Tag: turmeric

Rise-Up Against Osteoarthritis

Posted on by Diogenes II

 

There are three, or four, stages to osteoarthritis: stage one, which is painful, stage two, which is very painful, and stage three, which is excruciatingly painful. These stages are classified as minor, moderate and severe. But since any form of osteoarthritis is never minor to its victim, some medical intervention has renamed these: early, moderate and advanced (stages). What osteoarthritis is though is the progressive wearing away of the cartilage between bone joints, that cushions the bones from rubbing up against each other. When this protective cartilage is eroded, the adjacent bones gradually lay bare, grinding each other and disturbing the homeostasis of bone structure, tendons, synovial fluid and synovial membrane surrounding the joints. But why so — that is the question this article is putting to task. And how to fix this will become that goal at the end of the journey!

Though it might now be common belief, osteoarthritis has nothing to do with the natural wear and tear from aging or from being overweight. What osteoarthritis really is though is a natural wear and tear from putting the wrong kinds of food and chemicals in the body! To prove this, osteoarthritis is almost never observed in wild animals. Even elderly elephants in the wild do not get this condition. But when these animals are domesticated — suddenly, there is a dramatic rise in osteoarthritis for them. This must mean that osteoarthritis — sometimes we’ll refer to as OA — is common among zoo elephants and other zoo animals. It must also mean that the most domesticated animals — cats and dogs — do also suffer from this condition. The answers to these are all yeses. But why so? It is because domesticated animals are force-fed the same unnatural foods and drink their human counterparts are also eating.

To be clear, osteoarthritis, arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are all different things. When we think of osteoarthritis, we think of the wearing away of cartilage between bones, and the stiffness that accompanies it. When we think of arthritis, we usually think of a blanket term for pain or inflammation between the joints for any reason — even gout reason. When we think of rheumatoid arthritis, we think of a disruption of the synovial membrane and synovial fluid that lubricates the joints. Osteoarthritis usually occurs on one side of the body, whereas rheumatoid arthritis is symmetric — i.e., it usually simultaneously affects both sides of the body equally. If the damage is severe enough, then osteoarthritis can lead to symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

But what are these unnatural foods and chemicals that would cause this condition? The era of the care placed by mom and pop shops, like small family farms, has faded away as the populations increased. The consequences of this is that big business now uses the quickest, cheapest and most profitable methods — for themselves — to secure that the population is being satisfied (and cheated) with timely demand and supply. So now we have toxic glyphosate being spayed on crops to destroy weeds. Now we have GMO foods, like corn, soy, beets and alfalfa. Now we have high-fructose corn syrup, citric acid made from black mold and ascorbic acid being disguised as vitamin C. Now we have commercial farm animals being pumped with hormones and antibiotics. We now have fluoride and chloride being added to public water. We now have estrogen, poisonous lead and pharmaceutical waste products leached into these public waters. We now have synthetic iron being added to wheat flour, a major cause of gluten sensitivity. We now have carrageenan being added to ice-cream, synthetic food coloring and  synthetic B vitamins and other synthetics being added to the market disguised as good things. We also have homogenized A1 milk from black & white cows, causing congestion and maybe even high blood sugar. We also have rancid and destructive oils being so-called “vegetable oils”, destroying people’s digestive system. And slowly, these are all the things that are leading to the steady build-up of what this article is all about: that dreaded rise of osteoarthritis!

To be even more clear, there are two categories of OA: primary and secondary. Primary officially by science is of unknown cause. Secondary is said to be caused by some other disease, injury or deformity. In this article, there is indeed a known cause for all types of OA!

As previously mentioned, animals in the wild, eating what is natural for them, and surrounded by their natural environment — we hardly ever see osteoarthritis in them. One reason for this, is because wild animals naturally produce vitamin C — something we humans have long ago lost the ability to do. However, when these animals are domesticated, their ability to produce this vitamin is greatly reduced — they become like us. Consequently, natural vitamin C — one of the most potent substance to prevent or reverse osteoarthritis — needs to be added to our diet!

We must understand that modern society is a stressful environment to the human spirit — and also to that of the cartilage between bone joints. When we are stressed, this increases acidity throughout the body, and especially throughout the joints, that collects it like pond scum. This acidity is what it sounds like: acid eating our internal tissues away! There are three types of noteworthy cartilage in the body: elastic (constituting the shape of the ears and nose), hyaline (which is very smooth and translucent) and fibrocartilage (which contains rough fibrous bundles). The cartilage we are concerned about in this article is the hyaline type, found between bone joints. This is further subset as articular cartilage because, it covers articulating surfaces. This is the cartilage that is nourished by the ultra-filtrated blood liquid, known as synovial fluid, that nourishes both the internal environment of the joints and the cartilage itself. If the synovial fluid is toxic because of toxic blood, then this toxicity is spelled a.c.i.d.i.t.y to cartilage. This is why it is so important to be nourishing the blood properly to prevent this acidic cascade from happening.

There are natural ways to reduce pain from osteoarthritis and in actually building back cartilage that has been lost. These natural ways do not include NSAIDs, Tylenol or any other synthetic drugs. In fact, while these drugs are taking away the pain or inflammation, they are actually destroying cartilage and bone structure even more. In extreme cases, some have opted for surgery, to deal with the debilitating effects of cartilage loss and bone spurs that has developed.

Of the best natural products to reverse the course of OA is a patented pine bark extract called pycnogenol. Pycnogenol in an amazing way is able to recycle bioavailable vitamin C — the same vitamin C that reduces both mental and physical stress, and that helps build back cartilage. In fact, one double-blind, placebo study found pycnogenol effective by 56 percent in reducing symptoms of OA!

Along with pycnogenol is another great herb-berry: amla. This berry contains moderate vitamin C, and polyphenols to stabilize that vitamin C. Studies have shown amla to have direct protective effect on cartilage health.

The herb turmeric is also good at fighting OA pain and inflammation. Turmeric helps thin the blood. In fact, a great herb combination would be turmeric and ginger mixed with coconut oil. These all increase each other’s bioavailability.

Silica is needed to repair damages caused by osteoarthritis. But since this mineral needs stomach acid to be bioavailable to the body, it is best to use a form containing orthosilicic acid, such as that found in bamboo extract or a product called Florasil. Adding a teaspoon of unfiltered apple cider vinegar occasionally, will also increase stomach acid and silica absorbability.

Sulfur will also repair damages done by OA. Sulfur is legendary at removing toxins from cells and joints, and simultaneously adding the nutrients they need. But it must also be in a pure, absorbable form: 99.9% pure, organic, sulfur crystals (MSM).

Boron and magnesium malate taken together will add synergy and biovailability to each other, reducing inflammation and repairing bone and cartilage structure. 

You may also add IP-6/inositol to remove toxic iron accumulation from the joints. OA attracts acidity and acidity attracts iron. IP-6 will help break that bond.

Unfortunately, I am not a fan of glucosamine sulfate or chondroitin — popular supplements on the market for OA. Often, popularity of certain things may be a dead-givaway of their potential dangers. Many glucosamine/chondroitin supplements are fake and or full of toxins. My recommendations for osteoarthritis are what I’ve already listed above. You can also use topical bentonite cream or balm of Gilead ointment to alleviate pain caused by OA.

Reverse Alzheimer’s disease!

Posted on by Diogenes II

Preview

Alzheimer’s disease cannot be confirmed unless through brain autopsy after death — so what one may label as the disease may very well be (senile) dementia! Though most dementia are ultimately Alzheimer’s, dementia by itself is a general decline in brain function while Alzheimer’s disease is a specific degenerative disease, with stages, from memory loss to eventual total loss of bodily function and mental capacity. This disease is as devastating as it sounds!

But what causes Alzheimer’s disease? Billions of damaged brain cells called neurons lose their ability to send and receive messages through transmission gaps called synapses. Among the main culprits for this malfunction are: iron and manganese. But not just any iron. When the iron-holder heme is not broken down to release bio-available iron for the brain, with an enzyme called ferrochelatase, then unbound iron accumulates — then stores in the brain.
But not just any manganese. When metallic manganese is not bio-available to the brain, it also stores, like a heap of garbage! When unbound iron and manganese form in the brain, this creates a massive magnetic attraction to bad things, such as heavy metals: mercury, aluminum, cadmium, and even fluoride. Your brain literally becomes a dumping site for toxins!

What ideally does the brain need to operate? Oxygen, from cholesterol made in the brain, by the brain. What does this create? Electricity! What activates electricity in the brain? Mainly carbon and copper. Speak to an electrician, and he’ll/she’ll know this for sure. But not just any copper. It must be bio-available copper. Bio-available copper is formed when retinol — from food based beta-carotene — activates a protein called ceruloplasmin, to become copper’s carrier protein. If there is no ceruloplasmin, then there is no bio-available copper. Likewise, if there is no heme or hemoglobin, then there may be no bio-available iron.

When there is a short circuit with the electrical impulses in the brain, then there is no longer metabolic energy. It is now fire. The brain of someone with Alzheimer’s disease is on fire!

Content

Allopathic medicine identifies Alzheimer’s as an incurable disease and by the manifestation of beta amyloid and tau (specifically neurofibrillary tangles) both surrounding and within brain neurons respectively. Both of these are types of proteins, that form either clumps of sticky “plaques” or “tangles” respectively.  This science is beginning to recognize that these proteins are not the cause of Alzheimer’s, but rather the result of another malfunction that caused the need for them. Beta amyloid plaque and tau tangles may very well be protective mechanisms to slow down complete deterioration of neuron cells.

Currently, there are genetic tests to determine whether one may be susceptible to developing (late-onset) Alzheimer’s within their lifespan. Variations of genes  known as alleles forming Apoe-2, Apoe-3 and Apoe-4  arrangements are the main players in determining one’s likelihood for risk factors. Of greatest concern is the appearance of the Apoe-4 gene. This increases risk factor more so than the others mentioned.  Additionally, the appearance of Apoe-4 past down by each parent, thus creating a homozygous apoe-4, further increases Alzheimer’s risk. For example, an Apoe-4 gene by the father, and an Apoe-4 gene by the mother highly increases one’s risk of developing the disease, whereas an Apoe-2 and Apoe-3 by same, significantly reduces the risk. But genetic indicators are not set in stone. Epigenetics — such as diet, clean air, positive thinking — can rearrange what may seem as a predestined genetic fate.

Alzheimer’s disease can be categorized into two groups: early-onset and late-onset. Early-onset tends to strike its victims around their mid forties or fifties. Late-onset tends to strike around those in their mid sixties. Furthermore, early onset can be more descriptively referred to as early-onset familial Alzheimer’s disease (EOFAD) because of its genetic connection and family ties. Genetic researchers have so far identified the mutation of at least three genes — amyloid-β precursor protein (AβPP), presenilin-1 (PSEN1), and presenilin-2 (PSEN2) — that instigate the early onset of the disease, that affects perhaps only about 1% of the Alzheimer’s population. Late-onset is much more prevalent than early-onset. In fact, half of all people who attain the age of 85 within the United States will develop Alzheimer’s – late-onset.

The term late-onset Alzheimer’s disease may be deceiving. Late-onset AD, more descriptively categorized as late-onset sporadic AD (LOSAD) does not suddenly appear. It is a slow process that works invisibly, then manifests itself over time. In fact, for some people, Alzheimer’s disease may have been working its way while they were yet fetuses in their mothers’ wombs!

But what causes this degenerative disease — who or what are the main players in the game? Alzheimer’s is the excess oxidation of the brain — of the neurons that intricately is connected to brain function. It seems to me that a combination of factors are attributed to the development of the disease. The main ones are:

– Allopathic medicine

– Homocysteine dysregulation

– Insulin dysregulation

– Uncontrolled hypertension

– Mineral dysregulation from diet

– Cellular corruption from heavy metals

– Environmental toxins

***

Allopathic medicine

Many people are taking medications prescribed by their doctors, for various reasons such as hypertension, diabetes, hemochromatosis, high cholesterol and depression. How many of these medications are toxic? All of them! Even the vitamin D and iron tablets one would think is harmless, are actually also toxic. There are many elderly people taking 5, 10 or 20 various medications everyday that it would have been better had they not taken anything at all. Even medicine meant to reduce a simple fever do more harm than good. Our bodies create fevers for a reason.

Alzheimer’s disease could be one of the manifestations of too much toxic medicine. Simply reducing to eventually stopping these medications may set the path to healing for many people. Could it be said that the reason why so many elderly people develop Alzheimer’s is because of taking these medications? Healthy food and herbs have always been the way to good health and healing!

Homocysteine dysregulation

Homocysteine is a sulfur-containing, non-protein amino acid that can be recycled into methionine or cysteine during the methylation process. High homocysteine occurs when methylation is not operating properly. Homocysteine is necessary for life. The body makes it from the proteins we consume and from the sulfur contained in foods, such as vegetables. It’s an important building block for the processing of two very important compounds in our bodies: Sam-e (our body’s primary methyl donar) and glutathione (an important antioxidant). It must be balanced. Too low homocysteine is bad and too high of it is also bad.

An ideal homocysteine level according to various alternative studies suggest it can range from 5 to 8 umol/L. Even more ideal is a homocysteine level exactly at 7 umol/L. If your homocysteine level is 4 and below, it is too low, meaning enough protein, sulfur or B vitamins are not being metabolized. If it is above 8 –contrary to popular belief — then it may be too high. Most people have too high homocysteine levels.

Too high homocysteine comes from consuming too much protein, which go undigested and produce acids and store in membranes that it should not. Our stomachs’ acid is not as strong as carnivores, so we do not digest meat protein efficiently. Our bodies can only handle on average 1 to 3 ounces of animal protein per meal. Any excess may slowly wreak havoc on our metabolic and methylation pathway, leading to high homocysteine. High homocysteine damages the hippocampus of the brain. In fact, the hippocampus is often the first region of the brain attacked by Alzheimer’s.

Too much sulfur — also contained within these meat — along with certain other foods, such as onions, broccoli and garlic may do the same. These too should be avoided for a time until your homocysteine is in the normal range.

Furthermore, anything or any supplement that contains high sulfur should be handled with caution. These include supplemental glutathione and N-acetyl cysteine (NAC).

Insulin dysregulation

Our brain has insulin receptors and actually makes a lot of insulin on its own, independent of the insulin made by our pancreas and other areas. It also has a different purpose for this insulin than that made by the pancreas. While insulin in the pancreas is made for glucose utilization, insulin by the brain is produced to allow neurons to communicate with each other and to keep them reinvigorated and active. This may seem contradictory since most people with Alzheimer’s disease exhibit insulin resistance. However, this insulin resistance is associated with type two diabetes, caused when too much insulin in the blood causes our cells to resist insulin receptors from depositing glucose into these cells. But as previously stated, insulin in the brain is different, and is made by the brain, for a specific purpose.

Due to the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and the filtration mechanism the brain employs,  the proper utilization of insulin is dependent, independently, on the food we eat, the air we breathe and the water we drink. It seems to me that a proper high brain insulin content depends on a low insulin level every else where in the body. In other words, if there is to be proper insulin secretions in the brain, then our whole-body function should be insulin-resistance free. Excess sugar and animal protein should thus be avoided.

Uncontrolled hypertension

Chronic high blood pressure will eventually wreak havoc on our blood vessel walls, making them lose elasticity and flexibility. This thus reduces the ultrafiltration mechanism the brain uses to obtain and recycle blood. The brain thus becomes starved of blood, oxygen and the nutrients contained within filtered serum.

Mineral dysregulation from diet

All minerals in the body use some type of specialized protein or system to  transport them to the body tissues that need them most. For example, iron uses hemoglobin and heme to transport oxygen. Copper uses a protein called ceruloplasmin to transport it. If this protein is missing, then copper flips, and becomes rogue and toxic. Thus you have copper in the brain — but in the wrong form, no longer providing spark, but serving as a toxic metal.

Other minerals that may become toxic are: iron, manganese and fluoride. These then accumulate in the brain — not performing their regular functions, but rather as the function of toxins and heavy metals. Mineral dysregulation is almost always caused by a diet lacking in a complete and balanced mineral profile, offsetting the minerals that do exist.

Cellular corruption from heavy metals

To make matters worse, these dysregulated minerals start to attract other toxins, such as heavy metals, like mercury, aluminum and cadmium. These heavy metals are not easy to avoid. The simple act of inhaling air will cause these compounds to build up in one’s body, and ultimately, brain.

Then heavy metals then hijack our cells, taking the spot and replacing where nutritional minerals should be, and corrupting these cells. Some of these cells in return become benign or malignant, leading to inflammation, mucosal build-up; all the way up to tumor cells.

Environmental toxins

These dysregulated minerals become a magnet for pesticides and insecticides and other chemical impurities from food, air and water. To make matters worse, if our gallbladder is clogged and not producing enough bile, then this leads to constipation. Constipation causes the body to hold onto and build-up toxins it would have otherwise expelled from the body.

***

Preventing & Reversing Alzheimer’s

So what is the solution to preventing and reversing Alzheimer’s? It is not a quick fix. A strict protocol must be followed.

Reload your body with nutrients:-

We may  need more vitamin K2:
–
The vitamin K1 found in leafy greens is not the same as vitamin K2. K2 is usually obtained by a more deliberate process — as from fermentation or the products from pasture-raised animals.
***

Studies have noted patients with age-related Alzheimer’s have lower levels of vitamin K2 than those with normal cognitive function. For example, sulfatide — a molecule/lipid abundant in the brain, acting as an essential component of the myelin sheaths, and involved in neuronal cell differentiation — is significantly reduced when K2 is lacking. The more the K2, the more and better the sulfatide level.

Adequate levels of this vitamin may also reduce overall inflammation (including of the brain) and improve insulin sensitivity. This also helps improve  blood circulation and filtration, thus preventing heart related issues, such as strokes and cardiac embolism. The combination of all this ultimately benefits neuron cells and cognitive function. Overall so, it appears that increased intake of K2 in the diet is beneficial for brain function and in preventing degenerative disease.

The best source of K2 is found in its MK-7 isoform from a Japanese fermented soybean product, natto, or in the bacteria that makes natto.
Vitamin K2 is most abundant in the brain in the isoform MK-4. While food products that contain MK-7 can and do convert to MK-4, other direct dietary sources of MK-4 can be found in pasture-raised (grass-fed) animal products, most notably goose liver (paste) and hard cheeses.

We need absorbable magnesium:
–

Magnesium is involved in thousands of enzymatic processes. As with vitamin K2, magnesium also reduces inflammation  throughout the body and improves circulatory function.

Dark leafy greens, magnesium glycinate or malate, cacao and mineral water: these all contain bioavailable magnesium.

We need absorbable copper:

Copper is the spark plug mineral of the body, including the brain. Without copper, there is no electricity, or life.

Grass-fed/grass-finished organic liver (one ounce per day), organic bee pollen, acerola, amla, Atlantic oysters (1 per day)  — these all contain bioavailable copper.

We need the B vitamins:

The B vitamins are essential for reducing high homocysteine. We also lose B vitamins when we are stressed, while simultaneously accumulating an abundance of the unwanted unbound iron.

B vitamins: B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin or nadh), B5 (pantethine), B6 ( P5P), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). Organic bee pollen or RNA/DNA (from brewer’s yeast) contain natural B vitamins. Grass-fed/grass-finished butter contains natural vitamin B12. A Vitamin B12 deficiency is indicative of some type of anemia and causation factor in dementia. Beef liver is loaded with B12 and other B vitamins.

***

We need detoxification:

Detoxification is the process of removing foreign and natural substances, such as debris, toxins, heavy metals and other by-products that are not useful —  but even harmful — to the body. These toxins and other things could come from cigarette smoking, alcohol, food additives, unclean water, medications and even the air we breathe. Our liver, kidneys, lungs and skin are the main organs of detoxification, but when they become overwhelmed, external support may be necessary. The detoxification recommendations below I list are quite reasonable and necessary, and should not produce any harsh withdrawal symptoms:

– Drink adequate spring water to flush out excess toxins.

– Move your bowels everyday: Vitamin B1 (50mg), triphala, magnesium oxide or shatavari helps with this.

– Get rid of excess, unbound iron by using IP-6 on an empty stomach. A second option is to donate 1 liter of blood every year.

– Get rid of toxic aluminum accumulation by consuming silica rich sources, like bamboo extract or a product called Florasil.

– Increase selenium to prevent mercury from blocking selenium-responsive enzymes. A natural brand would be Food Research Selenium E.

– Use ionic boron short-term to flush out excess fluoride. Vibrant Health Super Natural Boron may be another option to consider, short term.

– Modified citrus pectin will bind to and eliminate excess toxins that our blood, liver or lymphatic system is overwhelmed by.

– Sweating is one of the most natural ways to detox your body of toxins. Consider natural ways to sweat, such as moderate exercise, laying out in the sun with shirt off, traditional sauna or (rarely) far infrared therapy.

– Consume pure sulfur crystals. We need about 750 mg of sulfur each day. It is the mineral most responsible for guiding nutrients into cells and taking toxins out of cells. If you are consuming foods that contain sulfur, you still may not be getting any sulfur from them — the food MUST BE organic. Many people are afraid to consume sulfur containing foods, for good reasons. For one, if you have SIBO, these bacteria can turn sulfur into hydrogen sulfide, producing the dreaded rotten egg smell. This can however be mitigated by taking B1, molybdenum or hydroxocobalamin. If you want to assure you’re getting enough sulfur, you should occasionally supplement! But not just any sulfur — it must be 99.9% pure organic sulfur crystals (MSM).

– Practicing occasional intermittent fasting is also a form of detoxification. It allows the body, especially the liver, to repair itself from breaks in eating and digestion — even through such cellular repair processes as autophagy and mitophagy. These breaks from eating any food could range anywhere from 14 hour to 24 hours — or more.

– Sleep is one of the greatest detoxification methods for the brain. During deep sleep, the liver literally takes blood fluid — more specifically, cerebrospinal fluid — especially from the back of the brain, filters it, then sends it back to the brain. Deep sleep does not extend beyond midnight. So try to get to sleep starting from 10pm to optimally 6am: 8 hours of sleep.

***

Herbs that may be helpful:

Ashwagandha – There are limited studies suggesting that ashwagandha may protect neurons.

Turmeric (with coconut oil, for better absorption) – Limited studies suggest turmeric may reduce the brain’s need for developing excess amyloid plaque.

***

Supplements that may be helpful:

Ubiquinol (with a very small amount of PQQ for better absorption) – this molecule may have an indirect connection in preventing or reversing Alzheimer’s by its ability to aid in normalizing blood pressure. Hypertension is one factor that influences the advancement of Alzheimer’s. So anything that normalizes blood pressure would be an added bonus. Think pomegranate. Think also hawthorn flower.

Choline – This molecule substantially aids in cognitive health and in reducing fatty liver. Mostly found in egg yolk, choline turns into its more absorbable form, acetylcholine, when introduced into the body. Choline, too, may reduce high homocysteine levels, thus bestowing the benefits of normal homocysteine levels.

Alpha-GPC 45 – is a cholinergic compound — meaning, exhibiting actions of acetylcholine — that aids in restoring cellular membrane that was damaged due to choline loss. Alzheimer’s disease dramatically decreases choline. I cautiously say this compound used short term may aid in restoring some aspects lost by Alzheimer’s disease, as per limited studies. However, if you become aware of any adverse reaction, like headaches, then discontinue use.

My Most Cherished Herbs

Posted on by Diogenes II

 

Herbs are used as fragrances, spices for food and for medical purposes. It is the latter that I’m concerning about in this article. I’ve read of the many benefits herbs can be on one’s health, especially if used properly in tea-form. I’ve also been using various herbs for years, and I will say that I’ve been truly amazed at some of the results. They do work, if you know which ones to take, for what reason to take them and what time to take them.
I have a list of about fifty herbs that have more than piqued my curiosity. But for the sake of sanity, time and practicality, I have narrowed my focus on nine special herbs, that have done and can do wholesale health benefits on one’s constitution. The nine herbs I will focus in this article are:

1. Guduchi
2. Kutki
3. Manjistha
4. Red root
5. Olive leaf extract
6. Amla
7. Ashwagandha
8. Turmeric
9. Eclipta Alba

Guduchi

Of all the herbs I love, guduchi often comes to mind first when I think of a healing herb. It is like a low-dose multivitamin, filled with important minerals like magnesium, calcium, copper and selenium. It is most famous for being a prized ayurvedic herb for liver function.

Guduchi a.k.a. Tinospora cordifolia a.k.a. Amrita a.k.a. Giloy is an immune system booster. It helps increase activity of macrophage cells. It enhances the efficiency of white blood cells. It alleviates allergic rhinitis a.k.a. hay fever a.k.a. seasonal allergies. These allergies that are often a sign of a compromised immune system are sensitive most famously to pollen in the air. Guduchi reduces nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing and sneezing caused by these allergens.

I personally use guduchi as a liver and kidney detoxifier, and a blood cleanser. It truly tonifies the blood, moving toxins from the extremities and placing them in a position to be detoxified by the liver and out of the alimentary canal.

Guduchi has a heating effect on the internal organs, opening up pores for better nutrient absorption, oxygen absorption and better breathing. It works wonders for asthma and respiratory infections.

Guduchi is also anti-inflammatory, reducing uric acid build-up, thus also reducing ailments like rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Other herbs like ginger and (the fruit) amla increase the effectiveness of guduchi with these conditions. Guduchi and amla powder made into a paste may alleviate many skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis.

Guduchi may also have adaptogen-like properties, able to balance hormones and reduce stress.

Guduchi has been used in folklore as a cancer cell/tumor inhibitor, capable of repairing damaged DNA and preventing damages to our DNA.

For those with high blood sugar, guduchi may be a good option. It is known to slow the rate of digestion of carbohydrates/sugar, thus lessening the body’s need for excess insulin. Be cautious when taking diabetic medications with guduchi — blood sugar may become too low.

Guduchi is best taken as an infused herb, meaning, you boil water, then pour it with the herb powder, and consume it as a tea.

Kutki

When it comes to liver health and fixing liver diseases such as fatty liver, cirrhosis of the liver and hepatitis, I cannot think of anything stronger or better than kutki. Kutki is another bitter herb that is renowned in ayurveda for reversing liver damage. If you have gallstones and liver stones, if your liver is not producing enough bile, think kutki!

Kutki a.k.a. picrorhiza kurroa is a difficult plant to grow. It is the root that is mostly used for medicinal purposes. It may take up to two years before harvesting. Beware of farmers looking for a shortcut.

Kutki protects against fatty liver of almost any cause. It’s ayurveda’s premier liver, gallbladder herb. If you are thinking about doing a liver flush, consider kutki first. It contains picroside I, picroside II and kutkin, which are compounds believed by science to be the sources of its healing power. Kutki is very effective at causing cholagogue — stimulation of bile flow from the liver into the intestines — for the digestion of fat, and the lubrication of the intestines. It may also reduce excess bilirubin and excess liver enzymes.

Kutki is both a bitter and pungent herb, which is unusual. Most herbs are either one or the other. The benefits of bitter is that it cools the body from excessive heat. The purpose of pungent is that, like hot and spicy herbs, it has a cleansing effect, without actually being hot and spicy, like hot pepper. These properties produces proper levels of stomach acid, spleen heat and detoxifies environmental toxins such as cadmium, and even food toxins in alcohol.

Secondary to helping heal the liver, kutki may reduce circulating triglycerides and oxidized LDL cholesterol — without affecting HDL levels.

Manjistha

Manjistha a.k.a. Rubia cordifolia a.k.a. Indian madder is another cherished ayurvedic herb. It specializes in reinvigorating and moving the alkaline fluid within our lymphatic system. The fluid in our lymphatic system moves in an upward direction, from our feet and legs, up toward our stomach area, where it is coiled and concentrated in a sac-like system known as the cisterna chyli. This is where lymph fluid often gets clogged. Here is where manjistha also works its magic, unwinding clogged pathways of this drainage system. Manjistha is also known for many other things consequently, being a blood purifier, and a skin rejuvenator.

Prime constituents in manjistha include purpurin, munjistin, xanthopurpurin and pseudopurpurin. Secondary metabolites include alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, and anthraquinones. A natural antioxidant, manjistha may enhance other antioxidant markers, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione S. transferase (GST).

Manjistha is useful for treating calcium deficiency, relieves mentrual pain and menstrual hormonal imbalances. It is also said to destroy tumors, heal diabetic ulcers and remove gallstones.

Among the skin conditions that may see an improvement from manjistha include psoriasis, eczema, and acne. It overall may present you with a more healthy, glowing skin tone.

Manjistha seems to have an affinity for women’s health. Not only may it improve skin tone — providing a more youthful appearance — it, by removing excess heat from the body, also provides relief for liver and kidney function, and balancing hormones in the process. If you are suffering from amenorrhea, you may want to give manjistha a try. Being that it improves all moving liquid in the body — the blood, interstitial fluid, lymph, urine — no wonder how it may be good at improving our immune system and balancing hormones. It also may reverse edema.

Manjistha stem and especially root are what’s mostly used as the healing properties. Look for only organic and sustainably sourced manjistha. Manjistha root is red and has traditionally been used as a dye through various cultures — careful, as it may stain your teeth.

Red Root

Red Root a.k.a. Ceanothus (americanus) a.k.a. “Jersey tea” is a nitrogen fixing shrub. In that, it makes blood flow easier without thinning the blood. Therefore, avoid this herb if you are on blood thinners and coagulants. Red root is an immune system booster, capable of reducing mucus by stimulating the mucous membrane and by acting as an expectorant. It also may relieve sore throat, strep throat and the flu and cold viruses. It provides inflammation defense, microbial defense, respiratory support and lymphatic support.

Like manjistha, red root works on the lymphatic system, specifically the lymph nodes. We have over 500 lymph nodes throughout our lymphatic system. Red Root is effective against swollen, inflamed lymph nodes. It also supports and protects another important lymphatic organ: the spleen. A proper working spleen produces clean blood.

Red Root is for temporary use only. It may interfere with iron and other mineral absorption. As previously mentioned, it should not be taken with blood thinners and coagulants.

Olive leaf extract

Olive leaf extract is one of the safest herbs to consume on the regular basis. Prized since ancient Egypt, and perhaps before, olive leaf is indeed from the fruit tree we know so well that produces olives and olive oil. This herb is a natural antioxidant that truly boosts the immune system, helping to destroy viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. Both a preventative and curative herb, olive leaf extract contains a polyphenol called oleuropein, which may manage some forms of hypertension (high blood pressure) if used regularly.  Then there are other antioxidant  metabolites produced, like hydroxytyrosol, only found in this herb.

As an antioxidant and immune system booster, olive leaf extract may inhibit the over-activation of mTOR (a cellular intermediate that helps build things like muscle and even carcinogenic agents), reduce DNA damage, increase the activity of the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase, and thus fight tumors and cells associated with cancer.

Olive leaf extract is also good for some skin conditions, especially shingles.

Olive leaf extract is NOT a full spectrum antibiotic. Don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t reduce candidiasis . Also do not take this herb with other antibiotics — they may cancel each other’s effectiveness out.

Amla

Amla a.k.a. Emblica officinalis a.k.a. Indian gooseberry is not an herb, but rather a fruit that grows on an herb tree of the same name. Amla is used for both preventative and therapeutic purposes. It contains a small amount of vitamin C. However this vitamin C is potent due to polyphenols which keeps it intact. Amla is an antioxidant which may lower inflammation, high blood pressure, high blood sugar and prevent LDL oxidation.

Amla may promote longevity through mechanisms not yet fully understood by science. What is known is that it contains tannoids which may reduce cataract and diabetic retinopathy, thus making amla somewhat neuroprotective.

In lab tests, amla decimates cancer cells, including lung cancer, breast cancer, cervical cancer, ovarian and colorectal cancer. This is partially due to the fact that it protects our DNA from heavy metal damage, and also raises intracellular levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD).

Amla is good for moving the bowels and also the lymphatic system. If you are suffering from constipation or a sluggish bowel, consider amla as a preventative and therapeutic agent for this purpose. If your lymphatic system is stagnant, higher doses of amla will eventually get it moving. Alma is included in an ayurvedic blend of berries to alleviate constipation, known as triphala.

Being a source of natural,stable vitamin C, amla is many more times potent than ascorbic acid. Ascorbic acid is falsely claimed to be vitamin C, when really it is only the outer protective coating of true vitamin C. True vitamin C contains an enzymatic form of copper known as tyrosinase, which amla does have.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha root is now known to be a very powerful adaptogen, meaning, it knows how to adapt the body’s stress response and homeostatic balance from external and internal influences. It reduces excess cortisol (excess cortisol may cause inflammation, raise insulin and deplete other important hormones like dopamine and testosterone).

Ashwagandha increases progesterone levels in both men and women. Progesterone burns fat — so ashwagandha burns fat by increasing progesterone. Not only does it burn fat, it also increases muscle size (especially in the quadriceps), strength and endurance. It may reduce fat  deposits at the waistline.

Ashwagandha may improve every aspect of human sexuality, increasing sexual arousal, particularly in women, being women have more progesterone than men, and ideally leading to more good estrogen in women. It also lubricates the vagina, increases — to a noticeable extent — sperm quantity and motility. Orgasm between both sexes are enhanced with ashwagandha.

You may be tempted to use ashwagandha often for the reasons stated above — however, ashwagandha is for temporarily use only. An over-consumption of this herb can cause an overreaction of everything else. It may become irritating to the stomach’s mucosal layer, causing a form of gastritis.

Ashwagandha, additionally, is good for brain function, focus and memory. It has gaba-mimicking qualities, being anti-anxiety and depression reducing. This herb is currently being tested as a natural remedy for Alzheimer’s disease. Damaged neurons are being restored in lab tests when given this herb.

Be careful where and who you buy ashwagandha from. Not all ashwagandha are equal. Some brands may provide all the benefits listed, while others — not even one. There are compounds in ashwagandha that if not dosed properly, will not provide the claimed benefits. One of those compounds is known as withanolides. Being a skeptic myself, I personally do not believe this is the main ingredient that makes ashwagandha what it is. I believe there is much more to learn about this great herb.

Ashwagandha is also a great sleep aid. This may seem contradictory, being this herb is usually used in the morning to stimulate and get us through the day. However, taking ashwagandha 2 hours before bedtime will reveal its adaptogenic effect in helping you to sleep.

As noted earlier, ashwagandha is not for everyday use. It may increase autoimmune activity and make things worse. It may worsen thyroid disorders, increasing unwanted thyroid hormonal levels. It may irritate the gastrointestinal tract and give rise to ulcers. It may decrease blood pressure and make things worse if you are already on hypertension medication. It is advised to stop using ashwagandha two weeks before surgery, as it may exacerbate bleeding. For these reasons, I believe it is best to use ashwagandha as a decocted tea, meaning, you boil the herb parts or powder in water for a period of time, let the sediments settle for discarding, and drink the hot liquid portion.

Turmeric

A very popular spice in Indian cuisine, turmeric has made its way as an in-demand herb from ayurveda. From the same family as ginger, turmeric has anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties. Turmeric is being studied for its ability to destroy tumors and cancer cells.

Lab tests done have revealed turmeric is capable of fighting certain cancers, like prostate, colorectal and bladder cancer, arresting these cells, bursting them and causing apoptosis. Metastasis and tumor growth were reduced. The mechanism how this is done is not fully known.

Anti-inflammatory compounds in turmeric, interleukin-I and interleukin-II, control cytokines from wreaking havoc and more inflammation by lowering the body’s ability to send pain signals to the brain. This makes turmeric an ideal source for chronic pain relief, such as general arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia.

Turmeric may reduce your need for exogenous antioxidants by raising the body’s own antioxidant levels, superoxide dismutase, glutathione and catalase. This thus protects cells against DNA damage.

Turmeric may improve cognitive function — reducing anxiety and depression. It may improve memory and focus. It is actually currently being studied for its ability to reverse Alzheimer’s disease.

Turmeric when consumed is not evenly distributed throughout the body though.  It is not even absorbed easily by the body. Coconut oil or black pepper (piperine) must be added to increase turmeric’s absorption rate — and they do this quite well. Furthermore, foods containing quercetin inhibit turmeric’s absorption. And to make things even more complicated, black pepper is an allergen for many people.

Turmeric is not for daily consumption. There may be a reason why the body does not absorb turmeric well by itself. It is not one of those herbs you should take everyday. In fact, right now many people are abusing turmeric by taking too much of it. The thinking is if a little is good, a lot must be better. This is truly not the case. An over-consumption of turmeric in lab tests have resulted in increased mTOR and ACTUAL increased cancer cell formation, liver damage and decreased testosterone levels. As an herb high in oxalates, too much turmeric may chelate certain important minerals and vitamins out of the body, like copper and biotin. On a positive note though, turmeric also help chelate toxins and heavy metals out of the body, like mercury, lead and unbound iron.

1/4 teaspoon of turmeric three times per week may be the ideal, safe dosage of this herb.

Eclipta alba

Eclipta alba may never become a famous herb like the others. It is quite unique and different than any of the others listed. Also known as False Daisy, Eclipta prostrate, Bhringraj and Yerba de Tago, Eclipta alba is a species of the sunflower family and whose leaves are known as a liver tonic, a hair tonic and color rejuvenator and may even grow back hair on some people who have lost theirs. It is also an immunostimulant.

I personally have used this herb orally for many months in the hopes of obtaining my lost hair back. It did not work. I didn’t grow any extra hair, but I also didn’t loss more. To my understanding, for this herb to grow hair, it ought to be made into a paste and placed on the scalp area needed; and it should be used in conjunction with other herbs/supplements to obtain the desired effects. The petroleum ether extract of this herb has been used along with other herbs — Citrullus Colocynthis and  Cuscuta Relexa — in repeated studies to produce hair regrowth.

Eclipta Alba may benefit the liver — mainly consisting of coumestans i.e. wedelolactone polypeptides, and flavonoids. Coumestans are known to possess estrogenic activity. Wedelolactone possesses a wide range of biological activities and is used for the treatment of hepatitis and cirrhosis. Thus, Eclipta Alba may be both reparative and nourishing to a damaged liver.

This explains the other benefits associated with consuming Eclipta Alba: cooling the blood, healing eye problems, healing skin problems such as eczema and acne, antibacterial and anti-hemorrhagic. This herb is also noted to lessen anger in participants who use it. In Chinese medicine, anger is stored in the liver — if the liver is free and working properly, anger does not store, but is released.

As previously mentioned, this herb contains immunostimulatory properties. It may increase B-cell count, as well as macrophage activity. It may also even  inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Lab tests have revealed a reduction in hepatic, kidney and glioma cancer cells.

As with most herbs, there is often some compound that would prevent continuous usage. As previously mentioned, Eclipta Alba contains estrogenic compounds. This will be compromising to men whose hormonal balance is already compromised with too much exogenous estrogen. Man boobs may appear, hair loss and enlarged prostate may manifest. Also, for women, a hormonal imbalance may occur between estrogen and progesterone levels, with too much exogenous estrogen, leading to painful periods, or even amenorrhea. So for these reasons, Eclipta Alba should be used with caution and at the right time and amount.

You may have noticed most of these herbs share common denominators: they are immune system boosters, cancer fighters and liver rejuvenators! It is best to consume them either decocted or infused in tea form, and separating the tea from the residual sediments. Herbs should also be consumed ideally 3 times per week and generally no more. They also should be rotated so that our cells do not become overly adapted to them.

Caution should be taken while using herbs with any medication, if pregnant or breastfeeding and two weeks before surgery. Typical side effects — though rare — may include: nausea, vomiting, dizziness, stomach upset, skin rash, anemia, constipation and/or diarrhea.

 

Some of these herbs can be purchased at the recommendations below:

 

 

 

Cancer: Learn How to Beat It!

Posted on by Diogenes II

 

Cancer, also called malignancy, is a disease in which normal cells turn into defected cells — dividing rapidly and steadily, and in the process, destroying body tissue. Cancer is really a metabolic dysregulation, more specifically, a cellular mitochondrial dysfunction, caused from lack of certain nutrients, an increase in toxins, and thus a massive reduction in energy output. There are over 100 known types of cancers, depending on their  location. Here, I will discuss how cancer is formed and the things we need to do to prevent such.

A cell becomes cancerous when its oxygen requirement is reduced by around 35 percent (or more). Causes for this loss of oxygen is proposed to be an imbalance of mineral ratio in the cells, an imbalance of hormonal ratio surrounding the cells, and high levels of unbound iron and other heavy metals hijacking the cell. Such other heavy metals include cadmium, aluminum and mercury. These all contribute to a reduction of cellular metabolism and ATP.

Cancer cells’ ATP is significantly reduced compared to normal cells. For example, a normal cell may produce up to 36 ATP with a single molecule of glucose, while a cancer cell output may only be 2 ATP through anaerobic glycolysis. There lies the mystery why cancer cells must duplicate so rapidly: to increase ATP totality from anaerobic glycolysis!

Our immune system normally keeps cancer cells in check, even those in the millions and hundreds of millions. But when these cells proliferate into two or three billion at a given site, a tumor is forming, and the immune system’s ability to fight or keep them under control becomes compromised.

The environment around cancer cells become very acidic, causing inflammation to the affected, surrounding tissues and organs. It is said that the cancer cells themselves are not particularly acidic — but create an acidic environment by their activities. Depending upon what part of the body we’re talking about, a (cancer) tumor can grow in an acidic environment, while another may for various reasons prefer an alkaline environment.

Contrary to popular belief, the viruses, bacteria or fungi found in cancer cells are not the cause of the cancer. They merely occupy these cells because the condition of the cells allow them to flourish. These same pathogens if placed in the cells of someone with healthy, non-cancerous cells, will not survive. These pathogens do not cause cancer, but are attracted to the cancer. In fact, many of these pathogens may serve as a beneficiary to the victim of the cancer cells, keeping these cells restrained and less lethal. These pathogens when destroyed by natural antibiotics also causes the cancer cells to spontaneously destroy along with them.

The onset of the formation of cancer cells and their proliferation always begins with stress — including metabolic, physical, and especially emotional or mental stress. Stress changes the environment and pH of the cells from alkaline to acidic or from acidic to alkaline. Reducing all types of stresses also reduces the formation of all types of cancers. Reducing stress also reverses the proliferation of cancer cells. But maintaining stress can bring back cancer cells that were already eradicated. In other words, even if one gets rid of cancer, he or she could still have a reoccurrence because of not eradicating the mental stress that helped cause it in the first place.

Conventional methods used to treat cancer in allopathic medicine do more harm than good in reversing cancer cell proliferation. For example, an oncologist will tell their patients that they need to reduce the fever that was initiated by cancer. But a fever caused by cancer is a purposeful healing process jumpstarted by the immune system to burn up that cancer. Oncologists also use resources such as radiation and chemotherapy in an effort to avert the proliferation of cancer cells. But both of these methods are foreign and poisonous not only to cancer cells, but to healthy cells as well.

There are many recommendations for cancer that proponents swear by, including such controversial things as mistletoe and cannabis oil. On these, I will not focus on. But here, I will list for you a host of herbs and supplements and vitamins I feel comfortable recommending in the fight against cancer.

1. Chaparral (dried): This is one of the best, if not the best herb, to fight cancer. It boosts the immune system, increasing absorption of vitamin C in the adrenal glands and thymus. It also destroys cancer loving pathogens: it’s antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. Indeed, it also blocks cancer cells from dividing.

2. Turmeric with coconut oil: 1/4 teaspoon. This is perhaps the second best herb for cancer! It is anti-inflammatory. Turmeric reinvigorates apoptosis in cancer cells — a process where cancer cells self-destruct, leaving normal cells intact.

3. Pau d’arco tea: This is perhaps the third best. It enhances the antioxidant effects of chaparral. It also destroys cancer-loving pathogens. (Pau d’arco should however be sourced only from the inner bark of the tree of origin.)

4. Amla: This herb containing natural and stable vitamin C will burst cancer cells that have already formed. It is one of the best herb-berry both in preventing and fighting cancer.

5. Red clover blossom: This will balance your hormones. Many cancers, such as breast and prostate, are initiated by hormonal imbalances. Should be used sparingly.

6. Guduchi: This will unclog your liver and gallbladder of gallstones. It also boosts the immune system. It cleanses the blood, preventing it from becoming too acidic.

7. Siberian chaga tea: This will protect the mitochondria of your cells from cancer cells. Containing many important minerals, like magnesium and copper, needed to fight cancer, this fungus also boosts the cancer destroying antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD), destroying cancer cells, and turning superoxide back into water.

8. Organic sea kelp: This will provide you with needed iodine (150 -250 mcg). Everyone with cancer is deficient of this trace mineral on a cellular level.

9. Vitamin D from sun exposure: Everyone who has cancer is deficient of this vitamin. As probably the most powerful hormone in the body, “vitamin D” helps to regulate the immune system and prevent tumors from forming. So consider going shirtless at least three days per week in the sun to obtain the full spectrum of healing. Irradiated mushrooms and lichens are also natural sources of vitamin D.

10. Vitamin K2 mk-7: If you take D3, you must balance it with K2 mk-7 (30 mcg). K2 should always be in its natural all-trans form, found, for example, in natto — a Japanese fermented soybean product.

11. Natural sources of B vitamins, such as Bee pollen or RNA/DNA supplementation. These will help protect your own body’s DNA, as well as help maintain mitochondrial energy.

12. Andrographis: This herb may have an anti-proliferative effect on and destroy pathogens that feed on cancer cells.

13. Olive leaf extract: This will destroy pathogens that feed cancer cells. (Beware of the Herxheimer-reaction, that may last for about one week.)

14. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)/ Ubiquinol: This quinol antioxidant is found in every normal cell and is needed to liven the cell, reinvigorating its mitochondria to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Cancer cells’ aerobic mitochondrial ATP is greatly reduced — though both healthy cells and malignant cells CAN rely on anaerobic glycolysis for energy, cancer cells ALSO rely heavily on the fermentation of glucose rather than the normal process of aerobic glycolysis, or its backup, anaerobic glycolysis.

15. Bentonite clay: You only need perform this two or three times per month, on an empty stomach, away from food, to bind and flush out heavy metals and toxins. Great Plains bentonite is a “great” liquid brand to consider!

Now, these are the foods to eat:

1. Carrot/carrot juice. The beta carotene in the carrot will park in your cell, and the cancer cells will attack that instead of your own body. You can blend it if you like. Retain the fiber.

2. Blueberries/Bilberries. These will protect your cell’s DNA. Bilberries also contain a phytonutrient called anthocyanin, which acts as a free radical scavenger, believed to target cancer cells.

3. Broccoli sprouts. (not Brussels sprouts!) These are one of the best cruciferous vegetables to fight any cancer. Broccoli sprouts contain powerful compounds to fight many cancers, like breast, prostate and urinary cancers. Sulforaphane is one of the main compounds currently being touted by science as having an affect against these cancers.

You can easily grow your own broccoli sprouts at home by purchasing certified organic broccoli seeds. Sprouting takes between three (3) to five (5) days.

Be careful about consuming too much broccoli sprouts,  or any cruciferous vegetables,  as they can deplete iodine from your body.

4. Red cabbage. This cabbage contains lots of interesting properties to fight cancer. Like bilberries, it contains anthocyanins, to help fight cancer-generating free radical.  Additionally,  this cabbage is full of beta carotene,  vitamin C and bioavailable iron — all things needed to fight cancer.

5. Cucumber. Minerals and phytonutrients in cucumbers have been tested to be ideal in fighting cancer cells, particularly of (the hard to fight) pancreatic cancer cells. These phytonutrients include dozens of phenolic compounds,  carotenoids and the well studied cucurbitacin compound. The peel and seeds are the most nutrient-dense parts of the cucumber.

6. Organic kale. Compounds such as carotenoids and glucosinolates may help destroy many cancer cells in the body.  Additionally,  kale is abundant in vitamin C and K — vitamins essential in fighting cancer. Kale is also anti-estrogenic, which also helps fight certain cancers.

Be sure to only consume organic kale, as farming practice used to treat kale may actually be cancer causing.

Also be aware that too much kale may deplete iodine levels in some people.

Also be aware that excess kale consumption may cause bloating and create dysbiosis in the gastrointestinal tract. Cooking kale will help mitigate this.

7. Cooked tomato: contains a carotenoid called lycopene, which may have cancer and tumor suppressor abilities.

8. Mangosteen: hard to find, yet contains a unique class of antioxidant compounds known as xanthones, which may help fight cancer. Consuming excess amounts may lead to internal bleeding.

9. Bok choy: a cruciferous vegetable that contains phytonutrients — like the sulphur containing compounds glucosinolates, which convert to isothiocyanates — that may reduce cancer risk even if consumed just once per week. May be goitrogenic if consumed in excess, uncooked amounts.

10. Watercress: compounds called glucosinolates which convert to isothiocyanates may help protect against cancer.

11. Papaya: high in vitamin C and carotenoids,  like beta-cryptoxanthin and especially, lycopene, which may demonstrate anticancer activities.

12: Parsley: compounds called myricetin and apigenin may help prevent cancer proliferation.

13. Arugula: an unusual, peppery tasting, cruciferous vegetable, containing exceptional antioxidants such as erucin and glucosinolates that are believed not only to be potent cancer fighters and cancer destroyers

14. Black beans: contains antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids, including anthocyanins, that may contain cancer fighting properties.

15. Natto: a fermented soybean product high in both vitamin K1 and K2. High also in manganese, iron, copper, fiber, probiotics and a unique powerful enzyme called nattokinase, which may dissolve blood clots. Thins the blood due to vitamin K content. May help fight heart disease and certain cancers. Han acquired taste, pungent odor. Caution if on anticoagulants, as it thins the blood.

These are the foods to limit:
Limit muscle meat
Limit fish

 

Avoid fried foods
Avoid chicken
Avoid eggs
Avoid milk
Avoid cheese and other dairy
Avoid all nuts
Avoid seeds, including chia- and flax seeds.
Avoid soy and tofu.
Avoid hemp
Avoid avocados
Avoid sugar alcohols
Avoid artificial honey
Avoid cauliflower. It robs your body of minerals.

•          •          •          •          •          •          •

Now, there are amazing other ways to fight cancer. I want you to research this: Ozone therapy. Ozone stimulates all the natural anti-cancer immune reactions in the body and directly is able to make cancer cells burst, killing them through the creation of lipid peroxides at the cancer cell membrane. Research the: Cold Corona Ozone generator.

Crohn’s disease: A Disease Caused by Trauma!

Posted on by Diogenes II

 

If you are reading this, you may already know that Crohn’s disease is a devastating type of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), indiscriminately causing chronic inflammatory digestive problems along the gastrointestinal tract. I have experimented with numerous natural supplements —not specifically for Crohn’s — but for similar ailments, to finally seeing very satisfactory end-results. Here I will discuss these various supplements and natural healing methods, including ayurvedic herbs that have been used to heal many digestive tract ailments, — including Crohn’s — throughout the centuries, and for me personally as a beneficiary.

The complete digestive tract shares direct relationship with the brain and the way we think. Often, people with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis have had a major traumatic experience or many traumatic experiences throughout their lives. These folks often live a life of severe depression. Just as depression stagnates the mind, it also stagnates the digestive tract. In the case of Crohn’s, the cecum, the beginning part of the large intestine that connects from the small intestine is often compromised with undigested food and bacteria, causing an inflammatory response. This inflammatory response radiates throughout the digestive tract, sporadically. Even worse, this inflammatory response will affect the entire thickness of the intestinal tract where it lays.

People with this disease often suffer from large amounts of intraheptic stones in the liver and extrahepatic stones in the gallbladder.  This thus causes a lack of bile availability to the gallbladder. This lack of bile then compromises the digestion of food — especially fats — in the small intestine and a lack of lubrication to the wall of the large intestine.

To start the healing process of Crohn’s disease, you must increase the proper formation of bile in the liver. This is done by consuming both sour and bitter foods. You may also increase the flow of bile by performing a series of coffee enemas.

Now I recommend a series of procedures,  starting with:

1. Dragon’s Blood tincture: A traditional Chinese medicine, this tree sap has had promising results alleviating many stomach issues, including Crohn’s and Ulcerative colitis.

2. DGL (Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice): chewed 15 minutes before each meal. DGL soothes and promotes mucosal coating for the stomach and intestinal tract. You will feel the soothing effect quickly.

3. Zinc has been tested and found to strengthen the gut lining in patients with Crohn’s disease. But most zinc supplements are not the right kind and are quite dangerous when taken in supplement form. If you decide to use zinc, it must only come from real food, and not synthetically (avoid zinc oxide and zinc picolinate, for example). A company called Naturelo sells Vegan Zinc stated to be made from real food, and another company called Nutrigold sells Zinc Gold — both made from real food!

4. Guduchi/Ginger/Turmeric combination:

Guduchi is an ayurvedic herb that helps fix many liver problems and causes bile to develop properly in the liver and flow properly from the gallbladder into the common bile duct, hence lubricating the intestinal tract for proper digestion of food.

Adding ginger enhances guduchi’s effectiveness also, particularly when it comes to healing Crohn’s disease.

Adding turmeric mixed with coconut oil may prove triple effective with guduchi and ginger. So, it’s a pinch of guduchi, ginger and turmeric mixed with coconut oil — this blend is a winner!

5. Wild chaga tea: there are compounds, minerals and vitamins in the chaga conk that will soothe the intestinal tract over time. For instance, magnesium reduces inflammation throughout the body; so does copper. The chaga conk contains all these, and much more. This conk works on a microscopic level, healing and reinvigorating the inner networks of a cell, including the cell’s energy house — its  mitochondria.

6. Olive leaf extract: This acts as a NATURAL antibiotic, killing some forms of bad bacteria, viruses, funguses such as mold and yeast, and parasites. Unlike synthetic drugs such as penicillin, pathogens WILL NOT/ CAN NOT build up a resistance to this herb. (There will be the Herxheimer-reaction for a short period of time while using this herb.)

7. Sunlight: most people with Crohn’s disease are low on vitamin D and a dysfunctioning of the hormone serotonin.
15 minutes of sun for light -skinned people and 25 minutes for darker skinned people, at least four (4) days per week, will provide about 10,000 IU’s of vitamin D per day. A lack of vitamin D can cause colon cancer and other cancers. (If you opt to take Vitamin D3 via supplements, make sure to take it with a whole-food multivitamin containing natural vitamins A, E, and vitamin K2 mk-7 to prevent kidney stones and arterial calcification.)
Serotonin, considered both a neurotransmitter and a hormone produced inside the body, is found mostly in the digestive system (95%) — and the brain (5%). Serotonin is said to improve mood and decreases symptoms of depression. However, it has actually been observed that too much (or a dysfunctioning of) serotonin causes more depression than low serotonin. My theory is this: Sunlight is a mega instigator/producer of serotonin. Darkness turns the serotonin into melatonin at night. If you are not sleeping at the right hours and for the right length of time, this old serotonin builds up and gets recycled and becomes toxic, since it was not timely converted to melatonin like it should have. If my theory is correct, it will not be unusual that low serotonin level will seem beneficial for some, while also causing problems for others, like depression and digestive issues. The problem is not with serotonin itself, but an interference of the process of serotonin being converted/synthesized  into melatonin at the appropriate time.

8. Leaves, stems and roots: compounds in dark leafy greens (and otherwise) such as cooked watercress, bok choy, yu choy, asparagus, red cabbage, parsley, daikon radish and kohlrabi will help alleviate the symptoms and causes of Crohn’s disease, over time.

As a bonus: I’ve heard Ayurveda tout the fruit bottle gourd — calabash — as a reliever of IBD symptoms, which may also improve symptoms  of Crohn’s disease.

9. Sour and bitter foods: Granny Smith apples and bitter melon will surely help stimulate the flow of bile, for example. This will in turn help to decrease the need for inflammation throughout the digestive tract caused by Crohn’s disease.

10. Refraining/avoiding: Avoid certain foods and products that may cause or increase inflammation. Avoid packaged foods, frozen foods, microwave foods, peanut products, nut butter, tomato or tomato sauce or any commercial sauce, eggs, garlic, onions, black pepper, cow’s milk and cheese, unripened banana, alcohol or any other product that may cause flare ups.  Focus on eating clean, fresh, organic foods.

11. Coffee enemas: Consider a series of coffee enemas — using organic,  medium roast coffee beans.  This may help stimulate bile production in the liver, and thus bile flow to the gallbladder. This procedure can be performed — occasionally — once or twice per week, sometimes more.

As a bonus, supplementing on a bile acid product called TUDCA during this time may enhance the production of bile flow.

12. Digestible oils: Certain oils may speed up the healing of Crohn’s disease, while others may aggravate the condition.  For example,  most people may find comfort in substituting coconut oil above all other oils,  being that coconut oil does not need bile to be properly digested and absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. Pure, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil may work as well. So will butter.

On the contrary,  certain other oils,  even those with omega 3 fatty acids, may not be suitable for someone with Crohn’s.  Avoid canola, soy, corn, safflower or any other “vegetable” oils, for example, which are almost always used in fastfood and other restaurants. Avoid ghee as well — very inflammatory, creating damaging end-products that are not suitable for proper digestion. Avoid margarine, butter-substitutes (imitation) and trans fats as well.

As a bonus,  I’ve heard eating an orange or drinking fresh lemon juice on an empty stomach in the mornings may help reverse some of the damages caused by unhealthy oils!

13. Shatavari: can be taken 2 hours before a meal or 2 hours after. Shatavari acts as peristalsis that pushes the entire intestinal tract, to prevent stagnation of undigested food and toxins.

Shatavari, used excessively, may increase estrogen levels in the body over time. So I recommend taking this herb only short-term, between two (2) to four (4) weeks, at a time.

***

For me personally, the combination of guduchi-ginger and chaga as a tea resolved many of my digestive ailments the way no other supplement has in the last 30 years of me trying, having failed to find something other that worked. Also DGL had a great impact in preventing me from having food allergies. However, the combination of all these recommendations, I believe, will set the path in alleviating most of the symptoms associated with Crohn’s, in my humble opinion.

Update:

I have updated this article significantly  as I learn more. If you are suffering from this disease, or whatever it is, you will most likely have to deal with bacterial overgrowth and fungal overgrowth (SIBO, SIFO, for example) as well. So consider this reality in conjunction with tackling Crohn’s disease.