Plant sterols and stanols are substances that occur naturally in small amounts in many grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Since they have powerful cholesterol-lowering properties, manufacturers have started adding them to foods. You can now get stanols or sterols in margarine spreads, orange juice, cereals, and even granola bars.
On a molecular level, sterols and stanols look a lot like cholesterol. So when they travel through your digestive tract, they get in the way. They can prevent real cholesterol from being absorbed into your bloodstream. Instead of clogging up your arteries, the cholesterol just goes out with the waste.
The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends that people who have high cholesterol get 2 grams of stanols or sterols a day.
The effects of naturally-occurring plant sterols on cholesterol metabolism have also been studied in both older and more recent literature. It was reported that the differences between effects of different plant oils on blood lipid profiles may be related to their content of plant sterols.
Also, it was shown that the consumption of original Wheat Germ, which contains about 328 mg plant sterols, reduced the cholesterol absorption by 42.8 % compared to plant sterol-free wheat germ. These results indicate that naturally available plant sterols are biologically effective as plant sterol supplementation in reducing cholesterol absorption, and that natural plant sterols have important effects on cholesterol metabolism.
Plant sterols are also being sold or developed mixed with other functional ingredients such as: almonds, soy protein and viscous fibers; and minerals. There is also interest to combine plant sterols with antioxidants, such as flavonoids, quercetins, and catechin.
The statements and products referred to throughout this site have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health condition or concern, consult a physician or your alternative health care provider. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet, using any new product, drug, supplement, or doing new exercises. We recommend you educate yourselves on the scientific / nutritional facts.
Many women have suffered from yeast infections or bacterial vaginal infection at least once in their lifetime. And a good deal of both men and women may also have suffered from viral skin infections such as genital warts and herpes.
Essentials Oils for Treating Yeast Infections
Many women have probably suffered from yeast infection at least once during their lifetime. This infection is usually characterized by an itchy, painful and burning sensation along with "cottage cheese" or thick vaginal discharge. Yeast infections can be caused by a number of organisms. One the most common causes of this problem is Candida albicans, a type of fungus, which exists in the normal healthy vagina.
Among the most effective essential oils against the common yeast infection are lavender and tea tree oil. All of these essential oils have strong antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, these oils were proven effective in inhibiting the growth of the Candida fungus in laboratory experiments.
Aromatherapy Treatments for Viral Skin Infections
Genital warts and herpes are viral infections, which commonly affect both men and women. Genital warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) while herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus.
One of the most effective ways to treat genital warts is by applying essential oils directly to the warts two to four times daily. When essential oils are used full strength, they must be dabbed directly to the warts only since they can easily burn sensitive skin. Sexibalm is blended to be safe for delicate skin, including the vagina and anus. It has been used extensively in this fashion.
Do you have eczema or psoriasis? Do you have flare ups in your genital region? Sexibalm contains a Coconut Oil and Shea Butter base, along with the essential oils, that will not thin your skin like steroid creams.
Sexibalm is can also be used as an after shave skin conditioner.
Simply put, razor bumps — also known as shaving bumps and pseudofolliculitis barbae — are the consequence of too-close shaving. Hair that's cut too short can curl back into the skin, resulting in tender, swollen bumps that can be skin-colored or reddened. Also, bacteria on the skin can enter through abrasions. The essential oils in Sexibalm has activity against this bacteria.
Your immune system reacts to ingrown hair the same way it reacts to splinters, producing inflammation and pus to rid your body of the "foreign" substance. Because of this, razor bumps aren't technically considered an infection. As hair continues to grow under the skin, however, the ongoing irritation can lead to folliculitis, an infection of the hair follicles. Although most folliculitis cases are mild, "deep" folliculitis can result in permanent hair loss and scarring.
With proper skin care, you can protect yourself from razor bumps. But if they do appear, home remedies can help relieve the irritation and speed healing. Persistent and painful razor bumps — especially those that become infected — should be evaluated and treated by a doctor or dermatologist.
Who Gets Razor Bumps?
Anybody who shaves — men, women, and even children — can develop razor bumps. No shaved skin is immune, including the face, armpits, legs, and pubic area. Other hair-removal techniques, such as plucking, waxing, and electrolysis, can also cause razor bumps.
Sexibalm is also great for women who work out in spandex and have topical itching. This oil is a good moisture barrier and helps itching!
If you're worried about your cholesterol and have already started exercising and eating healthier foods, you might wonder if adding a cholesterol-lowering supplement to your diet can help reduce your numbers. Although few natural products have been proven to reduce cholesterol, some might be helpful. With your doctor's OK, consider these cholesterol-lowering supplements and products.
What are the cholesterol treatment steps you need to take to get your cholesterol in the proper balance?
Perform a liver and colon cleanse
Exercise, exercise, exercise
Reduce sharp spikes in your blood sugar level through proper diet choice and eating smaller meals regularly.
Eat foods that lower cholesterol and avoid foods that increase cholesterol
Natural Prescription #1 Policosanol
Take 10 to 20 mg each evening. Numerous studies show that policosanol reduces total and LDL cholesterol, lipoprotein(a), and increases the good HDL cholesterol.
Policosanol is an all-natural compound derived from sugarcane wax that is believed to help support healthy cholesterol levels in two different ways: by inhibiting the synthesis of cholesterol in the liver and by reducing platelet aggregation, or "stickiness" that can lead to blood clots and cardiovascular issues.
Because of its potential blood-thinning effects (similar to aspirin), policosanol is not recommended for individuals taking blood-thinning medications (such as Coumadin) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen.
Natural Prescription #2 Red yeast rice (Monascus purpureus)
Take 1,200 mg twice daily. This extract has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and increase HDL. The type of product used in successful studies contained 10 to 13.5 mg of monacolins per day. Note: Take 100 mg of CoQ10 daily when using this product.
Do not use red yeast rice to replace conventional care or to postpone seeing a health care provider about a medical problem.
Do not use red yeast rice dietary supplements if you are pregnant, might become pregnant, or are nursing a baby. If you are considering giving a child a red yeast rice dietary supplement, it is important to consult the child’s health care provider.
Do not take red yeast rice in addition to prescription statin drugs. Red Yeast Rice
Natural Prescription #3 Garlic (Allium sativum)
Take 300 to 500 mg twice of aged garlic daily. It reduces cholesterol levels and increases HDL cholesterol.
Natural Prescription #4 Niacin (inositol hexaniacinate, or IP6)
Take 1,500 to 3,000 mg daily of the no-flush form (inositol hexaniacinate). It reduces cholesterol levels and increases HDL cholesterol. Slo-Niacin Polygel Controlled-Release Niacin, 500 mg, 100 Tablets
Super Prescription #5 Fish oil
Take a daily dosage of a fish oil product containing at least 480 mg of EPA and 360 mg of DHA. Fish oil reduces inflammation in the arteries and lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Fish Oil Enteric Coated High Potency 90 Count vital choice salmon oil
Super Prescription #6 Guggul (Commiphora mukul)
Take a daily total of 1,500 mg standardized to 5 percent guggulsterone (equivalent to 75 mg of guggulsterones). Guggul, an Ayurvedic herb, reduces cholesterol levels and increases HDL. A twelve-week study demonstrated that 1,500 mg of guggulipid reduced total cholesterol by an average of 22 percent and triglycerides by 25 percent. A different study of 233 people with elevated cholesterol levels showed that Guggul worked better than the cholesterol-lowering drug clofibrate. Only people who took Guggul had improvements in HDL cholesterol. Himalaya Pure Herbs Guggul, Cholesterol Support, 7.5 mg Guggulsterone, 60 Vegetarian Capsules, (Pack of 2)
Natural Prescription #7 Antioxidant formula
Take a complex of antioxidants or a multivitamin, as directed on container. Several of the antioxidants prevent cholesterol oxidation.
Acai berries are among the very best sources of naturally-occurring plant sterols and stanols
Plant sterols in blueberry bind to receptors to decrease free cholesterol in the blood; Green tea contains compounds called polyphenols. Polyphenols are 40 times stronger than vitamins C and E in their ability to mop up free radical damage all over your body - but especially in your cardiovascular system. The polyphenols in green tea help slow the absorption of extra triglycerides in the blood. In fact, a study published in the Journal of Nutrition states that green tea can reduce triglycerides as much as 20%.
Gingko biloba has been traditionally used to lower blood cholesterol for centuries; it has also been used to help lower blood pressure.
Privita contains Pomegranate and Green Tea (antioxidant as well as plant sterols) Acai/Resveratrol/Macqui- contains Green Tea, grapeseed and Acai (antioxidant as well as plant sterols) Rhodigandha contains Pomegranate, Acai and Blueberry (antioxidant as well as plant sterols) Green Cell Therapy Contains spinach, red yeast rice, Flaxseed, Coenzyme Q10 and alfalfa (antioxidant, heart health as well as plant sterols) Octovite- contains Vitamin C and E,fish oil, NAC, gingko biloba, rutin, lycopene, lutein, bilberry, goldenseal
Natural Prescription #8 Plant Sterols
Blood cholesterol is derived from the diet and synthesized in the liver. Plant sterols are naturally occurring plant compounds that have structures similar to, yet slightly different from cholesterol. Typical plant sterols are compounds such as Beta-sitosterol, campesterol, and stigmasterol and can be found in vegetables, fruits. legumes, nuts, grains and certain oils. Research has shown that these compounds compete with the absorption of dietary cholesterol as well as inhibit the reabsorption of endogenous cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract. Supplementation with plant sterols can significantly lower cholesterol levels and have been shown to work synergistically with other therapies for lowering cholesterol. Numerous foods including orange juice, rice drink, and margarine now incorporate plant sterols, or sterol esters. lncreasingly, dietary supplements are now incorporating plant sterols and using the health claim that has been allowed for products containing at least 800 mg of plant sterols daily. The real catch, however, is that plant sterols appear to be most effective in dosages of one to two grams per day. The average American, according to Udo Erasmus, Ph.D., and author of Choosing Healthy Fats, gets a paltry 200 milligrams of plant sterols per day. A typical vegetarian diet contains roughly 350 milligrams per day. Even the most sterol-rich diet in the world, the Japanese, includes only about 400 milligrams on a daily basis. In short, says Judd, you “can’t even come close” to consuming enough plant sterols to have a significant impact on your LDL cholesterol through natural foods alone. Nature Made Cholest-Off 240 Caplets (Cholest Off ) Benecol Smart Chews-Caramel-120 ct (Quantity of 2) Imagine Rice Dream Drink, Heartwise Vanilla, 32-Ounce Boxes (Pack of 12)
Natural Prescription #9 Sytrinol
Sytrinol is a unique and powerful ingredient for maintaining cholesterol and triglycerides. It is a patented combination of citrus PMFs (polymethoxylated flavones) and alpha, delta and gamma tocotrienols derived from palm fruit (U.S. patents #6,251,400, and #6,239,114). Clinical studies in both animals and humans support Sytrinol's role in reducing total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol as well as triglycerides.
Its action includes
1) Decreases apolipoprotein B which is needed for LDL cholesterol synthesis
2) Decreases action of an enzyme in the liver that makes triglycerides
3) Inhibit HMG-CoA reductase in the liver, the enzyme responsible for regulating cholesterol synthesis in the liver.
Sytrinol provides a patented and well-researched combination of flavonoids derived from the peel of tangerines and tocotrienols derived from palm. Within the peel of certain fruits, compounds belonging to a class of flavonoids called polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) can be found.
Cardio-Edge is a scientifically-based cardiovascular and cholesterol support with Sytrinol, plant sterols and pomegranate extract.
The combination of Sytrinol, plant sterols, and pomegranate extract present in Cardio-Edge results in a formula that embodies the most recent science to help maintain cardiovascular health and support healthy cholesterol levels.
Coupled with other nutrients that are well-known for their cardioprotective properties such as Coenzyme q-10, Vitamin B complex, and Omega 3 fatty acids, the addition of Sytrinol, pomegranate and plant sterols (Cardio-Edge) offer strong new weapons to help maintain optimal cardiovascular health.
Natural Prescription #11 HDL RX
HDL Rx is an all-inclusive formula combining essential vitamins and minerals, at levels recommended by the American Heart Association, with key amino acids, powerful antioxidants and traditional herbal extracts to provide superior support for cardiovascular health.
Clinically studied at Scripps Memorial Hospital (La Jolla, CA), HDL Rx has been shown to increase beneficial HDL levels up to 23% and increase HDL-2 (the best cholesterol) 50%. It also has been shown to reduce homocysteine and hsCRP levels and support healthy blood circulation. This is a 6 month study led by Dr. Goodman who has also designed the formulation of HDL Rx.
Natural Prescription #12 Colon and Liver Cleanse
A liver cleanse is an important part of a natural cholesterol treatment plan. Your liver creates 3 to 8 times the cholesterol that a normal diet contains. If you cut your cholesterol intake completely, you would still be getting 75% to 95% of the cholesterol you are getting today. Performing a liver cleanse will make your liver more efficient and effective at performing all its functions, including making cholesterol. Therefore, cleansing your liver is one of the best things you can do to regain balance of your cholesterol. Be sure to drink enough water to flush the cholesterol and eliminate the excess. Acai Ultimate
Natural Prescription #13 Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an important antioxidant involved in cellular energy production, is made naturally by your body. In people with high cholesterol, levels of CoQ10 tend to be lower. In addition, certain cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins appear to deplete natural levels of CoQ10 in the body. Therefore, some researchers think that taking a coenzyme Q10 supplement can be beneficial for those on statin medications.
Homocysteine, an amino acid in the blood, is associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Some medical experts predict that homocysteine levels will prove to be as important as cholesterol in predicting heart health.
In fact, they expect measuring homocysteine levels will become a part of regular cardiac risk assessments.
B6, B12 and folate are useful in reducing homocysteine levels
None of the statements in this web site have been evaluated by the FDA.
Furthermore, none of the statements in this web site should be construed as dispensing medical advise, or making claims regarding the cure of diseases.
You should consult a licensed health care professional before starting any supplement, dietary, or exercise program, especially if you are pregnant or have any pre existing injuries or medical conditions.
This vitamin provides a blend of the highest quality antioxidants that are known to fight cancer, joint inflammation, and cardiovascular disease. It also has a blend of the most effective weight loss aids on the market today.
Resveratrol is Derived from the grapes of wine and Japanese Knotweed, got very interesting for the science community back in the eighties due to the extreme low cases of coronary heart diseases found amongst French people, compared to any country in the world. Resveratrol is also thought to have blood sugar lowering properties.
The Maqui is the highest antioxidant value of any known fruit. It helps to support healthy inflammatory functions, and healthy aging. Maqui has been used in traditional native medicine by the Mapuche Indians to treat inflammations, sore throat, diarrhea, ulcers and fever. It has also been used to increase strength and stamina.
This supplement also contains green tea and grapeseed extract which has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti cancerous and anti-microbial activity.
The secret of green tea lies in the catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). This substance is a powerful anti-oxidant which means that it inhibits the growth of cancer cells. It is proven that it is at least 100 more times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times more effective than vitamin E at protecting cells and DNA from damage believed to be linked to cancer, heart disease and other serious illnesses. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences report green tea polyphenols contains 51 phytonutrients that support a healthy inflammatory response.*
Acai Berries
Have been used by Indians in the rainforest for centuries for the treatment of diarrhea, fever, muscle pain, menstrual pain, jaundice, liver and kidney diseases. The health industry got very interested in Acai due to its weight loss abilities and because of the very high value of antioxidants which is one of the highest ever seen. It is recorded at a value of 102,700 per 100 g antioxidants against Peroxyl radicals, determined from both hydrophilic and lipophilic sources.
Grapeseed extract is prescribed by doctors in Europe for a variety of vascular disorders, collagen damage, water retention and arthritis. Grape seed extract also helps to reduce or eliminate the symptoms of leg cramps, varicose veins, diabetes, and numbness in the extremities
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Scientists first discovered the ALA compound in bacteria back in 1937. At one time scientists believed ALA was a vitamin -- substances the body needs, but can't produce on its own. But in 1998, it was identified as an antioxidant crucial to energy production in the body. It is also thought to regulate blood sugar[source: American Cancer Society)
Overall this supplement:
A potent antioxidant that helps prevent free radical damage which can lead to premature aging of cells
Contains cholesterol lowering ingredients like green tea, lutein, lycopene, grapeseed extract, and resveratrol
Recently, a great number of plant-derived substances have been evaluated as possible inhibitors of the NF-kappaB pathway. NF-kappaB represents an important and very attractive therapeutic target for drugs to treat many inflammatory diseases, including arthritis, asthma, and the auto-immune diseases, most attention has been paid in the last decade to the identification of compounds that selectively interfere with this pathway. This supplement contains natural NF-kB inhibitors:, contains green tea, resveratrol, vitamins A, C, E
Contains natural COX 2 inhibitors (pain medicine). Celebrex is a prescription COX-2 inhibitor. This supplement contains Vitamins A and E, Resveratrol, and Green Tea are natural COX-2 inhibitors and provide some relief from menstrual cramps and joint pain. This is a great supplement for people who are trying to decrease their usage of prescription pain medications, or who need to avoid the complications of prescription pain medications.
For Lupus patients, people who are ANA positive, or people with rheumatoid arthritis: It contains Vitamins A and E. These vitamins may help prevent cell damage that leads to joint pain. The active ingredient in green tea, polyphenol, may have anti-inflammatory properties that can be helpful in lupus; some research has been done to support the use of green tea as a natural anti-inflammatory. Alpha lipoic acid and citrus bioflavonoids benefit those with inflammation and can provide positive results with inflammatory conditions. I have recommended this supplement for my patients with bursitis, arthritis, fibromyalgia and other inflammatory conditions, and they have reported improvement with those conditions.
What is the ORAC value?
To determine what makes a fruit, berry or a spice high in antioxidant, we have to figure out its ORAC value compared to other fruits, berries or spices. The ORAC value (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) is a measuring of the antioxidant capacity of different foods and supplements, developed by scientists at the National Institutes of Health. The higher ORAC value, the better the food or supplement is to break down and slow down the oxidative processes and free radical damage that can contribute to age related diseases and degeneration.
There are 4 main ingredients that make it a strong antioxidant supplement. The recommended daily ORAC is 3000-5000 per day. This has been ORAC tested by Brunswick labs and contains 1318 per capsule.
The recommended dose is 1-3 capsules daily. It would take a couple of weeks to notice an effect.
The products and the claims made about specific products on or through this site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.
Greens are good, Green Superfoods are even better! Green superfoods have the highest concentrations of easily digestible nutrients, fat burning compounds, vitamins and minerals to protect and heal the body. They contain a wide array of beneficial substances including proteins, protective photo-chemicals and healthy bacteria helping you to build cleaner muscles and tissues, aid your digestive system function and more effectively protect you against disease and illness.
Green superfoods are extremely rich in chlorophyll - the pigment that gives plants their green color. The molecular structure of chlorophyll is very similar to that of human blood and studies show that when this is consumed, the production of hemoglobin in blood is increased. Higher amounts of hemoglobin in the bloodstream means more oxygen-rich blood, the first and most important element that cells need to thrive.
32 Powerfully Detoxifying Compounds To Help Keep You Free Of Disease and Prescription Drugs
Ingredients: Wheat grass juice powder, barley grass juice powder, chlorella, Co Q10, Carrot Juice powder, Beet juice powder, Parsley Leaf powder, Kale juice powder, Grape Seed Extract, Milk Thistle Seed Extract, Lycopene, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Quercetin, Dandelion Powder, Spinach Powder, Blue Green Algae, Bee Pollen Powder, Aloe Vera Powder, Flax Seed Powder, Lecithin, Green Tea Extract, Astralagus, Royal Jelly, Brown Rice Bran, Lipase, Lactase, Amylase, Protease, Bifidobacterium Longum, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Acidophilus.
Wheat grass - Wheat grass is the sprouted grass of a wheat seed. Unlike the whole grain, because it has been sprouted, it no longer contains gluten or other common allergic agents. Wheat grass is super alkalizing and is excellent for promoting healthy blood. It normalizes the thyroid gland to stimulate metabolism thus assisting digestion and promoting weight loss due also to its high enzyme content and cleansing effect.
Barley grass - Barley grass has 11 times more calcium than cows milk, 5 times more iron than spinach and 7 times more Vitamin C and bio-flavonoids than orange juice. It contains significant amounts of Vitamin B12 which is very important in a vegetarian diet. Barley grass juice has anti-viral activities and neutralizes heavy metals such as mercury in the blood.
Chlorella - Chlorella is a fresh water algae and like its other algae cousins contains a complete protein profile, all the B vitamins, vitamin C and E and many minerals. It is amazing for the immune system and for reducing cholesterol and preventing the hardening of the arteries, a precursor to heart attacks and strokes.
Green leafy vegetables - Green leafy vegetables are so readily available and so highly nutritious, however most people do not eat enough of them. Studies continuously confirm that populations that eat a diet high in green leafy vegetables run a far lower risk of heart disease and cancer. Fresh raw green leafy vegetables contain high doses of chlorophyll, easily digestible proteins, enzymes and a wide range of vitamins and minerals. These particular vegetables act as mini-transfusions for the blood, a health tonic for the brain and immune system and a cleanser of the kidneys. This contains the following: spinach, dandelion greens, kale, and parsley.
Bee Pollen - Bee pollen is collected by bees from flowering plants and formed into granules. Bee pollen is the most complete food found in nature and has five to seven times more protein than beef. It is especially beneficial for the extra nutritional and energy needs of athletes and those recovering from illness. It is a natural antidote for fighting allergies particulary hayfever and sinusitus. Research shows that pollen counteracts the signs of aging and increases both mental and physical capability.
*For best results, for the first 3 months take 6 capsules per day on an empty stomach in equally divided doses (2 capsules 3 times per day. After 3 months, take 3 capsules daily for the above conditions
pH balance- contains concentrated alkalinizing green vegetables use as above
Recurrent Vaginitis and Yeast Cleanse- contains Lactobacillus and pH re-balancing ingredients use as above, but consider combining with 1-3 Octocleanse Yeast and Parasite Herbal Detox daily
Total Body Cleansing- use as above in conjunction with a rotating colon cleanse
Anemia- promotes red blood cell health with Green supplements that contain Iron and B12- easier to tolerate than iron supplements. Take two pills daily at any time
Heartburn- take 1-2 capsules before each meal- contains lactase to benefit those with milk intolerance and great for people who don’t find complete relief with otc and rx acid blockers or who wish to avoid them altogether
Colon and digestive Health- lactobacillus and digestive enzymes aid digestion, take 1-2 capsules before each meal
Liver Cleansing and Cholesterol lowering- contains Milk thistle and Red yeast rice- take 1-2 capsules before each meal
The statements and products referred to throughout this site have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health condition or concern, consult a physician or your alternative health care provider. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet, using any new product, drug, or supplement.
, Extra Virgin Olive Oil
, Macadamia Oil
, and Argan Oil
.
), vegetable oils, orange juice (cardio juice heart healthy
), mayonnaises, yogurt drinks (Benecol), Pacific Natural Foods Select Soy Non-Dairy Beverage Vanilla, 32-Ounce Containers (Pack of 12)
, and green teas
contains Pomegranate and Green Tea (antioxidant as well as plant sterols)
Contains spinach, red yeast rice, Flaxseed, Coenzyme Q10 and alfalfa (antioxidant, heart health as well as plant sterols)
- contains Vitamin C and E,fish oil, NAC, gingko biloba, rutin, lycopene, lutein, bilberry, goldenseal
