* Antioxidants. Natural remedies.

Antioxidants have been the subject of much research and writing in resent years. It has long been known that they fight the effects of free radicals and do much to slow down the aging process and prevent various types of disease. Free radicals are molecules with electrons that are unpaired. This kind of molecule is unstable and reactive. Free radicals steal electrons from other stable molecules in order to become stable themselves. When a stable molecule loses an electron to a free radical, it becomes another free radical, and so chain reaction begins. It is known that diet, exposure to toxins, radiation and certain medications increase number of free radicals. It has been establish that more than sixty human diseases involve free radical damage, including cancer, heart disease and immune system decline. The three major antioxidant nutrients are vitamin A as a Beta Carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E. Vitamin A Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that occurs in two forms in nature. It is found in its true form (also called retinol) in animal foods such as fish oils and liver. The body readily uses this form. Vitamin A can be found in vegetables in the form of Beta Carotene or provitamin A. This form is found in plants and is the precursor of the actual vitamin. Beta Carotene has to be converted in the body in order to be used by it. Fat and bile are needed for the conversion. Vitamin A is necessary for proper function of the eyes and for maintenance of the skin. Beta Carotene is one of the most powerful antioxidant nutrients. It can prevent free radical formation and activate existing free radicals. After free radicals have been formed, it traps them and breaks the chain reaction that they cause. Beta Carotene also works to destroy carcinogens (censer-causing substances). All retinoid forms of vitamin A are used in cosmetic and medical applications applied to the skin. The liver regulates the blood level of vitamin A. It needs a special protein carrier to be transported throughout the body. An adequate protein and fat intake is required for a good absorption of vitamin A. It won’t be absorbed on a no-fat diet. At list 5 gr. of fat/day are necessary for adequate vitamin A adsorption. Vitamin C Vitamin C has an important role in various body processes necessary for life. Of key importance is its role in collagen formation. Vitamin C functions as a one of the most powerful free-radicals to prevent damage that contributes to aging and age-related diseases. It works against pollution and toxins that damage cells and cause mutation. Vitamin C is also critical for the immune system, it may increase immunity to infectious diseases, may lower cholesterol, and enhances the effect of vitamin E. It also promotes wound healing, tissue repair and helps in the utilization of iron; reduce the symptoms of asthma and allergies. Vitamin C is water soluble and should be taken with water. Vitamin E Vitamin E works to prevent aging by prolonging the useful life of cells in the body. One of vitamin E abilities is that it can stop a wildly proliferating free radicals chain reaction as it is happening. Too many nutrients may cause the cell to grow irregularly and too few nutrients will starve the cell and kill it. By protecting the cell membrane, vitamin E combats disease. Vitamin E is a lipid-soluble and should be taken with fatty food during the meal. Natural remedies from Amazon Rainforest SANGRE DE DRAGOSangre de Drago ["blood of the dragon"] is a tree growing up to 60 feet high. Its red sap promotes a strong and healthy intestinal wall and stomach lining. An alkaloid called taspine in Sangre de Drago shown to have strong cicatrizing properties. In addition, nearly 90% of Sangre de Drago’s dry weight is proanthocyanidins, one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. Proanthocyanidins (vascular wall strengthening properties) are the most potent known dietary antioxidants. Sangre de Drago, science believes slows aging and cellular degeneration *. UNA DE GATO- Cat’s Claw Una de Gato from the Peruvian rainforest is a favorite for stimulating the immune system. World wide research done on this powerful herb has led scientists to patent many of the single chemicals found in it for use in healing cancer, arthritis, AIDS and other diseases. However, traditional wisdom shows that using the whole plant can be far more powerful than any one isolated ingredient. Has remarkable ability to cleanse the entire intestinal tract. Because of this ability, Una de Gato can be used for Crohn’s Disease, hemorrhoids, parasites, leaky bowel syndrome, ulcers, gastritis, allergic disorders, diverticulitis, stabilizing intestinal flora and other gastro-intestinal issues. Una de Gato is recognized as one of the most important botanicals in the rainforest for its antioxidant properties and for its wide range of health benefits. It is also known to help maintain blood pressure in a healthy range and stimulate the immune system [increase macrophage activity]. Because of its numerous health benefits, Una de Gato is one of the most widely recognized plants of the rainforest.* The name “cat’s claw” comes from the claw-shaped thorn beneath the leaves.Una do Gato is also a powerful anti-inflammatory which makes it very useful for arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. It also helps to increase lymphocyte and microphage production, toniify the blood, and can be used as a broad spectrum infection fighter. Una de Gato also helps repair the lipid matrix in the cell walls and is particularity good for stopping the expansion of virus laden cells.At the University of Milan, Renato Rizzi led an experiment with Una de Gato as it relates to cancer causing (mutagenic) substances in smokers. It is well known that the urine of smokers contains mutagenic substances. When given Una de Gato for two weeks, the smoker’s urine returned to normal. This is important because it shows Una de Gato can help lessen the risk of developing cancers and other degenerative diseases. CAMU CAMU Camu Camu (Myrciaria Dubia) is a shrub that was recently found in the Amazon rainforest. It contains 30-60 times more vitamin C than orange; within its vivid ruby red color is nature’s valuable source for beauty.Traditionally, native medicine practitioners and herbalists have recommended Camu Camu for:Strengthening the immune system * Improving symptoms of herpes infections, including mouth blisters, genital blisters, shingles blisters and other viral infections* Promoting energy and vitality of people with chronic immune dysfunction Strengthening the nervous system * Supporting healthy levels of white blood cell formation * Detoxifying the body, especially the liver* Promoting health of upper respiratory organs, including lungs, sinuses, nasal passages *   Promoting a healthy heart and circulatory system* CACAO The genuine Cacao tree is a small and handsome evergreen tree, growing in South America and the West Indies, from 12 to 25 feet high. Cacao toated seeds the source of chocolate, cocoa and cocoa butter. Cocoa beans contain a type of antioxidant that may have a role in the prevention of certain diseases. Theobromine, the alkaloid contained in the beans, resembles caffeine in its action, but its effect on the central nervous system is less powerful. Its action on muscle, the kidneys and the heart is more pronounced. It is used principally for its diuretic effect due to stimulation of the renal epithelium; it is especially useful when there is an accumulation of fluid in the body resulting from cardiac failure. It is also employed in high blood pressure as it dilates the blood-vessels.Generally, chocolate contains:   Protein – needed for cell maintenance and repair. Fat – varies, but generally about 30 per cent fat, of which about 50 per cent is saturated fat. Vitamin E - a fat-soluble vitamin essential for cell membranes. Calcium, phosphorus and magnesium – minerals essential for strong bones and teeth. Iron – needed to form hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying compound in blood. Caffeine and hemoglobin – nervous system stimulants. Copper – assists iron metabolism, formation of melanin (in hair and skin) and functioning of the central nervous system. Sugars – varies, but often about 50 per cent. Antioxidant photochemicals (such as flavonoids) – cocoa beans, a main ingredient of chocolate (more so in dark chocolate), contain more than 600 plant chemicals, including antioxidants, that may protect against heart disease and cancer. The source: Age-Preversing Free Radical Fighters. Antioxidants by Remi Cooper, wikipedia.org, The Green Farmacy by James A. Duke, Ph.D. -Irina, NC Disclaimer: All the information presented on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or any other medical professional. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Himalayan Goji Juice is here!!!

The Goji berry has been revered throughout Asia for its unmatched ability to promote health maintenance and balance the body’s energies, especially the “vital life force” known as chi. Preliminary studies have revealed that the secret to goji’s powerful health maintenance benefits lies in a group of unique bioactive molecules, not found in any other plant on earth, called Lycium barbarum polysaccharides (LBPs).

Goji Juice has been traditionally used to alleviate the following conditions:
# To strengthen the heart and alleviate heart palpitations
# Fights insomnia and forgetfulness
# Contains polysaccharides which control the pituitary glands that produce HGH (human growth hormone) which is a powerful anti-aging hormone
# Can be used by pregnant women to alleviate morning sickness
# Has in clinical trials shown a partial reversal in sexual dysfunction in seniors
# Used to boost the function of the immune system
# Has some anti-cancer properties and has been successfully used to treat hepatitis-B
# Has been used successfully for weight loss
# Helps the body detox, cleans the blood and build the immune system.

The next generation of Himalayan Goji Juice is here and it’s only available at FreeLife! Do you GoChi? With scientific support, there’s no excuse not to!
For more information visit http://healthystartgochi.com

*The Female Remedy-Amazon Herbal Club. Herbs from A to Z.

ABUTA Cissampelos pareira
South American Indian women have used Abuta for centuries to relieve symptoms associated with menstruation and to balance female hormones. It is commonly referred to as the “midwives’ herb” and has been believed to help prevent miscarriage and stop uterine hemorrhaging.

DONG QUAI Angelica sinensis (or Dang Gui)

Dong quai has been called the “female ginseng” and is excellent as an all
purpose women’s herb. It has been used for centuries for regulating the
menstrual cycle and easing menstrual pain and cramping. It can be used
to help women regain normal menstrual cycles after taking “the Pill.” It has
proven helpful for relieving hot flashes during menopause. Dong
quai can be used for insomnia and blood pressure stability for
both men and women. (The affect on blood pressure can be an overall lowering
although sometimes it may rise slightly first, followed by a decline).
It can reduce PMS and may help anemia, suppressed menstrual
flow, uterine bleeding, abdominal pain after childbirth, dry intestines, chronic
pelvic disorders and constipation and headaches due to blood deficiency.
Dong quai helps the liver utilize more oxygen and therefore can
be useful in treating hepatitis and cirrhosis. It may also help
with abnormal protein metabolism. Dong quai helps
dilate peripheral blood vessels, increase circulation, and has been used as a
mild laxative. PRECAUTION: Not to be used during pregnancy.

MACA Lepidium Meyenil Walp
Maca is referred to as Peruvian Ginseng, although not related to Ginseng. It grows high in the Andes. It is high in steroidal glycosides. It can be used for libido in both men and women and is often used for
impotence and menstrual issues.
Maca is a tuber that has been cultivated for more than 2,000 years at high
altitudes in the Andean Mountains. Maca is used for energy, longevity and
fertility. It stimulates the hormonal system and supports healthy sexual
function. It has been widely used by athletes to enhance energy
levels and to help build muscle mass and strength. Ragulating hormonal
balance. Contains fifer, fatty acids and sugar.

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

* Digestion and Enzymes

 

	Almost everyone know that Enzymes are critical to our digestion process and to good health. All raw foods contain enzymes. But when foods are cooked at high temperatures, enzymes are destroyed. I would like to encourage people try to eat something raw every day, at every meal time, if possible, one or two servings of salad and at least two raw servings of fruit every day.Often though, people need to take enzymes. Our enzyme ‘bank account’ becomes depleted as we age and the metabolism slows. Yet another reason why people gain weight as they age.Digestive problems are the first indication that the enzymes in our bodies are being depleted.   How many older people do you know who have digestive concerns. A good number of them, right? How many younger people do you know who complain about digestion. Hardly any, but still some.
There are four main types of digestive enzymes;   Amylase – to break down carbohydrates, Lipase – to break down fats, Protease – to break down proteins Cellulase – to break down soluble parts of fiber. There is also lactase for those who are lactose intolerant.So if you are having digestive concerns, consider enzymes to improve your health. Enzymes are just one step to improving your health. Enzymes can also help in weight loss goals. Check the Amazon Herb Co. products, which can help you to be more healthy through the life.     ============================== Irina, NC

* Wheat Berry

I recently tried the wheat berry salad in Whole Food store. It was made from wheat berries, raisin, honey, almond chips and a little bit of parsley and honey. It reminded me the salad which we had back in Ukraine for Orthodox Easter. Just we had it with crashed poppy seeds and a little bit of cream.What are wheat berries?A wheat berry is actually the unprocessed wheat seed, also known as the kernel. Wheat berries contain the whole grain — endosperm, bran and germ — and that’s what makes them so healthful. They contain all of the fiber, protein, carbohydrates, iron as well as many B-complex, minerals, and phytonutrients that are removed during the refinement.
The bran makes up nearly 15 percent of the wheat berry. It’s included in whole-wheat flour, but not regular flour. You can find wheat berries in health-food stores.
Some guidelines for cooking wheat berries call for soaking them overnight, but often you can just cook them for an hour or two to get the same result. The more they’re cooked, the softer they get,
personally I like a nutty, crunchy texture.
Recipes with wheat berries you can always find on the Internet; you might find the wheat berry salad I recently enjoyed, as well
as other salads and ideas.If you have gluten tolerance, you probably can not enjoy the Wheat Berries dishes. Wheat allergy occurs when there is an allergic reaction to gluten (the protein found in wheat, rye, barley and oats). Gluten refers to a group of proteins that are difficult for humans to digest.

For these who want to try the salad, I found that recipe on wholefoodsmarket.com

Wheat Berry Waldorf Salad
From The Whole Foods Market Cookbook

Wheat berries are the mother grain from which pasta, bread, and flour are
derived. Most of us have never tasted the true flavor of wheat. Little wheat
berries pack a nutlike flavor and are pleasantly chewy. Use a crunchy, firm,
sweet-tart apple (such as a Granny Smith or Gala) for this salad. Lemon juice
and vinegar keep chopped apples from darkening so you may make this salad the
day before serving. Try substituting dried apples for the fresh ones for another
flavor variation.

Serves 8

2 cups wheat berries

7 cups water

1 cup chopped walnuts

2 medium apples, unpeeled, cored and chopped

1 cup raisins

1 cup finely chopped parsley

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup apple juice

1 tablespoon salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/8 cup lemon juiceSoak the wheat berries at least 6 to 8 hours or overnight in water to cover by a couple of inches. Drain the water, and set aside.
In a saucepan, bring the 7 cups water to a boil. Add the soaked wheat berries and turn down to a simmer, uncovered, for about 50 minutes or until they are totally cooked through. Wheat berries retain a firm, chewy texture when cooked. Drain the water and set aside to cool.
When cool, transfer the wheat berries to a large mixing bowl and add the walnuts, apples, raisins, parsley, apple cider vinegar, apple juice, salt, pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, olive oil and lemon juice. Mix everything together thoroughly. Add more salt if necessary and serve.Enjoy, and be healthy!

-Irina, NC

* …my life with herbs

I was always interested in herbs and nutrition. Just couple month ago I graduated from College of Natural Medicine with Nutritional Consultant Diploma. I don’t know if I will continue in this field or not, but for now I ‘m glad I have that knowledge from the course and can use it. I was introduced to Amazon Herb Co more than two ears ago and was happy to find high-quality botanical nutrition I could use in my daily life which is keeping my energy running with family and all my activities: work, sport and hobbies.

Today I want to share my experience about some of the Amazon Herb Co products.

We all know that with aging, our body is not producing enough enzymes which we need for proper digestion; and as a result people have some health problems and don’t know where they come from. The Digestazon Plus is a good source of natural enzymes. I’m using it with my food, especially if I need to attend some special events with a lot of ‘yummy’ stuff.

I start my morning with couple Aquazons – the concentrated source of sea minerals and proteins. Later in a morning I have my cup of Matte or Treasure tea.

My favorite chocolate – Chocamaca keeps me focuses and full of energy in the afternoon.

The Warrior helps me during yoga and kickboxing exercises (increasing focus and stamina) and Recovazon helps to feel good after (fewer muscle aches, pains and injuries).

Reinforest Nutritions are the essential key to being in good health and top shape for me.

Try it yourself and tell me I’m wrong.

-Irina, NC