|
Livestrong Endurance Formula
Red Panax Ginseng
Unlike American
ginseng and Eleuthero or Siberian Ginseng, Panax has been a part of
Chinese medicine for thousands of years. It is used in connection with
many conditions such as cancer, anxiety, colds, flu and for lowering
blood levels of sugar and cholesterol, as in type 2 diabetes and high
cholesterol. Most commonly known as an adaptogen, Panax Ginseng is
currently being used in Asian countries to treat heart conditions and
lungs, as well as for an overall health enhancer. Panax Ginseng has
been known to have a relaxing effect on the muscles in the lungs. The
resulting airway relaxation may help to calm asthma symptoms and other
airways constricting lung conditions.
Red ginseng
derives its name from the color that it takes on during a special
preservation method that involves being steamed (and then sometimes sun
dried) with the peel intact. During the drying process the root is
steeped in a bath of an ancient, and often protected herbal recipe,
which includes a combination of honey or wine and this process causes
the root to become brittle in texture. Red ginseng usually always comes
from China or Korea, and it is considered slightly stronger and more
stimulating than white ginseng. In traditional Chinese medicine ginseng
is said to promote yang energy, improve circulation, and restore
balance and strength. Ginseng is regarded
as an important ingredient to perform the following group of functions:
• To excite the
nervous systems, improve working efficiency and reduce fatigue.
• To simulate the
blood forming organs and aid in blood production.
• To improve the
functions of digestion, absorption and metabolism.
• To increase the
heart's contraction capacity and to tone up the heart (useful in the
treatment of heart failure and shock).
• To improve the
sex gland functions in men and women in the treatment of hypogonadism.
• To lower the
blood sugar; this function is attributed to the presence of ginsenin in
ginseng.
• To act as an
Antidiuretic
Precautions
People
with hypertension should not take ginseng products, and those with low
blood pressure, diabetes, or any serious illness should consult a
medical professional and be cautious when using the herb.
Ginseng should
not be combined with anticoagulant drugs such as Coumadin, or with
nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that tend to cause bleeding,
including Aleve, Anaprox, Indocin, Motrin, Naprosyn, and Orudis. To
avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), even in non-diabetics, ginseng
should be taken with food.
Kudzu
Kudzu contains a
number of useful isoflavones, including daidzein (an anti-inflammatory
and antimicrobial agent). Daidzin is a cancer preventive and is
structurally related to genistein (an antileukemic agent). Kudzu is a
unique source of the isoflavone puerarin. Kudzu root compounds can
affect neurotransmitters (including serotonin, GABA, and glutamate.) It
has shown value in treating migraine and cluster headaches, allergic
rhinitis cancer, cerebral ischemia (a lack of adequate blood flow to
the brain), circulation, cirrhosis (liver disease), colds, diarrhea,
dysentery (severe diarrhea), elimination of toxins, encephalitis (brain
infection), estrogenic effects, fever, gastritis (inflammation of the
stomach), gastroenteritis (inflammation of stomach, intestine),
hangovers, hypertension
(high blood pressure), influenza,
leukemia,
macular degeneration (chronic eye disease), measles, menstrual irregularities,
myalgia (muscle pain), reperfusion injury (myocardial, restoration of
blood flow), neck stiffness, osteoporosis, pain, Parkinson's disease,
pruritus (severe itching), psoriasis (chronic skin disease), pulmonary
embolism, sinusitis, sweat stimulation, tinnitus, trauma, urticaria (hives), vasorelaxant (reduces
tension of the blood vessel walls). If
that’s not enough, Kudzu is also a powerful antioxidant.
Licorice
Chinese Licorice
root, or Glycyrrhiza, is one of the greatest herbs known to mankind.
Licorice root builds energy and is an excellent digestive tonic. It is
the most broad-spectrum natural detoxifying agent known, ridding the
body of over 1200 known toxins without any distressful side effects. It
also helps regulate the blood sugar level, helping counteract
hypoglycemia, a very common imbalance.
Licorice has been
used for many centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine and still
features in a number of therapeutic interventions.
Licorice is included in most Chinese herbal
teas and formulations because it is said to harmonize all the
ingredients in an herbal formula. Modern
science shows us that the root of the plant contains a compound called
glycerrhizinic acid, which inhibits the breakdown of circulating
cortisol at the liver. Elevated levels of
cortisol, a catabolic stress hormone released by the body when we are
subjected to physical and emotional stress, can ravage muscle tissue by
breaking down muscle protein into amino acids. By
enhancing
cortisol activity,
glycyrrhizin helps to increase energy, ease stress, and reduce the
symptoms of ailments sensitive to cortisol levels.
The
phytoestrogens in licorice have a mild estrogenic effect, making the
herb potentially useful in easing certain symptoms of PMS
(premenstrual syndrome), such as irritability, bloating, and breast
tenderness. Licorice can act as a mild
laxative and can also relieve indigestion
and heartburn by lowering
stomach acid levels.
Licorice has an
anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and antiarthritic effect similar to
that of cortisone but without its side effects. This
makes
it very useful in cases of adrenal fatigue. Licorice root
provides basic nutrients to the adrenal glands, helps build and
strengthen muscle, and it is a natural muscle relaxer.
Licorice has also
been used to treat conditions ranging from Diabetes to tuberculosis.
Active compounds in licorice root are used to help prevent and treat
chronic hepatitis (liver inflammation). Licorice fights the virus
commonly responsible for hepatitis. The glycyrrhizin in licorice
combats viruses such as hepatitis B, Herpes, influenza, and HIV by
boosting the immune system's T-cell count and stimulating production of
protective compounds such as interferon.
The herb is
popularly used to ease irritation and for inflammation and spasm in the
digestive tract. Licorice is reputed to heal ulcers. The herb acts on the
liver and helps increase bile flow and it also helps lower cholesterol levels. Licorice
helps the body to built up resistance to stress by acting on the adrenal
glands. It has a soothing and healing effect on the respiratory system
and helps to ease irritation and inflammation. Because of its
expectorant properties it is used in treating colds, coughs, asthma and chest infections. Like aspirin,
licorice is useful in relieving headaches and fevers.
Precautions
Don't use
licorice if you have high blood pressure, and don't use licorice if you
eat a meat and potatoes diet. Your body needs potassium from fruit and
vegetables to compensate for the excretion of potassium stimulated by
licorice. If you use steroids or an asthma inhaler, licorice will
increase both the effectiveness of the drug and the severity of its
side effects. Its long term use is not recommended, and it is not
recommended for use by pregnant women. May cause stomach upset if taken
in large quantities.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola rosea is
a root that has several demonstrated medicinal uses. It hasn't been
studied specifically for fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome but
is shown to be effective at treating many symptoms of the conditions. Rhodiola has anti-viral, antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory properties, and may increase exercise
capacity. Research shows Rhodiola may:
* Relieve stress, anxiety and fatigue
* Alleviate depression symptoms
* Boost memory and cognitive function
* Stimulate activity of serotonin,
norepinephrine and dopamine
Even though the
markets for stress relief, energy, and fat-burning products are all
saturated, there isn't much variety within each of these categories.
The overwhelming majority of fat-burners and weight loss products rely
on caffeine for its ability to boost metabolism and energy expenditure. Unfortunately, the body can develop a
tolerance to caffeine quite quickly, and extended periods of use can
lead to dependence. Worse than dependence, though, is the possible
withdrawal when one stops using the product. Of course, extended use
assumes that one enjoys the effects of caffeine or other stimulants;
some find that the energy is too jittery and can cause anxiety and
nausea. Thankfully, there is a natural alternative that addresses all
three goals - stress relief, energy, and fat-burning – Rhodiola Rosea.
Precautions: Individuals with anxiety, manic or bipolar
disorders should not use Rhodiola.
Tribulus
Tribulus is most
popularly believed to improve sexual functioning, and is often used as
an aphrodisiac. In various parts of the world, the puncture vine has
been attributed other uses as well. In Europe, China and India, various
peoples have used the Tribulus to lower blood pressure and cholesterol,
treat headache, nervous disorders and constipation, and stimulate the
central nervous system. Modern science suggests that at least some of
these uses may have a basis in fact. In one study Tribulus showed
improved blood flow to the genitals and improved sexual behavior.
Scientists believe that it may work by relaxing smooth muscles and
allowing greater blood flow. In addition, some clinical trials suggest
that Tribulus may lower both blood pressure and cholesterol and
increase muscle mass, making it a popular supplement among athletes and
bodybuilders.
The plant
Tribulus Terrestris , known as gokshura in ayurveda, has innumerable
medicinal properties. In texts of ayurveda the medicinal properties of
gokshura have been described as follows.
Balakrud : -
Tribulus increases strength of muscles. Researches have shown that
tribulus increases male hormone testosterone, which strengthen the
muscles.
Vastishodhana :-
It cleanses the bladder and boosts the resistance of bladder to
infection. This property is very useful in treating cystitis.
Vrishyaha:
Gokshura acts as a very effective aphrodisiac. Its property of boosting
testosterone level help to increase erection, sperm count and sperm
motility. Hence it has been included as an active ingredient in
Vajikarana preparations. It increases libido and helps in rectifying
male impotence
Pushti: Tribulus
terrestris helps to build body muscles and boost body energy. It also
increases body immunity.
Ashmariharaha: It
is of great use in treatment of renal calculi.
Prameha: This
plant helps to reduce frequency of urination in diabetes, cystitis and
urinary tract infection.
Shwaasa Kaasa: It
is very useful in diseases of respiratory system like wheezing and
cough.
Yohimbe
Yohimbe’s
popularity has been ignited by new research that shows it could be an
herb with very effective antioxidant potential. Research shows it is a
vasodilator, which means that it increases blood flow to the
extremities and appendages. In other words, it can support healthy
libido in men and women. In addition, Yohimbe has also been shown to
decrease fat synthesis in the body by increasing fatty acid
mobilization. Benefits include:
It dilates blood
vessels, so it is good for clogged arteries.
It lowers the
risk of heart attack.
It alleviates
chest pain from angina.
It works as an
aphrodisiac for men and women. It reduces cases of impotency due to
stress, tension and fatigue.
It promotes the
supply of adrenaline to nerve endings and so is used to treat erectile
dysfunction.
It works as a
powerful antioxidant.
It improves blood
circulation.
It relieves
depression and makes you energetic and active.
It blocks
alpha-adrenoreceptors. This reduces hormonal effect which constricts
blood vessels along with aging.
*Alleviate dry mouth.
Dry
mouth, or xerostomia, is abnormally low secretions in the mouth. It
is a very common side effect of anti-depressants and numerous other
prescription medications. Dry mouth can promote tooth decay. Studies
have shown that yohimbe can raise the production of saliva and
alleviate dry mouth.
*Take yohimbe to
aid weight loss. Yohimbe
is being used as a weight loss aid, because it contains
nor-epinephrine. This substance increases energy, speeds metabolism and
increases fatty acid mobilization - which inhibits the creation of fat
cells.
*Improve heart
health by improving blood circulation. Because yohimbe is a vasodilator
(enlarges the blood vessels), it prevents arteries from becoming
blocked. In the same manner in which it increases blood flow to pelvic
area, it also increases blood flow to the heart and helps prevent heart
attacks.
*Alleviate
orthostatic hypotention. Hypotension means low blood pressure. Yohime's
ability to increase blood flow has a special effect on persons with a
condition in which they experience sudden low blood pressure when they
are in an upright (orthostatic) position. Yohimbe alleviates this
condition, which is characterized by dizziness and lightheadedness when
persons with orthostatic hypotention stand or exert themselves.
Precautions
Yohimbe
should
be used cautiously by anyone with a
medical
condition,
particularly
those with unstable hypertension, heart disease, diabetes,
or
those taking medicines, particularly tranquilizers, antidepressants,
sedatives,
antihistamines, amphetamines and other stimulants.
Livestrong Dream
Formula
German Chamomile
Due to its
sedative effects, Roman chamomile is
beneficial for easing insomnia and promoting a restful sleep.
Traditionally,
the herb's antispasmodic properties have made it a valuable remedy for
relieving cramps associated with menstruation, indigestion, and muscle
spasms.
The ingestion of Roman chamomile also aids with relieving headaches,
migraines,
and nausea.
A 2006 review of
the medical literature reported a
number of beneficial effects for chamomile. Research with animals
suggests
antispasmodic, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory and some antimutagenic and
cholesterol-lowering effects for chamomile. Chamomile has sped healing
time of
wounds in animals. It also showed some
benefit in an animal model of diabetes. In
vitro chamomile has demonstrated moderate antimicrobial and
antioxidant properties and significant antiplatelet activity, as well
as
preliminary results against cancer. Essential
oil
of
chamomile was shown to be a promising antiviral agent against herpes
simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in vitro. Historically,
Roman chamomile has been used to
treat numerous conditions
associated with the digestive system. The infusions and tinctures of
this herb
may be used to treat irritable bowel syndrome and persistent upset
stomach.
The German and
Roman chamomiles have similar
pharmacologic profiles. In studies with rats, the volatile oil has been
found
to have antiallergic, antidiuretic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative
properties.
Some chamomile compounds have been reported to stimulate liver
regeneration
after oral administration. Others have shown in vitro antitumorigenic
activity
against human cells. Studies in animals and in vitro models have shown
that
bisabolol and chamazulene exert anti-inflammatory activity; bisabolol
also
shows antispasmodic activity. luteolin and apigenin, two flavonoids in
the
essential oil, have antispasmodic effects and anti-inflammatory
activity
similar to those of indomethacin. Chamomile also exhibits some
antibacterial
and antifungal activity. Bisabolol has shown antiulcerative effects in
rats by
inhibiting the development of ethanol-, indomethacin-, or
stress-induced
ulcers.
Precautions
Chamomile should
not be taken in conjunction with
sedative medications or alcohol. Those who are allergic to ragweed or
other
plants in the Asteraceae family should avoid chamomile. Chamomile can
interfere
with blood clotting, do not use together with aspirin, warfarin or
other
substances that possess anticoagulant action. Chamomile may cause
drowsiness in
some individuals. In large doses, chamomile can cause vomiting.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is antioxidant,
anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, sedative, and
thyroid-regulating. Lemon Balm
is
used to treat colds, headaches, depression, menstrual cramps, insomnia,
and
nervous stomachs. Lemon balm is a soothing, sedative herb that can
relieve
tension and lift depression. Lemon
balm's leaves were found to contain substances that inhibit protein
biosynthesis in cancer cells. Caffeic acid and a glycoside isolated
from the
leaves were responsible for this anti-tumor activity. Lemon balm has
the
ability to bind to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). It has been used
in the
past to treat Grave's disease, an autoimmune condition in which the
thyroid
gland produces excess thyroid hormone.
The
plant has
antihistamine properties and helps with allergies.
Lemon balm combined with other calming herbs
(such as valerian) helps reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Lemon Balm
had also
been used to relieve gas, reduce fever, and soothe stomach problems due
to its
antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Precautions
Side effects or
symptoms of toxicity have been
rarely reported with lemon balm use. However, this herb should not be
used by pregnant or breastfeeding
women. Lemon balm should
not be taken by individuals with thyroid conditions or glaucoma, as
lemon balm
may interfere with drugs that treat thyroid conditions. Oral lemon balm
may
cause dizziness or nausea. Topically, it may produce irritation where
it is
applied.
Licorice
Chinese Licorice
root, or Glycyrrhiza, is one of
the greatest herbs known to mankind. Licorice root builds energy and is
an
excellent digestive tonic. It is the most broad spectrum natural
detoxifying
agent known, ridding the body of over 1200 known toxins without any
distressful
side-effects. It also helps regulate the blood sugar level, helping
counteract
hypoglycemia, a very common imbalance.
Licorice has been
used for many centuries in Traditional
Chinese Medicine and still features in a number of therapeutic
interventions. Licorice is included in
most Chinese herbal teas and formulations because it is said to
harmonize all
the ingredients in an herbal formula. Modern
science shows us that the root of the
plant contains a compound
called glycerrhizinic acid, which inhibits the breakdown of circulating
cortisol at the liver. Elevated levels
of cortisol, a catabolic stress hormone released by the body when we
are
subjected to physical and emotional stress, can ravage muscle tissue by
breaking down muscle protein into amino acids.
By enhancing cortisol
activity, glycyrrhizin helps to increase energy, ease stress, and
reduce the
symptoms of ailments sensitive to cortisol levels.
The
phytoestrogens in licorice have a mild
estrogenic effect, making the herb potentially useful in easing certain
symptoms
of PMS (premenstrual syndrome), such as irritability, bloating, and
breast
tenderness. Licorice can act as a mild
laxative and can also relieve indigestion
and heartburn
by lowering stomach acid levels.
Licorice has an
anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and
antiarthritic effect similar to that of cortisone but without its side
effects. This makes it very useful in
cases of adrenal fatigue. Licorice root provides basic nutrients to the
adrenal
glands, helps build and strengthen muscle, and it is a natural muscle
relaxer.
Licorice has also
been used to treat conditions
ranging from Diabetes to tuberculosis. Active compounds in licorice
root are
used to help prevent and treat chronic hepatitis (liver inflammation).
Licorice
fights the virus commonly responsible for hepatitis. The glycyrrhizin
in
licorice combats viruses such as hepatitis B, Herpes, influenza, and
HIV by
boosting the immune system's T-cell count and stimulating production of
protective compounds such as interferon.
The herb is
popularly used to ease irritation and
for inflammation and spasm in the digestive tract. Licorice is reputed
to heal ulcers. The herb
acts on
the liver and helps increase bile flow and it also helps lower cholesterol levels.
Licorice helps the body to built up resistance to stress by acting on the
adrenal glands. It has a soothing and healing effect on the respiratory
system
and helps to ease irritation and inflammation. Because of its
expectorant
properties it is used in treating colds, coughs, asthma and chest infections. Like
aspirin, licorice is useful in relieving headaches and fevers.
Precautions
Don't use
licorice if you have high blood pressure,
and don't use licorice if you eat a meat and potatoes diet. Your body
needs
potassium from fruit and vegetables to compensate for the excretion of
potassium stimulated by licorice. If you use steroids or an asthma
inhaler,
licorice will increase both the effectiveness of the drug and the
severity of
its side effects. Its long term use is not recommended, and it is not
recommended for use by pregnant women. May cause stomach upset if taken
in
large quantities.
Peppermint
Peppermint calms
the muscles of the stomach and
improves the flow of bile, which the body uses to digest fats. As a
result,
food passes through the stomach more quickly.
Some other benefits of
Peppermint include:
-Relieves
Menstrual
Cramps
Peppermint has the potential
to influence menstrual
periods and, because it relaxes muscles, may help to relieve painful
cramps.
- Treats Nausea and Vomiting
Peppermint is an antispasmodic
that will help decrease the
stomach contractions that may be causing your nausea.
- Treats Gallstones
Peppermint oil may help the
body break down gallstones.
- Fights Viruses
Peppermint oil has exhibited
antiviral properties against
a number of infectious agents, including herpes.
Precautions
You shouldn't
take
peppermint if you have gastoesophageal reflux disease or (GERD).
Schisandra
Schizandra
is popularly used as a general tonic for decreasing fatigue, enhancing
physical
performance, and promoting endurance due to its effects and reputation
as an
adaptogen. It has been shown to help
enhance the sedative effects of drugs, prolong duration of
sedative-induced
sleep, and is believed to neutralize the stimulating effects of
caffeine and
other amphetamines. Among other
things, schisandra is also claimed to
be beneficial against premenstrual
disorder, helpful in arousing immune
protection, facilitate recuperation after surgeries, add
stability
to body functions, regulate the body mechanisms, shield against
radiation and infections,
protect against motion
sickness, and stabilize the blood
sugar and
blood pressure.
The herb also has beneficial effects in lowering cholesterol
levels, protection from diseases, invigorate the RNA-DNA
molecules to reconstruct cells, and enhance the fitness of the adrenal
glands.
Schizandra fruits or berries contain various lignans, mainly
schizandrins. These lignans have been
found to prevent
liver damage, stimulate liver repair, and stimulate normal liver
functioning.
These properties appear to be related to the various antioxidant
abilities of
the various schizandrins. Schizandra also helps in digestion,
regulating
gastric acid release. Other studies have shown that extracts of
schizandra are
stimulating to the central nervous system and are cholinergic. There
have been
numerous reports on schizandra's ability to combat neurasthenias
(headaches,
insomnia, dizziness, palpitations). Other reports have mentioned
increased
cognitive function and increased memory. A recent study concluded that
schizandra may be a useful herb to reverse depression, particularly
that due to
adrenergic exhaustion. Recent research studies have indicated that
schizandra
has numerous biological activities, including: anti-bacterial, mild
stimulant,
liver protective, anti-depressant, antioxidant, adaptogen and cardiac
tonic.
Schisandra is a
significant herbal remedy that acts as a stimulant all over the body.
It helps
in rejuvenating as well as conditioning different organs, especially
the liver
and the reproductive system. Schisandra is perhaps the most popular sex
stimulant or tonic that is beneficial both for men and women. The herb
has a
reputation to enhance discharge of sexual fluids and is also used as a
remedy
to increase sexual vigor amongst men. Schisandra and/ or its extracts
are
widely used to heal hepatitis as well as improve the functioning of the
liver.
Valerian
Valerian, an
abundant plant commonly known as
garden heliotrope, has been historically used for its soothing
properties and
traditionally was used to help with insomnia, restlessness, and
stress-related
anxiety. Recent scientific discovery
has proved that the centuries-old use of valerian is more than an old
wives’
tale—in 2003, studies revealed that valerian contains two flavonoids
responsible for the supplement’s soothing, sleep enhancing properties.
These
flavonoids, 6-methylapigenin and Hesperidin, are natural tranquilizers
that
relieve sleeplessness, anxiety, nervous restlessness, and even
headaches.
Studies further proved that valerian helps the body fall asleep more
quickly
and encourages deeper, more restful sleep.
Research is
ongoing for more benefits of valerian;
however, early results show that valerian may be helpful in alleviating
menstrual cramping and stomach pain, soothing irritable bowel syndrome,
and
calming some of the symptoms of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder).
Several studies
in adults suggest that valerian
improves the quality of sleep and reduces the time to fall asleep
(sleep
latency), for up to four to six weeks. Ongoing nightly use may be more
effective than single-dose use, with increasing effects over four
weeks. Better
effects have been found in poor sleepers.
Precautions
Valerian may
potentiate the sedative effects of
barbiturates, anesthetics, and other central nervous system
depressants. One
case report suggests that sudden cessation of long-term high dose
valerian
therapy (530 mg to 2 g, five times daily) may result in withdrawal
symptoms
similar to those occurring with benzodiazepine use. Perhaps because of
the
poorly defined effects of valerian on GABA neurotransmission, valerian
appears
to attenuate benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms in animals and humans.
|
