The Better living with herbs and natural health
March 2018
Enhancing Blood Signs You Need to Detox Take Care of Your Liver Colloidal Gold Enhances the Brain Plan an Herb Garden Sanctuary Is Fasting a Good Way to Cleanse?
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The Amazing Benefits of Doing a Cleanse It’s almost spring and I’m so excited. Publisher’s Note Beyond the fact that winter is almost over, spring is a time for renewal and it’s often when many people start a detox and cleansing program. Sometimes people are afraid to start a cleansing program because they’re concerned about how it will affect them. So you want to get some good advice and look over the available options before going ahead. That’s what this issue is all about – we’ve got a bunch of articles that can guide you in the right direction. You’ll learn how good blood flow brings oxygen to your body, how critical it is for your liver to be healthy, signs you need a detox, the benefits of fasting, the raw food detox diet and how to do a mental detox. The benefits of doing a detox far outweigh the negatives, which for most people is feeling tired or experiencing headaches. It’s important to drink enough water so don’t forget about that. If you get
bored of water, add some slices of fresh fruit or a bit of stevia to sweeten it. Stevia has zero calories so you can add it to your smoothies and not worry. A detox can clear the body of ongoing chronic issues and a side benefit is often losing weight. As someone who has done annual detox/herbal cleanses for many years, I can say that I’ve resolved several chronic health issues – one which was asthma – and have actually been healthier as a result. I rarely get sick in the winter and if I do, it’s so mild I use oil of oregano and elderberry syrup. Before long I’m healthy again. So take the time to read those articles, plus, you can read how to plan your herb garden sanctuary, the benefits of colloidal gold, tips on better joint health and the benefits of coconut charcoal. When you’re done reading, make yourself some healthy raw food with a Blueberry Lemon Energy Bar and an entrée of Kelp Noodles with Creamy Mushroom Sauce. Thanks for reading - we really hope you enjoy this issue and feel free to pass it on to friends and family. Sincerely Marilyn Zink
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Herbal Collective March’18
Contents The Theme: It’s getting close to spring so March is all about detox and cleansing the body and mind
Columns and Departments In the Kitchen Blueberry lemon bar..........................................11 Kelp noodles with mushroom sauce...........11
Blood, the body’s vital fluid...............................4 Natural Health Directory Taking care of your liver......................................6 Find products and services.............................19 Signs you need to detox.....................................8 Benefits of coconut charcoal............................9 Is fasting a good cleanse?................................14 Raw food detox diet..........................................16 Events Do a mental detox..............................................18 Features Plan your herb garden sanctuary.................10 Rosemary for brain power...............................12 Colloidal gold enhances brain function.....13 Ayurveda tips for joint health........................17
Seedy Sundays and Saturdays are happening across the country. See our ‘Event’s page at www. herbalcollective.news/events for more details. see page 6
see page 10
The Herbal Collective published by Pro Write Publishing Publisher/Editor - Marilyn Zink Contact: 250-729-1593 info@herbalcollective.ca, www.herbalcollective.news6 Contributors
Colin Gillies, Olena Gill, Karen Warwick, Neelam Toprani The Herbal Collective is published every month by Pro Write Publishing and distributed through social media, various platforms and the Herbal Collective blog and email list. Advertising deadline is around the 21 of every month. The opinions expressed by contributing writers are not necessarily those of the editor. Different viewpoints are welcome. All editorial material is copyrighted. Any medical advice is given solely for information purposes only and no responsibility is assumed on the publisher’s part. Copyright © 2016
Sponsors Stevia ..www.cravestevia.com..................................................2 Biophysica.www.biophysica.com...........................................5 Mike Bagger, macbaggerlifestyle@gmail.com...................5 Olena Gill, www.indigomedicine.com...................................6 Salvestrol, www.salvestrolbook.com....................................7 Hedd Wyn, ............www.heddwynessentials.com.............7 Ferlow Botanicals. www..ferlowbotanicals.com................9 Edible Island, www.edibleisland.ca......................................11 Purica, www.purica.com..........................................................15 Herbal Collective, March’18
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Enhancing BLOOD The Body’s Vital Fluid
M
ost of us do not think of blood as healthy or unhealthy. But did you know approximately 10% of all blood donors are turned away because of low iron levels? Just like the rest of the body, blood works best when it has the ability to perform optimally when it can use and absorb minerals and nutrients. If you're like most people, you've probably endured some of the health concerns that plague our modern world: poor diets full of fat and sugar; excessive caffeine and alcohol; increased exposure to toxins as well as hectic, high-stressed schedules. All of these factors damage red blood cells and create a condition commonly referred to as "sticky blood." When the blood is "sticky" the flow is reduced and the ability to carry oxygen as well as the other minerals and nutrients are stunted. This prevents nutrients from being properly absorbed, which of course affects our overall state of wellness. If you are low on red blood cells or they are not functioning correctly, this vital interaction slows down. This is known as anemia which has a wide range of effects on the body and our general health. Children and the elderly are at risk for anemia as well as menstruating women. One job of blood is to transport nutrients and minerals throughout the body. Some signs that our blood is not performing optimally are: Anemia Fatigue Feeling dizzy upon standing from a sitting position Headaches Cold hands and feet Irregular heartbeat and/or chest pain Pale complexion Leaky gut 4
Herbal Collective March’18
Anemia and fatigue are signs the blood isn’t performally optimally
Western medicine has made it a practice of prescribing pills instead of looking at the real root causes of the health issues we have. When the body and the blood are functioning correctly the body has a fantastic ability to self heal. There is good news. A new product with powerful nutrients has recently been introduced to the market and is having some profound results; a cellular homeostasis formula in an inter-oral spray. This product has a super-charged, proprietary blend of nano-sized electrolytes that will protect your cells and help repair, rebalance and restore themselves. This encourages the cells to regain their healthy shape and fluidity, which ultimately allows for optimal nutrient absorption and toxin elimination. At the microscopic level of human cells, it supports healthy cell performance – a nutritional breakthrough for your cells. You will feel more energy and an ability to focus like never before. One of the most important features of a healthy red blood cell is its ability to maintain maximum hydration, or what is also referred to as osmotic pressure. Under a microscope, this essential characteristic is similar to a fully inflated basketball – the cell becomes round and tight. Electromagnetically charging the cells enhances their osmotic pressure, thus
inducing rapid cellular hydration and the ability to carry vitamins and minerals into the cells. This new revolutionary product is: *Quick to use and tastes great with a hint of mint for fresh breath *Takes only seconds to administer orally, four sprays just 3x per day! *Results show up within only minutes and lasts for hours! * Nano-electrolytes help red blood cells recharge, re-inflating them and spacing them apart so they can float freely through your body.
* Ground-breaking results are visible under a microscope in just minutes! Check out the video at www.trymymax.com * It’s not a drug, but a natural way to assist healthy blood. The active ingredients include 10 nano-sized trace elements that are molecularly charged through a proprietary process to influence red blood cells at the molecular level. The result is enhanced cellular protection, restoration and balance. Sodium , Potassium, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Manganese, Selenium, Silica, Zinc. It's time to maximize your health!
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Contact Mike at MacBaggerLifestyle@gmail.com Herbal Collective, March’18
5
Taking Care of your
Liver for Optimum Health
T
reat your liver well and it will treat you well in return. One of our body's largest organs, it's a workhorse, designed to keep the blood cleansed of toxins and chemicals. The liver breaks down everything – good or bad – that enters your body through air, water, food, medications or supplements. It also breaks down your hormones that may be in excess, helping to keep body chemistry in balance. Once the liver metabolizes these substances, it prepares them to be more easily utilized or excreted. The fats, carbohydrates, and proteins you consume are metabolized by the liver for different functions in the body. After you eat carbohydrates, the liver helps maintain blood sugar balance. When the Liver Fails Fats are broken-down for the production of energy. Dysfunction of the liver can first manifest as Amino acids in protein foods are also broken down for energy, or to make more carbohydrates or fats, as symptoms in various body systems, including digestive, metabolic, and immune systems before the root the body needs. The liver also facilitates the storage cause is identified. of vitamins A, D, E, K and B12, as well as iron and A Naturopathic Doctor will work with you to copper. assess symptoms, run appropriate tests, and evaluate the overall functioning of your vital systems to Additionally, over half of the body's lymph fluid determine the root cause. Here are three diseases and is produced in the liver. The lymphatic system is responsible for healthy immune function and acts as dysfunctions of the liver that can affect your health. your body's internal janitor, collecting cellular waste Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a products for elimination. These vital functions make the liver a major organ in metabolism and detoxifica- group of conditions affecting people who drink little to no alcohol but their liver cells store too much fat. tion. This causes liver inflammation, which may progress to scarring and irreversible damage similar to the damage caused by heavy alcohol use. NAFLD is the most common form of chronic liver disease in North America, affecting an estimated 80 to 100 million people, typically 40 - 50 years of age. Cirrhosis occurs when fibrous (scar) tissue replaces healthy liver tissue, often leading to cancer, destruction of liver cells and acute liver failure. It can be caused by toxins, alcohol abuse, and hepatitis. 6
Herbal Collective March’18
Hepatitis is commonly caused by viruses, but also by toxins or an autoimmune problem. Hepatitis causes inflammation in the liver, which can often be healed; if not addressed, it will result in liver failure.
Tips for a Healthy Liver Eat Whole Foods. The liver has a role in metabolising the major nutrients you take in through diet. A whole foods diet is your best prevention against stressing your liver with too much fat, sugar, or excessive protein. Choose healthy fats, whole grains, and organic sources of fish and meat while avoiding processed and packaged foods. Reduce Alcohol Intake. Over time, excess consumption of alcohol causes cirrhosis of the liver. The breakdown of alcohol produces chemicals, such as free radicals, that are toxic to the liver. General health guidelines suggest moderate use of alcohol -- one drink/day for women and two drinks/day for men.
Don't Mix Drugs. Drug interactions can have serious health consequences. This includes mixing prescription medicine, street drugs, alcohol, herbal or other natural remedies. Airborne Chemical Exposure. When using strong or industrial cleaning, painting or gardening chemicals, ventilate the area or wear a mask. Protect Against Hepatitis. Viral Hepatitis A is contracted by eating or drinking contaminated water. Hepatitis B and C are spread through blood and body fluids. To cut your risk, don't share personal hygiene items, limit the number of sex partners you have, and always use latex condoms.
Dr. Olena Gill is a Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist practicing in Parksville and Gabriola Island, B.C. She can be reached at 778-762-3099 or www. indigomedicine.com . Disclaimer: Information in this article should not be construed or used as a substitute for medical evaluation or advice. See your Naturopathic Physician for proper evaluation and prescription. prescription.
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7
Signs You Need to Detox
A
re you feeling unhealthy symptoms that may signal that you need a full body detox? What are these symptoms? Sluggishness, feeling out of sync, aches and pains, skin problems and digestive problems are some of them. Most importantly, if you can't seem to lose weight, it may definitely mean that you have to do a full body detox. In the Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine systems, detoxification has been a centuries old practice. For these medicinal practices, detoxification is about cleaning, resting and body nourishment from the inside and out. Toxins are eliminated and removed from the body followed by nourishing with healthy nutrients. There isn’t much point in doing a detox if someone is returning to an unhealthy lifestyle. A full body detox can protect you from disease and it also promotes the renewal of your body system so that it maintains optimum health. When you detoxify, you are cleansing your blood, digestive system, kidneys, lymph, lungs and skin. The excretion system of the body should be wellkept and functioning properly. If impurities are improperly filtered, every cell in the body bears the brunt. What are signs that you need a full body detox? A full body detox should be done once a year. It is not recommended for children, nursing mothers and patients suffering from chronic degenerative diseases, tuberculosis or cancer. Ask for your doctor's advice if you think you are capable of a full body detox. More toxins pervade the environment nowadays, that's why it is critical to detox. Certain symptoms require detoxification, such as: Allergies Difficult elimination 8
Herbal Collective March’18
Irritated and reddish skin Vague fatigue Mild infections Eye bags and eye puffiness Menstrual irregularities Bloating Mental confusion
How do you start your full body detox? Eliminate coffee, alcohol, smoking, saturated fats and refined sugars. These are toxins in your body that get in the way of your healing. Limit the use of chemical-based products in your household as well along with deodorants, shampoos, cleansers, toothpastes and other health care products. Use natural alternatives. Be mindful of stress management, too. You should find ways to reduce and relieve stress which hampers your good health. Hormones that your body releases when you are in a state of stress create toxins, especially when they are produced in large amounts. These toxins retard the secretion of detox symptoms in the liver. You can relieve stress through simple and effective methods such as Qigong, meditation and Yoga. Herbs like dandelion, burdock root and milk thistle help the liver to detox. Health food stores often carry herbal detox packages to get a person started on the right path.
What are the benefits of a full body detox? A full body detox boosts the natural cleansing process of the body in the following ways: The organs become more efficient The liver functions better to remove toxins Blood circulation is improved There is more energy Improve clarity in thoughts and motivation Better sleep and less insomnia
Benefits of Coconut Charcoal If you're a middle-aged man, you've probable felt the pain of eating too much fast food, drinking too much, or dealing with naturally occurring stomach acid imbalances. The answer could be a unique solution called coconut charcoal. If you're an outdoorsman, or even just a weekend warrior, you probably know how to filter water using charcoal from your fire. Those same detoxifying features that go into that process could also be used to detox your body and settle your digestive system, if you use the right type of charcoal, of course. It turns out that the "right type of charcoal" is coconut charcoal. Here’s the benefits and how it works. How Coconut Charcoal Works The material contains microscopic pores that capture harmful elements like chemicals, metals, poisons, and even intestinal gases. Due to the unique chemical properties found in coconut charcoal, it is capable of capturing a lot of unwanted gas and toxins in your body, allowing you to easily pass them Detoxify Your Body Your body is constantly being assaulted with a variety of unwanted toxins that come from both your food and environment. This leads to many unhealthy side effects, including cellular damage, digestive issues, and decreases in energy. Coconut charcoal acts as a natural cleanser, ridding your body of unwanted chemicals and toxins. Enhanced Digestive Health Activated charcoal has been a remedy for digestive issues for thousands of years. It's use has been traced back to ancient Chinese medicine as a solution for bloating and stomach discomfort. Charcoal is the healthiest way to utilize the beneficial effects of activated charcoal to soak up unwanted stomach toxins. Anti-Aging Benefits Charcoal can rid the body of toxins that prematurely age your internal organs. As we age there is an increasing sensitivity to harmful chemicals which can affect your hormone producing organs.
neem tree Ancient Medicine for a Modern World
Ayurvedic medicine and the Indian subcontinent have long been using the amazing healing powers of the Neem Tree. Oil is extract from the kernels of the seeds and an extract is derived from the leaves. Neem is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to help temporarily relieve the minor skin irritations such as itching associated with eczema or minor wounds. The tincture and skin cream are Health Canada registered.
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Plan Your Herb Garden Sanctuary By Marilyn Zink
I was relaxing in my chair, looking at my herb garden the other day thinking – this is nice. It was a sunny afternoon, the birds were chirping and it was just a nice place to be, an herbal sanctuary. And I thought about all the people who would benefit from learning how to create their herbal sanctuary. People like you. You work hard, you pay a lot of money for your home and you want it to look nice. You want a place where you can relax at the end of the day and enjoy your space. Even if you're just renting, you still want a space where you can relax and connect with nature. When you learn to grow herbs for your own herbal sanctuary, you can create that space, whether it’s a small space or a large space. If you own your own home, creating that space adds to the resale value of your home. If you don’t own your home, you can still create an herbal sanctuary in a garden plot or by using container gardens that you can put on a deck or balcony. Plus, you save money by having a supply of fresh herbs available whenever you need them. Want to add some fresh chives to your potatoes? Or maybe you want to add some arugula to the herb salad, parsley to a salad dressing or make tea with mint or chamomile. All you need to do is go out to your garden to get them. The convenience alone is worth it when you have your own herb garden. Plan the shape and texture of your garden - then get your seeds or starter plants. If you have a small space, herbs in pots can hang off the balcony, a fence or in groupings on a patio. Be aware of where the sun is so your herbs that require full sun get at least 8 hours a day. The type of soil used for pots is different than the type of soil used for a garden in the ground. Most herbs require well drained soil. You can learn all this and more when you enroll in the Herb Garden Sanctuary Course. 10
Herbal Collective March’18
Blueberry Lemon Energy Bar
1 ¼ cup walnuts ¼ cup sunflower seeds 1 ½ cups dates ½ cup dried blueberries 1 tsp. lemon zest Combine all the ingredients in a food processor. Mix together until a paste forms, but don’t process the mixture for so long that you can’t see little specs of each ingredient. Line a 99 x 5 inch loaf pan with wax paper. Press the mixture evenly into the pan. Refrigerate for at least two hours. Cut into 18 squares and store in an airtight container in the fridge. Recipe courtesy of V.I. Fitness for Women
Kelp Noodles with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
1/4 cup sunflower seeds -soaked 1/2 cup mushrooms any type 1/2 stalk celery 1 tbsp olive oil 1-2 cloves garlic 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 tbsp tamari 1 tbsp chopped leeks 1/3 cup water as needed pinch of black pepper pinch of sea salt if needed Put in a food processor, then serve over kelp noodles, chopped mushrooms and grated carrots. Recipe courtesy Renegade Health Show.
Herbal Collective
March’18
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Essential Oils
Rosemary for Brain Power
R
osemary essential oil is highly favored among cerebrally focused individuals. That's because both traditional folk medicine and modern scientific studies are showing the benefits of rosemary for focus, memory and alertness.
Currently, it is being investigated as a potential weapon in the fight against Alzheimer's. The actual essential oil is stimulating and intensely woodsy and herbal. Derived from an evergreen shrub that had its origins in the Asian continent rosemary cultivation has now expanded across the globe. Rosemary (also known as the dew of the sea, sea dew and guardrobe) oil is harvested from the shrub's flowers using a process known as steam distillation. How & Why Rosemary Oil Gets Used In ancient times, a number of cultures and religions believed that rosemary was a sacred plant - one with powers and properties to ward off evil spirits and intentions. It was often employed in rituals of protection, purification, love and intellect. Rosemary oil can be used "neat" on a cloth, cotton ball or using aromatherapy inhalers. Diffusers and vaporizers are also popular dispersion methods. The essential oil can also be added to shampoos, body butters, massage oils or even added directly to your bath, with or without Epsom salts. Depending on the application method employed, rosemary has been prized in a host of uncomfortable situations, including: Arthritis Circulation problems 12
Herbal Collective March’18
Gout Intestinal troubles Mental fatigue Stress Migraines and other headaches Muscle pain Respiratory issues Skin inflammation and puffiness Varicose Veins Thinning Hair An immune booster Indigestion aid Coughs, colds and flu-like symptoms As a study aid and memory tool Rosemary oil has also been used to treat dandruff, to stimulate hair growth, as a mouthwash and to treat problems like cellulite and stretch marks. As an added bonus, rosemary has also been shown as an effective insect repellant. Perfect Rosemary Pairings Rosemary can be great all alone. It's a common favorite among members of both sexes and depending on who it is for, can be made more masculine or feminine based upon which complimentary oils you pair it with. Prime candidates include bergamot, cedarwood, cinnamon, cypress, citronella, geranium, hyssop, lavender, neroli, nutmeg, peppermint, spearmint and thyme. Rosemary Risks Essential oils are very volatile and have powerful properties that can prove hazardous to your health. It's a good idea to consult with your medical practitioner before launching an aromatherapy protocol. Those at the greatest to rosemary usage include pregnant women, those who suffer from epilepsy and those battling high blood pressure. It can be used to stimulate the brain as part of a mental detox. See page 18 for more information on a mental detox.
How Colloidal ‘Gold’ Helps You Enhances Brain Power
T
oday, medical uses of gold have expanded greatly. It is used in surgery to patch damaged blood vessels, nerves, bones, and membranes. It is also used in the treatment of several forms of cancer. Injection of microscopic gold pellets helps retard prostate cancer in men. Women with ovarian cancer are treated with colloidal gold, and gold vapor lasers help seek out and destroy cancerous cells without harming their healthy neighbors. Every day, surgeons use gold instruments to clear coronary arteries, and gold -coated lasers give new life to patients with once inoperable heart conditions and tumors. Gold has become an important biomedical tool for scientists studying why the body behaves as it does.
ing effect on all levels of body, mind, and spirit. It is used to improve mental attitude and emotional states. It has been reported to promote a feeling of increased energy, will power, mental focus and libido. According to many studies, colloidal gold increases mental acuity and the ability to concentrate. Colloidal gold is thought to strengthen mental function by increasing the conductivity between nerve endings in the body and on the surface of the brain. Gold is an all-natural mineral that is non-toxic and exhibits no interactions with other drugs, and is easily tolerated by the body. The fabulous healing properties of gold are slowly but surely being rediscovered, as modern scientists and physicians uncover what the ancients seem to have known all along: That gold is indeed a very precious metal.
Molecular Marker By attaching a molecular marker to a microscopic piece of gold, scientists can follow its movement through the body. Because gold is readily visible under an electron microscope, scientists can now actually observe reactions in individual cells. Some researchers are placing gold on DNA to study the hybrid genetic material in cells. Others are using it to determine how cells respond to toxins, heat and physical stress. Because it is biologically benign, biochemists use gold to form compounds with proteins to create new lifesaving drugs.
Nano-Particles Evidence indicates that gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) (of size less than 20 nanometeres), reduce DNA damage, enhance immune function and have anti-inflammatory benefits, especially to the blood vascular system including atherosclerosis that occurs in diabetes. Accumulating evidence indicates that AuNPs have received great attention as an emerging nanomedicine and are renowned for their promising therapeutic possibilities, due to their biocompatibility, high surface reactivity, and resistance to oxidation. There is now clear evidence of their therapeutic potential in the treatment of different inflammatoryrelated complications. Enhanced intelligence has also been a reported benefit of AuNPs. Gold has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac and for alcoholism, depression and arthritis. Researchers found that the smaller the nanoparticles (less than 5 nm), the more effective they were in crossing the blood-brain barrier and healing the damage caused by inflammation and infection. Gold and silver are now being used to treat cancer, Alzheimer, HIV, hepatitis, tuberculosis, arthritis, diabetes. For more information contact info@biophysica. com or see see Colloidal Gold on page 5.
Improves Blood Gold has been known down through the ages to have a direct effect on the activities of the heart, and helps to improve blood circulation. It is beneficial for rejuvenating sluggish organs, especially the brain and digestive system, and has been used in cases of glandular and nervous congestion and lack of coordination. The body's temperature stabilizing mechanism is restored to balance with gold, particularly in cases of chills, hot flashes, and night sweats. Balancing Effect Colloidal Gold has a balancing and harmoniz-
Herbal Collective
March’18
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Is Fasting a Good Way to Cleanse?
F
asting is commonly heard of as a way to improve health to detox the body and possibly lose weight. Studying the body, we know that the skin is the largest organ and second is the liver. The function of the liver is multifaceted but its largest task is detoxification. This is important to understand because it is not necessary to buy products, take supplements or flush anything out of the body with a particular substance. The liver has the ability to breakdown any and everything that enters the body. It can get overwhelmed like any other organ. Fasting decreases the burden on the liver and helps it to do an exceptional job at detoxifying our blood and tissues. When you buy any type of product to detox, understand that the liver is still the main laborer in ridding the body of toxins. Nothing can take the primary position that the liver possesses in the body. The spleen and kidneys are also detoxifying organs but their function is not as abundant. The liver has already done some alterations and the kidney’s responsibility is to extract the water soluble toxins from the bloodstream and eliminate them through the urine while the fat soluble toxins are excreted through feces. The spleen works to eliminate all cells from the blood which are not in optimal working fashion. There are studies that have suggested that digestion is directly related to aging. This would summarize that a person who eats multiple meals is aging each time they eat and the person who fasts regularly 14
Herbal Collective March’18
(no food in a 24 hour period) is resting their body and either suspending or reversing the aging process. When we eat, even if it is good quality food, we intake some toxins, we produce and absorb acid as well as the macro and micro nutrients from the food which activates work and storage in the body. This process of digestion and absorption is a process that produces an acidic nature in the body. This acidic phase is normal after absorbing acidic food but the body needs time to return to its alkalinic optimal working environment. Even eating alkaline foods requires acid to break down so the resultant state is that of an acidic nature for a period of time. In conclusion, you can trust that there is no product that has a superior ability than the organ that was made to detoxify (liver). When the chewing, swallowing, digestion, absorption and eliminating work being done by the digestive system is stopped for a day or a few days, the liver and other detoxifying organs can turn their full potential to their primary focus which is ridding unwanted toxins and byproducts. This helps the body concentrate on the 6 r’s which are: repair, rejuvenate, remodel, renew and regenerate. If we rest (fast) our bodies, we will be decreasing the aging process. The popular approach these days is intermittent fasting Before undertaking a fast, check with your health care provider to learn if it is right for you as everyone is different.
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March’18
15
Raw Food Detox Diet Is it Myth or Magic?
S
tanding out among the innumerable amount of diets, health programs, and exercise fads, the Raw Food Detox Diet (RFDD) is one of the most intriguing and discussed mainstays of the past few years. If you're considering following a version of the RFDD, there are variables of substantial importance that you need to consider. On the positive side, raw foods in themselves are considered universally healthy for the human body; an established truth advocated by all mainstream nutritionists and physicians. The dilemma is whether consuming these foods alone produces a healthy result for those considering the RFDD. Think about this statement: "Long-term fasts lead to muscle breakdown and a shortage of many needed nutrients. They can also weaken the body's ability to fight infections and inflammation due to the depriving the body of necessary vitamins and minerals." - Lona Sandon, American Dietetic Association In tandem with this statement, Dr. Mark of Good Living Warehouse states that the symptoms of detox often hailed as positives by its advocates are actually symptoms of starvation, and the body was designed with its own system for detoxification. The principal issue with a raw food detox diet that
is difficult to ignore remains the looming issue of vitamin and mineral deficiency. This problem is threefold. First, if you begin a detox regimen without a healthy amount of alkaline minerals in your body, you risk the chance of becoming seriously ill. You will also retain the toxins intended for release and not experience any significant weight reduction. This possibility can be prevented by eating an abundance of green vegetables with your current diet before committing to detoxification. The second matter is that the raw food detox diet cannot provide specific essential vitamins that
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Herbal Collective March’18
the body needs. The foremost of these are vitamin B12, vitamin D, and essential fatty acids. You must make sure to consume enough iron and zinc as well, especially as a pre-menopausal female. These issues are of less concern when proactively utilizing proper supplements; an essential action for anyone committing to a raw food detox diet. There are substantial variances regarding the length of time a raw food detox diet should be committed to. Some say a seven day diet while others claim it should be a lifelong dedication. This is another point requiring heavy research before obligating yourself to a defining time period. Supporters of the raw food detox diet adamantly state that raw foods purify our internal systems despite claims against it. They also contend that even though our body has its own detoxification system, there is much we can do to give it a helping hand. This observation is supported by statements such as this: "Unfortunately, our modern lifestyle exposes us to an increasingly complex (and deteriorating) environment, so that our detoxification systems must work overtime just to process the toxins we encounter in everyday life. Many of us have exceeded our capacity for cleansing." - Mark Hyman, MD Dr. Hyman's point is significant because it helps bridge the gap between the pros and cons of the raw food detox diet. His statement demonstrates that perhaps a raw food detox is not a necessity for standard detoxification but a valuable assistant to an already capable, yet struggling, body. In light of this view and utilizing proper supplements it's possible that a short-term raw food detox can help eliminate toxins, kickstart weight loss, and bring the body's own natural purging capabilities back to optimum working conditions. Whichever decision you make, never consign yourself to any diet without first informing a medical practitioner or nutritionist. As each body varies so distinctly from the next, a proper blood panel and evaluation will further assist you in evaluating whether you're a good candidate for detoxification. Once this is complete and you decide on committing to a raw food detox diet, make sure to read the signs your body tells you and consider sharing your experiences with others.
Better Joint Health
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oint disorders affect about 80% of the older individuals in North America however the symptoms are worse in the colder weather. The causative factors of joints pain may be due to obesity, improper use of joints, overuse of the joints, sports injury, stress or diet. Most commonly affected joints are knees, ankles, elbows, wrists, fingers and toes. Ayurveda identifies two major types of joint problems. One type is due to poorly nourished, dry joints with decreased synovial fluid to facilitate the movement of the bones and ligaments. As we age the Vata dosha becomes prominent and common symptoms are popping and cracking, muscle tics and spasms. Another type of joint diseases is due to the accumulation of toxins built up in the joint due to poor digestion. The initial symptoms are joint congestion and swelling. If left untreated, it leads to inflammation, burning sensations and pain. As the condition progresses, the chronic inflammation leads to the degeneration of the joint itself. Ayurveda offers simple guidelines and herbal remedies for supporting healthy joint function. • Maintain a regular schedule, sleeping and waking at the same time each day. • Daily perform self-massage with NourishingVata massage oil or Dhanvantara oil to liquefy the impurities in the tissues & reduce bone degradation • Massage medicinal Mahanarayana oil locally into sore, stiff joints to strengthen the joints and improve circulation around the joints. • Favour warm nourishing easy to digest meals. Include ghee or flax seed oil in to the diet along with Turmeric and Trikatu a digestive formula of Ginger, black pepper and long pepper to re-kindle digestive fire and burn the toxins. • Avoid white sugar, alcohol, processed food, dairy specially cheese and yogurt. • Guggulu is considered muscle relaxant, antiinflammatory and penetrating herb to remove the toxins within the joints. Ayurvedic Formulation like Joint flex could be used effectively. • Immune boosting herbs like Guduchi and Ginger helps to reduce the inflammation and pain. • Keep the colon clean with regular bowel movements. Use Haritaki twice daily after meals as colon cleanser. • Practice gentle yoga and meditation daily. Contributed by Neelam Toprani, Sewanti Herbs Herbal Collective March’18
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Too Much on the Brain? Feeling Negative?
Do a Mental Detox
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oxins that affect our body, mind and spirit come in many forms. Physical toxins from environmental pollutants, pesticides, chemicals and metabolic waste directly compromise the functional condition of our cells, tissues and organs. Mental toxins, on the other hand, affect our health indirectly through the nervous system. Mental toxins are negative thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that poison our mind and create stress, mental discomfort and unhappiness. Every day we experience positive and negative thoughts in our mental environment. Every day our mind filters negative thoughts, providing a way for mental detoxification. When there are too many negative events in our lives, our brain is overloaded, constantly trying to process harmful thoughts. We need to help our brain to activate mental detoxification. Regular mental detoxification needs to be an integral part of living a healthy lifestyle. We need to keep mental toxins to a minimum by not allowing them to reach the brain in the first place. It's very important to have a mental environment that surrounds us healthy. We often overload our brains to the maximum with work, stress, deadlines, multitasking and social media. Mental and emotional toxicity builds up and we immediately go into stress mode; feeling tired, exhausted, and unable to relax or we feel agitated and excited, extremely tense and, again unable to relax. The current research identifies twelve chronic conditions that are directly linked to mental toxicity: asthma and allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, fibromyalgia, hypertension, irritable bowel syndrome, migraine headache, phantom pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, rheumatoid arthritis, skin conditions (especially eczema and psoriasis) and ulcer. Negative thoughts and emotions usually worsen these conditions where positive thoughts and emo18
Herbal Collective March’18
tions, together with mental detoxification, improve these conditions. Mental toxicity is triggered by problems with relationships, jobs, finances, illness, family, immediate surroundings and other challenges. A lifestyle that people are forced to live in, that is not aligned with their true beliefs and values, can also bring high stress levels resulting in mental toxicity. One sign that you need mental detoxification is when you begin to feel hopeless, overwhelmed or burnt out. To implement an effective mental detoxification we need to bring into our minds positive thoughts, humor, feelings of gratitude, intellectual games and spirituality that have the power to ground or transform harmful thoughts. Hypnotherapy, meditation, massage, relaxation techniques, inspirational reading and notes of gratitude or empowering statements facilitate the function of natural mental detoxification. Some of the best mental detoxification strategies include abandoning social media for a period of time, finding quiet solitude for reflection, ensuring that you are where you want to be, exercising, eating healthy, loving yourself, and giving and helping others. Natural remedies such as herbs, essential oils and supplements can also have a positive effect. Using Vitamin B12 is effective for stress as well as adaptogen herbs. These include herbs like ginseng, maca, ashwagandha, schizandra and others.
Natural Health Directory Advertise Here for Pennies a Day! Email info@herbalcollective.ca
The Natural Health Directory is a resource for our readers who are looking for practitioners, products, education, herb farm or other herbal and natural health information. Each listing links to a listing on the Herbal Collective website with links and contact information to
that particular business. Click on the link for each page to get more information on each particular business. To Get Listed; info@herbalcollective.ca or call 1-250-729-1593.
Herbal Courses
Natural Foods and Supplements
Year of Healing with West Coast Herbs Heather Macleod, ..........................herbeshoppe@shaw.ca ..................................................................... 250-247-8514
Herbal Products
Ferlow Botanicals, www.ferlowbotanicals.com, info@ferlowbotanicals.com.....................604-322-4080
Purica, medicinal mshrooms at www......Purica.com Wild Oil of Oregano, www.wildoiloforegano.com www.wildtamanuoil.com
Homeopath
Colin Gillies, www.colingillieshomeopath.com............... .....................................................250-947-0288
Offers a wide selection of natural health products and nutritional supplements....................................905-695-0631 Canadian Bio Supplements Quality manufacturer of natural health products backed by over 5 years of clinical trials...................306-291-0871 Biophysica, .Colloidal Silver Generators, Colloidal Gold www.biophysicia.com.......647-478-6946 1-800-488-2032
Naturopathic Doctors
Dr. Olena Gill, www.indigomedicine.com....................... .....................................................778-762-3099
Nutrition
Karen Warwick, RHN, www.viholisticnutrition.net .....................................................................250-753-3028 Stevia, sweet and natural,.............. www.cravestevia.com
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