FEBRUARY 5-7, 2021 THEOBROMA

Chocolate (Theobroma cacao) is enjoyed throughout the world. Flavinoids, potent antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, are also found in significant amounts in cocoa , chocolate, red wine and certain teas. Yes there are health benefits to consuming dark chocolate

Researchers have found that consumption of foods containing flavonoids can lower blood pressure, reduce cardiovascular disease, and lessen the risk of strokes.

More than 15 years ago I, Herbalgram, the journal of the American Botanical Council published an article entitled, "The Health Benefits of Chocolate" that explored the role of chocolate in reducing hypertension (high blood pressure) among different cultures around the world. Here is an excerpt:
"The anti hypertensive role of chocolate is a relatively recent finding. In the early 1980s, Norman Hollenberg, a Harvard physician, discovered papers of Dr. B.H. Kean, who worked among the Kuna Indians on the San Blas Islands off the southern end of Central America. Dr. Kean had noted remarkably low rates of hypertension among aging Kuna adults. Dr. Hollenberg, who was involved in hypertension research and its genetic aspects, decided to see whether the Kuna Indians were still experiencing low rates of hypertension. Instead of finding a protective blood pressure gene, Dr. Hollenberg found an environmental effect: the Kuna Indians who left the San Blas Islands and resettled in Panama City had rates of hypertension comparable with other Indians and, more importantly, rising rates with aging. Dietary changes appeared to be responsible for the findings. For example, as Dr. Hollenberg noted, the more traditional Kuna diet included very lightly processed flavonoid-rich cocoa, consumed five times a day, whereas those living in Panama City drank several cups of highly processed cocoa."

Other studies have been conducted on the cardiovascular benefits of chocolate. One study researched the vasodilation effect of chocolate. It concluded, " The results demonstrated that the consumption of dark chocolate "markedly improves coronary vasodilation," which indicates an increase in the bioavailability of nitric oxide and a decrease in platelet reactivity. Furthermore, the improvement in coronary vasomotion and decrease in platelet adhesion after dark chocolate consumption coincided with an increase in serum epicatechin concentrations. These findings are evidence that epicatechin is a probable and likely dominant mediator of improved coronary vasomotion, along with procyanidins. This study was also reviewed by and published in the Herbalgam.

Today there are a great number of published articles on the health benefits of chocolate for other diseaes. Each one piec e of dark chocolate every day for yopur sweet tooth- Just one piece not a whole bar.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 4, 2021 HERBS FOR CANCER

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in United States and the risk of developing the disease increases significantly with age. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death. One herb has emerged as an anti-cancer agent. It is Tumeric (Curcuma longa).

There are many herbal preparations that have been studied in cancer prevention. Reishi, licorice and saw palmetto have been used for prostate cancer. Some use a combination of cancer inhibiting herbs. These herbs include ginkgo biloba, ashwaganda, triphalia, boswellia and eleuthrococcus. There are other herbs like mistletoe, carnivora, graviola and many others. There are many published studies I would see the HrbalGram published by the American Botancil Council

The American Cancer Society has published results which are alarming. One out of every 3 women and one out of every 2 men develop cancer during their lives.

This should alert the population that other alternatives are needed to combat cancer. Some of these alternatives involve the use of herbs. Curcuma has more than 200 studies to support its use in cancer prevention. Although the NACCM is not currently studying curcuma there are many mechanisms of this herb that have yielded results in combating a wide variety of cancers. These cancer include breast, uterus, cervix and the GI tract.

In Sept 2010, CA Clark et al. studied curcuma inhibiting head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is a major culinary spice of India and other Asian countries, and has been shown to have anti-cancer, anti-coagulative, and anti-hepatotoxic properties. Curcumin's anti-cancer effects are exerted upon numerous biochemical pathways involved in carcinogenesis, cell proliferation, apoptosis (programmed cell death), metastasis, and angiogenesis. It suppresses growth of several tumor cell lines, including T-cell leukemia and colon cancer lines.

There are many uses for curcuma in the treatment of other disease. I use curcuma for osteoarthritis, duodenal ulcers and Alzheimer's disease.

Until tomorrow…

FEBRUARY 3, 2021 URINARY TRACT HERBSM

There are many treatmeents for a urinary tract infection/ cystitis other than antibiotics. I use a variety of herbs . You might just think of drinking some cranberry juice. I would prefer the following:

The botanical, Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva ursi) is used primarily to treat urinary tract infections. It acts as an antiseptic and is most effective in an alkaline environment. Although capsules are effective, I prefer the tincture. I use 1 teaspoon two to three times a day during acute UTI's. After the symptoms subside I use D-mannose (active ingredient: cranberry). There are many active ingredients in this botanical. Some are ursolic acid (which acts like a diuretic), tannins, resins and phenolic acid.

The class of berberines can be used for urinary tract infections. These include Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and Oregon grape root (Berberis aquifolium). and 2 otherfs Both are antibacterial and inhibit bacteria from adhering. The main constituent for both is berberine. I feel that Goldenseal is overused. Most individuals when they feel ill will go a local health food store and buy echinacea and goldenseal. I use more Oregon grape root in lung, sinus and mouth infections rather than for urinary tract infections. I prefer adding the Oregon grape tincture 1 dropperful to a cup of simmering ginger tea.

You can always call Botanical Bounty at 646 723 1823 to get Streamly or a individual made tea for you for your UTI

Until tomorrow

JANUARY 28, 2021 HEART SUPPLEMENTS

Despite the fact that we try to eat right, exercise and watch our weight, heart disease is still the number-one killer in America.

HOW THE HEART HELPERS WORK

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), the energy generator of all cells, enhances the heart’s pumping ability. Caution: CoQ10 may decrease the effectiveness of blood-thinning medication, such as warfarin.

Folic acid, a B vitamin, helps prevent the formation of homocysteine, an amino acid that damages artery linings. Caution: Avoid folic acid supplementation if you have a history of cancer.

Hawthorn, an herb, may strengthen heart contractions and reduce blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Caution: Don’t use hawthorn if you have low blood pressure or take a beta-blocker or calcium channel blocker medication.

L-carnitine, an amino acid, increases the heart’s pumping action... and may facilitate weight loss by increasing metabolism. Caution: Don’t use L-carnitine if you have kidney disease.

L-taurine, another amino acid, dilates blood vessels, improves blood flow and helps reduce blood pressure. Caution: L-taurine may not be appropriate if you take diuretic medication or have stomach ulcers.

Magnesium regulates blood pressure and heart rate. Caution: Don’t take magnesium if your blood pressure is already low.

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, increase HDL (good) cholesterol... decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides... slow plaque buildup in arteries... reduce the risk for arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat)... and reduce blood pressure.

Vitamin B-12 inhibits harmful homocysteine formation.

Vitamin D-3 helps prevent inflammation... reduces heart attack and stroke risk in people with high blood pressure... and may protect against heart failure.

Next step: To make use of the information above, you need to know which specific nutrients are most beneficial for you -- and that depends on your personal health status.

TO PREVENT HEART PROBLEMS...

Below is Dr. Fratellone’s heart-protecting supplement protocol (to be taken daily, continuing indefinitely) for the typical perimenopausal or postmenopausal woman who has not been diagnosed with any condition that increases cardiovascular risk. Ask your doctor if you should take any or all of these five supplements. If you take a multivitamin, check which of the nutrients below your multi already provides.

Preventive protocol...

CoQ10 -- 100 mg daily.
Magnesium -- 350 mg daily.
Omega-3s (in the form of fish oil) -- 1,000 mg to 2,000 mg daily of combined EPA and DHA, the most beneficial components.
Vitamin B-12 -- 1,000 micrograms (mcg) daily.
Vitamin D-3 -- 1,000 international units (IU) daily.
L-carnitine -- 1,000 mg three times daily.
L-taurine -- 500 mg three time daily.

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 27, 2021 TONGKAT ALI

Tongkat Ali ( Euurycoma longifolia Jack) is also called Longjack. In Malaysia it has been used for years to increase libido ( sexual energy) and to treat erectile dysfunction.

How does it do this? Tongkat appears to work by increasing testosterone levels. Many men want to use testosterone topically or by injection. Both will work, but testosterone levels must be monitored. Also you should realize that testosterone has been abused in certain populations so every state has different regulations on testosterone prescriptions. Before I prescribe testosterone I measure the amount of estrogen, progesterone and LH in the male patient. As men ago we increase the activity of aromatase enzyme. This enzyme allows the conversion of testosterone to the female hormones to occur quickly. Sometimes I will prescribe a natural aromatase inhibitor as chrysin or quercitin.

Normal healthy testosterone levels maintain a better energy level, better mood, and increased sex drive and libido.

The side effects Tongkat can include insomnia, anxiety and restlessness. I have seen this root decrease sugar levels. You must be cautious if the patient is taking any diabetic agent to lower his blood sugar. I would not use Tongkat on any patient with diabetes, prostate Ca or breast cancer. Since a low testosterone is a risk factor for heart disease, it is controversial if Tongkat should be used in men with heart disease.

It is not an easy root to dig up. It cannot be harvested in its country of origin, Malaysia as it is protected. In Indonesia it can be harvested and the only place where it grows wild and can be used.

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 26, 2021 PROSTATE HEALTH

Prostate health is of concern of every male patient, particular over the age of 50. The standard test is the PSA ( probably over utilized) followed up by a trans rectal ultrasound of the prostate. The three basic prostate conditions are prostatitis, benign prostate hypertrophy and prostate cancer.
One point to remember is that PSA screening results in little or no reduction in prostate cancer specific mortality and may be associated with problems related to subsequent evaluation and treatments

There are excellent supplements, minerals and herbs for prostate support. Some of the herbs as saw palmetto has been studied by the National Institute of Health ( NIH) There are also excellent food sources for prostate health. Other than saw palmetto the two herbs I utilize are stinging nettles ( Urtica dioica) and Pygeum africanum. I do make an herbak tincture called ProstaTone sold by Botanical Bounty. www.botanicalbounty.org

Is there a way to promote prostate health using foods ? Yes, there is.
1. Eat sardines, salmon mackerel and trout for Omega 3s
2. Consume almonds and walnuts ( good oils) Pumpkin seeds are useful for the prostate
3. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables especially berries, spinach and bell peppers ( all are high in their anti oxidant potential)
4. Obtain resveratrol from red wine and grapes ( use in small doses as both increase blood sugar levels)
5, Lycopene containing foods include tomato juice, tomato paste, and tomato sauce. Watermelon is an excellent source of lycopene ( but watermelons have a high glycemic index - or high sugar levels)
6. Ti get selenium eat Brazil nuts, brown rice and fresh fish
7. Eat avocados, nuts , pumpkin seeds and peas for Vitamin E
8. For trace elements as zinc, manganese, and copper eat leafy green vegetables
9. Drink green tea

It is not always necessary to take vitamins and supplements if you eat a well balanced diet

There are some dietary restrictions that are a NO for prostate health
These are animal fats, polyunsaturated fats as corn or canola oil, and of course trans fats. It has been studied that high calcium containing foods, and flax seed oils stimulate prostate cells.

Until tomorrow…

JANUARY 25, 2021 BOOST YOUR ENERGY

There are very few supplements therapies that have ever shown to increase or boost energy. These few supplements have a profound effect on the tissues they target. One of the most useful supplements is D- ribose with or without carnitine. Ribose is a unique and powerful addition to any regimen. I prefer to use D ribose as a powder or a liquid. There are few companies that combine in liquid D ribose and L carnitine.
There is a great way to dramatically improve your energy production.

You must continue this regimen for at least 8 weeks ( the range is 6 - 12 weeks)
These are:
1. D ribose - 1 scoop is 5 grams - minimal 1 scoop once a day to titrated up to 5 grams 3 times a day

2. L carnitine - 2500mg per day up to 5,000 per day

3. Coenzyme Q 10 - the minimal is 200mg to 400mg. Studies recommend taking with a fatty meal. We use a variety of coenzyme Q10 preparations, Recently we have been using a gel chewable Coenzyme Q10- 300mg/day

4. Magnesium ( I prefer magnesium taurate) 200mg/day

5. B complex- either can be either B50 or B100. I would use a methylated version of B12 and folic acid as there are a percentage of patients who have a mutation and need the methylated form.

6. Some suggest acetyl L carnitine- I use this for the brain rather than l carnitine for heart and muscle.Some use 500mg twice a day for at least 6 weeks. To be honest I rather use L carnitine.

Until tomorrow

JANUARY 22-24, 2021 BITTERSWEET

Another herb which I have personally not used is Bittersweet ( Solanum dulcamara ) It is so uncommonly written about that is difficult to find citations of its use. If it is not in the Mosby's Handbook of Herbs and Natural Supplements, then I know it is not used commonly. When you go from Bilberry to Blackberry in any book--Bittersweet is overlooked. It is not Bitter Melon nor Bitter Orange. It is Bittersweet. Other names for Bittersweet include Bitter Nightshade, Felonwort, and Violet-bloom. It is a vine like perennial herb that has long trailing or climbing stems reaching up to ten feet in length each.
The species name of the bittersweet herb - dulcamara, is a reference to the taste of the berries. The berries initially have a bitter taste and then become unpleasantly sweet as they ripen. This is why it is called Bittersweet. Bittersweet is a native European species, it has been naturalized in America. It has many uses other than arthritis. The bittersweet is very effective when consumed to treat different kinds of skin problems like long term eczema, persistent itchiness on the skin, disorders such as psoriasis, as well as warts. In addition to the other beneficial properties mentioned above, the bittersweet herb has a mildly narcotic effect; it also possesses a diuretic effect. Small doses of the bittersweet remedy are useful in treating problems like dyspnoea, cough, and pain in the chest produced by exposure to cold weather. Bittersweet remedies are also useful in relieving catarrhal headache induced by acute colds, and this remedy is also helpful in treating nasal catarrh. Bittersweet contains steroidal alkaloids (including solasodine and soldulcamaridine), steroidal saponins, and about 10% tannins.

Until tomorrow…