Supplements & Vitamins - G

Gamma Linolenic Acid 

Gamma Linolenic Acid GLA is the result of the body's first biochemical step in the transformation of the main essential fatty acid LA into important prostaglandins.  Prostaglandins are essential to the proper functioning of each cell, while essential fatty acids formed from GLA are required for each cell's structure. 

Nature's most potent concentration of GLA comes in the form of borage seed oil (24%). A great deal of scientific research has been conducted with supplements rich in GLA, resulting in significant interest regarding the aforementioned health ailments, as well as those affected by pre-menstrual syndrome, benign breast disease, eczema, psoriasis, obesity, and vascular disorders.

The essential fatty acids combined here have proven to impart a regulatory function on the body's fatty acid metabolism. Fat metabolism is as important, if not more critical, than our body's metabolism of proteins and carbohydrates as evidenced by the drastic rise in fat related degenerative diseases, such as vascular disease and strokes. Dietary essential fatty acids common to borage seed oil are ultimately converted to hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins, and are important for the regulation of a host of bodily functions including: 

• inflammation, swelling, & pain

• pressure in the eye, joints or blood vessels 

• secretions from mucus membranes and their viscosity 

• smooth muscle & autonomic reflexes, gastrointestinal, arterial, ear, heart 

• water retention 

• blood clotting ability 

• allergic response

• rheumatoid arthritis 

• nerve transmission 

• steroid production & hormone synthesis 

Scientists continue to discover regulating effects of prostaglandins. Without the essential fatty acids, the building blocks of prostaglandins, a malfunction of fat metabolism is certain, as are problems in the regulation of the above listed bodily functions.

For some individuals, flax seed oil may offer only half of the solution. Those deficient in co-factor nutrients, specifically the vitamins pro-A, A, C, E, B2, B6, Pantothenic acid, B12, biotin, and the minerals calcium, magnesium, potassium, sulfur, and zinc, sometimes have difficulty in converting the omega-6 fatty acid, linoleic acid, found in borage and other seed oils to the healthful prostaglandins. 

Still others are thought to lack the necessary enzyme (catalyst) to make this conversion; particularly those afflicted with diabetes, asthma, cystic fibrosis, multiple sclerosis, alcoholism and the aged. For those suffering from co-factor deficiencies, a broad spectrum multi-vitamin and mineral may be recommended with, perhaps, an oil supplement rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Individuals who may lack the proper enzyme system would require a GLA supplement in addition to the flax seed oil. Nature's most potent concentration of GLA comes in the form of borage seed oil (24%). 

When considering an essential fatty acid supplement and deciding on either flax or borage seed oils, the most sensible solution may be a formulation of the two. The combination of both flax and borage seed oil yields a true Omega-Twin by providing nature's best of the omega-3 fatty acids in flax with the best of omega-6 fatty acids in GLA rich borage oil.

Supplementation with flax seed & borage seed oils makes good sense for the following reasons:

1. Omega-3 fatty acids and GLA together on the production of beneficial prostaglandins. 
2. Over 60 health problems have proven to benefit from both flax seed and borage seed supplements.
3. Flax seed oil combined with borage seed oil work together for even better results.
4. Flax seed and borage seed oils combined is less expensive than purchasing them separately.


Conclusion :
The answer appears not to be no fat, but the right fat, as common to flax and borage seed oils, to achieve optimal health.

Past and present scientific research supports the use of essential fatty acid nutrients in promoting optimal health. Borage seed oil is recognized as nature's richest source of GLA. These natural plant substances used alone have created a great deal of interest in the treatment of numerous health problems. Evidence exists to suggest the combination of omega-3 fatty acids with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) may further complement the therapeutic result of either fatty acid used singularly.


Other Gamma Linolenic Acid Information:

Scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have reported that high doses of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) were highly effective in treating rheumatoid arthritis. An earlier study by the same group had shown that administration of 1,100 mg. of GLA per day from borage seed oil reduced synovitis in six of seven patients with rheumatoid arthritis. GLA is rapidly converted to dihomogamma-linolenic acid, the immediate precursor of prostaglandin E1 which is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Nature's most potent concentration (24%) of GLA comes in the form of borage seed oil. 

Other benefits of GLA include:

1.Vasodilation of blood vessels which can reduce high blood pressure

2. Reduction of abnormal blood clotting which can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke

3. Enhanced regulation of immune response

4. Enhanced defense against abnormal cell growth and may even reverse cancer

5. Elimination of common skin disorder such as eczema

6. Slowing of some aspects of normal aging



Gamma Linolenic Acid is also known as:

GLA, gamma-linolenic acid, gla

 

 GARLIC (ALLIUM SATIVUM)

Garlic is from the Amaryllidaceae family. It is also called "Russian Penicillin" It has vitamins A, B1 and C, and the minerals calcium, copper, iron, manganese, potassium and zinc. Garlic has white flowers, has long flat solid leaves up to a foot long, and a "clustered bulb" for a root. It is the "bulb" which can contain from 4 to 15 clusters that is used medicinally. Garlic is one of the most famous of all herbs. There are over 10000 research papers published just in the past 25 years on Garlic! It is used widely in cooking, medicinal uses, and is even as the reputation of being able to ward off Vampires! Studies have shown that use of Garlic lowers total "bad" LDL Cholesterol, and raising "good" HDL Cholesterol. It has an active ingredient called allicin. Garlic does have a strong odor, but use of Garlic Pills with enteric-coatings help cut down the odor. Also eating Parsley after ingesting Garlic can help eliminate the strong odor. Growing Roses and Garlic together is common. The Garlic repels bugs and pests such as aphids. It helps peaches, tomatoes and cabbages, but inhibits the growth of peas and beans. Garlic has a strong smell, which is caused by the Allicin. It is the Allicin however that gives Garlic its medicinal properties. Garlic works in all forms, whether it is raw, dried, an oil, or even in a prepared commercial product.

HISTORY: Garlic has been used by ancient peoples all over the world to help strengthen the immune systems, add flavor to cooking, and for religious use. It is thought to have originated in Siberia, then spread south into Asia, and East into Europe. Shakespeare, Homer, and ancient Romans, Greeks and Egyptians mention garlic in their writings. 

INTERNAL USE: This herb can be taken as a powder, capsule, tablet or eaten fresh. Garlic can act as an antioxidant, lower blood pressure, fight infections, acts as an antiseptic, destroy fungi and parasites in the body, and strengthens the body’s immune system. It also acts as an anti-coagulant, which protects against thrombosis, which is the blockage of blood flow by blood clots, which happens in some strokes. It helps dissolve existing cholesterol in the system. It is also used as an anti-aging herb; to help keep human cells young and healthy. Garlic can be used as an enema to help fight infections and parasites, and as a douche to help yeast infections. Garlic also has proven anti-cancer properties. Excessive use of Garlic should be avoided, as it can result in heartburn, flatulence and other gastrointestinal properties. The sulfur in Garlic can help eliminate heavy metals that are in the body such as lead, mercury and cadmium. Since it is an anti-coagulant, people taking aspirin or other anti-coagulant drugs should be careful with their ingestion of Garlic. Garlic also has chemopreventive properties, which are especially useful in cancer prevention.

EXTERNAL USE: Garlic oil can be used to heal ringworm, skin parasites, tumors and warts. A few drops put into an ear, twice daily, can help stop an earache. You can prepare oil by pouring cold-pressed olive oil over minced fresh pealed garlic and soaking for 3-7 days. Shake the mixture daily. Strain, and pour into a dark bottle. Stored in a cool place, the Garlic Oil can last for a very long time.


GENTIAN (GENTIANA LUTEA)

This herb is also known as Bitter Root. Gentian is native to Europe and West Asia. It grown extensively in North America. The root which is used medicinally contains vitamins B complex and F, as well as the minerals lead, manganese, silicon, sulfur, tin and zinc. It also has inositol, niacin and natural plant sugars, including sucrose. These sugars help break down food in the digestive system. The Gentian plant can grow up to six feet high.

HISTORY: Gentian has been used for centuries in Europe to improve appetite and stop gastrointestinal problems.

INTERNAL USE: Gentian is used to help appetites, circulation, digestion, diarrhea, genital swelling, gout, gall bladder secretion increases and rheumatoid arthritis. It also helps to strengthen female organs and fight venereal diseases





GERMANIUM – 

Improves cellular oxygenation, helps to fight pain, keep immune system functioning properly, and rid body of toxin and poisons; organic germanium is effective in increasing tissue oxygenation because it acts as an oxygen carrier to the cells; one scientist found that a 100-300 mg supplement improved many illnesses-rheumatoid arthritis, food allergies, elevated cholesterol, candidiasis, chronic viral infections, cancer and AIDS

SOURCE – garlic, shiitake mushrooms, onions HERBS – aloe vera, comfrey, ginseng, suma

MISC – best gained through the diet

Oxygen deliverer

Found naturally in garlic, ginseng, chlorella, various mushrooms; officially non-essential; might help in cancer treatment, arthritis, osteoporosis, yeast, AIDS and viral infections; could accelerate wound healing and decrease pain (160) – boosts immune system, wards off free radical damage, helps body rid itself of immune-weakening toxins, generates oxygen production inside tissue cells

SUPPLEMENT/SOURCE – supplement only with organic germanium-germanium bis-carboxyethyl sesquioxide-132 or Ge-132 safest form; Germanium dioxide, germanium lactate citrate are inferior version that are dangerous, could cause death


GINGER (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE)

This perennial herb is from the ZINGIBERACEAE family. The word Ginger is from Hindu Sanskrit meaning "Horn Root". It is grown world wide, but most noticeably in the United States, India, Mexico and China. The root of the Ginger plant is used medicinally. It contains Vitamins A, B Complex, C, the minerals calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium and magnesium as well as an oil called ginerol. This oil binds or holds together other herbs taken at the same time, and ensures that they reach the digestive colon of the body. Ginger also contains the amino acid tryptophane, which is a central nervous system tranquilizer. Ginger grows up to four feet high, and usually grows in shady areas. It is a popular additive to foods, as well as its use as a medicinal herb. 

HISTORY: Over 4000 years ago, Greeks ate ginger wrapped in bread to prevent indigestion. The Chinese used Ginger on their ships to prevent Scurvy.

INTERNAL USE: Traditionally taken as a tea ,capsule form, tinctures, ground powders and in cooking. It is used to help with arthritis, colds, dysentery, gas, hypertension, indigestion, lumbago, morning sickness, tonsillitis and motion Sickness and nausea control. To use Ginger for motion sickness, take the Ginger 20 minutes before the trip/motion starts, and then repeat every two to three hours. Interestingly, Ginger does not work by suppressing the central nervous system, which would cause sluggishness. A douche of Ginger kills vaginal trichomonads (parasitic protozoa) which occur in the vagina and urethra of women.



GINKGO BILOBA 

This tree is also known as the Maidenhair Tree. The seeds and leaves of this tree are full of amazing compounds, which improve blood circulation by relaxing and dilating blood vessels in the body. This provides the brain and extremities extra oxygen and nutrients, as well as the removal of cellular wastes. So popular is this herb, that sales are over a billion dollars a year. Ginkgo Biloba contain flavoglycosides and ginkgolides, which are complex chemical compounds. Unfortunately, Ginkgo Tea tastes awful.

HISTORY: This is an ancient herb. When the Dinosaurs were roaming the Earth 200 million years ago, Ginkgo Biloba was there. Ginkgoes are the oldest living tree species on Earth. During the last Ice Age, all Ginkgoes’ were destroyed except for a small range of them in Northern China. This herb is one of the best-studied and safest to uses of all herbs.

INTERNAL USE: It is used to improve blood flow to the brain, thus improving concentration, increasing memory (especially in the elderly), enhances blood flow to extremities, such as the legs, and functions as an anti-oxidant in the body. It helps treat peripheral vascular diseases. It helps inhibit lipid peroxidation of cell membranes, which is a process that leads to clogging of the arteries, or atherosclerois. It also helps people with asthma, migraines, eczema, depression, strokes, brain impairment and respiratory problems. Gingko also helps with tinniutus and emotional instability.



GINSENG (PANAX QUINQUEFOLIUS)

This perennial herb is from the SENTICOSUS family. Ginseng grows to a foot and a half high, and has yellow flowers and red fruit. The Ginseng root contains vitamins B1, B2, Biotin, B3, B5, A, E, rutin and the minerals calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, silicon, potassium, manganese, magnesium, sulfur, tin and germanium. Germanium, as an oxide, stimulates the formation of red blood cells. There is Chinese or Korean (RED) Ginseng and American (WHITE) Ginseng. The American Ginseng is not considered to be as potent as Chinese Ginseng. The Korean version of Ginseng has the greatest amount of germanium. This herb has been used for a wide variety of uses, from medicinal, religious, cooking and strengthening. Ginseng has saponins, which is stimulate healing of wounds, and stimulates white blood cell lymphocytes. Ginseng also has complex polysaccharides, eleutherosides and works as an adaptogen in the human body.

HISTORY: Ginseng has been used for more than 1000 years in the Far East, most notably in China. Many Native American tribes have used American Ginseng for hundreds of years to help with sexual problems, and also gastrointestinal problems. It has been called the "King of all Herbs"! It was used as a medicinal herb, as well as an Aphrodisiac. Almost all the Ginseng grown for the world today is grown in Marathon County, Wisconsin. A large quantity is then exported to China. Roots can take up to 6 years to reach maturity. At harvest, Ginseng can fetch up to $50/pound, making it one of the most profitable crops to grow legally. Siberian Ginseng was given to the people around Cherynoble to help treat their radiation poisoning after the nuclear reactor exploded.

INTERNAL USE: This herb is taken as a tea, capsule, or as a fresh root. Ginseng helps Alzheimer’s, chemotherapy, cancer, clogged arteries, diabetes, radiation therapy, stress and ulcers.. Care should be made not to over use Ginseng as long term over use it can cause headaches, diarrhea, insomnia, skin lesions and high blood pressure. Ginger contains anti-diabetic substances, which lower blood sugar levels. It also contains panaxin, which stimulates the brain and improves muscle tone. The saponins in Ginseng also help prevent blood clotting and prevents stress induced Ulcers. Although Ginseng can be expensive, 1 to 2 cups of Ginseng tea a week is not excessive as a dosage. Ginseng is an adaptogen, which aids the body to cop with stress, primarily through it’s effect on the human adrenal gland.

 

glucosamine click for additional info

Instead of just dulling your pain and brain with drugs or getting costly dangerous surgery, many people in Europe, Asia, and a few in the USA are now curing the symptoms of osteoarthritis. These people are getting excellent results using a combination of natural supplements that slow and eventually eliminate the disease in many patients. 

The approach includes a combination of two nutritional supplements called glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates. Both glucosamine and chondroitin are available without a doctor's prescription. 

These are substances we already consume and our bodies produce in very small quantities. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates have no known negative side effects unlike painkillers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and cortisone injections which can do significant damage to your body. 

Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates can actually help your body repair its damaged or weakened cartilage 
by assisting your body's own natural repair mechanisms.


Glucosamine Relieves Pain Better Than Drugs:

In an eight-week, double-blind trial, glucosamine was found to have longer lasting benefits than commonly prescribed painkillers. The randomized test was carried out on 40 patients with knee osteoarthrosis who were given either 1.5 g of glucosamine sulfate or 1.2 g of ibuprofen. Both groups showed a reduction in pain, with those using glucosamine showing marked improvement by week eight.

Glucosamine Provides Long-Range Healing:

A medical study, conducted on 30 people suffering from osteoarthrosis, revealed the long-lasting effects of glucosamine. The patients took 400 mg of glucosamine sulfate for one week, then one group took glucosamine capsules while the other group took a placebo for the following two weeks. Researchers discovered that those who remained on glucosamine for the entire period improved dramatically, while those taken off the glucosamine regressed, but not to pre-treatment level.

Glucosamine helps the manufacture of collagen, the protein part of a fibrous substance that holds your joints together. Collagen is the major component of the shock-absorbing cushion "articular cartilage" which is the white smooth surface that covers the ends of your body joints like fingers, wrists, knees, and others.

Glucosamine helps bind water in the body's cartilage matrixes. It has been shown to increase collagen and normalize cartilage metabolism, to help keep your cartilage from breaking down. Glucosamine can kickstart the production of cartilage main elements and protect them at the same time. Glucosamine can help the body fix damaged cartilage in your body

Glucosamine slows the progression of Osteoporosis

This week in The Lancet medical journal a randomized, placebo-controlled long term study was published that not only found that glucosamine improved symptoms by approximately 25%, but can slow or stop the progression of osteoporosis. The study divided 212 patients into two groups. One group received 1500-mg glucosamine sulfate and the other a placebo daily for three years. Patients on the glucosamine treatment experienced an improvement in symptoms compared to a worsening of symptoms in those taking the placebo. However, the most important observation in this study was that those taking the placebo had a progressive narrowing of the joint space indicating a progression of the disease process. Those taking the glucosamine sulfate did not have a narrowing of the joint-space, suggesting that glucosamine actually improved the structural integrity of the joints. Lancet 2001; 357: 251-56

See also: Chondroitin sulfate

Glucosamine is also known as: 

Glucosamine sulfate, N-Acetyl Glucosamine

Glutathione 

Glutathione helps to defend the body against damage from cigarette smoking, exposure to radiation, cancer chemotherapy, and toxins such as alcohol. As a detoxifier of heavy metals and drugs, it aids in the treatment of blood and liver disorders. 

Glutathione protects cells in several ways. It neutralizes oxygen molecules before they can harm cells. Together with selenium, it forms the enzyme glutathione peroxidase, which neutralizes hydrogen peroxide. It is also a component of another antioxidant enzyme, glutathione-S-transferase, which is a broad-spectrum liver-detoxifying enzyme.

Glutathione protects not only individual cells but also the tissues of the arteries, brain, heart, immune cells, kidneys, lenses of the eyes, liver, lungs, and skin against oxidant damage. It plays a role in preventing cancer, especially liver cancer, and may also have an anti-aging effect. Glutathione can be taken in supplement form. The production of glutathione by the body can be boosted by taking supplemental N-acetylcysteine or L-cysteine plus L-methionine. Studies suggest that this may be a better way or raising glutathione levels than taking glutathione itself.

Glutathione is not technically an amino acid, however, due to its close relationship is normally grouped with the amino acids. Most glutathione is found in the liver where it detoxifies many harmful compounds to be excreted thru the bile. Some glutathione is released directly by the liver into the bloodstream where it helps to maintain the strength of your red blood cells and also protecting your white blood cells.

Glutathione can also be found in the lungs and in your body's intestinal tract system. It is required for carbohydrate metabolism. Glutathione also appears to have anti-aging effects by aiding in the breakdown of oxidized fats that may contribute to atherosclerosis. As we get older glutathione levels in the body get lower and this can cause an increase in the aging process. Thus glutathione supplementation is useful to prevent this from occurring.

Glutathione deficiency maybe indicated by: coordination problems, mental disorder, tremors, twitching, nervous system disorder, and difficulty in balancing. Currently, believed to be caused by lesions in the brain.

GLUTAMINE 

• The most abundant free amino acid found in the muscles of the body.
• Helps to sustain proper brain function and mental activity
• Improves intelligence and IQ, even in the case of mentally deficient children
• Helps in the control of alcoholism
• Helps in the healing time of ulcers, and alleviates fatigue, depression and impotence
• Also promotes the maintenance of a healthy digestive tract
• Deficiency can cause breathing difficulties, cardia dyspnea and flu symptoms
• Best food sources are Beet juice and Wheat Protein
• Glands and organs affected - Lymph, Thymus, Heart
• Complementary Vitamins - A, B-3 and E
• Complementary Minerals - Chromium, Zinc

GLYCINE 

• Acts as a nitrogen pool for the synthesis of the other non-essential amino acids in the body by amination or transamination
• Has been effectively used to treat progressive muscular dystrophy
• Deficiency can cause a disturbance in the oxygen carbon dioxide balance, cardio/pulmonary disturbances causing heart trouble and difficult/labored breathing.
• Glands and organs affected - Thyroid, Bones, Heart, Liver, Spleen
• Complementary Vitamins - C, A, E, B-3, B-2, PABA, B-Complex
• Complementary Minerals - Magnesium, Sulfur.

GOLDENSEAL (HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS)

This perennial herb is also known as the herb Yellow Root. Goldenseal is related to the flowering plants called Buttercups and Peonies. Goldenseal contains vitamins A, B complex, C, E, and F as well as calcium, copper, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, iron, zinc, and sodium. Goldenseal acts as a powerful antibiotic, which contains a substance called berberine, which can lower blood pressure, but also has a substance called hydrastine, which can raise it. Goldenseal has a bitter taste, which helps stimulate the appetite. Don’t use Goldenseal if you have high blood pressure.

HISTORY: Native American Indians used it to treat a variety of health problems. They shared their knowledge of Goldenseal’s medicinal properties with the European immigrants. Harvesting of wild Goldenseal has so depleted the natural population that is now very rare in the wild. It is also very hard to grow commercially, which makes Goldenseal a very expensive herb.

INTERNAL USE: This herb can be taken as a tincture or in capsule form. Goldenseal is used for eye irritations, intestinal ailments and minor infections. The berberine has effects against bacteria, protozoa, and fungi including staphylococcus sp., streptococcus sp. candida albicans and gardia ianbia. All of these are very debilitating infectious bacteria. Some women to regulate heavy menstrual flows also use it. Golden Seal also is used to help labor contractions during birth. 

For this reason, Goldenseal should not be used during pregnancy. Don’t use Goldenseal if you have high blood pressure, glaucoma, diabetes, heart disease or a history of strokes. Use Goldenseal also to help stimulate the appetite, and for helping stomach ailments, sore throats and vaginal infections. It makes an excellent mouthwash or gargle. Used as an enema, it can soften stool and help hemorrhoids. 

EXTERNAL USE: It is used on cuts, scrapes, athletes foot, eczema and minor exterior infections. Is reputed to be very effective against gangrene and ringworm.



GOLDENROD (SOLIDAGO VIRGAUREA)

This herb is from the COMPOSITAE family. It is also known as Verge D’Or, Solidago, Goldruthe, Woundwort and Aaron’s Rod. The leaves and flowers of the Goldenrod plant are used medicinally. It is native to Europe, Central Asia and North America. This plant grows up to three feet high, and has golden ray-like flowers and green leaves. The herb contains tannin and some bitter astringent principles.

INTERNAL USE: Goldenrod is used as an astringent, and diuretic. It is used to remove stones from the bladder as well. In a powder form, it is used to cicatrisation of old ulcers, as well as helpful in dysmenorrhea and amenorrhea. It can help in diphtheria as a spay or taken internally.



GOTU KOLA (CENTELLA ASIATICA)

This plant grows as a ground cover, mainly in marshy areas of Asia and Europe. Gotu Kola contains vitamins A, B, E, G and K, and the mineral magnesium. The herb contains vallerine, which is a volatile oil, pale yellow in color and pungent in taste and odor.

HISTORY: It has been called the "Food of the Brain" as it is believed to help sharpen thought and concentration.

INTERNAL USE: It has been effective in treating eye lesions and eye Cataracts before the interior chambers have become involved. It neutralizes acids in the blood, kidney stones, decreased appetite, insomnia, lowers body temperature, blood pressure and strengthens the pituitary gland. It is also used in the treatment of leprosy. 

EXTERNAL USE: Use this herb to treat burns, scrapes and cuts.

 

Grape Seed Extract

Scientists have discovered that certain nutrients can help you look younger and feel healthier. An important nutrient in the quest for anti-aging and anti-disease treatment is Grape Seed Extract. 

Grape Seed Extract is known as a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidant protection helps protect the body from premature aging, disease and decay. Antioxidants are needed to neutralize free radicals. Free radicals play a major role in the development of degenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, strokes and aging. The antioxidant capacity of grape seed extract comes from proanthocyanidins (oligomeric proanthocyanidins) (OPCs). Scientific studies have shown that proanthocyanidins antioxidant power is 20 times stronger than Vitamin C and 50 times stronger than Vitamin E.

Healthy Looking Appearance & Better Health

Extensive research suggests that Grape Seed Extract (proanthocyanidins) may be beneficial in many areas of health due to its antioxidant effect. Grape Seed Extract has the ability to bond with collagen; promotes youthful skin, cell health, elasticity and flexibility. Other studies show that grape seed extract proanthocyanidins help protect the body from sun damage and help improve vision. Grape Seed Extract has been shown to improve flexibility in joints, arteries and body tissues such as the heart. Research studies have shown that Grape Seed Extract helps improve blood circulation by strengthening capillaries, arteries and veins.

Research Studies

Proanthocyanidins have been used therapeutically for decades in Europe to improve circulation, reduce edema and varicose veins. In a double blind study of 50 patients with chronic venous insufficiency, Grape Seed Extract alleviated symptoms of this circulatory disorder. A study of 25 patients with high blood pressure or diabetes who were given 150 milligrams of proanthocyanidins per day showed a significant increase in capillary strength as compared to the placebo group. A double blind, placebo controlled study involving 92 patients with peripheral venous insufficiency showed that proanthocyanidins substantially reduced pain, night time cramps and subjective edema.

Youthful Eyesight - Vision Research 

Declining vision is common with aging. According to a recent clinical study; proanthocyanidins may play a role in improving vision. In a research study, 100 people who were free of eye defect and eyes disease were given 200 milligrams of proanthocyanidins daily for four weeks. The subjects were tested for their resistance to blinding and their eyesight in dim light. 98 out of 100 test subjects showed an improvement in vision; as a result of supplementing with proanthocyanidins ( grape seed extract ).

Proanthocyanadin, the active ingredient of grape seed extract has been proven to be 20 times more potent than Vitamin C and 50 times more potent than Vitamin E as an antioxidant! Science News magazine, the weekly news magazine of Science, published the findings of Dr. Ho (Tufts University, Medford, MA) on February 22, 1997. Dr. Ho found a direct link between free radicals and prostate cancer. This type of cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men. It afflicts 50-70% of all men in Western countries by age 70. The article in Science News goes on to say: "New findings in this area suggest that dietary and other antioxidant therapies may hold great promise for curbing this scourge." The article states further: "Several studies have found that men taking vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, are far less likely to develop prostate cancer than men who don't supplement their diets with the vitamin." Remember that Grape Seed Extract is 50 times more potent than vitamin E as an antioxidant! 

Grape Seed Extract is good for: 

• Living Longer And Healthier
• Preventing Development Of Diseases
• Improving Eyesight, The Eyes Of Youth
• Reducing Varicose Veins
• Improving Flexibility of Joints And Arteries
• Youthful Appearance 

Grape Seed Extract is also known as: 

Vitis vinifera, Pinebark, Pinus maritima, Pycnogenol 

Guarana 

Guarana is used for:

• Appetite suppression 
• Aphrodisiac 
• Dysentery Energy 
• Malaria 
• Smoking Stamina 
• Weight loss 

The guarana herb is commercially promoted in the health food industry, among other uses, as a weight loss agent and a smoking cessation aid. Guarana is considered to be an astringent, containing tannic acid and related compounds, and is acceptable as a flavoring agent and a beverage constituent. The herb guarana is permitted as a food additive in small quantities, provided no claims are made.

Guarana plays an important role in the culture of the Amazonian Indians. In certain regions, the guarana fruit extract is believed to be an aphrodisiac and to protect from malaria and dysentery. Guarana has been used by the indigenous people of the Amazon for centuries. Guarana was used to increase sexual prowess more than anything else, as there was no Internet or Cable TV in those days. 

In the United States, Guarana is generally regarded as safe, with a caffeine content of 3-5% by dry weight. The effect of the caffeine in Guarana results in a boost of energy and appetite suppression. Increasing numbers of athletes, dancers and sportsmen and women are using it as a natural aid to maintaining peak performance. Guarana is also perceived to bring energy levels back to normal more quickly after exercise.

The guarana takes about one hour to be metabolized via the digestive system. The slower rate of absorption leads to less tension in the body. The guarana is used more effectively and does not lead to stress reaction which might happen in case of high coffee intake. 

Guarana is also known as; 

Paullinia cupana, Brazilian cocoa