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A -- PLEASE USE THIS AS A REFERENCE SECTION... Last update 22.12.11
A Vitamin
Vitamin A a vision-enhancing nutrient was isolated in 1930, the first fat-soluble vitamin to be discovered. The body acquires some of its vitamin A through animal fats or vegetable sources. Vitamin A is required for night vision, and for a healthy skin. It boost immune system, builds resistance to infections, keeps tissue in good health. Vitamin A and B2 work together to help keep mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract healthy.
Absorbic Acid (Vitamin C)
Vitamin C also known as, ascorbic acid, L-ascorbic acid, dehydroascorbic acid, the antiscorbutic vitamin, L-xyloascorbic acid and L-threo-hex-2-uronic acidy-lactone, is a much talked about vitamin, with people claiming it as a cure-all for may diseases and problems - from cancer to the common cold. Vitamin C is the most widely taken supplement in North America. And with good reason. It is responsible for the formation, maintenance, and repair of collagen, the substance that forms the foundation of skin, ligaments, cartilage, vertebral discs, joint linings, capillary walls, and the bones and teeth. Also, it is required for utilizing carbohydrates and synthesizing fats and proteins. Activates growth and repair in tissues, boosts immune system, antioxidant, all organs and glands, connective tissues. Vitamin C promotes healing in every situation of ill health, can lower beneficial cholesterol and triglyceride level and may reduce cholesterol. Vitamin C also asists in the synthesis of collagen for healthy skin and mucous membranes. There are claims that Vitamin C will help with the relief of herpes infections of eyes and genitals and may retard aging.
Acai
Açai, pronounced a-sigh-ee, is a powerful little berry from the Brazil Amazon. It is high in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, omega 6 and 9, and phytosterols. It is packed with amino acids (protein) and fibre.
Açai is a staple Brazilian food and has been making headlines in Europe and North America as a superfruit! It has the highest ORAC value (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity - a method of measuring antioxidants) of any known fruit or vegetable. It contains up to 30% more antioxidants than red wine.
Benefits from Açai include:
•Antioxidant
•Weight-loss
•Energy
•Increased bowel movements
•Glowing skin
Contradictions: none known
Agave Syrup
Indications: Also called agave nectar is an absolutely delicious sweetener that is extracted from the leaves of the blue agave cactus-like plant called ‘Agave Tequilana’, which is widely grown throughout Mexico. Although not as thick as honey, agave syrup is actually sweeter than honey and sugar.
Agave syrup is a safe and natural alternative to refined sugars and artificial sweeteners. It has a low glycemic index which prevents your blood sugar levels from going too high, making this sweet syrup an ideal sugar substitute. It is fantastic for diabetics, health-conscious dieters, and anyone else who is looking to improve their health while not sacrificing the sweet taste of their favourite foods. It can be used in baking, cooking, and anywhere else you would use sugar. Some benefits include:
•Being Great for diabetics or insulin-resistance
•Weight Loss / Stops pus-producing wounds
•Effective against intestinal bacteria
•When mixed with salt creates an effective cure for wounds and skin infections
Contradictions: None
Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa)
First discovered by the Arabs, who dubbed this valuable plant the "father of all foods" the leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and beta carotene (useful against both heart disease and cancer). Alfalfa is also recommended for upset stomaches, as a laxitive, a natural diuretic, for urinary tract infections, a remedy for arthritis, an excellent appetite stimulant and an overall tonic.
Almond Butter
It is a spread similar to peanut butter, and one that is equally delicious and more nutritious. It contains no added ingredients or preservatives, and is made simply by crushing almonds. Not only is it a great alternative to people with peanut butter allergies, but also a great alternative (or another fantastic way) to receive all the health benefits of almonds.
Almond butter is packed with vitamins, minerals, and high amounts of nutrients such as protein, calcium, fiber, potassium, magnesium, folic acid, and vitamin K. It also benefits cardiovascular health, and is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats making it extremely heart healthy. Some benefits include:
•Lowering cholesterol and staving off the risk of diabetes
•Lowering blood pressure
•Controlling blood sugar
•Weight control
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera is grown in the southwestern region of the United States and Mexico, but is native to Africa. A member of the lily family, the juice or gel from the outer layer of the leaves contains the powerful healing compounds. Ancient cultures used aloe to treat hair loss, skin irritations and wounds.
1) Treating Wounds & Burns - Commonly used in many lotions and salves, aloe vera contains powerful compunds that reduce inflammation and swelling. Aloe vera also reduces redness and soothes burning.
2) Fighting Infection - In addition to its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera has been shown to fight bacteria and fungi that may attack a wound. Aloe vera also has immune boosting properties.
3) Alleviating Skin Problems - Aloe vera juice heals the skin and reduces redness and itching. Aloe vera is great for chronic skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Although the existence of alpha-lipoic acid was discovered back in the 1950’s, it has only been in recent years that it has become one of the hottest products on the supplement scene. The body uses alpha-lipoic acid to produce energy, and perform basic metabolic functions. It is now seen as a very special and powerful antioxidant, however, because studies show it is readily absorbed throughout the body (it is both water and fat soluble) and, as such, can protect the integrity of cells ranging from the brain to the liver. Unfortunately, the body does not produce any surplus of alpha-lipoic acid naturally, and it is only in this surplus “free” state that it acts as a potent antioxidant. Because the body produces it in only very small quantities, obtaining amounts necessary for therapeutic benefit must be derived from supplementation. Alpha-Lipoic acid acts as a facilitator to other powerful antioxidants, such as Vitamin E and C, by “recycling” them in the body, thus increasing their effectiveness. Because it is believed to be such a powerful antioxidant, it is now used to treat and prevent a wide array of age related diseases, including diabetes, cataracts, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s, along with boosting the immune system. In particular, it has been used to treat nerve damage that can result from diabetes. The nerve damage is believed to be a result of free radicals, which can be counteracted by potent antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid. It has also been shown in studies to help diabetics lower their glucose levels. Another major benefit is its ability to chelate (pull out) heavy metals (such as lead, cadmium, and mercury) and assists the liver in clearing out other bodily toxins.
American Ginseng
Also known as the wild American ginseng root, the extract has the ability to help the body adapt to stress, improve performance, increase energy and facilitate recuperation from illness.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cidar Vinegar is a natural product that both people and pets can take. It is a murky brown vinegar, with sediment called “mother” in the bottom that contains good bacteria and all the nutrients. It is made from nutricious organic apples and is able to retain a lot of the beneficial components because it is not pasteurized. It contains vital minerals and trace elements, such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron, silicon, and flourine. It is also an amazing anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral. Some benefits include:
•Helping Diabetes (aids in controlling high blood sugar)
•Reducing sinus Infections and sore throats
•Balancing high cholesterol
•Curing skin conditions, allergies, bad breathe, body odor, hair loss, Strengthing the immune system
•Improving digestion, constipation, diarrhea, and any other stomach ailments
•Increasing Stamina and Weight Loss
Apple Pectin Concentrate
Remember the old saying an appple a day keeps the doctor away? Well it holds a lot of truth for apple pectin. Pectin, is a source of soluble fibre, and while it is present in many foods, it is often found much more in apples. In fact they contain 10-20% of pectin already with an additional 15% in the peels!
Apple Pectin is also a strong antioxidant and helps improve overall health. It also reduces the risk of Coronary Artery Disease, and Cardiovascular Diease. It also protects against Metabolic Syndrome (consisting of heart disease, stroke, and high blood sugar). Other benefits include:
•Weight Loss
•Improves and Prevents Gallstones
•Lowering blood glucose levels + Binding harmful cholesterol and fats before they can be absorbed into the body
•Improving Intestinal Health
Contradictions: none
Arnica
Numerous people have recognized arnica’s powers to minimize inflammation, ease muscle pain, and accelerate the healing process. Arnica is most commonly used externally, but it can also be ingested to treat some heart conditions. Arnica is effective because it increases white blood cell activity. This increases circulation since white blood cells digest blocked blood and break up fluids that get caught shaken up from injured tissues, joints, and muscles. Since arnica can enhance circulation, it has been known to increase blood pressure, particularly in coronary blood vessels. In addition to its other external uses, it can alleviate joint pain, ease burns, and treat eczema and acne. Arnica can also be used reduce inflammation and pain, or as an antibacterial to help wounds heal quickly and neatly.
Artichoke
Artichoke is a plant native to southern Europe, North Africa and the Canary islands. Artichoke is a food. It's also available in some health food stores and online as a liquid extract or in capsule form. Artichoke is used for:
1)Liver or Gallbladder Conditions: Artichoke is approved by Germany's Commission E for liver and gallbladder complaints. It appears to stimulate the flow of bile.
2)High Cholesterol: Artichoke extracts are thought to help decrease cholesterol and triglyceride levels, although it hasn't been proven in human studies.
3)Indigestion:
Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha has been used by Native Americans and Africans to treat inflammation, fevers, and to protect against infection or illness. It has also been used to boost the immune system, improve memory, and to promote overall wellness. Ashwagandha is very effective in reducing inflammation, treating tumors, decreasing stress, increasing mental activity, invigorating the body, and as an antioxidant. Research has shown that many of the elements of ashwagandha are antioxidants. The researchers looked at the effects these elements and found that ashwagandha led to larger amounts of three different natural antioxidants: superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase.
Astragalus
Astragalus is used in traditional Chinese medicine for night sweats, diarrhea and for energy tonics that are taken daily at certain times of the year. Astragalus is also used for:
1)Immune Function -One of the key uses for astragalus is to improve immune function. Although more evidence is needed, one of the ways astragalus is thought to work is by increasing the production of immune cells. It may also have mild antiviral activity and help with the prevention of colds. There's little evidence from human studies, however, on the effectiveness of astragalus as an antiviral.
2)Heart Disease - Astragalus is also used for various heart conditions. It may have a diuretic effect which would lower blood pressure and it may cause blood vessels to relax. It hasn't been explored in human studies, so it shouldn't be used as a replacement for conventional care.
Avena Sativa (Oat Straw)
Avena Sativa,known as Oat straw herbal, has been shown to have many health benefits, including libido enhancement, detoxification and energy boosting, among others. Avena sativa has many medicinal purposes, and has been shown to be a nutritive and tonic for the nervous system, thus reducing stress, exhaustion and nervousness. Oat straw herbal can also improve mental function, concentration, as well as sharpen focus. Another oat straw benefit is helping with alcohol, cigarette and drug detoxification. Avena sativa provides a "boost" that invigorates and provides a natural substitute for drugs and alcohol. One of the most popular applications for oat straw however is in sexual enhancement supplements, as it has aphrodisiac-like effects on the body. Avena sativa can enhance libido by reducing stress and easing the mind, much like ginkgo and damiana.
