How cannabis cured my canine’s cancer

Theodore Gibson | MarijuanaPatients.org

Image: marijuanapatients.org

Nine years ago, I met my best friend…a spaniel/shepherd/lab mix full of energy. Over the years, through my own personal struggles, Dozer has never left my side. Like a guardian angel, my canine companion has served as pet, protector, and hiking buddy. In short, Dozer is my world.

Two years ago, Dozer had noticeably slowed down. It was as if my playful little puppy had turned into a haggardly old man. After his annual examination with our family veterinarian, we learned that Dozer was afflicted with cancerous tumors – a not so uncommon but potentially fatal disease. Dozer’s human mother, herself a physician, recognized the lumps and the ordeal we were all about to endure.

Having a personal interest in holistic and traditional medicines myself, however, I have always believed that dogs – much like their wolf ancestors – respond better to organic herbs. Using some of my personal supply of cannabis oil, I gave Dozer about one gram per day. About two weeks later, his tumors were noticeably smaller and 40 days later gone.


Those who only believe in “traditional medicine” are being fooled by the pharmaceutical companies – both for humans and pets. And to think the government that I fought for is trying to keep this miracle medicine away from my mutt in her dying days…I am angered and ashamed. So yes, marijuana saved Dozer’s life and put some pep back in his step.

Source: marijuanapatients.org

The Cure for Breast Cancer May Have Arrived but Big Pharma isn't Interested

Thumbnail: YouTube

Paul Stamets is one of the world’s foremost experts on fungi and his astonishing work is so groundbreaking that he has even been called “a man who could actually save the world”. In addition to discovering diverse applications for fungi including the cleanup of radioactive contamination, he is also involved in two NIH-funded clinical studies on cancer and HIV treatments using mushrooms as adjunct therapies.

In 2009, Paul’s 84 year old mother was given less than 3 months to live after her breast cancer metastasized (spread) throughout her body. Her doctor said it was one of the most severe cases she had ever seen in 20 years of practice. After radiation treatment and mastectomy were ruled out, doctors said there was nothing else they could do for her and that she should prepare for the end. After trying Taxol (Paclitaxel) (a chemotherapy treatment made from Yew trees) unsuccessfully, they decided to try Herceptin (Trastuzumab), together with Turkey Tail Fungus at 8 capsules per day.

They weren’t exactly hopeful, but turkey tail fungus had shown some remarkable results in lab testing and researchers had noted a “dose-dependent increase in production of natural killer cells” (anticancer cells in the body). So having little to lose, they gave it a try.



After six months – and to this day – Paul Stamets’ mother is completely cancer free. No detectable tumors whatsoever.

This is a MAJOR LEAGUE dramatic cure – absolutely remarkable news!

So – what is Turkey Tail Fungus and what makes researchers think that it has the potential to cure cancer?

What Is Turkey Tail Fungus?

Image: wikipedia.org

Turkey Tail Fungus (Trametes versicolor aka. Coriolus versicolor, Polyporus versicolor, Yun Zhi, Kawaratake) is a common type of polypore mushroom (bracket fungus) that is found in forests (growing on wood) all over the world. [1]

It has been used for thousands of years in China to make a medicinal tea. In recent years, researchers are starting to take notice in a big way and the evidence from animal and lab studies that Turkey Tail Fungus (TTF) strengthens the immune system is sufficient that the FDA has approved clinical trials, allowing its use as an adjunct to chemotherapy in advanced prostate cancer cases. [2]

How Does TTF Fight Against Cancer Cells?

The principal active components in Turkey Tail Fungus are Polysaccharides (a fascinating, complex group of compounds) – such as Polysaccharide-K (aka PSK). There is a significant body of evidence to support PSK’s anticancer activity in in vitro, in vivo and in human clinical trials – for treatment of gastric, esophageal, colorectal, breast and lung cancers. [3]

PSK appears not to be the only active ingredient (another argument for whole plant extracts!) Remarkable results are appearing in several studies for polysaccharopeptide (PSP). [4] In one astonishing study from the Queensland University of Technology, polysaccharopeptide (PSP) extracted from TTF was found to target prostate cancer stem cells and be 100% effective in suppressing tumor formation in mice. [5]


According to Stamets; TTF has an action that boosts the immune system’s response, producing more of the “killer” T-cells and other defense mechanisms that attack cancerous cells and protect the body. To quote one scientific review “The immunomodulating action of mushroom polysaccharides is to stimulate natural killer cells, T-cells, B-cells, neutrophils, and macrophage dependent immune system responses.” [6]

Stamets’ statements about cancer are knowledgeable: “We all have cancer all the time… nature is a numbers game, cancer is a numbers game. How many coefficients can you get on your side of the game that will result in your surviving cancer?” [7] This is accurate according to current thinking: We do in fact always have cancer cells inside us – but the body’s immune response is what keeps them in check under normal circumstances. However should the immune system become weakened or otherwise “outnumbered”, then the cancer cells can take hold and the disease can manifest.

Stamets goes on to explain that the cancer is cloaked from the immune system and that the body’s natural defense “killer cells” cannot find binding sites on the skin of the tumors. The mushroom extracts appear to allow the body’s natural killer cells to invade and destroy the tumors. [8]

Herbalism appears to be one of the forms of medicine with the greatest hopes in the quest for cancer cures. Were you aware that 73% of all accepted cancer medicines are derived from natural products? [9] In addition, hundreds of other studies and lab tests have demonstrated anti-cancer effects of various plants – yet these studies, often underfunded, do not often reach the human trial stage.

Source: herbs-info.com

References:
[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trametes_versicolor (also includes several links to scientific studies

[2] http://www.bastyr.edu/news/general-news/2012/11/fda-approves-bastyr-turkey-tail-trial-cancer-patients

[3] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polysaccharide-K

[4] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=polysaccharopeptide

[5] http://medicalxpress.com/news/2011-05-mushroom-compound-suppresses-prostate-tumors.html

[6] Ren L, Perera C, Hemar Y. “Antitumor activity of mushroom polysaccharides: a review.” http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22865023

[7] Paul Stamets – The Future Is Fungi (Video) @ 1:21:40

[8] Paul Stamets – The Future Is Fungi (Video) @ 1:22:29

[9] Paul Stamets – The Future Is Fungi (Video) @ 1:20:30

600 Reasons Turmeric May Be The World's Most Important Herb

Image: 

Sayer Ji | Green Med Info

There is a medicinal spice so timelessly interwoven with the origins of human culture and metabolism, so thoroughly supported by modern scientific inquiry, as to be unparalleled in its proven value to human health and well-being.

Indeed, turmeric turns the entire drug-based medical model on its head.  Instead of causing far more side effects than therapeutic ones, as is the case for most patented pharmaceutical medications, turmeric possesses hundreds of potential side benefits, having been empirically demonstrated to positively modulate over 160 different physiological pathways in the mammalian body.

While no food or herb is right for everyone, and everything has the potential for unintended, adverse side effects, turmeric is truly unique in its exceptionally high margin of safety vis-à-vis the drugs it has been compared with, e.g. hydrocortisone, ibuprofen, chemotherapy agents. Furthermore, nothing within the modern-day pharmaceutical armamentarium comes even remotely close to turmeric's 6,000 year track record of safe use in Ayurvedic medicine.[1]

Image: herbs-info.com

Despite its vast potential for alleviating human suffering, turmeric will likely never receive the FDA stamp of approval, due to its lack of exclusivity, patentability and therefore profitability. Truth be told, the FDA's "gold standard" for proving the value of a prospective medicinal substance betrays the age old aphorism: "he who owns the gold makes the rules," and unless an investor is willing to risk losing the 800+ million dollars that must be spent upfront, the FDA-required multi-phased double-blind, randomized clinical trials will not occur. For additional details on this rather seedy arrangement read our article on the topic: Why The Law Forbids The Medicinal Use of Natural Substances.

Here at GreenMedInfo.com, we have reviewed over 5,000 study abstracts from the National Library of Medicine's bibliographic database known as MEDLINE and have discovered over 600 potential health benefits of turmeric, and/or its primary polyphenol known as curcumin. These can be viewed on our turmeric research page which is dedicated to disseminating the research on the topic to a larger audience.

Some of the most amazing demonstrated properties include:

• Destroying Multi-Drug Resistant Cancer
• Destroying Cancer Stem Cells (arguably, the root of all cancer)
• Protecting Against Radiation-Induced Damage
• Reducing Unhealthy Levels of Inflammation
• Protecting Against Heavy Metal Toxicity
• Preventing and Reversing Alzheimer's Disease Associated Pathologies

Again, what is so amazing is not that turmeric may have value in dozens of health conditions simultaneously, or that it may improve conditions that are completely resistant to conventional treatment, but that there are over six hundred additional health conditions it may also be valuable in preventing and/or treating. Consider also the fact that turmeric grows freely on the Earth, and you will understand why its very existence threatens billions of dollars in pharmaceutical industry revenue.


Learn more about this research in the video below (keeping in mind that it is several years old and needing some updating), and please spread the information to others who may benefit from learning more on the topic


Source: greenmedinfo.com

4 Easy Natural Ways to Beat Anxiety

Image: newportnaturalhealth.com

Elizabeth Renter | Natural Society

Given this fast-paced, stressful world, it seems that the anxiety epidemic grows larger everyday. It’s the on-edge, queasy feeling that makes your heart race and your palms sweat. And for many people, anxiety is a daily struggle, negatively impacting quality of life and relationships. Many people turn to prescription drugs to manage their anxiety, but that simply isn’t necessary – there are many natural solutions for anxiety anyone can easily utilize.

The first choice for anxiety solutions should be natural remedies. Turning to a bottle of pills doesn’t allow you to work through what may be causing the problem. Instead, it only masks the symptoms and gives you a laundry list of side effects. While learning how to cope with the issue and working through it mentally is optimal (albeit difficult), treating anxiety with herbs and lifestyle changes can help you cope with anxiety the natural way when it’s hitting you with full force.

While there are several different approaches to natural anxiety relief and numerous herbs for anxiety, here are 4 effective solutions:

1. Omega 3 Fats - Research has found the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids to offer a myriad of benefits. But scientists with Ohio State University stumbled upon evidence that consuming these fats could help ward off depression and anxiety by reducing cytokines which cause inflammation and these mental responses to it. Omega-3 fats can be added to your diet in the form of fatty fish, walnuts, flax seeds, and even algae.

2. Chamomile - Known as the perfect bedtime tea, chamomile is able to calm our nerves and help us relax. One study indicates 57% of participants receiving chamomile over a period of eight weeks were able to reduce their anxiety scores by 50%. This indicates chamomile tea or capsules could alleviate your anxiety or make it far more bearable.

3. Lavender Oil - Aromatherapy is another method of natural anxiety treatment. Lavender oil in particular is useful in reducing feelings of nervousness and unease. It promotes calmness and can reduce other symptoms associated with stress like migraine headaches as well.

4. Yoga - Any daily exercise will help you reduce anxiety and a whole host of other negative symptoms, but yoga in particular is able to combine exercise with meditation, both shown to reduce anxiety and depression. Several studies have linked regular yoga practice with lower anxiety scores and calmer moods.
Anxiety can be extremely difficult to cope with. Changing your eating and lifestyle habits can help. When you add natural treatments like chamomile, lavender oil, and yoga or meditation, you can skip the prescription medications and feel better naturally.

Source: naturalsociety.com

Follow us: @naturalsociety on Twitter | Natural Society on Facebook

Drug Company Forced To Stop Paying Doctors To Promote Drugs After Major Bribery Investigation

Image: preventdisease.com

Marco Torres | Prevent Disease

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) said this week it will respond to pressure to stop paying doctors to promote its products through speaking engagements and end linking compensation for its sales representatives to the number of prescriptions doctors write. The move comes amid a major bribery investigation in China.

It also plans to stop payments to healthcare professionals for attendance at medical conferences by the start of 2016.
Authorities say a major bribery investigation in China accused Britain's largest drug maker of corrupt payments to doctors and officials to boost its drug sales.

In 2012, GSK was fined $3 billion and plead guilty to federal charges to resolve a slew of criminal and civil issues stemming from its use of kickbacks, misbranding and other misconduct to market drugs such as Paxil, Wellbutrin and Advair.

The agreement was the largest health care fraud settlement in history, spanning nearly every state, according to the Justice Department. It’s was also the largest payment ever by a drug company.

The company illegally marketed depression drug Paxil to children and teens, even sponsoring dinners and spa programs in the drug’s name, prosecutors said.

Glaxo also used sham advisory boards and speakers at lavish resorts to promote depression drug Wellbutrin as an option for weight loss and a remedy for sexual dysfunction and substance addiction, according to the government. Customers were urged to use higher-than-approved dosages, the government said.

Medical Journals Corrupt 

GSK as well as the largest pharmaceutical companies have been paying off the researchers of medical studies for decades.

Richard Smith, the ex-editor of the British Medical Journal (BMJ), publicly criticized his former publication, saying the BMJ was too dependent on advertising revenue to be considered impartial. Smith estimates that between two-thirds to three-quarters of the trials published in major journals -- Annals of Internal Medicine, Journal of the American Medical Association, Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine -- are funded by the industry, while about one-third of the trials published in the BMJ are thus funded.

He further adds that trials are so valuable to drug companies that they will often spend upwards of $1 million in reprint costs (which are additional sources of major revenues for medical journals). Consumers trust medical journals to be the impartial and "true" source of information concerning a prescription drug, but few are privy to what is truly going on behind the scenes at both drug trials and medical journals.
Scientists who conduct drug trials may be hard-pressed to stay impartial when the manufacturers so often pay them for lectures and consultations, or when they are conducting research that has been funded by the company. In addition, as stated by doctors Mark Hyman and Mark Liponis in Ultraprevention, since drug companies are so reliant on the word of doctors, they often visit doctors' offices to hand out free samples, take the staff out to lunch, offer free gifts -- including toys for kids, seminars at expensive restaurants and junkets to the Caribbean islands -- and frequently sponsor continuing education for doctors.

Bribery Coming To An End

GSK is not the only culprit. Pfizer, Novartis, Merck, Eli Lilly and Sanofi have all been heavily criticized and accused of initiating scandals in medical research.

"It's all coming to an end," says Dr. Robin Herring. "There is no longer a place for corrupting the health of this country and drug companies are finally being exposed for this shady practice," she stated.

Opponents of the perceived corruption are beginning to offer many solutions. A change may be in the cards, and as Richard Gerber, MD, notes, the number of patients seeking alternative medical answers to their problems is becoming too large for mainstream medical media to ignore. Gerber says that some medical journals are even publishing articles that explore the nature of these "unorthodox" treatments and discuss why patients are seeking alternative health care.

GSK's admission will surely not be the last for those at the top of big pharma's food chain.

Sources:
preventdisease.com
latimes.com
preventdisease.com
reuters.com


Marco Torres is a research specialist, writer and consumer advocate for healthy lifestyles. He holds degrees in Public Health and Environmental Science and is a professional speaker on topics such as disease prevention, environmental toxins and health policy.

If You Thought Someone Couldn't Explain Empathy With A Dry Erase Marker, You're Wrong

Best-selling author, Jeremy Rifkin, takes us on a 30,000-year journey through the development of humanity, the known universe, and how empathy impacts and binds us all together. 

Screen Shot

It is an amazingly eye-opening presentation, which encapsulates the trends we are following as a species; where we lost our way, and how we can get ourselves back on track. Enjoy!

Top 10 Countdown for Optimum Health: Fast, Simple Steps to a Happy Life

10 - Practice mindful breathing.  Most people are "shallow breathers," taking rapid breaths that enter only the upper portion of the lungs.  As you read the rest of this countdown, try focusing on drawing full breaths into your belly so that it expands first. Breathe in as if your lungs are a vessel being poured full of air, until they are filled to the brim.  Then, release the breath, until your lungs are free off any stale air.  Breathing this way oxygenates the blood, so organs can function at their best.  Take a few minutes to focus on your breathing at the beginning and end of each day or whenever you need a moment to refocus and center.

9 - Brush and Floss. Practicing proper oral hygiene can reduce your risk of health problems as serious as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

8 - Cleanse Your Internal Systems.  Cleansing the body of toxins is a preventive measure at the core of many traditional medical philosophies.  Now more than ever, regular cleansing is essential.  Our food, air, and water deliver daily doses of toxins that accumulate in the body and inhibit proper function.  Plan a full detox at least once a year.  It may be seem difficult to sacrifice certain habits at first, but you will be rewarded.  Your systems' function will improve and you'll feel light and energized!

7 - Take a Multi-Vitamin.  Vitamins and minerals prevent imbalance at the cellular level, the primary level at which illnesses are treated and cured.  

6 - Laughter really is the best medicine.  It's proven to be one of the most powerful ways to prevent sickness.  Laughing alleviates pain, reduces stress, and connects you to others. One hardy belly laugh can boost your immune system's function for up to three days! 

5 - De-Clutter.   The application of this recommendation is quite expansive, and it's and important tool to have on your belt at all times.  Before signing up for another stressful commitment with friends, family, or at work consider how the obligation will effect your spirit.  Don't tack on additional "downers," and slowly take steps toward focusing on your goals.  Eliminate distractions by turning off your gadgets from time to time so that you can focus on your needs rather that the overflow of outside information.

4 - Sleep.  In the past 50 years, the average sleep time has decreased by 1.5-2 hours.  Sleep is treated as a luxury, yet hormone release, metabolism and immune function are drastically altered by curtailing sleep.  Getting 8 full hours of sleep will minimize stress, stabilize your appetite, and give your mind and body the space it needs to rest and repair.

3 - Drink Plenty of Water.  Drink half your body weight in ounces each day ( 140 lbs. / 2 = 70 oz. water ) and more if you are exercising or sick.  Try to cut out excess alcohol, sugary/fizzy drinks, and diuretic beverages such as coffee and tea.  Avoid drinking during and within 30 minutes of meals for optimal absorption. 

2 - Focus on food.  See a professional who can address nutritional deficiencies and identify any hidden food allergies.  Keep yourself interested in your daily diet by trying out new recipes. Incorporate lots of green and colorful veggies, Indian spices, nuts, whole grains, and fruit.  Reduce sugar and caffeine intake, and avoid processed food as much as possible.  Eat oodles of fresh, whole, preferably organic foods in their natural state (i.e. berries, apples, carrot sticks, red pepper slices).

1 - Exercise all the time, in ways that you can enjoy.  If you hate the gym, quit! Sign up for a dance class or try yoga, participate in charity walks or runs, forgo the elevator for the stairs, walk to the store to pick up the newspaper, and depending on the season do your own raking, mowing, and shoveling.  Making exercise a priority is important for so many reasons.  It's a preventive measure that lessens the risk of disease while promoting mental, physical, and spiritual fitness.

The Post-Holiday Flat Belly Diet!

This is another version of the fat flush water, it also promotes energy and good health. There is simplicity in this mix: All of the ingredients are natural, clean, pH/metabolism-boosting diuretics. This means that you are literally giving your gut a cleansing, alkaline bath! After steady consumption of drinks like this, coupled with a lean diet, the body begins to operate at optimal levels: You feel it in your energy levels, you see it in your skin, your belly flattens out, and you begin to feel the addiction to sugars lessen.

It is delicious, ad it will be in my refrigerator in the next few days! This drink can play a huge role in your flat belly diet! Enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 liters water
1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 medium cucumber, sliced
1 medium lemon, sliced
12 small spearmint leaves

Place all ingredients in a large pitcher, let blend together overnight, the next day drink the whole pitcher during the course of the day. Add this into a consistent, lean diet - and a moderate exercise routine - and it's "Hello, fast weight loss!"

Because Who is Perfect?

You’ve never seen designs quite like this profound idea. It’s guaranteed to open your mind to beauty and gratitude.

Image: youtube.com

How to get rid of Blackheads and Whiteheads NATURALLY!

Maintaining a clear and beautiful skin, takes time, consistency and effort. Dermatologist may recommend lots of products, but some of them can be expensive and may actually take a long time to work. You can, however, incorporate some home remedies for blackheads and whiteheads into your daily beauty regimen and in a few weeks, you will experience a drastic reduction or even total elimination of the problem.

Organic Toothpaste - Toothpaste is an effective blackhead and whitehead remover. Apply a thin paste to your infected areas and let it sit on your face for at least 25 minutes. You will probably feel a burning sensation when you apply the toothpaste, but this is normal and will pass. Once you remove the toothpaste, the top of your blackheads and whiteheads will disappear, but you still need to thoroughly wash your face to remove the buildup underneath. Repeat this home remedy every other day for two weeks.

Tomato - Tomatoes have natural antiseptic properties that dry up whiteheads and blackheads. Peel and mash a small tomato. Apply the tomato pulp to your blackheads and whiteheads before going to bed. Leave the tomato pulp on your face while you sleep and then wash your face in warm water in the morning.

Lemon -Wash your face in warm water. Then, squeeze the juice of one lemon into a bowl. Add in a pinch of salt and stir the mixture. Apply the mixture to your blackheads and whiteheads. Leave the mixture on for approximately 20 minutes and then wash your face with warm water again.

Lime - You can also use equal parts of lime juice and cinnamon powder and apply this mixture to blackheads. Leave it on overnight and rinse it off in the morning

Cornstarch - Mix about a three-to-one cornstarch to vinegar ratio into a paste. Apply it to your problem areas and let sit for 15 to 30 minutes. Remove the paste with warm water and a washcloth.

Yogurt - Mix three tablespoons of plain yogurt with two tablespoons of oatmeal. Add one teaspoon of olive oil and one tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture. Stir the mixture thoroughly and apply it to the effective area of the face. Let the mixture sit for five to seven minutes then rinse off with cold water.

Almond or oatmeal - Mix either oatmeal or almond powder with just enough rose water to make a spreadable paste. Apply it to your problem areas with your fingertips first and then apply it to the rest of your face. Let it set for about 15 minutes and then rinse your face with cold water.

Rice - Soak rice in milk for 5 hours and then grind this in a blender until it is paste-like in consistency. Use the paste as a scrub on affected areas of the body.

Potatoes - Grate raw potatoes and then rub the area with the mixture. Wash it off after 15 minutes.

Fenugreek leaves - Crush some fenugreek leaves and mix with water to form a paste. Put this on the face for 15 minutes and then remove it. Do this every night to keep your face free of blackheads.

Coriander leaves - Mix some coriander leaves and a little turmeric powder with water and form a paste. Use this as a mask to eliminate blackheads.

Oatmeal -Grind oatmeal into a powder in a blender and then add some rose water. Use this on affected areas for 15 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.

Baking soda - Prepare a mixture of equal parts of baking soda and water and rub it onto your face or other body areas prone to blackheads. Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse it off with warm water.

Honey is also good for removing blackheads. Spread honey on the affected area and remove it after 15 minutes.

Remember -Be gentle to your skin. Never pinch, scrape, poke, press, or squeeze too hard!

9 Herbal Foods That Naturally Lower Cholesterol And Keep Your Heart Healthy

Image: wikimedia.org

Patricia Bratianu | Off The Grid News

Keeping your heart and blood vessels healthy prevents many serious illnesses and enhances longevity. Many factors influence the heart and the circulation. Unfortunately, the stresses of modern life, coupled with poor nutrition and inactivity, put us at risk for several heart and blood vessel problems. As a result, heart attacks, strokes and other life-threatening cardiovascular conditions abound. Herbs may be used as a very important part of a wellness plan to enhance the health of your heart and blood vessels.

Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Low density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as LDL or bad cholesterol, begins as a sticky substance that builds inside the walls of blood vessels. It hardens over time, creating rough surfaces and inflexible blood vessels. As a result, blood vessels harden and contribute to high blood pressure, blood clots, heart attacks and strokes. Blood flow throughout the entire body is impaired.

High density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as HDL or good cholesterol, protects the heart and blood vessels from damage due to LDL buildup and other factors.

Triglycerides are other kinds of fats in the blood. Many experts believe that elevated triglyceride levels are a more important predictor of cardiovascular disease than elevated levels of LDL cholesterol.

Several herbs which are used to reduce harmful cholesterol and triglyceride levels are right in your own kitchen. Others may be grown easily or gathered from the wild.

Herbal Foods With Cardiovascular Benefits

1. Shiitake mushrooms reduce inflammation, and lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Many large grocery stores sell fresh shiitakes. I keep dried ones on hand, too. Several companies offer kits which provide you with opportunities to grow your own. Shiitakes are one of the most valuable herbal foods available, in my opinion.

2. Flax seed binds with excess cholesterol and aids in its elimination from the body. Flax seed may be obtained in large grocery stores. It is very inexpensive. Flax also reduces inflammation, a major contributor to heart and blood vessel disease. Simply grind two tablespoons of flax seed each day. Add it to cereals, smoothies or yogurt. Do not purchase ground flax meal. Flax loses its healing benefits quickly when ground or heated. It is easy to grind in a coffee grinder reserved for herbs.

3. Garlic has been studied extensively for its many healing benefits. Garlic’s relatives — onions, shallots, leeks and chives — offer healing benefits as well; however, the active compounds in garlic are the most potent. Researchers have discovered that while garlic reduces LDL and triglyceride levels, the herbal food does much more to ensure cardiovascular health. Garlic lowers blood pressure and even relieves leg cramps which are due to poor circulation. Garlic tablets and capsules are available for purchase, but I recommend eating at least one clove daily for maximum benefits and economy. Either eat the garlic raw or lightly sautéed. This way you will retain all of the healing powers of this wonderful herbal food.

4. All peppers are beneficial for the cardiovascular system as they contain fiber and high amounts of vitamin C, a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Cayenne pepper has been studied extensively. I believe that any other hot peppers likely offer similar benefits. Cayenne helps to increase the efficiency and strength of the heartbeat, without increasing the blood pressure. It prevents harmful blood clots from forming. Blood clots are responsible for several life threatening conditions, such as strokes, heart attacks and pulmonary emboli. Cayenne prevents hardening of the arteries and relaxes the blood vessels. This helps to decrease blood pressure and relieve leg pain due to poor circulation. Again, I believe that the best way to reap the healing benefits of this herbal food is to simply include cayenne in your diet. Be careful if you are preparing fresh peppers, as they can cause burns. Some people with digestive issues are unable to tolerate cayenne.

5. Did you realize that black pepper reduces cholesterol levels? It improves the circulation of the entire body and has been used to relieve hypertension, high blood pressure.  Like many other herbal remedies for cholesterol, black pepper is considered to be an herbal stimulant. It enhances the circulation of the entire body and improves blood pressure.

Wild Herbal Remedies for Heart Health

6. Hawthorn is an amazing herb. The berries may be gathered from the wild. Just be sure that you correctly identify the bush. I think of hawthorn as a kind of “miracle herb” If your blood pressure is too low and you consume a little bit of hawthorn, it will bring it up to a healthy range. On the other hand, if it is too high, you can lower high blood pressure by consuming a larger amount of the berries. Hawthorn reduces unhealthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels, too.

7. Motherwort is an easy to grow herb which can sometimes be found in the wild. It is a relaxing herb that offers health benefits for the circulatory system and the entire body.

8. Kudzu may be “the vine that ate the south,” but it has some redeeming qualities. Kudzu root extract lowers blood pressure, unhealthy triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Kudzu reduces the pain of angina by improving the circulation within the heart itself. Historically, kudzu was used to relieve irregular heartbeats and reduce rapid heart rates.

9. Dandelion leaf reduces edema, excess swelling in the body, which can stress the heart. Unlike pharmaceutical diuretic drugs which rid the body of needed potassium, dandelion leaf is a great source of potassium and other nutrients.

These are just a few of the many herbal remedies which we have available to use to improve heart and blood vessel health. Include a wide array of culinary herbs in your diet, as many of them offer health benefits to the heart, circulation and entire body. By incorporating herbs as part of your wellness plan, you will feel better and prevent serious illnesses from impacting the life of you and your loved ones.

Source: offthegridnews.com

GMO linked to gluten disorders plaguing 18 Million Americans

Genetically modified foods such as soy and corn may be responsible for a number of gluten-related maladies including intestinal disorders now plaguing 18 million Americans, according to a new report released on Tuesday.

The report was released by the Institute for Responsible Technology (IRT), and cites authoritative data from the US Department of Agriculture, US Environmental Protection Agency records, medical journal reviews as well as international research.

“Gluten sensitivity can range in severity from mild discomfort, such as gas and bloating, to celiac disease, a serious autoimmune condition that can, if undiagnosed, result in a 4-fold increase in death,” said Jeffrey M. Smith, executive director of IRT in a statement released on their website.

Smith cited how a “possible environmental trigger may be the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to the American food supply, which occurred in the mid-1990s,” describing the nine GM crops currently on the market.

In soy, corn, cotton (oil), canola (oil), sugar from sugar beets, zucchini, yellow squash, Hawaiian papaya, and alfalfa, “Bt-toxin, glyphosate, and other components of GMOs, are linked to five conditions that may either initiate or exacerbate gluten-related disorders,” according to Smith.

It’s the BT-toxin in genetically modified foods which kills insects by “puncturing holes in their cells.” The toxin is present in ‘every kernel’ of Bt-corn and survives human digestion, with a 2012 study confirming that it punctures holes in human cells as well.

The GMO-related damage was linked to five different areas: Intestinal permeability, imbalanced gut bacteria, immune activation and allergic response, impaired digestion, and damage to the intestinal wall.

The IRT release also indicated that glyphosate, a weed killer sold under the brand name ‘Roundup’ was also found to have a negative effect on intestinal bacteria. GMO crops contain high levels of the toxin at harvest.

“Even with minimal exposure, glyphosate can significantly reduce the population of beneficial gut bacteria and promote the overgrowth of harmful strains,” the report found.

Dr. Tom O’Bryan, internationally recognized expert on gluten sensitivity and Celiac Disease, says that “the introduction of GMOs is highly suspect as a candidate to explain the rapid rise in gluten-related disorders over the last 17 years.”

Internist, Emily Linder, offered some backup for the report’s findings. She removed GMO from her patients’ diets, finding that recovery from intestinal diseases was faster and more complete.

“I believe that GMOs in our diet contribute to the rise in gluten-sensitivity in the US population,” Linder said in the release.

Source: RussiaToday

Connecticut becomes first state to enact GMO labeling law!

The governor of Connecticut hosted a ceremonial signing outside an organic restaurant in the city of Fairfield on Wednesday to commemorate the state’s passing of what could be the first GMO labeling law of its type in the United States.

Voters in Connecticut decided back in June to approve a bill requiring that all foods meant for human consumption that contain genetically-modified ingredients be properly labeled. Unless some neighboring states in the region follow suit, however, the status of that law remains in limbo.

The Connecticut bill requires at least four other Northeastern states with a combined population of no fewer than 20 million to approve similar acts before it can officially go on the books. And while so far proponents of a GMO labeling initiative have found allies in one adjacent state, it could very well be a long-time coming before the proper support is rallied.

Voters in Maine have already elected to pass a near-identical measure, but residents in a region that includes Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont must come together to do the same in at least three other locales.

Outside the Catch A Healthy Habit restaurant in Fairfield on Wednesday, Gov. Dannel Malloy implored his counterparts to consider joining in their fight.

“I am proud that leaders from each of the legislative caucuses can come together to make our state the first in the nation to require the labeling of GMOs,” Malloy said, according to Fairfield’s Daily Voice. “The end result is a law that shows our commitment to consumers’ right to know while catalyzing other states to take similar action.”

Tara Cook-Littman, the director of GMO Free Connecticut, applauded the efforts by advocates in the state and country working towards new laws.

“As the catalyst for GMO labeling in the United States, Connecticut residents should feel proud,” she told reporters. “We are hopeful that legislators throughout the Northeast will follow the lead of Governor Malloy and all our legislative champions by passing laws that give consumers transparency in labeling. It is a great honor for all of us to stand with Governor Malloy as he signs the first in the nation GMO labeling law.”

More than 60 countries across the world have approved mandatory labeling laws for GMO foods already, and polling suggests that the vast majority of Americans are in favor of doing the same. So far, in fact, almost half of all US states have introduces bill that, if approved, would either require labeling of GMO foods or prohibit them altogether.

“Surveys have always found 80 to 95 percent of people wanting labeling,” Consumers Union senior scientist Michael Hansen told the Rodale News health site back in April. “People are paying attention to food, and because of that they’re more interested in GMO issues and buying food that’s more local and food without pesticides and other added ingredients.”

Now with Connecticut taking the lead, Gov. Malloy hopes other states will do the same.

“This is a beginning, and I want to be clear what it is a beginning of,” he told the Fairfield Citizen before Wednesday’s event. “It is a national movement that will requiring (food) labeling.”

“People need to demand GMO labeling,” Malloy told WFSB News on the day of the ceremonial signing. “Some companies are doing this and we need to move in that direction.”

“This is the time,” he said to the Citizen. “You better get ready; people are coming and this is not a movement you are going to stop.”

Malloy was flanked by state lawmakers from both the right and the left at Wednesday’s event, and Republicans and Democrats alike are now aligning themselves in the fight.

“This bill moves forward and reinforces our fundamental right to know what is in our food so we can make informed choices about what we feed our families,” said Rep. Tony Hwang (R-Fairfield-Trumbull), according to reporter Christina Chiarelli. “Consumers may or may not wish to purchase foods that they know to be genetically modified, but they need the information made available to them to make those informed choices.”

“Passing this bill is courageous and monumental,” added Rep. Philip Miller (D-Essex). “It is an affirmation for healthy, sustainable agriculture and responsible stewardship of our food supply. The ever growing grassroots efforts of Connecticut citizens has come to fruition with the passing of this legislation. I thank Governor Malloy for being a champion of our right to participate in building our economy as fully informed consumers and citizens.”

Currently 15 nations in the European Union require labels on GMO products, and Zambia, Benin and Serbia have all instated prohibitions against products. Just earlier this week, China for the fifth time blocked a cargo shipment of US corn from entering the country, citing concerns of GMO contamination.

Source: RussiaToday