It is also a great way to use up soft or
overripe tomatoes quickly.

To dry tomatoes, slice them to about 1/4 inch thick and lay
them on dehydrator sheets. (If you have a different type of
dehydrator, you can buy netting by the roll and cut sheets
to fit your unit.) If you want, you can sprinkle them with
Italian herbs. like basil and oregano. Dry them for about 8
hours at 140 degrees. Place them in a dry, sanitized jar and
cover them with olive oil. Food safety experts recommend
that this be stored in the refrigerator.

Ingredients:

Dried Tomato Powder

Follow the directions above, but dehydrate the slices until
they are crisp and brittle. Allow the dried tomatoes to cool,
then, using a food processor (I use my Ninja kitchen
system) turn them into a powder. This stores a lot of
tomato nutrition in a very small space. Tomato powder can
be added to soups and sauces for a bump in flavor and
vitamins.

Peeled tomatoes (any variety)

1/2 a small onion per jar
1 clove of garlic per jar
Sea salt or canning salt to taste
1 tsp. of lemon juice per quart jar

Directions:
1.

2.

Freezing Tomatoes

3.
4.
5.

Tomatoes can be frozen whole, in the skin. Wash the

tomatoes in a sink full of baking soda and water, then rinse
them well. Place them in a gallon sized freezer bag, and
then place the bags on a cookie sheet in the freezer to
allow them to freeze nice and flat for ease of storage.

360

Peel tomatoes and place them directly into the bowl of

your food processor or pitcher of your blender.
Approximately 3 cups of unprocessed tomato will fill a
quart jar. If youre using onions and garlic, add those to
the food processor at the same time.
Use the pulse option on your processor until the
mixture reaches your desired consistency.
Pour this into a sanitized quart jar.
Repeat until you have a canner load of sauce.
Add a dash of salt to each jar. If you are water bath
canning, add 2 tbsp of lemon juice to each jar. If you
are pressure canning, the lemon juice is not necessary.

6.

In a water bath canner, process your sauce for

40 minutes at sea level, adjusting for altitude.
Alternatively, you can process the sauce in
your pressure canner for 25 minutes at 10 pounds of
pressure, adjusting for altitude.

Straining Tomatoes for Less Waste

Instead of cooking tomatoes down for hours and letting all
of that goodness just evaporate, I decided to use the same
method that I use for pectin-free jam-making with some of
my tomato products.
The liquid will separate and you will have tomato
sediment at the bottom. (See the photo) This is perfectly
normal. Just shake the jar before using it to mix the liquid
and the pulp. This broth can be used as a base for soup, in
place of liquid for cooking meat in the crock pot, or for
cooking rice.

When processing tomatoes for marinara, salsa, and

ketchup, cut down the cooking time and preserve the extra
liquid for a vegetable broth base for soup or cooking rice.
Puree your tomatoes, then pour the puree into a lined
colander that is resting over a large stockpot. (I use a flour
sack towel for lining the colander.)

More Tomato Canning Recipes

Marinara Sauce
Barbecue Sauce
Taco Sauce
Salsa
Ketchup

Let it drain anywhere from 2 hours to overnight. The

longer it drains, of course, the less liquid will remain in the
sauce. The liquid that drains off can then be processed as a
tomato broth for soup.

For even more recipes, check out my canning website and

my canning cookbook.

Youll be left with thick tomato-ey goodness that doesnt

require a half-day of cooking to reach the proper
consistency.

Recommended products

Canning Tomato Broth

1.
2.
3.
4.

I use the following products when preserving tomatoes.

(You probably already have many of these in your
kitchen!)

Strain your liquid as described above.

Pour this into a sanitized quart jar.
Add a dash of salt to each jar. If you are water bath
canning, add 2 tbsp of lemon juice to each jar. If you
are pressure canning, the lemon juice is not necessary.
In a water bath canner, process your broth for
40 minutes at sea level, adjusting for altitude.
Alternatively, you can process the broth in
your pressure canner for 20 minutes at 10 pounds of
pressure, adjusting for altitude.

The Organic Canner

Excelsteel 16 Quart Stainless Steel Stockpot
Ninja Mega Kitchen System
Presto 23-Quart Pressure Canner
Roma Food Mill
Granite Ware Water Bath Canner
Flour Sack Towels
Stainless Steel Colander
Excalibur Dehydrator
How do you preserve tomatoes?
What is your favorite way to preserve tomatoes? Share in
the comments below!

361

Four Medicinal Mushrooms To Add

To Your Natural Pharmacy
By Tess Pennington
September 10, 2015
are used extensively in Japan, especially
immunostimulation of patients with cancer.

for

1. Shiitake Mushrooms

As the fall approaches we must now focus on some of the

things now available to you as wildcrafters and herbal
gatherers that previously may have been difficult to
find. This article entails some facts about medicinal
mushrooms and is provided for informational purposes
only. The information provided is not meant to, nor does it
diagnose, treat, prescribe, cure, or recommend any actions
for any disease or illness. Only a licensed physician may
do such things; prior to taking any actions pertaining to
this article, seek the approval of your licensed family
physician.

1. Shiitake mushrooms contain lentinan, and this is an

immunostimulant that is purified and isolated and used
with cancer therapy. Beta-glucans are also compounds
(polysaccharides) responsible for modifying the biological
responses of the bodys immune systems. This means (in a
nutshell) that beta-glucans stimulate the bodys natural
immune system workhorses, such as T-cells and
cytokines that fight off diseases. These compounds are
produced by medicinal mushrooms. Shiitake mushroom
products can be found online. There are growing kits,
dehydrated mushrooms, extracts and shiitake mushrooms
in pill form.

Mushrooms are greatly available in the wilds toward the

end of summer and the beginning of the fall. Mushrooms
have many components in their makeup that can be used
effectively against many types of diseases. There is one
important thing to stress, however, before you go out and
begin your attempts to gather mushrooms from your
locality:

2. Reishi Mushrooms

Mushrooms can be deadly poisonous, and you must be

able to identify them 100% with no guesswork prior to
utilizing them!
Four Powerful Medicinal Mushrooms
Your most powerful tool in this is a field guide, one with
color photographs. Black and white drawings and color
portraits are neither accurate nor completely reliable. A
picture is worth a thousand words in this instance, and you
are better safe than sorry. Once more: you must identify
the mushroom before you use it! Medicinal mushrooms

Reishi muchrooms have qualities such as the following:

anti-cancer, anti-oxidants, liver protecting properties,
cholesterol synthesis inhibitor, antibacterial, and antifungal
properties. Ganoderma tsugae is their scientific name.

362

There are growing kits you can purchase so you can grow
these medicinal mushrooms in the convenience of your
own home or, if you prefer, you can purchase them in
vitamin form.

Mushrooms as Natural Medicine

Shiitake mushrooms, Lentinula edodes are mushrooms
that stimulate the immune system and also lower
cholesterol with a substance called eritadenine. Shiitake
mushrooms have anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, as
well as producing lentinan, the cancer-fighting substance
mentioned earlier. Shiitake is a very popular mushroom
used in various recipes that can be found fresh or dried in
your local grocery food store.

3. Maitake Mushrooms

Reishi and Shiitake are effective against numerous viruses,

including HIV. Care must be taken, however, not to use
them around the hemorrhagic flu viruses, such as H5N1
(Avian, or Bird Flu), or the Ebola viruses. The reason for
this (as outlined in previous articles on hemorrhagic
viruses with ReadyNutrition) is that they stimulate the
production of TNF-a, a cytokine responsible for the
cytokine storm reaction of the HFVs.

Grifola frondosa, is an edible mushroom commonly found

on oak trees that is commonly referred to as the Maitake
mushroom. Commonly referred to as Hen of the Woods,
this effective mushroom both kills and inhibits cancer
cells, and can be found in the wilds in the forest. You can
also purchase a mushroom kit that can be grown at home
or purchase dehydrated maitake mushrooms to add to your
medicinal pantry. Diabetics may find this mushroom very
inviting, as it produces compounds containing alpha
glucosidase inhibitors, which lowers the blood sugar and
is hypoglycemic in nature.

How to Use Medicinal Mushrooms

Medicinal mushrooms can be consumed fresh, dried, or
tinctured, the latter being the preferred method for longterm storage and immediate use. Believe it or not, the
dried form also tolerates time and temperature variance
very well. The iceman (a bronze-age man found in the
Sud-Tyrol region of the Alps back in the early 1990s) had
medicinal mushroom fragments in a leather bag that he
kept as his own primitive antibiotic supply. The
mushrooms were readily identifiable, although I do not
recollect exactly what they were.

4. Oyster Mushrooms

The tincture can be created by covering the chopped

mushrooms with a mixture of grain alcohol (minimum of
52% concentration), shaken vigorously in a jar daily and
kept in the dark for two weeks. The strained-off dark
colored fluid will be your tincture. Because of the alcohol
content, the mushroom tincture will last at least 3 years
and be resistant to freezing, as the alcohol also lowers the
freezing point for fluids. The tincture should be stored in a
brown or blue-glass bottle to protect it from UV and light
destruction.
Another mushroom found in the wild but one that is also
highly cultivated is Pleurotus ostreatus, the Oyster
mushroom. This fungus is a common edible mushroom
that is grown for food worldwide; it is also a natural source
for the statin drug lovastatin that is used to lower
cholesterol.

Fresh mushrooms can be dried readily with a commercial

dehydrator, a conventional oven, or solar-dried. As
mentioned earlier, drying is a very versatile way of
preserving them, as they can easily be reconstituted with
the addition of water, and of course they can also be used
in tinctures.

Oyster mushroom consumption has been shown to lower

the levels of cholesterol, as it contains up to 2.8% statins
by dry weight. There are growing kits and dehydrated
mushrooms available online.

To summarize, medicinal mushrooms are wonderful

additions to your prepping supplies and your home
pharmacy. Always exercise great care in gathering them:
it all starts with identification. If you are unsure of what
the mushroom is? Discard it. It is better safe than sorry.
Enjoy your excursions in the woods, and I wish you a
successful and productive mushroom hunt!

363

The Silent Killers In Your Food

Theresa Crouse
September 8, 2015
them grow bigger and faster. There are currently six
hormones that are approved by the FDA to be used in our
foods. They are estradiol, progesterone, testosterone,
zeranol, melengestrol acetate, trenbolone acetate. There are
also several synthetic hormones approved.
All of these hormones have been linked either as
contributing factors or direct causes of innumerable
conditions including cancer, endocrine imbalances, mood
disruptions, birth defects and thyroid disorders. Dont
worry though the FDA says that theyre OK and we
know they have our backs, right?

You do your best to eat healthful foods. You have cereal

and concentrated orange juice for breakfast, a nice big
salad with a boneless, skinless chicken breast along with a
diet soda for lunch and then a lean cut of steak and some
green beans for supper. You also had 4 bottles of water
throughout your day. Cant get any healthier than that,
right? Wrong. The silent killers in your food hide in places
youd never even suspect.

In the chicken and turkey industries, the birds often grow

so quickly and become so large that their legs cant hold
them and they end up lying in their own waste with open
sores. The good thing though, is that the chicken breast
that you buy at the store is going to be HUGE. (Sarcasm
intended)
Think this isnt true? I had a friend who bought chicks that
were guaranteed to be fully grown in 11 weeks. He ended
up getting an extra-heavy work schedule right around the
12th week and the chickens started splitting open. They
were literally growing so rapidly that they were bursting
out of their skin. It was a horrific thing to witness.
Consider the hormones that it took to make that happen.
Tasty, right?

As a matter of fact, if you ate the standard versions of

everything throughout that day, EVERY SINGLE ONE
OF THEM had at least one (and often several) ingredients
in them that are toxic. Some of them are even potentially
lethal because they cause metabolic disorders, endocrine
system disruption, nervous system damage, liver damage
and/or cancer. How healthy are you feeling now?
The worst part of this is that the FDA has given its stamp
of approval to many of these ingredients even when solid,
mainstream research shows that its toxic.

Cattle actually get it as an implant that slowly releases the

hormones throughout the growth cycle of the cow.
Alrighty then. Next.

Why? Who knows because the can. Because the

pesticide, preservative and agricultural industries
contribute big bucks to government-funded research.
Because three times the amount of genetically modified
foods can be grown in the same space that non-modified
foods can. The excuses are endless but the poisons are still
in your foods.

Bisphenol A (BPA)

Here are some of the top silent killers in your foods:

Growth Hormones
Animals just cant be grown fast enough to meet consumer
demand so most of the off-the-shelf meat that you buy
contains growth hormones and other chemicals that make

364

This is a chemical found in reusable plastic food

containers, plastic bottles and is used as a liner in food and
soda cans. BPA has been linked to breast cancer and
research also shows that it interferes with chemotherapy
thats used to treat breast cancer.

Pesticides and herbicides are a bigger issue with some

produce than it is with others. Search the web for the dirty
dozen and the fabulous fifteen. These are lists of the foods
that contain the highest and lowest amounts of pesticides.
Organic produce can be wickedly expensive and
sometimes its a waste of money. Check them out.

So, not only will it give it to you, it will also inhibit your
treatment. You might want to avoid this. BPA-free water
bottles are pretty standard and many companies are
moving away from using BPA in their plastics so be
careful to purchase those products. Theyll most likely
have a big BPA-free sticker on them because people are
becoming aware of the problem.

Benzoate Preservatives (BHT, BHA, TBHQ)

Pesticides and Herbicides

These are used to keep fats in your food from going rancid.
Its found practically everywhere.
Meats, cereals, nut mixes, butter, meat and instant potatoes
are all places to look for them. Theyve been linked with
increased cancer risk, asthma, hyperactivity and disrupting
estrogen balance (and both women AND men have
estrogen!)

Hey, let me fix you a nice glass of cold pesticide and well
sit on the porch and talk turkey. What? That doesnt sound
at all good? Then why are you eating produce thats
covered with it? This stuff is made specifically to kill
things. If thats not sending off a big warning bell in your
head, Im not sure how to reach you.

Azodicarbonamide
Doesnt that sound delicious? No? Well how about a big
plate of spaghetti, a chocolate cupcake or a TV dinner?
Sounds a little better now, doesnt it. This is a bleaching
agent thats used in the flour that is the primary component
of these foods and has been linked to asthma and cancer.

A few of the top pesticides and herbicides are:

Atrazine. 75 million pounds of it is used
per year and its been found in groundwater
and drinking water in areas that use it. It
disrupts hormone systems in several ways
and research suggests that it may inhibit
mammary gland development. Oh, and its
been linked to reproductive changes in
wildlife.

Artificial Sweeteners

Chlordane and Melathion. Associated

with increased breast cancer risk.
Heptachor. It was used in mass quantities
to protect pineapple crops in Hawaii and is
now being studied to see if theres a link
between it and the huge increase in breast
cancer in Hawaiian women.
Though the government swears that these are all perfectly
safe despite studies that suggest that they cause cancer,
artificial sweeteners are still bad for you.

365

Theyre man-made chemicals that, despite lacking

calories, still trick your brain into believing that youre
eating sugar because of the sweet taste, then when the
sugar doesnt show up, you crave MORE sugar.

Youll find these in microwave popcorn, baked goods,

process cheese products (eww) and many other packaged
foods. Theyre linked to neurological, reproductive,
developmental and behavioral disorders.

A few more toxic chemicals to avoid:

The bottom line of it is that you dont know whats in your

food unless you grow it yourself. Since thats often not an
option, at least for all of your food, buy organic produce.
Regarding what to do for your meat, the USDA and the
FDA have such inappropriate standards that its nearly
impossible to ensure that your meat doesnt contain
hormones, antibiotics or preservatives. Educate yourself on
the different labels and do the best that you can.

Sodium Nitrate/Nitrite
They use this preservative in processed meats and its
linked to several different types of cancer.
Sodium/Potassium Aluminum Sulphate

366

The Health Benefits Of Antioxidants

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
September 14, 2015
In laymans terms, free-radicals are bullies that start
pushing everybody around, and encourage nice cells to
become bullies as well. Just like most conflicts, the results
are free radical waste products made up of our broken,
injured and deformed cells. If our cells are weak, it is
natural that our organs, tissues and skin of the body will
likewise become weakened.
As you can imagine, oxidative damage plays a huge role in
many of our modern-day diseases [1], such as muscle and
tissue degeneration, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, as well
as many other health problems. You are exposed to free
radicals as a normal bi-product of regular bodily processes,
like breaking down the food we eat, taking toxic
medicines, as well as through exposure to pollutants. In
addition, over-exposure to the sun (sunburn) and smoking
can also increase your bodys need to oxidize and create
free-radicals. Antioxidants stop this cellular chain reaction
of oxidation by neutralizing the free radicals.

You may have heard a lot about antioxidants in

conjunction with good health and avoiding diseases.
Antioxidants have gotten great press, and rightfully so. But
how do they work once inside our bodies, and what are
some sources of antioxidants?

Many plants and animals keep large amounts of

antioxidants on hand, due to their role in counteracting cell
damage, as well as their ability to repair damaged cells.
Studies have shown that antioxidants can play a role in
reducing the cell-damage of free radicals [2].

Have you ever seen the bottom-feeder fish in a fish-tank,

sucking up all the gunk and grime? Think of antioxidants
as molecular-sized, free radical scavengers in the fishtank of your body.

Moreover, the National Cancer Institute has stated that

preliminary research in lab animals has shown that
antioxidants help prevent the free radical damage that is
associated with cancer [3]. Many experts feel that
increased antioxidants in the body can also help slow the
process of aging, and may even increase longevity.

Once an antioxidant finds its way into the body, mostly

through the foods we eat, it slows down, or even prevents,
the oxidation of other molecules. When molecules in the
body oxidize, they can create free-radicals, or cellular
byproducts. It is very normal to have these free-radicals in
the body, but in excess, they can wreak havoc on our
cellular structures.

How can you get more of these antioxidants into your

body?

What Are Free Radicals?

The secret to consuming more antioxidants is simple: Eat
more organic fresh fruits and vegetables.

Free radicals create a destructive process in our cells,

causing the molecules within the cells to become unstable.
They may even be a big player in the formation of
cancerous cells by a chain-reaction effect, causing other
cells to become damaged. Because of the inherent
instability of free-radicals, they try to attack other healthy
cells to get stable themselves. This causes the once-healthy
cells to react in the same way, attacking others in an neverending attempt for cellular stability.

The simplest and most effective way to expose yourself to

more antioxidants is through your diet. By incorporating at
least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day into your
diet, you may be helping your body reduce its chances of
heart disease, neurological diseases, cancer and lowered
immunity.

367

Studies show that it is more effective to get antioxidants

through diet, as opposed to taking supplements. So, enjoy
eating a variety of these fruits and veggies daily!
Foods High In Antioxidants
The following is my short-list for antioxidant-rich Foods.
Try to incorporate as many as possible into your daily diet.
Remember, organic, raw, fresh and local is always best:

Barley & Rye

Black Currant
Blood Oranges
Sweet Potatoes
Raw Nuts & Seeds
Whole Grain Brown Rice
Berries
Goji Berries

3 Supplements High in Antioxidants

Corn
Lime
Kale
Lemon
Dates
Chiles
Cloves
Garlic
Grapes
Prunes
Mangos
Squash
Millet
Almonds
Carrots
Peppers
Oregano
Spinach
Apricots
Broccoli
Cinnamon
Tomatoes
Olive Oil
Artichoke
Green Tea
Pineapple
Red Beets
Acai Berry
Coconut Oil
Pinto Beans
Broad Beans
Wheat Germ
Pomegranates
Hempseed Oil

I use the following three supplements on a daily basis and

would highly recommend them to anybody looking to
supplement their diet with antioxidants.

Intramax 100% Organic Liquid Multi-Vitamin

Megahydrate Powerful Antioxidant supplement
E3 Live 100% Organic Live Blue-Green Algae

Below is an abstract of a scientific study about the benefits

of antioxidants. I hope you found it as interesting as I did.
Measurement of antioxidant activity using biologically
relevant assays is important in the screening of fruits for
potential health benefits. The cellular antioxidant activity
(CAA) assay quantifies antioxidant activity in cell culture
and was developed to meet the need for a more
biologically representative method than the popular
chemistry antioxidant capacity measures.
The objective of the study was to determine the cellular
antioxidant activity, total phenolic contents, and oxygen
radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) values of 25 fruits
commonly consumed in the United States. Pomegranate
and berries (wild blueberry, blackberry, raspberry, and
blueberry) had the highest CAA values, whereas banana
and melons had the lowest. Apples were found to be the
largest contributors of fruit phenolics to the American diet,
and apple and strawberries were the biggest suppliers of
cellular antioxidant activity. Increasing fruit consumption
is a logical strategy to increase antioxidant intake and
decrease oxidative stress and may lead to reduced risk of
cancer.
Read More About This Study [4]

References:
1.
2.

3.
4.

Dean P. Jones. Redefining oxidative stress. Antioxidants & Redox Signaling. 2006 September 20. 8(9-10): 1865-1879.
doi:10.1089/ars.2006.8.1865.
Haleem MA, Barton KL, Borges G, Crozier A, Anderson AS. Increasing antioxidant intake from fruits and vegetables: practical
strategies for the Scottish population. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2008 Dec;21(6):539-46. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-277X.2008.00906.x. Epub
2008 Aug 27.
National Institutes of Health. Antioxidants and cancer prevention: fact sheet. National Cancer Institute. 2004 July 28.
Kelly L. Wolfe, Xinmei Kang, Xiangjiu He, Mei Dong, Qingyuan Zhang, Rui Hai Liu. Cellular Antioxidant Activity of Common
Fruits. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2008 August 30. 56 (18), pp 84188426 DOI: 10.1021/jf801381y.

368

10 Best Cancer Killing Phytonutrients To Eat

By Sayer Ji
September 12, 2015

Thirty years of research reveals 10 of the best food

phytonutrients to ingest to protect against and even treat
the root cause of most cancers.

According to the review of 30 years worth of literature on

the topic, the following 10 natural substances have been
demonstrated to be the most effective chemopreventive
dietary agents against CSCs:

A new medical model is fast emerging in line with ancient

wisdom: one that aims to strike to the root cause of disease
and resolve it permanently, and which some call
functional medicine. In cancer treatment, this highly
rational approach involves targeting the cancer stem cells
(CSCs) at the root of cancer malignancy. Because we
now know that CSCs are resistant to chemotherapy and
radiation treatment, and may even increase in number
and invasveness when exposed to these outdated
therapies, it is no longer ethical to continue with the
conventional oncologists standard of care. Clearly,
unless a cancer treatment is capable of selectively killing
and/or inducing suicide programs (apoptosis) within
cancer cells without harming non-cancerous cells, it is not
going to produce a cure.
In light of this, we are excited to report on a new review
published in the International Journal of Molecular
Sciences titled, Phytochemicals as Innovative
Therapeutic Tools against Cancer Stem Cells, which
evaluated the evidence for what natural compounds within
various foods and spices make for the most compelling
treatments for targeting CSCs.

1.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate
tea extract

(EGCG): A green

2.

Curcumin: The primary polyphenol in turmeric root

3.

Resveratrol: A phytochemical found in grapes,

peanuts, Japanese knotweed

4.

Lycopene: A red carotenoid found in watermelon, pink

grapefruit, and tomatoes

5.

Pomegranate extracts

6.

Luteolin: A flavonoid found in peppers and various

green vegetables

7.

Genistein: A phytochemical found in soy, red clover,

and coffee

8.

Piperine: A phytochemicals found in black pepper

9.

-carotene: An orange carotenoid found in various

vegetables

10. Sulforaphane: A sulfurous phytochemical found in

Cruciferous vegetables

369

The researchers described the discovery that

phytochemicals can selectively target CSCs as a
milestone in the improvement of cancer treatment because
the synthetic anticancer drugs that are currently used are
often highly toxic for healthy organs and weakens the
patients immune system.

Compare the effects of natural phytochemicals with

synthetic drugs, the latter of which they anticipate will
be found to be less efficient.

Further research should be performed on CSCs to

better understand the signaling pathways that govern
their self-renewal and survival.

The authors concluded, [T]he use of phytochemicals may

be a true therapeutic strategy for eradicating cancer
through the elimination of CSCs.
If you have followed GreenMedInfo.com, you know cover
the complex terrain of modern cancer treatment and its
failures in various exposes on cancer overdiagnosis, the
misunderstood nature of cancer, the reality of chemo
and radiation resistance, the sorcerer-like power that
doctors have over the health destiny of their patients,
and the corrupt pharmaceutically-driven medical system
that sacrifices ethics for profit. It is clear that while this
is a harrowing task and topic, often fraught with darkness,
the discovery that natural substances are superior to
highly toxic chemotherapy and radiation in selectively
killing the root cause of cancer is extremely promising
and should help to usher in a new era of cancer prevention
and treatment that looks at our dietary decisions as the
most important factor in our health destiny.

They also pointed out that the phytochemicals or extracts

identified above, due to their low levels of toxicity for
normal cells, can be used in combination with other
phytochemicals, yielding powerful synergistic effects.
They identified several key areas of focus for the
future:

Finding a way to combine these compounds into very

active cocktails of phytochemicals to address the
multiple areas of treatment resistance often found in
CSCs.

For additional resources and research use our Health

Guide on Cancer Research.

370

Conventional Ground Beef Is Three Times More Likely To

Contain Antibiotic-Resistant Fecal Bacteria
Than Grass-Fed Beef
By: Dr. Mercola
September 15, 2015
Now, a new Consumer Report study1,2,3,4,5 warns ALL
store-bought ground beef contains fecal bacteria, and
factory farmed beef often contains dangerous antibioticresistant bacteria as well.
Ground Beef Accounts for Most E. Coli Outbreaks
As reported by Consumer Reports:
Just before the July 4 holiday this year,
13.5 tons of ground beef and steak
destined for restaurants and other foodservice operations were recalled on a
single day because of possible
contamination with E. coli O157:H7.

Factory farming methods produce a number of side effects

that can threaten your health and even your life.
Contamination with disease-causing fecal bacteria is one
of them.

That particular bacterial strain can release

a toxin that damages the lining of the
intestine, often leading to abdominal
cramps, bloody diarrhea, vomiting, and in
some cases, life-threatening kidney
damage

To combat foodborne illness, the food industry has created

solutions that further worsen matters sterilization
methods such as high heat, chemicals (chlorine-based or
lactic acid washes, for example), and/or radiation are all
common industry attempts to sterilize your food before
it reaches the store.

Between 2003 and 2012, there were

almost 80 outbreaks of E. coli O157 due to
tainted beef, sickening 1,144 people,
putting 316 in the hospital, and killing five.
Ground beef was the source of the majority
of those outbreaks.

Yet the central issue remains unaddressed, which is the

lack of hygiene standards in the raising, slaughtering, and
processing of the animals.

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

(CDC) epidemiologist Hannah Gould, food poisoning is
vastly underreported. The CDC estimates that for every
reported case of E. coli O157, another 26 incidences go
unreported.

A large percentage of meat products become contaminated

when the animals intestines are punctured and stool spills
onto the meat being processed.
This is the real problem not undercooking, as properly
processed healthy meat will not harm you if its
undercooked because it will not be contaminated with
fecal bacteria.

Beef is also a common cause of salmonella outbreaks.

Why Ground Beef Is So Unsafe
Ground beef tends to be far more problematic than solid
cuts of meat, and the reason for this is that in the latter the
bacteria tend to remain on the surface of the meat. Once
you cook it, most of the bacteria are destroyed.

In 2011, researchers found about half of all meats and

poultry sold in grocery stores were contaminated with
drug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria that
causes most staph infections.

371

When the meat is ground, however, those same bacteria

get mixed throughout the meat, contaminating all of it. So
if you like your hamburger on the rare side, the pathogens
may still be alive and well in the center of the beef patty.

Staphylococcus aureus

The samples were also put through secondary testing to

ascertain whether the bacteria were resistant to antibiotics
used in human medicine. Their results showed that:

Another contributing factor is the fact that in the making of

ground beef, meat from a number of animals is mixed
together, and all you need is for one contaminated animal
to affect a very large batch of meat.

Moreover, as noted by the featured article:

Ground beef (like other ground meats) can

also go through several grinding steps at
processing plants and in stores, providing
more opportunities for cross-contamination
to occur. And then theres the way home
cooks handle raw ground beef: kneading it
with bare hands to form burger patties or a
meatloaf.

Unless youre scrupulous about washing

your hands thoroughly afterward, bacteria
can remain and contaminate everything
you touch from the surfaces in your
kitchen to other foods you are preparing.

100 percent of all ground beef samples contained

bacteria associated with fecal contamination
(enterococcus and/or nontoxin-producing E. coli). In
humans, these bacteria can cause blood or urinary
tract infections
Nearly 20 percent contained Clostridium perfringens, a
bacteria responsible for an estimated one million cases
of food poisoning each year in the US
10 percent contained a toxin-producing strain of
Staphylococcus aureus, which cannot be destroyed
even with thorough cooking
One percent contained salmonella, which is
responsible for an estimated 1.2 million illnesses and
450 deaths in the US each year
Three of the conventional samples had methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which kills
nearly 19,000 people each year.6, 7 None of the
sustainably raised beef samples contained MRSA

Organically Raised Beef Is Safer; Grass-Fed Is Best

CAFO Ground Beef versus Organic Ground Beef
Overall, beef from animals raised in confined animal
feeding operations (CAFOs) was more likely to be
contaminated with bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant
bacteria, compared to beef from sustainably raised
animals. According to Consumer Reports:

Consumer Reports purchased 300 packages (totaling 458

pounds) of ground beef from 103 stores in 26 cities across
the US. As reported in the featured article:
We bought all types of ground beef:
conventional the most common type of
beef sold [and] beef that was raised in
more sustainable ways, which have
important implications for food safety and
animal welfare.

18 percent of conventional beef

samples
were
contaminated
with
superbugs the dangerous bacteria that
are resistant to three or more classes of
antibiotics compared with just nine
percent of beef from samples that were
sustainably producedBut the biggest
difference we found was between
conventional and grass-fed beef. Just six
percent of [grass-fed] samples contained
superbugs

At a minimum, sustainably produced beef

was raised without antibiotics.
Even better are organic and grass-fed
methods. Organic cattle are not given
antibiotics or other drugs, and they are fed
organic feed. Grass-fed cattle usually dont
get antibiotics, and they spend their lives
on pasture, not feedlots.

We know that sustainable methods are

better for the environment and more
humane to animals. But our tests also
show that these methods can produce
ground beef that poses fewer public health
risks We suggest that you choose whats
labeled grass-fed organic beef whenever
you can, Rangan says.

The beef samples (181 conventionally raised, 116 more

sustainably produced, including organic grass-fed) were
then analyzed for the presence of five types of diseasecausing bacteria:

Clostridium perfringens
E. coli (including O157 and six other toxin-producing
strains)
Enterococcus
Salmonella

Urvashi Rangan, executive director of the Center for Food

Safety and Sustainability at Consumer Reports also noted
that:8

372

This study is significant, because its

among the largest scientific studies to show
that sustainable methods of raising cattle

can produce cleaner and safer ground

beef.

373

How Eating Kimchi Prevents Lethal Cancer

By Sayer Ji
October 1, 2015
A new study published in the journal Oncotarget titled,
Dietary Prevention Of Helicobacter Pylori-Associated
Gastric Cancer With Kimchi, is the latest example of
how a simple dietary intervention can make a world of
difference in reducing the risk of one of the most lethal
cancers.
Gastric or stomach cancer is the third leading cause of
death from cancer (9% of all cancer deaths), and the fifth
most commonly diagnosed form.1 It is believed that
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a primary
cause, though smoking, nitrates and nitrites found in cured
meat, regular aspirin use, and a lack of vegetables and
fruits (and associated antioxidant consumption), also
contribute to this multifactorial condition.

Kimchi is one of the worlds most popular fermented

foods, but did you know that eating it daily can
significantly impact your cancer risk?

In the new study, researchers set out to prove that kimchi,

a traditional Korean fermented cabbage dish not unlike
sauerkraut (though spicier), could prevent Helicobacterinduced atrophic gastritis (chronic inflammation of the
stomach mucosa) and subsequent gastric cancer, by
administering to mice a high salt diet and H. pylori. They
created a special formula of kimchi, which they called
cancer preventive kimchi (cpKimchi), and which added
mustard leaf, pear, mushroom, Chinese pepper, and sea

tangle juice in addition to the standard kimchi recipe

(sKimchi).
First, the researchers compared the effectiveness of the two
different types of kimchi in suppressing cancer cell growth
in vitro (test tube studies). They found that the cpKimchi
recipe was superior to the sKimchi recipe at reducing
gastric cancer cell survival. Moreover, they found the
cancer killing properties of the cpKimchi recipe was very
specific:

374

All of these experimental results that cpKimchi

selectively induced cytotoxicity in cancer cells,
while no cytotoxicity in non-transformed cells
were further validated with wound healing assay
to find that cpKimch imposed capacity to limit the
cell growth relevant to anti-tumorigenesis.

control animals developed significant gastric tumors at 36

weeks, whereas the cpKimchi group saw a significant
decrease in their size and occurrence.
The researchers explored their findings, again, looking at
molecular mechanisms and markers at play, finding:

Selective cytoxicity is an extremely important property in

juxtaposition to conventional cancer treatments like
radiation and chemotherapy, which almost invariably harm
both healthy and cancerous cells and tissue, leading to
iatrogenic morbidity and increased mortality.

Next, the researchers evaluated the effects of the two

Kimchi recipes in a rat model of atrophic gastritis. Mice
received 24 weeks of a high salt diet and H. pylori
infection, which lead to the development of both atrophic
gastritis and erosive gastritis. They were next administered
cpKimchi mixed with their drinking water up to 36 weeks,
with their gastric lesions undergoing evaluation after 24
and 36 weeks, which included analysis of molecular
changes that occurred during the intervention. In the
cpKimchi group there was a significant decrease in all the
adverse changes observed in the control group (e.g.
chronic atrophic gastritis presenting with loss of parietal
cells, inflammatory cells such as monocytes, lymphocytes,
and macrophages replacing gastric glands, and erosive
mucosal changes), leading the study authors to hypothesize
the cpKimchi had a rejuvenating effect on their
condition.

The authors of the study pointed out that previous

observational research has confirmed kimchis anti-gastric
cancer properties:
A case-control study to assess the influence of
Korean foods showed that kimchi significantly
decreased the risk of gastric cancer, whereas
intake of cooked rice with beans, charcoal grilled
beef, pollack soup, and Dongchimi significantly
increased the risks [5]. In a follow up study, they
also found that gastric cancer risk could be
decreased if those with H. pylori infection
increase their intakes of antioxidant vitamins [6].

They explored the mechanism behind these regenerative

effects further, and identified a range of positive molecular
changes induced by the cpKimchi intervention, such as:

Reduction in COX-2/ and F/80 expression

Reduction in COX-2 mRNA
Reduction in macrophage infiltration
Reduction in macrophage-related inflammatory
mediators (including IL-1, VEGF, IL-6, and MMP-2)
Reduction in transcription factors related to gastric
inflammation (STAT3 and NF-KB)
Reduced apoptosis (indicating less H. pylori-induced
cell damage/cell death)
Increased NQ10 and HO-1, indicative of increased
antioxidative and cell-protecting function.

The authors stated that while well-designed human clinical

trials should be done to confirm these findings, it is
possible that

Down-regulation of the inflammation enzyme cyclooxygenase 2

Reduction in macrophage infiltration into the damaged
mucosal tissue
Reduction in HF-KB p65 expression (a marker for
stress associated immune response and inflammation)
Reduction in interleukin-6 (a chemical messenger
associated with increased inflammation)
Reduction in STAT3 activation (increased STAT3
activity has been linked to cancer)
Reduction in PGE2 levels (a prostaglandin whose
activity is linked to inflammation)
Reduction in Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (a marker
of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation)
Increases in H0-1 and HSP70 (an indirect marker of
improved oxidative stress)
Increases in gastric mucin (an indication of improved
infection)

long-term dietary intervention with cpKimchi can

be an alternate effort of high risk country like
Korea to rescue from troublesome H. pyloriassociated gastric carcinogenesis.

In the third phase of their research, they evaluated the

long-term effect of cpKimchi intake on the prevention of
H. pylori-induced gastric tumorigenesis by observing the
effects of the dietary intervention for up to 36 weeks. The

375

They also detailed the common ingredients in kimchi, all

of which we have a significant body of research indexed
on our database showing that they possess profound anticancer properties:

studies showing its value in over 150 different conditions,

63 studies of which specifically concern its anti-cancer
properties.
Another amazing aspect of kimchi as a fermented food is
its beneficial bacteria which can number in the trillions
per serving, and which help to suppress, neutralize, or
otherwise create balance with H. pylori, which technically
inhabits about 50% of the world populations intestinal
tract without causing any discernible harm to the majority.2
Given that triple drug therapies (usually two antibiotics +
an acid blocker) focus on attempting to eradicate H. pylori
but also destroy and/or alter the beneficial bacteria, fungi
and viruses in the gut, it is possible that focusing on
improving the terrain with kimchi-derived probiotic
colonies offers an entirely different and more sustainable
approach especially given that triple drug therapy often
fails and/or leads to the development of antibiotic resistant
strains of H. plylori.

The common gradients of kimchi are pepper, garlic, black

cumin, hyme, allspices, bay leaves, mustard leaf, rosemary
containing carnosol, flaxseed in addition to Chinese
cabbage, in which carotenoids, flavonoids, catechins,
isothiocyanates, allicin, glucosinolate, and lignin are
plentifully contained. We have added the following five
ingredients (Supplementary table 1), pear, mushroom, red
pepper, mustard leaf, and sea tangle juices upon common
vegetables for kimchi in order to produce cpKimchi. One
of core ingredients in cpKimchi, pear extracts, had been
already reported to possess significant anti-mutagenic
actions evidenced with anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation,
and cell proliferation regulation. Feugang et al [20] have
previously reported that aqueous extracts of pear
significantly reduced gynecologic cancer cells growth
through apoptosis induction and ROS-sensitive genes [21].
Though cranberry had the highest total phenolic content
followed by apple, red grape, strawberry, pineapple,
banana, peach, lemon, orange, pear, and grapefruit [22],
these ingredients, except pear, are not usually included in
kimchi. Next, special attention was paid to mushroom
polysaccharides, since mushrooms are regarded as
powerful pharmaceutical products against cancer.
Numerous bioactive polysaccharides or polysaccharideprotein complexes from medicinal mushrooms had been
described to either enhance innate and cell-mediated
immune responses or exhibit antitumor activities in
animals and humans [12, 23].

Consider also that kimchi has been identified to contain

strains of beneficial bacteria that are actually capable
of degrading highly toxic pesticides, as well as
petrochemical
toxicants
such
as bisphenol
A,
underscoring the broad way in which kimchi may be of
value to those at risk or actively suffering from gastric
cancer or pre-cancerous lesions. And dont forget that we
have a number of ways to further enrich empower you,
including a separate database page on kimchi which
reveals research on its potential therapeutic value in over
20 health conditions, an anti-Helicobacter pylori
research page, and a page dedicated to things that
contribute to and prevent and/or treat gastric cancer
naturally. You can also check out our recent article on 3
Natural H. Pylori Cures That Are Clinically Proven.

Kimchi, of course, is a Chinese cabbage-based food. And

this one ingredient, alone, contains one of the most
powerful anti-cancer and anti-H. pylori compounds
known: sulforaphane. You can take a look at our research
page on sulforaphane which presently includes 212

Lastly, the best extrapolation of this data is the use of food

for prevention, and the incorporation of healing foods into
daily life.

Additional References
1

Chapter 1.1. World Cancer Report 2014. World Health Organization. 2014. ISBN 9283204298.

2 Pounder

RE, Ng D (1995). The prevalence ofHelicobacter pylori infection in different countries.Aliment. Pharmacol. Ther. 9 (Suppl 2):
339. PMID 8547526.

376

2,000 Reasons It Is Unethical That

Turmeric Is Not FDA Approved
By Sayer Ji
October 10, 2015
intelligence if not also inter-species compassion
between the plant and animal kingdoms.
The research continues to pile up, with a new published
study added to Medline every few days; as of the writing
of this article, there are over 9,000 published studies on the
topic. In fact, our database on turmeric has grown so large
that it takes an entire server just to load the data for
professional members performing dynamic filtering by
study type, date, etc.
There are over 2,000 studies on the
GreenMedInfo database demonstrating the
power of turmeric to heal, but this timetested, safe, and affordable healing
substance still has not received FDA
approval to prevent, treat, or cure disease
despite the fact that it is capable of doing
exactly that.

Our regular followers know we report extensively on the

evidence indicating that turmeric, and particularly the
golden-hued polyphenol known as curcumin it contains, is
superior to a wide range of pharmaceuticals both in
safety and effectiveness. Some of the most compelling
examples are listed below:

One of the greatest if not the greatest triumph of

biomedical science today is its role in validating ancient
healing modalities that long before the advent of science,
and even recorded history itself, were passed down
orally from generation to generation in the vast body of
folkloric medical knowledge that still forms the basis for
the majority of the worlds primary health care system.
These so-called natural or alternative modalities,
which our species owes its present day survivorship to
after eons of dependency on them, are increasingly gaining
the attention of men and women in white lab coats intent
on unlocking the mysteries of how they work, and in many
cases, why they work better than patented, synthetic,
chemical-based medications.

No better example of this today exists than turmeric

Over the course of the past seven years, we have indexed

over 2,000 studies investigating the health benefits of
turmeric (or its components) in disease prevention and
treatment, discovering an astounding 750 different diseases
that it may be of value in ameliorating. The complexity of
this substance in modulating over 150 biological pathways
in the body, simultaneously, in a way that almost
invariably produces positive results is simply astounding,
and could be interpreted as exemplifying a type of plant

Alzheimers
Disease: Turmeric
Produces
Remarkable Recovery in Alzheimers Patients
Antibiotic-Resistant Infection: Could Turmeric Save
Us From The CDCs Nightmare Bacteria?
Oral Health: Turmeric Superior to Chemical
Mouthwash In Improving Oral Health
Well-Being Support: Turmeric: A Wellness
Promoting Tonic At Low Doses, Research Reveals
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Turmeric Extract Found
Superior To Blockbuster Drug for Rheumatoid
Arthritis
Cancer Malignancy: Turmeric Extract Strikes To
The Root Cause of Cancer Malignancy
Cardiovascular Disease: Turmerics Heart-Saving
Properties Confirmed In New Diabetes Study
HPV Infections: Natural Herbal HPV Cure
Discovered
Chemical Weapons Injury: Turmeric Compounds
Alleviate Chemical Weapons Injury
Suboptimal Brain Function: Turmeric Extract
Improves Brain Function In One Dose
Ebola Infection: Turmeric Neutralizes Deadly Viral
Infections, Study Suggests

This is only a small subset of studies available that

demonstrate the exceptional versatility of turmeric
(curcumin) in disease prevention and treatment. You can

377

search through more such research on our Turmeric

Research database.

burgeoning biotech field of recombinant DNA technology,

i.e. genetically modified organisms (GMOs) for the sole
reason that it guarantees them ownership/patent rights.

Why Turmeric Has Not Received FDA Approval

And so, because natural substances are a God-given gift
[insert the word Nature-given if you prefer], freely
available without adulteration to be used to treat and even
cure disease, the medical system whose present day
focus is profiting off of disease instead of alleviating
suffering goes out of its way to avoid their use, even
ostracizing and/or punishing those medical professionals
who do incorporate their use in their practice. Likewise,
capitalized pharmaceutical interests tinker with natural
lead compounds to alter them in such a way that they are
converted into xenobiotic chemicals, virtually
guaranteeing their toxicity, and making their subsequent
FDA drug approval as a novel patentable chemical
compound the equivalent of the kiss of death.

Considering the sheer density of data available today to

support the health promoting effects of this safe and timetested culinary ingredient, you would think the government
would allow its use to prevent, treat, or cure disease
the technical criteria for something to be defined as a
legitimate drug by the FDA. Indeed, the FDA mission
statement includes the following objective:
FDA is also responsible for advancing the public
health by helping to speed innovations that make
medicines more effective, safer, and more
affordable and by helping the public get the
accurate, science-based information they need to
use medicines and foods to maintain and
improve their health.
When something so safe, so affordable, so thoroughly
time-tested across a multitude of cultures, has so much
evidence behind it demonstrating its ability to alleviate
suffering, isnt it highly unethical not to use it, especially
in cases where conventional treatments fail?
Sadly, the FDA requires prohibitively expensive clinical
trials to be conducted in order to grant the legal right for
the populace to be treated by medicinal substances of any
kind. In fact, the average FDA-approved drug on the
market today required between four to eleven billion
dollars in capital to be invested on the front-end. Nonpatented substances, no matter how well they work to
produce positive health outcomes, are obviously not
capable of producing a return on investment as they grant
no market exclusivity. Economic considerations (i.e. profit
motives), therefore, are the primary reason why natural
medicine is still only being practiced outside the medical
industrial establishments mile high walls.

This situation has created a great rift between those who

believe the government should have the authority to tell us
what we can and cannot do medically speaking, and those
who believe it is our inborn right to choose food or natural
substances to prevent or treat disease regardless of what
the state deems legal. Obviously, I stand on the side of
health freedom. As long as what you choose to do for
yourself does no harm to anyone else, that right to choose
should be considered inviolable and sacrosanct. Truth be
told, turmeric harms no one but the bottom of line of drug
companies. Ultimately it is highly unethical for the
medical establishment to pay lip service to evidence-based
medicine, and turn a blind eye to the accumulating
research that this spice, and the 1,700 other natural
substances we have indexed on our database, have no
legitimate value as treatments for the wide range of
ailments that now plague members of our society.

How did we arrive at this clearly cognitively dissonant

place in time? I addressed some of these issues in a
previous article, Why The Law Forbids The Medicinal
Use of Natural Substances, looking at one of the
historical roots of the impasse:
It is an interesting footnote in history that shortly after the
Declaration of Independence, Congress declared that
natural substances, e.g. water or salt, were Gods gift to
mankind and that therefore products of nature should be
limited in their patent protection. While this was a noble
declaration, it has actually been used against those whose
rights it would protect. It has forced private interests to
synthetically alter natural substances for instance the

378

Heart Benefits Of Cranberry Juice

Author: Samantha Olson
October 13, 2015
sweetened cranberry juice (450 milliliters). Each juice was
concentrated differently, ranging from 0 to 117 percent,
where the amount of cranberries-to-water ratio increased
with the concentration. To detect any changes, researchers
took blood and urine samples at the start of the study, and
again at hour one, two, four, six, and eight.
The samples showed incremental improvements in
men's blood flow, arterial stiffness, and blood pressure
over the course of 24 hours. All the cranberry juice
concentrates, even the cocktail ones sold at local grocery
stores made with 25 to 27 percent cranberry juice, had a
positive effect. Because of how effective it was at
improving blood flow, researchers believe it could lower
the risk of atherosclerosis, a disease that occurs from a
build up of plaque inside the arteries. Reduced blood flow
"is a central feature in the development of atherosclerosis."

Cranberries have a special compound that may improve blood

circulation, and protect against heart disease. Photo courtesy of
Flickr, Denise Mattox

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United

States, killing an estimated 610,000 people each year, the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported.
Perhaps these numbers would be lower if people
drank more cranberry juice or at least that's what new
research presented at the Cranberry Health Research
Conference in Wisconsin on Monday suggested. The
Cranberry Institute funded the study.

In 2013, researchers found similar benefits with cranberry

sauce, in which the sauce was found to help protect against
certain infections, decrease inflammation, and lower the
risk of heart disease. Given that polyphenols are often
consumed through fruits and vegetables, it would make
sense that a higher intake could potentially protect against
artery-clogging damage but according to the Harvard
School of Public Health, researchers can't say for sure if
this powerful antioxidant is capable of fighting off disease
on its own.

According to the National Institutes of Health, cranberries

are
rich
in
an antioxidant
compound, called
polyphenols that have been of great interest to researchers
in the last 15 years. Of all the antioxidants,
polyphenols show the greatest promise to not only
help improve circulation, but to also improve kidney
function, hormone delivery, and waste filtration. And as a
plant-based nutrient (phytonutrient), cranberries could
serve as a natural way to prevent poor heart health.

This study, however, would suggest we're a step closer to

finding out.

"Cranberry juice is a rich source of phytonutrients, said

the studys lead author Dr. Ana Rodriguez-Mateos, a
cardiology professor at the University of Duesseldorf in
Germany, in a press release. "Due to this robust profile of
polyphenols, our team sought to evaluate the immediate
vascular impact of drinking...cranberry juice with a
different range of concentrations of cranberrypolyphenols."

"Our results lay the groundwork to better understand the

array of potential vascular and cardiovascular health
benefits of cranberry polyphenols," notes RodriguezMateos said. "Significant improvements in vascular
function from drinking two cups of cranberry juice suggest
an important role for cranberries in a heart-healthy diet."
Source: Cranberry Health Research Conference. 2015.

Rodriguez-Mateos and her team had ten healthy men

between the ages of 18 to 40 drink just under two cups of

379

Self Heal Herb Used For Centuries For About Every

Ailment Known To Man
By Mae Chan
Posted on October 11, 2015
Prior to World War II, it was used to staunch bleeding and
for treating heart disease. A decoction of the leaves was
used to treat sore throats and internal bleeding. Although
in western medicine it is used externally for treating minor
injuries, sores, burns, bruises, it has far more powerful
applications therapeutically.
The plants most useful constituents are Betulinic-acid, DCamphor,
Delphinidin,
Hyperoside,
Manganese,
Oleanolic-acid, Rosmarinic-acid, Rutin, Ursolic-acid, and
Tannins. The whole plant is medicinal as alterative,
antibacterial, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic,
astringent, carminative, diuretic, febrifuge, hypotensive,
stomachic, styptic, tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary.
Prunella Vulgaris has a long history of medicinal use. It
shows antiviral and antibacterial properties, and in China it
is used as an anti-cancer drug. It can also be used for the
prevention and treatment of cognitive impairments
associated with Alzheimers disease or schizophrenia.

A cold water infusion of the freshly chopped or dried and

powdered leaves is a very tasty and refreshing beverage,
weak infusion of the plant is an excellent medicinal eye
wash for sties and pinkeye.

Check out close ups of Prunella Vulgaris in its true beauty.

It is taken internally as a medicinal tea in the treatment of

fevers, diarrhoea, sore mouth and throat, internal bleeding,
and weaknesses of the liver and heart. Clinical analysis
shows it to have an antibacterial action, inhibiting the
growth of pseudomonas, Bacillus typhi, E. coli,
Mycobacterium tuberculi, which supports its use as an
alternative medicine internally and externally as an
antibiotic and for hard to heal wounds and diseases. It is
showing promise in research for cancer, AIDS, diabetes,
and many other maladies.

Prunella vulgaris var. lilacina Nakai (Labiatae) is

commonly known as the self-heal herb or heal-all. It is
widely distributed in Europe, Asia and North America.
Daily consumption of extracts from Prunella vulgaris var.
lilacina may enhance cognitive function in lab mice, says a
new study from South Korea. It is often found growing in
waste ground, grassland, woodland edges, usually on basic
and neutral soils.

Cognitive Enhancements
Once proclaimed to be a Holy herb and thought to be sent
by God to cure all ailments of man or beast, and said to
drive away the devil, which lead to the belief that Heal-All
was grown in the Witches garden as a disguise. The root
was used to make a tea to drink in ceremonies before going
hunting by one Native American tribe to sharpened the
powers of observation.

New data from scientists from Kyung Hee University and

CJ Foods R&D indicated that two weeks of intake of the
heal-all extract was found to directly or indirectly
activate the NMDA receptor in nerve cells, which is linked
to synaptic plasticity changes.
The results of present study demonstrate that
the sub-chronic administration of [the
standardized ethanolic extract of Prunella
vulgaris var. lilacina] EEPV enhanced cognitive
performance in the passive avoidance task in
normal naive mice, they wrote in Phytotherapy
Research .

Heal-All is edible and medicinal, can be used in salads,

soups, stews, or boiled as a pot herb. Used as an alternative
medicine for centuries on just about every continent in the
world, and for just about every ailment known to man.

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To our knowledge, the present study marks the

first report of the role of EEPV in cognitive
improvement resulting from adult hippocampal
neurogenesis and the activation of various
signaling cascades.

Commenting on the potential bio-actives, the researchers

point to rosmarinic acid as the key mediator of cognitive
improvement.

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Research Confirms Probiotics Support Immune System

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
October 19, 2015
foreign invaders known to cause illness. Supplementing
with vitamin C may work, but its not the only piece of the
puzzle. In fact, research is showing that probiotics may be
helpful in not only preventing but also reducing the
duration of certain immune-related conditions. [1] For
example, the two strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus and
Bifidobacterium animalis may decrease the severity and
duration of upper respiratory tract infections. [2] In addition
to these strains, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus
helveticus may also be helpful for reducing infection risk.
[3]

Are You Getting Enough?

The past decade has seen a surge in probiotic sales, thanks
to an increased scrutiny on the powerful benefits
associated with good bacteria. While there are many who
cringe at the thought of consuming bacteria, probiotics are
actually crucial for the functioning of your digestion,
mood, and even bone health. No longer are probiotics
being relegated to supporting only digestion. In fact, it
turns out these beneficial microorganisms may also
support the immune system. Vitamin C used to be the main
dietary component attributed to immune support; however,
recent reports are showing that probiotics (as well as
vitamin D) offer an added benefit. The question is, does
your probiotic supplement contain the strains responsible
for supporting immune health?

Probiotics are quickly becoming a recognized nutrient,

simply because their health benefits are so vast and
significant. Unfortunately, many people are going without
notable consumption of probiotics. Why? Fermented foods
are one of the largest food sources of probiotic bacteria,
and most people simply arent opting for raw sauerkraut as
their dinner side dish. The easiest way to receive beneficial
bacteria is through a high-quality supplement, particularly
one that combines a number of different strains. The
strains mentioned above (L. rhamnosus, B. animalis, B.
bifidum, and B. helveticus) are just a few to look for if
youre seeking a way to support your immune system. [4]

Probiotics: The Key to Immune Health

Do you have any experience using probiotics to support

your immune system? Let us know how it worked for you
in the comments!

Keeping your immune system in check ensures that your

body is doing a good job in fighting viruses and other

References:
1.

Rostyslav V. Bubnov, Mykola Ya Spivak, Liudmyla M. Lazarenko, Alojz Bomba and Nadiya V. Boyko. Probiotics and immunity:
provisional role for personalized diets and disease prevention. EPMA Journal. Clinical Nutrition and Health Psychology. 2015, 6:14.
doi:10.1186/s13167-015-0036-0.

2.

Smith TJ, Rigassio-Radler D, Denmark R, Haley T, Touger-Decker R. Effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG and Bifidobacterium
animalis ssp. lactis BB-12 on health-related quality of life in college students affected by upper respiratory infections. Br J Nutr. 2013
Jun;109(11):1999-2007. doi: 10.1017/S0007114512004138.

3.

Valentina Taverniti and Simone Guglielmetti. Health-Promoting Properties of Lactobacillus helveticus. Front Microbiol. 2012; 3: 392. doi:
10.3389/fmicb.2012.00392.

4.

Todd Runestad. Probiotics are now kings of immune health. NewHope360.

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Turmerics Weight Loss Secret:

It Turns Bad Fat Good
By Sayer Ji
October 19, 2015
Know the Difference Between Brown and White
Good and Bad Fat
Fat used to be a really bad word. Today, however, a
growing number of consumers and health enthusiasts are
embracing the concept of incorporating more good fats
into the diet, i.e. olive oil, avocado, coconut. That said,
many still dont know that our bodies also contain both
good (brown) and bad fat (white), and depending on
our activity levels, environmental conditions, and what we
do or do not eat, well have a particular ratio that will
significantly affect our level of health as well as risk for an
entire gamut of diseases.

A groundbreaking new study published in Journal of

Nutritional Biochemistry reveals that curcumin, a
golden-hued compound in turmeric, may provide a
unique solution for overweight individuals by altering the
composition of fat cells in their bodies in favor of the
calorie-burning type.
Obesity and overweight are global epidemics today, and
are largely due to the now virtually universal Western
type diet of highly processed, genetically modified,
chemical contaminated, and evolutionarily incompatible
foods, and which can have severe if not sometimes lethal
adverse health effects.

Brown fat is colored darkly because of the high density of

iron-containing mitochondria it contains. Brown fat cells,
unlike white fat cells, are capable of diverting significant
quantities of dietary caloric energy into thermal energy or
heat. This makes the metabolic role of brown fat cells
completely opposite to that of white fat cells whose
primary function is to store energy for future use as
adipose tissue. To underscore how radically different
brown fat cells are from white, they derive from an entirely
different stem cell lineage; the same one that skeletal
muscle cells differentiate from.

Diet, however, is not the only contributing factor. Like all

conditions, the problem is multi-factorial, with exposure to
a host of endocrine disrupters, chronic stress, a
dramatically altered and/or depleted microbiome, and a
lack of sufficient movement and exercise, all playing key
roles. Every year, billions of dollars are spent on weight
loss gadgets, bariatric surgeries, and both synthetic and
natural pills, and yet the problem only appears to be
growing worse.

Since the vast majority of fat found within overweight and

obese adults is of the white fat variety (we have the most
when we are infants at about 5% by weight), and since
abdominal obesity (belly fat) has been found to be a
greater risk factor for heart attack than smoking, it
behooves us to look at belly fat as a concern relevant to far
more than vanity, and to find ways to reduce midsection
fat naturally, or at least increase the ratio of brown to
white fat in the body.

What if we could strike closer to the root causes of serious

weight problems using something as familiar, affordable,
and safe as a common spice on our spice rack?
Indeed, turmeric contains a golden-hued compound called
curcumin which appears to be capable of changing bad
fat cells into good ones, among a whole host of
additional beneficial properties.

383

3.

4.

The discovery of radically differing types of fat in the

adult body, and a deficiency or much smaller ratio of
brown to white fat in those with weight problems, has lead
some researchers to hypothesize that increasing the brown
fat cell phenotype could provide a novel intervention for
obesity. Indeed, preliminary research on using cold
temperatures to increase the brown fat in the mammalian
body appear to have significant anti-obesity effects, but
there is concern that these temperature changes may have
unintended adverse effects for cardiovascular health.[1]
Also, exposure to the cold is just plain uncomfortable,
making it a less than ideal solution for many. A turmericbased intervention could provide a much more convenient
alternative.

an intervention that may be of special benefit in ageassociated loss of muscle and brain function,
enhancing athletic performance, and in improving
mitochondrial disorders. [see our database keyword:
Mitochondrial Biogenesis]
By increasing protein levels of hormone-sensitive
lipase and p-acyl-CoA carboxylase, two markers that
play a role in increasing fat-degrading processes
(lipolysis) and the suppression of new fat production
(lipogenesis).
By increasing the activity AMP-activated protein kinase
(AMPK). AMPK activity is something of a cellular
metabolic master switch that improves metabolic
homeostasis, which is often out of balance in
overweight and obese individuals.

In addition to these four mechanisms of action contributing

to curcumins brown fat supporting properties, the
researchers also noted that because curcumin is a wellestablished anti-inflammatory agent (view 88 studies on
the topic here), and because obesity and its various comorbid states such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease
are conditions that involve upregulated and unremitting
inflammatory and/or or dysregulated inflammatory
response, curcumins anti-obesity effects may be in part
due to its inflammation-reducing properties.
One additional relevant mechanism of action not discussed
in this study, but recently identified in a study published
earlier this year in the journal Molecular Medicine
Reports, is curcumins ability to induce programmed cell
death (apoptosis) in white fat cells. This may contribute
permanently to reducing the overall ability of the body to
store unhealthy fat.
The study authors concluded,
Our findings suggest that curcumin plays a dual
modulatory role in inhibition of adipogenesis as
well as induction of the brown fat-like phenotype
and thus may have potential therapeutic
implications for treatment of obesity.

Turmeric Extract (Curcumin) May Be An Ideal Weight

Loss Supplement
In the new study titled, Curcumin induces brown fatlike phenotype in 3T3-L1 and primary white
adipocytes, Korean researchers established for the first
time that curcumin is capable of inducing browning of
white fat cells (adipocytes) through at least four different
mechanisms:
1.

2.

Curcumins Benefits Extend To A Wide Range of

Health Issues
Given the research discussed above, curcumin should
be considered a pleiotrophic anti-obesity agent, as it is
capable of targeting and ameliorating a variety of
metabolic imbalances in the body simultaneously. In fact,
curcumin is so diverse in its therapeutic actions as to
boggle the imagination. Our database project alone has
characterized over 600 distinct health conditions that
curcumin has been studied to prevent, treat, and in some
cases reverse something that puts every pharmaceutical
drug on the planet to shame, especially considering that
curcumin is immensely safer and has been time-tested for
thousands of years in a wide range of different cultures.

By enhancing the expression of brown fat specific

genes. This is a form of nutrigenomic epigenetic
modification, which means that a nutrient is capable of
altering a cells patterns of gene expression from the
outside in, as it were, resulting in significant changes
in the structure and function of the cells involved.
By stimulating the production of new mitochondria, as
evidenced by increased activity of the electron
transport chain and increased fatty acid oxidation.
Mitochondrial biogenesis can be stimulated with other
natural substances and therapeutic modalities and is

384

Add in the fact that curcumin has been studied in human

trials to be at least as effective as Prozac for depression,
a cardiovascular tonic as significant as exercise, and
capable of preventing the progression of prediabetes to
diabetes in an astounding 100% of those tested, it would
seem unethical not to use it when the choices are either
inaction or a pharmaceutical drug. For more information
you can view 17 studies we have gathered on turmeric
and/or curcumins anti-obesity properties here.

For additional research on the health benefits of turmeric,

as well as on natural interventions for overweight and
obesity, use our two resources dedicated to these topics:

Health Guide: Turmeric

Health Guide: Obesity and Dieting

References
[1] Dong, Mei; Yang, Xiaoyan; Lim, Sharon; Cao, Ziquan; Honek, Jennifer; Lu, Huixia; Zhang, Cheng; et al. (2 July 2013). Cold exposure
promotes atherosclerotic plaque growth and instability via UCP1-dependent lipolysis (Short article). Cell Metabolism 18: 118
129.doi:10.1016/j.cmet.2013.06.003.

385

Turmeric Extract Strikes To The

Root Cause Of Cancer Malignancy
By Sayer Ji
October 18, 2015
CSC-mediated cause of post-treatment tumor recurrence,
which in humans can take decades after initial treatment to
manifest. Although it was possible to debulk a tumor with
surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, CSC populations
were often missed or even enriched as a result. When the
tumor mass regrew it often became more invasive and
treatment-resistant, resulting in the rapid demise and death
of the patient deaths which are often written off
inaccurately or disingenuously as non-treatment related.
Given that conventional treatment can drive an
intrinsically benign tumor (i.e., so-called indolent
tumors) into greater invasiveness through increasing the
number of intrinsically resilient cancer stem cells at the
very same moment that it kills the less or non-harmful
daughter cells, alternative treatment approaches are needed
now more than ever.

A new turmeric study published in Cancer Letters is

paving the way for a revolution in the way that we both
understand and treat cancer. Titled, Targeting cancer
stem cells by curcumin and clinical applications, U.S.
researchers evaluated the primary polyphenol in the Indian
spice known as curcumin for its ability to target cancer
stem cells (CSCs), which are believed to be at the root
cause of tumor formation and malignancy.

The Cancer Stem Cell Killing Role of Turmeric

(Curcumin)
Turmeric and curcumin extract have been extensively
studied for their ability to kill various cancer cell lines. In
fact, the literature is so abundant (see: 600 health benefits
of turmeric) that it is both surprising and disheartening
that so many patients who are in need of safe, effective and
affordable treatments are not being given information
about it.

Whereas conventional models of cancer assumed that the

majority of the cancer cells within a tumor possess selfrenewal capacity to differing degrees, the CSC model
proposes that,
[T]he initiation, maintenance, and growth of a
tumor is driven by a minor population of cancer
cells termed cancer stem cells (CSCs), and that
These CSCs undergo continuous self-renewal
and differentiate to heterogeneous cancer cells,
yielding new tumors recapitulating the parental
tumors, while the majority of cancer cells lack
self-renewal capacity.

The new study identifies a number of ways in which

curcumin provides an ideal CSC-targeting therapy,
including:

In other words, the CSCs are at the apex of a hierarchy of

cells within the tumor, and are the mother of the various
daughter cells that make it up, most of which are
intrinsically benign. Conventional treatment with
chemotherapy and radiotherapy, based on a rodent model
with a 2-year experimental window to evaluate treatment
efficacy and safety, was incapable of comprehending the

386

Regulation of the CSC self-renewal pathway: curcumin

appears to directly and indirectly influence at least
three self-renewal pathways within cancer stem cells,
namely, Wnt/b-catenin, sonic hedgehog 89 (SHH), and
Notch. The authors list 12 difference cancer cell lines
which curcumin appear to affect positively.
Modulation of microRNA: microRNAs are short noncoding RNA sequences that regulate approximately
33% of the protein-coding genes in the human
genome. They bind to target messenger RNAs
(mRNAs) leading to their degradation or inactivation.
Curcumin has been found to alter the expression of

microRNAs in cancer stem cells in a way that would

suggest a strong suppress tumor formation.
Direct anti-cancer activity: Curcumin exhibits the ability
to selectively kill cancer cells versus healthy cells
and synergizes with conventional chemotherapy
agents making them more effective (in some cases
less harmful).

cultures and in mouse models, including glioma,

breast, colorectal, pancreatic, brain, and
esophageal cancers. Some analogues (e.g.,
CDF) and formulations (e.g., nanotechnologybased formulation) have exhibited improved
efcacy against CSC-like cells and greater
growth-inhibitory capacity in tumors. It is
promising to evaluate curcumin and its modied
forms in other types of CSCs.

The researchers evaluated the safety and tolerability of all

the available human research on curcumin in human
cancer studies and found no cause for concern.

For additional information on the role of cancer stem cells

in cancer initiation, progression and treatment, read our
previous articles or watch videos on the topic:

They also noted Curcumin, as a natural remedy

for thousands of years, has been shown to be
well tolerated and causes no signicant toxicity in
a number of clinical trials.

The conclusion of the study:

Curcumin, as well as its modied forms

(analogues
or
nanoparticle-encapsulated
formulations), has shown great potential to inhibit
CSCs in several types of cancer both in cell

387

Are Cancer Stem Cells the Key to Discovering a

Cure?
Broccoli Kills The Stem Cells That Make Cancers
Immortal
Study: Radiation Therapy Can Make Cancers 30x
More Malignant
Chemo and Radiation Can Make Cancer More
Malignant
Research: Radiotherapy Causes Cancer, Blueberry

17 Lemon Water Benefits That Will Change Your Life

August 9, 2015
Lemons are very inexpensive and they are wonderful way
to dress up the foods you are cooking so that they are
delicious. They even are an excellent way to add flavour to
what ever it is you are drinking, which is exactly why you
may want to consider using this fruit in your water. The
two main types of lemons are Eureka and Lisbon. There
are also numerous lemon water benefits that you may find
useful by doing this. We have listed 17 of them below.

You should know that if you are consuming water with

lemon, you will be increasing the amount of vitamin C,
and even citric acid within your body, because these are
also found in lemon.
When these are increased within your body they can help
aid in the absorption of iron from the other foods that you
are consuming. When you have more iron in your body
you will decrease the likelihood of becoming anemic.

Assistance with Digestion

Strong Immune System
Putting lemon in water and then drinking it each morning
will give your body a head start when it comes to
digestion. Many individuals believe that this will be the
healthiest drink you can make for yourself.

Those that have a weak immune system will find that they
are often sick because they are not able to fight off
illnesses. But, if you are willing to consume lemon in
water, you will also be consuming anti-viral properties.

You will find that when you consume a warm glass of

lemon water each morning you are going to be decreasing
indigestion, bloating and even heartburn. It is important to
know that this can help your body with elimination
because it will also increase your pH levels, and also
loosens toxins in your digestive tract.

These are really important when it comes to having a

strong immune system, because your body will be able to
fight off bacteria and fungus. The lemon also has an
antioxidant property that will assist your body, when it
comes to removing toxins so that you are healthier.

Improve your Heart Health

Mouth Health is Important

One of the most important things that you can do for

yourself will relate to your heart. Those that are interested
in improving their heart health should begin drinking water
with lemon.

When most people think about lemon water benefits they

do not automatically think about their mouth health. You
will find that the lemon you are placing in your water will
have numerous properties, which are related to fighting
bacteria. Bacteria are responsible for bad breath in the
mouth. The lemon will assist in getting rid of the bacteria
so that breath will smell fresher.

It is important to decrease your blood cholesterol levels to

fight against heart attacks and strokes. The oils that are
found in lemons will help stop the oxidation of LDL
cholesterol particles in the body, so your heart remains
healthy, and you can decrease your concerns related to
strokes and heart attacks.

This is not all lemon will do for your mouth health. It can
also be used to provide you assistance with any toothaches
that you may have. Gingivitis is another oral disease that
lemons will help to fight against. If you would like to have
whiter teeth then it would be a great idea to consider using
lemons for this.

Fight against Anemia

Have a Better Attitude

How many times a week do you wake up on the wrong
side of the bed? This is not uncommon for many of us. It is
very easy to improve your mood with one simple lemon
squeezed into your water. Maybe this is because of the
smell, or the fact that lemons have a great deal of vitamin
C, which a lot of people is needed to reduce stress.

388

Are you taking medications for anxiety or depression?

Rather than continually taking prescribed medications for
these mental health complications, you should consider the
lemon water benefits.

Lets be honest, being sick with a cold or flu is completely

miserable. It can also become very expensive, especially
when you think about all of the medications that you will
most likely end up taking, to help you clear up the illness.

It has been suggested that drinking lemon water is a

wonderful way to decrease anxiety and depression. It is
also a lot less expensive than medications and other forms
of alternative treatments.

If you are looking for a natural way to fight off a cold or

flu, then it may be a great idea to drink more lemon water.
Remember, lemons naturally have vitamin C, and this will
boost your immune system.

Fight Off Urinary Tract Infections

You may find that you can also help decrease any
discomfort you are having related to the cold and flu.
Another combination that works well is lemon and honey.

Those that have struggled with urinary tract infections in

the past, will most likely tell you that they do not want to
deal with them on a regular basis. Going to the restroom
frequently will strongly help decrease these infections,
because your body will be eliminating the bacterium that
causes them.

The honey will help to make a sore throat feel better, as

nasal congestion and mucus will be decreased when you
make the decision to use this combination. Both of these
are inexpensive and they will greatly increase your health
when you are feeling ill.

As you consume more water with lemon you will go to the

bathroom more. Therefore, you will decrease the
possibility of developing a urinary tract infection.

Detoxify Your Body

Kidney stones are also very painful and interfere with

urination. Lemons fight off kidney stones as well, because
it does not allow the stones to form within the body.

More and more diets have started to discuss the need to

detoxify your body. Lemon in water is a great way to
detoxify your body and this is not a method that costs
much money at all, because you do not need to have
anything special.

Drop Weight with Lemons

If you are interested in doing this, then you must be sure
that you are also adding salt to the mixture, or at least give
it a try. It will only take a few glasses to notice a difference
in your weight as well as with your skin.
Stop Worrying about Cancer
It seems that cancer is increasing every year and more
people are finding themselves dealing with this terrible
illness. It has been found that lemons may be a great way
to decrease several different types of cancer, even breast
cancer. The lemons contain plant compounds such as
hesperidin and d-limonene. Many believe that this may be
why the lemons can be so effective at fighting off cancer.

If you are trying to get rid of extra weight then it is

important to consider drinking more water that includes
lemon juice. You will also want to add honey to this. More
and more diets have started to include this drink because it
is effective, when it comes to dropping weight. It will
increase your metabolism, so this means that you are going
to be able to burn off calories a lot faster.

Balanced pH Improves Health

Believe it or not, lemon will make you feel full. This is

because it has pectin fiber. Because you will feel fuller
when you use it, you will not eat nearly as much. When
you consider all of these benefits, it is easy to see that you
can decrease your weight a lot faster, than you would
without having lemon within your diet.
Natural Cold and Flu Treatments

389

If you would like to be healthier then you must be sure that

your body has a balanced pH. The lemons acid will turn
alkaline when you consume it, and it will alkalize your
body.

healthier and your hair will look wonderful. Those that

have struggled with dandruff over the years will even see
benefits from consuming this amazing fruit.
Energy that Lasts All Day

This is even more effective if you are willing to add some

salt to your lemon water. You will see a decrease in health
problems when you do this.
When you are willing to drink this concoction, you will
find that your digestive problems will begin to decrease.
Skin diseases will also begin to disappear. Your body will
absorb nutrients, and toxins will as a result, be eliminated.
Believe it or not, you may even see an improvement in
arthritis.
Get the Minerals Your Body Needs
We all know that our body needs certain minerals in order
to be completely healthy, and also function how you need
it to. However there are times when your body will not
absorb the minerals that it needs. Lemon water can be a
large benefit when it comes to this problem, as it will help
improve the mineral absorption in the body.

If you are tired of feeling sluggish and dead to the world,

then you will certainly need to consider increasing the
amount of lemons you are taking into your body.
Doing so will find that you are putting more of the vitamin
B6 into your bloodstream. This vitamin is responsible for
turning your food into energy. This means that you will
feel good throughout the day and you will feel less tired.

As your body gets the nutrients that it needs you will

become healthier. Your nervous system will work
properly. It will be possible to fight against osteoporosis,
because your body will absorb more calcium for example.
Finally, you will not have to worry about a magnesium
deficiency, so your heart rate will have a better chance of
always binge in rhythm.

Lower Blood Pressure

Having high blood pressure is a huge health risk that many
individuals do not take seriously. However, this should be
taken seriously because it can result in a number of
cardiovascular problems.

Radiant Skin

Where do lemons come into this? Well if you are willing

to increase the amount of vitamin C in your diet, you will
be able to help lower your blood pressure. This means that
your cardiovascular health is going to improve- great
news.

How many times have you looked in the mirror and found
that your skin does not look the way that you want it to? It
can be difficult to create a glowing, radiant look, which
stands out in the crowd. But, this can be accomplished by
drinking lemon water.

Will you drink lemon with water?

When you do this you will be eliminating the free radicals

in the body, which cause wrinkles and other signs of
ageing.

In the end, you can see that there are a number of benefits
related to consuming lemon water. Those that are looking
for a very easy, fast way to improve ones overall healthshould consider purchasing some lemons. They do not cost
much money at all and they do not go bad fast at all, in
comparison to some other fruits. Having them on hand
may be the smartest decision you will ever make.

Dark spots can also be lightened when you increase the

amount of vitamin C in your diet. Individuals that are
dealing with acne will see a decrease in this skin problem,
within a short amount of time.
Amazing Hair is Not Far Away

So, the next time you are headed to the store you should be
sure to add lemons to your store list. You will be glad that
you did once you see the results and you will wonder why
you waited so long to include them to your daily routine.

Split ends and dry hair leave a lot to be desired when you
want to create a flawless look. Lemons have properties that
will help to fight off bacteria. Therefore, your scalp will be
.

390

The 9 Best Essential Oils For Your Survival Kit

By Gaye Levy | Natural Medicine
October 20, 2015
1. Lavender
Treats cuts, scrapes, and burns and works to
promote healing
Induces calm, relieves anxiety and stress,
promotes sleep
Eliminates the sting of bug bites
Relieves pain and soreness caused by sprains
and muscle aches
For more uses: The Miracle of Lavender Oil: 25
Amazing Uses for Survival
Resource: Lavender Essential Oil
There are many reasons why learning about essential oils
is useful for preppers. Not the least of those reasons is to
lessen the reliance on expensive and often ineffective and
toxic pharmaceuticals. How often have you filled an
expensive prescription only to have side effects or find that
the drug simply did not work. Other than add these meds
to your SHTF barter kit, you are out of luck.

2. Peppermint
Relieves headache pain
Topical treatment of allergies
Repels ants, spiders, mice and other pests from
home and garden
Treats digestive disorders such as heartburn,
bloating, indigestion, and constipation

On the other hand, most essential oils are quite

inexpensive and have the added bonus that a prescription is
not required. With essential oils you have the freedom of
where to shop, how much to pay, and how to use them.
You can dilute essential oils in a carrier oil or salve, use
them in a compress, or diffuse them, or use them in a
myriad of other ways suitable to your situation.

For more uses: The Miracle of Peppermint Oil:

20 Practical Uses for Survival
Resource: Peppermint Essential Oil
3. Melaleuca (Tea Tree)
Use as an antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial and
fungicide. Kills germs and prevents infection!

With that in mind, today I want to answer one of the most

frequently asked questions I get regarding essential oils:
what are the best essential oils to set aside for my survival
kit? In other words, what are the specific set it and
forget it oils that are on par with emergency food and
water storage?

Eliminate mold and mildew

Fights colds, sinus infections,
ailments and bronchitis

respiratory

Treats wounds
For more uses: The Miracle of Tea Tree Oil: 80
Amazing Uses for Survival

Nine Essential Oils for the Long Term Survival Kit

Resource: Melaleuca (Tea Tree) Essential Oil

There are many factors that have gone into my choices,

including an oils versatility and its ability to resolve
multiple woes. I have also taken into consideration price
and shelf life. More about that in bit, but first, here my
own list of the nine best essential oils for the long term
survival kit along with my top 4 uses for each of them.

4. Rosemary
Improve concentration and memory plus provide
increased mental and physical stimulation
Relive anxiety and stress by calming and
relaxing the nerves

391

Sooth and heal skin disorders by reduce itching,

dryness and irritation

Heal skin conditions such as dermatitis and

eczema

Treat respiratory problems and congestion

through inhalation

Treat nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and gas

Resource: Roman Chamomile Essential Oil

For more uses: The Powerful Healing Qualities of

Rosemary Essential Oil

9. Shield Protective Blend or other Robbers Blend

Resource: Rosemary Essential Oil

Use as an effective hand sanitizer

Blend into DIY cleaning products for extra
disinfecting power

5. Frankincense
Reduce inflammation and relieve conditions
where pain and inflammation are present

Create an anti-viral spray to eliminate both

airborne and surface micro-organisms

Heal wounds from cuts, scrapes, and burns

Prevent or relieve the symptoms of colds and flu

Mitigate depression and feelings of helplessness

Note: Robbers Blend can go by many names,

including Shield, Thieves or simply Protective
Blend. The components are similar and include
various amounts of clove bug, lemon, cinnamon,
eucalyptus, and rosemary oil. Although you
could make it yourself, having it ready-to-go in
your survival kit will save you time and eliminate
the need to store the variety of oils needed.

Boost and supercharge the effectiveness of other

essential oils when used in tandem or layered on
top of other oils
For more uses: 22 Powerful
Frankincense Essential Oil

Uses of

Resource: Frankincense Essential Oil

Resource: Shield Protective Blend

6. Clove
Relieve toothaches and reduce the pain of
canker sores and gum irritation

What About Shelf Life?

Disinfect hard surfaces and utensils

Something that preppers struggle with is shelf life,

especially under climate conditions that are widely
variable. This not only applies to food storage, but also to
essential oils. That being said, essential oils have been
known to stay viable for years, even when kept at room
temperatures.

Freshen foul or stale air

Treat wounds, cuts, scabies, athletes foot,
fungal infections, bruises, prickly heat, insect
bites and stings.
For more uses: 20 Ways To Benefit from Clove
Essential Oil

The issue, so it seems, is that once opened, if not tightly

sealed, they may evaporate or oxidize. Certain oils, and
especially citrus oils and some coniferous essential oils,
are rich in a hydrocarbon class called terpenes tend to
deteriorate more quickly.

Resource: Clove Bud Essential Oil

7. Lemongrass
Provide immediate relief to clenched and
knotted tendons and muscles

The thing to remember is that in a survival situation,

storage conditions will not be optimal. Besides
evaporation, signs that your oils have degraded include a
drastic change in aroma, intense thickening, and
cloudiness. I personally have not had this occur with any
of my oils, many of which are over five years old. In
addition, I keep a bottle of lavender oil in my vehicle and
even after sitting outside in the sun for the past six months,
it smells as fresh as the day it was initially opened.

Reduce fevers
Eliminate body odor and other foul smells
Reduce bacterial around the home by using it in
DIY cleaning products
For more uses: 23 Awesome Uses for
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Resource: Lemongrass Essential Oil

For more information on the shelf life of essential oils,

there is a balanced discussion in this article on the
AromaWeb website: Essential Oil Shelf Life.

8. Roman Chamomile
Promote sound sleep (especially when nothing
else works!)

The Final Word

Create a sense of well-being by reducing stress,

anxiety, and fearfulness

This article is in response to the many comments and

emails I have received asking which oils I personally

392

stockpile for the long term. This is that list; a list I like to
call my ultimate essential oil survival kit. In my
experience, all of these oils have proven themselves over
and over again in my own use, and, with the exception of
Frankincense, are reasonably priced if not downright
cheap.

personal health care provider who is tracking our progress

and weaning us from pharmaceuticals when practical.
As with all things related to survival first aid and
healthcare, your mileage may vary. The best you can do is
learn is much as you can now to determine what works
best for you and your family. Something that works well
on one person, may work differently on someone else.
Use essential oils neat, in a diffuser, or diluted with a
carrier oil or simple salve. Have fun with them and
embrace the use of plant-based oils to foster good health!

My recommendation? When one of these oils goes on

sale, purchase two or three and set them aside for the long
term. If the stuff hits the fan, not only will food become
scarce, so will medications and essential oils. In my own
household, we are stockpiling both, with a heavy emphasis
on essential oils. We do this with the blessing of our

Enjoy your next adventure through common sense and

thoughtful preparation!

393

How To Make Lavender Lemonade To

Get Rid Headaches And Anxiety
By Joe Martino
October 23, 2015
ailments. Lavender oil possesses amazing antiinflammatory, anti-fungal, antidepressant, antiseptic,
antibacterial, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, analgesic,
detoxifier, hypotensive, and sedative properties.
Florida researchers have found that lavender oil benefits
include reducing anxiety and lowering pulse rates in
nursing students taking stressful tests. And in hospital
settings, lavender aromatherapy has been demonstrated to
decrease pre-surgery distress and to be more relaxing than
massage or merely resting.(1)
Lavender essential oil has medicinal properties as well. It
has been shown to reduce depression, improve insomnia
and ease labor pains. And anecdotal evidence suggests
that lavender oil benefits those with headaches, hangovers,
sinus congestion and pain relief.

So many people suffer from anxiety and headaches these

days. I believe this to be a mixture of our lifestyles and
many of the changes that are taking place in our world that
are pushing people to question what weve been doing as a
society repetitively for many years. You know what I
mean that feeling that there is something more than just
going to work, making money, coming home, eating and
repeating it all. It may sound cliche, but its evident.

Much prior research on lavender has focused on

the administration of lavender via an olfactory
route. The anxiolytic activity of lavender olfaction
has been demonstrated in several small and
medium-sized clinical trials.46-53 The efficacy of
aromatherapy of lavender is thought to be due to
the psychological effects of the fragrance
combined with physiological effects of volatile
oils in the limbic system.54 These calming effects
of lavender oil and single constituents may be
the origin of the traditional use of lavender.
Lavender oil olfaction has been shown to
decrease anxiety, as measured by the Hamilton
rating scale,51 and can increase mood scores.

Deep down we can feel it, that something isnt quite

right with our world anymore and theres a certain sense
of freedom from it all that is calling us from deep within
ourselves. Not knowing what that feeling is exactly or
what to do, we sometimes will feel anxiety or overwhelm
as we look at our lives. How do we deal with these things?
There are a number of actions we can take to address the
core issue which you can explore here. But I also wanted
to share something simple that can aid us while we are
making the more long-term adjustments.

The following are selected examples of clinical trials on

lavender aromatherapy:

Lavender Lemonade

Pure lavender oil is an incredible essential oil to use for

your own health and wellness. Its among the gentlest of
essential oils, but also one of the most powerful, making it
a favorite of households for the healing properties and uses
of lavender essential oil. Lavender oil has a chemically
complex structure with over 150 active constituents, which
explains its effectiveness at helping with a lot of health

394

Dunn and colleagues demonstrated anxiolytic activity

of lavender oil aromatherapy in patients in intensive
care units. Subjects received at least 1 session of
aromatherapy with 1% lavender essential oil.
Significant anxiolytic effects were noted in the 1st
treatment, though 2nd and 3rd treatments did not
appear to be as effective.47

Alaoui-Ismaili and colleagues found that the aroma of

lavender is considered by subjects to be very pleasant
and is correlated with changes in the autonomic
nervous system.56
Tysoe and colleagues conducted a study of lavender
oil in burner use on staff mood and stress in a hospital
setting. A significant number of respondents (85%)
believed that lavender aroma improved the work
environment following the use of the lavender oil
burners.57
Diego and colleagues demonstrated that people
receiving lavender oil (10%) olfaction for 3 minutes felt
significantly more relaxed and had decreased anxiety
scores, improved mood and increased scores of alpha
power on EEG (an indicator of alertness), and
increased speed of mathematical calculations.58
Lewith and colleagues investigated the effects of
lavender aromatherapy on depressed mood and
anxiety in female patients being treated with chronic
hemodialysis.59 The effects of aromatherapy were
measured using the Hamilton rating scale for
depression (HAMD) and the Hamilton rating scale for
anxiety (HAMA). Lavender aroma significantly
decreased the mean scores of HAMA, suggesting an
effective, noninvasive means for the treatment of
anxiety in hemodialysis patients.
Lavender aromatherapy, with or without massage, may
also reduce the perception of pain and the need for
conventional analgesics in adults and children, though
more rigorously controlled trials are needed.60 (2)

DIY Lavender Lemonade with Lavender Essential Oil

Ingredients

1 cup raw honey

12 cups pure water
1 drop lavender essential oil
6 lemons, peeled and juiced
Lavender sprigs for garnish

Directions
Mix all ingredients together and chill. Add more water or
raw honey if needed.
Other ways you can use Lavender Oil for Anxiety and
Headaches

Mix 5 to 6 drops of Lavender essential oil to your bath

water if you have dry skin.
Diffuse 10 to 12 drops of Lavender into the air during
your workday for natural stress relief.
Add 2 drops of Lavender per ounce of your favorite
lightly scented, unrefined organic oil (like almond oil or
olive oil) for a body oil with all the benefits of lavender
for improving your skin, relaxing your mind, warding off
insects or helping you sleep.

Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22517298
1. Wittchen HU, Hoyer J. Generalized anxiety disorder: nature and course. J Clin Psychiatry. 2001;62 Suppl 11:15-19; discussion 20-21.
2. Ohayon MM, Shapiro CM, Kennedy SH. Differentiating DSM-IV anxiety and depressive disorders in the general population: comorbidity
and treatment consequences. Can J Psychiatry 2000;45:166-172.
3. Lawrence AE, Brown TA. Differentiating generalized anxiety disorder from anxiety disorder not otherwise specified. J Nerv Ment Dis.
2009;197:879-886.
4. Bandelow B, Zohar J, Hollander E, et al. World Federation of Societies of Biological Psychiatry (WFSBP) guidelines for the
pharmacological treatment of anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and posttraumatic stress disorders-first revision. World J Biol Psychiatry.
2008;9:248-312.
5. Longo LP, Johnson B. Addiction: Part I. Benzodiazepinesside effects, abuse risk and alternatives. Am Fam Physician. 2000;61:21212128.
6. Preskorn SH . Comparison of the tolerability of bupropion, fluoxetine, imipramine, nefazodone, paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine. J
Clin Psychiatry. 5;56 (Suppl 6):12-21.
7. Trindade E, Menon D, Topfer LA, Coloma C. Adverse effects associated with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and tricyclic
antidepressants: a meta-analysis. CMAJ. 1998;159:1245-1252.
8. Andrews G, Carter GL. What people say about their general practitioners treatment of anxiety and depression. Med J Aust. 2001;175
(Suppl):S48-S51

395

What To Do About Lactose Intolerance?

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
October 22, 2015
Lactose intolerance is one of the most common food
allergies; symptoms range from mild discomfort to
extreme intestinal pain. Complete avoidance of dairy is
perhaps the easiest way to avoid these problems, especially
for young children. However, it might not be the only
option. According to a recent study, infants with lactose
intolerance, when given a specific probiotic strain, were
able to tolerate lactose and even reverse their cows milk
allergy.

come as any surprise to point out a specific strain that

helps with lactose intolerance. [2] Environmental pollutants
and pesticides have been connected to the depletion of
probiotics in the gut microbiome, potentially explaining
the correlating rise in lactose intolerance cases. [3]
Antibiotic use has also risen and has become a huge health
issue that is likely associated with the dwindling probiotic
levels in the population. [4]
How to Use Probiotics for Lactose Intolerance

Does Lactobacillus rhamnosus Combat Lactose

Intolerance?

While this research is great news, everyones body is

different and theres no guarantee every lactose intolerant
person on the planet will have the same results. That said,
take caution before using probiotics for lactose intolerance,
gluten intolerance, or other food allergies. If its something
youre interested in, you can find this strain, among 18
others, in our newest probiotic formula FloraTrex.

The specific strain that shows promise in lactose

intolerance is Lactobacillus rhamnosus, a Gram-positive
anaerobe probiotic bacteria. When administered to lactoseintolerant infants, the bacteria colonized the intestinal tract
and produced positive changes within the gut microbiota.
[1]
Changes that helped the infants handle cows milk
formula without issue. Could these findings translate into
people of all ages?

Have you seen any improvement in lactose intolerant

symptoms after taking probiotics? Please share with us
your experiences in the comments!

Weve known for years that probiotics support digestion

and improve the absorption of nutrients, so it shouldnt

References:
1.

Roberto Berni Canani, Naseer Sangwan, Andrew T Stefka, et al. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG-supplemented formula expands butyrateproducing bacterial strains in food allergic infants. The ISME Journal. 22 September 2015. doi:10.1038/ismej.2015.151.

2.

Rosa Krajmalnik-Brown, PhD, Zehra-Esra Ilhan, Dae-Wook Kang, PhD, and John K. DiBaise, MD. Effects of Gut Microbes on Nutrient
Absorption and Energy Regulation. Nutr Clin Pract. 2012 Apr; 27(2): 201-214. doi: 10.1177/0884533611436116.

3.

Shehata AA, Schrodl W, Aldin AA, Hafez HM, Kruger M. The effect of glyphosate on potential pathogens and beneficial members of
poultry microbiota in vitro. Curr Microbiol. 2013 Apr;66(4):350-8. doi: 10.1007/s00284-012-0277-2.

4.

Fatemeh Rafii, John B Sutherland, and Carl E Cerniglia. Effects of treatment with antimicrobial agents on the human colonic microflora.
Ther Clin Risk Manag. 2008 Dec; 4(6): 1343-1358.

396

25 Cancer Stem Cell Killing Foods Smarter

Than Chemo And Radiation
By Sayer Ji
November 4, 2015
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.

A new scientific review identifies 25 of the top foods and

herbs which kill the cancer stem cells at the root cause of
cancer malignancy.
There are thousands of natural compounds that have
been studied with demonstrable anti-cancer activity (check
out over 600 on our cancer research database), but only
a small subset of these have been proven to target and kill
the cancer stem cells which lie at the root of cancer
malignancy. Turmeric, for instance, we have featured a
number of times for this smart kill property of
targeting just the heart of cancerous tumors. More
recently, ginger has been found in pre-clinical research to
contain a compound up to 10,000 times more effective
than the chemotherapy drug Taxol at killing breast
cancer stem cells. Even common food like blueberry have
special cancer killing properties, as discussed in a previous
article: Research: Radiotherapy Causes Cancer,
Blueberry Kills It.

Why are these substances so important?

The primary reason why conventional chemotherapy and
radiotherapy have failed to produce any significant
improvements in cancer survival rates is because cancer
stem cells are resistant to these interventions. In fact,
chemotherapy and especially radiation are both capable
of increasing the number and virulence of these cells in
a tumor, while at the same time having the well known
side effect of further damaging the patients immune
system.

A new study published in the journal Anticancer Research

titled, Natural Products That Target Cancer Stem
Cells, has made our job much easier of identifying this
special category of cancer killers by reviewing the extant
literature on the topic and listing the top 25 substances in
this category. They are listed here below, along with some
of their commonly recognizable dietary sources:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Curcumin Turmeric
Cyclopamine Corn Lilly [we do not suggest
consuming this plant; this simply illustrates natural
components exist that kill cancer stem cells]
Delphinidin Blueberry, raspberrry
Flavonoids (Genistein) Soy, red clover, coffee
Gossypol Cottonseed [we do not suggest consuming
this plant; this simply illustrates natural components
exist that kill cancer stem cells]
Guggulsterone Commiphora (myrrh tree)
Isothiocyanates Cruciferous vegetables
Linalool Mint
Lycopene Grapefruit, tomato
Parthenolide Feverfew
Perylill alcohol Mint, cherry, lavender
Piperine Black pepper
Placycodon saponin Playycodon grandifloruim
Psoralidin Psoralea corylilyfolia
Quercetin Capers, onion
Resveratrol Grapes, plums, berries
Salinomycin Streptomyces albus
Silibinin Milk Thistle
Ursolic acid Thyme, basil, oregano
Vitamin D3 Fish, egg yolk, beef, cod liver oil
Withaferin A Withania somnifera (ashwaganda)

While the cancer industry is still very much resistant to

incorporating the implications of these findings into their
standard of care (which is highly unethical), there are an
increasing number of health practitioners that will not turn
their back on the truth and are very much interested in
alternative ways to prevent and treat cancer using food
and/or plant-based approaches.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) Green Tea

6-Gingerol Ginger
-Carotene Carrot, Leafy Greens
Baicalein Chinese Skullcap

397

The new study addresses the relevance of cancer stem

cells as follows:

At present, the cancer industry has failed to produce a

single drug that targets the cancer stem cell population of
cells within a tumor, as confirmed by the study:

The cancer stem cell model suggests that tumor initiation

is governed by a small subset of distinct cells with stemlike character termed cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs
possess properties of self-renewal and intrinsic survival
mechanisms that contribute to resistance of tumors to most
chemotherapeutic drugs. The failure to eradicate CSCs
during the course of therapy is postulated to be the driving
force for tumor recurrence and metastasis. Recent studies
have focused on understanding the unique phenotypic
properties of CSCs from various tumor types, as well as
the signaling pathways that underlie self-renewal and drug
resistance.

If indeed the CSC response is a vital criterion for

cancer treatment evaluation, there are still no
drugs in clinical use that specifically target CSCs.
The ability to selectively target cancer cells, and cancer
stem cells in particular, while leaving intact the non-tumor
cells in tissue is extremely important. We have created a
section on our database that indexes research on these
substances and now includes sixty seven of them here.
We are also building a section that collates research
cancer stem cells, a topic will no doubt become a central
part of the future of cancer treatment, assuming the priority
is to actually alleviate suffering and not just make money
off of patients.

398

What Are The Health Benefits Of Tamarind?

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
November 13, 2015
protection, the livers of test subjects experienced less
damage. [1]
Soothes Joint Inflammation
Tamarind seed extract protects joints, bones, and cartilage
from arthritis. [2] It breaks down inflammatory chemicals
like interleukin and prevents the formation of enzymes that
break down bone and cartilage.
Supports Normal Blood Sugar

Grown around the world, the tamarind tree and its fruit that
grows in pods and appears brown when mature, delivers B
vitamins and is an excellent source of calcium,
magnesium, and iron. An important part of the tropical
cuisine and traditional medicine for centuries, the tamarind
fruit has gained a reputation as a powerful super-food that
can help fight several modern diseases.

While cutting out foods loaded with sugar makes a good

first step, its important to add foods that support blood
sugar control. Based on research so far, regular
consumption of tamarind offers positive effects on blood
sugar. [3]

The sweet and sour fruit called tamarind has a unique

super-power. It removes one of the most toxic
substances ingested by most Americans fluoride.

Traditional Uses of Tamarindus indica

Everywhere tamarind has spread, healers have found it
useful for supporting good health. Its been used to remedy
fevers, speed healing of wounds, diarrhea, malaria,
abdominal pain and indigestion, constipation, eye diseases,
and disinfecting. Tamarind is also widely used in many
dishes and candy around the world.

Regular consumption of tamarind lowers fasting and

blood glucose levels in as little as five days. [4]
Helps return triglyceride levels to normal. [5]
Promotes balance blood sugar and the way your cells
use calcium, an important component of cellular
metabolism. [6]

Promotes Fluoride Detoxification

With fluoride in toothpaste and a fluoridated water supply,
the majority of Americans are in overload status of this
toxic, non-useful metal. Once in your body, it disrupts
your hormones and weakens your bones.

Tamarinds Health Benefits

Detoxing fluoride can be a challenge, but tamarind can
handle it. In one study, 18 healthy boys were given a third
of an ounce of tamarind daily for 18 days and eliminated
what researchers described as a significant amount of
fluoride. [7]

In recent years, tamarind has caught the attention of

modern medicine. Like so many plants and herbs
consumed for their health benefits, it helps your body
resist common physical stresses caused by diet and
environmental pollutants. Here are a few ways it helps.

One note about tamarindthe researchers did report

increased loss of essential minerals zinc and magnesium.
So you should consider supplementing with these minerals
if you eat tamarind over a period of time.

Supports the Liver

In one study, an extract of tamarind fruit stimulated
production of the livers natural antioxidants superoxide
dismutase and glutathione. With the increase in antioxidant

399

Tamarind Nutrition Facts Table

Vitamin E

0.1 mg

(1%)

Tamarinds unique as it is a fruit thats an excellent source

of calcium. Its also loaded with B vitamins that support
energy.

Vitamin K

2.8 g

(3%)

Tamarind at a Glance

Calcium

74 mg

(7%)

Iron

2.8 mg

(22%)

Magnesium

92 mg

(26%)

Phosphorus

113 mg (16%)

Potassium

628 mg (13%)

Sodium

28 mg

(2%)

Zinc

0.1 mg

(1%)

Minerals

Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz)

Energy: 239 kcal (1,000 kJ)
Carbohydrates: 62.5 g
Sugars: 57.4 g
Dietary fiber: 5.1 g
Fat: 0.6 g
Protein: 2.8 g

Vitamins

% RDA

Thiamine (B1)

0.428 mg (37%)

Riboflavin (B2)

0.152 mg (13%)

Niacin (B3)

1.938 mg (13%)

Tamarind Fruit: A Natural Superfood

Traditional healers consider tamarind a superfood. And the
way it helps control blood sugar, reduce the symptoms of
arthritis, and protect the liver supports this long held view.
But its special ability to detox fluoride takes it way beyond
simply a food or supplement for health support. This
tropical fruit offers an effective way to remove fluoride,
the dangerous mineral toxin linked to bone loss, hormone
imbalance, arthritis, infertility, thyroid disease, heart
disease, kidney disease, and more.

Pantothenic acid (B5) 0.143 mg (3%)

Vitamin B6

0.066 mg (5%)

Folate (B9)

14 g

(4%)

Choline

8.6 mg

(2%)

Vitamin C

3.5 mg

(4%)

% RDA

For more information on fluoride and fluoride detox, check

out Reducing Your Exposure to Fluoride.

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Amir M1, Khan MA, Ahmad S, Akhtar M, Mujeeb M, Ahmad A, Khan SA, Al-Abbasi FA. Ameliorating effects of Tamarindus indica fruit extract on
anti-tubercular drugs induced liver toxicity in rats. Nat Prod Res. 2015 May 15:1-5.
Sundaram MS1, Hemshekhar M2, Santhosh MS3, Paul M1, Sunitha K1, Thushara RM1, NaveenKumar SK1, Naveen S4, Devaraja S5,
Rangappa KS6, Kemparaju K1, Girish KS7. Tamarind Seed (Tamarindus indica) Extract Ameliorates Adjuvant-Induced Arthritis via Regulating
the Mediators of Cartilage/Bone Degeneration, Inflammation and Oxidative Stress. Sci Rep. 2015 Jun 10;5:11117. doi: 10.1038/srep11117.
Huang, Elbert S. et al. Projecting the Future Diabetes Population Size and Related Costs for the U.S. Diabetes Care 32.12 (2009): 22252229.
PMC. Web. 28 Sept. 2015.
Nahar L1, Nasrin F2, Zahan R1, Haque A2, Haque E1, Mosaddik A1. Comparative study of antidiabetic activity of Cajanus cajan and Tamarindus
indica in alloxan-induced diabetic mice with a reference to in vitro antioxidant activity. Pharmacognosy Res. 2014 Apr;6(2):180-7. doi:
10.4103/0974-8490.129043.
Agnihotri A1, Singh V2. Effect of Tamarindus indica Linn. and Cassia fistula Linn. stem bark extracts on oxidative stress and diabetic conditions.
Acta Pol Pharm. 2013 Nov-Dec;70(6):1011-9.
Sole SS1, Srinivasan BP. Aqueous extract of tamarind seeds selectively increases glucose transporter-2, glucose transporter-4, and islets
intracellular calcium levels and stimulates -cell proliferation resulting in improved glucose homeostasis in rats with streptozotocin-induced
diabetes mellitus. Nutr Res. 2012 Aug;32(8):626-36. doi: 10.1016/j.nutres.2012.06.015. Epub 2012 Aug 3.
Khandare AL1, Rao GS, Lakshmaiah N. Effect of tamarind ingestion on fluoride excretion in humans. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2002 Jan;56(1):82-5.

400

Why All Diabetics Should Know About Turmeric

By Sayer Ji
November 19, 2015

The human clinical research conducted on diabetic and

pre-diabetic patients revealed that curcumin had the
following beneficial effects:

Many diabetics already know about the benefits of a lowglycemic diet, but why havent they heard about turmeric,
one of the worlds most extensively researched antidiabetic plants?

A recent literature review published in the International

Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism titled, AntiHyperglycemic Effect and Insulin Sensitizing Effects of
Turmeric and Its Principle Constituent Curcumin,
adds promising new support to the notion that the ancient
Indian spice turmeric may provide an ideal drug
alternative to treating and perhaps even preventing
type 2 diabetes, which has become of the worlds most
prevalent diagnoses.

Glucose lowering effect

Improved beta cell function
Improved fatty acid oxidation and utilization

One of these studies is especially worth highlighting, as it

found a turmeric extract was highly effective in preventing
the development of diabetes within pre-diabetic subjects.
The study published in 2012, in the American Diabetic
Associations own journal, Diabetes Care, and titled,
Curcumin extract for the prevention of type 2
diabetes, found that the administration of six capsules
containing 250 mg of curcumin daily for 9 months was
100% effective at preventing the development of type 2
diabetes in prediabetics; more specifically: 16.4% of the
subjects in the placebo group were diagnosed with T2DM,
whereas none were diagnosed with T2DM.

The study reviewed research published between 1998 to

2013 that indicates the active polyphenol in turmeric
known as curcumin may provide an ideal intervention for
type 2 diabetes, capable of mitigating characteristic
pathophysiological hallmarks of the disease such as
elevated blood sugar (hyperglycemia) and insulin
resistance.

Observed effects like these are extremely promising when

viewed within the context of the highly dismal
pharmaceutically-based standard of care. For instance, oral
anti-diabetic drugs like metformin are notorious for their
serious side effects. They often lower blood sugar,
generating the surface appearance of physiological
normality, e.g. blood sugar within range, but actually
increase morbidity and mortality. With the possibility of
deadly side effects, we need natural, safe, affordable and
easily accessible alternatives like turmeric now more than
ever.

Nineteen of the studies reviewed were cell (in vitro) and

animal (in vivo), all which showed beneficial effects. Five
of the studies were human clinical trials using turmeric
or curcumin, three of which were performed in those with
either diabetes or prediabetes.
Amazingly, the animal and cell research literature review
concluded that curcumin could improve the type 2 diabetic
state through 10 distinctly different mechanisms, such as:

Stimulation of increased glucose uptake (by increasing

GLUT4, GLUT2 and GLUT3 gene expressions)
Increasing the activation of AMP kinase
Promoting PPAR ligand- binding activity
Suppressing hyperglycemia-induced inflammatory state
Stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic tissues
Improvement in pancreatic cell function,
Increasing phosphorylation of AKT
Increasing insulin receptor and reduction of insulin
resistance

Moreover, despite the well known problem of insulin

resistance in type 2 diabetes, recombinant or genetically
modified insulin is often used in these patients a highly
illogical and irresponsible approach, and which is endemic

Reduction in liver glucose production

Reduction in liver glycogen production

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to a medical paradigm that does not seek to identity for

resolve root causes of disease. A small, but highly
concerning recent clinical study found that insulin
accelerated the progression of type 2 diabetes, as well as
caused type 1 diabetes, or double diabetes.

For more information on the therapeutic value of

turmeric/curcumin diabetes, read our previous articles on
the topic:

Diabetes is, of course, driven by a dietary pattern that

reflects evolutionary mismatch, i.e. the Western diet is a
lethal disease vector that has no resemblance to the
traditional diet humans consumed for thousands of years,
and upon which it still depends for good health. Turmeric,
therefore, while an amazing alternative to diabetic drugs,
should not be considered a natural cure; rather, it is
something of a palliative counter-balance to a biologically
inappropriate diet, which while far better than
pharmaceuticals (learn more by reading: Science
Confirms Turmeric As Effective As 14 Drugs), still
needs to be part of a broader, more holistic plan that takes
into account diet, exercise, toxicant exposure, and mindbody/emotional factors that underpin well-being and
contribute significantly to most dis-eases.

Turmeric Extract May Prevent, Even Reverse

Diabetes (Type 1 and 2)
Turmeric May Repair and Regenerate Diabetic Liver
Function
Turmerics Heart-Saving Properties Confirmed In
New Diabetes Study
Is The Cure for Diabetes A Humble Root?
Reverse Insulin Resistance With These 8 Foods

Learn even more by viewing the firsthand research on the

anti-type 2 diabetic effects of turmeric by viewing these
23 studies, as well as visiting our Blood Sugar Disorder
research page, which covers natural health information on
both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.

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10 Food-Medicines That Could Save Your Life

Guest Interview: Sayer Ji, founder of Greenmedinfo.com.
November 23, 2015
Sayer Ji: Thank you so much. I mean the reality is that I
was honored and very grateful to be exposed to the vast
database available today on natural medicine, which most
people are not aware of. So, GreenMedInfo, my website
was dedicated to the cause of bringing to the people the
resource thats already available supporting natural and
integrative interventions for prevention of disease, as well
as for treatment.
Most people dont know that billions of dollars of their
own taxpayer money goes through the National Institutes
of Health to support a database which you can access
through PubMed.gov, which contains 23,000,000 citations
that they can basically search like Google. You type like
osteoarthritis or type in turmeric, and youll get
thousands of results.

Dr. Axe: Welcome to The Natural Cures Summit. I am

your host, Dr. Josh Axe, along with one of my co-hosts
and partners here in putting on this summit. And that is
Sayer Ji from GreenMedInfo. And we have an absolutely
incredible segment here for you today. Were going to be
talking about the five herbs that could save your life, as
well as Sayer going through all of the evidence-based
material on why herbs are superior to pharmaceuticals.

So what I spent many years doing was just sitting there in

front of the computer amazed and really kind of
methodically indexing the research that supports using
what you and I know is the most ancient form of medicine
on the planet, which is natural medicine.

And one of the things that Ive loved about Sayer over the
years, hes really been a pioneer in our industry and really
going through and laying out, Hey, heres the true
evidence of what were looking at. Sayers also the
founder of one of the largest and fastest growing health
websites in the world today with greenmedinfo.com.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, absolutely. And again this is one of the

reasons why youve grown so much. You know, I was
reading an article today on and someone was making this
claim that this does this. And, of course, theres nothing to
back it. And not to say that that doesnt mean it doesnt
work. But thats the thing thats so great about your site is
you really go through the medical journals and proving
heres what the actual literature says from a unbiased
standpoint.

By the way, if youve never been to Green Med Info,

youre missing out. You need to check it out. Theyve got
the best evidence-based articles on nutrition, herbal
remedies, and natural medicine that Ive ever seen. Also he
has been a lecturer. And hes a member of The Global
GMO-free Coalition so hes been really fighting GMOs
on the forefront of that. And just has an incredible
background. I think youre going to learn a lot from him
today.

Lets talk about this. What are some of the roadblocks

today in natural healing? You know, chemical poisoning,
misconceptions. I will say this. Im sure youve seen this.
Over the last ten years, theres definitely been a better
shift. Were definitely going into the right direction in
certain areas.

Sayer, welcome here to our Natural Cures Summit!

Sayer Ji: Its a great honor, Josh. Youve done such an
incredible job with this awareness-raising project. The
natural cures movement is truly a global movement. And
Im honored to be part of this Summit. So thank you for
having me.

Like if I would have told my dad to do a cleanse ten years

ago, he would have just been like, What are you talking
about? And now hes taking turmeric and milk thistle
and a few other of these super herbs on a regular basis. But
still today, what are some of these mental roadblocks that
are blocking people from connecting with this movement?

Dr. Axe: Hey, no problem. Well, lets talk about first, Im

really interested into why Green Med Info and why youre
in this natural cures movement?

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Sayer Ji: Great question, Josh. I appreciate it. Really

people dont seem to recognize sufficiently that the
primary medical model that dominates today is based on
using patented chemicals in order to suppress symptoms
that are often associated with chemical poisoning. So
its a very oxymoronic almost Orwellian situation.

another symptom because it causes toxic poisoning in the

body. You actually look at the track that we go on.
And again this isnt us making stuff up. This is thinking
very rationally about what is happening today with our
FDA, with the drug industry. For people if they can
actually think about it without bias and connect the dots,
its obvious that our pharmaceutical industry today, its
dangerous. Its not safe the way its set up from a business
standpoint, obviously from a health standpoint. Theres so
many issues there.

What I mean by that is if you look any pharmaceutical

thats received FDA drug approval beyond what are called
biological, which themselves have problems because a lot
of them are based on recombinant DNA manipulation of
things like recombinant antibodies or different things that
are not really natural. But if you look at most of the drugs
on the market from COX-2 inhibitors to antibiotics and
chemotherapy, theyre actually chemicals.

Lets talk about pharmaceutical drugs. They are so popular

today. Why do you think, also on the other end though,
why is there so much misinformation today about natural
cures? I know in the past people referred to it as things
likeIm trying to think of the popular termlike what
do they call it? Like snake oil or something like that? But
why is there so much information out there about natural
cures?

And the reason why they exist as medicines today is

because theyve gone through a very elaborate process of
receiving FDA drug approval. And what most people dont
realize is that theres a huge gauntlet that has to be run in
order to get a chemical to be approved as an FDAapproved drug. So what I mean is theres about
$800,000,000 on average that goes into phase one, two,
three clinical trials to get that drug to be accepted as legal
and viable to treat disease. And the problem with that, of
course, is that those compounds are not, unfortunately,
available to traditional approaches.
A traditional approach is you take food. You take plants.
And theyre growing in your backyard. They dont require
all this investment of capital. So the drug approval process
today actually attracts multinational corporations whose
vested interest is to make a profit on their products. And
therefore they actually have a legal fiduciary responsibility
to their shareholders.

Sayer Ji: Well, thats a great question. If you look at the

reality, the problem is that our body is composed basically
of food and things that we eat and the things that have
been in our environment for literally millions of years. So
when you start introducing what are primarily
petrochemical derivatives into the body, theyre actually
defined as xenobiotics, which is basically a foreign
substance that our body has no evolutionary pre-history in
dealing with.

And so what that means is that even if they wanted to just

do good and point to turmeric in our backyard or maybe
cannabis for treating some type of neurological issue,
theyre not able to do that because they have to make a
profit. And that is not consistent with a fundamentally
ethical approach to medicine, which is to just alleviate
suffering.

So despite that, thankfully, we have the cytochrome P450

enzymes in the liver that almost anticipated the industrial
revolution. They kind of non-specifically often are capable
of detoxifying chemicals that really just came about after
the 1880s, which is in the Industrial Revolution globally.

So what GreenMedInfo was based on was this concept

well, okay, theres all this research supporting traditional
medicine: plants, herbs, nutrients, minerals. Lets just get
the research out to the people so they can see that despite
the dominant medical model, you can get things from your
grocery store or your produce case that do at least as well
as the pharmacies out there.

So chemicals that are patented as drugs are technically

alien to our physiology and have to have effects by
definition that are toxic. And so when we look at natural
approaches, were basically just using things that our body
has had many millions of years of time to adjust to and
adapt to. So when you look at the difference, its very
clear. Chemicals, patented drugs, are not consistent with a
model of healing which I think we all are starting to
recognize is fundamental, meaning we cannot look at
disease as a deficiency of drugs. But we can certainly look

Dr. Axe: Wow. You said a quote there, several quotes,

that I think should be etched in stone. Ill probably quote
you on some articles Im going to be writing coming up.
But the thing about medications is you look at the track
youve set is pretty much a medication is a patented
chemical used to block symptoms that usually causes

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at disease as a deficiency of nutrients. And thats, I think,

the model that were all moving towards.

Med Info, weve basically indexed hundreds of studies on

natural compounds from N-acetyl cysteine to turmeric to
basic vitamin E that have been proven to be effective.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, I couldnt agree with you more. What are
you thoughts on this term natural cures because I know
its actually something that people are very careful in using
often times when it comes to not making claims. And,
obviously, with this summit, were not claiming any of
these things. Were just saying a lot of these herbs today
have been proven in the medical literature to support
healing the body from certain conditions. But what do you
think about that term? And I know its something that the
FDA doesnt like people to use.

So I think people are waking up and realizing okay, there

are things we can use in our diet and even from your
supplement store that are going to basically benefit them in
a way that drugs cannot.
Dr. Axe: Yeah, theres no doubt about it as we were
mentioning earlier is that the tides are changing. And so
much of its due to social media today and the Internet.
Its like you can go online where before these media
channels, they were able to keep stuff from us. Its scary. I
know that youve researched this when you start looking
into who owns what from the media companies to the
pharmaceuticals, how much the pharmaceutical companies
own television today. But the great thing is they dont own
the Internet. We have freedom here. And thats why your
health website and so many of the others we have on here.

Sayer Ji: Yeah, great question, Josh. It really is. The

reality is the FTC and FDA presently define any substance
that prevents, treats, diagnoses, or cures a disease as a
drug. And what that means is if youre taking basically
cherries for osteoarthritiswhich Michigan State
University actually proved is as effective as taking an
NSAID like ibuprofen or naproxenthat actually violates
the law. And in Florida, its a class D felony for someone
at a health food store to tell someone, Okay, you have
arthritis? Well, take turmeric or take cherry juice to
reduce your inflammation.

Sayer Ji: Yours, too.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, mine too. Were growing rapidly, which is
fun. And its great.

So the challenge is that when you come to the FDA/FDCs

definition, its a really Napoleonic version of truth which
is if the FDA/FTC doesnt explicitly acknowledge
something as being therapeutic, then by implication, its
not legal. And its not considered relevant for healing. So
the natural cures movement is very powerful because
people are basically able to take back control of their
health. And so here we have in this present day medical
system a model where medicine is really not so much
focused on trying to heal which is to empower you to live
a healthy, balanced well being saturated life. Its to control
the body.

Sayer Ji: I love this point. This is the beauty of where we

are today is that if you have a mobile device. If you have
an iPhone or an Android, you can access the global brain.
And you have access to research that just ten years ago
was not really available to the public. So you go to the
World Health Organizations website. You go to your
website, DrJoshAxe.com, Food Is Medicine. And its an
equal playing field.
If you are a consumer of information, you have a choice.
And you can go vet information as you please. And you
can have access to whatever you want. So theres a lot of
change thats occurred. And a lot of its good. And I think
primarily its based on what Thomas Jefferson said, which
is that information is the currency of democracy. And
we have that now. So its just about people coming the
summit, realizing, yes, natural cures, natural solutions
exist. And heres the research.

And so what people dont seem to acknowledge, I think,

well enough is that we have a political system that depends
on making the body sick. Look at the FDA. In many
ways, they represent the food and drug manufacturers
interest. You know the Food and Drug Administration. So
the food gets you sick, and the drugs then suppress
symptoms of the illness. And, of course, theres chemicals
that also make you sick so its more complex than that. But
the idea here is the natural cures movement is
empowering millions and millions around the planet just to
kind of disengage from the system that is a system of
control so they can, again, attain wellness and balance and
healing without having to depend on having, for example,
lots of money in your account.

Dr. Axe: Couldnt agree more. Lets actually jump into

some meat here and talk about some of these cures that
weve alluding to. And I was actually reading through your
website, reading some great articles here just this week.
And one of them I came across that Id love to hear from
and then Id love to hear some more.
But one of those was you wrote an article titled Coconut
Oil: Better Than Thirteen Drugs. So, its been proven
to be more beneficial than thirteen medications that are out
there today. So what are some of the most amazing
examples you have of natural remedies that are out there

Some of the treatmentsI think theres a new drug that a

was approved for cystic fibrosis just a few months ago and
its $600,000 a year for these folks with a specific type to
benefit from this pharmaceutical intervention. At Green

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that are beating drugs for healing? So maybe you can offer
a couple here.

or three minute without steady glucose in your blood. And

you wont necessarily freak out.

And then I know we have five specific ones were going to

talk about later. And theres five herbs that could save your
life. But what are a few others here that beat conventional
medicine?

But if you take away glucose after three minutes, your

brain is going to freak out. Its going to release adrenaline,
cortisol, and try to get the blood sugar back up. And thats
because its so dependent on sugar and complex
carbohydrates, which are themselves hidden sugar. What
coconut does is it has these medium-chain triglycerides
that the liver breaks down into ketone bodies, which
provides the brain a steady source of fuel that gives it the
ability to just basically stay focused and satisfied. And so
thats one of the things that coconut oils been found to
do.

Sayer Ji: Well, whats amazing is if you actually go to

Medline and you go through the search engine
PubMed.gov, which again is what GreenMedInfo is based
on is literally I took five years of my time. I sat there and I
basically indexed and researched all these different natural
interventions. I was shocked, Josh, to find all these
comparison studies where they looked at a drug versus a
natural compound. And they often found the natural
compound was more effective.

So there are a lot of benefits. We went over thirteen of

them- antifungal, anti-ulcer, helps with blood lipids. Many
people think that, Oh, coconut oil is full of saturated fat
therefore it raises your bad cholesterol. It actually raises
your good cholesterol and keeps your LDL within range,
as well as it has benefits for bone health, healing wounds
when applied topically. Its even been used for head lice. It
was even superior to some of the chemicals out there
like permethrin.
So the beauty of it is if you look at any of the natural
compounds out there today and you go to Medline, you
search for the research, youre probably going to find a
significant body of evidence showing that, yes,
traditionally what we were doing was the right approach.
And chemicals dont do as good.

So one of the substances that came to the fore was coconut

oil. And its so ironic because for many years the
nutritional powers that be here in this country with their
food pyramid, so to speak, put fats in a place that made it
seem like it causes heart disease and it makes you fat.
What were learning today is quite the opposite.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, you are right. It is incredible when you

look at the number of studies out there that say and theyve
compared some of these things head-to-head. And the
natural remedies that we were referring to in these herbs
will perform much better than a lot of these conventional
medications.

So in the article youre referring to, Thirteen EvidenceBased Medicinal Properties of Coconut Oil, we looked
at its fat burning properties, number one. There were
actually two studies: one in a male and one in a female
cohort that saw that it was actually reducing belly fat,
which completely explodes the myth that somehow
coconut oil causes you to become fat.

One other thingAnd this is a side note. I wasnt planning

on asking you this. But this just kind of jumped in my
head. Id love to hear your thoughts behindand you kind
of alluded to it earlierbut the way that herbs work with
your body.

Now, qualification, yes, you consume too much of it

beyond your energy needs, yes, it can contribute to weight
gain. But, generally those who use it do not see that effect.
And because its saturated, it doesnt oxidize, which means
that, unlike vegetable oils, which have been promoted as
the ultimate beneficial fat for us, they dont oxidize and
therefore cause a lot of inflammation.

I was reading a study recently on adaptogenic herbs like

ashwagandha. And they did a study on how that could
affect your thyroid health. But it could actually in some
people it could raise their thyroid hormones, in others it
could reduce it. So explain a little bit or let me hear your
thoughts on how these herbs actually work with the body
versus medications working either with it or against it or
how does that work?

So some of the other benefits that have been described just

with coconut oil is that its effective as an antiinflammatory, analgesic, fever-reducing compound as sort
of a drug when it comes to its ability just to kill pain, as
well as its brain-boosting effects. And most people dont
realize this. But when it comes to the brains energy needs,
its constantly dependent on sugar. You can go maybe two

Sayer Ji: Thats a great question, Josh. The reality is that

people seem to not comprehend fully how an herb could
have intelligence. And thats what were talking about
because adaptogens exhibit properties that are completely

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peanuts. So when theres stress, they produce this

compound and communicate to our body a signal that says,
Hey, listen. Things are getting tough. You might want to
calm down with accumulating extra calories and basically
over replicating your cells. Lets just start focusing on
longevity.

opposite depending on the needs of the individual. And

thats the basis for functional medicine, of course, which is
this burgeoning movement, which is looking at bioindividuality.

So just consuming these compounds actually

communicates to our body okay, lets get ready to live
longer. Lets actually activate pathways in our body that
help us survive. So theres this growing awareness that in
the science itself that what we eat is going to directly affect
our health outcomes. And thats a good example of it.
So, for example, like ginseng has the ability in those with
high blood pressure to lower their blood pressure, but in
those with low blood pressure can raise their blood
pressure. Theres not a single sort of hypotensive agent
out there within the drug model like beta-blockers, ace
inhibitors, diuretics, calcium channel blockers that have
the ability to work with individual constitution. So the
adaptogens like ashwagandha, ginseng, and there are
many others out there seem to have a intelligence,
meaning its almost like in quantum mechanics where
depending on the observer, the observed is going to act
differently so meaning the subject and object are
intertwined.

Dr. Axe: Wow. It is incredible when you think about it. I

think it is hard for people to gain that concept that a plant
does have intelligence. But if you think about it, plants are
always growing. Theyre protecting themselves on a
regular basis. So it makes sense.
So lets jump into and talk about some of these healing
herbs weve talked about. I know I want to go through
several including black seed, which, by the way, the title of
this article is amazing: Black Seed the Remedy for
Everything But Death. So well talk about black seed.
Lets also go through one of the things that I know your
specialty is. And thats turmeric and curcumin. Lets hit
on garlic and then maybe raw honey and Manuka honey.
And then also this is one that might surprise people is
frankincense. Theres some fantastic research youll share
with us. And then maybe well do a bonus remedy after
that. But lets talk about black seed. This is an article you
have on your site, has 33,000 shares.

When it comes to an herbs activity and its awareness of

our needs, it actually is able to adjust to accommodate
what our body needs. And thats something that really the
pharmaceutical model doesnt allow for. Many people
think, This is magical thinking. Theres no explanation.
But a new study that came out this year showed that plants
actually exude these nanoparticles called exosomes that
contain within them regulatory RNAs, which are noncoding, meaning they dont produce proteins. But they are
information-containing sequences that modulate the DNA
within those who consume them.

Sayer Ji: Surprise!

Dr. Axe: Yeah, its an amazing article. Lets talk about
what is black seed exactly? And whats it good for?

So if youre eating ginger, grapefruit, for example,

grapes, those RNAs go into our body and actually start to
modulate the expression of our DNA. And thats almost
like the plant is talking to our body and enabling our body
to kind of come back into balance.

Sayer Ji: Well, its an amazing thing. I had no idea this

article would be so popular. Probably the title, actually,
was responsible: Black Seed the Remedy for
Everything but Death does sound rather sensationalistic.
But when it comes down to it, the Islamic prophet
Muhammad said of it that it is a remedy for all diseases
except death. And I always found that to be, okay, thats
poetic. Thats beautiful. But wheres the research?

So what I understand about adaptogens is that they

probably gear into an ancient relationship we had with
certain types of foods. Theres even a concept out there
called xenohormesis, which acknowledges that for many
millions of years, we were in an environment where the
plants actually communicated to us what the future
environmental circumstances would be.
Resveratrol, for example, everyones heard of it. Its
great. They actually believe it basically prolongs our
longevity. It kills obesity and overweight. That plant
produces resveretrol under times of stress. And
resveretrols actually produced by other things like

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And in fact what happens was that since 1964, there have
been almost 500 studies on its benefits and many of them
confirm the traditional use because this was found in
Tutankhamens tomb. This goes back to 3,300 years ago. I
mean it was considered a very sacred herb. In fact, in
Arabic cultures it was considered the seed of the blessing,
meaning it just gave you a beautiful healing effect. And so
far there are over twenty different pharmacological
actions that have been identifiedanalgesic pain killing,
antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer, antifungal,
antispasmodic, antioxidant, antiviral. And it just goes on
and on. This is not unique necessarily.

have this elaborate pharmaceutical enterprise convincing

type I diabetics that if you have type I, you have to take
lifelong recombinant basic GMO insulin for the rest of
your life and all these oral anti-diabetic drugs, which
actually have been found recently to increase the risk of
dying from diabetes.
This is one substance thats been shown to stimulate the
regeneration of the very cells in the pancreas that
produce insulin and therefore may provide a cure. So for
me and for those interested in the natural cures movement,
this is a very profound finding. And I think that people
really need to start looking at this research.

One of the things, Josh, that I found in my project

wasBecause we have over 1,500 substances that are now
indexed. Turmeric has 1,500 studiesAnd it goes over
600 different benefits. So black seed isnt necessarily the
best thing on the planet for us to take. But it is
interesting because when you look at pharmaceuticals,
they on average have seventy-five adverse health effects.
And these are actually identified pre-market approval. So
there are many more that often emerge afterwards. And yet
theyre approved.

And if it were me, if I had type I diabetes, would I wait

until theres $800,000,000 available to fund a trial?
Probably not because this is actually used as food. One of
our recent videos on GreenMedInfo was using
watermelon and sesame seed oil and black seed as just a
summer salad just to eat. And youre always doing
amazing recipes showing food as medicine. So I would
encourage those to start basically use common sense. Use
traditional recipes and start looking at the research. But
also start realizing that, yes, food is medicine. And we
dont necessarily need to wait around for some future drug
cure.

My understanding is lets say you have a drug that has an

adverse effect like it makes you sleepy. Well, they just
take that symptom. And they say, Hey, this is a great
sleep medication. You can look at like the drugs out there
like Lunestra, which actually increase your risk of death,
and say theres a good example.

Dr. Axe: Love it. Couldnt agree more. And black seed
here reading up on here. This is a form of cumin, of black
cumin. I cook with cumin all the time. Some of these
things are in our kitchen cabinets, which is just amazing.

So whereas natural compounds have the opposite

meaning they have side benefits. So you take side effects
with drugs. You take natural compounds, side benefits.
Now, this is not always true. There are some natural
compounds that will have adverse effects that are severe.
And, of course, if youre on a medication and you take a
natural compound, you could compound the adverse
effects of the medication. And often the natural compound
is blamed for those adverse effects. So Im not trying to
present the image that natural substances are always
beneficial and that you should take as many of them as
possible because Im more of a food is medicine person.

So lets talk about another one of my favorites. You have

not just one article, but probably ten to twenty
phenomenal articles on turmeric and curcumin. Lets
talk about that as a super herb.
Sayer Ji: I love it. Turmeric is sort of a gift from the
heavens in so far as since ancient times, you can go back
to the Ayurvedic tradition in India, which is really the
oldest medical system that was very science and what I
would call phenomenologically based, looking at empirical
effects of different interventions.

But we have to look at the literature. And its very clearly

showing things like black seed have profound benefits. Its
very interesting because with drugs, Lipitor
(atorvastatin), for example for cholesterol. Theres not
precedent. Its basically a synthetic chemical that the body
has never been exposed to before. Theres no 3,000- or
10,000-year history behind taking a pharmaceutical
compound. So when you have the research confirming at
least in pre-clinical studies that black seed is beneficial,
its really encouraging.

What they found, this was actually considered a goddess of

compassion. And it was considered to heal many different
diseases. And whats happened in the past twenty years is
that the biomedical establishment in the West has looked at
it as an answer to many solutions that they were looking
for.
Literally on Medline, you have 7,000 articles on turmeric.
And about 1,500 of them right now on our site show the
benefits of this herb at least in pre-clinical research for 600
different diseases. And thats a lot because in our site,
which is extensive, we have 3,000 ailments indexed.
Thats pretty much one fourth of all the disease that affects
humankind. And so if turmeric, which is simplerits

One of the things too, Josh, I would say is that this is one
of the few compounds thats been studied to regenerate
the beta cells, which die in type I diabetes. Whereas you

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affordable. Its safe. Its wonderful. You can use it in

foods. You can take it by the teaspoonhas all these
benefits then what are we waiting for? So to me, turmeric
is really most amazing.

So most people dont realize that cancer is really not so

much something that just happens in the genes like some
kind of genetic time bomb you inherited from bad genes
from your parents. Rather its a byproduct of the postindustrial revolution. And those cells are trying to survive.

Our most popular blog on the topic was titled 600 reasons
turmeric may be the worlds most important herb. And
was shared like 80,000 times because people are looking
for these natural solutions. Theyve even compared
turmeric to thirteen different drugs. The Fluoxetine study
which Prozac, it was found at least as effective as Prozac
for depression. Its been found to be as effective as
hydrocortisone in the animal model. Its been found to be
as effective as ibuprofen in the human model. Its even
been found superior pre-clinically to chemotherapy agents,
which unfortunately often, as I understand, cause the death
of the patient. So to me its definitely one of the best herbs
on the planet. And people really need to know more about
it.

Whats most ironic about the situation is that these are

cells that go through immortalization. So the cells are
actually causing harm in your body because they wont die
which is a very interesting fact. There are many
explanations for why this happens, one of which is that its
a survival instinct. The default state of the cell is to
replicate and not die. Its only later in the development of
multicellular organisms that the cell decided, Okay, well,
my hair, my skin, my pancreatic cells are going to
basically die at some point and be replaced by stem cells,
while my germ cells, which are my sperm and if youre a
woman an egg cell will live on forever.
Well, cancer basically takes back that immortality, and
I think the reason is because its being whacked by all of
these factors that are so unnatural to it, that are so
preventable, meaning dont ingest aspartame. Dont
saturate your body with sunscreen full of petrochemicals,
which are carcinogens. Dont expose yourself to
unnecessary medical radiation. And guess what? Cancer
probably wont emerge in your body.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, its incredible. And youve got so many

articles here on some of the treatments with it. One of the
things Ive seen some research on it with is cancer. I know
that this is another touchy thing that I would just love to
hear your thoughts on, but I know that the cancer industry
today is one of those industries that doesnt seem to like
the word natural cures. Or I dont even know how they
feel about turmeric. What are your thoughts on our cancer
system today and the way that theyre treating cancer,
versus what place do you think herbs like turmeric have in
this?

So given that circumstance and that context, I think whats

happening today is people are not realizing fully its not
just about trying to find natural substances to prevent
cancer. Its about removing the cause. And once you
remove the cause of cancer by getting back into an optimal
nutrition, focusing on things like raw juices and getting rid
of all the sugar, which is known to be carcinogenic,
focusing on eating foods that are consistent with your own
bio-individuality, your genetic background, what happens
is that cancer doesnt have an environment within which it
thrives. And thats really the cure is you remove the cause.

Sayer Ji: Thats a great question, Josh. Thank you. I

mean, to me, because this has been a primary advocacy of
mine is really first people need to understand that what we
understand about cancer today is absolutely false.
Meaning the way that they envisioned it for at least half a
century was that its just a bi-product of genetic mutation
in the nucleus of the cell. The cell gets all deranged and
goes rogue and starts replicating clonally, just making a
big mess without any kind of logic.

Now, given that I said that, theres always another level,

which is that today theres no cognizance of this at all.
And if you go into a hospital today, they literally have
McDonalds set up within the hospital complex. And
what theyre doing is theyre exposing people with
cancer with radiation and chemotherapy, which is an
intrinsically carcinogenic. And theyre being faced with
taking a highly toxic chemo therapeutic agent like 5fluorouracil, which is so deadly. Its so bad that arguably
the drug is actually causing the death of the cancer patient.
Statistically they write it off as, Oh, the cancer took the
patient. But the chemo agents are so toxic that I think
theyre actually killing most of the people with cancer.

But what we know today is that cancer is a very

organized phenomenon. And its actually something the
body does in response to conditions within the cell that are
natural, meaning if you introduce radiation, if we introduce
chemicals that are carcinogens or you deprive the body of
its optimal nutrition then the cell goes through a change in
the way it behaves which is called a phenotypal change
consistent with cancer.

So in that circumstance, we have research on Green Med

Info showing even things like pineapple core extract,
which is bromelain, is more effective than 5fluorouracil for killing and dissolving tumors. Turmeric

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has been shown in a number of studies to kill multi-drug

resistant cancer cells. So the idea is that as we move
towards a natural cure movement is people are going to
start understanding that they dont need to use the
conventional approaches. They have choices.

trying to kill us from the outside instudies on amoeba,

cholera, Clostridium, Cytomegalovirus, Helicobacter
pylori, which is basically responsible for ulcers, herpes
simplex, Klebsiella, MRSA, which everyone is so afraid of
because its the drug that the CDC claims is a nightmare
bacteria they have no way to actually defend you from.
Well, guess what? Garlic has been clinically proven to
kill MRSA.

In the medical system you have a choice. You have every

right to stand up and say, You know what, doctor? I dont
want to take this particular intervention. I have a right to
try a natural approach. And that would include things like
Gerson Therapy, using juices all day long, natural
interventions, detoxification. Thats certainly where I
would like to see the future of medicine go.

Parainfluenza virus, periodontal infection, pneumococcal

infection, streptococcus mutans which causes cavities,
even group B strep, which the CDC now requires all
pregnant women to receive intrapartum antibiotics. This
means at the moment of birth when the microbiome is
being transferred over to the infant, they want to give the
mother these antibiotics that prevents that implantation in
the infant because theyre concerned that group B strep is
causing problems. Well, garlic actually kills that strain.

Dr. Axe: Yeah. I couldnt agree with you more. And I

know one of the other things I want to mention to
everybody is Sayer here has a fantastic book. In fact, what
I believe to be probably the simplest but most thorough
book on the natural cancer killers that are out there today.
And the book is called The Cancer Killers. He coauthored that book with Dr. Ben Lerner and Dr. Charles
Majors. Check it out. If you go to Amazon.com, check out
The Cancer Killers.

Then you have streptococcus pyogenes, thrush. It really

goes on and on. And this is only the surface of what
theyve already studied. My understanding is that garlic
has these essential oils that pretty much produces almost
like a force field. So if youre concerned about Ebola, if
youre concerned about a new type of influenza, why not
just use good ole grandmas chicken soup and use the
garlic? And just saturate yourself in the beautiful medicine
that has been provided by our ancestors. I think the
research really does support that today, Josh.

If you or anyone you know has cancer, I couldnt

recommend a book more. In fact, any time anybody is
diagnosed with cancer asks me, Hey, what do I need to
do? I just tell them, Hey, go get the book The Cancer
Killers. And so again check it out there, Amazon.com,
great place to find it.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, I totally agree. I know for myself, any time
over the years where Ive traveled too much, not slept
enough, felt like I was coming down with a cold, Ill make
this mixture with garlic and apple cider vinegar. And it
works. Its powerful.

Lets talk about another herb that is in that family along

with turmeric as a cancer killer along with many other
health benefits. Lets talk garlic.

Sayer Ji: Beautiful. Beautiful.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, so lets talk. We got a couple more here.
One is honey. I think raw honey or Manuka honey, both
forms, there are so many researched benefits. But also its
kind of used as a sweetener. But I think its gotten this bad
rap as well because it contains fructose. What are your
thoughts on using honey as a form of medicine and then
just as a food in general?

Sayer Ji: Yes! I love garlic! Garlic is really one of the

oldest remedies known to man that has been shown to have
powerful healing properties. At GreenMedInfo, I think we
have 100 different diseases that have been shown to
benefit from garlic. Some of the most therapeutic of all
diseases that its good for are cancer, interestingly enough.
Garlic is certainly considered more of an antiseptic. But
when it comes to the research itself, I think its pretty clear
that garlic is one of the biggest anti-cancer agents on the
planet.

Sayer Ji: Its a great question. I think youre right. I think

theres a misconception about honey, although it is
definitely a precious commodity. And we are seeing
globally the bee colony collapse phenomena, thanks in part
to agrochemical corporations like Dow and Monsanto
basically trading insecticidal sort of herbicides, which a
side effect is that its killing all the bees. A lot of vegans,
for example, say dont eat honey because youre taking
their food from them.

When it comes to infection, because thats what most

people think about when they think of garlicagainst
vampires, which is a metaphor for an evil germ pathogen

Theres something unique about honey. Its like milk.

Its like theres two substances we know of on the planet

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Candida, which is interesting. Most people think, Oh,

sugar feeds yeast. Well, it turns out that it has antifungal,
anti-candida properties. Dental plague, a lot of new
research shows actually is more effective than the
chemical use in most dentistry offices, which is
chloroxedine. Dermatitis, interestingly enough, if you have
this flaky scalp, a new study this is human, showed that
just applying honey daily basically killed and reduced
the inflammation associated with that flaky scalp
phenomena. A lot of people use chemicals to do that. And
it doesnt always help.

that were produced just for food. Not for us necessarily,

but for other species. And honey is one of them. But
honey, when it comes to the research, just blows my mind.
Like if you go on Medline, you type in the word bee,
type in the word honey, you will get tens of thousands of
studies now showing the benefits of the different
compounds that the hive produces.
And it extends beyond honey. Propolis, which is the
mortar for the hive. You have bee venom, which
interestingly enough is an incredible anti-inflammatory.
Its like the homeopathic like cures like concept. If it
causes pain in someone whos healthy well then someone
who has pain, it might help them. Royal jelly, which is
actually produced exclusively for the queen bee and helps
her differentiate into one, but has been shown to have
powerful therapeutic effects. And then bee pollen, which
has a lot of effects. Some people know it for energy and
allergy.

Diabetic ulcer, herpes-related ulcers, meaning if you have

in the corner of your mouth this weird ulcer, you can
actually use honey. It goes on and on. So, honey is true
medicine on the highest order possible. And I think people
need to understand too, if youre getting honey, make sure
its not necessarily adultered because a lot of it they put
corn syrup in today. You really want to ultimately know
your local bee farmer. And get in touch with your
community-supported agriculture in order to obtain a form
thats not hurting the environment.

So honey is really a complex food. And although it

contains fructose, its actually chock full with all these
other oligosaccharides. And what were learning about,
which is true for milk as well especially breast milk, is
these oligosaccharides contain information which literally
call in different types of bacteria to populate our gut. So
when youre eating honey, it actually brings in certain
strains of beneficial bacteria, like lactobacillus which are
coded in the information of the food to say, Hey, come on
and live within us.

Dr. Axe: Yeah, I couldnt agree more, Sayer. And I just

wanted to make a few side notes here. Its amazing when
you look at it and even the way you elaborated on these
oligosaccharides and really supporting the growth of good
bacteria in the gut.
I saw some good research on Manuka honey and the
treatment of ulcers and even SIBOsmall intestinal
bacterial overgrowthwhich was just really, really
incredible. Because a lot of people think oh well, if youre
doing sugar, like you said, its going to cause candida, but
not with raw honey. One of the studies you were referring
to out of Texas A&M, they said seventy-seven percent of
the honey that you buy in your grocery store has zero
pollen.

And, in fact, in terms of the bee, if this midgut thats been

found to be populated by beneficial bacteria that are over
60,000,000 years old in terms of their lineage. And when
you eat raw honey, you sometimes actually get some of the
same bacteria from those honey bees that will then
populate your gut and provide benefits that go so far back
in time that it really roots you back into the essence of
health.

Sayer Ji: Wow, really?

When it comes to honeys benefits, one of the interesting
things is if you take aspirinwhich hopefully you do not
out there because turmeric, for example, is a good
alternative; aspirin is very gastro ulcerativehoney
actually protects against that. So if you are taking it, one
integrative approach you can take is to take honey with
your aspirin or even your ibuprofen.

Dr. Axe: Pretty much its been turned into corn syrup
almost in terms of how bad it is.
Sayer Ji: Thats terrible.
Dr. Axe: But the good news is, as youre saying, if
everybody listening if you do what Sayers suggesting, go
to your local farmers market. Meet your local Beekeepers.
And get your honey there. Youre going to be able to get
some really good quality raw honey thats absolutely
fantastic. And lets talk here one of, I think, a surprising
thing for somebody, for many people, they may not have
heard of this, but frankincense oil. Frankincense obviously
Im sure dated back a very long period of time. Youve got
a great article on your site on this. Lets talk about the
number five food here, or herb that could save your life.

It heals bacterial infections very effectively. You

mentioned Manuka honey, which is from New Zealand.
And it has a specific compound thats extracted from the
Manuka flower thats been found to be extremely effective
against MRSA. Thats methicillin-resistant staph, the socalled flesh-eating super bug that the CDC is freaking
out about. Well, hello, CDC. Please tell the public about
the reality of natural flower- based remedies.

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Lets talk about some of the benefits of frankincense

especially with cancer.

Dr. Axe: Love it, Sayer. Well, great information. I want to

encourage everybody here, as well. If you want to get
more information about some of the things that Sayers
talking about, check out his website: GreenMedInfo.com,
amazing evidence- based research. One of the last
questions I have for you here, Sayer, is do you think times
are changing? Are we going to see natural cures offered in
the future even as part of our medical system? What do
you think?

Sayer Ji: Yeah, its amazing. You think of the magi who
went to visit Baby Christ and obviously who were ahead of
the curve. They were trying to bring gifts of healing to
Jesus. And it turns out that theres a lot of research actually
today on boswellia, which is one of the compounds in
frankincense. People dont realize that, but when you go to
your health food store and you buy boswellian capsules,
thats frankincense. Its an incredible aroma. If you put it
on, and you smell it and you kind of get into the olfactory
dimensions of this herb, you start to recognize, wow, this
is really healing and beautiful.

Sayer Ji: Thats a great question, Josh. Thank you. I

would say absolutely because of necessity. When we look
at the present pharmaceutical model, were talking about
markups of cost that are over 100,000 times, which means
that its almost like the federal reserve. They basically can
still coin capital by fiat. They can just generate value
from nothing because thats the basis for the global
currency.

Well, a lot of research has accumulated. There was

actually a recent study that found that it kills ovarian
cancer in a way that a lot of the chemo agents dont do. Its
very selective. Its able to kill just the cancer cells,
whereas a lot of chemo agents out there, they basically
broad spectrum kill any cell that replicates rapidly. So this
is one of many compounds out there today that actually
has benefit for cancer.

In the drug markets, the same thing applies. They take a

poison. They patent it. They make all these outlandish
claims. And they say basically this is worth 500,000 times
what we invested into the production of it. And, of course,
they have a billion dollars of clinical trials to pay off. So in
some way its justified. But the idea is that natural
substances are consistent with our biological inheritance,
our physiology.

But the thing about frankincense is a lot of the research is

actually on this broad spectrum lipooxygenase inhibitor
property. So its a LOX-2 inhibitor. And therefore is able
to reduce inflammation that a lot of associate with just
common aches and pains, whereas its not a patented
chemical like ibuprofen.

And certainly the future of medicine will be

acknowledging that grandma was right. If youre sick, take
chicken soup. Okay, Ebola virus is hitting your
neighborhood? Well, guess what? Its doubtful that a
pharmaceutical intervention or vaccine is going to do
anything but cause more harm. Lets start using natural
compounds.

Which, by the way, if you take ibuprofen, theres two

compounds in there. One of them is oppositely angled so
that it actually contributes to cardiovascular mortality.
There was a Lancet study that showed the ibuprofen
maybe as toxic as Vioxx, which kills more people every
year than were killed in the whole duration of our conflict
in Vietnam, over 50,000 a year. And the reason is because
that ghost molecule was not identified until later.

And I will encourage everyone out there to please visit

Medline. You dont even have to go to GreenMedInfo. Go
to the actual mother site, PubMed.gov, 23,000,000 studies
that you have paid for with your taxpayer money and start
doing your own little googling, your own little spelunking.
If you find some good studies, email us. Well put them on
our database. But the idea is that people need to realize
that the science supports the tradition. And it doesnt
involve patented chemicals.

So Naproxen, for example, if youre going to take a

pharmaceutical, doesnt have that ghost molecule. But,
hey, why even mess with the whole pharmaceutical
chemist pot? Why not use a natural compound? So
boswellia is one of the few things that is actually quasimarketed for this. I mean, theres certain FTC rules that
prevent you from saying this is basically an alternative.
But if you go out there and you look at boswellia
supplements, youll find that it actually is marketed for
inflammation and arthritis.

Dr. Axe: Amen. Well, I couldnt agree more. Well, guys,

youve been hearing Sayer Ji and myself here talking
about some of the natural cures that are out there that a lot
of people arent aware with. And if you want to go to the
site that has I believe to be has the best research and
evidence to support what were talking about, something
that has literally hundreds of thousands of medical
references, check out GreenMedInfo.com.

Dr. Axe: Wow.

Sayer Ji: And, oh, by the way, cancer is an inflammatory
state, which is consistent with the concept that boswellia or
frankincense would be really good for inflammation and/or
cancer.

And, by the way, Sayer on there has a great health

newsletter. I would check out his popular articles section.
Hes got so many articles on there that are just surprisingly

412

very well written, but yet meat and potatoes in terms of

really going through the best overall ways to also
implement some of these herbs into your health. And so
again check out GreenMedInfo.com. Also his co-authored
book, The Cancer Killers. You can find that there on
Amazon.com.

recommendations you make, Josh, I am completely in

agreement with. Start incorporating more fats into your
diet. Dont be afraid of them. Its really excess protein
actually and excess carbohydrate that I think causes the
most problem.
And also open your mind. Like start being aware that your
body is a miracle. Every moment that youre alive is not
being caused by the foods youre eating or not eating. Its
because youre like a miracle in existence. And the body
heals when you let it. And half of that at least is your
mindset, just being aware that we are destined to be
healthy. And we just have to stop interfering with that with
negative thoughts and thinking theres some cure outside
of us in pill form.

Any last words of advice here, Sayer, for somebody who is

just getting involved into this natural cures movement on
ways that they can start? What are some of the first action
steps youd say for people who are saying, Okay, I want
to start using these. But I havent done this before.
Sayer Ji: Thank you. Yeah, absolutely. I would say the
number one thing I advocate for is please remove grains
from your diet. And I know you do the same, Josh, which
is again why were such close colleagues and admirers of
one another. And exercise. Like thats the whole point.
Nutritions great. But if you really put in the effort and you
bring yourself to a peak level where you feel like youre
going to diebut youre notyoure going to start
experiencing regenerative phenomena in your body that
will truly bring you back to the basis of your power and
your ability to heal.

Dr. Axe: Awesome. Well, thanks, Sayer. Well, again,

everybody, check out GreenMedInfo.com, the worlds
number one source for evidence-based natural cures, at
least in my book. This has been Sayer Ji and Dr. Josh Axe
here with The Natural Cures Movement. Hey, thanks,
guys.
[Important Qualification: The purpose of this presentation is
for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose,
treat, or cure your condition. These interviews are not intended
to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care
professional and is not intended as medical advice. Please
consult with your medical professional if you have questions. ]

So I would say eliminate grains. Incorporate highnutrient low-carb hydrated vegetables. Start getting highquality protein sources in. In fact, a lot of the
.

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Coconut Oil Fights Deadly Yeast Infections,

Study Suggests
By Sayer Ji
November 24, 2015
Systemic infections caused by C. albicans
can lead to invasive candidiasis, which is
the fourth most common blood infection
among hospitalized patients in the United
States according to the CDC.
Conventional anti-fungal drugs carry with them significant
risk of adverse effects, and their repeated use leads to the
development of drug resistant strains of fungal pathogens,
making natural approaches all the more attractive. The
researchers hypothesized that a coconut-based dietary
intervention might reduce Candida infection in mice. The
study design and results were reported on
ScienceDaily.com as follows:

A common food oil has been found to

have potent antifungal properties that
could literally save lives.
The coconut palm is perhaps the worlds most widely
distributed and versatile food-medicine, and has been
prized and even revered by indigenous cultures for a wide
range of health complaints since time immemorial.
Increasingly, scientific evidence is emerging validating
its traditionally ascribed health benefits, and more,
including supporting brain health, protecting the heart,
and even reducing stress and depression.
Now, a new study led by researchers at Tufts University
has found that coconut oil is highly effective at controlling
the overgrowth of the opportunistic fungal pathogen
Candida albicans in mice.

The team, led by microbiologist Carol Kumamoto and

nutrition scientist Alice H. Lichtenstein, investigated the
effects of three different dietary fats on the amount of C.
albicans in the mouse gut: coconut oil, beef tallow and
soybean oil. A control group of mice were fed a standard
diet for mice. Coconut oil was selected based on previous
studies that found that the fat had antifungal properties in
the laboratory setting.

Published in the American Society for Microbiologys

journal mSphere and titled, Manipulation of Host Diet
to Reduce Gastrointestinal Colonization by the
Opportunistic Pathogen Candida Albicans, the study
identified C. albicans as the most common human
pathogen, with a mortality rate of about 40% when causing
systemic infections.

A coconut oil-rich diet reduced C. albicans in the gut

compared to a beef tallow-or soybean oil-rich diet.
Coconut oil alone, or the combination of coconut oil and
beef tallow, reduced the amount of C. albicans in the gut
by more than 90% compared to a beef tallow-rich diet.

C. albicans is normally present in the human

gastrointestinal tract, but antibiotics can destroy
commensal bacteria that normally keep Candida
populations within a healthy range. According to the study,
compromised immunity is also a major cause of C.
albicans overgrowth, and

Coconut oil even reduced fungal

colonization when mice were switched from
beef tallow to coconut oil, or when mice
were fed both beef tallow and coconut oil at

414

the same time. These findings suggest that

adding coconut oil to a patients existing
diet might control the growth of C. albicans
in the gut, and possibly decrease the risk of
fungal infections caused by C. albicans,
said Kumamoto, Ph.D., a professor of
molecular biology and microbiology at Tufts
University School of Medicine and member
of the molecular microbiology and genetics
program faculties at the Sackler School of
Graduate Biomedical Sciences.

disease, the number one killer in the U.S.

The potential use of coconut oil in the short
term to control the rate of fungal
overgrowth should not be considered a
prophylactic approach to preventing fungal
infections.
The first author of the study, Kearney Gunsalus, Ph.D. an
Institutional Research and Academic Career Development
(IRACDA) postdoctoral fellow at the Sackler School in
Kumamotos lab, also offered his opinion on the study
implications:

These preliminary results have profound implications for

the practice of medicine, according to a statement made to
ScienceDaily by Alice H LIchtenstein, D.Sc., director of
the Cardiovascular Nutrition Laboratory at the Jean Mayer
USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at
Tufts University:

We want to give clinicians a treatment

option that might limit the need for
antifungal drugs. If we can use coconut oil
as a safe, dietary alternative, we could
decrease the amount of antifungal drugs
used, reserving antifungal drugs for critical
situations.

This study marks a first step in

understanding how life-threatening yeast
infections in susceptible individuals might
be reduced through the short-term and
targeted use of a specific type of fat. As
exciting as these findings are, we have to
keep in mind that the majority of adult
Americans are at high risk for heart

Previous
research,
available
to
view
on
GreenMedInfo.com, indicates that coconut oil is also an
effective anti-fungal agent against the growth of
dermatophytes, a type of yeast which can cause infections
of the skin, nails, and hair because they can utilize keratin.

415

Best Anti-Aging Foods: Health Benefits Of Pecans

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
November 25, 2015
Pecans are an incredible source of antioxidants. One of the
highest, in fact, according to the USDA. Ninety percent of
a pecans antioxidants come in the form of beta-sitosterol,
a plant chemical with powerful antioxidant properties that
protects low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol from
oxidizing and damaging the arteries. Pecans are also a rich
source of vitamin E, which compounds the antioxidant
benefits.
Pecans for a Healthy Heart

Your health can only be as good as the food you eat and
following a regular diet based firmly on nutrient rich,
organic food is one of the best things you can do to age
gracefully. Supplying your body with vitamins, minerals,
proteins, healthy fatty acids like Omega-3s, and
antioxidants is critical to a healthy life. You might not
guess it, but pecans are actually one of the best foods for
accomplishing that goal.

Years ago, it was believed that nuts were bad for your
heart, but this was untrue. It was even reported in the
British Journal of Nutrition that the more nuts you eat, the
less you are at risk of cardiovascular or coronary heart
disease. [3]
Consuming pecans encourages normal cholesterol levels.
This is due to the high content of vitamin E. There are two
types of vitamin E, and pecans provide two of them
alpha- and gamma-tocopherols. When you eat pecans, the
gamma-tocopherols can lower LDL cholesterol levels by
as much as 33%. [4]

The Key For Anti-Aging: Antioxidants

As you age, industrial and natural environmental toxins
like radon, lead, and arsenic attack your body and make it
harder for it to repair itself and protect against ailments.
When you combine this with processed, refined foods
loaded with sugar, unnatural chemicals like high fructose
corn syrup (HFCS), aspartame, soy lecithin, and hormone
disruptors, the assault on the cells in your body becomes
crystal clear.

Pecans support the heart in other ways too. They promote

normal blood pressure, help with weight loss, and help
keep blood sugar under control.
The Best Anti-Aging Diet

To counter and reverse this damage, you need

antioxidants. These neutralize the free radicals that harm
your cells and organs and help soothe the inflammation
that leads to chronic diseases. A French study run from
2007-2009 found those whose diets had the most
antioxidants aged more slowly, lived longer, and had fewer
health problems. [1]

These foods are a great source of nutrients that promote

graceful aging.
Unsaturated Fats
Omega-3 fats fit into the this category of mono- and
polyunsaturated fatty acids. The densest sources of these
healthy fats are fish like salmon, avocados, and flax seeds.

A study from Brigham Young University found that

antioxidants protected the eyes and reduced the risk of agerelated macular degeneration. One of the researchers
commented, The implication is that people at risk of
macular degeneration could help prevent the disease by
consuming antioxidants. [2] Simply put, consuming foods
rich in antioxidants may help you be protected against
degenerative conditions.

Vitamins and Minerals

You know you need vitamins like A, the B-complex, C, D,
E and K. To get these you need to eat natural, organic
foods. These contain forms of vitamins your body can
readily use, unlike processed foods that contain artificial
vitamins. The same goes for minerals like magnesium and
calcium. In fact, magnesium is responsible for more than

416

300 processes throughout your body. Great sources for

combined vitamins and minerals include dark leafy greens,
broccoli, beans, cheese, whole grains and dark chocolate.

Antioxidants
Fruits like blueberries, raspberries, cruciferous veggies like
broccoli and Brussels sprouts, and green tea are known for
their antioxidants.

Probiotics
Foods like yogurt and kefir provide you with friendly gut
bacteria that support immune function, toxin removal, and
supply important vitamins like B12. When you buy
probiotics, make sure they contain live, active cultures. If
they dont, youll be missing some of the key health
benefits that such foods boast.

Raw, Organic Pecans

Rich in antioxidants, raw, organic pecans are also a
complete source of vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, protein,
and fiber. And theyre easy to eat! Grab a handful as a
snack or add them to your favorite dish to add texture and
enhance the meal with a rich nutty flavor. Just remember
to buy raw and organic. The fats in nuts like pecans soak
up pesticides and herbicides more than other fruits and
vegetables.

Prebiotics
Fruits and vegetables provide fiberor prebioticsand
types of sugars that feed your friendly probiotic bacteria,
keep them healthy.

Besides munching on healthy foods like pecans, what do

you do to maintain a healthy body and mind? Tell us in the
comments below. We always enjoy hearing from you!

References:
1.

Assmann KE, Andreeva VA, Jeandel C, Hercberg S, Galan P, Kesse-Guyot E. Healthy Aging 5 Years After a Period of Daily
Supplementation With Antioxidant Nutrients: A Post Hoc Analysis of the French Randomized Trial SU.VI.MAX. Am J Epidemiol.
2015 Oct 15;182(8):694-704. doi: 10.1093/aje/kwv105.

2.

Brigham Young University. How Diet, Antioxidants Prevent Blindness In Aging Population. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 27 August
2008.

3.

Blomhoff R1, Carlsen MH, Andersen LF, Jacobs DR Jr. Health benefits of nuts: potential role of antioxidants. Br J Nutr. 2006 Nov;96
Suppl 2:S52-60.

4.

C. Hudthagosol, E. H. Haddad, K. McCarthy, P. Wang, K. Oda, J. Sabate. Pecans Acutely Increase Plasma Postprandial
Antioxidant Capacity and Catechins and Decrease LDL Oxidation in Humans. Journal of Nutrition, 2010; 141 (1): 56 DOI:
10.3945/jn.110.121269.

417

FDA Approves GMO Salmon

To Be Sold With NO Label
By: Susan Patterson, The Alternative Daily
November 30, 2015
If approved, AquaBountys GMO salmon would be the first
genetically engineered animal to be sold for human consumption
and could appear in restaurants and supermarkets as early 2015.
Farmed salmon are raised in pens in coastal waters along
Washington, Maine and British Columbia. The fish being raised
are Atlantic salmon and when they escape they will compete with
already endangered native stocks. Between 400,000 and 1
million Atlantic salmon have already escaped into the wild from
the 75 operations in British Columbia.
A Purdue University study showed that if 60 transgenic fish bred
in a population of 60,000 wild fish, the wild fish would be extinct
in 40 generations.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), you know that

group of good guys that are charged with protecting the
health and welfare of Americans, has just approved the
first ever genetically modified animal to be sold in
American supermarkets.

Weve seen assurances in the past from industry and regulators

that there wont be catastrophic consequences like the Gulf oil
spill, said George Kimbrell, a senior staff attorney for the Center
for Food Safety. We have a cultural amnesia about these
things.

And that is not the worst of it this

Franken-salmon wont even be labeled.

No one gets excited at a genetically raised fish. Why put a

different genetic makeup into your body? Some scientists dont
see it this way.

WHAT????
I am so sick and tired of these regulating agencies
speaking out of both sides of their mouth. How can they
sleep at night making such a decision? How can they be
for us when their actions clearly indicate they are for
something, anything, other than us?

AquaBounty, which calls its super salmon an advanced hybrid

rather than a transgenic fish, said the fish are safe to eat and
would be raised in contained farming operations that could be
based inland rather than along coastal waters. And the modified
fish, all females, would be sterile so that they couldnt breed with
wild fish if any escaped, the company said.

Here is the mission of this regulating agency, in case you

are not familiar with it:

Very comforting, sterility.

FDA is responsible for protecting the

public health by assuring the safety,
efficacy and security of human and
veterinary drugs, biological products,
medical devices, our nations food supply,
cosmetics, and products that emit
radiation.

AquaBountys fish grow faster but not bigger than normal Atlantic
salmon. The company says that genetically modified salmon are
identical to regular salmon in every way except for the genes that
have been added.
Thats not identical!

We reported in 2013 about AquaBounty Technologies that

claims its monster fish are safe to eat. Of course, we were
all hoping it would never come to be.

The difference between males and females is the Y

chromosome. The company has added a growth hormone gene
from the Chinook salmon as well as a gene from the ocean pout,
a distant relative of the salmon, to a normal Atlantic salmons

418

roughly 40,000 genes. Salmon normally feed only during the

spring and summer, but when the on-switch from the pouts gene
is triggered, they eat year round.

place with 1,406 stores. Many other grocers have publicly

stated that they will not sell Frankensalmon, including
Target, Meijer, Giant Eagle, Marsh and H-E-B. Three of
the first retailers to refuse the salmon were Whole Foods,
Trader Joes and Aldi, who announced their decisions in
July 2013.

We have another oil-rig-like catastrophe waiting to happen in our

oceans.
The result is a transgenic salmon that grows to market size in
about half the time as a normal salmon 16 to 18 months, rather
than three years.

To date, over 60 different food retailers have taken a stand

against selling GM salmon, totaling over 9,000 stores
across the U.S. Additionally, millions of people have
protested the FDAs consideration of the salmon in
writing.

The FDA doesnt comment on pending applications, though a

public hearing on the AquaBounty application could come as
early as this fall. Such public hearings can signal the FDA is
close to a decision.

The FDA has cotton in its ears

Its astounding to me that the FDA could turn such a deaf
ear to the cries from environmentalists, health officials,
researchers and consumer groups. The research just isnt
there to bring any assurance that these monster fish are
safe. No one knows the long-term impact of eating
genetically modified fish on human health. However, once
again common sense has evaded the FDA this time in
a massive way.

How many times has the FDAs decisions affected the lives of
millions of people?
There have been no independent, long-term scientific studies of
AquaBountys patented salmon. The human health impacts of
GMO salmon are not known. The FDA has relied on scant
scientific documents provided by AquaBounty itself. In fact, some
of the FDAs own assessment of AquaBountys studies to
determine whether GMO salmon are safe for human
consumption states that the studies contain technical flaws and
provide insufficient data.

A glimmer of hope: The Center for Food Safety has not

let any grass grow under its feet it has announced it
would file a lawsuit challenging the approval.

For two of the studies submitted, AquaBounty used sample sizes

so small that they have no scientific credibility, with only 12 fish
tested for one study, while another study on possible allergic
reactions in humans involved only 6 fish.

More Franken-fish to come

There are currently at least 35 other species of GM fish in
various stages of engineering and this is a truly
disturbing fact for many people who do not want GMOs in
circulation, especially if they are not labeled.

Still, the FDA is currently on the verge of approving the

companys GMO salmon.

Its just wrong my two cents

What will happen to people who eat the engineered fish over
time? How far can genetically manipulated traits impact human
health?

I believe in Creation I believe that the natural world was

created and that our job is to be stewards of this Creation.
However, we continue to mess where we dont belong,
impose our so-called advanced and good technology for
the betterment of mankind.

Once approved, AquaBounty said it could start marketing the

eggs from transgenic salmon within two or three years. The
company also is reportedly developing transgenic tilapia and
trout. Ask for it in your favorite restaurant.

If we just left things the way they were meant to be, cared
for the land, cared for the plants, cared for the animals, and
stopped exploiting the Earth for our desire to be bigger,
better and wealthier we would have enough for
everyone. But we want more and more. Our greedy
tendencies drive the desire to rule over a Creation that was
made to work harmoniously in partnership with us, to keep
delicate ecosystems balanced and humankind healthy.

Once again, unknowing humans will be tested and the product in

question will be recalled after many ill effects on humans. But in
this case, genetically modified organisms cant be recalled from
the wild.
In 2014, we reported that the two largest national grocery
stores, Kroger and Safeway, had announced that they
would not sell the salmon should it receive FDA approval.
I sure hope that they hold fast to this.

Why does anyone even think that raping Creation will

yield anything more than trouble?
Its time for the FDA to pull its head out of the sand and
do the job it is called to do!

Kroger is the largest grocery chain in the United states,

with 2,424 stores nationwide. Safeway follows in second

419

Coconut Water:
Far More Than Just A Refreshing Beverage
By Sayer Ji
November 28, 2015
Other medicinal properties of coconut water include

Few beverages on this planet are as biocompatible to the

human body and its hydration needs as coconut water.
Indeed, coconut water has been reported to have been used
for intravenous hydration and resuscitation of critically
ill patients in remote regions of the world for over half a
century. [1] It is also an excellent preserving medium for
avulsed teeth (and semen!), besting even Hanks balanced
salt solution, a commonly used medical solution. [2]

While some are concerned about the sugar content of this

slightly sweet beverage, recent research shows it actually
exhibits blood sugar lowering properties in an
experimental model of diabetes.[3] Additional animal
research shows coconut water prevents and reverses high
blood pressure associated with fructose feeding-induced
hypertension, as well being able to reduce oxidative stress
and insulin resistance. [4]

Anti-Ulcer Properties: Both coconut milk and coconut

water exhibit potent anti-ulcer activity against
chemicals such as indomethacin, a Non-Steroidal AntiInflammatory Drug (NSAID).
Blood-Pressuring Lowering Properties: When
human subjects consumed coconut water for two
weeks, it was found to lower blood pressure in 74% of
the experimental group, reducing it by up to 24 points
(mmHg) systolic and 15 points (mmHq) diastolic.
Anti-Alzheimers Properties: in an animal model of
ovariectomy-induced menopausal changes, coconut
water appeared to prevent the decline of brain estrogen
(estradiol) levels, as well as the associated
accumulation of Alzheimers disease associated amyloid (A) plaque in their brains.
Anti-Bacterial Properties: Three novel antimicrobial
peptides have been identified in coconut water which
exhibited inhibitory activity against both Gram-positive
and Gram-negative bacteria.
Anti-Gastroenteritis Agent: When sodium is added
(ideally sea salt) coconut water has been determined to
be an ideal rehydrating agent in countries where
medical supplies are not freely available, and where,
say, cholera and other severe forms of gastroenteritis
persist.

Ultimately, coconut makes for an excellent alternative to

sports drinks, which are increasingly comprised of
synthetic ingredients. Also, coconut water is filtered by
Nature through an intensive purification process far
safer than municipal systems which leave up to 600 toxic
disinfectant byproducts behind. Im nuts for the stuff (so
much so that I will use a bad pun like this), how about
you?

Perhaps one of the most amazing properties of coconut

water is its superior lipid modulating activity in the
animal model vis--vis the cholesterol-lowering statin drug
known as lovastatin. [5] Which means we can, in clear
conscience, modify Hippocrates famous saying to: Let
What You Drink Be Your Medicine.

[1] The intravenous use of coconut water. Am J Emerg Med. 2000 Jan;18(1):108-11. PMID: 10674546
[2] Comparison of coconut water, propolis, HBSS, and milk on PDL cell survival. J Endod. 2008 May;34(5):587-9. Epub 2008 Mar
19. PMID: 18436040
[3] Hypoglycemic and antioxidant potential of coconut water in experimental diabetes. Food Funct. 2012 May 11. Epub 2012 May
11. PMID: 22576019
[4] Therapeutic effects of tender coconut water on oxidative stress in fructose fed insulin resistant hypertensive rats. act Source:
Asian Pac J Trop Med. 2012 Apr ;5(4):270-6. PMID: 22449517
[5] Comparative evaluation of the hypolipidemic effects of coconut water and lovastatin in rats fed fat-cholesterol enriched diet. Food
Chem Toxicol.2008 Dec;46(12):3586-92. Epub 2008 Sep 3 PMID: 18809454

420

Health Benefits Of Raw Honey

By The Sleuth Journal [Via Organic Power Foods]
November 30, 2015
3. Boosts Wound and Burn Healing
Believe it or not, honey sterilizes and heals burns in half
the time than its over-the-counter antibiotic competitor
silver sulfadiazine. It can disinfect wounds the same way,
allowing your body to regenerate faster and with less risk
of infection or scarring. If you receive an injury, smear
honey on the affected area immediately. Dont worry about
using too much, because with honey, theres no such thing.
When youre done, apply a bandage over your wound.
Repeat this procedure at least once every 48 hours to make
sure that youre not getting an infection (though odds are
good that you wont.)

Honey is one of natures premier superfoods. Not only

does honey taste good in tea, yogurt, baked goods etc. but
it has been a staple anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory
since ancient times. Even modern practitioners swear by its
miraculous healing properties.

4. Provides Many Nutrients

Unsurprisingly, honey offers a staggering amount of
nutritional value. (Remember, this is the stuff that bees
build their entire colonies upon!) Aside from various
nutrients, like riboflavin, folate, betaine, manganese,
potassium, copper, zinc, calcium, magnesium, selenium,
fluoride and phosphorus, honey is loaded with
antioxidants, which can lessen the risk of cancer. It also
lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, and generally
reduces inflammation. Of course, if you have a sweet
tooth, one benefit trumps all the others on this list

Top 5 Health Benefits of Raw Organic Honey

1. Honey
Bacteria

Kills

Antibiotic-Resistant

In the world of medicine, few things can be scarier than

bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, but thats exactly
the problem that modern medicine faces. Over the past
fifty years, over-use of anti-bacterial drugs, like
Azithromycin, have encouraged harmful bacteria to evolve
and become stronger. But theres no bacterium anywhere
thats resistant to honey! Thats right, honey can kill even
antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Ancient people applied it to
wounds, infections, and abscesses to great effect. Just
make sure you use raw organic honey, which doesnt
include high-fructose corn syrup or white sugar that lower
its quality and beneficial effects.

5. Raw Organic Honey is the Perfect

Sugar Substitute
As if the health benefits of honey werent enough on their
own. Honey can play another important part in your wellbeing by sweetening your tea, cookies, pancakes and other
baked goods you prepare. Though honey itself is made of
fructose, it raises blood sugar far lesser than similar-tasting
substances, like sucrose and dextrose. Honey has a healthy
Glycemic Index, which means its sugars can be gradually
absorbed into the blood stream to result in better digestion.
Best of all, you can keep honey on the shelf forever,
because it never spoils. Not to put too fine a point on it, but
thats pretty sweet.

2. Soothes Coughs
In addition to killing bacteria, honey can reduce the
severity of coughs and sore throats more safely than overthe-counter medications. This is another example of a
traditional remedy that turns out to be more effective than
mass-produced drugs by pharmaceutical companies. While
adult cough medicines might be dangerous for children to
take, raw honey helps lessen the frequency and intensity
of a childs cough, letting parents and kids alike get more
sleep during cold season.

Raw Honey Has Many Health Benefits

Theres a lot that honey can do to improve your active life
and diet. Its a great pre-exercise food, for example,
because itll give you the power you need and you wont

421

menopausal women and increase the

bodys ability to recover from drunkenness.
Old time medical practitioners knew the
secrets of honey before science discovered
them. Today, there are many good reasons
to add this incredible food to your diet!

crash in the middle of your training session. The healing

powers of honey dont just apply to skin wounds they
can help heal painful stomach ulcers, too! Fans of
probiotics love honey because it hosts good bacteria,
including lactobacilli, which help us digest food.
Theres even evidence that honey
consumption boosts memory in

422

Liver Health: The Role Of Turmeric

In Fatty Liver Disease
By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 3, 2015
In the study, a major stress hormone in the liver was
significantly reduced in the group of cows fed the
polyphenol mixture consisting of turmeric and green tea.
In addition, the study also saw reduction in irritation
markers, suggesting a possible risk reduction for fatty
liver. The researchers commented that turmeric
polyphenols may be helpful in decreasing fatty liver risk in
cows. Considering that the induction of fatty liver works in
the same way, could turmeric be helpful in fighting fatty
liver in humans, too? It cant be said for certain but this
isnt the first example of good news like this. [2]
The Secret Benefits of Turmeric
Turmeric has far more benefits than just adding color and
flavor to your curry. An explosion of research in the field
of nutrition has revealed surprising benefits of turmeric,
from combating the damage of UV rays to protecting
against neurological disorders. [3] Turmeric could very well
be one of the most healthiest spices in the world. There is
also some evidence that turmeric may support a healthy
aging process and aid with weight loss. It seems as though
turmeric is a bit like vitamin D in that it holds promise for
a wide range of health issues.

Fatty liver is a condition thats affecting more and more

people every day and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is the
most widely experienced. Obesity and diabetes, two major
health threats, are conditions that drastically increase ones
chances of developing fatty liver. A new study is showing
that the polyphenols in turmeric may be helpful for
reducing the risk of fatty liver while decreasing stress at
the cellular level. This study is just one of the recent
examples in the literature showing a strong benefit of
turmeric with liver health.

Most people are unaware that turmeric comes in many

different forms. A highly concentrated extract of turmeric
provides the most benefit, but the powdered and raw root
form of the spice is also beneficial. According to some
research, piperine, the active ingredient in black pepper,
increases absorption of turmerics active curcumin
compounds. [4] So, it may be wise to consume your
turmeric with a bit of black pepper to boost the health
benefits.

Turmeric and Fatty Liver

A recent study set to publish in the December 2015 issue
of Archives of Animal Nutrition examined the effect of
turmeric polyphenols on the livers of cows. [1] Since many
conventional feedlots are crowded and dirty, cows are
under a great deal of stress. This stress causes
physiological changes that impact the health of the liver in
much the same way as stress impacts the liver (among
other organs) in humans. It has been suggested that
physiological stress of the endoplasmic reticulum in the
liver contributes to fatty liver development, just like excess
consumption of refined sugars.

Other Ways to Support Liver Health

There are two types of fatty liver: alcoholic fatty liver and
nonalcoholic fatty liver. Prior to the 20th century,
alcoholic fatty liver was the primary condition suffered by
adults. But today, people of all ages suffer from fatty liver
due to high rates of obesity and insulin resistance.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver is commonly caused by the
overconsumption of refined carbohydrates and is
associated with metabolic syndrome. Fortunately, it is a
reversible condition. Taking turmeric might be something

423

to consider but the real change is going to come from

consuming liver-cleansing foods on a regular basis, getting
plenty of exercise, and eating a diet that is low in refined
sugars and simple carbohydrates.

Have you experienced fatty liver? How do you cope?

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.

Winkler A, Gessner DK, Koch C, et al. Effects of a plant product consisting of green tea and curcuma extract on milk production and the
expression of hepatic genes involved in endoplasmic stress response and inflammation in dairy cows. Arch Anim Nutr. 2015 Dec;69(6):425-41.
doi: 10.1080/1745039X.2015.1093873.
Yiu WF, Kwan PL, Wong CY, et al. Attenuation of fatty liver and prevention of hypercholesterolemia by extract of Curcuma longa through
regulating the expression of CYP7A1, LDL-receptor, HO-1, and HMG-CoA reductase. J Food Sci. 2011 Apr;76(3):H80-9. doi: 10.1111/j.17503841.2011.02042.
Sumiyoshi M, Kimura Y. Effects of a turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) on chronic ultraviolet B irradiation-induced skin damage in melaninpossessing hairless mice. Phytomedicine. 2009 Dec;16(12):1137-43. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2009.06.003.
Rinwa P, Kumar A. Piperine potentiates the protective effects of curcumin against chronic unpredictable stress-induced cognitive impairment and
oxidative damage in mice. Brain Res. 2012 Dec 7;1488:38-50. doi: 10.1016/j.brainres.2012.10.002.

424

Eat Pecans For Cardiovascular Health

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 4, 2015
The polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs as researchers
call them, feed your brain. These PUFAs play a key role in
the health of brain cells. As you get older, you need to get
enough of these fatty acids to stay mentally sharp, preserve
your memory, and avoid degenerative diseases like
dementia, Alzheimers, and Parkinsons disease. Another
study by Brigham Young University showed that
antioxidants also reduce the risk of age-related macular
degeneration (AMD). [3]
Although itd be way too overzealous to call pecans a cure
for cancer, it is interesting that researchers at Purdue
University found gamma-tocopherol, a form of vitamin E
found in pecans, interrupts the formation of prostate and
lung cancer cells. [4]
Eating foods that can help you maintain a healthy heart,
lower your cholesterol, and balance your blood pressure is
important to preserving a high quality of life. Nutrientdense nuts like walnuts, chestnuts, and pecans are
recognized as an important component of any hearthealthy diet. And while these three nuts may help prevent
heart disease and keep low-density lipoprotein (LDL)
cholesterol low, pecans may be the best. Heres why

Pecans Support Cardiovascular Health

Men and women who eat nuts have fewer incidences of
heart attacks and heart disease, according to the British
Journal of Nutrition. [5] On their own, pecans offer
complete cardiovascular support.

Health Benefits of Pecans

As a low-calorie snack or with meals, whether whole or in

halves, pecans pack a potent punch of nutrients. They
deliver
protein,
vitamins,
minerals,
healthy
polyunsaturated fats, and antioxidants. All of this
combines to support your overall health.

Minerals like magnesium and zinc help to lower blood

glucose levels and stimulate your metabolism. This keeps
your blood sugar low and helps offset a high-sugar diet.
These are important dietary and nutrient considerations to
help address blood sugar levels and diabetes risk. The
combination of nutrients also contributes to antiinflammatory effects.

The antioxidants in pecans protect LDL cholesterol and

cardiovascular tissue from free radical damage that can
create blockages.
Minerals like magnesium encourage flexibility in the
arteries and make it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Protein and fatty acids keep your heart young and
strong.
Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, supports muscle
health, and contributes to building healthy red blood
cells.

Fighting Cholesterol with Pecans

If you need to get your LDL cholesterol under control,
pecans are a perfect addition to your diet.
In one study, participants in a treatment group ate 68
grams of pecans daily for 8 weeks. At the end of the study
period, total cholesterol levels were significantly lower
with noticeable increases in fiber, magnesium, and overall
energy. [6]

As you process sugar faster, you burn more energy, which

is a key factor in weight loss. Studies have found that
people who eat nuts like pecans lose weight and keep it off
easier than those who dont. [1] French scientists have also
found that antioxidants like those in pecans slow the aging
process. [2]

An additional study conducted by researchers at Loma

Linda University and published in the Journal of Nutrition
determined that gamma tocopherols in pecans contributed

425

to lower LDL cholesterol a short time after consumption.

At three hours after eating whole pecans, levels of
oxidized (or bad) LDL fell by 33%. The effect was
observed to have lasted at least eight hours. [7]

fats from fish, lean meats, and raw nuts. Organic pecans
deliver all of these nutrients plus, according to the USDA,
theyre the most antioxidant-dense nut.
I like raw pecans as a delicious addition to salads, entrees,
and desserts (try our vegan version of the Traditional
Texas Pecan Pie). They also make an excellent hearthealthy snack theyll satisfy your hunger and they can
help you lose weight and maintain a slender figure.

Pecans, Nuts, and Blood Pressure

In addition to cholesterol-lowering effects, pecans (and
nuts in general) help to keep blood pressure lower and
more stable. A review of 21 studies published in the
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found tree nuts,
including pecans, encourage normal blood pressure. [8]

Leave a comment below and tell us about the methods you

use to keep your heart healthy and your LDL cholesterol
levels low.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet

The best diet for your heart includes nutrient-rich, raw,
organic fruits and vegetables with plenty of unsaturated
References:
1.

ONeil CE1, Fulgoni VL 3rd2, Nicklas TA3. Tree Nut consumption is associated with better adiposity measures and cardiovascular
and metabolic syndrome health risk factors in U.S. Adults: NHANES 2005-2010. Nutr J. 2015 Jun 28;14:64. doi: 10.1186/s12937015-0052-x.

2.

Assmann KE, Andreeva VA, Jeandel C, Hercberg S, Galan P, Kesse-Guyot E. Healthy Aging 5 Years After a Period of Daily
Supplementation With Antioxidant Nutrients: A Post Hoc Analysis of the French Randomized Trial SU.VI.MAX. Am J Epidemiol.
2015 Sep 15. pii: kwv105.

3.

Brigham Young University. How Diet, Antioxidants Prevent Blindness In Aging Population. ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 27 August
2008.

4.

Purdue University. Vitamin E in plant seeds could halt prostate, lung cancer, says Purdue scientist. Purdue University.

5.

Blomhoff R1, Carlsen MH, Andersen LF, Jacobs DR Jr. Health benefits of nuts: potential role of antioxidants. Br J Nutr. 2006 Nov;96
Suppl 2:S52-60.

6.

Morgan WA1, Clayshulte BJ. Pecans lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in people with normal lipid levels. J Am Diet Assoc.
2000 Mar;100(3):312-8..

7.

Hudthagosol C1, Haddad EH, McCarthy K, Wang P, Oda K, Sabat J. Pecans acutely increase plasma postprandial antioxidant
capacity and catechins and decrease LDL oxidation in humans. J Nutr. 2011 Jan;141(1):56-62. doi: 10.3945/jn.110.121269.

8.

Mohammadifard N1, Salehi-Abargouei A1, Salas-Salvad J1, Guasch-Ferr M1, Humphries K1, Sarrafzadegan N1. The effect of
tree nut, peanut, and soy nut consumption on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled
clinical trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015 May;101(5):966-82. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.114.091595.

426

Water Extinguishes Stomach Acid

175x Faster Than Some Drugs
By Sayer Ji
December 7, 2015
The results were discussed in greater detail:
Gastric pH >4 lasted for 3 min after water
and for 12 min after antacids; it remained
>4 until the end of recording in: 4/12
subjects with ranitidine, 11/12 with
rabeprazole, and all with omeprazole and
esomeprazole.
While the duration of action was shortest for water, the
authors noted at the outset of their study that the onset of
action is of key importance in when it comes to treatment:
Could the water people swallow their acid reflux pills
with be more therapeutic than the drugs themselves?

Onset of action of antisecretory agents is of pivotal

importance for patients with gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD) treated on demand.

In 2008, a remarkable study took place comparing a glass

of water to an antacid and acid blocking drugs, in their
overall effect in increasing gastric pH (i.e. making it more
alkaline) in healthy subjects.

What would you rather do? Get instant relief with a glass
of water, which has loads of side benefits to your health, or
wait between 50 minutes to 175 minutes (close to 3
hours!) as the excess acid burns the lining of your
stomach, using a chemical class of drugs which have the
potential to cause the following unintended, adverse side
effects:

Published in the journal Digestive Diseases & Science,[1]

researchers took 12 healthy subjects who were screened to
be negative for Helicobacter pylori infection, and gave
them a single oral dose of the following agents:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

A glass of water (200 ml)

Antacid
Ranitidine (Zantac)
Omeprazole (Prilosec/Losec)
Esomeprazole (Nexium)
Rabeprazole (AcipHex)

Gastric pH was recorded for six hours after drug intake.

[View the entire list of 30+ adverse effects on our Acid

Blocker Research page.]

The study found it took the following duration to increase

gastric pH >4:

Clostridium Infections
Diarrhea
Pneumonia
Vitamin C Deficiency
Gastric Cancer
Bone Fractures
Magnesium Deficiency
Myopathies
Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Of course, water will only water down a problem that is

often a direct result of bad food combining, excessive
portions, food-body incompatibilities, acute or chronic
stress, undiagnosed overgrowth of pathogens, and
environmental allergies, to name but a few known
contributing factors. But, water can do no harm, whereas
using chemicals to poison the proton pumps or histamine
receptors on the parietal cells in the stomach into shutting

Water increased pH >4 in 10/12 subjects after 1

minute
Antacid increased pH >4 in 2 minutes
Rantidine increased pH >4 in 50 minutes
Omeprazole increased pH >4 in 171 minutes
Esomeprazole increased pH >4 in 151 minutes
Rabeprazole increased pH >4 in 175 minutes

427

For additional research on natural, albeit palliative acid

reflux solutions, GreenMedInfo.com contains a list of two
dozen substances which have been researched to have
potential therapeutic value. Take a look by visiting our
Acid Reflux research page. Also, consider eliminating
wheat, as it has a prominent dark side which may have
profound bearing on chronic heartburn symptoms.

down acid production has an obvious set of serious side

effects that can and should be avoided, whenever possible.
Remember that before the symptoms of chronic heartburn
were reified and concretized into the disease of acid
reflux, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
(GERD) people took responsibility for and control over
their condition by going back to the basics, e.g. diet,
lifestyle, stress, etc.

[1] A glass of water immediately increases gastric pH in healthy subjects. Dig Dis Sci. 2008 Dec;53(12):3128-32. Epub 2008 May
13. PMID: 18473176

428

10 Foods That Detox The Body (VIDEO)

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 7, 2015
Chlorophyll rids the body of harmful environmental toxins
from toxic metals, herbicides, cleaning products and
pesticides. They also aid the liver in detoxification.
3.

Lemons, Oranges, and Limes

Citrus fruit aids the body by flushing out toxins and jumpstarting the digestive tract with enzymatic processes.
Lemon juice supports the liver in its cleansing processes.
To increase detoxification, start each morning with a warm
glass of lemon water.
Remember, vitamin C is one of the best detox vitamins
around, as it transforms toxins into digestible material. Eat
vitamin c foods often to help get more of these benefits.

When it comes to detoxing your body, there are many

techniques you can follow and supplements you can take.
One plan in particular is to eat detoxifying foods. Here is a
list of detox foods that are a great addition to everybodys
diet.

4.

Garlic

This pungent little bulb is one of the best detoxing foods

out there. It helps stimulate the liver into producing
detoxification enzymes that help filter toxic residues from
the digestive system. I recommend adding sliced or cooked
garlic to a suitable dish, as this will help any detox diet.
5.

Broccoli Sprouts

Extremely high in antioxidants, the ability for broccoli

sprouts to stimulate the detoxification enzymes in the
digestive tract is unparalleled. The sprouts are actually
more effective than the fully-grown vegetable.
6.
1.

Fruits

Packed full of antioxidants, green tea washes toxins from

the system via its liquid content, but also contains a special
type of antioxidant called catechins, which are known to
increase liver function.

Fruits are high in liquid-content which helps the body

wash out toxins. They are also very easy to digest and are
high in antioxidants, nutrients, fiber, and important
vitamins.
2.

Green Tea

7.

Green Foods

Mung Beans

The mighty mung bean has been used by Ayurvedic

doctors for thousands of years. It is incredibly easy to
digest, and absorbs toxic residue from the intestinal walls.

Fill your refrigerator with blue green algae, barley,

wheatgrass, kale, spinach, spirulina, alfalfa, chard, arugula,
or other organic leafy greens. These plants will help give a
chlorophyll-boost to your digestive tract.

8.

429

Raw Vegetables

Best juiced or eaten raw: Onions, carrots, artichokes,

asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, kale, brussels sprouts,
cauliflower, garlic, beet, turmeric, and oregano. The
combination of these foods will help your liver purge
toxins during the cleansing process. These are high in
naturally occurring sulphur and glutathione. Sulphur helps
the liver detoxify harmful chemicals.
9.

10. Omega-3 Oils

Use hemp, avocado, olive, or flax seed oil while detoxing.
This will help lubricate the intestinal walls, allowing the
toxins to be absorbed by the oil, and eliminated by the
body.
Performing a periodic body cleanse may also be beneficial.
I also recommend following my Body Cleanse Diet. Do
you have any suggestions for foods that detox the body? If
so, please drop them in the comment section below. Id
love to hear your thoughts.

Seeds and Nuts

Incorporate more of the easily digestible seeds and nuts

into your diet. Flax seed, pumpkin seeds, almonds,
walnuts, hemp seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds, Siberian
cedar nuts, and sunflower seeds are all excellent options.
While detoxing, avoid nut butters.

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The Top 5 Healthiest Nuts

By The Sleuth Journal
December 8, 2015
2. Walnuts
One of the best nuts on earth, walnuts may actually support
your brain function. Studies show that consumption of
walnuts is related to heart-health, better cognitive function,
as well as the reduction of skin and bone conditions.
Packed full of an antioxidant known as ellagic acid,
researchers have shown that walnuts contain 16 diseasefighting polyphenols.
3.

Recent clinical studies show that pecans significantly

lower cholesterol. Pecans are also a great source of over
twenty essential vitamins and minerals.

For many years, nuts have gotten a bad rap for being high
in fat. But in reality, nuts should be a vital part of our diet,
as they are high in monounsaturated fats that help keep us
heart-healthy and disease-free. Healthy nuts are also great
sources of protein, minerals and other life-enhancing
nutrients. Scientific studies now show that different types
of nuts and seeds may support factors that help prevent
heart disease, weight gain and the accumulation of LDL
cholesterol.

4.

Brazil Nuts

High in heart-healthy nutrients and minerals like copper,

niacin, vitamin E, fiber, magnesium, and selenium, studies
on Brazil nuts show that they are a protein-packed snack
that may aid in the prevention of breast cancer.
5.

All nuts should be organic, eaten in their raw state, and not
irradiated or roasted. In no particular order, here is my list
of the five healthiest nuts you should add to your diet.
1.

Pecans

Cedar Nuts

Siberian cedar nuts, originating in Russia, hold 70% of the

essential amino acids your body needs. They also contain
high amounts of vitamins A, B and D, and tocopherolcontaining vitamin E. This exotic nut also contains a fatty
acid similar to fish oil, which is known for reducing the
amount of LDL cholesterol, keeping the arterial walls free
of disease-causing inflammation and plaque.

Almonds

A small handful of almonds gives you almost 25% of your

daily needs for magnesium, and more bone-strengthening
calcium as an equal amount of cow milk.

Raw nuts are a big part of my diet and pack more energy
than any other food. They make a healthy snack that is low
in calories and can be a great addition to your diet.

They are also high in many antioxidants, such as vitamin E

and selenium. Studies show that almonds may play an
important role in preventing colon cancer due to their high
fiber content. Almonds also helps lower negative forms of
cholesterol in the blood stream.

431

10 Natural Remedies For Athletes Foot

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 10, 2015
also help to keep them dry and make them less hospitable
to the fungus.
10 Natural Remedies for Athletes Foot
While prevention is always the best medicine, its certainly
not a fail-safe. In case you DO find yourself with itchy
feet, here are some natural remedies that can help with
Athletes Foot.
1.

Athletes foot is a fungal infection that usually thrives in

warm, damp places. The fungus, Tinea pedis, grows
between the toes, on top of the feet, on toenails and
between the fingers. White patches, scaly patches, and
redness are all indicative of the fungus. Symptoms of
athletes foot may include itching, burning, and stinging.

2.

Athletes foot fungus frequents public showers and locker

rooms, indoor swimming pools and health clubs, and it is
very contagious. Contact with shoes or socks containing
the fungus, wet floors, or exercise equipment (remember it
can live between fingers too) can spread it.
3.

Tips for Preventing Athletes Foot

You can deter athletes foot fungus from taking hold by
wearing flip-flops around public pools or showers and
ensuring that your feet, including between your toes, are
thoroughly dried after bathing or swimming.

4.

You should keep your toenails the shortest length that is

comfortable for you, since the fungus can live under
toenails. Toenails that are left long might retain moisture
and provide a haven for the fungus. You shouldnt leave
sweaty socks or shoes on any longer than you have to.

5.

If your feet tend to sweat a lot during the day, or if you are
particularly active, take a fresh pair of organic cotton socks
with you and change them partway through the day (cotton
is more absorbent than synthetic materials and better for
your feet), and dont wear the same shoes the following
day give them time to completely dry and air out. If you
can sleep barefoot with your feet out of the covers this will

6.

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Add 40 Drops of Organic Tea Tree Oil to a foot bath

and soak your feet for 10 minutes. After soaking and
thoroughly drying the feet, massage a few drops of the
oil directly into the affected area. Tea tree oil has
properties that will help destroy the fungus in heavily
infested areas and deter it from spreading to unaffected
areas.
Soak your feet in 2 tablespoons of Himalayan Crystal
salt and cup Organic Apple Cider Vinegar solution
mixed with some warm water. This creates a very
acidic environment in which the fungus cannot live. You
can also spray your feet or wipe them down with a cloth
soaked in this solution after you shower, just make sure
you get them completely dry afterwards. You can also
wipe down the insides of shoes and sandals to help
prevent the fungus from clinging there.
Make your feet stinkier by placing slices of fresh
garlic, or some crushed garlic, between your toes and
leaving them there for the day. You can also add the
garlic to foods you eat or take a garlic supplement with
the same effect, it just may take a little bit longer.
Using ozonated olive oil can also help with Athletes
Foot. Use the paste to swab your clean, dry feet each
morning and night. This should clear up the fungus
within about two to four days and can be used as a
preventative measure against future outbreaks. I
recommend the olive oil paste such as 02-ZAP.
Sprinkle your toes with a little bit of organic corn
starch or baking soda before putting on your socks in
the morning. The corn starch/baking soda will help
soak up moisture, but it wont stop the itch. Baking soda
in the shoes also helps to absorb some of that not-sopleasant sweaty foot smell.
Make a tea of 4 ounces of oregano leaves and just
enough water to cover your feet. Soak your feet 2-3
times daily in this mixture. Ive read that you can re-use
this tea for a week, but I strongly recommend making it
fresh each day so that you know you are starting out
with fungus-free tea.

7.

8.

Sesame and Raw virgin coconut oil have anti-fungal

properties and can be applied directly to the feet. Swab
it liberally on clean dry feet with a cotton ball twice
daily.
Colloidal Silver is another common remedy for
athletes foot. Spray or apply to your feet and let it fully
dry. Alternatively, you can spray and leave the silver on
your feet overnight.

9.

Organic Neem oil, sometimes used as a pesticide, is

another all natural oil that is toxic to harmful organisms.
Apply to clean dry feet with a cotton ball before going
about your business.
10. You can also use Organic Ginger, just an ounce of
fresh chopped ginger added to a cup of boiling water
and simmered for 20 minutes. Once cooled, apply
twice daily to clean feet. Ginger is a strong anti-fungal,
and your feet will have a pleasantly spicy smell.

433

Putting The Chicken Before The Egg

The New York Times - By Stephanie Strom
November 25th, 2015
Consumers have grown more aware of the conditions
under which many of the nations laying hens live, thanks
to undercover videos from animal welfare advocates and,
more recently, photos of hundreds of thousands of dead
birds being tossed out of hangar-size barns after outbreaks
of avian flu.
Pastured eggs from hens allowed to roam about help to
address some of those concerns about how foods are
produced and the impact such systems have on the
environment, animal welfare and health and nutrition.
The egg market for probably the last 30
years has been a very sleepy category,
said Betsy Babcock, a proprietor of
Handsome Brook Farm, a pastured egg
business with operations in 41 states.
What weve seen over the last year or so,
though, is a revolution, with pastured eggs
going from being a niche-y segment in the
natural food market and Whole Foods to
being a thriving business in places like
Kroger.

Source: Martin de Witte

CRESCENT CITY, Calif. A decade ago, a couple

running a dairy business in Northern California visited a
Mennonite farm where the owner had used a flock of
laying hens to teach his children business principles and
instill values like responsibility and care for nature.
They returned home and bought 150 hens for their boys,
Christian and Joseph. My parents told us, you and Joseph
are in charge of keeping these 150 birds alive, recalled
Christian Alexandre, who now heads the familys egg
business.

Not all eggs labeled pastured are the same there are
no federal regulations governing use of the terms
pastured, free range or cage-free on egg cartons.
Thus, the Babcocks production regimen for eggs labeled
pastured is somewhat different from the Alexandres,
which in turn is different from the operations of Vital
Farms, another large pastured-egg supplier.

What started as a parental effort to instill solid values has

become the mainstay of Alexandre Family EcoDairy
Farms. Within five years, Christian and Joseph were
tending 1,500 hens and had a deal in place to supply eggs
to Whole Foods stores in Northern California. Christian
remembers Walter Robb, co-chief executive of the grocery
retailer, showing up at one of his football games.

Hens producing pastured eggs may indeed live in lush

pastures or they may merely have access to a patch of
dirt outside their barn. Eggs labeled cage-free typically
means the hens that laid them were free to move about
inside a barn kitted out with an aviary system of roosts,
nests and feeding stations but with no outdoor access at
all.

The rusty red chickens foraging in the fields outnumber the

cows 10 to 1 and the roughly five million eggs they will
produce this year command prices that make organic milk
look cheap. The egg business has kept the dairy going for
several years, Blake Alexandre, Christians father, said.

Theres quite a range of operations among

businesses that label their eggs pastured,
said Mark Kastel, co-founder and senior
farm policy analyst at the Cornucopia
Institute, which publishes the Organic Egg
Scorecard, a ratings system.

Alexandre Kids Eggs produces pastured eggs, which on

their farm means that the hens live in housing that allows
them to spend much of the day in open pasture. While still
a minuscule portion of the roughly 75 billion eggs
produced in the United States each year, pastured eggs like
theirs are one of the fastest-growing category of eggs in
America today.

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Cornucopia is updating its egg report, thus Mr. Kastel and

his team have recently visited egg farms around the
country, hoping to clarify the terminology used on egg
cartons. Its highest rating will go to egg businesses like the
Alexandres, where most of the hens are outside in mobile
housing during the day with access to fresh pasture.

Their egg production system lives side-by-side with the

milk business that Blake and Stephanie Alexandre started
with when they bought the first 572 acres here, just eight
miles south of the Oregon border and about a mile from
the Pacific Ocean on land where giant redwood trees once
grew.

To get the very best eggs, consumers

need to do their homework, Mr. Kastel
said. Despite federal organic law that
requires access to the outdoors, many of
the leading organic brands come from giant
henhouses with as many as 180,000 birds,
offering nothing more than a tiny screened
porch.

The mild climate the temperature fluctuates by only 11

degrees throughout the year is ideal for outdoor hens,
and rotating chickens and cows in pastures has a number
of benefits for livestock and soil. Chickens, which are
natural foragers, peck at cow patties to extract fly larvae
and in the process help distribute manure around a field (as
well as keep the fly population to a minimum). Theyre
our best manure spreaders, Christian Alexandre said.
That helps fertilize grass for the familys 3,500 dairy cows,
which are managed organically, to graze on. Vanessa
Alexandre, who graduated last summer from California
Polytechnic University, is immersing herself in the dairy
business and recently struck a deal to provide milk from
the familys herd of 100 percent grass-fed cows to a large
grocery business for its private label yogurt, which is made
from milk from grass-fed cows. She plans to increase the
number of cows raised solely on grass, rather than on grass
and feed, as well.

In 2008, California voters passed a ballot measure

requiring egg producers to provide more spacious living
conditions for laying hens. Eggs imported to California
from other states also must come from hens housed to the
same standard.
In the meantime, major food businesses like Taco Bell and
Panera Bread have made commitments to require the eggs
they use to come from cage-free environments, which are a
step beyond the colony cages that are the minimum needed
to meet the California regulations.

The farm has nine chicken flocks, each typically

numbering about 3,500 birds. The flocks are somewhat
smaller now after a bout of cholera wiped out about a third
of the hens last spring.

Finally, after the avian flu epidemic that killed tens of

millions of laying hens this year, some major egg
producers decided to replace at least some of their
conventional housing with cage-free systems.

The flocks are rotated to new pastures every Tuesday and

Friday, leaving behind a section of field shaved as close as
a chin in the morning. The pasture then is left alone for a
month or so to allow grass to regrow before cows are
returned to it.

Costco began reducing its sales of conventional eggs in

2007, according to Craig Wilson, its vice president for
food safety and quality assurance. It just seemed to us at
the time that battery cages were going to go away, and
anyway, theyre not a good thing, Mr. Wilson said.

The hen barns, made from tin reclaimed from the farm in
Southern California where Mrs. Alexandre grew up, and
heated by solar panels on the roofs, move around on
wheels. Christian Alexandre designed the barns, basing the
design on the picturesque caravanlike coops he first saw as
a boy on the Mennonite farm.

In August and September of this year, which are not

particularly big months for egg sales at Costco, the grocery
chain sold 516 million eggs, he said.
Just 39 percent of those eggs came from birds housed in
conventional systems. About 30 percent came from hens
housed in colony cages, and the rest were from birds in
cage-free systems or raised organically, free range or
pastured.

The barns are split in the middle and separated, to give the
birds ample room to walk in and out. Nesting boxes hover
over a wide canvas belt that catches the eggs as they are
laid. Some of the farms 85 employees turn hand cranks
each morning to move the belt, collecting the eggs at one
end and delivering them to a facility where they are
washed, inspected and packed.

Only 1.5 million eggs sold in August and September were

from pastured operations like the Alexandres, who have
been Costco suppliers since 2014. Could we rely on that
kind of production for the nations egg supply? Mr.
Wilson said. No. But our members just love them and so
we do our best to support their desires.

Roosts for the birds slope up to the rafters of a barn. Very

few birds were inside the barns on a recent visit, but they
all return at night. The best thing about chickens is you
dont have to herd them, Blake Alexandre said.

Costco, in fact, has inspired the Alexandres to double the

number of laying hens they have over the next year.

435

The eggs sell for as much as 53 cents each Christian

Alexandre declined to reveal the profit margin. Costco
sells 18 of them for $9.49 and is working with the family
to reduce the price.

Each farm houses an average of 5,000 birds in a barn on a

12.5-acre pasture, Ms. Babcock said. The chickens are
fenced off in a section of that pasture until they have
pecked the grass down to dirt; then they are moved to
another section.

Handsome Brook, which grew out of a bed-and-breakfast

farm that the Babcocks opened after they retired from the
health care business, contracts for eggs with about 50
farms in 41 states that have some 250,000 hens in total. Its
production, about 82 million eggs this year, dwarfs the
Alexandres and it plans to have 120 farms under
contract next year, more than doubling its production.

Were seeing 100 percent year-over-year

growth in sales in the stores where our
eggs are sold, Ms. Babcock said. We
think were just at the beginning of whats
going to be a very big business.

436

The Top 5 Healthiest Seeds

Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
December 9, 2015
heart health and can provide nutritional support against
many unpleasant disaease.
2. Sunflower Seeds
The perfect phytochemical-rich seed for those of us
looking to lose weight, as they promote healthy digestion
and increase fiber intake.
Sunflower seeds are also extremely rich in folate, a very
important nutrient for women. They are packed full of
good fats, antioxidant-rich Vitamin E [1], selenium and
copper, all crucial elements in supporting heart health and
balancing troublesome cellular damage.

I previously posted my list of different types of nuts that

are healthy and nutritious. Like nuts, seeds are a vital part
of our diet. Seeds are high in fiber, vitamin E and
monounsaturated fats that can help keep our heart healthy
and our body disease free.

3. Sesame seeds
Traditional societies have touted the positive benefits of
this seed for thousands of years.

Healthy seeds are also great sources of protein, minerals,

zinc and other life-enhancing nutrients. Numerous studies
have shown that different types of seeds and nuts can
actually prevent weight gain, the development of heart
disease and the accumulation of LDL cholesterol.

Sesame seeds are very high in calcium, magnesium, zinc,

fiber, iron, B1 and phosphorus, sesame seeds are unique in
their chemical structure. Possessing important cholesterolfighting fibers known as lignans, studies show that these
seeds can lower blood pressure, as well as protect the liver
from damage. Sesame seeds also may help prevent many
health problems, including PMS.

If you are going to add seeds to your diet, I would

recommend that you eat only organic seeds, in their raw
state. I personally try to avoid irradiated or roasted seeds,
and stick with raw seeds. Here is my list of the five
healthiest seeds you should add to your diet. (In no
particular order)

4. Pumpkin Seeds
Some scientific studies have shown that the components of
pumpkin seeds may stop the triggering of cancerous
behavior in male prostate cells [2].

1. Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are truly a super food, as they are packed with
an impressive list of nutritional attributes. Perfectly
balanced with a three to one omega-6 to omega-3 oil ratio,
they are also an excellent source of gamma linoleic and
acid.

Pumpkin seeds are high in a form of antioxidant known as

carotenoids, a special plant derivative that enhances
immune activity and disease fighting capacities. These
seeds are also high in omega-3 fatty acids and zinc, two
important nutrients that may play a role in supporting
skeletal health. Finally, pumpkin seed are high in
phytosterols, plant components that aid in keeping stable
levels of cholesterol and enhanced immune response.

Containing 10 essential amino acids, hemp seeds are

composed of over thirty percent pure protein, making them
an excellent daily protein source. They are also composed
of 40 percent fiber, the highest amount of any grain on
earth! Also containing disease-fighting phytosterols,
studies show that hemp seeds, or even hemp milk, support

437

quality fats, as they are made up of a whopping 34% pure

omega-3 oils.

5. Chia seeds
Yes, just like the seeds you used for sprouting your Chia
pet, these seeds are from the mint family. Extremely tiny,
yet extremely potent, these small seeds are packed full of
fiber, protein, nutrient oils, various antioxidants and even
calcium.

The Benefits of Eating Seeds

I personally love to eat raw seeds and nuts. I eat them on a
daily basis and they give me more natural energy than any
other food. Theyre great if you want a quick, healthy
snack that is still low in calories. Obviously, there are
many types of seeds that I left off this list, but the seeds
listed above are my personal favorites.. Whats your
favorite type of seed?

Studies show that chia seeds stabilize the blood sugar,

promote heart health, as well as increase weight loss.
These amazing little seeds are an excellent source of high-

References:
1.

Annie Bell Muzaurieta. Top 10 Vitamin E Foods, for Radiant Skin. The Daily Green.

2.

Katherine M. Phillips , David M. Ruggio , Mehdi Ashraf-Khorassani. Phytosterol Composition of Nuts and Seeds Commonly
Consumed in the United States. J. Agric. Food Chem. 2005 November 8. 53 (24), pp 94369445 DOI: 10.1021/jf051505h.

438

High Fructose Corn Syrup Now

Hidden Under a New Name
By Waking Science
December 10, 2015
corn syrup on the label [anymore], they
will state fructose or fructose syrup.
Scientific Discoveries about High Fructose Corn
Syrup and Health
Theres a growing body of scientific evidence linking
HFCS to metabolic disorders. Here is what scientists have
discovered about the potential impact of HFCS on human
health:
Some people have claimed that highfructose corn syrup is no different than
other sweeteners when it comes to weight
gain and obesity, but our results make it
clear that this just isnt true, at least under
the conditions of our tests. When rats are
drinking high-fructose corn syrup at levels
well below those in soda pop, theyre
becoming obese every single one,
across the board. Even when rats are fed a
high-fat diet, you dont see this; they dont
all gain extra weight. Bart Hoebel,
psychology professor at Princeton
University (source:Princeton.edu)

Food producers have many tactics for hiding food

ingredients which have become unpopular with consumers,
and such has happened to high fructose corn syrup
(HFCS) following numerous scientific studies that have
linked it to obesity, Type 2 diabetes and autism. In order to
stop using the HFCS name in the ingredients list, food
makers have taken to calling a sub-category of HFCS
as fructose syrup or, plainly, fructose.
HFCS is a highly-processed chemical sweetener used in
many processed foods, including breads, cookies, candy,
condiments, and soft drinks. HFCS extends the shelf life of
products, and it is often cheaper than sugar, which are the
main reasons why manufacturers like it. But HFCS has
gotten a bad rep, considering the circumstantial evidence
that links it to various metabolic diseases, so Big Food and
the Corn Refiners Association (CRA) decided to
get creative.

The study adds to a growing body of

scientific literature that indicates HFCS
consumption may result in negative health
consequences distinct from and more
deleterious than natural sugar. Dr.
Michael I. Goran (source: Huffington Post)

HFCS is sub-categorized based on its fructose content. The

standard HFCS HFCS 42 or HFCS 55 contains either
42 or 55 percent fructose. The new term fructose is now
being used when foods contain the ingredient previously
called HFCS-90, which has 90 percent fructose.
Identifying HFCS-90 as fructose in the ingredients list
gives food makers a green light to use statements such as
Contains No High Fructose Corn Syrup or No HFCS
on the product label, thus misleading buyers.

Consumption of HFCS may lead to

mineral imbalances, including Zn [Zinc], Ca
[Calcium] and P [Phosphorus] loss and Cu
[Copper] gain and is a potential source of
inorganic mercury exposure. Dufault et
al. Clinical Epigenetics, 2012
Data show that consumption of added
sugars, particularly HFCS-55, negatively
impacts hippocampal function, metabolic
outcomes, and neuroinflammation when
consumed in excess during the adolescent
period of development. Hsu et al.
Hippocampus, 2014

Here is CRAs take:

A third product, HFCS-90, is
sometimes used in natural and light
foods, where very little is needed to
provide sweetness. Syrups with 90%
fructose will not state high fructose

Although there has been no direct link established between

HFCS and diabetes, obesity and autism, the circumstantial

439

evidence that HFCS is a partial culprit in these widespread

diseases cannot be overlooked.

ingredients list and nutritional information difficult to read

and hidden in the far corners or back sides of packages.
In the United States, food ingredient
information is written for regulators and
scientists, not for the average
consumer. Anne Munoz-Furlong,
founder of the nonprofit advocacy group
Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network

Its All About Marketing

Food producers arent new to deceiving the public to make
their foods appear healthier than they really are. They will
continue to do what they can to sell more products, even if
that means re-categorizing and renaming synthetic
ingredients. Its called marketing, and the food industry
spends billions on it each year to ensure that you hear and
see the right message to make you comfortable with all the
chemicals that end up in your food. Food marketers hide
the reality under attractive labels with pretty pictures and
tag lines such as 100% Pure or All natural, making the

It is up to you to stop being willfully ignorant to the

marketing tricks of Big Food companies. Always read the
ingredients list and familiarize yourself with food brands
which demonstrate that they care about offering real,
living foods, versus supporting companies that make foodlike products full of synthetic additives such as HFCS-90.

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Avoid Drugs And Surgery For

Prostate Issues With Flaxseed
By Sayer Ji
December 15, 2015
the male population by the eighth decade of their lives.
Moreover, countries like China and India are now seeing
an exponential increase in BPH diagnoses as they
increasingly adopt the Western diet, lifestyle, and medical
system.
Current approaches include side effect heavy
pharmaceuticals such as alpha adrenergic blockers and 5areductase inhibitors, as well gold standard surgical
procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate
(TURP), which so consistently produces surgery related
impairments that there is an entire syndrome named after
these side effects, namely, Transurethral Resection of the
Prostate (TURP) Syndrome.
Millions of men face prostate issues,
with treatment with drugs and surgery
often making their problems worse. A
new study reveals that simply eating
flaxseed may be the best way to
improve your symptoms, and take back
control of your health.

The human cost in both financial and existential terms is

immense. This is why interest in safe, natural, affordable
and effective alternatives is growing, and why the
researchers felt compelled to test the hypothesis that
eating flaxseed might provide an ideal alternative
approach.
In the randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled
study, three groups of men, aged 45-75, with newly
diagnosed BPH and an American Urological Association
Symptom Index (AUASI) score of 13 , were given either
a placebo, or a low or high dose of a lignin-rich flaxseed
hull extract. More specifically:

A new study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food

titled, Efficacy and Safety of a Flaxseed Hull Extract
in the Symptomatic Management of Benign Prostatic
Hyperplasia: A Parallel, Randomized, Double-Blind,
Placebo-Controlled, Pilot Study, reveals that men who
consumed an extract of flaxseed for swollen prostate (i.e.
benign prostatic hyperplasia) saw significant improvement.

Study treatment consisted of 500 or 1000

mg of extract containing 100 mg (low-dose
active [LDA] group, n = 26) or 200 mg
(high-dose active [HDA] group, n = 26) of
secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG),
respec- tively. The placebo (P) group (n =
28) received matching maltodextrin
capsules. Sixty subjects (LDA [n = 19],
HDA [n = 20], and P [n = 21]) completed
the study as per the protocol requirements.
Change in the AUASI score within a period
of 8 weeks, from baseline to end of
treatment, was assessed.

According to the study, The American Urology

Association (AUA) Guideline, 2010, defines benign
prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) as proliferation of smooth
muscles and epithelial cells within the prostatic transition
zone. The typical symptoms include:

Urinary frequency
Urgency
Nocturia (abnormal frequency of night time urination)
Decreased and intermittent force of stream
Sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.

The promising results were reported as follows:

BPH is one of the most widespread health conditions faced

by men today, with the incidence rising to nearly 50% of

441

In this study, supplementation with the

flaxseed hull extract provided greater relief
than placebo in obstructive symptoms of
BPH, such as sensation of incomplete
bladder emptying, stopping and starting
while urinating, weak urinary stream, and
straining while urinating. Low and high
doses of the flaxseed extract provided
statistically significant improvements in the
scores of these obstructive symptoms at
week 8 as compared with baseline. In
contrast to this, the placebo group did not
show a statistically significant improvement
with respect to these obstructive
symptoms.

Concluding Remarks
This study is highly promising for a number of reasons.
First, flaxseed is a safe, time-tested, and highly nutritious
food that has been researched for a wide range of health
benefits. You can view over 70 health benefits we have
identified here: Flaxseed research database. Anything
that can be used as a nourishing food while at the same
time significantly relieving human suffering from a
common disease, is highly compelling.
But there is a deeper reason why flaxseed may work so
well. Our bodies co-evolved with certain foods for
hundreds of thousands of years. Certain foods contains
phytocompounds which our bodies have become
dependent upon for self-regulation and homeostasis It is
possible that lignins are vitally important, as essential as
vitamins for maintaining optimal health. Obviously BPH is
not caused by a lack of surgery or synthetic chemicals, but
it might be true to say that BPH is caused by the lack of an
ideal diet which would include lignin rich foods like
flaxseed. Cleary, therefore, flaxseed could be considered
part of a root cause resolution approach to BPH, versus
looking it as just a palliative disease management tool
like most of the approaches within the conventional
armamentarium.

The treatment group did not see any sign of increased side
effects relative to the placebo group, indicating how
remarkably safe flaxseed is versus conventional treatment.
Also, because the placebo group also saw a significant
improvement, it is possible that the strong placebo effect
may have overshadowed the real power of the
intervention. We hope that in the future a nonpharmaceutical industry funded study compares flaxseed
to both pharmaceutical and surgical intervention to assess
its true power.
Another important observation is that the flaxseed groups
saw an increase in free testosterone, as well as a decrease
in the testosterone metabolite DHT, which is known to
contribute to prostate growth both benign and malignant.
The placebo group, on the other hand, saw both an
increase in testosterone and DHT. This also means that
aging men, whose testosterone levels often plunge in
relation to their estrogen levels, might experience
additional hormonal benefits from eating flaxseed that
could contribute to their overall state of well-being.

Finally, BPH falls within the category of a condition that

involves the abnormal growth of the very same epithelial
tissue that cancer emerges within. Since flaxseed has been
found to prevent and even regress cancerous epithelial
growths, such as breast cancer, it is highly likely that
flaxseed consumption may also be the best insurance
policy out there to prevent prostate cancer from
developing.

442

The Surprising Link Between Vitamin B12

And Periodontitis
By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 15, 2015
of tooth loss and advancement of periodontitis. While the
researchers werent clear as to how this association
manifests, its clear that nutrient quantity and quality affect
dental health far more than previously realized.
One theory to explain this association is that because B
vitamins are used in sugar metabolism, a high-sugar diet
may deplete vitamin B12 while simultaneously increasing
periodontitis risk. Also, B vitamins, like B12, are involved
in wound healing, and decreased intake may delay the
repair of gums. Another theory is that people who have
poor dietary intake from the get-go are probably less likely
to be consuming adequate amounts of B12. These
individuals are also more likely to eat high amounts of
sugar, a key contributor to gum disease.

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection marked by painful,

irritating symptoms that make it challenging to eat,
swallow, and speak. Although prevention is important,
many people fall short because it typically involves cutting
out sugar and spending more time brushing, flossing, and
rinsing. Periodontal disease begins with gingivitis, and
progresses if steps arent taken. Whats surprising is recent
research has shown a strong association between nutrition
and periodontitis risk, particular when it comes to vitamin
B12 deficiency.

The Best Prevention for Gum Disease

Perhaps the best prevention method for gum disease is to
simply avoid sugar. Refined sugar affects virtually every
aspect of your health, so its good to abstain from this
nutrient-void food. Although its not prevention, turmeric
may be helpful for reducing the irritation that accompanies
gum disease. Research shows the antioxidants, among
other compounds, in turmeric are helpful for promoting
healthy gum tissue. [2] And, of course, proper brushing and
flossing on a daily basis is necessary to prevent plaque and
bacteria buildup.

The Link Between Vitamin B12 and Periodontitis

A new study has revealed the startling connection between
vitamin B12 and periodontitis, a reversible condition
commonly referred to as gum disease. [1] In particular, an
inverse association between serum vitamin B12 and the
progression of gum disease and tooth loss risk. In other
words, the lower a persons B12 levels, the higher the risk

Have you encountered gum disease? Were you able to

approach it with natural methods? What were your results?
Please let us know in the comments!

References:
1.

Zong G, Holtfreter B, Scott AE, et al. Serum vitamin B12 is Inversely Associated with Periodontal Progression and Risk of
Tooth Loss: A prospective Cohort Study. J Clin Periodontol. 2015 Nov 27. doi: 10.1111/jcpe.12483.

2.

Monika Nagpal and Shaveta Sood. Role of curcumin in systemic and oral health: An overview. J Nat Sci Biol Med. 2013 JanJun; 4(1): 3-7.

443

New Studies: Coffee Consumption Reduces Risk Of

Mortality And Chronic Diseases
Posted By: Abby Campbell, Staff Writer Food News
December 15, 2015
(NaturalHealth365) Something that many people look
forward to, in the morning, is a cup of fresh brewed coffee
to boost energy. While studies have shown this popular
beverage to be beneficial for health in many ways,
contradictory information has arisen throughout the years
about the negative effects of caffeine on the body.

Whether caffeinated or decaffeinated, positive results have

been detected in several forms of cancer, such as:

But, wait, several new studies are suggesting that this dark
black beverage should have its place in our diet as there
are many health benefits such as, reduced risk of
mortality and chronic diseases such as cancer, heart
disease, type 2 diabetes, and more.

Moderate coffee consumption reduces mortality risk

It should be noted that earlier studies have shown heavy

coffee consumption to be associated with a higher risk of
mortality. However, more recent studies have revealed that
earlier research is inconclusive.

A more recent longitudinal study was released by the

American Heart Association journal, Circulation. After
reviewing 28 years of data and records of nearly 4.7
million Americans, coffee consumption has been shown to
have positive effects associated with lower mortality
rate.

According to the scientific data, a higher consumption of

total coffee whether caffeinated or decaffeinated is
associated with lower mortality risk.

Breast cancer: Following more than 335,000 women

for an average follow-up of 11 years, a large study
published in Breast Cancer Research found that higher
caffeinated coffee intake may be associated with a
lower risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. For every
100-milliliter increase in caffeinated coffee intake, the
risk decreased by four percent for estrogen and
progesterone receptor negative breast cancers.
Colorectal tumors: Three cups of coffee per day
reduced the overall occurrence of colorectal tumors, as
reported by the European Journal of Cancer
Prevention.
Endometrial cancer: Scientific Reports recently
reported that just one cup of coffee per day can reduce
the risk of endometrial cancer by 4 7 percent.
Liver cancer: The Gastroenterology journal reported
coffee drinkers as having a significant risk reduction in
hepatocellular carcinoma. By drinking two to three cups
per day, risk was reduced by 38 percent. With more
than four cups, reduction increased to 41 percent.
Malignant melanoma: The Journal of the National
Cancer Institute reported a modest decrease in the risk
of melanoma with four cups or less of coffee
consumption.

Higher coffee intake may reduce other chronic diseases

Chronic liver disease: High levels of coffee consumption
had a significant risk reduction of chronic liver disease,
according to the Gastroenterology journal. Two to three
cups per day reduced risk of death by 46 percent, while
those who drank more than four cups per day reduced their
risk by a whopping 71 percent.

Whether its caffeinated or decaffeinated, a higher coffee

consumption was connected to a lower death rate at the
one to five cups per day range. Consumers experienced a
lower risk of death from type 2 diabetes, certain cancers,
cardiovascular disease, and neurological diseases.

Coronary heart disease: According to a study published

in PLoS One, two cups of Italian-style coffee per day
reduces risk of coronary heart disease. However,
consumption was not associated with plasma lipid
changes.

Coffee consumption may protect against certain

cancers in some people
Several new studies are showing coffee and coffee extracts
reduce oxidative DNA damage that leads to
carcinogenesis. According to several studies, the caffeine
in coffee also contains phytochemicals that have been
reported to exert antitumor, antiangiogenic, and
antioxidant properties.

Neurological Diseases: Caffeine has been shown to be

neuroprotective by antagonizing certain receptors in the
brain which protect motor neurons from excitotoxicity.
Additionally, chlorogenic acid in coffee may have clinical

444

benefits for neurodegenerative diseases such as ischemic

stroke, according to the Life Science journal.

in mind, the health status of each person can vary greatly

especially when considering genetic tendencies or
weaknesses.

Type 2 diabetes: While several studies show that high

habitual coffee consumption is associated with reduced
risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a study published in the
Journal of Natural Products found that a specific bioactive
substance found in coffee may contribute to prevention.
After incubation with cafestol, insulin secretion and
glucose uptake increased significantly.

If youre not sure about coffee safety talk to a qualified

healthcare provider with lots of experience using natural
therapies and nutrition to heal the body. And, above all,
pay attention to how you feel (physically, mentally and
emotionally) whenever making any kind of diet or
lifestyle change.
About the author: Abby Campbell is a medical, health, and
nutrition research writer. Shes dedicated to helping people
live a healthy lifestyle in all aspects physically, mentally,
emotionally, and spiritually. Abby practices, writes, and
coaches on natural preventive care, nutritional medicine,
and complementary and alternative therapy.

So, should you drink coffee or not?

While these studies mentioned continue to support the
beneficial effects of higher coffee consumption, possible
advantages must be weighed against potential risks such as
anxiety, tremors, palpitations, insomnia, and more. Keep
References:

http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/early/2015/11/10/CIRCULATIONAHA.115.017341.long
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25062326
http://pamw.pl/en/issue/article/25490889
http://www.breast-cancer-research.com/content/17/1/15
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4548216
http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0126550
http://jnci.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/pmidlookup?view=long&pmid=25604135
http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0016-5085(14)01200-1
http://journals.lww.com/eurjcancerprev/pages/articleviewer.aspx?year=9000&issue=00000&article=99472&type=abstract
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jnatprod.5b00481
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science

445

Study: Vitamin C Kills Untreatable Cancer Cells

By Soren Dreier
Posted On December 15, 2015
Findings from a new study offer further evidence of the
cancer-fighting properties of vitamin C. This time,
research shows the powerful antioxidant may be effective
in combating a class of cancerous tumors including
colorectal cancer cells that can be particularly difficult to
treat by conventional means.

Vitamin C acts as Trojan horse in cancer cells

Typically, the health benefits of vitamin C are associated
in large part with its role as an effective antioxidant,
helping to prevent or at least delay certain types of damage
to cells. However, this latest study shows an entirely
different role regarding its effect on certain forms of
colorectal cancer, with it actually inducing oxidation in
cancer cells.

Findings of the study, which showed the vitamin was

effective in curbing cancer-causing mutations in mice,
were published recently in the journal Science. Vitamin C
is already known for its effectiveness in detoxifying the
body and boosting the immune system. Notably
championed by globally respected scientist Dr. Linus
Pauling and other advocates as a treatment for cancer and
heart disease, these latest findings on vitamin C may open
the door for its use as treatment for some of the most
challenging cancers.

In oxygen-rich environments, like arteries, a portion of

vitamin C is oxidized and transformed into a new
compound known as dehydroascorbic acid or DHA. This
new compound is able to act as a Trojan horse and pass
through the cancer cell membrane, thanks to a protein
glucose transmitter.
Once inside, the cancer cells natural antioxidants attempt
to convert DHA back to ascorbic acid, but are unable to
keep up and instead become depleted, with the cancer cell
then dying of oxidative stress. Because certain colorectal
cancer cells produce greater amounts of reactive oxygen
than other cell types, they need more antioxidants to
survive. This makes them more susceptible to the action of
DHA than normal cells or even other types of cancer cells.

A safe way to attack difficult-to-treat cancer tumors

It may sound incredible that a deadly disease like cancer
could be treated by something as simple (and safe) as
vitamin C. For decades, naysayers denied what Nobel
Prize-winning chemist Pauling and others outside the
conventional medical establishment had discovered:
Vitamin C can be effective against many of the serious
illnesses that have plagued mankind including cancer.

Can vitamin C help people with pancreatic cancer?

The most recently published study using cell culture and

mice shows that vitamin C was effective at killing tumor
cells that carry a common cancer-causing mutation. The
hope is that the findings may eventually lead to the ability
to use vitamin C to create a variety of targeted treatments
against deadly cancers.

While the results of this latest study need to be evaluated

via human clinical trial, researchers believe these
preclinical findings hold much promise in development of
a new treatment strategy for certain types of colorectal
cancer. Further study may also later lead to similar
treatments for other cancers as well, particularly those
expressing high levels of the protein glucose transmitter,
including renal cell carcinoma, bladder cancer and
pancreatic cancer.

In the study, researchers from Harvard Medical School,

Weill Cornell Medicine, The Sidney Kimmel
Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cold Spring Harbor
Laboratory and Tufts Medical Center teamed up to
investigate the effect of high doses of vitamin C on
colorectal tumor formation. Using roughly the equivalent
of the amount of vitamin C found in 300 oranges, the
scientists were able to document impaired growth of
KRAS-mutant and BRAF-mutant colorectal tumors in
cultured cells as well as in mice.

Continued research could also lead to development of

biomarkers. These could aid physicians in determining a
more precise mode of treatment and a better understanding
of which cancer patients would most benefit from this type
of vitamin C therapy.

.
446

Absolute Beginners Guide To Growing

Your Own Aloe Vera
By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 16, 2015
Growing Your Own Aloe Vera
When you first get started with growing your own aloe
vera, the most important things to consider are the soil and
location of the plant. First, decide where you will be
growing your aloe vera. Whether indoors or outdoors, it is
imperative that you choose a place where your plant will
receive plenty of light. This can be a little tricky, though,
because too much direct sunlight can cause the plant to dry
out and turn the leaves brown but too little light will
stunt the plants growth. It is also important to note that
aloe can freeze in the winter if outside, so keep your local
climate in mind when choosing where you want to place
your plant. I recommend choosing a pot you can easily
bring indoors during freezes or leaving your plant in a
location you can cover with a tarp or blanket. If the plant is
to be grown indoors, make sure the plant will receive
enough indirect sunlight; south or west-facing windows are
ideal.

The aloe vera plant has become incredibly popular. Its a

very easy plant to care for, making it a staple in many
homes. A large part of aloe veras popularity can be
attributed to the fact that it boasts a wide range of natural
health properties. These versatile plants are known for
their ability to thrive under virtually any conditions, as
they grow equally well indoors and outdoors with minimal
care. Scientifically named aloe barbadensis miller, its one
of the best plants for someone who is new to gardening or
interested in growing their own super foods!

Once youve decided where your aloe vera is going to live,

its time to begin thinking about the soil. Aloe vera likes
dry soil, so I recommend using cactus potting soil mix.
The best alternative would be to use a regular potting soil
with perlite added. When planting your aloe vera, make
sure to position the plant so it is upright, and cover the
base and roots with the soil. Provide several inches of
space between plants, as they do grow outward from the
center. Give your aloe vera a bit of space because the
mother plant will offset the babies from the outer base.

Today, Ill walk through what you need to know about

growing your own aloe vera. We will also share some of
the things you should watch out for as you care for your
plant. No matter how small the plant may be when you
first bring your aloe vera home, there is a lot to look
forward to. The plant is well known for its quick leaf
multiplication and for mothering plantlets known as
babies that can be removed to yield entirely new plants.
This means that once your plant reaches maturity, you will
be able to harvest aloe vera leaves continuously.

Its also important to choose an appropriate planter. Start

with a medium to large planter and make sure it has good
drainage. Planters with a single large hole in the bottom
are best, as your plant will not grow if there is standing
water. In fact, one of the most common issues new plant
owners run into when trying to care for aloe vera is that
they overwater the plant. When watering, the soil should
feel damp but not soaked. The best way to gauge watering
is to feel the plant leaves every few days, as long as they
feel cool or moist, the plant has enough water. If the leaves
feel dry or brittle, first examine the sunlight conditions,
then adjust water as needed. Before you water again, the
soil should be completely dry. During cooler months, it
will need less water.

Traditionally, aloe is known for its topical benefits,

including wound healing and keeping the skin moisturized
and protected. [1] Its been used in numerous beauty
products as an additive for its vitamin and acemannan
content; however, its nutritional properties also make this
plant a living superfood. Now lets learn how to grow your
own!

447

Harvesting Leaves from Your Aloe Vera Plant

It has too much fertilizer. In this scenario, you can

simply repot the plant with more soil.
The plant needs a bigger pot for its roots. Eventually,
all healthy aloe vera plants will probably reach this
point.

Things to Watch Out For

Like any plant, aloe vera can suffer from bugs, disease and
fungus on its stem or roots. Mealybugs and scale, which
are small, flat tan or brown bugs that suck the sap from
aloe, are the most common insect problems. You should
also be mindful of leaf rot, as this is a common ailment for
aloe.
Once your plant reaches maturity, you can begin to harvest
aloe for its nutritional benefits. Its safe to begin this
process once additional leaves or shoots have grown from
the center of the plant. To harvest leaves from your aloe
vera, start by selecting mature leaves from the outermost
section of the plant. Cut them from as close to the base as
possible, but be mindful not to disturb the roots. Because
its a living decoration, I would suggest selecting plant
leaves that will not reduce the plants aesthetics.

To avoid fungus, keep the soil and plant dry. You can
protect your aloe vera plant from pests with a natural
pesticide. Look for an organic pesticide instead of one that
is toxic. You can even make your own safe, organic
pesticide at home. Fortunately, because of aloe veras ideal
growing conditions, fungus is not a common problem.
Be sure to protect yourself too. Young aloe vera plants
have soft spikes on their leaves that wont do much
damage but the spikes of older, more established plants
can prick you good if youre not careful. These spikes are
capable of tearing clothes and even puncturing the skin. Be
mindful when repotting or harvesting and wear gloves
when handling.

The plantlets or babies your aloe produces can easily be

removed by carefully uprooting them, detaching from the
parent, and re-planting on their own. These mini plants
make great gifts. Its not uncommon for aloe plants to
repopulate exponentially, so theres a good chance that you
will have plenty of aloe before you know it!

Getting Something in Return from Your Aloe Vera

Plant

Additional Considerations for Your Aloe Plant

Caring for your aloe vera plant is not difficult. There are,
however, a few considerations to keep in mind:

Aloe does not need to be fertilized. If you want to, or

think it needs a little extra food, use a phosphorusheavy, water-based fertilizer at half-strength.
If the leaves become thin and curled, it needs more
water.
Aloe vera leaves grow upward from the base. If the
leaves droop or lie flat, it probably needs more sunlight.
Your plant will grow towards the sun, if in a pot, rotate
as needed to keep the plant leaves upright.
The aloe vera plant isnt all about looking good and adding
beauty to your home. Many people enjoy the many uses of
the aloe vera plant. One of the most common is using aloe
veras inner leaf gel as a topical remedy for burns and
sunburns, cuts, and other skin irritations. [2] This inner-leaf
gel can also be consumed for collagen support, as a
digestive aid, its immune supporting properties, and many
other superfood benefits.

If your aloe grows slowly, here are a few common issues

to check:

The soil is too alkaline. This can be corrected by

adding a bit of soil sulfur.
The plant has too much water, the soil is too damp, or it
holds too much water. This can be corrected by
modifying the amount of water added to the plant.
It needs more sunlight. This can be remedied with a
simple change of scenery.

448

Aloe has been used around the world for centuries as

nutritional supplementation and topical use. Its a natural
source of vitamins, minerals, trace elements, and enzymes;
all of which support healthy immune function, soothe and
cleanse the digestive tract, and support the circulatory
system.

Supplementing Your Diet with Aloe Vera

To get the most out of your aloe vera plant, properly caring
for your plant and harvesting the leaves the right way are
crucial. And, it should be noted that inner leaf gel can be
stored in the refrigerator for a day or two, however it is not
the best on-the-go food. Some people find the taste to be
slightly bitter so its often consumed in smoothies. Just be
careful to avoid the outer leaf because it contains aloin,
which can act as a harsh laxative. The aloin, taste, and
short storage life make aloe supplementation a great
alternative to consuming raw aloe.

Do you have tips for growing aloe vera or consuming it?

Take a moment to leave a comment below and share your
experience with all of us.

References:
1.

Amar Surjushe, Resham Vasani and D G Saple. Aloe Vera: A Short Review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008; 53(4): 163166.

2.

Feily A, Namazi MR. Aloe Vera in Dermatology: A Brief Review. G Ital Dermatol Venereol. 2009 Feb;144(1):85-91

449

Research: A Tsp. Of Aloe

Daily Reverses Signs Of Skin Aging
By Sayer Ji
December 17, 2015
significantly improves wrinkles and
elasticity in photoaged human skin.
Keep in mind that 3,600 mg of aloe a day is not what you
would call a megadose, as it is a little less than a
teaspoon. 1,200 mg is only a quarter of a teaspoon, and in
fact, according to the study, may actually be superior to the
higher dose at improving facial elasticity; less is
sometimes more, one can assume.
Also, the amazing thing about aloe is that it has a wide
range of potential side benefits, with 50 of them
viewable on our Aloe Vera Research Page alone. Some of
these include:
Prenatal Chemical Exposures
Radiation Induced Illness
Wound Healing
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)
Breast Cancer
Cancer: Breast
Cervical Cancer
Chemotherapy-Induced Toxicity: Cisplatin
Colon Cancer
Dental Diseases
Encephalitis: Japanese
Enterovirus
Escherichia coli Infections
Leishmaniasis
Leukemia
Leukemia: Acute myelogenous leukemia
(AML)
Melanoma
Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Skin Cancer
Skin Cancer: Squamous Cell
Staphylococcus aureus infection
Streptococcus pyogenes
Tongue Cancer
Tumors

There is plenty of research that indicates that the

unnaturally accelerated aging process associated with
chemical saturated modern living and/or natural
environmental exposures such as excessive ultraviolet
radiation (photo-aging) can be slowed. In fact, over 150
natural substances have been indexed on aging in the
GreenMedInfo.com project with demonstrable antiaging, or if you prefer, longevity-promoting properties.
Of
the
69
natural
substances
indexed
on
GreenMedInfo.com of potential value in aging skin, aloe
is one of the most compelling substances, and works from
the inside out
In a study published in the journal Annals of Dermatology
in 2009, healthy female subjects over the age of 45, and
who received two different oral doses (low-dose: 1,200
mg/d, high-dose: 3,600 mg/d) of aloe vera gel
supplementation for 90 days, saw remarkable results. The
researchers measured clinical signs and biochemical
changes of aging skin before and after supplementation
and found that,
After aloe gel intake, the facial wrinkles
improved significantly (p<0.05) in both
groups, and facial elasticity improved in
the lower-dose groupAloe gel

450

5 Powerful Psychedelics That Treat Mental Disorders And

Change Human Consciousness By Reorganizing The Brain
By Michael Forrester
December 17, 2015

Psychoactive plants and hallucinogens have given us the

opportunity to see life through different perspectives for
thousands of years. Many of these plants, which can only
be defined as gifts from nature, have unfortunately been
declared illegal in many parts of the world due to the
ignorance and intolerance of many governments. As the
shift in consciousness is accelerating across the planet,
more people are accepting the true power of psychedelics
with unprecedented potential to treat cancers, addictions,
psychological traumas, but most of all, to reorganize the
brain and shift thought patterns. It is now imperative for
human consciousness that we free psychedelics from
scrutiny and demonization, so that we may all use these
plants responsibly to facilitate a greater awareness of nonsecular concepts that are changing our world.

Do not combine psychedelics without expert supervision

Do not use psychedelics as recreational party drugs
Do not use psychedelics if you are prone to drugseeking behavior
Do not use psychedelics as a form of escaping from
reality
Do not use around dangerous environments
Do not use if you are pregnant or breast-feeding
Do not use if ignoring responsibilities in life to chase a
high
Do not use if symptoms aggravate a present mental
illness
DO ingest the raw plant whenever possible rather than
smoking

Most of the psychedelic scare stories ever published were

generated by people pursuing their own political or
financial agendas, or by people with fundamentalist morals
who were afraid of losing their power. In the last century.
more than 99% of all information intended to vilify
psychedelics has been proven false.
The shift in consciousness that has taken over the planet
will not enlighten every human being. Some are not meant
to experience the shift and will pass on (sometimes when
you least expect it). Others are already on board. For those
in between (and even for those on board), psychedelics
offer a unique window of opportunity "during the high"
which is otherwise absent without it. There are so many
wonderful elements of consciousness including specific
gateways which psychedelics enter, that ego simply has no
chance of competing out. Ego tries, but it rarely if ever
succeeds. They open a portal of beauty and creativity so
large, that you can step into it and enjoy it in a way that is
rarely available to the humanity from any other substance
on Earth. Only very deep meditative states can match what
psychedelics offer, and each state is very different.

Author's caution: I preface this article with a few words

of caution. Specifically, through my shamanistic practices
around the world, I have experienced the effects of all of
the psychedelics mentioned below. Each has its own use
and effectively complements specific practices in shaman
culture. They are not to be abused in any setting as many
can lead to a temporary lack of awareness of body and
reality itself. This effectively places the subject in harms
way, especially without a support party present. Please use
any psychedelic plant responsibly, never if you are under
19 years of age, and only under the supervision of those
who have been trained or have experienced the benefits
first-hand through education and guidance. Your support
party should always be sober, of clear mind and somebody
you trust.

Many researchers have been interested in the idea that

psychedelics facilitate communication across the brain
and, more specifically, how the default-mode network in
the brain, arguably sciences best biological correlate of
the self, normally works to constrain this.

Note:

Do not ingest psychedelics with alcohol

Do not ingest psychedelics without supervision of
responsible adults

451

Two studies have found absolutely no link between

psychedelic use and a wide suite of mental health
conditions, including schizophrenia, psychosis, depression,
anxiety disorders and suicide attempts. For example,
people who have tried LSD or psilocybin have lower
lifetime rates of suicidal thoughts and attempts.

Perhaps one of the most medicinal but least powerful of all

hallucinogens, Cannabis Sativa whose active ingredient is
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) has also been referred to as
marijuana, dope, pot, bush, weed, hash, ganja, joint,
among others. It is by far one of the safest psychedelics on
Earth, and perhaps one of the few that can be utilized
without supervision.

"Psychedelics" are substances with the ability to expand

human awareness beyond our normal modes of perception.
Some may be the most amazing substances known to
humanity, so potent that just 1/10,000th of a gram can send
one on a journey beyond time and space, beyond life and
death. Here the psychedelic voyager can unlock and
experience the collective evolutionary consciousness of
billions of years past and an infinite future.

It can treat a number of diseases and disorders, including

cancer, fibromyalgia, epilepsy and multiple sclerosis better
than pharmaceuticals. Marijuana has also been found to
reduce blood pressure, treat glaucoma, alleviate pain and
even inhibit HIV. It is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory
and neuroprotective.
When cannabis is used over a period of time, it allows us
to witness our many subtle motives which, under normal
consciousness, are usually not noticeable. Duality within
human consciousness becomes clear as does the ego and
alter ego. Cannabis highs last typically from 1-4 hours.

They allow the user to transcend the body, the personality,

and view of the mind from undreamed-of perspectives,
experiencing supersensory and extrasensory perception,
choose from an infinite variety of "realities," which can
permanently change our experience of life.

There are two states of awareness which relate to these

sensory effects. The basic one can be called pure
awareness. In this state the person is completely and
vividly aware of his experience, but there are no processes
of thinking, manipulating, or interpreting going on. The
sensations fill the person's attention, which is passive but
absorbed in what is occurring, which is usually
experienced as intense and immediate. Pure awareness is
experiencing without associations to what is there.

Worship involving psychedelic plants and their use in

spiritual pursuits can be traced to the beginnings of
recorded history. The major role these plants played in the
formation of early religions has been documented by
several historians.
I think of going to the grave without having
a psychedelic experience like going to the
grave without ever having sex. It means
that you never figured out what it is all
about. The mystery is in the body and the
way the body works itself into nature.
-- Terence McKenna
Each person's mind and capacity for handling psychedelics
is different.
Psychedelics are not for everybody. Although most
psychedelic trips are experienced as beneficial, some
people have had experiences that left them disturbed
afterwards. The main reason for these negative experiences
is lack of preparation, rather than anything inherent in the
person or in the substance.

The other state of awareness is one which can be termed

conscious awareness, in which the sensory experience is
connected to meanings, plans, functions, decisions, and
possible actions. This is our normal way of perceiving and
how we usually go about our daily lives. We do not sense
the world directly, but with the incorporation of our
memories, meanings, and uses. In the state of pure
awareness objects are experienced as sensory qualities,
without the intrusion of interpretation. There are examples
of this in normal life. The sensation of sexual orgasm may
be (and hopefully is) experienced with pure awareness.
Natural beauty, such as flowers, mountains, oceans, and
sunsets, is sometimes experienced from a point of
awareness without adding conscious thinking.

5 Powerful Psychedelics
Out of the following psychedelics, I have found Salvia and
Ayahuasca to be the most powerful out of body
experiences (that can be recalled), and Cannabis to be the
most profound to alter daily thinking patterns when taken
consistently and with the aid of meditation.
**** CANNABIS ****

452

With this expansiveness which occurs after ingesting

cannabis, users may begin to notice infinite possibilities to
raise the quality of his/her life that would otherwise have
remained hidden from normal, defensive consciousness.
And feelings of health and happiness naturally lead to
hope, which of itself can be curative.

the most powerful natural psychedelic legally available

and capable of profound out-of-body experiences just by
simply chewing its leaves. Users should observe all
cautions with Salvia including appropriate sitters, safe
environments and education before ingestion. Its effects
can be traumatic for those who are unprepared.

For a person using marijuana for the first few times,

sensory changes occur sequentially, rather than all at once.
First they may notice increased brightness and clarity of
colors, then sounds, then visual structures, such as
paintings or designs. (Two dimensional photographs and
motion pictures may be seen in three dimensions on the
high, a perception which can be transferred to the normal
state under certain conditions.) Then proprioceptive
sensations may present themselves. Any order of the
effects may occur during one high state or several. Often
effects will develop to particular levels and then stabilize
without further elaboration.

Salvia divinorum is both similar to, and different from,

other drugs that affect the brain and behavior. In many
ways Salvia divinorum is a unique 'magical' herb. Salvia
(and the salvinorin it contains) is very difficult to
categorize pharmacologically. It does not fit well into any
existing pharmacological class. A very small and almost
insignificant amount of salvinorin can immediately propel
the user into an out of body experience. Once the
appropriate concentration of salvinorin is met, it takes only
seconds before the user is unable to verbally respond to a
sitter, and thus important that all dangerous objects and
physical obstacles be removed in the user's space. Most
users who are exposed to large doses have only slight
recall on what transpired in reality for up to 15 minutes
after the dose.

Cannabis can act as the loosening agent, so that whatever

has been banned from consciousness may come cascading
forth. To uncover our deceptions without our usual
rationalizations can be unpleasant, an experience that has
turned many psychologically fragile individuals away from
marijuana despite its therapeutic catharsis.

Most reports describe the use of this plant by Mazatec

shamans, and although it is just barely touched upon in the
anthropological literature, it is also reportedly used by their
immediately contiguous neighbors, the Cuicatecs and
Chinatecs. Given that the plant is quite easily propagated,
it is surprising that such an extraordinary herb is only
known of in such a geographically limited area. It seems
quite probable that it would have found its way to other
neighboring tribes through sharing and trade.

Intensity of sensory experience seems related to the total

proportion or amount of attention which is involved in the
process. If attention is used in conscious or unconscious
processes in making decisions, remembering, evaluating,
etc., then this much is removed from the awareness of the
sense experience. Thus it may be that one of the causes of
sensory enhancement under cannabis is that attention
energy moves from consciousness processes into
awareness processes, which amplifies the experience.

With a moderately strong dose of Salvia, consciousness

remains and some thought processes are still lucid, but one
becomes completely involved in inner experience and
loses all contact with consensual reality. Sometimes voices
may be heard. With eyes open contact with consensual
reality will not be entirely lost, but when you close your
eyes you may forget about consensus reality and enter
completely into a dreamlike scene. Shamanistic journeying
to other lands, foreign or imaginary; encounters with
beings, entities, spirits; or travels to other ages may occur.
You may even live the life of another person. At this level
you have entered the shaman's world.

Cannabis' contribution to the developing spirit is

cumulative. As bodily tensions are reduced mental fears
dissolve, clearing the way to greater insight. People who
try cannabis and reject it do so usually because they feel
uncomfortable and confused in altered, fuller
consciousness. Instead of life being safely framed by the
rigidity of the societal dogma, the wold becomes
unfamiliarly bigger, brighter, fuller, yet less manageable,
more unpredictable and full of mystery. A mind that has
been bound and accustomed to a low charge or a selling
without light very often finds the expansiveness of reality
too highly energized. The light can be blinding and
disorienting. Over time, and with regular intake, when
these higher states of seeing are no longer the focal point
of attention, a restructuring of values may emerge.
**** SALVIA ****
Given the right dose, individual, set and setting, Salvia
Divinorum produces a unique state of 'divine inebriation'
which has been traditionally used by Mazatec healers. It is

453

Individuality may be lost; one experiences merging with

God/dess, mind, universal consciousness, or bizarre
fusions with other objects real or imagined, e.g. merging
with a wall may be experienced. At this level it is
impossible to function in consensual reality, but
unfortunately some people do not remain still but move
around in this befuddled state. For this reason a sitter is
essential to ensure the safety of someone voyaging to the
inner levels. To the person experiencing this, the
phenomenon may be terrifying or exceedingly pleasant;
but to an outside observer the individual may appear
confused or disoriented.

paintings of mushroom-ed humanoids have been found in

caves in the Saharan desert. Central and Southern America
cultures built temples to mushroom gods and carved
"mushroom stones". These stone carvings in the shape of
mushrooms, or in which figures are depicted under the cap
of a mushroom, have been dated to as early as 1000-500
B.C. The purpose of the sculptures is not certain, but these
stones may have been religious objects.

The dose can be well moderated by using an extract and

users can enjoy a variety of intensities by simple
sublingual application.

In mathematical terms, normal brains have a well-ordered

correlation state. Theres not much cross-linking between
networks. That changes after the psilocybin dose.
Suddenly the networks are cross-linking like crazy, but not
in random ways. New types of order emerge.

The effects leave users in a high state of euphoria. They

are mood enhancing, general happiness, insightful ideas
and sense of creative energy.

What is especially important during a Salvia trip is to not

talk to the user unless it is requested and preferably
shutdown all electronic devices including television, phone
and music and they can create disruptions during the
experience. Salvia is not a party drug and requires a
responsible support person or group by the user's side at all
times.

We can speculate on the implications of

such an organization, wrote researchers,
who were led by neurobiologist Paul Expert
of Kings College London. One possible
by-product of this greater communication
across the whole brain is the phenomenon
of
synaesthesia
common
during
psychedelic experiences, of sensory mixup: tasting colors, feeling sounds, seeing
smells, and so on.

What is interesting is that a surprisingly large proportion of

salvia users report a type of afterglow which persists. It
typically involves mood elevation, an overall sense of well
being, and often a fresh outlook on life which can linger
for several days (or longer) after the experience. This
phenomenon seems to be quite common. For many mood
elevation can last between one and three days.

While the psychedelic state has been previously compared

with dreaming, the opposite effect has been observed in
the brain network from which we get our sense of self
(called the default-mode network or ego-system). Put
simply, while activity became louder in the emotion
system, it became more disjointed and so quieter in the
ego system.

**** PSILOCYBIN (MAGIC MUSHROOMS) ****

Ingesting these types of mushrooms has a strong
hallucinogenic effect that begins to affect the user within
20-30 minutes. Early effects of the active ingredients in
mushrooms, psilocybin, psilocin, and baeocystin, are
broken down into psilocin once they have been taken. The
initial feelings are described as mild anxiety or
anticipatory sensations. Entire physical body sensation of
energy or mild electricity running through the body is
common.

The first study, published in Proceedings of the National

Academy of Sciences in 2012, revealed decreases in brain
activity after injection of psilocybin that were localized to
the default-mode network.
This finding was exciting because it synched with the idea
that psychedelics cause temporary ego dissolution, in
other words diminishing ones sense of having a firm and
enduring personality. New research adds to our
understanding about how this happens.
A study that examined brain scans of people under the
influence of psilocybin found that it reduces activity in
certain areas of the brain. That reduction of activity leads
to the drugs effect on cognition and memory.
Psychedelics, and psilocybin in particular, might actually
be eliminating what could be called the extra noise in the
brain.

Hallucinogenic mushrooms have been part of human

culture as far back as the earliest recorded history. Ancient

Psychiatry professor Matthew Johnson, who works at

Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, presented

454

the preliminary results of a pilot feasibility study looking

at the ability of psilocybin to treat smoking addiction at the
2013 Psychedelic Science conference in Oakland, Calif.
For the study, five cigarette-addicted participants
underwent placebo-controlled psilocybin treatment with a
psychiatrist. All five completely quit smoking after their
first psilocybin session. At all followup visits, which
occurred up to one year later for the first four participants,
it was biologically confirmed that the participants had
abstained from cigarettes.

Gabor Mate, a medical doctor from Vancouver who is a

prominent ayahuasca researcher, contends that therapy
assisted by psychedelics, and ayahuasca in particular, can
untangle complex, unconscious psychological stresses. He
claims these stresses underlie and contribute to all chronic
medical conditions, from cancer and addiction to
depression and multiple sclerosis.
The results of the first North American observational study
on the safety and long-term effectiveness of ayahuasca
treatment for addiction and dependence were published in
June 2013 in the journal Current Drug Abuse Reviews. All
of the participants in the study reported positive and lasting
changes, and the study found statistically significant
improvements

It should be noted that like all 'major' hallucinogens,

psilocybin can precipitate psychotic episodes and uncover
or aggravate previous mental illness. If you're stressed out
or depressed, don't take mushrooms; if you have
schizophrenia, DO NOT take mushrooms.

for scales assessing hopefulness,

empowerment, mindfulness, and quality of
life meaning and outlook subscales. Selfreported alcohol, tobacco and cocaine use
declined, although cannabis and opiate use
did not.

For exhaustingly exhaustive and thoroughly technical

descriptions of most Psilocybes, the reader is referred to
Psilocybin Mushrooms of the World by Paul Stamets,
Singer & Smith: Mycologia 58, 263-303 and H0iland:
Norw J Botany 25(2), 111-122.

The reported reductions in problematic cocaine use were

also statistically significant.

**** AYAHUASCA ****

Ayahuasca is a brew prepared with the Banisteriopsis
caapi vine, originally used for spiritual and healing
purposes in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest. Peru's
government claimed that consumption of the "teacher" or
"wisdom plant "constitutes the gateway to the spiritual
world and its secrets, which is why traditional Amazon
medicine has been structured around the ayahuasca ritual"
Though scientific evidence of the clinical benefits of
ayahuasca is limited, advocates say it has become
increasingly popular as a tool to treat post-traumatic stress
disorder (PTSD), depression, and addictions.
"Most people seek ayahuasca with good
intentions - they are not thrill-seeking but
are curious, serious - or have specific
issues such as depression," says botanist
Prof Dennis McKenna, from the University
of Minnesota.

It is a ritualistic learning process that is becoming

increasingly popular across the globe, with people
exploring their personal development through the
introspective nature of the hallucinogenic experience,
according to the International Center for Ethnobotanical
Education, Research & Service (ICEERS).

The vine is usually mixed with leaves containing the

psychedelic compound DMT (diemethyltryptamine). It
causes hallucinogenic experiences, and is made up of a
chemical compound that already occurs within the human
body endogenously (as well as in a number of plants). This
means our brains are naturally set up to process the
compound because it has receptors that exist specifically to
do so.

**** LSD ****

LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is a naturally occurring
alkaloid extracted from the fungus Ergot which can grow
on rye and other grains. It is among the most potent, mood
changing chemicals. It is odorless, colorless, and has a
slightly bitter taste. From a chemical perspective, LSD in
its pure, unadulterated form, is relatively safe, and
although it varies from person to person, it has no serious
physiological effects. "Man-made" LSD or "street acid" on

Some research based on near-death experiences points to

the fact that the brain releases DMT during death. Some
researchers have also conjectured that DMT is released
during other intense experiences, including orgasm.

455

reported a personal benefit from the

treatment, and the effects were stable over
time.

the other hand is manufactured with combinations of

poisons (usually strychnine, a rat killer) and should be
avoided at all costs. Unlike cannabis, LSD highs can last
much longer--usually over six hours and in some cases
more than twelve hours on different "street acids" which
can be problematic for those experiencing "bad trips."

LSD reduces connectivity within brain networks, or the

extent to which nerve cells or neurons within a network
fire in synchrony. LSD also seems to reduce the extent to
which separate brain networks remain distinct in their
patterns or synchronization of firing. Overall, LSD
interferes with the patterns of activation in the different
brain networks that underlie human thought and behavior.

Note that the extraction of LSD from Ergot is complex and

requires skills that are well-versed in chemistry (do not
initiate your own experiments).

Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris and his colleagues at Imperial

College London did sequential brain scans of 20 healthy
volunteers over 6 hours, using functional magnetic
resonance imaging (fMRI), which maps brain activity by
detecting changes in blood flow, and magnetoencephalography (MEG), a technique that images brain
function by recording magnetic fields produced by
electrical currents occurring in the brain.

LSD is known to cause changes in consciousness,

including ego-dissolution, or a loss of the sense of self.
Despite a detailed knowledge of the action of LSD at
specific serotonin receptors, it has not been understood
how these pharmacological effects can translate into such a
profound effect on consciousness.

Dr. Carhart-Harris suggests that with better assessment

tools available today than in the 1950s and 1960s, it may
be possible to evaluate potential uses of LSD as a
treatment for addiction and other disorders, such as
treatment-resistant depression which we are currently
investigating with a similar drug to LSD. LSD also may
provide a useful human model of psychosis, as it leads to
changes in brain network behavior that shows overlap with
the early phase of psychosis.

It is capable of producing a full range of low and high

level hallucinatory states in a fashion that is significantly
less consistent and reproducible than that of many other
commonly used psychedelics.
Although LSD is technically capable of producing
hallucinatory states in a fashion that is on par with other
powerful psychelics, including vividness and intensity,
these effects are extremely rare and inconsistent in
comparison. This lack of consistently induced
hallucinatory breakthroughs means that for most, LSD is
simply not as deep of an experience as certain other
psychedelics. On the rare occasion that they are induced
however, they can be comprehensively described in terms
of their variations as lucid in believability, interactive in
style, new experiences in content, autonomous in
controllability and geometry-based in appearance.

"I see the true importance of LSD in the

possibility of providing material aid to
meditation aimed at the mystical
experience of a deeper, comprehensive
reality. Such a use accords entirely with the
essence and working character of LSD as
a sacred drug." Dr Albert Hofmann, the
founder of LSD.
"... LSD is best understood as a powerful
unspecific amplifier, or catalyst, of mental
processes, which facilitates the emergence
of unconscious material from different
levels of the human psyche."' Dr Stan Grof,
Esalen Institute.

The Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease published

results from the first study of LSDs therapeutic potential
in humans to appear in more than four decades. The
controlled, double-blind study, which was conducted in
Switzerland under the direction of Swiss psychiatrist Peter
Gasser, measured the impact of LSD-assisted
psychotherapy on 12 people with life-threatening diseases
(mainly terminal cancer).

Although I don't recommend trying LSD without a trained

professional guiding you through the process, if you are
absolutely determined to ignore this advice, the following
video gives sensible guidelines on how to prepare for and
manage an LSD trip.

The study was a success in the sense that

we did not have any noteworthy adverse
effects, Gasser says. All participants

Sources:
benefitsofmarijuana.com
thegooddrugsguide.com
psychonautwiki.org
slate.com
scienceandnonduality.com

wired.com
bbc.com
scienceblog.com
nd.gov.hk
erowid.org

456

Grape Seed Extract More Effective Than

Chemotherapy In Advanced Cancer
By Jonathan Landsman
December 21, 2015
continues to push chemotherapy and radiation as the only
hope for cancer patients.
There are many ways to naturally cure cancer. The
NaturalHealth365 INNER CIRCLE offers over 300
audio/video programs (and counting!) plus over 200
integrative healthcare providers talking about natural ways
to detoxify the body and boost immune function.
Learn more about the NaturalHealth365 INNER CIRCLE
and how to reverse cancer naturally - visit:

(NaturalNews) For patients facing a diagnosis of lifethreatening cancer, the recommended cure can often be as
potentially harmful to health as the disease itself. But for
many of these patients, scientific research shows a natural
treatment using grape seed extract may hold the key to
slowing the growth of cancer cells without the dangerous
and deadly side effects of chemotherapy and radiation.

http://www.naturalnews.com/innercirclespecial.html
Let's face the truth: There is substantial evidence that
cancer patients suffer greatly when undergoing these
treatments, including increased incidence of organ
damage, premature aging, sexual dysfunction, neuropathy,
cancer recurrence and secondary cancers, dental problems,
diabetes, endocrine changes, fatigue, hypothyroidism,
memory loss and incontinence, among other conditions.

In fact, some of the very traits that allow certain cancer

cells to resist traditional therapies may make them
particularly susceptible to treatment using natural grape
seed extract. In fact, findings suggest that the benefits
grow with more advanced stages of cancer.

By contrast, there is no evidence of harmful side effects

from the use of grape seed extract. Of course, the obvious
must be said, grape seed extract should never be
considered the 'only way' to treat cancer. To successfully
overcome a cancer diagnosis one must develop a
comprehensive approach to remove unwanted toxins,
nourish the body with high-quality nutrients and, of
course, address any other physical, mental or emotional
issues such as dental problems, systemic infections or
chronic issues of anger.

Conventional 'treatments' will never cure cancer

This is not wishful thinking: grape seed extract benefits
hold clinical significance. Unfortunately, cancer patients
are often pushed to begin radical and invasive procedures
including surgery, radiation and chemotherapy
immediately following a diagnosis of cancer. And, sadly,
fear tactics are often used to rush people into risky
(ineffective) procedures which are known to cause
secondary cancers later in life.

Great news for cancer patients: Natural, lifesaving

alternatives are available today
In the journal Cancer Letters, a December 2012 article
uncovered that grape seed extract was effective against
colorectal cancer in experiments using cultured cancer
cells. It also noted that grape seed extract benefits
increased with the higher stages of cancer.

To be perfectly clear, although a majority of healthcare

providers tout the "importance" of conventional care, there
is little evidence that undergoing these harmful procedures
can actually halt or even slow the progression of cancer
cells.
In fact, a study published back in 2003 showed that
chemotherapy was ineffective a startling 97 percent of the
time. Later studies found that chemotherapy caused critical
damage to the DNA of healthy cells and that some cancertreatment drugs actually caused cancer tumors to grow,
sometimes at an alarming rate. Despite the growing
mountain of evidence, the mainstream medical community

Researchers at the University of Colorado Skaggs School

of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, tested
the impact of grape seed extract in colorectal cancer cell
lines at several stages of the disease. They noted an
increase in a number of the anticancer mechanisms found

457

within grape seed extract with increasing cancer stages. In

contrast, chemotherapy has been found to be of
diminishing effectiveness with advanced stages of cancer.

trained physicians share this information with their cancer

patients?' Because it would threaten their livelihood and,
even if they did say something, they could lose their
medical license for suggesting a non-conventional
approach.

It has been known for some time that the bioactive

compounds found in grape seed extract have the ability to
selectively target certain types of cancer cells. The 2012
study showed that many of the same mutations enabling
colorectal cancer cells to metastasize and resist
conventional therapies are the very facets that make them
sensitive to treatment with grape seed extract.

The study, mentioned earlier in this article focusing on

colorectal cancer, showed that less than half the
concentration of grape seed extract was needed to kill 50
percent of stage IV cells as was necessary to realize similar
results at stage II cancer.
It is believed that, unlike chemotherapy which
traditionally targets only a specific mutation grape seed
extract is able to target multiple mutations. In fact, the
more mutations found in a case of cancer, the more
effective grape seed extract can be in treating the
cancerous cells.

Learn how to defeat cancer naturally. The

NaturalHealth365 INNER CIRCLE offers the best in
natural cancer therapies from many of the top cancer
experts in the world.
To learn more - visit:

It is not unusual, for example, to find that a colorectal

cancer cell exhibits upwards of 11,000 genetic mutations.
Because of this, cancer can quickly become resistant to
conventional treatments able to target only a very limited
number of mutations.

http://www.naturalnews.com/innercirclespecial.html
A similar study published earlier in the journal
Carcinogenesis found that in both cell lines and mouse
models, grape seed extract killed head and neck squamous
cell carcinoma cells, without harming nearby healthy cells.
In that published paper, the authors noted that grape seed
extract created an environment unfavorable to cancer cell
growth.

The findings provide new hope for cancer patients, many

of which will not be diagnosed until an advanced stage of
the disease when chemotherapy is least effective. Unlike
the harmful effects documented with conventional
treatments, the researchers did not see any harmful effects
of grape seed extract.

A study published later, in January 2013, in the journal

Nutrition and Cancer, found that grape seed extract was
also effective in treating prostate cancers, while a January
2014 published study showed grape seed extract to be
effective against certain types of lung cancer.

Learn more about how to naturally eliminate cancer

safely and effectively. The NaturalHealth365 INNER
CIRCLE provides the best information about anticancer
nutrition, supplementation, detoxification, testing and nontoxic, treatment options. Reduce your risk of disease and
boost immune function now.

Conventional oncology will never admit the truth about

natural cancer therapies
Positive effects, using grape seed extract, have been shown
to multiply with increasing stages of cancer. Naturally,
many people would wonder, 'why don't conventionally-

458

9 Reasons You Need To Be

Supplementing With Vitamin D
Posted By: Lori Alton, Staff Writer
December 18, 2015
Here are nine reasons why you should be taking adequate
doses of vitamin D on a regular basis to realize the full
slate of vitamin D benefits:
1. Prevent osteoporosis and bone loss: Vitamin D has
long been associated with prevention of osteoporosis
and bone loss. As in most cases, consistency in
taking supplemental vitamin D over a long period of
time will yield the best protection against bone loss.

(NaturalHealth365) If you are relying on a multivitamin

supplement to meet your need for vitamin D, think again.
A quick glance at package labels shows most popular
multivitamin supplements do not even come close to
providing the amount of vitamin D necessary to achieve
maximum health benefits and reduce the risk of disease.

2. Reduced incidence of mortality in hospital patients:

A 2009 study published in the New England Journal of
Medicine found a Vitamin D deficiency resulted in
nearly 3-times more patients dying in the ICU. A later
study reported in 2015 showed similar results, with
patients deficient in vitamin D dying about 2.4 times
as often as those with adequate levels.

Most readily available commercial multivitamins contain

only about 400 to 600 IU of vitamin D. Yet, extensive
research has shown that vitamin D intake in the range of
5,000 to 8,000 IU each day, taken with a meal for better
absorption, has been associated with reduced risk of
stroke, multiple sclerosis and other conditions.

Providing ICU patients with high doses of vitamin D

after admission to the ICU did not always result in a
better outcome, however. This would suggest that its
important to maintain adequate blood levels of vitamin
D on a consistent basis.

Editors note: The NaturalHealth365 Store

offers the highest quality vitamin D/K2
liquid supplement on the market. Click
here to order today.

3. Linked to multiple sclerosis (MS): Research has

found more than 90 percent of MS patients are
deficient in vitamin D, showing blood levels below 20
ng/mL. Vitamin D can intervene with the immune cells
known to attack the myelin sheath, a hallmark in those
suffering from MS. When these cells were exposed to
vitamin D, MS progression was noticeably slowed.

The connection between low vitamin D levels and bone

loss
The relationship between loss of bone density and low
vitamin D status has become common knowledge for most
people. But, while reducing osteoporosis risk is important,
there is a long list of other protective health benefits this
low-cost vitamin can impact.

4. Memory loss: A study published in JAMA Neurology

showed that older adults with low vitamin D levels are
likely losing their memories and ability to think at a
rate faster than expected. This is particularly true
when it comes to memory loss associated with
Alzheimers disease and dementia.

Numerous scientific studies have shown that vitamin D

blood levels ranging from 50 to 80 ng/mL are associated
with reduced risk of death and a lower incidence of many
common diseases. A significant quantity of published
studies show an association between insufficient or
deficient 25-hydroxyvitamin D blood levels and greater
risks of chronic inflammation, vascular disease and even
cancer.

5. Reduced risk of cancers: The inflammatory cytokine

Interleukin-6 has been linked to several types of
cancer. A significant study found that when
overweight subjects were provided with vitamin D as
well as a weight-loss program, there was significant
reduction in Interleukin-6 cells.

459

6. Reduced risk of schizophrenia: An imbalance of

dopamine is believed to be the cause of
schizophrenia. The vitamin D receptor emerges in the
brain stem about the same time as the peak period of
dopamine cell birth in rat embryos.

the leading reason for serious long-term disability.

Numerous studies have found optimal vitamin D
levels decrease stroke risk as well as the odds of
permanent disability if stroke does occur. One of
these studies found that for each 10 ng/mL decrement
in vitamin D, the chance of a poor 90-day post stroke
functional outcome was found to have doubled.

7. Linked to attention deficient hyperactive disorder

(ADHD): Research analyzing vitamin D blood levels in
1,650 mothers showed that for each 10 ng/mL
increment in vitamin D levels, their children had 11
percent fewer ADHD-like symptoms.

9. Important for gestational development: The vitamin

D receptors in the brain stem have been associated
with embryonic development of rats in the lab. This
reinforces the idea that vitamin D is important for
gestational development, with a deficiency possibly
leading to impaired growth of the fetus.

8. Improved functional outcome post-stroke: With 40

percent of all victims experiencing debilitating
conditions ranging from moderate to severe, stroke is
References:

http://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2016/1/in-the-news/page-01
http://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2016/1/why-isnt-everyone-supplementing-with-vitamin-d/page-01

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Healthy Nuts: Pecans vs Walnuts

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 19, 2015
for nutrient, pecans have the edge. Heres a table to help
you decide for yourself.
Nutrient

For their role in heart and cardiovascular health, walnuts

have received a great deal of attention in recent years.
However, they arent the only healthy nut option around.
When it comes to nutrition, pecans can go toe-to-toe with
walnuts in the way they protect the heart and mind, support
weight loss, and promote weight management. In fact,
pecans may even have the edge over walnuts as the
healthier nut

Walnuts (14
Pecans (19 halves)
halves)

Water

1.15g

1g

Calories

185kcal

196kcal

Protein

4.32g

2.6g

Total Fat

18.49g

20.4g

Carbohydrates

3.89g

3.93g

Fiber

1.9g

2.7g

Sugars

0.74g

1.13g

Minerals

Pecans vs Walnut Breakdown

In one corner, we have pecans. In every ounce, or about 19
pecan halves, you consume just under 200 calories. That
same ounce delivers nearly 27% of your recommended
daily intake of heart healthy mono- and polyunsaturated
fats. A single ounce serving of pecans is low in carbs
weighing in at 3.93g, or about 1% your daily value. One
ounce does, however, provide 5% of your daily protein
recommendation. Plus, pecans are also loaded with
vitamins A, B, and E, potassium, magnesium, immuneboosting zinc, and powerful antioxidants.
In the other corner, we have walnuts. One ounce of
walnuts has 185 calories, 24% of your unsaturated fats
with heart-protecting omega-3 fatty acids, 3.89 carbs per
ounce, and a whopping 9% of your daily protein. Like
pecans, walnuts feature vitamins A, E, and B vitamins like
folate. Theyre also mineral rich with important
antioxidants.

Calcium, Ca

28mg

20mg

Iron, Fe

0.82mg

0.72mg

Magnesium, Mg

45mg

34mg

Phosphorus, P

98mg

79mg

Potassium, K

125mg

116mg

Sodium, Na

1mg

0mg

Zinc, Zn

0.88mg

1.28mg

Vitamins

Nutritional Facts: Head to Head

How do pecans and walnuts stack up head-to-head?
Walnuts get a lot of press, but I think youll see nutrient

461

Vitamin C, total ascorbic

acid

0.4mg

0.3mg

Thiamin

0.097mg

0.187mg

Riboflavin

0.043mg

0.037mg

Niacin

0.319mg

0.331mg

Health Benefits of Nuts

Vitamin B-6

0.152mg

0.06mg

Folate, DFE

28g

6g

Vitamin B-12

0g

0g

Vitamin A, RAE

0g

1g

Raw walnuts, pecans, and even chestnuts deliver the

highest value of antioxidants of the edible nuts. [1] With
their vitamins and minerals, they make for a nutritious
snack loaded with amazing benefits for your health. The
Harvard Gazette reported men and women who ate these
and other healthy nuts daily were 20% more likely to live
longer and were more slender and trim than those who
didnt. [2] Heres what they can do for you:

Vitamin A, IU

6IU

16IU

Vitamin E

0.2mg

0.4mg

Vitamin D (D2 + D3)

0g

0g

Vitamin D

0IU

0IU

Vitamin K

0.8g

1g

Lipids
Fatty acids, total saturated

1.737g

1.752g

Fatty acids, total

monounsaturated

2.533g

11.567g

Protect your heart with omega-3s and polyunsaturated

fats.
Improve blood flow.
Support weight loss and staying thin. [3]
Slow aging antioxidants like vitamin E prevent free
radical damage.
Discourage inflammation.
According to some studies, nuts may slow the spread
and maybe even the formation of breast cancer. [4]
Researchers at UC-Davis suggests the omega-3s in
walnuts along with other of its nutrients may offer some
protection against prostate cancer. [5]
Supply your brain with essential nutrients to stay sharp
as you age.
Keep your bones strong.

One Final Thought

Fatty acids, total

polyunsaturated

13.374g

6.128g

Cholesterol

0mg

0mg

Caffeine

0mg

0mg

When it comes to pecans or walnuts, you cant go wrong.

They make healthy snacks (or pies!) and add flavor to any
meal. Theyre both loaded with vitamins, minerals,
antioxidants, and essential fatty elements that nourish your
body and support healthy weight as compared to processed
foods. Lastly, vegetarians and vegans can get the protein
they need by eating these healthy nuts daily.

462

10 Reasons To Choose Grass Fed Dairy Cheese

Written By Gina Badalaty For Mamavation
December 20, 2015
conventional milk farms that do not use rBGH from
putting that on the label meaning you have no way to
know if its in your milk unless you buy organic. And how
is mastitis treated? With antibiotics, of course.
3. No Antibiotics Used on Organic
Cows.
Conventional dairy cows raised in large-scale farming
operations are treated with antibiotics for both disease
prevention and for promoting growth, rather than just for
treating illness. A study published by the Stanford
University School of Medicine in October, 2014 shows
that this increased antibiotic usage may actually be
spreading Salmonella bacteria among cows and livestock.
The USDA Organic label guarantees that antibiotics
cannot be used on an animal. If a cow does get sick, they
can be treated with antibiotics but then must be removed
from organic production.

Cheese is the ultimate snack for your family. Full of

calcium and healthy fats, its convenient to pack in a lunch
box or top a sandwich. But when youre shopping for
cheese for your family, there are a lot of choices: grass fed,
organic and conventional. We tend to think that an organic
product is better than conventional cheese, but is grass fed
dairy cheese worth the additional cost? We think so. Here
are the the top 10 reasons that organic cheese mad with
grass fed dairy is a better choice for your family

4. Grain Fed Cows are More Susceptible

to E. coli Outbreaks.
A cows system was not developed to digest grains, but
grasses. Organic Consumers Association writer Jo
Robinson explains that when cows eat grains instead of
grass, their stomachs become more acidic and acid
resistant bacteria begin to grow. In other words, it throws
their gut out of balance making them vulnerable to E. coli
food poisoning, which can get passed to human milk
drinkers.

1. No GMOs or Synthetic Pesticides and

Herbicides Used in Organic Cow Feed
or Pastures.
Weve written before about the dangers of the glyphosate
found in these products, as well as the potential dangers of
GMOs. Grass fed and USDA Organic cows are not
exposed to these toxins, so you can feel safer feeding
organic cheese to your family.

5. Less Frequency of Contagious

Illnesses Among Grass Fed Dairy Cows.
When free-range dairy cows are farmed without antibiotics
and rBGH and provided a high standard of animal welfare,
that your milk is much safer from the dangers of
Salmonella and other contaminants with risk factors for
cancer and other illnesses.

2. No Growth Hormones (rBGH) Used on

Organic Cows.
Those conventional dairy cows are usually given rBGH, a
growth hormone that increases milk production. However,
it also causes problems in the cows, including mastitis.
According to Robyn OBrien writing at BreastCancer.org,
this condition is a painful infection that causes cows to
pump out bacteria and pus, along with milk. Not only
that, but rBGH produces a chemical that has been linked to
breast cancer. Several states have passed bills preventing

6. Higher Conjugated Linoleic Acid

(CLA) Benefits from Grass Fed Dairy
Cows.

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10. Grass Fed, Organic Cheese Tastes

Better.

CLA is a beneficial fatty acid that has been linked to loss

of body fat, as well as possibly preventing cancer. A study
from the Harvard School of Public Health also shows that
people with high concentrations of CLA had a lower risk
of heart attack. While CLA is available in supplement
form and in conventional milk, grass fed dairy cheese
benefits from a naturally higher level of CLA, giving you a
more potent bang for your caloric intake.

I know this is a matter of personal opinion, but as a long

time cheese aficionado, I had all but given up on eating it.
My kids are dairy free, and dairy free cheese is just
unpalatable to me. I recently tried some organic grass fed
cheese and now I am hooked! Without all the processed
nonsense that you can find in a conventional bar of cheese,
organic grass fed cheese is hearty, delicious and smooth
a snack I no longer feel any guilt about.

7. Increased Omega-3 Benefits from

Grass Fed Dairy.
Studies show that grass fed dairy has higher concentrations
of healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your
heart and brain. In fact, grass fed dairy may even boast a
better Omega-3 to Omega-6 ratio (4:1 or less, compared to
7:1 or more), according to this article at The Worlds
Healthiest Foods. These fatty acids are essential to the
body and are healthy when properly balanced, but most
Americans have too much Omega-6 in their bodies, putting
their health in jeopardy.

The Verdict? Grass Fed Dairy is Better!

While most organic farmers in the U.S. struggle to
maintain organic standards for their cows, that is not true
in Europe. If you want to choose a cheese that you are sure
is 100% GMO free and humanely raised, we recommend
Kingdom Cheese. Grass fed as well as certified organic by
both the USDA and the British Soil Association, Kingdom
Cheese dairy cows are farmed the U.K., where GMO crops
are prohibited. Kingdoms farmers are also part of the
largest organic cooperative in the U.K., which has strict
standards of humane treatment for all farmed animals.

8. More Nutrients in Grass Fed Dairy.

According to Prevention Magazine, another benefit of
grass fed dairy is that it contains a bigger diversity of
nutrients including vitamins A, D, and B-12. It also
contains other vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients and
antioxidants in addition to calcium and protein.

If youve forgone cheese for a long time, this may be your

chance to welcome a healthier, safer option and experience
the benefits of cheese made with organic, grass fed dairy.
It never tasted so good!

9. Grass Fed, Organic Farms Tend to

Raise Cows Humanely.
Cows that are raised according to USDA organic standards
and are grass fed are more likely to be treated humanely
than cows from conventional dairy farms.

464

5 Heart Healthy Foods

By Daily Superfood Love
December 23, 2015
Your heart, the most important muscle, works tirelessly to
transport nutrient rich blood throughout your body.
Its role is absolutely vital and since cardiovascular disease
is the number one cause of death worldwide, giving your
heart a little extra tender loving care can benefit you for
years and decades to come.
In the United States nearly one in every three deaths is due
to heart disease.
While the number of deaths from cardiovascular disease
has dropped in recent years, it still claims almost 1 million
people each year, and in many of these cases, simple
dietary changes could have prevented death.

Heart Healthy Foods

Heres some of our favorite superfoods that do double duty
as heart healthy foods

High cholesterol puts one at an increased risk for heart

problems, and often times those who suffer from high
cholesterol levels are prescribed a statin drug to combat
this issue.
The problem with this approach is that statin drugs are
generally only effective for people afflicted with
hypercholesterolemia, a genetic defect.
For everyone else, statin drugs may actually increase your
risk for heart disease. A study completed in 2012 and
published in Atherosclerosis, detailed the effects of statin
drugs prescribed to people with high cholesterol and found
that statins may not always be the best solution.

Garlic has been shown to help reduce

hardening of the aorta, which promotes
optimal blood flow by preventing
blockages. Typically, blockages that
develop in the arteries greatly limit the
amount of blood that can flow freely. This
forces the heart to work harder.

Heart disease can be identified by a number of warning

signs, including:

Chest pain
Shortness of breath
Fainting

By adding garlic to your diet, you can actively fight

against hardening arteries. In addition, garlic is known to
help naturally lower LDL cholesterol, or bad cholesterol.

If you have any of these symptoms, it may be a good time

to see a doctor. A medical professional can provide you
with the knowledge youll need to change your lifestyle
and improve your heart health.
Fortunately there are simple, heart healthy foods that you
can easily add to your diet to improve your hearts ability
to function.
Pomegranates contain high levels of
antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamin C,

465

which help the body produce nitric oxide.

Nitric oxide is a vasodilator that opens up
the arteries, allowing more blood to pass
through.

Turmeric is a spice native to India with a

lot of power. It contains a fascinating
compound called curcumin, which helps to
ward off inflammation and keep blood
vessels healthy. Preventing inflammation is
one of the best ways to stop blockages
from developing in your blood vessels.

The vasodilating effects of pomegranates were thoroughly

studied, with the results being published in the Proceedings
of the National Academy of Sciences in 2005. This
definitely makes pomegranates a sweet way to treat your
heart.

Cocoa contains flavanols, which are antiinflammatory

antioxidants.
These
antioxidants may help defend against heart
disease by improving circulation, reducing
bad cholesterol, and preventing the
hardening of arteries.

Salmon is a great source of heart loving

omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s like
eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and
docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) help to
increase HDL cholesterol the healthy
cholesterol.

Cocoa can even thin your blood and prevent clotting, much
like aspirin. There are so many other benefits of
consuming cocoa that go beyond heart health.

This allows your body to lower levels of triglycerides and

fight inflammation. Since inflammation is the start of
nearly all chronic diseases. This eases the strain placed on
your heart and allows blood to flow throughout the body
uninhibited.

The best thing about these heart healthy foods, is that they
can be found at any grocery store. So improving your
cardiovascular health can be as easy as adding these
superfoods to your cart the next time you go shopping.
Try adding some pomegranate juice in a fruit smoothie, or
buy dark chocolate bar with at 65% cacao content for
dessert. Start your day off right and season your morning
eggs with turmeric. The possibilities are endless.
By being good to your heart and limiting the stresses you
place on it, you can prolong your life and boost your
overall health for years and decades to come!

466

6 Horrifying Facts About Chickens:

A Wake-Up Call For The Meat Industry (VIDEO)
By: Yelena Sukhoterina, AltHealthWorks
December 22, 2015

Today about 9 billion chickens are raised for food in the

U.S. annually, a staggering 1400% increase from 50 years
ago. Back then, the chicken were raised by more than 1.6
million independent farmers, while today less than 30,000
farms many of them concentrated factory farms raise
billions of chickens.

Given that the nervous system of a

chicken originates during the 21st hour of
incubation, and that a chick has a fully
developed nervous system at the time of
hatching, it is reasonable to conclude, as a
fact of neurophysiology, that the chicks are
suffering extreme pain as they are being
cut up by macerator blades, said Dr.
Karen Davis, the founder and president of
United Poultry Concerns.

As you may have guessed, this increase has brought a ton

of unintended consequences. Most people dont realize it,
but a simple chicken dinner from the grocery store could
have any of these 6 horrifying backstories attached to it:
200 Million Baby Chicks Are Killed As Soon As
Hatched

Human Medicine Antibiotic Use in Chickens

Just like with pigs and cattle, factory farmers often use
antibiotics for growing more animals as cheaply as
possible, according to the NPR. Many of these antibiotics
are used in human medicine, and using them on animals
have caused millions of people to get sick with antibioticresistant bacteria. According to the CDC, a lot of antibiotic
use in animals is unnecessary.

Annually it has been estimated that 200 million baby

chicks are killed, many ground up alive, as soon as they
hatch. The only reason? Theyre male and therefore
useless for egg production.
In the past they were killed by asphyxiation with carbon
dioxide, but the American Veterinary Medical Association
recently added grinding to the list of acceptable ways to
kill them. The chicks are not anesthetized before going
through a grinder alive, according to this post from
Discovery.

Recently a few companies have announced that they will

stop using antibiotics that are used in human medicine, but
will keep using other antibiotics such as ionophores.
Chickens are 4X Bigger Today Compared to 1940s

A non-profit Mercy for Animals recorded this undercover

video (also below) of Hy-Line egg factory in Iowa, where
factory workers threw live male chickens into the grinder.

Researchers at the University of Alberta found that

chickens are four times bigger today than they used to be
in the late 1940s. While they are claiming that the

467

difference is due to selective breeding only (which may be

true for the specific groups of chickens they have studied),
there might be more to this picture.

improperly handling raw meat. Consumers Reports suggest

the following tips: put chicken in plastic bag while
shopping in the store, buy chicken last so it does not get
warm while you are shopping, wash chicken before
cooking it, use a cutting board designated for raw meat,
and wash your hands after handling the meat.

It is illegal to use growth-hormones on chickens, however,

use of other drugs that can promote growth is not illegal.
In 2011 FDA announced that Pfizer will no longer sell 3Nitro drug (Roxarsone) that was added to chicken feed and
helped the chickens to gain weight. The halt of sale was
due to inorganic arsenic being found in the chickens.
Roxarsone was banned alongside carbarsone and arsanilic
acid. The fourth drug that causes weight gain, Nitarsone, is
still on the market, but there is a pending withdrawal of its
approval of use by the FDA. All four drugs cause chickens
to gain weight, but all four became controversial over a
different reason arsenic levels in chickens who ate these
drugs in their food. Which brings us to our next topic:
arsenic.
Levels of Inorganic Arsenic in Chicken

Chicken Waste Is Contaminating Our Water

John Hopkins University published a study in 2013 about

levels of inorganic arsenic found in chicken, which raised
health concerns. According to the Food Safety News,
FDAs Center for Veterinary Medicine determined that the
safe level of inorganic arsenic is 1 part per billion (ppb).
Samples of chicken meat from the study found 1.8 ppb of
arsenic in chicken raised with antibiotics. All types
chicken still contains arsenic even if the level is low by
the FDA standards. Antibiotic-free chicken measured at
0.77 ppb, and organic chicken measured at 0.6 ppb of
inorganic arsenic.
97% of Chicken Breasts
Contaminated With Bacteria

Figuring out what to with the waste of billions of chickens

has become a nightmarish problem that harms both our
health and the environment, according to recent research.
[M]anagement programs for chicken waste
have not kept pace with how fast the
industry is growing, said Karen Steuer of
Pew Environment Group.
Pews report reviews in detail the issues that come with
chicken waste. Huge amounts of chicken manure is
disposed on open fields and croplands. Rain washes it into
waterways and pollutes our drinking water supply. Besides
bacteria, the waste contains high-level antibiotics, which
adds to the antibiotic-resistance in humans who later drink
the water.

Were

According to a Consumer Reports analysis, 97% of

chicken breasts of 316 studied samples contained bacteria,
including salmonella. More than half of the samples
contained fecal contaminants. Many contained bacteria
that was antibiotic-resistant. Bacteria found included
campylobacter,
staphylococcus
aureus,
E.
coli,
enterococcus, and klebsiella pneumoniae. Levels of
contamination were about the same for conventional,
antibiotic-free and organic brands, removing the argument
that usage of antibiotics and other drugs in meat protects
the consumers. Most people get ill from the bacteria by

The report recommends stricter measures as a solution:

balancing the amount of waste generated with how many
crops are available for waste disposal; having the broiler
industry sharing responsibility for proper waste
management; better programs and required permits for
transporting manure; and better cleanup programs.

468

10 Foods That Wont Upset IBS

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 22, 2015
source of protein and adding a side of organic vegetables
and fruit will give you a solid meal thats unlikely to upset
your stomach.
3. Brown Rice
Brown rice is another food that wont trigger IBS and is far
more nutritious than white rice. Organic brown rice also
offers soluble fiber and can encourage irritated bowels to
function normally.
4. Organic Green Beans

Irritable bowel syndrome, also known as IBS or functional

gastrointestinal disorder, is a combination of symptoms
that include abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.
Its more prevalent in women than men and affects about
10 to 15 percent of the American population. [1] If you
suffer from IBS, making simple lifestyle adjustments,
especially to your diet, can make a huge difference.

Organic green beans are another source of soluble fiber

and a perfect complement to organic poultry or fish.
5. Coconut Milk
Unless were talking about formula for infants, replacing
cows milk with coconut milk can be a great idea. Cows
milk is not only bad for IBS, but can also be bad for your
heath. Many people have trouble with the lactose and the
pasteurization process alters the milk in undesirable ways.
Other organic alternatives include hemp milk, sunflower
milk, and rice milk.

Simple Tips for Controlling IBS

One of the easiest and most important steps you can take is
avoiding large meals. Eating several small meals
throughout the day can help with the symptoms of IBS.
You should also avoid greasy, high fat foods, dairy,
alcohol, sodas, and foods that can cause gas.

6. Fermented Foods with Probiotics

10 Foods That Wont Upset IBS

People who have to give up dairy because of severe IBS

symptoms often find relief by cultivating strong, probiotic
colonies in their gut. A probiotic supplement is one way to
achieve this, eating probiotic rich fermented foods is
another.

Here we explore ten foods that are nutritious and wont

aggravate IBS, enjoy!
1. Lean Chicken or Turkey
If you eat meat, lean chicken and turkey are excellent
choices for IBS. Poultry is a healthier protein source than
red meat and its easier to digest when eaten with a salad
or a side of organic, raw vegetables. Just make sure to
choose organic, vegetarian-fed options.

7. Eggs

2. Wild-Caught Fish

8. Organic Raw Honey

Its important to be careful and avoid fish that is likely to

contain mercury, but another food for IBS sufferers is wild
caught fish. Farm-raised fish are often subject to disgusting
conditions and, often, best avoided. Fish is a naturally lean

Although refined sugar is not good for anyone, organic

raw honey is an excellent, natural sweetener that can be
eaten without upsetting IBS.

Eggs have a caveat; although the yolk can be undesirable

for people with IBS, the egg whites are easier to digest,
lower in fat, and can be well tolerated.

469

9. Green Tea

10. Lemon Juice

Green tea is an excellent substitute for carbonated and

alcoholic beverages. It is a flavorful drink that can add a
boost to your day and wont upset IBS.

Adding lemon juice to water can add flavor without

consequence. Not to mention that lemon juice is good for
cleansing and offers nutritional support to the liver.
There you have it, ten nutritious foods for IBS sufferers.
Do you have other suggestions? Leave a comment below
and share your thoughts!

References:
1.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Definition and Facts for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

470

Hot Dogs: Questions And Answers

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
December 23, 2015
been associated with cancer of the oral cavity, bladder,
esophagus, stomach, and brain. [4]
What About Vegetables That Contain Nitrites?
It is true that nitrites are commonly found in many green
vegetables, especially spinach, celery, and green lettuce.
However, the consumption of vegetables appears to be
effective in reducing the risk of cancer. How is this
possible? The explanation lies in the formation of Nnitroso compounds from nitrites and amines. Nitrite
containing vegetables also have vitamins C and D, which
help inhibit the formation of N-nitroso compounds.
Multiple studies have determined that consumption of hot
dogs can be a risk factor for childhood cancer.

What Other Foods Contain Nitrites?

All cured meat contains nitrites, including bacon. Sorry,
bacon lovers.

Peters et al studied the relationship between the intake of

certain foods and the risk of leukemia in children from
birth to age 10 in Los Angeles County between 1980 and
1987. The study found that children who ate more than
twelve hot dogs per month had nine times the normal risk
of developing childhood leukemia. [1]

Do ALL Hot Dogs Increase the Risk for Childhood

Cancer?
Not all hot dogs contain nitrites. Nitrite-free hot dogs,
while they taste the same as nitrite hot dogs, have a
brownish color that has limited their popularity among
consumers. Although I dont recommend processed meat
of any sort, between the two, nitrite-free hot dogs are
better than their counterpart.

Researchers Sarusua and Savitz studied childhood cancer

in Denver and found that children born to mothers who
consumed hot dogs one or more times per week during
pregnancy had about double the risk of developing brain
tumors. Children who ate hot dogs one or more times per
week were also at higher risk of brain cancer. [2]

Additional Tips
Bunin et al also found that children of mothers who
consumed hot dogs during pregnancy had an increased risk
of childhood brain tumors. [3]

Do not buy hot dogs that contain nitrites. Additionally, if

your children eat lunch at school, contact the school and
find out if theyre being served nitrite hot dogs in the
cafeteria, request that they use only nitrite-free hot dogs.
Or, better yet, discourage the use of processed meat
entirely.

How Do Hot Dogs Cause Cancer?

Most hot dogs contain preservatives called nitrites. During
the cooking process, nitrites combine with amines
naturally present in meat to form carcinogenic N-nitroso
compounds. It is also suspected that nitrites combine with
amines in the human stomach to form N-nitroso
compounds. These compounds are carcinogens and have

Do hot dogs have a place in your home? Are you

concerned? Leave a comment below and share your
thoughts with us.

471

References:
1.

Peters J, et al. Processed meats and risk of childhood leukemia (California, USA). Cancer Causes & Control 5: 195-202, 1994.

2.

Sarasua S, Savitz D. Cured and broiled meat consumption in relation to childhood cancer: Denver, Colorado (United States).
Cancer Causes & Control 5:141-8, 1994.

3.

Bunin GR, et al. Maternal diet and risk of astrocytic glioma in children: a report from the childrens cancer group (United States and
Canada). Cancer Causes & Control 5:177-87, 1994.

4.

Lijinsky W, Epstein, S. Nitrosamines as environmental carcinogens. Nature 225 (5227): 2112, 1970.

472

Is Fructose As Addictive As Alcohol?

By Sayer Ji
December 24, 2015
growing awareness among the public of isolated fructoses
inherently toxic properties.
The reality is that fructose can cause far more damage than
glucose, and we must look beyond caloric equivalences to
understand this. While in times of need (e.g. starvation,
post-workout glycogen depletion), fructose is as effective
as glucose in replenishing glycogen stores, in
hypercaloric states of excess consumption, it can lead to
a process known as glycation whereby a sugar binds with
protein or lipid molecules, often resulting in damage to
cells and tissues.
Fructose, which literally means fruit sugar,* sounds so
sweet and innocent. And indeed, when incorporated into
the diet in moderate amounts in the form of fruit always
organic and raw, when possible its about as pure and
wholesome as as a nutrient can get.

For example, in vitro studies show that fructose damages

proteins seven times more rapidily than glucose through a
process known as protein fructosylation, which is when a
sugar undergoes a Malliard reaction with a protein, which
basically results in the caramelization (browing) of blood
and tissue contents, gumming up the works. For
example, if you try baking a pastry made with fructose,
instead of white sugar, it will brown much more rapidly as
a result of this Malliard reactivity.

Not so for industrially processed fructose in isolate form,

which may be as addictive as alcohol,[i] and perhaps even
morphine [ii] [iii]and which according to USDA research
published in 2008 into major trends in U.S. food
consumption patterns, 1970-2005, we now consume at the
rate of at least 50 lbs a year the 800 ounce gorilla in
the room.[iv]

Fructose actually shares great resemblance to alcohol

(ethanol), such as being capable of stimulating dopamine
production in our brain, as well as sharing similar
metabolic pathways and effects on the liver (e.g. fatty
liver). Their great similarities make even more sense when
you consider that fructose can easily be converted into
ethanol with a pinch of yeast in order to make alcoholic
beverages.

Our dietary exposure to fructose, of course, is primarily

through either sugar (sucrose), which is a disaccharide
comprised of 50% fructose and 50% glucose by weight, or
through high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is mostly
a 55% fructose and 45% glucose blend of
monosaccharides, but goes as high as 90% fructose and
10% glucose in HFCS-90 form. Pasteurized fruit juices
are another concentrated source of fructose, but
increasingly even pasteurized fruit juice is being
adulterated with additional sugar or HFCS for reasons that
have mostly to do with protecting the manufacturers
bottom line.

So toxic is purified fructose that here at GreenMedInfo

we have indexed research on over 70 adverse health
effects associated with its excessive consumption, which
include:

Because high-fructose corn syrup contains free-form

monosaccharides of fructose and glucose, it cannot be
considered biologically equivalent to sucrose, which has a
glycosidic bond that links the fructose and glucose
together, and which slows its break down in the body. The
attempt by the HFCS industry to re-label their product as
corn sugar, which was recently denied by the FDA,[v]
belies their anxiety about the differences, and also reveals

473

Insulin Resistance (32 studies)

Fatty Liver (22 studies)
Obesity (13 studies)
Metabolic Syndrome (19 studies)
Hypertension (10 studies)
Elevated Uric Acid (9 studies)
Elevated Triglycerides (14 studies)
Belly Fat (2 studies)
Cardiovascular Diseases (4 studies)
Liver Stress (6 studies)

Pancreatic Cancer (2 studies)

Leptin Resistance (2 studies)

between what we eat and our psychological health is

beginning to gain wider recognition, especially considering
new research linking aggression to trans fatty acid
consumption, episodes of acute wheat mania, and the
widespread presence of opiates in common foods.

Like many foods consumed en masse, which may have a

lesser known dark side (e.g. wheat), our global fixation on
fructose may reveal something about its hitherto under
appreciated addictive properties.

It may come as a surprise to many, but there is a fructoseopiate infatuation deeply embedded within mammalian
biology, which has been the subject of scientific
investigation since the late 80s. A study published in the
European Journal of Pharmacology in 1988 found that
both glucose and fructose were capable of antagonizing
morphine-induced pain killing effects, likely due to the
direct opioid effects of these sugars or their metabolic
byproducts on the central nervous system. In fact, the
researchers found that fructose was more potent than
glucose in accomplishing these effects.

Fructoses Drug-like Hold On Our Bodies

Fructose addiction and alcoholism, in fact, share a number
of parallels. In an article titled, Fructose: metabolic,
hedonic, and societal parallels with ethanol, published in
the Journal of the American Dietetic Association in 2010,
Robert H. Lustig, MD broke new ground by identifying the
great similarities between these two substances:
Rates of fructose consumption continue to rise nationwide
and have been linked to rising rates of obesity, type 2
diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.

Could the narcotic properties of fructose, or one of its

metabolic byproducts, explain why we would consume
such vast quantities of something so inherently harmful to
our bodies?

Because obesity has been equated with

addiction, and because of their
evolutionary commonalities, we chose
to examine the metabolic, hedonic, and
societal similarities between fructose
and its fermentation byproduct ethanol.
Elucidation of fructose metabolism in
liver and fructose action in brain
demonstrate three parallelisms with
ethanol.

As it turns out, not only has fructoses manifold toxic

properties been studied, but researchers have also
investigated what natural substances reduce fructoses
adverse effects.
GreenMedInfo contains research on 21 natural
compounds with fructose toxicity attenuating action,
including

First, hepatic fructose metabolism is similar to ethanol, as

they both serve as substrates for de novo lipogenesis, and
in the process both promote hepatic insulin resistance,
dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis. Second, fructosylation
of proteins with resultant superoxide formation can result
in hepatic inflammation similar to acetaldehyde, an
intermediary metabolite of ethanol.
Lastly, by stimulating the hedonic
pathway of the brain both directly and
indirectly, fructose creates habituation,
and possibly dependence; also
paralleling ethanol.

Berberine
Fish Oil
Astaxanthin
Bitter Melon
Chlorella
Coconut Water
Garlic
Ginger
Holy Basil
Quinoa
Resveratrol
Spirulina

To view them all, you can visit our Fructose-Induced

Toxicity page.

Thus, fructose induces alterations in both hepatic

metabolism and central nervous system energy signaling,
leading to a vicious cycle of excessive consumption and
disease consistent with metabolic syndrome. On a societal
level, the treatment of fructose as a commodity exhibits
market similarities to ethanol. Analogous to ethanol,
societal efforts to reduce fructose consumption will likely
be necessary to combat the obesity epidemic.

Ultimately, avoiding fructose in any other than its naturally

embedded form in the intelligent and infinitely complex
structures of food, e.g. fruit, is ideal. Food cravings for
sweets, after all, may conceal unmet emotional or spiritual
needs, so sometimes it is best to search deeper within for
the answers. Or, using natural non- or low-calorie
sweeteners like xylitol or stevia may also take the edge
off an intense sweet tooth.

While the parallel between fructose and alcohol

consumption may seem strange, the intimate connection

474

hidden tax of fructose consumption is the accelerating,

GM-mediated destruction of the biosphere; a biosphere,
mind you, without which human health and human
existence, is not possible.

But, beyond the increasingly obvious adverse effects of

isolated fructose to human health, is the hidden damage
that fructose does to environmental/planetary health. This
is because fructose from HFCS is invariably produced
from genetically modified (GM) corn, which requires
massive environmental inputs of harmful pesticides,
glyphosate, gene products with the ability to transfer
horizontally, and other unsustainable practices. The

*Fructose: derived from Latin fructus (fruit) + -ose

(sugar).

[i] Fructose: metabolic, hedonic, and societal parallels with ethanol. J Am Diet Assoc. 2010 Sep ;110(9):1307-21.
[ii] Antagonism of the morphine-induced locomotor activation of mice by fructose: comparison with other opiates and sugars, and
sugar effects on brain morphine. Life Sci. 1991 ;49(10):727-34.
[iii] Antagonism of antinociception in mice by glucose and fructose: comparison of subcutaneous and intrathecal morphine. Eur
J Pharmacol. 1988 Feb 9 ;146(2-3):337-40.
[iv] USDA Economic Research Service, Dietary Assessment of Major Trends in U.S. Food Consumption, 1970-2005
[v] Packaging Digest, FDA rejects renaming of high-fructose corn syrup, 6/7/2012

475

Do Onions Help Fight The Flu?

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 3, 2016
air, preventing them from entering the body. Even though,
it must be noted, that one of the most common ways to get
the flu is by contact with contaminated surfaces or people.
So remember to wash your hands, especially before eating
or scratching your eyes.
In an early 1900s Los Angeles Times article, the following
suggestion was offered to the public:
In a sickroom you cannot have a better
disinfectant than the onion. It has a
wonderful capacity for absorbing germs. A
dish of sliced onions placed in a sickroom
will draw away the disease; they must be
removed as soon as they lose their odor
and become discolored, and be replaced
by fresh ones.

Recently, there has been some e-mails circulating online

regarding the use of onions for flu symptoms. I have been
asked to comment on this and give my opinion on the
validity of this remedy. So here is what I have found.
What centuries of grandmothers have instinctively known
is now being confirmed by everyone from modern
scientists to naturopathic doctors. Onions may have the
ability to ward off and relieve symptoms of the common
flu. And in a world where, according to the CDC, many
Americans get the seasonal flu every year, the simple
method of boiling onions into a drinkable broth may be a
good practice to return to.

Why are Onions so Effective?

Onions have many benefits. They are high in sulfuric
compounds such as thiosulfinates, sulfoxides, and other
odorous cysteine sulfoxides. These compounds give onions
their pungent flavor and are what make you cry when
cutting them. Research shows that the thiosulfinates in
onions are responsible for their potent properties.
Thiosulfinates have even been shown to kill off salmonella
and E. coli. Sulfuric compounds also play a role in cancer
and heart disease prevention, and therefore act as a great
immune-boosting food for general disease prevention.

Prevention is the best method, and this post will offer some
insight into this ancient technique of using onions for
indications of the flu.
How Onions Help with the Flu

Onions are also extremely high in the antioxidant

quercetin. Quercetin helps the body fight free-radicals, and
boosts the immune response. A recent study from the
British Journal of Nutrition showed that individuals who
ate foods high in quercetin (onion soup was used in the
study), had better immune responses and less likelihood
for cardiovascular disease [2].

The idea that onions may ward off disease through their
potent therapeutic properties extends back thousands of
years. Ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine revered
onions for their congestion-relieving properties. The
Ancient Greeks rubbed onions on sore muscles and the
Native Americans used them to ward off the common cold
and flu. In fact, the World Health Organization has even
recognized the onion for its ability to help relieve flu
symptoms including coughs, congestion, respiratory
infections and bronchitis [1].

The Delmars Integrative Herb Guide [3] states that,

Onions help break up or clear mucous and
other substances that block the immune
system from doing its work.

Some traditions have even recommended placing sliced

onions beside the bed at night, or even just around the
house, to help prevent yours from getting the flu. The
theory was that the raw onion would absorb germs in the

Onion Soup: Easy, Health Restoring Recipe

476

This season, if you feel a cold or flu coming on, make

yourself a big pot of soup using this simple recipe.

Another Onion Remedy

For an effect similar to detox foot pads, try cutting a piece
of onion large enough to place directly on the bottom of
each foot. Cover with a sock before bed and remove in the
morning. Do this every night if you are experiencing flu
like symptoms.

Onion Soup Recipe:

3 large organic yellow onions

3 organic cloves of garlic
1/4 cup of fresh, finely-chopped organic oregano
4 cups of purified or distilled water
Add Himalayan salt, to your taste.

Disclaimer: Please remember that this post is not intended

to be medical advice. If you think you have the flu, please
talk to your doctor about how onions may help, as well as
what else you may be able to do to fight it. Additionally,
heres a list of flu remedies that may also help you get
relief.

Preparation: Chop the onions and garlic into cubes. Bring

water to a boil and add onions, garlic, and oregano. Let
simmer for 15 minutes, or until you notice that the onions
are translucent and soft. Drink the hot soup and allow the
body temperature to rise enough to induce mild sweating.

References:
1.
2.

3.

World Health Organization. Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Bulbus Allii Cepaei.
S Paliwal, J Sundaram and S Mitragotri. British Journal of Cancer. Induction of cancer-specific cytotoxicity towards human prostate
and skin cells using quercetin and ultrasound. British Journal of Cancer. 2005 February 1. 92, 499502.
doi:10.1038/sj.bjc.6602364.
Martha Libster. Delmars Integrative Herb Guide for Nurses. 2001 October 23.

477

What Is Potassium And Why Is It So Important?

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 3, 2016
Foods High in Potassium
1. Avocado
Often referred to as a vegetable, the avocado is actually a
single-seeded berry that is jam-packed with nutritional
benefits. It delivers some of the highest amounts of
potassium youll find anywhere at around 708.1 mg per
cup, or about one serving. Plus, its loaded with the
healthy fats, the powerful antioxidant vitamin E, B
vitamins, and its low in sugar.
2. Coconut Water
Sometimes referred to as an electrolyte, potassium is a
naturally-occurring mineral and key nutrient for good
health. Your nerves and muscles need it to function
properly. It supports digestive and kidney health, regulates
blood pressure and helps build strong bones. [1] Its
especially important for your heart, too. [2]

Its not just the coconut meat that makes the coconut a
healthy food. A cup of coconut water, the liquid inside the
coconut, provides 575 mg of potassium, and it contains
enzymes that stimulate your metabolism. It also contains
magnesium, zinc, and iron that help regulate immune
function and energy.

If youre healthy, your body is generally able to keep

potassium levels where they should be. Some conditions,
such as diabetes, kidney disease, and alcoholism can
disrupt this balance. Illnesses accompanied by conditions
like diarrhea and vomiting can also upset potassium
balance. Some drugs, like ACE inhibitors and ARBs, can
throw off your bodys ability to regulate potassium and
lead to high potassium levels.

3. Crimini Mushrooms
You can consume 640 mg of potassium in only five ounces
of crimini mushrooms. These mushrooms are also an
excellent source of vitamin B12, minerals like selenium
and antioxidants. When cooking, try lightly sauteing
crimini mushrooms to preserve flavor and nutrients.
4. Banana

Low potassium is a condition called hypokalemia. Too

much potassium, or hyperkalemia, leads to high potassium
levels, which has similar symptoms as hypokalemia
weakness, fatigue, and even heart arrhythmias in extreme
cases. Hyperkalemia often starts with gastrointestinal
problems.

The banana, also known as Musa acuminate colla, is well

known as a top source of potassium. Athletes have a
reputation of eating bananas to get an immediate energy
boost and to recover from workouts. One medium-sized
banana should offer about 360 mg of potassium.

The USDA recommends adults get 4,700 mg of potassium

daily. According to the World Health Organization, most
people around the world, including the United States, dont
get enough.[3] So, to help make sure youre on track to
adequate potassium in your diet, heres a list of 10 foods
rich in this important nutrient.

5. Acorn Squash
This versatile winter squash makes excellent soups, pastas,
and pies with its sweet and nutty flavor. In addition to 486
mg of potassium for every cup of the cooked squash (about
one serving), you also get a dose of vitamins A and C to
support healthy skin, eyes, and hair.

478

specific as cramping muscles, fatigue, constipation, or

bloating. Symptoms like these may seem like only a minor
nuisance, but can mask more serious health concerns. If
they move on to more advanced symptoms like heart
palpitations and feelings of depression or confusion, that
should raise a red flag.

6. Sweet Potato
The sweet potato is one of the ultimate health foods. It has
448 mg of potassium per cup and B vitamins that help
support a healthy metabolism. Its also loaded with
vitamins A and C, as well as magnesium to support muscle
function. Sweet potatoes also contains an enzyme called
amylase that encourage normal blood sugar.

Studies report that normal potassium levels have a positive

effect on blood pressure. [3] Researchers also believe that
adequate potassium can be a factor in protecting against
cardiovascular diseases and stroke. [7]

7. Potato
The baked potato makes for a simple and easy side with
any meal. And, if you eat a medium sized potato with the
skin (make sure to clean it well first), youll consume 926
mg of potassium. Thats about 20% of the daily
recommended value.

Potassium supports bone health. [8] A study of 266 elderly

women found those with stronger bones and better bone
density had higher levels of potassium. The researchers
suggested increasing potassium intake could play an
important role in preventing osteoporosis. [8]

8. Prunes

Eating potassium-rich foods is the best and easiest way to

address low potassium levels. If youve seen your doctor
for symptoms like these or you have a condition that
increases your risk of low potassium, you may need to take
a supplement.

These dried, pitted plums have a reputation as a digestive

aid and theyre also a great source of potassium with 528
mg per serving. They also contain zeaxanthin, a beneficial
carotenoid.

Potassium Supplements
9. Raisins
If you believe youre not be getting enough potassium in
your diet, start eating more of these potassium-rich foods
and see if you notice any changes. While high potassium is
rare, you dont want to overdo it.

With one-half cup of raisins (roughly a handful), you can

consume about 600 mg of potassium or 12% of your
recommended daily value. Raisins also contain the potent
antioxidant resveratrol that helps to control cholesterol [4],
reduce inflammation [5], and may have protective
properties against cancer. [6]

If adding these foods to your diet doesnt help, speak with

your doctor about whether a supplement could be the right
course of action. As with any supplement, youll want the
most bioavailable form you can get. As you restore your
potassium levels to where they should be, youll find
yourself with more energy, fewer aches and muscle
soreness, and a clear mind.

10. Spinach
In a cup serving of spinach, you can get 420 mg of
potassium plus iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamins A
and C. Spinach also contains vitamin K that plays an
essential role in bone health and antioxidants lutein,
zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene. Try it sautd in olive oil just
until the leaves wilt.
Health Benefits of Potassium

I personally recommend potassium orotate. It contains a

form of potassium your body can make the most of. One of
the components to good health is reaching a state of
balance within your body. Potassium orotate is designed to
help.

You might not immediately notice if your potassium levels

are low. The earliest symptoms can be as simple and non-

Whats your experience with potassium? Wed love to

hear about it in the comments below!

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

MedlinePlus Trusted Health Information for You. Potassium.

He FJ1, MacGregor GA. Beneficial effects of potassium on human health. Physiol Plant. 2008 Aug;133(4):725-35.
WHO. Guideline: Potassium intake for adults and children. Geneva, World Health Organization (WHO), 2012.
Riccioni G, Gammone MA, Tettamanti G, Bergante S, Pluchinotta FR, DOrazio N.Resveratrol and anti-atherogenic effects. Int J
Food Sci Nutr. 2015;66(6):603-10.
Mishra V, Shuai B, Kodali M, Shetty GA, Hattiangady B, Rao X, Shetty AK. Resveratrol Treatment after Status Epilepticus Restrains
Neurodegeneration and Abnormal Neurogenesis with Suppression of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation. Sci Rep. 2015 Dec
7;5:17807.

479

6.
7.
8.

Brown K, Rufini A. New concepts and challenges in the clinical translation of cancer preventive therapies: the role of
pharmacodynamic biomarkers. Ecancermedicalscience. 2015 Nov 24;9:601.
Young DB1, Lin H, McCabe RD. Potassiums cardiovascular protective mechanisms. Am J Physiol. 1995 Apr;268(4 Pt 2):R825-37.
Zhu K1, Devine A, Prince RL. The effects of high potassium consumption on bone mineral density in a prospective cohort study of
elderly postmenopausal women. Osteoporos Int. 2009 Feb;20(2):335-40. doi: 10.1007/s00198-008-0666-3. Epub 2008 Jun 25.

480

Got Hemp Milk?

The Benefits Of Hemp Milk
By Joe Martino
January 5, 2016
controversy behind the reasons hemp is illegal to grow in
the USA.
Nutrition
The hemp plant, including its seeds, offer a powerful
punch when it comes to nutrition. In a single 8-ounce glass
of hemp milk you can find the following nutrients.

Hemp milk is an incredibly nutritious and tasty alternative

to cows milk as it supplies the body with essential
nutrients without the harm that dairy causes to the body.
For some, it is an ethical choice to not drink animals milk,
for others it is an intolerance. Others choose to avoid it for
reasons of making healthier choices while others drink it as
they want the nutritional benefits and like the taste.
Whatever the circumstance, is it possible that we are not
making the most healthy choice by drinking animals milk?
For those who are looking for an alternative to animals
milk, hemp milk is one option you should consider.
What is it Made of?

900mg Omega-3 Fatty Acid

2800mg Omega-6 Fatty Acid
All 10 Essential Amino Acids
4 grams of Digestible Protein
46% of RDA of Calcium
0% Cholesterol
Potassium
Phosphorous
Riboflavin
Vitamin A
Vitamin E
Vitamin B12
Folic Acid
Vitamin D
Magnesium
Iron
Zinc

Hemp milk is a vegan product made of a blend of hemp

seeds and water. The mixture provides a creamy texture
with a delicious taste some may describe as nutty. Unlike
cows milk, hemp milk is easy for the body to digest and
does not cause any of the health problems associated with
milk.

And more

Question number one for some of us might be: Is Hemp

milk made from Marijuana? The answer is, no. Hemp milk
is made from the seeds of the hemp plant which is legal to
grow in various countries around the world. In fact, the
United States is one of the only countries where you are
not allowed to grow hemp. Possible concern some may
have about hemp milk surrounds its possible levels of THC
(tetrahydrocannabinol). Fortunately for those looking to
drink this milk alternative, it is important to note that the
hemp plant does not contain enough THC to have
psychoactive affects. Further, the hemp plant has many
incredible uses that can apply to various areas of our
society. This is why there is such a great deal of

Notable Benefits

From that stacked list we can see that hemp milk is a great
source of nutritious protein and is capable of delivering the
tough to find amino acid, GLA. Hemp milk is rich in
protein and contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids,
vitamins A, E, B-12 and folic acid, and is rich in
magnesium, potassium, iron and magnesium. All essential
nutrients for a healthy diet and immune system.

481

Strengthened Immune System

Clear, Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails
Strong, Healthy Heart
Increased Mental Capacity

Hemp has anti-inflammatory agents and improves

circulation.

through the cheesecloth and enjoy. Of course, it always

tastes better cold so you might want to chill it first. This
mixture should store in the fridge for about 3 days.

Try Making Your Own

Final thoughts
While hemp milk can be found in stores, mainly health
food stores, if you are feeling adventurous, you can try
making your own hemp milk. This will also allow you to
try out the milk in small quantities if you are not sure if
you will like it. To make the hemp milk you will need 1/2
cup of raw organic, shelled hemp seeds and 2 cups of
purified water. To finish you will need a piece
cheesecloth or a nut-milk bag. Blend the water and hemp
seeds in a blender for about 3 minutes or until they are
well blended. Once you are done blending, strain the milk

If you are looking for a milk alternative and are not feeling
rice milk, almond milk, coconut milk or oat milk, try
giving hemp milk a shot. It is packed with nutrients and
tastes great, in my opinion. Also, dont forget that even if
the milk does not fit your pallet, give hemp seeds a try.
They are a super food that you definitely would want to
consider having in your diet whether you are
vegan/vegetarian or not.

482

FDA Has Known Processed Meat Causes Cancer Since The

1970s, But Continues To Cover Up Truth
To Protect Meat Industry
By: Ethan A. Huff
Wednesday, January 06, 2016
They're added to nearly every processed meat product sold
in the U.S. today nitrites and other synthetic curing
chemicals that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
says are safe to use for keeping meat products from
spoiling too quickly. But an investigation by researchers
from the University of Wisconsin has uncovered that,
despite years of denial, the FDA has known since at least
the 1970s that nitrites cause cancer, and yet continues
to pander to the meat industry in allowing their use.

But the FDA ultimately capitulated to the meat lobby,

which saw dollar signs rather than people's health as being
the priority. Synthetic nitrites, after all, are cheap to
produce, they preserve the inherent color and flavor of
meats, and most people don't even know they're there
unless, of course, they develop a serious health condition
as a result of consuming them.
Naturally-occurring nitrites aren't harmful
Not to be confused with naturally-occurring nitrites, which
aid in the body's normal regulation of blood pressure,
immune response and more, synthetic nitrites have an
almost opposite effect on the body, damaging the normal
function of hemoglobin and possibly even causing brain
damage, particularly in young people.

Meat curing has been around forever, with the historical

record showing that this process allowed ancient cultures
to preserve meats for extended periods of time, especially
during periods of food scarcity. People didn't have
refrigerators back then, remember, so they had to come up
with novel ways of food preservation that would get them
through harsh weather conditions and other volatile
environmental factors.

"Nitrite changes the normal function of

hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the
blood to the rest of the body, into a form
called methemoglobin that cannot carry
oxygen," explains the New Hampshire
Department of Environmental Sciences.

The fact that people have been curing meats since time
immemorial isn't necessarily a problem. Salt, after all, is a
natural curing agent that, in and of itself, isn't harmful. It's
when salt is transformed through synthetic chemical
alterations in this case, as nitrites that it becomes
harmful. And these same nitrites, according to independent
scientists, have been the subject of intense debate over the
years concerning their safety.

"In severe, untreated cases, brain damage

and eventually death can result from
suffocation due to lack of oxygen."
Dietary nitrites, on the other hand, offer many protective
benefits, including their ability to spur production of nitric
oxide in the body. Nitric oxide helps regulate blood
pressure, boost immunity, aid in wound repair, and
improve neurological function, among other benefits.

Sodium nitrite linked to leukemia, cancer

Sodium nitrite, one of the most popular curing chemicals
found in processed meat products today, contains certain
nitroso compounds that, under the right conditions, can
transform into cancer-causing nitrosamines. Even at the
time when sodium nitrite was first offered up for
commercial approval in the 1970s, it was recognized that
nitrosamines come with serious health risks, including the
threat of leukemia and other forms of cancer.

"[T]he normal production of nitric oxide and

nitrite may prevent various types of
cardiovascular
disease
including
hypertension, atherosclerosis, and stroke,"
explains the University of Wisconsin report.

The debate over whether or not to approve sodium nitrite

in the 1970s was centered around the chemical's known
carcinogenicity, and the fact that other, safer curing
compounds were already readily available. Nitrite
opponents did what they could to present sound science
that highlighted all this, which they believed would win
the FDA over in rejecting sodium nitrite in favor of safer
alternatives.

This is why purchasing only nitrite-free meats, or meats

that contain only naturally-occurring nitrites from
vegetables like celery, is critical for your long-term health.
Reading food labels and making smart purchasing
decisions will go a long way in protecting you and your
family against cancer and other forms of chronic illness.

483

Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms Explained:

The Top 9 Warning Signs
By: Aurora Geib
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms
Explained: The Top 9 Warning Signs

The importance of vitamin D is well known. As far back as

the 1930s, doctors first recognized the link between a
vitamin D deficiency and the skeletal disease called
rickets. Rickets causes a softening of the bones and teeth.
Even if someone's diet has adequate levels of calcium,
without enough vitamin D to properly control calcium and
phosphate levels in the blood stream, demineralization of
the bones can take place. The symptoms of rickets include
bowed legs, bone pain, dental problems, a widening of the
wrists, frequent bone fractures and skull deformities.

Some people who have a vitamin D deficiency have no

immediate symptoms. Those who do have symptoms may
experience restless sleep, muscle cramps, general fatigue,
joint pain, muscle pain or weakness, inability to
concentrate, headaches, constipation or diarrhea, and
bladder problems. Here are nine other serious medical
conditions that have been linked to a vitamin D deficiency.

Because rickets is seldom seen in first-world countries, it's

easy to think that vitamin D deficiencies are a thing of the
past. However, new research has recently shed light on
other, more subtle, symptoms of a vitamin D deficiency.
Many illnesses which, at first glance, seem totally
unrelated to something as physically obvious as rickets
actually may have their roots in a lack of vitamin D.

1.

Asthma - Vitamin D supplementation of 1,200 IU daily

has been shown to lessen asthma attacks and reduce
their severity.

2.

Depression - Vitamin D deficiencies have been linked

to depression and other psychiatric illnesses. Even a
woman getting enough D during pregnancy has been
shown to lessen the chances that her unborn child will
develop mental illness later in life.

3.

Heart disease - An article published in Molecular

Nutrition & Food Research (2) reports that
cardiovascular disease is much more common in
people deficient in vitamin D. Some children, according
to the article, with severe heart failure have also
responded well to vitamin D treatment.

4.

High blood pressure - High blood pressure has been

associated with deficiencies in calcium, magnesium,
potassium and vitamin D.

5.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - RA is a devastating disease

that causes systemic inflammation, severe pain and
joint damage. Studies have shown that vitamin D can
ease the pain and stiffness associated with RA.

6.

Multiple sclerosis - Studies have shown that

geography matters when it comes to the odds of
getting MS. The farther from the equator you live -- and
the less sun exposure you get -- the more likely you are
to develop the disease. This suggests a strong link
between MS and vitamin D.

7.

Cancer - Several different kinds of cancer have been

linked to D deficiencies, including breast cancer,
prostate cancer and colon cancer. The causal link is so
strong, in fact, that the Mayo Clinic (3) lists separate

Just what is vitamin D?

The term vitamin D, according to the Mayo Clinic's Drugs
and Supplements site (1), actually refers to several
different forms of the vitamin, including D2, which comes
from our diet, and D3, which is manufactured by our skin
when exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D's main purpose in the
body is to regulate blood levels of calcium and
phosphorous.
The sunshine vitamin?
It's actually hard to get enough vitamin D from a normal
diet. It's found at the highest concentration in fatty fish
such as tuna, mackerel and salmon. Some mushrooms are
also high in D, and their level of the vitamin actually
increases when exposed to ultraviolet light.
While our skin does manufacture some of the vitamin D
that we need daily, sun exposure alone is usually not
enough. Factors such as the time of year, the angle of the
sun, cloud cover, pollution levels and even the use of
sunscreen can greatly limit the amount of D made by our
skin.

484

9. Diabetes - An article from World's Healthiest Foods (4)

recommended dosing levels of the vitamin for both

cancer prevention and prostate cancer treatment.
8.

lists poor blood-sugar control as a symptom of vitamin

D deficiency. This, in turn, can increase the risk of
developing diabetes.

Periodontal disease - This inflammation of the gums

can cause pain, bleeding and tooth loss. Vitamin D
helps in the formation of defensins and cathelicidins
which, in turn, can lower the number of harmful
bacteria in the mouth.
Sources:

1) http://www.mayoclinic.org
2) http://science.naturalnews.com
3) http://www.mayoclinic.org
4) http://whfoods.org

485

Vitamin A: Health Benefits, Best Foods And More

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 7, 2016
carotenoids can also help maintain healthy skin, eyes, and
boost the immune system. [2] [3] Carotenoids like the one
found in kale, carrots, and other vegetables have to be
converted into a usable form of vitamin A (retinol) by the
body. [4]
Best Vitamin A Foods
Vitamin A is available from a variety of food sources. The
recommended daily intake varies with age and other
circumstances.[1]Pregnant or lactating women can normally
benefit from taking more each day. As always, consult
with your doctor about any major dietary changes you are
considering. If you would benefit from more vitamin A
foods in your diet, there are a number of great options. [5]

While I cant stress enough just how important all the

vitamins and minerals are for your overall well being,
today were going to focus on vitamin A. Vitamin A is fatsoluble, a powerful antioxidant, and part of a family of
compounds that are vitally important to the body. It
supports the immune system, helps strengthen vision,
assists with normal organ function, reproduction, and
more. [1]

IU
DV
(serving) (%)

Food

Vitamins are important for maintaining good health and if

you dont get what you need, vitamin deficiencies and
health problems can result. Many people take a
multivitamin as a precaution, some do not.
How can you get enough vitamin A and what are the
overall health benefits?
Basic Forms of Vitamin A
Retinoids
This class of compounds plays an important role for
healthy vision, cell and bone tissue growth, and immune
function. And its because of that theyre often used in
medicine. However, vitamin A in this form can only be
found naturally in animal products like liver, eggs, and
milk, so vegetarians and (especially) vegans need to be
aware of where theyre getting their vitamin A.

Baked sweet potato (in skin) 1 whole 28,058

561

Beef liver (pan fried) 3 ounces

22,175

444

Boiled spinach (frozen) cup

11,458

229

Carrots (raw) cup

9,189

184

Cantaloupe (raw) cup

2,706

54

Sweet red peppers (raw) cup

2,332

47

Mangos (raw) 1 whole

2,240

45

Black-eyed peas (boiled) 1 cup

1,305

26

Apricots (dried) 10 halves

1,261

25

Broccoli (boiled) cup

1,208

24

Health Benefits of Vitamin A

Carotenoids

In contrast, carotenoids like beta-carotene are found in

plant sources like vegetables and fruits. Like retinoids,

486

Vitamin in A is critical for good vision

Plays an important role in healthy bone growth [7]
Vitamin A is essential for reproduction [6]

Plays a role in cell division and cell growth [7]

Supports the immune system [3]
Supports skin health [8]

period of time can be toxic and cause a condition known as

hypervitaminosis A. Symptoms may include dizziness,
nausea, headaches, skin irritation, pain in joints and bones,
and even liver damage. [5] If you are taking vitamin A
supplements, make sure they are from food-based sources
like beta-carotene and use as directed.

Dangers of Vitamin A Deficiency

Deficiencies may affect the elderly and chronically ill most
of all. One of the first signs of vitamin A deficiency is
night blindness, as well as scaly skin, brittle hair and nails,
poor growth, and poor immunity. [9] Those with vitamin A
deficiency also tend to have low iron levels, which can
lead to anemia. [10]

What About Vitamin A Supplements?

Making the right dietary choices and taking a high-quality
supplement can do wonders for your health. Because of the
way it supports skin health, we have used emulsified
vitamin A as a key ingredients in the natural skin care
product, Parfait Visage. Vitamin A has been used for
years to encourage bright, vibrant looking skin and Parfait
Visage harnesses that benefit to help you care for your
skin. [8]

Considerations About Vitamin A Intake

Getting too much vitamin A is also a concern. Its a fatsoluble vitamin, meaning its stored in fat cellstypically
the liverwhere it will be used as needed. Too much
vitamin A from supplements in a short or over a long

Whats your experience with vitamin A? Tell us in the

comments below.

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.

National Institutes of Health. Vitamin A: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.

Hughes, D. A. Effects of carotenoids on human immune function.> The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. 58 (3).
Chew, B. P. & Park, J. S. Carotenoid Action on the Immune Response.The Journal of Nutrition. 134 (1).
Tang, G. Bioconversion of dietary provitamin A carotenoids to vitamin A in humans. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 91 (5).
National Institutes of Health. Vitamin A: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.
Margaret Clagett-Dame and Danielle Knutson. Vitamin A in Reproduction and Development. doi: 10.3390/nu3040385
National Institutes of Health. Vitamin A and Bone Health.
Oregon State University. Vitamin A Skin Health.
Dowling, J. E. & Wald, G. VITAMIN A DEFICIENCY AND NIGHT BLINDNESS. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United
States of America. 44 (7).
10. Ning, Y. J. et al. Iron Deficiency and Marginal Vitamin A Deficiency Affect Growth, Hematological Indices and the Regulation of Iron Metabolism
Genes in Rats. Journal of Nutrition. 132 (12).

487

Epazote: Discover Its Health Benefits And Uses

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 8, 2016
For such a small plant, epazote can really pack a
nutritional punch and offers vitamin A, B-vitamins,
vitamin C, and more. Each 2 gram serving contains
calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, zinc,
and small amounts of dietary fiber and protein. [8]
Nutrient
Protein (g)
Dietary Fiber (g)
Vitamin A (IU)
Vitamin B-6 (mg)
Folate (g)
Thiamin (mg)
Riboflavin (mg)
Niacin (mg)
Vitamin C (mg)
Calcium (mg)
Iron (mg)
Magnesium (mg)
Phosphorus (mg)
Potassium (mg)
Zinc (mg)

Have you ever heard of epazote (pronounced eh-puh-ZOEtay)? Epazote is a herb with a long history of use as a spice
in Latin American cuisine and as an effective, natural
remedy for eliminating harmful organisms from the
digestive tract. [1] With a scientific name Dysphania
ambrosioides (formerly chenopodium ambrosioides), this
green leafy vegetable is native to Central America,
southern Mexico, and South America. It is believed that
the Mayans were among the first to harness the many
benefits of this herb. [1]

Per 100g
0.33 g
3.8 g
57 IU
0.152 mg
215 g
0.028 mg
0.348 mg
0.639 mg
3.6 mg
275 mg
1.88 mg
121 mg
86 mg
633 mg
1.10 mg

1 tbsp (0.8g)
0.00
0g
0 IU
0.001 mg
2 g
0.000 mg
0.003 mg
0.005 mg
0.0 mg
2 mg
0.02 mg
1 mg
1 mg
5 mg
0.01 mg

1 sprig (2g)
0.01
0.1 g
1 IU
0.003 mg
4 g
0.001 mg
0.007 mg
0.013 mg
0.1 mg
6 mg
0.04 mg
2 mg
2 mg
13 mg
0.02 mg

Modern Use

Health Benefits of Epazote

Epazote is a pungent herb that can add a nice kick to your

next meal. It is used in Mexican, especially Yucatecan,
dishes. Add epazote to black beans or make an herbal tea.
Just remember that its strong and a little can go a long
way!

Evidence suggests epazote could be useful to support a

healthy intestinal environment and create a body
environment that is not welcoming to harmful organisms.
[1]
Other studies show its useful for promoting general
gastrointestinal health. [2] [3] [4] Some research has shown it
to have strong antioxidant and soothing qualities. [5]

Because epazote is a wonderful herb packed with many

nutrients, we have included it as a key ingredient in the
harmful organism cleansing supplement, Paratrex.
Paratrex is a vegan friendly, gluten-free product designed
to work in tandem with your diet. Each bottle of this allnatural blend contains epazote to promote detoxification
and help create an environment thats hostile to harmful
invaders.

Studies on the oil extracted from epazote (known

commonly as chenopodium oil) have shown to be effective
against fungus. [6] Be cautious, however, as chenopodium
oil, can be toxic and cause adverse effects if consumed in
extreme quantities. [7]
Nutritional Facts of Epazote

Have you used epazote to improve your life? Tell us about

it in the comments below!

References:

488

1.

United States Botanical Garden. Epazote

2.

Ortega, F. A Cost Effectiveness Analysis of Anthelminthic Intervention for Community Control of Ascariasis: Traditional vs.
Pharmaceutical Therapy.Oregon State University.

3.

vila-Blanco, M. E. et al. Amoebicidal Activity of Essential Oil of Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants in an Amoebic Liver
Abscess Hamster Model.Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

4.

Trivellato Grassi, L. et al. From popular use to pharmacological validation: a study of the anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive and healing
effects of Chenopodium ambrosioides extract. Journal of Ethnopharmacology.

5.

Song K1, Zhang J, Zhang P, Wang HQ, Liu C, Li BM, Kang J, Chen RY. Five new bioactive compounds from Chenopodium
ambrosioides. J Asian Nat Prod Res. 2015 May;17(5):482-90. doi: 10.1080/10286020.2015.1042872. Epub 2015 May 22.

6.

Jardim CM1, Jham GN, Dhingra OD, Freire MM. Composition and antifungal activity of the essential oil of the Brazilian Chenopodium
ambrosioides L. J Chem Ecol. 2008 Sep;34(9):1213-8. doi: 10.1007/s10886-008-9526-z. Epub 2008 Aug 5

7.

Montoya-Cabrera MA1, Escalante-Galindo P, Meckes-Fisher M, Snchez-Vaca G, Flores-Alvarez E, Reynoso-Garca M. Fatal

poisoning caused by oil of epazote, Chenopodium graveolens Gac Med Mex. 1996 Jul-Aug;132(4):433-7.

8.

United States Department of Agriculture. National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference Release 28.

489

Yeast Is A Cause Of Cancer And Turmeric

Can Kill Both, Research Confirms
By Sayer Ji
January 9, 2016
cancer by several mechanisms, as described in the review:
production of carcinogenic byproducts, triggering of
inflammation, induction of Th17 response and molecular
mimicry. We underline the need not only to control this
type of infection during cancer treatment, especially given
the major role of this yeast species in nosocomial
infections, but also to find new therapeutic approaches to
avoid the pro-tumor effect of this fungal species.
The four distinct ways by which Candida albicans may
contribute to cancer are explained in more detail
below:

A new study validates a controversial cancer theory,

namely, that yeast in our body can contribute to not just
feeding, but actually causing cancer. Can the ancient
healing spice turmeric come to the rescue?

A recent study published in Critical Reviews in

Microbiology lends support to the concept that
opportunistic Candida albicans (yeast) infection may not
just be a consequence of cancer, but is an actively
contributing cause as well.
Titled, Candida albicans and cancer: Can this yeast
induce cancer development or progression?, the study
provided the following important background information
on this controversial subject:
There is currently increasing concern about the relation
between microbial infections and cancer. More and more
studies support the view that there is an association, above
all, when the causal agents are bacteria or viruses. This
review adds to this, summarizing evidence that the
opportunistic fungus Candida albicans increases the risk of
carcinogenesis and metastasis. Until recent years, Candida
spp. had fundamentally been linked to cancerous processes
as it is an opportunist pathogen that takes advantage of the
immunosuppressed state of patients particularly due to
chemotherapy. In contrast, the most recent findings
demonstrate that C. albicans is capable of promoting

490

Production of carcinogenic byproducts: First,

Candida Albicans produces nitrosamines, which are
carcinogens that activate specific proto-oncogenes that
could trigger cancerous lesions. Second, Candida
albicans produce acetaldehyde, which is produced as
the first metabolite of ethanol (the yeast fermentation
byproduct), and which is a DNA-damaging (mutagenic)
and carcinogenic chemical with a wide range of
downstream cancer promoting properties.
Triggering of inflammation: Prolonged, unresolved
inflammation can promote cancer, both by causing
damage to tissue, and through the secretion of
proliferative chemicals intended to stimulate
regeneration of damaged tissue, but which can render
tissue immortalized when the inflammation is chronic
and misdirected. Candida albicans is well known to
promote a cascade of inflammatory responses within
the body when growing beyond their normal population
density due to immunosuppression, an inappropriate
diet, and/or chemical exposure. These misguided
inflammatory responses have been found to promote
increases in tumor cell adhesion, which is believed to
promote the formation of secondary tumors and/or
metastasis.
Induction of Th17 response: The set of CD4 T-cells
that are dominant in response to Candida albicans,
namely, TH17 cells, also secrete factors that may
promote angiogenesis (the formation of new blood
vessels) and increased tumor incidence and growth.
Molecular mimicry: Antibodies produced against a
protein on the surface of Candida Albicans (CR3-RP)
has structural and antigenic similarities with a receptor
on certain of our white blood cells (leukocytes). This

molecular mimicry may cause antibodies to be formed

against our immune cells that then disturb the antitumor and anti-Candida defenses of the host.

Aspergillus, Trichosporon and Paracoccidioides

have been reported, indicating that curcumin
anticancer drugs may also possess an antifungal
role, helping cancer patients to resist invasive
fungal infection related complications. The aim of
this review is to discuss curcumins dual
pharmacological
activities
regarding
its
applications as a natural anticancer and
antifungal agent. These dual pharmacological
activities are expected to lead to clinical trials
and to improve infection survival among cancer
patients.

This newly identified research not only substantiates the

concept that yeast overgrowth can be a contributing cause
of cancer, but it also, indirectly, raises a red flag to both
sugar and alcohol consumption. Clearly, if sugar and its
conversion to ethanol produce acetaldehyde, reducing
excessive consumption of either is a good
chemopreventive step, and likely a completely necessary
intervention when actively treating already established
cancers that is, if the goal is full remission.

The study went on to explain that conventional therapies

often result in collateral damage to the patients immune
system, which contributes to fungal overgrowth. Also,
conventional drugs for fungal infections can cause serious
harm to the liver and kidneys of patients, along with
leading to the development of even more aggressive,
treatment-resistant fungal infections.

Moreover, sugar has also recently been found to not just

feed cancer, but actively contributes to the transformation
of normal cells into cancerous ones; i.e. sugar is
potentially carcinogenic. Read my recent article,
Research Reveals How Sugar CAUSES Cancer, to
learn more.

Moreover, conventional cancer treatments only target one

aspect of cancer, focusing on a single pathway or molecule
on a cancer cell. This is why curcumin holds so much
more promise as a next generation multipurpose drug.
Not only does it combat fungal infections, but it has the
ability to address a multitude of cancer targets, including
being able to destroy the cancer stem cell subpopulation
which is at the root of cancer malignancy and
recurrence.

The implications of this research are profound since sugar

also promotes yeast growth, which means that sugar is
both directly and indirectly carcinogenic; a fact that is all
the more concerning considering cancer treatment wards in
major hospitals still give sugar-containing foods and
beverages to their patients while being treated, or
recovering from treatment.
Turmeric: A One-Two PUNCH

The study concluded:

A new study published in the European Journal of

Pharmacology reveals that the primary polyphenol in
turmeric known as curcumin may be the perfect way to
fight cancers that have a fungal component.

Curcumin is an up-and-coming drug of natural origin with

multi-target properties, and it has exhibited efficient
anticancer and antifungal activities alone or in combination
with conventional chemotherapy drugs and antifungal
agents. The dual pharmacological activities of curcumin
may make it a good candidate for the prevention and
treatment of cancer and its cancer-related invasive fungal
infection related complications. Further investigation is
necessary to clarify curcumins anticancer and antifungal
mechanisms for better understanding. In spite of the useful
biological activities of curcumin, its poor water solubility
and low bioavailability hinders its clinical applications.
Various nano-sized curcumin delivery systems, such as
nanoparticles, nanospheres, solid lipid nanoparticles,
micelles, and liposomes have been shown to overcome
these shortcomings and significantly improve the
anticancer and antifungal activities of curcumin. Many
studies on curcumin and its nanoformulations are still in
the preclinical stage at present. A clinical trials stage is
necessary to unlock the potential of curcumin
nanoformulations as a therapeutic strategy for treating
cancer and its IFI complications.

Titled, Curcumin and its promise as an anticancer

drug: An analysis of its anticancer and antifungal
effects in cancer and associated complications from
invasive fungal infections, the new study addressed the
concerning problem of invasive fungal infections, as a
major cause of both morbidity and mortality, in cancer
patients. According to the study, Effective anti-infection
therapy is necessary to inhibit significant deterioration
from these infections. However, they are difficult to treat,
and increasing antifungal drug resistance often leads to a
relapse. The authors suggest curcumin might offer an
ideal natural alternative:
Curcumin, a natural component that is isolated
from the rhizome of Curcuma longa plants, has
attracted great interest among many scientists
studying solid cancers over the last half century.
Interestingly, curcumin provides an ideal
alternative to current therapies because of its
relatively safe profile, even at high doses. To
date, curcumins potent antifungal activity against
different strains of Candida, Cryptococcus,

Truly, curcumin is fast becoming the most extensively

researched and most promising herb for disease prevention
and treatment known, with at least 750 studied potential

491

therapeutic applications. To learn more visit our

Turmerics Research database. For more research on

natural substances which combat Candida Albicans

infections visit our database on the topic.

492

How Turmeric Keeps You Looking Young

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 11, 2016
How Turmeric Helps You Feel Young
While looking young is certainly helpful, its not the only
piece of the puzzle. True youthfulness comes from feeling
young, because without energy, vibrancy, and emotional
well being, life can be dull and unexciting. We now know
that emotions are extreme determinants in how the
physical body ages, so incorporating tactics to keep you
mentally and emotional well are extremely important for a
high quality of life.
If youve been reading this blog for quite awhile, youre
probably already familiar with the wonderful benefits and
uses of turmeric. Research on this ancient spice commonly
used in Indian cooking and Ayurvedic practices continues
to mount, with science already firmly establishing it as
protective of the cardiovascular system, [1] supporter of
healthy cholesterol levels, [2] and a potent free radical
scavenger. [3] New research coming to light is also showing
that turmeric may keep you looking young, possibly
slowing down the rate at which the skin ages. Is it time to
start adding this yellow spice to your beauty regimen?

Turmeric has shown some promise recently in helping

people with post-traumatic stress disorder. [8] Some
research also shows benefits of using turmeric for
depression, but more studies need to be conducted to
replicate these results. [9] It has been suggested that
turmerics soothing compounds play a role in its ability to
support mood. [10] While serotonin and other brain
chemicals are involved, its possible that more research on
the link between inflammation and depression could be on
the horizon.
How to Use Turmeric in Your Beauty Protocol

How Turmeric Keeps You Young

If youre attempting to use turmeric as a supplement for
supporting skin health and for fighting the visible signs of
aging, note that you can either use it topically or internally.
As a topical adjunct to your current skin regimen, you can
make a facial mask by mixing together 1 teaspoon turmeric
powder with 1 teaspoon raw honey and teaspoon
coconut oil. Apply to the skin for 10 to 20 minutes and
wash off with a soft natural soap. Since turmeric can stain,
your skin may look yellowish for a time, so do this routine
only one to two times a week at night. You can also use a
high-quality turmeric extract in liquid form for topical and
internal preparations. Liquid extracts generally provide a
higher level of antioxidants and other beneficial
compounds compared with powder.

Turmeric is one of the highest antioxidant-containing

spices on the ORAC scale. ORAC, which stands for
Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity, is a scale that
measures the amount and activity of antioxidants in foods.
Turmeric comes in at #6 in the list of herbs and spices with
the highest antioxidants, just under cloves (the highest) and
cinnamon. [4] Antioxidants are essential for protecting the
integrity of the skin by preventing free radicals from
destroying its texture and elasticity.
Antioxidants also protect the skin from ultraviolet light,
one of the key contributors to the visible signs of aging. [5]
But dont think that turmerics anti-aging power is just
about the antioxidantsfar from it. Research shows that
turmeric inhibits a key enzyme (elastase) that reduces the
ability of elastin from forming. [6] Elastin, along with
collagen, is a protein needed for making the skin smooth
and pliable, and also helps it to retain its original position
when pinched. In fact, turmeric, in vitro, may inhibit
elastase by up to 65%. [7]

How do you use turmeric? Wed love to hear your

suggestions!
-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN,
DABFM

493

References:
1.

Wanwarang Wongcharoen, Arintaya Phrommintikul. The protective role of curcumin in cardiovascular diseases. International Journal of
Cardiology. April 3, 2009, Volume 133, Issue 2, Pages 145-151.
2. Idrus Alwi, Teguh Santoso, Slamet Suyono, et al. The effect of curcumin on lipid level in patients with acute coronary syndrome. Acta Med
Indones. 2008 Oct;40(4):201-10.
3. Sahdeo Prasad and Bharat B. Aggarwal. Turmeric, the Golden Spice. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition.
4. ORACValues. Spices, turmeric, ground. ORAC Fact Sheet.
5. Fernandez-Garcia E. Skin protection against UV light by dietary antioxidants. Food Funct. 2014 Sep;5(9):1994-2003. doi: 10.1039/c4o00280f.
6. Chainani-Wu N. Safety and anti-inflammatory activity of curcumin: a component of turmeric (Curcuma longa). J Altern Complement Med. 2003
Feb;9(1):161-8.
7. Tamsyn SA Thring, Pauline Hili and Declan P Naughton. Anti-collagenase, anti-elastase and anti-oxidant activities of extracts from 21 plants.
BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine 2009, 9:27. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-9-27.
8. Monsey MS, Gerhard DM, Boyle LM, et al. A Diet Enriched with Curcumin Impairs Newly Acquired and Reactived Fear Memories.
Neuropsychopharmacology. 2014 Nov 28. doi: 10.1038/npp.2014.315.
9. Lopresti AL, Maes M, Maker GL, et al. Curcumin for the treatment of major depression: a randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled study. J
Affect Disord. 2014 Oct;167:368-75. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2014.06.001.
10. Lopresti AL, Hood SD, Drummond PD. Multiple antidperessant potential modes of action of curcumin: a review of its anti-inflammatory,
monoaminergic, antioxidant, immune-modulating and neuroprotective effects. J Psychopharmacol. 2012 Dec;26(12):1512-24. doi:
10.1177/0269881112458732.

494

What Is Riboflavin And Its Importance?

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 10, 2016
prevent iron
symptoms.

deficiency

and

other

accompanying

Red Blood Cells: Riboflavin is a key factor in the bodys

production of red blood cells. [6]
Riboflavin also plays an important role in how your body
functions. It helps lower homocysteine levels, which can
help protect against heart disease [7]. It also improves
muscle function and helps to prevent cramping.

You may have recently heard about the importance of

having enough riboflavin in your diet. But what is
riboflavin? Riboflavin is simply another name for vitamin
B2. Its one of eight B vitamins that your body uses to
metabolize fat and protein and to convert carbs into the
glucose your cells require for energy. Your nerves and
brain need riboflavin to function properly and it also helps
keep your skin, eyes, hair, and liver healthy. As a watersoluble vitamin, your body doesnt store it, so you need to
regularly get enough in your diet.

Dietary Sources of Riboflavin

Some of the best sources of riboflavin are almonds,
brewers yeast, broccoli, spinach, eggs, milk, yogurt, wild
rice and organ meats. Below, you will see some of the best
sources of riboflavin. Keep in mind that it is a water
soluble vitamin, so when you boil foods with riboflavin,
you can lose up to half of this key nutrient (and other
water-soluble vitamins) from the food. In other words,
enjoy raw food when possible.

Riboflavin Health Benefits

If you feel good, youre probably doing something right in
terms of nutrition. That means getting enough riboflavin
and all the other key nutrients your body needs. When it
comes to staying healthy, riboflavin is important because it
boasts the following benefits.

Selected Food Sources of Riboflavin [8]

Food
Beef liver, pan fried, 3
ounces
Breakfast cereals, fortified
with 100% of the DV for
riboflavin, 1 serving
Oats, instant, fortified,
cooked with water, 1 cup
Yogurt, plain, fat free, 1 cup
Milk, 2% fat, 1 cup
Beef, tenderloin steak,
boneless, trimmed of fat,
grilled, 3 ounces
Clams, mixed species,
cooked, moist heat, 3
ounces
Mushrooms, portabella,
sliced, grilled, cup
Almonds, dry roasted, 1
ounce
Cheese, Swiss, 3 ounces
Rotisserie chicken, breast
meat only, 3 ounces

Migraine: Adults and kids who dont get enough

riboflavin tend to experience frequent headaches and even
migraines. However, it seems that when a person gets
enough riboflavin, the number of headaches is. [1] One trial
of 55 patients showed that those who took 200-400 mg of
riboflavin had substantially fewer migraines and headaches
than those given the placebo. This reduced both the
frequency and intensity of the headaches. [2]
Cataracts: According to the National Institute of Health,
people who get more riboflavin along with niacin may
have a lower risk of getting cataracts. [3] More research is
needed to really know the interaction of riboflavin with the
eye.
Iron Absorption: Iron is an important mineral for growth
and development. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia,
particularly in women who are pregnant or nursing and
young children. Riboflavin helps the body absorb both iron
and zinc and also helps make them both more available to
your body. [4] [5] This increase in absorption helps to

495

Milligrams
per serving

Percent DV*

2.9

171

1.7

100

1.1

65

0.6
0.5

35
29

0.4

24

0.4

24

0.3

18

0.3

18

0.3

18

0.2

12

Egg, whole, scrambled, 1

large
Quinoa, cooked, 1 cup
Bagel, plain, enriched, 1
medium (34 diameter)
Salmon, pink, canned, 3
ounces
Spinach, raw, 1 cup
Apple, with skin, 1 large
Kidney beans, canned, 1
cup
Macaroni, elbow shaped,
whole wheat, cooked, 1 cup
Bread, whole wheat, 1 slice
Cod, Atlantic, cooked, dry
heat, 3 ounces
Sunflower seeds, toasted, 1
ounce
Tomatoes, crushed,
canned, cup
Rice, white, enriched, long
grain, cooked, cup

0.2

12

0.2

12

0.2

12

0.2

12

0.1
0.1

6
6

0.1

0.1

0.1

0.1

0.1

0.1

0.1

Fatigue
Your eyes tire quickly
Throat swelling and soreness
A swollen tongue with a magenta, or deep red color
Cracks and sores around the corner of the mouth
Digestive trouble
Slowed growth in children or during pregnancy
An unusual sensitivity to light

Riboflavin is especially important for women. Years ago,

researchers found that exercise increases the amount of
riboflavin a woman needs. [10] Research shows riboflavin is
important for pregnant women, as a deficiency increases
the risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy. [11] Low levels
of vitamin B2 and nicotinamide also increase the chance of
congenital heart disease to babies in utero. [12]
How to Consume More Riboflavin
Riboflavin is widely available on its own or as part of Bcomplex vitamins. Supplementing riboflavin in
combination with other antioxidants and metabolic
boosters is a great way to promote good health, especially
if your diet isnt providing the nutrients you need. I
personally recommend Poly-MVA which offers
riboflavin as one of the key ingredients. Its a great
multivitamin, multimineral, and amino acid supplement
that can help support your immune system and boost your
energy levels.

Riboflavin Deficiency
Inadequate nutrition is a big problem with big
consequences. A few common symptoms of riboflavin
deficiency include [6] [9]

References:
1.

Schoenen J, Jacquy J, Lenaerts M. Effectiveness of high-dose riboflavin in migraine prophylaxis. A randomized controlled trial. Neurology. 1998
Feb;50(2):466-70.
2. Cond M, Posar A, Arbizzani A, Parmeggiani A. Medline Plus. Riboflavin.
3. Agte VV, Paknikar KM, Chiplonkar SA. Effect of riboflavin supplementation on zinc and iron absorption and growth performance in mice. Biol
Trace Elem Res. 1998 Nov;65(2):109-15.
4. Shi, Zumin et al. Inadequate Riboflavin Intake and Anemia Risk in a Chinese Population: Five-Year Follow Up of the Jiangsu Nutrition Study. Ed.
Keitaro Matsuo. PLoS ONE 9.2 (2014): e88862. PMC. Web. 3 Nov. 2015.
5. Medline Plus. Roboflavin
6. McNulty H, Dowey le RC, Strain JJ, Dunne A, Ward M, Molloy AM, McAnena LB, Hughes JP, Hannon-Fletcher M, Scott JM. Riboflavin lowers
homocysteine in individuals homozygous for the MTHFR 677C->T polymorphism. Circulation. 2006 Jan 3;113(1):74-80.
7. National Institute of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements. Riboflavin
8. University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin).
9. Belko AZ, Obarzanek E, Kalkwarf HJ, Rotter MA, Bogusz S, Miller D, Haas JD, Roe DA. Effects of exercise on riboflavin requirements of young
women. Am J Clin Nutr. 1983 Apr;37(4):509-17.
10. Wacker J, Frhauf J, Schulz M, Chiwora FM, Volz J, Becker K. Riboflavin deficiency and preeclampsia. Obstet Gynecol. 2000 Jul;96(1):38-44.
11. Smedts HP, Rakhshandehroo M, Verkleij-Hagoort AC, de Vries JH, Ottenkamp J, Steegers EA, Steegers-Theunissen RP. Maternal intake of fat,
riboflavin and nicotinamide and the risk of having offspring with congenital heart defects. Eur J Nutr. 2008 Oct;47(7):357-65. doi: 10.1007/s00394008-0735-6. Epub 2008 Sep 8.

496

Scientists Discover Coconut Oil Exterminates 93 Percent Of

Colon Cancer Cells In Two Days
By Arjun Walia
January 8, 2016
and in a study published in the journal Cancer
Research, researchers at the University of Adelaide
discovered this component completely exterminated more
than 90 percent of colon cancer cells after just two days of
treatment in a colon cancer cell line (CRC) in vitro. The
study also reports/cites studies that postulate and indeed
support the position that lauric acid can induce cancer cell
death both in vitro and in vivo. For this study, the
researchers used the rat small intestinal cell line as a model
of normal intestinal epithelial cells, which again,
demonstrated that lauric acid induced considerable cell
death. Although there is still much to learn, there is
obviously some potential here.

Colon cancer: its one of the most

common cancers among both men and
women, and although a number of
natural remedies have been linked to
the prevention of this disease,
government health authorities are quick
to mention that not enough research
has been done to warrant prescribing
them. This is a common theme when it
comes to using food as medicine and
the science behind it. Its unfortunate
that science today is dominated by the
pharmaceutical industry, and that most
of the research received by physicians
in the Western world comes directly
from pharmaceutical companies.

That being said, as reported by the United Nations

University, experiments are being conducted with animals
to find out how coconut oil can guard against cancer and
have already yielded some interesting results. You can
read more about that here.
Whats the difference between in vivo and in vitro studies?
For in vitro studies, researchers conduct experiments using
cells in a petrie dish, or perform a procedure in a
controlled environment outside of a living organism. So,
when we are talking about coconut oil and cancer, the
study has not been performed in vivo, where researchers
will perform experiments on whole, living organism as
opposed to a partial or dead organism. Animal studies and
clinical trials are two forms of in vivo research.

The medical profession is being bought

by the pharmaceutical industry, not only in
terms of the practice of medicine, but also
in terms of teaching and research. The
academic institutions of this country are
allowing themselves to be the paid agents
of the pharmaceutical industry. I think
its disgraceful. (source)(source) Arnold
Seymour Relman (1923-2014), Harvard
Professor of Medicine and Former Editorin-Chief of the New England Medical
Journal

Unfortunately, clinical trials are highly expensive, making

studying the beneficial effects of lauric acid on cancer
difficult for researchers who lack proper access to
funding. Despite the fact that multiple studies stress the
need for more rigorous research, there is simply no money
available. Why is this? Its because medical research is
funded by pharmaceutical companies, and pharmaceutical
grade products, like drugs, are what they test in human and
animal clinical trials. Things found in nature cannot be
patented. Drugs can. It is therefore not in the best interests
of a pharmaceutical company to fund this type of research,
even though it is clearly in the best interests of the rest of
the population.

This, however, does not mean that other research,

published in reputable peer-reviewed journals, is not being
conducted, or is not significant.

Below is a clip of Dr. Peter Rost, a former vice president

of one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the
world, Pfizer. In it he explains the monetary issue

A great example comes from a study that shows there is an

active anti-cancer component in coconut oil that
constitutes 50 percent of its makeup. Its called lauric acid,

497

Coconut oil has even been shown to

decrease the side effects of chemotherapy
and improve the quality of life for cancer
patients. (source)

More On Coconut Oil

Lauric acid, the colon cancer killing property within
coconut oil, is typically found in breast-milk as well. Its a
medium-chain fatty acid which supports the immune
system and has plenty of antimicrobial properties. Some
people consider raw, organic, virgin coconut oil to be a
superfood that can help heal cancer and other disease, and
studies like the one above support that assertion.

The point is that there are too many potential health and
healing properties associated with virgin coconut oil to
count, and further research would be, inarguably,
beneficial. If you are interested in learning more about it
we encourage you to further your research.

According to the American Society for

Nutrition, clinical studies have also shown
that the fats found within coconut oil
(MCFAs) may be useful in treating and
preventing diseases such as diabetes,
osteoporosis,
virus-related
diseases (mononucleosis, hepatitis C,
herpes, etc.),
gallbladder disease,
Chrohns disease, and cancer. (source)

For starters, you can check out this article by

Greenmedinfo.com:
The 50 Latest Coconut Oil Benefits,
Backed By Science.

498

Combat Iron Deficiency With These 16 Iron Rich Foods

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 13, 2016
children with low blood iron who received 80 mg iron
supplements per day. [4] More research is necessary but the
preliminary findings are interesting.
Who Runs the Greatest Risk?
Anyone who doesnt get enough iron can suffer iron
deficiency but some people are at greater risk. People who
should keep a close eye on their iron levels include
Pregnant Women: Expecting mothers need to increase
their iron intake to ensure they maintain healthy iron levels
and provide plenty of iron to their baby. Anemia due to
iron deficiency during pregnancy can lead to low birth
weight in newborns. [5] Studies also show that women who
exercise regularly may run low on riboflavin, or vitamin
B2, a vitamin the body requires to fully utilize iron.

Like zinc, magnesium, and potassium, iron is a nutrient

your body absolutely requires. Iron helps the body grow
normally and stay healthy and is used to make
hemoglobin, a critical protein found in red blood cells. [1]
When you have enough iron, your blood cells are strong
and carry life-giving oxygen throughout your body. Your
metabolism, which relies on oxygen, stays active and you
feel stronger and more clear-headed. If you are
experiencing an iron deficiency, you may feel weak and
experience other chronic symptoms.

Children: Iron is necessary for brain development in

children. In fact, a lack of iron is linked to slow
neurodevelopment. [6]
Blood donors: In the US, donors are suggested to only
give blood once every eight weeks. [7] Even with this much
time between giving those who donate frequently may
suffer from low iron levels especially if they dont eat
enough iron-rich foods. In fact, the National Institute of
Health reports that 25-35% of frequent blood donors
develop iron deficiency. [8]

Today, many people turn to the convenience of processed

foods rather than enjoy a diet of natural, organic foods.
When a person eliminates natural nutrition, their body is
less likely to receive the full spectrum of nutrients
necessary to thrive. Of particular importance is iron; the
World Health Organization says iron deficiency is one of
the most widespread of mineral deficiencies around the
world. [2] Lets take a look at why you need iron,
symptoms of iron deficiency, and the best ways to get
enough iron in your diet.

Cancer patients: Many cancer patients, particularly those

who suffer from cancer in the esophagus, stomach, small
bowel, or colon may experience iron deficiency caused by
blood loss. [9] The loss of other nutrients and the resulting
nutrient deficiencies can speed iron loss and lead to
complications.

Iron Deficiency Symptoms

16 Foods Rich in Iron

Some of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency

are frequent dizziness, fatigue, weakness, and feelings of
lightheadedness. More pronounced symptoms include
brittle nails, cracks in the sides of the mouth, regular
illness and infection, and restless leg syndrome. Most of
the research suggests most cases of anemia are caused by
iron deficiency. [3] Recent research also linked attention
deficit disorder (ADD) in children to iron deficiency.
Common symptoms of ADD appeared to improve in

There are two types of dietary iron. Heme is iron from

animal sources that the human body can easily absorb.
Non-heme is a type of iron found in plants and some
animal sources. The body doesnt absorb non-heme iron as
well but vitamin C is known to help improve absorption.
[10]
The best sources of non-heme iron come from beans,
nuts, and vegetables. Here are 16 iron-rich foods you can
add to your diet to ensure you get enough iron.

499

Food

Milligrams Percent
per Serving DV*

White beans, canned, 1 cup

significant, but if you are a woman who is pregnant or

trying to conceive, you will need to make sure youre
consuming higher levels of iron daily. An obstetrician can
help determine the amount.

44

Chocolate, dark, 45%69% cacao

solids, 3 ounces

39

Beef liver, pan fried, 3 ounces

28

Lentils, boiled and drained, cup

17

Spinach, boiled and drained, cup

17

Tofu, firm, cup

17

Kidney beans, canned, cup

11

Generally speaking, adult men under 50 only need about 8

mg of iron per day. The U.S. National Institute for Health
recommends 18 mgs per day for women under 50. After
the age of 50, 8 mg per day is the recommended daily
value for both men and women. Its important to
remember, though, that as you get older, you dont digest
and absorb nutrients as well. If you begin to experience
iron deficiency symptoms, you probably need to find a
way to get more iron into your body.
Finding the right balance is critical. Just as iron deficiency
can lead to issues with your health, consuming too much
iron can actually become toxic.
Precautions and Side Effects

Sardines, Atlantic, canned in oil,

drained solids with bone, 3 ounces

11

Chickpeas, boiled and drained,

cup

11

Tomatoes, canned, stewed, cup

11

Beef, braised bottom round,

trimmed to 1/8 fat, 3 ounces

11

Potato, baked, flesh and skin, 1

medium potato

11

Cashew nuts, oil roasted, 1 ounce

(18 nuts)

11

Safest Ways to Take Iron

Green peas, boiled, cup

Chicken, roasted, meat and skin, 3

ounces

The best way to get iron is through natural, organic foods

like the iron rich foods listed above. These also tend to
contain other vitamins and minerals that make iron
digestion and absorption easier and more complete, along
with providing additional health benefits.

Rice, white, long grain, enriched,

parboiled, drained, cup

Iron excess, or hemochromatosis is a rare condition, but it

does happen. Some people do consume too much iron in
their diet or supplement when they dont need to, but there
are some who possess a genetic trait that makes it possible
to absorb too much iron. [11]
The symptoms for iron excess are similar to those of iron
deficiency. They include fatigue, dizziness, headache,
weakness, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, and
weight loss. The condition can also lead to low levels of
zinc. Thats because too much iron interferes with zinc
absorption. [11] Of course, youll want to monitor your iron
level carefully, but it is far more likely to become iron
deficient than to have absorbed too much iron.

One complaint that many have with iron-only supplements

is that they tend to be rough on the stomach. Some people
even experience nausea or vomiting with iron
supplements. Thats why I like IntraMIN. IntraMin is a
complete mineral supplement that delivers 71 organicallybound trace minerals for easy digestion and absorption. Its
an easy way to get many of the key nutrients you body
needs especially iron without a dramatic change in diet.

Recommended Dietary Amounts

As previously mentioned, several factors can impact the
levels of iron you need. Age is typically the most

500

References:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements. Iron.

World Health Organization. Micronutrient Deficiencies: Iron Deficiency Anemia.
World Health Organization. Worldwide Prevalence of Anemia 1993 2005.
Konofal E1, Lecendreux M, Deron J, Marchand M, Cortese S, Zam M, Mouren MC, Arnulf I. Effects of iron supplementation on attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder in children. Pediatr Neurol. 2008 Jan;38(1):20-6.
Allen LH. Anemia and iron deficiency: effects on pregnancy outcome. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Domellf M1. Benefits and harms of iron supplementation in iron-deficient and iron-sufficient children. Nestle Nutr Workshop Ser Pediatr
Program. 2010;65:153-62; discussion 162-5. doi: 10.1159/000281159. Epub 2010 Feb 1.
American Red Cross. Eligibility Criteria: Alphabetical.
Brittenham GM. Iron

501

Top 10 Healthy Foods

That Actually Contain Hidden Chemicals
Posted By Greg White
Date: January 14, 2016
Dont judge a book by its cover. By the same token, dont
judge a particular food by its label. Although many food
items tout themselves as being healthy, low in
calories, and organic, many products are laced with
hidden chemicals known to cause ill health. While its not
always easy to spot these ingredients, some background
knowledge will help you identify which foods are healthy
and which ones are not. The next time you go grocery
shopping, make sure to avoid these charlatans in disguise:

Almost all sausages and canned meat products contain

vegetable oil made from soybean oil and canola oil. These
oils are derived from genetically modified crops that have
been laced with noxious herbicides. Theyve been linked
to a host of ailments, including cancer, diabetes, obesity,
heart attack and stroke.
5. Refined breakfast cereals
People consume refined breakfast cereals as a source of
fiber. Nevertheless, cereal packets are as low in sugar as
they are in nutritional value. In particular, refined breakfast
cereals tend to be high in salt. Unprocessed cereal with
oats are a much healthier way to start the day.

1. Diet Sodas
Diet sodas seem like a healthier option because they are
supposedly low in calories. People who want to watch
their weights often choose diet sodas under the impression
that they provide a healthier alternative to regular soda.
Dont be deceived.

6. Microwave popcorns

According to Stephanie Maxton, a senior dietitian in MD

Andersons Medicine Centre, People who drink diet sodas
daily have a higher rate of obesity than those who dont.
This is because artificial sweeteners do not satisfy a sweet
tooth; rather, they merely make people crave sweeter food.
Readers may be surprised to know how far soda water with
a splash of lime or lemon juice can go as a substitute for
diet soda.

Microwave popcorns contain fats and some dangerous

compounds which can lead to Alzheimers disease.
Diacetyl (DA) is a flavoring used in processed foods,
including popcorn. Although diacetyl mirrors the taste of
butter, it disrupts the normal functioning of the brain.
Popcorn bags also contain chemicals which are
carcinogenic when heated. Its best to make your own
popcorn, which can be accomplished with corn seeds, a
closed glass dish and a heated stove.

2. Soy cheese products

7. Sugar-free foods

Soy cheese manufacturers claim that their cheese is

healthy because it is made with soy, instead of milk. What
they fail to mention is that soy cheese products contain
casein, an ingredient found in milk protein. Casein is a
compound which causes sinus congestion, constipation and
even asthma. In short, soy cheese does not avoid the health
problems attached to whole milk.

Nearly all food companies are jumping at the opportunity

to label their products sugar-free. Regardless, sugar-free
foods are loaded with chemicals that are just as dangerous
as sugar, like Butylated hydroxyanisole, a preservative
used in cosmetics. It is a carcinogenic compound present
in nearly all sugar-free foods which have been linked to
cancer.

3. Diet Yogurts

8. Milk

Watch out for yogurts tagged as low in sugar or sugar-free.

All of these yogurts contain the same dangerous artificial
sweetener found in diet soda aspartame (E951).
Aspartame can cause people to lose track of their calorie
intake, making them consume more calories in the long
run.

Either drink fresh milk from a farm or dont drink it all.

Supermarkets offer a myriad of milk products, from low
fat to whole milk. Nevertheless, most milk contain the
artificial sweetener aspartame. The chemical is no longer
tracked by the FDA even though it can lead to nerve
damage, stroke and seizures.

4. Sausages and canned meat products

9. Chocolate

502

Chocolate is gift-wrapped in a shiny package, and tends to

be marketed toward children. Although chocolate contains
trace amounts of cocoa, it primarily consists of a cocktail
of artificial chemicals, flavoring and colors. Loaded with
fructose corn syrup, growth hormones and partially
hydrogenated oils, among other carcinogenic compounds,
consuming too much chocolate can lead to a one-way trip
to the emergency room. Dark chocolate is to be preferred
over other chocolates, since the former usually contains
more natural cocoa than the latter.

monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a cancer-causing agent

found in bacon. According to a 2005 study by the
University of Hawaii, people who regularly consume
bacon or other processed meats are 70 percent more at risk
for pancreatic and colorectal cancer.
Foods laced with hidden toxic ingredients lurk around
every corner. They can be found at your supermarket, gas
station and liquor store. It can often be difficult to
recognize what is healthy versus whats not, to separate the
sheep from the goats. Fortunately, with this list at hand,
you will be able to call a healthy food items bluff
with an intense, scrutinizing stare.

10. Bacon and other processed foods

Declaring Everyone loves bacon is the equivalent to
saying that Everyone loves cancer. Sodium nitrate

503

Plastic Oils Vs. Saturated Fats:

Busting The Propaganda (VIDEOS)
By Makia Freeman
January 15, 2016
The USDA Co-Opted by 3 Giant Industries
How did this all come about? Well start with the USDA.
As an arm of the Government set up to regulate the food
and agricultural industries, it gradually became corrupted
and subservient to the very industries it was supposed to
oversee. (This is a common theme throughout Big
Government; Big Pharma controls the FDA and CDC, and
Big Banking controls the SEC.) The USDA promotes
eating a lot of grains, meat and milk (as influenced by the
grain, beef and dairy industries) as the foundation of a
healthy diet. In 1992 it came out with a Food Pyramid
where the above 3 food groups, conveniently, constituted
three quarters of our recommended diet! (For those
wanting a more accurate food pyramid, Mike Adams
Honest Food Pyramid one is very good, but not perfect.)

Plastic oils are the name I am giving to the hydrogenated

oils that have been pushed by the big chemical companies,
ever since Proctor and Gamble released Crisco in 1911. So
whats better for you: plastic oils or saturated
fats? Saturated fat and cholesterol are two areas of health
where the American people have been horribly
brainwashed but the truth is now starting to come out.
Since around the 1960s, you have been told that saturated
fat is bad for you and that high cholesterol leads to heart
disease. Not only that, but you have also been bombarded
with industry-funded propaganda that you should be eating
extra amounts of fiber, that you should be eating large
amounts of (refined) grains, that you should be drinking
large amounts of (pasteurized and homogenized) milk, and
that processed sugar is fine for your health. The result? An
epidemic of diabetes, obesity, candida, asthma,
Alzheimers, heart disease and cancer, which is crippling
the nation.

Big Pharma / Big Agra Plastic Oils

Meanwhile, the elite central planners, ever on the lookout
for ways to increase their dominance and hijack the food
supply, hatched an ingenious plan. These planners were
and are the very same New World Order families (the
Rockefellers, DuPonts, etc.) that dominate the oil, plastic,
drug and agricultural industries today, the Big Pharma /
Big Agra conglomerate. They decided to use in food
production the process of hydrogenation, which chemically
alters certain fats by adding an extra hydrogen atom. This
process, when applied to polyunsaturated plant oils (such
as sunflower, canola, cottonseed, soy and corn), makes
these oils saturated and more stable but damages them in
the process and makes them harmful for human health.
These hydrogenated oils are plastic oils straight from the
chemical factory!
Big Agra wanted to make money selling hydrogenated oils
and foods, and weaken the population at the same time,
and Big Pharma wanted to make money selling drugs to
individuals with the resulting ailments, so they created and
promoted margarine and hydrogenated vegetable oils.
However, they knew that most people loved saturated fats
like butter, so it would not be easy to convince people to
make the switch. What they needed was some science
and a marketable expert to persuade people. Enter Dr.
Ancel Keys.

504

The Fraudulent Dr. Ancel Keys

Plastic Oils vs. Saturated Fats = Factory vs. Farm

Keys became famous for his diet-lipid-heart disease

hypothesis that proposed a correlation between saturated
fat (especially found in animal products) and heart disease,
cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol. Consequently,
in 1956 the American Heart Association (funded by
Procter & Gamble, makers of the hydrogenated oil Crisco,
and of which Keys was a board member) went on
television to tell everyone that a diet which included large
amounts of butter, lard, eggs, and beef would lead to
coronary heart disease. Later Keys was put on the front
page of Time magazine in 1961. This was around the
beginning of the low-fat diet; it was later cemented by
Senator McGovern in 1977 with his Senate Select
Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs.

Think about it: how can something synthetic made in a

factory (hydrogenated vegetable oil) possibly be healthier
than something that comes from a farm, especially where
animals are treated humanely and allowed to roam (grassfed butter)? How can something made with a synthetic
chemical formation, unfamiliar to the body, possibly be
better than something humans have been eating for tens of
thousands of years? If youre looking for the source of
clogged arteries and heart disease, look at the plastic oils
that the body cant fully assimilate and you may find the
culprit.
Cholesterol Also Demonized

There was one big problem with all of this: Keys had
selectively cherry picked the data and committed scientific
fraud by deliberately leaving out data points to skew the
research. He pointed to countries with low saturated fat
intake and low heart disease, and countries with high
saturated fat intake and high heart disease, and claimed a
significant correlation. However, he omitted a very large
amount of countries, almost all from Europe, that had high
saturated fat intake and low heart disease.

Along with saturated fat, cholesterol was also demonized

in the process. As a point of fact, cholesterol is a fat
molecule and is synthesized by all animals because it is a
crucial structural component of our cells. Cholesterol helps
with respiratory and gastrointestinal problems, and creates
vitamin D; it is part of the healing mechanism of the body.
Some scientists wrongly blamed cholesterol when they
saw high levels of it in damaged blood vessels, thinking it
caused clogged arteries, rather than realizing it was there
to help protect and mend those arteries.

The European Paradox

The Low-Fat Diet Often Means Refined Grains

France is one such country, and has become famous for the
French Paradox phenomenon, where people consume
moderate to high amounts of dairy, meat and wine, with no
heart disease or even any negative side effects. However,
you could just as well say European Paradox, because
the UK, Norway, Holland, Switzerland, Austria and others
also had (and still have) high saturated fat diets with low
rates of heart disease!

Those promoting the low-fat diet also suggest eating a lot

of carbohydrates. The problem with this advice is that, for
most people, carbohydrates means refined grains, and
refined grains usually means wheat. American wheat, as
opposed to wheat from Europe or elsewhere, has been
highly hybridized since the 1950s to increase its gluten
content. At the same time, only certain varieties have been
cultivated, so Americans have gone from eating a grain
that was diverse and well-balanced (as Nature had created
it) to one which is vastly different to what their recent
ancestors ate. This has given birth to a rise in a host of
autoimmune diseases (such as celiac disease), where the
food being eaten is so unrecognizable to the body that it
actually starts attacking this food, and itself!

To say saturated fat caused heart disease was a giant lie.

Your body is made with saturated fat. It is essential to
animal life. It coats and protects our organs, keeps us
warm, traps toxins, provides a stored supply of energy for
hard times, forms 60% of our brain and yields a slow,
steady source of energy (with more calories per gram) than
proteins or carbohydrates. It is horribly misguided to
reduce saturated fat from your diet, yet entire industries
have been built on this deception. We have the American
Heart Association putting its heart healthy labels all over
low-fat food. We have the low-fat industry pushing items
like skim milk, which is basically sugar water with
fortified (synthetic) calcium and vitamin D.

Refined grains tend to break down quickly in the body and

become sugar. This causes quick and high blood sugar
spikes, leading to mood swings, depression and eventually
diabetes. Numerous doctors have, in fact, declared that
sugar resembles a drug more than a food and America is
completely hooked. Sugar is highly addictive and affects
the same pleasure centers of the brain in a very similar way
to cocaine and heroin. It is in almost everything, especially
anything processed or packaged. Many of the so-called
healthy low-fat options being pushed in the marketplace
are full of sugar, whether its milk, yogurt or salad
dressing.

Americans have become scared of all fat, rather than

distinguishing between healthy fats (butter, cheese, olive
oil, avocado and coconut) and unhealthy fats
(hydrogenated oils).

505

means fat-burning; since sugar is fast burning and fat is

slow burning, these diets use glucose-burning for
emergencies and high-intensity activities, and make fatburning the usual mode of energy production. A popular
ketogenic diet is the Paleo or Primal diet. The Paleo diet
includes meat, vegetables, fruit, oils, and some nuts and
seeds, while eliminating grains, legumes and dairy. It is
based on the idea that for optimal health we need to eat
more like our ancient ancestors did, who were huntergatherers, and that our diet of the last 6000 years or so
(since the Agrarian Age where we started mass producing
grains) has brought with it many problems. Of course, for
the Paleo diet to work best, you need to find wild, organic
or grass-fed meat and animal products.

Low-Fat Means More Weight and More Disease

Low fat diets have, ironically, led to people gaining more
weight. Instead of filling up on fat (which triggers the
satiation mechanism of our stomach and brain), people
have over-eaten on refined grains and sugars instead, and
the body stores away all those extra carbs as fat.
Additionally, low-fat diets have spurned all sorts of
diseases such as candida, diabetes and cancer, and have
even been implicated in Alzheimers disease.
Beware of Too Much Fiber
One piece of questionable dietary advice that has
accompanied the demonization of fat and cholesterol is the
promotion of added fiber. Now, some fiber in the diet is
important, due to benefits such as feeding friendly bacteria
in your gut which control your immune system. However,
too much fiber can cause the very things you may be trying
to alleviate, such as constipation and irritable bowel
syndrome. There is conflicting evidence about the pros and
cons of fiber.

A vegetarian whole food diet is also another great solution,

so long as you are including plenty of healthy fats
(avocado, coconut, olive oil, sesame oil) and eating grains
in whole form (best if they are well prepared by soaking,
sprouting or fermenting). Even a vegan diet can work well,
as long as you are plugging in the gaps from the absence of
animal products (e.g. certain amino acids and vitamin B12)
and not in need of high fat or protein (as a pregnant
mother, breastfeeding mother, developing child or athlete
might be).

Solutions to the Low-Fat Fad

Whether you lean more towards being a carnivore or

herbivore, the important thing is to get your food fresh,
from the field or farm, have a certain percentage of it raw
(see this presentation by Vesanto Melina for info on the
ideal ratio of cooked to raw food), get lots of healthy fats,
and avoid refined grains, processed sugar and plastic oils.
Within these parameters there is still room for lots of
different diets; there is no one perfect diet for everyone,
since everyone has different constitutions, metabolisms
and energy needs.

So, what is the solution to the low-fat, low-cholesterol,

high-hydrogenated oil, high-sugar diet being promoted by
so many nutritionally ignorant organizations? We need to
get back to basics. We need to remember that we are made
from fat, and that it serves many valuable functions in our
body. We need to remember this fundamental truth:
food which comes from the field and
farm will always be healthier than food
which comes from the factory.

Ultimately, listen to your body to work out what foods are

right for you. You are your own best doctor!

In the face of the vilification of fat and cholesterol, many

nutritionally sound ketogenic diets have arisen. Ketosis
Sources:

http://www.honestfoodguide.org/downloads/21407.2_HonestFoodGuide.pdf
http://www.dietheartpublishing.com/diet-heart-timeline
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Senate_Select_Committee_on_Nutrition_and_Human_Needs
http://www.faim.org/brainhealth/do-low-fat-diets-cause-alzheimers.html
http://authoritynutrition.com/why-is-fiber-good-for-you/

506

Feds Try To Suppress Herbal Molecule That Makes Your

Liver Nearly 'Bulletproof' Against Alcohol Damage
By Mike Adams, The Health Ranger
Friday, January 15, 2016
sugar molecule, both derived from nature. It has already
been awarded a patent as a liver protective substance (U.S.
Patent Office patent #9,149,491), and it has the potential
to help prevent tens of thousands of acute liver toxicity
cases each year that are derived from alcohol consumption.
Yet the federal government is going out of its way to make
sure the U.S. public never hears about this.
It's astonishing. The same government
that drips toxic fluoride into the water
supply under the false pretense that it's
all for "public health" refuses to allow
alcoholic beverage manufacturers to
label their products as containing this
powerful protective herbal extract that
prevents liver damage.

There are all sorts of ways the federal government actively

poisons the population:

The EPA spills toxic waste into rivers.

The FDA keeps cancer causing additives in the

food supply.

The CDC pushes toxic vaccines laced with

mercury... even when that mercury gets injected
into children in California.

Consider this: If alcohol could be made safer to drink, why

wouldn't the government want everyone to know about
that? Covering up this remarkable breakthrough is the
equivalent of the federal government outlawing air bags,
seatbelts or anti-lock brakes on automobiles.
Remember: The same government that wants to force you
to wear a helmet when you ride a bicycle (or a seatbelt
when you drive a car) is working AGAINST you find out
about a natural plant extract that protects your liver from
alcohol damage.

The USDA approves toxic GMO crops that use

deadly herbicide chemicals linked with cancer.

And now there's a new one you've probably never heard

of. I've recently learned that the U.S. federal government is
actively blocking the public from learning about an herbal
molecule from licorice root that can be added to alcoholic
beverages to dramatically reduce the liver toxicity
caused by alcohol consumption.

NTX is the name of this innovative

compound that protects the liver from
damage
The molecule is called "NTX" and you can read about it at
NTXtechnology.com.
It's
made
primarily
from
glycyrrhizin, which exhibits tremendous hepatoprotective
properties. Check out these published scientific studies
about liver protection and glycyrrhizin on SCIENCE.
NaturalNews.com:

The liver protective effects of this plantbased molecule are astonishing, yet the
TTB (which regulates alcohol) is
demanding this molecule be censored
from public knowledge and not
mentioned on alcohol labels.
Why isn't NTX allowed to be touted on alcohol
beverage labels?
The trade name for the molecule is "NTX" and it's a
combination of a licorice root extract plus a functional

507

Protection of liver cells from experimentally

induced liver cell injury by glycyrrhizin

Effect of compound glycyrrhizin injection on

liver function and cellular immunity of children
with infectious mononucleosis complicated
liver impairment

Glycyrrhizin prevents liver injury by inhibition

of high-mobility group box 1 production by
Kupffer cells after ischemia-reperfusion in rats

Glycyrrhizin represses total parenteral

nutrition-associated acute liver injury in rats by
suppressing endoplasmic reticulum stress

Glycyrrhizin prevents of lipopolysaccharide/Dgalactosamine-induced liver injury through

down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9

in mice
Don't you find it astonishing that the U.S. federal
government doesn't want to make alcohol safer to
consume?

508

FDA Responsible For Rapid Rise Of

Deadly Pathogens In U.S. Food Supply
By: Jonathan Benson, Staff Write
Friday, January 15, 2016
While it might seem logical to blame the pharmaceutical
industry for manufacturing the antibiotics that have given
deadly pathogens apparent superpowers, it is the FDA that
is responsible for at least 80 percent of them ending up in
conventional animal feed. FDA guidelines-turned-rules
have also made it difficult, if not impossible, for smaller
drug innovators to come up with novel solutions to the
problem. As a result, only the biggest pharma players have
a horse in the race, further stifling innovation and
improved food safety.

Antibiotic-resistant superbugs are a major detriment to

society, with the latest predictions estimating that by 2050
they will kill more people than the number who currently
die from cancer. But the problem is not necessarily the
drug companies that produce them or the corporate megafarms that buy them, but rather the government regulatory
structure that has been actively perpetuating their use for at
least the past half-decade.

"On the drug and antibiotics production

side, guidelines eventually turned into
official rules, and with them an environment
unkind to innovation and variety," added
Salles. "Unattainable quality requirements
now suffocate innovative drug makers, and
privilege a handful of companies whose
antibiotics have been used in farm animal
feeds for more than a decade."

Often missing from the conversation as to who is

responsible for this escalating problem is the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA), the nation's top dog when it
comes to legal drug use. Not only has the FDA long set the
standard for the use of antibiotic drugs in livestock, which
is believed to be the prevailing cause of drug-resistant
superbugs, but the agency has also put at an economic
disadvantage farms and drug manufacturers that are trying
to utilize other less-destructive means of keeping livestock
healthy and food safe.

It would be irresponsible to leave out the lobbying

element, a.k.a. the corporate interests that have taken over
many of the most influential positions at the FDA, or at
least purchased them politically. This undue influence has
led to numerous policy changes over the years that favor
large agricultural giants at the expense of small-scale
farmers who produce clean, safe food without the need for
excessive antibiotics.

The FDA has known since the 1970s that the advent of
superbugs, which possess a mutated resistance to
antibiotics, might eventually threaten public health on a
large scale. But the agency has repeatedly failed to address
the problem, instead demanding more power over food
production. The result, as explained by Alice Salles of
PanAm Post, has been an increase in generic regulations
that have only further promulgated the spread of
superbugs.

Rather than grant the FDA further control over the food
supply, as some are now contending is necessary to
preserve food safety, it is perhaps time to strip away the
many caked-on layers of misguided legal fiction that
constrain both innovation and decentralized agriculture.
Both of these are necessary for a viable food production
network that, given the proper free market liberties, will
thrive and innovate without putting public health at risk.

"Whatever the stated goals may have

been, Washington, DC's one-size-fits-all
approach eventually caused a boom in the
use of antibiotic-ridden feeds, thus
increasing the occurrence of superbugs,"
she wrote.

"If the goal is safer meat for consumers,

the proper approach is for lawmakers -at the behest of informed constituents -to restrict the FDA's authority,"
concluded Salles.

Under FDA rule, US food supply has

become
progressively
more
contaminated with deadly pathogens

We would agree.

509

This Humble Food Extract

Puts Bone Drugs To Shame
By Sayer Ji
January 18, 2016

The true value of this study becomes apparent when we

look at the drugs in greater detail. Alendronate (Fosamax),
for instance, was originally used to soften water in
irrigation systems used in orange groves. It has the ability
to ulcerate and puncture the stomach, which is why it is
suggested it be taken with water and the person stands or
sits up for half an hour. It has been linked to at least 18
serious adverse health effects, including bone fracture
itself!

According to research published in the British Journal of

Pharmacology in 2008, alendronate (Fosamax), raloxifene
(Evista) and estradiol (estrogen, E2) are inferior to the
phytoestrogen genistein commonly found in fermented
soy*, red clover, kudzu, fava beans and coffee, in
preserving bone mineral density (quantity) and strength
(quality), in an animal model of menopausal osteoporosis.
Genistein has been extensively researched for its potential
therapeutic role in osteoporosis prevention and
treatment, as well as a mind-boggling 140 additional
health conditions. It is likely the main reason why soy, and
particularly fermented soy, has been regarded as both a
food and a medicine in Asian culture.
What makes this finding so groundbreaking is that
genistein is a food derivative, whereas the three categories
of drugs compared to it in the study are evolutionarily and
biologically alien chemicals (xenobiotics) with profound,
unintended adverse health effects.
Raloxifene (Evista), on the other hand, has been proven to
increase the risk of pulmonary embolism, venous
thrombosis, sroke and coronary artery disease to name but
only a few areas of grave concern.

In essence, this study calls into question the multi-billion

dollar osteoporosis and osteopenia industrys most
lucrative commodities. Foods and food extracts, of course,
do not lend themselves to being patented, which is why
this study will likely never receive the multi-million dollar
funding required to bring it to the level of a human clinical
trial.

Estradiol, though produced naturally in our body, may

have cardiotoxic and carcinogenic properties when levels
are too high, as may occur during pharmaceutically-based
hormone replacement therapy, or when detoxification/
transformative pathways are working sub-optimally.

* non-fermented soy contains genistin,

whereas friendly bacteria in our gut or in
cultured foods such as miso biotransform it
into genistein.

510

Genistein has much weaker estrogenic activity in

comparison to estradiol, and yet it is capable of binding to
the same estrogen receptors for a much longer duration,
which may result in significant positive ffects when
endogenously produced estrogen levels fail to meet the
bodys optimal requirements. Genistein is also highly
selective, capable of binding and stimulating bone estrogen
receptor sites (resulting in increased strength/density),
whereas down-regulating breast density by taking up, and
weakly stimulating estrogen receptor sites within breast
tissue.
This enables the plant estrogen paradoxically to block
out and/or reduce the proliferative activity of excess
estradiol and related xenobiotic estrogen exposures. The
same principle, also known as Selective Estrogen Receptor
Modulation (SERM), has also been observed operative
within the phytoestrogens found in flaxseed.

511

Discover 10 Nutritious Foods That Are High In Phosphorus

By Dr. Edward F. Group III
January 20, 2016
(American)

Phosphorus is a mineral that helps your body maintain

healthy bones and teeth. [1] It is essential for life and makes
up about 1% of your body weight, making it the second
most abundant mineral in your body next to calcium. 85%
of the phosphorus in your body is in your teeth and bones;
with calcium, it keeps your bones and teeth strong. It also
plays a major role in how your body uses carbohydrates
and fats, repairs cells, stores energy, and works with B
vitamins. Most people are able to get enough phosphorus
from their diet, so lets take a look at the top 10 foods high
in phosphorus.

Yogurt (skim,
plain)

1
cup/13g 356 mg
protein

Cereals (All
Bran)

cup

Nuts (cashews)

1 oz/18
151 mg
nuts

Lentils

cup

178 mg

Sunflower Seeds

3.5 oz

660 mg

339 mg

Health Benefits of Phosphorus

In addition to the role it shares with calcium for bone and
teeth health, phosphorus is involved with many of your
bodys other natural processes. In fact, this mineral plays a
role in almost every aspect of your health. Bodily
processes that require phosphorus include

10 Foods High in Phosphorus

Most natural foods contain some amount of phosphorus.

Protein-rich foods generally offer the highest amounts of
phosphorus, but non-protein sources like whole grains,
potatoes, and garlic can also have impressive levels of this
essential mineral. Here are 10 foods high in phosphorus: [2]
Sardines w/bone

3 oz

Metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins [3]

Regulating how the body stores energy [4]
Growing and repairing cells and tissue [5]
Building and repairing DNA and RNA [6]
Balancing essential vitamins, particularly B and D [7]
Maintaining regular muscle activity [8]
Managing kidney function and filter waste [9]

420 mg

Salmon (fresh,
cooked)

3 oz

235 mg

Tuna (fresh,
cooked)

3 oz

208 mg

Whole Milk

1 cup

227 mg

Cheese

1 oz

211 mg

Remember, when it comes to minerals and health, balance

is key. Too much or too little of a certain mineral can
create an imbalance that does more harm than good. Thats
why I recommend a reliable mineral supplement, such as
IntraMIN, to help you maintain the proper balance of
important minerals. In addition to helping you keep
minerals like phosphorus and calcium in equilibrium,
IntraMIN will also ensure that you get trace minerals that
might otherwise be missing from your diet. Some of the
minerals found in this formula include magnesium, silver
and boron, and many others.

512

much phosphorus is rare, but its something youll want to

watch out for if you have kidney disease.

Maintaining Normal Phosphorus Levels

Getting enough phosphorus is not difficult. Your total
daily intake should be between 700 and 1000 mg per day
[10]
, and keep your phosphorus-calcium levels in balance.

Phosphorus deficiency, or hypophosphatemia, is also a rare

occurrence. Some medications, including ACE inhibitors,
antacids, insulin, and corticosteroids, can lower
phosphorus levels [14] in the body. If you do take any of the
medications listed, keep an eye out for joint pain, fatigue,
anxiety and loss of appetite, as these can all be signs that
you are running low on phosphorus. [15]

Too much phosphorus can deplete your body of calcium

and weaken your bones. Excess phosphorus can also lead
to a hardening of soft tissue and organs [11], a formation of
mineral deposits in your muscles [12], and an imbalance in
other minerals like iron, zinc, and magnesium [13]. One of
the main offenders here is phosphoric acid, which is found
in sweet drinks like sodas. Fortunately, consuming too

Leave a comment below and tell us how you get enough

phosphorus!

References:
1.

Medline Plus. Phosphorus in Diet. Last updated February 2, 2015.

2.

Department of Veterans Affairs. Phosphorus. Last updated June, 2005.

3.

Corrigan A, Gorski L, Hankins J, Perucca R, Alexander M, Infusion Nursing: An Evidence-Based Approach (St. Louis: Saunders,
Elsevier, 1995, 2001, 2010), 329.

4.

Oregon State University Linus Pauling Institute. Micronutrient Information Center. Last reviewed June, 2014.

5.

University of Maryland Medical Center. Phosphorus. Last reviewed August 5, 2015.

6.

Caroline Ashley, What I Tell My Patients about the Importance of Calcium and Phosphate, British Journal of Renal Medicine, Vol
15 No 2 (2010): 15.

7.

Tazhibaev ShS, Mamyrbaev AA.[Indices of calcium and phosphorus balance in different variants of protein-vitamin deficiency]. Vopr
Pitan. 1982 Sep-Oct;(5):43-7.

8.

Grnberg W, Scherpenisse P, Dobbelaar P, Idink MJ, Wijnberg ID. The effect of transient, moderate dietary phosphorus deprivation
on phosphorus metabolism, muscle content of different phosphorus-containing compounds, and muscle function in dairy cows. J
Dairy Sci. 2015 Aug;98(8):5385-400. doi: 10.3168/jds.2015-9357. Epub 2015 May 28.

9.

Moreira DM1, Friedlander JI2, Hartman C3, Gershman B4, Smith AD3, Okeke Z3. Association of estimated glomerular filtration rate
with 24-h urinalysis and stone composition . Urolithiasis. 2015 Nov 16. [Epub ahead of print].

10. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Guidance for Industry: A Food Labeling Guide. Llast updated August 20, 2015.
11. Calvo MS, Uribarri J. Public health impact of dietary phosphorus excess on bone and cardiovascular health in the general
population. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 Jul;98(1):6-15. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.112.053934. Epub 2013 May 29.
12. Anderson JJB,* Klemmer PJ. Risk of High Dietary Calcium for Arterial Calcification in Older Adults. Nutrients. 2013 Oct; 5(10):
39643974. Published online 2013 Sep 30. doi: 10.3390/nu5103964.
13. Moe SM. Disorders Involving Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium. Prim Care. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2008 Jul 28.
Published in final edited form as: Prim Care. 2008 Jun; 35(2): 215vi. doi: 10.1016/j.pop.2008.01.007.
14. Liamis G, Milionis HJ, Elisaf M. Medication-induced hypophosphatemia: a review. QJM. 2010 Jul;103(7):449-59. doi:
10.1093/qjmed/hcq039. Epub 2010 Mar 30.
15. Medline Plus. Hypophosphatemia. Last updated November 9, 2014.

513

Broccoli Fights Cancer And Reduces Your Risk Of

Developing Arthritis
By: Julie Wilson
Date: January 21, 2016
So its the glucoraphanin content that
varies with different broccoli and is
essential for creating sulforaphane,
releasing Phase-2 enzymes which
neutralize highly reactive forms of cancercausing chemicals before they can damage
DNA and promote cancer.(1)
Data supporting broccolis cancer-fighting abilities was
first made available more than three decades ago. Since
then, countless studies have confirmed these findings.
In 1982, the National Research Council on Diet, Nutrition,
and Cancer concluded that there
A cruciferous vegetable loathed by many children,
broccoli can take some getting used to. But the sooner your
palate learns to enjoy its taste, the better, because you
dont want to miss out on this vegetables remarkable
health benefits.

there is sufficient epidemiological evidence

to suggest that consumption of cruciferous
vegetables is associated with a reduction in
cancer, reported Super Foods Rx.(2)

An astounding 30 percent of all cancers are connected to

what a person eats. This is both good news and bad news.
The good news is that we actually have control over our
health, whereas before it was widely believed that most
cancers were the result of bad genes passed on from one
generation to the next.

Less than half a cup of chopped raw broccoli daily can

reduce your chance of getting cancer
After reviewing the diets of nearly 50,000 men over a 10year-old period, researchers at the Harvard School of
Public Health also identified

The bad news, is that if you want to get healthy and protect
yourself from disease (or cure disease), then its up to you
to take action. A pill isnt going to save you. But a
dedicated effort on your part may.

an inverse relationship between the

consumption of cruciferous vegetables and
the development of bladder cancer.
Furthermore, a meta-analysis of 87 case-controlled studies
confirmed that broccoli and other cruciferous veggies help
ward off the risk of developing cancer, and just

You are what you eat

Now, having gotten that out of the way, its time to get to
the mounting research on broccoli.

10 grams a day of crucifers (less than 1/8

cup of chopped raw cabbage or chopped
raw broccoli) can have a significant effect
on your risk for developing cancer, reveals
Super Foods Rx.

As Natural News reported a few years back, out of all

cruciferous vegetables, broccoli has shown the most
consistent and pronounced anticancer effects with testing.
The anticancer compound is sulfur-based
sulforaphane. It doesnt come gift wrapped
in broccoli, but the naturally occurring
precursor glucoraphanin that creates it
does.

Consuming just half a cup of broccoli per day is believed

to protect against a number of cancers, including lung,
stomach, colon, rectal and breast cancer.

514

According to the National Cancer Institute, broccoli and

other cruciferous veggies help prevent cancer in the
following ways:

Published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism,

researchers from the U.K.s University of East Anglia
found that broccolis anti-cancer compound sulforaphane
halted a key inflammatory enzyme, therefore reducing the
cause of arthritis (inflammation).

They help protect cells from DNA damage.

They help inactivate carcinogens.
They have antiviral and antibacterial effects.
They have anti-inflammatory effects.
They induce cell death (apoptosis).
They inhibit tumor blood vessel formation
(angiogenesis) and tumor cell migration (needed for
metastasis).(3)

The same study tested its theory on mice,

feeding them a diet high in broccolis
glucoraphanin-producing
sulforaphane,
observing significantly less joint cartilage
than mice who [sic] had less sulforaphane.
So there you have it. An easily prepared vegetable, found
in most U.S. grocery stores, can help fight two of
Americas most common diseases, one of which claims the
lives of loved ones every single day. Dont waste any more
time; share the message with your friends and family and
starting loading up on some broccoli today!

Broccolis anti-inflammatory properties help eliminate

arthritis
One of the most common and often debilitating ailments,
arthritis affects about 350 million people worldwide. In the
U.S., 21 million people suffer from osteoarthritis, a
debilitating type that is also the most common, affecting
primarily the hip, knee and thumb joints. (4)

515

Black Seed Extract Cures HIV Patient Naturally

By Sayer Ji
January 24, 2016
Despite its commonplace use as the standard of care for
HIV treatment globally, anti-retroviral therapy remains
highly controversial, in part because the adverse health
effects of the drug class may outstrip those associated with
the HIV infection itself. This is especially true in cases
where the infection was treated early, having been
discovered through routine blood work in asymptomatic
and otherwise still healthy patients. Drug therapy can also
produce selective pressure on the HIV virus to mutate and
gain resistance, with the net effect that a stronger, more
drug-resistant form of HIV is produced in the body at the
same time that the drugs have done severe and even
irreversible damage to the patients immune system.
Sadly, however, the decline and ultimate death of the
patient is rarely if ever attributed to the treatment (and its
many iatrogenic effects) but rather to the disease itself
a well-known problem in our failed war against cancer
where the victim (patient) and the the cancer gets blamed
for the incessant failure and even disease-promoting
properties of chemotherapy, radiation and surgery.

There are words you dont use in

medicine today, such as cure. But a
remarkable case study in an HIV
positive patient treated with black seed
extract resulted in a sustained
remission, indicating a safe, accessible
and affordable alternative to highly toxic
antiretroviral HIV drugs may already
exist.

This is all the more reason why the

possibility that an ancient healing food
like black seed which the research
shows is generally safe, affordable and
accessible can cure HIV is so exciting.

Nigella Sativa, also known as black seed, has been

studied for a wide rage of health benefits, but not until
recently was it discovered to hold promise as a curative
agent against potentially lethal viral infections, including
Hepatitis C[i] and now HIV.

The Miraculous Recovery

A remarkable case study published in August of this year

in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and
Alternative Medicine described an HIV patient who after
undergoing treatment with a black seed extract
experienced a complete recovery, with no detectable HIV
virus or antibodies against HIV in their blood serum, both
during and long after the therapy ended.[ii]

At the outset of the study, the patient presented with

classical symptoms of symptomatic HIV infection,
with [a] history of chronic fever, diarrhoea,
weight loss and multiple papular pruritic
lesions of 3 months duration. Examination
identified moderate weight loss, with
laboratory confirmed tests showing seropositivity to HIV infection with a pretreatment viral (HIV-RNA) load and CD4
count of 27,000 copies/ml and CD4 count
of 250 cells/ mm(3) respectively.

This was a remarkable and unexpected observation,

described by the researchers as follows:
Nigella sativa had been documented to
possess many therapeutic functions in
medicine but the least expected is seroreversion in HIV infection which is very
rare despite extensive therapy with
highly active anti-retroviral therapy
(HAART). [emphasis added]

CD4 cells are essential for the adaptive immune response

in the body against a wide range of opportunistic infections
and is the primary target of HIV infection. CD4 cell count
and status therefore represent a primary diagnostic marker

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for the severity of HIV infection and the patients

prognosis.

Follow up tests revealed that even after 24 months without

herbal therapy the patients HIV tests remained normal,
without any indication of infection or associated immune
suppression.

The patient was administered a black seed concoction of

10 mls twice daily for 6 months, resulting in a rapid
improvement in symptoms, and significant reductions in
viral load:

They concluded:
This case report reflects the fact that
there are possible therapeutic agents in
Nigella sativa that may effectively
control HIV infection.

Fever, diarrhoea and multiple pruritic

lesions disappeared on 5th, 7th and 20th
day respectively on Nigella sativa therapy.
The CD4 count decreased to 160 cells/
mm3 despite significant reduction in viral
load (1000 copies/ml) on 30th day on N.
sativa.

Black seed is only one plant ally in the vast array of

natural compounds with experimentally confirmed antiHIV properties. GreenMedInfo.coms database contains
research on natural substances capable of reducing
antiretroviral drug toxicity, as well as that directly
inhibit the replication of the HIV virus.

By the 187th day on black seed therapy, testing indicating

the blood was entirely cleared of signs of infection, a socalled sero-negative status. The post-therapy CD4 counts
increased from baseline to a normalized 650cells/ mm(3)
with an undetectable viral (HIV-RNA) load.

[i] Eman Mahmoud Fathy Barakat, Lamia Mohamed El Wakeel, Radwa Samir Hagag. Effects of Nigella sativa on outcome of
hepatitis C in Egypt. World J Gastroenterol. 2013 Apr 28;19(16):2529-36. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i16.2529.
[ii] Abdulfatah Adekunle Onifade, Andrew Paul Jewell, Waheed Adeola Adedeji. Nigella Sativa Concoction Induced Sustained
Seroreversion in HIV Patient. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2013 Aug 12;10(5):332-5.

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