For better or worse, I require a lot out of my mouthwash. All the artificial sweeteners and chemical additives in conventional mouthwash are a no-no in my book, but often “natural” mouthwash brands fall short for me too. Either they aren’t so natural, not really effective, or insanely expensive. So for a couple of years, I’ve been perfecting my own mouthwash recipe and I wanted to share it with you.
What I Look for in a Mouthwash 1. It must be minty. I never went for the whole citrus mouthwash fad–and the herbal ones that taste like a snake oil remedy from 1894 aren’t my cup of tea either. 2. It must be (a little) sweet. No sickeningly sweet flavor is necessary, of course, but a touch of sweetness makes the whole mouthwash experience a little more pleasant. 3. It should remineralize teeth. Ideally, our saliva “bathes” our teeth in minerals to restore what might be lost through eating, drinking, and everyday life. Imbalances can interfere with the process (which is discussed in the book Cure Tooth Decay), so I feel like it doesn’t hurt to use a mouthwash that serves as a sort of backup. 4. It should whiten teeth. Hey, I admit I like a nice bright smile. But I don’t like to use icky whitening kits that burn my gums and contain who-knows-what. I also prefer something that does a little whitening every day, instead of having to worry about something I need to do on a weekly or monthly basis. Because, let’s face it, I’ll just forget! 5. It should protect teeth from cavities. Again, this is just a protective measure. As Weston A. Price reported so thoroughly in his book Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, diet has a tremendous impact on our dental health. But I still don’t mind having a mouthwash that works in my favor, if that makes sense. So with these five requirements in mind, I fiddled with ingredients until I found a recipe that tastes good and does what I want it to do. Here’s what I’ve come up with: How to Make Homemade Mouthwash that Whitens and Remineralizes Ingredients: -2 teaspoons calcium carbonate powder -1 teaspoon xylitol crystals -10 drops concentrated trace minerals liquid -10 drops peppermint essential oil -5 drops lemon essential oil -5 drops spearmint essential oil -2 cups of filtered water Directions: 1. In a large glass mixing cup, stir together the calcium powder and xylitol crystals. 2. Add liquid minerals and essential oils. 3. Add water and stir. 4. Pour mixture into a glass bottle (I reused an old apple cider vinegar bottle). 5. Close the lid tightly and shake ingredients together for about 30-60 seconds so the xylitol dissolves. 6. Shake well before using. 7. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Why These Ingredients? Calcium carbonate powder: for remineralizing teeth Xylitol crystals: for sweetness and cavity protection Concentrated trace minerals liquid: for remineralizing teeth Peppermint essential oil: for flavor and fresh breath Lemon essential oil: for whiter, brighter teeth Spearmint essential oil: for flavor and fresh breath Source: The Nourished Life — http://www.livingthenourishedlife.com/2013/09/homemade-mouthwash-recipe-for-whitening-and-remineralizing
0 Comments
8/30/2018 0 Comments August 30th, 2018Certain foods and chemical additives disguised as food can aggravate or cause muscle and joint pain associated with arthritis, gout and fibromyalgia. Avoiding these foods can pave the way for reduced inflammation, stiffness and pain – setting the stage for ongoing relief, with increased mobility and a better mental attitude. Although it may be a challenge to avoid well-loved foods, keep in mind that many of those foods are causing widespread systemic problems that result in debilitating pain, so they are not your friends.
Nightshade Vegetables The nightshade vegetables are lesser-known offenders; however, for some people, eating any nightshade can cause excruciating pain and disability. This small family of vegetables contains a natural substance called solanine; when consumed, it can produce severe pain in the joints and the soft tissue, giving rise to arthritis and fibromyalgia flare-ups. The nightshades include tomatoes, peppers, white potatoes, eggplant and tobacco. Because several of these vegetables are included in so many recipes, special attention must be given to eliminating them from the diet. Smokers suffering from arthritis might view the possible cause and effect relationship of tobacco on their condition. Purine-laden Proteins Purines are the byproduct of protein digestion, and they break down into uric acid, the main cause of gout. All proteins produce some purines; however, eating certain types of protein is more likely to create a gout flare. Red meats, organ meats and shellfish are considered particularly harmful. Some people are more sensitive to one protein, so each should be monitored for its effects on the disease. Vegetable-based proteins, lean organic poultry and fresh fish are excellent substitutes for those foods eliminated. Wheat and Gluten Wheat and wheat gluten are implicated in several diseases, including certain types of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s and celiac disease. Wheat and gluten are especially harmful to the body when highly processed, as in white flour where nutrients are completely stripped from the grain. Less sensitive people are able to eat sprouted wheat products without negative effects; however, eating a gluten-free diet may help reduce most painful joint symptoms. Trans Fats Research has shown that eating trans fats can contribute to musculoskeletal pain and aggravate gout, arthritis and a host of other conditions. A diet including regular consumption of fat-laden proteins found in most fast foods may aggravate or cause pain for many people with these conditions. Replace bad fats with healthy fats found in avocados, olives, coconuts, flax seeds and their oils. MSG and Artificial Sweeteners Food additives and preservatives and artificial sweeteners are used in almost all packaged products; and they can cause a wide range of mental and physical symptoms including joint and muscle pain. MSG — in all of its disguises — is known to create a multiplicity of symptoms, especially in those who are sensitive to this chemical. Severe joint and body pain, cognitive dysfunction, dizziness and headaches are just a few of the side effects. Artificial sweeteners stimulate the pancreas causing an imbalance in insulin and blood sugar levels and can produce body aches and pains as well as severe digestive disorders and cancers. Replace MSG with spices to flavor foods and use natural foods like raw honey and stevia as sweeteners. Most people should experience a reduction in their muscle and joint pain and an overall improvement in their conditions after a period of avoiding these offending foods. Always consult a health practitioner before making any major changes in your diet. Sources: Harvard School of Public Health: The Nutrition Source — Fats and Cholesterol Fats and Cholesterol Hospital for Special Surgery: Eating Right with Arthritis: Arthritis Nutrition FAQs http://www.hss.edu/conditions_eating-right-with-arthritis.asp University of Washington Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine: About Diet and Arthritis http://www.orthop.washington.edu/uw/tabID__3370/print__full/ItemID__81/mid__0/Articles/Default.aspx Harvard Health Publications-Harvard Medical School: Arthritis–Keeping Your Joints Healthy http://www.health.harvard.edu/special_health_reports/Arthritis.htm University of Michigan Health System: Gout http://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-1023001 University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout — Lifestyle Changes http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/what_specific_drugs_used_gout_000093_8.htm (Photo credit: NY Times Public Domain) 8/30/2018 0 Comments August 30th, 2018Certain foods and chemical additives disguised as food can aggravate or cause muscle and joint pain associated with arthritis, gout and fibromyalgia. Avoiding these foods can pave the way for reduced inflammation, stiffness and pain – setting the stage for ongoing relief, with increased mobility and a better mental attitude. Although it may be a challenge to avoid well-loved foods, keep in mind that many of those foods are causing widespread systemic problems that result in debilitating pain, so they are not your friends.
Nightshade Vegetables The nightshade vegetables are lesser-known offenders; however, for some people, eating any nightshade can cause excruciating pain and disability. This small family of vegetables contains a natural substance called solanine; when consumed, it can produce severe pain in the joints and the soft tissue, giving rise to arthritis and fibromyalgia flare-ups. The nightshades include tomatoes, peppers, white potatoes, eggplant and tobacco. Because several of these vegetables are included in so many recipes, special attention must be given to eliminating them from the diet. Smokers suffering from arthritis might view the possible cause and effect relationship of tobacco on their condition. Purine-laden Proteins Purines are the byproduct of protein digestion, and they break down into uric acid, the main cause of gout. All proteins produce some purines; however, eating certain types of protein is more likely to create a gout flare. Red meats, organ meats and shellfish are considered particularly harmful. Some people are more sensitive to one protein, so each should be monitored for its effects on the disease. Vegetable-based proteins, lean organic poultry and fresh fish are excellent substitutes for those foods eliminated. Wheat and Gluten Wheat and wheat gluten are implicated in several diseases, including certain types of arthritis, fibromyalgia, and digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s and celiac disease. Wheat and gluten are especially harmful to the body when highly processed, as in white flour where nutrients are completely stripped from the grain. Less sensitive people are able to eat sprouted wheat products without negative effects; however, eating a gluten-free diet may help reduce most painful joint symptoms. Trans Fats Research has shown that eating trans fats can contribute to musculoskeletal pain and aggravate gout, arthritis and a host of other conditions. A diet including regular consumption of fat-laden proteins found in most fast foods may aggravate or cause pain for many people with these conditions. Replace bad fats with healthy fats found in avocados, olives, coconuts, flax seeds and their oils. MSG and Artificial Sweeteners Food additives and preservatives and artificial sweeteners are used in almost all packaged products; and they can cause a wide range of mental and physical symptoms including joint and muscle pain. MSG — in all of its disguises — is known to create a multiplicity of symptoms, especially in those who are sensitive to this chemical. Severe joint and body pain, cognitive dysfunction, dizziness and headaches are just a few of the side effects. Artificial sweeteners stimulate the pancreas causing an imbalance in insulin and blood sugar levels and can produce body aches and pains as well as severe digestive disorders and cancers. Replace MSG with spices to flavor foods and use natural foods like raw honey and stevia as sweeteners. Most people should experience a reduction in their muscle and joint pain and an overall improvement in their conditions after a period of avoiding these offending foods. Always consult a health practitioner before making any major changes in your diet. Sources: Harvard School of Public Health: The Nutrition Source — Fats and Cholesterol Fats and Cholesterol Hospital for Special Surgery: Eating Right with Arthritis: Arthritis Nutrition FAQs http://www.hss.edu/conditions_eating-right-with-arthritis.asp University of Washington Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine: About Diet and Arthritis http://www.orthop.washington.edu/uw/tabID__3370/print__full/ItemID__81/mid__0/Articles/Default.aspx Harvard Health Publications-Harvard Medical School: Arthritis–Keeping Your Joints Healthy http://www.health.harvard.edu/special_health_reports/Arthritis.htm University of Michigan Health System: Gout http://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-1023001 University of Maryland Medical Center: Gout — Lifestyle Changes http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/what_specific_drugs_used_gout_000093_8.htm (Photo credit: NY Times Public Domain) Zeolites are a highly absorptive group of minerals that can be used as natural detoxifiers because of their many wonderful properties. Natural zeolites form in volcanic rocks and ash over thousands of years. Synthetic zeolites can be readily manufactured much more quickly using silica and alumina. Zeolites are often used industrially and in the home in wastewater cleanup, water purification, soil conditioners, animal feed, and laundry detergents. Their absorptive properties make them perfect for absorbing and eliminating odors, gas, heavy metals, and radiation. Their properties of heavy metal and radiation removal are particularly important when considering the use of zeolites as a dietary supplement.
Zeolites are often used as a soil amendment because they have the ability to remove mercury, aluminum, lead, cadmium, and arsenic. Zeolites can do the same detox process within our bodies. Due to exposure to chemicals in our food, cleaning and hygiene products, chemtrails and the enviorment, humans absorb more heavy metals today then ever before. Zeolites have the ability to absorb these heavy metals from our systems, trapping and eliminating them through a natural detoxing process. Zeolites function in a similar manner when used for removal of harmful radiation from the body. Following a nuclear disaster such as Fukushima, radiation leaches into the food and water eventually being absorbed by humans and animals. Zeolites can capture the harmful radioactive isotopes, which are then removed from the body detoxing the liver, kidneys and other cellular tissues. Zeolites have been used to clean up radiation from the Three Mile Island nuclear accident, and more recently in the ocean around the Fukushima disaster. Several studies point to the possibility of using zeolites to slow the growth and reverse the advancement of cancer cells; however, additional research is needed. In the meantime it is beneficial to take zeolites for their detoxifying properties. Some people claim that zeolites may improve an individual’s emotional state, which would be expected as heavy metals are removed from the body. Zeolites are available orally in either liquid or capsule form. The liquid can be placed directly on the tongue or mixed with water. Both forms are palatable. Using zeolites to detox is an easy and effective method, combined with good diet and exercise, to help keep your body healthy and in optimal condition. Sources: “Levels of Radioactive Materials Rise Near Japanese Plant.” The Associated Press. 16 April, 2011. “Zeolites (natural).” U.S. Geological Survey, Mineral Summaries. January, 2011. David Jockers. “Zeolites: the natural detoxifier.” NaturalNews.com. 10 May, 2012. Sharon Stone. “Zeolites useful for removing radiation from the body.” NaturalNews.com. 3 May, 2011. 8/30/2018 0 Comments Managing Fibromyalgia PainManaging fibromyalgia pain and symptoms is an multidisciplinary approach according to Dr. Robert Bennett of Oregon Health Sciences University. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder who’s symptoms are characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, depression, fatigue and a host of mental and emotional symptoms. There is no one treatment or approach that has been found yet to relieve the syndrome in patients suffering from this disorder. Managing fibromyalgia pain involves keeping and open mind and having a willingness to try new therapies that may be helpful in reducing your pain.
Exercise to Relieve Fibromyalgia Pain Not only does exercise work the muscles and relieve tension, it also helps to release endorphins in the brain which are natural pain killers. Endorphins and other neurotransmitters help to reduce fibromyalgia-related depression. Even if you can only walk from your bedroom to the kitchen, make an imaginary track in your house and walk on it whenever you can. Managing Fibromyalgia Pain with Sleep Get quality sleep each night. Although that may sound impossible if you’re in great pain, by following some or all of the suggestions here to reduce pain, sleep will improve. Sleep allows the body to rejuvenate repair itself. Refer to my article Sleep better and conquer insomnia with these 10 home remedies from your favorite foods, for ways to sleep better and relieve fibromyalgia pain. Organic Raw Honey, Nature’s Sedative Take two tablespoons of organic raw honey mixed in milk at bedtime. The honey is high in potassium, a natural aid for insomnia, and the milk stimulates the release of tryptophan in your brain. Tryptophan stimulates the production of seratonin in the brain to help calm and sedate the body. Both encourage your body to rest more easily and induce sleep. Avoid Certain Foods to Relive Fibromyalgia Pain · Make dietary changes by eliminating certain foods and food additives known to cause musculoskeletal pain. · Monosodium glutamate (MSG) creates pain, fatigue, brain fog and depression for some people, explains Laura A. Coleman and R. Roubenoff discuss in their book, “Nutrition and Rheumatic Disease (Nutrition and Health)”. · Stop eating all grains with gluten including wheat, barley and rye. Gluten allergies and celiac disease have been connected to symptoms of fibromyalgia and various types of arthritis as well as Irritable Bowel Disease and other digestive tract disorders, according to the The Savvy Celiac website. · Avoid nightshade vegetables containing the toxic alkaliod solanine, which triggers severe aches and pains in the body in certain people. Common nightshade vegetables are tomatoes, tomatillos, peppers, paprika, eggplant and white potatoes. Alkalize to Change Your Body’s pH Drink 1-2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar in 8 – 12 ounces of water daily to help alkalize your body. Dr. Theodore A. Baroody’s excellent book, “Alkalinize or Die” discusses the effects of raising the body’s pH keeping it slightly alkaline which lessens acidosis, a major contributing factor toward pain management. Although apple cider vinegar is acidic, it has the ability to activate the pancreas to release bicarbonate and neutralize digestive acids, thus creating an alkaline-forming state. In lieu of drinking apple cider vinegar to manage fibromyalgia pain, squeeze the juice of one lemon in tall glass of water and drink several times a day for similar effects. Homeopathy Relieves Fibromyalgia Pain Use homeopathic medicine for fibromyalgia pain relief. There are numerous remedies available for the treatment of fibromyalgia, arthritis and related conditions manifesting in chronic pain, fatigue and depression. The Complimentary and Alternative (CAM) Review Board reviewed a double-blind study in September 2009 of the homeopathic remedy Rhus Tox, whose results showed strong evidence of its ability to reduce pain, swelling, stiffness and inflammation associated with fibromyalgia and other musculoskeletal disorders. See a qualified homeopath to have your case taken to obtain the correct remedy to help you manage fibromyalgia pain. Sources: The Savvy Celiac: Fibromyalgia and Celiac Disease Fibromyalgia and Celiac Disease “Nutrition and Rheumatic Disease (Nutrition and Health)”, Laura A. Coleman and R. Roubenoff , 2008 Swedish (Fibromyalgia double blind study CAM) http://www.swedish.org/111822.cfm “Alkalinize or Die”, Dr. Theodore A. Baroody, 1991 Andrew Weil, M.D.: Osteoarthritis http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART00662/osteoarthritis-treatment.html Chronic Widespread Pain and the Fibromyalgia Construct http://www.myalgia.com/Pain%20digest.pdf A healthy digestive system requires a variety of naturally produced enzymes that work together to break down food. In healthy idividuals, these enzymes are released primarily by the stomach and pancreas. The pancreas releases several digestive enzymes that break down different food groups. The enzymes break down the food allowing it to synthesize into the bloodstream before passing into the lower digestive tract. Those suffering with digestive conditions such as leaky gut, IBS, Chron’s, Celiac disease may not produce enough enzymes on their own, and need to supplement their diet in order to ensure a healthy digestive system. Fortunately, many of the enzymes can be found in a variety of different foods and natural supplements.
Pepsin Pepsin is a type of enzyme that is found naturally in ox bile. According to the Colorado State University, it has the ability to break down protein. Pepsin is sold in most health food stores in combination with other digestive enzymes. It has a powerful enzymatic action on foods such as meat and poultry, and this could cause problems for individuals with certain sensitivities. Otherwise, it’s an excellent supplement for helping to break down heavy proteins. Bromelain According to the University of Michigan, bromelain aids in the digestion of meats and other forms of protein. It is a plant enzyme that is found naturally in pineapples. Consuming fresh pineapple with a meal or immediately afterwards may help to reduce acid reflux. Drinking fresh pineapple juice will provide you with more enzymes than consuming the flesh. It should be consumed with or after a meal to be most effective. For those unable to eat fresh pineapple or its juice, bromelain supplements are available from health food stores, and should also be taken during meals. Lactase Lactose intolerance is a condition where a person is unable to digest milk and other dairy products due to the presence of a milk sugar known as lactose. Lactase is a digestive enzyme that is used to break down milk sugar. According to the Colorado State University, lactase can be taken as a supplement in order to aid digestion. Lactase supplements can be found at most health food stores. They are available in combination with other digestive enzymes from a variety of manufacturers. Raw Honey Felicia Drury Kliment writes in “The Acid Alkaline Balance” that raw honey contains a variety of different nutrients that have not been lost during processing such as royal jelly and propolis. She also states that raw honey with pollen is one of the best digestive enzymes for breaking down foods such as carbohydrates and starches. Processed honey does not have the same effect and has far fewer nutrients. Raw Milk According to the Colorado State University, raw cow and goat’s milk contains a digestive enzyme known as lipase that breaks down fat. In order to get the full benefit of all its natural enzymes, milk must be unpasteurized and not undergo any type of heat treatment. Drinking the milk before midday allows the body to make the best use of the enzymes. Raw milk can be purchased from specialist dairy farms, but always be vigilant regarding the seller’s cleanliness. Additionally, consuming raw butter or organic butter with cultures and enzymes will also break down fats. Please make sure whatever foods and supplements you choose for their enzymes are organic. Additionally, all fermented foods contain live cultures and naturally formed digestive enzymes to promote healing in the gut. Sources: “The Acid Alkaline Balance”; Felicia Drury Kliment; 2002 Colorado State University: Exocrine Secretions of the Pancreas http://www.vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/digestion/pancreas/exocrine.htmls University of Michigan Health System: Digestive Enzymes http://health.med.umich.edu/healthcontent.cfm?xyzpdqabc=0&id=6&action=detail&AEProductID=hw_cam&AEArticleID=hn-2840008 University of Michigan Health System: Bromelain http://health.med.umich.edu/healthcontent.cfm?xyzpdqabc=0&id=6&action=detail&AEProductID=hw_cam&AEArticleID=hn-2817009 Colorado State University: Lactose Intolerance – Lactase Non-Persistence http://www.vivo.colostate.edu/hbooks/pathphys/digestion/smallgut/lactose_intol.html A urinary tract infection is cause by bacteria in the bladder. Kidney stones are caused by deposits of waste material in the kidneys. Both conditions are extremely painful and sometimes do not respond to conventional treatment; however, certain herbal teas relieve pain, resolve an infection and can help you pass a kidney stone. Herbs can cause side effects and interfere with medications, so consult your natural health practitioner before treating urinary tract infections with unfamiliar herbs.
Green tea Green tea may prevent bladder cancer in both men and women, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Several studies have confirmed the relationship between drinking green tea and preventing bladder cancer in both sexes. Green tea acts as an astringent, stimulant and diuretic. It is high in antioxidants that help to remove free radicals, which may contribute to cancer growth. Green tea is ordinarily caffeinated and may cause jitters, irritability and insomnia. If caffeine bothers you, purchase the decaf version. Both caffeinated and decaffeainated supplements are available. Standardized liquid extracts are preferable because it is easier to measure accurately the exact amount to obtain between 50 to 150 mg of polyphenols per cup, says UMMC. Do not drink green tea for kidney disease without first consulting your practitioner. Creosote Bush, Chaparral In Mexico, Creosote bush or Chaparral is traditionally made into a medicinal tea for use in dissolving kidney and gallstones, according to the Herbal Safety website provided by the University of Texas Cooperative Pharmacy Program. Little scientific research is available; however, years of clinical and anecdotal evidence suggests the herb is highly effective for this purpose. It is a bitter herb and the tea has a strong, bitter taste, which limits is use over long periods. The tea is made by placing the leaves and twigs in boiling water for a few seconds and not more than 1 minute. Remove the herbs and allow the tea to cool. Sweeten with honey. Supplements have been made using Creosote bush, but they are not well tested and not recommended due to their being far more potent than the tea is, and possibly dangerous. The supplements have been banned by the FDA in the US. Creosote bush may cause liver and kidney damage when used in too concentrated a dose or for too long a period. Do not use this herb unless under the supervision of your health practitioner. Buchu Buchu is an herb containing a volatile oil that has antibacterial properties; and is used to relieve inflammation from urinary tract infections, treat kidney disease, cystitis, urethritis and as a diuretic. Buchu is derived from the leaves of three separate plants and is made into a tea. Drinking herbal buchu tea helps increase the volume of urine and exposes the bladder and kidneys to the bacterial-killing compounds causing infections. Buchu should not be used by pregnant or nursing women. It may cause kidney irritation when doses are too high. Marshmallow Root Marshmallow is an herb whose properties benefit the urinary tract as well as the respiratory and digestive tracts. Some of the active compounds in marshmallow are volatile oils, tannins, mucilage, asparagines, flavonoids and quercetins. These chemical compounds have medicinal qualities that contribute to marshmallow’s efficacy in treating urethritis, flushing kidney stones and coating the lining of the urinary tract with mucilage, a thin film of mucus that protects delicate mucous membranes. There are no recorded side effects and marshmallow tea is considered safe when used according to directions. Sources: Herbal Safety: Creosote Bush , Chaparral http://www.herbalsafety.utep.edu/facts.asp?ID=4 University of Maryland Medical Center: Green Tea http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/green-tea-000255.htm University of Maryland Medical Center: Urinary Tract Infection in Women http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/urinary-tract-000169.htm Drugs.com: Buchu http://www.drugs.com/npp/buchu.html “Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: The Definitive Home Reference Guide to 550 Key Herbs with all their Uses as Remedies for Common Ailments”; Andrew Chevallier; 2000 “Helio Acupuncture Book, Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica”; Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble; 2003 “Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-Use A-Z Reference to Hundreds of Common Disorders and Their Herbal Remedies”; Phyllis A. Balch; 2002 8/30/2018 0 Comments Simple Ways to Boost TestosteroneWhen men reach the mid-forties, their testosterone levels start to decrease at around one to two percent in measurable blood levels every year. After the age of 60, this decline in testosterone levels leads to full-blown “andropause.” Testosterone, the male sex hormone, plays an important role in the production and maintenance of bone and muscle strength. Thus, the decline in testosterone levels can result in many negative effects, including muscle loss, insulin resistance, low libido, and depression.
Because of this, a lot of men seek ways to regulate their testosterone levels. Many opt for testosterone replacement therapy or drugs that are harmful to their health. Instead, you can opt for natural ways to boost your testosterone levels. (Related: Boost Testosterone Naturally and Avoid Heart Damaging Drugs.) Listed below are five natural treatments that may help increase testosterone levels: 1. Zinc – Zinc is important to the male reproductive system as the male prostate has one of the highest concentrations of zinc in the body. Zinc deficiency can result in testicular suppression, which includes the suppression of testosterone levels. This nutrient also provides protection against cadmium linked to DNA damage to the testicles, which in turn preserves the organs’ ability to produce testosterone. Moreover, zinc can enhance erectile function, as well as optimize levels of prolactin and testosterone. 2. Vitamin C – Preserving testosterone’s activity and regenerating it when it naturally transforms into a transient hormone metabolite is one of the best ways to optimize testosterone levels. Research has shown that vitamin C, a known electron donor, has the ability to regenerate testosterone and reduce the levels of its toxic hormone metabolite. 3. Magnesium – This mineral can help regulate the anabolic and catabolic equilibrium, which is often disrupted in elderly people. Magnesium is beneficial for increasing testosterone levels because it prevents the binding of testosterone to sex hormone-binding globulin, resulting in an improved bioavailability of testosterone. 4. Saw palmetto and astaxanthin – Research has shown that saw palmetto and astaxanthin increase testosterone and reduce estrogen and dihydrotestosterone in healthy males. These two substances are natural aromatase enzyme inhibitors and 5-alpha reductase inhibitors. They prevent testosterone from turning into dihydrotestosterone and estradiol, thus increasing testosterone levels naturally. 5. Phosphatidylserine – Phosphatidylserine is a critically important cell membrane component that reduces cortisol and increases testosterone levels after moderate physical activity. Although it is primarily found in meat, fish, and organic dairy products, it can also be found in soy and sunflower lecithin. Other causes of declining testosterone levels Although testosterone decline is common in older men because it comes with aging, it can still occur in young men because of contributing factors. These include the following:
Read more news stories and studies on natural treatments by going to NaturalMedicine.news. Sources include: GreenMedInfo.com YourHormones.info Healthline.com 1 Healthline.com 2 http://www.naturalcures.news/2018-07-24-simple-ways-to-boost-your-testosterone-naturally.html 4 Potent Antibacterial Herbal Remedies Treat Pathogens Causing Deadly Infections
Posted by JB Bardot Many different civilizations have used medicinal herbs for thousands of years for their potent healing properties. Alternative medicine is becoming more popular lately as an increasing number of people turn to natural methods to cure various ailments. Certain herbs such as Echinacea and garlic are well-known antibacterial remedies that can safely treat a large number of infectious conditions. As with traditional medicine, herbs can occasionally cause side effects so consult an herbalist or health practitioner before starting treatment with a new herb. Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum is often used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). One if its many uses is helping to rid the blood of harmful toxins. It can also be consumed as tea as a way to provide relief from resulting headaches and fevers. Chrysanthemum’s natural antibiotic properties may also make it an effective weapon against staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria found in MRSA infections. Chrysanthemum tea is one of the best ways to enjoy this herb’s natural healing properties and it can be purchased from Asian herbal apothecaries and health food stores. Those allergic to chrysanthemum may experience stomach upset or a rash on the skin, so always discontinue use immediately if you display these symptoms. Pau D’Arco Tea Pau d’arco is a well-known South American herb that is commonly used to boost the immune system as well as for a number of other conditions, especially infections. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it may possess anti-fungal, anti-viral and antibacterial properties. According to the University of Colorado at Denver, Pau d’arco may be effective against MRSA or staphylococcus aureus. Those using blood thinners and pregnant or nursing women are advised to avoid taking pau d’arco. Garlic One of the active ingredients in garlic known as allicin is known to have medicinal properties and is an effective natural antibiotic. Fresh garlic cloves can be used both internally and externally against infections. It is advisable to always use fresh garlic rather than supplements or dried and powdered versions as they lose much of their potency during the manufacturing process. You can eat garlic cloves raw, add them to salads or even make a tea from chopped garlic cloves. Garlic is known to thin the blood so contact a doctor before taking it if you are on blood-thinning medication. Echinacea Echinacea has been used for centuries to treat conditions such as blood poisoning, syphilitic sores, diphtheria, and skin lesions that can result in MRSA infection. The herb fights infection while strengthening the immune system. Today it is regularly used as a natural remedy for colds and flu, but in the past it was widely used for its antibacterial properties. Fresh Echinacea is the best and most potent variant but you can also use the extract as long as you purchase it from a reputable seller. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/echinacea-000239.htm “Phytomedicine”; Bactericidal and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of a Standardized Echinacea Extract Echinaforce): Dual Actions Against Respiratory Bacteria; S.M. Sharma; July 2010 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20036523 http://www.paudarco.org/benefits.php http://ucdenver.edu/academics/colleges/pharmacy/Resources/CurrentStudents/ExperientialProgram/Documents/nutr_monographs/Monograph-pau_darco.pdfs University of Maryland Medical Center: MRSA–Treatment http://www.umm.edu/ency/article/007261trt.htm “Helio Acupuncture Book, Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica”; Dan Bensky and Andrew Gamble; 2003 University of Maryland Medical Center: Garlic http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/garlic-000245.htm University of California at Davis: Garlic http://cecalaveras.ucdavis.edu/garlic.htm 8/30/2018 0 Comments Vitamin B17 Kills CancerVitamin B17, Known As Laetrile and Amygdalin, Kills Cancer — Available Over The Counter
Posted By: LilliHart Date: Sunday, 29-Jul-2018 10:42:05 Vitamin B17, better known as Laetrile or amygdalin, is a powerful natural cancer treatment that has been proven to kill both prostate and cervical cancer cells. Laetrile is derived from amygdalin, a natural substance found in raw nuts and the kernels of fruits such as apricots and peaches. The healing properties were so effective that Big Pharma became alarmed to the point that they eventually stepped in and pressured the FDA to ban its use in the United States. However, it is still available online under the name vitamin B17. Laetrile contains an enzyme known as Emulsin that breaks down into cyanide when ingested. It is this chemical reaction that is responsible for Laetrile’s cancer-fighting properties. The most common form of laetrile, or vitamin B17, is derived from apricot seeds as these contain a large amount of the active ingredient that kills cancer. MORE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GZ9H8PU?ref=dacx_dp_2833287400501_2815786390701&tag=ss-us-20&aaxitk=UxXioZKWbTlamr1keQFY.w |
Janice Culley
Writer, program developer, trainer, and practiced in various healing modalities Archives
June 2019
Categories |