GHS Natural Health Blog

Learning how your body reacts to stress and how you can handle it can be a very useful talent.

Before you know it, the holiday season will be just around the corner. For most of us this means rushing to finish jobs before going on leave, kids being home from school, endless social events and family get-togethers, shopping for gifts – the list goes on! For some, this is the favourite time of the year, while others are filled with stress at the mere thought of it. If you’re one of the latter, read on!

The effects of stress

When you get stressed, your body feels under attack and automatically kicks into high gear to deal with the perceived threat. This is what is known as the ‘fight-or-flight’ response. Your heartbeat, breathing rate and blood pressure all go up, and the longer you feel stressed, the greater the physical demands placed on your body and the more likely your energy levels will be sapped. If you are exposed to stress long-term, it could lead to a host of lifestyle and health problems.

Behavioural problems:  To get immediate relief from feeling stressed, it’s not uncommon to seek chemical relief from alcohol or cigarettes. You may also start to feel that you don’t have time to exercise or eat properly, and you may be worrying so much that you sleep badly. These lifestyle factors are likely to harm your health.

Heart problems: When stress is intense and your body’s biological reactions are not channelled into physical activity, your raised heart rate and high blood pressure put tension on the arteries and damage them. The artery walls become scarred and thick, which can reduce the supply of blood and oxygen to your heart. This is when the fight-or-flight response can become lethal: your heart accelerates to increase blood supply to your muscles, but the blood vessels may have become so narrow that not enough blood reaches the heart to meet these demands. This can cause a heart attack.

Lowered immunity: Stress can also damage your immune system, which explains why you often catch colds when you are stressed. It can also bring on headaches and irritable bowel syndrome, and there have been suggestions of a link between stress and cancer.

Mental health problems: The negative thinking that is associated with stress contributes to anxiety and depression and more serious mental health problems.

The natural way to calm

Taking nutritional supplements is one good way to manage your stress. The fi rst option is a good B complex vitamin. B vitamins are not stored in the body so need to be replenished daily. If you are under stress or run down, symptoms such as cracks at the side of your mouth may indicate you need to take a B group supplement.

B vitamins work together to help maintain the health of your nerves. Adding magnesium to the mix will further help because this mineral relaxes the brain and helps neurotransmitter signals work more effectively. Magnesium is best taken in the evening, particularly if your stress is causing insomnia.

Herbal power

For mild anxiety and depression, a natural herb called St John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) has been found to be as beneficial as many prescribed medicines. St John’s wort has a particularly valuable ability to stimulate nerve regeneration and repair. There has been much research on the effects of this herb, and it’s been found to work more effectively when taken in conjunction with passionflower (Passi-fl ora incarnata), a traditional sedative herb.

Another herb with sedative properties is zizyphus (Zyziphus jujuba). It is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine for the relief of sleeplessness, irritability, anxiety and nervous exhaustion, and has also been used to treat spontaneous sweating and night sweats, especially when accompanied by anxiety, palpitations and insomnia.

 Other helpful herbs include schisandra (Schisandra chinsensis), which has tonifying and restorative effects, hops (Humulu  lupulus), which calms the nervous system, and vervain (Verbena offi cinalis), a sedative and relaxant to the nervous system. These all help your body resist the effects of stress and strengthen and calm your nervous system.

Case Study

Mary* was so stressed out during and after menopause, she had trouble sleeping and was continually feeling anxious. She visited her local healthcare professional who suggested she take a combination of zizyphus, hops, schisandra, vervain and oats to help control her symptoms. Mary takes this all in one supplement before going to bed at night and says, ‘I can’t tell you what a miraculous effect it’s had on my life. I sleep like a log and am so relaxed. I only take one at night and it has restored my health. Thank you!’

*not her real name

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) a powerful anti-oxidant, is a naturally occurring compound found in every cell in your body. In particular, CoQ10 is important for the optimum functioning of your heart.

Unfortunately as you get older your ability to produce CoQ10 diminishes. The good news is supplements can help.

How does CoQ10 work?

CoQ10 is believed to work by improving the function of mitochondria, the ‘powerhouses’ that produce energy in your cells. CoQ10 is essential for the formation of ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) which is needed to produce energy at this cellular level.

CoQ10 is also a potent anti-oxidant that ‘mops up’ potentially harmful chemicals generated during normal metabolism.

What does CoQ10 do?

CoQ10 has been used in the following conditions:

• Heart failure
• Heart attack prevention and recovery
• High blood pressure
• Gum disease
• Migraine
• Parkinson’s disease

The evidence Heart health:

Patients suffering heart failure show significant improvement in heart function when taking CoQ10 supplements. CoQ10 is thought to increase energy production in the heart muscle and therefore increase the strength of the pumping action. In some individuals with high blood pressure CoQ10 may help lower blood pressure. CoQ10 may also reduce oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

For those in their 40s and 50s supplementing with CoQ10 may help combat the diminishing levels of CoQ10 that naturally occurs with ageing and hence keep your heart functioning optimally. People with a personal or family history of heart disease, people taking statin drugs and people with high cholesterol should all consider a daily supplement of CoQ10.

Parkinson’s disease: Lower levels of CoQ10 have been observed in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Patients with early-stage PD found CoQ10 provided

mild but significant improvements in symptoms and may have slowed disease progression. Quite high doses were used and further research is required before

recommendations can be made.

Gum disease: CoQ10 has been used both topically and orally for reducing the symptoms of gum disease – a very common problem particularly in people over 50 years of age.

Energy boost: Due to CoQ10 being required for energy production within cells, athletes often supplement in the hope they will improve their performance and recovery after exercise. This is an area that requires further research.

Migraine: Researchers believe migraines may be caused by faulty energy production in cells. Supplementing with CoQ10 appears to reduce the frequency and duration of migraines.

How much do you need?

Typically around 75 mg is required daily for general health benefits. However evidence suggests that up to 150 mg daily is recommended as a therapeutic dose. The beneficial effects of CoQ10 are not immediate and can take up to eight weeks to develop.

What foods contain CoQ10?

CoQ10 is found in fish (such as sardines and mackerel), liver, meat, eggs and small amounts are found in nuts.

How is supplemental CoQ10 produced?

Natural CoQ10 supplements contain CoQ10 produced by the fermentation of a specific algae culture. As CoQ10 is fat soluble it is often encapsulated in a base of soy oil or rice bran oil for those with soy allergies. Synthetic CoQ10 can be produced by chemical extraction from the tobacco plant (leaves) or created in a laboratory from vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Synthetic versions have not been proven to have the same benefits as naturally produced CoQ10.

Safety

CoQ10 is a safe supplement to take however if you have heart disease, diabetes, kidney failure, cancer or are pregnant or breast feeding, consult your healthcare professional.

Article thanks to Herbs and Health Magazine Australia

This natural oil, also known as Linseed oil is collected from a blue flowering plant that is mainly grown on the Western Canadian Prairies. Flax seed oil is highly recommended for the general well being and whole body nutrition and is considered to be nature’s richest source of omega-3 fatty acids that are required for the health of almost all body systems.

Flax seed oil contains omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, lecithin, magnesium, fiber, protein, and zinc and also provides approximately 50% more omega-3 oils than fish oil. Some nutritionists, researchers, and scientists believe that it could be the most important health promoting supplement next to a multi-vitamin. Nearly every system in the body can benefit from flax seed oil’s natural properties, including the cardiovascular system, immune system, circulatory system, reproductive system, nervous system, as well as the joints. This amazing oil has healing benefits that may help to lower cholesterol, protect against heart disease, control high blood pressure, counter inflammation, reduce cancer risks and control constipation, hemorrhoids and diverticular disorders.

Flax seed oil takes a bit of time to be absorbed into the body before the full beneficial effects begin, ranging anywhere from a few days to as many as six weeks, depending on your overall well-being. Although it is marketed as a nutritional supplement the use of linseed oil has declined over the past several decades. The edible flax seed oil has a strong flavor and odor and is only a minor constituent of the general publics nutrition. It would be ideal to consume small portions of flaxseed oil every day. However if flax seed oil is used in a diet for a long time without other oils, it may cause Omega 6 deficiency symptoms. So it is best to blend flaxseed oil with other oils that contain more Omega 6 in order to get the right balance, such as sesame oil, sunflower oil and evening primrose oil. This combination can be great with cider vinegar in a salad dressing.

Add flax seed to your diet and watch what it will do for you! If you’re unsure about trying flax seed, contact your physician and ask for more information. Because of the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, dietary supplements should be taken only under the supervision of a knowledgeable health care provider. Flaxseed may slow down the absorption of oral medications or other nutrients if taken at the same time. Try to avoid taking flaxseed at the same time as medications and other supplements.

It’s important to buy high-quality flax seed oil as it is prone to rancidity. Light and oxygen will slowly breakdown the essential fatty acids. Flaxseed oil requires special packaging because it is easily destroyed by heat, light, and oxygen. Look for flax seed oil capsules that are dark coated soft gels or oil that is bottled in amber-brown bottles, as these are more resistant to the light and oxygen. Make sure you refrigerate your flax seed oil to help extend its shelf life. Like any oil, flaxseed oil may turn rancid if it is not refrigerated.

References:

Essortment
Wikipedia
Healing Daily

The use of essential oils is not limited to aromatherapy and beautiful smelling candles. Essential oils are believed to have some very powerful, medicinal and therapeutic effects. In this article we will discuss some of the healing uses and properties of various types of Essential Oils.

Pain: Essential oils are especially effective when treating pain. Massaging oils and lotions are some of the very best ways to apply it to the body. Some oils to consider include, clove bun, chamomile, lemongrass and lavender. These are all great for numbing and subsequently reducing pain. To decrease the swelling often associated with pain, it is best to use chamomile, juniper, lavender and rose. These oils help to reduce both pain and swelling. Other essential oils work to reduce pain by blocking the brain’s pain signals. These oils include lemongrass, frankincense and ginger.

Sleep Trouble: Essential oils which are good for inducing sleep, include mandarin, orange blossom, frankincense, tangerine, clary sage, chamomile and sandalwood. These work well when used in bath water or directly on the skin using massage oils or lotions

Headaches: Lavender, peppermint, lemongrass and basil are just a few of the essential oils that work well in alleviating various types of headaches.

Stress: The essential oils bergamot, lavender, marjoram, rose and chamomile, amongst others, help to alleviate feelings of stress.

Depression: Essential oils such as bergamot, cardamom, clove, clary sage, orange and lemon Melissa have antidepressant properties. They work well to help remedy mild levels of depression and the blahs.

Stimulation: If you are having trouble staying alert, you may want to grab these essential oils; basil, cinnamon, black pepper, clove, peppermint, ginger, rosemary or angelica. They help to stimulate the mind and the body.

High Blood Pressure: Most people aren’t aware that essential oils have medicinal qualities. Neroli, tangerine, orange, ylang ylang, Melissa and geranium are known to help lower blood pressure. Of course, this does not mean that one is to ditch their high blood pressure medicine, but these oils are great to take in concert with medication that is already being prescribed.

Bacterial Infections: Some essential oils have very strong antibacterial properties. Some good ones to consider include cinnamon, garlic, savory, clove bud, bay laurel, thyme, bay rum, pine rose, tea tree, myrtle, lemongrass and lavender. The above oils can help treat bladder, gum, skin, sinus, throat and bowel infections. They can either be ingested through the skin or inhaled.  The right essential oils can also aid in helping to treat urinary tract infections. Sitzbaths and massages using oils with niaouli or sandlewood rubbed on the belly and around the kidney portion of the lower back can be very effective.

Viral Infections: Many essential oils have strong antiviral elements. Bay, black pepper, garlic, cinnamon bark myrrh, melissa, oregano and rose are some of the standouts. You will also find, if you look closely, that some cough drops and cold medications have some of these same oils.

Essential oils not only smell great, but they also have very strong healing properties. Their use can curtail many common ailments of the skin and the mind. They work well to lift the spirits. If one is interested in using alternative methods to heal sickness or to lift their mood, essential oils and aromatherapy are a fantastic place to begin.

 Visit Global Herbal Supplies for a full range of essential oils.

Reference: George Key

The medicinal benefits of herbs have been well documented. Many of the spices that we use to flavor our food can also help to heal us. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common herbs and how they can benefit us more than just my simply spicing up our favourite meals.

Garlic: Garlic is a very healthy herb. It has shown to significantly reduce the amount of fatty deposits in the arteries by up to 50%. It also helps to stop clots from forming. Garlic can easily be added to dishes to make them more tasty. If you have a problem with “garlic breath,” you may want to use a supplement.

Mint: There are many, many types of mint. The most popular ones are spearmint and peppermint. For individuals who are interested in growing their own herbs, mint is an easy one to grow. Of all herbs, mint is probably the one with the most documented evidence. Mints are fantastic for soothing stomach pain. They are also great for obtaining fresh breath.

Basil: Basil works well in helping to improve memory, and calm the nervous system. It also is an effective herb to clear the lungs, remedy ear aches and treat fungi infections.

Lavender: The herb lavender is known to help alleviate headaches and to help individuals who suffer from insomnia fall asleep. Using this herb in oil is a perfect way to administer it.

Marjoram: Marjoram is great for soothing and calming.

Parsley: Parsley is well known for its diuretic properties. It is especially good for women going through menopause who are retaining water. There is also some evidence that parsley helps to lower high blood pressure in very mild cases.

Rosemary: Rosemary is an excellent herb to take when one is suffering from poor circulation, headaches or memory lapses. It is also good for fighting bad breath.

Yarrow: Yarrow not only has bodily healing properties, it also is great in attracting beauty. Butterflies are attracted to this herb, making it a good way to entice them to your garden.  Yarrow is also excellent for treating skin abrasions and cuts. It also helps to promote healing. Some individuals use yarrow to treat physical problems ranging from hemorrhoids to headaches.

Wormwood: When mixed with caraway or peppermint, wormwood can be used to sooth stomach pain and irritable bowel syndrome. It is best taken as a tea. It is important to note that wormwood has been declared unsafe by the FDA, due to thuione, which is found in wormwood and is dangerous for the liver.

Garlic, mint, basil, lavender, marjoram, parsley, rosemary, yarrow and wormwood are all herbs with outstanding healing properties. They are also all very easy to grow, making it very simple for an interested person to grow their own and benefit from them all year long.  There is no need to purchase them expensively in the store, when you can successfully grow them yourself.

Because many people enjoy having their food seasoned with herbs, it is really never difficult to incorporate them into one’s diet, which makes them incredibly convenient to consume. Be sure to add fresh herbs whenever you can and benefit from both their delicious flavor and their healing properties.