There are many things to love about summer: warmer weather, longer days, and the arrival of cherries to local farmer’s markets and supermarkets. They are juicy, scrumptious, and happen to boast myriad health benefits. In fact, researchers say that people who eat cherries experience reduced cholesterol & blood pressure levels, improved sleep, decreased oxidative stress, and less inflammation. Keep reading to find out more about this sweet and tart summertime fruit.

What Are Cherries?

Obviously, a cherry is a fruit and there are two primary types: the sweet or wild cherry, and the sour cherry. Cherries are native to the Northern Hemisphere, and they are difficult to maintain, which explains their higher price tag per pound. They have a very short season, as they are only available from late-June to late-August. One cup of cherries meets 15% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C, and it only amounts to 100 calories. Get your hands on them while they’re in season!

Health Benefits Of Cherries

They May Treat Gout

Commonly affecting the big toe, gout is an arthritic condition that results from uric acid accumulation in the body. When too much uric acid is in the body, uric acid crystals form in the joints and cause uncomfortable pain and limited mobility. According to a study that was published in Arthritis & Rheumatism, people with gout benefitted from consuming cherry extract. Of the 633 patients with gout, 35% experienced decreased gout attacks after taking cherry extract.

They May Improve Your Sleep

Several studies found that cherries, especially sweet cherries, are naturally rich in melatonin. Melatonin is necessary to experience restful sleep because it works to control your circadian rhythm and regulate sleep patterns. Consume a handful of cherries an hour or two before bed to improve sleep. You may also find that more melatonin in the body gets rid of irritability and headaches.

They Are Rich In Antioxidants

Antioxidants have many important roles in the body. The anthocyanins and cynanidan in cherries exhibit powerful anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, one study that was published in the Journal of Natural Products found that these antioxidants decreased inflammation better than aspirin. The anthocyanins from sour cherries help reduce inflammation, and preliminary studies show that they may inhibit the growth of human colon cancer cell lines. Finally, adding antioxidant-rich foods like cherries to your diet can decrease your risk of macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other conditions caused by oxidative stress.

They May Relieve Osteoarthritis

Cartilage in the joint acts as a cushion, preventing the bones from rubbing together. Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage between the bones and joint wears down, eliminating that cushion between the bones. About 33 million American adults suffer from osteoarthritis, and they may benefit from consuming cherries. The Osteoarthritis Research Center examined 58 non-diabetic patients, who drank two eight-ounce servings of fresh sour cherry juice daily over a six-week period. The results indicated a decrease in WOMAC scores, and patients reported relief from osteoarthritis symptoms.

They Are Packed With Phytochemicals

Ellagic acid is a naturally occurring phytochemical that is present in sweet cherries. Several studies found that ellagic exhibits anti-cancer and antioxidant activity. Other studies found that the anti-cancer properties proved effective at inhibiting the growth of skin, colon, prostate, pancreas, and breast cancer cells. Ellagic acid binds to cancer-causing molecules and makes them inactive. If that’s not a reason to enjoy cherries, we don’t know what is!

SHARE:

The post 5 Impressive Health Benefits Of Cherries appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Soups and broths have been staple foods in various civilizations throughout history. One of the oldest books in Chinese Medicine, Dr. Yi Yins Soup Classic, documents the healing properties of soups, and historical records have proof that the Father of Western medicine, Hippocrates, encouraged his patients to drink barley soup, especially for digestive discomfort. Rather than eating a meal when a person was ill, it was much easier to sip a nourishing soup or broth.

The bone broth fad is one of the most popular health trends, with various blogs touting the health benefits. It has been marketed as a great source of collagen, and many companies push the fact that it is a high-protein meal for people with on-the-go lifestyles. The primary claim is that it has the ability to cure leaky gut, improve immune health, or reduce arthritis pain. Bone broth sales in the United States skyrocketed from $5.83 million in 2016 to $17.54 million in 2017. Brand ambassadors and celebrities alike endorse bone broth, but what’s the truth about this cure-all elixir?

What Is Bone Broth?

Bone broth is made by boiling down the roasted bones, skin, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons of animals, specifically chickens and cows, but bison, turkey, lamb, deer, and other animals are occasionally used. It takes a long time to cook bone broth, and the gelatin, calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals are drawn out of the ingredients into a broth.

Is Bone Broth Is A One-Stop Shop For All Your Nutrients?

The “unique” nutritional profile of bone broth receives a lot of attention, but research shows that broths, which are primarily comprised of vegetables, contain more nutrients. In 2017, the journal Food and Nutrition Research found that bone broth was low in calcium and magnesium. While bone broth claims to be a nutritional goldmine, it seems that the vegetables used in the cooking process are responsible for many of the nutrients. For instance, bone broth contains 19mg or less of calcium and between six to nine grams of protein. Compare that to the following plant-based sources:

• Collard greens (1 cup contains 150mg of calcium)
• Organic peanut butter (2 tablespoons contain 7 grams of protein)
• Navy beans (1 boiled cup contains 126mg of calcium)
• Kale (1 cup contains 177mg of calcium)
• Lentils (1 cooked cup contains 18 grams of protein)

Collagen? You Can Make Your Own

The human body cannot digest collagen whole. During the digestive process, the body absorbs nutrients from the food that has been consumed to build collagen. Let’s make something very clear: eating more collagen does not give the body more collagen, nor does it directly help the body in any way. A food scientist named Kantha Shelke has claimed that eating a diet that is filled with leafy green vegetables is ideal. Plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds are rich in the nutrients (vitamins A, C & E, glycine, proline, and sulfur) that are necessary for collagen production. For a list of foods that aid with collagen production, click here.

Is Bone Broth Good For Gut Health?

There are claims that that bone broth is beneficial for people with poor digestion or leaky gut syndrome. Supposedly, the gelatin in bone broth binds to the water in the digestive tract, working to protect the intestinal lining. Certain animal studies show that bone broth may have that potential, but no research has been done on humans. You know what isn’t a claim or theory? Fiber-rich plant foods, including fermented foods that improve the gut micriobiome, help support gut health. This is well documented and fiber-rich foods can be found by clicking here.

Homemade Vegetable Mineral Broth

A homemade vegetable broth can be a great sources of electrolytes, enzymes, ionic minerals, and more, all of which assist to maintain overall bodily health. We found a recipe that is free of the bones of animals, gluten-free, low in sugar, nut-free, and soy-free. Make it and let us know how you like it.

Ingredients:

• 2 (5-inch) strips of Kombu seaweed
• 6 carrots, chopped
• 1 leek, both white and green parts, chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
• 5-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
• ½ bunch parsley, chopped
• 6 dried shiitake mushrooms
• 2 medium brown onions, chopped
• 8 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 small pumpkin or squash, seeded and cut into chunks
• 4 cups kale, chopped

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to a large stockpot over high heat and fill the pot about two inches below the rim with water. Cover the pot and bring to a boil.
• Remove the lid once the stock is boiling and reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about two hours.
• You’ll notice that the water starts to evaporate as the stock simmers, so add more water if the vegetables are exposed.
• Remove from the heat and strain the stock into another large pot. Divide the stock into glass storage jars and place in the refrigerator.
• You can drink two to three cups between meals.

SHARE:

The post Bone Broth May Not Be As Good As You Think It Is appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Collagen supplementation has been a featured topic in the health world in recent years. The average person does not get enough collagen via his or her diet, which is why many resort to collagen supplements. Rather than consuming pills or powders made from cow hooves, there are collagen-rich foods that can help maintain optimal collagen levels.

What Is Collagen And Why Does It Matter?

In the supplement industry, collagen is commonly used in anti-aging and beauty products. As the most abundant protein in the body, collagen is more than a mere ingredient in beauty supplements. It’s essentially the glue that holds everything together, being the main component of connective tissue in muscles, tendons, bones, vessels, skin, and cartilage. As you age, the body starts producing less and less collagen, which can lead to decreased cartilage, joint pain, and wrinkles. Fortunately, it is possible to boost collagen levels by regularly consuming a variety of collagen-rich foods. Increasing the intake of collagen from dietary sources has been associated with:

• Healthier bones
• Muscle mass
• Improved gut health
• Reduced joint pain
• Enhanced heart health
• Improved skin elasticity

What To Eat To Increase Collagen Production?

Age isn’t the only factor that comes into play when it comes to collagen production. Unhealthy lifestyle choices (i.e. excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, poor diet, or lack of exercise) can influence how much collagen the body produces. It makes sense, then, that making healthier choices can increase collagen production. Let’s take a look at our favorite collagen-rich foods.

Almonds

Vitamin E is the most abundant antioxidant in the skin, and it works to fight free radicals that damage collagen cells. Working with vitamin C, vitamin E helps to stimulate collagen formation. While you can topically apply vitamin E oil to the skin, you can also eat almonds to replenish vitamin E levels. Additionally, almonds are rich in copper, which is a trace mineral that is necessary for the final step of collagen synthesis.

Spirulina

Spirulina is one of the most nutrient-dense foods in the plant world. This algae is rich in an amino acid known as glycine, which is an integral component of collagen. Spirulina is found in most health food stores, and it is available in powder or dried form. Add it to your green smoothies, but prepare for a slightly unusual taste if you’ve never had it. You’ll learn how to offset the taste after making a few smoothies.

Leafy Greens

As mentioned before, vitamin C and vitamin E are essential nutrients for collagen synthesis. In addition to vitamin A, leafy greens are replete with vitamins C and E. Kale, chard, spinach, green beans, arugula, broccoli, and many other dark green vegetables contain chlorophyll, which gives plants their green color. Scientific research suggests that chlorophyll nourishes cells and helps to increase procollagen, which takes place before collagen formation, in the skin.

Berries

Vitamin C is necessary for pre-collagen production, but it is also a powerful antioxidant that works to fight free radicals in the body. Antioxidants like vitamin C work to protect collagen cells from these free radicals, which are present in water, air, food, and the body. Much like kiwis or citrus fruits, berries (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, and raspberries) are some of the best sources of vitamin C.

Garlic

Garlic seems to find its way into a lot of our articles, but it isn’t just in this article for the sake of being here. Garlic has been praised for its collagen-boosting abilities by many cultures. The sulfur in garlic is necessary for the production of collagen. Sulfur has also been known to inhibit the breakdown of collagen cells, an important quality for keeping the skin and joints healthy.

SHARE:

The post Eat These Foods To Boost Collagen Levels appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

The Standard American Diet (appropriately abbreviated SAD) consists mostly of acidic foods (proteins, cereals, sugars, processed foods, junk foods, etc.). Alkaline foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are often eaten in much smaller quantities, and the amount eaten does not neutralize the excess acidity consumed through those other foods. Additionally, smoking cigarettes or drinking alcohol, soda, or coffee can create higher acidity levels in the body. These are all common foods that the average American ingests.

A healthy body should be roughly 20% acidic and 80% alkaline, which means that a person’s intake of alkaline foods should be much higher than his/her intake of acidic foods. When we talk about the acid/alkaline balance, we aren’t referring to stomach acid. We are referring to the body’s pH levels. In the case of the stomach, the pH level is naturally acidic, but bodily fluids, cells, and tissues do not benefit from having acidic pH levels. An overly acidic body can lead to a variety of health conditions, high blood pressure being the most common.

When it comes to distinguishing alkaline foods from acidic foods, it can be hard for some people. For instance, some people think that lemons are acidic. They contain citric acid, yes, but they have an alkalizing effect inside the body. The same thing can be said for apple cider vinegar, which is another great alkaline food.

The Top Alkaline Fruits Include:

• Lemons
• Limes
• Grapefruit
• Avocado
• Tomatoes
• Coconut
• Pomegranate

The Top Alkaline Veggies Include:

• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Celery
• Endive
• Garlic
• Alfalfa Sprouts
• Parsley
• Kale
• Spinach

Symptoms of Being Too Acidic

1. Digestive issues

• Excess stomach acid
• Acid reflux
• Gastritis
• Ulcers
• Saliva acidic

2. Unhealthy Skin, Nails and Hair

• Nails are thin and break easily
• Dry skin
• Cracks at the corners of the lips
• Hair is dull with split ends, and falls out
• Hives
• Very pale face

3. Teeth and Mouth Issues

• Loose teeth
• Teeth sensitive to hot, cold, or acidic foods
• Teeth have a tendency to crack or chip
• Sensitive gums
• Mouth ulcers
• Infections in throat and tonsils
• Tooth nerve pain

4. Eyes, Head and General Body

• Headaches
• Low body temperature (feels cold)
• Tendency to get infections
• Leg cramps and spasms
• Eyes tear easily, conjunctivitis, inflammation of the eyelids and corneas

5. Nerves and Emotions

• Low energy; constant fatigue
• Being continually depressed with a loss of joy and enthusiasm
• Excessive nervousness

Benefits of Having an Alkalized Body pH

Anti-Aging

A lot of people associate aging with wrinkles or graying hair, but there is some unseen aging that happens inside the body. Having an overly acidic body accelerates the aging process. Having an alkalized body can prevent acidosis, and can keep the body feeling younger.

Better Joint Health

People with overly acidic bodies are more prone to developing arthritis. Additionally, an acidic diet accelerates the degeneration of cartilage and bones, along with reducing the range of motion. Eating an alkaline diet can help to reduce inflammation in joints and improve circulation in those areas.

Better Immune Health

The immune system works to protect your body from foreign invaders, sending antibodies to fight microorganisms. Additionally, there is a natural process, called phagocytosis, that works to take these foreign particles out of your circulation. All of these things work more efficiently when you have balanced pH levels. Too much acidity can interfere with the immune system’s natural processes.

Mental Clarity

Mental decline can be a natural part of aging, but an acidic body can reduce the production of functioning neurotransmitters. Recent studies have shown that neurodegenerative diseases are increased by having acidic pH levels. Keeping the body neutral, around a 7.4 pH level, can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Better Energy

Feeling fatigued or sluggish is a common sign of having an acidic body. This isn’t surprising when you consider the fact that metabolic pathways function at their best when they have pH levels that range from 7.35-7.45. As the pH level moves out of this range towards acidity, the body’s natural processes start slowing, making you feel more tired than usual.

Weight Loss Becomes Easier

When there is an accumulation of toxins in the body, losing weight can be more difficult. Acidic pH levels can cause toxins to be stored in fat, which is common in people who are obese. Alkalizing the body is a great way to flush toxins from the body, helping with waste elimination, which is one of the most important parts of weight loss.

Alkalizing the body doesn’t have to be difficult. You can start by eliminating processed foods, junk food, meat products, meat, and dairy products from your diet. Focus on plant-based foods and try drinking alkaline water. If you need help making alkaline water, read this article. Finally, you can participate in the Full Body Cleanse to help neutralize pH levels and get you back on the healthy track.

SHARE:

The post 6 Benefits Of Having A Properly Alkalized Body appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Arthritis is a common joint disorder that can affect one or multiple joints. A joint, which moves body parts connected by its bones, is an area in the body where two bones meet. Arthritis is not a disease and refers to joint pain, when inflammation occurs in the joint(s). While there are many types of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are the primary ones.

OA is the slow deterioration of cartilage in the joints and RA is an autoimmune disorder, in which the immune system attacks the body’s tissues. Arthritis can occur in people of all ages, sexes, and races, and it is the leading cause of disability in America. While it is more common in women, it primarily occurs when people get older.

What Causes Arthritis?

Arthritis occurs when there is a reduction of cartilage in a specific joint. Cartilage is the connective tissue in your joints that absorbs pressure and shock during movement or when stress is put on the joints. Regular wear and tear of cartilage leads to OA, but an infection, which occurs in the joint, can also lead to OA. If you have a history of arthritis, your chances of having arthritis increase. RA occurs when the immune system attack’s the body’s tissues. This affects synovium, a tissue that produces fluid that keeps the cartilage healthy and lubricates the joints. Genetics can also increase one’s risk of developing RA.

• Family History
• Age (although this depends on the person)
• Previous Joint Injury
• Infection in the Joint
• Your Gender (women are more susceptible to Arthritis than men)
• Obesity
• Immune System Dysfunction
• Abnormal Metabolism

Natural Remedies For Arthritis

Weight Loss

Weight loss is an effective, although not necessarily the easiest, way to diminish symptoms of arthritis. Eliminating processed foods, sugar, alcohol, salt, meat, dairy, and genetically modified foods from your diet is a good way to start. Switching to a plant-based diet that consists of fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, and whole grains like barley or buckwheat can help you lose weight. It’s also important to get the right amount of omega-3 fatty acids and anti-inflammatory foods in your diet. Accompany your diet with easy workouts that don’t put too much stress on the joints (biking and swimming are great options). After losing 10-20 pounds, symptoms should reduce.

Acupuncture

Many people with arthritis find that acupuncture aids their symptoms. While it doesn’t work for everyone, it can help to relieve pain and inflammation in the affected joint(s).

Hot & Cold Treatments

Using hot and cold treatments can dramatically affect how your joints feel. Hot showers and baths, especially in the mornings, help ease the stiffness in the joints. Applying an ice pack to the affected joint can also help reduce pain. If you have a hot pad or hot water bottle, alternating from hot to cold treatments can help benefit you.

Find Ways To Relax

Meditation or other relaxation exercises can help arthritis because it reduces stress levels. Those with arthritis and depression were helped the most by meditation. Similarly, getting massages helps move the fluid in the body and loosen the joints. Massages also help people with arthritis establish a better range of motion.

SHARE:

The post Natural Remedies To Help Relieve Arthritis Pain appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Shark cartilage is supplement made from the dried cartilage of a shark. The supplement is marketed to have many health benefits. However, no scientific evidence exists that agrees with this theory.

The shark cartilage craze has led people to overkill the animal for its cartilage, which has led to a rapid decline in the shark population.

Dherbs does not agree with shark cartilage and its uses. Until further scientific studies are done to back up medical claims, we feel it is best to only take supplements that are beneficial to the body.

No supplement cures disease. Natural substances can only help with symptoms or in maintaining overall health.

The Shark Cartilage Claim

Shark cartilage has been touted to have many health benefits, but the most profound is the claim that the supplement aids in the prevention of cancer. There is no evidence supporting this claim. The claim began with the notion that sharks cannot get cancer. Again, this is false.

Dr. William Lane is responsible for the shark cartilage frenzy in the alternative health field. In 1992, Dr. Lane wrote a book titled “Sharks Don’t Get Cancer”. This was the beginning of the shark cartilage craze.

In 2011, Americans spent nearly $3 million on supplements containing shark cartilage. Although many reputable sources have thrown out the benefits of shark cartilage, people are still buying it.

The claim shark cartilage offers of cancer prevention are false. More scientific evidence needs to be published to verify these claims. Little research has been done into any benefits besides cancer prevention.

Shark Cartilage Side Effects

Possible side effects of shark cartilage include:

• Low blood pressure
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Bad taste in the mouth
• High blood sugar
• Fatigue
• High Calcium levels

You should avoid taking shark cartilage if you currently experience high Calcium levels. The supplement could increase levels even further causing additional complications.

Whether or not the supplement is safe for pregnant women is a possibility. Some reports claim that shark cartilage can be taken during pregnancy, but it is safest to air on the side of caution. Taking any drugs or supplements that are not 100% beneficial to the body while pregnant is a risk.

Dherbs Solutions

Dherbs.com offers many different natural formulas that can assist in maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Leading a healthy lifestyle and taking care of your body is the first step in wellness.

Thank you for reading!

This article is compliments of Dherbs.com.

SHARE:

The post Shark Cartilage appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

Many runners and joggers don’t know it, but there is danger in running and jogging, especially when performed daily.

These Western exercises serve to compensate for the sedentary lifestyles of many Americans who spend 6-8 hours a day sitting at a desk job.

Joint Pain and Cartilage Damage

Many runners and joggers experience foot, ankle, knee, and leg injuries-and understandably so.

Some longtime runners and/or joggers develop a condition known as chondromalacia, medically defined as a softening of the cartilage. It develops in response to the softening of the cartilage under the kneecaps (patella) that result in small areas of breakdown and pain around the knee.

Running and jogging over long periods of time, and especially on cement or asphalt, destroys cartilage in the joints. It’s the reason why many runners and joggers later suffer from stiffness in their knees. The stiffness is also attributed to a buildup of lactic acid in the muscles. Lactic acid makes you stiff, not the workout itself.

Tendonitis

Tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons) may also develop from long periods of running and jogging.

The inflammation in tendonitis results from acidic mucus buildup in the tendons. The mucus develops to protect the damage done in the tendons, but the problem with the mucus stems from people continuing to do the activity that produces more mucus. So much mucus is produced that the mucus itself becomes a problem. It also triggers inflammation.

Mucus is generated by an acid-based diet. An acid-based diet is one that consists mainly of meat products, dairy products, refined grain products, processed and refined so-called foods or foodstuffs, and low pH acidic effervescent beverages such as soda pop and diet soda pop that contain deleterious phosphoric acid which eats away at the bones and robs the body of calcium.

Other Health Issues from Running and Jogging

Some people believe that when women jog on cement or asphalt without shock absorbers in their shoes, they can injure their uterus. With every step of a run or jog, a physical shock is being sent from the feet’s metatarsal bones all the way to the uterus.

Running and jogging will undoubtedly cause loss of calcium. Many commercial health food stores such as GNC, Great Earth, Vitamin Shoppe, et al make a fortune selling synthetic grades of calcium to athletes. For calcium or any other mineral to work in your body, it must be organic, must be able to be digested by the body fully, and must be able to be absorbed and assimilated.

Nature produces two types of calcium and you must know which type the human body requires for optimal health and wellbeing. The kind of calcium humans require is called calcium phosphate, aka organic calcium.

However, some commercial health stores and supermarkets sell inorganic calcium that is indigestible and harms health and wellbeing. Most of this type of calcium is urinated right out of the body and residues remain lodged in the body trapped in the tissues of the body and also play a role in the formation of calcium deposits in the body.

Your calcium must be organic or plant-based, i.e. comfrey root and leaf, oatstraw, horsetail, and nettle. Calcium is denoted by the color green and not white. Many of the biggest brands of calcium are synthetic and have no nutritional value.

Commercial health food stores also sell chondroitin and glucosamine for bone, tendon, and ligament problems. This is a waste of money. Chondroitin is made from a cow’s trachea and glucosamine is derived from chicken bones. You may be able to find non-animal sources of these products, but they are very rare.

Runners and joggers can also harm their adrenal glands. We are designed to run to save our lives, as in fight or flight situations whereby our bodies produce extreme amounts of adrenaline to help us escape from danger. Excessive amounts of adrenaline can hurt the body, especially the heart.

Astrology and Running

People born under the astrological signs of Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces are very prone to problems (injuries) of the knees, legs, ankle, and feet as these particular signs govern these body parts.

• Capricorn governs the knees and legs and thus Capricorn people (born between December 23 and January 19) are more prone to injuries of the knees and legs.
• Aquarius governs the ankles so Aquarians or Aquarius people (born between January 20 and February 19) are more prone to problems (injuries) of the ankles.
• Pisces governs the feet and toes so Pisceans (born between February 20 and March 19) are more prone to problems (injuries) of the feet and toes.

Natural Healing From the Damage of Running and Jogging

If you are going to run and jog, by all means make sure you run and/or jog on grass, dirt, or sand. Avoid running and/or jogging on cement or asphalt.

Refrain from running or jogging for long miles. Keep your sessions short, only a few miles. Some people run 5-10 miles daily which is insane when you know the damage being done to your body. You might even consider replacing running and/or jogging with bicycling. Bicycling is better for the knees and tendons.

If you still feel the need to run or jog as your primary form of exercise, get a pair of shock absorbers for your shoes.

Every morning, drink a glass full of room temperature water with one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar added to the water. This will greatly help your joints.

Start performing the sea salt soak as much as possible. Bathe or soak in sea salt rather than Epsom salt.

Rub warm oil (plant-based i.e. olive, almond, coconut, etc.) on your sore joints. Then massage in a few drops (3-5 drops) of essentials oil such as Wintergreen, Spearmint, Peppermint, and/or Eucalyptus.

Consider replacing strenuous exercises with subtle exercises such as yoga, Pilates, tai chi, or basic stretching.

More natural healing options include acupressure, energy healing, and chiropractic exercises.

Magnetic therapy can aid in repairing damaged feet, ankles, legs, and knees. You can purchase magnetic ankle pads and knee pads to wear daily or as needed. Magnetic therapy is great for palliating and eradicating pain as magnets increase circulation to injured areas and thus provide much needed oxygen and minerals to injured areas.

SHARE:

The post The Dangers of Running and Jogging appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.

A Basic Essential Nutrient Needed Now, More than Ever Before

Methylsulfonylmethane is a relatively new dietary supplement form of sulfur that is found in our living tissues. MSM supports healthy connective tissues like tendons, ligaments, and muscle. Thus, it is important in conditions such as arthritis, muscle pains, bursitis, etc. MSM should be considered an integral part of any health care practice because of its physiological action, indirect importance, and current / future uses.

To understand MSM, some background information is necessary. MSM is a “naturally-occurring nutrient found in normal human diets” (1). It gets into the diet through the sulfur cycle. Ocean plankton release sulfur compounds which rise into the ozone where ultra-violet light makes MSM and DMSO. DMSO, dimethyl sulfoxide, is a precursor to MSM. MSM and DMSO return to the surface of the earth in rain (1). Plants concentrate MSM and return it to the earth and the sea. Evaporation into the air results in their return to the earth (1).

MSM has a unique action on body tissues. It decreases the pressure inside the cell. In removing fluids and toxins, sulfur affects the cell membrane. MSM is an organic form of sulfur, whereas sulfites in foodstuffs are inorganic. Sue Williams states “sulfur is present in all cells” and is in the form of “organic compounds throughout the body’ (2). However, sulfur can be found in the body in sulfate forms. It forms sulfate compounds with sodium, potassium, magnesium, and selenium. MSM has a significance, because sulfur compounds are found everywhere throughout the body and in nature.

Sulfur has an indirect importance, because sulfur compounds play a role in many body organs and systems. Sulfur is in the hair, skin, and nails. Many amino acids, the building blocks of protein, have sulfur as a component. Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid formed from methionine (2). Taurine stabilizes cell membranes (2). Methionine contains sulfur, detoxifies cells, and is involved in pain relief (2). Carnitine comes from methionine and transports long chain fatty acids preventing accumulations of lipoproteins (2). Many B-complex vitamins interact with or contain sulfur. Sulfur is needed for insulin production.

One current use of MSM is for joint problems, as sulfur is found in and near osseous structures. Sulfur supports healthy muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Arthritic conditions have responded to oral MSM. Some researchers note results from MSM when used for post-exercise muscle pain (1). MSM normalizes pressure inside cells and removes toxins. Oregon Health Sciences University has conducted arthritis studies with mice. The mice which received MSM had “no degeneration of articular cartilage” (1). The other non-MSM mice had cartilaginous degeneration. The university has used MSM on over 12,000 patents. Researchers make no claim about MSM as a supplement, but osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, muscle soreness and muscle pain respond to oral MSM.

One researcher claims MSM is about as safe as water. One should drink extra water with MSM use. There are other dietary factors to consider.

Avoiding nightshade plants has helped arthritis patients (tomatoes / potatoes / green pepper/eggplant). Biotin and vitamin C help the body assimilate MSM. Biotin and vitamin C are found in fresh fruits. Eating fresh fruits while taking MSM could be helpful.

In addition to arthritis, it may have other future uses. Dr. Stanley Jacob believes ,’most people are deficient’ in sulfur (1). Insulin synthesis depends upon sulfur. Many vitamins require or contain sulfur. Some researchers claim it has many future uses such as in allergies (1).

A good MSM product is both safe and effective. The MSM source for MSM supplements is often lignin from pine trees. Lignin is a molecule in plants that is part of a plant’s cell wall. Lignin oxidation in oak wine barrels results in the vanilla flavors of wines. The pine tree lignin is an ideal source for a good MSM product.

For those who do not want to take MSM as a supplement, food sources of sulfur are as follows: sunflower seeds, garlic, lentils, soybeans, and yogurt. Persons with kidney problems or recurrent kidney stones may not want to take MSM. Certain renal tubular defects can make a person susceptible to recurrent kidney stones (2). Other kidney defects include errors of metabolism in which processing of sulfur amino acids is altered (2). Such persons may wish to avoid MSM.

One thousand to three thousand milligrams per day is a typical dosage range, but some people take well above that amount. This author takes MSM alone.

From the cell walls of pine trees to the cells of the human body, a good MSM supplement can contribute to good health.

Conditions That Have Reportedly Responded to MSM Supplements

• Acne
• Allergies
• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Candida Yeast Infections
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
• Chronic Fatigue
• Constipation
• Diabetes
• Digestive Disorders
• Fragile Hair & Nails
• Migraine Headaches
• Muscle Pain & Cramps
• Parasites
• Skin Damage & Aging
• Toxic Build-up
• Ulcers

A body made up of healthy, flexible cells will not only feel better, it will look better too. The body is continuously at work replacing old, worn out cells with new ones. The process goes on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without stop. When all the raw materials needed for cell-building are available, it is a very efficient process. When there are deficiencies, the new cells may be weak, rigid or deformed.

One of the most important raw materials for building healthy new cells is a form of organic sulfur known as methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM). This element is so essential to life that it is found in every cell of every plant and every animal. Sulfur makes up 0.25% of human body weight. However neither plants nor animals can use elemental sulfur directly. Sulfur is not easily available to living organisms in its inorganic form.

MSM is not a medicine, a drug, or a food additive. It is a food. MSM is an organic form of sulfur that can be easily absorbed and utilized by the body. Although DMSO and MSM are chemically similar, each is unique. MSM is a pure, stable, white crystalline powder without the unpleasant smell or taste of DMSO. (1-3) Also, MSM does not give you a strong body odor like DMSO.

Since sulfur is a component of all cells, it is essential that the body have a plentiful supply of this mineral in its usable form. There is a positive synergistic effect on building healthier cells when MSM is taken in combination with vitamin C. The new cells are more pliable and permeable, allowing fluids to pass through the tissue more easily. (1) Internally this means more efficient elimination of toxins, a reduction in inflammation and pain – so you feel better. On the outside it shows up as a softer, smoother complexion, stronger hair and nails – so you look better.

MSM for Relief of Pain and Inflammation Approximately half of the total body sulfur is concentrated in the muscles, skin and bones. One of the most significant uses of MSM as a supplement is its demonstrated ability to relieve pain and inflammation. When rigid fibrous tissue cells swell and become inflamed, pressure and pain result. Since MSM can restore flexibility and permeability to cell walls, fluids can pass through the tissues more easily. This helps equalize pressure and reduce or eliminate the cause of pain. Harmful substances such as lactic acid and toxins are allowed to flow out, while nutrients are permitted to flow in. This prevents the pressure buildup in cells that causes inflammation. (1)

MSM has shown a remarkable ability to reduce or eliminate muscle soreness and cramps both in geriatric patients and in athletes. It’s even given to race horses before a race to prevent muscle soreness, and afterward to reduce the risk of cramping. People with arthritis report substantial and long-lasting relief with MSM supplements. Taken along with glucosamine, a key substance in the process of rebuilding cartilage, MSM can relieve pain and help repair worn or damaged cartilage in joints, ligaments and tendons with healthy, flexible new cells. (1)

How Does MSM Work?

MSM makes cell walls permeable, allowing water and nutrients to freely flow into cells and allowing wastes and toxins to properly flow out. The body uses MSM along with Vitamin C to create new, healthy cells, and MSM provides the flexible bond between the cells. Without proper levels of MSM, our bodies are unable to build good healthy cells, and this leads to problems such as lost flexibility, scar tissue, wrinkles, varicose veins, hardened arteries, damaged lung tissues, dry cracking skin, digestive disorders, joint problems, and inability to defend against allergic reactions to food, animals and plants.

MSM is an anti-oxidant that helps to clean the blood stream and flush toxins trapped in our cells. It is also a foreign protein and free radical scavenger. In order to maintain good health, we need to supplement our diets with MSM, to enable the body to heal itself. The body uses what it needs, and after 12 hours will flush out any excess amounts.

The Beauty Mineral for Hair, Skin and Nails Sulfur has been called nature’s “beauty mineral” because it is needed to keep the hair glossy and smooth and keeps the complexion clear and youthful. It is needed for synthesis of collagen and is prevalent in keratin, a tough protein substance necessary for health and maintenance of the skin, nails and hair.

MSM is responsible for the flexible disulfide bonds between cells, including those that make up the skin. It blocks undesirable chemical and physical cross-linking or bonding of collagen which is associated with tough, aging skin. Con consequently MSM enhances tissue pliability and encourages repair f damaged skin. If there is insufficient sulfur in the body when new cells are being manufactured, the new cells will be rigid. This rigidity can contribute to cracking, wrinkling and unsightly scar tissue. When sufficient sulfur is present for new cells, the skin is softer, smoother and more flexible. MSM provides that sulfur.

Acne, including the severe acne rosacea, responds favorably to MSM supplements. Adequate sulfur and vitamin C are also needed for healing. When the body is deficient in these nutrients, the new tissue will be elevated leaving an unattractive, raised scar. Because MSM makes the skin more permeable and pliant, it can also help prevent blistering and promote faster healing from sunburn or wind damage.

With MSM supplements, nails show not only an increase in growth rate, but also increased toughness and resistance to chipping and cracking. This effect has been seen both in human nails and horses hoofs.

Allergens, Toxins and Parasites

Flexible, permeable cells are also important in that they allow toxins, allergens and foreign substances to be flushed out of the body more easily . When skin cells are soft and permeable, many toxins can be eliminated through the sweat glands, which takes some of the load off the liver and kidneys. While MSM is not a cure for allergies, supplementation may reduce symptoms by allowing allergens to be removed from the body more quickly. Even reactions to insect bites, poison ivy and poison oak are less severe when the diet is supplemented with MSM. Vitamin C is also synergistic in this application in that it can lower histamine levels.

MSM has also shown amazing anti-parasitic action against Giardia, Trichomonas, roundworms, nematodes, Enterobius and other intestinal worms. When parasites attach themselves to the intestinal lining, they can live, reproduce and rob the body of nutrients indefinitely. MSM blocks parasites by competing for receptor sites on the mucous membrane. When parasites can not attach themselves, they are simply flushed out of the system.

The same is true with food allergens. MSM coats mucosal surfaces and occupies the binding sites that could otherwise be used by challenging food allergens. It can also bind with offending agents to produce harmless substances which are then excreted from the body. This facilitates normal digestion and assimilation and allows the body to get maximum nutritional value from foods that would otherwise cause a reaction. Individuals who experience an allergic response to certain foods have reported improved or complete tolerance to those foods when they take MSM supplements. Healthy flexible colon tissues along with improved digestion, can also relieve constipation.

Diabetes

Sulfur is also a component of insulin, the hormone that regulates carbohydrate metabolism and insufficient sulfur may result in decreased insulin production. It is also possible that a lack of bio-available sulfur would make the cells so rigid and impermeable that they become unable to absorb sugar from the blood efficiently, leaving blood sugar levels elevated. Studies indicate that regular MSM supplements which cause the cell to become permeable, could help balance blood sugar and allow the overworked pancreas to return to normal.

Why Supplement?

Since sulfur is present in every cell of every living thing, it might seem that we would get plenty of this essential mineral from dietary sources and should not need supplements, but that may not be the case. Meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products are the main sources of dietary sulfur, but we have been advised to restrict or remove many of those foods from our diets. Vegetarians, especially those who do not eat eggs, are at particular risk for sulfur deficiency. Plants cells contain sulfur but not in abundant quantities and much of the MSM present in unprocessed foods is lost in washing, cooking or steaming. And, of course, MSM levels decline noticeably with age – doesn’t everything? So, the older you get, the more important it becomes to maintain adequate sulfur levels in the body.

Usage and Toxicity

Due to its positive effects, particularly in maintaining healthy cell formation, 2,000 to 6,000 mg. of supplemental MSM daily is recommended. Of course, the optimum daily dosage of MSM depends largely on body size, age and the nature and severity of any deficiency symptoms you may be experiencing. Since vitamin C provides a positive synergistic it should be taken along with MSM.

MSM ranks in the “extremely low” toxicity category with a toxicity profile similar to that of water. When oral supplements are taken, the body will distribute MSM where it is needed. After about 12 hours, any excess amounts will be flushed out of the body. MSM, a member of the sulfur family, should never be confused with sulfa drugs to which some people are allergic.

References:
Total Health. 1998. “MSM”. Feb/Mar, Vol., 20 No. 1. pp. 30-31.
Williams, S. 1997. Nutrition & Diet Therapy (8th ed.). Academic Press, N.Y., N.Y.
Thomas, C. 1993. Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary, (1 7th Ed.). F.A. Davis Company, Philadelphia, PA.
Mindell, Earl L., The MSM Miracle – Enhance your health with organic sulfur, Keats Good Health Guide, Keats Publishing, Inc., New Canaan, CT, 1997
Herschler, R. J., “Methylsulfonylmethane in Cosmetics”, 1984, Cardinal Associates, Inc.
Whitaker, J., “Try MSM for Relief from Muscular Pain”, Health and Healing, Oct. 1997
Kirschmann, J. D. and Dunne, L. J., Nutrition Almanac, Second Edition, McGraw-Hill, 1984
Balch, J. F. and Balch P.A., Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Avery Publishing, Garden City Park, NY, 1990

Article From The Natural Health and Longevity Resource Center

Dherbs Solutions:

• MSM Sulfur

SHARE:

The post FEATURE: MSM Sulfur – A Basic Essential Nutrient Needed Now, More than Ever Before appeared first on Dherbs - The Best All Natural Herbal Remedies & Products.