Digestive Health Supplements

Overview

Your well being and health are two of the most vital things in your life. Feeling & looking your very best can make the difference among really living and just getting by.

If you’re like most individuals, you perhaps know lots about the things you should be doing to promote and keep your optimal-health, particularly the gastrointestinal tract. You know how significant plenty of sleep, regular exercise, and low stress levels are in order to look and feel your very best. You know your diet should be high in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, but low in fat and sugar.

Natural dietary supplements are not a replacement for a diet that is healthy. Choosing foods from all of the food groups and ingesting a wide variety of foods from those groups, is necessary to your health. Today’s contemporary world makes it nearly impossible to get all the nutrients the human body needs from the diet alone.

The following are several digestive supplements to help keep the GI system healthy and functional:

• Chamomile: More Than a Soothing Tea. Chamomile is commonly used for several illnesses. Naturalists have tried chamomile in an attempt to cure digestive problems such as colic, upset stomach, and nausea, in addition to anxiety and insomnia. Individuals with some plant allergies like ragweed, though, could supposedly have an allergic reaction to chamomile. Always talk about any supplement usage with your medical doctor.

• DGL (Licorice): Cooling Heartburn. Licorice has extensively been used to cure symptoms of indigestion like acid reflux and heartburn. Though, these uses are not supported by scientific evidence. In its unpurified form, it can too have side effects, contributing to high blood pressure in some individuals. DGL is a particular extract of licorice with a definite chemical removed — it doesn’t have those side effects. Still, expectant women should not take DGL — or any other health supplement without first consulting their general practitioner.

• Ginger: Stomach Comforter. Asian drug uses ginger to treat stomach-ache. In the West, ginger is utilized to alleviate nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Ginger is available as a powder, in tablets or capsules, or as newly cut root. It’s commonly considered safe when taken in small doses like 1 to 3 grams per day.

• L-Glutamine: The Intestinal Helper. Glutamine is a natural amino acid. It supports the performance of the intestines and other body organs. The supplement L-glutamine may help alleviate diarrhea induced by infections, surgery, or stress. It too enhances the nutrients absorption in some patients. That includes individuals with unwarranted amounts of unfriendly bacteria in their gastrointestinal tracts, individuals who are taking cancer drugs, and who have had part of their guts removed.

• Peppermint Oil: To relieve irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. While the jury’s still out, more than a few studies recommend that peppermint oil may decrease pain and bloating that comes with IBS. Enteric-coated capsules don’t liquefy in the stomach. They pass through to the small & large intestines, where the oil is being released. In small doses, peppermint oil appears to be harmless.

• Probiotics: Friendly Bacteria. Probiotics include living organisms — mostly bacteria and one sort of yeast. These resemble good bacteria in the intestine that promote good digestion. The health supplements are used to cure certain gastrointestinal problems and for common digestive health. Some sorts of probiotics may offer relief from diarrhea and may as well alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). You can add them to malted milk or yogurt.

“Radioactive fallout is defined as radioactive material that is carried by winds until it settles to earth. Under some circumstances you may see the fallout; under others you may not. The radioactivity it gives off cannot be seen. You can’t feel it. You can’t smell it, but fallout doesn’t come out of the sky like a gas and seep into everything. It can best be described as a fine to coarse sand carried by the winds. Because the wind direction varies at different heights above the ground, it is not possible to judge from the ground where the fallout will settle. It can settle in irregular patterns hundreds of miles.

Supplements to Start Taking Now

The following are supplements that I recommend that you start taking now to help your body prepare preemptively for radiation. They are relatively inexpensive and generally locally available: All of the following supplements in this first section except rutin can be found at Whole Foods and other natural food stores.

Herbal Remedies

Here is a list of medicinal herbs that I recommend you take for radiation exposure. You can take them as a tea, a tincture or as individual encapsulated herbs. You can get individual herbal tinctures online at Herb Pharm or get a custom combination tincture made at Farmacopia in Santa Rosa, CA.

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)- removes radioactive isotopes from the body.
Recommended Dose – 1-4 ounces/300-120 grams of cooked fresh root, up to a pint of infusion daily, or several large spoonfuls of vinegar but only if made with fresh roots. Tincture – 15-20 drops 3 times a day. Contraindications – do not use Burdock during the first trimester of pregnancy

Cilantro Leaf (Coriandum sativum)- natural heavy metal chelator (i.e. plutonium and cesium are heavy metals.) Therefore, it helps to eliminate them out of the body. Recommended Dose – Take 1-3 dropperfuls daily of tincture or eat large amounts of fresh cilantro

Eleuthero/Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)- helps protect against the side effects of radiation exposure. Recommended Dose – 500-3000 mg. in capsule form. Tincture: 15-20 drops three times a day.

Holy Basil/Tulsi Aerial Parts (Ocimum sanctum)- preliminary research shows evidence that Holy Basil protects against radiation-induced peroxidation, thus helping to protect against the detrimental effects of low-level radiation. It also increases glutathione and superoxide dismutase which are important mediators in the liver in helping the body deal with radiation. Recommended Dose – Tincture: 40–60 drops, three times per day. Tea: add 1 tsp. dried leaf to 8 oz. hot water, steep, covered, 5–10 minutes. Take 4 oz. of tea up to three times per day.Capsules:various forms of capsulated products are available. These include extracts in gelcaps, dried or powdered herb in capsules, and standardized extracts (2 percent ursolic acid) in capsules. Contraindications – Holy Basil should not be taken while pregnant or nursing or for an extended period of time. Use caution if you have high blood pressure or rheumatic heart disease

Reishi Mushroom Fruiting Bodies (Ganoderma lucidum)- offers protection against ionizing radiation. Preventive Dose – 400 mg. take 2 caps or 1 dropperful of tincture up to 3 times per-day. Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – take the same dose up to 6 times per day
Contraindications – None

Other Supplements

Rutin-a bioflavonoid that can also be found in lower doses in vitamin C supplements containing bioflavonoids. Rutin is glucoside found in buckwheat that can help protect the body from the effects of radiation. Itstrengthens the capillary walls and reduces hemorrhaging caused by x-rays. In animal studies it was shown to reduce the death rate caused by excessive x-rays by 800 per cent.
Preventive Dose – 100 to 200 mg a day. Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – 800 mg. or more a day. Contraindications – none

Selenium – protects DNA from radiation damage and helps prevent damage to the skin surface, too. Get plenty of selenium by eating a daily dose of 2 cups/500 ml of nettle infusion, one-half ounce/15 g kelp, 2 ounces/60 g cooked burdock root, or 1 cup/250 ml organic yogurt daily. Shellfish, green and black teas, and garlic contain significant amounts of selenium, as do many mushrooms. The best sources however are nettles (2200 mcg per 100 grams), kelp (1700 mcg/100 g), Burdock (1400 mcg/100 g), Catnip (Nepeta cataria), American Ginseng, and Eleuthero which is also known as Siberian Ginseng and Astragalus.

Vitamin A- In 1974, researchers from India found that vitamin A, when taken internally by humans, hastened recovery from radiation. In 1984, Dr. Eli Seifter and a team of researchers for the Albert Einstein College of Medicine reported that vitamin A and beta-carotene counteracted both partial and total body gamma radiation. It also improved the healing of wounds; reduced weight loss, thymic and splenic atrophy, and adrenal enlargement; and prevented gastro-ulceration and an abnormal decrease in red and white blood cell formation. For therapeutic purposes, 25,000 to 35,000 IU is the recommended dose for adults. During emergencies or crisis situations, intensive exposure may warrant higher amounts.

Contraindications – can be toxic if taken too much over a long period of time. Vitamin A can also be toxic to pregnant woman and their babies.
Vitamin B-Complex- many B vitamins, especially pantothenic acid, help to decrease the effects of radiation. One of its many functions is that they normalize the red and white blood cell count because the destruction of white blood cells by radiation can last for extended periods of time. The various B vitamins have different effects and should be taken together.Take the dose recommended on the bottle.

Vitamin C with bioflavonoids- this is a VERY IMPORTANT supplement as it protects against intercellular damage from radiation. Preventive Dose: 2-5 grams per day. Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – 2-5 gram per day. Contraindications – when you start having diarrhea back off 500 mg until you reach bowel tolerance.

Vitamin E- can provide internal and external protection against Cesium-137 which is a common component of fallout and a reported component in the fallout from Japan. Vitamin E also helps prevent the destruction of vitamin A and fatty acids by massive doses of x-rays. If large doses of C, B and E are taken before exposure, the terrible symptoms of radiation sickness can be reduced or eliminated to a large degree. Preventive Dose – an adult weighting 155lbs should take 900 IU per day of Vitamin E as d-alpha-tocopherol.
Dose Upon Radiation Exposure – up to 1600 IU per day.

Additional Recommended Supplements That Are More Expensive and/or Difficult To Find

Laminaria Japonica- probably the most important seaweed in helping decrease radiation in our body. This seaweed was the secret weapon of Russian doctors that saved thousands of innocent people from disease after nuclear fallout from Chernobyl. It can be quite hard to find.
Recommended Dose – 1500 mg/day

Seaweeds are not only a great natural source of nutrients, they are very effective at removing radiation from the body as they contain sodium alginate. There are literally thousands of different types of seaweeds but some of the most popular seaweeds are arame, wakame, kombu, hijiki, bladderwrack, rockweed, sea lettuce, and dulse. You can find them in your local health food store and various oriental grocery stores in your neighborhood in their natural form, or in flakes, flat sheets, and powders. They can be mixed in soups and salads, or eaten by themselves. If you don’t like the taste of seaweeds, or you want something more convenient you can find various seaweed supplements in capsules or tablets. One high quality seaweed supplement made with four organic seaweeds in a capsule is 
Sea Treasure™by RegalLife™. It also contains organic alfalfa which is also found to be beneficial at removing radiation becomes of its rich chlorophyll content.

The Atomic Energy Commission recommends for maximum protection against radioactive poisoning for humans, taking a minimum of 2 to 3 ounces of sea vegetables a week or 10 grams (two tablespoons) a day of sodium alginate supplements. During or after exposure to radiation, the dose should be increased to two full tablespoons of alginate four times daily to insure that there is a continual supply in the GI or gastrointestinal tract. There may be a rare problem of constipation but this can be avoided if the sodium alginate is made into a fruit gelatin. Agar, derived from sodium alginate in kelp, is a safe, nontoxic substance that can be used as a thickening agent or gelatin. Sea vegetables are also high in natural iodine. However, I recommend sticking to potassium iodide as discussed below.

Beta-1,3 glucan- In a controlled study done at the US Armed Forces Radiobiology Institute, 70% of rats given a lethal dose of radiation were completely protected from radiation effects when given a dose of yeast beta glucan by mouth after the radiation exposure. Beta glucan is a free radical scavenger. It is able to protect blood macrophages from free radical attack during and after the radiation allowing these cells to continue to function in the irradiated body and release factors important to the restoration of normal bone marrow production. This supplement is very expensive, but worth it. Reishi mushroom is high in beta 1,3 glucan if you just want to take that.
Recommended Dose – 500 mg cap/1 time a day

Additional Recommendations Upon Exposure
Here are some additional recommendations if you think you have been exposed to radiation. First and foremost, don’t panic.

Potassium Iodide- take this as soon as you can once you know you have been exposed. This is a VERY IMPORTANT supplement that helps decrease the chance of plutonium or cesium being metabolized in your body as potassium and severely effecting the health of your thyroid. Because it is such an important supplement I recommend IOSAT only FDA approved potassium iodide that is in sealed containers. IOSAT is available online.

Potassium Iodide Recommended Dose from the FDA and the CDC:
According to the FDA, the following doses are appropriate to take after internal contamination with (or likely internal contamination with) radioactive iodine:
• Adults should take 130 mg (one 130 mg tablet OR two 65 mg tablets OR two ml of solution).
• Women who are breastfeeding should take the adult dose of 130 mg.
• Children between 3 and 18 years of age should take 65 mg (one 65 mg tablet OR 1 ml of solution).
Children who are adult size (greater than or equal to 150 pounds) should take the full adult dose regardless of their age.
• Infants and children between 1 month and 3 years of age should take 32 mg (½ of a 65 mg tablet or ½ ml of solution). This dose is for both nursing and non-nursing infants and children.
• Newborns from birth to 1 month of age should be given 16 mg (¼ of a 65 mg tablet or ¼ ml ofsolution). This dose is for both nursing and non-nursing
newborn infants.

Contraindications – do not take if you are not exposed and take as little as possible, i.e. only when you know that you have been exposed.
Oil- ½ cup of any cold pressed oil if you are exposed will help protect the cell membranes. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred.

Bentonite Clay- helps to eradicate toxins radiation/toxins. It is generally advisable to start with 1 tablespoon of bentonite clay daily, mixed with a small amount of juice. Pay attention to the results for a week and then gradually increase the dose to no more than 4 tablespoons daily in divided doses.Make sure you drink plenty of chlorine-free water throughout the day. You can also use other forms of edible clay such as French green clay.

Sea Salt and Baking SodaBaths- add 1 pound of sea salt and 1 pound of baking soda and soak in chlorine-free water for 20 minutes. Then rinse with cool water. You can also 1 pound of betonite, or other clay, to the sea salt and baking soda when soaking which increases the removal of radiation. Some specialists who work with radioactive isotopes use this method to remove radiation from their body. If you have been exposed to an abnormally high level of radiation you can use this method three times a week for one month.

Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO)- good for preventing cell nicking from ionizing radiation.
Recommended dose – 5-10 ml per day

Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum)- helps the liver deal with the effects of toxicity of radiation poisoning.Recommended dose -1-3 dropperfuls of tincture per day
Melatonin- helps protect the brain against radiation
Recommended dose – 1-2 mg
Caution – only take Melatonin at night!

Lecithin- helps protect the cell membranes
Recommended dose – 2-3 tbsp. a day
Chlorophyll – a number of studies found that chlorophyll-rich foods can decrease radiation toxicity. Spirulina and chlorella are two micro-algae that are rich in this substance, as are leafy greens, celery, parsley, the sprouts of any grain or bean, the young shoots of any edible grass, such as wheat and barley, and sunflower greens. Chlorophyll is similar in structure to hemoglobin. Guinea pigs on a diet rich in chlorophyll showed increased resistance to lethal X-rays. Organic alfalfa is a good source of natural chlorophyll.

Miso- has been used to treat radiation sickness. It is a traditional Japanese seasoning produced by fermenting rice, barley and/or soybeans, with salt and the fungus kojikin, the most typical miso being made with soy. Miso is widely available in most natural food stores and many grocery stores.

Other Foods that help the body decrease the effects of radiation- garlic, onions, beets, kale, brewer’s yeast/nutritional yeast, green tea/black tea, brussel sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, watercress, apples, guavas, quince, plums, gooseberries, oranges and other citrus fruitspineapple, seaweed (see above).

In the light of the catastrophe at hand I invite us all to stay calm and focused, knowing that this too shall pass one way or another. May we use this opportunity to realize the beauty and fragility of life, as well as, to give thanks for what we have. And, may people finally awaken to the fact that nuclear power does NOT work in any form no matter what the benefits.

Important Disclaimer: The above supplements have been shown through research to be effective in decreasing the detrimental effects of radiation on the body. There is a lot of information here. If you only want to do a few supplements, I recommend sticking with the supplements in the first half of the document, since they have the most scientific evidence supporting their use. The doses given are what is determined as safe for an average adult. If you are breastfeeding, pregnant or want to give the supplements to a child, please do further research to see if they are safe for you or your child and what the specific dose would be. Also, if you are sensitive to medications or supplements, please stick to the lower dose. Lastly, some supplements are recommended in higher doses after exposure. If you choose to do this, please note that some side effects might occur with some of these supplements. Please do further research on what you are taking before you take the maximum dose. If you have any serious illnesses or are on medications please talk to your healthcare provider to get more detailed information to ensure these supplements are safe for you prior to taking them.”

References
www.livewellnaturally.com

www.rifeenergymedicine.com

Foods and Nutritional Supplements Capable of Neutralizing Effects of Radiation

Fortunately, the battle against radiation begins on the cell level. The electromagnetic field generated by modern living can be reduced but never eliminated. The universe is teeming with radiation. We cannot build barriers against outer space. The integrity of the immune system, however, must be our first and last line of defense. When the cells and tissues are saturated with nutrients, there is less opportunity for radioactive elements to dominate. Many foods and nutritional supplements can bolster the immune system and nourish the cell structure so effectively that radiation can be diminished in effect. Kelp and other sea-vegetables can strengthen the immune system and draw out radioactive elements from the body. Garlic and garlic extract tablets are reputed to have a detoxifying effect. Garlic and onions are also known to combat many strains of viruses. Beta-carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin C are proven antioxidants. When electrons are displaced from their orbit, dramatic changes occur in their biochemical properties. Free radicals are formed. The body normally keeps them under control, but exposure to radiation greatly accelerates their formation. The body produces free radical scavengers to counteract free radicals. The work of these free radical scavengers can be facilitated by the use of antioxidants. Selenium, a mineral that should be taken only in small quantities, is also an antioxidant. Zinc has been scientifically proven to enhance the immune system because of its effect on the thymus gland. Vitamin B6 is another nutrient known to fortify glandular functioning. The virtues of whole grain foods, fresh vegetables, a very low intake of sugar, the frequent use of unrefined carbohydrates and a moderate intake of protein foods (restricted to vegetable and grain proteins) believed to have protective value in pitting the immune system against the proliferation of the electromagnetic field

Cinnamon contains an essential oil that is mostly made up of cinnamaldehyde and has few traces of eugenol and coumarin.  This is commonly used as spice because of its characteristic odor and a very hot aromatic taste. It has been also known that cinnamon have remarkable medicinal effects. It has been traditionally used as far back in ancient times in various ways and was considered a precious commodity.

There are basically two types of cinnamon widely used: the correctly referred to Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) and Chinese/Saigon cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia). Both of these types were used by ancient Chinese and Egyptian civilizations for medicinal purposes and food flavoring, respectively. On the other hand, the search for this spice has fueled the exploration trade in medieval Europe back in the 15th to the 16th centuries.

The name cinnamon originated from the Greek kinnamomon while its other names, to name a few, include canelle de ceylan in French and wild cinnamon for the Ceylon variety and dalchini, taj, lurundi and guipi for the Chinese variety.

What are the health benefits of Cinnamon?

Main Actions

• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Antipyretic
• Fungicidal

Other Actions

• Antispasmodic/Antiflatulence
• Enhanced insulin production
• Inhibitor of dental and respiratory bacteria

Known Uses

It is being used to treat colds, diarrhea and various digestive system ailments. It has been also traditionally used to counter bad breath and relieve toothache. Cinnamon is also believed to have a concentration of antioxidants effective in relieving stress and the related illnesses. It also includes antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties from its cinnamaldehyde and ethanol extracts, respectively.

The significant antioxidant, antimicrobial and fungicidal properties made it a traditional preservative of food items.

Skin Conditions

The cinnameldehyde content in cinnamon is the strongest factor in the herb’s antibacterial and fungicidal effect. Both types of cinnamon demonstrated inhibitive characteristics against various strains of bacteria. Two antibiotic resistant bacteria, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated antibacterial activity against cinnamon.

Gastrointestinal Conditions

Research shows that the essential oil exhibits anti-flatulence or carminative activity and proved to decrease smooth muscle contraction in the stomach and colon. The oil was proven to demonstrate antifoaming property in a flatulence induced environment and active antispasmodic activity.

From the C. cassia variety, various compounds found active in its extract proved to increase glucose metabolism by as much as 20 times and has enhanced insulin activity. It also has the antipyretic ability and can lessen occurrence of ulcers.

Other Uses

• Cinnamon is considered in traditional Chinese medicine, to warm kidneys and strengthen yang, and may be used for male impotency.
• Natural Food Preservatives. Cinnamon has an antibacterial, fungicidal and antioxidant properties.
• Traditional Uses: stomach pain, flatulence, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, bacterial infection, infant colic and female reproductive problems such as lactation, excessive menstrual flow, dysmenorrheal, and birth pains.

Dosage Range

• Tea: ½ to ¾ tsp of cinnamon powdered, added in a cup of hot water taken 2-3 times a day with meals
• Essential oil: 0.05-0.2 ml diluted in carrier oil
• If with diabetes: 1-6 grams a day if powdered cinnamon taken in capsules
• Fluid extracts: 0.5-1 ml taken three times a day.
• Dried bark or crushed cinnamon: 1.5-4 grams taken up to four times a day

Adverse Reaction

• Oral form: well-tolerated
• Topical form: allergic reactions may occur because of cinnamaldehyde
• Toxicity in rats is 4.16 g/kg and 3.4 ml/kg body weight

Significant Interactions

No studies have been conducted. Thus, interactions are mainly based on theory, speculation and incidence.

• Antidiabetic drugs: Based on theoretical perspective, oral ingestion of cinnamon capsules reduces blood sugar level. It should be taken under medical supervision for health safety.

Contraindications and Precautions

• Contraindicated in individuals who are allergic to cinnamon or Peru balsam. Also, if a person has fever, stomach and duodenal ulcers.

Pregnancy Use

• It is advised not to take cinnamon during pregnancy. However, dietary intake is relatively safe. Presently, studies conducted with animals show very little teratogenic effect.

Supplement Research

• Cinnamon is popularly used as medicinal agent and a natural food flavoring.
• It has been anciently used to treat diarrhea, stomach cramps, anorexia, flatulence, nausea and dyspepsia.
• It is an antioxidant, and has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• Person taking cinnamon may develop allergic reaction if used topically. If you are allergic to cinnamon or Peru balsam, currently pregnant or with stomach or duodenal ulcer, it is best not to take cinnamon.
• Studies found ground cinnamon to actually reduced blood sugar and lipid levels in individuals diagnosed of diabetes mellitus type 2. On the other hand, more studies need to be done to clearly establish accurate results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any health safety issues that I need to consider?

• Cinnamon oil can basically cause allergic reaction if used on skin and should be avoided by person allergic to cinnamon or Peru balsam, during pregnancy or individuals with gastrointestinal ulcer.

What benefits can I get from this herb?

• Cinnamon has antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant properties and considered natural food preservative. It is beneficial in human digestive system, and used as treatment for person with dyspepsia, nausea and flatulence. Other studies show great effect in lowering blood sugar and cholesterol level.

When can I expect full health benefits after taking this supplement?

• If taken orally, digestive symptoms should diminish quickly. However, it may take a month before you visibly see effects on blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Echinacea is anciently used as a cure for snakebite, infection, colic and external wounds. It is otherwise called E. angustifolia, E. purpurea, and Rudbeckia purpurea L. In 1800s, it was popularly used as an antibacterial medication prescribed by eclectic and traditional doctors. However, with the arrival of antibiotics, Echinacea suddenly diminished and was no lingered called a real medicine for infection.

The plant parts used to make supplements are the leaf, roots and aerial parts. Its chemical components include polysaccharide, sterols, glycoproteins, resins, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and essential oils. This may depend on the species, growing factors and plant part. On the other hand, with regards to its chemical composition, drying and extraction can also affect its potency.

What are the health benefits of Echinacea?

Main Actions:

Effectiveness may depend on its chemical composition.

• Antifungal
• Anti-inflammation
• Antiviral
• Boosts and regulates the immune system

Other Actions:

• Anesthetic
• Antioxidant
• Apoptosis or cell death
• Cytochromes
• Prevents undesirable chemotherapy side-effects

Known Uses

Echinacea is widely available in different forms this includes: topical applications, injectible forms, homeopathic preparations, and oral forms.

• Herpes infection
• Promotes wound healing (applied on skin)
• Radiation associated low white blood cell count
• Recurrent infection such as candidiasis
• Reduces chemo drugs undesirable side-effects
• Upper respiratory tract infections

Other Uses

• Abscess
• Acne
• Allergies
• Cancer adjunct therapy
• Prevent exercise-induced immunosuppression
• Treat or prevent occurrence of infection
• Urinary tract infection

Dosage Range

• Dried herb: 3 grams a day (E. angustifolia or E. purpurea)
• Liquid extract: 3-6 ml a day (E. angustifolia or E. purpurea) but maybe increase in acute conditions to about 10-20 ml a day. At the first sign of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), treatment is usually stared and taken constantly for 7 to 14 days.

Specific Guide

• E. angustifolia dried root: 1–3 grams a day.
• E. pallida ethanolic extract of root: 2–4 ml a day.
• E. purpurea dried aerial parts: 2.5–6.0 grams a day.
• E. purpurea dried root: 1.5–4.5 grams a day.
• E. purpurea expressed juice of fresh plant: 6–9 ml a day. (the most effective cure for URTI)

Adverse Reactions:

• Liver toxicity is still unknown
• Oral and Topical forms: well tolerated, little cases of allergic reaction (aerial plants-contact dermatitis)
• Rashes

Significant Interaction:

Interactions are mainly based on theories and speculations.

• Immunosuppressant drugs

Contraindications and Precautions:

• Allergy (Compositae family such as ragweed and chamomile)
• Autoimmune disease (e.g. Rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, leulocytosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis)

Pregnancy Use:

• Oral form is relatively safe in pregnancy, but must be taken as exactly prescribed by your doctor
• Major fetal malformations is still on research

Supplement Research:

• Echinacea can boost the immune system and has antioxidant, antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Echinacea is useful as treatment of upper respiratory tract infection, bacterial sinusitis, acne, abscesses, common cold, flu caused by streptococcal infection. If used topically, it may promote wound healing.
• Several studies show that it can cure urinary tract infection, and as an adjunct therapy in cancer, candidiasis and herpes viral infections.
• It remains a challenge for most experts to identify which plant parts is best to use in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infection. However, among them, E. purpurea cold-pressed juice shows affirmative results.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there any health care issues that I need to consider?

• Echinacea herb extract is well-tolerated, although little cases of allergic reaction have been reported.

What health benefits can I derived from this herb products?

• Echinacea boost the immune system, has an antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activity. It is used as treatment for upper respiratory tract infections in adults. It may also enhance wound healing if applied on skin as treatment for chronic wounds.

When can I expect this supplement to work?

• It may usually take 1-7 days after taking the supplement to visibly feel and see improvement as treatment for upper respiratory tract infection.

Black cohosh is otherwise known as wanzenkraut, squawroot, rattleweed, bugbane, baneberry or black snakeroot. Traditionally, black cohosh is used over centuries to largely treat female reproductive diseases and as treatment for arthritis, snakebite and fatigue. It was widely adopted by natives and later on became a very popular treatment for gynecological diseases.

Mainly the parts utilized are the root and rhizome. It composes various substances such as phenolic acid, triterpene glycosides, resins, fatty acids, tannins and other useful ingredients.

What are the health benefits of Black Cohosh?

Main Action:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Dopaminergic-reduce symptoms of menopause such as hot flushes. However, it must be accompanied by healthy lifestyle approaches.
• Regulates hormones- mainly estrogen
• Serotonergic

Other Action:

• Antihypertensive
• Antispasmodic
• Boost immune system

Known Uses:

• Dysmenorrhea
• Menopause
• Premenstrual Syndrome

Other Uses:

Black cohosh has been traditionally used to treat different variety of female reproductive conditions, rheumatism, diarrhea and inflammation. It maintains good flow of menstruation and at times experts would recommend its use for menstrual migraine, ovarian insufficiency, and dysfunction.

Dosage Range:

Many practitioners have used black cohosh long-term without any safety concerns. Black cohosh however, is not recommended if continuously used for more than 6 months.

• Decoction or powdered root: 0.3–2 g three times a day.
• Tincture: 2–4 ml three times a day.
• Fluid extract: 0.3–2 ml three times a day.

Toxicity:

• Excessive intake produces nausea, vomiting, visual disturbance and vertigo.
• Liver failure
• Hepatitis

Adverse Reactions:

Adverse effects upon intake of black cohosh tend to be mild, rare and reversible.

• Large doses: tremor, headache, dizziness
• GI disturbances
• Rashes

Significant Interactions:

• Presently unknown

Contraindications and Precautions:

• One study was conducted with patient having diagnosed of breast cancer. Results were astonishingly favorable as it inhibit cancer cell multiplication, estrogen proliferation and enhance Tamoxifen, a chemotherapeutic drug’s anti-proliferative action. However, usage must be carefully monitored by health care professional for safety and efficiently.

Pregnancy Use:

• It is not recommended in pregnancy though it is often used to facilitate childbirth.

Patient Counseling:

• Effective symptoms reliever during menopause. However, one needs to take constantly for about 4-12 weeks to obtain maximum menopausal symptom relief.
• Precaution is a must when taking black cohosh as they have been reports of hepatitis and liver failure if taken in long-term and inappropriately.
• Black cohosh is often used to treat dysmenorrheal and premenstrual syndrome.
• Remember to consult your doctor before you decide to take this herb as treatment and if you are expectant.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there any health safety issues?

• Consulting a health care professional is as a rule advisable when taking Black cohosh, particularly if used as treatment for cancer and during pregnancy.

What will this herb do to my body?

• Black cohosh is very effective as treatment for women experiencing mild to moderate menopausal symptoms. It has also been effective for premenstrual syndrome and preventing dysmenorrhea.

When can I expect full health benefits?

• Several studies show that within 4-12 weeks of constant treatment, relief of menopausal symptoms is visibly seen.

Bilberry is otherwise called blaubeeren, dwarf bilberry, European bilberry, huckleberry, hurtleberry, whortleberry and wine berry. Billberies are highly nutritional herbs which were historically valued as foods because of its exceptional tastes and health benefits.

Today, they are still frequently used to make beverages, syrups, pies and jams. The herbal medicines have been utilized in humans to treat diarrhea and hemorrhoids. It is also used to treat mouth and mucous membrane inflammations as they have considerable astringent action.

It became more popular when it was used during World War II by several soldiers. They have noticed significant improved night vision after taking bilberries and have been very interested thereafter with this fruit’s medicinal properties.

The most important part used as main component in herbal supplements is the dried ripe fruit or fresh fruit itself. It mainly contains catechin, tannins, invert sugar, vitamin C, fruits acids, and chromium which play an important role in its pharmacological action. The deep blue pigment color of the fruit is due to its constituent anthocyanosides that increases as the fruit ripens.

What are the health benefits of Billberry?

Main Actions

The pharmacological effects of bilberry have not been tested with humans, so facts are generally taken inside the laboratory and animal research or mainly based on recognizable information about primary constituents found within the herb.

• Anti-edema
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Astringent
• Hypoglycemic activity
• Improves visual function
• Lowers cholesterol levels
• Protects gastrointestinal system

Other Actions

• Anti-angiogenic
• Anti-cancer
• Anti-platelet

Known Uses

In Europe, uses of bilberry extracts are more popular and have been investigated in several clinical experiments, mostly in non-English countries. Thus, many research papers have been available in other languages. To provide a more comprehensive description of the evidence easily accessible, secondary sources have been utilized as needed.

• Acute diarrhea
• Mild mouth and throat inflammation
• Hemorrhoids, varicose veins and venous insufficiency
• Ophthalmic conditions, improving night vision, photophobia, light adaptation and avoiding diabetic retinopathy

Pregnancy

Bilberry was taken by women diagnosed of pregnancy induced hypertension and found significant improve symptoms of itching and burning, edema, leg cramps, pain and heaviness.

Other Uses

It was anciently used as treatment for hemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, GI inflammatory conditions, diabetes, dysentery and inhibits lactation. Externally, its useful benefits include fast wound healing, ulcers and skin infection. Recently, it is used as treatment for venous insufficiency, Raynaud’s disease, peptic ulcers, nose bleed and bleeding gums.

Dosage Range

INTERNAL

• Fluid extract: 6–12 ml/day taken in three divided doses.
• Oral dose forms: provides 50–288 mg of anthocyanins daily.
• Decoction of dried herb: 5–10 gm of crushed, dried fruit in 150 ml of cold water boiled for 10 minutes and strained while hot. For diarrhea: drink the cold decoction several times a day.
• Gargle: Make a 10% decoction using the above preparation.
• Fresh fruit: 20–50 g daily.

EXTERNAL

• 5–10 g crushed dried fruit in 150 ml of cold water, boil for 10 minutes then strained while hot to make a decoction for local application.

Toxicity

High doses of bilberry were administered to rats, showing no adverse effects.

Adverse Reaction

• No adverse effect was known
• Only 4% experienced side-effects related to gastrointestinal tract, nervous system and skin.

Significant Interaction

Actual studies are not currently available, thus interactions are mainly theoretically or based on evidence of pharmacological actions with vague clinical implications.

• Anticoagulant
• Antiplatelet
• Hypoglycemic Agents
• Iron

Contraindications and Precautions

High dosage (more than 170 mg) should be use with caution by individuals having blood disorders.

Pregnancy Use

A study conducted with pregnant women having diagnosed of serious pregnancy-induce hypertension showed no evidence of adverse effects. Bilberry is likely to be safe when consumed in moderate amounts.

Supplement Reference:

• Bilberry extract is a well-known treatment for preventing and treating retinopathy in Western countries. It is however used to treat other eye health problems such as cataract, myopia, glaucoma, photophobia, glare sensitivity, poor light adaptation and night vision.
• Bilberry has an exceptionally amount of polyphenol as an essential ingredient. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and astringent actions make it incredibly magnificent. Laboratory results show an anti-cancer effect.
• Several studies suggest it may lower glucose level, as well as, triglycerides in diabetic patient. It can also prevent peptic ulcer from developing due to stress or NSAIDs. However, in-depth studies should be made to confirm these effects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any safety health issues that need to consider?

• You don’t need to worry much as this berry is considered one of the safest herbs. Evidenced based theory explained bilberry reduces blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes and should be carefully monitored during the entire duration. Given at high doses can interact with anti-platelet drugs and warfarin.

What will this health supplement do for me?

• Billbery is mainly used to alleviate symptoms of mild diarrhea and promote good night vision, hemorrhoids, venous insufficiency, varicose veins, peptic ulcer, photophobia and glare sensitivity. It is also used as gargle mouthwash, paint for mild mouth and throat inflammation including pharyngitis and gingivitis.

When can I expect to see full-benefits of this herb?

• It will actually depend on the indication. Improvements in glare sensitivity, photophobia and night vision have been reported within 2-4 week in some individuals while other preventive effects are most likely to require long-term use. On the other hand, a person having diagnosed peripheral vascular disease may require 30 days of treatment before you could feel or see the result.

Astragalus is otherwise known as Astragali, milk vetch, goat’s horn, green dragon, ogi or Syrian tragacanth. Chinese have been using astralagus’ roots for more than thousands of years and are considered as one of the most essential and popular herbal medicine for a restorative life, promoting health, and strengthening Qi or the life energy. In 1880s, Herbalist in Western countries began using astralagus in different tonics. However, the gummy sap or tragacanth is still used as an antidiarrheal agent, food thickener and as an emulsifier.

It is mainly composed of saponins such as astragalosides, cyclocanthosides, and cycloastragenol and suspected to be one of the major ingredients forming this powerful herb. Phytosterols, polysaccharides, essential oil, amino acid and flavonoids are as well incorporated.  Astragalus is available either in oral and injectable forms.

What are the health benefits of Astragalus?

Main Actions

Astragalus has not been tested with humans. However animal test conducted inside the laboratory provide enough proof for its pharmacological actions.

• Boosts immune system
• Improves cardiac function, as well as, blood pressure
• Antioxidant
• Anti-Cancer or anti-tumor effects- can be use as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of some debilitating cancers.
• Digestive effects – strengthen the muscle tone and movement of the intestines
• Anti-inflammatory
• Improved sperm count and motility
• Protect liver function

Other Action

• Menopause

Known Uses

Astragalus is often tested in combination with other herbal medicines. Thus, it is difficult from these trials to come to a decision the correct role of astragalus as a stand-alone management.

• Viral infection – commonly used as treatment against common colds and influenza
• Viral myocarditis
• Cardiovascular disease, including ischemic heart disease, congestive heart failure, angina pectoris
• Cancer – enhances effectiveness of chemotherapy, while reducing side-effects.
• Its traditional use belongs to Chinese herbal medicine system. Astragalus is used to vigor, tonify Qi (life energy) and the blood.
• Severe blood loss, sweating, shortness of breath, chronic diarrhea, organ prolapsed, anorexia, fatigue and to enhance recuperation.
• Lowers blood cholesterol level
• Asthma
• Memory deficit

Dosage Range

• Decoction: 8–12 g divided into two doses a day on an empty stomach.
• Dried root: 2–30 g/day.
• Liquid extract with ratio of 1:2 or solid dose equivalent: 4.5–8.5 ml/day.

Toxicity

Animal studies have shown very little incidence of toxicity that tends to occur to individuals with liver and kidney disease.

Adverse Reaction

• No known effects

Significant Interactions

• Immunosuppressant
• Positive Inotropic drugs
• Chemotherapy

Contraindications and Precautions

Astralagus should be avoided during the acute stage of an infection which is according to the principles of TCM.

Pregnancy Use

Safety is still not known. However, studies in animals reported no evidence of fetal damage.

Patient Counseling

• It appears to be very well tolerated however, necessary precaution is a must.
• Astragalus is widely used as medicine to boost the immune system, reducing the incidence of common cold and influenza.
• Promote healing and reduce stress and fatigue.
• It is widely used to revitalize life and strengthen Qi or life energy and blood.
• Never use astragalus during periods of acute infection.
• It is often utilized in combination with other herbs such as Scutellaria baicalensis, Bupleurum chinense, and Codonopsis pilulosa in clinical practice.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are there any health safety issues that I need to consider prior to taking this herb?

• In general, astragalus appears to be safe, although it has the ability to interact with other medicines.

What will this herbal supplement do for me?

• Astragalus appears to have many health benefits, such as boosting the immune system, promote good digestion and adequate heart muscle contraction. Early research shows that it plays a great role in treatment of elevated cholesterol level, treatment of asthma, memory deficits and as an adjunct to chemotherapeutic drugs.

When can I see full-benefits of this herb?

• It actually depends on the dosage and current health condition of person taking this drug. However, several studies have shown that satisfying effects can star within the first two weeks of religiously taking the health supplement.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera or otherwise called Aloes, Barbados aloe or Curacao aloe has been traditionally used as herbal medicine. It was found out that during 2100 BC it has been already utilized, as evidently written in a Mesopotamian clay tablet. It is useful as treatment for wounds, burns and other skin conditions. Aloe Vera is classified as an anti-inflammatory agent, laxative, general tonic, aphrodiasiac and anti-worm by ancient races such as Spaniards, Indians, Arabs, Greeks, and Romans.

It is believed that Alexander the Great, the most popular king of Macedonia, conquered an island in the Indian Ocean which has an abundance of Aloe Vera, in order to treat his much-loved soldiers. In today’s society, Aloe Vera is used to ease skin diseases and treat burns. It is integrated in many beauty and cosmetic products, proving very satisfying results.

The part that is usually used in Aloe Vera is its magical leaf, from which several health products are made, namely the juice, extract, gel and the exudates. The exudates are yellow-colored, tastes bitter and has thick residue, coming from the latex. It is made of 99% water and sugar as well. The gel is a clear gel produced by the central part of the leaf. It contains several well-known beneficial minerals such as sodium, iron, zinc, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, potassium, and calcium. It also contains sufficient amount of folic acid, niacin, thiamine, vitamins A, B12, C, and E. On the other hand, diluted aloe gel is otherwise known as aloe juice or Aloe Vera extract.

What are the health benefits of Aloe Vera?

Main Actions

• Antibacterial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Anti-ulcer
• Antiviral
• Assist in faster wound healing
• Boost immune system
• Hypoglycemic
• Laxative

Known Uses

Although Aloe Vera products have many uses, the main usage is really to treat skin conditions. Aloe is used to heal wounds at a faster rate, treat burns, ulcers, genital herpes, frostbite and psoriasis. The healing action may be due to its anti-clotting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Most studies suggest that skin application of Aloe Vera gel is more effected in wound healing and effectively reduces bacteria. However, there are some negative studies, as it has been found that Aloe Vera gel composition varies, even within the same species. Composition mainly depends on the processing method used, including the region, climate, and source. Scientists also found out that Aloe Vera significantly reduced redness, dermatitis, wrinkling, irritation, dry skin and improved skin integrity.

Skin Conditions

• Burns
• Frostbite
• Genital Herpes
• HIV
• Psoriasis
• Radiation-induced dermatitis
• Ulcers

Gastrointestinal Conditions

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Ulcerative Colitis

Other Uses

• Asthma
• Cancer
• Diabetes

Dosage Range

• Aloe Vera gel: fresh from a living plant or as stabilized juice of 25 ml, which can be used up to four times a day.
• Extracts standardized to acemannan: each preparation should contain up to 800 mg/day.
• Topical application: gel, cream or ointment as required.
• 1.5–4.5 ml daily of 1:10 tincture of resin (latex).

Adverse Reaction

A 47-year old man claimed he was hypersensitive and was able to manifest contact dermatitis, generalized rashes and itchiness with 4 years intake of oral and topical Aloe Vera. On the other hand, patch tests for aloe also resulted same results.

Significant Interactions

Precaution should be considered when taking Aloe Vera with the following drugs.

• Hypoglycemic Agents
• Laxatives
• Topical Steroid Preparations

Contraindications and Precautions

• Caution with person with thyrotoxicosis
• Children: avoid strong laxative
• Depression and reduced T3 and T4 (thyroid hormones)
• Do not use for more than 2 weeks, as potassium can be depleted, which may possibly harm the heart
• Hypersensitive to Aloe
• Person suffering from nausea, vomiting, or other signs of GI obstruction

Pregnancy Use

• Strong laxative such as aloe latex are contraindicated.

* Known Benefits

• Aloe may be beneficial adjunct as treatment of chronic fatigue, cancer, HIV, and treatment of chronic poor immunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What benefits can I get from this herb?

• Aloe Vera has been proven to be very effective in treating wounds, burns, and other skin inflammation. However, the composition of Aloe Vera products may vary depending on processing factor and geographical location. It is also used as treatment for GI disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal ulcer and dyspepsia.

When can I expect its full therapeutic action?

• Aloe has an immediate health effect on skin inflammation and burns. Improvement can be noticed after several days or week of usage, with satisfying results. However, chronic illnesses may require long-term use. But, if use as laxative, it can produce result in 12-24 hours only.

Are there any safety health issues that I need to consider?

• As what experts say, aloe gel is non-toxic and safe to use. However, avoid chronic use of laxative preparations containing highly irritant compound called anthraquinone glycosides, mostly found in the latex.