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Herbal Remedies Natural Health Newsletter, March 2004, Issue 228

Herbal Remedies March 2004 Natural Health Newsletter Issue 228 Sponsored by www.HerbalRemedies.com Toll Free for orders 1-866-467-6444 Issue Editor - Patti Kantor

Herbs - Vitamins - Minerals - Magnetics - Candles - Aromatherapy - Holiday Gifts - Bath & Beauty - Essential Oils - Condition & Ailment Guide - Women's Health - Men's Health - Weight Loss - Health Books Healthy Benefits of Fish Oil is No Tale - Click here for full story. Shingles - Once is Enough - Click here for full story. New Findings: Coconut Oil - Much Better Than the Rest - Click here for full story. Questions and Answers Q1. "I have a friend in England who has had a chronic sinus infection for years. Would Grapefruit Seed Extract Nasal Spray help?" - Click here for full story. Q2. "I have a 4-pound female Maltese dog that has a hot spot. It has been suggested that I use tea tree oil or spray. Can you advise me?" - Click here for full story. Q3. "I have been diagnosed with lichen planus. Is there is an alternative cream to use instead of cortisone?" - Click here for full story. Our Sponsors Enter coupon code "NL031504" when checking out to obtain discounts on your next purchase from http://www.HerbalRemedies.com

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HEALTHY BENEFITS OF FISH OIL IS NO TALE by Patti Kantor Ever since Biblical times, the fish has been held in high regard. Today is no different. More than four decades of research have shown that eating fish is good for your health, thanks to fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids. While those living in fishing communities have benefited from consuming fish for many years, it has only been as recent as the 1960s when the full potential of eating fish, particularly fish oil, was revealed. Two Danish scientists traveled to Greenland to study Eskimos. They discovered that, although Eskimos ate large quantities of fat, they did not suffer heart problems; thanks to the high proportion of fish in their diets and the unique nature of the polyunsaturated fatty acids found in many cold water fish. Since then important new findings have been reported about the benefits of eating fish. Evidence from randomized clinical trials has shown that fish oil can reduce cardiovascular events including death, non-fatal heart attacks and non-fatal strokes. It can also slow the progression of atherosclerosis in coronary patients. More studies are now underway to further define the health benefits of taking supplements for preventing a first heart attack. “It is clearly highly significant that a diet rich in oily fish or fish oil supplements may reduce the incidence of sudden cardiac death by up to 45 percent,” reported the American Heart Journal (Vol. 146) in September 2003. In response to this information, the American Heart Association (AHA) now recommends that everyone, not just those with heart disease, should eat fish at least twice a week. WHY FISH? Omega-3 fatty acids are essential to good health. While a helpful form can be found in flaxseed, walnuts and a few other foods, the most beneficial form--containing two fatty acids - eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), can only be found in oily fish and fish oils. It is believed that both EPA and DHA are essential to fighting and preventing physical and mental disease, while research also suggests that DHA is essential for normal brain development in unborn babies. Researchers have concluded that omega-3 fatty acids appear to: Normalize heart rhythms Reduce blood clots Reduce hardening of the arteries Serve as an anti-inflammatory Improve blood vessel lining function Lower blood pressure Lower triglyceride levels It is also believed that people who eat fish regularly reduce their risk for a heart attack even if they already have coronary heart disease. Based upon these findings, researchers now advise that omega-3 fatty acids from oily fish or fish oil supplements should be considered in the secondary prevention regimen of those who have suffered a heart attack. Studies have also shown that some people who have consumed fish oil for extended periods of time have seen improvement with pain and swelling associated with arthritis. In addition, consumption of fish and higher blood concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids have also been associated with a decreased risk of sudden death. GOOD FISH Fish is an excellent source of protein, according to the American Heart Association (AHA). It does not have the high saturated fat that fatty meat products do. The AHA recommends everyone should eat two 6-ounce servings every week. In order to reap the full health benefit that fish has to offer, it is best to bake, broil or grill it, as opposed to frying, thereby avoiding the use of vegetable oil which offsets the good in omega-3 fatty acid. The following types of fish have been shown to have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids: Albacore tuna Black bass Bluefish Carp Channel catfish Herring Lake herring Lake trout Mackerel Pompano Salmon Sardines Tuna (packed in water) Whitefish MORE ABOUT FISH OIL “Fish oil is a wonderful source of omega-3 essential fatty acids,” agrees the British Medical Journal . In an article published on January 3, 2004, it was quoted saying, “Essential fatty acids improve skin and hair cells, lower blood pressure, help prevent arthritis, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and reduce the risk of blood clot formation.” Fish oil is generally derived from two sources: the flesh of fatty fish (e.g., salmon) or the livers of white fish such as cod and halibut. Dietary supplements that contain oil from cold water fish such as mackerel, salmon, black cod, albacore tuna, sardines and herring, are particularly good since these fish are known to be extremely high in omega-3 fatty acids. While fish oil supplements have been used to treat a number of health conditions including arthritis, colitis, and other diseases, the most reliable information has been collected on their effects in people with high cholesterol and heart disease. Medical research shows that simply eating one gram of fish oil daily can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people who have heart disease as well as provide protective effects on otherwise healthy people. REASONS TO CONSIDER SUPPLEMENTS Unfortunately not everyone has access to cold water fish. And, the AHA warns, consumers need to be aware of the risks of eating fish. Fish of all varieties from all water sources are now showing increasing levels of toxic metal mercury, ever since it was first announced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2000. The FDA now advises pregnant women, women of childbearing age, nursing mothers and small children to avoid eating shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish. These large fish, in particular, are now widely known to contain high levels of mercury, which can harm an unborn baby’s developing nervous system, the FDA says. Shellfish, canned fish, smaller ocean fish, or farm-raised fish are safe for pregnant woman and women of childbearing age, the FDA says, providing that the fish has been tested and proven to be toxic-free. In addition, because of the potential health hazard of high levels of mercury in fish – which is often undetected because it is tasteless - the EPA urges consumers to contact state or local health departments for information on the safety of fish from nearby waters. COMPARE RISK TO BENEFIT The AHA cautions that one needs to compare the risk as opposed to benefits of eating fish. While children and pregnant and nursing women may be at increased risk of exposure to excessive mercury from fish, they are also generally at low risk for cardiovascular disease. So, according to the AHA, avoiding potentially contaminated fish should be a higher priority for these groups. However, for middle-aged and older men and postmenopausal women, the benefits of eating fish far outweigh the risks, the AHA says. Unless you are sure the fish you are consuming has been tested and shown to be free of toxins, fish oil (or cod liver oil if in need of increasing Vitamin D intake) in supplement form may be a wiser choice. Fish oil that is in pure form does not pose the mercury risk of fresh fish. You may also want to consider supplements if you are unable to consume the recommended daily allowances of fish, as it has been suggested that coronary artery disease patients may not be able to get enough omega-3 by diet alone. The AHA, in particular, recommends fish oil capsules for those with severely high triglycerides (greater than 1,000 mg/dl) who have not responded well to other treatments, like dietary changes or medication, and are at an increased risk of inflammation of the pancreas. Health and nutrition experts urge consumers to discuss fish oil supplements with their doctor before taking. “The best advice at the present time is to have cardiac patients talk to their doctors about fish oil supplements. For some, it may be warranted under a doctor’s approval,” says Penny Kris-Etherton, professor of nutrition at Penn State University and one of the authors of the AHA’s dietary guidelines (see Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association). HELPFUL GUIDELINES Evidence from prospective secondary prevention studies suggests that taking EPA+DHA ranging from 0.5 to 1.8 grams per day (either as fatty fish or supplements) significantly reduces deaths from heart disease and all causes. This data supports the 2000 AHA Dietary Guidelines recommendation to include at least two servings of fish (particularly fatty fish) per week. Also while it is suggested that diabetics should consume fish for the essential fatty acids, persons with diabetes should consult their physician before taking fish oil supplements since these generally have a high fat content. People who have elevated triglycerides may need 2-to-4 grams of EPA and DHA per day provided as a supplement. Even the 1 gram/day dose recommended for patients with existing cardiovascular disease may be more than can readily be achieved through diet alone. It should be noted that patients taking more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids from supplements should do so only under a physician’s care, as the FDA reports that high intakes could cause excessive bleeding in some people. Following is a Summary of Recommendations for Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake as provided by the American Heart Association: Patients without documented coronary heart disease (CHD): Eat a variety of (preferably fatty) fish at least twice a week. Include oils and foods rich in alpha-linolenic acid (flaxseed, canola and soybean oils; flaxseed and walnuts). Patients with documented CHD: Consume approximately 1gram of EPA+DHA per day, preferably from fatty fish. EPA+DHA supplements could be considered in consultation with the physician. Patients who need to lower triglycerides: 2-to-4 grams of EPA+DHA per day provided as capsules under a physician’s care.* *Those taking more than 3 grams of omega-3 fatty acids from supplements should do so only under a physician’s care. High intakes could cause excessive bleeding. IN CONCLUSION Omega-3 fatty acids are not just good fats; they affect heart health in positive ways. They make the blood less likely to form clots that cause heart attacks and they protect against irregular heartbeats that can cause sudden cardiac death. Both oily fish and fish oil are well worth considering, especially when heart health is at stake. Click here for fish oil information, including products.

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SHINGLES: ONE BOUT IS ONE TOO MANY by Patti Kantor Shingles - a funny name for such a nasty condition. In fact, shingles is so unpleasant it is known as St. Anthony’s Fire in Italy. In simplest terms, shingles is an adult version of chickenpox born from the same (and in fact, dormant) virus, varicella-zoster. Like chickenpox, usually one bout is all most healthy adults get. However, if you talk to anyone who has had the unfortunate experience, one bout can be one too many. Doctors can distinguish shingles (also called herpes zoster) from chickenpox (or dermatitis or poison ivy) by the way its blisters are distributed. The rash usually appears in a well-defined band on one side of the body, often the torso; or on one side of the face, around the nose and eyes. In fact, the name ‘shingles’ is actually from the Latin word, cingulum, meaning girdle or belt, referring back to the overall shape that the blisters generally form. Shingles, which is an infection, only occurs in people who have had chickenpox, with an estimated 90 percent of people currently at risk. After an attack of chickenpox, the varicella-zoster virus retreats to nerve cells in the body, where it can lie dormant for decades. Then under certain conditions, usually related to aging or disease, the virus can reactivate and begin to reproduce. Once activated, the virus travels along the path of a nerve to the skin’s surface, where it causes shingles. While shingles is not contagious, contact with a person with shingles can cause chickenpox in someone who has never had chickenpox before, since shingles is actually a reactivation of the dormant virus. The virus is reactivated when the immune system is weakened. Shingles can be triggered by many factors, including: Stress Cancer Use of anti-cancer drugs Spinal cord injury Suppressed immune system Or even a minor injury or mild cold While the disease generally affects the elderly, it can occur in younger individuals, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). And while most people only get shingles once in their lifetime, those with AIDS or cancer can suffer repeated episodes. At first, shingles’ symptoms are vague and nonspecific. The first sign is usually a tingling feeling, itchiness, or stabbing pain on the skin, along with chills, fever or achiness. In fact, before the blisters appear, diagnosis can be difficult, yet the pain can be so severe it may be mistaken for pleurisy, kidney stones, gallstones, appendicitis, or even a heart attack, depending on the location of the affected nerve. If in doubt, lab tests can confirm presence of the virus. After a few days, a rash appears as a band or patch of raised bumps on the side of the body or face. The rash develops into small, fluid-filled blisters that begin to dry out and crust over within several days. When the rash is at its peak, symptoms can range from mild itching to extreme and intense pain. The rash usually goes away within three-to-five weeks. Although shingles can be very painful and itchy, it is not generally dangerous to healthy individuals and it usually resolves without complications. However sometimes serious effects can occur, like partial facial paralysis (usually temporary), ear damage, or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Persons with shingles on the upper half of the face should seek medical attention promptly because the virus can cause serious damage to the eyes. And, in some instances, the pain can linger for months or even years after the blisters are gone, especially in the elderly. This chronic painful condition is then called post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), which can be quite difficult to treat. TREATMENT OPTIONS Standard treatment for shingles includes topical creams, anti-viral drugs, steroids, anti-depressants, and possibly anti-convulsants. The severity and duration of an attack of shingles can be significantly reduced by immediate treatment, a good tincture, for example, which can help stave off PHN, the painful aftereffects of shingles. To relieve pain, a doctor may recommend a pain formula tincture or over-the-counter analgesics (pain-relieving drugs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, or even prescription drugs, such as indomethacin. Acetaminophen is also commonly used to relieve the pain. If pain is severe, doctors may add stronger analgesics, such as codeine or oxycodone. For PHN, the Lidoderm skin patch, containing lidocaine, has been successfully used in some cases. The medication contained in the soft, pliable patch penetrates the skin, reaching the damaged nerves under the skin. In more extreme cases, PHN has been treated with transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), believed to stimulate the production of endorphins - the body’s natural painkillers - by applying low-level pulses of electrical current to the skin’s surface. Also, nerve blocks, consisting of injection of a local anesthetic into the affected nerve endings, may also be considered to provide temporary relief. WHAT ABOUT THE CHICKENPOX VACCINE? The FDA-approved chickenpox vaccine is estimated to be between 75-to-85 percent effective in preventing chickenpox. Before the vaccine appeared in 1995, about 95 percent of the U.S. population developed chickenpox before age 18. Since then, more than 60 percent of American youngsters have been vaccinated. And, although the vaccine is a live strain, it is a weaker form - giving rise to a milder infection. In defense of the vaccine, health experts say, while it does not eliminate chickenpox entirely, the vaccine is almost completely effective in preventing severe cases of chickenpox. In the long-term, they are hoping this may eventually lead to a decline in severe cases of shingles and PHN, as well. CURRENT RESEARCH There are a number of health groups working towards developing new treatments for and preventing the painful conditions of shingles. One such example is a shingles prevention study currently underway. The Department of Veterans Affairs, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), and Merck & Co. Inc. are currently conducting a five-year clinical study to see if a vaccine can prevent shingles in people ages 60 years and older who have had chickenpox. Like the current chickenpox vaccine, it too is made from a weakened form of the virus, but is much more potent than the existing vaccine. If the vaccine is effective, it may help reduce illness and healthcare costs among older people. For more information on the study, call the NIAID at 1-877-841-6251. For more information about shingles, including helpful products, click here.

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NEW FINDINGS: COCONUT OIL – IT’S BETTER THAN THE OTHERS Virgin coconut oil is now being hailed as one of healthiest oils you can consume - even better than olive oil. Since it is made from fresh coconuts, it is more nutritious than corn, peanut, soy, safflower and the other oils. And, it has been learned that coconut oil is more easily digested and quickly converted into energy, unlike the other oils that take a long time to digest and then are stored as fat. Not only is it now the most preferred oil for cooking, coconut oil is also rapidly gaining a reputation for its health enhancing benefits, especially its weight loss capabilities. Because its quick and easy absorption puts less strain on the pancreas, liver and digestive system, and creates energy while doing so, coconut oil is credited with significantly boosting metabolism. For example, Women’s World magazine, May 20, 2003, called it a “miracle food”. The magazine bestowed this title on coconut oil because of its ability to help the body burn unwanted fat, improve one’s energy, and help people with thyroid problems. Besides helping improve thyroid issues, coconut oil is also now being used to treat a number of other disorders like candida, irritable bowel syndrome and even Chrohn’s disease. Coconut oil is believed to: Reduce the risk of heart disease Lower cholesterol Improve conditions in those with diabetes and chronic fatigue Boost daily energy Rejuvenate skin and prevent wrinkles HOW DOES IT WORK? Research has shown that coconut oil consists of medium chain fatty acids, enabling it to digest quicker while stimulating metabolism. As opposed to unsaturated fats, which have long chain fatty acids that take longer to breakdown – causing hypothyroidism and a lower metabolic rate. Perhaps even more importantly than its metabolism boosting qualities though, virgin coconut oil is rich in lauric acid – a proven anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral agent that builds the body’s immune system while fending off viruses and other pathogens. Last, but certainly not least, coconut oil does not contain trans fats, which can raise LDLs (bad cholesterols) leading to clogged arteries, heart disease and diabetes, just to name a few. For those with diabetes, virgin coconut oil can help regulate blood sugar, lessening the effects of the disease. When it boosts the metabolic rate, it stimulates increased production of needed insulin and increases absorption of glucose into cells, helping those with either type I or type II diabetes. For those with digestive problems, coconut oil has been shown to play a role in soothing inflammation and healing injury in the digestive tract. It also promotes intestinal health by killing microorganisms that may cause chronic inflammation. For those with chronic fatigue syndrome, the fatty acids in coconut oil can kill herpes and Epstein-Barr viruses, and a host of other infectious organisms believed to be major causes. Also, one of the keys to overcoming chronic fatigue syndrome is strengthening the immune system, which coconut oil does. Other uses for virgin coconut oil include: As an ingredient when juicing or making smoothies In place of other oils on salads Use as a massage oil Use as a skin lotion Keep the skin from developing liver spots and other blemishes caused by aging and over exposure to sunlight prevent sagging and wrinkling by keeping connective skin tissues strong and supple possibly restore damaged or diseased skin Click here for more information about coconut oil, including products.

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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: Q1. I have a friend in England who has had a chronic sinus infection for years and has tried everything without much success. Would your nasal spray be of some help? A1. Yes, Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) Nasal Spray should help. Use the spray at least 3 times a day until the infection is under control, then at least once a day, preferably in the morning, until clear. Use the GSE Nasal Spray at least 3 times a week afterwards to keep infection at bay. Click here for more helpful information about sinus infections.

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Q2. I have a 4-pound female Maltese dog that has had a hot spot for a few weeks. When I took her to the veterinarian, they recommended a medicated shampoo for the skin irritation but it has not helped. A Maltese breeder suggested that I use tea tree oil or spray. Can you advise me? A2. For the tea tree oil, I would use Manuka Oil. This is a very pure tea tree oil from New Zealand, so only put a light coat on the hot spot twice daily. If she licks it off, apply a cone. With hot spots, changes in food (better food) or medications can cause pets to detoxify. So their bodies will start to get rid of whatever is making them allergic. I would also suggest flaxseed oil, which will actually make your dog detox. Although she may get a little worse before better, flaxseed will really benefit her for the rest of her life. Here is a link to the flaxseed oil that I use on my dog. A bottle will last about three months.

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Q3. I have been diagnosed with lichen planus and was wondering if there is an alternative cream to use instead of cortisone? A3. Lichen planus is a relatively common skin disease that can last anywhere from months to years. The onset may be gradual or quick, yet its cause, like many skin diseases, is unknown. Stress may play some part, but medical studies haven't conclusively proved this theory. Genetics may also play a role since there have been reports of the disease occurring within families. Other theories suggest an infective (viral) or immunologic origin. There are also a number of drugs that produce lichen planus-like eruptions. Lichen planus appears as shiny, flat-topped bumps that often have an angular shape. These bumps have a slightly purplish color with a shiny cast due to a very fine scale. The disease can occur anywhere on the skin, but the most common sites are on the inside of the wrists, on the skin above the ankles, and on the lower legs. The mouth, genital region, and nails can also be affected in some individuals. Lichen planus may cause the skin to itch, and for some, the itching can be constant and intense. Topical corticosteroids are very useful in the treatment of lichen planus. Try Collodial Silver Solution – Silva Salve. Antihistamines may be prescribed to relieve itching. Extensive cases may require the use of short courses of oral corticosteroid. Other treatment alternatives include photo chemotherapy, which is a special kind of light treatment, and the use of retinoids, a class of drugs related to Vitamin A. Also, soothing colloidal baths and wet dressings to the affected areas may help reduce itching. Lotions containing anti-itch ingredients such as menthol and phenol may be helpful. Also try reducing stress.

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For assistance or to purchase products by phone call toll free in the USA 1-866-467- 6444 or World Wide 1-307-577-6444 or e-mail your questions to newseditor@herbalremedies.com. We will answer e-mails in the newsletter as space allows. Our Sponsors HerbalRemedies.com Get the finest all natural health products, get the best service, and low cost worldwide delivery. Enter coupon code "NL031504" when checking out to obtain discounts on your next purchase from www.HerbalRemedies.com