Nature For Life - Women's & Men's Health

Michelle Newport, MH, NHC

5526 NC 18 South Morganton, NC 28655 phone: (828) 438-1847
Friday, March 06, 2009
The British Medical Journal published a study that compared head- to-head a standardized extract of St. John’s Wort with a prescription antidepressant drug. The randomized, double-blind reference-controlled trial showed that patients using the herb experienced significantly better improvement in their depression as measured by the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. Researchers also noted that St. John’s Wort users experienced significantly fewer adverse side effects than the drug. All of the patients, aged 18 to 70, had been diagnosed with moderate to severe levels of depression.
Nature's Sunshine St. John's Wort

 The world has come to know this yellow-flowered herb for its wonderful benefits to the nervous system, specifically for help with mild to moderate depression.  Millions in Europe have felt its helpful effects. But millions of Americans—an estimated 15 million—who have symptoms of being “down in the dumps” at any given time, may realize the potential of this natural supplement.

BENEFITS                                                  

  • Supports mood improvement.                                   
  • Balances the emotions.                                  
  • Improves feeling of self-worth and self-control.        

SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT   

St. John’s Wort contains at least 10 pharmacologically active constituents. Numerous studies show that one of these, hypericin, appears to act similar to MAO inhibitors and serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, elevating mood and acting as a mild sedative.  Recent scientific studies have shown that another constituent, hyperforin, may have more powerful mood- enhancing, spirit-lifting properties. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in 1998 showed that patients who received the highest amounts of hyperforin-containing St. John’s Wort scored highest on the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression. (A high score on the rating scale indicates lower levels of depression.)

USER CARE

Avoid exposure to strong sunshine and tanning rays (tanning salons) while taking St. John's Wort. Consult your health care provider before using St. John's Wort if you are taking prescription antidepressants, including selective serotonin-uptake inhibitors, as well as any MAO inhibitors.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Many women resort to high-risk surgical procedures to obtain larger, firmer and more shapely breasts. However, breast augmentation is expensive and carries some weighty health risks. A less invasive, less risky and less expensive natural alternative is now available from NSP.  Breast Enhance improves breast size and firmness naturally.
Nature's Sunshine Breast Enhance

 

 

BENEFITS                                         

  • Enhances breast size and shape naturally.
  • Helps maintain hormone balance. 
  • Provides natural ingredients that promote breast health.

HOW IT WORKS                                                           

Breast Enhance contains herbs that help maintain normal female hormone levels and enhance the size and firmness of breast tissue. The postovulatory and premenstrual experience of breast enlargement, when both estrogen and progesterone secretions are very high, suggest that hormone levels may enhance breast size and shape.

NSP ADVANTAGE

NSP Breast Enhance contains herbs that have been used for centuries by some cultures to enhance the breasts. This high quality herbal formula contains a specialized extract of genistein-rich kudzu root extract, making it unique to the marketplace.

SCIENTIFIC SUPPORT

Breast Enhance contains isoflavones (rich in genistein), vitamins and some phytosterols. Some studies show that isoflavone supplementation can increase the proliferation rate of breast lobular epithelium after 14 days of use. Isoflavones have been shown to mimic the hormones principally responsible for the growth of breast tissue.

INGREDIENTS

Breast Enhance contains kudzu root extract, alfalfa herb, dong quai root extract and saw palmetto fruit extract.                    

RECOMMENDED USE

Take 1 capsule with a meal three times daily.

COMPLEMENTARY PRODUCTS

Monday, March 02, 2009

Avoiding catching a cold can sometimes be impossible, especially when everyone around you seems to have one. For many, the first response will be to run to the local drugstore to buy one of the many cold medicines available. Since there is no "cure" for the common cold, these medications actually only suppress the symptoms rather than curing them.

Coughing, sneezing and a runny nose are some of the ways the body tries to "clean house" of accumulated mucous. The key to getting over a cold quickly is to aid your body in ridding itself of the cold.

The First Sign of a Cold

One of the most effective ways to overcome a cold is by addressing it as soon as possible when seeing the first signs. Don't wait until it has progressed to the point of becoming uncomfortable. Again, don't suppress the symptoms, but rather give your body what it needs in order to expel toxins from the body. Drinking lots of water is very beneficial when we are healthy, but it is even more so when we are sick. Water will thin mucous making it easier for the body to expel.

The amount of water a person will need depends on the size of each individual. In order to find out how much water you should be drinking, take your body weight and divide it by 2. This will give you the number in ounces of eater you should drink each day. Be sure to sip your water throughout the day rather than drinking it all at once. This will ensure the water is being efficiently used by your body rather than going straight through the urinary system and being passed through urination.

Open Up The Channels Of Elimination

Though not a commonly discussed topic for conversation, having regular bowel movements (at least 1 a day) is important for overall health. The colon is one of the main channels of elimination and making sure this channel is functioning as it should is also important for staying healthy and will also help in getting over a cold quickly. Again, drinking lots of water is also beneficial, along with getting enough fiber in your diet.

The skin is another channel of elimination. Taking sweat baths will help to take the pressure off the respiratory system. Drawing baths, that help to draw toxins from the body is also beneficial. A simple recipe for a drawing bath is to add 1 cup of Epsom salt and 1 cup of baking soda to a warm bath. Soak for about 20 minutes.

Using Food As Medicine

Our Creator has given our bodies the amazing ability to heal itself when we give our bodies the food it needs along with using herbs as medicine.

Many times when you have a bad cold with your head stopped up and feeling achy all over, the last thing you want to do is eat. This is a good indication that your body doesn't need food. If you do eat, be sure to eat foods that are light, such as broths and fruits. Avoid dairy products like milk, cheese and ice cream as these produce excess mucous in the body.

Natural Remedies For Colds

Below are some natural remedies that are beneficial for symptoms of colds. A tip is to have these remedies on hand before you get sick to make it more convenient for you to start treatment as soon as you begin getting sick.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a well-known remedy for combating a cold. The typical therapeutic dosage being 500 to 1000 mg. every few hours. Many people drink orange juice as a way to get their vitamin C. One thing that may surprise you is drinking orange juice is actually not the best source for Vitamin C. A glass of orange juice only has about 60 mg. of Vitamin C and the amount of OJ you would have to drink in order to get the therapeutic dosage of vitamin C would actually do more harm than good as it would make the body overly acidic and could cause gastrointestinal problems among other issues.

Rose Hips:  Rose Hips is an herb that is naturally rich in Vitamin C and is an ideal source.

Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice in pure water and sip. Lemon is an astringent and will help to break up the mucous. Lemon is also a detoxifier.

Chamomile: Chamomile helps to fight bacteria and fungus. Many people who have a lot of colds also have an overgrowth of Candida, a fungus that occurs naturally in the body.

Goldenseal:  Goldenseal acts as an astringent and is also a natural antibiotic. A natural antibiotic like Goldenseal is beneficial when the mucous is colored rather than clear indicating infection.


Myrrh:  Myrrh acts as a natural antibiotic and an expectorant. Helps with mucosal fluids.

ALJ:  ALJ is an excellent herbal formula which combines ingredients such as Horseradish, Boneset, Fenugreek and Mullein to nourish the immune and respiratory systems.  

Horseradish:  Helps to alleviate congestion and opens up the head.

Boneset:  An antiseptic with a mild laxative effect. Helps with bronchial congestion.

Fenugreek: An antispasmodic that helps with coughs.

Mullein: Good for a variety of respiratory problems such as hayfever, asthma and whooping cough. Soothes and relieves congestion in the lungs and throat.

Bayberry: Bayberry is a fever reducing, astringent which helps with circulation and promotes perspiration to help detox the body through sweat. Beneficial for infections.

Ginger:  Ginger is a digestive herb which is beneficial for mucous related ailments as the lungs as well as the intestines both contain mucous membranes. Excellent for nausea. Ginger can also be added to a warm tub to create a natural sweat bath.

Clove: A good decongestant and expectorant, Clove is beneficial for colds, coughs, laryngitis, asthma and is also a good herb for staph infections.

Activated Charcoal: Every household should have Activated Charcoal. This natural remedy is great for conditions with symptoms of diarrhea or vomiting and absorbs toxins and poisons in the body. Many times taking one dose of 4 capsules is enough to bring relief. A tip for giving activated charcoal to a child is to open 1 or 2 capsules into a bite of a banana and mix it up.

Slippery Elm:  Slippery Elm is a fiber that is very soothing. Excellent for an upset stomach or diarrhea. Be sure to restore potassium and minerals after bouts of diarrhea.

Sunday, March 01, 2009
 Proper cleansing of the digestive tract allows for better elimination of waste and improved absorption of nutrients from the food you eat. Get your weight-management program off to a great start with the cleansing action of Dieter’s Cleanse. Nature's Sunshine Dieter's Cleanse

 BENEFITS                                        

  • Promotes natural, healthy elimination.                                                    
  • Supports normal glandular function.
  • Supports the liver and digestive system.
  • May help maximize the nutritional benefit from the food you eat.

NSP ADVANTAGE
                                                          
Dieter’s Cleanse is a safe, simple, convenient cleansing program. The careful combination of unique ingredients makes this a comprehensive cleansing product that can be used by everyone. Product elements provide dietary fiber, support the production of digestive enzymes and bile, support the liver and glandular system, and promote detoxification.

INGREDIENTS    

Each box of Dieter’s Cleanse contains 14 AM packets, 14 NOON packets and 14 PM packets. The following NSP products are elements of Dieter’s Cleanse:

  • Bowel Detox (two capsules in AM and NOON packets)
  • Master Gland Formula® (two capsules in AM and NOON packets)
  • Enviro-DetoxTM (one capsule in AM and NOON packets)
  • Liver Cleanse Formula (one capsule in AM and NOON packets)
  • LBS-II® (three capsules in PM packet)
  • SF® (two capsules in PM packet)
  • Chromium (one capsule in PM packet)

 

RECOMMENDED USE                       

Kick off your weight-loss program by using Dieter’s Cleanse for one week. Take one AM packet with a low-fat breakfast. Take one NOON packet with a balanced lunch.  Take one PM packet with a sensible dinner. Then begin your weight-management program. The second-week’s  supply of Dieter’s Cleanse can be used during recommended rest periods of other NSP weight-loss programs. This product may also be used by any adult desiring a two-week cleanse.

USER CARE

During your cleanse, you should increase the amount of water you drink and eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole-grain foods.

CAUTION: This product contains cascara sagrada. See your health care provider prior to use if: pregnant or nursing, any medical condition exists, or when taking any medication. Read and follow recommendation carefully. Do not use if diarrhea, loose stools or abdominal pain are present or develop. Not intended for prolonged use. Use of this product may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Chronic diarrhea can result in serious illness.
cleansing program. The careful combination of unique         

COMPLEMENTARY PRODUCTS

 

                                                                             
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Improved Men’s X-Action contains a synergistic herbal combination to enhance male energy, activity and vitality levels.  It supports male reproductive health and performance, including prostate function. X-Action features epimedium extract powder, muira puama stem concentrate and yohimbe bark in a unique herbal base that provides nutrition valuable to men.
Nature's Sunshine X-Action for Men

 

 

Benefits

  • Supports sexual performance
  • Provides nutrients important to the male glandular system
  • Helps increase energy, activity and vitality levels

How It Works

The ingredients in this improved formula work together to give support to the glandular and nervous systems. Epimedium extract powder (also known as Horny Goat Weed) helps facilitate sexual performance and energy and provides important glandular support to men. Both muira puama and yohimbe have long been recognized for supporting and stimulating the nervous system. Known as “potency bark,” muira puama is a common shrub indigenous to Brazil. Yohimbe, from the  yohimbe tree of tropical West Africa, is a famous herb for men. Studies show that yohimbe may have aphrodisiacal effects on men. Arginine is an amino acid that is required for the replication of cells, making it essential for sperm formation.                                   

NSP Advantage

Men's X-Action is specially formulated in the right combination and from the finest herbs available to give men optimal nutritional support.

Ingredients

This improved formula contains epimedium extract powder (horny goat weed), muira puama stem concentrate, yohimbe bark, arginine, damiana leaves, oat straw leaves concentrate, saw palmetto berry and DHEA (2 mg) in preservative-free capsules.

Recommended Use                                                            

Take 1 capsule with a meal three times daily or as  directed by your health care provider following DHEA level assessment.

Complementary Products   

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

 

Our bodies’ cells require energy to carry out their essential functions, and oxygen creates that energy daily. But the process leaves behind a byproduct called a free radical. If free radicals are not removed from the body, they can, over time, cause oxidative stress. Antioxidants are the body’s natural defense against oxidative stress. The combination of antioxidant ingredients in Super ORAC pack a powerful punch in helping to protect cells from free radical damage. Oxidative stress has been implicated in aging and the impact on overall cardiovascular and neurological health. The antioxidants contained in Super ORAC help neutralize oxidation and the destructive effects of free radicals. ORAC is an acronym for oxygen radical absorbance capacity used for determining the antioxidant value of foods or supplements.
Nature's Sunshine Super ORAC


Benefits:

• Provides key nutrients needed by the body to neutralize free radicals.
• Helps prevent cellular damage.
• May exhibit anti-aging benefits.


How It Works

Although free radicals are generated naturally in the body, other sources can increase their number—including stress, pollution and even exercise. Each of these sourcescan take a toll on the body, but antioxidants can help offset that toll. Serving as scavengers in the body, antioxidants scour our systems and “mop up” free radicals before they have a chance to harm cells. Super ORAC combines several powerful antioxidants recognized for their ability to neutralize free radicals, thereby helping to maintain th integrity of cellular makeup.


Nature's Sunshine Advantage

Our bodies’ cells require energy to carry out their essential functions, and oxygen creates that energy daily. But the process leaves behind a byproduct called a free radical. If free radicals are not removed from the body, they can, over time, cause oxidative stress. Antioxidants are the body’s natural defense against oxidative stress. The combination of antioxidant ingredients in Super ORAC pack a powerful punch in helping to protect cells from free radical damage.


Scientific Support

Oxidative damage has been associated with accelerated aging. A daily antioxidant supplement may help slow oxidative damage caused by stress, poor nutrition, pollution, unhealthy lifestyles or other factors.

 

Ingredients

Two capsules provide 150 mg polyphenols in a proprietary blend of green tea leaves extract, mangosteen pericarp extract, turmeric root extract, quercetin, resveratrol, apple extract, acai berry extract and selenium.

 

Recommended Use

Take 1-2 capsules with a meal daily.

Complementary Products

Nutritional: Super Supplemental Vitamins and
Minerals
, Super Omega-3 EPA, Super Trio.

Saturday, January 31, 2009
The art of Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic essential oils to benefit the body's emotional and physical well-being. With the development of modern chemistry, essential oils became neglected. But early last century, a French chemist named René began studying what he later named aromatherapy . Pleased with his discovery, he spent the rest of his life researching the value of essential oils.

Essential oils are considered the "life force" of plant life.  Science has discovered that the sense of smell plays a significant role in overall health. Therefore, inhalation or external application of aromatic essential oils can be used to help support emotional feelings of balance and overall well-being.

Essential Oils Safety Guidelines

Because essential oils are so concentrated, most of them need to be diluted in oil, lotion, water salts or some other carrier before they are applied to the skin. Carriers prevent the essential oils from quickly evaporating, protect the skin and make blending essential oils easy.
  • Citrus oils increase the photosensitivity of the skin and should not be applied before sunbathing or prolonged sun exposure.
  • Always test essential oils on a small patch of skin to determine your skin's sensitivity.
  • Keep all essential oils out of reach of children.
  • Follow all label instructions.
  • Avoid exposure to the eyes and sensitive skin areas. In the case of contact, flush the area with milk or a carrier oil. (Essential oils are not water-soluble and water may worsen the irritation.)
  • Use oils externally: do not ingest.
  • Store essential oils away from heat, light, dampness and electromagnetic frequencies (TV, computer, etc.)
  • Avoid strong sunlight or sun beds after topically applying essential oils.
  • Avoid applying essential oils immediately after perspiring or using a sauna.
  • If pregnant, terminally ill or undergoing drug therapy, consult your health care provider before using essential oils.
  • Take a periodic break from using essential oils. Use oils for six days and then rest for a day, or use oils for three weeks and then rest a week.
  • If taking homeopathic remedies, wait an hour before and after using essential oils.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Many people know Dandelion as one of the bothersome little weeds that pop up all over the yard, but Dandelion is actually an herb that has been used for centuries for many ailments such as liver disorders, high cholesterol and breast cancer.

Dandelion originates in Greece. The Chinese began sharing the benefits of this herb around the 7th century, while the Europeans have been utilizing the benefits of Dandelion for more than 500 years. Studies have shown Dandelion to be beneficial for hepatitis, jaundice and gallstones.  It is considered to be a blood purifying herb and may be useful in treating anemia.

Other uses include:
  • Acne
  • Arthritis
  • Blood Cleanser
  • Corns
  • Diabetes
  • Endurance
  • Fever
  • Hemorrhage
  • Kidneys
  • PMS
  • Skin Ailments
  • Ulcers
  • Age Spots
  • Asthma
  • Bronchitis
  • Cramps
  • Eczema
  • Fatigue
  • Gas
  • Indigestion
  • Metabolism
  • Psoriasis
  • Spleen
  • Warts
  • Anemia
  • Blisters
  • Constipation
  • Dermatitis
  • Edema
  • Female Organs
  • Gout
  • Infections
  • Pancreas
  • Rheumatism
  • Stomach
Dandelion has mild diuretic properties and promotes urination to release excess fluids from the body. For this reason, many experience weight loss which is due to water weight. Medications which are used as diuretics can deplete potassium in the body. Dandelion, however, is a natural diuretic that contains potassium. It is beneficial for conditions of inflammation of the joints as it stimulates the body's ability to rid itself of uric acid. Dandelion is also very useful in conditions of the breast and is used to treat ailments such as fibrocystic breast disorder and in some cultures has been used for hundreds of years to treat breast cancer. Since this herb is a diuretic, it is also beneficial for breast tenderness due to water retention and is also beneficial for promoting lactation in nursing moms.

Rich in nutrients, Dandelion contains A, C and B-complex vitamins as well as other nutrients such as manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, selenium and zinc.

Contraindications

Dandelion is a very mild, safe herb. It can be used for long periods of time with no adverse effects. However, it is not recommended for individuals who have dry conditions that involve deficiency of fluids in the body.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Common name(s): Golden Seal, Eye Balm, Ground Raspberry, Jaundice Root, Orange Root, Turmeric Root, Wild Curcuma, Yellow Puccoon, Yellow Root

Botanical name: Hydrastis canadensis

Plant part used: The rhizome and root

AHPA Class: 2b Not to be used during pregnancy

Indications: Allergies, Asthma, Bladder, Bowels, Bronchitis, Burns, Chcken Pox, Circulation, Colds, Colitis, Colon, Constipation, Coughs, Diarrhea, Earaches, Eczema, Eye Infections, Fever, Flu, Gallbladder, Gastritis, Glands, Gonorrhea, Gum Diseases, Hay Fever, Heart Trouble, Hemorrhage, Hemorrhoids, Herpes, Infections, Inflammation, Insulin, Intestines, Kidneys, Liver Disorders, Menstruation, Mouth Sores, Mucous Membranes, Nausea, Nervous Disorders, Nosebleeds, Ringworm, Rhinitis, Skin Disorders, Sore Throat, Spleen, Stomach Problems, Tonsillitis

Actions: Alterative, Amoebicidal, Antacid, Antibiotic, Antiparasitic, Antipyretic, Antisecretory, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antiviral, Chologogue, Detergent, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Hemostatic, Hepatic, Laxative, Nephritic, Nervine, Purgative (mild), Stimulant, Stomachic

Constituents:
Alkaloids, including berberine, hydrastine, canadine and canadaline. Also contains chlorogenic acid, lipids, meconin, resin, starch, sugar and a small amount of volatile oil.. Other constituents include calcium, copper, iron, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, vitamins A, B-complex, C, E and F, zinc

Traditional: Native Americans used Goldenseal as a tonic for sore throats, eye infections, ulcers and wounds. It was also used as an insect repellent and a pesticide for crops. It has been used traditionally for female problems such as hormone imbalances and menstrual problems, infections, bowel disorders as well as being used as an antiseptic and to boost the immune system. Goldenseal is an amoebicidal and has been found to kill toxic bacteria, such as giardiasis, in the intestinal tract and has also been used historically to fight cold and flu viruses. Goldenseal is also considered to be a "wonder remedy" for digestive problems by many herbalists.

Daily dose: 1,500 – 3,000 mg.

Contraindications: Should not be used during pregnancy. Not recommended for using persons with digestive weakness, high blood pressure or who are emaciated. May cause malabsorption of vitamin B when used for long periods

Side effects: May cause increased or decreased blood pressure, Not recommended for hypoglycemics as goldenseal lowers blood sugar levels.

Drug interactions: Possible interaction with Doxycycline and Tetracycline

References:

Botanical Safety Handbook. by McGuffin, Hobbs, Upton and Goldberg, 1997
Mastering Modern Herbal Medicine,
by LaMar Wiscombe, 2001
Today's Herbal Health, by Louise Tenney, 2000
Basic Herbalism
, by Horne & Robinson, 2000
The Encyclopedia of Natural Remedies, by Louise Tenney, 1995
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Common name(s): Garlic

Botanical name(s): Allium sativum

Plant part used: Bulb

AHPA Class: 2c Not to be used while nursing

Indications: Asthma, Blood Impurities, Blood Poisoning, Bronchitis, Cancer, Candida, Colds, Colitis, Coughs, Ear Infections, Fevers, Flu, Fungus, Gastric Disorders, Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol and Triglycerides, Indigestion, Infection, Liver Disorders, Lung Disorders, Parasites, Prostate problems, Respiratory problems, Staph/Strep Infections

Actions: Adaptogen, alterative, anthelmintic, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-spasmodic, anti-viral, antibiotic, anticoagulant, antineoplastic, blood purifier, cardiovascular tonic, carminative, cholagogue, decongestant, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, hypertensive, hypotensive, nervine, stimulant, stomachic, vasodilator, vermifuge

Constituents: Volatile oils, including, allicin (diallyl trisulfide), alliin and other sulfur-bearing metabolites. Also contains citral, geraniol and linalool. Other constituents include calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium, selenium, sodium, sulfur, vitamins A, B-complex and C

Traditional: Garlic is a natural antibiotic and has been referred to as “nature's penicillin”. Louis Pasteur was the first scientist to use garlic in scientific experiments and found that when put into a petri dish full of bacteria, garlic quickly destroyed the bacteria. It has been historically used in the treatment of various cancers and is also well-known for its capabilities of destroying bacteria, fungus, virus and parasites. Garlic is also used to lower incidence of heart disease and is also used to lower high cholesterol levels.

Daily dose: 4 grams fresh garlic, 3,000 – 4,00 mg. dried

Contraindications: Should not be used while nursing in therapeutic dosages. May cause mild blood-thinning in therapeutic dosages. Consult your doctor if using therapeutic dosages of garlic prior to surgery.

Side effects: May cause gastrointestinal discomfort when used in large doses, unpleasant odor.

Drug interactions: None

Special caution: None

References:

Botanical Safety Handbook. by McGuffin, Hobbs, Upton and Goldberg, 1997
Mastering Modern Herbal Medicine,
by LaMar Wiscombe, 2001
Today's Herbal Health
, by Louise Tenney, 2000
Basic Herbalism, by Horne & Robinson, 2000
The Encyclopedia of Natural Remedies
, by Louise Tenney, 1995
The Complete German Commission E Monographs
, edited by Blumenthal et al., 1998
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