On this article i would like you take a look at it some researches done in Muira Puama - Ptychopetalum olacoides
Muirapuama or potency wood (Ptychopetalum olacoides) is a species of small trees native to the Amazon rainforest of Brazil
Overall health benefits of Muiripuama overall promotes brain development and healing, decreases stress, boost stamina, decrease body fat percentage, helps cholesterol, memory, and fatigue.
Researches
Helps with Stress-Induced Depression
Chronic stress can lead to HPA-axis dysfunction, which is often found in anxiety. Marapuama extract treated stress-induced
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19067380
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19682881
Only in "Women" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11186145
Memory
Enhance Memory improved memory retrieval without interfering with acquisition or consolidation also restored memory with brain damage. Moreover, + a 5-HT2A blocker is as effective as two blockers, which is the treatment used to enhance memory consolidation.
Promotes the Growth of Neurons Which Can Help with Memory and Learning Processes
In cell-based studies, some constituents of Muiripuama (polyclonal hemiacetal and polyclonal) promoted the growth of neurons by increasing NGF.
Promnesic effects of Ptychopetalum olacoides in aversive and non-aversive learning paradigms.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20833520
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17023132/
This study provides definitive proof of meaningful anticholinesterase activity compatible with the observed promnesic and anti-amnesic effects of POEE., Reaffirming the potential of this extract for treating neurodegenerative conditions where a hypofunctioning cholinergic neurotransmission is prominent. Adequate assessment of the safety and efficacy of this extract and/or its isolated active compound(s) are warranted.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20833520
May Benefit the Brain by Decreasing Damage to Neurons
Antioxidants in Muirapuama were able to cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce damaging oxidative stress. In cell-based studies, marapuama extract protected neurons from oxidative stress induced by lack of glucose and oxygen.
“Brain Tonic”
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20833520
Helps with Fatigue
is effective in treating weakness after an illness or a general lack of energy. It helps with mental or physical fatigue, irritability, and headaches.
At R. Terra, our mission reaches far beyond just being a provider of herbal products and supplements. We believe that for every disease or problem, there is a natural cure based in herbalism and shaman healing.
At R.Terra, Is committed to providing longevity and vitality through superfoods, herbs, and natural cosmetics. These provide energy, antioxidants, detoxing, weight management and supports the immune system.
Constituents value of muiripuama
The root and bark of marapuama are rich in fatty acids, fatty acid esters, essential oils, plant sterols, and triterpenes. coumarin, lupeol, and alkaloid muirapuamine.
Diterpenoids are natural compounds With antibacterial,and anti-inflammatory properties." Eight " new clerodane type diterpenoids, named 7-oxo-kolavelool (1), 7alpha-hydroxykolavelool (2), 6alpha,7alpha-dihydroxykolavenol (3), 12-oxo-hardwickiic acid (4), ptycholide I (5), ptycholide II (6), ptycholide III (7), and ptycholide IV (8).
Preserving the nature at Amazon Rainforest
Serving With love
Buy Our Muira Puama Extract powder 10X Stronger
]]>Chemical composition of kola nuts
Caffeine, theobromine, theophyllinephenolicsphlobaphens (kola red) epicatechin, D-catechin, and tannic acid.
]]>Chemical composition
Caffeine, theobromine, theophyllinephenolicsphlobaphens (kola red) epicatechin, D-catechin, and tannic acid.
Kola Nut - Cola Acuminata
Tincture. ratio 1:3 extraction of organic alcohol
The kola nut is the fruit of the kola tree, a genus (Cola) of trees that are native to the tropical rainforests of Brazil. Kola nuts contain about 2- 4% caffeine, as well as kolanin and theobromine.
Chemical composition
Caffeine, theobromine, theophyllinephenolicsphlobaphens (kola red) epicatechin, D-catechin, and tannic acid.
Benefits of Kola nuts
Support weight loss and increases energy level, exhaustion, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), migraines, mental and physical fatigue.
]]>Origen: Amazon Rainforest South America
Pracaxi oil obtains with 19% the highest known concentration of Behenic acid, 6 times higher than that of peanut oil that is extracted and used in the cosmetics industry in products of make-up and hair due to its excellent moisturizing properties.
Pracaxi oil is a unique ingredient with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal properties and used for a variety of dermatological conditions including skin spots, severe acne, treatment of scars and burns.
The appearance of natural products like pracaxi oil is a new option to replace petrolatum in hair care. The disclosure of active compounds such as pracaxi oil with more than 20% of long chain fatty acids like the behenic acid (C 22:0) can be transformed into ceramides. Nowadays this presents a great option for hair products which do not want to apply products based on petrolatum. Small small amounts of this oil applied to the hair has the so-called “Cinderella effect,” removing the frizz immediately.
Use in cosmetics. Body butter, cream butter, body lotion, shampoo, conditioner, moisturizer, hair mask, balm, hair pomade, facial oil serum.
About Our Cosmetics - Are all natural, Certified Organic, Sustainable and They are sourced from the Rainforest, Cruelty-free, They are created with Plant-based, Food-grade Cold pressed butter, oils, We do not use any chemicals, fillers, or preservatives in our products.
Help preserve the nature at Rainforest
]]>Yerba mate - Ilex paraguariensis
Organic - Fair-Trade - Cruelty- free - Raw - Premium Superfood - Vegan
Toast Herb in powder
Yerba mate Extract powder: 20:1
Origen: Brazil and Argentina
Yerba mate is used to making the beverage known as mate in both Spanish and Portuguese. The drink is called other names in Portuguese, such as chimarrão, and tererê/tereré. Yerba mate was first cultivated and used by the Guaraní people and in some Tupí communities in southern Brazil.
Yerba mate has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It is able to reduce LDL cholesterol within 20 days of supplementation. Like many supplements derived from plants, it protects the heart and cardiovascular system.
Nutritional value of Yerba mate
Alkaloids caffeine, theophylline, theobromine, fólicos acid, caffeine, tannins, vitamins (A, B1, B2, C, and E), minerals, aluminiumIiron, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, manganese and potassium, protein (essential amino acids), glicídeos, fructose, glucose, sucrose, etc.), lipids - essential oils and ceráceas substances, dextrin, cellulose and sucrose gum.
Healthy benefits of Yerba mate
Weight Loss and Performance
By promoting satiety, decreasing body weight, BMI (body mass index), and food intake, burning fat during exercise, reducing cholesterol, fats, and glucose levels, helping with anxiety, and having diuretic effects, Yerba Mate is a good ally in weight loss.
Acute effectiveness of a "fat-loss"
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26612980
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25342955
Cholestherol
Yerba mate (Ilex paraguariensis) infusions have been shown to reduce plasma glucose and serum lipids in humans. Mate tea consumption improved the glycemic control and lipid profile of T2DM subjects, and mate tea consumption combined with nutritional intervention was highly effective in decreasing serum lipid parameters of pre-diabetes individuals, which may reduce their risk of developing coronary disease.
Researches
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19694438
Yerba Mate was able to lower LDL cholesterol by 8.7% in normolipidemic persons, 8.1-8.6% in dyslipidemics (at 20 and 40 days, respectively).Non-HDL lipoproteins decreased, and HDL increased by 4.4%. Apolipoprotein B was also found to be significantly reduced by 6%.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22081618
Yerba Mate tea at 330ml thrice a day, LDL was found to decrease (13.5%) alongside glucose (-25mg/dL) and HbA1c (-0.85%), a biomarker of glucose health where less is better.Better effects were seen with yerba mate paired with dietary intervention.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22578980
The mate tea group (not diet changes, just 1 liter of Yerba mate tea daily) experienced a decrease in LDL cholesterol (160mg/dL to 150mg/dL after 90 days) while increasing anti-oxidant potential of the body.
HDL and triglycerides were unaffected.
Burns Fat
Yerba Mate increased energy use from fat storage during exercise suggesting a potential role in weight loss and sports performance.
Helps Metabolic Syndrome
By increasing satiety (feeling full from eating), Yerba Mate lowered food intake, body weight, and blood fats.
Increases Energy
Yerba Mate prevented ATP (cellular energy), ADP, and AMP decrease, which increased energy, This effect is probably due to the inhibition of the ATPase (an enzyme that breaks down ATP) by caffeine.
Antioxidant
Yerba Mate is a rich source of polyphenols with antioxidant properties significantly stronger than green tea, according to test-tube experiments.
Thus, Yerba Mate likely prevents heart and blood flow disease, aging, and autoimmune disorders through its antioxidant capacity.
Researches
Intervention and effects on oxidative stress and antioxidant enzymes.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22578980
The mate tea group (not diet changes, just 1 liter of Yerba mate tea daily) experienced a decrease in LDL cholesterol (160mg/dL to 150mg/dL after 90 days) while increasing anti-oxidant potential of the body.
HDL and triglycerides were unaffected.
Relieves Pain
Yerba Mate relieved pain through the noradrenaline pathway.
Reduces Anxiety
Continuous intake of Yerba Mate reduced anxiety, probably by way of the acetylcholine/cholinergic system.
Mood state
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28809814
Provides concentration and creativity in the right dose, as it acts on the brain stimulus; has nutrients responsible for alleviating pain and the sensation of body weakness, acting in combat the lack of physical and mental energy.
At R. Terra, our mission reaches far beyond just being a provider of herbal products and supplements. We believe that for every disease or problem, there is a natural cure based in herbalism and shaman healing.
At R.Terra, Is committed to providing longevity and vitality through superfoods, herbs, and natural cosmetics. These provide energy, antioxidants, detoxing, weight management and supports the immune system.
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Guarana - Paullinia cupana - Best extract Guarana powder
Organic - Fair-Trade - Cruelty- free - Raw - Premium Superfood - Vegan
Superfood Soluble in water. Can be blended with water, smoothie or as you prefer. ratio 5:1 to 20:1. it means that herbs are 3 to 5 times stronger than the raw herb powder.
Guaraná Extract: Ratios 10:1 and 20:1
Herb in Powder
Origen: Brazil
Guarana plays an important role in Tupi and Guaraní Paraguayan culture. According to a myth attributed to the Sateré-Maué trib. It is found in the Amazon forest in Brazil.
Energy
One of the most powerful benefits of guarana is its energizing effects. Guarana has a similar chemical structure to that of caffeine, and the plant seeds provide even higher caffeine effects than typical caffeine drinks, including coffee. Guarana may be more effective than coffee with regards to its energizing power, as guarana is released more slowly into the body to provide sustained energy.
The plant directly stimulates the central nervous system and may be taken in small doses to fight fatigue and increase activity levels.
Constituents value of guarana.
The seeds tend to contain:
The seeds of guarana tends to contain mostly xanthines and phenolics, the phenolics being divided into catechins (procyanidins being catechin and epicatechin chains) and tannins. The tannins are not structurally characterized yet, but are thought to play an important role
The essential oil portion of guarana seeds contain:
Weight loss
Guarana has been used for centuries, as the early natives would use it to make teas that would suppress hunger for weight loss. Guarana is used today in certain energy drinks and weight loss supplements to support weight loss by providing stimulation.
Appetite suppressant
Guarana may promote weight loss by kick-starting the nervous system to induce the process of lipolysis. This process involves the release of fat into the bloodstream where it is used as energy during exercise. guarana is Natural Source of Energy the caffeine content in Guarana is more than the amount present in coffee beans.
Researches
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23207186
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21612429
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18392453
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23442624
🔥Energy booster and Improves fatigue
This makes it a wonderful energy booster. A natural stimulant, it prevents fatigue. It also prevents a dip in energy levels triggered due to muscle stress. Antioxidants of Guarana may delay in premature aging, given its ability to antioxidant, greater even than green tea and white tea which is rich in catechins. As this study shows, the catechins can reduce oxidative stress, which is usually related to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular, among other adverse conditions for health and well-being.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21612429
Cells Proliferation
Paullinia cupana Mart var. sorbilis, guaraná, reduces cell proliferation and increases apoptosis of B16/F10 melanoma lung metastases .
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18392453
Natural Remedy for Stress: it is known to have calming properties.
A cup of tea with this fruit could actually help to ease the stress levels and improve your mood. Caffeine is known to have positive effects on mood, and this increases alertness and feelings of well-being better Mental Health: Along with facilitating better learning capacities, Guarana is also known to aid in improving intellectual performance. You can use it along with Other T.terra herbs such as Suma, Catuaba for enhancing cognition.
This fruit has the potential to improve blood circulation, thus promoting better mental health. blood circulation levels are, the more relief you will get from your migraine and headaches.
Cognitive support
The stimulating effect also helps with the "focus" or approach (concentration), and mental acuity. A more pointed focus and better mental control is a positive effect of the stimulation of the central nervous system. One more farsighted response occurs when it comes to enhancing the ability to study or the resolution of problems.
Cardiovascular health
Also used, in its fair dose, as support for cardiovascular health, in particular, to strengthen the heart, and reduce the formation of clots, Innately blessed with antioxidants, Guarana helps in fighting the free radicals affecting the functioning of the cardiovascular system. The scavenging of these elements thus boosts the power of the cardiovascular system, keeping various heart diseases at bay
Natural Analgesic
The caffeine present in Guarana stimulates the circulation of blood. The better the circulation of blood is, the lower the pains experienced in an injury. It acts as a natural analgesic, thereby helping those who are suffering from constant headaches, migraines, as well as menstrual and other pains.
Antioxidant
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23442624
Other Benefits Of Guarana
Along with the above-mentioned benefits, Natural tonic, and stimulant Innate anti-depre. and anxiety properties Known for its antiseptic properties.
Buy guarana extract powder 10 Stronger than raw powder
better than coffee
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Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera
Organic - Fair-Trade - Cruelty- free - Vegan
Available in Extract powder 20:1 - 3% withnoides | Extract powder 30:1 - 5% withnoides and Raw powder
Origem India
Constituent Value of Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha contains various alkaloids, steroidal lactones, and saponins.
The main phytochemical constituents are withanolides – which are triterpene.
It Can Reduce Blood Sugar Levels, It Can Reduce Cortisol Levels, It May Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety. It May Reduce Symptoms of anxiety.
Ashwagandha also associated with:
Reduces anxiety
Researchers reported that it blocked the stress pathway in the brains of rats by regulating chemical signaling in the nervous system.
Several controlled human studies have shown that it can effectively reduce symptoms in people with stress and anxiety disorders as well.
Stress-busting herbal adaptogen
Ashwagandha is known to reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone associated with the physiological effects of stress. While we need some cortisol to stay alive, chronic stress can lead to persistent or extreme elevations in cortisol, with adverse effects on blood glucose regulation, blood lipids, body composition, hormone balance, digestion, sleep, immune function, and cognitive health.
Supports immune function
Studies show that the herb can stimulate lymphocytes (white blood cells) and macrophages, and increase white blood cell count, as well as increase hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell, and platelet counts. In one study, researchers found that phagocytosis (the immune system’s process of consuming and destroying infectious agents) decreased by 25% in mice subjected to stress.
Supports energy levels
Ashwagandha helps to support normal energy metabolism as well as testosterone production and thyroid health. This makes it an especially useful herb for fighting fatigue associated with stress.
May help enhance and protect brain health
Constituents of ashwagandha may help to reduce expression of the cell death factor Bax while reversing the injury-induced reduction in the length of neurites that project from neurons. These active constituents of Ashwagandha can cross the blood-brain barrier and are being investigated as a therapeutic agent for stress-induced neurological disorders.
At R. Terra, our mission reaches far beyond just being a provider of herbal products and supplements. We believe that for every disease or problem, there is a natural cure based in herbalism and shaman healing.
At R.Terra, Is committed to providing longevity and vitality through superfoods, herbs, and natural cosmetics. These provide energy, antioxidants, detoxing, weight management and supports the immune system.
About Our Cosmetics - Are all natural, Certified Organic, Sustainable and They are sourced from the Amazon Rainforest, Cruelty-free, They are created with Plant-based, Cold pressed butter and oils. We do not use any chemicals, fillers, or preservatives in our products, Free from Toxins.
Help preserve nature at Amazon Rainforest
Researches
Modi MB, Donga SB, Dei L. Clinical evaluation of Ashokarishta, Ashwagandha Churna and Praval Pishti in the management of menopausal syndrome. Ayu. (2012)
Mahanta V, Dudhamal TS, Gupta SK. Management of tennis elbow by Agnikarma. J Ayurveda Integr Med. (2013)
Vyas P, et al. Clinical evaluation of Rasayana compound as an adjuvant in the management of tuberculosis with anti-Koch's treatment. Ayu. (2012)
Chopra A, et al. A 32-week randomized, placebo-controlled clinical evaluation of RA-11, an Ayurvedic drug, on osteoarthritis of the knees. J Clin Rheumatol. (2004)
Chatterjee S, et al. Comprehensive metabolic fingerprinting of Withania somnifera leaf and root extracts. Phytochemistry. (2010)
Withanolides from Withania somnifera roots.
Buy Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera
]]>But salt (sodium) is an essential mineral; its consumption is critical to your health. The problem is when you consume too much sodium and too little potassium.
Another issue is the source of all that salt. The average North American eats an incredible amount of salty processed foods — which means that people who consume a lot of salt tend to consume a lot of foods that are generally unhealthy. That makes it hard to tease apart sodium’s effects from overall dietary effects. Except for individuals with salt-sensitive hypertension, the evidence in support of low sodium intakes is less conclusive than most people would imagine. As it stands, both very high and very low intakes are associated with cardiovascular disease.
The Truth: Salt reduction is important for people with salt-sensitive hypertension, and excess salt intake is associated with harm. But drastically lowering salt intake has not shown uniform benefit in clinical trials. Most people will benefit more from a diet of mostly unprocessed foods than they would from micromanaging their salt intake.
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Natural Testosterone Enhancement Protocol Pine pollen tincture: ⅜ tsp. three times per day Nettle root: 1000 mg per day Tribulus: 400 mg three times per day Panax ginseng: ¼ tsp. daily Tienchi ginseng: ⅓ tsp. three times per day Eleuthero: 1 tsp. twice a day Catuaba extract 250 mg a day.
Testosterone Booster
]]>The concept of phytoandrogens, meaning plants that contain androgens or those that stimulate androgenic activity in men, is relatively new. Phytoestrogens have a much deeper history, and most clinicians and many people have at least some idea of their existence. Phytoandrogens do the same things that phytoestrogens do, except they do it for men and they do not supply estrogens, they provide androgens. Phytoandrogens increase the body’s levels of free testosterone, and they shift the androgen/ estrogen balance more toward the androgen side of the equation.
Plants do this by directly supplying androgens such as testosterone, stimulating the body’s production of androgens, or by interfering with the breakdown (or conversion) of androgens into estrogens or their binding to SHBG or albumin.
Pine pollen is an example of a plant that supplies significant quantities of testosterone and other androgens.
The ginsengs (asian, Catuaba, eleutherococcus) Suma root and tribulus are examples of plants that stimulate the production of androgens in the body.
Nettle root is an example of a plant that prevents the conversion of testosterone into estrogens and interferes with its binding to inert substances in the body. Plants that contain testosterone are ubiquitous in the environment, but very little research has been done on them.
Hopefully, as knowledge of phytoandrogens becomes more widespread, research will follow along.
There are a great many plants out there that contain testosterone or other androgens; it’s just that no one has been looking for them. The following herbs are some of the most powerful phytoandrogens known so far. The plant that contains the most testosterone (and other androgens) is, at this point, pine, especially its pollen.
Natural Testosterone Enhancement Protocol Pine pollen tincture: ⅜ tsp. three times per day Nettle root: 1000 mg per day Tribulus: 400 mg three times per day Panax ginseng: ¼ tsp. daily Tienchi ginseng: ⅓ tsp. three times per day Eleuthero: 1 tsp. twice a day Catuaba extract 250 mg a day.
Testosterone Booster
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Summary of Ashwagandha
Primary Information, Benefits, Effects, and Important Facts
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herb used in Ayruveda, the traditional medicine of India. Its root has a horsey smell (in Sanskrit, ashva means “horse” and gandha means “smell”) and is said to confer the strength and virility of a horse. Various parts of the plant are used, but the most common in supplements is an extract of its roots.
What are Ashwagandha's benefits?
A number of studies suggest that it has anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects; studies are mostly supportive of a notable effect of ashwagandha for this purpose, and it seems to reduce cortisol levels. However, more research is needed before we can have a great deal of confidence in it or know the optimal dose. Ashwagandha may also be able to reduce insomnia, fatigue, and the symptoms of depression, but it hasn't been well-researched for these purposes.
It may increase power input in untrained subjects during resistance exercise and anaerobic running, but this observation is based on a small amount of research and more is needed. It may lead to small reductions in blood glucose, blood pressure, and LDL-cholesterol, while slightly increasing HDL-cholesterol. Additionally, it may modestly increase testosterone and sperm quality in infertile men.
What are Ashwagandha's side effects and drawbacks?
It seems to be safe, but it needs more long-term research that's specifically designed to evaluate its safety. It may cause mild drowsiness and sedation for some people.
Can I take Ashwagandha daily?
This question is difficult to answer because we currently lack a lot of long-term information from clinical trials. Because of its possible drug-like effects on neurotransmission, it's difficult to rule out unintended side-effects or a loss of potency in the long-term. However, what studies we do have generally suggest that the effects of Ashwagandha on stress/anxiety continually improve for at least for two months after the beginning of daily supplementation. Furthermore, the studies use Ashwagandha daily, and if a study finds an effect, the best way to get that same effect is to mimic the dose and dosing schedule in the study. Tt is unknown if taking breaks from Ashwagandha or taking it every other day will yield the same effects.
Withania Somnifera, Indian Ginseng, Smell of Horse, Winter Cherry, Dunal, Solanaceae
Do Not Confuse With
Withania coagulans (Different Plant)
Goes Well With
Terminalia Arjuna and Siberian Ginseng for physical performance (additive)
Nrf2/ARE inducers (curcumin or silymarin from Milk thistle) for inducing HO-1 activity and antioxidant effects
ERK/p38 inhibitors (chemotherapeutic effects)
Notch2/4 inhibitors (chemotherapeutic effects)
SSRI drugs (for reducing obsession)
GABAergic anxiolytics (including alcohol)
Take 300–500 mg of a root extract with meals (with breakfast, if taken all at once). More research is needed to determine if higher doses can yield greater benefits. Lower doses (50–100 mg) have been shown to help in some instances, such as reducing stress-induced immunosuppression and enhancing the effect of other anxiolytic agents.
Use of and expenditure on herbs in Australia
A south Australian survey conducted in 2000 by Maclennan, Wilson and Taylor found that 52% of those surveyed had used at least one non-medically prescribed complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) (including non-prescribed vitamins, aromatherapy oils, herbal medicines, etc.). In 2003, the maximum cost to the patient for a patient contribution item is $23.10 for general patients and $3.70 for a concessional patient.
A 1996 report on the practice of Chinese medicine in Australia found that patients were receiving treatment for a wide range of health conditions. Among 14 diagnostic categories, rheumatological disorders constituted the greatest proportion of cases being treated by Chinese medicine practitioners and medical practitioners practicing Chinese medicine
Two Australian studies on the use of Chinese medicine found that 49% and 35% pf patients were taking herbal medicine in combination with pharmaceutical medication.
It is important that practitioners of particular forms of CAM are adequately trained to protect the public. For example, not all herbal medicines are safe, some can interact with pharmaceuticals and serious adverse events can occur in practices such as acupuncture.
Safety of herbal practices and medicines
There is limited information on adverse events associated with CAM in Australia. There are approximately 150 – 200 reported cases of adverse reaction to complementary medicines per year recorded by the Australian Commonwealth Government’s Adverse Drug Reaction Advisory Committee (46). However, any comparison between complementary medicine and western pharmaceutical medicines in terms of risk needs to keep in mind the purpose or clinical disorders for which the medicines are used and needs to consider an assessment of the risks and benefits of the individual medicines. Many western medicines that have side-effects are extremely effective in treating serious diseases and the benefits may for outweigh the risks.
The safety of herbal practices and medicines is of concern to health practitioners and governments. Although generally perceived as safe, many herbs are not safe and adverse effects can include allergic reactions, toxic reactions (including renal and hepatic toxicity), mutagenic effects, herb – drug interactions and idiosyncratic reactions, some of which can result in death. There are known interactions that can occur between certain herbs and pharmaceuticals, the increasing knowledge
in this area will reduce and avoid the negative herb – drug interaction that affect people’s health, it will also build up the confidence of public to use herbal medicine.
In fact, negative drug-herb interactions (side effects as the result of taking drugs and herbs at the same time) have been over-hyped because of fear, lack of knowledge and sheer speculation. Although there are some negative interactions, research has also discovered positive interactions between drugs and herbal formulas.
Drug-drug interactions are a much more serious problem than either herb-drug or herb-herb interactions. This is because drugs are high doses of single, active, unstable chemicals, while herbs contain multiple ingredients, some of which are natural buffers.
Chinese herbal formulas are even more broad, comprehensive, and balanced than single western herbs. The more singular a substance is, the more likely it is to cause side effects and interact with other substances. Studies bear this out- a number of them indicate that drugs negatively interact more with single herbs than they do with herbal formulas.
From most dangerous to safest (in order) are these contaminations
Type of Combination
1. Multiple drugs
2. Drugs + single western herbs
3. One drug alone
4. One herb alone
5. Multiple single western herbs
6. Drug + herb formula
7. Single western herb + chinese herb formula
8. Personalized chinese herbal formula alone
Situation and Results
The result of one or more physicians prescribing you one or more drug; interaction range from discomfort to life- threatening.
1 or more physician-prescribed drugs + you buy yourself 1 or more single herbs
Can still have mild to strong side effects Mild side effects are possible
You buy several herbs for yourself and they may interact, especially if the combination is not based on tradition or research
Prescribed by both a western and Chinese-style physicians; based on research and guesswork. The results of such studies have been positive. The appropriate formula is often able to balance out the drug's side effects and/or boost its effectiveness
Again based partly on tradition and partly guesswork. Some unexpected interactions are possible but should be mild.
Based on diagnosis, tradition, and research. There should be little or no unexpected interactions or side effects, and if there are, the physician can modify the formula to better suit you.
These are not hard and fast rules. In some situations, multiple drug therapy is the best choice. The safest therapy options are just about the reverse order of the list above in order from most to least safe:
- Personalized Chinese Herbal Formula
- Single western herb + chinese herb formula
- Drug + herb formula (this is probably more effective than #2, but possibly more dangerous)
- Multiple single western herbs
- One herb alone
- One drug alone
- Drugs + single western herbs
- Multiple drugs
Negative Results of Combining Single Herbs and Drugs
1. Pain Medications
Sometimes herbs and acupuncture can neutralize the effect of pain drugs. For example, patients on neurontin or morphine need to be treated differently. Acupuncture in these patients should be of shorter duration with less stimulation and subtler point selections (like eight extra points). Moxibustion is a helpful alternative.
2. Chinese Licorice
Gan cao (chinese licorice) is sometimes problematic, it is in many herb formulas, but in low dosages. Higher dosages can lead to fluid retention. Gan cao can also reduce the absorption of oral tetracycline and some other meds, and can offset the pharmacological effect of spironolactone. The rule of separating the dosage times of herbs and drugs solves this problem.
3. Tannins
Tannins are insoluble with antibiotics. A few herbs such as Da Huang (rhubarb), He Zi, and Mo Yao (Myrrh) contain tannins. Tannic acids may inhibit the absorption of iron.
4. Glycosides
Glycosides, which are active ingredients in many herbs, are neutralized by acidic drugs. That means that, for example, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and nicotinic acid could prevent your herbs from working.
5. Blood-thinners
Patients on warfarin (coumadin) are most at risk for problems from drug-herb interactions. Warfarin is given to thin the blood, thus preventing the likelihood of clots blocking blood vessels in the heart, lungs, or brain. Warfarin's dosage needs to be quite exact to work, so we don't want any herbs affecting it. Herbs and herbal formulas that contain blood movers must be avoided. This includes, among others, herbs dan shen (salvia), dang gui (angelica), and yan hu suo (corydalis), and herb formulas like xue fu zhu yu tang, di dan tang, and tao he cheng qi tang. Feverfew, garlic, Ginkgo, ginger, and ginseng may alter bleeding time, and so they also should be avoided by patients on warfarin.
6. Dan Shen (Salvia)
Salvia can also reduce the effectiveness of anti-ulcer drugs.
7. Surgery and Herbs
It's a good idea to stop taking herbs 5 days before surgery, and then after surgery take herbs only to rebuild the body.
8. Drugs for the Heart
Ma Huang (ephedra) should not be taken (even in an herbal formula) if your are on digitalis or any other heart drugs. It also reduces the effectiveness of anti-anxiety and sedative drugs, and increases the cardiovascular effects of caffeine. Kyushin, gan cao (licorice), plantain, uzara root, shan zha (hawthorn), and ren shen (ginseng) may interfere with digoxin.
9. St. John's Wort
Studies have shown that patients who take St. John's Wort while on a Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibiting (SSRI) anti-depressant end up with varying blood levels of drugs. This means it interferes with the effectiveness of your anti-depressant. Because its mode of action is not understood, it should be avoided with monoamine oxidase inhibitors and SSRI's.
10. Ginseng
Ginseng plus phenelzine sulfate may cause headache, tremulousness, and manic episodes. Ginseng should not be used with estrogens or corticosteroids.
11. Valerian
Valerian should not be combined with barbituates.
12. Kelp
Kelp as a source of iodine may interfere with thyroid replacement therapies.
13. Echinacea
Echinacea could cause liver toxicity and therefore should not be used with other known liver toxic drugs, such as anabolic steroids, amiodarone, methotrexate, and ketoconazole
14. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
May negate the usefulness of feverfew in the treatment of migraine headaches
15. Kava
Kava when used with alprazolam has resulted in coma
16. Evening primrose oil and borage
Should not be used with anticonvulsants because they may lower the seizure threshold.
17. Rhubarb and Aloe
Both Rhubarb and Aloe cause loss of potassium through the stool... this may increase the side effects of cardiac glycosides and antiarrhythmic drugs.
18. Astragalus (huang qi)
May oppose immunosupressive drugs, because it tends to improve immune function.
Selected herb-drug interactions
The information presented here is derived from a number of primary and secondary sources, including the German Commission E monographs,5 the ESCOP monographs,6 the WHO monographs,7 Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions,11 and others. Summarized here are the possible antagonistic or synergistic interactions that these herbs may have with conventional pharmaceutical medicines. The interactions reported in the monographs5-7 include those based on a variety of evidence, including theoretical considerations, in vitro experiments, animal studies, human case reports, and clinical studies. Additional information from non- monograph sources refers to human data only (specifically case reports and clinical studies).
?Aloe gel and juice (Aloe vera)
Aloe juice can produce an additive effect. In a clinical trial, one tablespoon (15 ml) of aloe juice was given orally in the morning and at bedtime to 36 diabetic patients for 42 days; the result was an increase in the hypoglycemic effect of glyburide (glibenclamide). This effect was probably due to the aloe antihyperglycemic activity, which was demonstrated by oral administration to 36 diabetic patients, in the same dose and for the same duration, in another study.21
?Aloe latex (Aloe vera and Aloe ferox; "drug aloe")
Long-term use or abuse of drug aloe as a stimulant laxative can increase loss of serum potassium, thereby potentiating cardiac glycosides and antiarrhythmic agents (e.g., quinidine). Potassium deficiency can be increased by simultaneous use of thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, or licorice root.5-7 Decreased intestinal transit time may reduce the absorption time available for orally administered drugs.7 (The aloe referred to here is "drug aloe," made from the inner leaf latex, not aloe gel, from which numerous drinks are made and marketed in North America. Ingestion of preparations made from aloe gel or juice normally does not produce a significant laxative effect or the drug interactions mentioned here.)
Similar cautions apply to all other stimulant laxatives, including buckthorn bark and berry, cascara sagrada bark, rhubarb root, and senna leaf and fruits, which are described below.
?Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus)
Astragalus root, a major herb in traditional Chinese medicine, increases the immune- stimulating effects of interleukin-2 and acyclovir but may be incompatible with immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., cyclosporine, azathioprine and methotrexate).15
?Bitter melon (Momordica charantia)
Also known as karela, the fruit of bitter melon had an additive hypoglycemic effect 22 when consumed as a vegetable concurrently with chlorpropamide in one case report. Insulin dosing in diabetic patients may need to be adjusted because of its hypoglycemic effect:11 Dosage of 100 g of bitter melon fruit daily for three weeks significantly reduced serum glucose in a study involving seven diabetic patients.23
Also, 0.23 kg of fried bitter melon fruit daily for 8-11 weeks before a glucose 24 tolerance test produced increased glucose tolerance in nine diabetic outpatients.
?Blackcurrant leaf (Ribes nigrum)
No interactions have been reported. However, because this herb has diuretic action, it should not be taken simultaneously with diuretics indicated for cardiac or renal insufficiency without medical advice.6
?Brewer yeast and brewer yeast/Hansen CBS 5926 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
The simultaneous intake of brewer yeast and antimycotics can decrease the activity of the brewer yeast. Warning: Simultaneous intake of MAO inhibitors may cause increased blood pressure.
Bromelain (enzyme from pineapple, Ananas comosus)
There may be an increased tendency for bleeding with simultaneous administration of anticoagulants and inhibitors of thrombocytic aggregation. Plasma and urine levels of tetracycline may also be increased.5 This herb enhances drug effects: 40-80 mg of enteric-coated bromelain four times daily with penicillin, chloramphenicol, erythromycin, or novobiocin, or any combination of these, was associated with lower morbidity in 53 patients with pneumonia, bronchitis, kidney infections, staphylococcal infections, infections of the skin, and thrombophlebitis than in patients using antibiotics alone.25 Bromelain can also improve the efficacy of some chemotherapy drugs (e.g., 5-fluorouracil and vincristine),26 a possible result of its fibrinolytic and antitumor effects.11
?Buckthorn bark and berry (Rhamnus frangula)
Long-term use or abuse of buckthorn can increase loss of serum potassium, which potentiates the toxicity of cardiac glycosides and antiarrhythmic agents (e.g., quinidine). Potassium deficiency can be increased by simultaneous use of thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, or licorice root.5,6
?Bugleweed (Lycopus europaeus)
Thyroid preparations should not be administered simultaneously with bugleweed. 5
This herb may interfere with diagnostic procedures involving radioactive isotopes.
?Bupleurum (Bupleurum falcatum)
Synergistic sedative effects may occur when bupleurum is taken with alcohol, sedatives, and other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, although no clinical studies have evaluated this possibility.7
?Cascara sagrada bark (Rhamnus purshiana)
Long-term use or abuse of this herb can increase loss of serum potassium, which potentiates the toxicity of cardiac glycosides and antiarrhythmic agents (e.g., quinidine). Potassium deficiency can be increased by simultaneous use of thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids, or licorice root.5,6
?Chasteberry fruit or vitex (Vitex agnus-castus)
According to the Commission E,5 interactions were unknown at the time the monograph was written (1985, revised 1992). Animal experiments have shown evidence of a dopaminergic effect; therefore, a reciprocal weakening of the effect may occur if vitex is taken in conjunction with dopamine-receptor antagonists,5 such as haloperidol. "Possible interactions with dopamine antagonists and dopamine-receptor blocking agents, such as metoclopramide (widely used as an antiemetic), should also be considered. As mentioned in other publications on vitex, concomitant administration with hormone therapy or oral contraceptives is contraindicated. While vitex is not recommended during pregnancy, its dopaminergic actions also suggest that it should be avoided during lactation."28
?Chili pepper (Capsicum spp.)
Chili pepper (aka cayenne pepper) protects from the adverse effects of aspirin: chili pepper [dosage determined relative to capsaicin content] reduced gastric mucosal damage in 18 subjects when taken 30 minutes before orally administered aspirin.27
?Chinese silk vine root and bark (Periploca sepium)
Previously found as a mislabeled substitute for eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), this herb was reported to increase serum digoxin assay levels in a patient taking conventional cardiac medications.29 Silk vine is a member of the Asclepiadaceae (milkweed family), members of which are known to contain cardiac glycosides. However, there are few reports of adverse cardiac effects associated with this herb.
Cinchona bark (Cinchona pubescens)
This herb increases the effect of concurrently administered anticoagulants.5
?Coffee charcoal (Coffea arabica)
Because of the high absorption capacity of coffee charcoal, the systemic absorption of simultaneously administered drugs may be reduced.5
Cola nut (Cola nitida)
Cola nut enhances the actions of other caffeine-containing beverages and of
psychoanaleptic drugs.5
Devil claw root (Harpagophytum procumbens)
No interactions have been reported. Because of the protective action of devil claw against arrhythmia, the possibility of interaction with other antiarrhythmic agents has been speculated.6
?Eleuthero root (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Eleuthero (aka Siberian ginseng) can enhance some drug effects; the herb appeared to increase the efficacy of the antibiotics monomycin and kanamycin in treating Shigella dysentery and Proteus enterocolitis in a clinical study.30
?Ephedra herb (Ephedra sinica)
Combined with cardiac glycosides or halothane, ephedra can produce cardiac arrhythmia. Guanethidine enhances the sympathomimetic effect of ephedra. Use with MAO inhibitors can significantly increase the sympathomimetic action of the alkaloid ephedrine in the herb,5-7 possibly causing fatal hypertension.7 Use with secale alkaloid derivatives (e.g., ergotamine), or oxytocin can produce hypertension.5,7
?Eucalyptus leaf and oil (Eucalyptus globulus)
No interactions are known for the leaf. The oil induces the liver enzyme system involved in detoxification, so the effects of other drugs can be weakened or shortened.5
?Flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum)
The mucilage in flaxseed may delay the absorption of drugs taken simultaneously;5
for diabetic patients, there may be a delay in glucose absorption.6
?Garlic bulb (Allium sativum)
Garlic may increase bleeding time for patients on warfarin; one report showed that
blood clotting time doubled for two patients taking warfarin and garlic.7,31
?Ginger rhizome (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger may enhance the absorption of sulfaguanidine, according to experiments on rats.32 Bleeding times and immunological parameters may be influenced because of ginger ability to inhibit thromboxane synthase and to act as a prostacyclin agonist, but a clinical study of dried ginger on platelet activity showed no differences in bleeding times between treatment and placebo groups.33 Large doses (12-14 g) may enhance the hypothrombinemic effects of anticoagulants, but the clinical significance of this finding has not been evaluated.7
Ginkgo leaf extract (Ginkgo biloba)
Ginkgo may have an additive effect with other blood-thinning agents: in one patient, 40 mg of a 50:1 concentrated extract, taken twice daily, induced bleeding from the iris when combined with long-term use of aspirin.34 The results of a clinical study suggest
that in the 20 percent of subjects in whom intracavernosal injection of papaverine to treat male impotence was ineffective, ginkgo potentiated the action of this drug.35
Ginseng root, Asian (Panax ginseng)
There have been two reports of interactions with the monoamine oxidase inhibitor
phenelzine, but the clinical significance of this interaction has not been evaluated.7
Gurmar leaves (Gymnema sylvestre)
Gurmar, a traditional Ayurvedic herb, can have an additive effect: the hypoglycemic effects of glyburide and tolbutamide were enhanced in 22 patients with non-insulin- dependent diabetes by 400 mg/day of a water-soluble, acidic fraction of the ethanolic extract of gurmar.36 A 400 mg/day dose of the ethanolic extract fraction of gurmar greatly reduced fasting blood glucose in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes, which reduced insulin requirements.37
Hawthorn leaf with flower (Crataegus spp.)
Preparations made from flowers with leaves (and possibly also the fruits) may enhance the effects of cardiac glycosides and have been used with such drugs in German clinical medicine to reduce the risk of toxic effects. In addition, hawthorn has been used intermittently with digitalis. Hawthorn procyanidins have reportedly increased the coronary artery dilatation effect caused by theophylline, caffeine, papaverine, sodium nitrate, adenosine and epinephrine. Hawthorn has increased barbiturate-induced sleeping times.19 However, the recently published ESCOP monograph does not list any interactions, so it is likely that some authorities do not consider these interactions significant.6
Kava rhizome (Piper methysticum)
Kava may potentiate the effectiveness of substances acting on the central nervous system, such as alcohol, barbiturates, and psychopharmacological agents.5 An additive action of kava taken at normal doses for three days with the benzodiazepine alprazolam led to a lethargic and disoriented state,38 even though an in vitro experiment showed that kava resin compounds did not bind at benzodiazepine receptor sites.11 Also, a potential antagonistic or incompatible action may occur: 150 mg kava extract twice daily reduced the efficacy of levodopa in the treatment of Parkinson disease in one case.39
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Simultaneous use of licorice with conventional drugs, such as thiazide diuretics, can increase loss of potassium and result in increased sensitivity to digitalis glycosides.5 Prolonged use in conjunction with thiazide and loop diuretics and cardiac glycosides is contraindicated, and licorice should not be administered with spironolactone or amiloride.7
Marshmallow leaf and root (Althaea officinalis)
No interactions are known. Absorption of other drugs taken simultaneously may be delayed because of high mucilage content.5,6
Milk thistle seed extract (Silybum marianum)
The concentrated extract from the fruits protects the liver from the adverse effects of simultaneously administered drugs: a dose of 400 mg twice daily helped prevent liver damage in 15 patients receiving hepatotoxic psychotropic medication, including butyrophenones and phenothiazines in a clinical trial,40 and reduced the hepatotoxic effects of phenytoin in a case study.41
Oak bark (Quercus robur)
Absorption of alkaloids and other alkaline drugs may be reduced or inhibited.5
Papain from papaya (Carica papaya)
The enzyme in the green fruit extract may have an additive effect. It increased the anticoagulant effect of warfarin in one case.42
Peppermint oil (Mentha x piperita)
Patients with achlorhydria (e.g., caused by H2 receptor blocker medication) should
use peppermint oil only in enteric-coated capsules.6
Psyllium, black seed (Plantago afra syn. P. psyllium or P. indica syn. P. arenaria)
This herb may retard the absorption of minerals (such as calcium, iron and zinc), vitamins (such as vitamin B12) and medicines, especially cardiac glycosides and coumarin derivatives. Carbohydrate absorption may also be retarded, which could lead to a reduction in insulin requirement in some diabetic patients; however, this effect is weak and may need to be considered only in cases of long-term use of bulk- forming laxatives.6
Psyllium, blonde seed and blonde seed husk (Plantago ovata)
The Commission E reported that intestinal absorption of other medication taken at the same time may be delayed.5 Also, absorption of minerals (such as calcium, iron and zinc), vitamins (such as vitamin B12) and medicines, especially cardiac glycosides and coumarin derivatives, may be retarded. Carbohydrate absorption may also be retarded, which could lead to a reduction in insulin requirement in patients with type 1 diabetes;5-7 however, this effect is weak and may need to be considered only in cases of long-term use of bulk-forming laxatives.6 Decreased bioavailability of other medications taken simultaneously has been observed: the use of psyllium with lithium salts may inhibit absorption of lithium in the gastrointestinal tract and hence lead to lower plasma concentrations.7 One teaspoon (5 ml) of psyllium in water twice daily reduced the absorption of lithium taken orally in one case, although this effect did not occur if the lithium was taken one hour or more before the psyllium.12 A decrease in the rate and extent of carbamazepine absorption has been reported.7
Rhubarb root (Rheum officinale)
With long-term use or abuse, an increase in the effectiveness and toxic effects of cardiac glycosides and an effect on antiarrhythmics is possible because of the loss of potassium. Potassium deficiency can be increased by simultaneous use of thiazide diuretics, corticoadrenal steroids or licorice root.5,7 Decreased intestinal transit time may reduce the absorption time of orally administered drugs.7
Sarsaparilla root (Smilax spp.)
Absorption of simultaneously administered substances, such as digitalis glycosides or bismuth, can be increased. Elimination of other substances, such as hypnotics, can be accelerated. This can increase or decrease the action of herbs taken simultaneously.5
Scotch broom herb (Cytisus scoparius)
Because of its tyramine content, the use of this herb can cause a hypertensive crisis if
it is administered simultaneously with monoamine oxidase inhibitors.5
Senna fruit (pod) and leaf (Cassia senna; also Alexandrian senna, C. senna; C. acutifolia; and Tinnevelly senna, C. angustifolia)
Long-term use or abuse can increase the loss of serum potassium, which may potentiate cardiac glycosides and antiarrhythmic agents (e.g., quinidine). Potassium deficiency can be increased by simultaneous use of thiazide diuretics, corticosteroids or licorice root.5-7 Decreased intestinal transit time may reduce the absorption time of some orally administered drugs.7
Stinging nettle leaves (Urtica dioica)
The leaves enhance drug effects: 50 g of stewed leaf (95.5 percent water) enhanced the anti-inflammatory effect of 50 mg of diclofenac (action equivalent to 200 mg) when given to 19 patients in a controlled clinical trial.43 This effect was probably due in part to inhibition of release of tumour necrosis factor-a and interleukin-1b, as shown when two capsules of an 8:1 or 10:1 extract were given twice daily to 20 healthy volunteers.43
St. John wort herb (Hypericum perforatum)
There are reports of increased serotonin levels in patients using selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., sertraline) with St. John wort.44 Evidence suggests that St. John wort affects the hepatic cytochrome P450 system, increasing activity of its most abundant isozyme, CYP3A4, thereby possibly lowering the activity of simultaneously administered drugs that are known substrates for this isozyme, including nonsedating antihistamines, oral contraceptives, certain anti-retrovirals, antiepileptics, calcium channel blockers, cyclosporine, some chemotherapeutics, macrolide antibiotics, and select antifungals.45,50
Uva ursi or bearberry leaf (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
This herb should not be administered with any substances that cause acidic urine, such as ascorbic acid and ammonium chloride, as it will reduce the antibacterial effect.5,6
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis)
No interactions were reported by the Commission E5 or ESCOP.6 In a clinical study with the valepotriate fraction, reduction of the adverse effects of simultaneously administered alcohol was observed, with a dose-dependent increase in the ability to concentrate.46 A recent monograph review47 cites three older reports of potentiation of barbiturates.
Willow bark (Salix spp.)
Because of the bark active constituents, there is a theoretical potential for interactions such as those encountered with salicylates, although no case of this has
been reported in the scientific literature.5 The ESCOP monograph notes that no interactions have been reported and that irreversible inhibition of platelet aggregation by aspirin cannot be induced by the structurally different salicin.6
Yohimbe bark (Pausinystalia yohimbe)
Although yohimbe or yohimbine taken by itself can cause hypertension, lower doses may have a favourable effect in orthostatic hypotension induced by tricyclic antidepressants.48
References
1. Johnston BA. Prevention magazine assesses use of dietary supplements. HerbalGram. 2000;48:65.
2. Eisenberg DM, Davis RB, Ettner SL, et al. Trends in alternative medicine use in the United States, 1990-1997. JAMA. 1998;280(18):1569-1575.
3. Blumenthal M. Harvard study estimates consumers spend $5.1 billion on herbal products. HerbalGram. 1999;45:68.
4. Johnston BA. Two-thirds of Canadians say natural herbal supplements are as effective as prescription drugs or over-the-counter remedies. HerbalGram. 2000;48:66.
5. Blumenthal M, Busse WR, Goldberg A, Gruenwald J, Hall T, Riggins CW, Rister RS (eds.). The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. Klein S, Rister RS, translators. Austin (TX): American Botanical Council; Boston (MA): Integrative Medicine Communications; 1998.
6. European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP). ESCOP monographs on the medicinal uses of plant drugs. Exeter, UK: ESCOP; 1997, 1999.
7. World Health Organization. WHO monographs on selected medicinal plants. Vol 1. Geneva: The Organization; 1999.
8. Brinker FJ. Interactions of pharmaceutical and botanical medicines. J Naturopath Med. 1999;7(2):14-19.
9. Miller LG. Herbal medicinals: selected clinical considerations or potential drug-herb interactions. Arch Intern Med. 1998;158:2200-2211.
10. Fugh-Berman A. Herb-drug interactions. Lancet. 2000;335:134-138.
11. Brinker FJ. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy
(OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
12. McGuffin M, Hobbs C, Upton R, et al. American Herbal Products Association Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press; 1997.
13. Bradley PR, editor. British Herbal Compendium, Vol 1. Bournemouth, UK: British Herbal Medicine Association; 1992.
14. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines ?a guide for health-care professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press; 1996.
15. DeSmet PAGM, D rcy PF. Drug interactions with herbal and other non- orthodox remedies. In: D rcy PF, McElnay JC, Welling PG, editors.
Mechanisms of Drug Interactions. New York: Springer-Verlag; 1996. pp. 327- 52.
16. British Herbal Medicine Association. British Herbal Pharmacopoeia. Bournemouth, UK: The Association; 1990.
17. Ministère des Affaires Sociales et de la Solidarité, Direction de la Pharmacie et du Médicament. Bulletin officiel (fascicule spécial), no. 90/22 bis: Avis aux fabricants concernant les demandes d utorisation de mise sur le marché des médicaments à base de plantes. Paris: Direction des journaux officiels; 1990.
18. Upton R, editor. Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus and Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus). Soquel (CA): American Herbal Pharmacopoeia; 1999.
19. Upton R, editor. Hawthorn leaf with flower (Crataegus spp.). Soquel (CA): American Herbal Pharmacopoeia; 1999.
20. Bergner P. Herb-drug interactions [oral presentation]. Southwest Herbal Conference on Botanical Medicines; 1999 Apr 10-11; Phoenix.
21. Yongchaiyudha S, Rungpitarangsi V, Bunyapraphatsara N, et al. Antidiabetic activity of Aloe vera L. juice. I. Clinical trial in new cases of diabetes mellitus. Phytomedicine. 1996;3(3):241-243.
22. Aslam M, Stockley IH. Interaction between curry ingredient (karela) and drug (chlorpropamide) [letter]. Lancet. 1979;1:607.
23. Leatherdale BA, Panesar RK, Singh G, et al. Improvement in glucose tolerance due to Momordica charantia (karela). BMJ. 1981;282:1823-1824.
24. Welihinda J, Karunanayake EH, Sheriff MHR, et al. Effect of Momordica charantia on the glucose tolerance in maturity onset diabetes. J Ethnopharmacol. 1986;17:277-282.
25. Neurauer RA. A plant protease for potentiation of and possible replacement of antibiotics. Exp Med Surg. 1961;19:143-160.
26. Taussig SJ, Batkin S. Bromelain, the enzyme complex of pineapple (Ananas comosus) and its clinical application. An update. J Ethnopharmacol. 1988;22:191-203.
27. Yeoh KG, Kang JY, Guan R, et al. Chili protects against aspirin-induced gastroduodenal mucosal injury in humans. Dig Dis Sci. 1995;40(3):580-583.
28. Boehnert KJ. The use of Vitex agnus-castus for hyperprolactinemia. In: Brown DJ, editor. Quart Rev Nat Med. Seattle (WA): Natural Product Research Consultants; Spring 1997. pp. 19-21.
29. McRae S. Elevated serum digoxin levels in a patient taking digoxin and Siberian ginseng. CMAJ. 1996;155:293-295. Awang DVC. Siberian ginseng toxicity may be case of mistaken identity. CMAJ. 1996; 155(9):1237.
30. Vereshchagin IA, Geskina OD, Bukhteeva ER. Increasing antibiotic therapy efficacy with adaptogens in children suffering from dysentery. Antibiotiki. 1982;27(1):65-69 (BA 75:32108). Cited by: Brinker FJ. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
31. Sunter WH. Warfarin and garlic [letter]. Pharm J. 1991;246:722.
32. Sakai K, Oshima N, Kutsuna T, et al. Pharmaceutical studies on crude drugs I. Effect of the Zingiberaceae crude drug extracts on sulfaguanidine absorption from rat small intestine. Yakugaku Zasshi. 1986;106:947-950. Cited by: European Scientific Cooperative on Phytotherapy (ESCOP). ESCOP monographs on the medicinal uses of plants. Exeter, UK: ESCOP; 1997.
33. Lumb AB. Effect of ginger on human platelet function. Thromb Haemost. 1994;71:110-111.
34. Rosenblatt M, Mindel J. Spontaneous hyphema associated with ingestion of Ginkgo biloba extract [letter]. N Engl J Med. 1997;336(15):1108.
35. Sikora R, Sohn M, Deutz FJ, et al. Ginkgo biloba extract in the therapy of erectile dysfunction [abstract]. J Urol. 1989;141:188A.
36. Baskaran K, Kizar Ahamath B, Radha Shanmugasundaram K, et al. Antidiabetic effect of a leaf extract from Gymnema sylvestre in non-insulin- dependent diabetes mellitus patients. J Ethnopharmacol. 1990;30:295-305.
37. Shanmugasundaram ERB, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, et al. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin- dependent diabetes mellitus. J Ethnopharmacol. 1990; 30: 281-94. Cited by: Brinker FJ. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Sandy (OR): Eclectic Medical Publications; 1998.
38. Almeida JC, Grimsley EW. Coma from the health food store: interaction between kava and alprozolam [letter]. Ann Intern Med. 1996;125(11):940.
39. Schelosky L, Raffauf C, Jendroska K, et al. Kava and dopamine antagonism. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry. 1995;58(5):639-640.
40. Palasciano G, Portincasa P, Palmieri V, et al. The effect of silymarin on plasma levels of malon-dialdehyde in patients receiving long-term treatment with psychotropic drugs. Curr Ther Res. 1994;55:537-545.
41. Fintelmann V. Toxic metabolic liver damage and its treatment. Z Phytother. 1986;(3):65-73.
42. Shulman A. Toxicological problems of traditional remedies and food supplements. Int J Altern Complement Med. 1997;Jan:9-10.
43. Chrubasik S, Enderlein W, Bauer R, et al. Evidence for antirheumatic effectiveness of herba Urticae dioicae in acute arthritis: a pilot study. Phytomed. 1997;4(2):105-108. Teucher T, Obertreis B, Ruttkowski B, et al. Cytokine secretion in whole blood of healthy volunteers after oral ingestion of an Urtica doica L. leaf extract. Arzneimittelforschung. 1996;46(9):906-910.
44. Lantz MS, Buchalter E, Giambanco V. St. John wort and antidepressant drug interactions in the elderly. J Geriatr Psychiatry Neurol. 1999;12:7-10.
45. Roby CA, Kantor E, Anderson GD, et al. St. John wort impact on CYP3A4 activity [poster presentation]. Boca Raton (FL): 39th annual meeting of New Clinical Drug Evaluation Unit Program; 1999 June 1-4.
46. Boss R, Woerdenbag HJ, DeSmet PAGM, et al. Valeriana species. In: De Smet PAGM, Keller K, Hänsel R, et al, editors. Adverse Effects of Herbal Drugs, Vol. 3. New York: Springer-Verlag; 1997.
47. Upton R, editor. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis). Soquel (CA): American Herbal Pharmacopoeia; 1999.
48. Lacomblez L, Bensimon G, Isnard F, et al. Effect of yohimbine on blood pressure in patients with depression and orthostatic hypertension induced by clomipramine. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1989;45:241-251.
49. Lininger SW (ed.). HealthNotes Clinical Essentials, Vol. 1. Drug- Supplement Depletions/Interactions. Portland (OR): 2000; Healthnotes, Inc.
50. Roby CA, Anderson GD Kantor Ga, et al. St. John wort: Effect on CYP3A4 activity. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2000;67:451-457.
51. Blumenthal M, Goldberg A, Brinckmann J. Herbal Medicine xpanded Commission E Monographs. Newton (MA): Integrative Medicine Communications; 2000.
Some of these herbs are not Chinese herbs (feverfew, gingko, valerian, kava, echinacea, everning primrose, borage). If you saw a Chinese herbalist, they wouldn't be an issue. Plus, Chinese herbalists prescribe more balanced formulas, not single herbs, so potential interactions with the single herbs are reduced.
Positive Results of Combining Herbs and Drugs
1. Gan cao increases the effectiveness of prednisone. This benefit can be used to reduce the dosage of prednisone in patients who have to take it long term. This reduces the serious long-term side effects (bone density loss, adrenal insufficiency, etc.).
2. In typhoid fever, research showed that those given an herbal formula (xue yang mei) plus a sulfa drug did better than those just given the sulfa drug. Both groups had a 100% cure rate, but the combination group experienced few or no side effects.
3. In mastitis, those given a heat and toxin clearing herbal formula (jin yin hua, pu gong ying, yu jin, chi shao, dan shen, qing pi) plus penicillin/streptomycin injections did much better than those only given the injection.
4. In adult primary nephrotic syndrome, one group was simply given corticosteroids, while another group was also given an herb formulas (dan shen, di gu pi, gui ban, han lian cao, hong hua, nu zhen zi, gou qi zi, sheng di, zhi mu). The steroid only group had a recovery rate of 56%, while the combined group's recovery rate was 85%. In another study with nephritic patients, patients given predisone, zhi mu (anemarrhena), shu di huang (rehmannia), and gan cao (licorice) experienced less of the corticosteroid side effects.
5. Late-stage gastric cancer patients were studied. All patients were given a drug chemotherapy combo of either methotrexate, fluoroacil and vinblastine, or methotrexate, MFC, and fluorocil. One of the two groups was also given herbs (huang qi, tai zhi shen, caulis banthalobi, ji xue tang, bai zhu, fu ling, niu zhen zi, gou qi zi, tu su zi). Side effects were cut in half or eliminated in the chemo
plus herbs group. Here's a table of the percentage of patients who experienced specific side effects:
Side Effect
Loss of Appetite Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea
Fatigue
Numbness in Limbs
Chemo Only
50% 50% 50% 67% 33%
Chemo & Herbal Formula
19% 19% 0% 31% 0%
Solving the Multi-Drug Problem with Herbs
Many patients are on multiple drugs. We have had success reducing these medications over time with the assistance of herbal formulas. An appropriate herbal formula is begun weeks or months ahead of time. This gives the patient a 'cushion,'so to speak. Then the drug dosage is slowly reduced. The herbal prescription is modified as the patient progresses. MD's often cooperate with us in this effort since they know as well as anyone the dangers of poly-pharmacy (taking multiple drugs at once) especially in the elderly. They say a good geriatric doctor stops more medications than he starts. Herbs are more likely to correct an imbalance permanently (we call that "healing"). Drugs'therapeutic effects are almost always temporary. It takes more time to do this with herbs but it's worth it.
General Rules for Taking Herbs, Vitamins and Drugs:
Take them at different times. Most drugs are taken with meals to limit Stomach irritation. Take herbs between meals (at least 1 hour before and after a meal 2-3 hours would be best) for optimal digestion.
Don't take ascorbic (vitamin C) or salicylic acid (aspirin) at the same time as herbs. The acids will neutralize many of the saponins. Vit C will alter and neutralize herbs so don't drink any orange or citrus juices with herbs either.
Don't take herbs that are supposed to do the same thing as a drug you're on. For example, don't take blood movers like dan shen or dang gui with warfarin. Don't take diuretics like fu ling with diuretic drugs.
You can take an herbal formula to complement the drugs you have to take. This can reduce or eliminate side effects. It really requires a professional see a Chinese Medicine practitioner. This works well in chemotherapy to protect the body. However, in Hepatitis C, the interferon/ribavirin treatment requires some of the uncomfortable symptoms of fever and feeling ill to work. Stopping those side effects with herbs has been known to inhibit the drugs'effects. In the case of Hep C, you can opt for Chinese Herbal therapies instead of the western drug cocktail. (Carter, 2004)
Summary
It is generally respectful and beneficial for a holistic practitioner to communicate about any intended treatment with the prescribing doctor. This is easier if the practitioner already has contact with the doctor and they have a good working relationship. There may be situations where this is not the case or where the patient may not wish there to be any communication with their doctor. This wish must be respected and it is for the practitioner and the patient to decide how best to continue. In more difficult cases, it is certainly helpful to seek out advice and support from more experienced practitioners and from sympathetic conventionally trained practitioners (Gascoigne, 2003). In summary:
- A holistic practitioner’s main concern is what will benefit the patient.
- Prescribed drugs change symptoms – this may cause confusion when making a diagnosis.
- A holistic practitioner should enquire about the original condition.
- It is important to study the effects of the drug being taken.
- Patients should be given information about the medication they are taking.
- It is helpful to liaise with sympathetic, conventionally trained practitioners.
References:
Gascoigne, S. (2003). The Prescribed Drug Guide A Holistic Perspective. Jigme Press, Ireland.
Carter, B (2004). www.the-vu.com
Dharmananda, S. The Interactions of Herbs and Drugs. June, 2001. Institute for Traditional Medicine. http://www.itmonline.org.
Kelvin Chan, Lily Cheung. Interactions Between Chinese Herbal Medicinal Products and Orthodox Drugs. Dunitz Martin Ltd. 2000. (Most of the positive drug-herb studies mentioned above were summarized in this source. At least one of them came from the Beijing Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine.)
Miller LG. Herbal medicinals: selected clinical considerations focusing on known or potential drug-herb interactions. Arch Intern Med. 1998 Nov 9;158(20):2200-11. Review.
]]>These Amazonian butters are used by the natives of rainforests for centuries as food, medicine and cosmetics yet there are very few research studies available about them (in English). With the internet connecting us, the globe is becoming smaller and smaller and one of its huge advantages is the luxury of coming into contact with ingredients that we have hardly heard about or only seen/read in books and travel documentaries.
In this article we summarise five fantastic Amazonian butters for organic skincare and haircare formulations.
Bacuri Butter
In the traditional way, the fruits are soaked in water (up to one year) and then boiled in water. The fat floats on top of the water after cooling and is separated from water. In the modern, industrial method, the fruits are cold pressed and the oil is physically filtered afterwards to separate shells and other impurities.
Application
Bacuri butter has a dry skin feel and hence could be used both for greasy as well as dry hair and skin care. Because of its intensive colour and scent it is rarely used as a standalone ingredient, however, applied to the skin (if you can overcome the apathy for its colour) it imparts a golden touch to the skin. High palmitic acid content means excellent performance for dry hair and skin.
Its folklore uses include treating spider and snake bites, relieving arthritis and rheumatic pain as well as treating skin freckles and scars. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, it could be used in shaving and after shave as well as depilatory and after depilatory formulations.
Chemistry
Bacuri butter is unique in high concentrations of Tripalmitin (50-55%). Tripalmitin is a bioactive ingredient and tripalmitin containing oils and butters are applied in controlled drug delivery system for an improved pharmacokinetics, controlled release and bioavailability of active ingredients in pharmaceuticals. Apart from palmitic acid, oleic acid is the major component found in this butter.
Bacuri Butter - Fatty acid compositionPalmitic acid - 69.0%
Cupuaçu belongs to the same family as cocoa and is one of the superfruits of the Amazonian rainforests. The pulp is used in juices, ice creams and sweets. The fermented seeds are roasted and used in a chocolate like drink called cupulate. The butter is obtained by cold pressing the seeds.
Application
Cupuaçu butter has excellent moisturising performance, much higher than lanolin. It is often recommended as a plant based lanolin substitute for vegan products.
The high phytosterol content regulates skin lipid production. According to Krist, the butter has UV-filter and antibacterial properties. Please note that plant oils can not be used as standalone sun protection active ingredients. These butters and oils can only work as SPF boosters.
Presence of long chain fatty acids (arachidic and behenic acid) makes it an excellent protection and repair ingredient for hair- and skincare. In an specific study in 2003, A skin repair cream with 7.5% Cupuaçu butter was successfully applied to reduce inflammation and TEWL of SLS caused irritation.
Chemistry
Cupuaçu butter has a balanced ratio of saturated and unsaturated oils. This ratio is the reason for its low melting point and its very nice skin feel despite high concentrations of stearic acid (approx. 35%). The butter contains ca. 2-3% unsaponifiables, mainly phytosterols and tocopherols (mainly gamma-tocopherol). The butter contains ca. 11% arachidic acid, a saturated fatty acid with 20 Carbon atoms (C20:0).
Cupuaçu Butter - Fatty acid compositionOleic acid (C18:1) - 41.0%
Murumuru palms grow in the Brazilian Amazon, preferably on periodically flooded areas. The ripened fruits with a yellow fruit pulp fall to the ground where the rodents eat the pulp and leave the seeds for butter extraction. The seeds contain about 40% butter.
Applications
Murumuru butter has a long shelf life and a higher melting point compared to coconut oil. High concentrations of lauric and myristic acid makes it an excellent butter for soap making. In addition to that, it is pre-destined for hair care because of its high lauric/myristic acid content.
Murumuru butter is a favourite ingredient in hair products for dry and curly hair as well as reparative hair care for hair damaged from bleaching and permanent waving.
Having antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is a suitable ingredient in preparations for chappy, dry and inflamed as well as acne-prone skin.
Chemistry
The butter has a white to beige colour with a decent nutty scent. It contains high concentrations of lauric, myristic and oleic acid.
Murumuru Butter - Fatty acid compositionLauric acid (C12:0) - 47.0%
Tucuma Butter
Tucuma palm is considered a very resistant and aggressive plant. It is even resistant to fire and has an ability to grow shoots again after fire.
The butter is obtained by cold pressing the seeds. It is a white to beige butter with a decent nutty scent. In the traditional method of manufacturing (like almost all other Amazonian butters), the seeds are boiled with water and the butter is separated from the water afterwards.
Application
High in lauric and myristic acid, the butter creates a nice foam in soap. Furthermore, due to its high concentration of lauric acid, tucuma butter is an excellent ingredient for hair care – particularly for damaged and split-end, as well as curly hair.
In skin care, it is used for dry and damaged skin (mostly in combination with other butters and oils).
Chemistry
The butter contains high concentrations of lauric and myristic acid and is mainly composed of saturated fatty acids.
Tucuma Butter - Fatty acid compositionLauric acid (C12:0) - 46.0%
Ucuuba Butter
Ucuuba butter is obtained by cold pressing the seeds which have a high fat content (60-70%). It has a brown (caramel-like) colour and a nutty scent.
Application
Ucuuba butter has a high melting point and an intensive colour. It is not used as a stand-alone ingredient but can impart barrier protection and coverage in hair and skin care products. Ucuuba butter has anti-inflammatory properties. Due to its high melting point, it is an excellent ingredient for bath and body products that are applied under high temperatures.
Chemistry
Ucuuba butter is rich in tri-myristin (tri myristic acids in a triglyceride group).
Ucuuba Butter - Fatty acid compositionMyristic acid (C14:0) - 74.0%
Summary of Amazonian Butters
None of these Amazonian butters and oils are used as stand-alone ingredients. A well-designed hair or skin care product is a synergy of several ingredients to achieve desired properties: skin feel, melting point, stability, barrier repair and coverage. We recommend that you use these ingredients in combination to your usual oils and butters to add an Amazonian touch to your products.
Which of these Amazonian butters have you worked with or would you like to work with? Leave us a comment below!
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Supplements that may affect aging and longevity specifically influence the age-related deterioration of the body. They may affect the damage to and function of chromosomes, the function of mitochondria, protein quality, and other aspects of cellular health and integrity.
It's important to note that supplements on this page are largely speculative in that the research relies heavily on in vitro, animal, and short-term human studies with respect to biomarkers of aging. It can't be reliably inferred that any of these supplements will lead to a notably longer life or a notable effect on the progression of aging.
I am listing some: Guarana, Catuaba, Yerba mate, Carqueja, Foo ti root, Ashwagandha and Astragalus.
E-mail us for the full list! or click on the herb's name to buy.]]>Absolute statements are why we have so many nutrition myths. Cancer is particularly difficult to discuss in absolutes. After all, almost everything we eat has the potential to be involved in cancer development Yet, red meat has been fingered as a likely culprit.
Some compounds — such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), found in smoked meats — have been found to damage the genome, which is the first step to potential cancer. Current evidence suggests that processed red meats, particularly those that are more charred during cooking, can pose a greater cancer risk for people with poor diets and lifestyles. But if you moderate your red meat intake, exercise regularly, eat your fruits and veggies, consume adequate fiber, don’t smoke, and drink only in moderation, red meat's effect on cancer isn't something to worry too much about.
The Truth: Fears about red meat causing cancer are vastly exaggerated. Making healthy lifestyle choices (such as staying at a healthy weight, exercising, and not smoking) is more important than micromanaging your red meat intake. Still, if you plan to decrease your intake of red meat, start with the kind that has been cured, smoked, or highly processed.
]]>Eggs have been demonized because their yolks, which are chock-full of nutrients, contain high levels of cholesterol. Yet, for most people, eating foods high in cholesterol is not strongly linked to an increase in blood cholesterol levels.
More to the point, in clinical trials, no association was found between eggs and cardiovascular diseases, except maybe in some people with specific pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or hyperglycemia.
The Truth: Eggs are a great source of protein, fats, and other nutrients. Their association with high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease has been severely overblown.]]>
Brazilian clays are set to become one of the hottest beauty trends this year. Demand for Brazilian clays is on the rise, and given the host of benefits they offer, it's easy to see why! All Brazilian clays are forms of kaolin clay, which naturally occurs in hot, wet climates.
When mixed with water, this clay creates a slurry suspension. It is light and fine, and its color varies depending on the presence of certain elements when it forms. When you think about Brazilian clays vs. others, it starts with some generic but pretty awesome benefits.
General Benefits of Brazilian Clays
But there are certainly other types of clays that may offer similar benefits, we agree, however, it is important to note that Brazilian clay absorbs less water is less drying on the skin.
Water absorption*:
There is also a pH level factor. Here is an excerpt from Anna Moore’s article on balancing your skin’s PH on SkinCareRX. “Our skin is naturally designed to fight infection and environmental stresses and its ability to do so is affected by its pH level. The pH level of the skin refers to how acidic or alkaline it is. On a scale of 1-14, with 1 being the most acidic to 14 being the most alkaline, 7 is considered a neutral reading for your skin’s pH. Our skin has a thin, protective layer on its surface, referred to as the acid mantle. This acid mantle is made up of sebum (free fatty acids) excreted from the skin’s sebaceous glands, which mixes with lactic and amino acids from sweat to create the skin’s pH, which ideally should be slightly acidic – at about 5.5.
Many factors can interfere with the delicate balance of the skin’s acid mantle, both externally and internally. As we age, our skin becomes more acidic in response to our lifestyle and our environment. Everything that comes in contact with our skin (products, smoking, air, water, sun, pollution) can contribute to the breaking down of the acid mantle, disrupting the skin’s ability to protect itself.
Diet plays an important role in determining our internal and external pH levels. It is important to note that a food’s acid or alkaline formation in the body is not the same as the pH of the food itself. In an interesting paradox, foods that are considered acidic before digestion (like lemons) become alkaline-forming in the body. Most animal products, which are alkaline prior to digestion, are considered acid-forming in the body. “We need our diets to be less acidic than alkaline, otherwise internally, we become too acidic.” This means that an ideal diet consists of consuming an abundance of alkalizing foods such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, tomatoes, carrots, and soybeans.
Maintaining the Acid Mantle Optimal pH Skin Care
An acid mantle is an effective form of protection, but if your pH level is too alkaline or too acidic, the mantle is disturbed and skin conditions such as dermatitis, eczema, and rosacea may result. A skin care product may claim to be pH balanced, but you can verify the actual pH of a product by using an at-home pH testing kit (available at most drug stores). A physician also can determine your skin’s surface pH level and saliva tests will accurately indicate your body’s overall pH level.
Choosing mild cleansers and toners that are slightly acidic (close to 5) will benefit all skin types in properly maintaining the acid mantle. Here is an overview of the pH levels of different clays:
https://rterraherbs.com/collections/clays
But one of the most fascinating and fun features of Brazilian clay is how many types of Brazilian clay exist naturally in one geographic region.
Natural Brazilian Clay
All Brazilian clays are naturally colored in the process of development, but when people refer to “natural” clay, they likely mean neutrally colored clay, which is often white or soft beige in color. It is typically high in silicon and retains water really well. Some people use this and other colors of clay for facials, scrubs, moisturizers or even soaps. Each of the other Brazilian clay colors typically has an additional natural chemical or elemental component that makes it ideal for specific applications.
While you may not think that clay could naturally have such a bold color, the beautiful soft purple color of this clay is due to high levels of magnesium. Purple clay benefits are mostly anti-aging. Magnesium, after all, helps ensure healthy skin cells, which can make you look younger.
Purple Brazilian clay can also help prevent your skin from absorbing environmental contaminants and impurities. That is why purple clay is one of the most popular natural clays for soap.
The minerals that give this clay its lovely natural color include copper, selenium, manganese magnesium and zinc. It's popular for use in soaps because it helps form a smooth, rich lather and offers mild exfoliating properties. Pink Brazilian clay is prized for being the mildest clay available. It often has a pH very close to that of human skin, making it ideal for those with very sensitive or delicate skin.
Yellow clays often include feldspar, also called aluminum silicate. It's a soft, mild clay that doesn't absorb oil like the other colors of clay. That makes it perfect for sensitive or dry skin. You will often find increased amounts of silicon, titanium, and potassium in this clay, which can promote increased collagen production. Some people also believe it can help remineralize the skin, making it stronger and healthier.
Red clays are higher in iron, which softens skin almost instantly upon use. It can help repair the cutaneous effects of the natural aging process in your skin. It also lifts and firms your skin. In fact, clinical tests have shown that red clay can increase elasticity by 173 percent and firmness by 37 percent.
A Brazilian clay mask that includes red clay, like our Brazilian glow red clay, Can help you regain that youthful glow and leave you with firmer, more fresh-looking skin. If you have the dreaded adult onset acne, Brazilian red clay can remove surface oils that cause outbreaks while also firming your skin.
Known as the world’s most perfect beauty ingredient for its ability to remove dry patches and oiliness simultaneously for a flawless look. It is widely used in makeup and has become particularly popular in makeup through Tarte Cosmetics.
We use Amazonian White Clay in our Brightening and Exfoliating Mud. The combination of antioxidant-rich superfruit oils, Amazonian White Clay and Açaí Seed Powder + Pythic Acid make our Mud a powerful, yet gentle skin detoxifying and exfoliating product for the most sensitive of skins.
Brazilian Clays also come in crude, light green, gold, black, brown, light red, dark red, old rose, vanilla, and yellow. Each of them with different, rich properties for your skin and even for your hair.
Many products that are great for your overall skin aren't always ideal for facial skin care. The reverse is also true. Brazilian clays are one of the few products that work as well on the face as on the rest of your body.
R'terra's popular Rejuvenating Revitalizing Red clay and Green clay both feature a potent, proprietary blend of active essential oils and another vegan, natural, active ingredients and work wonders for both face and body skin. You can also get 100% pure red green for DIY mask, based on your skin type.
Clays $4 to $40
https://rterraherbs.com/collections/clays-1
Fresh produce is defined as anything that is “postharvest ripened” (if it ripens during transport) or “vine-ripened” (if it is picked and sold ripe: at a farmer’s fresh market or at a farmer’s roadside fruit stand, for instance).
Frozen produce is generally vine-ripened before undergoing minimal processing prior to freezing. Most vegetables and some fruits undergo blanching in hot water for a few minutes before freezing, in order to inactivate enzymes that may cause unfavorable changes in color, smell, flavor, and nutritional value.
While there are some differences between fresh and frozen for select nutrients in select fruits and veggies, overall they have very similar nutritional content.
The Truth: While there can be some nutrient differences between fresh and frozen produce, the overall differences are small. Pick whichever suits your taste, budget, and lifestyle.
]]>https://rterraherbs.com/collections/superfood/products/acai-1
Health Benefits of Acai Berries - Support Weight Loss - Improve Cardiovascular Health - Aphrodisiac - Premature Aging - Prevent diseases - Nutritious - Acai berry contains 19 amino acids - Natural antioxidant - Strengthens the immune system - Premature Aging - Protects the Heart
Origin: Brazil and Peru
Acai berries come from the acai palm, widely found in the Amazon Brazil. It represented a major staple food of the indigenous tribes, and its nutritional value made it vital to their overall health, sometimes making up more than 25% of their food volume intake. it is the “Power source of athletes in Brazil”, the acai berry does not have that reputation for nothing. The fruit is commonly used in pre-workout sports because of your high energy value and amount of iron that acts on strengthening muscles. After physical activities, the acai berry helps to reset the muscle glycogen, acting on post-workout recovery.
Acai berries can be a tremendously healthy addition to your diet and help to increase heart health, aids in weight loss, as well as aiding in health issues relating to your skin, digestion, allergies, immune system, and energy levels. Furthermore, research has shown it to be one of the best sources of antioxidants, an aphrodisiac, a brain booster, and a great weapon against premature aging, cancer, and unexplained fatigue or exhaustion. Overall, this miraculous little berry can have a huge impact on your health and happiness.
Nutritional Value Of Acai Berries:
Acai berry contains 19 amino acids, as well as several sterols (campesterol, stigmasterol, and beta-sitosterol anthocyanins also is rich in vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin A, E, and C. Amongst minerals, acai berries contain calcium, iron, potassium, and sodium.
Health Benefits of Acai Berries
Improve Cardiovascular Health
Grapes are the primary ingredient in wine, and they are similar to berries in many ways, including their high levels of anthocyanins, which are a form of plant antioxidants. Antioxidants are the scavenging particles in our body which seek out and eliminate the free radicals that are responsible for a wide variety of damaging diseases and conditions including heart disease. Anthocyanins are also related to reducing blood cholesterol by scavenging some of the harmful LDL cholesterol off of artery walls, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack. Acai berries also have plenty of plant sterols, which act as vasodilators and relax blood vessels to reduce blood pressure, prevent blood clots that can lead to strokes and heart attacks, and generally improve the circulation and oxygenation of the blood.
Support Weight Loss
It not only stimulates weight loss but can also help people maintain a healthy weight by reducing the negative impact of high-fat diets. using acai berries resulted in a lower level of fasting insulin and glucose levels, as well as a reduction in total cholesterol. the high fiber content of acai berries can also reduce appetite and stop hunger pains associated with overeating and weight gain.
Prevent diseases
Acai is a wonderful source of vitamin-C, which is a well-known immunity booster and can generally improve your ability to fight off many diseases, also, the high concentration of anthocyanins (a distinct class of flavonoids) helps to prevent a number of diseases, promoting one of the greatest benefits of acai berry.
Aphrodisiac
Although the direct impact of acai berries on sexual stamina and sex drive is not completely known, the acai berries do have a well-researched ability to increase the general blood circulation throughout the body. Since lack of blood flow is one of the primary causes of sexual dysfunction and lack of sexual stamina, acai berries are commonly used as an alternative medicine for helping patients with these conditions.
Premature Aging
One of the most important medical qualities of acai berries is its ability to slow down the aging process in people, due to its high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants remove the free radicals that cause the breakdownof skin, hair, teeth, and eye health that is so often associated with premature aging. Regular consumption of acai berry or the application of acai oil to certain topical areas of the skin can help reduce the damaging effects of free radicals, reduce tooth and hair loss, prevent wrinkle formation, and slow down the effects of macular degeneration and cataract formation. Cellular oxidative damage and various types of inflammation can also be reduced with the frequent use of acai berries, although the specific components of acai berries have not been identified that give it such potent health abilities. Finally, in terms of brain health and function, acai juice has been linked to increased mental function and sharpness of mind.
Protects the Heart
The nutritional properties contained in acai berry benefit cardioprotective for cells, preventing blood clots and acting on blood circulation.
Cholesterol
thanks to the anthocyanins which have the ability to reduce blood cholesterol. Also the acai berry fight free radicals, fighting brain diseases and also the excess of HDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol).acai berry has 33 times more anthocyanins than grapes. Similarly, food made from Acai is proved to be more effective than the wine, when it comes to fighting free radicals
Natural Antioxidant
The fame of Acai as a superfood is mainly for its antioxidant properties. The fruit is responsible for acting and even reverse the aging process. All this because the Acai slows down the action of free radicals. Also when acai berries are ingested, they can give the skin a healthy, attractive glow. In fact, in indigenous populations of Brazil, the pulp of the acai berry has been used for generations to treat or reduce the number of skin conditions and diseases.
Strengthens the Immune System
As it has a high protein content, acai acts directly on the strengthening of the immune system. Therefore, this fruit is a great natural energy.
Anti-Inflammatory
Rich in fatty acids, the acai berry has natural anti-inflammatory properties due to this potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of a compound called “velutin” For this reason, the food is used in the prevention of gastric cancer and the treatment of gastritis. The anti-inflammatory effect acts directly on the improvement of dermatitis.
The açaí palm (Portuguese: [asa'i}{listen}, from Tupi-guarani asaí) Euterpe oleracea, is a species of the palm tree cultivated for its fruits (açaí berries, or simply açaí), hearts of palm (a vegetable), leaves, and trunk wood. Global demand for the fruit expanded rapidly in the 21st century and so the tree is cultivated for that purpose primarily.
The species is native to Brazil, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago, mainly in swamps and floodplains. Açaí palms are tall, slender trees growing to more than 25 m (82 ft) tall, with pinnate leaves up to 3 m (9.8 ft) long. The fruit is small, round, and black-purple in color. The fruit became a staple food in floodplain areas around the 18th century but its consumption in urban areas and recognition as a health food only began in the mid-1990s along with the popularization of other Amazonian fruits outside the region
Name
The common name comes from the Portuguese adaptation of the Tupian word ïwaca'i, meaning "[fruit that] cries or expels water" The importance of the fruit as a staple food in the Amazon River delta gives rise to the local legend of how the plant got its name. The folklore says that chief Itaqui ordered all newborns put to death owing to a period of famine. When his own daughter gave birth and the child was sacrificed, she cried and died beneath a newly sprouted tree. The tree fed the tribe and was called açaí because that was the daughter's name (Iaçá) spelled backward.
Fruit
The fruit, commonly known as açaí berry or açaí, is a small, round, black-purple drupe about 25 mm (1 in) in circumference, similar in appearance to a grape, but smaller and with less pulp and produced in branched panicles of 500 to 900 fruits. The exocarp of the ripe fruits is a deep purple color, or green, depending on the kind of açaí and its maturity. The mesocarp is pulpy and thin, with a consistent thickness of 1 mm (0.04 in) or less. It surrounds the voluminous and hard endocarp, which contains a single large seed about 7–10 mm (0.3–0.4 in) in diameter. The seed makes up about 60-80% of the fruit. The palm bears fruit year round but the berry cannot be harvested during the rainy season.
Cultivation
There are two harvests: one is normally between January and June, while the other is between August and December. The last harvest is the most important.[
Cultivars
Few named cultivars exist, and varieties differ mostly in the nature of the fruit:
'Branco' ("White") is a rare variety local to the Amazon estuary in which the berries do not change color, but remain green when ripe. This is believed to be due to a recessive gene since only about 30% of 'Branco' palm seeds mature to express this trait. It has less iron and fewer antioxidants, but more oil and many believe it to have a superior taste and digestibility purple açaí.
'BRS-Para Dwarf' was developed by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Agency. The pulp yield ranges from 15% to 25%.
Uses
As a food product
Fresh açaí has been consumed as a dietary staple in the region around the Amazon river for centuries. The fruit is processed into pulp for supply to food product manufacturers or retailers, sold as frozen pulp, juice, or an ingredient in various products from beverages, including grain alcohol, smoothies, foods, and supplements and cosmetics In Brazil, it is commonly eaten as acai bowl.
In a study of three traditional Caboclo populations in the Brazilian Amazon, açaí palm was described as the most important plant species because the fruit makes up a major component of their diet, up to 42% of the total food intake by weight.
In North America, açaí is commonly sold in "açaí bowls", a combination of frozen açaí puree or açaí powder with other ingredients, such as nut milk, fruit juice, fruit, nuts, oatmeal, and sweeteners. Açaí bowls may contain more than 50 g of sugar (the equivalent of 12 teaspoons), or double what the American Heart Association recommends for an entire day, and have been described by nutritionists as a "sugar bomb", "glorified dessert" or "occasional treat", more akin to eating a bowl of ice cream than a meal.
Other Uses
Leaves of the palm may be made into hats, mats, baskets, brooms and roof thatch for homes, and trunk wood, resistant to pests, for building construction. Tree trunks may be processed to yield dietary minerals.
Comprising 80% of the fruit mass, açaí seeds may be ground for livestock food or as a component of organic soil for plants. Planted seeds are used for new palm tree stock, which, under the right growing conditions, can require months to form seedlings. Seeds may become waste in landfills or used as fuel for producing bricks.
At R. Terra, our mission reaches far beyond just being a provider of herbal products and supplements. We believe that for every disease or problem, there is a natural cure based in herbalism and shaman healing.
At R.Terra, Is committed to providing longevity and vitality through superfoods, herbs, and natural cosmetics. These provide energy, antioxidants, detoxing, weight management and supports the immune system.
About Our Cosmetics - Are all natural, Certified Organic, Sustainable and They are sourced from the Amazon Rainforest, Cruelty-free, They are created with Plant-based, Cold pressed butter and oils. We do not use any chemicals, fillers, or preservatives in our products, Free from Toxins.
Preserving the nature at Amazon Rainforest
This study consists of a literature review on the traditional use of the medicinal plant CHICHUA or XIXUA which was carried out using the databases: and PubMed. M. guianensis is popularly known as xixuá and occurs throughout the tropical and subtropical band of the world.
In Brazil, its leaves, bark, and roots are used as a tea or macerated for the treatment of inflammation and infections in general. It is also popularly used to treat rheumatism and worm infections. These medicinal uses which have experimental support seem to be mainly associated with the presence of triterpenes.
Plants belonging to the genus Maytenus (Celastraceae) are routinely used in folk medicine in Brazil and other countries to treat a variety of illnesses, the most common of which are gastric disorders. Several studies have reported on the importance of these biological effects, and the chemical substances, mostly terpenoids and flavonoid glycosides, responsible for them.
Most of the drugs currently available for clinical use today are either natural products or synthetic analogs of these. Despite the many new drugs on the market today, medicinal plants are still routinely used throughout the world. Many of the substances they produce are also valuable because they provide the raw materials with which to produce new medicines.
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in interest in plants of the Maytenus genus, especially in Brazil. The Maytenus genus is a member of the Celastraceae family, which comprises approximately 50 genera and more than 800 species of plants. These occur mostly in Pan Tropical regions, with 40% occurring in tropical regions. In Brazil, there are 76 recognized species of Maytenus.
Where to find?
These occur in a variety of habitats, ranging from Amazon and Atlantic forests, brush, high altitude grasslands and scrublands and can reach up to 15m in height
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
According to South American folklore, a number of medicinal uses have been attributed to several species of Maytenus. It is widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of gastric disorders, such as gastric ulcers. One of the more commonly used species for these purposes is M. ilicifolia. This specie occurs in Argentine, Paraguay and Uruguay, is known by several common names, including congorça, erva-cancerosa, espinhode-deus, salva-vidas, quebrachillo, sombra-de-toro, and concorosa. Espinheira-Santa seems to be, however, the most commonly usedvernacular name for this and other species, e.g., M. aquifolium, M. robusta and M. truncata.
OTHER NAME(S):
Bois de la Puissance, Bois de la Puissance Sexuelle, Marapuama, Muira-Puama, Muirapuama, Potency Wood, Ptychopetali lignum, Ptychopetalum olacoides, Ptychopetalum uncinatum.
Overview Information
Muira puama is a plant. used for upset stomach, menstrual disorders, joint pain (rheumatism), and paralysis caused by poliomyelitis; and as a general tonic and an appetite stimulant.
Some people apply Muira puama directly to the skin as an aphrodisiac and for rheumatism and muscle paralysis.
How does it work?
The chemicals in Muira puama have no known effects on the body.
Uses & Effectiveness
Insufficient Evidence for Sexual disorders. Early research suggests that taking 2-6 tablets of a specific product containing Muira puama extract and ginkgo extract modestly improves sexual desire and the frequency of sexual intercourse in women with a low sex drive.
Side Effects & Safety
It is not known if Muira puama is safe or what the possible side effects might be.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There is not enough reliable information about the safety of taking Muira puama if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Dosing
The appropriate dose of Muira puama depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Muira puama. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
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About Our Cosmetics - Are all natural, Certified Organic, Sustainable and They are sourced from the Amazon Rainforest, Cruelty-free, They are created with Plant-based. We do not use any chemicals, fillers, or preservatives in our products, Free from Toxins.
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Other Names:
Caramuru, CATUABA Casca, Chuchuhuasha, Erythroxylum CATUABA, Golden Trumpet, Pau de Reposta, Piratancara, Tatuaba
Overview Information
CATUABA is an herb. People use the bark to make medicine.
It is also used for agitation, trouble sleeping related to high blood pressure, nervousness, ongoing mental and physical fatigue (neurasthenia), poor memory or forgetfulness, skin cancer and as a tonic.
How does it work?
CATUABA contains chemicals that might work against certain bacteria and viruses.
CATUABA Uses and Health Benefits
Uses
CATUABA is touted as a natural remedy for the following health conditions:
Benefits
So far, few studies have tested the health effects of CATUABA. Still, some preliminary research suggests that CATUABA may offer certain health benefits. Here's a look at some key findings from the available research on CATUABA:
Depression. CATUABA may have antidepressant-like effects, according to a study published in the journal Psychopharmacology in 2005. In tests on rats and mice, scientists observed that CATUABA may combat depression in part by increasing the release of serotonin and melatonin (two brain chemicals involved in regulating mood).
Brain health. In a rat-based study published in Neurochemical Research in 2012, researchers determined that CATUABA may aid in the prevention of ischemia. (Closely associated with stroke, ischemia is a condition marked by insufficient blood flow to the brain.) In an experiment involving samples of brain tissue taken from rats, the study's authors found that antioxidants in CATUABA may help prevent ischemia by reducing oxidative stress
Parkinson's disease. CATUABA shows promise in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, suggests a preliminary study published in the journal Brain Research in 2008. In the study, tests on human cells demonstrated that CATUABA may help fight Parkinson's disease by protecting against the degeneration of certain nerve cells.
Where to Find CATUABA
Available for purchase online, CATUABA is sold in some natural-foods stores and stores specializing in dietary supplements.
There isn't enough information available to know if CATUABA is safe.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of CATUABA during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
]]>Common name
Jatoba, copal, red locus, locust, copinol, Brazilian cherry, stinking tree, kawanari, guapinol, Algarrobo, rode locus, rodi loksi.
Family = Leguminosae (Fabaceae).
Overview
Jatoba is a huge canopy tree growing up to 130 feet tall; the crown is spreading and sometimes the base develops buttresses. It produces small red flowers and an oblong brown pod containing 3 - 4 seeds with a pulp that is edible.
Red locus is also a very beautiful reddish-brown wood from the tropics. It is hard, heavy and very strong; bends well, glues well and therefore used for furniture, shipbuilding, cabinetwork, etc.
In traditional medicine, the smooth gray bark of the Jatoba tree is regarded as a natural energy tonic. It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties.
At the base of the tree, a light natural yellow resin (copal) can be found; it is used in the production of varnish. Upon burning it has the smell of pine and it is also employed in traditional medicine.
Tea made from the bark is used against intestinal parasites and indigestion.
Health Benefits of Jatoba
Jatoba, officially known as Hymenaea courbaril, is a tall rainforest canopy tree. Some Jatoba trees reach towering heights of 90 feet.
It is sometimes known as ‘stinking toe,’ as its seedpods are reminiscent of large toes and have a pungent odor. The tree sports white flowers that are pollinated by bats.
Traditionally, jatoba bark and resin have been used for a large variety of purposes – ceremonial, functional and medicinal. Ceremonially, the jatoba resin has been a part of love potions and wedding ceremonies and burned as incense.
The resin has also been used as a pottery glaze, and the durable and termite-resistant wood – which does not rot even after the tree dies – is often used in construction and carpentry.
Since ancient times, Jatoba has been used in natural remedies for ailments including coughs and bronchitis, diarrhea, ulcers, vomiting, hepatitis, prostatitis, chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) and bladder infections. In the US, it is often marketed as an energy tonic.
The fact that jatoba wood does not rot or mold clued researchers into its potential as a fungus fighter. Indeed, jatoba can be used to help cleanse the body of candida and other fungus-related problems. It is sometimes applied as a topical salve to help heal athletes foot and nail fungus, among other fungal infections.
Jatoba also has notable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A study performed at the University of Brasilia in Brazil found that the phytochemicals, including phytic acid, in jatoba could help reduce swelling and irritation. It may also be beneficial in combating a wide array of harmful organisms, such as bacteria and viruses.
The most common way to use Jatoba is by steeping the bark in boiling water to make a tea. It is also sold as a tincture at health food stores, which is a more concentrated form. Always make sure you choose organic, pure jatoba, without any additives or preservatives, as these detract from the health benefits.
As it is a potent remedy, be sure to check with a health professional before beginning a regimen with Jatoba. No toxic effects of jatoba have been found in research so far, but it’s always best to check with someone familiar with your individual body chemistry, medical history, and needs just to be sure.
Our planet’s rainforests are filled with unique trees and plants, many of which have celebrated healing properties. The jatoba tree is just one of the many reasons why we should increase our efforts to protect our precious rainforests from further harm.
]]>Garcinia is a plant genus of the family Clusiaceae native to Asia, Australia, tropical and southern Africa, and Polynesia.
Garcinia nutritional and compounds value Hydroxycitric Acid, Chromium, Calcium, and Potassium.
Healthy benefits of Garnicia
Garcinia cambogia extract, often considered a miracle cure for obesity, affects weight loss in a number of ways. Fly, the hydroxycitric acid (HCA) found in garcinia cambogia can prevent calories from being stored as fats. Certain enzymes slow down the metabolism, which is when the body “gets lazy” and starts storing calories as fat. However, HCA blocks the production of these enzymes.
The other major way that garcinia cambogia is able to help those who use it for weight loss is by optimizing the cholesterol balance in the body. HCA and other compounds in this herb are able to lower LDL those calories are converted into glycogen, which is necessary for building muscles.
Suppresses Appetite
This is another way that garcinia cambogia is able to help people lose weight, which is why it is now included in dozens of different weight loss supplements and products. By suppressing the appetite, it trains the body to eat only at certain times, and in specific amounts. If you are trying to lose weight, those in-between snacks can be the hardest things to avoid, so keeping your appetite in check with this extract is very wise.
Improves Metabolism
If you want to boost your metabolism, which means even faster results in the weight-loss realm, adding garcinia cambogia to your daily routine is a wise choice. Increased metabolism means more immediate energy and less packaging of calories into adipose fat.
Increases Energy
Many people experience fatigue and muscle weakness after they begin to shed those extra pounds. Garcinia cambogia extract can help to combat this, by giving an energetic burst that can overcome those weight-loss moments of exhaustion.
Eliminates Fatigue
HCA, found in garcinia cambogia, helps improve your stamina and eliminate fatigue, while also motivating you to lead a healthier lifestyle as your physical appearance begins to change.
Reduces Stress
The compound HCA present in the extract has also been directly linked to regulating cortisol levels in the blood, which is one of the most common stress hormones. By reducing the level of stress hormones and controlling anxiety, this herbal supplement can help improve the health and functioning of all your organ systems and cut down on oxidative stress throughout the body.
Eliminates Depression
The organic compounds found in garcinia cambogia can act as anti-depressants by releasing serotonin into the body, which is the “satisfaction” or “pleasure” hormone. This can work as a self-fulfilling cycle. Using this herbal extract, one can lose weight, feel uplifted and encouraged, and then determined to continue on and achieve the goal. This ability to stabilize the mood is based on the effect of HCA on neurotransmitters, and the lowered levels of stress can often contribute to treating long-term depression.
Besides reducing cortisol levels, HCA can also increase your serotonin levels. This improves your mood, and helps you stay happy. Thus, you feel better and stay motivated toward your weight loss goals. When your mood is stabilized, it also lowers your calorie intake and frequent snacking.
Lowers Cholesterol
The other major way that garcinia cambogia is able to help those who use it for weight loss is by optimizing the cholesterol balance in the body. HCA and other compounds in this herb are able to lower LDL.
Regulates Blood Sugar
For people suffering from diabetes, turning to garcinia cambogia is an excellent choice to control blood sugar levels while regulating metabolism as a complementary treatment. It can ensure that there are no unexpected drops or spikes in blood sugar, which can have terrible consequences.
Improves Lipid Profile
Garcinia Cambogia can also improve your lipid profile. It lowers the concentration of LDL in your blood. In addition to this, it increases the concentration of HDL or good cholesterol. HCA targets your belly fat and improves your cardiovascular health. This can have a major impact on your overall weight.
By decreasing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels, this will help reduce your likelihood of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes, while also lowering blood pressure and giving you more energy for your daily tasks.
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Primary Information, Benefits, Effects, and Important Facts
Paullinia cupana, also known as guarana, is a fruit bearing tree, the seeds of which are ground into powder and used in traditional Amazonian medicine.
Guarana is supplemented primarily for its stimulant properties.
Guarana may have additional anticancer effects, but much more research is needed to confirm this effect. Guarana is not a fat burning compound.
Guarana contains xanthines, like caffeine, catechins, tannins, and procyanidins. Though the individual effects of these compounds are known, more research is needed to determine how they interact in guarana.
Though guarana has a high caffeine content, the average guarana dose is low enough to prevent the caffeine from playing an active role.
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Guarana plays an important role in Tupi and Guaraní Paraguayan culture. According to a myth attributed to the Sateré-Maué trib. It is found in the Amazon forest Brazil.
Nutricional and constituents value of guarana.
Xanthine, caffeine, catechins, tannins, Procyanidins, saponins phytochemicals, Theobromine, Malic acid, pyro guarana, alkaloids
Guarana seeds full Composition
The seeds tend to contain:
Caffeine at 3.2–7.0% dry weight (usually at the lower end of that range),thought to be the main bioactive; other xanthines such as theobromine (6.733mg/g) and theophylline are also detectable.This is higher than that seen in black tea leaves (2-3%) and coffee seeds (0.5-1.2%) and leaves (1.0-1.2%) and higher than the caffeine found in Yerba mate
Tannins
Catechin and epicatechin (4.336mg/g; or 0.4% total for dry weight)
Procyanidins B1–B4, A2 and C1
Polysaccharides rich in glucose and xylose
Dietary fibers including pectins and xylans which appear to be 6% of the seed weight
Guarana is a plant of the Amazon and Brazil. The berries of this plant have a number of health benefits, including the ability to burn fat decrease stress and increase energy, analgesic, increase cardiovascular, premature aging, fights fatigue, mental health among others.
Energy
One of the most powerful benefits of guarana is its energizing effects. Guarana has a similar chemical structure to that of caffeine, and the plant seeds provide even higher caffeine effects than typical caffeine drinks, including coffee. Guarana may be more effective than coffee with regards to its energizing power, as guarana is released more slowly into the body to provide sustained energy.
The plant directly stimulates the central nervous system and may be taken in small doses to fight fatigue and increase activity levels.
Weight loss
Guarana has been used for centuries, as the early natives would use it to make teas that would suppress hunger for weight loss. Guarana is used today in certain energy drinks and weight loss supplements to support weight loss by providing stimulation.
Appetite suppressant.
Guarana may promote weight loss by kick-starting the nervous system to induce the process of lipolysis. This process involves the release of fat into the bloodstream where it is used as energy during exercise. guarana is Natural Source of Energy the caffeine content in Guarana is more than the amount present in coffee beans.
Energy booster
This makes it a wonderful energy booster. A natural stimulant, it prevents fatigue. It also prevents a dip in energy levels triggered due to muscle stress.AntioxidantsGuarana may delay in premature aging, given its ability to antioxidant, greater even than green tea and white tea which is rich in catechins. As this study shows, the catechins can reduce oxidative stress, which is usually related to the development of neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular, among other adverse conditions for health and well-being.
Bowel
In addition to its energizing and weight loss effects, guarana also provides a number of medical benefits for the body, according to GuaranaStudies.com. Guarana encourages the movement of the bowels, which is a beneficial effect for people suffering from constipation. Additionally, guarana is effective for treating other complications of the bowels, including gas and diarrhea, as it helps to detoxify and cleanse the system. Natural Remedy for Stress:it is known to have calming properties.
A cup of tea with this fruit could actually help to ease the stress levels and improve your mood. Caffeine is known to have positive effects on mood, and this increases alertness and feelings of well-being better Mental Health: Along with facilitating better learning capacities, Guarana is also known to aid in improving intellectual performance. You can use it along with Other R.terra herbs such as Suma, Catuaba for enhanced mental cognition.
This fruit has the potential to improve blood circulation, thus promoting better mental health. blood circulation levels are, the more relief you will get from your migraine and headaches.
Cognitive support
The stimulating effect also helps with the "focus" or approach (concentration), and mental acuity. A more pointed focus and better mental control is a positive effect of the stimulation of the central nervous system. One more farsighted response occurs when it comes to enhancing the ability to study or the resolution of problems.
Digestive System
When used along with Turmeric powder, this can be used to improve digestion power. A natural remedy for bloating and diarrhea,
Guarana has been used across Europe and South America to treat water retention. The fruit is also known to be useful in curing bowel problems and helps in eliminating the wastes and toxins accumulated in the bowels, thus acting as a natural detoxifying agent.
Natural Aphrodisiac
This dietary supplement is known across the world for its natural aphrodisiac properties. The presence of caffeine in this fruit enriches it with its innate libido stimulating properties. Thus, regular use can help a person lead a blissful sexual life.
Cardiovascular health
Also used, in its fair dose, as support for cardiovascular health, in particular, to strengthen the heart, and reduce the formation of clots, Innately blessed with antioxidants, Guarana helps in fighting the free radicals affecting the functioning of the cardiovascular system. The scavenging of these elements thus boosts the power of the cardiovascular system, keeping various heart diseases at bay
Natural Antidote for Menstrual Problems
This is a blessing for women who are prone to painful menstruation. It regulates the cycles and is also known to aid in eliminating the premenstrual symptoms. Women, who feel lethargic and worn out during menstruation, can take the help of Guarana for improving their energy levels.
Natural Blood Thinning Agent
The presence of catechins and caffeine enable these fruits to act as an antiplatelet agent. These ingredients help in lowering the risk of various cardiovascular diseases as well as thrombosis by preventing the blood from thinning, turning ‘sticky’, and form
Natural Analgesic
The caffeine present in Guarana stimulates the circulation of blood. The better the circulation of blood is, the lower the pains experienced in an injury. It acts as a natural analgesic, thereby helping those who are suffering from constant headaches, migraines, as well as menstrual and other pains.
Other Benefits Of Guarana
Along with the above-mentioned benefits, this fruit is beneficial in the following ways as well: Naturally mild diuretic
Ease pain caused due to rheumatoid arthritis
Prevents atherosclerosis and other such medical conditions
A natural tonic and stimulant
Prevents vaginal discharge
A natural antidote for hangovers
Innate anti-depressant properties
Known for its antiseptic properties
Guarana $5
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To supplement guarana, take 50 – 75mg once a day, before noon. Two divided dose of 50 mg (once after waking up and once shortly after noon) can also be used, for a total daily dose of 100 mg.
Further study is needed to determine the optimal guarana dose.
Guarana is not recommended to be used at night because it contains caffeine and has other stimulatory properties.
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Stearic acid (about 24% to 37% of the total fat content), Palmitic acid (24 percent to 30 percent), Myristic acid (0% to 4%), Arachidic acid (about 1 percent), Lauric acid (1 percent)
Some Benefits and Uses of Cacao Butter
Prevents dry skin and peeling
Cacao butter makes an excellent moisturizer for the skin, but it does more than just moisturize the skin. It helps heal it from the inside out as well. It is a great source of natural antioxidants that are found in cacao beans (the same types found in real and dark chocolate that are linked to benefits like heart health and better cognitive functioning). Saturated fats are especially beneficial for curing dry and chapped skin because they are easily absorbed and remain on the skin for hours.
Heals chapped lips
One of the most popular ways to use cocoa butter is on the lips, especially homemade lip balms. It can be used with essential oils like grapefruit, vanilla, orange or peppermint oil to create tasty lip balms that are moisturizing to the delicate skin.
Cacao butter is an emollient, which means it adds a protective layer of hydration to your lips, useful for blocking the effects of very cold temperatures, sun damage or internal heat that can leave your lips dry.
Fighting the signs of aging
Cacao butter contains compounds called polyphenols from cacao mass which some studies have found can help decrease the signs of aging as well as relieve sensitive skin that suffers from dermatitis or rashes. Polyphenols are types of antioxidants that promote health internally when consumed and when used topically on the skin. Cacao polyphenols have been found to combat various chronic diseases, skin degeneration, sensitivities, and even cell mutations.
Research shows that its polyphenols have several positive indicators for skin health, including improvements in skin elasticity and tonality, better retention/production of collagen and better hydration. When comparing cacao butter with commercially available products, both presented positive results, but only cacao butter is free of potentially harmful or irritating ingredients.
Softens burns, rashes, and infections
Rub a small amount of pure cocoa butter on the burned skin to help replenish the skin. It is even gentle enough to be used as a natural treatment for eczema or dermatitis. It is also a natural rash remedy.
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Tucuma is rich in lauric, myristic and oleic acids. It is an excellent emollient that has a high spreadability and provides a silky soft touch to the skin. It is very rich in vitamins A (the vitamin A content reaches 50,000 u.i. per 100g of pulp, three times more than the carrot). This high content of provitamin A, mainly carotenoids, gives it a high antioxidant capacity. Also is rich in B1, B2, C and pectin, an important natural fiber. It is rich in omega 3,6 and 9, behaving like an excellent moisturizer with high-fat content because it contains lauric, myristic and oleic acids. is high in lauric, myristic, and oleic fatty acids – excellent for maintaining moisture in the skin
High lauric acid: Causes it to have anti-inflammatory action, antibiotic and stimulates the immune system, when lauric acid is digested, certain enzymes within the digestive tract form monoglycerides of monolaurin, a powerful agent capable of fighting viruses and infections bacterial infections. Lauric acid is also found in breast milk, which is very important for the baby's immune system. It is the famous colostrum, which kills worms, bacteria and fights infections.it forms a transparent protective film on the skin, similar silicone without clogging the pores of the skin. The lipid exchange of the skin is not impaired and acts very well on dry skin.
Tucumã butter has the function of restoring and moisturizing damaged hair and moisturizing the skin. It forms a protective layer that protects the hair and the skin, but being natural does not prevent the absorption of nutrients in the hair nor obstructs the pores, and can be used by all skin types. The 100% natural butter of tucumã is extracted from the seeds and the pulp and rich in lauric, oleic and myristic acid. It has a high content of vitamin A, compared to buriti. It also has B vitamins and vitamin C.
Hair: it is great for curls, as it moisturizes and nourishes while assisting in the formation of curls. Helps to recover hair that has undergone smoothing and relaxation, dry hair, rough hair, has Vitamins A, B, and C help stimulate the growth of strong, healthy yarns. Lysine also helps in healthy growth and serves as a supplement in natural straightening. it's also suitable for sensitive skin. is ideal for frizzy, dry, dull and damaged hair. 2C – 4C hair types would love this.
Skin: moisturizes the skin and prevents the loss of water, thanks to lauric acid that creates a protective barrier, without clogging the pores. It has anti-inflammatory properties, so it is a great moisturizer for acne skin. It's very high amount of vitamin A helps in tanning and has antioxidant and anti-aging properties.
It helps maintain hydration, suppleness, and elasticity – a boon as body butter and a sealing butter for hair. is vegetable silicon. It mimics the properties of commercial silicone products without any of the harmful effects on hair. It forms a protective screen on the hair without clogging pores, drying out the hair or weighing down the hair. is rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A; one of the important vitamins for healthier and stronger hair growth
Is high in lauric, myristic, and oleic fatty acids – excellent for maintaining moisture in the hair. It can also be used on the skin and its properties play a major role in alleviating dry skin, stretch marks, scarring, and other skin conditions.
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Our Amazon forest Tucumã nature born is rich in antioxidant polyphenols, which combats free radicals in the body. It’s rich in fatty acids that protect and moisturize the skin keeping it supple and looking young; an attribute hair can also benefit from. The first of the benefits of tucumã that we should highlight is its nutritional properties. The food carries antioxidants and serves as a source of important nutrients for the functioning of our skin. as calcium, potassium, magnesium, vitamin A, vitamin B1, b2 and vitamin C.
Tucuma for the skin
Tucuma butter is rich in lauric, myristic and oleic acids. It is an excellent emollient that has a high spreadability and provides a silky soft touch to the skin. It is very rich in vitamins A (the vitamin A content reaches 50,000 u.i. per 100g of pulp, three times more than the carrot). This high content of provitamin A, mainly carotenoids, gives it a high antioxidant capacity. Also rich in B1, B2, C and pectin, an important natural fiber. It is rich in omega 3,6 and 9, behaving like an excellent moisturizer with high-fat content because it contains lauric, myristic and oleic acids. is high in lauric, myristic, and oleic fatty acids – excellent for maintaining moisture in the skin
Intake Tucumã. High Vitamin A content: In addition to its antioxidant action, vitamin A helps to maintain healthy skin and also plays a vital role in eye health, reduces the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, macular degeneration and other diseases related to age. Because of its antioxidant action beta-carotene strengthens the immune system, which contributes to the proper functioning of the lungs and respiratory system in general, helping to prevent colds and flu.
High acid: Causes it to have anti-inflammatory action, antibiotic and stimulates the immune system, when lauric acid is digested, certain enzymes within the digestive tract form monoglycerides of monolaurin, a powerful agent capable of fighting viruses and infections bacterial infections. Lauric acid is also found in breast milk, which is very important for the baby's immune system.
Tucumã for hair
Tucumã butter has the function of restoring and moisturizing damaged hair and moisturizing the skin. It forms a protective layer that protects the hair and the skin, but being natural does not prevent the absorption of nutrients in the hair nor obstructs the pores, and can be used by all skin types. The 100% natural butter of tucumã is extracted from the seeds and the pulp and rich in lauric, oleic and myristic acid. It has a high content of vitamin A, compared to buriti. It also has B vitamins and vitamin C.
It is great for curls, as it moisturizes and nourishes while assisting in the formation of curls. Helps to recover hair that has undergone smoothing and relaxation, dry hair, rough hair, and double ends. Vitamins A and C help stimulate the growth of strong, healthy yarns. Lysine also helps in healthy growth and serves as a supplement in natural straightening. helps maintain hydration, suppleness and elasticity – a boon as body butter and a sealing butter for hair. is vegetable silicon. It mimics the properties of commercial silicone products without any of the harmful effects on hair. It forms a protective screen on the hair without clogging pores, drying out the hair or weighing down the hair. is rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A; one of the important vitamins for healthier and stronger hair growth.
Is high in lauric, myristic, and oleic fatty acids – excellent for maintaining moisture in the hair. It can also be used on the skin and its properties play a major role in alleviating dry skin, stretch marks, scarring, and other skin conditions. It’s also suitable for sensitive skin. is ideal for frizzy, dry, dull and damaged hair. 2C – 4C hair types would love this
At R.Terra, our mission is to provide longevity and vitality through superfoods, herbs, and natural cosmetics. These provide energy, antioxidants, detoxing, weight management and supports the immune system.
Our Cosmetics - Are all natural, certified organic, sustainable and They are sourced from the Amazon Rainforest, cruelty-free, They are created with plant-based and Vegans, We do not use any chemicals, fillers, or preservatives in our products.
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Our Amazon Rainforest born Buriti. Is a Brazilian “Amazon” savannah palm is food for the local fauna and brings many benefits to humans, besides being a plant of indisputable beauty.
Buriti is an excellent source of Vitamin A (beta-carotene), Vitamin (B1, B2
The Buriti for being rich in nutrients very important for the proper functioning of the body. It is vermifuge, healing, natural energetic. Among all the vegetables, Buriti is considered the fruit champion in carotenoids, which are antioxidants that protect the skin, strengthen the lungs and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Benefits of Buriti for Skin:
In skin care, Buriti oil is used in our skin creams, lotions, and cosmetics. It restores the moisture of sun-exposed skin and contains unsaturated fatty acids, helps rehydrate and moisturize skin cells and protects the collagen and elastin in the skin.
It is easily absorbed, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Our Pure oil is used to treat burns and wounds due to its ability to promote the development of scar tissue and soften the skin.
Reduces redness, Improves skin elasticity, moisturizes, gives firmness and Combat wrinkles.
Buriti is good for dry and chapped skin.acts against burns, skin sores, very dry and cracked skin, Reduces skin irritation and redness.
It is considered a super antioxidant food because it contains high amounts of carotenoids.
Buriti for hair:
strengthens, hydrates gives shininess, Reduce frizz, protects the hair from the sun's rays, sea salt and Chlorine from the pool.
Helps to restore brittle and damaged hair by chemical treatments.
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Our native nature born Ucuuba is rich in Vitamin C, which helps to reverse skin damage and is a powerful anti-aging agent, and Vitamin A, also known as retinol.
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Fatty Acids of Ucuuba Butter
Myristic 74%, palmitic 9%, lauric 19%.
Rich in vitamin A and C, and contains some amount of capric acids (linoleic and stearic.
Exceptionally rich in essential fatty acids, Ucuuba Butter is considered to have anti-aging properties and can be used to replenish tone and moisture to dry and mature skin.
Anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties; it is ideal for treating acne, eczema and dry or irritated skin. Moisturizing with a high capacity of penetration in the skin, revitalizing, helping to recover the condition of tired skin with its strong cellular renewal power.
The Ucuuba seed can also be used for hair loss.
Fatty Acids of Andiroba Oil
Oleic, 55%, palmitic 27%, linoleic 11%, steric 8%, linoleic 11%, myristic 0.33%.
Our Amazon forest nature born Andiroba seeds contain between 36% and 60% oil, being rich in many nutrients, among them vitamin A, vitamin B1, B2 and B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, as well as various other minerals. This oil also contains a unique combination and a large amount of essential fatty acids, among them myristic acid, palmitic acid, oleic acid, linoleic, acid and volatile acids. It is also very rich with antioxidants, to help neutralize and remove free radicals from the bloodstream while preventing the premature aging of the skin, photodermatoses, and skin cancers.
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Composition of andiroba oil
Andiroba oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids, including oleic, palmitic, myristic and linoleic acids, andirobina and carapina.
Skin
Has been variously used to promote skin healing after injury and to promote the growth of new skin cells. It is considered to be an effective treatment for several chronic skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis as well as blemishes like wrinkles and age spots.
Increases skin regeneration
The application of andiroba oil is quite broad, being very effective for dry and damaged skin. This oil has several beneficial properties to the skin, helping to moisturize and soften, due to its ability to quickly penetrate the layers of the tissue and forming a protective film after its application, stimulating the regeneration of epithelial tissue.
This oil is also indicated to help in the treatment of different dermatological problems, among them eczema and psoriasis, helping to leave the skin soft.
Anti-inflammatory action
Some studies have shown that andiroba oil has anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of a large number of limonoid substances. This oil helps to soothe and soothe inflamed sites and is mainly used for the treatment of insect bites and skin diseases, reducing pain, swelling, and redness.
Due to its anti-inflammatory action, andiroba oil is also widely used in products to reduce muscle pain and inflammation caused by excessive physical exertion and injury due to physical exercise.
Emollient and Moisturizing action
it has emollient and hydrant action, being applied in different types of products, among them creams and lotions creams (with concentration of 1% to 5%), shampoos, conditioners and soaps (with a concentration of 3% to 7%), in addition to bath oils, body moisturizers, among many others.
It has repellent and healing action
Andiroba oil is widely applied in products used for the treatment and prevention of insect bites. There are benefits of andiroba oil as a natural repellent and as a healing potential due to its anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce itching in the local, swelling and pain caused by the injury. Another quite interesting application of andiroba oil use in candles with potential repellent. Some studies have shown that this oil is effective to ward off several types of mosquitoes, including mosquitoes that transmit malaria and dengue fever.
Help reduce muscle soreness
Among the many benefits of andiroba oil are it's analgesic properties. It can be used as a massage oil to help relieve pain in certain places and can be used several times a day. This oil promotes the reduced sensation of muscle pain and joints with arthritis, rheumatism and other muscle pain.
Hair
This oil is widely used in curly, damaged and frizzy hair product lines. Due to its large amount of essential fatty acids, among them omega 3, there are benefits of andiroba oil as the reduction of hair volume, aiding in the recovery and regeneration of damaged hair, thus reducing frizz and leaving the hair more moisturized, silky and shiny.
At R.Terra, our mission is to provide longevity and vitality through superfoods, herbs, and natural cosmetics. These provide energy, antioxidants, detoxing, weight management and supports the immune system.
Our cosmetics Are all natural, certified organic, sustainable and sourced from the Amazon Rainforest. They are created with plant-based food-grade, vegan, cruelty-free, cold pressed butter, and oils. We do not use any chemicals, fillers, or preservatives in our products.
]]>Our Brazil nuts nature born is an oil extracted from the seeds of a tree that grows in the Amazon forests and northern Brazil.
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The seed oil is highly nutritious, containing 75% unsaturated fatty acids composed mainly of palmitic, oleic, and linolenic acids, as well as the phytosterol sitosterol, and the fat-soluble vitamins A and E. Extra-virgin oil can be obtained during the first pressing of the seeds, The analysis of its composition has determined that it is very rich in linoleic acid (omega 6), oleic acid (omega 9), tocopherols (vitamin E), phospholipids and sterols.
Fatty Acid of Brazil Nuts Oil
Myristic Acid 0.6%, Palmitic acid 16%, Palmitoleic 0.3%, Stearic Acid 10%
Oleic Acid (Omega 9) 48%, Linoleic Acid (Omega 6) 47%, Arachidonic acid: 0.3%
It is very rich in linoleic acid (omega 6), oleic acid (omega 9), tocopherols (vitamin E), phospholipids and sterols. Brazil nut oil has a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, mainly oleic acid.
Benefits for the Skin
Antioxidant
due to present composition in Brazil nuts oil is a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from free radical damage. moisturizing properties, it is used for damaged and dehydrated skin and hair.
Anti-aging
Brazil nuts oil contains Vitamin E and tocopherols that increase the production of collagen, giving you a smooth and firm skin.
Brazil nuts oil is very useful for alleviating skin dryness. It contains nutrients like Zinc, Vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids that treat skin dryness and flakiness, preventing eczema and psoriasis.
The emollient properties of Brazil nut oil keep the skin well-hydrated and moisturized. it has Sources of polyunsaturated fat (both omega-3 and omega-6)
Brazil nut oil on the feet to treat itchiness cracked heels and tightness.