Category Archives: Vitamins & Minerals

Antioxidants, Barley Grass Powder, Detoxification, Vitamins & Minerals

Glorious Green Magma: how a taste of the Orient can do you so much good

Who’d believe that something so old could be so good for you? Don’t doubt it; barley grass is. It’s been a naturally-derived source for wellbeing since at least 7,000 BC; especially in Japan, where its capacity to aid digestion, detoxification and anti-ageing has long been recognised – and deeply respected. And in recent decades it’s become likewise recognised (and consumed) for these properties in the West.

Primarily, this has been thanks to the efforts of pharmaceutical developer Dr Yoshihide Hagiwara, whom had to give up his day job at the tender age of 38 due to toxic poisoning. Having fully recovered via natural medicines and foods alone, he devoted the rest of his life to investigating green foods and just what they were capable of for the good of the human body. His research led him to publish his conclusions, in which he claimed that barley grass is ‘one of the most nutritionally balanced foods in nature’ and ‘the ideal fast food for the human race’. Strong words, indeed, but it seems that this greenest of green foods and most super of superfoods is capable of backing them up.

 

The road to Green Magma

Technically speaking, barley grass are the young, soft shoots that crop on the barley plant and, in his experiments, Hagiwara unfortunately discovered that the multiple, health-giving nutrients stored in these shoots are destroyed by heat and acidity (when the shoots are either cooked or treated to be transformed into an easily consumable form like a supplement). In which case, he hit on the idea of a unique spray-dry process to create a different kind of extraction. Not only did this successful discovery earn him acclamation in his native Japan, it also led to his patented methods proving the basis for the manufacturing process behind the modern, highly advanced and extremely nutritious version of Barley Grass Powder, namely Green Magma.

Packed full of all the goodness of natural barley grass then, Green Magma is truly a multi-nutrient superfood that’s bursting with more than 70 vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes. Among its incredible array of ingredients are:

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
  • Vitamin B3 (niacin)
  • Vitamin B6
  • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
  • Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)
  • Vitamin K (phylloquinone)
  • Folate
  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Phosphorous
  • Potassium
  • Zinc
  • Beta-carotene
  • Phycocyanin
  • Superoxide dismutase
  • Chlorophyll
  • Flavonoid 2”-O-GIV

 

Green Magma benefits

But why is it so impressive that Green Magma comprises all these vitamins and minerals? Well, the fact it does so is what ensures it’s such an enriching, health-aiding supplement; such a potent, dissoluble powder-based (and so very easy-to-consume) version of the original barley grass. It’s the fact it comprises all these vitamins and minerals that it offers those why try it – and take it daily – so many benefits that can help bring relief to a range of conditions and illnesses. For instance:

  • A natural antioxidant – owing to it containing the enzyme superoxide dismutase, Green Magma boasts terrific antioxidant properties, this ingredient enjoying nothing more than to act as a free radical scavenger, utterly neutralising the harmful effects of the opportunistic micro-organisms and so preventing the development of a whole host of illnesses caused by the otherwise resultant oxidative stress (it’s aided in these efforts by the flavonoid 2”-O-GIV); moreover, the presence of alpha-tocopherol in Green Magma successfully stimulates the release of the protein prolactin which may inhibit the growth of cancerous tumours as much as 10 times better than other versions of Vitamin E can

 

  • May improve digestion – as barley grass has a naturally positive, stimulating effect on ‘gut friendly’ bacteria (the ‘good’ rather than the ‘bad’ bacteria to be found in the intestines), Green Magma can help in alleviating inflammation and other symptoms that are associated with gastrointestinal complaints like ulcerative colitis (UC), something which is only boosted by its handy talent for reducing aggressive bowel chemicals, as well as aiding in the flushing out of toxins from the body and assisting in the maintenance of the bowel’s fluid balance

 

  • A natural detoxifier – all heavy metals (e.g. lead) are very poisonous to the human body and require swift removal from it, should trace levels of them been accidentally consumed and thus accumulated, and via detoxification this is something else at which Green Magma comes up trumps, specifically through the work of its trace element zinc; furthermore, barley grass’s naturally occurring chlorophyll and beta-carotene can aid the detoxing of waste mucous and crystallised acids, all of which contributes to the efficacy of the body carrying out metabolic processes and the critical detoxification work that goes on in the liver (note: those in need of detoxification may experience tiredness on first using Green Magma for this purpose; so it’s best to start with low doses of the supplement and build them up slowly over time, owing to its powerful detoxing qualities)

 

  • May restore acid-alkali balance – in its Green Magma version, barley grass makes for a superb natural alkaline source, ideal then for reducing excess acidity in the body and preventing otherwise possible acidosis damage; to this end, thanks to its work at restoring the human body’s acid-alkali balance, it may also aid in the prevention of a wide range of differing complaints, including cardiac pain, constipation, fatigue and sleep disorders

 

  • May improve skin, hair and nail quality – finally, Green Magma may also prove a great contributor to the regeneration of cells without side effects, which is where its ingredients including chlorophyll, iron and Vitamin C come in, as well as the pigment-protein phycocyanin, which inspires the creation of red and white blood cells and bone marrow; indeed, it’s this adept ability to aid renewal in the body that ensures Green Magma also helps to preserve hair and nail quality and keep skin looking youthful.

 

How to take Green Magma

A juice-based version of barley grass then (although it’s also available from The Finchley Clinic in tablet-form; see below), your best advised serving of Green Magma is via stirring a teaspoon of the supplement’s powder in a glass (160ml) of water – or non-acidic fruit juice – and drinking it up to twice a day. For best results, it’s best to consume Green Magma either 20 minutes before or around two hours after a meal; this will enable the nutrients to be absorbed as best as possible in the body. Remember not to mix the powder with a hot drink – heat may well damage the supplement’s active enzymes!

If you’re interested in purchasing and trying Green Magma, we stock the supplement in various dosages; take a look at them all below:

Green Magma (300g)

Green Magma (150g)

Green Magma (80g)

Green Magma (10-day trial pack)

Green Magma (250 tablets)

Co-Enzyme Q10, True Maxi Q10, Vitamins & Minerals

Why is Co-Enzyme Q10 a crucial nutrient – and should you boost its levels in your body?

It’s a regrettable fact of life… we all age and our bodies simply don’t perform when we’re older quite like they did when we were younger. Now, many of this accept this; many of us believe there’s no fountain of youth (newsflash: there isn’t) and no way to reverse the ageing process. Well, while that may be essentially true, it’s actually false that there isn’t anything we can do about it.

Take for instance, if you’re getting older, boosting your body’s levels of Co-Enzyme Q10. Your what, you may ask? Co-Enzyme Q10 (or simply CoQ10, as it’s often referred to) is a naturally-occurring nutrient in the human body; although neither a vitamin nor a mineral, the important role it plays in ensuring your body remains healthy and functions as it should often means it’s mentioned in the same breath as them. Primarily, it’s recognised as a major contributor to helping cells generate energy and a critical fighter against highly disruptive molecules known as free radicals that, in order to ‘complete themselves’, greatly damage cells and DNA.

Continue reading Why is Co-Enzyme Q10 a crucial nutrient – and should you boost its levels in your body? →

Kidney Health, Liposomal Vitamin C, True Food Vitamin C, Vitamin C, Vitamins & Minerals

The orange Juice Nutrient: How to Avoid and Beat Vitamin C Deficiency

Forever associated with orange juice, Vitamin C is perhaps the most easily recalled of all the family of vitamins whose consumption is crucial for our bodies to function exactly as they should. For, should you peel back the surface and break up the segments – yes, as would with an orange – of what Vitamin C does for us, you quickly find it’s impossible not to come to the conclusion it’s essential for healthy human life.

A natural antioxidant that also goes by the scientific name L-ascorbic acid, Vitamin C can actually be found in many fruit and vegetables, certainly not just oranges1. Among all the great things it does inside out bodies, it helps ensure growth and development take place as they should, especially as it aids in the repairing of damaged internal tissue2, 3 and, in helping produce the protein collagen, it plays a pivotal role in keeping the skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and blood vessels in good health4.

Continue reading The orange Juice Nutrient: How to Avoid and Beat Vitamin C Deficiency →

Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamins & Minerals

Magnificent Magnesium: An Essential Super Nutrient

If you’re someone who’s nutrient deficient then you’re in for bad news. It’s because you’re consuming vitamins, minerals and other nutrients in the right quantities and to the right levels why you may get ill and not feel at your best a good deal of the time. If you seem to get ill more often than other people, it could well be because you’re nutrient deficient.

But how do you know for sure? And how do you know which nutrient – or nutrients – you’re deficient in? Well, that’s a bit tricky to ascertain, as lacking enough of a specific nutrient would likely be revealed by very specific symptoms – but then there are crossovers that suggest you may be lacking in another nutrient.

All that said, though, one of the leading nutrient deficiencies in adults is of magnesium, which isn’t that surprising given the roster of important things that magnesium’s responsible for in the human body; at least 300 different biochemical functions, in fact, that see it play pivotal roles in heartbeat rhythm regulation, energy production, enzyme and neurotransmitter function and the balancing of nitric oxide levels.

In fact, it’s estimated that as many as eight in 10 adults are deficient in this vital mineral; believe it or not. How do you know if you’re not getting enough magnesium through your diet? Clues could be if you tend to experience muscle aches and/ or spasms, poor sleep and digestion and anxiety and exaggerated worry. Yet, again, from this it would be hard to pinpoint you’re definitely lacking in magnesium, as they’re rather general symptoms – to that end, it’s best to check with a doctor or medical professional.

Not Enough Magnesium – What happens?

So much for what magnesium does in the body, but when it’s not present in high enough levels, what conditions can its absence help cause? The list’s a long one – underlining just how crucial the nutrient is to us:

  •  Alzheimer’s disease, glaucoma or multiple sclerosis owing to peroxynitrite damage1
  •  cardiovascular disease and hypertension1
  •  damage to the kidneys and liver 1
  •  impotence1
  •  increased premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms1
  •  mood swings and potential behavioural disorders1
  •  osteoporosis1
  •  recurrent bacteria- or fungal-based infections1
  •  restless leg syndrome1

How can you Boost your Magnesium Intake?

<style=”text-align: justify;”>It’s often said that increasing your magnesium levels via supplementation may cause disruption of your body’s nutrient balance. The thinking here goes that, because (in spite of its importance) we need relatively little magnesium compared to other vitamins and minerals, consuming large, regular amounts of magnesium could create an imbalance.

To that end, ideally one should seek to get their adequate helping of magnesium from their diet – along with all their other required vitamins and minerals – and foods that are rich in magnesium and advised for widening your diet include vegetables like avocados, bananas, black beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, mung beans, potatoes, spinach and Swiss chard, as well as nuts and seeds like almonds, cashews and pumpkin seeds2.

And yet, if for whatever reason, you’re incapable of altering your diet to include a fair number of such foods then the expert thinking is that natural supplementation’s an effective way to overcome Magnesium deficiency. This in no small part is because of, in addition to magnesium’s health-giving properties, its relationship with other nutrients in the body such as calcium – it’s thought that taking magnesium supplementation has the handy, added bonus of counterbalancing levels of calcium, should you also be taking supplements of the latter on a regular basis2.

Plus, if you go the magnesium supplement route it’s also likely to be of benefit if you find you tend to rely on antibiotics to beat infections (although, of course, other natural supplements may help you to avoid infections in the first place!). Why? Well, heavy antibiotic use may result in damaging your digestive tract to the extent that magnesium isn’t absorbed from nutrient-rich foods2. Something to think about.

Magnesium Supplements

The following magnesium-based supplements are all available from The Finchley Clinic:

True Food MagnesiumTrue Food Magnesium –  Offers a highly bioavailable, potent food form of magnesium for enhanced absorption.


Magnesium Malate 120Magnesium Malate – Provides 100mg elemental magnesium per capsule, as well as Malic acid.


Vitamin C 500mg capsuleBioCare Vitamin C – A Magnesium Ascorbate supplement that provides Vitamin C as well as magnesium, in addition to bilberry extract which comprises flavonoids, a potent source of antioxidants.


References:

1. Johnson S. ‘The multifaceted and widespread pathology of magnesium deficiency’. Med Hypotheses. 56 (2): 163-70. Feb 2001.

2. ‘Should you be taking magnesium supplements?’. https://draxe.com/magnesium-supplements.

BioCare Adult Multivitamins & Minerals, General Health & Nutrition, True Food Natural Vitamin E, Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin E-ssential: The Many and Various Benefits of Vitamin E

Pretty much everybody – even children – are aware that the organic compounds known as vitamins are vital to the preservation of human health,  but while most people have heard of Vitamins A, B (Complex), C and D – and some are familiar with them – how many people know that much about Vitamin E? Chances are not that many. And yet, just like its fellow vitamins, ‘E’ is essential to keeping us fit and healthy and our bodies happily functioning as they should.

So, just what’s so special about Vitamin E? What makes it so important to our well-being? Well, principally it’s because it functions as such a good and reliable antioxidant1, thus combating the harmful, highly reactive molecules that occur in our bodies known as ‘free radicals’. Now, because these molecules are ‘uncharged’ (they’re forever after an electron to pair with their single electron) they attack and damage cells in their quest to become ‘charged’ and complete, thus potentially leading to many ailments. This process is referred to as oxidative stress2 and so requires antioxidants to counteract and neutralise the harmful effects of free radicals to the tissues of the skin3, eyes4, liver, breast, lungs and testes6, 7 – which is where Vitamin E comes in.

Antioxidant benefits

As a result of its invaluable antioxidant properties then, Vitamin E is believed to help with a whole range of issues, not least arthritis8, compromised eyesight9, gout10 and atherosclerosis6. Moreover, in combating free radical formation that would otherwise see the molecules spread throughout the body, it can help prevent chain reactions that might lead to the emergence of diseases such as cardiovascular and heart disease, hypertension, senility and even forms cancer6.

And it doesn’t end there; further Vitamin E benefits include reducing menstrual pains and disorders such as vaginal itching dryness6 and migraines11, as well as help treat fatty liver disease12, muscular dystrophy13, restless leg syndrome14, shingles15 and diabetes-related circulatory problems16. Plus, in tandem with Vitamin A, there’s research to suggest Vitamin E may help reduce cholesterol and accumulation of fat6.

Vitamin E sources

So, with its myriad health benefits, it would be no surprise you decided to check if you’re getting enough of Vitamin E. The good news is that if you practice a well-balanced, healthy diet, there’s a decent chance you do. If not, though, you might look to boost your vegetable, seed and nut intake6. To that end, almonds, broccoli, avocados, hazelnuts, kale, mustard greens, papayas, parsley, pine nuts, olives, raw seeds, spinach, Swiss chard and turnip greens are all noted strong sources for the vitamin.

But what if you’re unable to alter your diet sufficiently (you might well have a nut allergy, for instance)? Well, there are a good number of Vitamin E supplements on the market and that means it’s in your interest to check out and discover the best and most value-for-money products. In which case, may we turn your attention to the ‘Vitamins & Minerals’ section of The Finchley Clinic website where you’ll find a fine selection of supplements containing Vitamin E and more; the following three of which are all highly recommended:

Adult-Multivitamins-and-Minerals-90-Capsules

BioCare Adult Multivitamins & Minerals – a one-a-day capsule for all round nutritional support, features Vitamins A, B (Complex), C, D and E, as well as zinc, magnesium and selenium.

True-Food-Natural-Vitamin-E

True Food Natural Vitamin E – a highly bio-available food form of Vitamin E that helps protect cell membranes from oxidative damage and supports healthy skin; can also be taken with True Food Soyagen for menopause support.

MicroCell-Vitamin-E

Microcell Vitamin E 200 – micellised into small droplets by BioCare’s unique MicroCell process for enhanced absorption and bioavailability.

References:

1. ‘Vitamin E: Health Sheet for Health Professionals’. National Institute of Health. May 2016.

2. Jakus V. ‘The role of free radicals, oxidative stress and antioxidant systems in diabetic vascular disease’. Bratisl Lek Listy. 2000. 101(10): 541-51.

3. Thiele J. J., Hsieh S. N. and Ekanayake-Mudiyanselage S. ‘Vitamin E: critical review of its current use in cosmetic and clinical dermatology’. Dermatol Surg. July 2005. 31 (7 Pt 2): 805-13.

4. Rizvi, S. et al. ‘The Role of Vitamin E in Human Health and Some Diseases’. Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal 14.2 2014: e157–e165.

5. Applegate T. J. and Sell J. L. ‘Effect of dietary linoleic to linolenic acid ratio and vitamin E supplementation on vitamin E status of poults’. Poult Sci. July 1996. 75 (7): 881-90

6. Lobo V. et al. ‘Free Radicals, Antioxidants and Functional Foods: Impact on Human Health’. Pharmacognosy Reviews 4.8 2010: 118–126. PMC.

7. Choi E. J., Bae S. C., Yu R., Youn J. and Sung M. K. ‘Dietary vitamin E and quercetin modulate inflammatory responses of collagen-induced arthritis in mice’. J Med Food. Aug 2009.12 (4): 770-5.

8. Larsen P. D., Mock D. M. and O’Connor P. S. ‘Vitamin E deficiency associated with vision loss and bulbar weakness’. Ann Neurol. 1985 Dec. 18 (6): 725-7

9. Hsu D-Z. et al. ‘Therapeutic Effects of Sesame Oil on Monosodium Urate Crystal-Induced Acute Inflammatory Response in Rats’. SpringerPlus 2. 2013: 659. PMC.

10. Ziaei S., Kazemnejad A. and Sedighi A. ‘The effect of vitamin E on the treatment of menstrual migraine’. Med Sci Monit. Jan 2009. 15(1): CR16-9.

11. Arani K. S. et al. ‘Effect of Vitamin E and Metformin on Fatty Liver Disease in Obese Children- Randomized Clinical Trial’. Iranian Journal of Public Health 43.10 2014: 1417–1423.

12. Berneske G. M. et al. ‘Clinical Trial of High Dosage Vitamin E in Human Muscular Dystrophy’. Canadian Medical Association Journal 82.8 1960: 418–421.

13. Ayres S. and Mihan R. ‘Leg Cramps (Systremma) and ‘Restless Legs’ Syndrome – Response to Vitamin E (Tocopherol)’. California Medicine 111.2 1969: 87–91.

14. Nicholas J. A. et al. ‘Design of Oral Agents for the Management of Multiple Sclerosis: Benefit and Risk Assessment for Dimethyl Fumarate’. Drug Design, Development and Therapy 8 2014: 897–908. PMC.

15. Baburao Jain, A. and Anand Jain V. ‘Vitamin E, Its Beneficial Role in Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and Its Complications’. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research: JCDR 6.10 2012: 1624–1628. PMC.

Detoxification, Immune health, Immune products, Kidney Health, Saponin supplements, Vitamins & Minerals

Don’t Get In A Lather – Turn To Super Saponins

We are – all of us, surely – aware of the wonderful benefit of soap. It plays a pivotal role in keeping our bodies clean. But few of us are aware that some of the chief ingredients in soap are of huge benefit to our bodies when consumed – namely, helping maintain our cholesterol levels, aiding immunity and supporting the gastrointestinal system1.

These ingredients are the plant-based chemicals known as saponins. As they generate a lather when put together with water2, saponins have proved crucial in ensuring saponaria (or soapwort) – one of the many flora they occur in – has been used as a traditional soap for many centuries2. Specifically, when mixed with water, saponins – thanks to their very individual chemical structure – create a foam as well as fatty oils, in the manner of a detergent.

Health benefits

Indeed, it’s this foam-inducing, very individual chemical structure that enables saponins to provide a number of significant health benefits:

  • Cholesterol – when its levels aren’t too high, cholesterol actually plays an important role in ensuring digestion takes place because, in the digestive tract, it’s responsible for fat-soluble molecules mixing together or, in other words, it binds with bile acids, causing the latter’s excretion from the body so they’re not absorbed back into the bloodstream; research conducted on rats suggests a specific type of high cholesterol-packed saponin extract may work to decrease ‘bad’ (LDL) cholesterol levels, but not beneficial ‘good’ (HDL) cholesterol levels3
  • Immunity – in order to fight off the harmful effects of parasites, plants readily call on their saponins and humans can do so too; a study suggests they can be effective at combating candida4, while a specific type of saponin is a good antimicrobial for the mouth5
  • Kidneys – research evidence points to saponins sourced from Terminalia arjuna (an arjun tree) providing therapeutic effects for urinary stone issues6, thus aiding good kidney health
  • Liver – it’s believed by experts that saponins also support Kupffer cells in the liver, thus helping to encourage successful detoxification
  • Blood sugar and bone density – animal studies indicate saponins aid balanced blood sugar levels and contribute to normal bone density7, 8
  • Depression – a number of preclinical reports suggest that saponins may positively contribute to treating depression9.

Saponin sources

Although saponins seem to be rarely talked about, they can be derived from more than a hundred different plants and foods, for instance:

  • Foods – beans, chickpeas, peanuts, quinoa, soy and tomatoes, among many others
  • Herbs – bupleurum root, collinsonia, ginseng, jiaogulan, osha and Tribulus terrestris.

Saponins (extracted from quillaja and yucca) are even used in fizzy drinks like root beer to ensure they have a foamy head.

Supplements

In addition to the above food and drink-based sources, you might consider any of the following saponin supplements – all available from The Finchley Clinic. Not only do they contain the chemicals, they’re also packed full of many more essential nutrients:

cumanda

Cumanda (1 floz/ 30 ml) – typically used for candida management and microbial defence, cumanda bark may support the immune system; contains anthocyanins, cyanogenic glucosides, heterosides, saponins and tannins.

suma-120-vegicaps

Suma (Brazilian Ginseng) (120 and 60 vegicaps) – features 19 amino acids, cobalt, germanium (an antioxidant), iron, magnesium, saponins, silica, zinc and the Vitamins A, B-1, B-2, E and K.

yerba-mate-90-vegicaps

Yerba Mate (90 vegicaps, 100g powder and 40 and 90 teabags) – derived from the yerba mate tree in South America, this product contains magnesium, Vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, 15 amino acids, antioxidants (polyphenols), plant sterols and saponins.

 

References

  1. Shi J., Arunasalam K., Yeung D., Kakuda Y., Mittal G. and Jiang Y. ‘Saponins from edible legumes: chemistry, processing, and health benefits’. J Med Food. 2004 Spring; 7(1): 67-78.
  2. Cornell University. Department of Animal Science – Plants Poisonous to Livestock.Updated 09/10/2015 14:58:48.
  3. Malinow M. R., McLaughlin P., Papworth L., Stafford C., Kohler G. O., Livingston A. L. and Cheeke P. R. ‘Effect of alfalfa saponins on intestinal cholesterol absorption in rats’. Am J Clin Nutr. 1977 Dec; 30(12): 2061-7.
  4. Coleman J. J., Okoli I., Tegos G. P., Holson E. B., Wagner F. F., Hamblin M. R. and Mylonakis E. ‘Characterization of Plant-Derived Saponin Natural Products against Candida albicans’. ACS Chem. Biol., 2010, 5 (3), pp 321–332. doi: 10.1021/cb900243b.
  5. Jyothi K. S. M. and Seshagiri M. ‘In-Vitro Activity of Saponins of Bauhinia Purpurea, Madhuca Longifolia, Celastrus Paniculatus and Semecarpus Anacardium on Selected Oral Pathogens’. J Dent (Tehran). 2012 Autumn; 9(4): 216–223.
  6. Chaudhary A., Singla S. K. and Tandon C. ‘In vitro Evaluation of Terminalia arjuna on Calcium Phosphate and Calcium Oxalate Crystallization’. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2010 May-Jun; 72(3): 340–345.
  7. Ojewole J. A. and Adewole S. O. ‘Hypoglycaemic effect of mollic acid glucoside, a 1alpha-hydroxycycloartenoid saponin extractive from Combretum molle R. Br. ex G. Don (Combretaceae) leaf, in rodents’. J Nat Med. 2009 Apr; 63(2): 117-23. doi: 10.1007/s11418-008-0298-0. Epub 2008 Dec 3.
  8. Abbas G., Rauf K. and Mahmood W. ‘Saponins: the phytochemical with an emerging potential for curing clinical depression’. Nat Prod Res. 2015; 29(4): 302-7. doi: 10.1080/14786419.2014.942661. Epub 2014 Jul 30.
  9. Meliani N., El Amine Dib M., Allali H. and Tabti B. ‘Hypoglycaemic effect of Berberis vulgaris L. in normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats’. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed. 2011 Dec; 1(6): 468–471.
Alpha vegicaps, BioCardio, Heart health, Vitamin K2, Vitamins & Minerals

Hale and hearty: the route to a healthy heart

Only a fool would decry the importance of the heart to their body and thus the importance of a fit heart to their overall health. After all, given it pumps blood throughout the body, supplying organs and cells with all-important oxygen, vitamins, minerals and other nutrients and, at the same time, removes from them toxic carbon dioxide, the heart’s arguably the most crucial muscle there is. A weak heart makes for a weak person; a heart that doesn’t work means you won’t work, plain and simple.

And yet, despite all that, how many of us properly look after our hearts? Not enough of us, that’s for sure. Otherwise there’d be far fewer cases of heart disease and general ill-health; especially among those of a certain age.

Dos and don’ts

So what should we all do – and, more than that, what’s easy for the vast majority of us to do – to try and ensure our hearts remain healthy? Well, here are some simple steps most of us should start to follow, for those who don’t already…

  • Exercise regularly – don’t forget that the heart’s a muscle, therefore it should be worked
  • avoid toxins especially bad for the heart (such as pesticides, insecticides and heavy metals like mercury and lead)
  • stop smoking – aside from the carbon monoxide in tobacco smoke that reduces blood oxygen levels, tobacco damages your arteries’ lining, thanks to the build-up of the fatty material atheroma, which narrows the arteries and causes anginas, heart attacks and strokes
  • avoid high-fat foods and too many fizzy drinks that feature artificial sweeteners

Get your diet right

Away from the aforementioned ways you should and shouldn’t live your life to keep your heart functioning as it should, there are also specific foods you can introduce into your diet. Just eating more of the following could be a big help…

  • Salmon – thanks to the Omega-3 fatty acids it contains, salmon’s a fine source for Vitamin D, thus can help address the low levels of the vitamin in too many adults, which has been long associated with heart problems and, as a consequence, premature death1
  • Broccoli – this and other cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, kale and sprouts) are widely considered to help cut the risk of cardiovascular disease2; indeed, a recent study suggests they lower the chance of cardiac-associated death more than other vegetables and fruits3. Moreover, research in the last few years has found that a compound in broccoli (indole-3-carbinol or I3C) appears to counteract aspects of heart failure, thus it may provide cardiac protection4
  • Asparagus – protection of the cardiovascular system (the body’s system responsible for blood circulation) is aided by phenolic acids, which commonly occur in asparagus; this is because these acids play a big role in making sure detoxifying enzymes help remove drugs and other toxins from the system5
  • Chickpeas – not only do chickpeas contain the aforementioned heart-health-friendly Omega-3 fatty acids, as well as incredibly nutritious vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium and potassium, but also a study has revealed they can help lower cholesterol levels, thus easing the workload of and pressure on the heart6
  • Spinach – Popeye was certainly on to something, for just a single helping of spinach should deliver 20% of your daily recommended amount of magnesium, the mineral that’s absolutely key to achieving proper muscle function, healthy blood sugar levels and favourable blood pressure7
  • Almonds – research suggests that consuming almonds is better for balancing cholesterol than cutting saturated fats from your diet (although the latter’s recommended too), in addition to the fatty acids they contain contributing to good cardiovascular health8
  • Olives – the Mediterranean diet has long been considered good for the heart, not least because it includes olives and olive oil, with their Omega-3 fatty acids, phenolic acids and antioxidant properties; thus helping to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease9.

Heart-health supplements

However, if for some reason, you might find it difficult to integrate any of the above foods into your diet or (perhaps because of pre-existing issues) you’re unable to exercise regularly or can’t prevent being exposed to heart-harming toxins, then you may consider turning to the following supplements to improve the health and efficacy of your heart. They’re all available from The Finchley Clinic – in fact, we recommend them whether you’re able to follow the previous steps in this article or not…

alpha-90-vegicaps

Alpha vegicaps (90 and 30 capsules) – cardio-protective and great for your general heart-health, this supplement’s major ingredients are alpha lipoic acid (an antioxidant excellent at countering free radicals) and acetyl L-carnitine (an amino acid highly effective in the fat metabolism process)

biocardio

Bio Cardio (300ml) – delicious thanks to its essential of orange oil flavour, this liquid-based supplement contains the Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA ensuring that, when combined with a low fat diet, fish oils and plant sterols, there’s a strong likelihood it’ll help reduce cholesterol levels and support platelet integrity

vitamin-k2-30-tablets

Vitamin K2 (60 and 30 tablets) – while, on its own, Vitamin K aids normal blood clotting and helps keep bones strong and healthy, this particular form of the vitamin (K2) appears to be a great contributor to good heart-health, aiding effective blood circulation.

References:

  1. Thomas G. N., ó Hartaigh B., Bosch J. A., Pilz S., Loerbroks A., Kleber M. E., Fischer J. E., Grammer T. B., Böhm B. O. and März W. ‘Vitamin D levels predict all-cause and cardiovascular disease mortality in subjects with the metabolic syndrome: the Ludwigshafen Risk and Cardiovascular Health (LURIC) Study’. Diabetes Care. May 2012; 35(5): 1158-64. doi: 10.2337/dc11-1714.
  1. Edmands W. M., Beckonert O. P., Stella C., Campbell A., Lake B. G., Lindon J. C., Holmes E. and Gooderham N. J. ‘Identification of human urinary biomarkers of cruciferous vegetable consumption by metabonomic profiling’. J Proteome Res. Oct 7 2011; 10(10): 4513-21. doi: 10.1021/pr200326k.
  1. Zhang X., Shu X. O., Xiang Y. B., Yang G., Li H., Gao J., Cai H., Gao Y. T. and Zheng W. ‘Cruciferous vegetable consumption is associated with a reduced risk of total and cardiovascular disease mortality’. Am J Clin Nutr. Jul 2011; 94(1): 240-6. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.110.009340.
  1. Deng W., Zong J., Bian Z., Zhou H., Yuan Y., Zhang R., Guo H., Zhang Y., Shen D., Li H. and Tang Q. ‘Indole-3-carbinol protects against pressure overload induced cardiac remodeling via activating AMPK-?’. Mol Nutr Food Res. Apr 27 2013. doi: 10.1002/mnfr.201300012.
  1. Yeh C. T. and Yen G. C. ‘Effect of vegetables on human phenolsulfotransferases in relation to their antioxidant activity and total phenolics’. Free Radic Res. Aug 2005; 39(8): 893-904.
  1. Pittaway J. K., Robertson I. K. and Ball M. J. ‘Chickpeas may influence fatty acid and fiber intake in an ad libitum diet, leading to small improvements in serum lipid profile and glycemic control’. J Am Diet Assoc. Jun 2008; 108(6): 1009-13. doi: 10.1016/j.jada.2008.03.009.
  1. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Magnesium.
  1. Ortiz R. M., Garcia S. and Kim A. D. ‘Is Almond Consumption More Effective Than Reduced Dietary Saturated Fat at Decreasing Plasma Total Cholesterol and LDL-c levels?’ A Theoretical Approach. J Nutr Metab. 2012; 2012: 265712. doi: 10.1155/2012/265712.
  1. Pauwels E. K. ‘The protective effect of the Mediterranean diet: focus on cancer and cardiovascular risk’. Med Princ Pract. 2011; 20(2): 103-11. doi: 10.1159/000321197.
Awake Food 60s, Body Balance, Drive!, Energy boosters, Green Magma, Vitamins & Minerals

Exercise, cleansing and supplements: tips on boosting your energy

Surely all of us know when we’re done in at the end of the day and it’s time for bed. But what if a good night’s sleep isn’t enough? What if, despite however many hours’ slumber you get several nights in a row, you still feel shattered? Well, if that’s the case, you’ll be suffering from chronic fatigue – and there’s definitely something wrong.

That’s because the production and use of energy in the body depends on cellular function – which, in turn, requires the consumption, absorption and transformation of vitamins and minerals – thus suggesting all’s not well in your cells. In fact, when your cells are struggling to produce the energy they ought to be, they can become damaged and die, leaving you low on energy yourself.

So what’s causing the problem? There can be several reasons for constant depleted energy – anything from thyroid or adrenal issues to parasites in your digestive system or candida overgrowth to deficiencies in Vitamin B12, chromium, magnesium or iron.

There is hope, however. The following body-enriching activities are highly advised. They’re all excellent – and, many of them, necessary for – boosting energy and helping to keep your mind sharp:

  • Exercise
  • Maintaining a natural, organic diet
  • Hydration through drinking water
  • Regular cleansing of the colon and liver
  • Keeping your hormones balanced
  • Massaging your muscles and body.

Not the best ideas for boosting energy

Conversely, they are a few died-in-the-wool, not so good methods many of us fall back on to supposedly boost our energy levels. Yes, we’re talking the ‘essential’ morning coffee and energy drinks here. Now, while the caffeine and sugar of coffee and energy drinks work as stimulants to ‘wake you up’, the effect is always short-term and will eventually lead to an energy crash. Moreover, caffeine is a powerful drug that results in dependence and puts stresses on the body’s adrenal glands and its endocrine system. When it comes down to it both these so-called energy boosters are mostly nutritionally deficient.

Better ideas for boosting energy

So, for a more effective, less harmful dietary-based energy boost, you’d do better focusing on getting more of these nutrients:

Vitamin B12

You really can’t overstate how much the body needs Vitamin B12. Without it, cellular energy creation (alternatively referred to as the ‘citric acid cycle’ or ‘Kreb’s cycle’) simply wouldn’t take place. The drawback for the body, though, is that it can’t create the vitamin itself – it must draw it from dietary intake. To wit, great natural sources for B12 are red meat, dairy, mussels and clams.

Chromium

Especially helpful in the transfer of glucose from the bloodstream to cells in order to transform proteins, carbohydrates and fats into energy, chromium occurs in a variety of different foods including fresh fruits and vegetables, potatoes (not least their skins), whole-grain breads and cereals, meats, cheeses and spices. Moreover, consuming hard tap water and using stainless-steel cookware can increase your chromium intake.

Iodine

Important in the body’s regulation of hormones, iodine is used by the thyroid to form triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), a pair of hormones that are crucial in normalising the levels of other hormones. In general, hormones are critical for keeping the body’s metabolism working efficiently and ensuring energy creation. For dietary sources of iodine, look to seafood and sea vegetables like dulse seaweed and wakame, as well as dark leafy greens.

Iron

Essential for the transportation of oxygen in your blood to tissues and organs, iron helps cells make energy by ensuring the oxygen they need reaches them. Traditionally, red meat was considered a good source for iron, but many people tend to consume less of it nowadays owing to its negative effect on cholesterol levels and heart-health. It’s true that certain fruits and vegetables (including broccoli, spinach, prunes and beans) also comprise iron, but at lower levels, hence why vegetarians can sometimes suffer from iron deficiency without realising it – as well as non-vegetarians who don’t eat red meat, of course.

Magnesium

Necessary to ensure cells activate adenosine triphosphate (ATP – the so-called ‘molecular unit of currency of intracellular energy transfer’), magnesium’s another hugely important mineral.Indeed, it was discovered in a recent study that for postmenopausal women, low magnesium levels directly correlate with low energy and can make completing basic physical tasks difficult1. When it comes to your diet it’s best to get your magnesium fill from spinach, almonds, sesame and pumpkin seeds, avocados and quinoa.

Supplements

Unfortunately, for different reasons, people aren’t always able to get the above minerals from their diets alone (in the manner of non-red-meat-eaters missing out on iron). In which case, a good substitute for energy boosters can be supplementation – and the following supplements are all available via The Finchley Clinic:

Awake_Food_60_Capsules

Awake Food 60s (60 capsules) – designed specifically to drive up the body’s energy levels and improve the mind’s alertness, this supplement’s formula contains B Complex vitamins (not just B12, but also B3, B5 and B6), three forms of ginseng and reishi mushroom

body-balance-powder

Body Balance (powder/ 420g) – supports a healthy metabolism by combining chromium, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), L-carnitine and high-quality whey protein to boost blood glucose and energy levels

Drive-180-capsules

Drive! (180, 90 and 30 capsules) – provides a combination of different nutrients to increase energy levels and help balance brain chemistry, including Vitamins B12, B3 and C, tyrosine, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, manganese and folic acid

Green Magma (Barley Grass Powder) – a staple food of several different civilisations for thousands of years, green barley grass has been popular for so long because of its energising and anti-ageing properties, which isn’t surprising given it contains Vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12, as well as at least 50 minerals including calcium, magnesium, iron and chromium; available as a 10-day trial pack in 300g, 150g and 80g packs and in tablet form (250).

Reference:

  1. Garrido-Maraver J., Cordero M. D., Oropesa-Avila M. et al. ‘Clinical applications of coenzyme Q10’. Front Biosci (Landmark Ed). Jan 1 2014. 19: 619-33.
Buffered Vitamin C, Fizzy C, Immune+, Tapioca Vitamin C, Vitamin C, Vitamins & Minerals

Don’t be deficient: how to avoid Vitamin C deficiency

When you read or hear the word malnourished, what image pops into your head? That of a tragically weak-looking, starving child, perhaps? Well, when you think about it, what malnourished actually means is when someone’s diet is deficient in specific nutrients so it damages their health and prevents their bodies from functioning properly. That means that, yes, potentially everyone on Earth can become malnourished – should they not ensure (or not be able to ensure) they have enough variety and nutrition in their food.

And one of the key nutrients every one of us should be getting from our diet is Vitamin C (or L-ascorbic acid), an essential antioxidant to be found in an array of different fruits and vegetables1. Why is it so essential? Just look at the facts – Vitamin C…

  • Supports growth and development of the body and aids damaged-tissue-repair2, 3
  • Aids collagen production, which critically contributes to healthy skin, blood vessels, cartilage, ligaments and tendons4
  • Stimulates iron absorption and enhances the fight against cell-damaging free radicals5
  • Promotes heart health6
  • May reduce the risk of high blood pressure7, 8, 9

Deficiency – and its dangers

To that end then, Vitamin C deficiency can be very bad news. Indeed, in one of the worse-case scenarios, it could lead to scurvy. No, scurvy isn’t just a pirate-derived slang term for a nautically-derived illness; it is a genuine disease. One that, thankfully, nowadays doesn’t occur that often in the Western world because few are heavily deficient in Vitamin C. Its symptoms, though, include the likes of fatigue, anaemia, scaly skin, easy bruising and gum disease7. Very unpleasant. As mentioned, in developed countries the chances of someone developing scurvy are low – but there is still a chance (vulnerable people in the United States are at risk even10); vigilance is important then, which means we must all ensure we’re getting enough Vitamin C. Deficiency can be caused by:

  • Too little fruit and veg in your diet; evaporated or boiled cow’s milk for babies as opposed to breast milk
  • Medical conditions such as digestive tract injuries/ inefficiencies, kidney disease, genetic diseases and certain kinds of cancer10
  • Smoking – the tissue damage tobacco causes ensures the body requires more Vitamin C than normal, ensuring smokers/ those exposed to second-hand smoke probably need as much as 35g extra of Vitamin C each day10

Recommended daily intake

Speaking of recommended intake, according to the US Office of Dietary Supplements, that will vary based on your age – and your gender11. However, the US Government guidelines for Vitamin C intake are surely far too low. Experts suggest that – as stated, dependant on their age, body weight and pre-existing conditions – individuals should be aiming to boost their daily levels of the vitamin to anything between 3g and 15g12. For his part, Dr Linus Pauling, the early and great advocate of Vitamin C, recommended a daily allowance of up to 18g13. In short, we always need Vitamin C; whatever our age, gender or body weight.

Natural sources

As you may have guessed, it’s best to get your Vitamin C the traditional way – from organic, natural sources. At the high end of the scale then11, we’re talking those colourful fruits and vegetables – the likes of red and yellow peppers, orange juice and oranges themselves, grapefruit juice, kiwifruit and green peppers. If these aren’t entirely your cup of tea then maybe more regular (certainly more traditional) fare in a British diet are also good14, such as strawberries, Brussels sprouts, tomato juice, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli and baked potatoes.

Supplementation

But what if you’re the kind of person that, try as you might, has just never got on with fruit and veg? Well, in that case, you may consider Vitamin C supplements. Not only are all of the following available via The Finchley Clinic, they’re also especially recommended because they’re organically, naturally derived:

Buffered Vitamin C (from calcium ascorbate) powder (180g and 60g) – ideal for those suffering from poor digestion, this supplement’s gentle and non-acidic; plus, as it comes in powder form, it can be easily mixed into drinks

Fizzy-C

Fizzy C (20 tablets) – additive- and artificial flavouring-free, this is ideal for all ages, not least because each tablet’s naturally sweetened so tastes great

Immune+ (Vitamin C with zinc) – in easy-to-swallow tablet form, this supplement contains the powerful antioxidant that’s blackcurrant, as well as zinc, black elderberry (which offers additional immune support) and bilberry (which provides the Vitamin C); available in bottles of 180, 90 and 30 tablets

Vitamin-C-Ultra-Pure

Tapioca Vitamin C (formerly Ultra Pure Vitamin C) (1,000mg; 90 capsules) – comprising 99.9% Vitamin C, this supplement’s derived from tapioca (cassava root) as opposed to corn, a food source that very few people are allergic to.

References:

  1. ‘Vitamin C’. MedlinePlus. US National Library of Medicine, 9 Mar 2016. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  2. Zeratsky, K. ‘Too Much Vitamin C: Is It Harmful?’. MayoClinic.org. Mayo Clinic, 5 Feb 2015. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  3. ‘Wounds’. University of Maryland Medical Center. University of Maryland, 5 Jan 2015. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  4. Boyera, N., Galey, I. and Bernard, B. A. (1998) ‘Effect of vitamin C and its derivatives on collagen synthesis and cross-linking by normal human fibroblasts’. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 20: 151–158. doi: 10.1046/j.1467-2494.1998.171747.x.
  5. Lynch, S. R. and Cook, J. D. (1980) ‘INTERACTION OF VITAMIN C AND IRON’.Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 355: 32–44. doi: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1980.tb21325.x.
  6. Osganian, S. K., Stampfer, M. J., Rimm, E. and Spiegelman, D. ‘Vitamin C and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease in Women’. ACC Current Journal Review 12.5 (2003): 27. PubMed. Web.
  7. ‘Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)’. University of Maryland Medical Center. University of Maryland, 16 July 2013. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  8. Juraschek, S. P. et al. ‘Effects of Vitamin C Supplementation on Blood Pressure: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials’. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 95.5 (2012): 1079–1088. PMC. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  9. Ness, A. R., Chee, D. and Elliott, P. ‘Vitamin C and Blood Pressure–an Overview’. J Hum Hypertens Journal of Human Hypertension 11.6 (1997): 343-50. PubMed. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  10. ‘Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Consumers’. National Institutes of Health. US Department of Health & Human Services, 17 Feb 2016. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  11. ‘Vitamin C Fact Sheet for Health Professionals’. National Institutes of Health. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, 11 Feb 2016. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
  12. Stock, S. L. ‘”C” your way to good health’. The Association for Systematic Kinesiology Newsletter. Jan 1989.
  13. Pauling, L. ‘My love affair with Vitamin C’. Profiles.nlm.nih.gov. Web. 2016.
  14. Bobroff, L. B. and Valentin-Oquendo, I. ‘Facts About Vitamin C’. University of Florida IFAS Extension. University of Florida, n.d. Web. 11 Mar 2016.
Aloe Gold Cherry/ Cranberry, Aloe Gold Natural, Aloe vera products, Heart health, Herbal Aloe Vera Ear Drops, Immune health, Vitamins & Minerals

Aloe vera: the plant extract packed with 200-plus nutrients

Aloe vera? Many of us have heard of it, haven’t we? Familiar thanks to its mention as an ingredient in skin creams and cosmetic products in so many TV ads, aloe vera (also called aloe barbadensis) is in fact a succulent plant species originating from various tropical parts of the world that’s been a health staple for millennia in many different cultures. As such, it’s been used to soothe burns, moisturise skin and heal small wounds for hundreds of years.

Today, though, it’s sometimes referred to as a ‘superfood’. Now, you may feel this sounds like a bit of advertising bunkum, but it surely can lay claim to such a lofty title thanks to the 200-plus vitamins, minerals and antioxidants it contains. Yes, really; it does contain that many.

To begin with, it’s packed full of Vitamin A (great for healthy teeth, bones, skin and eyes), Vitamin C (for skin health, energy creation and immunity), Vitamin E (for skin protection from UV damage), Vitamin B12 (for nerve and brain cell health), folic acid (for brain and liver health and energy creation) and choline (for memory, focus and maintaining a positive outlook).

Moreover, aloe vera contains calcium, chromium, copper, selenium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium and zinc; all of which play a critical role in hormone balance, cellular reproduction and strong immunity. And it also features a long list of enzymes (which together aid digestion, toxin removal and energy creation), including alliinase, alkaline phosphatase, amylase, bradykinase, carboxypeptidase, catalase, cellulase, lipase and peroxidase.

Indeed, it’s aloe vera’s varied nutritional benefits (thanks to all these ingredients and away from merely combating wrinkles and healthy skin) that the public tends to be less aware of and what we’re interested in here. So let’s take a closer look at a few of them…

Immunity

To combat infection effectively, our immune systems require oxygen-rich blood and, by supporting nutrient absorption, aloe vera plays a key role in ensuring they get it1.One way in which it does this is the detoxifying role it plays in ensuring bowel regularity to aid normal digestive tract function2. Aloe vera also works to keep cells in balance and functioning well (not least when the body experiences stress), which aids the immune system’s efficacy3, as does the fact it’s jam-packed with sugar-rich carbohydrates called polysaccharides4 and antioxidants that combat free radicals5.

Digestion

Among all its terrifically health-giving ingredients, aloe vera also contains the digestion-supporting enzymes amylase (which aids in the break-down of carbohydrates, sugars and starches) and lipase (which contributes to digesting fat); both aid a normal environment in the gut through helping to maintain balanced levels of stomach acid5, 6.

Meanwhile, studies suggest it also helps with ulcerative colitis (UC), the painful condition that sees ulcers take root in the intestines. The results of a clinical trial reveal that nearly half (46%) of a group of UC sufferers enjoyed an improvement in their symptoms after taking aloe vera7. And don’t overlook the contribution it can make to addressing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – symptoms of which include abdominal pain, constipation and diarrhoea – for reports suggest people have gained relief from IBS symptoms following consumption of aloe vera8, 9.

Cardiovascular

Keeping down the levels of the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in your body’s important for the health of your heart and blood vessels and compounds known as phytosterols, which aloe vera’s also rich in, can contribute greatly here10. Indeed, a five-year long study has found that patients suffering from heart disease who consumed aloe vera enjoyed better cholesterol and blood sugar numbers than those who received none over that period of time11, 12.

Teeth and mouth

And, finally, recent research suggests you could use aloe vera in fluid form to keep your teeth and gums healthy13, while aloe vera in gel form’s useful in fighting candida albicans, a fungus that can commonly afflict the mouth14.

Supplements

So, hopefully convinced as you are now of its vast array of health benefits; how can you best get your hands on aloe vera? Well, a great way to consume this ‘superfood’ is through aloe vera supplements. The following are all examples available through The Finchley Clinic that we highly recommend:

Aloe Gold Natural (485ml and 1,000ml) – made from whole-leaf aloe vera and contains more than 20 times more important nutrients than most other aloe juices and gels.

Aloe-Gold-Cherry-Cranberry

Aloe Gold Cherry/ Cranberry (485ml) – blends Aloe Gold juice (93%) with unsprayed cherry or cranberry juice (7%) to provide a delicious flavour; cranberry is renowned for supporting the urinary tract.

Herbal Aloe Vera Ear Drops (30ml) – great for soothingly cleansing the ear canal and suitable for young and old, among them frequent swimmers, hearing aid wearers and allergy sufferers.

References:

1 Benzie, I. F. F. and Wachtel-Galor S. ‘Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects’. Boca Raton: CRC, 2011.
2 Barcroft A. and Myskja A. ‘Aloe Vera: Nature’s Silent Healer’. London: BAAM, 2003. Print.
3 Rahmani A. H, Aldebasi Y. H., Srikar S., Khan A. A. and Aly S. M. ‘Aloe vera: Potential candidate in health management via modulation of biological activities’. Pharmacognosy Reviews. 2015; 9 (18): 120-126. doi:10.4103/0973-7847. 162118.
4 Tong H., Tian D., Li T., Wang B., Jiang G. and Sun X.. ‘Inhibition of inflammatory injure by polysaccharides from Bupleurum chinense through antagonizing P-selectin’. Carbohydr Polym. 2014 May 25;105:20-5. doi: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.01.039. Epub 2014 Jan 21.
5 Surjushe A., Vasani R. and Saple D. G. ‘Aloe Vera: A Short Review’. Indian Journal of Dermatology. Medknow Publications, n.d. Web. 12 Feb 2016.
6 Keshavarzi Z., Rezapour T. M., Vatanchian M. et al. ‘The effects of aqueous extract of Aloe vera leaves on the gastric acid secretion and brain and intestinal water content following acetic acid- induced gastric ulcer in male rats’. Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine. 2014; 4 (2): 137-143.
7 Langmead L., Feakins R. M., Goldthorpe S., Holt H., Tsironi E., De Silva A., Jewell D. P. and Rampton D. S. ‘Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral aloe vera gel for active ulcerative colitis’. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2004 Apr 1; 19 (7): 739-47.
8 Khedmat H., Karbasi A., Amini M., Aghaei A. and Taheri S. ‘Aloe vera in treatment of refractory irritable bowel syndrome: Trial on Iranian patients.’ Journal of Research in Medical Sciences: The Official Journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. 2013; 18 (8): 732.
9 Størsrud S., Pontén I. and Simrén M. ‘A Pilot Study of the Effect of Aloe barbadensis Mill. Extract (AVH200®) in Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: a Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study’. J Gastrointestin Liver Dis. 2015 Sep; 24 (3): 275-80. doi: 10.15403/ jgld.2014.1121.243.sst.
10 Ostlund R. E. Jr. ‘Phytosterols and cholesterol metabolism’. Curr Opin Lipidol. 2004 Feb; 15 (1): 37-41.
11 Agarwal O. P. ‘Prevention of atheromatous heart disease’. Angiology. 1985 Aug; 36 (8): 485-92.
12 Tanaka M., Misawa E., Ito Y., Habara N., Nomaguchi K., Yamada M., Toida T., Hayasawa H., Takase M., Inagaki M. and Higuchi R. ‘Identification of five phytosterols from Aloe vera gel as anti-diabetic compounds’. Biol Pharm Bull. 2006 Jul; 29 (7): 1418-22.
13 Karim B., Bhaskar D. J., Agali C., Gupta D., Gupta R. K., Jain A. and Kanwar A. ‘Effect of Aloe vera mouthwash on periodontal health: triple blind randomized control trial’. Oral Health Dent Manag. 2014 Mar; 13 (1): 14-9.
14 Sujatha G., Kumar G. S., Muruganandan J. and Prasad T. S. ‘Aloe Vera in Dentistry’. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research: JCDR. 2014; 8 (10): ZI01-ZI02. doi:10.7860/ JCDR/ 2014/ 8382.4983.