What Holistic-CAM (Complementary & Alternative Medicine)/Integrative Medicinal Products are available to Prevent Disease and Promote Your Good Health?

Aloe
Vision

Asian Ginseng
Also known as: Ginseng, Chinese ginseng, Korean ginseng, Asiatic ginseng. Use: support overall health and boost the immune system; Improving the health of people recovering from illness; Increasing a sense of well-being and stamina, and improving both mental and physical performance; Treating erectile dysfunction, hepatitis C, and symptoms related to menopause; Lowering blood glucose and controlling blood pressure.

Beta-Carotene
Beta-carotene is probably the best known of the carotenoids, those red, orange, and yellow pigments that give color to many fruits and vegetables. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, a nutrient first identified in the 1930s and now recognized as vital to the growth and development of the human body. As a potent immune-system booster and a powerful antioxidant - it counters the effects of cell-damaging molecules called free-radicals - beta-carotene has an important role to play in human health. In addition to the numerous studies on beta-carotene's effectiveness for heart disease and cancer, researchers have been exploring the nutrient's potential for treating chronic fatigue syndrome, Alzheimer's disease, fibromyalgia, male infertility, and psoriasis. Interestingly, low levels of beta-carotene and other antioxidants have been linked to the development of cataracts, a clouding of the eye's lens that impairs vision. And preliminary studies point to a possible connection between too little beta-carotene (along with low levels of vitamins A and E) and subsequent development of lupus, an autoimmune disorder.

Bilberry
AKA: Black whortleberry, blueberry, burren myrle, dyeberry, huckleberry, hurleberry, whinberry, whortleberry, wineberry, and Vaccinium myrtillus. Anthocyanosides, the bioflavonoid complex in bilberries, are potent antioxidants. They support normal formation of connective tissue and strengthen capillaries in the body. Anthocyanosides may also improve capillary and venous blood flow. Used for: Atherosclerosis; Bruising; Cataracts; Circulation; Diabetes; Macular degeneration; Night blindness; Retinopathy; and, Varicose veins.

Black Cohosh
Also known as: black cohosh, black snakeroot, macrotys, bugbane, bugwort, rattleroot, rattleweed, Actaea racemosa, Cimicifuga racemosa. Used for: rheumatism (arthritis and muscle pain), but has been used more recently to treat hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and other symptoms that can occur during menopause. Black cohosh has also been used for menstrual irregularities and premenstrual syndrome, and to induce labor.

Bone Nutrient
Good source of Calcium. Adequate calcium intake is linked to reduced osteoporosis by slowing bone loss in menopausal/middle-aged women, persons with family history of osteoporosis and elderly men and women.

Bromelain
Bromelain is the name of a group of powerful protein-digesting, or proteolytic, enzymes that are found in the pineapple plant (Ananas comosus). Discovered in 1957, and widely studied since then, bromelain is particularly useful for reducing muscle and tissue inflammation and as a digestive aid. Supplements are made from enzymes found in the pineapple stem. Bromelain is a natural blood thinner and anti-inflammatory. It works by breaking down fibrin, a blood-clotting protein that can impede good circulation and prevent tissues from draining properly. Bromelain also blocks the production of compounds that can cause swelling and pain. When inflammation is reduced, blood can move more easily to a traumatized area, easing pain and speeding healing. Bromelain may be useful to supplement the treatment of: Sprains, Strains, Muscle Aches and Pains; Alleviate the back pain and chronic joint pain associated with chronic arthritis; Relieve carpal syndrome tunnel; Aid in digestion and reduce heartburn; Ease chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, and respiratory allergies; Lessen the swelling and accelerate the healing of cuts and scrapes, and insect bites and stings; and, Reduce the symptoms of eczema.

Carnitine
Carnitine is an amino acid-like compound that helps the body produce energy. While readily abundant in meats and dairy foods, some people take carnitine in supplement form to increase vitality. Carnitine transports fatty acids to the "factory" portion of cells, which then convert the fat into energy that the heart, muscles, and other body tissues can use. Without enough carnitine to move fatty acids to the right place, your body will eventually wear down and you may feel drained and tired. The heart in particular is highly dependent on carnitine, and taking it in supplement form is currently being explored as an option for speeding recovery after a heart attack as well as for treating angina (chest pain), arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats), and congestive heart failure. A form of carnitine that is produced naturally in the brain--acetyl-L-carnitine, or ALC--is currently being studied in supplement form as a possible treatment for memory loss associated with aging and Alzheimer's disease. There is some evidence it can enhance athletic performance by improving energy and fat metabolism. A positive effect appears most pronounced for endurance-related events, such as cycling and long distance running.


Carnosine
Carnosine is a small molecule composed of the amino acids, histidine and alanine. It is found in relatively high concentrations in several body tissues—most notably in skeletal muscle, heart muscle, and brain. It possesses strong and specific antioxidant properties, protects against radiation damage, improves the function of the heart, and promotes wound healing.

CLA
Conjugated Linoleic Acid was first identified in 1987 by researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The identification of CLA resulted in nine years of experiments by Michael Pariza, PhD. at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 1978, Dr. Pariza first noted an extract in beef that appeared to be an anti-carcinogenic. In 1987, he identified this extract as CLA. With this identification, came a surge of scientific studies and research on how CLA affects body mass and other beneficial effects on human health. Extensive research is now showing CLA to play an important role as a multi-beneficial health promoter. More than 200 studies worldwide are indicating that CLA may help reduce the incidence of breast cancer, improve asthma, allergy control, and blood sugar control (diabetes), and limit the extent of atherosclerosis which can lead to heart disease.

Co Q10
Coenzyme Q10 is a fat soluble vitamin-like cofactor essential for energy producing metabolic pathways and for the proper functioning of the mitochondria oxidative system used in the treatment of a variety of disorders primarily related to suboptimal cellular energy metabolism and oxidative injury. Studies supporting the efficacy of coenzyme Q10 appear most promising for neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's disease and certain encephalomyopathies for which coenzyme Q10 has gained orphan drug status. Results in other areas of research, including treatment of congestive heart failure and diabetes, appear to be contradictory or need further clarification before proceeding with recommendations. With insufficient CoQ10, the electron transfer activity of the mitochondria decreases, resulting in a net failure to produce the energy necessary to run the cell. Tissues with high energy demand have even greater demands for CoQ10. For example, heart muscle, which continually exerts a pumping action for an entire lifetime, has an immense need for this cofactor. Studies demonstrate the effectiveness of supplemental coenzyme Q 10 in cardiomyopathy (2, 3), myocardial dysfunction (4) and CHF (5). CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant (6) like vitamins E and C, and thus serves the role of neutralizing excess free radicals. It is now well established that the control of excessive radical activity is key in preventing/delaying the progression of degenerative diseases. Therapeutic information includes: Serum CoQ10 measurements mirror bioavailable levels. If serum CoQ10 is low, it can be increased by supplementing according to the following (1): 30-100 mgm daily for prevention of cardiovascular or periodontal diseases and for patients taking a statin; 90-180 mgm daily for angina pectoris, cardiac arrhythmia, HTN and moderate gingival disease; 180 to 360 mgm daily for CHF and dilated cardiomyopathy. CoQ10 is best absorbed when taken with a meal as it is a fat soluble vitamin cofactor. Coenzyme Q10 appears to be a safe supplement with minimal side effects and low drug interaction potential. It looks very useful to prevent statin induced liver and muscle side effects. It may also be good for the heart by improving local metabolism and helping to stop cholesterol from sticking to the arteries via its antioxidant effects.

References:

1. Sinatra, S. Coenzyme Q10 and the Heart. Keats Good Guide. Keats; Publishing, Inc. 1998 New Cannan, CT
2. Langsjoen, PH, Folkers, K. A six-year clinical study of therapy of cardiomyopathy with coenzyme Q10. Int J Tissue React 19
3. Langsjoen, PH, Folkers , Lyson K, et al Pronounced increase survival in patients with cardiomyopathy when treated with Q10 and conventional therapy. Int J Tissue React 1190;1
4. Mortenson SA, Vadhanvikit S, Muratsu K, et al. Coenzyme benefits with biochemical correlated suggesting a scientific breakthrough in the management of chronic heart failure. React 1990; 12:155-162.
5. Morisco C, Nappi A, Argenziano L, et al. Noninvasive evaluation of cardiac hemodynamics during exercise in patients with CHF: effects of short term coenzyme Q10 treatment. Med 1994:15 Suppl: s155-63.
6. Greenberg S and Frishman WH. Coenzyme Q10: A drug for cardiovascular disease. Clin Pharm 1990; 30: 596-608.

Chondroitin
A natural component of the cartilage that cushions joints, chondroitin sulfate is a compound that appears to block the enzymes that can destroy crucial cartilage tissue. It is also believed to promote water retention and elasticity in joint cartilage. For these reasons chondroitin has become a popular dietary supplement for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Some studies indicate that it is as effective as aspirin and other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) at relieving arthritis pains--and at considerably less risk of causing stomach irritation and other gastric upset. Chondroitin is often sold in combination with Glucosamine, another compound key to cartilage formation and repair. The latest studies have focused on evaluating how effectively these products work in combination. Preliminary findings indicate that chondroitin may increase joint mobility and slow cartilage loss. However, claims that chondroitin can actually help to rebuild cartilage remain largely unproved. Researchers hypothesize that chondroitin encourages water retention and elasticity in cartilage, and inhibits enzymes that break down cartilage. With chondroitin use, joint function appears to improve and pain to diminish in people with knee and hip osteoarthritis. So far there is no firm evidence that the same effect would necessarily occur in other joints, such as fingers, thumbs, ankles, or the spine.

Cranberry
Also known as: American cranberry, bog cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon. Cranberry fruits and leaves were used for a variety of problems, such as wounds, urinary disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, stomach ailments, and liver problems. It has been used in the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections or Helicobacter pylori infections that can lead to stomach ulcers, or to prevent dental plaque. Cranberry has also been reported to have antioxidant and anticancer activity.

Curcuma
AKA: Curcuma longa; turmeric, haldi, haridra, gauri. The active constituent is known as curcumin. It has been shown to have a wide range of therapeutic effects. First, it protects against free radical damage because it is a strong antioxidant. Second, it reduces inflammation. It accomplishes this by reducing histamine levels and possibly by increasing production of natural cortisone by the adrenal glands. Third, it protects the liver from a number of toxic compounds. Fourth, it has been shown to reduce platelets from clumping together, which in turn, improves circulation and helps protect against atherosclerosis. Numerous studies have also shown cancer-preventing effects of curcumin. This may be due to its powerful antioxidant activity in the body. Used for: anemia; atherosclerosis; bursitis; Crohn's Disease; diabetes; edema; hemorrhoids; hepatitis; hysteria; indigestion; inflammation; inflammatory bowel syndrome; jaundice psoriasis; Rheumatoid arthritis; skin disorders; urinary diseases; and, wound and bruise healing.

DHEA
The steroid hormone DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) has been hyped as a supplement that will deliver the virtual fountain of youth, with extravagant claims that it can slow aging, melt away fat, enhance memory, prevent osteoporosis, and increase libido. Naturally produced and released by the adrenal glands, DHEA is ultimately converted into estrogen (the female sex hormone) and androgen (the male sex hormone). With age, DHEA levels in the body naturally decline. Researchers are presently investigating whether these lower levels can explain certain age-related ailments - and whether taking DHEA supplements will keep them at bay. Specifically, scientists are examining DHEA's power to protect against heart disease in older men, its ability to boost the immune system, and whether it can help in managing diabetes and easing lupus symptoms. The strongest evidence so far may be for DHEA's power to enhance the quality of life of older people, increasing their energy level and ability to handle stress. May be useful in: Aging; Chronic Fatigue Syndrome; Fibromyalgia; Lupus; and, for promoting Weight Loss.

Echinacea
Upper respiratory tract infection.

Flaxseed Oil
A source of fiber for linen fabric since ancient times, the slender flax plant (Linum usitatissimum) also boasts a long history as a healing herb. First cultivated in Europe, the plant's brown seeds were regularly used to prepare balms for inflamed skin and healing slurries for constipation. Today, flaxseeds - also called linseeds - are best known for the therapeutic oil that is derived by pressing them. Rich in essential fatty acids, or EFAs, flaxseed oil has earned a solid reputation for treating a range of ailments, from heart disease to lupus. The essential fatty acids in flaxseed oil are its key healing components. EFAs are particularly valuable because the body needs them to function properly, but can't manufacture them on its own. Essential fatty acids work throughout the body to protect cell membranes, keeping them efficient at admitting healthy substances while barring damaging ones. One of the EFAs in flaxseed oil - alpha-linolenic acid - is known as an omega-3 fatty acid. Like the omega-3s found in fish, it appears to reduce the risk of heart disease and numerous other ailments. Flaxseed oil is an excellent source of omega-3s: Just 1 teaspoon contains about 2.5 grams, equivalent to more than twice the amount most Americans get through their diets. Flaxseeds also contain omega-6 fatty acids in the form of linoleic acid; omega-6s are the same healthy fats found in vegetable oils. In addition, flaxseeds are a rich source of lignans, substances that appear to positively affect hormone-related problems. Lignans may also be useful in preventing certain cancers and combating specific bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including those that cause cold sores and shingles. When taken in ground form, flaxseeds provide an extra fiber boost, easing the passage of stools and benefiting the digestive tract in multiple ways. Used for: Lowering cholesterol, protect against heart disease and control high blood pressure; Counter inflammation associated with gout, lupus and fibrocystic breasts; Control constipation, hemorrhoids, diverticular disorders and gallstones; Treat acne, eczema, psoriasis, sunburn and rosacea; Promote healthy hair and nails; Minimize nerve damage that causes numbness and tingling as well as other disorders; Reduce cancer risk and guard against the effects of aging; Treat menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, female infertility and endometriosis; and, Fight prostate problems, male infertility and impotence.

Garlic
Garlic is a useful supplement for Hyperlipidemia. Garlic is one of the oldest and most widely used herbs throughout the world. Our ancestors have called it panacea or cure-all. People used to claim that garlic could ward off evil spirits while helping to heal wounds and cure infections. Chinese used garlic for the treatment of diarrhea, tuberculosis, bloody urine, diphtheria, scalp ringworm, vaginal infections and many more. Egyptians felt that garlic can strengthen body and prevent any type of disease. Many cultures have been using fresh garlic, garlic powder, and garlic oil in their food and beverages during cooking. Today we are looking at garlic for its effects on hypertension, hyperlipidemia, prevention of coronary heart disease, age-related vascular changes, atherosclerosis, and cancer. Although beneficial effects have been described, the data is conflicting. Garlic should be used as a part of a comprehensive medication program in patients who choose to use the supplement. Fresh garlic contains 1% of alliin which is an odor-free substance. One milligram of alliin is converted into 0.458 mg of allicin by alliinase. Allicin is an unstable and odiferous substance producing most of the therapeutic effects associated with garlic. When administered orally, aged garlic preparations used in order to decrease the odor. Alliin content in such preparations is close to 3% of what is found in the fresh garlic. In order to improve effectiveness of the products aged garlic should have enteric coating to protect active ingredients from denaturing in stomach. Ajoene, which is an allicin derivative, has been shown to produce antiplatelet effects. Garlic also appears to have immunostimulant activity causing T cell proliferation, restoring suppressed antibody responses, and stimulating macrophage cytotoxicity on tumor cells. Other constituents such as allylpropyl disulfide and S-allyl cysteine reduce blood glucose levels by enhancing insulin release from beta islet cells in the pancreas. Garlic may have various uses as a supplement including: antihyperlipidemic; Antithrombotic; Antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal; Antihyptensive; Antioxidant, cancer prevention (stomach and prostate cancer); Hepatoprotectant; Immunestimulant; Antihyperglycemic.

Ginkgo biloba
Dementia, cognitive impairment

Ginseng
An herb that has been used to stimulate the adrenal gland and thereby increase energy. It also may have some beneficial effect on reducing blood sugar in patients with diabetes mellitus. Ginseng can cause elevation in blood pressure, headache, vomiting, insomnia, and nose bleeding. Ginseng can also cause falsely abnormal blood tests for digoxin level in persons taking the drug for heart disease. It is unclear whether ginseng may affect female hormones. Its use in pregnancy is not recommended. Ginseng may affect the action of the normal blood clotting element (platelets). It should be avoided in patients taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen/Advil, Motrin or naproxen/Aleve), or medications to prevent blood clotting (anticoagulants) such as warfarin/Coumadin. Ginseng may also cause headaches, tremors, nervousness, and sleeplessness. It should be avoided in persons with manic disorder and psychosis.

Glucosamine
Glucosamine, a sugar produced in the body and found in small amounts in foods, plays an important role in maintaining cartilage, the gel-like material that cushions joints. When taken as a dietary supplement, glucosamine may help to relieve the pain, stiffness, and swelling of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disorder that affects 12% of the population, in which cartilage has worn down. Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers report improvements with glucosamine supplements as well, as do individuals with other types of joint injuries. While there is no readily available source of glucosamine in foods - the shells of crabs, shrimp and oysters contain it but aren't typically consumed - several supplement forms have become widely available. These include glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and N-acetyl-glucosamine (NAG). Glucosamine sulfate is the form best absorbed by the body and the one most commonly used to treat osteoarthritis. Interestingly, for years veterinarians have treated arthritis in certain animals with glucosamine hydrochloride. The body draws on glucosamine, which contains the sugar glucose, to produce two molecules necessary for proper cartilage function. Whether glucosamine taken orally has the same cartilage-benefiting actions as the glucosamine naturally present in joints and connective tissue actually remains a subject of debate. Much of the glucosamine sulfate taken in pill form is apparently absorbed through the intestines and is available for the body to use, although precisely how much remains a subject of contention. Ultimately, many arthritis sufferers do report improvements, with about half of study participants experiencing significant relief from pain and inflammation. Research indicates possible benefits for other conditions as well.

Grape seed extract
Venous insufficiency

Green tea
AKA: Camellia sinensis. Research demonstrates that green tea guards against cardiovascular disease in many ways. Green tea lowers total cholesterol levels and improves the cholesterol profile (the ratio of LDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol), reduces platelet aggregation, and lowers blood pressure. The polyphenols in green tea have also been shown to lessen the risk of several types of cancers, stimulate the production of several immune system cells, and have antibacterial properties-even against the bacteria that cause dental plaque. Green tea is useful for: Cancer risk reduction; Gingivitis (periodontal disease); High cholesterol; Hypertension (high blood pressure); Hypertriglyceridemia (high triglycerides); Immune function; and, Infection.

Gugulipid
Gugulipid 25 mgm tid is from the resin of the mukul myrrh tree (Commiphora mukul) and holds promise for lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels as effectively as certain prescription medications. Native to India, this tree is closely related to the plant that provides the fragrant myrrh described in the Bible. The tree’s resin is called gum guggul, or guggulu. Traditional Ayurvedic healers in India have relied on this resin for centuries to treat arthritis and obesity. Interestingly, as early as 600 B.C. they were giving it to people who suffered from a condition associated with regular overindulgence in rich foods and a sedate lifestyle--what we now know as atherosclerosis. Research has subsequently revealed that the refined resin (gugulipid) inhibits the formation of artery-hardening plaque. In addition, it has been found that active ingredients called guggulsterones encourage levels of cholesterol and fat to drop. This in turn lowers the risk for heart disease. Guggulsterones may also help to control arthritis-related inflammation and may aid in weight loss.

Huperzine A
Huperzine A is an extract from a club moss (Huperzia serrata) that has been used for centuries in Chinese folk medicine. Huperzine's action has been attributed to its ability to strongly inhibit acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft. Aricept, Cognex, Exelon, and Reminyl are acetylcholinesterase inhibitors also that are FDA approved for treating the senile dementia of the Alzheimer’s type. Acetylcholine is involved in memory and learning. By inhibiting the enzyme that breaks it down, more acetylcholine becomes available to stimulate neurons. Alzheimer’s disease is a condition where there’s a relative shortage of acetylcholine. Several studies have been done over the past few years with Huperzine A both in China and the United States. These studies have shown that Huperzine A is many times more effective and selective than Tacrine (Cognex) (a cholinesterase-inhibiting pharmaceutical drug) in inhibiting cholinesterase (Cheng 1996). Huperzine A has also been found to be beneficial in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists at Zhejiang Medical University, in Hangzhou, China administered 200 mcg of huperzine A to fifty patients with Alzheimer’s disease for a period of eight weeks and compared the results to a group who received placebo pills (Xu 1995). The study was done in a double blind, placebo controlled and randomized manner. The results showed 58 percent of the patients treated with huperzine A had improvements in memory, cognition, and behavioral functions whereas only 36 percent of those on placebo improved. No severe side effects were found. Blood pressure, heart rate, electrocardiogram, electroencephalogram, liver and urine tests did not show any major abnormalities. The researchers say, "Huperzine A is a promising drug for symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease."

Indole-3-carbinol
Is one of the major anticancer substances found in cruciferous (cabbage family) vegetables. It is a member of the class of sulfur-containing chemicals called glucosinolates. It is formed from parent compounds whenever cruciferous vegetables are crushed or cooked. It is an antioxidant and potent stimulator of natural detoxifying enzymes in the body. Indole-3-carbinol and other glucosinolates are believed to be responsible for the lowered risk of cancer in humans that is associated with the consumption of broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, and kale.

Lycopene
Lycopene provides the red color to tomato products and is one of the major carotenoids in the diet of North Americans and Europeans. Lycopene is a prominent member of the carotenoid family. Many of the reported health benefits of lycopene are attributed to its ability to protect cells against oxidative damage. Although there has been less research focused on lycopene compared to other carotenoids, studies suggest that lycopene is a more potent scavenger of oxygen radicals than other major dietary carotenoids. Several studies have reported anticancer effects of lycopene in cell culture where lycopene has demonstrated antiproliferative effects.

Maitake Mushroom
AKA: Grifola frondosa; dancing mushroom. A common denominator among mushroom and herbal adaptogens is the presence of complex polysaccharides in their structure. These active components have the unique ability to act as immunomodulators and, as such, are researched for their potential role in cancer and AIDS treatment.

MSM
AKA: Methylsulfonylmethane MSM is an organic sulfur compound that is contained in minute amounts in everyone's blood and most foods. It's unclear what role MSM plays in the complex chemistry of the human body, but some experts believe that, like other sulfur compounds, it's a necessary building block for proteins, especially those found in the hair, muscles, and connective tissue of the joints and skin. Sulfur also is found in insulin and bile acid. Now widely available in concentrated supplement form, MSM has been much publicized of late as an effective remedy for back pain, arthritis and a host of other disorders. MSM supplements are made from DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide), an industrial solvent that the FDA has approved for only one use--a bladder disorder called interstitial cystitis. Years ago, enthusiasts hailed DMSO as a remedy for a variety of ailments, particularly arthritis, but the noxious odor it created in users seriously lessened its appeal. It also caused toxic effects in some people. MSM is thought to have many of DMSO's advantages without the smell or toxicity. MSM appears to inhibit pain impulses that travel along nerve fibers, acting as an analgesic. This property, along with the compound's potential anti-inflammatory actions, are often cited in explaining its use for combating the symptoms of arthritis, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome and allergies. In addition, MSM may reduce muscle spasms, increase blood flow and possibly contribute to the maintenance and repair of cartilage. Studies in rats indicate that MSM may help to delay the growth of certain types of cancerous tumors.

Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to significantly reduce the risk for sudden death caused by cardiac arrhythmias and all-cause mortality in patients with known coronary heart disease. N-3 fatty acids (synonymous, omega-3 fatty acids) are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids Species of this lipid class that naturally occur in appreciable amounts are Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and alpha-linolenic acid. Fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, and fish oil are rich sources of the omega-3 fatty acids EicosaPentaenoic Acid (EPA) and DocosaHexaenoic Acid (DHA). Eicosapentaenoic acid, or EPA, is a major component of fish oil. It is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid of the n-3 or omega-3 type. Flaxseed, canola oil, and walnuts also are good dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to being antiarrhythmic, the omega-3 fatty acids are antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory. In contrast, omega-6 fatty acids, which are present in most seeds, vegetable oils, and meat, are prothrombotic and proinflammatory. Omega-3 fatty acids also are used to treat hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and rheumatoid arthritis. There are no significant drug interactions with omega-3 fatty acids. The American Heart Association recommends consumption of two servings of fish per week for persons with no history of coronary heart disease and at least one serving of fish daily for those with known coronary heart disease. Approximately 1 g per day of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) plus DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is recommended for cardioprotection. Higher dosages of omega-3 fatty acids are required to reduce elevated triglyceride levels (2 to 4 g per day) and to reduce morning stiffness and the number of tender joints in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (at least 3 g per day). Modest decreases in blood pressure occur with significantly higher dosages of omega-3 fatty acids. It is useful to improve energy also.

Policosanol
Policosanol is a dietary supplement that is gaining more and more favorable literature on its cholesterol lowering benefits. Policosanol consists of numerous long-chained, fatty alcohols extracted from the plant, Saccharum officinarum, (sugar cane) and beeswax. The predominant alcohol in policosanol is octacosanol. Policosanol in addition to reducing dangerous LDL-cholesterol, increases beneficial HDL-cholesterol, inhibits abnormal platelet aggregation, protects against LDL oxidation and suppresses arterial inflammatory factors. In a randomized, double-blind study published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacological Research, doctors investigated the efficacy and tolerability of policosanol at doses of 20 mg a day compared with 40 mg a day. Patients with high cholesterol had been on a cholesterol-lowering diet, but failed to achieve desired results. The patients were instructed to continue the cholesterol-lowering diet and were allocated to receive either placebo, policosanol 20 mg/day, or 40 mg/day. After 24 weeks, policosanol at 20 and 40 mg/day lowered LDL-cholesterol by 27.4% and 28.1%, while total cholesterol was reduced by 15.6% and 17.3% respectively. Most impressive was the finding that beneficial HDL-cholesterol was increased by 17.6% in the 20mg/day and 17% in the 40 mg/day policosanol groups. There were no significant changes in the placebo group. The conclusion of this study was that 20 mg a day of policosanol provides about the same cholesterol-lowering efficacy as 40 mg a day. Consistent with previous studies, no adverse effects were observed. In still another new study published in the Journal of Gerontology and Biological Science-Medical Science, the effects of policosanol in older patients with high cholesterol and more than one other atherosclerotic risk factor was investigated. After six weeks on a lipid-lowering diet, patients randomly received a placebo or policosanol. Policosanol (5 and 10 mg/day) significantly reduced LDL-cholesterol (16.9% and 24.4%, respectively) and total cholesterol (12.8% and 16.2%, respectively), while significantly increasing HDL-cholesterol by 14.6% and 29.1%, respectively. Triglyceride levels remained un-changed. Policosanol, but not the placebo, significantly improved cardiovascular capacity, which was assessed using the Specific Activity Scale. No serious adverse experiences occurred in the policosanol patients. The conclusions of this study were that policosanol is effective, safe and well tolerated in older patients with high cholesterol.

ProstaBlend™
ProstaBlend™ is an explicitly targeted nutritional supplement for men who choose to support their prostate function naturally. It contains: pygeum; saw palmetto; lycopene; selenium, and other ingredients that have been specifically combined to support men's health.

Probiotic
Most consumers have heard of probiotics and know that they are foods containing live, beneficial bacteria. Foods such as yogurt, buttermilk, miso or kefir are the most recognized foods providing "good" bacteria for the gut. The advantage of beneficial living organisms in food, particularly lactic acid bacteria, has been known for centuries. In fact, the Roman historian, Plinius, in 76 BC, recommended fermented milk for treating gastroenteritis. In the early 1900s, a Russian zoologist, Elie Metchnikoff, wrote about the health benefits of "friendly bacteria" and hypothesized that consumption of fermented milk products were responsible for the long, healthy lives that Bulgarian peasants enjoyed. Probiotics means "pro-life." The digestive tract is home to over 400 species of microorganisms. Some are "good bugs" and are "bad bugs" or unhealthy bacteria. Probiotics are the "good bugs." Two of the most common strains are lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. It is believed that if a positive balance of good bacteria is maintained, the bad bacteria are less able to cause disease and irritation.

PS
Phosphatidylserine is a natural nutrient found as part of the cell membrane of cells. Phosphatidylserine is most notably found in the cell membrane of neurons, comprising about 7 to 10 percent of its lipid content. Although lecithin (phosphatidylcholine) has been available as a supplement for many decades, phosphatidylserine became available to the North American market in the mid 1990s. In the past, phosphatidylserine was obtained from the brain of cows. In fact, if you read some of the research studies published with phosphatidylserine, it will identify this nutrient as BC - phosphatidylserine. The BC stands for bovine cortex, or cow brain. The reason BC - phosphatidylserine - is not sold is because of the fear of viruses or infectious agents being inadvertently introduced in the phosphatidylserine product when extracted from the brains of cows with mad cow disease. The phosphatidylserine currently available over the counter is derived from soy. PS is a sophisticated cognitive formula. It combines a delicate balance of brain circulation agents and neurotransmitter precursors with powerful natural brain chemicals that support: Mood and Memory; Mental Clarity; Concentration; and, Alertness & Focus.

Resveritrol
In 1996, scientists discovered the chemical in grapes that shows anti-carcinogenic activity - "resveritrol." Originally identified in a tropical legume, this compound was found later in grapes (particularly red) and wine. It can inhibit tumor formation in three ways - stopping DNA damage, slowing/halting cell transformation from normal to cancerous and slowing tumor growth. Resveritrol has anti-inflammatory properties and may be very useful for colon cancer prevention. It is still experimental, but may be a useful cancer drug in the future. Resveritrol is also found in peanuts and mulberries.

Saw Palmetto
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia

Selenium
The trace mineral selenium makes its way into our bodies because it is contained in certain foods. Over time, it becomes part of nearly every cell, with particularly high concentrations in the kidneys, liver, pancreas, spleen, and testes. Selenium has many tasks to perform in the body. It helps to boost the immune system and fight off infection, providing a general increase in the body's defense against dangerous bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. On a basic cellular level, every cell in the body needs a particular hormone from the thyroid gland that selenium helps to convert to an active form. Perhaps the most famed use of selenium in supplement form is as an antioxidant; it helps to mop up dangerous molecules known as free radicals that can damage and alter healthy cells. It has also been recommended for staving off the effects of aging.

Sitosterol
AKA: Beta-Sitosterol. Beta-sitosterol is one of a group of organic compounds found in plants that, alone and in combination with similar plant sterols, reduces blood levels of cholesterol. The reduction of cholesterol levels appears to be because beta-sitosterol blocks absorption of cholesterol. It has also been effective in reducing symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia.

Soy
AKA: Sojae praeparatum, Black soybean, Dan dou chi, fermented black soybean. Used for: Cancer risk reduction; High Cholesterol; Menopause; and, Vaginitis.

St. John's wort
Depression

Wheat Grass
In the 1960s, Ann Wigmore "re-discovered" wheat grass, curing her own "untreatable" colitis in the process. She gave wheat grass to several sick neighbors - all of whom recovered and were rejuvenated! She went on to champion wheat grass in her own "Hippocrates Health Institute," treating and curing many people of serious health conditions.